Oundle Chronicle

COVID-19 RESPONSE pages FARMERS' MARKET FEATURE pages 8-12 18-19

Established 1991 Best Newspaper 2016 Shine School Media Awards Spring 2020 We'll meet again

A community is defined by other on the pavements, unsure acy-laced scepticism. In a sheltered through letterboxes offering help how it responds to a crisis. And whether to extend greetings or rural town like Oundle, if you have or signed up with groups like Care what has most defined Oundle’s turn away. Every encounter has not been directly affected by the and Share on Facebook, Volunteer response to the Covid-19 pandemic required a mental adjustment to disease, or do not know anyone Action and Community Action is how people complied with and new routines and customs. who has been affected, the risks at Oundle School to be on call to adapted to government orders to The shock of the lockdown can seem either a remote possibil- respond to requests for help. completely reshape their everyday initially led to stockpiling of essen- ity or a looming potential threat. Hundreds of volunteers in town lives in ways not witnessed since tial goods, and shortages of toilet Deciding how much to adapt one’s organised to respond to the the war. Through it all, people paper and soap, forcing pharmacies behaviour raises questions about nation-wide shortage of personal have not just looked out for them- and supermarkets to temporarily whether masks are essential, or protective equipment for health selves, but have looked out for impose rationing. Complaints have how much hand sanitiser to use. care workers, coordinating stream- others. been aired about people not follow- But what has most defined lined operations that worked When the lockdown was an- ing the one way systems in super- Oundle's community is how quick- throughout the day to contribute nounced on 23 March, overnight markets or not respecting social ly people organised to help those to the production of scrubs and every shop hung a “closed until distancing markers in queues at risk if exposed to the disease. face shields for local hospitals, care further notice" sign in its window, outside shops. Suspicions have Hundreds of volunteers have been homes and surgeries. and the streets were emptied of the been raised about whether groups mobilised to offer help to anyone And on Thursday evenings, usual flow of traffic. The few- pe were part of one household or who might be self-isolating and streets across Oundle have rever- destrians running essential errands whether drivers were actually mak- unable to leave the house to pick up berated with the sound of residents or taking daily exercise manoeu- ing essential trips. prescriptions or food shop. Neigh- expressing their continued vred to put distance between each Few people have voiced conspir- bours have slipped contact cards gratitude for health workers. 2 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 52 - Spring The Council tax increases announced Council continues delivery of services Chronicle Millie Trotter “proud of the record of this In line with Covid-19 measures, The Oundle Town Council council”. the Town Council has scaled back Team announced a 7.3% increase in the The council has worked to operations, while keeping coun- town’s council tax precept for the reduce expenditure, in particular, cil business running behind the 2020-21 budget. subsidies for The Hub, but without scenes. All parks, Fletton House, Oundle’s precept increased by doing “anything drastically signif- Victoria Hall and the Hub Café re- 2% last year, following annual icant”, they feel there is not much main closed, and staff are working increases of 11.9%, 9.5%, 8.6% and that they can trim from the budget from home. 10.5%. Since 2014, the council tax if they want to keep a reserve. Following guidance from a for an E band property in Oundle The difference between a 3% or Northamptonshire Environmental has increased from £1880 to £2408. 7% increase helps the council main- Health Officer, the Thursday mar- Oundle has the highest council tax tain a three months’ reserve. ket has reopened with five stalls rate in East Northamptonshire. Some councillors expressed selling essential goods. A one-way East Northamptonshire Council concern about how long the council system keeps shoppers at a safe agreed to increase its share by 3.5%, can expect to continue raising the social distance. The council has not adding £5 to the average house- precept, without affecting afforda- yet determined whether the Farm- THE EDITORIAL TEAM hold’s bill. bility for many residents. er’s Market can reopen safely under Nationally, parish councils have Councillor David Chapple the new guidelines, and will be Gwyneth Angel increased their council tax income said: “This council has driven a measuring and mapping the Mar- Zac Atkinson by more than a third since 2015-16. programme of support for organ- ket Place before making a decision. Alice Blackmore Larger councils can only increase isations within the town, for our Council meeting agendas are Ben Clayden bills by 2.99% plus a further 2% if buildings within the town. We try still posted online, and meetings Meagan Iu they provide social care. to add to the quality of life in this have been conducted via Zoom, to Esme Kroese District councils were allowed town, but it doesn’t come cheap which members of the public can Millicent Riordan an increase of either 2.99% or £5 on "We’re not honestly comparing be invited to attend. The Annual Millie Trotter their share. Parish councils do not like for like when we look at the Town Meeting was cancelled, as Sunny Woodend have a cap. other towns in East Northamp- were all local elections due to take In a December meeting’s debate tonshire. That’s not to say we place on 7 May. STAFF EDITORS about the town’s precept, Coun- shouldn’t be careful about what Many local authorities across the cillor David Chapple cautioned we spend, or that we shouldn’t be country are facing funding short- Leigh Giurlando that the council has to be careful critical about what we do.” falls and increased expenditure due Catriona O'Brien about what it spends, but that he is to coronavirus pressures. While the Town Council anticipates a decline of revenue due to loss of building Uncertain future for Oundle Museum hire charges and market fees, they said the impact of the shutdown on the council’s balance sheet will Esme Kroese over £40,000 annually from rents. be minimal. The precept makes Oundle Town Museum has been The Museum’s first dedicated up most of the council’s income located at the Courthouse since space was opened in 1994 in the and is a protected revenue stream. 2000 and is coming to the end of its Drill Hall on Benefield Road. It The council has received a £10,000 20 year lease on January 1, 2021. It was founded by a group of friends grant distributed by East Northants has requested a new 20 year lease who met in 1981 while studying Council as part of the coronavirus from Oundle Town Council, which the history of Oundle. Originally business relief scheme for the run- owns the building. the group organised small three- ning of the Queen Victoria Hall. The Chair of the Management day exhibitions in Oundle School’s On 8 May new legislation con- Committee, Carole Bancroft-Turner Yarrow Gallery, which led to the firmed the new unitary structure said they had not heard anything foundation of the Oundle Historical for North and West Northampton- from the council about the status of Society. The town council was sup- shire Councils to start on 1 April their lease. portive of their work and offered 2021. This followed the postpone- At committee meetings, the a permanent space in the former ment of the scheduled unitary council has expressed uncertainty Drill Hall at subsidised rates. It elections. about whether they will plan to sell relocated to larger premises at the Preparations for creating the two the building in future years and are Courthouse with funding from a new councils will continue to en- debating the renewal of the lease. Heritage Lottery Grant, and in 2007 sure that all services can be safely The lack of a long lease could be the museum reached accreditation delivered on day one. the end for the museum. Without status after meeting the nationally a long lease, it would struggle to agreed standards for museums in apply successfully for grants on the UK. In 2018, the museum won management is by a committee of which it is dependent for funding. the Best Volunteer Project Award twelve volunteers, with some who The council is discussing the fu- at the Northamptonshire Heritage have served since the founding ture ownership of the Courthouse, Awards held at Althorp House. in 1994 and who have dedicated and may consider its sale due to The main exhibition theme changes thousands of hours to the museum. ongoing maintenance costs. In 2013 every year and aims to appeal to all There are 50 stewards who staff the Oundle Chronicle the council offices were located ages. museum during open hours from Cripps Library at the Courthouse, and there was Mrs Bancroft-Turner said March to November. Church Street widespread opposition from town “There’s a lot we’d like to do to The museum staff are anxious Oundle residents to sell the Courthouse modernise the museum, but we about the future and the lack of Peterborough when the offices moved to the new- can’t apply for grants unless we communication from the coun- ly refurbished Fletton House. Since have a long-term lease.” PE8 4EE cil. “We hope that the council are then, units have been leased to The Oundle Museum is run supportive of us and all the work E: [email protected] small businesses, as well as the Mu- by volunteers with oversight by we’ve done over the last 20 years,” www.oundlechronicle.co.uk seum, and the council receives just a board of trustees. Day-to-day said Mrs Bancroft-Turner. ISSUE 52 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 3 Council members asked, “This Neighbourhood Plan begs the question, do you need a VE Day celebrations in Oundle rejected by examiner Neighbourhood Plan at all, or do we just try to get the best local plan The Town Council’s Neighbour- we can?” hood Plan suffered a setback in the final report of the independent examiner after he judged that the plan was not fit to go forward. ENC overrides town The examiner said that the plan had procedural issues that had not objections to housing been complied with. He wrote that the council should have gone back allocations to Regulation 14 after public con- sultation and should have had Stra- Despite a concerted opposition tegic Environmental Assessments. campaign by Oundle residents, He also said their site assessment including over 80 public comments methodology was not as robust as it objecting to the plan, the applica- needed to be. tion by Gladman Developers for The council “fought tooth and 130 houses on Cotterstock Road nail for it” but are unable to go was given outline planning approv- further with the plan according al by the East Northants Planning to the examiner. The council is Management Committee at a meet- not convinced by the examiner’s ing on 28 February. opinion, but having already spent Objections to the site includ- £80,000 on the plan, mostly from ed the reports of odours from the grants, it does not have the funds to adjacent sewage treatment works, Dame Vera Lynn’s wartime Later in the afternoon, from challenge the decision through the and the increased traffic load at anthem "We’ll Meet Again" was the houses festooned with homemade courts. the entrance to the nearby primary soundtrack for this year’s cele- bunting, neighbours gathered in The collapse of the Neighbour- school, as well as objections from brations of the 75th anniversary their front gardens and doorsteps hood Plan effectively gave the East the Cotterstock and Glapthorn par- of VE Day on 8 May. Its nostalgic to celebrate. Northants Planning Policy Commit- ish councils. optimism resonated with people’s Across town celebrations in- tee the green light to override Oun- The ENC commissioned an feelings about separation and un- cluded neighbours on Benefield dle’s preferred housing allocations independent review of the odour certainty in the age of the coronavi- Road (above) who sat in their front On 20th January, East Northants impact assessment that had been rus pandemic. gardens for 4pm tea. A few streets Council Planning Policy Commit- submitted by the developers, and Although the anniversary had away, but clearly audible in the tee gave the go ahead to add three said that they were satisfied that to be scaled back due to the shut- silent afternoon, households on housing sites in Oundle to its own there was no evidence to refuse down, Oundle turned out in style. Clifton Drive lined the street to sing Local Plan, ignoring the preferred the applications on the grounds of At the 11am two-minute silence, songs led by Christine Eames. In allocation of housing sites detailed odour. They said that eight odour the Oundle Branch of the Royal the centre of town, Douglas Butler in the proposed Neighbourhood complaints had been received by lo- British Legion quietly laid a wreath organised an evening sing-along Plan. cal residents from 1998 to 2003, and at the War Memorial in tribute to with Stephen Dalzell for West The town council has since four were received in November those who lost their lives. Street residents. discovered that as early as 2018, 2019, none of which were substan- the ENC revised their local plan to tiated. include the three sites in Oundle, The committee examined traf- but didn’t inform the OTC. Most fic concerns, and were told by importantly, the ENC needed deliv- the council’s highway consultant Limited places still available in Reception, ery of housing requirements to be that there was no evidence that Year 1 and Year 2 for September 2020 completed by a 2025 deadline, but the development’s increased traf- never shared that deadline with the fic would have a material impact OTC. Knowledge of the deadline on the neighbourhood. The site’s would have changed the actions of proposed improved pedestrian and other developers in the town and cycling facilities both on and off the the pace that was taken on the plan site were thought to be a positive by the council. contribution. The proposed developments Nevertheless, the outline ap- before the ENC will use up most of proval specified highway condi- the housing allocation that the town tions that must be satisfied before is required to provide by 2031. the development can progress, in- The experience has left council cluding details for a right hand turn members feeling cynical about the ghost island on Cotterstock Road, government's pledge to support and a scheme for the reduction of localism through neighbourhood the speed limit. It was stated that plans. “The whole thing was a the development cannot begin until ridiculous exercise that cost every- a permanent extension of the ex- one a lot of money,” Councillor isting 30mph speed limit has been Clive Humphries said. implemented, and the full construc- He said the intention was good, tion details of the continuation of St because it gave people the right to Peter’s Road have been submitted. Please contact our Admissions team to arrange a personal say what was best for the local com- The developers agreed to a re- introduction to our outstanding school, teachers and pupils. munity. “But it was a smoke screen. quest by the Town Council to make All the neighbourhood plan did a financial contribution in the S106 Ms Lesley Taylor, [email protected] was open up to developers places Agreement of £172,000 to deliver a www.laxtonjuniorschool.org.uk that were identified that could be cycle link from Cotterstock Road to An inspiring independent co-educational day school for children aged 4-11 years developed,” he said. “It’s happened New Road. nationally. It’s becoming a scam.”

Oun/131 quarter page Adverts AW.indd 1 05/05/2020 09:49 4 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 52 - Spring Thieves who stole roof lead from Police beat Cotterstock Church get court date Millicent Riordan parked in Glapthorn had £1000 Esme Kroese On March 3, the three suspects Operation Snap has made its worth of tools stolen. The van’s In July 2016 three and a half were charged in Lincoln Magis- first conviction. The police under- owner chased the thief who drove tonnes of lead were removed from trates Court, accused of attempt- taking allows people to upload off in a black 57 plate Mercedes. the roof of St Andrew’s Church, ing to steal lead from 46 different dashcam footage of bad driving, On the night of 7 February, causing repair and replacement church roofs across ten different and resulted in the conviction of between 10:45pm and 9am, a box of damages amounting to £25,000. counties, causing over £2 million in a motorist who overtook a cyclist newspapers was set alight in front While the village began the pro- damages between April and No- at 90mph. The man had his license of the Stahl Theatre on West Street. cess of fundraising and organising vember 2016. revoked for six months and was Between the 16 and 23 April, the repairs and additional roof security, Two of the men pleaded not fined £592 with surcharges of £59 Stahl Theatre maintenance team residents have been determined to guilty. The third man did not ap- to be paid to victim funds. discovered an unsuccessful attempt see the culprits brought to justice. pear in court. Their trial was due to On the night of the 15 Decem- by unknown culprits to break Earlier this year, residents were start on May 18. ber, Designers, was burgled. The through the rear fire doors. told that police had finally closed in In a separate investigation, three door was forced open and cash, Between 22 and 24 February, an on the suspects and had gathered men were arrested and charged at an iPad, and other products were Oundle School property was en- evidence that possibly ties three Lincoln Crown Court on March 20 stolen. This crime occurred be- tered (a fire door was forced open). suspects to the crime. with theft of lead in over 50 inci- tween 22:00 on the 15th and 8:00 Between 5pm on Tuesday 10 One of the suspects was de- dents from 2018-2020. the following morning. March and 6:30am on Wednesday tained at Gatwick airport from an The National Crime Agency says Shoplifters were chased out of 11 March, unknown persons re- inbound flight from Austria as part that metal theft is one of the fastest the Waitrose carpark on 16 Decem- moved the front and rear registra- of European arrest warrant. growing crimes across the country. ber by staff and customers; they tion plates from a car parked on dropped all stolen goods. On 23 North Street, Oundle. December a car windscreen was On 24 March, damage was smashed whilst parked on Old done to a vehicle on Hillfield School Avenue Road between midday and 14:07. Between 8 and 10 January a A high-value theft of equipment 14-foot tipper trailer was stolen occurred at the Wharf between from Ashton Wold. The police are 4pm on 25 March and 11am on 29 requesting any information of sus- March. picious activity. In March, 34 crimes were report- A house on Ashton Road was ed to have occurred in Oundle, a burgled between 11:30am on 10 significant increase from February’s January and 2:17pm the next day. 23 reported crimes and January’s 21 The perpetrators searched the reported crimes. house before leaving. While burglaries and anti-social On 19 February, an elderly man, incidents were down, there was a who lives on St Peter’s Road, was marked increase in reports of vio- robbed after two men conned their lence and sexual offences. way into his house three times in On 12 May, police arrested a one day. The perpetrators entered man in Warmington on suspician under the guise of both business of growing cannabis after finding a The artist John Piper visited the local area on a number of occasions and painted men and alarm-fitters. One of the small-scale farm in his garage. Cotterstock Church in the 1940s (Gouache on paper, Oundle School) men, aged between 50 and 60, was described as walking with a limp and carrying a dark blue holdall Northants police said: “We are very lucky in North- Public gatherings of more than bag with red edging. amptonshire to have a public who, two people who don’t live togeth- Another instance of distraction issue spot fines for in the main, want to work with us, er are banned. Exceptions include burglary was also recorded on and realise how important social funerals attended by immediate the 1 February in Victoria Road at breaches of social distancing is. Our approach will family members or people working 6:50pm. A man claimed to repre- always be to engage with and together who cannot work from sent the water board and stole £100 distance rules educate our communities first, with home. from an elderly man. enforcement and fines given as a Shops selling food, drink, last resort.” medicines and other supplies are Police are appealing for witness- Following the Prime Minister’s The law says that nobody can be allowed to stay open. Cafes, restau- es after a collision occurred in St review of lockdown measures on outside their homes without a rea- rants and pubs are only allowed to Osyths Lane on 31 January at 9:55 10 May, the government’s message sonable excuse. What is a reasona- open for takeaway food and drink. am. An 81-year-old man was flown changed from “Stay Home” to ble excuse can vary depending on The Special Constabulary at to Addenbrooke's Hospital with “Stay Alert”, with relaxed restric- the exact situation. But it is likely Northamptonshire Police have vol- serious injuries after being hit by a tions on how people could practice to be reasonable to go out for food, unteered a huge total of 7,800 hours white Ford Fiesta. social distancing. The rules remain tools and supplies to fix something; to COVID-19 patrols since the Between 4pm on 9 February and enforceable by law. exercise, and tending an allotment; pandemic’s lockdown was imposed 2am on the following day, a sports In Northamptonshire, the police any medical reason; escaping an to help patrol areas and enforce bag was stolen from a vehicle on issued 349 people with fines for abusive or other dangerous situa- lockdown measures. Benefield Road. breaking lockdown rules up to tion at home; work, if you cannot When responding to Covid-19 There have been reports of a 14 May. Incidents that incurred work from home; taking children to breaches, the police aim to first light-coloured Land Rover being fines included four individuals not school or childcare; moving house, “engage, explain and encourage” driven by perpetrators who have from the same household holding if you cannot delay your move. violators to change their behaviour stolen an assortment of tools from a party; owners of a barber shop The relaxed measures allow to reduce the risk to public safety various vehicles. Similarly, tools that had opened up to give people people to go to parks and other and health. were stolen from a white Ford haircuts; owners of a trampoline public spaces, including sunbathing If people still do not follow the van in Main Street, Upper Bene- park that had opened up and were and picnicking; drive any distance rules the police will enforce the field, between 3pm and 3:10pm on allowing people to use the equip- for exercise or leisure; spend time measures including issuing spot Thursday, 27 February. ment inside. outdoors with one other person not fines of £100 for the first offence. On 27 February, between 3:25 Superintendent Elliot Foskett, and 3:30pm, a white VW van from the same household. ISSUE 52 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 5 these issues forward is also what marginal. In 2005 the decline of Conservatives have turned marginal seat blue drove voters to the Conservatives, the Labour vote was attributed to Mr Pursglove said: “There is a gen- the out-sized spending of Michael eral feeling that you need a decisive Ashcroft, the longstanding Tory do- Gwyneth Angel referendum had helped him gain government, because our system nor who played a role in "the Tory In the 2019 general election, the support. only really works properly with a target seats operation" and who constituency of Corby and East “It was undoubtedly a factor,” majority, and people wanted to see helped to fund Conservative candi- Northants saw a significant turn- he said. “People like to know where things happen.” date Louise Mensch, who won the out for the Conservative Party, they stand with their politicians. The Corby and East Northants 2010 election with a margin of not with Tom Pursglove winning a ma- “What we have seen across quite 2000 votes. Her early resigna- jority of 10,268, more than double the country is this real frustration tion led to a 12% swing to Labour the majority of 2017. His vote share about politicians, saying they will once again in a 2012 by-election, of 55% was a significant increase do one thing and then not living up before Pursglove swung the seat from 2015 and 2017 when he won to those promises that have been back to the Conservatives three 43% and 49% of the vote. made.” years later at the age of 26. Given the turmoil which Britain Mr Pursglove also attributes his So one concern is whether these has been under over the past four success to his ready engagement former Labour voters are bor- years, this show of support for the with the public, which sees him ac- rowed; will they swing back to the Conservatives was likely due to tively walking through neighbour- constituency contains parts of left in the next general election. their strong stance on Brexit. In the hoods, knocking on doors to hear traditionally Conservative East After months of political turmoil 2016 referendum, Corby voted 64% people’s concerns and to let them Northamptonshire that balance the and unrest over Brexit, will the in favour of leaving, with a turnout know he is listening. traditionally Labour town of Corby, Conservative government maintain of 74%. Mr Pursglove has always Besides Brexit, which until re- leading to an historically unpredict- its political grip or will a newly-led held an anti-EU position, and was cently seemed to completely dom- able constituency. opposition come fighting back in one of the founding members of inate the political landscape, there At the 1997 election, former the next election? the Grassroots Out, a pro-Brexit are also issues involving housing Labour MP Phil Hope took Corby Mr Pursglove was not worried. organisation largely supported by growth, NHS, education and police and East Northamptonshire from “The traditional Labour vote is very Conservative and UKIP politicians. funding which the Conservatives the Tories with an overall majority similar to the values I would argue In an interview, Mr Pursglove have addressed, appealing to multi- of 11,860. In 2005, he won a majori- I have. acknowledged that his commit- ple demographics. ty with a mere 1,517 and Corby and "It’s the values of hard-working, ment to the result of the 2016 Brexit The focus on the need to move East Northants became a knife-edge patriotic Eurosceptic.”

Inspection report recognises Prince William tations for students”. They have treating patients with Coronavirus. very strong subject knowledge and Staff from the school’s Art, De- School for significant improvements encourage their students to partici- sign Technology and Engineering Alice Blackmore Leadership also ensures that stu- pate in all of the opportunities that departments have been supporting After nine years of being dents receive the appropriate level the school provides. an initiative called the Beds Visor rated as “Requires Improvement”, of career advice at every age. Sixth Form pupils at Prince Wil- Project. Head of Design, Liz Bull Prince William School was finally The school was judged a “calm liam School said they enjoy their coordinated with a team of schools returned to the rank of “Good” in and friendly” place, and the pupils education and feel confident about and produced more than 380 head Ofsted’s March inspection report, at Prince William were reported to discussing and debating their ideas bands for others to assemble into confirming the progress the school feel safe, happy and always in class. full face shields. has made. supported by both peers and According to the report, the Textiles teacher Judith Richard- school achieves its motto “learning son and Design Technology techni- for life”. cian Fiona Jones have contributed Mrs Dormor said: “I am delight- to the PPE supply making scrubs ed that Ofsted has recognised the for NHS staff. significant improvements we have Year 13 student Megan Swales made since our last inspection in has also been using her time in 2017. Student outcomes have been lockdown to make scrubs for improving year on year, but gain- frontline health workers. “I found ing the ‘Good’ judgement from out that a small group was being Ofsted confirms the progress we formed in my village who were have made. Everyone has worked sewing scrubs for the NHS work- hard to achieve this, and we are all ers. I wanted to get involved so I very proud to be acknowledged by could do my part to help,” she said. Ofsted. “We will now continue to build on this success and work towards making Prince William School an outstanding school.”

Pupils at Prince William School celebrate inspection report Teachers and pupils at Leadership at Prince William teachers, some of whom are “inspi- PWS work overtime to School was praised for its high rational” according to the pupils. expectations for their students in The report highlighted the mutual help health workers both academics and behaviour, respect between staff and pupils. Design and technology depart- with bullying being rare. If pupils Pupils are proud of their school, ments at schools across the country are having trouble, the school’s pas- and they wear their uniform with have been stepping up to use their toral care team is very strong, with much pride. equipment to make PPE. The Hub, being one of the School’s The teaching at Prince William Staff and students at Prince best attributes. The Hub has been School was also praised by the Ofst- William School joined the national Megan Swales pitched in to make described as a sanctuary where stu- ed report. It said that the staff are effort to supply personal protective scrubs for NHS health workers dents can seek help and guidance. “ambitious and have high expec- equipment to local NHS workers 6 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 52 - Spring Marafiki Trust builds on friendships to support vulnerable children in Kenya Gwyneth Angel projects viable. on the street. Maureen’s husband port future food parcels, provision Africa has a way of casting a Marafiki currently supports two had recently passed away and she of water and help with rent.” spell over its visitors, and for many, projects working in the slum, the was struggling to support her two Many of their fundraising ini- Africa has become something much Real Hope Community Youth Or- sons. The two women formed a tiatives take place in Oundle and more important than safaris in its ganisation (RHYCO) and the Joyful friendship and started a support Wadenhoe, where members of the pristine wildlife reserves. Hearts Centre. Mrs Guise and Mrs group to help other mothers. community have been very gen- Liz Turnbull first visited Ken- Turnbull go to Kenya a number of Following confirmed cases of erous with in-kind donations and ya on a project co-ordinated with times a year to visit the projects and coronavirus in Kenya, the handmade clothes and accessories. Oundle School and has spent the see how their work can make an government closed all schools and A number of their donors have last few years supporting the Gilgil effective contribution. They have Special School for disabled chil- developed close working relation- dren, initiating fundraising cam- ships with the project co-ordina- paigns that have upgraded facilities tors and have become personally and funded physical therapy for engaged with the children, visiting the children. She is also a trustee of many of the families in their homes. the Kivuli Trust, which supports “Marifiki means friends and the school. they have become our friends,” Mrs Nicola Guise first went to South Turnbull said. Africa 15 years ago as a teacher, RHYCO was set up six years and their journeys to Africa con- ago with the charity International verged on an extended “adventure Needs, and is run by social work- with purpose” through east and ers who were once street children southern Africa with an interna- themselves. They operate a drop-in tional charity, where they forged centre for children from 60 families their dual ambitions to return. aged four to eleven, providing feed- After working with another ing, counselling, literacy and edu- large charity, they decided to set cation, aiming to provide support

Recent appeals for donations have enabled delivery of food parcels to families affected by Kenya's coronavirus shutdown gathering places which includ- also accompanied them on trips to ed the RHYCO drop-in centre in Nicola Guise and Liz Turnbull have established a new charity to support Kenya to see the projects first-hand. educational opportunities for street children in Nairobi Kawangware and the Joyful Hearts When they go out to Kenya, they Centre. This was devastating for the take suitcases full of donated craft up on their own. Their focus on to get the children into full-time children there for whom the cen- supplies and clothing to distribute Kenya led to a new initiative, the school. Without the intervention, tres are their places of refuge and to the children who are enrolled in Marafiki Trust. “It seemed crazy to the children are at risk of ending up support. these projects. go through a big organisation when on the street. Mrs Turnbull said, “Our biggest They are keen to establish a larg- we could do it directly ourselves,” Through RHYCO, 74 children concern is the high risk that the er network of connections between Mrs Guise said. have been successfully enrolled in RHYCO children may return to the the communities and have spoken Managing their own charity schools with the support of spon- streets to try to find food if there is to local schools about making con- ensures that all the money do- sors and donors. Marafiki provides nothing at home. Caregivers have tact with the children in Kenya to nated to the trust goes directly to support towards the cost of living lost the little income they derived build relationships. the children. Often when money and education for children who are from casual labour. Our children “It would be great for the chil- is donated through a big charity, supported by the project in Kenya. do not know where their next meal dren here to learn about the lives of overhead expenses mean that not Mrs Turnbull said, “Sponsoring a will come from, have little or no children out in Kenya.” all the funds reach those for whom child is £20 a month, and all of that access to clean water to drink let The personal engagement of it is aimed. But through their small- £20 will arrive in Kenya.” alone wash their hands and face Mrs Turnbull and Mrs Guise means er charity, every penny donated Another project which they eviction from their homes. We that they know every child who is reaches those who need it in Kenya. support is the Joyful Hearts Cen- immediately contacted all sponsors sponsored, uniquely enabling spon- The goal of the Marafiki Trust tre, which was set up in December and previous supporters asking for sors the opportunity to get to know is to support poverty relief and 2019, by a group of seven mothers help with financing food parcels. the children and receive regular educational provision projects in who each have a son with cerebral "We have so far successfully updates of their progress. For more Kawangware, a slum in Nairobi, by palsy. It was opened as a drop-in helped fund the delivery of two information, visit their website gathering donations and providing centre in Kawangware after Lilian food parcels per family and have www.marafikitrust.org. a source of funding to keep these Kiriko, the founder, met Maureen set up a GoFundMe page to sup- ISSUE 52 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 7 St Peter's Church spire attracts Snipe Meadow boardwalk to new rare bird visit be completed this summer

Esme Kroese quite a few years ago. This sight- Millicent Riordan and Countryside Act of 1981 and Last year birdwatchers from ing was first made by birders John After years of planning by the are under UK Amber conservation across Northamptonshire gathered Hunt and Noah Wood: “I found Town Council, the funds for the status. by St Peter’s Church to watch the one about three years ago on St replacement of the Snipe Meadow The snipe population of the UK peregrine falcon that had settled on Peter’s Church, which caused quite Boardwalk have finally been ap- has declined in the last 25 years, but the spire for a few months. In early a stir. This time I was talking to Dr proved. The project will allow for Snipe Meadow provides an undis- February this year, binoculars were Hunt about birds when we looked safe access for fishermen, bird- turbed area for nesting. again focused on the spire, but in up and saw the black redstart watchers and dog walkers alike. The Council has consulted with search of a much smaller sight – a flitting around and feeding on the Construction will begin as soon the Wildlife Trust, and said that male black redstart. church spire!” said Mr Wood. as the contractor is able to work construction will be monitored in safely under the new Covid-19 order not to disturb the wildlife. rules. The new boardwalk is estimated to cost £65,000, which will come from Section 106 funding and a grant from Grantscape. The original boardwalk was built in 1988, and was not accessible for wheelchairs. Over the years it had required repairs to seven dam- aged sections, costing £3480. The boardwalk ensures the protection of several endangered species and their environments, most notably the nesting sites of snipe and redshank. Both snipe and redshank are species of wad- ing birds protected by The Wildlife Cycleway plans get go-ahead Black Redstart spotted on St Peter's Church by Richard Chandler Meagan Iu allowing young and adult cyclists With cameras poised, Paul Bur- The black redstart is on the red Oundle Town Council and to travel to the centre at the top rows and Bob Bullock stood in the list of birds of conservation con- Transition Oundle have shared an of New Street. A new two-way chill wind waiting for the bird to cern, and is also listed as a Sched- aspiration to improve cycling in shared-use pedestrian cycle route make an appearance. ule 1 species on the Wildlife and Oundle for some time, and have would be created using the existing “Sometimes they stay for a Countryside Act. now moved closer to realising a footway and verges. Cyclists can while, and might over-winter. But “It is a rare breeding bird in the plan for a cycle network that will then travel to the north of town this is my third visit, and I’m really UK. Much rarer than the peregrine. run through the town. The feasibili- along Glapthorn Road to Went- annoyed because each time I have With probably only 30 or 40 pairs ty design for the first phase, known worth Drive, along another two- left, it’s been seen, just after I left,” breeding in the whole country,” as Oundle Cycleway 1, has been way shared-use pedestrian cycle said Mr Bullock, a well-known said Mr Wood. commissioned, with plans for the route linked to the town centre on naturalist, birder and photographer The birdwatchers who came to network to be built in the coming New Street. who had travelled from Northamp- see the bird heard about it through months. The 2014 Oundle Neighbour- ton. the bird networks on Twitter via Oundle Town Council has hood Plan questionnaire reported The black redstart is robin-sized, #northantsbirds, and Whatsapp £130,000 of Section 106 funds avail- that eighty-six percent of respond- and black with a red tail. It is groups. able to build cycleways, and the ents walk and thirty-four percent 14.5cm long, with a wingspan 23- “It’s one of those birds that turns funds have to be spent by Septem- cycle weekly. The survey high- 26cm and a weight of 14-20g. The up in towns. There’s one near Mar- ber 2020. At the end of last year, Da- lighted that Oundle residents value number of birds recorded from ket Harborough in a farm, which vid Wood from Transition Oundle, access to the countryside, and that October to March was 400, minis- is very difficult to see,” said Mr and Councillor Jerry Hutton met improved access around the town cule in comparison to their believed Bullock, from Kettering. with Northamptonshire Highways is important. doppelganger, the Robin which has They said the peregrine had to discuss the proposals. The Oundle Cycle Network a population of 6,700,000. It is rare- returned at the weekend, too, and Two routes have been identified study was conducted by Sustrans ly seen in Northamptonshire - only they had got some good photos. for potential early implementation in 2015, and took the findings of the two or three times a year. They didn’t think the peregrine of the cycle network. The first route transport study further. It outlined They are migratory, and like to would have been too interested in will run from the west end of the a framework of cycle and pedes- perch on building sites and on high the black redstart. Creed Road estate and Wentworth trian routes within and around the sites. These birds usually breed and “There are so many pigeons, Drive, and will use existing cycle town which can be enhanced, add- live mainly in urban areas. Bird- this would be more of an elevenses. tracks to allow young cyclists and ed to and linked together over time watcher Noah Wood said: “Their Peregrines tend to go far and wide parents to travel safely towards the to deliver a safe and comprehensive numbers boomed temporarily to hunt, anyway, and bring things primary school. A new two-way network. during and after the Blitz in Lon- back,” Mr Burrows said. He said shared-use pedestrian cycle route This will aim to help reduce the don because they like derelict or that St Peter’s Church in Kettering would be created using the existing reliance on cars for short trips, re- abandoned buildings. Most of their has both a nesting pigeon and some footway on Cotterstock Road. This duce congestion and parking issues breeding sites are in big cities these nesting peregrines on alternate route would be about a mile long. in the town centre, and increase the days.” sides of the spire, apparently unin- The second route runs from the health and physical activity of the The last sighting in Oundle was terested in their neighbours. west of town on Benefield Road, community. 8 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 52 - Spring International students find home-from-home notice - and those still looking Exeat weekends take place up to after students who have chosen or three times a year and are usually with local Guardian hosts needed to stay in the UK,” she said. for two or three nights each time. Meagan Iu Guardians host family provides the When the Summer Term started, Most students travel back home to Every year, thousands of school opportunity to really make a dif- online learning became an essential their families for the long holidays age overseas students are educated ference to a student whilst they are part of students’ days, and Pippa’s in the summer, at Christmas and at at independent schools across the studying here in the UK, in many Guardians host families had to Easter. UK. When their school closes for cases a very long way from home. quickly adapt to supporting their “Our students come from all half term holidays and exeat week- The families they look for are students attend online lessons, over the world,” said Mrs Dickin- ends, they need a host family who welcoming and interested in other from ensuring their teenage charg- son. It is a marvellous and interest- will provide a home away from cultures. Having children of sim- es are at their desks at 9am to the ing way to learn about the cultures, home. ilar ages helps, but isn’t the most challenges of registering for online traditions and daily life of young “All of the Oundle Internation- important thing as they have many study and even supervising virtual people and their families from al students are required to have a successful host families who have music lessons. countries very different to our own. Guardian over the age of 25 in the no children, younger children or “We’ve heard countless stories Many of our host families form life- UK as part of the terms of their indeed older children who have of the caring, supportive spirit for long friendships with our students study visa. Not everyone realises left home. Internet access is very which Pippa’s Guardians host fami- and their families and stay in touch this,” said Vicky Dickinson, the important and each student will lies are renowned.” even after they have left school for area manager for the East Mid- need their own bedroom with a The local Area Managers look university.” lands. desk or somewhere quiet for home- after the students during term time Pippa’s Guardians has been pro- work. Being part of a family and and are close by to support host viding high quality Guardianship experiencing day-to-day family life families when the students stay in services to international students enhances students’ study and plays their homes. for over 20 years and understands a part in improving their English Mrs Dickinson said that during the value of a good home and how language. term time, “I take on the role of 'UK a host family can positively impact “During the Covid-19 pandemic, Mum' for 34 students. I visit every- on a student’s wellbeing. some of our host families have been one in school, attend their concerts, Pippa’s Guardians are current- exceptional, and the lockdown has sports matches and Parents' Recep- ly recruiting host families locally, made it clear just how fantastic tions, as well as sorting out their with their students currently based they are. Pippa’s Guardians heard travel to and from the airports and at schools in Oundle, Oakham and so many life-affirming stories from host families.” Uppingham. their host families, both those The half term holidays fall in Oc- International pupils at independent As well as receiving a gener- who have helped students catch tober for two weeks, for one week schools are required to have ous payment, becoming a Pippa’s repatriation flights - often at short in February and one week in May. guardian hosts

A cloth face covering should Public adopts masks to cover your mouth and nose while prevent spread of virus allowing you to breathe comforta- Do you have a spare room in your home? bly and can be as simple as a scarf Are you caring, nurturing and supportive? Meagan Iu or bandana that ties behind the Covid-19 guidelines by the gov- head. ernment recommend wearing face Homemade cloth face-coverings coverings in crowded places where can help reduce the risk of trans- it is not possible to comply with mission in some circumstances, physical-distancing measures, for but they must be used carefully to example, on public transport or in avoid being contaminated by other Become a Host Family some shops. people's coughs and sneezes, or Evidence suggests that wearing when putting them on or removing a face covering does not offer total them. for an international protection. However, if you are It is important to use face cov- infected but have not yet developed erings properly: wash your hands pupil at a local symptoms, it may provide some before putting them on and taking protection for others you come into them off, and avoid touching your close contact with. Face coverings eyes, nose, or mouth at all times. boarding school do not replace social distancing. Used face coverings should be Frequent hand-washing and social stored in a plastic bag until you distancing are more effective. have an opportunity to wash them. Anyone with symptoms of Cov- Face coverings should not be Attractive daily rates id-19 (a cough and/or high tem- used by children under the age perature, or loss of smell and taste) of two or those who may find it Occasional weekend and half terms only must isolate at home; wearing a difficult to manage them correctly, face covering does not change this. such as unassisted primary age A variety of face masks are children, or those with respiratory Contact Laura to find out more on available locally. Stu-Pots has KN95 conditions. [email protected] style masks which are useable for or call 01684 252757 seven days, and single-use dispos- Covid-19 testing made able masks. The Pharmacy is also selling surgical single-use masks, available to all limited to five per person. On 18 May the government ex- The Oundle sewing group, tended eligibility for Covid-19 test- Material Girls, has joined the Big ing to anyone who is experiencing Community Sew and is using fabric symptoms. Tests are also available scraps to make masks. Finished for anyone who lives in the same masks are dropped off in a box at household, and for social care and Pick Arthey for people to pick up NHS workers without symptoms www.pippasguardians.co.uk free as needed. where there is a clinical need. ISSUE 52 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 9 Children's rainbows spread message of hope across the community

Children across Oundle have painted pictures of rainbows in a message of hope, and in support for NHS and key workers

There are 50 Regional Test Sites According to the Office for Na- efited from grant funds, receiving to adapt their services to keep gen- that have been set up by the De- tional Statistics, of the deaths regis- cash grants of between £10,000 to erating revenue as well as saving partment of Health and Social Care. tered by 1 May, 33,408 mentioned £25,000. The government has also perishable stock. The nearest test site to Oundle is in Covid-19 on the death certificate, extended a 12-month business rates Following the recent lifting of Peterborough. representing 13.5% of all deaths. holiday for all retail and hospitality restrictions for hospitality business- The government advises that Up to 1 May, there were 169 businesses. Concessions from land- es, restaurants are opening their you should get tested in the first lab-confirmed cases in East North- lords about rent remain a private kitchens for walk-in take aways. three days of coronavirus symp- amptonshire, leading to 60 reg- agreement, but landlords have been Seven Wells Butchers closed toms appearing, although testing istered Covid-19 deaths. More advised to be aware of problems their shop on West Street, and is considered effective up until day granular statistics available up to being faced by their tenants. moved to home deliveries. This was five. The test is only guaranteed to 17 April reported that the Oundle When the economy reopens, considered the best way of encour- be accurate if someone is sympto- and Warmington area was the third most shops will be able to adapt to aging customers to “stay home, matic. worst affected in the borough with long-term social distancing rules, stay safe”, as well as keeping staff Throughout the pandemic the eight Covid deaths. The Thrapston, but the big concern is about wheth- safe, too. It will reopen on 2 June, government has said anyone with Brigstock and Benefield area er footfall will return to the Market but continue home deliveries. a new continuous cough or a fever recorded three Covid-19 deaths. Place if customers remain nervous The Barn Garden Centre was should immediately self-isolate. about catching the virus, or lose allowed to reopen on 13 May after New guidance now recommends Coronavirus impacts patience with the delays and incon- eight weeks. But at the start of the that anyone experiencing a loss venience of social distancing. lockdown, with thousands of plants or change in their sense of smell, Market Place Oundle resident Marc Folgate at risk at the start of the planting even without any other coronavirus Oundle’s Market Place is lucky had just set up his own law firm season, the Wilson family were symptom, should self-isolate for to have shops in its centre that offer in October before he found him- looking at potential ruin. However, seven days. essential services that have been self putting up a closed sign in his the phone started ringing with cus- You can either refer yourself or able to remain open during the Peterborough office six months tomer requests for orders, and they be referred by your employer for shutdown. The two pharmacies, later. His business specialises in realised there was still a demand a test if you are an essential work- Stu-pots, Trendalls, two supermar- injury and clinical negligence, and that they could service. Using a er. Tests are booked online for a kets and the new limited Thursday the demand has dried up. Not only very low-tech payment system and regional test site drive-through market have kept the town ticking have accidents declined, “Not a bad one delivery van, they made over appointment or home test kit. The over. But scores of the remaining thing, do not get me wrong,” he 500 free deliveries. availability of home test kits will shops and businesses have closed says, but medical examinations are Stephanie Wilson said: “These initially be limited. The government and furloughed staff, balancing no longer available and the courts sales have helped and we have is working towards a total capacity ongoing bills against a complete have closed. He remains deter- been thrilled to be able to offer our of 250,000 tests a day. absence of revenue. mined to be positive as he sits this customers something. However, A comprehensive testing and The government has set up grant out. “If you work hard most of the takings are down and in the coming trace system is essential to isolat- funding schemes to help small busi- time, treat this as way of recharging months and years ahead, customers ing and eliminating the virus and nesses cope. With funds distributed your batteries, ready for when it all will have to support small busi- allowing normal operations to by East Northamptonshire Council, becomes real again.” nesses like ours all across Oundle resume. 115 businesses in Oundle have ben- Some businesses have been able to keep them trading.” 10 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 52 - Spring an administrative job at the Stam- ing to do ten for me this afternoon An army of volunteers mobilise to outfit ford Shakespeare Company. She for people to pick up, with the ties said that she had been “in awe of that have been cut by others, the health workers with scrubs what James Anderson was doing elastic that has been cut, the fabric Alice Blackmore required to use French seams or and I felt so useless.” This spurred that’s been folded, the instructions It is in times of crisis that the overlocked seams, make accurately her on to ask a friend who works in that Ruth helped me redo, because resilience of a community is tested. placed pockets, casings for a draw- Peterborough City Hospital’s pae- she was the one who helped me on Among the many volunteer initia- string and drawstring ties out of diatric ward if she could offer any the first gown. Then they go away tives launched across the country biased binding. help. Her friend said they needed and a couple of days later they in response to the coronavirus It was ensured that this level was scrubs, which they do not normally come back with finished gowns.” pandemic, the dozens of scrub hub always met and surpassed, espe- wear. Kate Doherty said she would teams have demonstrated how cially after reports of some scrubs Ms Doherty didn’t have any of- carry on the effort “until they stop effectively communities can be from other groups being rejected ficial material, but she improvised. asking and they don’t need me an- mobilised to work together, even in by hospitals. Those who were out She began by putting a call out on ymore, or my lovely team of people isolation. of practice were encouraged to set Facebook to ask if anyone had any find they have to go back to work.” At the start of the pandemic easy targets to practise with. duvets to donate. Then everything Lindy Kirk, a physics teacher at Ashleigh Lindsell, an NHS worker “Start with a bag, then a hat took off, and she formed an Oundle Oundle School, is an enthusiastic from Lincoln, formed For the Love UNTIL you are confident and com- Offshoot Group, independent from seamstress and makes clothes for of Scrubs to encourage people to petent at making a item that would For the Love of Scrubs. Soon her herself and her young nieces and help make scrubs from their homes pass Esme or Patrick on the Great front room was filled with boxes of grandson. Her skills were quickly in order to fill a gap in provisions British Sewing Bee! Then do a set of donated duvet covers and bags of put to use in the national effort to for NHS staff. scrubs,” said Ms Hawkins. fabric. Thirty-five volunteers joined help the NHS. Because hospital workers’ scrubs On May 4, the good news ar- her in all sorts of tasks, from wash- Mrs Kirk said: “I was planning need to be frequently changed in rived that Peterborough Hospital ing donated duvet covers, sepa- to spend some time over the holi- order to stop contamination, they Trust had enough scrubs to meet rating and folding fabric, cutting day making a summer wardrobe are in very high demand. The items their requirements. fabric, as well as sewing. for my grandson, but one of the that volunteers have made include In six weeks they produced in The Peterborough City Hospital groups that I follow on Facebook different-sized scrub sets, scrub excess of 390 items, from scrub sets paediatric ward had asked for 30 mentioned another group set up caps, scrub bags to ensure that the to scrub bags and hats for Peter- sets of scrubs, and Ms Doherty’s by a nurse who was desperate for clothes can be transported safely to borough City Hospital, Thorpe team made 38 sets, including wash people to make scrubs.” Mrs Kirk be washed by staff at home, as well Hall, Boroughby Medical Centre, bags using bright patterns from joined the group For the Love of as headbands to reduce the pres- Charing Cross, London and Oundle old duvets. At the end of April, Scrubs and set herself up making sure of face masks on the skin. Surgery. the paediatric dental ward in scrubs. From its start on March 23, the Ms Hawkins said: “The the hospital also asked for her to In normal times, a hospital main Love of Scrubs Facebook Oundle Team were truly amazing; provide scrubs, and another con- may only require about 400 sets of group has attracted over 52,000 they have been so wonderful just tact in the hospital asked them to scrubs every week. But during this members, who were organised into stepping up and volunteering. It make gowns for the critical care crisis, with more staff in hospitals, regional hubs with local co-ordina- has been wonderful to work togeth- unit. The hospital was able to hand and contamination making neces- tors to service area hospitals. The er as a community.” over 60 large pieces of fabric for the sary multiple changes in a single group provided a list of hospitals After folding their successful gowns. Ms Doherty and her team shift, the demand outweighed the across the country detailing the scrubs operation, the group was members had to work out a pattern supply. scrub colours and sizes required, reluctant to disband. It has now that would be suitable and easy to “I joined the Hinchingbrooke and coordinators networked with renamed itself Material Girls, and make. and Peterborough group. Within a the hospitals and organised volun- is looking at other ways they can The team worked together on day, I'd been asked to be an admin. teers on all the different tasks. The share and use their skills in new different tasks to streamline the Within a week, we had 500 mem- operation quickly went into high projects. process in order to be efficient. On bers, and I was coordinating the gear. Countless YouTube demon- Another person who used her a busy afternoon in late April, Ms Peterborough end of the region,” stration videos were made and time to help hospital staff was Kate Doherty said: “Sylvia in Wadenhoe she said. online patterns were shared; people Doherty, who was furloughed from makes the paper patterns. She is go- Coordinating 180 members in emptied their airing cupboards her group was like a military exer- of old duvets and sheets, unused cise. They obtained some corporate sewing supplies like rolls of elas- sponsorship to pay for the fabric, tic, thread and binding tapes were and within a month had gone passed on. through about 3km of fabric, plus Across the country, thousands of many used duvet covers. “Some scrub sets were delivered to hos- of the Zoom conference calls were pitals. Locally, hundreds of volun- over three hours long!” she said. teers spent the lockdown working Deliveries of supplies includ- all hours in tightly coordinated ed 100 messenger bags, 350 scrub networks to deliver scrubs. caps and 80 mask holders. In the The Oundle For the Love of second delivery, 75 scrub sets were Scrubs group was initiated by Car- given to the hospitals. Addition- oline Hawkins. After putting out a ally, they responded to requests call on Facebook on March 23, 154 from the MAGPAS air ambulance, people joined the group, working Thorpe Hall Hospice, East Anglia tirelessly throughout the month of Children’s Hospice and a hospice April. Pick Arthey was used as a in Norfolk. They sent 350 uniform depot for the pick-up and supply of washbags to the police. materials, which was all coordinat- When Mrs Kirk returned to ed via the Facebook group. teaching full time after the Easter Every willing volunteer had a break she reduced her role to co- task to do, whether cutting patterns ordinating a smaller group. In late or sewing. Although no-one was April she said: “The group keeps expected to be an expert, the stand- growing. The regional group is ards were kept high throughout. about 1750 members now." By late At a minimum, volunteers who April her group had sent 400 sets of manned the sewing machines were Volunteers used bright duvet covers to make scrubs for a paediatric ward scrubs to the hospitals. ISSUE 52 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 11 The community looks after vulnerable residents sheltering at home

The government's rules for the to Covid-19 and have been told to registered with the government, I lating because of an existing con- lockdown identified groups of shield at home, and not leave their got an email about supermarket de- dition, and she worries about what "clinically vulnerable" people who home under any circumstances or liveries, and I was allocated Asda. would happen if she had a medical should take precautions to mini- have face-to-face contact. They deliver my shopping once emergency. She admits that the mise contact with anyone outside Library staff based in Oundle a fortnight at protected delivery lockdown is a bit frightening and their household. The rules included have been making courtesy calls times. It’s always the same time,” not knowing how long it will last is those aged 70 or over regardless of to check if people need support she said. “rather depressing”. medical conditions. Another group with food, prescription medicine Ms Lee usually works as the be- “It’s a bit frustrating because identified as "clinically extremely deliveries, or just someone to talk friending coordinator for Volunteer there is so much uncertainty,” she vulnerable" were told to self-isolate. to regularly to help them interact Action, but now she is receiving said. Community Action, Volunteer As the weeks roll on, concerns whilst socially distancing. their help to help pick up her med- Action and the church, as well as are being raised about how these The staff then work with the ication. Her neighbour helps take friends are all keeping in touch and groups will cope with the increas- Community Resilience Service to care of her garden for her. helping her. “The good thing is that ing loneliness. Communities need ensure that people's requirements One of her sons is a computing people are being very kind.” to ensure that no one is forgotten. are matched to the teams managing graduate, so he has made sure she Rita and Keith Johnson are not With library facilities across the deliveries through local com- is set up with all the networking on a clinically vulnerable list, but as the county closed, around 70 staff munity groups and volunteers. apps. Like many people these days over-70s, they are isolating at home. from the library service team were One Oundle resident who was she meets her family for regular In lockdown they do not miss the co-opted to support Northampton- contacted by the county council’s meetings on Zoom and Facebook. holidays and eating out, “except shire County Council’s Community Community Resilience Hub was As a member of the Knit and perhaps the closure of the hair- Resilience Service, calling vulnera- Mel Lee. She was advised by her Natter group responsible for yarn dressers”, but they do miss their ble people for wellness checks. GP that she was extremely vulner- bomb displays around town, most friends and family. Neighbours and The NHS sent letters to those able due to a pre-existing lung con- everyone will have seen her knit- local volunteers have stepped in to identified as clinically vulnerable dition and needed to shield herself. ting creations over the years. She offer support and run errands. “We due to pre-existing health condi- She registered with the govern- has put her knitting to use now count ourselves extremely fortunate tions or immune-compromised due ment as a vulnerable person, and making outfits for the new babies to receive the help that we have to organ transplants or active can- along with 2.5 million people, was in her extended family. been given.” cer treatment. Those who received identified as clinically vulnerable. When the lockdown ends, Ms Despite the risks and disruption, letters were advised to register with She has been told to self-isolate for Lee said she will continue to take Ms Lee has seen a positive side to the government for extra support, twelve weeks. precautions and will wear a mask. the lockdown. “The beaches and such as grocery deliveries. Major supermarkets have con- “If I get the virus, because my lungs the water has improved. The air Approximately 16,500 people tacted the people on the govern- don’t work at full capacity, it will pollution is reduced. There’re a lot in Northamptonshire registered ment list and arranged free priority be a lot worse.” more little birds around. So there’s with the government as vulnerable delivery for online orders. “After I Sheila Johnson is also self-iso- a lot of good going on.”

One pop-up home factory makes over 3000 face shields for NHS workers

Alice Blackmore also at home to provide essential Joining an army of volunteers help. across the country, James Anderson “During the day she spends has been a local leader in the effort hours sanding, cleaning, and to help support healthcare workers assembling the previous night's during the Covid-19 pandemic. prints. I could not do this without Responding to the shortage her!” of essential personal protection At the end of April, he was equipment required by health asked to continue his supply of face workers, Mr Anderson set up a shields to Peterborough Hospital small 3D printing workshop to because although they were receiv- produce face shields for local hos- ing delivery of stock from central pitals and surgeries. He initially government, "they asked me to started off with two 3D printers, keep printing as their staff prefer and through donations raised in a mine to the official ones". GoFundMe campaign, was able to His second appeal to raise funds acquire seven more printers as well for raw materials again surpassed as biodegradable plastic filament. his target. “We hit the revised goal In-kind support included the loan James Anderson worked round the clock to help plug shortages of PPE supplies in less than 48 hours, and as I was of a high-spec printer and electric writing an update to that effect, we guillotine from Oundle School. ceeded his target and allowed him and helped with deliveries, and 20 received a £500 donation from Mr Anderson explained how to immediately buy extra equip- volunteers cut and tied 1,500 elastic Peterborough and Whittlesey he started the project. “I have been ment and supplies. He initially bands for him. Roundtable organisation! The living in the East Midlands for 2.5 started producing 30 masks a day, Mr Anderson thanked them on generosity of this community never years now and I have had the ben- and with the extra printers was able his Facebook post: “You have made fails to astound me!” efit of having access to the world's to scale up to 60-70 reusable shields assembling the face shields much In May, new government assess- greatest healthcare system, the a day from his own home. easier and are directly helping the ments for small-scale production of NHS. So when the Covid-19 crisis He sent the first 25 face shields NHS! Thank you so much.” PPE were introduced, so Mr Ander- broke out and I learned my local to Peterborough Hospital and Oun- Mr Anderson kept the printers son will shut down his operation at hospital was out of personal pro- dle Surgery on 30th March, and by running round the clock and dealt the end of May. Remaining funds tective equipment, I got in contact the end of April had delivered 1800 with daily mechanical glitches and will be donated to the NHS Trust, with their head of Health & Safety shields. repairs, while also continuing to and printers donated to schools. and offered to help.” Oundle residents were quick to work at his day job, which allowed By 21 May he had donated more His first GoFundMe appeal help Mr Anderson with small tasks. him to work half days to focus on than 3000 shields to local health launched on 28 March quickly ex- People loaned him extra worktables the shields. His wife, Lauren was workers. 12 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 52 - Spring Churches find new home online Foodbanks see increased demand

In times of conflict and suffering, conduct a daily series of noon Esme Kroese tions has increased during the churches have served as a refuge prayers broadcast on their Face- The first two weeks of the Coro- lockdown period. and a sanctuary for protection and book page. Initially recorded on navirus lockdown saw an unprece- Mr Lewins said: “Instead of comfort. Even the bombs of the iPhones, the broadcasts now benefit dented rise in foodbank use across providing a three-day emergency Second World War did not close from tech upgrades, including a the UK as household incomes were food supply, which is the normal churches as places for the commu- camera stand, new microphones hit, according to data from emer- Trussell Trust procedure, we now nity to gather. But the coronavirus and an auto cue. gency food aid charities. aim to provide a seven-day supply. pandemic has not only suspended The lay minister at St Leon- The Trussell Trust, the UK’s Because of this, we are distributing all public worship in churches, ard’s Glapthorn, Charles Wide, biggest food bank network, said considerably more food than in the it has closed the buildings them- also broadcasts weekday evening it experienced its busiest ever past. But fortunately we have been selves. There has been nothing prayers at 5.30pm on Youtube. period when the lockdown was able to meet the demand, firstly more symbolic of this era of social The Sunday services are more announced, issuing 50,000 food because the public has continued distancing than the south doors of dynamic, taking advantage of parcels in one week, almost double to leave generous donations in the St Peter’s Church shut and locked. technological innovations to bring its usual. baskets provided at Waitrose and In addition to church services, the congregations together for a full The Oundle Foodbank operates the Coop, and secondly because much anticipated family celebra- service of worship within their own under the Trussell Trust and is Oundle Rotary Club has been very tions such as baptisms and wed- homes. located at the Methodist Church, active in collecting a huge amount dings have been postponed. “Inevitably our skills with tech- open from 2-3pm on Tuesdays. of donations.” The church closures follow the nology have developed. On just the Vouchers are issued from local Some businesses such as Saler- announcement by the Prime Minis- second Sunday service, our team organisations such as Oundle no’s have donated pasta, chocolate ter of wide-ranging restrictions as of musicians linked up with one churches, the council offices in eggs and panettones. Prince Wil- part of a national and international another from their various homes Fletton House, health visitors, and liam School also donated many effort to help limit the spread of the to record songs; it was tremendous both Prince William and Oundle Easter eggs from an end-of-term disease. to witness such innovative work,” Primary Schools. The customer raffle. The Oundle Rotary Club has then brings the voucher to the made nine deliveries of donated- Foodbank on Tuesday afternoons. food, and Waitrose donated many In Oundle the demand is normally bags that were needed to pack the quite low and sometimes there are food for deliveries to customers. no clients in any given week. The process of delivery of prod- The Oundle Foodbank coordi- ucts has also changed due to the nator Peter Lewins said that since lockdown regulations and social the start of the Covid-19 pandemic distancing. Instead of customers the numbers of requests have in- going to the foodbank to collect creased considerably. The agency, food, requests are made via email, Northamptonshire Children First and the volunteers assemble and has referred more clients to the deliver parcels to the customers’ Oundle Foodbank during this time. homes. The volunteers who deliver Mr Lewins said: “We have noticed parcels are strictly compliant with that there are more requests from government recommendations and families with children than has social distancing regulations. The been the case in the past. In April, volunteers who work together to Reverend Martin Hills and Carita Hills film a service for the Oundle Baptist Church for example, we helped eleven package and deliver the goods are The last act of worship in St said Canon Webster. “The Sunday families as opposed to an average from the same household, and they Peter’s Church was on Mothering Morning Live 10.30am services are of two or three in a typical month.” drop off the parcels from a safe Sunday with just a handful of peo- followed by an invitation to join In Oundle the need for dona- distance. ple allowed inside to conduct the our online coffee break, Church prescription pick-up and shopping service, which was streamed live Actually, via Zoom. From there, we Volunteer Action service, with social distancing on social media. Canon Stephen organise break-out areas for smaller deliveries. Drives to essential Webster was accompanied by as- groups to chat and encourage one adapt services medical appointments are still sistant curate Rev Mark Donnelly, another.” available, although the demand has Youth Minister Martha Barnes and The Baptist Church conducts The local charity, Volunteer the pastor of the Baptist church, the its own Sunday morning worship Action aims to reduce loneliness Reverend Martin Hills. service, Sunday prayers at 5pm on and isolation by driving people to After the restriction announce- Zoom, and a monthly online com- visit friends and relatives and run ments in mid-March, Oundle munion service. errands, and befriends isolated church leaders had only a few days An unexpected benefit of going people in their own homes. The to coordinate practical and techni- online is being able to reach peo- challenge of the Coronavirus has cal know-how to seamlessly con- ple who do not attend services in been to find ways to change its tinue delivery of services to their person. “To our delight these have operation to continue offering ser- communities. been viewed by many we have not vices while protecting the health of “As a church community we yet had the pleasure of meeting,” clients and volunteers, especially as are working out what this ‘new said Reverend Hills. many of the volunteers are them- normal’ looks like and where our Both church communities have selves in the at-risk age bracket. place is within it. How do we ‘do mobilised teams of volunteers to Stuart Anderson, VA Chair, Staff member Carolyn Noble with church’, how do we live as commu- run errands, collect shopping and said: “Charities like VA are packed nity when we are isolated, how do prescriptions for those who are a volunteer driver loading up supplies with enthusiasts who can’t wait to for delivery to clients we support and care for one anoth- self-isolating. Dedicated phone get stuck in and make a difference. er from a distance? These are big lines and “connect hubs” ensure On top of which, local people, decreased by eighty percent. questions and big challenges that that people maintain regular con- many of whom had no previous Its new Friend-on-the-Phone we need to face,” said Reverend tact with each other. connection with us, wanted to service has reached out to 150 Martin Hills, Minister of Oundle “This time is a powerful re- know what they could do. So, lack isolated people, most of whom are Baptist Church. minder that Church is not a build- of volunteers has not been a over 70 years old. Volunteers have By 18 March, the churches had ing; it’s a community of people,” problem.” found there is no shortage of things begun a collaborative project to said Canon Webster. The charity has set up a free to talk about. ISSUE 52 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 13

and will be reviewed at the end of in the garden, as well as quizzes, Outdoor sports reopen June. treasure hunts, and food recipes In the autumn, there are plenty provided by our restaurant’s chef.” people who are not from the same of chances to play tennis regularly. In line with the new regulations, Tennis household, while a doubles team A men’s and ladies’ singles ladders, the club was able to reopen on 13 must be from the same household. the weekly club nights and entry in May. To comply with the law, the Zac Atkinson Four courts are open and must a local winter league provide club club has implemented measures to Amongst the wide range of be booked online. During this time, play opportunities. ensure that players can adhere to sports offered in Oundle, the Oun- the clubhouse remains closed. social distance restrictions and have dle Tennis Club has been a force The head coach James Muir made the course safe by a variety of in the community since the 1920s. publishes a coaching schedule with Golf methods. With five floodlit, full size asphalt opportunities for players of all ages Players must play alone or courts and two mini tennis court, it and abilities to make improvements The Oundle Golf Club is a within a household group or in two is well placed to offer both training to their play. Currently, only 1:1 member’s owned club which has balls with one person from outside and competitive opportunities for coaching is allowed. Those wanting been part of the community since your household. young and old, and experienced or coaching must be signed up as a 1893. During the Second World Bookings can only be made on- novice players. coaching member. They can contact War, the course remained open line, group bookings are no longer The club is affiliated to the Lawn James directly to arrange sessions. and was maintained by voluntary available, and tee times are stag- Tennis Association and coaching Junior players are normally in labour. In 2020, the Coronavirus gered. Flags and other equipment is provided by James Muir Tennis action throughout the summer and pandemic forced the club to shut its that are handled by players have Coaching for all abilities. Alongside junior players of all ages take part course for the first time. been removed from the course, and the tennis courts is a clubhouse in club competitions throughout The closure came at a particu- traditional celebrations and com- with changing rooms and facilities, the year. larly bad time for the club’s oper- miserations on the 18th hole now a kitchen and a large meeting room. The Oundle Tennis Club’s sum- ation, because the club relies on prohibited, along with any other “Tennis is a great sport – it is mer-long tournaments climax in annual membership renewals in social gatherings. good exercise and events like the a finals day and BBQ lunch at the April. It also had a big impact on Their golf coach was able to club tournament provide excellent end of August. Last year, a record its older members who are reliant resume one-to-one coaching from opportunities for social and serious 65 participants entered across five on getting outside for four hours 19 May. play,” said club chairman, Jason competitions, which were struc- exercise and social exchange on a The clubhouse remains closed Atkinson. tured so that each player or pair regular basis. and Slimming World and Probus In line with government guid- could play in several matches. The club management aimed groups have cancelled all events ance the club opened on 13 May The end of the summer also to keep its membership connected and the club’s regular social events with social distancing rules in force. brings the club’s participation in and engaged. “To keep members’ are cancelled or postponed until Eager to find opportunities to exer- the East Northamptonshire tennis spirits up we had to change the restrictions are lifted. cise, fifty new players signed on as leagues to a close. Oundle’s men's, way we delivered our product. We The club management said "Our members following the announce- ladies’ and mixed teams perform immediately sent out golfing activi- members are fully involved in the ment. well, usually ranking second or ties that you could do at home, and club and we are grateful for the The new regulations allow third in their division. This year the we have been assured no pets were support they have given us during singles tennis to be played against fixture season has been postponed injured in the putting competitions this time.”

Pausebefore play

We appreciate just how difficult these past few months have been for everyone but we wanted to let our Oundle community know what is happening with our much anticipated Sports Centre.

We are delighted that after a necessary closure period, construction work has been ongoing. Site operatives are complying with all the social distancing rules and adopting new ways of working under enhanced safety protocols. Meanwhile we have been working on preparing our membership offers, as well as class and pool timetables ready for when we are able to be up and running – and importantly, open to all.

We hope very much to offer a range of activities, courses and classes over the summer holidays, so please do connect with us on social media or visit our website to keep up to date.

Follow us www.oundlesportscentre.co.uk 14 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 52 - Spring Veganism is UK's biggest food trend

Sunny Woodend enthusiastic barista, Millie said, range of milk alternatives for their of their dishes, as all their food is One of the biggest lifestyle “We do a vegan carrot cake and drinks. Their barista, Tegan Grif- made fresh. “You can build your changes that people are making a vegan apple crumble which is fiths is a vegan. She said: “We’ve own dish with whichever compo- right now, is the shift to veganism, gluten free, as well. There’s a vegan got dairy free milk so we can make nents you like.” consuming only plant-based prod- flapjack, vegan granola, and vegan vegan coffees and drinks like hot The Talbot Hotel’s restaurant ucts, and avoiding the purchase of chocolate cupcakes, and we do a chocolate. We have vegan cakes is another vegan friendly eatery. items made from animal by-prod- vegan afternoon tea.” and for mains we can do veggie In January, they offered a special ucts. In addition, they serve milk al- chilli bowls. We can kind of offer a three course Veganuary menu with The number of vegans in Great ternatives such as almond, coconut, vegan version of anything.” three plant-based options for each Britain quadrupled between 2014 soya and oat milk. The Italian restaurant, Salernos course. They hope to add more of and 2019, and in 2018 the UK Beans Coffee Stop also do a also offers vegan versions of most these options to their main menu in launched more vegan products the near future. than any nation; veganism was In addition to vegan alternatives the biggest food trend in that year. at restaurants and cafes in Oundle, There is a growing market to meet supermarkets such as Tesco and the increasing consumer demand. Co-op stock vegan alternatives. Meat-free food increased in the UK In Tesco they offer foods which by 987% in 2017, and orders for ve- are “free from”, including dairy gan meals grew by 388% between free options such as vegan salted 2016 and 2018. caramel galaxy chocolate, vegan People also want to know more nut bars and plant-based yoghurts. about what veganism means and They also offer vegan wraps in the how to live well as a vegan. Water- meal deal as part of their Plant Chef stones had 9,030 book titles with range. the word “vegan” in them available In early January, the Co-op for sale in December 2019 com- launched their own vegan brand, pared to 944 in August 2018. GRO, which includes ready meals Brighton is considered the eas- such as ravioli, pizzas, pasties, iest area to be vegan, but it would and plant-based meat alternatives. seem that veganism in Oundle is The Cooperative also have a wide more accessible than you think. range of dairy product alternatives Brew Babu offers a wide range such as cheese, milk, ice cream and of plant-based options. Their yoghurt. Fashionistas pause to consider impact of fast fashion Alice Blackmore Siegle, who had been scheduled fashion industry is to the environ- their buying preferences to help In the twenty-first century, the to join the OWL series of talks in ment. The fashion industry pro- reduce the destructive impact of the average person has approximate- March, until it was cancelled by the duces 10% of all humanity’s carbon fashion industry? ly 103 items of clothing in her virus outbreak. A popular present- emissions (that is more emissions It is not only cheaper, but bet- wardrobe. This is an extraordinary er for BBC’s The One Show and a than all international flights and ter for the environment to shop number of clothes, but it is no sur- columnist for The Observer, she has maritime shipping combined), is at charity shops, such as Oxfam, prise considering the popularity of spoken on a range of issues related the second-largest consumer of the which is a way of recycling clothes, walk-in wardrobes, dressing rooms, to the environment, social justice world’s water supply, and pollutes reducing the demand for fast chests of drawers overflowing with and ethical consumerism. the oceans with micro plastics. fashion brands which produce such clothes, and new coats for every Her work focuses on destruc- Furthermore, 85% of all textiles go a large quantity of cheaply made season. tiveness of consumerism in the to landfill each year. clothes. Public figures and Instagram fashion industry in the 21st century Other environmental impacts Instead of buying a new shirt influencers reinforce these collect- and in humanising environmental are caused by increased demand when a button falls off or a seam ing habits when they are photo- science, from climate change to for cotton, causing many fields to splits, we should mend our clothes, graphed wearing something consumer energy use. Her aim to become barren or contaminated and give them a renewed life. different on every outing. bring sustainability to the fashion with pesticides, which trickle down In addition to this, selling and The UK is considered the epicen- industry is laid out in her book To into water sources. Alternative ma- swapping clothes on websites such tre of “fast fashion” in Europe, with Die for: Is Fashion Wearing Out the terials are no better, either. Polyes- as Depop and eBay is a popular each person buying an estimat- World? ter fabrics are a plastic made from and effective way to avoid dis- ed 26.7kg of clothing every year, Ms Siegle is very critical of large fossil fuels. One polyester shirt has posing of old and unused clothes, compared to an average 15.6kg in fast fashion brands pretending to a 5.5kg carbon footprint, compared which would otherwise end up in Germany and Denmark. be ethical and says the entire sus- to a 2.1kg carbon footprint for a landfill. When we see an item of clothing tainable movement is in danger of cotton shirt. I am not suggesting that you do in a store on sale, we immediately being co-opted by big brands. She We also need to be conscious, not purchase any new clothes. But think that it is a “steal” that cannot founded the Green Carpet Chal- not only about the environmental we all need to consider lifestyle be missed. People queue at dawn to lenge to encourage mainstream impact of fast fashion, but about the changes to reduce the quantity of get into the sale days at Next and fashion events and high-end de- poor working conditions of fashion clothes that are bought every year. Harrods to stock up on bargains. signers to introduce more sustaina- industry workers, particularly in For example, if you are in the We rarely think about the impact ble styles. She worked with Gucci, developing countries, who work habit of buying an item of clothing of our purchases, even though we developing the first-ever range of long hours for low wages, and for every new occasion, make a tend to make a lot of them. certified zero-deforested leather often in poor or dangerous condi- pledge to instead wear something But the issue of fast fashion is accessories to market, which were tions. In 2013, a poorly maintained that you enjoyed wearing previous- now attracting more attention, not displayed at Paris Fashion Week. garment building in Bangladesh ly. Take steps to improve your car- just from environmentalists, but Some of the issues that Ms Siegle collapsed, killing more than one bon footprint with fashion. Every of the very consumers who buy highlights include the surprising thousand people. small resolution can lead to having it. One activist in the field is Lucy realisation of how damaging the How can consumers change a big impact. ISSUE 52 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 15 Church roof is lifted off for New names under consideration restoration of hidden room for addition to war memorial Millicent Riordan roof, the ridge beam of the parvis Esme Kroese headstone reads: “EFFIE M. AD- In recent years, St Peter’s Church room had to be lifted in by man- Seventy-five years after the end DIE, MOTHER OF AUBREY, 3 has been undergoing a six-phase power, and was considered to be of World War II, two forgotten FEBRUARY 1964, AGED 71, IN restoration programme. Develop- the most challenging aspect of the names are being considered for LOVING MEMORY OF BOTH”. ments have resulted in the instal- room’s restoration. inclusion on the Roll of Honour of John Arthur Coleman died on 6 lation of iron gates and automatic Because the staircase up to the the Oundle and Ashton War me- February 1945 aged only 21 years glass doors, as well as the conver- room, which has to be ascended morial in the centre of town. old. He was a flight sergeant (navi- sion of the Lady Chapel and ren- with the help of a rope, is too nar- Stephen Abbott, from the local gator) of the Royal Air Force Vol- ovation of the interior on the west row, furnishings had to be lowered branch of the Royal British Legion, unteer Reserve. He was the son of side where the choir balcony and into the room whilst the roof was had been doing research on the Charles and Olive May Coleman of toilets are situated. The work on off. memorial and noticed that two Peterborough. It is not clear what the building has so far cost about The parvis room will now be men listed on the war memorial his connection to Oundle was. £200,000, raised from a variety of used by St Peter’s as an office space plaque in St Peter’s Church were The town council has approved sources, including The Friends of for both work and individual meet- not included on the Oundle and funds to pay for engraving the new the Parish Church. Ashton War Memorial. Both men names on the memorial. Before are buried in the Oundle Cemetery. work begins, conservation officers The two men are Peter Aubrey at the War Memorial Trust are be- Forrester Adie and John Arthur ing consulted about the best prac- Coleman. tice for adding names to the me- Peter Aubrey Forrester Addie morial, as well as the Royal British died on 17 March 1940 aged only Legion. 19 years old. He was a member of The Oundle and Ashton memo- the 50 Squadron Royal Air Force rial was unveiled in 1920 by Oundle and was killed when his aircraft School Headmaster F.W. Sanderson crashed in Windy Gyle, Cheviot and was dedicated by the Vicar of Hills, Northumberland due to bad Oundle, Canon Smalley Law. It was weather and a believed equipment designed by Arthur B. Comfield, failure during their patrol near Lin- architect to the Grocers’ Company colnshire. The aircraft was written and the Bank of England and the off, damaged beyond repair. work was carried out by W. Free- He was the son of Alan Leslie man of Oundle. Forrester Addie and Effie Morgan From a population of 3,000, as Addie, of Chapel-en-le Frith, from many as 420 men from Oundle saw Derbyshire, and it is unclear what service. The memorial originally his connection to Oundle was. listed 68 names for World War I, in- However, it appears that his cluding Sanderson’s son, Roy. The mother was later also buried in names of 27 men were later added Oundle. The inscription on his after World War II.

Restoration of the parvis room above the south door restored the space for use by the church community The most recent of these projects ings with members of the commu- was the restoration of the 15th cen- nity. tury parvis room or ‘priest’s room’, St Peter’s, which has the tallest located above the entrance. Robert spire in the county at 210 feet, was and Joan Wyatt formed the Guild founded by St Wilfred of Northum- of Our Lady of Oundle in 1485 bria in the 7th century. The entire and funded the construction of the complex was built over the site of parvis, as well as the south porch. a pre-Norman conquest monastery It is probable that William Laxton, but the only surviving relic of this the founder of Oundle School, was era is a coffin lid. educated by the Guild, possibly Although originally a Norman even in the parvis itself. Church, the building was extended Beams that had been fitted in the 13th century, and the spire within the room between 1642 and rebuilt in 1634. The interior was 1721 were scrawled with historic restored by Sir G Gilbert Scott in graffiti, but had been gradually be- 1864. come rotten and riddled with holes The church’s most interesting from wood worm and death watch artefact is the 15th century lectern, beetle. Specialists from Nottingham believed to be from Fotheringhay employed dendrochronology to Church. During the Civil War, the date the wood and determined that Roundheads threw it into the Nene. the wood originated from the same In the 19th century it was recovered source as that used to construct from the river and returned to St parts of Apethorpe Palace. Peter’s. A much later Samson post that Malcolm Winder, the project had been installed in the middle of manager, said that the redecora- the parvis room was holding up the tion of the community kitchen and roof and distributing a dangerous the repair of the Grocers’ stained amount of weight onto the ceiling glass window are next on the pro- of the church’s porch. gramme’s agenda for the church’s During the repair of the lead restoration and improvement. 16 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 52 - Spring Gilbert & Sullivan Players revive production Art is for everyone at of very first performance Oundle Art Group Meagan Iu Oundle’s Gilbert and Sullivan This year, for the first time, the a well-known artist, “white light”, The Gilbert and Sullivan Players was formed in 1958, joining Oundle Art Group was able to stage caricatures, or movement. Twice a Players February performance a world-wide society in honour of its annual exhibition in the Yar- year they bring in a model for life of The Pirates of Penzance in the the Victorian-era theatrical partner- row Gallery. The two floors of the drawing, and in the summer they Queen Victoria Hall revived the ship of the dramatist W. S. Gilbert gallery were hung with paintings in often go out and paint en plein air company’s very first production (1836–1911) and the composer watercolour, oil and mixed media. on location. There are also work- from 1959. They have staged the Arthur Sullivan (1842–1900), who The generous space gave visitors shops with visiting artists. play five times since then. collaborated on fourteen comic the chance to appreciate the variety Some of the members have prac- This year’s production was operas between 1871 and 1896. of styles of the artists. tised professionally, some people directed by Marian Porter and Kate H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates The group was founded in Oun- are keen enthusiasts, and some are Wishart, with a cast of ten prin- of Penzance and The Mikado are dle 50 years ago by Tony Haywood, just having a go to learn new skills. cipal performers, a chorus of 18 among the best known. There are who is 93 years old. Members now Tamsin Edwards joined ten members, and a live orchestra led at least 100 Gilbert and Sullivan come from across East Northamp- years ago. “It can be competitive,” by Ben Smith, all supported by an societies in the UK, and many more tonshire and meet weekly in Tansor she joked. But more seriously, she efficient backstage crew. groups worldwide. on Thursday afternoons. described the group as a very sup- The production design was Gilbert and Sullivan productions Sessions are structured, but in- portive network. “The art is impor- inspired by a Christmas card and have a reputation for attracting formal, with a variety of themes or tant, but it’s not the only part. It’s an advert for a set of placemats. an audience that is long past mid- activities scheduled, such as kitch- social and inclusive,” she said. “Art Marian Porter described the design dle-aged. However, trends maybe enalia in a still life, “in the style of” is for everyone.” to her costume team as “A Room shifting, with younger audiences with a View meets Half a Sixpence, growing to appreciate the exuber- but absolutely not The Pirates of ant comic romp of a good Gilbert & the Caribbean.” They also modified Sullivan show. the plot by adding a new character, Oundle’s Players have been Samuel, who was “more like successful enlisting much younger Carson of Downton Abbey, but performers to sign up and join the forced into piratical servitude by a cast and stage crew in rehearsals destitute master”. and planning throughout the year.

The Oundle Art Group meets en plein air when the weather is fair

Principal players: Polly Jackson, Daisy Jackson and Hannah Neighbour

"Hazy Day" (left) and "Winter Scene" (above) were part of this year's exhibition, which made use of the Yarrow Gallery for the first time

Principal players: Ian Ferguson, Phil Dawson, Tom Rushton and Bernie McDonnell ISSUE 52 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 17 Traditional butchers are on trend Bakery favourites never go out of fashion at Cookies Ben Clayden The personalised customer ser- Millie Trotter children on their way to school.” The distinctive, vintage tiled vice that a butcher can provide is In a peak-global economy, the Anyone who knows Oundle, shopfront of Seven Wells Family indispensable for both novices and future is localism, and is best rep- knows not to go to Cookies during Butchers lends reassurance this is a experienced cooks, and contributes resented by Cookies, a quintessen- the Oundle School break when the shop with a pedigree. In, fact, there to a relationship that builds over tially British bakery in the centre of queue snakes out into the street. has been a butchers on this site for years. When you shop at a butch- Oundle. While Pret A Manger might offer over a hundred years. ers, you can have a meaningful con- Cookies opened in Raunds in a variety of wholesome quinoa 1995, and was bought in 2016 by its salads, Cookies serves up hard- new owners Mike Doyle and Ian to-find traditional favourites for Smith, who had been head baker. hungry teenagers. “The Oundle The Raunds shop is the bakery’s School trend of getting a crisp bun base, and also includes a café. Their has increased. They all get prawn products are baked daily in Raunds cocktail flavour!” and brought fresh to the Oundle Cookies then experiences an- shop. Cookies maintains the idea other rush at midday, when people of a traditional, English bakery, queue to buy a made-to-order ba- serving fresh bread and pastries guette. “The filled rolls are popular. throughout the day for a regular More people just want other things clientele, serving British favourites. than bread and buns. And some The bakery assistants at Cookies people come in who are just out for have worked at the shop so long the day and want to sit and eat a they couldn’t remember how long, pie, or some people take it home.” other than to say, “years”. Bakery Their regular customers come life means an early morning start. back because they know what “We get up at 5am every morn- they like, and they know they can ing because obviously we have to get it at Cookies. For the bakery travel and then set up the shop,” assistants, it’s a familiarity that is Sara said. reassuring. “It’s nicer to be able Photo by Tanveer Sira Photo by Tanveer

Chris Jackson, shop manager, worked at K Johnson and Son for 12 years before joining Seven Wells Butchers 11 years ago Three local farming families, versation, because butchers don’t the Knights, Paskes, and Reynolds just prepare the meat, they know bought the business on West Street how to cook it. If a customer is from K Johnson and Son in 2004 to uncertain about how to cook a par- bring their products straight from ticular cut, the butcher can advise the farms to the cooks. Their prior- on the best preparation. Butchers ity was that their customers knew can recommend what cut to use for that their livestock was raised with a new recipe, and help choose the high welfare standards, and that best selection for your budget. Best the “meat is fully traceable back to of all, they can prepare the piece to the day the animal was born”. your specific requirements, from Sally Knight said the family boning to tying or mincing. farm has been in Stoke Doyle since Mrs Knight knows that the fu- Cookies is famous for its spread of traditional favourites the 1930s. “We rear cattle on our ture of farming will be more chal- farm. After going to the abattoir, lenging, from volatile global mar- Fresh bread arrives first thing to know exactly what they want, the beef comes back here, so we are kets to the weather. For instance, in the morning, with shelves lined and what fillings they want in their very much farm to fork.” The beef she said that this year the early wet high with sandwich, split tin and sandwiches.” and lamb sold in the shop is local to weather meant that they had not farmhouse loaves, along with an A reliable, regular clientele Oundle, and the chicken and pork been able to drill a large amount of impressive selection of pastries forms the sort of relationship that come from farms in Suffolk. crop for the next harvest. People’s including top hat donuts, eccles cannot be replicated by larger A family butchers could not be food choices are changing, too, cakes, fresh cream buns, and cus- chain-bakeries. Oundle is a town more traditional, and yet their busi- and they are eating with less red tard slices. that embraces local, home-grown ness is right on trend, with growing meat during the week. And when The morning rush of custom- business, and Cookies is the epit- concern to buy British, and more we spoke in early March, none of ers starts at 7am. “We get a lot of ome of a traditional British bakery interest in knowing about where us predicted that the coronavirus workmen in the morning, and some that is at the heart of its market- our food comes from. Supermarkets outbreak would close the shop and place. still dominate, but more shoppers move orders to home delivery. are rejecting their plastic wrapped, While current trends and global mass produced food, and turning pressures beyond our control put to smaller, local producers. stress on businesses, they also help Mrs Knight said that among the focus the consumer on what re- many advantages of buying locally mains important in sustaining our produced meat is knowing where it local communities. Local butchers comes from and who has prepared have been a staple of every high it. “A lot of it is provenance, and a street in every town for hundreds lot of it is skill. You get the meat in of years, and they have endured for its primal cut and we can actually a reason: the relationship is valued, Sandwich loaves and top hat donuts do not last long on the shelves tailor-make it into what you want.” the service is essential. 18 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 52 - Spring

the eggs quickly, so they stand up The secret to a good egg is a healthy and happy hen nicely and look lovely and fresh,” he said. Meagan Iu farm house. His partner, Becky, on one level, with food and water There is no difference between Leigh Fowler, the owner and their four children help out on all accessible on the same lev- white and brown eggs as it is just of Fowler’s Poultry, produces the farm, and often join him at the el and enjoy a generously-sized the shell colour, which depends top-quality free-range eggs on a Oundle market. well-maintained grazing area. “We upon the breed of hen laying the farm in Kings Cliffe. His farm has For Mr Fowler, the core of his have used a breed called Lohmann egg; the actual egg inside is the sold eggs at the Stamford Farm- business is about the care of his Brown for the last 20 years and then great source of nutrition, though it ers’ market for 20 years without hens, and the quality product that changed two years ago to a breed can be hard to tell what a particu- missing a single event, and he is a he produces. For him, there are no called Bovan which we are delight- larly “healthy” type of egg would regular at Oundle’s monthly Farm- compromises to the designation of ed with and ordering some more be. “Some companies put addi- ers’ Market. “free range”. for later in the year,” he said. tives into the chicken food such as “I’ve always kept chickens. Free range eggs are produced He believes that the secret omega 3 and market their eggs as being high in such ingredients. I personally believe that freshness, good quality food and good qual- ity of life for the hen are the most important things when producing eggs,” he says. Mr Fowler does not rear the hens himself as this is undertaken by specialist rearing farms who fol- low a strict vaccination programme to ensure the birds are as healthy as possible and the eggs are as safe as possible. A laying hen is normally moved at 15 weeks of age from the rearing farm to the laying farm to settle down for around 3-4 weeks before starting to lay their eggs. Over the course of a year-long lay cycle, they will start with smaller sized eggs to begin with, known as pullet eggs, and grad- ually produce larger eggs. At that point the birds need to rest, and are ready to moult, which takes about five weeks. Farmers cannot afford to keep unproductive hens, which are normally killed for meat. However, when Mr Fowler’s hens reach retirement, all of them are re-homed, instead of being sold Leigh Fowler is a regular at the Oundle Farmers' Market. While the market is closed, his eggs are still available for meat. direct from his farm at Kings Cliffe. “When I go in every day, ‘it’s I love looking after chickens. I from poultry that are allowed to to producing a quality egg is to morning girls’. I chitchat away to approach it probably from a softer roam freely outdoors during day- provide the hen with the best food them. I don’t feel bad that they’re point of view than a businessman light hours for at least part of the possible, well above their require- then going to be sent to slaughter. who is just doing it to earn money,” day, rather than being confined in ments, and to sell those eggs as We’ll find homes for them at the he says. an enclosure for 24 hours a day. On soon as possible, so that customers end of each laying cycle,” he said. With a surname like “Fowler” he many farms, the outdoors ranging can enjoy a truly fresh egg. “What- “You do what you believe in, I said having an egg farm business area is fenced, however free range ever the hen eats, comes through in guess,” he said. “I went to universi- was meant to be. systems usually offer the opportu- the quality of the egg. You need to ty to study poultry and I came out Mr Fowler’s passion for keeping nity for extensive movement and buy good food and you need to sell knowing how I wanted to do it.” hens started at the age of eight, sunlight that is otherwise prevent- when he bid for a shoebox contain- ed by indoor housing systems. ing 40-day old chicks on a family According to the RSPCA, legal holiday to Great Yarmouth. He requirements for free-range eggs kept his own hens and after leaving ensure a minimum amount of space school, he studied poultry produc- and litter for the hens: no more than tion and management at the Royal nine hens per square metre, 10cm Agricultural College in Ayr. of feeder per bird and one drinker He then secured a job with Ber- per 10 birds. nard Matthews, a company said to For large producers, a compact be the home of “bootiful” food and system has birds on multiple tiers, best known for producing turkey rather than on one level, increasing meat products, but he still dreamed the bird population while main- of having his own free range egg taining minimum standards for farm. In 1997, he purchased a free-range classification. This puts grassy meadow in Kings Cliffe. more pressure on the grazing area Soon, his free range laying flock outside the shed because of the was up and running, and he moved increased traffic, but it is still free onto the site with a caravan, which range, as birds are allowed to go became his home for seven years outside during the day. Leigh Fowler's children are a big help on the farm, where the hens have before he was able to build a stone Mr Fowler’s chickens are reared lots of space to range ISSUE 52 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 19 Local farmers and food producers bring experience and quality to the market

Meagan Iu bread, cakes and patisserie and On the second Saturday of each supplies products to establishments month, an excellent Farmers' Mar- across London. They are especial- ket is held in the centre of Oundle ly passionate about making their where local produce is sold directly sourdoughs and use natural leav- to the public. There are numerous ens, baked on the stone sole of the stalls to choose from including oven. vegetables, fruit, meat, eggs, bread New Lodge Farm has been and cakes, fruit juices and dairy owned by the Singlehurst family products. for over 100 years, focusing on Grasmere Farm is an award win- Aberdeen Angus cattle and sheep ning, family-run pork farm from rearing with traditional organic Deeping St. James, Lincolnshire. methods of farming. Over the past Lincolnshire Poacher They have three butchers shops in 20 years the farm has evolved from Peterborough, Bourne and Stam- a traditional producer of livestock ford, and an online site specialising to a provider of leisure and event in selling meat raised, butchered catering services, currently run by and prepared on the farm. Their Simon and Sarah Singlehurst. products include a full range of Most of their products are sold sausages such as Lincolnshire, from their award-winning farm Cumberland, bratwurst, caramel- shop near Bulwick, and they bring ised red onion, pork & ale, pork & their meat to the market, along chorizo, Lincolnshire chipolata. with a hog roast. The pork for their Lincolnshire Poacher Cheese, famous hog roasts is supplied by run by brothers Simon and Tim another local farmer near Towces- Jones, produces the very best ter. Their butchery and cafe near cheese using only their own un- Bulwick serves lunch and coffee pasteurised milk and traditional overlooking their fields. methods to produce delicious varie- Brockleby’s Pies, based in Mel- ties including Lincolnshire Poach- ton Mowbray, was founded in 2003 er, Vintage Lincolnshire Poacher, by Ian Jalland, whose family has Smoked Lincolnshire Poacher and been farming for over 500 years. Lincolnshire Red. Their farm shop closed in 2012 New Lodge Farm The milk from their 230 Holstein to make way for a bigger bakery Fresian cows goes straight into the producing their hugely successful daily cheese-making process. Deb- range of pies, such as Mowbray bie, who staffs the market stall said, pork pie, organic pork pie, beaver “It’s the fact that it’s such fantastic pie, kiwi pie, penguin pie, gluten quality milk that makes this beau- free pies and sweet pies including tiful cheese.” They also sell raw Isaac's apple pie and Scrumper's milk as a by-product of their cheese Pie. at the farmers’ markets. Regulars They source all their ingredients come and buy as many as ten from the Leicestershire area and bottles at a time. “It’s more natural, use original recipes handed down because it’s unpasteurised. It has through the family or from the bak- all the lovely nutrients. It’s good ers who have worked with them. for your gut. We’ve been told that A regular customer filled her the grade of milk is the highest you bag with a selection of pies. “My can get. They always say the best husband eats these. When I’m not quality comes from cheesemakers,” at home, he doesn’t need to worry Debbie said. about cooking, and he has one of She held up a bottle to show off these. He really likes them.” Brockleby's Pies a thick layer of cream at the top, Longshore is one of the most and her customer confirmed that it popular stalls, where there’s always was a treat. “The kids make their a queue waiting to be served. Carol chocolate with it,” she said. and Simon Long have been coming Greg, a regular who comes to to the Oundle Farmers’ Market for the market from Glapthorn, said, “I 15 years. With Oundle being land- get everything here. All the Poach- locked, a supply of fresh fish is a ers are lovely, but depends on how rare treat. Based in Blakeney, strong you like it. The extra mature Norfolk, they fish from their own has got quite alot of lactic crystals boat and also work with other in it, that really nice taste.” inshore boats along the coast. Debbie confirmed that it gets Julia comes every month. “Once tastier as you get near the rind. a month we have a fish fest for a Greg said, “It’s all local. We don’t couple of days. This fish is fresh eat anything else anymore. Our and reasonably local. Supermarket fridge is full of this.” fish is not the same.” Celtic Bakers is a wholesale craft Customers choose from a wide organic bakery from Tottenham, variety of seafood including potted North London, one of London’s shrimp, mussels, monkfish and Longshore leading producers of hand-crafted crab. 20 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 52 - Spring Meet the workers who keep Oundle in business Photos by Tanveer Sira

Tony at Asha's Barbers Sara and Paula at Oundle Travel David at Boots Pharmacy

Sandy at Milestones Florist Amy and Tom at Beans Coffee Stop Tracey and Julie at Colemans Stationers

Chris at Woodford's Estate Agents Jim at Trendalls Butchers Piyush and Alex at Oundle Post Office

Dayalachandra at Oundle News Stuart at Stu Pots Eunha at White Vanilla