June 2015 The Circulation 1,950

The newspaperGazette of Gamlingay, East Hatley and Hatley St. George Gamlingay Players celebrate 50 years performing ‘Up Pompeii!’ Well, we certainly launched We’ve thoroughly enjoyed the Pattle and then handed over to Gill our 50th anniversary year in rehearsals since January and had Spaul who did the most amazing style. This play was performed many laughs over the months so it set-painting and created a wonderful to over 200 people from 23rd was very gratifying that the audiences backdrop for the actors. We were – 25th April at the Eco-hub had a great time too. also pleased to introduce two new members of the Players who acted and was greatly enjoyed by the The cast faced many challenges on audience, cast and crew. the way – embracing the farcical nature of the play, mastering the We’re very proud of the great team “Up Pompeii” was written by Miles with us for the first time. logistics of the moves along with effort before, during and after the Tredinnick in the 1970s to be the limitations and scantiness of the production and value all the lovely performed in the West End with costumes. One actor in particular had feedback we have received from our Frankie Howerd playing the part of to bare more than just his soul! audiences. Lurcio, which he had made famous in the television series. Howerd Andy Roberts, who played Lurcio, the Whilst this is our hobby and we enjoy was, however, persuaded to perform infamous ‘head slave’ to his master the rehearsals and the social side, we in Stephen Sondheim’s “A Funny and mistress in Pompeii, had an do it for you, our audience, so thank Thing Happened on the Way to the enormous amount of lines to learn, you for your continued interest and Forum” instead. Howerd never acted but carried off the part brilliantly. loyalty and look out for details of our in the stage version, which was not And the volcano erupting sounds next production in future editions performed professionally until 2011. from Vesuvius were almost realistic. and on our newly updated website, www.gamlingayplayers.co.uk It has only recently been released for Our set was brilliantly designed and amateur performance. built by Graham Morrow and Clive Best wishes from ‘Gamlingay Players’

The Gazette June 2015 1 Fiddle Daemons Due to changes concerning data Violin, Viola and Cello The protection, The Gazette is very cautious Repair and Restoration about reproducing pictures of children. Every effort is made not to single out Providing a professional Gazette individuals, and parental permission service for musicians, with Editors: Nick Bruce and Tom Newman is sought before using any item to t: 651025 e: [email protected] highlight an individual child. and restoration of violins, Chair: Nick Bruce Your letters and items for articles can firstviolas class repairs,and cellos. set up be dropped off at 82 Church Street, t: 651025 We can supply a range of Gamlingay or emailed to Nick Bruce. We ready to play instruments Chief Distribution Team: Jim and do not accept anonymous contributions. for sale or hire, suitable for Barbara Manning, Every care is taken to ensure the all abilities from Beginner Julie Newman: distribution manager accuracy of the items included but the to Professional. t: 650685 views expressed do not necessarily Free health check for your express the views of the Commitee. instrument. Village web pages: Ted Bradshaw Guilden Morden and Sandy 07814970635 01763852377 Letter from The Gazette’s Chair, Nick Bruce THE SHIATSU CLINIC For relief from … Backache Dear Readers, Stress PMT and many more This month sees a new exciting stage in The Gazette with a slightly new look but still with many of the favourite features. Try Shiatsu massage

Caroline Betts MRSS The Garden Tips are well liked and the History Man slot is very popular Member of the Register of the Shiatsu Society but the Picture Puzzler is proving that many people don’t know their own 01767 650485 village that well! This month’s is easy and don’t forget that you can still enter all the Picture Puzzlers and you could still win the top prize which CHILTERN will be revealed in the special summer issue. Thanks again for everyone’s support especially all those who deliver the Gazette to our villagers. School of Motoring Female Driving Instructor Regards, Nick L DSA approved L Block booking discounts To view The Gazette online, please go to gamlingay.org on village website Tel: Liz 01767 650 472 Copy Deadlines or 07986 543 121 July issue - 1st June

Open Garden Saturday 27th June 2015 2pm -5pm Fabricators of Marble, Granite, Little Chishill Manor, Little Chishill Yorkstone, Slate, Limestone and (Off B1039 Royston/Saffron Walden Road between Barley and Great Chishill SG all makes of Quartz surfaces Mature garden in wooded valley, shrubs, Kitchen worktops, Bathroom herbaceous borders, rose garden, kitchen garden Vanity tops, Fire hearths, Memorials Barry Tyler’s Dixieland Jazz band re-lettered and restored Home made teas • Stalls • Plants • Games Showroom: 83 High Street In aid of St Nicholas Church, Chishill Biggleswade SG18 0LA And in support of Addenbrookes Charity Cancer Appeal Regd Charity No 1048868 01767 314180 Qstoneworks.co.uk Admission £4, children free, Guide dogs only

2 The Gazette June 2015 Contents for this issue News from the churches 4 County and District Council 6 History Society 9 View from the Council chair 10 Gamlingay Parish Council AGM 11 Biggleswade Sandy Lions Club 12 Hatley Big Weekend 13 Cambridgeshire County fair 15 Get on your bikes, ladies 17 Writers group 18 Gardening tips 19 Sandy Rotary Club 19 Drum lessons Professional musician and qualified Roderick’s Vegetarian Recipes 20 teacher with 8 years experience Picture Puzzler 21 Trinity and Guildhall grading 1-8 Festival of Choirs 21 All ages welcome Junior Youth Club 22 contact Jon Finnigan News from The Lodge 24 01767 650080, 07841 713641 History - Worboys family 25 Postcards from France 26 SOLE PRACTICE Nicknames 27 REFLEXOLOGY CLINIC (Established 2002) Maddie’s Tales 28 CARLA ROBINSON MAR.VRT. REIKI Treatments offered at my clinic REFLEXOLOGY Gamlingay Village Show 30 VERTICAL REFLEXOLOGY REIKI What’s On 32 HEAD & SHOULDER MASSAGE Holistic therapies to improve many conditions and bring a sense of Relaxation and Well-being Village Information 34 13 years of professional accredited CPD advanced training and experience Gift vouchers available

Tel: 01767-651634/0777-201-2928 email: [email protected] Statement from the PCC of St Marys Church Or visit my website www.solepractice.co.uk It was stated in the last issue of the best thing to do. This ‘transfer the ‘old’ Gazette in December of assets’ did not happen. 2014 that, because it was thought Since then of course a new likely at that time that the Gazette committee has taken over running would be wound up because the the Gazette. On behalf of the PCC of committee had resigned, any St Marys therefore I would like to remaining funds of had the Gazette make it clear that we have received been returned to St Marys church. no money whatsoever from the This statement was made because assets of the ‘old’ Gazette. Nor has it was the church who started the PCC any involvement at all in many years ago and I the Gazette the editorial running or governance believe that the old committee had of the ‘new’ Gazette. received legal advice that this was

The Gazette June 2015 3 News from the churches Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin Gamlingay with Hatley and Everton cum Tetworth

Rector: Revd Steven Rothwell Reader: Chris Miller The Rectory, Stocks Lane, Gamlingay - 650568 11 Bunyan Close, Gamlingay - 650779

Key E -Everton G -Gamlingay H-Hatley St George B -Baptist church Services June 2015

7th Trinity 1 8am Book Common Prayer (BCP) Holy Communion G 10am First Sunday Service and Baptism (including ‘Sparks’ G Children’s Group at 9.30am) 4pm Evening Service E 14th Trinity 2 9.30am Parish Eucharist G 11am Holy Communion & Baptism H 11am Word & Worship E 21st Trinity 3 9.30am Parish Eucharist G 11am Parish Eucharist E 28th Trinity 4 9.30am Parish Eucharist G 11am Parish Eucharist E 6pm Evening Praise H Dear readers, I am writing this one week before the General Election, but on dodgy ground once you start wading your way you’ll probably be reading it a few weeks after, in which through the early books of the Bible. God seems to be case the government has been formed and we will be irascible, unpredictable, mean-spirited, over-bearing, welcoming new faces into parliament and welcoming back manipulative…the list goes on. God does not come across more familiar ones too. Whilst the election might be over as very electable. Thankfully, God doesn’t need to be there’s still time to see Caryl Churchill’s play, Light Shining elected. in Buckinghamshire, which runs at the National Theatre We, of course, always have the choice to reject God. We can in London until 22 June and concerns protests about the choose to be with God, or to be against God, or to just not rights of the poor in relation to the privileges of the rich in bother either way. In that sense we have a very democratic 17th century England, and in some ways has much to say relationship with God; it’s our choice to make God a part about our society today. of our lives or to ignore God. God just is, take it or leave it. One reviewer of the play commented on how the play Most people leave it. explores the right of each person to electoral eligibility Or do they? There are often polls published where large as a birthright, which we now take for granted. The play explores religious themes too. At one point God is spoken need for organised religion, and that has long been the about in terms of standing for election. Now, there’s a case.swathes There of people is something affirm abouta belief God in Godthat butfascinates have little people thought: what would have happened in May if God had and draws people close. Perhaps it’s because we use stood for election? Who would vote for God? the term ‘God’ to represent something about our own Leaving aside the question of which party would God understanding of spirituality and that part of our lives that represent, it’s an interesting notion to ponder. What does fuses feelings and thought but can’t be easily described. God stand for? Love, peace, compassion, inclusivity…? I would describe that part of our selves as soul. It’s our Ok, but what about all those stories in the Old Testament souls that we nourish through prayer and meditation and where God gets very angry and kills lots of people? That through our meaningful relationships. I believe that we wouldn’t go down well in the home-counties. When you all have a soul that needs tending and nurturing, and that attempt to rationalise God’s behaviour in the Bible, and can’t be ignored. when you try to make God to be a decent entity that supports democracy and fairness, you tend to stumble Revd Steven Rothwell

4 The Gazette June 2015 News from the churches Gamlingay Baptist Church Stocks Lane, Gamlingay www. gamlingaybaptist.btck.co.uk

Minister Revd James Gilbert BA Church Secretary: Mrs Linda Fraser 01767 651519 01767 677710

Dear Friends, Church Services: As I write this, it is a rather cold and Worship Service every Sunday Morning wet April day; it is hard to imagine 10:45am. (with J.A.M. for children) that I am writing this for the June Communion is always celebrated on the Gazette, when the weather should be somewhat different! firstFamily Sunday Service: of each 28th month. June 10:45am. The 21st June, the longest day, marks Weekday Meetings: the beginning of summer and as Tuesday Group 7:30pm. well as marking the changing of the Wednesday Group 10:00am. seasons, it is the day when the ‘neo- (Venues as announced) Druids’ and ‘New Agers’ gather at Stonehenge to await the sunrise. One For Children: of their own proponents said that J.A.M – Every Sunday (Apart from Family their spirituality ‘largely revolves around the veneration of nature’ as if nature Service) 10:45am was a deity in itself, which to me is absolute folly and rather sad. ‘Messy Church’ – fun, games, stories and getting messy (for children from 5 years) Two thousand years ago, St. Paul addressed this attitude, pointing out that 27th June at 2:00pm the beauty of the natural world and the wonders of the universe all point to the God who is the originator of it all – ‘His invisible qualities – His eternal Alpha – Every Thursday 7:30pm power and divine nature have been clearly seen, being understood from what The Alpha Course is an informal evening has been made [the cosmos]’ (Romans 1:20). The marvels of the environment set around a meal for those who want to point us to something far greater and when we miss that, we miss out! contact James, our minister for details. When people focus on the environment alone, St. Paul continues: ‘they find out more about Christianity. Please exchange the truth of God for a lie and worship and serve created things rather Women’s Prayer Breakfast – a time to than the Creator’ (Romans 25). It is like focusing on an amazing invention like share, pray and then eat together. the computer and missing the genius of people like Alan Turing and Tommy 20th June at 8:00am. Flowers who were behind it. The natural world points to the God who is Craft Group – spend time together behind it like a signpost. working at different crafts. That same God can be known and as well as trumpeting the reality of His love 4th June 10:00am to 12:00 noon. and creativity through nature, reached out to us directly through His Son, Jesus: ‘the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being’ Coffee Morning (Hebrews 1:3). 18th June 2015 (in aid of Gamlingay B.C. and our 2015 Charities) 10:00am until This summer as we enjoy sunny days (we hope!) and the beauty of the season, 11:30am – Why not join us for tea/coffee let’s not miss the astonishing power and glory of God that they point to. Why and cake? not take the opportunity to be thankful and seek Him out for yourself? Strawberry Tea – coffee, cake, Very Best Wishes! James. strawberries and cream Who could ask for more? 20th June 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

Holiday Club: ‘Polar Explorers’ – coming this August Bookings being taken now!

The Gazette June 2015 5 Councillors’ column District and County Council Issues

District Council issues by Sebastian Kindersley and Bridget Smith County Council Issues by Sebastian Kindersly

Your Councillors are always 30 metres of double yellow lines Local Development Plan The ready to help. If you have any cost up to £2000 so here’s why…. inspection of the Local Plan continues questions about these - or slowly and is unlikely to be completed indeed any other - matters, and signed off before next spring. isIn required,order make and a thechange advertising to traffic of This means that, until South Cambs please do not hesitate to contact rules, a Traffic Regulation Order County Councillor Sebastian TROs in local newspapers is a legal DC approves building of a further requirement. Those advertisements 1500 houses, we continue to function Kindersley on 01767 651982 in a planning policy void and remain or [email protected] to the cost. Several years ago local vulnerable to speculative planning or write to the Manor Barn, authoritiesare expensive challenged and add significantlycentral applications such as the one we East Hatley, SG19 3JA. District government on this, but the print expect to receive any day for the land Councillor Bridget Smith is on media lobbied heavily and prevented south of West Rd. Fewer than 400 01767 650510 or bridget@ a change. Cambridgeshire is now one houses have been approved so far and glockling.com You can also of several local highways authorities a number of large scale applications follow your councillors on participating in a pilot scheme to that were expected to come before Twitter: @Cllrbridget look at ways of reducing costs while the planning committee in April have @Seb4SouthCambs protecting print media income, been unexpectedly delayed. This includes sites in Foxton, Barrington City Deal The City Deal Executive use of taxpayers’ money in this way, and Melbourn. We have not heard have now had their second meeting whetherthough it in is timesdifficult of austerityto justify theor of any other potential applications when disappointingly they refused otherwise. Now you know. affecting Gamlingay Ward. We are to approve the creation of a reserve optimistic that we will have good A number of changes are proposed project list to include a number of grounds for rejection because of road-wise locally which you will note. rural cycle ways. This was despite the number of new houses we have The Parish Council has plans afoot for considerable support from over 100 accepted recently and the 90 that are the Church Street environment which businesses in South Cambridgeshire allocated in the local plan at no doubt will be advertised widely saying that being able to cycle to and Green End. fro work was a huge advantage for when the time comes. Secondly I am their employees and their businesses. Self Build Register South Road Croydon will be subject to some Cambridgeshire District Council has What they did approve was the workstold by shortly Highway – I officers know not that what. Larkin’s introduced a Right to Build Scheme creation of 17 new jobs to support Lastly a number of extensions to which will support people to design the delivery of the whole programme speed limits will come into force over and build their own homes. We which is 90% about roads but does the summer. I know that some drivers are working with Cambridge City include a bit about apprenticeships (well, one) get muddled by the limits Council to create a register of people and a bit about attracting new going up and down but if it’s too interested in building their own business to the area. There is now property. The register will help bring a website to keep you up to speed going too fast! together like minded people who with what is happening or you difficult to keep up with them you’re want to custom build homes in the Many complaints about inconsiderate can come to any of the Assembly same area. or Executive meetings. Bridget parking at School Close during attends them all and tweets what is drop-off and collection times. Please going on as it happens (or indeed consider local people if and when information about the scheme there If you would like to find out more as it doesn’t happen!) . http://www. you drive to school – they have to get is a page dedicated to Right to Build cambridgeshire.gov.uk/citydeal/ in and out too… Our PCSO has been on the website or if you have any tasked with sorting this out… queries about the registration, please Roads and things…..WHY ARE contact Amelia Davies by email DOUBLE YELLOW LINES SO [email protected] or call EXPENSIVE? One wondered why 01954 713181.

6 The Gazette June 2015 Councillors’ column District and County Council Issues

Bin collections – oh dear…We are University Technical College A be issued if the missed payment very disappointed to be getting new type of school is now open in was not received. If, however, complaints about missed bin Cambridge on the same site as Long that instalment was paid another collections and in particular missed Road Six Form College. This is a reminder would only be issued 14 ‘assisted bin’ collections. If you are University Technical College and it days after any further default. It is not very mobile or are frail then you caters for students from 14 to 18. only where an instalment is missed can ask for an assisted collection Children come from a very wide on a third occasion within the year which means that the refuse area to the school which prepares that a Final Notice would be sent, collectors will take your bin out from them for work in this region through removing the right to continue to pay where you keep it and put it out on sponsorship and partnerships with by instalments. This process gives the street ready for collection. This local business. The focus is about the tax payer lots of opportunities usually works very well but the new to discuss their problem paying the collection rounds have meant that skills children leave school with and debt with us and we can often offer some people have been forgotten whatfilling employers the skills gap want. between For this what reason support to those who step forward. about. Please do either report this to it has a very limited curriculum the council or let us know if you are consisting of sciences, maths, English, themselves in this position please being missed. We are keeping a log IT, geography and Spanish. 40 % of contact If any local the Councilresidents ASAP. reading We knowfind of how many bins are missed so that the school day is spent undertaking’ things go wrong sometimes so you we can assess the money that is being challenges’ in the state of the art can expect a sympathetic and saved by the new collection rounds laboratories. The students do an helpful ear! against any drop in service. adult length working day and wear business clothes. Selection is by Wild Flower Planting The wild Robinson Court Robinson Court interview as they are looking for has not been without its problems young people with potential rather of late but we are hopeful that most flower planting done by South Cambs than just those who are already last year was a huge success and issues have now been dealt with. DC on Manor Road and Murfitt Way achieving. A very interesting place – greatly appreciated by all who saw The long term residents are slowly with Open Days, if you’re interested. it. However, it relied completely on moving into either new permanent volunteers to plant the seeds and accommodation or temporary Children’s Society & Tax to eventually cut them down and accommodation and we expect the collectionThe Children’s Society clear the site when they were over. building to be empty before too has raised concerns how Councils Without volunteers this will not be long. We have still not seen the enforce tax collection which you able to be repeated. Please let either may have read about. Locally South the Parish Council or us know if you site and though we were promised Cambs has an excellent track record can help out with the planting in the thatfinalised a planning plans for application the redeveloped would for collecting council tax as we take be submitted by Easter that has prompt action to work with tax not happened. We shall be chasing payers who fall behind. Bailiff action firstNew instance. Bus! The new Route R bus this up although we understand the is absolutely a last resort for us. We service from Trumpington Park & delay is for ecology reports. Once work very closely with the Citizen’s Ride to Cambridge Railway Station Advice Bureau, referring those launched on April 7th running Council has no plans to re-let them who are struggling to seek free and duethe temporaryto the proposed flats are re-development vacated, the independent advice, and can even minute journey time. It runs every 15 on the Guided Busway with a five work at the site. In addition, the make appointments for residents to Council is in the process of working and 4.45pm-8.45pm weekdays and minutes at peak times ─ 6am-9.30am with the permanent residents at Cambourne. the cost of a daily return ticket is Robinson Court to secure new see a CAB advisor at our offices in £3.20 and a weekly ticket is £13.50. After a missed instalment, a accommodation during the re- The new service gained support reminder is issued after 14 days. development phase.. from Cambridge Ahead following A court summons would only then its Quality of Life survey of 35,000

The Gazette June 2015 7 continued from page 7 careful planning now will mean much services to meet those eligible needs. better communities in the future. The Carers Trust will offer support Cambridge employees. The survey and advice to all carers in the County. Carers Trust and the new Carers results showed respondents felt the If you’d like more info please have a Act 2015 Bridget has now had a biggest single issue facing Cambridge look at the website is the chronic level of congestion on couple of meetings with the Carers the roads. The survey also revealed Trust to talk about their work and http://www that of the four modes of transport carerstrustcambridgeshire.org or into and around Cambridge, the which is now law in her capacity as contact Bridget. specifically about the Care Act 2014 public bus service was used the least Gamlingay Village College & carers in Cambridgeshire. These (so no surprise there….) Education Delighted to see that GVC includethe Council’s people rep. caring There for are children 60 000 has been awarded funds to replace Just as an aside the County Council’s and adults with special medical and the boiler by the Government’s educational needs, and a surprisingly Condition Improvement Fund - indicates that 190,578 motor vehicles large number of young carers. Many Traffic Monitoring Report 2013 schools improving their premises is & 10,437 bicycles were entering carers suffer from poor physical one of the ways that really impacts on & leaving Cambridge every day in and mental health as a direct result children’s education but tends to get the twelve-hour period between of their caring role and many live 7AM-7PM. The number of motor overlooked…. 83% have felt lonely or socially However as regular readers will in the previous 17-18 years, while in situations of financial hardship. know education in Cambridgeshire vehicles had remained relatively flat isolated as a result of their caring the number of cyclists rose sharply. responsibilities. Many suffer from continues to be poorly funded http://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ depression. notwithstanding the recent info very welcome recognition by The focus of the new act is on Government that this is the case and I wonder how the charges at the P&Rs preventing carers reaching crisis a small additional funding boost. If point by building support into their Cambridgeshire was funded at the willNorthstowe impact those figures……. lives and helping them to be more resilient. It gives the carer as much discussion and debate the meeting this would provide additional funding After 6 hours of importance as the person being cared at which the phase 2 Northstowe ofEngland nearly average £27m for of Cambridgeshire£4,612 per pupil planning application was meant to for. It also makes sure that ALL carers be approved was very surprisingly have access to good quality advice and information and control over adjourned. During the meeting it had difference.schools, or £360 per pupil over become apparent that the committee their own support needs. 2015/16 levels – that’s quite a big As a result (partly) of that difference had very grave concerns about many The Carers Trust has won the Cambridgeshire has one of the largest aspects of the application not least County Contract to deliver statutory gaps between the achievement of of all the amount of money available assessments of needs to all carers pupils who are deprived and those for the civic/community buildings. in the county. The focus is on those Gamlingay Eco Hub was discussed in people who are not yet known to relation to the huge role it has played the authorities and aims to provide who are affluent at all ages. It is in providing support and services for funding base. 15,000 children live in povertydifficult into Cambridgeshire,close this gap from 70% a low of the community. Members accepted they do not present problems that not getting the infrastructure serioussufficient enough support to toneed them high so level that right would lead to all sorts of areas such as South Cambs. We interventions. An assessment of a these are dispersed across affluent problems for the thousands of people have very nearly the largest gap in outcomes in the country between the who would be living in the district’s need in order to remain well and carer’s needs identifies what they deprived and the better off students by the age of 19, although the gap respite care once a month for the firstThe newtown. meeting will be in July when is wider than average at all ages. caredable to for fulfil person, their babysittingrole as a carer each e.g. we hope that the developers will It is a priority for schools and the week to allow them to go to the gym, have a better offer on the table. As local authority alike to address the help with laundry, someone to talk to, an aside it’s amazing to think that inequalities in outcomes which blight etc. Northstowe has been 15 years in the the county. planning and yet the Government The Care Act creates a national Cambridgeshire is also one of the seem to think that developments of a minimum eligibility threshold. Where fastest growing counties in the similar scale along the A428 will just a carer’s needs reach threshold, the country and every new school means ‘happen’ overnight. They just don’t LA must consider how they are met and hopefully we can show the new less for the others. So proper fair and transparent funding really is Government (of whatever stripe) that may be under a duty to provide and depending upon financial means important – and if you have children

8 The Gazette June 2015 at local schools you’ll no doubt stretch target, Councils will retain already be battling away to help the additional revenue rather than schools make the case to Government. sharing this with central government as would be the case without Business Rates Budget the pilot. The likelihood that this Announcement Huge excitement locally as the Chancellor of the resources, at least in the short term, is Exchequer announced a business unlikely.will create Still, significant at least it’s additional something… rates retention scheme pilot in the Budget which included Got a problem? Issue? Cambridgeshire. Here comes the Something you’d like to discuss? rain however… The pilot scheme will allow Councils to retain 100% of Your Councillors are here to any additional business rate growth help you. Please do feel free beyond expected forecasts starting to contact us with comments, from 1 April 2015. The purpose of questions, problems or the scheme is to incentivise local complaints. We hope we can authorities to encourage business help but if we can’t we are likely growth within their areas. to know someone who can! POTTON WINDOWS LTD If the level of business rates grows beyond current expectations plus a Quality PVCu windows and doors Double Glazed - Secured by Design FENSA & 10 year guarantee Professional Service Assured News from Gamlingay & Discounts for Pensioners Tel: 01767 260626 District History Society E-mail: sales @pottonwindows.co.uk The evidence left by prehistoric occupation along the green-sand ridge was the topic of a talk given by Stephen Coleman at the April meeting. Stephen concentrated on the north western end of the ridge, where in Gamlingay Mesolithic and Neolithic flints are still found. Perhaps the most striking images from Gamlingay were aerial photographs of prehistoric crop marks, showing drove-ways, a set of sinuous triple ditches, and a number of ring ditches thought to be from the iron age. Stephen also referred to prehistoric features in the neighbouring area, including what is thought to be an ancient processional way near Biggleswade, and the Iron age hill fort named Galley Hill, whose earthworks can still clearly be seen in the grounds of the Lodge at Sandy. Our archive continues to expand, and to accommodate this, we have recently rented cupboard space in the Eco Hub, which should allow easier access to the material, as well as freeing up space in the homes of committee members.

social evening that takes place at 07.30pm on June 8th in room two at the Village The final College. meeting The in Society the 2014-15 then takes History a two Society month year break, is the and AGM will and start a new programme of events in September, details of which we hope to Hatley Parish Council Meeting publish shortly. Tuesday 21st July at 7.30pm in Hatley Village Hall. by Peter Wright.

The Gazette June 2015 9 View from the Parish Council chair Hello again. Spring is an important time for the Parish Council because April marks the first month of our new financial year, with a new budget. At our AGM in May we elect a new Chair, as our constitution states that a Chair cannot continue in post for longer than 3 years, and it is an opportunity for all Councillors to review which committees and working parties they volunteer for, and to change things around if necessary. Our budget is made up of the Precept, which is the money we receive from South Cambridgeshire District Council, and the money we receive from new developments in the village like Station Road. This year, the precept part

property in Gamlingay has paid £123.44 towards this. This money (your money)of our budget is spent for on 2015/16 the village is £177,143 and this yearand thiswe havemeans managed that every to keep band your D contribution to a 0% raise (which appears as a reduction of 5p on the value

many years that we have been able to freeze any upward rise and we are happyof change and from proud last to year deliver on yourthis. councilI am sure tax you bill). will This spend is the the first 5p yearyou have for saved wisely! However, keen observers of the Council Tax booklet that came round with the bill in March will see that Gamlingay’s precept is the highest of all the

that Gamlingay is one of the biggest villages in South Cambridgeshire and everyvillages year in Southwe will Cambridgeshire be near, or at the this top year. of the Why? league Well, table the along first answer with the is other large villages like Cambourne, Melbourn, Hildersham, Longstanton and Sawston. Each year one of these villages will have the highest precept, this year it just happens to be us. Put simply, the more houses and people you have, the more money you need. We never know how our precept will compare with the others, we can only set our own precept to what we believe we need and we do work hard to keep this to the minimum, whittling

theThe first second draft important precept down point and is down that Gamlingay, again until welike have the itother back largeto the villages, bare bone. is now viewed as a rural ‘Hub’ for other smaller villages surrounding it. This ‘hub and spoke’ model now adopted by South Cambridgeshire means that

smaller ‘satellite’ villages surrounding us. We are also the furthest village awaywe have from to Cambridge,be not only asand self on sufficient the very edgeas possible, of the South but also Cambridgeshire help support

provided services which may be accessible to others like, say, Cambourne. Onedistrict, good which example means of this that is we the are Youth less Clublikely – to we benefit used to from have any some centrally central funding and Youth Workers provided for us, but now we have to completely fund it ourselves, including training our own Youth Workers, and we channel this through our village charity, Forward Gamlingay.

uk for anyone interested in the detail. Our clerks are Kirstin and Leanne and A copy of our budget for 2015/16 is on the website www.gamlingay-pc.gov. on our website (www.gamlingay-pc.gov.uk) or our Facebook page: www. facebook.com/Gamlingayparishcouncilthey can be contacted on 650 310 or [email protected]., or twitter https://twitter.com/ or look GamlingayPC Everyone is very welcome at our meetings which are at 7.30pm at the Hub on the second Tuesday of every month. This is YOUR village, so don’t just grumble on the sidelines – get involved and tell us what you think so we can do the best job we can of looking after the village which we all call home. Best wishes, Sarah Groom, Chair of Gamlingay Parish Council 10 The Gazette June 2015 Gamlingay Parish Council Annual General Meeting

The Parish Council had a very cutting the grass in all the public in the future. The issue of speeding in positive and upbeat Annual areas, checking and managing tree the village was also raised, especially Parish Meeting on 28th April safety, keeping the cemetery tidy and where motorists ignore the speed which had 33 members of the well cared for, organising burials, signs, and Sarah Groom responded public attending. checking safety and maintaining the that speed signs were not always play equipment at the Butts, nagging enough to deter speeding drivers Chair Sarah Groom delivered her highways to repair potholes, litter and that the Speedwatch group annual report into the Council picking, clearing rubbish, and caring hoped to be effective in monitoring activities of the past year and for and maintaining the WI Hall and car numbers and speeds within the announced that the Parish Council Old Methodist Chapel. village, especially on the entrance and currently have a full component of 15 exit roads. Councillors and no vacancies. Sarah gave thanks to handyman Keith Wolcott, volunteer litter pickers and Finally the Parish Council closed the Highlights of her report included: those people who clear dog poo and meeting and served refreshments to litter unasked; library manager Kate all the speakers and guests. Laugharne; District and County grants to village and local The full version of the Chairman’s • A total of £29,829 given away in Councillors Sebastian Kindersley and organisations Report can be found on the Parish Bridget Smith, and the ever patient Council website and resilient clerks Kirstin Rayner (www.gamlingay-pc.gov.uk) support in the form of the Youth and Leanne Bacon. • CafeThe continuingand Youth Clubsuccess of youth Sarah also gave sincere thanks to her fellow councillors, who give so much of the Eco Hub, including an time and energy to the council on an • The building of phase 2 completion extension, upgrading the car entirely voluntary basis. park and landscaping the rear of the building towards the skatepark. The council then welcomed guest speakers from the emergency services who serve Gamlingay. John behind St Marys Church Coppard, our PCSO, delivered a brief • The building of the new cemetery report into local crime; Paramedics space at the side of the WI Hall with the East of England Ambulance • The creation of a new outdoor service explained the importance of

heating at the Old Methodist Chapel prompting the Chair of Trustees John • atThe Green installation End (to of go underfloor in this summer) Mercerdefibrillators to immediately in helping purchase to save lives, one for the Eco Hub which members of Brook Meadows one year on from the community will be trained to use • itsThe opening success and of the the Millbridge formation of a in an emergency situation. Finally, Friends volunteer group to help Station Commander Nigel Smith care for it gave a talk on the Gamlingay Fire Service, which is seen as one the best and quickest response units in the Long Lane, which remain full with a country and can be called out to serve • waitingThe success list of the Allotments on anywhere in the UK at a moment’s notice. Questions from the public included • inThe 2014 success of the library in the Eco Hub which recorded 4,369 visitors a question about the lack of street cleaning in Gamlingay – a service which used to be provided by South • The creation of speed signs slowing Road towards Everton Cambridgeshire but has now fallen traffic from 60 to 40 along Heath victim to cost cutting. District Speedwatch group Councillor Bridget Smith promised • The creation of a volunteer to take this up with the Council and the Parish Council also agreed to Christmas Lights write to South Cambs to question this • Gamlingay’s first ever decision and investigate if the job of the Council which includes could be taken on by Parish Councils • The ongoing maintenance work The Gazette June 2015 11

Biggleswade Sandy Lions Club A member of Lions International, the largest voluntary service organisation in the world.

Biggleswade ThanksSandyBiggleswade Charles Lions Club Sandy Lions Club Charles Wicksteed was born in Leeds in 1847, died before it opened in Easter 1931. “Cheyenne” one of A member of Lions International, the largestA member voluntary of Lionsservice International, organisation the in largestthe world voluntary. service organisationthe engines,in the world was. built in Bedford. the son of a clergyman. After an engineering apprenticeship he set up a steam plough In June this year, as in previous years, we will be taking contracting business in Norfolk at the age of 21. a full coach of disadvantaged families, who wouldn’t normally have such a day out, to Wicksteed Park. In THANKSIn 1871 CHARLES he moved to KetteringTHANKS and CHARLES went on to set up an engineering workshop. addition, we also invite Bedfordshire Young Carers and give them a much needed break. We pay for not only the Charles Wicksteed was born in Leeds inIn Charles1847, 1913 the Wicksteed he son bought of a clergyman.was an born area in ofAfterLeeds land an in near engineering1847, Kettering. the son of a Heclergyman. After an engineering apprenticeship he set up a steam plough contracting business in Norfolk at the age of 21. In coach, but also for admission and access to all the rides wantedapprenticeship to create he set an up open a stea spacem plough for contractinglocal families, business many in Norfolk at the age of 21. In 1871 he moved to Kettering and went on1871 to set he up moved an engineering to Kettering workshop. and went on to set up an engineering workshop.and attractions, as well as providing a picnic lunch. It of whom lived in houses with no gardens, so that their is thanks to you and your kind and generous support at In 1913 he bought an area of land near Kettering.childrenIn 1913 he hadHe bought wanted to play an toare increatea ofthe land anstreets. opennear Kettering.space With for his local He engineering wanted to create an ouropen fundraising space for local events that we can do this, one of our families, many of whom lived in housescompany familiewith nos, gardens, many he provided of swhomo that theirlived both childrenin seats houses andhad with to playground playno gardens, in so that their children had to play in the streets. With his engineering companythe he streets. provided With both his seatsengineering and playground company equipment. he provided both seats and playgroundkey events equipment. of the year. Wicksteed Park was born, one of the first Wicksteed leisure parks Park in was Great born, Britain. one of I ndeed,the first he leisure provided parks in Great Britain. IWouldndeed, heyou provided like to help raise money for events like this, equipment for many such parks in Europe.leisureequipment parks for many in Great such Britain.parks in Europe. Indeed, he provided equipment. Wicksteed Park was born, one of the first equipment for many such parks in Europe. take part in running them and enjoy our social life as Besides the fun of the roller coasters, flumeBesides and piratethe fun ship of theand roller rides coasters,there is also flume a nature and pirate ship and rides there is also a nature reserve and 147 acres of restful parkland.reserve He designed and 147 the acres railway of restful but sadly parkland. he died He before designed it the railway but sadlywww.biggeswadesandylions.org.uk he died before it . or speak to Dave opened in Easter 1931. “Cheyenne” oneshipopen of the edand enginesin ridesEaster was there1931. built is“Cheyenne” in also Bedford. a nature one of reserve the engines and was 147 built acres in Bedford. well? To find out more, visit Besides the fun of the roller coasters, flume and pirate of restful parkland. He designed the railway but sadly he WE SERVE In June this year, as in previous years, weIn will June be this taking year, a asfull in coach previous of disadvantaged years, we will be taking a full coach of disadvantagedor Judi on 01462 814693. Quite simply, our motto is - families, who wouldn’t normally have suchfamilies, a day whoout, towouldn’t Wicksteed normally Park. have In addition, such a day we out, to Wicksteed Park. In addition, we also invite Bedfordshire Young Carers andWhyalso give invite not them Bedfordshire ahelp much neededyour Young break. community? Carers We and pay give for themnot a much needed break. We pay for not only the coach, but also for admission andHaveonly access the you coach, to allever thebut ridesthoughtalso forand admission attractions, that things and as accesswell need as to all to the be rides done and attractions, through as wellthe asyear ahead with their activities. We would providing a picnic lunch. It is thanks to providingyou and your a picnic kind lunch.and generous It is thanks support to youat our and your kind and generous support at our fundraising events that we can do this, oneinfundraising theof our community, key events events that of wethe or canyear. that do this, young, one of olderour key peopleevents of the year. be pleased to hear from other local groups who might be and others need help and why aren’t they getting interested in us working with them to help them fund raise Would you like to help raise money for thateventsWould help? like you this, like Then taketo help part maybe raise in running money you’ve themfor events wonderedand enjoy like this, takewhether part in running with them similar and enjoy events. Do call the number at the end of this our social life as well? To find out more,our visit social www.biggeswadesandylions.org.uk life as well? To find out more,. o visitr speak www.biggeswadesandylions.org.uk article. oandr speak we should be happy to discuss. Dave or Judi on 01462 814693. Quite yousimply,Dave couldn’t or our Judi motto on help01462 is - them814693 .but Quite haven’t simply, our known motto is quite - WEwhere SERVE to start or needed a bitWE of SERVEencouragement We’ve also helped put together a couple of displays in and support to get started? Then, why are you Incorporating Biggleswade and Sandynot Lions Cluba Lion? Welfare Fund, Incorporating Everyone Registered Biggleswade Charity Nocan and1049281 Sandybe aLions Lion Club Welfare – ordinary Fund, Registered Charity No 1049281Bedfordshire’s Just Ask campaign and the second in Biggleswade. The first to support HealthWatch Central Meetings held on first and third Wednesday of each monthpeople atMeetings 8 pm at taking the held Conservative on first andon Club,third ordinary WednesdaySt Andrew's of St., each Biggleswade,tasks month at to8 Bedspm helpat. the Conservative others Club, but St Andrew's Biggleswade St., Biggleswade, Beds library. to support Cavell Nurses. Cavell

All achievingvisitors are most welcome. amazing results andAll visitors much are most welcome.happiness. nurses work with and support people, families and carers Lions give their time and help and support. 100% affected with dementia within our community. of the money raised from the public goes to help Also ahead of us now is a lengthy list of community fetes, those in need. fayres and fun days that we plan to attend to raise funds, and then comes the month of December when our diary We take great pride in our involvement within the local bulges with sleigh runs, tin collections and associated community. Towards the end of March we congratulated Christmas activities!

to celebrate their achieving the Lions Young Leaders in So, now you know what you can do to make a difference two young girls and presented them with certificates and help your community. Join us! We’ll be delighted to of them had spent undertaking voluntary work visiting hear from you and help you help others alongside us as we residentsService Silver in an Certificate, old people’s marking home aswell well over as 50helping hours restore each work together in Lions. and maintain grounds of a historic house. For more information about Biggleswade Sandy Lions, call Then, we ran a highly successful Race Night with Clifton Dave or Judith Hagger or visit www.biggleswadesandylions.org.uk

Youth Football Club. We shared the profit 50:50, resulting with a significant donation to the Club’s funds to help them

12 The Gazette June 2015 The Hatley Big Weekend Friday 26th, Saturday, 27th and Sunday 28th June Flower Festival • Concert • Village Fête with poetry recital by Malcolm Guite Hatley St George Church is the venue for a big The concert on Saturday 27th June at 7.30pm will be an weekend of activities in late June including evening of classical and contemporary music and singing a flower and herb festival, concert and the from local talented people including John Mercer on popular Hatley Village Fête, now in its fifth year. The church will be open over the three from duo Philippa Pearson and Nathalie Bending. days for teas and refreshments and to enjoy Ticketsclassical are guitar, £10 Helen(£8 concessions) Starksfield onto includeorgan and wine singing and the flower festival. strawberries served in the interval and available on the door or can be pre-booked. A popular event last year, One of the highlights of the weekend is a poetry recital, book tickets early. free entry, during Hatley Village Fête at 3pm on Sunday, 28th June by internationally acclaimed Cambridge poet, college Chaplain and singer-songwriter, Malcolm 28th June, come and enjoy the Flower and Herb Festival Throughout the Big Weekend from Friday 26th to Sunday Guite. Malcolm wrote a poem especially for the church decorating the church; light refreshments will also be called ‘Hatley St George’, the poem is permanently on available. The church was originally built in mediaeval display inside the building, which was published in his times with later additions through the ages and now recent book The Singing Bowl, a collection of poems offers a quiet, contemplative space in a delightful rural setting. All money raised throughout the weekend’s life. Malcolm will be signing copies of all his poetry activities goes towards the upkeep of this special and booksthat seek after beauty the recital. and transfiguration Enjoy stalls, information in contemporary stands, historic building, and we hope you can take time to come a display of classic cars and plenty of lovely tea and and join in our events. We look forward to seeing you! homemade cakes at the Fête from 2-5pm. Gamlingay Contact [email protected] to book concert Community Choir is also singing during the afternoon. tickets or for any further information.

From Left to right; Hatley fete June 2013 and Malcolm Guite with his poem ‘Hatley St George’

The Gazette June 2015 13 Lynne Stutkins 12 Elizabeth Way Gamlingay, Sandy, Beds Lewis Wooding SG19 3NH Internal &External Decorating Services Home: 01767 448552 Mobile: 07890 068644 Personal References available Email: [email protected] Competitive estimates Detailed quotations www.cambridgeweightplan.com/LynneS

Phone 01767 651647 Mobile 07889 966557

14 The Gazette June 2015 Countdown to Cambridgeshire Community Fair 2015 begins

The first-ever Cambridgeshire very willing to help people with ideas Community Fair will be taking to explore. place on Tuesday 2 June 2015 at The event is aimed any anyone who the Burgess Hall in St Ives. lives or works in Cambridgeshire The Community Fair is being who wants to get more involved in organised by local rural development community life. You might already be charity, Cambridgeshire ACRE and involved via your parish council or aims to help communities think about volunteer locally or you might just be how they can fund, build and do more wishing you could get more involved in their own villages and towns. but don’t know where to start. The event is being run as a drop-in With just 7 weeks to go before the style event from 3pm – 9pm, in the big day, Cambridgeshire ACRE’s Chief hope that as many people as possible Executive, Kirsten Bennett said: will be able to attend for at least part “The Cambridgeshire Community of the event. It’s completely free of Fair is the perfect opportunity to charge to attend and no booking is discover what you could do in your required – just turn up on the day. community, get help with how to do Attendees will have the opportunity it and to talk to others who have run to join a wide range of talks and similar things before to learn from workshops by local experts, covering their successes and mistakes.” topics like funding for community projects, building and maintaining about the event, including the community assets, running social programmePeople can find of speakers more information and a list of action projects and developing social which organisations will be exhibiting enterprises like community shops in the marketplace by visiting the and pubs. event website at: There’ll be a marketplace of stalls www.cambscommunityfair. from voluntary and community wordpress.com. sector organisations, funders, local authorities and other local programmes, projects and groups. Stallholders will set out what they can do to help communities and will be

Ian Williamson Local Painter and Decorator

Home: 29 Mill Street 01767 651 023 Gamlingay Mobile: Sandy 07968 658437 SG19 3JW

The Gazette June 2015 15 ALMSHOUSE VACANCY There is a vacancy at the Gamlingay Barn Dance and Hog roast in aid of Almshouses. Applicants should apply to the Trustees of Sir John Jacob’s St John’s Hospice at Moggerhanger Almshouses, in writing. Please St John’s Hospice has the unenviable task of raising over 2 million pounds note that the deed of settlement every year. Parkinson’s UK support those who have the disease and their states that applicants are to be ‘poor widows of good character resident these causes close to their hearts, and are organising an event in their support. in Gamlingay’, however the Charity Therecarers isas to well be aas barn raising dance funds in oneto find of Johnnie a cure. Johnson’sMany in Gamlingay barns at Castle find both Farm Commission have given the Trustees in Station Road over the railway bridge. The date is Saturday June 27th from discretion to widen these terms. 7-30pm til late. The Frog on a Bike Ceilidh band with caller has been booked. For further details, please approach one Tickets, which include supper, cost £15 can be obtained from Fay Boissieux of the Trustees listed below:

J. McCall, 5 School Close before know what a fun occasion it is. Wouldn’d it be wonderful if we could S.A. Kindersley, The Barn, East Hatley 07805207594 or Sue Thorne 01767-651668. Those of you who have been L. Edwards Major, 4 Coach House Court raise thousands of pounds for these wonderful Charities? P. M. Gorton, The Emplins, Church St, J. Hough, 29 School Close

Midsummer Soirée South Farm Tuesday 23 June An eclectic mix of live classical and contemporary music starts at 7.45pm Adam Protz - composer & musician Caritas Harmony - ladies’ choir Greenfield Quartet - string quartet

Tickets Enjoy your own or a £25 includes a glass of fizz and delicious pre-prepared canapés. picnic in the beautiful £35 as above plus picnic gardens from 6pm. Available on 01763 853696 or at www.abingtonpigotts.org

All proceeds to Abington Pigotts Village Hall Restoration Fund

16 The Gazette June 2015 Get on your bike, ladies! By Gill Kitchener British Cycling’s Breeze is the the more confident riders there using your postcode you will be able biggest programme ever to will be local rides coming up to see all rides in our area and are get more women into riding both evenings and weekends free to book on as many or as few as bikes for fun. Our aim is to so keep checking the website you wish. Should you need to cancel, help thousands of women feel for further details. You’ll be it is just one simple click. confident about going on a bike amazed how many routes there I look forward to welcoming you and ride, and have lots of fun along are from Gamlingay on quiet your bike on a fun ride soon. the way. Following on from the roads and off road tracks. Come [email protected] television advertising campaign and explore. 07842135732 “Girls Can”, which aims to British Cycling with sponsorship encourage more of us to take from Sky have also started their part in regular exercise, I would programme of rides for men, women like to invite all ladies, whatever and children (over the age of 8) in your age and level of fitness, to Cambridgeshire. These are led by join me on your bike. The next Beginners ride is on Thursday need to do is cycle. The routes are qualified Ride Leaders and all you 4 June at 10:15 am from Gamlingay Eco-Hub. Please as easygoing, steady and challenging. chosen for all abilities and classified visit goskyride.com/Breeze Please check out goskyride.com for further details and to book register and book your place, again all free of charge. By searching rides your place free of charge. For

The Gazette June 2015 17 Gamlingay & District Writers’ Group by Rhoda Ludford

Welcome to the Gamlingay Poetry entries this month with wish. Please inform us before the & District Writers' Group members tackling this month's Poem meeting and we will gather feedback newsletter for April 2015. A topic with differing levels of fervour! into a short summary which will be sent to you after the meeting. This great meeting this month with We had a very lyrical poem about will hopefully encourage our 'virtual' the addition of a new member. waking with a nice surprise at the members who are unable to attend Everyone threw themselves end. It was light hearted and made each meeting to be able to continue to into this month's topic about everyone laugh. contribute their work for discussion. poems and as always we had Another entry was an ode to 6. Tips for April No tips this month a couple of welcome off topic marriage, using simple and but three links to poetry competitions contributions... It is always memorable language to effectively currently running. If you have missed great if you can write something create an expressive and dark poem the very close deadline for the Ware on topic but if you have with an abrupt end. Poetry competition, but still fancy something else you are working One member submitted no less than using your polished poems from on we would love to see it. 5 poems as they really got into the April's meeting why not enter one of 1. Review of targets The theme for challenge of this month's topic. these? don't forget to let us know how April was "Poem/ change genre” We Lots of the poems had wonderful you get on! had a very productive month with lots rhythm like one which also included Ware Poetry Competition (Deadline of poetry entries. We had one story very clever references, one which 30th April) www.poetrypf.co.uk submitted for the 'change of genre' as tackled the topic of life and death Myslexia poetry competition (Closing well as one member submitting the using powerful imagery and date 15th June) mslexia.co.uk/ descriptions and one about our ever competition/poetry-competition As usual we encourage members to changing world which had an almost first few chapters of their new book. feed back individual comments to apocalyptic feel about it. National Poetry competition 1st members who were not able to make prize (Will launch later in the year One poem pretended to not be a the meeting this month. - Closing date 31st October) http:// poem at all, but with their poem poetrysociety.org.uk/competitions/ 2. News from members It was lovely entitled 'not poetry' they managed to national-poetry-competition/ to be able to welcome a new writer create a rhythmic, easy reading poem to the group this month. It gave us all a chance to talk about why we have Where will I walk? The short story entry was for a joined the group. We hope they felt that more than fit the brief. by Patricia Auchterlounie welcome. murder mystery genre. A great submission with the author tackling a Where shall I walk today in the sun? Congratulations to one of our new genre for them. Up to the hills where the rabbits run, Down to the stream draft of their book! Following their 5. Aims for the coming month Where the ripples gleam attendancemembers who to the has 'Getting finished Published the 1st In the golden rays of the sun. Workshop' they had renewed energy of topics on our website at http:// gamlingaywriters.weebly.com/You can find this year's programme Where shall I walk today in the rain? to complete their 1st draft. Without Through the copse and down the giving too much away he was able to May's task is to write a twist on a lane, give us the background of his novel proverb. Do you have a favourite By the village hall and we look forward to hearing more. proverb? Tell us how the proverb And the old brick wall, One member has entered a Myslexia came to be. Was it sad, funny, ironic or In the soft refreshing rain. simply misheard? short story competition, good luck! Where will I walk when I am dead One member has started on a The deadline is Tuesday 5th May And my body lies in an earthy bed? joint writing venture based on the 2015 at midnight and the next North, to hills bleak and wild, interesting area of Neuro linguistic meeting is at 7pm on Tuesday Moorland where I played as child; Towering quarry, tumbling brook, programming. 12th May 2015 in our usual venue downstairs in the Potton community Climb up high, stop and look; 3. Other news Our next summer building. Staring sheep that silent pass, social was discussed. Please bring Wind-bent trees and grey-green ideas to our next meeting. If you are part of the group and are grass. unable to attend a meeting, you can 4. Discussion of work Lots of great still have your work discussed if you There I will walk when I am dead.

18 The Gazette June 2015 Gardening tips for June by Karen Aitkins of All Green Landscapes Ltd After what seems like ages Summer is finally here. The cuckoo has been here for at least 6 weeks now for those lucky enough to hear it. We are nearly half way through the year already and how quickly time flies. Evenings are longer and we are spending more time in our gardens. What a lovely time of year for sitting outside listening to the local blackbird singing its evening song. With those long evenings we also have more time to spend doing the garden. Weeding is essential at this time of year because everything is growing including weeds. Cut back dead bulb foliage if not already done so. Lift and and tidy trailing plants and stake out. divide overcrowded clumps of bulbs after they have finished flowering. Tie up If you haven’t already planted out your bedding plants, do so now. There are some good bargains to be had at garden centres and nurseries if you wait a little longer to buy them. Water all bedding and potted plants and shrubs at least once a day but not in brilliant sunshine, wait until early evening. Use a liquid feed for pot plants every 2 – 4 weeks. Keep a careful eye out for pests and disease at this time of year. Aphids multiply rapidly in the Summer. Remove early infestations by hand to prevent the problem getting out of control. Try to use eco friendly pest control where possible. Remove slugs and snails as much as possible by hand, remember they are a source of food for our friendly blackbird so when the snails are poisoned that can pass it on to the bird who can become ill or die, in turn this can be passed on to their chicks with fatal consequences. Cut back hardy fushias and prune deciduous magnolia once it is in full leaf. Clip evergreen hedges such as privet. Shredded clippings can be used as compost. fertilizer around perennials, shrubs and roses. Prune other flowering plants after they have finished flowering. Sprinkle Regularly mow the lawn now to keep in shape and trim edges. Apply a nitrogen based fertilizer. If moss is a problem use a fertilizer with a mosskiller. Ensure new lawns are regularly watered to prevent drying out and curling up. Check and repair shed, fence and pergolas. Treat with a wood preservative. Check shed for out of date chemicals but remember to dispose of them properly. Hopefully some of these tips are useful and your garden is now starting to look neat and colourful. Something to be proud of. June is full of long warm evenings which you can spend entertaining in your lovely garden. Let’s hope Summer is a long one.

Rotary Club of Sandy

Rotary is an international It will hold an Open Evening on The event will take place at the voluntary organisation, Thursday 30th October next, and The Anchor Inn at Great Barford, dedicated to serving the would like to invite all persons, ladies starting at 7.30 pm. Refreshments community. as well as gentlemen, who have an will be served. interest in such charitable works The Sandy club is keen to expand You are cordially invited to attend. its charitable activities, and with More information can be had by about us, our organisation, and our this in mind, is seeking to expand its calling Peter Dadswell on activities.to come along and find out more membership.

01767 654 184. The Gazette June 2015 19 There are many more vegetarian recipes in my book ‘Roderick’s Vegetarian Recipes’, proceeds go Roderick’sVegetarian Recipes to Gamlingay church. by Roderick Starksfield Hot, Sweet, Sour and Salty Leeks I love leeks; they have a good oniony flavour, but not so hot, and also a sweetness that is very good. They can be used in so many ways – finely sliced, raw, as an addition to a salad (potato salad is very good with some leek), as part of a cheese dish etc. Though tougher, the green parts have more flavour, just cut them into finer slices – don’t forget to carefully wash out any soil! The recipe below is inspired by Yotam Otolenghi, from his book ‘Plenty More’, full of lovely vegetarian recipes. I say inspired, I have added the ‘Hot’ and ‘Salty’ components. This dish could be used as a starter (smaller portions!) or as a main course. In either case a chunk of crusty bread is essential to soak up the lovely sauce.

Ingredients 8 Small leeks, green parts removed Glug of Olive Oil 2 Bay Leaves

Sprig of Thyme Two20 g currantsShallots, finely chopped 2 tbsp sugar

2 garlic Cloves, finely sliced A little Cooking Oil seed for an extra hit One small (hot) red Chili, finely diced (include the 100 gm Feta Cheese 150 ml White wine Salt and Pepper 50 ml White Wine Vinegar Chopped Parsley to serve Pinch of Stock Powder (Marigold is good)

Method Cut the leeks width-ways into two segments, each about saucepan. Reduce over a high heat until reduced by half 10cm long, and wash well. Lay all of the leeks on the to a sticky sauce. This should take between 12 and 15 bottom of a large shallow pan and add the bay leaves, minutes. Remove from the heat and add the shallots, thyme, garlic, wine, wine vinegar, olive oil and enough currants, season with salt and some black pepper. Set water, so that the leeks are half covered in liquid. Add a aside to soften and marinate. teaspoon of salt and some black pepper, cover the dish with a lid of foil and place on a low heat and simmer gently pan is better – it leaves lovely marks!) on a medium-high for about 30 minutes or until a knife can be inserted into heat.Heat aCarefully little sunflower add the oilleeks in aand large fry frying for 2 minutespan (a griddle on the leeks without any resistance. Turn the leeks over once each side, until lightly golden. Transfer to a plate and or twice during cooking so that they are cooked evenly. set aside to cool. To serve, divide the leeks between four Use a slotted spoon to remove the leeks from the pan and plates. Dot with the feta cheese, spoon over the onion, place on a plate to one side. Strain the remaining cooking liquid to remove the herbs and any other bits, into a small chili and currant dressing and finish with the parsley. 20 The Gazette June 2015 Picture Puzzler This months picture puzzler is another from a bygone year which shows a part of the village that has changed a lot. Just tell me where the scene is. Not many people have given the correct answers to the picture puzzlers yet so you all stand a good chance of winning. All you have to do is email your answer to [email protected] or post it through my door at 82 church street. Don’t forget you can enter each month or any time up until the end of December.

‘Gamlingay Festival of Choirs’ This exciting new event will feature choirs from The ticket price of £5 for adults will include a glass of the First School, the Village College, the A Capella wine, Pimms or soft drink. Additional drinks available for Group, a Barbershop Quartet, the Benefice Choir a donation. and Gamlingay Community Choir. Children can come along for free! These six choirs will perform at a Summer Concert on Make a note of this date in your diaries – a lovely way to spend a summer afternoon! www.gamlingaychurch.co.uk starting at 4pm. Saturday 6th June in St Mary’s Church, with the concert Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service

Think twice But there is only so much we can do year – and this has a dramatic effect before jumping and we’re calling on parents, carers on your body’s ability to swim and into water this and peers to talk each other about get yourself out of trouble, should summer. Would water safety. you get stuck. you jump into Some things to remember: a river, lake or immediately. Do not hesitate to call any other open • theIf someone emergency is in services trouble, and call give999 waterway on a hot sunny day? Do beneath the surface of rivers, lakes, • You do not know what hazards lie you know what hazards lie beneath canals, etc. clear details of your location. the water? Or how cold the water is? For the latest news, incidents and to conquer, even if you know how safety advice, or to contact us, log on • Strong undercurrents can be tough water safety education to every school to swim. to www.cambsfire.gov.uk . Find us on inYour Cambridgeshire fire service has following pledged theto deliver tragic Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Call cold – even on the hottest days of the 01480 444500 for enquiries. death of a teenage boy last summer. • Cambridgeshire’s waterways are

The Gazette June 2015 21 Shrinkles Junior Youth Club A sheet of plastic with a drawing on is coloured in by the GAMLINGAY VILLAGE COLLEGE children, then it is shrunk in an oven to produce a key ring, Station Road, Gamlingay, Sandy, Beds, necklace or a badge. SG19 3HD - 01767 650360 Ceramic Painting Youth Workers: Mrs Carol Wright/ Mrs Chris Robins The children decorate a cup, bowl or plate. Sequin Art(7+) PLAYSCHEME 3 - 7 August 2015 Children choose a motif and pin sequins into the design This year we will be running the week beginning Fabric Painting(6+) Children paint a white t-shirt (obtainable via the booking form) 3rd August 2015. It is only open to children who attend school (this may be any school, not just Cookery-Monday The children will make rock cakes. GVC and Gamlingay First School). The morning Cookery-Tuesday(10+) (both sessions – children need to sessions begin at 9.30am and end at 12 noon. attend both sessions to complete the biscuits) The afternoon sessions begin at 1.00pm and Children will make lemon & ginger biscuits. end at 3.30pm. The Playscheme closes for an Cookery- Wednesday hour between 12.00-1.00pm for lunch. During Children will make cheese straws. this hour parents are requested to collect their Cookery-Thursday children and take them home or, if preferred, Children will make pitta bread pizzas which they may eat a packed lunch may be eaten on the front lawn for their lunch or tea. of the college (children must be supervised Scratch Cards by an adult). The Playscheme staff cannot be The children will draw a design of their choice on a scratch card. held responsible for any unsupervised children Trinket Boxes during lunch time. The children are given a small cardboard trinket box which they will decorate. If your child is unable to attend a session due to Mask Painting unforeseen circumstances I would appreciate it if you The children will be given a mask to paint to their own would telephone the school and leave a message on the design. answerphone. This will alleviate any problems should we Clock Making need to do a roll call. Children draw a design on a CD and then add clock hands During Playscheme the children will be looked after by and mechanism. Fridge Magnets help are most welcome - we always need help with the Children decorate a mould and attach a magnet. craftqualified kits andstaff washing and volunteer up for helpers.the cookery. Parents Alternatively wishing to Fantasy Film (7+) some parents may feel happier staying with their children to help them settle in. wings.Children form a flower or butterfly with fine wire, this is To speed up the booking process Chris Robins will be Glassthen dipped painting in a special film to form coloured petals or at Gamlingay First School, at the front of the school on The children will be given a jam jar to decorate. Wednesday 10 June at 3.00pm to collect any completed Decorated bags forms and monies. Parents are also welcome to deliver The children will decorate a paper bag with beads etc. completed forms to me at Gamlingay Village College. Painted fans Should you have any queries please do not hesitate to The children will paint a design on a fan. Multi skills activities – Wednesday(am) contact me on 650360 during school hours or at home out NB:The Playscheme is only open for this activity. ofThe school cost ofhours each on session 651120. is £3.00 per child. For this money During the morning the children will take part in a move the children may play snooker, table tennis, table football, and groove/gymnastics based session, a multi skills tennis, football, build with Lego, play on the Wii, play with session and a mini Olympic based skills session. various toys or use the play parachute. Also on offer, at an Inflatables (Wednesday pm) extra cost, are various crafts and cookery sessions. football goal, fully supervised on this afternoon, at no Please Note – To help us with our administration we would extraThere cost. will be an inflatable slide, party bouncer and a appreciate it if each child is enrolled on a separate booking form – spare forms may be collected from the school offices Tattoos (temporary) The children may apply 2 tattoos to their forearms or at either Gamlingay Village College or Gamlingay First hands. School. Personalised Beads Listed are brief descriptions of each of these: The children may make a bracelet using personalised beads either with their name or the name of their choice.

22 The Gazette June 2015 Please cut off this form if you would like your child to attend any of these sessions.

Name of child ...... Age...... D.O.B...... Address …...... ………………………….…………………... 1st contact name & no ………………………………………………………………………...... 2nd contact name & no ……………………………………………………………………...... Signature Parent/Guardian …………………………………………………………………...... Please list any relevant medical issues that you feel we should be aware of and any medication needed by the above named child. Any medication and or inhalers may be left at the booking in desk as your child arrives, please mark clearly with his/her name and please collect at the end of the day. ………………………………………………………………………………………………......

Morning Price Afternoon Price Mon Session £3.00 Session £3.00 Cookery 80p Cookery (under 10) 80p Shrinkles Glass Painting

60p£3.50 Scratch Cards 60p FabricFridge PaintingMagnets 6+ Mask Painting 60p Personalised Beads 60p50p Tattoos 60p50p

Tues Session £3.00 Session £3.00 £1 Cookery (continued from the morning)

CookeryCeramic Painting(10+) 80p Fridge Magnets Trinket Boxes Shrinkles 60p 60p75p Personalised Beads 60p50p FantasyDecorated Film bags 7+ Painted fans 80p

Weds Multi skills £860p Session £3.00 Cookery 80p £3.50

FabricCeramic Painting Painting 6+ 80p Glass Painting

Thurs Session £3.00 Session £3.0060p Cookery 80p Cookery 80p Shrinkles

Trinket Boxes 60p SequinMask Painting Art 7+ 60p Clock Making 60p£1 60p75p Painted fans 80p FantasyDecorated Film bags 7+

Fri Session £3.00 CLOSED 60p

SequinScratch Art Cards 7+ 60p Clock Making 60p£1 Tattoos 50p

Total Total

T-Shirt order form for fabric painting (basic white) cost of t-shirt included in the activity.

The Gazette June 2015 23 RSPBa million News from The Lodge Byv Markoices Brandon for nature

After a slow start to the migration season, the ‘Ramblings’ shows and after a bit of organising, the group summer birds started to arrive and it’s wonderful went off for a walk over Pegson Hills with Clare and just to hear the sound of the various warblers singing chatted about their lives and their volunteering for around the reserve again. The first cuckoo the RSPB. arrived on the 15 April - exactly the same date Our now annual History and Archaeological event takes as last year! place on the 14 June. We’ve changed the title to ‘Wild History Day’ this year, but you can still come along and be a Time Explorer! It’s a great hands- on day with lots April and on one day, a lady from Canada, who was staying of activities and demonstrations to discover how ancient inOur Cambridge, bluebells werecalled starting me to ask to flower all about from them around as she the was 19 people shaped the natural world through their crafts. The RSPB Lodge reserve is open every day of the week, Many people enjoy seeing the woodpeckers at The Lodge, desperate to see them before she flew home. from dawn to dusk, for everyone to enjoy and there and the much scarcer lesser-spotted woodpecker has been are plenty of organised events: just ring to book. Entry seen regularly for almost two months now. We have had is included in the car-parking fee - £5 a car for non- birders coming from quite a long distance to try to get a members, free if you are members or just visiting sighting of this little bird, which shows how scarce it has the shop. become. Several people have reported seeing a pair, so we are really hoping that they are breeding, either on the reserve or very nearby. and 10am-5pm weekends and Bank Holidays) and has The shop (01767 680541) is open every day (9am-5pm A group of our female volunteers go out on regular wildlife the B1042 on the Sandy to Potton road, less than a mile walks and call them themselves ‘The Old Birds’. One of fromeverything Sandy. for people who love nature. You can find us on the group contacted the producer of the Clare Balding RSPB Events Springwatch Trail Wild History Time explorers May 25 – 31 Sun 14 June 11 am – 5 pm If you are enjoying Springwatch on your TV - come Become a Wild History Time Explorer at The RSPB outside and follow the Springwatch Trail for a fun time headquarters, at a fun and informative event, on the reserve - learning about nature and some of the highlighting the history, heritage and archaeology of wildlife seen on the programme and at The Lodge as you The Lodge nature reserve and gardens. go around the trail. We will be running a series of great activities and Cost; Trail sheet £1.Donations demonstrations which you can take part in and enjoy. Watch as a Bronze dagger is smelted; get mucky hands Spring and Artists Fair 10 am – 5 pm making pottery, paint some rock art and grind some Sunday May 31 grain just as the ancient bakers would have done. There’ll be amazing artefacts and bones on display and a The Spring Fair is set in the grounds of The RSPB sand pit for the youngsters to search in. headquarters with lots of exciting and interesting stalls to browse through. Treat yourself to exciting gifts, arts, New additions this year include thatch making crafts, plants and produce and visit the artists’ stalls and demonstrations and hands on fence weaving for the demonstrations. Activities for the children to take part in. youngsters. Savoury and sweet crepes, bacon baps, burgers / Costs; Adults £3, children £1, Family £5 sausages and hot and cold drinks for sale. Our website; www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge is the Costs; £3 per car entrance fee- some small charges place to look for all of the events you can enjoy here for activities. at RSPB The Lodge this summer.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity. In England and Wales, no: 207076.In Scotland, no: SC037654.

24 The Gazette June 2015 History man The Worboys family By Nick Bruce

The Worboys family association police work seems to have been The advent of a Bus Service, in the with Gamlingay began in summonsing felons to appear at early 1920’s meant death and decline September 1919 when William to so many of the village shops; a Worboys, a Police Constable trend which is continuing today, liquorPetty Sessions during prohibited when fines hours, of 5/0d or although it is mainly cars, and not in Arrington, was posted to 7/6d were handed out for consuming the Village. keeping dogs and guns without a buses, which carry us to the nearby licence and riding a bicycle without shopping centres. His goods and chattels, included his lights. PC Worboys would need more wife Louie son Kenneth, then aged 11 than his bike to carry out his duties in years, were transported by horse and today’s Gamlingay. cart, their destination being the police Back in 1919, although much smaller, house then in Church Street. It was a Gamlingay was a completely self- tortuous journey taking two days as contained village. Then there was a the horse couldn’t manage Croydon Hill! Their next move was easier when two wheelwrights, two blacksmiths (oneMill for of thesegrinding was flour, a sort three of bakers, they remained until William retired Ironmongers as well, where you could inthey 1932 relocated , by which to 6 timeMill StreetKenneth where was working as a motor mechanic three undertakers, three farmhouses at Empson’s garage then situated in whereget black you gunpowder could go with for fireworks),your milk Church Street and eventually opening can and buy milk from the dairy door, four butchers, two boot and shoe another story!). his own garage in 1936 (but that’s repairers, one clock Repairer, one PC Worboys was only one half of Gamlingay’s police force as PC or two sweet shops, which old ladies Walters, based in Stocks Lane, ranPost from Office, their at least front four rooms, grocers, and one provided back up. Much of the 17 pubs.

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The Gazette June 2015 25 Postcards from France 1915 to 1918

The Medlock Family Photographed before 1908

This story is based on my grandmother Rosina The cards were made from silk embroidery. The top Medlock, the daughter of Jonah Medlock and card was sent to Rosina from James, the lower card was Jane Endersby who lived in the chapel house from Alfred to Rosina. Both Rosina’s brothers were killed Wrestlingworth where Jonah and Jane looked in the Great War, one was killed in action and is buried after the chapel. in France, the other died of wounds in hospital and is buried in Wrestlingworth cemetery. In my collection I There were two daughters and two sons in the family, as have their medals death-penny and a scroll from the King. well as Rosina there was Clara; the boys were Alfred and We are putting on an exhibition at St Peter’s Church in Albert.In 1915 Rosina married James Bartle, Clara at this Wrestlingworth on the 30th and 31st of May this year. point was already married to Alfred Humberstone. They had married in 1908 in Wrestlingworth.

Operation Oaklands to visit Hatley Officers in South Cambridgeshire have been visiting towns and villages across the district in an attempt to improve home security and reduce the risk of domestic burglary and shed burglary. PC John Coppard will be hosting a walk-in Surgery from 17.00-19.00hrs in Hatley Village Hall on Saturday 13th June to allow Hatley residents to ask questions and seek advice on crime prevention. Residents will be able to learn about the range of measures that can be taken to help prevent domestic burglary, vehicle crime and theft. There will also be an opportunity to purchase Smartwater property coding kits at a reduced price of £10, plus shed and window alarms at cost price. We hope that many of you take the opportunity to attend this informative event!

26 The Gazette June 2015 Nicknames Nicknames are common in all Barlow Gilbert, Barney Barnes, Betsy Cross, Lofty Jakes, Luddow Daisley, towns, cities and villages but Bettles, Bibby Buchanan, Big Head Mucker Darlow, Muster Jakes, Nobby not so much nowadays. Dennis, Bimbo Norman, Bloater Pateman, Pifco Norman, Plummer Cooper, Boon Sharpe, Bootsie Wale, Hills, Pussy Dunne, Robbo Robinson, Gamlingay has had its fair share over Bozzer Jakes, Brocoli Brackley, Rocket Sharpe, Russian Jakes, S.A.M. the years and here some of them. Buddha Fowkes, Budgie Lincoln, M.A. Saunders, Sandy Buchanan, Scan Some are still around now and some Buller Baines, Bung Leader, Bungy Daisley, Shoebee Norman, Smudge long gone . Along with the nicknames Young, Bunny Bunnet, Bunny Hare, Smith, Spaff Darlow, Speedie Sharpe, are some photos of some of the more Butch Buchanan, Butch Turner, Spinney Dew, Stick Daisley, Tacle famous people. Chalky White, Cheat Daisley, Cedger Howe, Tad Peel, Topper Croot, Teapot If you know anyone with one or who Jarvis, Cooee Payne, Cootee Peacok, Peacock, Teenie Gasteen, Tiffen had one of the nicknames, please Crow Gilbert, Curly Cook, Dart Gilbert, Cole, Tilly Housden, Tip Daisley, write in along with a photo and we Did Meeks, Dropsy Meeks, Dubby Tom Sawyer, Tossle, Daisley, Tractor will see if we can publish them; also if Dorben, Dykie Farman, Elmo Ellis, Brown, Tubby Baines, Tubby Tear, you know someone with a nickname Gun Larkins, Hank Gilbert, Herring Tweedle Daisley, Twinnie Croot, not on the list we would like to hear Cooper, Hodgsey Meeks, Ike Knibbs, Whack Sherman, Hacker the Whacker, about them. Jobber Coleman, Jock Buchanan, Jock Yogi Seywell, Young Scrubbit Jinks, Jockey ,Jonter, Shoebee, Lawson, Juicy Armond, Jack Powrall, Saunders. Jockey Jakes, Jonter Richardson, Scrubbit, Bimbo, cat, all from the If you know or knew any of these Kipper Jarvis, Lengie Allen, Little Tut please write in and send photos in so Arnold, Lobby Whitbread, Lobster we can publish them over the next 1920's in one year at the first school. few months.

Pictures from top left to right (going clockwise) Donkey Webb, Dave Tractor brown (far left), E Whitbread and Icle Meeks Harry Tut Arnold, Ted Careless and Lubin Brown. The Gazette June 2015 27 Maddie’s Tales Pulling out all the stops.

When I was asked to write an Gordon but Jack said ‘look there are hurt’ so he duly handed over his article for the Gazette I first at least 100 tenors just stick him in video camera to his assistant who thought of calling it ‘Organs I with them and he will be ok’ so I did! have known!’ then I thought On the way home I asked everybody bad language came out on the video carried on filming. Of course all the ‘NO’!! ‘Pulling out the stops’, I what they had thought about the and had to be edited. By the time have enjoyed doing since I was Festival and Gordon said ‘oh it was my husband reached the door the wonderful but do you know no one 15 and I moved from playing round me knew the tune’ - Oh dear!!! and with him still swearing, propelled the piano to playing the organ himfiremen outside. had anThe arm-lock matronly on Guiders the man Some other stories concern which I have done for 66 years! puffed up like poulter pigeons in weddings. First there was a wedding indignation. Jack threatened to I am what is called a Cradle Christian at Aspenden of a Guider and a arrest him ‘using the powers vested because I was born into a practising Fireman. It was being videoed. in me as Churchwarden’ he said Christian family. I have to say that Outside the Church there was a line with no idea what he was going although Mum and Dad were regular of large lady Guiders (well endowed!) to do with him except shut him attenders, my Father was worried and young guides and brownies also in the outside wooden toilet and about the length of time I spent in Firemen complete with axes. Church. In fact he suggested that it call for reinforcements. None were might be better if I took my bed down there!! persuaded him to leave with the partingneeded shot.The firemen‘We hope did you the don’t job haveand I have been involved with the Royal School of Church Music for most All the excitement over the wedding of my life and I have The R.S.C.M concluded.a fire because However we won’t a year be available’. later, to thank for any expertise I have that farmer’s daughter was getting acquired in dealing with Choirs. married. On this occasion I had my I have many courses both day nephew staying with us. He was a and residential and have always chorister in Hythe Parish church encouraged my choristers to do and I asked him if he would like to likewise. guest sing. He was quite thrilled After my marriage, Jack and I moved and agreed. I was playing the introit to Buntingford where I began a voluntaries and the time for the children’s choir with twelve boys and It happened that the Rector was beginning of the service came and girls. I also inherited a mixed choir at away so the locum was in the middle went. I carried on it seemed for ages Aspenden so at any one time I could of the service, with the bride and and suddenly Jack went past the produce about 40 singers. One of my groom legally married, but kneeling organ muttering ‘there’s a bomb boys went to St Paul’s and was Head at the Altar rail for the prayers scare’. Well I’d been married to the Chorister when Prince Charles was chap for about twenty years and I married. A little anecdote from that open and in came this farmer chap thought ‘I still don’t know him’, The when all of a sudden the door flew is that I had a gentleman in the choir shouting ‘whose are those *!@£ cars Rector stood in the Chancel and said That are blocking up the path to my ‘Madeleine, STOP’. He announced that but the problem was that he couldn’t farm?’ His language was choice, the he had received a report that a bomb holdwho hadhis part a mellifluous unless someone voice (tenor) sang bride and groom turned around, the was planted in the church and would next to him. My poor husband used locum went bright red and didn’t we all leave in a calm and orderly to say “ do you need me to hoist know what to do. My husband left manner and go outside, which of my trousers up and sing tenor with the choir stalls and proceeded down course we did. The police arrived and Gordon?” Jack was a bass. Anyway the nave. I begged the photographer this rather large PC Plod was arguing we were all going to sing in a big who was videoing the proceedings with Jack who said he was certainly Festival in St Albans Abbey. Off we to go after my husband. I said ‘he’s going in with them. He told them that went in a coach. I was worried about elderly and I don’t want him to get

he was the search officer for a very

28 The Gazette June 2015 large building in Hertford. When he then went in the PC looked under the back pew and saw a cardboard box and when Jack told him it was jumble he said ‘oh, we won’t bother with that’ and of course that is just where it could have been planted so Jack had it all out. They searched the Church thoroughly, including the Belfrey, and in the meantime we were all out of the churchyard and standing on the hill. I had the presence of mind to send an usher to stop the Bride from arriving. Well, my nephew was most impressed with the whole thing, asking ‘Auntie, does this happen at every wedding?’ When the church was declared safe we all returned and the service proceeded. It transpired that some so called ‘friends’ of the bride had thought it a good joke. Of course the police were not amused. To end the wedding stories I will tell you that one couple we had were not very familiar with Church and when told to kneel went right down on their heels almost as if they were facing Mecca. The Rector urged them to kneel up and after he had tied their hands together with his stole and uttered the words ‘Those whom God has joined together let not man divide’ he then leant down and whispered ‘during the next hymn follow me to the Altar’. I was playing ‘The Lord’s my Shepherd’ and on looking through my mirror I couldn’t see the couple. NO WONDER! The choir were in stitches because they were crawling up the Chancel on their knees. This story is not apocryphal but true since then I always made a point of rehearsing the bridal couples by getting them to; a) kneel on the large kneeler and b) practise getting up and the bridegroom helping his bride to make sure she hadn’t caught her heels in her dress. I told them the story but they do not believe me. I will leave it there. by Madelaine Marsh

The Gazette June 2015 29 The Gamlingay Show 2015 19th September 2015 at Gamlingay Village College

We are delighted to announce new attractions as Refreshments will include the ever-popular Scout well as some firm favourites for the 23rd annual barbeque, St Mary’s Church Tea Room, Franco’s ice- Gamlingay Show and we are especially thrilled creams and a licensed bar, that we will have a fly-past from a Spitfire and a The schedule for the competition classes can be found Hurricane from The Battle of Britain Memorial elsewhere in this edition so have a good look and choose Flight during the afternoon! the classes you want to enter. If you’re new to the village or have never entered any of the classes before, why not Top Dogs will once again be holding their Dog Show, a try this year? It’s fantastic to see the skills and talents very popular event last year, and new for this year will on display in the main hall and we would especially be a Children’s Football Tournament running through the encourage your children to enter. We know what busy afternoon. The classic cars, motorbikes and tractors will lives we all lead these days but the children do enjoy the be joined this year by someQ-pods, who will be holding a challenge and the chance to win a rosette and there are rally prior to the show. classes for all ages. We are very grateful to both Village Arena events will begin with a performance by the very schools and Sunshine Pre-school for their suggestions talented Village College choir and will be followed by a for competition classes this year so please check if your demonstration by the village Zumba class, a welcome children want to ‘have a go’. return by Alice Lucas School of Dance, an ‘It’s a Knockout’ Further information about the show will be in future Competition as well a Magic Show by our very popular MC, Jezzo. editions and information and application forms for stalls,

Trampolining, Water Boats and other rides. The Gamlingay Show website. CombertonesThe fairground and will the include Gamlingay Inflatables, Community Bungee Choir will beneficiaries and details of the show can be found on The provide other musical entertainment and village clubs and Best wishes, The Gamlingay Show Committee societies will be running a wide variety of stalls alongside craft stalls and sideshows.

OPEN CLASSES Section 4 – Pot Plants 7H Architecture Section1 - Vegetables pot plant 7J Sport 4A A flowering or fruiting 7I A ‘selfie’ 1B 3 root vegetables with 3” 4B A foliage pot plant Max photo size = A5 1A 6 runner beans stalks – any combination Section 5 – Art Photos to be unframed and 1C 5 tomatoes – any type 5A A pencil sketch unmounted 1D 3 potatoes 5B A painting in any medium Section 8 - Homemade produce 1E Collection of 3 different 5C A painting in watercolour 8A A jar of jam – any fruit vegetables - 2 of each 5D A homemade card 8B A jar of marmalade 1F Heaviest marrow Section 6 – Crafts (fresh fruit) 1G Longest runner bean 8C A jar of chutney 1H Funniest shaped vegetable 8D A ‘vegetable’ cake or fruit 6A A knitted article 8E A fruit cake or fruit loaf 1I Bunch of 3 different 6B A piece of cross-stitch 8F 1 undecorated Victoria culinary herbs 6C A piece of lace Section 2 – Fruit 6D A piece of any other craft 8G A chocolate cake 2A 5 eating apples 6ESection 7A –flower Photography arrangement sandwich (jam-filled) 7A Holidays 2B 5 any other fruit 8I A plate fruit pie with 7B Sunrise or sunset 8H 6 scones – any type Section 3 – Flowers homemade pastry 7C Weather 3A Any 5 garden blooms 8J A plate of sausage rolls 7D Children 8K A 1lb loaf (any type) single stem 7E My garden 3B A flower or spray on a 7F A funny moment 8L A bottle of ‘home brew’ 7G Animals – any type

30 The Gazette June 2015 CHILDREN’S CLASSES 11D A garden in a seed tray Section 14: Children’s Cookery Entries should be children’s own (approx 35X25cm) (Any age up to 16) work. As aged in September 2015 11E A construction kit model 14A 1 Victoria sandwich Section 9: Under 3’s Section 12: Year 3 and Year 4 9A A decorated pebble 12A A drawing or painting 14B 6 decorated cupcakes 9B A painting 12B Design and make a bookmark 14C 6 chocolate brownies 9C A decorated biscuit 12C A construction kit model 14DSection 156 scones – Children’s of your choice 9D A paper plate mask 12D Dress up a vegetable Photography (Any age up to 16) Section 10: Pre-school & 12E A piece of craftwork – e.g. 15A A photo bomb Reception lace, wool, fabric 10A A paper plate mask Section 13: Year 5 to Year 8 15C Pets 15B A ‘selfie’ 10B A painting 13A A construction kit model 15D Holidays 10C A junk model creature 13B A coloured drawing or 15E My back garden painting Max photo size = A5 (cakes bought or 13C Design a cover for your 10D 6 decorated fairy cakes Photos to be unframed and homemade) favourite book unmounted Section 11: Year 1 and Year 2 13D An original poem about 11A A nature collage Gamlingay 11B A coloured drawing or 13E A piece of craftwork – e.g. painting lace, fabric, wool 11C A decorated cake (cake homemade or bought)

Above: Fun from previous years at the village show

The Gazette June 2015 31 What’s on in June

Over 50’s walks Meet at Ecohub car park. New members welcome. Phone 654 891 for further information. Thursday 4th June, Wednesday 1st July, Thursday 30th July W I 7.30pm WI Hall Tuesday, 16th June - H Mark Linney, ‘Help for Heroes’ Parental Forum, GVC 7 to 8pm Gamlingay Village College see school website Total wellness workout Bring some water to drink and an exercise mat or a towel for floor work. £5 per class. Wednesdays 10.00-11.00 at St Mary’s Church Hall (near The Emplins). Fridays 9.30-10.30am at St Mary’s Church Hall. Soup lunches Every fourth Wednesday of the month 12:30pm start, Church Hall. Cock Inn, monthly quiz nights Second Monday of the month, 8pm at The Cock, but to secure a table please come a little earlier. £1 per head, raising money for Charity. New teams always welcome. Varied themes. Beginners Breeze ride on June Thursday 4th at 10-15 from the Hub, then every first thursday of the month Contact [email protected], telephone 07842 135732 Operation Oaklands is coming to Hatley Walk-in Surgery hosted by South Cambridgeshire Police Saturday 13th June, 17.00-19.00hrs at Hatley Village Hall Gamlingay Community Centre Hub Community events. See Village information for all Library details Monday Libary open Toddlers’ story time and craft session 9.15am - 10.00am Library open 2.00pm - 8.00pm

Tuesday Library open Board games 10.00am - 12.00 Indoor Carpet bowls Friendly group, just drop in and pay and play 1.30pm- 3.30pm Parish Council 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month Public Meetings 7.00pm Gamlingay Players Hayley Parker 652 992 Small friendly society who 8.00pm - 10.00pm produce plays and pantomime Wednesday Toddler story time 11.30pm Library open Free computer training Free, friendly computer training for beginners Please 12.30pm - 3.15pm contact the library to book GEAG Gamlingay Environmental Action Group - 8:00pm - 10.00pm monthly meeting Thursday Stay and Play 0-5yrs Free. 1.30pm - 3.00pm Health visitor Health visitor advice and Weighing clinic on 2nd and 4th Thursdays Library open 4.00pm - 7.00pm Youth Cafe and Club Local children’s group - Cafe YR4+ 5.15pm - 9.00pm Club YR 8+ Gamlingay Players Small friendly society who produce plays and 8.00pm - 10.00pm pantomime Saturday Library open 9.30am - 12.30pm

32 The Gazette June 2015 What’s on in June

Baby and Toddler clinic Community Centre Ecohub

2nd and 4th Thursdays 1pm to 3pm Health visitors available to answer queries, refreshments.

Parish Council For information contact the Clerk on 650 310

2nd and 4th Tuesday each month 7.00pm Planning Committee meeting, Eco hub

2nd Tuesday each month 7.30pm Parish Council meeting, Eco hub Contact the Clerk Kim Wilde 650 596 or email Hatley Parish Council [email protected]. Details on the website www.hatley.info or noticeboards 13th June 17.00-19.00hrs at Hatley Village Hall, Operations Oakland

The Gazette Deadlines 1st June July/August Summer double edition 6th July September issue

Gamlingay Writers Please contact Rhoda Ludford for full details 1st Tuesday of the month Meets on every alternate Thursday. For further information call Guitar Club Geoff Bruerton on 650748 Sandy and District Round Table Contact Lee Packham-Brown

1st and 3rd Monday of each month A society that enjoys raising funds for local good causes

St Mary’s choir practice

Thursdays 6.45pm choir practice open to all interested singers

Guild of St Mary’s Church Hall 7:30pm, all ladies welcome Gamlingay Archaelogical Group (GAMARCH)

First Thursday of the month 7:30pm at the WI Hall

Bellringers

Thursdays 7.30 - 9.00pm with John Boocock at St.Mary’s, Gamlingay Meetings are term time at the Village College Fridays 8 pm start. Photographic Society New members most welcome. Phone: 651 025

History Society 7.30pm , Village College Free to members, £3 at door for visitors

The Gazette June 2015 33 Pre school groups and education Youth groups Mucky Pups Jeanette Rafferty 652 047 2nd Gamlingay Benita Scott 650 547 Debbie Fowden 650 408 Guides Montessori Mrs Pat Jenkins 650 645 1st Gamlingay Jane Brown 652 997 0771 4821 Brownies 940 1st Gamlingay Helen Brown 449 043 Rainbows Rainbow Preschool Julie Prior 652 157 Tinuwen Rangers Irene Gray 651 212 Sunshine Preschool Ann Wiseman 0770 3770 676 Scouting enquiries [email protected] Everton Preschool Julie 07814 815 491 Gamlingay Cubs Steve Palmer 651 532 Gamlingay Barry Jefferd 261 000 Natalie 691 477 Gransden Cubs Care Club closed Gamlingay Scouts Brandon Booth 07812 SCHOOLS Thursday 049139 Village College Office 650 360 [email protected] First School Office 650 208 Pathfinder Scouts Chris Elwood 07879 Carers Group Bridget Smith 650 510 Friday 698477 SPORTS Explorers Phil Wood 01480 Bowls Club Brian 651 020 830 866 Football Club Chair: 651 020 (all meet at Scout Hut) Brian Mini Club Carol Wright or 651 120 Culverhouse Chris Robins 651 119 (youth teams) Youth Club 07929 Junior Football School Brian 651 020 Lucy Rands 453235 Youth Cafe Culverhouse Tennis Club John Gray 654 165 Fitness Workshop 651 785 Hobbies leisure and interests Gamlingay Players Hayley Parker 652 992 Bell Ringers John Boocock 650 736 Halls for hire Gardening Club Lindy Gorton 650 581 St Mary’s Church Lindy Gorton 650 581 Janet Hale 650 794 Hall History Society Peter Wright 652899. WI Hall Parish Council 650 310 Over 50’s walks Miriam and Phil 654 891 Social Club Martin Hull 650418 meet at Ecohub Titchner Methodist Chapel Parish Council 650 310 Booklinks Fay Boissieux 0779 1145744 Hatley St George Mr Marshall 650 971 Friends of St Mary’s Philip Gorton 650 581 Village Hall Ladybird Club Mrs C Watson 650 707 Andrea 0798 0612 St. Neots Model John Kneeshaw E mail: Ecohub Manager Hutchison 077 Railway club [email protected] East Beds Model Sec: John Wakeman Railway Society [email protected] Painting for Pleasure Roy Turner 650426 Churches Photographic Society Jackie Bruce, 651 025 Baptist Church, James Gilbert 651 519 Secretary Minister, Royal British Legion Sebastian 651 982 St Mary The Virgin, Steven 650 568 Kindersley Rector: Rothwell Jackie Hough 651 070 Schools Gamlingay Writers Rhoda Ludford First School Head J 650 208 [email protected] Newman Village Show Jan Cooper 650 178 Village College Head C 650 360 WI Anne Clarke 651 932 Pheysey Guild of St Mary’s Philippa Smalls 650 628 First School Via school 650 208 Association office Music Club Geoff Bruerton 650 748 Village College Village College 650 360 Friends Association

34 The Gazette June 2015 Health care and support Sir John Jacob’s Jackie Hough 651 070 Almshouses Trustees: Sebastian 651 982 Medical Centre Appointments: 651 544 Kindersley Emergencies: 651 546 Lawrie Edwards 311 418 District nurses 0845 602 4064 Major Child Health Clinic Thurs at Hub 01763 John McCall 650 039 249815 Sandy and District Lee Packham CAMTAD Bridget Smith 650 510 Round Table Brown Age Concern 01354 GEAG (Gamlingay Brycchan Carey 651 141 696650 Environmental Action Car Care Scheme Alison Baker 07519 Group) 493701 CFRS community [email protected] Emergency services champion Police, ambulance, fire 999 Gamarch (gamlingay Kirstin Rayner Non-emergency 01223 Archaelogical Group) [email protected] Fire 376 217 Non-emergency 101 Police Cambridge county council Community Police PC K Care Services Mahoney Adult Health and Social Service Parish council Clerks, 650 310 General Enquiries 0345 045 5201 Kirstin Rayner Adult Social Care 0345 045 5202 Leanne Bacon Children’s Services 0345 045 5203 at ecohub [email protected] Blue Badges Disabled Parking 0345 045 5204 Web page www.gamlingay-pc.gov.uk Occupational Health 0 345 045 5205 Chairman Sarah Groom Learning Disability Partnership/ Vice Chairman Jackie McGeady Sensory Services 0345 045 5221 Library Kate 651 226 General Community Services Laugharne General Enquiries 0345 045 5200 Forward Chair: Gamlingay Ian Wakeling Switchboard 0345 045 5222 Hatley Parish Clerk: Trading Standards 0845 4040506 Council Kim Wilde 650 596 Waste Management 0345 045 5207 [email protected] Education Transport 0345 045 5208 www.hatley.info Human Resources (recruitment line) 0345 045 5210 Chairman: M Astor Online Payments Support 0345 045 5211 Politics Streetscene MP Andrew 01954 (highways, transport and streets) 0345 045 5212 Lansley. 212 707 Library Services Conservative. (includes automatic renewals) 0345 045 5225 County Councillor Sebastian 651 982 Citizenship 0345 045 5155 Kindersley Family Information Service 0345 045 1360 District Councillors Sebastian Education Welfare Benefits Service 0345 045 1361 Kindersley Bridget Smith 650 510 South 8am - 8pm 0345 Library Opening hours Cambridgeshire Mon - Sat 0450 500 Monday 9.15am-10.30am. Toddlers’ story time District Council 2.00pm - 8.00pm and craft session Gamlingay Roderick Starksfield www.facebook.com/ 9.15am - 10.00am Residents’ Gamlingayresidentsassociation Tuesday 9.15am - 12.15pm Board games Association www. gamlingay-gra.org.uk 10.00am - 12.00 651 002 Wednesday 12.30pm - 3.15pm Free computer Faulty street lamps 0800 7838 training (please book) 247 Thursday 4.00pm – 7.00pm Saturday 9.30am - 12.30pm t: 651226 e:[email protected]

The Gazette June 2015 35 CHIROPRACTOR McTimoney

For Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain and Stiffness Gentle Whole body care Longer than average Times Some Saturday Appointments Karen Moss BSc (Chiro) MMCA 01480 473892

General Chiropractic Council Reg No. 02138 Member of McTimoney Chiropractic Association

Grovemount Limited EST 1972 L.F.JARVIS & SON Ltd General Builders Bill Tangye General Builders DOMESTIC APPLIANCE All building & refurbishment work • Restoration & Joinery ENGINEER undertaken Specialist Automatics, Cookers, Vacs, Dryers PVCu windows, doors & conservatories • All joinery work undertaken Tel: Mobile: Potton Road The Heath, Gamlingay from doors, windows to fitted 01767 07802 oak units Tel: 01767 651299 650 750 393 331 • All carpentry works • Upvc fascias, soffits gutters Personal Care The Police Home Help • Property refurbishment Companionship Non-emergency number: • Timber decking ManyC & YearsM CareExperience Assisted Outings Medication • Painting & decorating Shopping • All building services Meal Preparation 101 Other Services available Office Tel / Fax 01767 650 339 Mobile 07713 088 792 Tel: 07835 419093 Cara Hemmins

Anstee Gorst The Paddock Chartered Certified Accountants Farmhouse WORBOYS GARAGE Bed & Breakfast & FILLING STATION  Telephone 01767 654137 Mill Street, Gamlingay - Accounts preparation - Self assessment tax returns Serving Gamlingay since 1936 - Cash Flow forecasting - VAT, Payroll and Bookkeeping MOT - Business start-ups TESTING STATION Free Initial Consultation Phone: Antoinette Gorst ACCA Servicing and repairs on most Sally Anstee FCCA makes of car and light commercials 01767 650 700 Castle Farm, Hatley Road Ground Floor Offices, Unit 30, Green End Gamlingay Gamlingay Sandy, Beds SG19 3LF Tyres - batteries - exhausts SG19 3HH Email: [email protected] www.paddockfarmhousebandb.co.uk Tel: 01767 650 273 Website: www.ansteegorst.co.uk

32 The GAZETTE Hand delivered free to every household Postal contributions may be sent to 82 Church Street 36 The Gazette June 2015