Annual Parish Meeting for the Residents of Great Bardfield

8.00pm Friday 26th April 2013 Great Bardfield Town Hall Cover: Summer Show, Great Bardfield Horticultural Society Photo: Doug Joyce Contents

Agenda...... 4 Chairman’s Introduction ...... 5 Minutes of Meeting held 27th April 2012...... 6 Parish Council Review 2013...... 17 Financial Report...... 19 Income and Expenditure Charts...... 20 Essex County Council Report ...... 22 Photo Spread...... 26 District Council Report...... 28 Parish Plan Refresh...... 28 Great Bardfield Charities...... 29 Town Hall Report ...... 30 Great Bardfield Historical Society...... 31 Bardfield Horticultural Society...... 32 Bardfield Oxlip Recovery Programme...... 33 Plantings at Long Green...... 34 The Bardfield Times...... 35 Freshwell Health Centre...... 36 CREAMER Fund Report...... 37 Great Bardfield WEA...... 38 Bardfield Players...... 39 Primary School Report...... 40 High Barn Arts...... 44 Great Bardfield Carpet Bowls...... 45 Bardfield Community Choir ...... 46 Great Bardfield Youth Club...... 47 Great Bardfield Parish Councillors...... 50

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 3 Great Bardfield Parish Council

Annual Parish Meeting 2013 To be held Friday 26th April at 8.00pm in the Town Hall Agenda

1 Chairman’s Introduction

2 Apologies

3 Minutes of the Meeting held 27th April 2012

4 Matters Arising

5 High Barn CIC – Presentation by Paul Boon

6 Community Speed-watch– Presentation by Tim Hayward-Smith

7 Parish Plan Refresh – Update by Paul Boon

8 Parish Council Report and Accounts

9 District Council Report

10 County Council Report

11 School Report

12 Charities Report and Accounts

13 Town Hall Report and Accounts

14 Bardfield Times Report and Accounts

15 Items of Report

16 Closing remarks

The Annual Parish Report containing the above reports, and those of other village organisations, is available on the evening to all those attending and additional copies will be available via the Community Information Point.

4 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 Chairman’s Introduction s ever a glance through the pages Aof this report will show that Great Bardfield continues to be a flourishing community with events and activities catering for a range of ages and tastes. Last year I reported that work had begun on the English Rural Housing Association development at Castle Shot. One year later it is almost complete and all the properties have been allocated, the primary criterion being that of local leisure facilities. Without doubt, despite Janet connection. Inevitably some applicants all the advantages of living in a beautiful Dyson: were disappointed but we do have a rural area, we do suffer from a degree of Parish well-designed scheme which looks good deprivation in terms of access to services Council in its rural setting and meets the needs of which are taken for granted in urban Chairman local people. areas, a view not generally accepted in In the light of the current national higher levels of local government. financial situation the Council again So how can we improve our local voted not to increase the Parish Precept. services? Would you like more housing However, the result of this decision in the village? Would you be prepared is that it is becoming more difficult to to pay more to have the kind of sports provide the level and quality of services and leisure facilities planned for the we have been used to. Sources of fund- Playing Field? How do you see the future ing for major projects such as the new of Great Bardfield? Soon you will be able Pavilion are getting harder to access and to have your say on questions like these we have had to accept that, without in response to a questionnaire which has either a major grant or a major loan it been designed by a group of volunteers will not be possible to provide the sort of and is shortly to be delivered to everyone facility we had planned and hoped for. in the village. Your responses will form Under the Localism Act, Parish the basis of the new Parish Plan. To find Councils are being encouraged to take on out more drop into the CIP or look at the more responsibilities and roles in provid- Council’s award-winning website which ing facilities and services. However, gives details of the work of the Parish without the funding to support this it is Council, local groups, events and busi- inevitable that rural areas will miss out. nesses and a village calendar of events. As I reported last year we have already Finally I would like to thank all those had to argue very strongly the case for who give up their time and share their improving or extending services such skills to make Great Bardfield such a live- as the Community Information Point ly, pleasant community – you can meet (CIP), bus services and support for some of them on the following pages. 2

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 5 Great Bardfield Parish Council

Minutes of the Parish Meeting held on Friday 27th April 2012

1. Chairman’s Introduction Affordable Housing scheme which it The Chairman referred to the 2012 is hoped will be completed by March Annual Report, copies of which were 2013. presented at the meeting, which The down-turn in the economy has contained reports from village organ- had an impact on finances. Accordingly isations, together with those of our the Council agreed not to increase its District and County Councillors. Precept this year. However, if this were She said the report illustrated what a to continue it might not be possible lively and vibrant community we live to provide the desired level of service in, with many activities available for in the future. Generally, funding on a all tastes and ages – evidenced by the large scale is no longer available, and successful Boules competition which this has led to plans for the new pavil- had entrants ranging in age from 9 ion building being revised to deliver to 85. In the 2012 Village of the Year some cost savings. application, 30 clubs and organisations In conclusion, the Chairman said and 16 regular village events were iden- that it is clear that Great Bardfield is tified. It was estimated that as many as not a village which is standing still and, 300 people are employed here on a full to keep our community alive, and to or part time basis. keep the balance of ages and the diver- The Parish Council has worked sity of our population, it is recognised hard to improve communication and that we need to the infrastructure to dissemination of information in the ensure the community can respond to village. The Community Information the changing lifestyles and demands of Point (CIP) not only is an excellent the 21st century. Thanks to the people source of advice and information but who give generously of their time, skills also a place to drop in for a chat. and talents to make Great Bardfield There are plans to develop the CIP such a lively, active community. and increase the services available and a recent successful grant application 2. Apologies has provided funding for internal Apologies had been received from Cllrs decoration and the provision of a new Roger Walters and Alicia Holmes. computer. The Council’s award-winning3. Minutes of the Meeting held 27th website gives details of council services, April 2011 local groups, events, businesses and a These were approved and signed as a village calendar of events. true record of the meeting Proposed Several long term projects have Norman Newton seconded Cllr John moved forward including the Finbow.

6 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 4. Matters Arising In the last twelve months the Pavilion There were no items. Project has been re-energised. Following the reduction in funding 5. Rural Policing opportunities and money available, the Unfortunately there were no members plans were revised to reduce the cost of of the rural policing team present as the project. The Council are very grate- planned. Any information received ful for the continued efforts of local after the meeting would be published people in raising funds for this project in the Bardfield Times. and have also continued to seek and apply for grant funding. In February 6. Parish Council Report and we were awarded a grant of £7500 Accounts by The Big Society Fund operated by The Parish Council Review was Essex County Council. presented by the Vice Chairman, In the meantime the playing field Carolynne Ruffle, a summary of which continues to be maintained and the is given: current pavilion and play area, and At the 2011 election, the parish a new piece of play equipment was experienced its first poll for a number installed in the last year – a ‘flying of years with eight candidates for saucer’. Unfortunately this site contin- the seven seats and, following a high ues to suffer from some vandalism and turnout on polling day, the previous plenty of litter. There is also a contin- council members were re-elected. The ual problem with dog-fouling and we members of the council continue to are currently considering whether to work well together as a team. ban dogs completely from the playing There has been progress with a field area; a shame for those responsi- number of major projects in the ble dog-owners who clear up after their last year, including the Affordable dogs. Housing scheme. The plans were The Parish Council supported passed and the necessary paperwork another Photographic Competition agreed to ensure that people with a link which resulted in unexpectedly to Great Bardfield would have priority successful sales of Bardfield Christmas in the allocation of the houses. The cards (three reprints in the run-up to scheme comprises twelve units –one-, Christmas) and another village calen- two- and three- bedroom houses which dar. Sales of these items resulted in will be available for rent or part-rent, additional monies towards the Pavilion part-buy. Work started in March 2012 Fund. with completion and occupancy due in The Community Information March 2013. Point is a very successful service offered It has been discovered that the by the Parish Council. Jenny Rooney historical name for the area of land and Kate Fox provide a twice quickly in Braintree Road, upon which the drop-in centre, somewhere you can houses are being built is Castle Shot, obtain information, provide feedback and this has been recommended to the and collect recycling and dog bags. We developer. have been fortunate to obtain funding

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 7 to refurbish the interior (the exterior Oak on Causeway Green with help was repainted this year, thanks to the from children from the Primary School Town Hall committee) and we will who have offered to keep it watered. also be updating our IT equipment. The village is proud of its network The new Parish Council website was of footpaths and bridleways that launched last year and is already an enable residents and visitors to enjoy award-winner. Please remember to use the surrounding countryside. The new the website to check up on local groups path to the Blue Egg Shop and Post and societies, businesses and services. Office, not to mention the popular The website includes a village calendar café, provides a safe and very pleasant of events so please let us know if you route for walkers and cyclists. There have an event you would like to be have been problems in some areas with included. off-road vehicles using some of our The Parish Council continues to green lanes and bridleways and causing have a good relationship with the extensive damage to these walkways School Council which comprises so that they have been impassable by pupil representatives for each class. The foot or horse over the winter. Damage Officers of the School Council have was also caused to neighbouring arable attended two Parish Council meetings fields. We are in discussions with Essex this year to report on issues they and County Council (ECC) as to how we other pupils of the school have noted can protect these lanes against misuse in the village. and damage. This year consideration has been The Parish Council approached given to 20 planning applications, ECC about the erratic bus services. including two extensions, two demol- These discussions followed several ish and rebuilds and several applica- reports by local people and visitors tions for a variety of improvements about lack of clarity as to where buses such as replacement windows, roofs stopped for different routes. Recently etc. There have also been seven appli- new bus stops have been installed by cations for work on trees. Comments ECC and we are requesting clearer are submitted to Braintree District timetables. We have supported the Council (BDC) and taken into consid- once weekly community bus service eration during the planning process. that now runs between the Salings and This year sees theQueen’s Diamond Saffron Walden via Great and Little Jubilee. Unfortunately, no additional Bardfield. We also continue to lobby funding is available for us to contribute for additional bus services, particularly to celebrations as provided on previous to Dunmow and/or Thaxted. occasions. However, the Parish Council In the last couple of months we have have offered to help fund a children’s begun the process of refreshing our tea party, a mug for each child in the Parish Plan. We held a well-attended village school has been purchased and open meeting in February where resi- a ‘Jubilee’ bench will soon be sited in dents provided their initial comments the Quiet Space behind the Town Hall. on the village; what they liked, their We also received and planted a Jubilee concerns and their suggestions for

8 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 improvement. This is the first step in the Precept. This is becoming more consulting with local residents and will difficult since the recession and fund- form the basis of the Parish Council ing opportunities harder to come by strategy and plans for the next few however, all thought not as plentiful as years. A steering group has been set up last year, the following was achieved: comprising volunteers from the village Grants / Donations / Fund Raising and the first meeting was held recently. Achieved towards the Council’s The Vice Chairman concluded her work: report in echoing the comments of • £400 from Essex County the Chairman, thanking all those who towards the Community Information supported the work of the PC and gave Point of their time and skills. • £1,331 from BDC towards street cleaning/village handyman 2011/12 Annual Accounts • £2041.51 from the Photo These were presented by the Clerk, as Competiton and sale of cards and the Responsible Financial Officer of calendars for the Pavilion Project the Council. She explained that the • £7,500 from the Big Society income and expenditure was presented towards the Pavilion Project within the Annual Report, in pie chart • £4,000 from the Community format for an ‘at a glance’ overview. Initiative Fund which was split between However, she had detailed figures with the purchase of new play equipment her if more information was required, following removal of a broken item and the full Audited Accounts would and the completion of the new website be made available to any resident on which won the EALC website of the request. year 2011/12. Precept: In view of the general In addition to general on-go- economic climate, and despite increas- ing expenditure, maintenance and ing costs, members agreed to freeze the repairs, the following was approved: Precept to avoid any additional burden Donations – St Mary’s Churchyard on the parish rate. Unfortunately, Maintenance and Essex Air Ambulance this may not be possible to sustain in Quite Space – continued main- subsequent years, especially if BDC tenance to ensure this becomes a withdraw the Parish Support Grant, welcoming area when the work is which they have indicated will be like- completed and launched during the ly. Electricity supply and maintenance Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations. has increased, along with other areas of The Chairman added that two of the expenditure, including the Council’s village’s eldest residents, Peggy Swift insurance premium to £1758.05. Also, and Kathy Slow – both 94 – had been for the first time for many years, there asked to participate in the launch. was a poll at the May Election at a cost to the parish £460.69. The following Council reports, are a As always, every endeavour is summary of the reports presented in made to obtain grants for the work full within the Annual Report 2012, of the Council, to ease the burden on at the Meeting.

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 9 7. District Council Report The balance between rural and urban This was presented by Cllr John interests continues to exercise many, Finbow on behalf of himself and and it is a live topic in many parish- Cllr David Reid, and he explained es. It is very much hoped that what that it had been another challenging replaces the Local Committee provides year for the District Council as the a strong mechanism to support those funds still remain in Iceland and legal rural interests. proceedings continue to recover the The Council has established the remaining moneys. The Council Tax Mi Community Fund of £500,000 precept has remained the same as last over the next four years to support year, and reflects the hard work done local community initiatives and the by the Council’s finance team, by the Three Fields residents should approach different departments and by cabinet BDC directly to obtain funding. members to control costs. Over £2 This is intended to bypass the Local million savings have been achieved Councillors. without hitting front-line services. Over the past year David has served BDC have increased community on the Audit Committee as Deputy transport and continue to support the Chairman and John has continued CAB and BDVSA while many other his roles as member of the Standards councils have cut resources to the Board and the Licensing Committee. voluntary sector. The Parish Support John concluded by advising that Grant to parish and town councils has at the recent AGM, Cllr Lynette continued. Flynn had been appointed as the Keeping the District Clean and new Chairman of Braintree District Green has been an important initia- Council. tive, with its flagship ‘Green Heart’ There were questions from the floor project investing significant amounts querying why the School is treated a of money in community and school business and not provided with recy- environmental improvements projects. cling bags and, likewise, the Town Hall The ‘Green Heart’ is a good example which is a community asset and run by of how with some financial help from volunteers. Cllr Finbow said he would the Council, communities can come make some enquiries and report back together and achieve real outcomes for to the Clerk. He also clarified that it their area and BDC has provided over was anticipated that all funds invested 900 trees to local communities. in Iceland would be returned following Recycling rates continue to improve, a Class Action by the LGA. regularly clearing 56% every month. The Household Recycling Centre in 8. County Council Report Shalford is now closed, and a brand This was presented on behalf of Cllr new facility at Braintree’s Springwood Walters by Cllr Simon Walsh, County Drive is now fully operational and Member for Thaxted. much easier to use with ground level skip access meaning no more steps to 1. Budget climb! Setting the budget for 2011/12 was

10 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 one of the most difficult that Essex • ECC has improved its chil- County Council (ECC) had produced dren’s social care services. Whilst it is in decades. The financial situation acknowledged that there is still a way for 2012/13 and beyond continues to go to deliver an excellent service, the to be challenging. At a Full Council commitment and hard work of the staff meeting in February it was announced and partners has improved services to that ECC would maintain the freeze the county’s most vulnerable children. on council tax for the second year • ECC’s adult social services running, while continuing to deliver continue to be one of the best in the value-for-money services. By February country. 2013 Essex residents will not have seen • ECC has continued to support ECC’s share of council tax increase for apprenticeships in Essex through almost three years. its innovative and highly respected apprenticeship programme, creating 2. Priorities over 1,380 apprenticeships (including The Council set out an ambitious 150 directly within ECC and more programme of work at the February with its public sector partners). The Council meeting. Over the next five number of apprenticeships in Essex years, ECC’s key priorities for Essex is now over 80% higher than before are: ECC launched its scheme – evidence • enabling every individual to that it has made a real difference to achieve their ambitions by supporting the life chances of young people and a world-class education and skills offer created new opportunities for them to in the county; gain vital workplace skills. • securing the infrastructure and • ECC has worked with the environment to enable businesses to district and borough councils to grow; increase recycling rates across Essex to • improving public health and over 53%. well-being; • ECC has secured, through • protecting and safeguarding membership of the South East Local vulnerable people; and Enterprise Partnership, an enterprise • giving people a greater say and zone in Harlow with the opportunity a greater role in building safer and to create 5,000 new jobs in the key stronger communities. sectors of Medical Technology, ICT and Advanced Manufacturing. 3. The last 12 Months • ECC has completed – on time ECC has done much to prepare for the and on budget – the Olympic moun- budget while delivering improvements tain biking venue at Hadleigh and in key services: hosted a successful test event. Essex is • ECC has delivered £90m in now ready and proud to be an Olympic savings and efficiencies in the current host county in 2012. financial year and are on track to have • The new A12 Junction 28 in saved £330m by 2013 – £30m over North Colchester was opened over and above target. three months ahead of schedule.

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 11 • ECC has completed and opened unlock economic growth. This funding the Roscommon Way Extension on will support projects that have been to Canvey Island providing direct identified in the ICS. access to the Charfleets Industrial • ECC has announced £5m to Estate, helping to tackle congestion help roll-out super-fast broadband and supporting regeneration and jobs across Essex, with match-funding by growth in the area. the Government’s Broadband UK fund Proposals for a Whole Essex and the private sector. Community Budget will help refocus • A new partnership formed with the way local and national partners Ringway Jacobs Limited to create the make use of some of the annual £10 largest integrated highways partner- billion-plus of public sector spend. ship in the UK delivering significant Over the next eight months, the specif- savings over the next 10 years. ic detail of the Community Budget will • Fees paid to foster carers have be developed through research, analysis increased and the package of support and consultation. The types of projects available has been improved to enable that could be considered include: more Essex children to be placed with • Simplifying processes for older carers within the county. people using the health and social care • ECC is reviewing contracts with system suppliers of adult social care to ensure • Reshaping local skills provision the council is paying a fair price for for young people – ensuring they gain care services that are competitive and the right skills, making it easier for delivering best value to the customer. employers to recruit and for young • The new budget again gives people to find work assurances that not one of ECC’s • Joining up services to reduce the valued 73 libraries will close. costs of dealing with problem families. • ECC will be the first local authority in the country to raise funds 4. Support for the Essex economy through a new innovative Social Impact and the most vulnerable people Bond to finance intensive family and The 2012/13 budget will invest in community based work with young infrastructure to support growth in the people on the edge of care or custody. Essex economy as well as continuing to • As it is not just the young and prioritise services to vulnerable people. old who may be vulnerable, ECC It includes: has announced that £100,000 will be • A new £20m Rolling Investment made available through credit unions Fund in ECC’s capital programme across Essex. over five years to finance projects that unlock economic growth as part of our 5. Savings and efficiencies Integrated County Strategy (ICS). Difficult decisions had to be made • ECC secured through its Local and in total the new budget includes Enterprise Partnership (LEP) a share of £123m of savings and efficiencies, £33m from the government’s Growing though some £67m of these was Places Fund to support projects that announced 12 months ago.

12 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 6. Other initiatives many thousand of pounds from people At the Full Council meeting in for shoddy or non-existent work. February, it was announced that a sum of money would be devolved to local 7. Recognition for ECC Councillors highways panels for local prioritisation Cllr Peter Martin, Leader of ECC of work in the following areas: was made an MBE in the New Year’s Honours for services to Local • Traffic management improvements Government. • Tackling congestion Cllr David Finch, ECC Deputy • Safer roads (including casualty Leader and Cabinet Member for reduction) Finance and Transformation, was • Public rights of way improvement recently awarded the ‘Outstanding • Cycling programme Contribution to Finance Performance’ • Passenger transport improvement award at the Local Government programme Information Unit (LGiU) Councillor • Minor improvements schemes Achievement Awards 2012.

The amount allocated to each district/ 9. Great Bardfield Primary School borough area will have a floor of Report £400,000 and a ceiling of £1 million. The Chairman highlighted some of the All local County Members, and district main points of Mrs Barney, the Head or borough members where they wish Teacher’s, report, which contained to be involved, will be able to prior- delightful photographs of the children itise and make recommendations to celebrating the Royal wedding. the Cabinet Member for projects or The restoration of the swimming schemes within the allotted budget. pool began last May at a cost of The process to build a waste plant £15,000, which was part funded by has begun with the award of a contract the PTA, Now they are able to offer to Urbaser Balfour Beatty. They will be swimming lessons to other schools. building a MBT plant at Basildon that The school has some talented chil- will treat the county’s residual waste by dren and is always proud of what they reducing it in volume and turning it achieve both in and out of school. into a semi-inert solid substance that Successes are shared at a weekly can go to landfill until such time as a Celebration Assembly when there is an market can be found for it. open invitation to parents to attend. ECC Trading Standards has contin- Forty-two athletes took part in the ued to play a major part in supporting Uttlesford Schools Partnership Track business in Essex and protecting resi- and Field event at Helena Romanes in dents from exploitation. In these hard the medium-size schools section, and times Trading Standards are worried the boys came first!. about an increase in doorstep crime Year 6 children enjoyed their which is the worst form of crime as Challenge week on Hayling Island, generally the perpetrators prey on the and the school thanks the Bardfield vulnerable and old sometimes getting Charities for supporting those families

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 13 who are unable to meet the full costs. numbers of children who are taking up As part of the Year 6’s life skills hot dinners with fresh produce sourced work, they all gained the St John’s locally. Parents regularly join their chil- Ambulance First Aid badge as well as dren for lunch. the Bikeability cycling safety certifi- On behalf of the staff and children cate. at the school, Mrs Barney thanked the The Senior School Council has also community for its continual support. attended a Parish Council Meeting where it shared the views of the chil- 10. Charities Report and Accounts dren with the Councillors 2011/12 The children have been involved In addition to the overview published in a number of fund raising charity in the Annual Report, the Chair of events. Over 160 Smile Boxes were Great Bardfield Charities gave the presented to George Mills for his work following report and explained that the in Chernigov. Over £170 was raised on Charities Committee is accountable to Children in Need Day and more than the Parish Council. The officers are £280 for Sport Relief when parents Pat Coles – Chair and children walked the extra mile. Nominative Trustee The school was delighted with Tony Hayward - Treasurer the Year 6 SATs results, achieving Nominative Trustee percentages above Essex and National Brenda Poston – Secretary averages. This year it has concentrated Co-optative Trustee on improving writing using the “Pie Debbie Rogers Corbett” method. Co-optative Trustee As a result of reduced numbers the Alan Bray – Ex Officio Advisory school moved from six to five classes Trustee with mixed ages in all classes for the In addition to the quarterly meetings, 2011/12 academic year. the Trustees held an extraordinary There have been a number of staff meeting in February 2012, with the changes over the year - Mrs Loader Chair, Vice Chair and Treasurer of the went on maternity leave in June; Great Bardfield Historical Society. Ms Gardner left to take up a post in The Charity Accounts are audited Bocking in July; Mr Curzon left at yearly by Bill Mules, and we thank him Christmas to become Deputy Head at for his on-going professional support. a school in Stansted; Mrs Martin LSA Total income including interest was took up a post in a Takeley school and £18,070.00 Twenty one varied appli- Mrs Burt became Office Manager in cations from individuals and organi- a larger school. However, they were sations within the village were consid- pleased to welcome Mrs Pennick who ered and grants made to the value of teaches Year 1; Mrs Berkeley as the £8,980.00.Winter fuel applications new Office Manager and Ms Melhuish increased this year and payments as the new school cook. Mrs Barney of £11,600.00 were made between said the school dinners are delicious December 2011 and March 2012. and they have practically doubled the Total Expenditure was £20,580.00.

14 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 During the year Capital funds value frames were rotten, with some needing has decreased by 5.75% and bank replacement, others being repaired interest has been minimal. until next time. It should be noted that these figures In early April the hall floor was may be at a variance with the audited stripped and resealed. This caused figures which will be available at the some disruption to users as it takes five end of June 2012. days to complete, however the result All applications to the Charity are was very good. considered carefully and without prej- Fund-raising activities over the year udice by the Trustees. Organisations have been the usual mix: quiz evening, or individual villagers can approach Christmas draw and Carol evening, any of the Trustees at any time with Boules tournament, a Murder mystery requests for assistance in making appli- play, the 200 Club, and the Art and cations. Dates of the Charity meetings Craft show. are recorded in the Bardfield Times as All these events require organisa- a reminder to those who may wish to tion and much catering. Many thanks make an application. must go to the dedicated committee Full details of the Great Bardfield members and their families and friends Charities can also be found on the who also help to make these events village website and a copy of the report successful. and accounts are lodged with the The Chairman concluded by stating Parish Council. the committee is grateful for the grant A question from the floor asked and rent from the Parish Council, and if the dates of the meetings could be with their own fund-raising efforts agreed in good time to be included in should be able to keep the Town Hall the parish calendar and Pat hoped to charges fixed for yet another year. be able to provide these. Copies of the Income and Expenditure Accounts to 31st March 11. Town Hall Report and Accounts. 2012 were lodged with the Parish The report was provided by Jim Bray, Clerk. Chair of the Town Hall Committee: After a few years of declining book- 12. Bardfield Times Report and ings, this year has shown a significant Accounts increase in casual bookings and two The report was presented by David new regular groups are starting up, Yates, Joint Editor: both in the health and fitness category. The BT team works very hard The boiler broke down at the end to continue to keep the magazine of February, but a new one is now up running and delivered free of charge and running. This is a big expense, to every household in the village. This exacerbated by 20% VAT; however the is proving to be increasingly difficult upside is that the new boiler should be as printing costs increase but it is more economical to run. This year the hoped that this year they won’t have to exterior of the CIP and cottage rooms increase the annual costs to advertise have been decorated. Many window in the publication. The team continues

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 15 to introduce varied items for readers summer was great a success and will be to enjoy. Two new features, both well repeated at a future date. received by our readers, have been initi- ated: Village People, a monthly series 13. Items of Report of interviews with local characters by There were no items of report. Joyce Yates; and Village Places, an occa- sional series recently initiated by Janet 14. Closing Remarks Dyson. Joyce’s article and obituary on The Chairman thanked all those June Long received a particularly posi- present for supporting the evening tive response from villagers and seems and those who made presentations on exactly what a magazine like ours behalf of the various organisations. should be doing. There being no further business the David Yates has been pleased to join meeting closed at 9.30. 2 the team as joint editor, responsible in the main for proof-reading copy and commissioning new material. Fund-raising events are also organ- ised by the BT team to meet the costs of producing the magazine. The Bardfield Cinema Club is gathering momentum and it is hoped to extend the season by showing films in the summer months. The Open Gardens Day held last

New affordable housing almost ready at Castle Shot

16 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 Parish Council Review 2013

properties to be handed over to their tenants in the next few weeks. The Community Information Point is funded by the Parish Council and any grants we can get. This facility, open two mornings a week has proved very successful in providing informa- tion and assistance to residents. We also collect feedback and information from visitors. We no longer receive doggy bags from the district council so the Parish Council decided to fund the supply of these bags itself. Recycling Carolynne Ruffle – Vice Chair and green bags are also available to residents. We have also purchased an A3 black and white copier. The copier s Vice Chair of the Great Bardfield is available for use by local groups. A AParish Council I am pleased to new printer was kindly donated by a present the Parish Council Review Bardfield resident, Alfred Wheater. for the last 12 months, i.e. May 2011 We continue to have a good rela- to April 2012. In the last 12 months tionship with the School Council. we have held 11 full Parish Council Officers of the School Council have meetings plus additional meetings on attended a Parish Council meeting this specific subjects or issues. year to report on issues they and other This time last year we were waiting pupils of the school have noted in the to hear about the planning application village. Their concerns mirror those of submitted by English Rural Housing other residents, mainly problems with for our planned Local, Affordable litter, dog mess, large lorries and speed- Housing scheme on Braintree Road, ing vehicles. to be known as Castle Shot, the tradi- Planning applications considered tional name for the field on which it this year include an application for a has been built. We are very pleased to development of converted farm build- see the progress with this development ings on the outskirts of the village. The of 12 units, one-, two- and three-bed- other applications mainly comprise room flats and houses. extensions to existing properties or Eleven are to be rented and one improvements such as replacement is part-buy, part-rent. Applications windows, roofs etc. exceeded the available units and all We have also considered several have been offered to people with a applications for work on trees. Our close, local link to the village. Due for comments are submitted to Braintree completion very shortly, we expect the District Council and taken into consid-

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 17 eration during the planning process. in their stead. Another problem is We have had problems in some areas dog-mess which seems to be getting with off-road vehicles using some of worse in many locations around the our green lanes. We are expecting the village despite many calls for owners to damage to Long Green to be repaired clear up after their dogs and a supply of by Essex County Council shortly and free doggy-bags at the CIP. are also pleased that after some robust A committee of Great Bardfield discussions with ECC and our county residents has been very busy over councillor that we may be able to get the last few months in preparing a restricted access for inappropriate vehi- survey covering issues raised at an cles in winter months, when most of open residents’ meeting in 2012. A the damage occurs. questionnaire will soon be distributed Regular issues raised by residents throughout the parish and residents’ this year include the ever-increas- responses will be used by the Parish ing pot-holes. We have repeatedly Council to refresh their Parish Plan. reported these and ask that residents This will form the basis of the Parish do the same. Essex County Council Council strategy and plans for the next have a pot-hole reporting facility on few years. their website. We have seen some Thank you, as always, for your support long-standing pot-holes mended tonight and during the year. 2 recently but others seem to appear

Castle Shot April 2013: The Clerk and Cllrs with David Steel, (BDC), Steven Bland, (ERH) and James Taylor, (ERH)

18 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 Parish Council Financial Report

For the year ended 31st March 2013

his is a brief report to highlight • £348.35 profit on the Firework Titems of income and expenditure. Display Full accounts will of course be availa- ble to view when these are prepared for In addition to general on-going annual audit expenditure, maintenance and re- pairs, the following expenditure was Precept: In view of the general approved: economic climate, and despite increas- • Donation to St Mary’s Churchyard ing costs, Members agreed to freeze the maintenance Precept to avoid any additional burden • Donation to Essex Air Ambulance on the parish rate. Of course this has to be balanced with the Council’s ability Queen’s Diamond Jubilee: as men- to carry out their responsibilities and tioned last year, work continued on will be reviewed on an annual basis. the Quiet Space which was officially Electricity supply and maintenance opened when a commemorative bench has increased, along with other areas of was installed. Jubilee mugs were also expenditure, including the Council’s purchased to present to children at insurance premium to £1834.17 (from the village school when they held their £1758.05). celebration. 2 As always, every endeavour is made to obtain grants for the work of the Kate Fox – Parish Clerk and Council, to ease the burden on the Responsible Financial Officer Precept. This is becoming more diffi- cult given the recession, and funding opportunities are harder to come by. However, although not as plentiful as last year, the following were achieved:

Grants, donations, and fund-raising achieved towards the Council’s work: • £1400 from Stansted Airport Community Trust to purchase Mrs Kathy a computer for the Community Slow Information Point and Mrs • £1,330 from BDC towards street Evelyn cleaning/village handyman Swift on • £2,131.50 from the Photographic the new event and sale of cards and calendars Jubilee for the Pavilion Project bench

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 19 Parish income For the financial year ended 31st March 2013

Precept + Parish Support Grant 1% 4% 2% VAT Refund 4% 4% Verge Cutting/Village Cleaning 6%

Grants 79% Community Information Point

Sundries & Substation Rental

Pavilion/Playing eld Hire

Bank Interest

Precept + Parish Support Grant £31,163.00 VAT Refund £2,202.00 Verge Cutting/Village Cleaning (Agency Arrangements) £1,749.00 Grants £1,500.00 Community Information Point £1,400.00 Sundries and Substation Rental £800.00 Pavilion/Playing Field Hire £532.00 Bank Interest £18.00 Total £39,364.00

Pavilion Project Fund stands at: £45,525.00 Reserves Stand + Special Projects acc: £36,819.00

20 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 Parish Expenditure For the financial year ended 31st March 2013

Village amenities/ 7% Capital schemes

14% Sta /expenses

Admin 59%

20% VAT

Village amenities/ Capital schemes CIP: Town Hall Rent /IT and BT Rental/Staff £3,979.00 Grass Cutting/Pipers/Memorial/Churchyard/Open Spaces £3,336.00 Public Lighting – Supply and Maintenance £2,426.00 Pavilion Project £2,323.00 Town Hall: Grant + Substation Rental £2,106.00 Capital Schemes £1,929.00 Playing Field Pavilion £1,330.00 Verge Cutting/Street Cleaning (Agency Arrangements) £930.00 Subscriptions and Donations £907.00 Staff/expenses Salary/postage/copying/misc office exp/sundries £6,446.00 Admin Gen Admin/Telephone/Audit/Stationery/Insurance £4,694.00 VAT VAT £2,117.00

Total £32,523.00

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 21 Essex County Council Report

investing £7.7m in improving broad- band capacity and set aside £2m to support the Essex Economic Growth Strategy. • Review options for investing £1m into a Community Resilience Fund to build capacity within commu- nities to tackle local issues themselves. The council will make £55m savings and efficiencies, which will be delivered with the minimum possible impact on front line services.

2. In partnership with the district and borough authorities, ECC will also Cllr Roger Walters launch a Local Authority Mortgage Scheme to help first time buyers get 1. Essex County Council’s (ECC’s) onto the property ladder and get the budget for 2013–2014 was agreed by property market moving. Full Council on 12th February, with Across the county there are up to vulnerable people, businesses, motor- 6,000 people who can’t afford to take ists, pedestrians and first-time buyers out a mortgage to fund the purchase of among those who will benefit. The their first home. The support ECC will council has also agreed to freeze coun- be offering, which will take the form of cil tax for the third successive year. a financial guarantee for up to 20 per The authority would be spending cent of the loan value, will help some £180m over the next four years on of these residents. maintaining and enhancing its network of 8,500 miles of roads and footpaths. 3. Essex residents will continue This would mean the council will be to benefit from improvements to investing an additional £35m over the ECC’s Customer Services as part of next two years, on top of the amount it a programme introduced in 2012 to had already pledged to spend. make it easier for residents to find the Under the budget agreement the information they need, whether it’s council will also: through www.essex.gov.uk or the award • Invest almost £18m in providing winning Customer Service Centre. nearly 1,000 additional school places. Over the past year, improvements • Invest £2m in providing accom- to the website have seen 1.4m visitors modation for vulnerable people. benefit from the ability to book, report • Ensure Essex is a place where and pay for more services online, businesses can grow and flourish by fitting in with their busy lifestyles and

22 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 enabling ECC to deliver services more speeds, and a link to a tool that checks efficiently: current broadband speed. The website • www.essex.gov.uk/schools will also allow residents and businesses providing greater online functionality to register their need for better broad- such as the catchment area search for band where they are. It is important school admissions and the ability to that as many residents and businesses apply online for free school meals and sign up to www.superfastessex.org as school transport possible. This information will then be • www.essex.gov.uk/adultlearning used to decide which areas of Essex will an improved way to search and book receive an upgrade first. courses The county council has been work- • www.essex.gov.uk/highways ing with partners across Greater Essex a quicker and more efficient way to as well as BDUK and now the procure- report highway defects ment process can begin. At this stage, • www.essex.gov.uk/fis the project has commenced an Open the ability to search for childcare Market Review to determine the exact providers across Essex area where to spend public money to • Plus an online appointment bring better speeds to Greater Essex. booking service for birth and death This consultation is expected to be registrations enabling customers complete by early April and then by to book their appointment with a summer a preferred supplier will be Registrar any time of the day. contracted to begin works. In addition, the call centre has been Currently there are approximately upgraded and its capacity increased to 180,000 households (30%) in the ensure that as many calls as possible county that do not receive superfast can be resolved at the first point of broadband services of at least 24mbs. contact. During 2012, there were more The aim of this project is to enable at than 650,000 calls to the Customer least 90% of Essex premises to have Service Centre. During 2013/14 the access to superfast broadband and the improvements will continue to a remaining premises having access to at number of online services and residents least 2mbs by 2015. will be able to apply for blue disabled To register your interest in getting parking badges online as well as refer superfast broadband, or to find out themselves or a relative for a social care more about the project, visit the new assessment. website www.superfastessex.org.

4. ECC is launching a new website 5. At the Cabinet meeting on 19th to keep residents informed of plans February, ECC has approved the to improve the provision of superfast public health priorities for the county broadband in the county. in preparation for taking over responsi- The Superfast Essex website will bility for Public Health on 1st April this feature information on how the project year. is progressing, case studies of those that Currently public health services are have benefited from faster broadband commissioned by the five Primary Care

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 23 Trusts. When the PCTs are abolished The programme will include remote on 31st March the local authority will offices in Billericay, Halstead, Witham take over this responsibility. The vision Library, Harwich Hospital and Great for Essex is that residents should enjoy Dunmow from 18th February. long, healthy, disease-free lives – wher- The service is an addition to the stat- ever they live and whoever they are. The utory registration of births and deaths Department of Health has confirmed already being delivered by Registration that ECC will receive ring-fenced Officers across Essex. Citizens report- grants of £48,874,000 for 2013/2014 ing a birth or death will be able to take and £50,242,000 in 2014/2015 to advantage of the Tell Us Once service commission public health services. either face-to-face at the time of regis- The allocation covers both mandat- tration, or at a later date by completing ed services such as the National Health the online form or by telephone using Checks programme, National Child a case reference number provided by Measurement Programme and Sexual the Registrar. In Essex the potential Health Services and any further servic- benefit for customers is extensive as es that ECC commissions locally to 12,500 deaths and 17,000 births are improve the health of Essex residents registered across the county every year. and tackle health inequalities. These The information can be shared with will be based on the needs of local a number of central and local govern- Essex communities, shaped by the Joint ment departments including: Strategic Needs Assessment. Some of the local priorities are as follows: Housing Benefit Office Council Tax Alcohol and Drug Misuse Council Tax Benefit Office Breast Feeding Libraries Obesity Blue Badges Physical Activity Adult and Children’s services Mental Health Council housing Smoking Department for Work and Pensions HM Revenue and Customs 6. On 13th February Essex County Identity and passport service Council Registration Service launched DVLA the Tell Us Once (TUO) programme, MOD, Service Personnel and a government initiative aimed at easing Veteran’s Agency the burden of notifying multiple local Jobcentre Plus and central government departments of a birth or death. Tell Us Once is For more information on the Tell Us an optional service for residents or Once service in Essex, please visit Tell friend/relatives of residents to be Us Once births or Tell Us Once deaths. able to report births and deaths only once to local and central government 7. What have I been doing this year? departments; who will, in turn, inform As Deputy Cabinet Member for other agencies on the citizen’s behalf. Enterprise and Waste I have been

24 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 involved in the creation of a new dealing with issues raised by constitu- economic strategy for Essex that focus- ents, mainly relating to traffic and road es on the creation of jobs. I am a direc- condition issues, I have continued my tor of Visit Essex, the business that responsibility for Essex County Trad- encourages tourism and tourism jobs ing Standards. Trading Standards plays in the county. I am very involved with a very important part in protecting IGNITE the new Braintree Enterprise business and the public alike, but my Partnership that is providing support, particular interest is in door-step crime. advice and space for new business This is the worst form of crime as start-ups in Braintree; creating local the perpetrators target the old and jobs for local people. vulnerable living in their own homes I have worked as part of the team often defrauding them of thousands of that has delivered one of the highest pounds, so please be vigilant for your county recycling rates in the country neighbours and if you have concerns at 52%. about traders working at their house Locally, I have remained a Braintree phone 08454 04 05 06 for advice. District Councillor and as Chairman Better still if you need a Tradesman of the Local Development Framework or your neighbour does, visit www. Committee I am playing my part buywithconfidence.gov.uk to find a in shaping Braintree district for the Trading Standards recommended and future. I also remain a Parish Coun- approved Trader. 2 cillor for Great Notley. In addition to

Aerial view of High Street Great Bardfield

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 25

Bardfield 2012 in pictures Clockwise from top left: Kate Fox at Castle Shot, Madame Boules (AKA Carolynne Ruffle), Mud-dogs U15s squad, (with below) Janet Dyson, Alicia Holmes and Kate Fox at Castle Shot, Fanta’tastic Fun day at GBYC, Bowler, Tom Graham, of Little Bardfield Cricket Club, Boules Finals day, Christina Knight in action, Bardfield Players on set of Trivial Pursuit, Christingle Service at St Mary’s December 2012, English bluebells near Long Green. District Council Report

here was no report on the work of the District Councillors at the time of Tgoing to press. Should you wish to contact the District Councillors for The Three Fields Ward their details are:

Cllr John Finbow Cllr David Reid Fairy Farm Elms Toppesfield Road Dunmow Road Blackmore End Great Bardfield Braintree, Braintree Essex CM7 4EP Essex CM7 4SF Tel: 01371 850321 Tel: 01371 811856

Email [email protected] Email [email protected]

Parish Plan Refresh

he Parish Plan Refresh document sent to all residents, children as well Tis an update to the original plan as adults, to gauge opinion on the key and appraisal of the parish carried topics. The response from the commu- out in 2003 which culminated in nity will be presented to the Parish the published document, the Village Council as an official record of the Design Statement. In February 2012 thoughts and views of local residents we organised a community workshop and will form the basis of the refresh open to all residents to discuss matters document for Great Bardfield’s Parish of concern within the village, or high- Plan. The Parish Council will then be light positive aspects which we wanted able to put in hand specific measures to to preserve or develop. Discussions further improve the village, and meet took place in small groups and each the needs of the community and the group then took their thoughts and visitors it attracts. views and categorised them. Concerns The steering group meets on a ranged from speeding traffic through monthly basis and we are currently the village to the lack of fast broadband finalising the selected questions. Next in our area. stage is to agree the final "look and feel" Shortly after, a steering group was of the questionnaire prior to printing formed to come up with a list of repre- and distribution. 2 sentative questions based on the find- ings of the workshop. The group is now Paul Boon, Chair PPR drafting a questionnaire, which will be

28 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 Great Bardfield Charities

he first of the Great Bardfield the Great Bardfield Charities, either on TCharities was established over your own behalf or on behalf of a local 100 years ago when a philanthropic group or organisation, please write to resident bequeathed funds in his will one of the Trustees listed below. for the benefit of other residents. Since If you know of anyone else in the that time many other residents have village who could benefit from the left money in their wills to the Charity Charity’s assistance, please encourage for the benefit of others. them to apply. It is helpful if you The Great Bardfield Charities today provide as much information as possi- comprises a number of different char- ble, including quotes/costings, so that ities. In general the Great Bardfield the Trustees can fully consider your Charities are able to assist with social, application. We meet four times a year educational, health and welfare needs to consider applications. Meeting dates of residents of Great Bardfield. are notified in theBardfield Times. The Charity operates under a However, in extraordinary circum- Scheme which clearly defines the stances the Trustees will consider purpose and the terms under which we applications between meetings. If you operate, and this Scheme is overseen by wish to speak to someone to discuss an the Charity Commission which invests application please feel free to contact the capital funds for us and we receive any one of the Trustees listed below. the interest quarterly. Please note that all applications are Last year we received income strictly confidential. of 318.543 and were able to make payments totalling £20,597 for the Pat Coles (Chair) benefit of residents of Great Bardfield. Dell Cottage, Dunmow Road, Great Audited accounts are lodged annually Bardfield 01371 810780 with the Parish Council. Brenda Poston (Secretary) Examples of grants made last year Bucks House, Vine Street, Great include: Bardfield 01371 810519 • youth projects Tony Hayward (Treasurer) • help with fuel costs for the elderly Littles Farm, Beslyns Road, Great • books for university study Bardfield 01371 810320 • baby and toddler groups Debbie Rogers • educational projects/equipment Dixons, Bridge End, Great Bardfield • provision of medical equipment 01371 811083 • other clubs, societies and groups Alan Bray • personal assistance Claypits Farm, Wethersfield Road, • religious groups Great Bardfield 01371 810489 • sporting clubs Tony Hayward If you wish to make an application to

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 29 Town Hall Report

several hundred pounds. Thank you to all the local businesses, friends and committee members for donating prizes. We held our annual quiz in January with around 90 participants fed and entertained raising a considerable sum. Over the summer months we held our annu- al Boules tournament, and this year the competition concluded again with an Great Jim Bray — Chairman exciting finals afternoon. As ever some Bardfield passers-by did seem a little bemused at Town Hall his year we have had a good number the goings on, but left us to it. by Edward Tof hall bookings, both regular and All we achieve is very much down to Bawden occasional. All our existing clubs have a dedicated committee, together with continued using the Hall regularly, their families and friends of the Hall including fitness groups, Bardfield who help out at various events. I would Cinema Club, Bardfield Community like to take this opportunity to thank Choir, Toddlers, the Bardfield Players them all for their help and support over and Stage Right for our younger the year. performers. We also have held our usual We do appreciate that with all the mix of functions to help with Hall funds, other pressures on the Parish Council and these have all been very successful. purse strings its contribution represents Last year’s Art and Craft show coin- money that could go elsewhere. But it cided with village Jubilee celebrations, really does help very much with our but we held our own and it was as finances and takes much of the burden successful as ever. Many thanks to all off our own fund-raising efforts to keep involved with running the show, particu- the Hall in good order for people of the larly to Jill and Dawn for organising the village to use. exhibitors as well as Jenny and Carolynne Maintenance to the Hall itself has not for serving the lunches and refreshments been kept up over recent years as much over the weekend. of our finances and effort has been spent At our Christmas Carols and Town on the cottage rooms and CIP. This year Hall Draw the Community Choir helped we will be attending to the exterior of raise the volume and quality of the sing- the Hall which has been left too long ing. With the ticket sales the event raised and is now in a rather poor state. 2

30 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 Great Bardfield Historical Society

t the March AGM we paid trib- ful relationship with him. The Cottage Aute to our Patron, Ariel Crittall, Museum and the Cage are open from who died in September 2012, just Easter until the end of September. before her 97th birthday. Ariel was a Many thanks for the time given by the life-long advocate for the arts and an Committee and volunteers who staff the artist in her own right. She supported Museum during the season. We have a the Historical Society over many years, number of publications on aspects of particularly in relation to recording the history of the village which contin- the history of the Bardfield Artists ue to sell well. The society monitors all during the period of the open house planning applications for alterations to exhibitions of the 1950s, which she listed buildings in the village, raising helped to organise. Jenny Rooney gave issues whenever this is relevant. We also a presentation celebrating Ariel’s life host visits and give talks to other histor- and work, beautifully illustrated with ical societies and groups which helps to images from her life, including exam- boost our income. ples of her paintings, several of which We are always pleased to welcome are in the Essex County archive. new members and volunteers to help It is appropriate that our new Patron in the Museum – training is given! is Richard Bawden, another artist For more information contact Jenny with significant connections to Great Rooney (810572) or myself (810838). Bardfield. We were delighted that he was able to attend the AGM and look Janet Dyson – Chair forward to establishing a long and fruit- Talks and Visits for 2013

May 1st The Battle of Waterloo: Graeme Cooper (High Barn) June 5th Riot and Rebellion in the English Countryside: William Tyler. July 31st The Timber-framed Buildings of Great Bardfield: John Walker Sept 4th Cosmo Lang: Archbishop in War and Crisis: Rev Dr Robert Beaken Sept 18th An Evening with Artist Chloe Cheese Mar 1st 2014 AGM and Social Evening

Unless stated otherwise all meetings are in the Friends Meeting House at 8pm.

Visits are planned to Webbs Windmill, Thaxted on 22nd June; the historic churches of Strethall and Ickleton on July 20th and a Guided History Walk around Great Bardfield on 21st Sept.

To book a visit, please telephone Carolynne Ruffle 810986.

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 31 Bardfield Horticultural Society

traditional Spring Supper held in April was well supported with a sumptuous buffet to feed the brain followed by a quiz to exercise it. However, the good fortune was not to last and the adverse weather in June lead to the cancellation of the summer garden-visit to Joan and Stephen Bazlinton in Stebbing. In July we learned of the sad death of Marion Kemp, one of the Society’s longest serving committee members – she will be greatly missed for her talents, as a cook, wonderful flower arranger and as a dedicated and active supporter of the horticultural group. The weather was a major influence The he year 2012 proved to be a in determining the fortunes of those Summer Tseason of mixed fortunes for the who entered the Summer Show in Show – Bardfield Horticultural Society. The August. However, many clever garden- always a severe early-spring drought was imme- ers managed to master the adverse colourful diately followed by the wettest summer cold and wet conditions and produce day for 100 years, challenging gardeners a range of top-class vegetables and and farmers alike. summer flowers. These, combined The year began in February with with over one hundred entries from guest speaker Jim Buttress, former the primary school-children ensured a superintendent of the Royal Parks and very successful event. The Inter-Village Gardens based in London. He was Vegetable Competition was also host- both knowledgeable and enthusiastic ed by Bardfield which, thanks to Peter about all aspects of the capital’s gardens Morris, was awarded first prize in the from Buckingham Palace to St James’ competition – a magnificent example Park and beyond. of skill and determination. The Spring Show was held at the The finale to the year was undoubt- end of March and brought forth a edly the Harvest Supper, a sell-out, at wealth of early flowering shrubs, which guests were treated to a rich array perennials and bulbs. The daffodils of cold meats, salads and home-made were particularly good as were the desserts whilst enjoying entertainment displays of arts and crafts by the chil- courtesy of the Bardfield Community dren from Bardfield School. The local Choir. 2 Inter-Village Floral Competition was hosted by Bardfield although sadly Lynne Joyce (for us) won by Finchingfield. The

32 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013

Bardfield Oxlip Recovery Programme

he Bardfield oxlip recovery Tprogramme continues to prosper in Piper’s meadow and on the Ash Ground under the stewardships of the Bardfield Parish Council and the Jordan family at Great Lodge Farm, respectively. Plants thrived during the wet spring and summer in contrast to many other creatures such as insects, and particularly butterflies, which suffered greatly. The oxlips which have ultimately survived transplanting are now fully established at both sites and the long term prospects for permanency look encouraging. Both sites will have to be carefully monitored for some time and the emphasis now switches to one Oxlips at to come yet, however, particularly in of field management. In this regard a the Ash relation to damage from deer. Efforts routine mowing regime has been estab- Ground, are already in hand to minimize graz- lished, under the administration of the Great ing-related damage on the Ash Ground Parish Council. The meadow receives Lodge where the problem is more acute. It is two full cuts during the year: the first hoped that in 2013 a proposed plan a “topping” in early March to allow of more extensive fencing, designed to the oxlips to break through and flower protect plants both on the Ash Ground above the canopy of herbage, followed and in the adjacent Purple’s Spinney by a main “hay cut” during late-August can be implemented. This initiative is when the grass is removed: this helps being driven privately, along with plans to reduce soil fertility. Whilst to some to extend further plantings of oxlips in the uncut grass on the site during other suitable locations elsewhere on mid-summer presents a somewhat the farm. untidy appearance, Piper’s Meadow The oxlip programme in 2012 is best is a haven for wildlife of all sorts (as summarised as a year for consolidation well as oxlips) which do not universally and monitoring rather than continued benefit from a closely manicured envi- planting and expansion. The long-term ronment. To allow for “comfortable” sustainability of oxlips at the chosen access across the site times, a figure-of- sites needs to be addressed and the eight pathway is regularly mown by the sites managed accordingly. The initial contractor: enjoy a walk round. 2 goal, that of accruing knowledge and experience needed to establish popu- Doug Joyce lations in the wild, has been achieved,

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 33 Plantings at Long Green

English bluebells grown from locally sourced seed

ork to improve the appearance years. The broadcast technique of Wof the general habitat of Long sowing seed onto bare ground in the Green was started in the spring of 2010 autumn has proved to be very success- with the planting of over 100 bare-root- ful and already plants from the 2010 ed native trees and shrubs/bushes. sowing have mature leaves and presum- During the dry spring weather of both ably larger bulbs. Bluebells take several 2010 and 2011 the young saplings years to flower from seed but the signs struggled to establish. Frequently water are hopeful. Annual seed-sowing along had to be carried to the site in an effort the lane will continue for several years merely to keep the young plants alive. to come yet, and until such time as In 2012, however, the spring rainfall natural reproduction can take over. meant that artificial watering was Along with the bluebells a small unnecessary and at last the young trees number of oxlips have been transplant- and bushes can be regarded as fully ed in an oak grove adjacent to the track. established. And whilst the ongoing Thus far these oxlips have survived but problems of litter have persisted, the have still not prospered, partly due previously experienced vandalism from to the dry spring seasons experienced off-road vehicles was not repeated. and the somewhat parched and unfor- Deer and rabbit damage has similarly giving environment. The plants have been less of a problem than expected. flowered, set seed and germinated, but However, the “site” has some way to the self-sown seedlings have struggled go before it can be regarded as mature to establish themselves: and likewise and able flourish unaided, but the with the artificially sown seed close signs are encouraging. Already several by. Even under ideal conditions oxlips of the trees and bushes have flowered take at least two years to “mature” and wild cowslips (grown from seed and during this period they are very collected locally) have established in vulnerable to adverse growing condi- several places beneath them. tions. Alternative sites along the lane Further along the lane and to the are currently been sought. 2 south of the planted site, seed of our native bluebell has been sown amongst Doug Joyce the trees over each of the past three

34 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 The Bardfield Times

he magazine continues to thrive Particularly pleasing has been the series Tand is delivered free to over of interviews by teenager Katie Rees; seven-hundred households within involving young people in the maga- the parish by a long-suffering but zine has always been one of our aims. good-natured team of eighteen volun- Heartening also has been the number teers. One source of revenue is the of messages the magazine has received, Bardfield Cinema Club, which is some from people from outside the prospering under the new stewardship parish, complimenting the publication of Carolynne Ruffle. for its interesting content and profes- There have been several changes sionalism. 2 of personnel over the last year. Lizzie Craig (joint editor), Vivienne Kerry David Yates (Joint Editor) (advertising manager) and Ray Coles (distribution) have all left. Their years Jackie Newton – Treasurer of sterling service should earn them the thanks of the community. The Bardfield Times They have been replaced by Jenny Statement of Account for Year Ending 31st March 2013 Rooney, joint editor, whose expertise 2012 – 2013 2011 – 2012 in publishing has much improved the £ £ appearance of the magazine; Kate and Opening Balance 428.82 1896.34 Ian Fox, who are currently working on updating the adverts and improv- Income ing their visual quality; and Frances Advertising 6254.00 4869.00 Isackes, who is the new distribution Subs/sales 114.80 195.96 manager. Again, our village proved Donations 30.00 5.00 swift in providing volunteers for a Fundraising good cause. Jackie Newton remains in Open Gardens 1060.00 efficient charge of the finances, perhaps Cinema 1978.10 1302.68 the least rewarding and most worrying 8805.72 9328.98 of the posts. Expenditure We rely heavily on our ever-prompt Stationery 7.24 60.95 regular contributors, of course. Tony Hayward, for example, has found Printing 7400.00 7460.00 time in a busy farmer’s life to supply Postage 129.50 90.62 us over many years with his excellent Cinema 1284.85 1120.41 Countryfile column, a source of genu- Other 70.43 168.18 ine interest and insight. We’re glad 8892.02 8900.16 to say that there has been an increase Closing Balance (86.30) 428.82 in the number of contributions of Current a/c £967.65 articles and letters from villagers this year, a trend we hope to encourage. Cash in hand £140.35

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 35 Freshwell Health Centre

Commission which will be inspecting our prem- ises and monitoring our performance from April.

Staff News We are fortunate to have a very consistent and dedicated team at Freshwell and are very aware that this is an important asset. Caryl has been manning our n the midst of the NHS restruc- reception desk for the whole 20 years Ituring itself (again!) and battling to that we have been open and Bridget meet financial efficiency savings, the has worked as one of our practice nurs- Freshwell Health Centre team remain es for an impressive 25 years! We have, consistent in our aim to provide high however, had some staffing changes in quality, timely, local care for patients. the last year. Following the birth of her The health centre has now been open lovely son in October, we are about for 20 years and has developed and to welcome Dr Andrews back from evolved throughout that time to maternity leave and are delighted that increase the services we offer and keep Dr Walker will be with us full-time up-to-date with changing demands. from this month. Our Dispensary Our in-house ultrasound, gynae- Assistant, Chris, left at the end of 2012 cology, minor surgery and cardiology after graduating and being offered a services continue to be well reviewed by management training post. The new both our own patients and those from staff we have taken on over the last year neighbouring practices. We continue have fitted into our team well. to welcome other providers of health and social care to use our facilities CREAMER Fund Support including Citizens Advice, the Pain Thanks to the CREAMER Fund and Team from Broomfield, The Village their tireless fundraising efforts, we Agents, The Hospice Outreach Project have been able to make some major (HOP), IAPT Counsellors, Dieticians, improvements to our facilities in the Health Visitors, District Nurses and last year. Our main projects have been Midwives. digitalising our diagnostic services, a Over the last six months we have new ultrasound machine and a new made some modifications to our gold-standard DEXA scanner to look facilities to meet requirements to at bone density and help prevent be registered with the Care Quality fractures. The CREAMER Fund has

36 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 also kindly provided numerous pieces Reference Group (PRG). This group of of other equipment including chairs volunteer patients gave us their prior- and bookcases in the waiting room, ities for questions and helped guide otoscopes, pulse oximeters and a light- our action plan following the results. weight stretcher. Please come in and A report of their involvement and the view the wonderful paintings we have results of the survey are available to on sale (all proceeds to CREAMER) view on our website www.freshwell. and support the raffle they will be co.uk If you would like to become part holding in June. of this group, please ask at reception or fill in the online application form. The Patient Feedback workload is not onerous and we would Thank you to all patients who took the love more patients to become involved. time to complete one of our Patient As always, we welcome your ideas Satisfaction Questionnaires. Again, we and feedback, either by phone (01371 received lots of encouraging comments 810328), post or in person. 2 which are a real boost to staff morale. We were allowed to develop our own Linda Cutts, Practice Manager questionnaire again this year - for this we owe many thanks to our Patient

CREAMER Fund Report

ost of the work of the This year we have been able to invest MCREAMER Fund Trustees a lot of money into equipment. For is done by two people, Kay Painter example at our November meeting, we (Treasurer), who pays the bills and who agreed a purchase plan of £120,000. is now also negotiating on our behalf We have decided to hold £5000 in the when purchasing equipment, and account to cover servicing and calibra- Sylvia Gould, who organises the fund tion so we can always use the equip- raising activities, with support from a ment that is in place. However we do team of wonderful helpers. not intend to build up a huge reserve Both of these people just get on and ‘sit on it’. All of this money was with the work in hand. Most of the raised or donated within the commu- time they are the only ones who know nity that you are part of. Thank you all. the amount of effort needed. When they have been audited, our This year has seen the retirement accounts are posted on our notice of Iris Jealous, who has been another board at the surgery, so that you can all of the ‘just get on with it’ types. Iris see exactly where the money goes. 2 has raised the profile of the books and puzzles in her 15 years, and made a Christopher Blewett substantial amount of money for the CREAMER Fund.

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 37 Great Bardfield WEA to the lectures we also try to include a day-outing to further explore a relevant topic. Even those villagers who might not have been able to attend the course are welcome to join these outings. Our two most recent courses covered art history and a combination of philosophy and psychology. The art history course covered the landscape artists of the American Hudson River School (see left). Although this was a shorter course than usual, members continued to meet to present and discuss their own findings to the group. Indeed it led to a series of outings to London art galleries, Thomas Cole’s “Kaaterskill Falls” London museums and a Cambridge theatre. reat Bardfield WEA has been Our latter course this year was enti- Goffering courses in the village tled “Why People Believe Impossible for many decades. We Things” and was usually run two courses presented by one a year, in the Autumn A better world – equal, of the WEA’s Term and in the Spring democratic and just; most successful Term, meeting at the through adult education tutors. It was a Friends’ Meeting house hugely enjoyable on a Monday evening. the WEA challenges course covering Each course consists of and inspires individuals, diverse topics ten lectures with the communities and such as of phre- audience encouraged society. nology, astrology to participate with and graphology. their own views and The WEA experiences. WEA vision statement and our branch We are a friendly welcome adults group, always welcoming life-long, as of all ages. For more information please well as new members. Over the years contact Annette Joyce (01371 811233) the subjects have ranged from art or Ros Gourgey (01371 810832) or history to world discovery, poetry to the WEA website on www.wea.org.uk philosophy and music to literature. Depending upon the chosen subject Annette Joyce or tutor, our audience can vary in number from ten to thirty. In addition

38 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 The Bardfield Players

he Bardfield Players have contin- We do have a lot of very keen and Tued their popularity of previous able people who form the Players, but years, by providing two very well there is always room for more help, and received plays, Trivial Pursuit and Black as far as the actors are concerned, we Comedy, in 2012. We would benefit from a wider also continued our run age group to choose from of success at the North (I can only get away with Essex Theatre Guild being 40 for so long). So at awards last year, gaining the risk of being ageist and the Unsung Hero award offending the very talented (Iris Couldridge), Best group we currently have, if Set (Trivial Pursuit) and runner-up there are any talented people under 35 Best Actress (Suzanne Williams). who would like to come and join in, Audience numbers have been good, then please do! although a phenomenon, known in profes- To end, I would like to congratu- sional circles as “The X Factor – Factor” late, and wish immense good fortune has had an effect on numbers attending to both Ruth Stokes and Roz Hine. on Saturday evenings. For this, and other Both of them have been a part of the reasons, ie it is much more fun for us to have Bardfield Players and are now making an audience to play to, however small, rather their way in professional theatre. 2 than an empty hall, we have had perfor- mances on Wednesday evenings as well as Ian Ruffle. Chairman Thursday, Friday and Saturday which have proved popular. We have, after many years of using the limited storage space kindly provid- ed by the Town Hall, saved enough money to build our own 21st Century Storage Facility. With the permission of both the Town Hall committee and the Parish Council, a concrete base has been laid and we are awaiting delivery of the said building. This will give us space to separate our flats, doors etc, so that they can be accessed easily, instead of being in the huge pile that they currently make. We will also be able to store props, furniture etc, in advance of them being needed. There are also several other items that we are looking to invest in in the future. Cast rehearsing Black Comedy November 2012

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 39 Primary School Report

school never stands still – and Later in the term, a group of Year Aas so many things happen over a 5 pupils attended the Stanley Hall year, I hope I can give a snapshot of Opera workshop and dress rehearsal of school life since April 2012. Mozart’s Impresario and Leoncavallo’s In June, we celebrated the Queen’s I Pageliacci. The children were praised Diamond Jubilee. The children on both days of their participation and completed portraits of the Queen behaviour. which were displayed in the hall; they also designed and painted commemo- Young Entrepreneurs: It was like The rative plates. Everyone came to school Apprentice in the Year 5/6 Class at the dressed for a ‘Royal Garden Party’ end of the summer term. The children and enjoyed sitting down together for had been set a challenge of making a lunch. A special assembly was held and new ‘truffle chocolate.’ They worked in we were delighted to have Councillor teams to create advertising, packaging, Mrs Ruffle, Vice Chair of the Parish a TV advert and of course the making Council to present mugs to every child and selling. Each group was loaned £5 which had been donated by the Parish to source ingredients. At the end the Council. A very special visitor also children had to repay their loan out of arrived and assisted with the presenta- what they sold. The eventual winners tion. All the children danced tradition- kept their profits whilst the other al dances – a fabulous day for all. groups’ profits were sent to charity.

Musical Experiences: Two experi- The Year 6 Challenge Week took enced musicians from the Brandenburg place at Ashburton House, Sussex, just Sinfonia brought their bassoon, and before the end of the summer term. double bass, to share a light-hearted The children (and leaders) eagerly took performance with the children which part in various challenges of fencing, included many interactive activities. kayak-ing, archery, climbing, abseiling,

Right: Jubilee lunch for all the school

Far right: Little Red Hen pizza making fun

40 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 and a zip wire experience, in addition English Maths as a variety of team building activities. School National School National The children also enjoyed a camp fire Level 4 + 87% 85% 100% 85% and disco and met pupils from other Level 5+ 32% 37% 64% 39% schools. Well done to Year 6 for their hard The School Council has been respon- work, determination, and achievement sible for a number of activities; they in their end of Key Stage 2 SATs and have worked with Councillors from Teacher Assessments. This year chil- Finchingfield and Shalford and have dren took tests in reading and maths, since used Skype technology to talk whilst teacher assessment was used for to each other. They also asked for writing. improvements to the Butterfly Garden A new school year began in and Quiet Area and as a result, a new September, with the school being 6ft fence was installed, the area was organised into five classes with mixed levelled, and a bark-chipping surface classes in all but Year 3. Our numbers replaced the bare ground. New steps fell once again from 125 to 120. were built leading up to the area. There are fewer school-age children in At the side of the field behind our the area and not so many people are fruit trees, a scrub land was cleared moving into the village. This is the retaining the trees for additional shady same for all local small schools. places. New trees have also been plant- ed along the edge of the field which The Olympic Torch: We were delight- was part of the Jubilee Tree Planting ed to welcome Kate, to our Celebration initiative, one of the trees was an oak. Assembly, to talk about her run with the Olympic torch in Saffron Walden. Lunch time: The children wanted Kate, a local martial arts teacher, gave plates and trays to be used for their an inspirational talk to our children lunches, the children were delighted and shared pictures of her unique when this happened! School Council moments with the torch. The children really makes a difference! were in awe!

Far left: Kate with the Olympic torch Left: Jubilee mugs given to all children

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 41 Staffing: we welcomed Mrs S Naylor Barley Lands visit: Early in the new to work with our Year 3 class one term, our youngest children visited day a week. Mr Middleton retired Barley Lands Farm to research the as Caretaker and Mr A Beavis was story of the Little Red Hen. Each child appointed. Mrs C Geddes did a sterling got the opportunity to make a pizza job in the interim when Mr Middleton from the flour that been ground. The was away from work. children had a wonderful time going Mrs Morrison, our senior midday around the farm looking at the animals assistant resigned. We also welcomed, as well as finding about farming in the Mrs Weston and Mrs Rust as Learning past. The children even planted some Support Assistants. corn for next year’s crops! Our Year 4/5 class went to West Stowe to learn more Village Cluster: Great Bardfield about the Saxons. School is pleased to work very closely with Finchingfield, Wethersfield and Thinking of others: It’s always good to Shalford Schools. The Headteachers have George Mills in school to share have regular meetings, teachers moder- the wonderful work he does for the ate work with each other and visit each Revival Centre in Chernihiv, Ukraine. other’s classes, and we have also offered We are always very grateful to our joint training activities, this is the way children and parents for making up forward for small schools. Our new ‘Smile Boxes.’ When a family visits the Chair of Governors, Bryan Chapman, Revival Centre, they are given a box to has been instrumental in getting the take home. George told us that each other Chairs of Governors working family sits down at the table and gives together as well out the contents carefully so that the whole family has a share; the boxes are Governor news: Mrs Janet Dyson really treasured by the families. stood down as Chair of Governors The children also raised £185 for after many years, but continues her Children in Need by bringing their position on the governing body. The bears to learn alongside their owners school thanked her for her continuing who wore their sleepwear for the day! support over the years. Cakes made by Year 6 were also sold.

Right: Mothers’ Day stall Far right: School hall ready for Pamper afternoon

42 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 The popular Friday cake stall

On Comic Relief Day, the children inflatable day, Festive Fun, and a relax- raised £281 by dressing oddly, some ing Pamper Afternoon. Parents also wore their clothes inside out, some organise a Friday afternoon cake stall. back to front, some wore odd socks For some time now the PTA and and shoes and some had very strange community have been instrumental hairstyles. We started the day by invit- in providing funds for our laptops. ing parents and families for breakfast However, in the early hours of the last and then they could go into class and day of the autumn term 45 laptops learn with their children. were stolen. This was very upsetting for us all. Fortunately, everything was Quantum Theatre visited to work on insured, but we will still lose money developing story-writing with our Year from excess fees and putting in addi- 1 and 2 children. The focus of the play tional security. was on how to re-tell a familiar story, by We are looking forward to cele- telling the story from a different char- brating the school’s 150th anniversary acter’s points of view. They explored in early summer. One of the events is who was a goodie and who was a to prepare a book of memories from baddie and what made them so. Year 1 past pupils. We hope many people will and 2 children from Wethersfield and come forward and share the times they Shalford Schools also joined us. had at Great Bardfield Primary School. On behalf of the staff and children The PTA is always active, thinking up at the school, we would like to thank ways to support the school financial- the local community for their continu- ly. Sadly, the summer fete, had to be al support. 2 cancelled because of the bad weather, however they ran a successful Bardfield’s Anne Barney – Headteacher Got Talent evening and an amazing

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 43 High Barn Arts

The Idiot Bastard Band featuring l to r Ade Edmonson, Phil Jupitus, Roland Rivron and the legendary Neil Innes playing to a packed audience at The High Barn

ver the past ten years The High directly contribute towards the future OBarn has built a reputation as a of the venue as well as supporting the highly respected music venue and seed- community and the arts programme. ing ground for creative development in The already well-established music, music and the performing arts. filming and recording aspects of the The Early this year we decided to build High Barn will be further developed on our reputation and form High Barn within HBA with the aim supporting Arts (HBA) a Community Interest many more emerging artists. Company (CIC). Because there are no High Barn Arts is dedicated solely shareholders any profits generated are to its community purpose. It will reinvested into the business. contribute to the cultural, social and Being a CIC enables us to seek economic benefit of the community as funding and sponsorship for a wide a whole. We already have a strong team range of projects. We have various of volunteers who support HBA by sponsorship packages available for assisting with sound engineering and individuals or businesses who wish to managing live performances. We are get involved and support the commu- grateful for their support and delight- nity with us. We are already partners ed that they value this opportunity to with the Nathan Timothy Foundation learn more about the music industry. Song-writing Charity, which provides To get involved, or just for more infor- song-writing programmes to enhance mation, please call 01371 811291 or and support children’s learning and visit www.highbarnarts.org. 2 well-being. Additionally we will be providing facilities for lectures, classes, Paul Boon, HBA Director. and workshops, etc. These activities will

44 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 Great Bardfield Carpet Bowls

he Club has been in existence in TGreat Bardfield since 1990. Last year, for the first time the number of members fell below the level needed to fulfil fixtures in the Essex County League and we had to pull out. We did however continue our affiliation with Essex County. It was very disappoint- ing for those members who enjoy play- ing competitively in the league but we arranged some friendly fixtures with other clubs and villages in the area. We attended various Charity events and all of the Essex County compe- titions which are held at Braintree. I would like to dispel a couple of Lynda and Everyone who represented our club did myths which might prevent you from Clifford us proud. Our pairs won the competi- joining. Firstly bowls is not a sport for celebrating tion and are now County Champions. old fuddy-duddies, just look at the their They go on to represent Bardfield/ competitors in the world bowls cham- Pairs Essex in the Six Counties Champion pionships you see on TV; it is a sport victory of Champions (Essex, Herts, Beds, for all. Secondly, despite the name Suffolk, Norfolk & Cambridge) ‘carpet’ it is not the toy game that you and the National Champions of play in your lounge. Carpet bowls is a Champions held in Blackpool. skilful, mixed sport open to all - the Since our drop in numbers we have young and not so young, the able and remained positive and have encour- less-able bodied. Finally it is cheap as aged a few new members to join us. the club provides the equipment. It Next season we hope we can rejoin prides itself on its friendly nature and the league. But we must not rest there; is as competitive as you wish to make we still need a few more members to it. If you would like more information bolster our numbers. call me, Cliff, or Lynda on 810782. For those new to the parish it is an Sadly Bardfield no longer has an ideal way of making new friends and outdoor lawn bowls green now but getting to know other villages in the there are many clubs around that would area. Is there anyone new to the area welcome any interest you may have who would like to try their hand? We in the full size game. There are clubs would really welcome some new faces at Dunmow, Thaxted, and Stebbing. so if you think it might be worth a Lynda and I play at Quendon. 2 look please do not be shy in coming forward. We meet on a Wednesday at Clifford Richardson the Town Hall from about 7:45 pm.

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 45 Bardfield Community Choir

he Community Choir continues songs by Adele, Bob Dylan, Irving Tto grow and now has 60 members Berlin, John Rutter and J.S. Bach. This of all ages. Our aim is to sing for summer we plan to run some extra pleasure. You do not need to be able small group sessions for those who like to read music and no previous singing singing madrigals. experience is necessary. Most of our Singing is fun and makes you feel music is arranged for three or four good! New singers are always welcome parts; sopranos, altos, tenors and bass- so if you enjoy singing come and give es. During the last year we joined with it a try. We meet on Tuesday evenings the Bardfield Band to give a summer at 8pm, usually in the Town Hall. We concert in the Church, entertained the each pay £2 per rehearsal which covers Horticultural Society at their Harvest costs of hiring the hall and buying or Supper in October, and, once again, hiring music. sang carols at the Town Hall Christmas For further information phone Raffle Evening, with plenty of audi- 810838 or visit ‘Choir’ on the Parish ence participation. We try to include Council website. 2 music for all tastes in our programme ranging from pop, folk and jazz to clas- Janet Dyson, Musical Director sical. New music this year has included The Seal Lullaby by Eric Whitacre and

Great Bardfield Allotments

fter such a wet 2012 summer it have a chat, share news and talk about Awas very surprising that any of what we were growing. It seemed this us got vegetables, but once again we year that you would go to your plot managed with some successful results anytime of day, and there would be and some disappointments. no-one about, although you could see Consequently, due to the weather people had been to their plot, weeding this meant hardly any watering so luck- and harvesting. ily our water meter was hardly used – So as we start another season, with just the water butts. The two compost all the plots still taken. They are begin- bins that were provided by the Rural ning to look like everyone is getting Community are up and running and ready for what we hope will be a much the strimmer has proved useful for the better summer. 2 smaller jobs. The year was so different from Tansey Bolsom previous years, where we would often meet fellow plot holders gardening,

46 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 Great Bardfield Youth Club

Great Bardfield Youth Club

espite generous support from We put massive effort into it organis- Dthe wider community, I feel our ing games and activities with prizes, Youth Club is, once again, perilously decorations, BBQ, 300 free cans of close to shutting down. I apologise for Fanta, bunting, balloons etc and we this rather negative report but there publicised it for weeks. It started at is little point in pretending all is well 2pm but by 3.15pm we had only two when clearly it is not as good as it children, a brother and sister from could be. Great Saling. The total attendance, The current members do seem to late in the afternoon was eleven and by consider the Club to be somewhere to then it was too late to run most of the go nuts with their mates on a Friday games. We had explained to members night rather than involving themselves that photos of the best party could win in a wider spread of activities. Last year 30 free tickets to Alton Towers. Darren we tried and tried to organise trips to Hockley kindly spent the afternoon Stubbers outdoor activity centre but taking photos but needless to say, with there was never any interest. Dawn such pathetic attendance, we won Luxford and I took members to the nothing. Essex Boys & Girls Clubs (EBGC) Then in July and August came the fishing competitions on two Saturdays break-ins. On Friday 13th July, supervi- which the members enjoyed. However, sors found the front doors ripped open, when I couldn’t make the third internal doors smashed, the £25 float Saturday, we couldn’t raise any support and entire tuck-shop stock stolen. In for transport from parents so the chil- August, I arrived to clean and tidy the dren missed the third competition. pavilion again to find the front doors In the summer, subsidised by wrenched open. Inside, was far worse ‘Fanta’, through EBGC, we held a than the first break-in. All the internal ‘Fanta’tastic Party on the playing field. doors were smashed open and water

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 47 Right: fishing fun with EBGC Far right: Steve with new best friend

pipes had been ripped off the walls in school children join the club in the a frenzied attack. Water was spraying Autumn term. This shouldn’t happen everywhere. This time, all the drinks until their last term and I believe it has were gone along with the children’s had a detrimental effect on the Club. At Wii console and games. this age, they just aren’t mature enough But as Shakespeare said: “The and the result has been to force older robbed that smile steal something from members away from the club which the thief” and the response from the they see as ‘childish’. Next September, wider community was something to if the club continues, I hope we will smile about. One older gentleman gave not be accepting the new members us a £25 cheque to replace our stolen until their summer term. float and two ‘senior’ couples gave us In January we applied and paid to generous donations to help us back on enter the EBGC 5-a-side tournament. our feet. The Bardfield Charities gave Again, Dawn and I were scheduled us £250 and another kind villager gave to run the agreed squad of seven to the Parish Council a donation towards Chelmsford on the Saturday morning. fixing the damage. Roger Prior and Predictably, during the previous few Ian Fox both gave their time freely days, all the players backed out and to collect materials and to hang new GBYC didn’t take part. exterior doors and fix internal doors The dark evenings of winter are and locks. Noticeably, all this help always a challenge to the Youth Club came from older, wiser members of the and we face an almost insurmountable community, nothing from parents of problem keeping the youngsters in Youth Club members. Added to this the pavilion where we can supervise the supervisors stepped up (some of them. Nowadays this is made worse by them), and cleaned, tidied and sort- older boys hanging around in the play- ed rubbish, all aiming at providing a ground, attracting the younger ones better environment for the members. out. Recently, one of the supervisors, In September there was a major challenging the wandering members mistake and we let the older primary was hit on the head by a stone in the

48 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 Fanta’tastic fun day dark. This supervisor no longer feels approach to this role, organising activi- inclined to help these kids and has ties and in some cases, even controlling resigned from Youth Club duties. the primary school members! Thanks kids – very helpful. Supervisor Cheryl Mellon has Most recently, on 23rd March we vastly improved our communication agreed to host the EBGC mobile methods using the website, Facebook activity day. Youth Clubs from all over and developing an online newsletter. Braintree and Uttlesford were due to However, I fear for how this will be attend. On the Saturday of the activ- maintained as Cheryl is due to move ities more snow arrived and despite from the village. Jan Andrews, Dawn massive effort by us, only Ashdon YC Luxford, Mandy Boon and Jenny Mills made it and a few of our own members. have continued their support. New As you can imagine, given the effort supervisors Lisa Searle and Stuart Ray that is put in, it’s pretty demoralising have had a major input and hopeful- when our own members don’t bother ly Paul Robinson will renew his full to support us and in particular their support soon. parents. We are losing supervisors We’ve got a few things planned quicker than we are able to recruit for the summer and with the light them and personally, after five years, it’s evenings it’s always much more fun so wearing a bit thin. I think we urgently we’ll carry on for the next term but I need a new leader with fresher ideas fear come the autumn, we will need to and unbridled enthusiasm. make some difficult decisions. 2 Of course it’s not all bad. I’m very pleased that we are able to help some Steve Slemmings – Chair GBYC of our youngsters. Laura Pearson and Freddie Robinson, have been fulfilling the voluntary section of their Duke of Edinburgh Awards by helping at the Youth Club. Freddie in particular has shown a committed and responsible

Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 49 Great Bardfield Parish Council

Cllr Janet Dyson Cllr Carolynne Ruffle Chairman Vice Chairman 01371 810838 01371 810986

Cllr Simon Walsh Cllr Tony Hayward 01371 810451 01371 810320

Cllr Darren Hockley Cllr Steve Slemmings 01371 810898 01371 810098

Mrs Kate Fox Parish Clerk Cllr Alicia Holmes 01371 810111 01371 810563 [email protected] www.greatbardfield-pc.gov.uk

Community Information Point 01371 810327 [email protected]

Open Wednesday and Saturday 10.00am to 12 noon

50 Great Bardfield Parish Assembly 2013 Design and layout: Jenny Rooney Grateful thanks to Ian Fox, Doug Joyce, Paul Boon, David Burgess, Anne Barney, Chris Morrell for their photographs and all members of the parish for their contributions.