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Village Information

St Mary’s Church METHODIST MINISTER Rev Crawford Logan 37 Southcliff Park, Clacton on Sea, CO15 6HH - 01255 423640 VICAR: Rev Sharon Miles DOCTOR’S SURGERY: The Vicarage, The Bury, St Osyth, Drs F. Bhatti, R.S. O’Reilly, A. Nambi, and G. Pontikis. The Hollies, The Green - 01206 250691 CO16 8NY 01255 822055 CHIROPODIST: CHURCHWARDEN: Terry St George - 01255 820885: Mobile: 07775 833200 Wendy Smith POLICE: Burnside, The Green - 01206 250098 Clacton 0300 333 4444 24 hour Non emergency number 101

In an emergency ring 999 CHURCHWARDEN: VACANT PC Rob Willmot - Tel: 101 extension 440356 TREASURER: PCSO Julia Brandon - Tel: 101 extension 440222 Annabel Stearn Julia.brandon@.pnn.police.uk 01206 251518 PARISH COUNCIL: email: [email protected] Chairman - Pippa Drew, Dennitts, Cedarwood, Moors Close. , CO7 8QN. Telephone 07848 872018 CHURCH VERGER: Clerk to the Council - Karen Paradise Rita Baverstock Correspondence to: The Clerk, Community Resource Centre, Stonybroke, Station Road - 01206 251271 Village Hall, Plough Road, Great Bentley, CO7 8LD Telephone - 01206 256410

READER: COUNCILLOR: Wendy King Lynda McWilliams, Boblyn, St Mary’s Road, Aingers Green, Great Bentley, Colchester, CO7 8NN - 17 Larkfield Road - 01206 250852 01206 250732: Mobile: 07564 613603. email: [email protected] PCC SECRETARY: COUNTY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE: Chris Aplin Alan Goggin, Freshfields, Church Road, Newmay House, The Green - 01206 250385 , CO7 OQT 01206 308023 Mobile: 07860 519117 email: [email protected] STEWARDSHIP SECRETARY: GOOD NEIGHBOURS TRANSPORT: Rosemary Branch Rita Baverstock - 01206 251271 4 Wents Close - 01206 250137 NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH: Richard Nowak - 01206 250204 TOWER CAPTAIN: MEDICAL AIDS: Roger Carey-Smith - 01206 250521 Richard Nowak - 01206 250204

SUNDAY CLUB: TENDRING FURNITURE SCHEME: Rocket House, Gorse Lane Industrial Estate, Clacton: Linda Hayes 01255 476068 Ivy Lodge, - 01206 250207 VILLAGE HALL BOOKINGS: email: [email protected] ST MARY’S PARISH HALL BOOKING SECRETARY: 07494 234049 Carole Allington METHODIST HALL BOOKINGS: Poplar House, Station Road - 01206 251086 Robert & Janet Taylor, Dominica, Moors Close - 01206 250087 or ring Church Verger GT BENTLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL: - 01206 250331 PARISH MAGAZINE EDITOR/ADVERTISING/ COLNE COMMUNITY SCHOOL: - 01206 303511 DISTRIBUTOR: VILLAGE HISTORY RECORDER: Mary Maskell Heather Taylor, Granville, Plough Road - 01206 251004 Caldew Cottage, The Green COLCHESTER HOSPITALS: 01206 747474 01206 250524 CLACTON & DISTRICT HOSPITAL: 01255 201717 [email protected] FOOTPATH REP: David Gollifer 01206 250309 Carole Allington VILLAGE TRANSPORT REP: Peter Harry - 01206 250511 [email protected] VILLAGE CARETAKER: Bobby McWilliams, Boblyn, St Mary’s Rd, Aingers Green 01206 250732

2 WHEELCHAIR LOANS: Alan Bayliss, 01206 250450.

EDITORIAL

Thanks to everyone involved in Bentley in Bloom for the lovely colourful displays around the village. What a difference they make. Thankfully they survived a rather dramatic scene on the night of Saturday 13th June when a car drove at high speed down Heckfords 2020 Road carried straight on to the green, followed by 7 police cars which surrounded the offending vehicle and narrowly avoided the actual cricket square. (As one wag put it, that’s virtually the whole of the force!) It certainly provided more drama than the TV CONTENTS plus of course much speculation. Editorial ...... 1

One sad event in the village was the discovery that a leaded glass Monthly Letters...... 2 window at the back of the church had been broken for the second Methodist News .. .. 2 time in just a few months. See page 34. Members of the church had Nature Notes ...... 4 donated money in lieu of the amount they would have spent at the May Fayre and held plant stalls to raise funds. This money will now Letters ...... 5 undoubtedly have to help pay for the necessary repairs. If you have Good News ...... 7/8 any information please notify the police or our PCSO as there is an incident number and an investigation underway. Deadline ...... 9 Cub News ...... 10 Thank you must go to Tendring District Council who have managed Wildlives ...... 11 to keep the services going for households over the past three Sesaw News ...... 13 months both waste and recycling. Our District Councillor gives details on pages 17 and 18 of the recycling figures. Apparently the Pet Notes ...... 14 biggest increase in tonnage was from glass banks and I expect this Wine Tasting Group .. .. 15 was largely from empty strawberry jam jars used on VE Day to News from the Oaks .. .. 16 spread on the scones we all had for afternoon tea! District Councillor Notes .. 17/18 At the moment I am the only person proof reading the magazine and Football Notes .. .. 19 I obviously did not do a very good job last month so apologies to the Children’s Page .. .. 20 Football Club. See page 19. However the articles have been coming in well so thank you everyone for supporting us, more content Parish Council .. .. 21 needed for the next issue please. Tendring Recycling .. .. 22 Surgery Notes .. .. 23 Lockdown has affected us all in different ways and set us varying challenges. For some it will have taken away their confidence in Police Report ...... 24/25 others restored it. If I am honest I disliked being reminded, Gardening Notes .. .. 27 constantly, that I was over a certain age. I felt very much sidelined Cookery Corner .. .. 28 and felt devastated that I could not do more to help others by getting shopping and helping out all round. However along came Captain Gt Bentley Pre-School .. 29 Tom, who inspired us all not to mention raising over 32 million Quiz ...... 30 pounds for the NHS. Now, in Great Bentley, we have Mary Beard Cricket ...... 31 who has just celebrated her 102nd birthday. Such a modest lady so I enlisted the help of her daughter and this has resulted in a truly Pages from the Past .. .. 34 wonderful tribute to an amazing lady. It will have you laughing out loud as they both have a wonderful sense of humour. See pages 32 and 33. The message is that those of us of a more mature age should not be written off!! Some can inspire the younger generation and show selfless courage, real character and determination. FRONT COVER

On that note, keep well, keep safe, and we will be back next month. Mary Beard in 2018 just before her 100th birthday Mary Maskell See article on pages 33 and 34

DISCLAIMER The statements, opinions and data contained in these publications are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the Churchwardens, Parochial Church Council, the Editor nor the publisher. The appearance of advertisements in the Great Bentley Parish News or the website is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety.

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A message from the Methodist Church community. Acts 3: 1-10 : At the Beautiful Gate A minister once advised my husband, Rev John Allison that he had personally always found it helpful when counselling those who were suffering depression to advise them simply to “look up”! Looking up instead of down would be to see how light and clear the sky is, and how that can give a sense of fresh perspective on the world and of God present in that world, caring for it and watching over it. Looking down at one’s fears and muddied anxieties removes that faith dimension and so humankind can lose that so important frame of reference. It all reminds me of that story in Acts 3 of the beggar at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, asking for alms to support his sad life. There he encounters Peter and John, newly transformed by the coming of the Spirit at Pentecost, empowered by Jesus’ promise and out now, preaching and healing in Jesus’ name. The beggar expects nothing but a coin of some kind, but Peter demands that he “look up”. “Look at us” , says Peter and, anticipating to receive, the beggar looks up into Peter’s eyes. “I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you” and, as he looks, Peter raises him to his feet with those powerful words, “In the name of Jesus Christ, walk !” It’s a beautiful surprise at the Beautiful Gate! And Peter and John must that day have felt the power of Christ’s spirit coursing through their hearts. Now that’s for us. We look up and must do so and confront the darkness of the shadow of Covid 19 and of our fears for the future. We look up, and in the name of Jesus Christ, we pray for healing, for a cure, for a vaccine, for safe keeping for our loved ones, and trust that there will be, in God’s providence, a beautiful surprise when our expectation is rewarded by a renewed perspective, by the presence of God’s Holy Spirit, carrying us through. Look up! The beggar walks and leaps and praises God in the story. Let us praise God and walk and leap each day in the light he showers on us. Amen.

Methodist Lay Preacher Jane Allison

FOOD BANK As St Mary's church is now open for private prayer, but not for services, the Food Bank container is now inside the church (not left in the porch). Please be mindful of people that may be sitting quietly in church. Thank you for your continued support for the Food Bank.

It has been a long time and I know lots of people GREAT BENTLEY have probably asked you this but are you well? I do METHODIST hope so ! CHURCH NEWS I am so pleased to be back in the magazine and to know that the church has been open for private We welcome you to worship with us during July. prayer for a couple of weeks now. If you are able and All activities at our Church in the centre of the Green. would like to sit in the peace of St Mary’s Church for some private prayer you are very welcome to do so. Morning worship will be held at 10.30am unless It has been a strange time for us to be living through otherwise stated. Rumour has it that we will be with the unseen virus changing so many lives forever. permitted to open for Public worship in July although exactly what the restrictions will be are not yet It has however allowed the love, care and nurture of settled. so many individuals to shine through in their acts of service for those who have been in isolation these The leaders of worship planned are set out below:- past months. If that has been you – then thank you for all the people you have helped while carrying out July 5 th Rev Crawford Logan those tasks. July 12 th Rev Chris Preece July 19 th Rev Glanville Martin Communion As lockdown eases please do still take care, look July 26 th Maggie Woods after yourselves and your loved ones and keep safe.

It may still be a while before we can worship together Messy Church will restart in the Autumn as but rest assured you are being prayed for. announced Luncheon Clubs opening when announced Every Blessing Parent and Toddlers as announced Adventurers Club restarts in the Autumn Rev. Sharon

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ENID HUMPHRIES Thank you Mick and Jackie and family are sad to announce the passing of Mum. Enid passed away peacefully at The family of the late Gordon Hesketh would like to Stronvar at the age of 90. If anyone wishes to view say a big thank you to the many neighbours and the funeral go to www.obitus.com. Username friends that stood outside their homes or on the weeley5926: Password 605318. Green to pay their respects to Gordon. It was a very The funeral was held on 15th June at 10.15am. difficult time with only 10 allowed around the Only close family were allowed at Weeley due to the graveside and this show of support from our village current Covid restrictions. meant a lot to us all. Our lovely vicar Sharon was Donations to Justgiving/Make a Wish very supportive and considerate of the many grand foundation. Website details are www.obitus.com children and great grandchildren present and this thoughtfulness was much appreciated. Thank you.

Enid was born on 12th August 1929 in Romford Hospital to parents Frank and Louisa Brooke, to be one of seven siblings. With five brothers and a sister, I would like to take the opportunity to express my they lived happily together in Dagenham until the thanks to David Gollifer and George Wright for their Second World War. Older brothers enlisted to the help in sorting out a 'Right of Way' problem after my army whilst the younger siblings were evacuated for wife and I received a torrent of abuse from who we four years. Fortunately the Brooke family were later assumed was the land owner. As it turned out he was reunited at the end of the war. a person renting a property on the land we were Some years later, whilst working in a soap crossing on a legal footpath. factory in Barking, Enid was noticed by a dashing ex Royal Navy officer, who had arrived to repair a David Webb broken machine. Love blossomed, a love that they Sturrick Lane shared for the rest of their lives. George and Enid married in 1953 and moved to Basildon shortly afterwards. They were soon blessed with a perfect son, Michael, after which they welcomed their screaming daughter Jacqueline. After 13 happy years in Basildon, Albert Mann Engineering Company, of whom George worked for Great Bentley Village Show decided to move to bigger premises in Clacton on

Sea. After much house hunting, it was decided that Great Bentley was to be their new home. After much deliberation the committee has Enid enjoyed village life and soon made decided to cancel the Village Show this year in several life long friends. She started working at the line with the national effort to combat the local primary school as a dinner lady and a teaching Coronavirus pandemic. The committee feels it assistant, also helping out at Brownies and Seekers. would be irresponsible to continue planning for Enid spent four happy years at Stronvar Rest this year’s event in the current circumstances. Home, being looked after and spoilt by the amazing Instead we are looking forward to planning the staff who shared a mutual affection. show for 2021. Enid will be remembered for her lovely sense of humour and her We understand it will be a great disappointment cheeky smile. Often, we would end up crying tears of laughter at some of the to many people, but the health of members, silliest things. competitors, trade stand holders, sponsors, Enid had the roles of sister, officials, volunteers and visiting public is our top wife, mum, nan and great nan, aunt priority. We would like to thank everyone and a friend to many. We will all love associated with the event for their continued and miss her dearly. support, and we look forward to a bumper show in 2021 to compensate for this year’s In loving memory of disappointment.

Dalma Rose Woodward Stay safe, who passed away on 19th May and see you next year. in her sleep. She will be sadly missed Derek Burdett by Gary, Denise, Daniel, Isabelle, Parker. Chairman She will be reunited with her husband Raymond R.I.P.

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NATURE NOTES Our community in lockdown and how we dealt with the Coronavirus A recent seawall walk in the early evening at Beaumont Quay started quietly with just two black- I have completed reading an inspiring book by Clare headed gulls swimming in the creek or cut’s bottom. Hunter called Threads of Life. A History of the World The latter name is due to this top channel in the Through the Eye of a Needle. In her book she Walton backwaters being straightened in the 18 th describes times in history where people have got Century to provide tidal mooring for barges. I took together with sewing and fabric to make a reminder of the footpath on the rampart-like wall towards the events. Landermere with saltmarsh in front and wide borrowdyke with reeds and a potato field behind. A My inspiration flowed and I have come up with an large sprinkler broadcast water on that crop but idea to make a reminder of the above events using with only one fall of rain in nearly two months other fabrics. This has the potential to be displayed in the plant-life’s survival relies on deeper roots and other village for us all now; but also for future generations. hard to fathom means. The plants of the wide low- tide saltmarsh and muddy flats, that the sea more What do I envisage? or less covers twice daily are zoned according to

how much saltwater they can tolerate. Primarily it has to go on fabric. So embroidery, cross In the borrowdyke a reed warbler’s rattling song is stitch, sewing, appliqué or creative textiles could be included. soon heard then a sedge warbler’s more scratchy If you cannot sew and can draw, this would not rendering in thicker bankside scrub. The familiar yet be a problem as there are techniques that can now less often heard “little bit of bread and no transfer drawings onto fabric. Acrylic paint can be cheese” jingle of a yellowhammer and shorter call of used on fabric, (make sure you iron the fabric a related reed bunting, perched higher but still between two layers of parchment paper - or your iron unseen, are reassuring sounds back in their usual and ironing board will not be usable afterwards). breeding places. There are fabric pens, paints and crayons. A barn owl appears from the Moze side I would like to involve the children and young hunting with bouncy gliding flight low over the wall people’s youth groups. I believe there are sewing and grassy corridor behind, briefly resting on posts. badges in Brownies. Even our play school children Hog fennel the Backwater’s special plant, with its could draw something. own rare moth, lines the path in places with flower I don’t know how big this will get, or what stalks emerging from clumps of fleshy leaves. But interest there will be in it. There are those of you who already out are the broom-like flowers in ankle-high have been involved in making scrubs; would patches of the yellow Dyers greenweed. On something like this be of interest to you? reaching them I turn and retrace my steps. Noisy These are some of my ideas - I am sure there piping Oystercatchers remind me I’m in their are loads more that can be developed, which I breeding territory and further away the haunting haven’t considered. whistle of a Greenshank is unexpected at this time,

when spring passage should be over and the What did this lockdown mean to you? autumn return not begun. How did you manage during this time? Did you run out of essential items? Lower pressure tantalised with prospect of How did Community Support help you? some rain to break the drought, that so often misses dry coastal Tendring. However my walk was I would like to use standard size squares and once culminated by a brief low swooping fly-past by a the numbers are known I can decide on the size of mixed flock - some thirty strong - of Swifts, House them. The fabrics and threads to be used should be martins and a few smaller Sand martins. Such from whatever you have at home; a bit of make do movements usually accompany a frontal low with and mend. their insect prey less high in the air. When the dark aerial arrows of screaming swifts can no longer be It would be helpful to know how many people would taken for granted as a familiar summer sight and like to be involved in this. sound in our towns and villages it was good to see them. But their Please call me on 01206 magical appearance as portents of 250800. If I do not answer rain did not result even in a leave a message with your shower! details. DRB Helen Ross

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR During the past three months, most of which have been wonderful sunny days, my husband and I have taken to having ‘elevensies’ on the bench in our front How sad that someone felt the need to complain garden, overlooking the village green. about the VE Day celebrations but indeed disgraceful that some folk were not respecting the How lucky are we as a village to have such a Covid restrictions wonderful expanse of grass? We have seen people walking, stopping to chat to people (socially We, in Abrey Close, had a lovely afternoon distancing) new parents pushing their babies in suggested by one of our residents after seeing the prams, people building up their stamina after surgery British Legion poster. A lot of us put decorations into or illness, or just generally keeping fit, children our windows during the week. On the day a lot of us learning to ride their bikes and more recently, friends came out onto the grass verges in front of our meeting on the green for picnics and reunions. houses dressed in red, white and blue. We had Listening to shrieks of delight as people met in their afternoon tea, scones and cakes which we all groups of 5 or 6 and the happy tears, reminds us all enjoyed with very well respected distancing. I of what to appreciate in life and what we have supplied some 1940's music and we walked along missed. chatting to each other from the road itself. We came out again later to sing to Vera Lynn and toast the We have met people we did not know and had Queen. It was lovely to see people spending some regular chats and updates, and this includes dog time catching up with each other and was a highlight walkers. Most dog owners have been observant and of the week, even though the top topic of considerate, cleaning up after their dog but during the conversation was indeed the virus! past few weeks, many have not. On four occasions, we have gone onto the green ourselves with a Dee Rampling Lee shovel, to clear up after dog owners who clearly do not care whether children or adults, step, sit or play in this. VE Day Please clear up after your dog and keep the green a I was dismayed to see the adverse reports of the healthy space. There are bins. proceedings in Great Bentley. Thank you We were well organised at Aingers Green by Jo Herbert who put leaflets in everyone’s door. A Bev Adams neighbour put a table out for me and there was plenty of period music and dressing up. We kept back from the paths so folk could stroll past.

I ran around in my buggy to see everyone, some I had not seen for a long time. A curious thing; This village is amazing, people always ready to help people kept putting goodies in my basket as if I was one another in so many different ways. a monk. I asked people if they read “My War Years” I am in self isolation with my mother, me for in the April magazine. Most hadn’t. This was of my health and mum for her age. events as the war progressed to lead up to today. My sincere thanks go to Scarlett for shopping for me, Julie for getting a birthday card and putting a Rex, the dog, and I were like twins and understood stamp on, those responsible for hanging bags of each other’s feelings so I wrote it from his point of goodies by my door and Mary for the plants that will view. The other member, Grugal the parrot, learned brighten my garden. her eloquent speaking long before radios confused I feel blessed to live in a village where so things so her warnings “aeroplane coming, a big many care for each other. one” were memories of the 1914-18 war when a If I can help, maybe phoning someone who bomb blew the windows in. feels isolated or to be included in my prayer list, please let me know. My phone no 01206 252387 Tay the cat came with the house and resented a bird taking over. As he prowled around Grugal said I write the prayer list each month for Parish News, “nice pussy, come here pussy” and Tay couldn’t my last one was in March. Do you use this list when bring himself to attack a creature who talked. praying? Is this list helpful? Are there organisations/ charities you would like me to include? Please let Dave Kirby me know.

Yvonne Gibson

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TAILS OF MANY KITTENS

It's been a while since my last article so I've had a long time to go on a wander down memory lane in my mind and I recalled a chill, dark late November afternoon when I answered a phone call from the co-ordinator of the local branch of Cat Protection. She had been contacted by a gentleman who had found a cat sleeping in his garage next to the boiler. He had attempted to ascertain if she belonged to anyone in the vicinity but no one came forward, he was not in a position to keep her but was concerned for her welfare. The decision was made to send a volunteer to collect her and that's where I came in as I had space for another cat. Having agreed to take her into my care she was brought to me by which time it was quite late, dark and very cold. I had switched the heated pad on in the little compartment which was awaiting her. The transfer from carrier to her warm bed was soon done. I did not want to cause her more stress so having placed a bowl of food right near her I left her to settle knowing from experience that she would curl up in a tight ball and sleep, especially when she felt the constant warmth from the pad underneath the cosy blanket. As was my routine I was up early in the morning the dogs had their breakfast first and soon shot back indoors in the warm after being outside for the shortest possible time! I switched the light on as I went into the cat's 5 Star Accommodation, I tended to the other feline guest first, breakfast was served and the litter tray freshened, then I slipped into the other pen to take my first good look at Cherie as I had decided I would name her. I opened the door of her compartment and my heart turned over, she was curled up fast asleep and it was obvious that is where she had stayed as the food was untouched and the litter tray not used. I watched her for a while and it became quite clear that she had been living rough, there wasn't much of her bless her heart. She never stirred so very gently I touched the top her head whereupon she sat bolt upright and let out a wail of seismic proportion! It did make me jump I must confess but it wasn't a sound made out of fear, it was instantly apparent that not only was this dear fragile little cat blind but deaf too and this was her way of greeting. How she had survived out in the cold with little or no food I couldn't know however I did know that she was coming indoors with me! I picked her up and held her against me and I could feel her bones as she was as light as a feather but as I pressed her tiny head to my face she was purring! I murmured into her neck that whilst she ate some fresh grub I would be indoors getting her room ready! So it was Cherie took up residence in the small bedroom, I set it up to meet her needs, her own cosy permanently warm bed with her food/water bowl and litter tray in close proximity. Cherie quickly became familiar with her unseen surroundings and routine....sleep in warm bed, hop out, eat grub use litter tray and hop back into bed! Some sixth sense always alerted her to my presence she would let out her wail of pleasure and sit up ready for a cuddle and some of my special cat conversation spoken into her neck so she could feel the vibrations and answer with loud purring. Now I had become used to Cherie's way of greeting and it was a joy for me but not so Richard a friend who often came to dinner straight from work. He was used to there being dogs and cat's in the house and indeed he loved them however I had not mentioned Cherie. The first time he went upstairs to the bathroom after her arrival I waited in the hall as he climbed the stairs, all was quiet til he got to the top and she felt the vibration as he stepped onto the landing and then it happened as if on cue..... Cherie let out her wail! It would not be right for me to include Richard's verbal reaction, safe to say she frightened the life out of him whilst I was bent double with laughter and tears were running down my cheeks. It was a magic moment! I've never forgotten it and it has to be said, albeit for a different reason, neither has dear Richard! I did not have my darling Cherie for as long as I had wished and the time came when I had to say goodbye. Yes it is very sad but as far as I'm concerned it is the greatest gift of love I can give to a beloved pet to repay their faithful, unconditional love and trust, I feel I owe it to their memory. I was able to hold her in my arms as she slipped peacefully to sleep, I loved her very much. I think my wonderful " ladies and one gentleman who knit " will be very pleased to learn that Louise my friend who does Cat and Kitten Rescue in and around the Colchester area recently collected a bumper load of assorted colourful blankets from me. Whilst most of the rescues are not taking in any animals during 'lock down' except for emergencies Louise and her crew of volunteers have continued to rescue cat's/kittens from all manner of situations. At the time of her visit here she had 49 cats, which included 28 kittens, fostered out awaiting rehoming. One of the countless repercussions of Coronavirus is going to be a huge explosion in the numbers of kittens being born, many of whom if not handled at a very young age will be feral. I shall always welcome knitted blankets and if anyone has any cat food that a precious pet has decided they no longer like, as is their want, I would welcome that too. My best wishes to you all as we work our way through these difficult and unprecedented times.

Judy Bishop 01206 251702

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GOOD NEWS PAGE

Great Bentley Community Support Group

As more and more places are opening and people are going back to work, trying to return to some sort of (new) normality, GBSupport group is starting to wind down. We’re still offering help to people where needed but its main reason for operating is reducing (thankfully). A big thank you to Scarlett and Ruby, and all the other volunteers who have helped with shopping needs and medication collections from the pharmacy.

The scrubs manufacturing has been suspended for now. We still have some stock of scrubs for new requests, and we have material for more scrubs if needed. The team have done a magnificent job in helping hundreds of medical people to do their job. The number of completed scrubs has now reached 412. This is an amazing total and all are being distributed to hospitals, health trusts, GP practices, nursing teams and care homes around the region, and beyond.

I received a donation from a family in the village asking that we arrange for a ‘sweet treat’ to be given out to as many people as possible. With thanks to Julie Mead we managed to put together and distribute 120 bags. Thank you again to the village family for their idea and generosity.

All the group’s activities are being undertaken whilst sticking strictly to social distancing rules. All outside work is carried out whilst wearing the GBSupport/TDC/ Essex Police badges.

We all hope that there isn’t a second wave of this virus, but if there is then GBSupport is ready to help (again).

We wish everyone the very best. Keep smiling and keep safe.

Derek Burdett

GBSupport Helpline : 07578 374274

THE FUSILIERS POST OFFICE The Fusiliers are offering a takeaway menu Monday - Sunday 12 noon - 9pm. Open A selection of meals to choose from. Monday 9-11am Home made roasts on Saturday and Sunday Tuesday 9-11am Homemade desserts to takeaway Wednesday Closed Takeaway teas and coffees Thursday 9 - 11am Takeaway cold drinks Friday 9 - 11am FREE DELIVERY OR PICK UP You can withdraw CASH and Tel: 01206 250222: email: [email protected]: do your BANKING www.fusiliergreatbentley.com

We hope to reopen when Government legislation allows.

CHINA PALACE IS NOW OPEN 01206 250572

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DANI’S DELI THE BARN, The Deli is now called Dani’s Deli has new AINGERS GREEN owners and currently the opening hours are

Fish & chip Friday takeaway! 7am - 3pm Monday - Friday 3rd and 17th July (every fortnight) 5pm-7pm 8am - 2pm Saturday PRE ORDERS ONLY + COLLECTION ONLY For delivery options please ring 01206 252323 We hope everyone is well & keeping safe we can’t wait to see you when we reopen.

From all at The Barn D SPENCE FAMILY BUTCHERS 01206 251193

Riverside Fish and Chips D Spence Family Butchers are excited to re open it’s are back on Wednesday evenings. doors to customers on the 21st March. We will be open 8:30 - 1:00 this allow us to still make deliveries to those shielding in the afternoon.

Monday - Closed Tuesday 8.30 - 1pm Wednesday 8.30 - 1pm Thursday 8.30 - 1pm Friday 8.30 - 1pm RECYCLING CENTRES OPENING Saturday 8.30 - 1pm Sunday - Closed Rush Green Recycling Centre is one of only 15 centres in Essex to be reopened for a limited service. Key workers who would like to place an order we can arrange alternative collection times if needed just 15 recycling centres in Essex will be open from message us on Facebook Monday 18th May. Only waste and recycling which cannot be stored at home without causing a health or THANK YOU safety risk will be accepted. A huge thank you to the four families who have You should only visit a recycling centre if absolutely collated and stapled the magazine in their own necessary. The safest way to get rid of your waste homes, this month. and recycling is using your kerbside collection. Would you be willing to do this? Please let me know if you could help. New restrictions and social distancing measures will Large table necessary to spread the pages out! be in place to ensure the safety of all residents and Thanks also to everyone who delivers the magazines site staff. Please check for up to date information to your homes. before travelling . Mary Maskell

DEADLINE FOR THE AUGUST MAGAZINE WEDNESDAY 15th JULY Material to Mary Maskell, Caldew Cottage, The Green, 250524 AND Carole Allington, Poplar House, Station Road, 251086. Please mark all material - “Parish Magazine” email: [email protected] AND [email protected] IMPORTANT - PLEASE SEND ALL INFORMATION TO BOTH OF US Great Bentley Website: www.greatbentleyparishcouncil.co.uk

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RMS TITANIC by David Ettritch. Retired Curator of Shipwreck & Heritage Centre Charlestown, Cornwall

Hello again Aboard Carpathia Captain Rostrom an ex-military man had got all the details of the rescue in hand. Large amounts of blankets were found, and the care of the rescued had been managed in great detail. Hot food and accommodation was found and ready for the survivors of Titanic. Captain Rostrom was indeed a great ex-military man. He stated to the American inquiry “that on the way to the rescue between 2.45 and 4.00am, his ship had to pass and weave through at least 20 large icebergs from 100 to 200 feet high and a large amount of small bergs. Going between or around them to get through.”

There was some questions asked about the quality of the cork in the lifejackets, considering that everybody on Titanic had a life jacket on their bodies and would have stayed afloat. But when Carpathia arrived at the scene of the wreck, no bodies. At a later date a rescue ship did find bodies afloat. This is a natural thing as bodies decompose and then they float.

One other question was why did RMS Titanic, SS Californian and SS Carpathia not have any searchlights. If they had Titanic might have spotted the iceberg quicker. Californian would have found her way through the ice field quicker and Carpathia could have found the survivors much quicker. Both of these questions were overlooked at the American inquiry. Some of the rescued people spent their time on Carpathia busy. Mrs Goldsmith was sewing emergency clothes from blankets for those who escaped wearing night clothes. Ruth Becker was helping a mother from her lifeboat. Searching for her baby a woman told her that her own mother was looking for her and a few moments later she was reunited with her mother, sister and brother. Later the woman from the lifeboat found her baby.

Douglas Spedden’s parents worked hard to help people. They were angry that some people were saying that no steerage passenger should have been saved, as if they were not human beings.

Titanic’s radio operator, Harold Bride helped out Carpathia’s radio operator, although he was suffering from frostbite to his legs.

On the second night on the Carpathia the rescued people were alarmed when a storm blew up and a crack of thunder sounded like the Carpathia had had a collision with another iceberg.

After picking up survivors it took Carpathia three and a half days to reach New York. She steamed into port on the evening of Thursday April 18th. Some of the newspaper headlines were so wrong.

(New York Evening Sun) All saved after collision, liner being towed to Halifax April 15th.

(Daily Mail) Titanic sunk no lives lost April 16th.

Carpathia stopped opposite the White Star pier to deposit Titanic’s lifeboats, each one was rowed to the pier by two of Titanic’s saved crew, the last job they did for Titanic company.

When Carpathia berthed the first people to leave were first class passengers. Frank Goldsmith and his mother were given new clothes and train tickets to Detroit where their family lived.

Nex month how they recovered bodies with help from Plymouth based Ship ‘Mackay Bennet’.

Keep safe and best wishes, David [email protected]

11

Cubs has remained online via Zoom this last month, but that hasn’t prevented numerous badges being earned. Now everyone can earn their own badge…

The Great Indoors Badge Scouts has been going since 1907 because we’ve learnt to adapt to all that happens around us. This is our first ever opportunity to share the Scouts experience wider than we ever have, as we invite all our Scouts and our non-Scout friends, to join in activities from The Great Indoors and earn The Great Indoors Badge.

Why are we doing this badge? We're committed to our vision, by 2023 we'll have prepared more young people with skills for life, Track your progress supported by amazing leaders delivering an inspiring programme. As you go through each stage we recommend tracking The staged badge allows those to be involved in your progress, you can do this in any way you like, the journey for longer and the opportunity to whether that's by attaching a chart to the fridge or monitor your own progress through all activities recording in a notebook. and stages. The most important things to note are.

Who can get involved? 1. What activity did you do? Anyone over the age of six. 2. What did you learn from the activity? For the first time in history, this badge allows everyone to take part, regardless of whether they’re a Scout or not. Akela & Baloo Cub Scout Leaders How do I get involved? Samantha & Gary Smith You can take part in one stage or all three of the stages, M: 07906 574638 the choice is yours. There are nine activities in each stage and three stages in total, so that’s 27 activities you can get involved in. On the Great Indoors Badge page we suggest activities to complete through your stages, however you can choose your own activity by clicking the links below. For more info please see Remember to filter by your age group! https://tinyurl.com/indoors2020

 Practical skills  Outdoor skills  Physical activity  Community engagement  Social action  International activities  Creative skills  Spiritual activities  Nights away

12 Wildlives

Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre ‘Catkins’, Frating Road, Thorrington, Colchester CO7 8HT www.wildlives.org.uk Opening hours: n/a 07802 767016 Outside of Wildlives’ hours, please call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 or log on to our website for advice on what to do with a sick animal until we are open again in the morning. See the web site for extra pictures too! Warmth is the difference between life and death July 2020

If you find a collapsed animal lying in the sun, it is desperately trying to get enough warmth to maintain its body heat and needs urgent help. Do NOT place it in the shade! Put it in a box with a towel-wrapped hot water bottle and phone for advice. If you leave it or put it in the shade it will die.

These two rabbit kits were found by the side of the road by a delivery driver. They are both doing well.

These two little hedgehogs Villanelle the stoat kit was caught by a cat and had wounds to her were left collapsed on a throat and neck. She is making an excellent recovery unlike two lawn with their dead others who had their spinal cords severed and backs broken in cat siblings, crawling with attacks and could not be saved. maggots, after their nest was disturbed by gardening Due to the large number of hedgehog strimmer injuries, we are and the mother abandoned them. They are lucky to be running a poster campaign. Please download your poster from alive. our website and ask your local garden equipment centre to display it to remind people to check for hedgehogs before clearing undergrowth . A quick check can save lives.

This female buzzard had multiple breaks to the wing caused by gunshot. The police This kestrel chick was blown out This month we have said a sad farewell to Clooney who are investigating, and numerous of her nest by high winds. She is developed stomach cancer. He arrived 13 years ago organisations are trying to locate her now growing well and is just having been hit by a car and sustaining a brain injury. hatchlings, as she has a brood patch starting to get her grown-up Since he was not fit enough to be released, he had been a showing she has a family. If they cannot feathers. resident ever since and will be sadly missed. be found they will die. 13

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance receives major grant from Lions Clubs International

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) is set to benefit from a major grant from Lions Clubs International to help with the charity’s response to Covid-19.

Lions Clubs are distributing a total of £160,000 to air ambulances across Britain to assist with their work during the pandemic. EHAAT will receive £9,660 to help pay for Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) including suits, goggles and masks.

Stuart Elms, Clinical Director at EHAAT said: “We are delighted that EHAAT will receive a grant of £9,660 from Lions Clubs to help pay for the PPE that is essential to protect our critical care teams whilst they carry out their day to day work.

“Our crews are working hard to care for the most seriously sick and injured patients around the clock, and this generous grant from the Lions Clubs will help keep them safe during this difficult time. The lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on our fundraising, with many events being postponed or cancelled, so we are very grateful for this grant.

“EHAAT’s critical care teams are continuing to attend road traffic accidents, cardiac arrests and medical emergencies across Essex, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas. The charity is making sure they are as safe as they can be while they are working, and having appropriate PPE is a vital part of that.

“We have been able to maintain our critical care service 24/7, but the charity still needs the support of the people of Essex and Hertfordshire to help us do this. If you can, please help us continue this vital work.”

District Governor Gurcharan Manku, Lions Clubs of Central & East said “We know that air ambulance charities have been busier than ever during the coronavirus pandemic. They’ve faced considerable extra, unbudgeted - day to day costs – at the same time, lockdown has adversely affected fundraising. “Now, thanks to an emergency COVID-19 relief grant from the Lions Clubs International Foundation in the US, Lions Clubs of British Isles can provide immediate support for this emergency service that touches lives in all our local communities.” To find out more about the work of EHAAT or donate visit ehaat.org

All Change at Clacton Choral

After a decade at the helm as Musical Director, conductor and, it must be said, as one-woman powerhouse; Gilli Dulieu is finally to step down from her role. In common with the experience of many people during the current Covid crisis, the priorities of creating some space for herself and her family were brought into sharp focus against the all-consuming backdrop of the personal and professional approach she always brought to her work. She stepped in and brought the traditions of Clacton Choral Society right up to date, as the newly- branded Clacton Choral took its rightful place in the local music scene.

Testament to Gilli’s tenure is written in the membership growing from 35 members to 80, which meant that more ambitious works could be presented for audiences that were growing at an equal rate, such that new, larger venues had to be found. A key aspect of this was her introduction of ‘Saturday Sings’ which embraced the whole community of singers and wannabees from Clacton and the surrounding villages, encouraging and enabling the choir to grow not just in numbers, but in quality, with invited soloists and instrumentalists keen to share performances. Gilli instigated a vibrant website to keep everyone informed; provided voice-part CD’s for private study; arranged workshops and masterclasses; and her weekly rehearsals concentrated as much on voice production skills as on learning the pieces, further to strengthen the brand.

With our heartfelt thanks to Gilli, and to wish her well in the future.

Clacton Choral Society

14

THE MYSTERY OF THE FIELD MARSHALL

In my younger days there was a pub where tractors congregated during their lunch hour. One stood out as it was never stopped, and the resonance made the front wheels bounce up and down. This indicated it was hard to start and it was a large single cylinder engine. It was a Field Marshall, as illustrated on the Farming Diaries page which shows the curious front wheels close together. It appeared in a TV series on rural history but they didn’t help to explain its mysteries, just kept on hitting it with a hammer and making out this started it. There was only one thing for it, to go and see my old friend Eve Nevard as they had one. The starting handle could be turned by a sturdy countryman if his mate held a de-compression lever up. It was dropped at the right moment and the engine fired up. I have left the best bit to last, an ingenious alternative way to start it. A fitting was loaded with a shot gun cartridge and screwed into the engine. With the piston in the right place, a whap with a hammer set it off. Think about this as you slide into your car and press a button.

PS. I was bucked to get a bag of goodies. I fancied a bit of chocolate. Thank you Great Bentley Community Support Group, it made me feel connected to the village people.

Dave Kirby

PS Speaking of Eve Nevard, I really miss seeing Evelyn the engine driving across the green. Ed

SESAW NEWS

As we cannot hold our annual Open Day this July, join me on a socially distanced, virtual stroll around my estate. The garden looks lovely thanks to Jeanette, in fact here she comes with a wheelbarrow full of hedge clippings.

Some of the animals at SESAW, like me, are permanent residents including Bob, the Kune Kune pig. Give his head a rub as you pass by. Next is the rabbit shed where some pretty bunnies munch hay and wait to be homed. Beyond the ducks on the pond, Michelle crosses the field with buckets of food, hotly pursued by the sheep and goats.

Do you hear cooing? It’s Dicky Dove, he’s been with us for years. Other than an injured wing which prevents him flying, he is in lovely condition. Close the door of Ruggs Cottage quietly so we don’t disturb a young mum suckling her little family. So that’s why Mum said we need kitten food. No sign of Ollie, he’s probably sunbathing on the roof, how does that cat manage to look so superior all the time?

Don’t leave without browsing the bookcase by the gate which Dawn replenishes regularly but wait a minute, people are here by prior appointment so keep your two metre distance. Our talented volunteers have been busy making Rainbow of Hope car hangings and excellent quality washable masks which are selling like hot cakes.

Jayne takes orders on 07720 079370 and collection slots are booked to keep everyone safe.

I hope you enjoyed the ‘tour’ and look forward to the day you can visit us in person and meet me, Kenny (the Boss) Chihuahua. Suffolk & Essex Small Animal Welfare, Reg.Charity No.1124029, Stoke Road, Leavenheath, CO6 4PP. Tel: 01787 210888, www.sesaw.co.uk

15

PET NOTES

Having spent far more time at home than usual these last few months, I have developed an even greater appreciation of my garden. Though I spend most of my time saving animals’ lives, I do not possess the same level of ability when it comes to caring for plants. Fortunately my husband is a gifted gardener and it is thanks to him we have an array of beautiful flowers which are thriving, including a purple bush (see I am utterly dreadful with plants!) in our front garden which the bees seem to love.

As important as these happy little insects are, they can be a pet owner’s worst nightmare. When they sting it is most commonly a front paw or inside the mouth, depending on whether the dog or cat tried to squish or eat the pretty striped flying thing as it passed. Often their owner will have seen it happen but sometimes this isn’t the case. The following symptoms are suggestive but not pathognomonic of a sting:

Stung on the paw:  Lameness  Swelling of the foot, potentially extending higher up the leg  Pain when the limb is touched  Crying or hiding

Stung inside the mouth:  Swelling of the muzzle. If you type “bee sting dog” into an internet Search engine you’ll find dozens of images showing how severe this can be

 Swelling of the tongue  Drooling  Reluctance to eat  Crying or hiding

Whilst treatment is clearly required to relieve the pain and swelling, it is also important to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible to prevent anaphylactic shock which has more serious consequences, such as:

 Difficulty breathing  Generalised weakness  Collapse

In most cases, treatment is relatively straight forward. I do the following:

 Inject a fast-acting and powerful antihistamine  Inject a steroid which acts to alleviate pain and swelling  Depending on the scenario, sometimes I dispense a short course of antihistamine tablets to be continued at home  Look for and remove the sting, if present  Advise monitoring and lots of TLC

Dr April Young MRCVS

16 Great Bentley Wine Tasting Group For further details please contact Colin on 01206 252157 or e mail [email protected]

The wine tastings may be over for the time being but we can still have wine tastings with friends using the power of the internet. A group of friends purchased 3 wines from VinoVi, check out the web site https://www.vino-vi.com/ All delivered safely to the front door. The evening went really well with wine and music quiz being included as part of the wine evening. The wines were wonderful (tasting details below) and what a terrific way to spend an evening. The wine quiz is also below, but how many answers do you know?

Another extra-ordinary tasting ~ June 2020 Following the success of the May tasting, I have pleasure in announcing a tasting for June. This is a difficult time, so it is wonderful to have something fun and enjoyable to look forward to. This time I have chosen wines from VinoVi Vinotica based in Tarragona, Spain who for me provide an excellent reliable and great value service with a brilliant Spanish wine list. All these wines come from the D.O. of Montsant which is situated about 90 miles south of Barcelona near the historic town of Tarragona.

Note prices shown include Spanish Tax and shipping costs and tax Acustic Rosat, Catalonia, Montsant, Spain 2018 £10.57 Production: Wine organically elaborated. Sourced from 25 to 50 years-old black Grenache vines, from different vineyards within the Denomination of Origin Montsant, Marça, Capçanes, El Masroig. Els Guiaments and Cornudella del Montsant, growing at an altitude between 300 and 700 meters. Hand harvested and partially fermented in new French oak barrels (20%) the rest in stainless steel vats, followed by 5 months ageing on its lees. Bottled in February 2019. Fragrant aromas, lively and deeply fruited, especially fresh red fruits with some floral and spiced notes. Full sweet- fresh fruited palate, good acidity, round and full, freshness and length on a pleasant bitterish finish.

Acustic Blanco, Montsant, Catalonia, Spain 2017 £11.10 Production: Sourced from old native vineyards ranging from 40 - 65 years old. Partly fermented in new French oak barrels. Acústic Celler is a personal project of Albert Jané of Jané Ventura in D.O. Penedés. It all started in 2003 when he acquired some old native vineyards in the D.O. Montsant. Once more maintains his philosophy, respecting the traditional viticulture of the region and the values of the fruit, with no attempt to give pride of place to the wood, great respect to nature, avoiding excessive use of technology and allowing the vines to express their individual characteristics. Fresh and light, displaying a nose marked with aromas of tropical fruit, peach, spices. Smooth and rounded on the palate, shows richness, lime and spicy flavours, good balancing acidity and length. A wonderful example of Grenache Blanc!

Terroir Sense Fronteres Vèrtebra de la Figuera, Montsant, Catalonia, Spain 2017 £27.65 Production: Terroir al Limit’s newest project based on the DO Montsant, under the project Sense Fonteres, the range of wines elaborated bears the stamp of Dominik’s wines, following the same line as in Terroir al Limit. The grapes are sourced from two old high-altitude plots in the village of La Figuera, the vineyards, aged between 40 to 80 years, are located at 700- 800 meters and compose of soils of red clay-limestone with layers of gyssum. Natural fermentation with full clusters in concrete vats using only native yeasts naturally found on the fruit, slow-gentle fermentation that takes about 7 to 8 days, the wine remains in the same concrete vats for 6 months un-oaked. Bottled unfiltered. All the wines at Terroir Al Límit are elaborated practicing sustainable viticulture, with a great respect for the nature and its surroundings. The wines are organically farmed following ecological principles. Respect of the environment makes itself throughout the winemaking process, from the grape harvest down to the bottling. The grapes are hand harvested and hand sorted both in the vineyards and the Cellar. Since its beginning in 2004, Terroir Al Limit has reached a highly respected status not only in the region but also worldwide, producing wines of highest purity and maximum expression of terroir. When fermentation is finished, the wines are aged in cement for a period of 6 months. The use of cement instead of oak in the aging process results in a wine that is powerful in flavour yet light in body, a long and complex expression of Grenache and the heights of the Figuera Mountain where the vines grow.

Last months quiz answers (see June 20 magazine for full questions): 1. Italy. 2. Beaujolais. 3.Loire. 4. South Africa. 5. Menetou Salon. 6. Germany. 7. All are Grand Marque Champagne houses. 8. Fleurie. 9. All grapes grown in Alsace France but not Merlot. 10. Primitivo. Sauternes is a sweet wine from Bordeau x,

This months quiz (answers next month)

1. Where might you expect to taste a Chablis? Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhone, Loire 2. PX is a grape variety normally associated with? Port, Sherry, Madeira , Malaga 3 What area of France might you find a Muscadet? Loire, Rhone, Provence, Languedoc 4. Which Country has the indigenous grape variety called Zinfandel California, Australia, South Africa, Italy 5. Which of the following is not associated with the Rhone? Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Carignan, Gamay 6. Which country would you find a wine called Samos Germany, France, Austria, Spain, Greece 7. All have a famous Chateaux name but which of the following is not a famous Chateaux of Bordeaux and why? Margaux. Haut Brion, Latour, Lafite, Mouton, Beaucastel, 8. For the wines of Beaujolais in France is this the correct order of ascending quality? Nouveau, Beaujolais, Beaujolais Villages, Cru Beaujolais 9. Which is the odd one out and why? Muscadet, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Riesling 10. Which of the following is NOT a red grape? Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Marsanne 11. Barsac is? A sweet wine from Bordeaux, A sweet wine from the Loire, A sweet wine from Hungary, A dry wine from Bordeaux 12. Where might you find the Denbies wine estate which has an underground train? 17

NEWS FROM ST HELENA

The following shops are now open with reduced shopping hours of Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm.

Books, Brew and Boutique (coffee shop will remain closed). Peartree Road Furniture Shop Magdalen Street Dovercourt Great Clacton.

We want to assure our shoppers that we have taken every step to ensure their safety, as well as the safety of our staff and volunteers. We also expect to resume our House Clearance service but you can call us now on 07773 641 178 or email [email protected] to arrange a future quote.

You can donate bagged items at our Donation Centre in Stanway Monday to Friday 10am - 4pm. Unfortunately we cannot accept donations of furniture at this time.

NEWS FROM THE OAKS MANY APOLOGIES

We have been busy this month caring and to our advertisers entertaining our lovely residents. This month we have been to a variety of destinations in ‘armchair We introduce new advertisers travels’ Last week we had a lovely trip to Mexico along with all the hats and music, followed by some NKP Carpentry 07985 220494 and tasty tacos and some lovely whippy ice cream provided by ‘whip it like webbers’ from Clacton. Tendring Blinds & Shutters 01255 474241 We have our Russian trip coming up shortly with and we omitted some of our staff participating in some Russian dancing. Apart from the entertainment, our Carpentry residents are still missing their families. They are in regular contact, by phone, but some cannot S.P. Saltmarsh 01206 250533 understand why. The staff here are doing everything Simon Woods 01206 250908 M. 07920 we can to keep their spirits up and they were 163887 delighted when we went round with an old fashioned sweet trolley. Carpet Fitting Hopefully soon we will have some more sunshine so Mobile Carpet 01255 830793 M. 07711 we can get back in the garden for cocktails and a singalong! 745107 Total Carpet Cleaning 01255 831371 Kind regards M. 07828 136467 Gillian Howard Catering Angela’s Coffee Shop 01206 869373 who were missed off the list of advertisers in the June magazine but present on-line.

18

A FEW NOTES FROM YOUR DISTRICT COUNCILLOR THANK YOU - THANK YOU - THANK YOU

Forgive me, but I would like to give special thanks to everyone who has volunteered and helped the village in so many ways over these past few months. Special thanks go to Derek Burdett for kindly agreeing, when I asked him to take on the task I had been told I would not be able to do myself, by overseeing and taking care of the many requests for help, and helping those who came up with amazing ideas, such as making PPE etc., and for taking charge and achieving an amazing amount in fund raising donations to make everything possible.

To Scarlett and her sister Ruby for the delivery of food and prescriptions and, much more. To Mary and Carole for all they have done to keep the magazine going from month to month.

I know there are many other people who have volunteered to help and are naturally helping when seeing others in need. Our village is such an amazing place when it comes to helping each other. Thank you all so much.

LOCAL PLAN PART – 1 - VILLAGE COMMUNITIES I tuned in to the first two and a half hours of the Planning Policy and Local Plan Meeting Part 1 on Monday 8 th June 2020. I have given a few bullet points from the meeting for your information. If you wish to watch and listen to the meeting it is now available on Tendring District Councils (TDC) website under Committees and Meetings, the meeting lasts for 4 and a half hours.  It was said that the Inspector has categorically stated TDC’s housing land supply should read as 550 and not 865 . It is known the figures are flawed due to the Governments National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), so everything is being calculated on the two figures of 550 and 865. 550 means TDC are already over the required 5 year land supply by 30%, but with the Governments figure of 865 (TDC) has 4.45 yrs. Until TDC’s new plan is adopted, TDC must accept Government Figures, although it was said TDC will still carry on defending its figures and is now in a better position to refuse applications. So, the argument goes on until we can get to stage 2 of the Local Plan agreed, which once underway with our current Inspector will not take long as everything is in place and ready to go.  It should be noted, in case you are not aware, that Tendring’s Local Plan Part 1 was accepted by the Inspector, but Braintree’s and Colchester’s did not meet approval. So, further discussions are due to take place, when all three councils will be holding formal talks next month with Braintree, Colchester, Essex County Council, and their company North Essex Garden Communities Ltd.,  Unfortunately, it is being said that Covid-19 has been holding things up with no or little building works being carried out at this present time.  Another point that was raised under the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) are the areas on the maps within the Agenda, which are outlined in red and stated as being Alternative Sites ; it was agreed after the matter was bought to members attention by the officer that the wording should be changed to read that they are in fact now Discounted Sites , the word alternative would make one believe they are still there to be considered, it was clear at the meeting that these sites are not up for consideration within the plan.  Below is the map that relates to Great Bentley for you to note the red outlines that have now been changed from reading Alternatives Sites to Discounted Sites.

19 CLACTON AIRSHOW POSTPONED UNTIL 2021 Sadly, the Clacton Airshow, Essex’s biggest event, has been postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The decision to postpone this year’s event, due to be held on 27 th and 28 th August, was taken by TDC after much consideration around visitor safety and being in line with the Government’s current recommendations. The Airshow will return in 2021, on 26 th and 27 th August.

BUSINESSES ARE BEING ENCOURAGED TO TAKE PART IN COUNCIL SURVEY

is part of the council’s Corporate Plan, an initiative to bring together partners, businesses, and communities to ensure economic growth is sustained and benefits everyone living and working in Tendring. Businesses in the district are being asked to take part in a survey run by TDC to help shape and inform the council’s Business Support Service. As part of the council’s Tendring4Growth initiative, plans are being prepared to commission a Business Support Service – with funding already agreed by TDC’s Cabinet in January this year. TDC’s Economic Growth Service had planned to consult firms earlier this year on what they would like to see included in the service, but the work was put on hold due to Covid-19. Now businesses’ views are being encouraged on what support they would like included in a tailored Business Support Service, which now also needs to include support to help businesses recover from the impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic. The survey will close at 12 noon on Friday 3 rd July 2020. Below is the link to the survey. https://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/tendring4growth-covid-19-business-support-and-recovery-survey

THE WASTE SERVICE IS COPING WITH INCREASED DEMAND AS RECYCLING RATES RISE New figures have shown the level of pressure being faced by kerbside waste and recycling teams during the Covid-19 pandemic. The unverified initial data is showing black bin waste and recycling during the lockdown, has increased. Veolia, TDC’s contractor has been working hard to maintain the same service despite facing staff shortages and higher workloads, with an increase in total waste of nearly 50%. Some unverified data shows that; -  In February there was a total of 1,226 tonnes of recycling collected and 1,948 tonnes of black bin waste up by more than 26.7%.  April was the first month recycling centres were closed due to Covid-19 and lockdown, this meant that the collected recycling tonnage was almost 800 tonnes higher at 2,025 tonnes, with black bin collections rising to 2,591 tonnes, the recycling rate hit 43.9% - higher than April 2019 which was 29.4%.  The biggest increase in tonnage was from glass banks, though food waste rose by one-fifth as people stayed at home.  Garden waste subscriptions have risen by more than 2,000 during lockdown, with an average of 200 brown bins being delivered each week – and garden waste material is up by almost four-fifths compared to April 2019.  Plastic and tins did not see a huge rise in tonnage.  This meant contractors had to move from daily to twice-daily trips from their depot to the processing plant. I understand how frustrating it may have been if the waste bins in the village were not emptied but, household collections have been the priority at this exceptionally busy time.

If you require any further information regarding the present Covid – 19 situation please access TDC’s website on www.tendringdc.gov.uk/coronavirus .

Also please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any concerns; I am always very pleased to help if I can, and if I am not able to, I normally know of someone who can; also always very pleased to hear from you. Many thanks

Cllr. Lynda McWilliams Tendring District Council Ward Councillor to the Parishes of Great Bentley, Little Bentley and Frating and TDC Cabinet Member with the portfolio for Partnerships email [email protected] Telephone Number 01206 250732 Mobile Number 07564 613603

20

FOOTBALL CLUB NOTES

I start this month by apologising for the fact that the last paragraph of my article went missing in publication. It stated that a new directive from the FA had outlined possible changes to the lockdown procedures regarding sporting activities.

Had it appeared, it might have helped the situation that arose on Thursday evening 11 th June. At 9.22pm the “Spotted Great Bentley” Facebook page burst into life with reports of people playing football on the green. As I write this on Saturday 13th, some 34 comments have since been posted.

It was decided not to enter into the Facebook arena but to issue a statement from the club. As follows.

“With reference to concerns on social media regarding the football training on the green, I would like to clarify a few points as Chairman of Gt Bentley Football Club, Andrew Walker.

I didn’t attend myself as I did not want to add to the gathering but I am told there were 14 players who were supervised by 3 coaches. FA guidelines (which can be viewed at : www.thefa.com ) have been sent to all clubs and we stipulate that these are adhered to. We, as a club are several sessions behind other clubs at our level. Obviously, these are worrying times for everyone and unprecedented regarding what to do just to function in everyday life. If any observations were made the other evening as to Gt Bentley Football Club not complying with correct procedure, please contact me so that I can address these matters.

I, my family and my business have been working to the guidelines and I have been shocked at some of the behaviour I have witnessed locally and on my return to work by some members of the public. We are not, as was implied “idiots”. Some members of the football club are key workers or have family who are. So we fully respect everyone’s views and concerns, many shared by myself. So please don’t think this was an easy decision. I can be contacted at [email protected]

To hopefully answer any questions”

Andrew Walker.

On the football front, The Football League have suspended the leagues 1 & 2 for this season and have applied a “points per game” figure for outstanding games. This has meant that Colchester are in the play-offs for promotion. We should all support our only local club that will be playing in the near future.

At the moment, league 2019/20 will not appear in the record books. A shame because if the Essex and Suffolk Border League applied “point per game” GB would be premier league champions for the first time in the clubs 125 year history.

The league AGM planned for 10 th June was postponed. It has been pencilled in for 8th July. Covid rules permitting.

Follow Great Bentley Football Club and Border League Football on Facebook and Twitter for all the up to date information.

Bentley Lives Matter Mel

SINCERE APOLOGIES

I am so very sorry that the last paragraph of the June Football Club Notes was omitted. My proof reading was clearly not up to scratch. I am saddened that this has caused a lot of criticism of the club on Social Media. If the people making these comments had only regularly read the notes each month they would be totally aware of the high standard the club sets itself at all times. My apologies for the trouble caused. Thanks also for the kind way in which the club has addressed this issue in their article. Mary Maskell

21

Children’s Page Here are a couple more ideas to try to do this month:

Draw a mystic rose.

These are really cool patterns you can draw and colour in.

 First, draw a circle – maybe around a circular bowl or plate.  Next, mark points around the edge of the circle at equal distance from one another  Using a ruler, draw a straight line from one dot to all the others  Continue this with the other dots around the circle, there will be fewer lines you have to draw by the end  You should notice a really cool pattern start to appear – colour this in and you’ve made a mystic rose.

Press some flowers:

 Collect a few flowers from the garden you want to press (make sure you are allowed to take them!!)  Arrange them on a handkerchief and carefully fold the handkerchief over.  Place some heavy books on it (The English Dictionary is ideal!)  Leave them for about 2 weeks  After 2 weeks, lift the books off and stick the pressed flowers onto a piece of paper

Colour these in!

22 GREAT BENTLEY PARISH COUNCIL Community Resource Centre, Village Hall Plough Road CO7 8LG Contact the Clerk on [email protected] www.greatbentleyparishcouncil.co.uk

Due to Government advice regarding Covid-19 the Community Resource Centre is still closed. The Parish Council is in operation and measures have been put in place so that the day to day running can continue. Until further notice the Parish Council meetings will be held virtually using Zoom. Agendas will be placed on the Parish Council website only, no later than 3 working days before the meeting. If you wish to join the meeting please email the clerk. The Parish Council website is regularly updated. There you can find information regarding the Great Bentley Coronavirus Community Group (GB Support), important information from Essex County Council, Tendring District Council, Essex Police, information for health, mental health & wellbeing and upcoming road works. The PLAY AREA on the Green is still CLOSED until further notice.

Meeting held 4 th June 2020 : Planning Applications Considered The planning applications shown in the table below were considered by the Planning Committee at the meeting held on 7 th May. If you wish to make a comment on these or other planning applications you should log on to the Tendring District Council website. Follow the link: https://idox.tendringdc.gov.uk/online-applications/

20/00489/DETAIL Reserved matters application for 25 dwellings, Land to The East of Mr Stephen Williams - open space, associated parking, and Heckford’s Road Hills Residential infrastructure for application 16/01999/OUT Great Bentley Construction Ltd allowed at appeal APP/P1560/W/17/3174843. CO7 8RS

20/00539/TCA 1 No. Sycamore - Pollard Pond House, The Green, Mr Henry Fairbanks Decided by TDC 26.05.20 CO7 8QG 20/00447/FUL Proposed two storey side extension and re- Rydal, The Green Mr Baldwin construction of roof to form first floor Great Bentley accommodation. CO7 8LX 20/00468/FUL Alteration to planning approval 17/00199/FUL to The Forge, Forge Lane, Mr Mark Moorcroft allow for holiday accommodation. Great Bentley 20/00640/TCA Reduce all trees in the rear right and back Ownest, Station Road boundary by 30% Great Bentley, CO7 8LH

Public Right of Way Footpath notes The footbridges along the footpath between Plough Road, Aingers Green & Frating Abbey Farm Road are scheduled for repair by ECC. Network Rail is aware the railway crossing lights at Frating Abbey have not been working for some time therefore the Parish Council will write to Network Rail to re-iterate the importance of these lights.

Litter & Dog Bins Some new dual litter and dog bins have been installed on the Green. Complaints have been received regarding the fullness of them and the smell which emits. It was noted that that there are many dog walkers from outside the village using the bins, which may decline once people are able to return to work following the pandemic. It was also noted that nappies and garden waste have been placed in the bins. The Parish Council will monitor the situation. THESE BINS ARE NOT TO BE USED FOR DOMESTIC OR GARDEN RUBBISH.

Southside track The Parish Council is considering the purchase of a replacement tractor to cut the Green which could also be used with additional equipment to level the track. A quotation to maintain the track and the Mill tracks will be obtained from the current contractor for comparison before a decision is made. A proposal from Friends of the Green for posts to be placed along the Green at Southside for preservation of the Green was considered and it was agreed to investigate the installation of knee rails with gaps for pedestrian access to and from the Green along Southside.

Community Initiative Fund The Parish Council is applying for funding to improve the entrance to the Cark Park

Local Highways Panel Scheme Applications a) Placement of traffic calming measures along Plough Road, Aingers Green to slow speeding vehicles b) ‘No right turn’ from Heckford’s Road onto the A133 for accident avoidance and to aid traffic flow from the village. These applications are due to be heard on 18 th June 2020

Why not subscribe to the Parish Council’s website www.greatbentleyparishcouncil.co.uk? You will receive just a single email every week drawing your attention to the articles posted on the website during the previous seven days.

Next Virtual Meeting - 2nd July. Planning Committee 7pm followed by Parish Council Meering.

23

TENDRING PRIMARY RECYCLE SCHEME

Whilst the Scheme continues to remain on hold, I have been watching the amount of recycling which we are accumulating at home whilst awaiting the Scheme’s safe return, and musing over the huge volumes we save from landfill as a group each and every year. It is astonishing, and you should all be very proud of yourselves for all your wonderful contributions.

It was similar thoughts and sheer people power in fact, which led to the inception of the Walkers Crisp Packet Scheme in Dec 2018. I thought you might like to hear the story.

Every single minute Walkers manufacture 7,000 plastic packets for crisps, which equates to over 10 million packets per day, and as the packets are not recyclable (in the normal way) these were all ending up in landfill. When you consider it is estimated that each packet will take 80 years to degrade, and that as a nation, the UK consumes 6 billion packets of crisps a year, it is a sobering thought.

Crisp packets dating as far back as 1969, plus numerous packets from the 1980’s, have been found on Cornish beaches, and it was this, in part, which prompted a gentleman by the name of Geraint Ashcroft, to launch a petition in 2018 with the campaign group 38 Degrees, calling on Walkers Crisps to stop using plastic packaging and to switch to recyclable packets. The petition was named #PacketinWalkers.

Over 333,000 people signed the petition …. but they did more than that …. they started posting their crisp packets back to Walkers freepost address and posting pictures of themselves doing so on the company’s social media site. Often the crisp packets were not in envelopes, which created problems for Royal Mail as the grease was contaminating other mail and the packets also had to be picked out and sorted by hand. The postmen were baffled, but the packets were delivered and Walkers started to get the message! Royal Mail eventually had to beg the public to stop returning their crisp packets in this way, which placed further pressure on Walkers. When this was combined with extensive TV and newspaper coverage of the campaign, Walkers had to respond and did two things. Firstly, they committed to making all their packets recyclable, compostable or biodegradable by 2025. But that however, is still a long way off. So, in addition they joined forces with TerraCycle and the ever-popular Walkers Crisp Packet Recycling Scheme was born. PEOPLE POWER!

As I said in the May newsletter, we, as just one small group, have submitted an incredible 204,630 crisp packets in the first 15 months since the Crisp Packet Scheme was launched in Dec 2018. People power indeed! Imagine the amounts which are now being saved from landfill and which go on to have another life when that figure is multiplied nationwide. There is still much work to be done (although TerraCycle have now recycled over 34 million packets), but if in the UK we could work towards recycling just 10% of all crisp packets purchased, we would be saving 1 million from landfill per day. Something we could aim for in the future.

So ….. with people power in mind, what would you like to achieve? Maybe you could give it some thought, because together we can bring about change.

Stay safe and well until we meet again next month.

June Barker

CONGRATULATIONS TO OLIVIA CLAYTON

The internationally renowned jeweller Alex Monroe recently ran a "Designs for Hope" competition. There were 500 designs submitted by amateur and professional jewellers. Six designs were chosen, and Olivia's design into a "One of a Kind" treasure was handmade by Alex Monroe and his team. Her design is a necklace with a pendant featuring a door which can be opened revealing a diamond - representing "when one door closes, another opens".

24

Surgery News

We are very pleased to announce the following Surgery news. We would like to congratulate Dr Sirisha Rokkam one of our Salaried GPs who became a GP Partner on the 1 May 2020. We would also like to welcome Dr Sayomi Gunawardena who joined the Practice as a Salaried GP on the 1 May 2020.

Changes to the way we work Due to the Coronavirus we have had to make a considerable number of changes to the way we work in order to try and keep both our patients and staff safe. We have had to do this by reducing the number of patients coming into the Surgery in the following ways. Instead of mainly face to face appointments we have introduced a greater number of telephone appointments and video consultations with our clinicians. These appointments can be booked in the normal way by contacting the reception team on telephone number 01206 250691. For patients needing urgent advice and treatment on the day we are still operating our telephone triage system. Patients should ring in on the day and speak to one of the reception team who will pass your details to the Duty Doctor so that he/she can call you back. If the Doctor agrees that you need to be seen then a face to face appointment will be made for you. We ask that patients only come to the Surgery if they have an appointment that has been agreed and booked with one of the clinical team. When you come in for your pre-booked appointment if you have a mask please ensure you wear this. When you arrive for your appointment you will be met at the door by a member of staff who will take your temperature, ask you to sanitise your hands and if you don’t have a mask you will be asked to put one on before you come into the waiting area. Due to social distancing we now have to limit the number of patients in the waiting room. To assist us with this please do not arrive more than a minute before your appointment time. If you do arrive early we will have to ask you to wait outside the Surgery or in your car, so please help us by arriving on your appointment time. Medication reviews can now be carried out in a telephone consultation which can be booked by contacting one of the reception team on the main number. If you are due for a blood test or blood pressure check then this can be arranged after your telephone appointment. All prescription enquiries will only be dealt with on the designated prescription telephone number 01206 257557 or by emailing our prescription clerk at [email protected] . I am afraid it will no longer be possible to come into the Surgery to enquire about your prescription.

Electronic Prescriptions Now that all prescriptions are sent electronically to the chemist of your choice, please don’t forget to let us know if you decide to change your nominated pharmacy.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for helping us to implement these necessary changes.

Sue Mitson – Operations Manager

SCHOOL NEWS

On June 1st, Great Bentley Primary school were able to welcome more of our children back to school. There have been many changes and many aspects of school life are very different to how the children left it back in March. However, some things are the same. These things will never change-the school is still a place of warmth, fun and laughter and the children are enjoying being back. Here is a snapshot of how school has changed by one of our year six returners.

:This is what Great Bentley is like now through lockdown. Social distancing is hard because it is easy to forget to stay two metres away but we are getting used to it. Doing our work is different too- we don't move around the room to collect work, we have everything we need on our desks. Play time is different because of social distancing but we can still play. We are in different classrooms with different teachers but it is fun. It feels great to be back after ten weeks at home!

25

POLICE REPORT

RECORDED CRIMES 01/05/202-31/05/2020 TOTAL= 14 Types Included - COVID BREACH- THEFT X2 - HARASSMENT WITHOUT VIOLENCE - MALICIOUS COMMUNICATIONS X2 - THREATS- DOMESTIC - CRIMINAL DAMAGE - OTHER CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO MOTOR VEHICLE - ATTEMPTED FLY-TIPPING - OTHER X3

Incidents reported- 20 Types Included - DISTURBANCE - THEFT X2 - PEDESTRIAN- HIGHWAY DISRUPTION X4 - SOCIAL DISTANCING - THREATS- DOMESTIC - THREATS X 2- PREVENT BREACH OF PEACE - ATTENTION TO - SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES X 2 - CONCERN - ANPR HIT - OTHER X2.

TRUCAM is back in action- Please drive safely and adhere to the road signs. 1 deployment - Thorrington Road - caught -23 Top speed 49mph Speeding and dangerous /Anti-social driving have been reported in the village numerous times this month. Be aware that if you are caught driving in such a manner you may receive a section 59 which could then result in a loss of the vehicle.

Parking on footpaths. 3 considerate parking tickets were issued this month. Drivers do this with the thought that traffic can get by easier, please consider pedestrians who use the foot path and need to pass without going in to the danger of the road. Parking at the kerb actually helps slow down the traffic, especially those not paying attention to speed limits. Footpath - For pedestrians/ Road - For vehicles.

Litter. A large amount of litter is being left all over the village. There are bins situated in various locations, please use them or take your litter home.

FLY Tipping. Fly-Tipping continues around rural locations. If you have items that are an inconvenience to take to the tip- Please leave them in your own garden. Anyone caught Fly-Tipping may be prosecuted.

Nitrous Oxide (whippets-bulbs) Used nitrous oxide bulbs (silver Capsules) are still being found laying around the village. This is a craze which is inhaled to get a euphoric state, which can cause other unwanted symptoms and can be dangerous.

Copied from the web Effects of nitrous oxide There is no safe level of drug use . Use of any drug always carries risk. It’s important to be careful when taking any type of drug. Nitrous oxide affects everyone differently, based on the amount taken, the user’s size, weight and health, whether the person is used to taking it, whether other drugs are taken around the same time.

The following effects may be felt almost immediately and can last for a few minutes: euphoria numbness of the body sedation giddiness uncontrolled laughter uncoordinated movements blurred vision confusion dizziness and/or light-headedness

26 sweating feeling unusually tired or weak sudden death. If a large amount of nitrous oxide is inhaled it can produce: loss of blood pressure fainting heart attack. Inhaling nitrous oxide can be fatal if you don’t get enough oxygen, which is known as hypoxia. Long-term effects Prolonged exposure to nitrous oxide may result in: memory loss vitamin B12 depletion (long-term depletion causes brain and nerve damage) ringing or buzzing in the ears incontinence numbness in the hands or feet limb spasms potential birth defects (if consumed during pregnancy) weakened immune system disruption to reproductive systems depression psychological dependence psychosis.

Getting help If your use of nitrous oxide is affecting your health, family, relationships, work, school, financial or other life situations, you can find help and support. Call 1300 85 85 84 to speak to a real person and get answers to your questions as well as advice on practical ‘next steps’.

Reporting incidents the correct way. To report an incident please ring 101 Or report it online https://www.essex.police.uk/do-it-online/report-a-crime/

If residents have any concern on suspicious vehicles/activity/ drugs in the village, please feel free to contact me, with as much detail as possible, including contact details so I can investigate. (Unless it is an incident , which then needs to be reported as above) Email- [email protected] Tel - 101 Ext- 440222

JULY 2001 Our first mention of the “Christmas” word Operation Christmas Child - Shoe Box Appeal

It seems fitting to reprint this article on Operation Christmas Child as it is only a few months ago that Maida Brown passed away. She spearheaded this appeal every year and helped to repack and fill boxes at the depot in Chelmsford.

“The time of year is fast approaching when we ask you to fill shoe boxes with gifts to be sent to children in need in many countries abroad. We are delighted to tell you that this year Sheila Heaton and Colin Ridgewell of Samaritan’s Purse are coming to visit us and give a presentation of slides and a video on the work of Operation Christ Child. This will take place in the Vestry Room at St Mary’s Church in Great Bentley on Wednesday 18th July at 8pm. We will be providing light refreshments for all who attend. Sheila has asked if they could come in order to thank all who have supported this work in the past two years. Please do come along and tell your friends of this very exciting event. We filled 78 boxes in 1999, 166 boxes in 2000. It would be wonderful if we could make it 200 in 2001!!! We are confident of the support and generosity of the people of Great Bentley, Frating and Thorrington. So much so we have ordered 2590 leaflets explaining the scheme. We look forward to welcoming you on the 18th July 2001.” Maida Brown, Connie Gosling and Rita Sharpe.

2020 Update. Sadly this year it may not be possible to send these boxes. We will keep you informed. Ed

27

A Drive to Adelaide. John Evans. June 2020.

“Be ready by 5.00am, we’ll pick you up outside your apartment in the morning,” was the instruction from Phil on my phone, signalling an early start for our drive across Australia in order to deliver his car to Adelaide airport, a non-stop journey of 3-days duration, covering a distance of 2,800 kilometres. Safely on board and grunting our greetings, Phil gently pulled away heading for Perth then continuing to the Great Eastern Highway, a lone truck on the road midst the early dawn with the new day’s sunbeams kissing the golden gum trees of the Darling Ranges. Some 5 hours into the journey, my two companions, Phil and Ian, two seasoned outback travellers gave me the wheel for the drive south onto the Eyre Highway whereupon the wheel was handed back to a more Aussie driver, as I fear my driving skills resembled that of a sedate funeral cortege, but despite my somewhat yawnful contribution, we arrived at Balladonia Road House by early evening having covered around 1100 kilometres. Ian chose a camping spot under an acacia and we began unloading, beginning with a well-earned cold beer from the fridge. Whilst the lads busied themselves doing useful things I concentrated on learning how to walk again, my condition being the result of the 11 hour drive but took it upon myself to memorise the lock-code of the toilet block, for to be denied entry during a moment of need is every camper’s worst nightmare. Several beers later it was time to roll out the swags, our beds for the night, a task of simple execution when carried out by the experienced outbacker but that I am not. So keen to learn, I watched the other two, each wrestling with what looked like a corpse wrapped in a tarpaulin having been made ready for a burial at sea. Following their example I grappled with my swag, untying straps the function of which escaped me but trying desperately hard to appear as if I knew what I was doing. However, in just a few minutes my swag was done, ready for slumbering but only owing to Ian’s expert intervention. The exercise however did much to assuage my feelings of embarrassing inadequacy plus, I reminded myself, I had also memorised the combination of the toilet door lock. With swags diligently prepared we went to the bar for dinner, but first popped into the small but interesting museum. Resting forlornly in the corner, looking a bit like the bonnet of an old Ford Cortina was a sheet of scrap metal upon which was emblazoned in red letters the word ‘SKYLAB’ next to an American flag. I looked more closely to find a letter signed by none other than President Jimmy Carter expressing an apology for the mess made by his Skylab when, in 1979, it dropped on the Balladonia area. As the fire-balling wreckage crashed onto this small Australian community, the gathered American eggheads were anxiously awaiting its arrival somewhere in South Africa. Having eaten, all three of us immediately bedded down for the night as the plan was to be on the road by 6.00am and although on stony ground, I was blissfully comfy in my swag and asleep in minutes. Not so my companions however as parked nearby was a road train full of lively sheep, the steel bed of the truck being of drum-like resonance producing a racket akin to an ovine stamp-dance routine of which Michael Flatley would be proud. Ian I learned had spent the night, not counting sheep, more planning how to kill them. However, after a tyre and vehicle check carried out whilst swigging a coffee, we were then ready to cover another 1100 kilometres to Wirrulla. Following some serious driving it was late when Phil parked outside the Wirrulla Hotel, the owner of which we found to be a gentleman who regarded swearing not only as an acceptable form of vernacular but also compulsory. He kindly informed that he had two rooms available which would proffer a range of options as to the occupancy thereof, a freedom of choice greater than that of his dinner menu I hasten to add, in that we could have what we liked as long as it was chicken schnitzel with mushroom sauce. The room allocation problem was easier to solve than first thought and of some relief to me because I thought my snoring was the contentious issue but, and without protest, the decision was found amicably in Phil’s favour, that it was he who should have the single room. By way of a goodwill gesture, I volunteered to memorise all the Australian time-zones in order that no-one overslept which was a good idea because the following morning when my alarm went off, Ian, my roommate was wide awake. Skipping both cockroaches and breakfast, the final journey into Adelaide was a joy. Having delivered the car to Adelaide airport, we made our way to the departure gates, Phil to Brisbane, Ian and I to Perth after which we boarded the internal flight, Ian having been allocated the window seat, mine being the middle seat. I was hoping to sit next to Nicole Kidman or Kylie Minogue but it wasn’t to be, for, sitting in the aisle seat was the biggest sumo wrestler on earth. Recognising my fate Ian suggested raising the armrest between us so we could cosy up but immediately retracted the idea just in case I fell asleep during the flight. Reading the paper left-handedly was my only option as my right arm was no longer mine having lost it somewhere underneath this big man, increasing the importance of avoiding any movement of the said arm lest the big fella felt a wriggle that I couldn’t. The in-flight breakfast was politely refused by me owing to my temporary confinement but Ian, whilst gently wiping with a napkin the fresh crumbs from his chin kindly comforted me by declaring that the food was inedible anyway. A bumpy touch-down in Perth brought to a close an enjoyable adventure but for me, took a great weight off my shoulders.

28

GARDENING NEWS

After last month’s notes on watering we have finally had a little rain! The warmer moist conditions do however mean that other things also become more active and you might find a few more slugs (and snails) attacking the leaves of your plants. Slugs are a tasty meal for our garden friends such as the hedgehog and frogs, so we need to be careful how we keep them under control. Seen recently in an ironmongers come general purpose shop there was a big box saying “stop slugs and snails” and harmless to pets and children”. As this sounded great the box which seemed a big heavy, was grabbed in a hurry. When reading the instructions it said pour a heap of the granules contained in the box to form a pile around the stalk of every plant you want to protect. The slugs and snails will not like crawling over the sharp stone granules that the box contained and will leave that plant alone. Now this obviously will do the job and it might be okay for a few plants but a bit impractical for a larger expanse of plants. It is obviously similar to the old fashioned method of using crushed egg shells or sand/grit to deter the pests. Now slugs are a problem as a slug can eat approximately a pound in weight of greenstuff in a season. Slugs also have a lifespan of several years so a good method of getting rid of them is very useful. There are a number of proprietary slug pellets that will also do the job and some of them are claimed to be organic so are not so harmful as the traditional ones. Try not to use pellets and one of the old methods seems to be very kind and friendly. Buy a bottle or can of beer, drink half of it yourself, and pour the rest into a shallow container and sink it into the ground so that the top is level with the soil. The snail loves moisture and apparently is very partial to a drop of beer. What a wonderful way for a slug to go, much better than being squashed, cut in half or any of the other methods and the gardener has a legitimate reason to drink beer! The garden is a great example of nature looking after itself. The recent dry weather has made early potatoes up the allotment grow very slowly and there is very little green top and no flowers. After digging a root there were not so many potatoes as usual but still enough for a couple of meals and as usual with the first potatoes the flavour was beautiful. A similar example is the asparagus. Asparagus is made up of nearly all water. This year the spears are a bit slower growing and a bit thinner and shorter than usual. The soil on the top was very dry and dusty where the plants found their water from is not known as they mainly have roots that spread out sideways below the surface. This year in the flower border the dry conditions have affected several plants and the leaves of Alliums have been virtually non existent but we still had some nice though smaller flower heads. (These are flowers that form a ball similar to onions but blue, white or pink). It is a bit worrying what next year will bring as bulbs rely on their leaves to generate the strength in the bulb to flower next year. After every shower of rain the weeds always seem to start growing again, it was ever thus. Evelyn in 1691 wrote:

“Have still an eye to the weeding: begin the work of haughing as soon as ever they begin to peeop; you will rid more in a few hours than afterwards in a whole day, whereas neglecting it till they are more ready to show themselves, you do but stir and prepare for a more numerous crop of the Garden Sinns”.

In other words keep on hoeing, it is a gardener’s best friend. You can cover a lot of ground in half an hour. It is gentle exercise and is so therapeutic, good for getting all that stress and tension out of your system. Just imagine who that nasty weed you just pulled out could be, see with a little imagination you can make even the most routine job turn into fun. With the variable weather we have had lately try to keep a close eye on the greenhouse, the tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers etc. have a large leaf area and can very quickly dry out. This causes various problems but usually it shows up in the crop. Perhaps it is a lot smaller than you had hoped, the fruits are misshaped or even diseased. A lot of these problems can be put down to poor or irregular watering, coupled with irregular stop/go feeding. So water regularly, little and often is a good policy, or better still invest in one of the automatic watering systems, they are now becoming reasonably affordable.

29

COOKERY CORNER

AUSTRALIAN SALADS FOR A BRITISH SUMMER

Roast cauli and blue cheese

Serves 6 as a side or 4 as a starter.

1 medium cauli 120g blue cheese 1tsp each toasted pumpkin, sunflower and sesame seeds 1tsp baby capers 3tsp balsamic vinegar 100g pancetta 60g packet baby rocket olive oil Jar of chargrilled vegetables (optional)

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees and line three ovenproof trays with foil. Separate the cauliflower into florets and arrange on two of the trays. Spray with olive oil and drizzle with the balsamic vinegar. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until tender and light golden. Remove and leave to cool. Place the pancetta on the third tray in one layer and bake for 5 to 10 minutes until crisp and golden. Set aside to cool before breaking into small pieces. Unless you have bought already toasted seeds, you now need to lay them out on an ovenproof tray and toast them for a few minutes, shaking the tray halfway before leaving to cool. Arrange the baby rocket and cauliflower florets on a serving platter, or on individual dishes. Sprinkle with the crumbed blue cheese, pancetta pieces, drained baby capers and the mixed toasted seeds and season gently. Serve at room temperature. If you decide to use the jar of chargrilled vegetables, drain and toss them gently through the salad, reserving the marinade as an optional dressing.

Mixed grain and mushroom

Serves 6 as a side plate or 4 as a starter. This recipe needs two hours marinating time.

For the marinating mixture:

400 button mushrooms 1 third cup chopped flat leaf parsley 2tbsp rice wine vinegar olive oil 1 crushed garlic clove

Put the above ingredients in a bowl, toss to combine thoroughly and season. Cover and set aside for two hours, stirring occasionally.

For the dressing:

Combine the following ingredients and put into a sealed jar. Shake well.

2tbsp maple syrup 2tbsp soy sauce 3tsp sesame oil 3tsp finely grated fresh ginger

Cook and cool a 250g microwaveable packet of Ancient Grains rice according to instructions. If this is not available, a mixture of grain types or a packet of your own preference will suffice. Add this to the mushroom mixture after the two hours, together with 100g baby spinach leaves. Toss well to combine. Arrange the mixture on a serving dish or 4 small plates and drizzle with the dressing.

Mixed tomato and lentils

Use a selection of tomatoes such as cherry, yellow and plum. Kumato tomatoes, or Kumatoes, are unique both in colour and taste and were originally grown in Almeria in Spain. They can range from a rich brown to dark red and golden green and are intensely crisp and sweet.

350g mixed tomatoes 2 Kumato tomatoes 2 large vine ripened tomatoes 1 small red onion 400g can lentils 100g goats cheese 2tbsp each chopped parsley and mint olive oil Balsamic vinegar

Slice the tomatoes thickly and the red onion thinly, then arrange on a serving plate, sprinkling with parsley, mint and drained and rinsed lentils. Put 2 tbsp each of olive oil and balsamic vinegar into a bowl. Stir well and drizzle over the plate, finishing with crumbled goats cheese.

M.E.

30

Great Bentley Pre-school www.greatbentleypreschool.co.uk [email protected]

Firstly, I would like to say I hope everyone is well and keeping safe in this strange and difficult time. Normally this time of the year I would be telling you all about the exciting things we have done and what we have planned for the last month of the academic year – summer trip, sports day, carnival, leavers presentation, etc. Sadly, not this year. Although we have reopened our doors again, from the week commencing June 1 st , things are very different. Due to government guidelines, with keeping all children and staff safe being our main priority, it has not been possible to open our doors to all our children and so the decision was made to only open for children due to be going to Primary School in September and only for 2 days. Being in uncertain and worrying times not all children took up the opportunity. For the ones that did return it has been great to be back. It’s been lovely for them and the staff to get some small amount of normality back into their lives and it has been wonderful to see how the children have adapted and coped so well with the new rules and changes, this giving us hope that they will adjust just as well when the time comes for them to move onto Primary School. With Primary School nearly upon a lot of our children we would normally be doing our fantastic transition sessions with Great Bentley Primary now. These have always proven to be so positive and successful for when that time comes, with the current situation though it has been impossible to do these so this half term we will be working with the children to make sure they are ready for when that big day comes. The hardest part of our job is bidding farewell to our children, it is always quite an emotional time. It is very sad that this year we will not be able to give them the proper sendoff they deserve and to know that we will not get the opportunity to even see some of our children again, let alone say goodbye. We hope though that you have all enjoyed the challenges and experiences we have shared in your time with us and that you will all take away lots of happy memories. The whole team at Great Bentley Pre-school would like to wish every one of them good luck in their next step and hope they enjoy and have lots of fun at their new ‘big school’.

Thank You I would just like to say a big thank you to The Village Hall who have been very supportive of us during this uncertain and difficult time, especially Derek who has personally been very helpful and accommodating to what we need to make Pre-school a different but very safe and secure environment.

September Term Registers This month I will be looking at the registers for the new term in September. If you would like to become part of our Pre-school or would like any information, please contact me through our email address at the top of this article or through our Facebook page. Unfortunately, we cannot offer visits at the moment, but we are always here to answer any queries or questions you may have or to arrange a collection of a Welcome Pack.

Last But Not Least Allison and I would like to thank all the staff for their FOR SALE hard work over the past year, and a very challenging year at that, they really are a fantastic dedicated team. Wingbacked chair (Argos page 45) We would also like to thank the parents for their continued support and we wish you all a happy and Blush pink Ht 107cm W 73cm D 96cm healthy sun filled summer. Suit lounge or bedroom Used for only 6 weeks after hip surgery Thanks for reading Shielded household Buyer collects Julie Wiles £100 ono

07880 851 595

31

Four of a kind

Who or what comes next to complete the foursome?

1. John, Paul, George and ……………….. ? 2. Spike Milligan, Harry Secombe, Michael Bentine and ……………..? 3. Athos, Porthos, Aramis and ………………? 4. Bramwell, Anne, Charlotte and ……………...? 5. Raphael, Michelangelo, Leonardo and …………..? 6. Lady Louise Windsor, Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie and …………...? 7. Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and ………………? 8. Thistle, Leek, Rose and …………..….? 9. Andrew, Patrick, George and ……………..?

10. Mr Fantastic, Invisible Woman, The Human Torch and………………? 11. Davy Jones, Mickey Dolenz, Mike Nesmith and………..….? 12. Agnetha, Bjorn, Anni-Frid and ……………? 13. Samantha Jones, Miranda Hobbes, Charlotte York and……………? 14. Bob, Carol, Ted and ……………..? 15. George, Thomas, Abraham and …………..…..? 16. Harpo, Zeppo, Chico and……………..? 17. Lion, Scarecrow, Tin Man and………………..? 18. Brooklyn, Cruz, Romeo and……………….? 19. Tinky, Winky, Laa-Laa, Dipsy and …………..? 20. Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Slytherin and …………....?

(Hogwarts Houses) Houses) (Hogwarts

20.Hufflepuff 20.Hufflepuff (Teletubbies) 19.Po kids) (Beckham 18.Harper Oz) of (Wizard 17.Dorothy Bros) (Marx 16.Groucho

ts) ts) Presiden Rushmore (Mount 15.Franklin (Film) Alice 14. City) the in (Sex Bradshaw 13.Carrie (ABBA)

12.Benny 12.Benny Monkees) (The Tork 11.Peter Four) Fantastic omics C (Marvel Thing 10.The Saints) Patron (UK 9.David

al Emblems) Emblems) al Nation (UK 8.Shamrock airports) (London 7.Luton granddaughters) (Queen’s Tindall 6.Zara Turtles)

llo (Ninja (Ninja llo 5.Donate (Brontes) 4.Emily (Musketeers) rtagnan 3.D’A (Goons) Sellers 2.Peter (Beatles) 1.Ringo

32

CRICKET NEWS Cricket is coming back!!!

Early June we were allowed to resume use of nets on the Green under strict guidelines which saw many of the senior youth and some households booking slots.

Then mid June more good new s! Under the guidance given by the ECB and the Government we were able to return to cricket for our Friday night youth players from 19th June and we look forward to seeing as many Junior cricketers as possible.

All of our safety is of paramount concer n, so we used to guidelines to implement the following:

How are we going to run it?

Coaches – Lee Barrett/Alex Young/Henry Fairbanks

5.30pm – 6pm – Year 1 & Year 2

6.15pm – 6.45pm – Year 3, Year 4, Year 5, Year 6

7pm – 7.45pm – Hard Ballers only

Booking

 Due to the Covid 19 regulations , f or each session you need to book a place (you cannot just turn up on the night)  To book please email - [email protected]  Payment - The cost is £ 1 per colt per session , please bring a £1 coin!

Forms to complete

 You need to complete the following forms – and send it to [email protected] with your booking request. A scanned copy or a photo of the completed form s is acceptable  GBCC Youth Reg Form  2020 Membership form – there is NO charge here – membership costs are currently frozen  GBCC Covid consent form

Other key points

 For hard ballers - Please bring all your own kit to the session  For years 1 to 6, we will be using equipment that can be sanitised  Please bring your own drinks / food as required

The Pavilion will be closed , so please ensure your children go to the toilet before they arrive at GB CC.

 Please ensure you / they have washed / sanitised their hands before they arrive at the Club.  Please arrive 5 minutes before your session & wait by the pavilion till coaches call you over  ALL parent s or guardian s need to remain at the ground throughout the session and must observe government led social distancing procedures during this time  At each session the squad will be split into groups of no more than five and each group managed by a coach  Please remind your child about social distancing procedures on the way to the Club  we are taking this undertaking of launching very seriously for the all our protection & have followed these to the letter

Given the above we will try to make the sessions as relaxed and fun as possibl e - as the team start playing cricket once more , the emphasis will of course be on enjoyment in safe surroundings.

The Club look forward to seeing you all on Friday.

GBCC Committee & Coaches In accordance with Current Guidelines when WE went to print: 17.6.2020

-- 33 MARY BEARD MARY BEARD WRITES OF HERSELF: Mary Brock was born in Braintree in June 1918. Her father was fighting in France with only one home leave in three years. In 1938 Mary married Jim Morgans, a lovely man, an able-seaman in the Royal Navy, who was tragically lost when the submarine Thetis failed to surface when on trials in Liverpool Bay less than a year later. During the war Mary served in the Civil Nursing Reserve although she never trained further. “I’m not a nurse, and you’re not entitled to call yourself a nurse if you’re not trained, any more than a doctor can call himself a doctor without training.” In 1947 she married John Beard, a childhood friend, and they lived for a time in Romford, where Jennifer was born in 1949. They were living in Grays when John died suddenly in 1972, aged only 54. Mary was working in London, and in 1981 she moved to Great Bentley, still travelling to London each day. After retirement she worked on a part-time basis in Dot Richer’s wool shop on the green. She enjoyed a happy friendship with Jean Acutt. Mary found the village extremely friendly, and everyone was so very kind. She took part in several village organisations, at some time being secretary and then president of the WI. For several years she was secretary of Great Bentley Good Neighbours and St Mary’s PCC. Mary’s great love was walking in the countryside, and she was able to enjoy this until fairly late in life. Her very special day was her hundredth birthday, when unbelievable celebrations were organised by Jenny, including the unexpected presence of eight Australian cousins, the eldest of whom was 92, who had travelled over specially from Australia! There was also a lovely party by St. Mary’s Church, and the bell-ringers rang a special peal in her honour. Mary celebrated her latest birthday on 12 th June 2020. Now aged 102, she realises that she has lived a most uneventful but very satisfying life.

DAUGHTER JENNY WRITES: A TRIBUTE TO MUM This is the sort of thing you normally have to do at funerals, but I am in the enviable position of writing this while the person concerned is still here. I’m not actually sure whether that is a good thing or not, because mum has always been a stickler for exactitude. She will inevitably correct me on some finer point of grammar, spelling or content detail, especially on events which happened before I was around. But I will take the risk. Because mum has been around for a very long time indeed. When she was born, the direct product of Grandad’s only leave from the trenches, the First World War was still in full swing. She was born in June 1918, and the Great War continued until the November. Whereas nowadays we look skyward to remark on the passing of a bi-plane, mum remembers the excitement of exclaiming “Oh look, a mono-plane!” When mum was born, Grandma was told that Mary was “delicate” and therefore not a natural candidate for longevity. As a perpetrator of really bad judgement, that midwife is up there with Michael Fish, or Albert Einstein’s teacher who reputedly wrote on his charge’s school report “You will never amount to very much”. Mum remembers gas lamps, Flappers, King George the Fifth and trains running from Braintree to Rayne. In her childhood Braintree still had a lively livestock market. In fact on the morning that mum was born, a cow came into the garden of their London Road house and knocked a rose tree down! At that time fields were still ploughed by horses, deliveries were mostly made by horse-drawn carts and horses played an important role in warfare. It was not too long after the era of motorised vehicles having to be preceded by a man waving a red flag. Okay, that’s a bit exaggerated, but I’m allowed a little poetic licence.... Mum can describe life during the Great Depression, discuss current opinions on the abdication of Edward VIII and speak at length about the outbreak of the Second World War and her experiences getting to work in London after a night’s bombing had devastated the City. A few years ago a new GP, seeing her date of birth and not much else, wanted to establish the state of her mind. He therefore asked her whether she could remember the date the Second World War broke out. “September 3 rd 1939”, she replied promptly. “Would you like me to quote Neville Chamberlain’s speech to the nation?” Thank you, but that will not be necessary. One Nil to the oldies. But back to mum. As I mentioned, mum does not tolerate bad grammar or sloppy writing. Had she decided on a career in proof-reading she would have been every author’s nightmare. No errant apostrophe or sleight of spelling escapes her eagle eye, and she can be scathing if an author gets his or her facts wrong. When one such author referred to “Princess Elizabeth” returning to the UK after the death of her father, she put down the book forthwith. “She was Queen Elizabeth, even if she were still to be crowned!” The book was returned to the library, unread. On the other hand, mum has always been scrupulously honest. Back in the 50s I can remember her worriedly waiting for the bus conductor to come down the stairs, and often riding past her stop rather than get off without paying. Much later, when mum was in her late eighties, she was wandering round British Home Stores in Colchester looking for a handbag. Not finding anything that caught her eye, she went on to Marks and Spencer’s where, looking at a further selection of handbags, she was horrified to find that she already had two on her arm – her own, and one which she had inadvertently picked up in BHS. She beetled back to the shop and bought the handbag – a sort of penance, for having pinched it in the first place! Needless to say, no-one in the shop had noticed. 34

Humour features high in her genetic make-up – a rather devious and subtle sense of humour that other people sometimes “don’t get”. This sense of humour is frequently used at her own expense, and has definitely kept her mentally young. As she often says, “If you can laugh at yourself, you won’t get old”. Fairly recently, when a rather obtuse young cashier in Morrisons asked her “Do you want a Bag for Life”, mum’s immediate reply was “My life or the bag’s?” Over forty years ago, when mum was turning sixty, she was working in an office in London with several ladies who were considerably younger than she was. Mum confided that she was thinking about having her ears pierced, but that she would wait until after her sixtieth birthday, in order to qualify for Senior Citizens’ ear- piercing rates. After a few minutes’ reflection, the 18-year-old office junior remarked “’ardly seems worf it!” With hindsight, it clearly was worth it, because mum is still using earrings for pierced ears (as opposed to “clip-on ears”, as she puts it) today, over forty years later. A couple of years ago we were at Tilbury, waiting to board a cruise liner. The queue zigzagged back and forth, rather like people waiting to be admitted to Disneyland. On one side of the embarkation hall the entire wall consisted of one big mirror. As we advanced, mum pushing her trusty Johnny Walker, she looked across and remarked “Well, there’s at least one other really old woman on the cruise.” Mum, it’s you. It was the “really old” which particularly amused us. In spite of a tendency to fit in with everyone else, and do as she is told, mum has always been quietly resilient and independent. After losing her first husband days before her 21 st birthday, with World War 2 starting shortly afterwards, she rented a flat on her own in Romford, working in an office in London and volunteering in the Civil Nursing Reserve at Ilford Maternity Home. Nowadays “children” of 40+ frequently return to the parental home in times of crisis, often with the kids in tow. It was different in those days. In spite of considerable talent in various fields, she always has to be reassured as to her worth. Once she confessed to her sister, Peggy, “I can’t do anything really well”. “Nonsense”, said Peg, “you can, er, you can, er...” She has always nursed a desire “not to be a nuisance”, and this has become more extreme the older she became. It is hard to imagine a person of her years who is less of a nuisance, or more appreciative of any kindness shown to her. There are certainly a lot of sour-faced oldies out there, and I am fast getting that way myself. Mum, however, is most definitely not one of them. Even now, she helps herself as much as she can, and can always spare a thought for others. Mum enjoys her own company, and spends a lot of time reading, painting and doing crosswords and what she calls “Sod-U”. She can operate her mobile phone (most of the time!) and send text messages. She never complains about people not visiting her, or that she’s lonely. Consequently she has a lot of friends who enjoy spending time with her; it’s not a chore, as she’s always fun to be with. Mum has always said “If you don’t enjoy your own company, how can you expect other people to?” On another cruise, this time around the British Isles, when mum was 97, we sailed through a force 10 storm, and were confined to our cabins while the Prima Donna Greek Captain advised us that he would “attempt to turn the ship”. The ship was plunging about, pitching and tossing, and I was wondering how long I could last without throwing up, when mum asked “Do you think we should start getting dressed for dinner?” DINNER??? Next day we made an unscheduled stop in Liverpool, where mum and I decided to buy tickets for the Hop On Hop Off sightseeing bus. This time we had mum’s orange convertible (walker/wheelchair), christened Whisky Tango, with us. Whilst the conductor and I were wrestling with the wheelchair, trying to get it stowed under the bus stairs, mum hopped nimbly up the stairs and bagged the front seat! “Good Lord”, said the conductor. “Did you see that?” To summarise, the changes she has seen in her lifetime are incredible. Her father went off to war with his horse and a gas mask. Nowadays satellites and drones are locating and homing in on terrorists in remote corners of the Hindu Kush. A hundred years ago a telephone was an unaccustomed luxury restricted to the privileged few. Calls were operator connected, with any other local telephone owners able to listen in to the conversation. Telephones were mostly wall mounted, with a handle to access the exchange. Nowadays you can stand on a remote Alpine peak with a small piece of unattached plastic and speak to someone in New Zealand. And complain if the connection is bad. When mum was born television had not been invented, and a radio was a large cumbersome crackly object with a woven front panel. Recorded music could be heard on a gramophone with the needle having to be changed after every record. Nowadays, wide-screen TVs dominate every lounge. Recorded music is downloaded from the Internet (Internet? Even fifty years ago the computer at Bata’s shoe factory took up a whole building!) and either played through tiny headphones which aren’t attached to anything, or booming, stomach-punching loud-speakers that are. In 1918 it took six weeks to get to Australia by ship and for most people if you went there you never came back. It was a bit like pioneers heading off today to populate Mars. You didn’t have to have a criminal record by this time, but it helped. Nowadays quite ordinary people board a double-decker Jumbo and fly off for two weeks’ holiday on the Gold Coast or to attend a new grandchild’s christening in Tassy. Who knows what a child born today will be experiencing over 102 years later in the year 2120? The changes can hardly be greater than those that mum has seen to date. So let’s raise a glass to Mary and wish her continued health and happiness and all the best for her continued second Century!

35

ST. MARY’S CHURCH NEWS

Last autumn, a leaded glass window at the church suffered damage; the repair required the window to be completely removed, and restored by a specialist, at a cost of over £1000.00 Sadly, this has now happened again, to the same window, and it is likely to cost a similar amount to repair. The Police and the PCSO have been informed, and the incident is being investigated. The church is a Grade 1 listed building, and as such, the running costs are not insignificant, so it is always hard to find additional money for unexpected events. Many of the community here in Great Bentley use the churchyard for various different reasons, from dog walking, to finding a quiet, peaceful moment away from others; we would ask you all to be our extra eyes and ears, and report anything you see out of the ordinary, to the churchwarden, Wendy Smith, (T: 250098), and/or the PCSO, Julia Brandon (T: 101, X 440356) With many thanks,

St. Mary’s PCC

Pat Nunn has been busy making washable cotton face masks. These are available from Mary Maskell’s porch (the door is open, just walk in), and we would be grateful if you would make a donation to St Mary’s church. Thank you.

We have a Sunday service which we send by email, please contact Mary Maskell if you wish to be added to our list of recipients [email protected] or ring 01206 250524

PAGES FROM THE PAST - JULY 2011 A Study of Village Greens The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has funded and published a useful study: an assessment of the character of town or village greens in . This is by ecological consultant Karl Crowther, using information form the national survey of town and village greens, undertaken in 1990 by the Rural Surveys Research Unit at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth, the Countryside Commission and the National Federation of Women’s Institutes.

Survey Forms Members of the W.I. were invited to complete survey forms for greens and some commons which were regarded as greens, in their parishes. The results were not fully collated and have remained in boxes ever since. There were approximamtely 2,090 completed forms, representing about 58 per cent of the greens registered in England at that time. (There were also about 75 forms for Wales). The study asked questions about location, vegetation aspect, view, surrounding residences, structures, use for events, meetings, sport and play, existence over periods of history, and management at the time of the W.I. survey. Crowther looked at about one tenth of the survey forms, the selection being semi-random to secure examples from every region of England. He included only registered greens and registered commons which were used as greens. The report is well worth reading. Here we briefly summarise the conclusions. The vast majority of greens were less than one hectare; a site of 20 hectares was exceptional. There was a two-in-three chance that the green would be owned by a community or parish council. The most popular activities were likely to be informal recreation and dog-walking. Most greens were found to be mown grassland, usually with trees. A high proportion had seats and litter-bins.

Management Almost all greens had some form of management, with the local or parish council being the most likely manager. A majority of greens had a church, pub, or other non-residential building associated with them, and more often than not dwellings were arranged around and facing the green. Half of the greens were found to be triangular in shape, or nearly so, and it was more likely than not that a green would be sited at an intersection of roads. Just under half were found to be located centrally within a settlement, around a fifth being peripheral, with the remainder (about one third) being neither central nor peripheral. A majority of greens had existed as such since before 1900.

The report can be downloaded from Defra’s website at www.tinyurl.com/6bo66qb 36