Parish Council Newsletter

Autumn 2017

An update from the Chairman Jim Wright

Hi everyone, I hope we find you all well and enjoying what is supposed to be our summer! The year is going far too fast and we will soon be approaching the winter season, it’s that time for the kids to take care with the oncoming winter nights, please make sure they are taking care crossing our roads and are visible. We should also be thinking of our elderly residents now the darker night’s and colder weather is coming, the closure of the Day Centre may mean your neighbour is not seeing anyone from day to day, it may be worth a quick visit to see if they are ok and all is well. We have the Feast fast approaching its being held on the 7th October 2017, make a note of the date and pop down and support this fantastic event, again this year the event is being run by Tom Emmet supported by Kerrie Reynolds details will be posted around the village shortly. We will be looking at setting up Christmas lights again this year after the success and feedback from last year keep an eye out on the parish Facebook page & website for dates of the turn on. It is a shock to all of us regarding the attempted but not successful abduction in , the offender has been arrested charged and is now in jail until this matter comes to court. The young girl involved did extremely well in escaping and more importantly giving some outstanding information to the police this allowed them to take this individual off the streets. Well done to the Northants police in catching and charging this offender.

This type of event is very rare however we must warn our kids about being aware of their surroundings wherever possible stay on the footpaths, walk with a school friend or other friend, more importantly to stay safe and report any concerns to an adult. Most of the kids have mobiles let’s make sure they are charged that the children know they can dial emergency numbers with no signal or password on most mobile phones. The council as always are busy, we have repaired and refurbished the parks where needed, engaged a gardener to help look after our green spaces and as ever the handyman is litter picking and repairing broken and damaged street furniture. We are continuing to work on improving our village and to make sure we listen and react to you, our residents when making decisions, if you do have any issues comments or suggestions speak to one of the councillors or the clerk and we will try to solve your question issue or action your suggestions.

Regards, Jim

Note from the clerk

Sadly we had to say goodbye to Alex who was our handyman and would like to thank him for all the work he did around the village. We have engaged a new handyman and Ian has continued the good work started by Alex.

The Handyman can carry out small jobs including damage caused to Parish Council property so if you see any broken equipment, benches etc. please contact me so that I can get Ian onto it.

The Parish Council has had a gardener for 6 months which has been a great help in keeping the village looking good. Unfortunately Janie cannot continue in that role but I would like to thank her for all her efforts and wish her well.

I very often get asked “have you heard/have you seen?” relating to some matter that has been posted on one of the many social media sites within Deanshanger. Most often my answer is No! This is because I do not monitor other social media sites. If you report something on social media it probably will not get picked up by me until much later. DPC has a Facebook page and messages on there will get picked up but not on a daily basis.

The best way to contact the parish council is to contact me via email on [email protected], however not all issues are down to the Parish Council but fall under the remit of the District (South Northants Council) or the County Council therefore I have listed some of the common queries and where you should go to get these resolved.

Both the County Council and the District Council websites have all the relevant information and contact details. If you are not sure who deals with what it’s always worth looking at the street doctor website, the drop down menu shows you what can be reported and it covers many things.

Alternatively you can contact me at [email protected] and I will be more than happy to help if I can or advise which authority deals with your issue so that you can contact them direct.

Your County and District Councillor Allen Walker may also be able to help if you have no joy with the District or County councils. AWalker@.gov.uk

Dennis Loveland is also a District councillor and will be happy to help his contact details are: [email protected]

The remainder of the newsletter has been put together from contributions by local groups and individuals. If you would like to write something for the next newsletter please contact me.

Regards Teresa Floyd

Parish Clerk

Street Lights- Parish Council

If you notice a street light that is out (or flickering or on all the time) please advise the parish council & we can get the contractors to look at it.

Please state the street name & the number on the post. Email [email protected] This may take up to 2 weeks to get fixed

Abandoned Vehicles – County Council

Is there an abandoned, untaxed or nuisance vehicle outside your house? If so, contact E.L.V.I.S - the End of Life Vehicle Impound Scheme. This is a joint operation between Northamptonshire's Arson Task Force, , Northamptonshire County Council and all the district and borough councils in Northamptonshire. When you contact us we will need the registration number, make and model, colour, location and the condition of the vehicle. The E.L.V.I.S team aim to inspect abandoned and nuisance cars within 24 hours of notification and remove them within 48 hours, if appropriate. How do you report an abandoned vehicle?  Report the problem online  Email [email protected]  Telephone E.L.V.I.S on 08456 121 999

Rubbish-Fly tipping- District Council & Parish Council

Litter is a constant problem in the village and the Parish Council ask that you use the bins provided and teach your children to do the same. There are lots of bins in the village some owned by the District Council and some by the Parish Council. The bins will be emptied every other week except during the school holidays when they will be emptied every week. If you see an overflowing/broken bin please report to the clerk at [email protected] The Parish Council employs a handyman whose tasks include litter picking the play areas, however his time is limited and he cannot keep the whole village litter free.

Fly Tipping Fly tipping should be reported to the District Council on www.southnorthants.gov.uk/fly-tipping.htm

Dog Bins- Parish Council

We encourage all dog owners to clean up after their dog has fouled in a public place, as dog fouling is unpleasant & poses a public health risk. If the bin is full please report to the clerk at [email protected] If possible do not leave your bag by the bin use another one especially in Springfield park where there are 5 dog bins that you can use, alternatively you can double bag it and take it home and put in your black bin.

Dog Fouling- District Council

If your dog fouls in a public place & you do not clean it up & you will be breaking a Dog Control Order under the Clean Neighbourhoods & Environment Act 2005.

If an SNC council officer or any other authorised officer witnesses you not cleaning up after your dog, you may be given a fixed penalty of £75. If you refuse to pay the fixed penalty you may be taken to court & be fined up to £1000 plus court costs.

Pot Holes & Road Repairs- County Council

Pot Holes Please report potholes to Northants County Council through the Street Doctor website. www.northamtonshire.gov.uk/streetdoctor If you don’t report it, they may not know it is there. Road Repairs You can check on any road repairs at roadworks.org just pop in your postcode and you can see what’s happening near you.

Crime- Anti Social Behaviour- Police

If you witness or are the victim of a crime please report this to the Police on 999.

If you feel that there is anti-social behaviour in your area please contacts the police on 101 to record the incident.

Do not assume someone else will do it. Depending on other priorities the police may not be able to come out straight away, but it will be recorded so they can get a view of areas that may need extra regular monitoring.

Parking in the Village- Everyone

Parking is another issue that raises concern. It is not illegal to park on the pavement and the police will only intervene if it is causing a dangerous obstruction. The Parish Council are liaising with the County Council with a view to getting bollards in front of the co-op to help with issues there. Yellow lines will not be enforced so these are not recommended. It comes down to each of us to park sensibly, avoid parking on pavements so that wheelchairs, mobility scooters, pushchair users and children can get by safely. Ensure there is enough room for emergency vehicles to get through.

Overgrown vegetation blocking paths- County Council

If any trees or bushes are overhanging the public paths then this needs to be reported to Northants County Council through the Street Doctor website. www.northamtonshire.gov.uk/streetdoctor They will inform the home/landowner to remove the overhanging vegetation.

Play equipment- Parish Council

The play equipment is maintained by the Parish Council. The equipment has an annual inspection and any issues bought up in this inspection are dealt with. The play areas are also checked on a weekly basis and some of the areas have undergone some refurbishment. If you have any issues regarding the play areas and equipment please contact he clerk on [email protected].

Missing manhole covers- County Council/Anglian Water

Missing manhole covers needs to be reported to Northants County Council through the Street Doctor website. www.northamtonshire.gov.uk/streetdoctor

Missing Water meter covers need to be reported to Anglian Water on 03457 91 91 55 or Anglianwater.co.uk

Noise complaints – District Council- A list of what SNC deal with

Neighbour nuisance--e.g. loud music, parties, barking dogs. DIY- activities from domestic premises. Industrial and commercial premises- e.g. noisy air conditioning or extractor plant, vehicle deliveries, ice cream chimes, music from licensed premises, bird scarers, motor sports. Intruder alarms from all premises including fire alarms. Car alarms including car stereos when the vehicle is stationary on private property. Noise from construction sites e.g. radio, plant equipment. Anti-social behaviour e.g. shouting, arguing, door slamming in domestic premises

Noise complaints South Northants District Council do not deal with

Noise type Responsible authority Shouting, arguing in the street Northamptonshire Police Phone - 03000 111 222 Fireworks Northamptonshire Police Phone - 03000 111 222 Air traffic noise (non-military) Civil Aviation Authority Phone - 01293 567171 Air traffic noise (military); Military low flying Exempt Ambulance/police sirens; Not actionable by any authority Children playing Not actionable by any authority Day to day activities Not actionable by any authority e.g. conversations, flushing toilets, mowing the lawn, vacuuming at reasonable time of day

A limited number of full and half plots are currently available at our allotment sites in Deanshanger.

For further information, please send an email to [email protected] or telephone

01908 265413 to discuss your requirements.

You may also like to view our website at https://deanshangerallotments.wordpress.com

Haven Court Hymns

Join us to sing your favourite hymns.

We meet at 3.30 pm on the first Sunday of each month from October 1st 2017

Hymn books provided along with a warm welcome to our small, friendly group.

Kay’s Keep Fit

Kay's fit-ball and Body tone classes are run at Deanshanger Community Centre on Weds evenings from 6- 6.45pm and 7-8pm. Fit-ball is a toning class designed to improve your core strength which in turn helps with posture, mobility and muscle strength. We use a stability ball for the 45min class and incorporate a quick warm up and cool down. Body tone is a class designed to exercise all the main muscle groups in the arms, bums, tummies, legs, chests etc. we use hand weights, resistance bands and the fit-balls during the work out. In working these groups of muscles we are toning and strengthening them, leaving us less prone to back, leg, neck problems. Both sessions are extremely good for anyone trying to get/keep fit. We have all levels of fitness and age. If you are interested please visit my Facebook page 'Kay's keep fit'.

Who let the dogs out?? Author- annoyed resident

Neighbourhood barking is not a pleasant sound, especially when the choir get bigger. How quick it is to make the neighbours tense and irritated. Are the owners out and can’t hear it, don't care, selfish, are the dogs lonely, should the RSPCA be warned, should noise abatement at the council be informed all questions that come to mind as you want the barking to stop. Regardless, the chorus has started and it spoils a sunny afternoon for many. Do think of others and the consequences before leaving your dog out (or alternatively playing your music very loud).

From the U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins: When the record finally ends he is still barking, The neighbours' dog will not stop barking. sitting there in the oboe section barking, He is barking the same high, rhythmic bark his eyes fixed on the conductor who is that he barks every time they leave the entreating him with his baton house. They must switch him on, on their way out. while the other musicians listen in respectful silence to the famous barking dog solo, The neighbours' dog will not stop barking. that endless coda that first established I close all the windows in the house Beethoven as an innovative genius. and put on a Beethoven symphony full blast but I can still hear him muffled under the music, barking, barking, barking, and now I can see him sitting in the orchestra, his head raised confidently as if Beethoven had included a part for a barking dog.

Update on Passenham Quarry August 2017

Many of you will know that GRS purchased Passenham Quarry in 2012 – and has been operating it since 2014. Since then, Pete Wynne – the GRS Operations Director – has overseen a series of site improvements, which benefit both the local community and the local environment.

These include a new, quieter, more efficient processing facility; an upgraded wheelwash and access road to reduce mud being tracked on to the Deanshanger roundabout; improved surfaces on both internal roads – and at the site entrance – to reduce surface noise and modification of site processes to minimise any localised noise and dust impacts.

At the same time, Pete manages the site with an open door policy and has constructive working relationships with a wide range of local people, businesses, contractors and sub contractors and landowners.

As part of the site restoration programme, sheep now graze in fenced fields, new bird boxes have been installed and new hedgerows planted. These areas are managed by GRS as part of its ongoing site aftercare commitments.

The current sand and gravel reserves west of the are being worked through and the company is currently on track to complete the extraction within the currently consented timescales. GRS therefore needs to be planning for the next stage of the site.

In May 2017, an onsite community consultation exhibition was held, to show the local residents the proposals for the next stage of the site. This would be an extension east of the River Great Ouse – on about 10.3 hectares (25.5 acres) of agricultural land – which would be worked and restored in 2 stages, over 2-3 years. Proposed restoration would be back to agriculture with some nature conservation.

General community feedback at the exhibition recognised the improvements made to the site – and to liaison with the local community – since GRS took over. There was a strong suggestion that the phases closest to Passenham Village should be extracted and restored first.

The application was then submitted to Council on 28th April 2017. After making the necessary checks, the council circulated both the application – and the accompanying Environmental Impact Assessment – for statutory and public consultation on 10th May this year.

Consultation is ongoing but a decision on this next stage of the quarry – which would allow GRS to continue to supply building materials for use in local construction and building projects – as well as civil engineering projects like roads, houses, schools and hospitals – is expected by the end of September 2017.

Subject to consent being granted – and the scope of any planning conditions – GRS would plan to start work on the area east of the River Great Ouse around spring 2018. Restoration would use both unmarketable materials from the site – and carefully selected imported inert restoration materials – such as non-recyclable soils from construction excavation projects. The proposed extension would be restored back to agricultural use as a flood plain meadow – in line with local landscape character and biodiversity objectives.

For further information, please contact Pete Wynne, GRS Operations Manager on any of the following GRS Planning Information Line (24 hour answer phone) Free phone 0800 8089114 [email protected] www.grspassenhamquarry.com DEANSHANGER PARISH COUNCIL VACANCY

Deanshanger Parish Council has a vacancy for a Parish Councillor which it is proposing to fill by co-option. The Parish Council would, therefore, like to invite suitably qualified individuals to apply for this vacancy.

To qualify as a co-opted Councillor an individual must fulfil the following qualifications:

1. Be a British subject, a Commonwealth citizen or a Euro national and at least 18 years old.

2. Be either a local government elector of the parish; or a person who a) has, during the whole of the 12 months up to the date of their appointment, occupied land or other premises as owner or tenant in the parish or b) has, during the same period, resided in that area or within three miles thereof, or c) has during the same period, had his/her principal or only place of work in that area.

If you meet the required criteria and would like to apply, please submit your application in writing to Teresa Floyd, Clerk to Deanshanger Parish Council at 3 Hayes Road Deanshanger, outlining what interests you about the role and what you feel you can bring to it.

HEDGEHOG IN YOUR GARDEN? SPOT THE SIGNS

Tracks -Faint trails through flowerbeds or long grass or across dew-covered lawns in the early morning may indicate that a foraging hedgehog has been in the area.

Prints -Hedgehogs have wide front feet with splayed toes and narrow back feet with longer ones. Their prints are hard to find, so try leaving out a ‘footprint tunnel’ that has an ink pad to record them. Buy a kit from the Mammal Society for £9.95 plus P&P, or make your own.

Droppings -Hedgehog scats are dark, gritty and up to 5cm long. Often they glisten with indigestible prey fragments, such as beetle wing cases, though these are absent if a hedgehog has been eating mostly worms.

Vocalisations -If you hear huffing, snuffling or wheezing in your garden at night, it’s a fair bet that you have hedgehogs. They are noisiest on warm evenings in May–July, the peak breeding season in Britain.

How you can help hedgehogs

British hedgehogs have suffered a rapid population decline. Here are 10 ways you can save these adorable mammals.

Tip 1- Link your garden Hedgehogs roam between 1-2km each night during their active season. It’s therefore critical that they can access a wide range of gardens. 13cm x 13cm holes in walls or fences will let hedgehogs through but will be too small for most pets.

If you have made a hole in your garden fence or wall, please visit www.hedghogsstreet.org to put in on the map.

Tip 2- Make your pond safe Hedgehogs are adept swimmers but if they cant climb out of steep sided ponds or pools they will drown. Use a plies of stones. A piece of wood or some chicken wire to create a simple ramp. Tip 3- Create a wildcorner Let the plants go mad in a corner of your garden and dont cut them back in winter and hedgehogs might nest here. They’ll also benefit from the abumdant insects. Use branches to add structure.

Tip 4- Deal with netting and litter Hedgehogs are prone to getting tangled. Polystyrene cups, plastic and elastic bands are all common offenders. Replave netting with a rigid structure or use a thick ordage andkeep taut. Sports netting should be tied up or stored inside when not in use.

Tip 5- Put out food and water Hedgehogs really benefit from extra food , using it as a supplement to their natural diet. Meaty cat or dog food, hedghog food, meal worms and chopped, unslated peanuts are all suitable. Water can also be scarce at certain times of the year and is the only thing you should give them to drink

Tip 6- Stop using chemicals Lawn treatments reduce worm populations. Pesticides, insecticides and slug pellets are toxic and reduce hedgehog’s creepy crawley prey. They are all unnessacery in a healthy well-managed garden.

Tip 7- Check before strimming Hedgehogs will not run away from the sound of a mower or strimmer- check before you cut and avoid causing horrific injuries or death. Single hedghogs are easily moved, but use gloves!. Moving a hedgehog family is more complicated and ideally undisturbed- call BHPS for advice on 01584 890801

Tip 8 – Be careful with bonfires Piles of debris are irresistible to a hedgehog looking for somewhere to hibernate or nest- build it on the day of burning or move the pile on the day of burning to avoid a tragic end.

Tip 9 – Build a log pile One of the best features for encouraging all kinds of wildlife and so easy to make, It will encourage insects and provide nesting opportunities all year round.

Tip 10- Become a hedgehog champion Register on Hedgehog Street and join an army of 30,000+ volunteers. www.hedgehogstreet.org Submitted by a hedgehog loving parishioner A new chapter in the Life of Holy Trinity Deanshanger

July and August have been busy months at Holy Trinity, we gave Chris and Cherryl a great send off and then we were straight into our Guardians of Ancora Holiday Club. 40+ children and young people enjoyed a week of activities and bible stories. We have then had some major cleaning jobs undertaken and are awaiting planning permission to replace the exterior rendering to the church room walls.

Our activities and services will continue as before thanks to a wonderful team of volunteers and some help from other churches including the Chapel. We have planned some joint services over the coming months, on 17th September 10.30 we have a joint traditional Harvest service with Communion at the Methodist chapel and then at 4pm we have a joint family friendly Harvest service at Holy Trinity. On 8th October 10.30 we have a joint ‘Remembering Loved Ones’ service at Holy Trinity and we are again joining together to celebrate Remembrance Day on 12th November. We also have exciting plans for Christmas so please look out for details of these.

We have been approached by the ‘Commonwealth War Graves Commission to put up a sign at the entrance to the Churchyard at Holy Trinity, to indicate that there is a grave of a brave soldier from the First World War in our graveyard. We are honoured to remember the service and sacrifice of Private W. Dumbleton of the Dorsetshire Regiment.

If you should need to contact us, the Rectory telephone will still be used 01908 262371 if nobody answers please leave a message and one of our Admin team will get back to you as soon as possible. You can also contact us using the Church office telephone number 07521 077971 or email us either using [email protected] or [email protected]. You could also contact us via our Facebook page HolyTrinityChurchDeanshanger

For details of Sunday Services please visit our website: www.htdchurch.org

This is a new chapter for us at Holy Trinity and if you would like to be part of this exciting adventure please get in touch or if you have any suggestions as to how we might better meet the needs of the Village please let us know.

Kind regards from all at Holy Trinity.

Deanshanger Library and Friends Report

Hello everyone and we hope you had a good summer break. By the time you read this we will have completed this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. The theme was “Animal Agents” and was created by Tony Ross the children’s author and illustrator most famous for “Horrid Henry” and “I want my Potty”

We went into the school for an assembly to launch the scheme, which runs from July to September and is a national challenge, and as always the Friends did their bit in encouraging children to read 6 books over the summer holidays.

FODL also organised a series of 6 craft activities for 4-11 year olds over the length of the scheme, and included making detective kits, learning about finger prints, graffiti, bookmarks, animal masks, secret writing and other fun activities. There were also messy sessions and also sessions with an edible theme.

At the time of compiling this article over 50 children had signed up for the challenge, whilst this is good we hope the number will have increased by the time you read this and also that many of the children will have completed the challenge and received their medals. The school, library, friends and County hope to see a 50% completion of the challenge which whilst ambitious is not beyond those taking part we believe.

The Friends group will have hosted a “Let’s keep reading” activity on September 2nd to try to encourage those children who started the challenge to come into the library where they can finish the challenge with 2 weeks to go in a friendly and cosy environment and free squash and of course a good book, adults are invited to take part as well.

The library staff, volunteers and FODL members always recognise this importance of this national initiative to encourage children to read for pleasure and hope you as parents will recognise your role in supporting them to do the same.

As this newsletter is being delivered you may have joined in our Roald Dahl themed weekend on September 16th --10am -2pm and September 17th--11am-2pm. This is an event for all the family so should be fun.

On Friday September 22nd the Friends are proud to host “Steve Dimmer” in his 1 man show “Poirot on Poirot” Steve will appear as that most famous Belgian detective and recount not only some of the famous cases he was involved in-----no spoilers promised—but also recount his personal life before he became a detective as well as the people he is best associated with.

Tickets including simple refreshments cost £6.00, and are available from the library, there will also be a raffle.

On October 26th—3pm to 5pm “Slightly Spooky children’s activities and crafts with a mild Halloween theme for the half Term.

Finally can we remind Mum’s, Dad’s, Child minders but most of all babies and toddlers that every Thursday afternoon 2.15pm to 2.45pm you can join us for Rhymetime

Your library and the Friends want to thank you for your support and look forward to welcoming you over the coming months.

The Beehive Since the last news letter you have helped raise money for the following charities: Urology department at Church Hill Hospital £341 Easter egg raffle for Willen Hospice £163 In house Darts for fun: Willen Hospice, Air Ambulance & British Legion £ 46 Race night for Bowel Cancer UK £702 Dog Rescue stalls £619

On top of all this the weekly meat raffle goes to Willen Hospice and the total raised to date is £30,013.93

Once again we would like to thank you all for your continued support, without you these things would not happen. We have been in the beehive for 13 years so here’s to the next 13!! Thank you to you all for keeping your village pub open.

Don’t forget there is always something going on at the Beehive, Bingo, Quiz nights, “open the door”, raffles, Darts and Domino’s so why don’t you come down and join the fun.

See you in the Beehive For further information contact Lorraine on 01908 262368

Deanshanger Branch Surgery

Deanshanger Branch Surgery has a doctor EVERY Tuesday - 4pm -5pm.

You can also see a nurse also EVERY Tuesday - 11.30am - 12.30am.

Phone Stonedean Practice for appointments.

Royal British Legion - Deanshanger & Wicken Branch

Brief History

Our branch was originally formed in 1918. It operated for many years until old age gradually took over, and with no increases in membership, the branch went into limbo. In 2013 half a dozen Deanshanger residents decided to reactivate the branch so elected a new committee which has operated to date with great success.

Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at the Conservative Club at 7pm and usually last about 2 hours. We welcome anyone to come along and forward any ideas that could be beneficial to our cause. If you wish to join the Royal British Legion, you do not need a military background, merely the desire to help our unfortunate casualties and their families.

Since taking over the poppy appeal a few years ago, our area from to Alton has raised over £16000 due to helpers, shops pubs, churches and schools. I have worked closely with the Elizabeth Woodville School and our Blue Theme Party was held on the hottest day of the year to celebrate Her Majesty’s 65 years on the throne.

We hope to hold more events as time allows so watch the notice boards or our Facebook page- Deanshanger and Wicken British Legion news and events

Beavers, Cubs & Scouts - 2nd Deanshanger Scout Group

Beavers, aged 6~8 meet on Wednesdays from 5.15pm to 6.45pm

The Beaver Colony is the first and youngest section of the Scout Group, and is currently at the maximum number of young people (28) we can safely deal with. A waiting list to join is in operation meaning some young people in the village are missing out on a scouting experience. The group could offer more to this age group if we had additional leaders/ regular volunteers to assist. If you feel like volunteering, please talk to any of the leaders.

A Beaver Colony is organised into smaller groups called Lodges. Providing a ‘home’ area for Beavers to gather at points at the start, during or at the end of the Colony meeting.

During their time in the Colony, Beavers will get a chance to try a wide range of different activities as well as going on trips, days out, and sleepovers. Participation, rather than meeting set standards, is the key approach, and there are a range of badges and challenge awards that Beavers can gain to recognise their achievements.

Cubs, aged 8~10¾ meet on Wednesdays from 7.00pm to 8.30pm

The cubs have had an action-packed last few months with two camps, trips to the air museum at Duxford, cycled (on and off road), hiked and completed badges including: Navigator (map reading skills), Athletes, Chefs and Air Activities (learning what does keep an aircraft in the air?). The trip to Duxford specifically enabled the cubs to learn about many different types of aircraft, watch a demonstration of how to put a gas mask on quickly, how to use a field radio and talk to each other, seeing commercial and military aircraft up close including the recently restored spitfire.

Some cubs represented the group in a district competition assessing their scouting skills. To demonstrate building skills the cubs made fence panels from willow twigs and branches and brushed up on their knotting skills.

In addition to the packed programme the section’s leaders trained for, participated in and completed the London to Brighton Bike ride raising almost £4000 which will be shared between the British Heart Foundation and the Scout Group.

The 2-night camp in May included the usual camp activities (fire lighting, campfire wide games blindfold string trails) as well as on-site activities include human table football, caving, tobogganing and two types of climbing.

The 6-night camp in July took the cubs to Derbyshire and Yorkshire and included visits to Matlock, York and Diggerland to drive JCBs. The cubs rode vintage trams, cable cars, visited an aquarium, walked through ancient lead mines, travelled on the newer Sheffield tram system and all before they arrived at the campsite. The next day the cubs spent the day on the water at Green Witherns reservoir and each did sailing, bell boating, built and paddled their own rafts around the lake.

During the camp the cubs walked part of the Pennine Way, learned about mountain survival techniques, bridged a stream using ropes, move minibuses using ropes and pulleys, took part in archery and rifle shooting and made their own lunch from scratch (meat pasties & apple crumble).

The York visit saw them learn about Vikings, Normans, & Romans, as well as visits to the National Railway Museum and York Minster. The day concluded with a fish supper in a restaurant.

Our next trip is a weekend in London (30th September) and a sleepover on board HMS Belfast (battleship permanently moored on the Thames). We’re going behind the scenes at Buckingham Palace, climbing the monument and visiting the science museum as well as travelling around London by buses, tube and by boat.

As so often happens we had to say good bye to a number of cubs (6 in total) at the end of July who have reached the end of their time with us - some of whom will continue their scouting adventures within the scout section others have chosen to undertake other activities – irrespective of what they do, we as leaders wish them well in their chosen pursuits and hope Cubs has provided them with great experiences and memories.

In September we will be losing a further 5 cubs so this a rallying call to the village if you have children aged 8 or 9 who want to be part of the cub pack and participate in the sorts of activities described above contact as by e-mail ([email protected]) or call Alan or Lisa on 07802 323862 or 07739 410744 respectively.

Scouts, aged 10~14½ meet on Thursdays from 8.00pm to 9.00pm

Scouts have enjoyed a full programme of activities during the summer term incorporating new adventures and visits.

We challenged our observation and diagnostics skills with a visit to the Vets 4 Pets surgery in Buckingham, examining real life x-rays looking at injuries, listening to the causes, treatments and prognosis of the animals. Scouts were shown the laboratory equipment now available for surgeries to run tests in-house enabling faster detection and improving the health prospects of the patients. We discussed common ailments and current threats to our pets and learned of the importance of regular vaccinations. There was also the opportunity to learn about the running of a practice and future career options. Our thanks go to Michael and his team for hosting a fun evening.

This year we ran a Father’s Day Camp and challenged the dads to compete against the Scouts in all manner of traditional Scouting activities. After a relaxed camp set up and fish and chip supper the competition kicked off with a very competitive game of football which seemed to last for longer than the usual 90 minutes with neither team wanting to give up. Who knew the dads could move like that! Saturday morning saw a lot of stiff joints and aching muscles. However, these were soon shaken off when the competitive edge reared again during the archery, air-rifle shooting, rafting and climbing activities. Saturday evening’s game of cricket was a much more relaxed affair. It was lovely to observe the Scouts and Dads relaxing and having fun together and a great opportunity for parents to see first-hand what is on offer to their children.

We ended the term with a session of Dragon Boating with the Secklow Hundred team over at Caldecotte Lake. This was a new activity for us in which we overcame fears of boats, learned new commands and paddling techniques and ended up with three races as a finale, which earned the Scouts their Dragon Boating Activity Badge. Our thanks go to Sharon and the Secklow Hundred team for running a great night.

We are now looking forward to the start of the Autumn term especially our trip to Belgium in October as part of a contingent of 70 Scouts from across the Northamptonshire County. We are also planning to set up an Explorer Scout Unit in Deanshanger so that our older Scouts can continue their Scouting journey within the Group until the age of 18. We are currently working together with the Deanshanger Colts football coaches to negotiate weekday training slots so that older Cubs can transition through to Scouts and still enjoy their football training, which will help to improve the take up of Scouts from within the Group.

We would like to express our thanks for the support from our Scout parents over the last term who have willingly given up their time and helped us to provide a range of fun activities in a safe and secure environment.

If you would like to enquire about opportunities within the Scout or Explorer section, for either a child or as an adult helper, please reach out by email to: [email protected]

Upcoming Events

Details of our upcoming events are posted around the village on the Notice Boards. We also advertise frequently on several of the Deanshanger Facebook groups/ pages.

Conservative Club The Conservative Club have the forthcoming events between now and Christmas: November 25th Unit Six December 2nd Santa's grotto see Facebook page for further details in November December 2nd Christmas raffle numbers on sale at club from September.

'Why Not Try The WI'

Are you new to the village or looking for somewhere local to go to in the evening?

Why not try the WI! It isn't all 'Jam and Jerusalem' - we are also about good company and fun in an informal setting.

We have interesting speakers, local outings, quizzes, social evenings and enjoy meals out together. For a visitor’s fee of £3.50 you can come along and see what you think - we will even throw in a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits. We are a friendly bunch and you will be made to feel most welcome - no one is ever left to sit on their own.

If you decide to become a member you will also have the opportunity to enjoy the many trips and workshops that are organised throughout the year by our Federation.

We meet on the second Thursday of every month (excluding August) at 7.30pm at the Community Centre in Deanshanger.

You can just come along on the night or if you want more information contact our President Carol Pattinson on : 01908 564459.

If you would like to contribute to the next newsletter please contact the clerk at [email protected].

Thanks to the cubs for delivering this newsletter.

Ways to contact your local Parish Council All councillors have an email address as shown below and you are welcome to email us anytime and we will look to support you or point you in the direction of someone who can. There is the website that holds up to date meeting dates, minutes and useful information Cllr Wright- Chairman- [email protected] Cllr Pereira - Vice Chairman- [email protected] Cllr Hall- Chairman of Planning & Highways Committee- [email protected] Cllr Spencer- Chairman of Finance & General Purposes Committee- [email protected] Cllr Dott- [email protected] Cllr O’Dell- [email protected] Cllr Hammond- [email protected] Cllr Modhani- [email protected] Cllr Loveland- [email protected] Cllr Masey [email protected] Cllr Rodrigo [email protected] Teresa Floyd – Clerk [email protected]

Parish councils have powers to provide some facilities themselves, or they can contribute towards their provision by others. There are large variations in the services provided by parishes depending on the size and location. Parish councils have the power to precept (tax) their residents to support their operations and to carry out local projects. The exercise of powers is at the discretion of the council, but they are legally obliged to exercise duties.

Attending formal meetings The meetings are to conduct council business, these are formal & a code of conduct is to be followed.

The public are welcome to attend the meetings, there is a section of the meetings which is closed and a 15 minute public forum is opened.

We welcome you to come and listen, take part in the public forum & hear first-hand the decisions that are made based on the work performed outside the meetings.

Deanshanger Parish Council Formal meetings  Full Council meeting  Finance Committee Meeting  Highways & Planning meeting You will see the meetings advertised on the 11 notice boards in the village as well as on the Parish website http://www.deanshangerpc.net/ Useful Telephone Numbers Clerk to the Parish Council 01908 566373 Council 01327 322322 Northamptonshire County Council 0300 126 1000 Police – non emergency 101 or 03000 111222 The Beehive 01908 262368 Holy Trinity Church 01908 262371 Methodist Chapel (Revd Dawn Saunders) 01908 312043 Library (Weds – Sun) 0300 126 1000 Elizabeth Woodville School 01908 563468 Deanshanger Primary School 01908 268920 Deanshanger Village Pre-school 01908 263295 Willow Tree Pre-school 079 7973 6791 County Councillor – Allen Walker 01908 260302 District Councillor – Dennis Loveland & 01908 262867 Allen Walker 01908 260302 Doctors Surgeries – Stonedean Practice 01908 261155 Stony Medical Centre 01908 260382 Deanshanger Chemist (Jardines Pharmacy) 01908 569998 Deanshanger Sports Club & Play Field 01908 567137 Assoc Deanshanger Community Centre (June 01908 562949 Lake) Deanshanger Village Heritage Society 01908 564725 Deanshanger Allotment Association 01908 265413 Street Doctor (Road / Footpath / Drain 0300 126 1000 Repair) 01908 567109 Deanshanger Conservative Club Like us on Facebook Deanshanger Parish Council Follow us on Twitter @deanshangerpc Visit the Parish Council website www.deanshangerpc.net Email the Parish Council on [email protected] A copy of this document is also available electronically at www.deanshnagerpc.net For information in alternative formats (for example, in large print or an electronic format), please email [email protected]