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Established 1991 Best Newspaper 2016 Shine School Media Awards Spring 2019 Issue 50 Bridge weight restrictions introduce traffic chaos Festival fun begins at the Vintage Fair

Erica Pascoe two-wheel excitement the annu- Oundle will be hosting a bold al Oundle Classic Bike Rally will new event this month, the Oundle follow two different routes at 9am Vintage Funfair on Saturday 18th and 10am. May from 10am-4pm in the Market The entire event hopes to raise Place. more than £14,000 to repair the The action-packed day will in- clock and bells of St Peter’s Church. clude a vintage market and antique The idea to raise money for the fair, church tower and clock tours, town clock and church bells was a display of classic vehicles, tower born during an Oundle Business abseiling, a bike rally, and a perfor- Association meeting when the town mance stage. For children there will clock repair was discussed. Chair- be a teddy bear parachute jump man of the organising committee, and a vintage fun fair with rides Philip Amps said: “A number of us and traditional games. who were born and bred in Oundle The new bollards were damaged within days of installation The Vintage Market and Antique recognised that our town clock and Fair will be the centrepiece of the church bells were rather special to Tom Pilsbury Last year, an inspection and festival with 60 stalls, including us and we should do something The first phase of the prepara- further investigations revealed that vintage and antique fashion, home- about helping to raise the money tions for the work to repair much of the bridge’s structure had ware, vinyl, jewellery, posters, required for the repair.” Oundle’s North Bridge has been become weakened and refurbish- maps, furniture and much more. Much of the community has got completed. ment work was needed. Live music on the performance involved in the cause, including Northamptonshire Highways To protect the structure while stage will provide entertainment the many businesses on the com- told the Oundle Town Council in repair work is carried out, a three- from 11am-6pm, with an array of mittee. Philip Amps said: “Even late April: “We are currently aiming tonne weight restriction has been musicians and performers. Vans those businesses who are not on for the second week of July to start placed on the bridge. Bollards for and stalls with street food, along- the committee are helping out with works.” Because the bridge is a list- vehicle width restrictions were also side the usual shops and eateries sponsorship or providing support ed structure, Highways is required installed. will provide plenty to eat. by supplying services.” to obtain listed building consent for The works for the width To kick off the weekend, on Continued on page 2 all work. Friday 17 May there will also be a 1950s inspired dance in the church, The Clock of St Peter's Fletton Field campaign soldiers on with a full bar, ice cream sodas, Erica Pascoe When the Oundle Recreation The campaign raised £229,460 ‘rock & roll food’, and live music The clock in St Peter’s tower is and Green Spaces Group started towards a target bid of £280,357, and dancing from 7.30pm. Vintage believed to date to the 19th cen- the campaign to purchase Fletton but had to allow the crowdfunding 1950s dress is optional, however tury. It is a flat bed, three train Field in April 2018, Northampton- appeal to expire on 31st December. there are prizes for best dressed. clock which is weight driven with shire County Council (NCC) had Andy Jeavons, Chair of ORGCG Booked tours beginning at a pendulum along with a six foot informed them via their agent, said: “We are massively grateful 9.00am will offer the chance to cast-iron skeleton dial backed with Connells, that they wished a swift for the support from the town. The climb the winding staircase into copper. The left section refers to a sale, and that a decision on the people we have met at markets and the bell ringing chamber where the gravity drop hammer that strikes successful bid would be made by fairs have shown a huge amount of clock mechanism can be viewed. the hours on the tenor bell and the August 2018. support.” Continuing on through the tower, right section links to various The group submitted a bid and The group’s bid to purchase the the tour will take visitors to the treble bells chiming the Westmin- organised a crowdfunding appeal field remains on the table, with viewing platform at the top of the ster chimes. with 31 December 2018 as the the significant financial support church where there is access down In 1974 the clock was converted closing date. offered from Oundle Town Council a wooden staircase to the hidden to automatic winding, leaving the It was discovered, however, that and Oundle School. If the bid is ‘Room in the Spire’. (If the per- clock still driven by weights, but NCC had not submitted a section ultimately successful, a charity will egrine falcon has laid eggs in a nest the weights were wound by motors 77 application which would allow be established for the management on the tower by then, the tours will rather than by hand. This required them to dispose of a former school of the field in perpetuity by a trust. unfortunately have to be cancelled.) the installation of bulky chains playing field. An application was In response to a letter from MP For motoring enthusiasts, a clas- and frames to harness the winding belatedly submitted, and despite Tom Pursglove, NCC has indicated sic vehicle display will be parked mechanism, which was powered by two previous consultations having its intention to seek planning per- along West Street and New Street electricity. already been completed, a third mission for building on the site, but showing off a range of cars such as Because the mains had no back consultation was announced with a has given no indication of a revised Aston Martins, Ferraris, Mercedes, Continued on page 2 deadline of 18 April 2019. timescale. Jaguars and Lamborghinis. For 2 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 50 - 2019 Bridge continued from page 1 County council resumes responsibility The restrictions to Oundle North Bridge started on 25th March and took for road gritting Chronicle approximately six days. The A605 Patrick Boyle invaluable assistance of our partner and Barnwell Road junction signals Conservative leader Cllr Matt Northampton Borough Council Team were operational in mid March. Golby announced that North- means we are able to put extra The early phase of the road amptonshire County Council will money into the service to make works caused significant traffic reverse its precautionary gritting improvements.” disruption on the A605 with long policy. In addition, a new ‘intermediate’ delays while the new traffic lights Last October, the NCC decided gritting network will be implement- were installed. One commuter said: to reduce the total length of roads ed within the current financial year “It took me two hours to get from gritted from 1954km to 1543km (a in order to maximise coverage. Clopton to Oundle.” reduction of 21%) in order to save The grit is a combination of grit To avoid this traffic, motorists £475,000. The gritting fleet was salt and molasses which gives a used short cuts to avoid the heavy reduced from 26 to 19 vehicles, and higher resistance to being washed traffic. Many cars took a “rat run” the NCC placed greater responsi- away by rain or blown away by the diversion through Pilton, travelling bility on individual parish councils wind. Salt dissolves into the water at great speed over a small humped to resolve their own gritting-related and lowers its freezing point so it THE TEAM back bridge and along the narrow problems. will remain liquid at temperatures country roads, through Stoke However, adverse winter weath- below 0°C. Sam Bakhshalian Doyle, causing chaos along the er in January exposed the deficien- The NCC’s response was par- Giovanni Bernardi single lane through the village. cies of the policy and resulted in tially a consequence of 3,200 sig- Philipa Bourne The width restrictions on car accidents on roads that had not natures to a petition founded by Jo Patrick Boyle the bridge have caused further been gritted. Mumford. MP Tom Pursglove also Johnny Capstick-Dale aggravation, with some drivers According to Cabinet Mem- stepped in and wrote a letter to the Giorgio Capuzzello complaining about the slow speed ber for Transport, Highways and county council’s leader Matt Golby Lily Hunter at which some vehicles inch Environment Cllr Ian Morris, “Our and contacted the council’s chief Jerry Li through the bollards, which were (NCC’s) increasingly stabilised executive Theresa Grant about his Grace Maund damaged by collisions from cars financial position alongside the concerns. Joseph Meisner within days of being installed. Amelia Milne Heavy goods vehicles must dial down to be shot-blast, churches in the area with eight Archie Parkinson now enter town via Oundle’s repainted and gilded. Although it bells. Some work was previously Erica Pascoe South Bridge, which underwent a would have been more cost effec- carried out to treat death watch Alfie Peterson lengthy repair programme and was tive to link this work in at the same beetle in part of the bell chamber, Tom Pilsbury strengthened in 2016. time as the internal works, restora- but other repairs were also required Stella Simpson Northamptonshire County tion of the clock dial was delayed to the wheels, frames and clappers. Hannah Wakeford Council confirmed that it had due to the pair of peregrine falcons Short and longer term works Lily Wolfson received £6.7m from the govern- on the church spire. If the falcons required were more than £6,700. ment for road maintenance. Of the start to nest, workmen will not be Now that the repairs have been amount handed to the county permitted to disturb them, and the carried out, Mr Goldsmith said: council, £1.3m will be used to restoration will need to be post- “We therefore need to undertake repair and strengthen the North poned until August. substantial fundraising to re-pay Bridge. The cost of the repair and back the monies that were ad- Clock continued from page 1 restoration is £12,250 plus VAT. vanced for the clock work.” up, there have been problems The work started in February, with It is hoped that the Vintage Fair during power cuts and the yearly costs underwritten by the Friends in May will go some way to meet- seasonal clock changes. of St Peter’s Church, allowing ing the costs. Mr Goldsmith said: “I Ian Goldsmith, the Chairman internal repair work on the clock to am indebted to the Oundle Busi- of St Peter’s Tower Group said the go ahead promptly. ness Association for their help with clock had become unreliable, with St Peter’s is one of the few this project.” health and safety issues with the old winding unit. Damage had also been caused to the hammers during bell ringing activities. Clockmakers and restorers, Smith of Derby were enlisted to assess and carry out the work. Their solution was to replace the automatic winding system with a modern version, resulting in the return of the clock to its original operating method. This new system operates at a lower voltage, resolv- ing safety issues. The support of a rechargeable battery back allows continuous operation during all Oundle Chronicle normal power failures. The bell Cripps Library hammers were also repaired with a new controller installed to pull Church Street off hammers for bell ringing, with Oundle lights which indicate when these Peterborough are operational. PE8 4EE It was also found that the clock E: [email protected] dial was suffering from some cor- www.oundlechronicle.co.uk rosion and the paint was in a poor condition, which means taking the ISSUE 50 - 2019 Oundle Chronicle 3 A narrow win returns a Conservative councillor to troubled NCC

Joseph Meisner ings, and that she had prioritised. In the by-election for the Oun- She was confident of her record dle ward of Northamptonshire on the council, where she repre- County Council held on 21 Feb- sented her own village’s interests, ruary, the Conservative candi- and also worked to prevent the date Annabel de Capell Brooke closure of the Oundle library, and emerged victorious. to protect Fineshade Woods from However, the Conservatives development. received a smaller percentage of At the NCC she intends to make the vote than they had in the 2017 sure that the interests of Oundle general election, when they picked and the surrounding villages are up 65% of the vote. heard. In a voter turnout of 37%, there “Oundle can sometimes be was a swing towards the Liberal overlooked, as it is located far from Democrats, who fielded popular the council. Wellingborough and local candidate Marc Folgate. Mr Rushden get more attention.” Folgate picked up 1276 votes, com- One particular issue that might pared to Ms de Capell Brooke’s compromise her position is the sale share of 51%, with 1864 votes. of Fletton Field. The cash strapped The Labour and UKIP candidates NCC is determined to sell the field Newly elected NCC Councillor Annabel de Capell Brooke brings district council lagged behind, with 403 and 89 for development to the highest bid- experience and wide local knowledge to her new position votes respectively. der, over the objections of Oundle The by-election was called the doorstep. ability, because she understands residents. following the resignation of former One campaign volunteer agreed: how council business works. She But she pledged her support to Councillor Heather Smith, who left “Despite it being just a local elec- has lived in this area for over 15 maintain the field as a green space, her post after the council became tion, the tide was swinging away years and has three children who acknowledging that it was a very embroiled in financial difficulties, from the Tories. On over half of attend local schools, all of whom important part of the town. which may have contributed to the doorsteps there was disillu- helped out during her campaign. Ms de Capell Brooke intends voter’s disaffection. sionment with the handling of the In February, there were reports to stand in the 2020 elections for When asked if the council’s fi- Brexit process.” that Ms de Capell Brooke had not the new unitary council, where nancial troubles had contributed to When asked what she thought attended two-thirds of the ENC she hopes to carry on representing the swing away from the Conserv- it was that won the election for her, meetings. She explained that it was Oundle’s interests. atives, Ms de Capell Brooke said Ms de Capell Brooke thought her very hard to attend all the meet- she was unsure. campaign played a large part: “If “A lot of people are aware of people can meet the candidate or a the financial problems that NCC representative, they can discuss the has faced historically, but what issues that matter to them. It also I feel quite strongly about is that shows the deep care that they have ~ Est. 1981~ we have pretty much been able to for Oundle and its neighbouring Rockingham Landrovers have a balanced budget for 2019- villages.” 18 Main Street, Rockingham. LE16 8TG 2020, which is amazing.” She thought that her experience She went on to say that when on the East Northamptonshire Land Rovers have come a long talking to voters during the cam- Council for the Prebendal Ward way since 1948 but no matter paign, Brexit was a key subject on had given people confidence in her which Land Rover or Range Rover you drive we can service and repair it. Our skilled staff, 4 workshop ramps and genuine Land Rover equipment ensure a Northants councils on track to reform quality service and rapid resolution to any Land Rover as a unitary authority problems.

Giovanni Bernardi status. In February the East Northamp- First elections for representatives Here at Rockingham we service and maintain all models of Land Rover and Range Rover without affecting the vehicle’s warranty. tonshire Council agreed on sever- will take place in May 2020. al of the details of the Structural Steven North, Leader of East We offer a free collection and delivery service for all Change Order (SCO) for the future Northamptonshire Council said: Land Rovers booked in for Service / MOT and Repair. plans for governance of the county, “We also feel that the numbers of following Inspector Max Caller’s councillors proposed for the new Land Rover T4 & WDS diagnostic equipment to diagnose recommendations for eight existing authority and the equal spread and re-set faults on Air Suspension, Engine Management, ABS, Gearboxes, Keys & Fobs etc…. councils to be replaced with two from each current authority means new unitary authorities from April that residents are fairly represent- Renovation and refurbishment to suit your requirements. 2020. ed.” Chassis replacement for all Defender and Series. The new North Northamp- The Secretary of State worked tonshire Council will be a district with council leaders to refine the Genuine Land Rover and OEM parts available for purchase. council with county powers com- final SCO to be put forward to Par- prising 78 councillors; three coun- liament for approval. Once the SCO Office & Workshop Opening Hours cillors per existing NCC division. is put forward, other orders will The North Northamptonshire follow. The Shadow Authority must Monday - Thursday : 8.30am – 6 pm & Friday : 8.30am – 4 pm shadow executive will comprise 15 be formed within 14 days of the councillors and will have executive approval of the SCO by Parliament. Telephone : 01536 770109 / 770078 governance with an overview and It is anticipated that the Govern- Email : [email protected] scrutiny committee to make sure ment will present the SCO to Parlia- A family owned independent Land Rover specialist for over 35 years. no mistakes are made which could ment in the coming weeks. harm the council and its financial

4 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 50 - 2019 The future is electric Legislation review considers how to do more to discourage pavement parking Giovanni Bernardi complying with the UK’s regula- The future for motor vehicle tions and producing cheaper, better of 1835 that prohibits transport is electric, but this idea and more reliable electric cars than driving on paths meant is not as new and innovative as is ever before. This is due to a signif- for foot passengers. popularly assumed. icant improvement in the technol- The law prohibits “wil- Electric and steam powered cars ogy of electric motors. In contrast, fully” riding or driving had a period of popularity in the internal combustion engine on the footway, “even late 19th and early 20th century motors have not seen any major though the driving when they were first developed. technological advances in the past may last only for a But this period was cut short by two decades. few seconds”, which the growth of the oil industry and Peterborough has the highest implies the prohibition the increased production of gas percentage of electric vehicles in the of parking. powered motor vehicles at the country. The latest Department of A 3 Fixed Penalty beginning of the 1920s which had Transport statistics show that the Notice can be served a speed and range advantage over number of registered electric vehi- instead of prosecution. electric cars. cles increased by 21% last year, one Although not all police However, with environment and of the biggest jumps in the country. forces take active steps clean air issues a real concern, the There are currently 10,022 electric to enforce this law, shift today seems to be once more cars registered, up from just 49 in many more are now towards using electric powered 2013. This shows the incredible pro- doing so in order to cars. gress the electric car industry has prevent parking on the pavement. London has a longstanding Pavement parking on Blackpot Lane frequently blocks 40-years ban of access for pedestrians pavement parking. Jerry Li A bill in 2015 from Conservative Parking on pavements is a MP Simon Hoare sought to address problem that many local authorities the issue. He proposed that “a have been unable to address. Cars person who parks a motor vehicle parked on narrow streets need to wholly or partly on the verge of an allow for the passage of traffic, but urban road, or on a footway com- pedestrians also need unimpeded prised of an urban road, is guilty of access to the pavement. a civil offence.” Two roads in Oundle where The bill didn’t make it past a pedestrians have reported prob- second reading in the House of lems with pavement parking are Commons after doubts were raised Cotterstock Road during school over where residents of narrow drop-off and pick-up times, and streets could park if there are no Blackpot Lane, a narrow one-way off-street spaces available. road where cars park on pavement, In late 2018 transport minister blocking pedestrians. Jesse Norman announced another For the physically handicapped, review into the rules with a Electric cars on Oundle streets are still rare, but Peterborough has seen a steep parents with pushchairs and the response expected later this year. increase in electric car purchases. elderly, this can lead to great in- He said: “The department is In the UK, the Government made in such a short time. convenience and poses safety risks now undertaking a broader piece released a strategy in July 2018 Charging points in and around if pedestrians with mobility limita- of work to gather evidence on the named ‘Road to Zero’, that aims to Peterborough have also increased: tions are pushed into the road. issue of pavement parking. We see at least half of all new cars be there are now 28 in a seven mile In recent years, however, there expect to be able to draw conclu- ultra-low emission by 2030, and all radius around the city centre. have been attempts to update the sions later this year.” new cars and vans to be zero-emis- For Oundle drivers the closest legislation from the Highways Act sion by 2040. charging station is more than six Norway is leading the way in miles away at the A1 services. Res- encouraging the adoption of electric idents who have converted early car technology. Norway’s policies still have to run a cable from their Residents say: Please "Fix My Street" incentivise people to buy electric house for the time being. Alfie Peterson In early May, there were eight cars. They offer free parking, access Peterborough’s 10,022 electric Northamptonshire is the latest reported problems in Oundle, to a high-occupancy vehicle lane, cars only make up about 4.5% of council to adopt FixMyStreet as including a broken barrier on West tax deductions, and reduced up- the total cars in the city, showing their official street reporting sys- Street, potholes on Rockingham front costs, with no taxes imposed that the UK still has a lot of pro- tem. If you come across something Hills and New Street, pavement on the companies selling them. gress to make to fulfil their ‘Road to amiss on the streets of Oundle, issues on St Peter’s Road and com- Why are other countries not of- Zero’ aims. you can file a report on the council plaints about the bollards on North fering similar incentives for electric It is almost certain that electric website, or do it on the nationwide Bridge. car ownership to their own citi- cars are the future. However, the site FixMyStreet.com and it will be Other issues such as dog foul- zens? The answer is that it is very electricity that powers them is still routed to the council. The council ing, anti-social behaviour, missing hard to break away from the fossil derived mostly from fossil fuels. formerly used a bespoke site called wheelie bins, and fire/smoke and fuel business. Norway still regular- The real challenge will be a move Street Doctor. smell pollution should be reported ly exports petrol to make money for away from oil entirely. For now, Residents can report faults to the district council. their electric business. though, countries, including the linked to amenities that are broken After a complaint is submitted, The best-selling electric cars UK, have many policies to reduce or dirty, damaged or dumped, or the county council is automatically according to Car Magazine UK are greenhouse gas emissions, which need fixing, cleaning or clearing notified and updates about the pro- made by Nissan, Hyundai, BMW offer promise for a safer, cleaner such as: drain covers, kerbs, safety gress of the complaint will be made and Tesla. These companies are world. bollards, potholes. via email. ISSUE 50 - 2019 Oundle Chronicle 5 Police Beat Alarm is raised at increase in knife crime Giovanni Bernardi ons from our streets during Opera- Giorgio Capuzzello February 11. Due to widespread concern tion Sceptre.” There was a burglary of a prop- There was an attempted burgla- about the rise in knife crime, North- While headlines about knife erty in South Road during the night ry in Wakerley Close on February amptonshire police departments crime in London dominate the between the 15 and 16 of December 12. have been carrying out decisive news, problems persist in rural whilst occupants were asleep. Car A false fire alarm was called action. In March, police officers counties and are growing. Accord- keys were stolen and the vehicle, on February 19 in Oundle. It was took part in Operation Sceptre, a ing to Northamptonshire Police a Skoda Octavia parked on the caused by cooking fumes. nationwide crackdown on serious the number of people convicted driveway, was also taken. Some Oundle retailers have reported and organised crime which aims to for carrying a knife has jumped by items inside the car were discarded fake £50 notes in circulation. Nort- reduce the number of knives which 78 per cent in five years. In 2013 at various points. hants Police urges shop owners to are used to commit crimes. Northamptonshire saw 186 people Police officers patrolling in be wary. As part of the operation, 10 convicted for carrying a knife, but Oundle on January 6 engaged with The theft of a motor vehicle by knife-related arrests were made, in 2018 that number leapt to 323. a group of teenagers suspected of means unknown from the driveway and 147 knives were surrendered in In December 2018, Northamp- smoking or dealing cannabis and of a property in Springfield Road Northamptonshire between March tonshire Police said they would found them in possession of drugs. was reported on February 27. All 11-17. give more officers Taser guns in There was a break-in of a shed the car keys were accounted for. Inspector Sara-Louise Parrott, response to increasing knife crime. at a property in Glapthorn Road Entry was gained to an unlocked who led the Operation Sceptre Chief Constable Nick Adderley said between 10pm on January 13 and car parked in Springfield Road work, said: “Carrying a knife the decision made "complete sense" January 18. An item was stolen during the night between 13 and increases your risk of being the because of an overall national in- from within. With the use of some 14 March. There was evidence of victim of a knife attack, and it is ex- crease in knife crime. He said that tools from the shed, an attempt was a search but nothing appeared to tremely pleasing to have removed Tasers would help to respond to made to enter the house via the liv- have been taken. so many potentially deadly weap- incidents quickly and effectively. ing room window without success. During that same night in Tools from the shed were found Glapthorn Road, entry was gained discarded in some bushes. to a parked car. Various items were During the night between Jan- taken, including the keys to another uary 22 and January 23 there was vehicle parked on the same road. a burglary at Hochanda Ltd at the Nothing was taken from the second Nene Valley Business Park. A per- one. son turned up to the company and There have been several thefts walked around the premises. The from motor vehicles in the area offender rammed the side door and around Oundle, including removal gained entry. An iPhone was taken of number plates. from within, and drawers and cup- On March 23 in three places boards were searched. Everything around Oundle - Oak Close, Creed was captured on CCTV. Road and Walcot Close - entry was A fire was reported at a house gained into secured motor vehicles, on January 31. It was extinguished and messy searches were conduct- by the occupier before the arrival ed. In the first two cases nothing of the fire department. A female was taken. In the third case, items was taken to hospital after suffering were stolen from the victim’s two from smoke inhalation, caused by a cars. No signs of forced entry were carelessly discarded cigarette. found. On the same day there was a During the night of April 6, un- chimney fire on Glapthorn Road. known offenders damaged a bird Police arrested a drunk driver hide in Barnwell Country Park. in the early hours of February 2 in There was a burglary overnight Oundle. between April 18 and April 19 in During Operation Sceptre this oversized knife was handed in to Oundle police Some children found themselves Mill Lane. The culprits entered accidentally locked in a property on through a rear patio door. evidence that child sexual exploita- officers in Northamptonshire. February 4. They managed to break During the week of April 15, tion is becoming a staple of the In February, the National Crime out before the fire department money was stolen from a shop in County Line community. North- Agency’s report on the county arrived. the Market Place just after closing. amptonshire police have been issu- lines crisis showed that the num- In nearby villages, there were The owner was distracted by a man ing warnings about the dangers of ber of supply lines nationally has seven cases of shed break-ins in asking for directions, while his “cuckooing”. Cuckooing involves a increased in the last year from 750 Cotterstock and Glapthorn, and a accomplice stole the day's takings drug dealer befriending an indi- to 2,000. Children aged between 15 garage door was forced open on packed for deposit. vidual who lives alone so that their and 17 make up the bulk of vul- residence can be used as a drugs nerable people involved in county den. Victims are often vulnerable lines, with both girls and boys are Northants sees steepest rise in county line crime and isolated people. being groomed and exploited. New reports show that short- Detective Chief Inspector Tony Patrick Boyle county line, which is shared with term lets and guest houses are also Hopkins from Northamptonshire The expansion of drug-smug- Kettering, East Northants has four, increasingly being used as tempo- Police, said: “Tackling gangs, gling networks, known as County Wellingborough has two and Ket- rary dens to store drugs and cash. including those involved in the Lines, from urban areas to rural tering has sixteen. Recent arrests across the county supply of drugs is one of our top counties has targeted Northamp- Northamptonshire gangs, include the sentencing of two men priorities and one which we are tonshire, now one of the worst found predominantly in areas near at Northampton Crown Court for taking a robust approach to”. affected regions in the country. A Wellingborough, Peterborough, their part in a gang-related shoot- The Chronicle’s requests to the Home Office inspection last year Northampton and Kettering, pres- ing in Wellingborough. In October, police for local crime statistics relat- found that the Northamptonshire ent themselves on social media liv- police arrested eighteen people and ing to county lines and knife crime Police “require improvement” ing lives of luxury, giving the false seized more than £5,000 in North- under the Freedom of Information when dealing with organised crime. impression that crime does pay. amptonshire. In January, fifteen Act was unfulfilled due to “resourc- In April, the Corby Borough Not only are these gangs push- further people with links to county ing and an increased volume”. Council learned that Corby has one ing illegal products, but there is lines drug gangs were arrested by 6 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 50 - 2019 Lilford Hall is listed on At Risk Register the house and provide visitors scheme. We believe our proposal with an opportunity to experience will result in significant visitor Alfie Peterson tion by relevant professionals. If a Sir Thomas Tresham’s garden growth.” One of the county’s greatest pri- proposed schedule of urgent work landscape in the sequence that he The main attraction at Lyveden vate houses, Lilford Hall has been is not carried out, under section intended, with mown paths leading is Lyveden New Bield, which was listed on Historic England’s At Risk 54 of the Listed Buildings Act, the up to Lyveden New Bield. originally planned to be an Eliz- Register. Secretary of State can give Historic Ian Cooper, who was speaking abethan summer house designed “The roof covering is in poor England the authority to carry out for the National Trust at a council to reflect his Catholic faith. When condition leading to water ingress the works, and the local authority planning meeting in January said: Tresham died in 1605, the building and distress to the upper storeys. may require the owner to pay the The front bays require structural costs. attention. A schedule of urgent East Northamptonshire Coun- repairs has been identified but not cil said they had not served any implemented, and no long-term notices under section 54 in the last solution has been agreed.” ten years. Originally built in 1635, the house has undergone many ad- Lyveden Manor ditions and alterations over the centuries. Located near Pilton, expands visitor attractions south of Oundle, The grade 1 listed stately home has over one hundred Alfie Peterson rooms of historical relevance and Lyveden Manor, near Oundle, impressive architecture and sits in is set to become a visitor attraction 350 acres of parkland. The estate’s after it has undergone extensive website has had extensive plans for renovation to restore its most restoration projects for a number of important rooms. The manor, built “Lyveden has a rare and impor- work stopped, and was abandoned years. The website's photo gallery by the Tresham family in 1570, was tant Elizabethan garden created by after his son was involved in the shows images of inhabited stately owned privately until 2013, when Thomas Tresham as an expression Gunpowder Plot. The manor re- rooms, as well as rooms and corri- it was purchased by the National of his tastes and Catholicism. It mained in the Tresham family until dors in advanced stages of decay. Trust. gives visitors today a unique expe- 1649. Locally, Barnwell Castle is also New visitor facilities will include rience. More than 34,000 people visit listed on the At Risk Register. a shop and cafe at the manor, as “Our proposals are informed Lyveden New Bield annually. The If Historic England has concerns well as parking, in order to protect by extensive research into the National Trust has a fundraising about the state of a listed building, the upper gardens and Lyveden manor. We will reinstate the great project to raise £1 million for it can send a letter to an owner New Bield. chamber on the first floor and we enhancements and improvements. requesting a site visit for inspec- The Trust plans to renovate have worked hard to design a new

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Tel 01832 274732 woodfordandco.com [email protected] ISSUE 50 - 2019 Oundle Chronicle 7 Fotheringhay church restored to glory

Lily Wolfson necessary skills to bring the church This summer you may want back from the brink. to head to Fotheringhay. There’s To celebrate the completion of a good pub at the Falcon Inn for the project, on 25th May there will food and drink, wonderful walks be a concert of early English down to the river, a castle site from music with James Parsons on organ, where Shakespeare’s most evil, but introduced by the famous historian most seductive English monarch, David Starkey. King Richard III, ruled the land, In Fotheringhay, a great and now a fully renovated, historic mediaeval King of England was church, which has been unveiled born, and Mary Queen of Scots, a after a five year, £1.7million resto- beautiful and dangerous Queen, ration project. was executed.

Foxtail Lily on South Road will be hosting a Creatives Spring Market on Sunday 12 May, 11am-4pm. Featuring artists showcasing their work, there will also be lunches, cake, coffee, live music, and of course, flowers and plants. Oundle Post Office reopens in Market Place

The structure and fabric of the Enjoy the village, church, coun- Church of Saint Mary and All tryside and castle site and think Saints had been threatened by back across centuries to the stories devastating damage from long- these stones have seen. When it is term decay and neglect. so easy to see disappointment and But an appeal led by Lady disarray all around, how wonderful Victoria Leatham gathered gener- to be able to marvel at this success- ous donations big and small, and ful modern story of renovation and with persuasion, community activ- renewal. ism and drive she put together the The Post Office is now located at the Oundle Pharmacy in the Marketlace P Erica Pascoe the banks and building societies Barnwell village community group rallies The Post Office officially moved combined. Ninety-seven percent of to its new location at the Oundle Post Office branches are run with to save shop and post office services Pharmacy in the Market Place on retail partners on an agency or fran- Amid plans for the sale of their to convert the premises to residen- 8 May. The premises underwent chise basis. village shop, Barnwell residents tial use. complete refurbishment, trans- As well as a new retail environ- have formed the Barnwell Village At a parish council meeting last forming the space to accommodate ment, longer opening hours are a Shop Community Group to inves- year, ENC Councillor Geoff Shack- the new post office business. new strategy for this programme. tigate the feasibility of supporting, lock said: “It is sad that the Post The new branch has a wide door The new Post Office opening hours developing and sustaining a com- Office may close after a two-and-a- and threshold strip at the entrance, are Monday to Friday 9am-6pm munity facility providing goods half year successful fight to keep it an internal hearing loop and space and Saturday 9am-1pm. The extra and services for the people of Barn- open.” for wheelchair users. There is also eleven and a half hours a week, well and neighbouring villages. He had spoken to MP Tom time-restricted roadside parking which now include Wednesday af- The Barnwell Village Store and Pursglove who said that the own- available. ternoons, allow more flexibility and Post Office has been listed for sale ers would need to give six months’ Kam and Mick Patel had run the convenience for customers. at £500,000. Established for over 50 notice to The Post Office of their former post office and shop with The Post Office services are years, it offers groceries, post office intention to close. their father Rashik since 1987. Kam provided from two counters and services, and is licenced to sell The community group plan to will be staying on to work behind the same range of products and alcohol. continue to support the owners the counter at the new post office services are still available. Services Although the shop is currently and explore opportunities for the with a new member of staff, and include bill payment, cash with- open for limited hours, it records a continued operation of the village the owner of the Pharmacy will drawals and foreign currency, post- turnover of £200K, alongside a post shop. serve as postmaster. age, home shopping collections and office salary of £5K. They are meeting with a repre- The move was part of a major returns, and customers of main UK The current owners plan to sentative from East Northampton- programme across the Post Office banks can still access accounts. remain in the village, living in the shire Council on funding opportu- network to modernise branches The Patel family said they have private quarters above the shop. If nities, and researching other rural and make it easier for customers enjoyed looking after people in they do not find a buyer, they may community sustainable projects to do business. With over 11,500 Oundle, and will retain the existing close the post office and open the that successfully provide services to branches, the Post Office network shop on New Street for the foresee- shop for half days. the community. is the biggest retail network in the able future. It may also be possible for them UK. It has more branches than all 8 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 50 - 2019 Inspiring music and theatre at International Festival Food Festival

Johnny Capstick-Dale on 22 June The Oundle International Festi- The annual Oundle Food val returns for its 35th year this July Festival will yet again be offering with a diverse programme. its vibrant street market stalls and The festival opens on the 4th of entertainment on Saturday July with a Scottish reeling event 22 June from 9am to 4pm. jointly hosted by the Oundle Festi- One of the most popular dates val Fringe who will be running free in the festival diary, over 75 of the events throughout the ten day festi- region’s finest independent food val. For folk lovers Kathryn Tickell and drink producers will gather and her band The Darkening de- in the town centre, with addition- liver some Northumbrian songs as al events and offers from local well as more contemporary music, businesses. while Ronnie Scotts’ All Stars are Alongside the food stalls will returning for a jazz evening after be family entertainment, includ- their sell out concert two years ago. ing circus skills performers, music Classical music fans can look and dance. forward to Alec Hone and Quen- A Park & Ride service provid- tin Thomas duelling it out on two ed by Oundle School will ferry grand pianos. Jamie McVinnie Royal Academy of Music, Bo Lyu, be hosting their sixth Music in the people from the Oundle Wharf, launches his Big Bach Project, Yoanna Prodanova and Mihai Park, featuring brass bands. The home of Festival Sponsors AGA aiming to play all Bach’s pieces Ritivoiu will perform on piano and Oundle Peace Games on Sunday Oundle and Hambleton Bakery. for keyboards over five years. The cello. will recreate the celebrations of Bach Walk always sells out early. Shakespeare’s Much Ado About 1919 on the Cricket Grounds. It features two concerts, broken by Nothing is performed by The The Party at the Wharf rounds supper and a gentle walk through Handlebards, a touring company off the festival supported by local the Oundle countryside. who will arrive with all props and bands Likuid Lemon and Acoustic Five lunchtime recitals will costumes on bicycles and deliver Supper Club. Funk Soul Brother feature exciting new talent, includ- their performance in front of the promise iconic songs from James ing Oundle’s 2018 Young Musician Elizabethan Lyveden New Bield. Brown, Stevie Wonder and Aretha of the Year, George Garnett, and David Walliams’ bestseller Gan- Franklin, followed by the headline former Oundle pupil Bethany Peck, sta Granny is adapted by Heart- act ABBAMANIA. Food and drink currently Principle Trombone for break Productions in another out- stalls will make it a merry occasion. the City of Cardiff Championship door theatre experience, this time Tickets are on sale at the Oundle Brass Band. Musicians from the in Barnwell Park. Barnwell will also Box Office, on New Street.

Hambleton Bakery proud sponsors of the Oundle Food Festival 2019 BAKERY SHOP : Oundle Wharf PE8 4DE Tel 01832 358529 Open Mon-Sat 8-5pm ISSUE 50 - 2019 Oundle Chronicle 9

WWI centenary commemorations celebrate Local pubs change hands the peace with day of fun and games Tom Pilsbury Water polo, tugs-of-war and Giorgio Capuzzello important hub for the community. After five years of commemo- crocodile races which had been According to the latest industry With new benches for the green, rations honouring the memory of arranged for the afternoon were figures, 18 pubs a week are closing a new menu to include bespoke those who died in the First World abandoned as a result of the rain. in Britain. This hit close to home picnics, tapas, fine dining, catering War 100 years ago, Oundle will be A house fancy dress procession when two of the area’s most popu- for functions and beer festivals, the reviving a celebration of peace. was organized, as well as sing- lar local pubs closed unexpectedly pub will once again live up to its One hundred years ago, Britain songs and dances. In the evening, earlier this year. popular reputation. observed the end of the Great War school employees were able to Pub patrons were surprised The King’s Head in Wadenhoe in which six million British men dance inside the Great Hall instead and disappointed to learn that the dates to the seventeenth century were mobilized and 700,000 men of the drenched field. King’s Head in Wadenhoe and the and enjoys a sprawling garden that killed. The entire nation had been The fireworks display on the Chequered Skipper in Ashton both rolls down to the river, with tables invested in the war, including those fields started at 10.15pm and was closed within weeks of each other. overlooking the boats as they pass residents of Oundle who fought for described as “really excellent” and The Chequered Skipper was by. The setting is so beautiful that a favourite local pub, with high it has been described as the best quality food, welcoming staff, and situated pub in England. It had col- a great atmosphere. The previous lected over 100 five star reviews on licensee, Kay Hague told the Facebook, making it one of the best Chronicle in February: “Sadly, the pubs in the area. summer was not as profitable as we After the journalist Simon Hog- had hoped. We had an unfortunate gart attended the Oundle Festival of situation with the green, which was Literature in 2007, he wrote about closed for a while whilst benches his visit to the pub in his Guardian were being made safe, and that lost column: “We sat in the sun in what the business a bit of momentum at must be one of the most idyllic set- a critical time. tings in the country. It was another “We do believe it can be a reminder that there are still some successful business in the future gorgeous, unspoilt places left here.” and wish any future owners every The owners of the pub, the success and encourage the local Wadenhoe Trust could not offer community to support this wonder- any information about the closure. ful pub.” They have instructed King West to The good news for pub patrons advertise for a new tenant. is that the Chequered Skipper The Wadenhoe Parish Council quickly found new owners and reported: “The Kings Arms pub has opened in early May. Paul Andreff ceased to trade and the Trust hope and April Mccully, two entrepre- to locate a new tenant to run it. As neurs who have been living in long as it runs satisfactorily the the village for more than eleven Trust will keep the pub open.” years, are excited about reviving an

An original poster for the 1919 Peace Celebrations their country. “thoroughly enjoyed”, despite the To celebrate the signing of the rainfall. Treaty of Versailles in 1919, Oundle “Sincerest thanks” were sent to observed two celebration days, one the headmaster for his “kindness” organized by Oundle School and in providing a very enjoyable and the other by the town. successful program. The band was In May 1919, Oundle School or- also thanked for their resilience ganized a Peace Day along Milton in continuing to play throughout Road for employees and pupils. An the day “under extremely adverse account from The Laxtonian de- weather conditions”. scribes a festive occasion, consider- The Oundle Peace Celebrations The Checquered Skipper in Ashton has reopened with new ably dampened by very bad weath- organised by the town were held owners, to the relief of its many loyal patrons in the community er. A service of thanksgiving was on Saturday 19th July 1919 on held in the Market Place, followed the cricket ground. There are no a skipping rope race, a tug of war, a races and events recreating the cele- by a procession. The town was written records about the actual sack race, egg and spoon race, bob- brations from 1919. The events will decorated with bunting and flags, day, but the advertised program bing for oranges and a victory race. also include music from Yarwell as was the entrance to the activity of sport, entertainment and games To commemorate the historic and Nassington Brass Band and field along Milton Road. was extensive, and included a fancy celebrations, there will be a rec- Oundle Fringe, alongside food and The cricket match started just af- dress parade, a leap-frog race, reation of these Peace Games on drink stalls. ter noon, but had to be abandoned climbing the greased pole, a driving Sunday 7 July at 11:00am. As plans for the event continue late in the afternoon due to very competition and musical chairs on The Peace Games will feature to grow and evolve, people are heavy rain. The London Fire Bri- cycles. Other activities included; a egg and spoon, sack races, musical encouraged to check the Festival gade Band provided entertainment. decorated cycle parade, a flat race, chairs on bicycles and many other website for updates. 10 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 50 - 2019 of this year, thrown into roadside Changemakers offers Countryside litter pick bags tons of refuse hedges. “Litter is an emotive subject – it adventure opportunities Johnny Capstick-Dale A total of 64 bags of rubbish and is difficult to understand why peo- The country engaged in a mass recyclables was collected, as well as ple toss it so thoughtlessly and it is for young urban pupils litter pick between 22 March and 23 8 tyres, 7 hubcaps, a car seat, parts a shame we have to arrange litter Grace Maund April, collecting over 600,000 bags of a sofa, a couple of roadwork picks to tidy up their mess,” said Changemakers, a new summer of litter as part of the Keep Britain signs and a significant amount of Camilla Sherwin, one of the organ- holiday programme for urban Tidy campaign. building rubbish. isers of the Tansor litter pick. children will offer a fun summer East Northamptonshire towns Unusual items included a pair “Litter is a demonstration of a experience in an exciting weeklong bigger issue - a lack of regard for programme of outdoor activities in the environment as well as recycla- the Peak District, where they will ble materials and resources stay at the Outward Bound Trust which mankind is using up much Ullswater Centre. more quickly than they are being Twelve Oundle School pupils replaced.” and four teachers from Oundle and Peterborough School will take twenty-four children to the Lake Transition Oundle District this summer. The children will do activities such as caving, introduces OWL, a water sports, expeditions, climbing, sailing and hill walking at "Waste Less" initiative Ullswater. Everyone involved is committed to raising £300 to £400 each to help Lily Wolfson fund the project. Students at Climate change activism has Oundle School did a sponsored never been so dominant in the walk at Grafham Water to raise media. Protesters gluing them- £3000 for the programme. Other selves to the Parliament viewing events included a charity football The litter pick in Tansor found heaps of debris that was spoiling the countryside platform during a Common’s tournament, a film night at the Debate was just one example of and villages did their bit, with of tights, a stash of pornography Stahl Theatre and a club night. Climate Action happening across over 20 litter picks and tidy-ups found under a hedge, part of a The biggest initiative was a the globe. arranged by local communities, truck’s suspension and a stolen fashion show in March. Pupils From Greta Thurnberg, the supported by East Northampton- wallet which was returned to its modelled clothes from a variety of 16-year-old Swedish Activist, to shire District Council who supplied Oundle owner. brands, from La Lhama to Brora, Extinction Rebellion bringing equipment and took away what Wet wipes (which, contrary to and were accompanied by musical London to a halt, climate change was collected. popular belief, do not biodegrade) acts. It was a huge success, and is drawing attention like never As part of the campaign, many and food packaging continue to be raised £7500. before. And for good reason. Tansor volunteers of all ages were the main sources of litter. The children who have been In the words of Greta Thurn- equipped with kit, split into groups Additionally regular litter pick- invited to attend the holiday are berg, “Our house is on fire” – cli- and allocated stretches of road and ers from the village estimate they from diverse backgrounds, with mate change is real. But what can footpath around the village and have collected over 300 empty red many from families who come from be done against these impending beside the A605. wine bottles since the beginning countries where English is not their threats? Lots. People are turning first language. Some have special up in droves to fight it. Oundle is educational needs, and they are too. all eligible for free school meals. The UK currently consumes The Head of Year 5 at Gladstone resources at three times the rate Primary School, a former Oundle with which they are being regen- School pupil, has chosen a group of erated or replaced. So rather than children for the holiday who would looking across the globe, let us otherwise not have such an oppor- start where we can make a differ- An inspiring independent co-educational day tunity. ence. Oundle School was chosen by school for children aged 4-11 years. A vast amount of change can the Outward Bound Trust for this be and is being achieved on a project to initiate a partnership national level and at a local level model between a public school and too. Transition Oundle is a local a local primary school. The model voluntary organisation planning will be replicated by other inde- to make a difference through its pendent schools to offer a range of project, OWL – Oundle Waste opportunities for young, Less. under-privileged children. Their policies centre around the mantra: reduce, reuse, recycle. Un- der their OWL project, Transition Oundle will work with the Town Council, local businesses, schools, and homeowners in and around Oundle to endorse a wiser use of resources and extend the life of products via repair and reuse. OPEN MORNING Call or email Ms Lesley Taylor, Registrar Multiple Repair Cafes are in T: 01832 277159 9.30am – 11.30am the diary, the first being on the 13 E: [email protected] Friday 4th October 2019 July at Fletton House. This project www.laxtonjunior.org.uk aims to help local businesses to increase resourcefulness and reduce waste. outwardbound.org.uk ISSUE 50 - 2019 Oundle Chronicle 11 Peregrine falcon retains perch Government agrees it is past time to ditch plastic Lily Hunter to polythene bags, in particular The issue of packaging waste using a form of paper packaging.” remains an ongoing concern. In Locally, in Oundle, the taxes fact, the urgent need for a solution apply to shops such as Tesco, The has increased just over the last few Co-op and Waitrose, which has years. also entirely eliminated disposable A 5p levy on plastic bags distrib- cups. Beans Coffee Stop has been uted at large retailers was intro- aware of the issues surrounding duced in 2015, and the Government packaging for a while and has been is now looking at extending this using fully recyclable cups for over to all retailers, and increasing the a year. charge to 10p. A recent study has shown the Sandwich packaging will also plastics levy to be effective. There be hit with a levy. This particu- was a thirty percent drop in the lar packaging is one of the least number of plastic bags found on recyclable as it includes bonded the ocean floor after the levy was materials and the combination of first introduced for single-use cardboard glued to plastic makes it plastic shopping bags. Another impossible to recycle. study shows that the actual use of The new tax, which is predicted plastic bags has been reduced by to add 15p to the cost of a pack, is nearly ninety percent. necessary to reduce use of bonded Retailers may choose how the materials, and also aims to have use the funds collected from each online retailers and home delivery bag and many donate those funds services such as Deliveroo and Am- to environmental causes. Over the azon pay the cost of dealing with next ten years, an estimated £730 packaging. According to research million will be raised for good by British Sandwich and Food to causes, with £60 million saved in Go Association, around four billion litter clean-up costs. The UK econ- sandwiches are sold every year. omy will gain an overall benefit of Newspapers are also reviewing over £780 million. their packaging. The Guardian is The UK’s target for 2020 is for the first national newspaper to stop at least fifty percent of household using polythene wrappers for its waste to be recycled. The current weekend paper, and has introduced recycling rate for England is for- Richard Chandler a compostable wrapper made from ty-five percent. St Peter's peregrine falcon has attracted male companions to join her on the spire, potato starch, even though this will While changes are being made but it remains unclear whether she will lay eggs and nest increase its production costs. by major companies to make recy- Other newspapers are follow- cling easier, individuals must also Erica Pascoe The most popular prey turned ing by example. A spokesman for make an effort to put the environ- The peregrine falcon, now out to be a redwing. Noah Wood the Mail on Sunday said: “We are ment, not convenience, first. identified as a mature female, has said: “This suggests it is hunting actively investigating an alternative continued to hold its territory on down by the river mainly, and the spire of St Peter’s since it was quite probably, in the dark or return; hatching females are larger first spotted in November. Plumage half-light. Birds like woodcock are and stronger in birds of prey and Oundle retains status as details such as a streaked throat nocturnal, flying down to the river usually more dominant. Fair Trade town and upper breast show that the bird to feed at dusk and returning to The peregrine falcons usually Grace Maund is a female. woodland at dawn. She certainly breed on a shallow scrape when on Oundle’s status as a Fairtrade Richard Chandler, a resident in seems to be feeding mainly first a cliff or quarry, but on a building, Town was renewed for a further Oundle, has climbed the church thing in the morning and then they tend to lay their eggs on a flat two years by the Fairtrade Foun- tower to retrieve the bird’s half-eat- roosts for most of the day thereaf- surface about the size of a tray with dation after a successful bid by the en prey and has found a diverse ter.” raised edges to protect them. Some Oundle Fairtrade Town Steering range of different bird species. A second bird, presumed to be buildings use nest-trays to encour- Group. Originally thought to just be pi- a male from its un-streaked throat age breeding. There are some flat Many shops, community organ- geons, there were actually com- and upper breast was occasionally sites on the top of the castellated isations and businesses now sell mon teals, lapwings, woodcocks, seen until the start of April with the corners of the parapet on St Peter’s or use Fairtrade products, and the black-headed gulls, white feral female bird perched side-by-side. spire which could be useful. annual Fairtrade and Eco Market pigeons, fieldfares, a golden plover, He was smaller and darker than the Because of concerns that the held each November in St Peter’s a common snipe, and a potential female and had a ring on his leg. falcon might breed and nest on the Church is very popular. blackbird. At the beginning of April, a spire, the work on the clock dial The support of Fairtrade means He said: “The female has been second male with no rings on either has been postponed. Peregrines are that more farmers in the develop- seen on most days since the initial leg appeared almost daily. There a Schedule 1 listed species of The ing world can receive a fair deal sighting. It appears to catch a prey was interaction between the female, Wildlife and Countryside Act and and start to earn their way out of item approximately on alternate including calling, and potential cannot be disturbed once they lay poverty. days, most often early in the morn- mating was seen on two or three eggs. Fairtrade Fortnight ran this year ing. It uses the small platforms on occasions. “He knows she is here, For some churches, falcons have from 25th February to 10th March. the top point of the four lowest but it is a matter of whether he threatened costly delays in ur- The theme was Ready, Steady, Co- windows on the spire on which to decides to return and try to set up gently required restoration work. coa, with a focus on cocoa farmers pluck and eat its prey. It also leaves a territory/mate with her; this is At St Botolph’s Church in Boston, in West Africa who struggle to earn items on these platforms to which anyone’s guess and may well not Lincolnshire, a pair of peregrine fal- a living income. it sometimes returns to continue happen,” said Mr Chandler. cons had been nesting in the tower The campaign sought to high- feeding. After feeding it usually Breeding usually occurs in since 2014. They were encouraged light concerns that UK trade with moves to a perch towards the top of late March, with eggs laid in May to move home to enable the start of developing countries puts poverty the spire where it sits for extended depending on the weather. It is un- a renovation project to preserve the reduction first and delivers living periods, preening periodically.” certain whether the male bird will 15th century steeple. incomes for all, especially women. 12 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 50 - 2019 Summer swimming warnings about Setting out poisoned Letterbox design river bourne Weil's disease pest control is lethal and placement Erica Pascoe As warm weather starts to under review Tom Pilsbury contact with infected animal urine, bring pests from rats to slugs into Patrick Boyle As warm weather approaches, mainly from rodents, cattle or pigs, gardens, residents are urgently Amidst a political climate mired swimmers and rowers are being generally in contaminated water. It being advised to be cautious about in division and conflict, the plight warned to take precautions before typically enters the body through setting out poisons. Huge problems of the postmen and women of this they enter local rivers to avoid cuts or scrapes, or the lining of the occur when household pets such country has emerged from the cav- being infected. nose, mouth, throat or eyes. Only as cats and dogs eat a dead animal erns of parliamentary debate. a very few patients experience that has been infected with poison. The issue regards the adoption the severe, life-threatening illness One resident in Aldwinkle of an EU building standard which known as Weil's disease, thought reported finding several dead mice requires new letterboxes to be to kill two or three people a year in and wild birds due to poisoning, installed at a height between 70cm Britain. and raised concerns about the (2ft 3.5ins) and 170cm (5ft 7ins). In most cases of leptospirosis, danger to domestic pets. “This The Communication Work- symptoms will be relatively mild, type of incorrect and irresponsible ers Union (CWU) who represent and may include: fever, chills, mus- use of poison, baiting food, is a postmen and women in the UK has cle aches, headaches, cough, nau- reportable offence in breach of the been campaigning for change in the sea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Animal Welfare Act. This is because letterbox laws since 1958, citing not In extreme cases, symptoms can the poison used has crossed to kill only the health risks of consistent include; yellow skin and eyes (jaun- another species feeding on the poi- over-stretching to low level letter- dice), swollen ankles, chest pain, soned bait, namely wild birds. In boxes, but also to the risk of being shortness of breath and coughing addition, it threatens the health of bitten by dogs if letterboxes are too up blood. other species, such as dogs and the low down. The CWU have often If you know you may come into cats,” he said. cited the success of the Irish Gov- Last summer, Prince William contact with untreated water such It is important to note that pest ernment’s implementation of this School reported that one of their as flood waters, canals, ponds and control is best carried out by li- EU building standard. The Irish pupils who regularly swam in “The rivers you can reduce the risk of censed and trained professionals. letterbox regulations took effect Bowl” was suspected of having infection by covering any open The Barn Owl Trust states that from January 2001 and only applied contracted Weil’s disease. The Bowl wounds such as cuts and scratch- “sustainable control can only be to new houses. is an area of the River Nene locat- es with waterproof plasters, wash achieved by reducing the rodent Conservative MP Nicky Morgan ed across the fields from Riverside thoroughly and as soon as possible carrying capacity of the environ- has been the main political advo- Close. after leaving the water. ment”. This includes removing cate for the adoption of this legis- While outdoor swimming has its Weil’s disease is only one of a food and cleaning areas where rats lation and has said that it is a “key obvious dangers, some of the most number of water borne diseases might build nests, or using natural issue”. The Royal Mail reported severe lie in the unseen bacteria found along the River Nene and barriers to deter slugs. They advise 16,800 health-related absences due - Leptospira, which can lead to the River Cam; Cryptosporidiosis, that “poisons should only be used to due back-injuries last year. Leptospirosis, otherwise known in Escherichia coli and swimmer’s ear as a very last resort”. The Oundle Chronicle is deliv- its severe form as Weil's disease. are other infections and parasites The Pet Health Network has ered to nearly 3000 homes across The infection is caught through that can have deadly side effects. also flagged the dangers of poisons Oundle, and its deliverers report to dogs and cats. A type of mouse that the placement of letterboxes, as poison commonly used often affects well as certain designs, do make the The German government offers a dog’s ability to clot properly. delivery of items difficult. Symptoms can include lethargy This legislative proposal could reparations to survivors of Kindertransport and vomiting. be viewed as a clear example of the Jerry Li application for reparation. The governement warns that EU over-reaching, quite literally, After years of negotiating with The announcement of the com- residents can be fined or impris- into our homes, and might raise a US-based compensation lobbying pensation marked the 80th anniver- oned if they cause unnecessary criticism from staunch Brexiteers. group, the German government has sary of the evacuation in December harm to any animal. Local councils However, with over 30 million agreed to make a one-off payment 1938. Prior to the beginning of the do not have enforcement respon- postal addresses that receive daily to Jewish survivors who were evac- Second World War, many in this sibilities, but residents can call the deliveries, and with a government uated on the Kindertransport train country had sensed the ominous Wildlife Incident Investigation commitment for the further to Britain. fate of the Jewish population in Scheme if there is a suspician that expansion of house-building, it central Europe. The Kindertrans- an animal has been poisoned. does not seem unreasonable to port project was initiated in order Assistance for pet owners who ensure that developers pay more to bring Jewish children to Britain suspect their pet has been poisoned attention to the design and location to save them from further persecu- can be found from Oundle & of letterboxes. tion. Thrapston Veterinary Surgery. Nearly 10,000 children left Nazi Germany, Austria, Czechoslova- at a grammar school. She decided Jewish property, and demanding kia and Poland on special trains to stay in England when her father, reparations. and successfully reached Britain who had survived three concen- The mission of the organisation where they were placed in British tration camps during the war, took is to do justice to the Holocaust vic- foster homes, hostels, schools and her sister with him to America. She tims and to afford them care. Since farms. Although they escaped the never saw her grandparents again. 1952, the liaison with the German atrocities of the Holocaust, many of Mrs Walker went on to marry, train government had yielded more than their families who were left behind as a nurse, and has remained in $70 billion to more than 800,000 perished. England until this day. victims. Mrs Ursula Walker arrived in The Conference on Jewish Ma- They negotiate for justice, Oundle resident Ursula Walker England in 1938 at the age of eight, terial Claims Against Germany, a “knowing that no amount of mon- is a survivor of the Kindertransport, leaving her father and grandpar- New York-based group pushing for ey will give them back their youth, and was featured in the Oundle ents behind in Berlin. She and her increased compensation for victims their health or those family mem- Chronicle in 2018. The Chronicle sister were housed with different of the Nazis, has been engaging bers who were murdered by the assisted her in making an families in Cheshire and educated the German government to reclaim Nazis”. ISSUE 50 - 2019 Oundle Chronicle 13 New Oxfam Music and Book shop North Shoes is named top ladies independent retailer Grace Maund Amazon. Specialist or antiquarian Patrick Boyle such a lot to be voted the best by Oxfam’s new Books and Music books are also listed on Oxfam’s North Shoes, a local fifth-genera- your industry peers and suppliers. shop was opened on Thursday, online shop. tion shoe retailer, was named ladies “I didn’t think we’d win because April 18 by Oxfam Oundle's long- Ms Robinson has already re- independent footwear retailer we’ve had so much success in the est serving volunteer of 35 years, cruited more than 20 volunteers of the Year at the 2019 Footwear eight years of the awards and I Sheila Mills, who cut the ribbon at for the new shop, but there are still Industry Awards at Birmingham’s didn’t think it possible that we’d do the opening ceremony. plenty of volunteer role vacancies National Conference Centre in it again – but I’m delighted that our The new shop is located along- February. passion for a good fitting service Managing director James North and customer care has been recog- is the fifth generation at the head nised in this way. of the company, first established in In addition to their store in Bourne in 1876. Oundle, North Shoes also has He said: “It’s so good to win the branches in Bourne, Stamford, ladies independent retailer award. Cambridge and Lincoln. We won it in 2013 and it means

Stephanie Robinson is the new manager of Oxfam's book shop side the existing Oxfam Fashion to apply for. and Homeware shop in West Street. Since the books have moved out Shop manager Stephanie Robin- of the original Oxfam shop, man- son has been working with volun- ager Kay Waddell has taken advan- James North (centre) displays the award for ladies independent retailer of the year teers to organise the stock. Brightly tage of the extra space to reorganise painted in Oxfam’s zesty green, the the merchandise. She has increased Behind the scenes, it makes more Tennis Club welcomes shop is lined with shelves of high display for homewares and created than 6750 paper deliveries per week quality books, vinyl and music new areas for men’s clothes, linens to Oundle and local villages such as new players and CDs. Stock is rotated every four and a children’s section. And cus- Elton, Warmington and Polebrook. The shop has 15 employees: members at open day weeks to refresh the selection, and tomers have noticed. “Takings are Archie Parkinson is priced to be cheaper than up £500 a week,” she said. seven staff work in the shop and eight backroom packers and deliv- On Sunday 19 May from 10am- ery drivers. On top of this, 20 boys 3.00pm the Oundle Tennis Club Oundle News business changes hands and girls help with the deliveries. is hosting a free open day when The changing retail landscape experienced or aspiring players of market towns and high streets can find out about the club, meet has at times presented challenges to some current members and find out news agents. about the benefits of membership. When Waitrose opened on the The Oundle Tennis Club is locat- edge of town in 2014, its loyalty ed on Occupation Road next to the scheme offered a free newspaper to Bowls and Rugby clubs, and boasts shoppers who spent more than £10, five floodlit hard courts and excel- raising objections from newsagents lent facilities. across the country who worried The weekly schedule includes about how the free offer would regular club sessions, a strong impact their own sales. coaching programme for players For Oundle News, having Tesco of all ages and abilities, junior and in the Market Place has helped senior club competitions, as well as maintain footfall in the centre of team competitions in local leagues. town and the business has been There are opportunities to play able to continue to offer an essential throughout the year. Members can service for the residents of Oundle also book courts to play in their and surrounding villages. own time and are welcome to invite Mr Cant and co-owner Debbie guests to join them for a small fee. Cant plan to remain in Oundle, but “As well as being great exercise, Chris Cant was a big supporter of the Oundle Chronicle, helping to promote and tennis is an enjoyable sport which distribute the paper (photographed here for the Chronicle back page in 2010) after years of beginning the work day at 4am, Mr Cant is looking is accessible to all,” said Jason At- Lily Hunter and Hannah Wakeford Oundle News is a core business forward to retirement. kinson, Club Chairman. After 18 years at the helm of in the Market Place, selling not only “I plan to put a sledgehammer “The Open Day is an easy way Oundle News, in March, Chris a huge range of magazines and through the alarm clock, take more to find out about the club and meet Cant passed on the business to new newspapers, but also a variety of than four days off in a row, and see some current members. If you can’t owner, Mr Niranjanan from Letch- goods from gifts and cards to bread more of the world”. make it, contact us to arrange a trial worth. and confectionary. session.” 14 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 50 - 2019 personal side. She also runs two tattoo parlours in Corby and Tow- Ways to help tackle The Greedy Piglet hits the spot cester, and a car garage which does MOTs. loneliness Hannah Wakeford and Lily Hunter acquired the café by "being in The café is her first venture in Lily Wolfson The Greedy Piglet at the top of the right place at the right time”. Oundle, where she cuts a distinc- Being lonely is not the same as North Street is Oundle’s newest Oundle’s Greedy Piglet is a sweeter tive look, and has already proved to being alone. You can feel lonely in a café, distinctive with its adorable recreation of that first café for her be a popular destination. “Business room full of people. You can live in sign inspired by the owner’s young loyal customers. has been manic,” said Ms Dixon, a house packed with family but still daughter. Ms Dixon is a “businesswoman “and surprisingly busy right from feel lonely. It is a feeling, described the start.” by sufferers as “a wave of emotions The café has been refurbished separating you from the rest of the in a relaxed and trendy style. New world”. comfy booths offer privacy, and the In our world, someone who exposed beam and brick walls are is “lonely” is often depicted as- artfully hung with BMX bikes in someone physically isolated from tribute to her husband who used to the world, staring out into space, race bikes. Outside tables are per- cut off from society. But what if fectly positioned for catching the that same lonely person was your sun right through the afternoon neighbour? And what if you could The Greedy Piglet’s menu is do something to help? The best and reassuringly familiar, featuring a easiest way to help someone who is range of choices at very reasonable lonely is to talk to them. prices. Starting at 7.00am, the café’s So that’s why I invite you all to all-day breakfast is very popular. get involved in the #HelloNeigh- For lunch they serve quiches, bour Challenge. The initiative was jacket potatoes, salads, sandwiches, launched by the Nextdoor neigh- breakfast subs and burgers. The bourhood watch website, but you emphasis is on good food. There do not need to subscribe to the app Owner Naomi Dixin and manager Rica Neale is also complementary tea or or follow a hashtag to embrace its Many of Naomi Dixon’s at heart” and originally got into the coffee with breakfast. Naturally purpose. customers are already regular catering business after acquiring a this attracts builders, who enjoy Taking on this challenge in- patrons of her Greedy Pig cafe in friend’s cafe. She was surprised by the hearty helpings before or after volves a commitment to spend one Corby. They were the ones who how she fell in love with the busi- work. hour a week until the end of the encouraged her to set up in Oundle ness of serving food; being a very They will also soon start to host year helping a neighbour. Whether closer to where they work, and approachable and social person, events such as gin, ale and music this involves inviting them over they promised to follow her. She she enjoys both the business and nights, as well as open mic nights. for a cup of tea, or accompanying them for a turn around Oundle. A simple conversation with someone could make the difference between Community a good and a bad day. In Oundle we are fortunate to Impact Award for have a welcoming community hub at No. 1 St Osyth’s Lane. They hold multiple drop in groups during Air Ambulance the week, all aimed at helping the Grace Maund community and reducing isolation In December the Oundle branch for local residents. Some fixed dates For all your household supplies and year-round gifts. of the Air Ambulance Charity for the diary are the monthly men's Shop received the Community breakfast (second Saturday of Impact Award 2018 from the Air each month) or dads and tots (first Ambulance Service for its work in Saturday of each month), the fort- the community. nightly StitChat, or weekly Tuesday There are 28 charity shops in the Toddlers and Thursday market day five county region served by the Air Drop In. There is no charge for any Ambulance. The Oundle shop has of these activities. been open since July 2015 and has I invite you all to take part in the hosted events such as the Oundle #HelloNeighbour Challenge. All Charity Rock Concert, the 2017 Air you need to do is go and say hi! Ambulance Christmas Fayre and Special Offers Now Available in Store! the Maltings Christmas Fair. We would like to thank all our customers for their The award’s citation said that Manager of the shop, Faith Ross, support over 25 years in Oundle. the shop was “constantly engaging said: “The award is due to the fabu- with the community resulting in lous team that has been interacting the valuable generation of clothing with the community and doing and monetary donations, and em- fundraising themselves. Much bracing new opportunities within of that fundraising doesn’t come the community”. through the shop itself, but comes One way the air ambulance ser- from community fundraising, so is vice has increased their shops’ reve- an example of community support- nue is by also selling their items via iveness.” their eBay store, allowing them to On 3 April the Golf Club hosted reach those who are unable to visit a fashion show organised by the shops in person. The shop has Diversity Boutique. With generous 36 Market Place a wide variety of products, ranging donations from local businesses, Oundle from clothes and jewellery to edu- the raffle raised £300 for the Air 01832 275414 cational books for children. Ambulance. ISSUE 50 - 2019 Oundle Chronicle 15 Oundle's jewel in the crown of shops offers treasured gems for life-long pleasure

millions of colours in it, and it be- music, but he still manages bands ing millions of years old, and I had and performs the odd gig, mostly it in my hand. How? That fascinat- for charity. Jewellery remains his ed me. I love it and I’ve never lost passion, that.” “I love what I do. My particu- His father had a friend who lar love is stones. I love to match was the chairman of the National stones, I enjoy that process. I have Association of Goldsmiths who put collections of stones that will make him in touch with the top people at your eyes pop.” Hatton Gardens to learn the jewel- Although he works with tradi- lery trade. tional pieces such as pearl strings “As a kid I was taken to Hatton and diamond settings, he takes Gardens, which is the world centre pride in his independent streak. for jewellery, so I became very fa- “I cater for those who want to be miliar early on with jewellery,” he a little bit different. What is fun for said. These connections helped him me is being able to recreate jewel- to train properly as a jeweller and lery for people into something they gemologist. love,” he said. At the same time, Nigel was “If you wanted to sum me up - if taught to play the drums by an- everybody comes out of a door and other friend of his father’s. When turns one way, even as a young kid, Nigel Hill developed his love of gems and jewellery from his father, who owned a he left school he went into music I would always go the other way. family business and encouraged his interest as a professional drummer in rock That’s just me, I’ve always been a bands and as a session player, rebel. So, I appeal to people who while at the same time maintain- have a little bit of that in them, too. Hannah Wakeford 1950 by Nigel’s father, Peter, and ing an active role in the jewellery “In fact one magazine called me It is hard not to stop in your his brother Ron. The first shop was business. the most eccentric jeweller in the tracks when passing by Harpur’s in Bedford and they expanded in He kept both careers going side- Midlands. I was a bit disappoint- window on West Street with its 1974, setting up another shop in by-side, working with his father ed with that, because it’s far, far changing display of glittering gems. Aspley Guise. Nigel took over the when not on tour, which worked wider.” Harpur’s has provided Oundle business in 1988, and came to Oun- well, and he loved both equally. Harpur’s stocks a dazzling col- with great quality jewellery since dle in 2002. But Nigel said the touring was lection of jewellery by a variety of 2002. The shop is run by Nigel Hill From the age of eight Nigel was exhausting, especially as he was a independent designers. Nigel also on the premises where, coincident- brought into the family business “heavy-duty drummer”. does valuations, repairs and takes ly, his father originally had another and learned about gems, jewellery “The music business is a young private design commissions. Har- business, ‘The Old Curiosity Shop’, and antiques. “I remember being man’s game. I don’t think I’d want pur’s is a proper treasure trove for which also sold jewellery and a kid and staring at a black opal to go on tour now as it’s gruelling”, gifts and indulgences that give life- antiques. and I couldn’t understand how this he said. long pleasure. It may just be that Harpur’s was established in happened. It’s so beautiful, having Nigel no longer tours with his jewel in the crown of Oundle. Animals and their owners are all welcome at Leo's Pet Shop Hannah Wakeford and Lily Hunter especially those who may have not This year is the 20th anniver- had pets before. sary of Leo's Pet Shop in Oundle, “I always have tissues behind making it one of the longest run- the counter for the worried pet ning businesses in town. The shop owners.” was opened by Maria Earl and has She also loves to meet her been run by her ever since. “They customers’ pets. “All animals are just can’t get rid of me!” welcome. We even had a cat in the A pet shop was always a nat- other day!” ural path for Mrs Earl, as she Her own dog usually provides had grown up with animals. Her faithful company in the shop parents bred dogs and she had throughout the long day, a five- an equestrian background. Her year-old rescue greyhound named first job involved collecting and Katie. Maria Earl runs Leo's Pet Shop alongside her rescue greyhound, Katie selling second-hand equestrian Raising funds for charity is an items, which led to her to open the important sideline in the shop and donated to the charity. Vintage Fair. Oundle shop in 1999 to sell horse over the years Mrs Earl has raised “Support Dogs UK take dogs out Mrs Earl’s family has been related merchandise. £8000 for Cancer Research via the of rescue centres and trains them to behind her throughout her career, Since then the shop has moved shop. help children with autism, and any- and she is very appreciative of her on from equestrian supplies, and To celebrate the shop’s 20th one with epilepsy or disabilities.” daughter Kara’s support. now sells a huge range of pet anniversary Maria has organised a Mrs Earl will be sponsoring Kara is immensely proud of her supplies across two floors for cats, charity dog walk on Sunday 12th Minta, a support dog that works mother’s success, and convinced dogs, all small animals and even May in partnership with Support with a young boy in Peterborough her of the need to mark her shop’s chickens. Dogs UK. Starting at the recreation with severe autism, making his life anniversary milestone. “How many For Maria the best part of her ground at 10am, it will follow a much safer. other people have been in town for work is talking about people’s pets four mile trail to nearby villages. Special offers during the month 20 years and run a business single and being able to help her custom- Entry and sponsorship forms are will help support the charity, as handedly?” ers with advice about care, available in the shop for £5, to be well as a tombola table at the 16 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 50 - 2019 Travel that dreams are made of Community Speed Watch out on patrol

Stella Simpson and Amelia Milne nities to explore, from the granite For anyone wanting to make islands where the rock formations their dream holiday destination meet powder white sands and clear a reality, Oundle Travel is able to seas, to the coral islands famed for recommend personalised holidays their natural jungle interior and for your perfect escape. This year, stunning reefs. they are suggesting the Seychelles, A trip to Curieuse Island Na- in the Indian Ocean. tional Park is the perfect place to An inherently remote destina- meet incredible giant tortoises as tion, the Seychelles are a unique they roam freely. The island is cluster of unspoilt tropical islands distinctive for its dense mangrove that offers perfect temperatures forest and giant granite cliffs. during the summer months. It is For foodies, the Creole cuisine a true castaway experience, from is renowned for its use of the finest a barefoot stroll along a beach, to local ingredients, including fresh snorkelling with rare ocean wild- coconut milk for curries, grilled fish life, and even trekking through the and fresh tropical fruits. Morne Seychelles National Park. Flights direct from Heathrow are Mahe is the largest of the 155 twelve hours, but the time differ- islands and is home to the capital ence is only four hours, and no Victoria. A leisurely drive around visas are required. This year’s first Community primary purpose is to remind this former British colony will take The Director of Oundle Travel, Speed Watch patrol went to people about speed limits. “It’s just over two hours, leaving enough Paula Cockroft recommends an Benefield Road to monitor vehicle really a gentle way to encourage time to explore the art galleries Island Hopping Experience pack- speed. While the team cannot issue people to slow down, and to re- which the island is renowned for. age which includes three centres penalties, they can report cars that mind drivers that there is a huge These islands also boast a dis- over nine nights with mixed board exceed 35 mph to the police, who difference on the lethal impact of an tinctive landscape and unmistaka- arrangements from just £2,689.00 then send a warning letter to the accident between 30 and 35 mph.” ble Creole heritage as well as some per person. speeding drivers. The police report that most speed- of the world’s best beaches and Families would enjoy the five The Speed Watch team find that ers are actually Oundle residents. cerulean seas. Undulating terrain, star Constance Lemuria on Pras- most drivers do slow down when There are currently 10 volun- pristine lagoons and untouched lin for seven nights. It has tennis they see the team’s high vis vests. teers on the team. Anyone interest- beaches are home to some of the courts, mountain bike hire and an They emphasise that the Speed ed in joining the scheme can contact world’s rarest species. 18 hole Championship Golf Course Watch team are not enforcers; their the council for details. There are plenty of opportu- from £2499.00 per person. ISSUE 50 - 2019 Oundle Chronicle 17

Barnwell park run gains momentum Runners find Oundle on the marathonmap

Archie Parkinson four weeks. Archie Parkinson to make the races bigger and better Oundle has joined the interna- Organiser Ian Gow encourages On a blustery January in 2020 with the addition of more tional trend for park runs. Inde- everyone to try the run. “If you morning, 472 runners gathered events.” pendent of the well-known Parkrun would like to join us for the first on Cotterstock Road at the start The 10K race started at Oundle organisation, an informal weekly time you will be made very wel- line of the Oundle New Year 10k. CE Primary School, which, as the run takes place every Sunday at come and will be encouraged and The race was organised by Nice host, benefits directly from each 10am around Barnwell Country supported to help achieve your Work, a specialist race management one, and followed a loop from Oun- Park. goal. I promise you will love it.” company that organises races for dle to Cotterstock, Glapthorn and Set up by Ian Gow, who has oc- A regular participant expressed runners at all levels to give all then back into Oundle. Although casionally run half marathons, the appreciation for the event in a runners the same support no matter the route might not seem arduous, runs began in November with just social media post: “Five laps to- their pace or ability. the runners enjoyed the challenge. 10 runners. However, by February day including a little run. My own Nice Work came to Oundle One competitor wrote on Twitter: the group had grown to 65 runners, achievement. Thank you Ian for when Darryl Coulter, a Nice Work “Amazing how a run that starts and including children and mothers arranging these runs. Gives me regular, moved here two years ago finishes in the same place can be with pushchairs, running as many the opportunity to build up my and noticed that there was a lack of 90% up hill, and 95% against the or as few laps as they like around strength.” races in the town. wind. Or maybe that’s just how it the 1.25km loop. Darryl Coulter takes his running felt.” Local runner, Laetitia Brighton seriously. Despite only starting to Nice Work aims to attract run- said: “It is an incredibly support- run in 2011, he has completed near- ners of all abilities from the fast ive and inclusive group, and this ly 100 races of marathon distance elite level and experienced runners explains the success of it.” or longer, including most recently to beginners and those new to run- The initiative has become so suc- the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc in the ning. They do not have cut off times cessful that Mr Gow was contacted Alps. He has also completed all six on any of their events and give all about the Barnwell run becoming world marathon majors. runners the same support no matter an official Parkrun, but he declined When Nice Work came to look their pace or ability. the offer. “That wasn’t what we around after Coulter’s suggestion, The majority of the runners have were looking to do as we want to they decided there was potential for come from the Cambridgeshire and keep it more casual to attract every the area as a race venue. Northamptonshire areas, but there type of runner, jogger and walker.” Marketing Manager Rachael have been runners from London For those less keen on early Wood said: “We went up and had and even from the continent. starts on Sunday mornings, there a look and saw the potential of Mr Coulter will join the 100 is now also a Thursday run at 7pm how picturesque the area is and Marathon Club in June after com- in the park. On Tuesdays a 5k run decided to launch the Oundle 20 pleting the Thames Path. He will starts at the Co-op car park at 7pm. Mile race in 2017 and were amazed then shift his focus: “I plan to run The routes change every three to Sunday morning run in Barnwell Park with how well the first event was fewer marathons and to try instead received, despite being postponed to improve my time at the half mar- For Sunday cyclists Oundle is a key by the Beast from the East! We then athon distance, ideally going under launched the Oundle New Year 80 minutes.” destination on their long-haul circuits 10k, which sold out, with the 20 Oundle will now be part of his mile following suit in March.” running schedule. He has been im- Lily Wolfson Firmly established in his love of the After the first race, each event pressed by the turn out for the local Bikes and bright jerseys have be- sport he now has three bikes, is a has shown an increase on the last races. “There is clearly an appetite come a familiar sight at weekends, serious circuit racer in London, and in participation numbers, and looks for more races, so stay tuned for especially outside those twin hubs regularly trains on indoor station- set to continue to do so: “We aim more to come.” of Oundle’s social life, Beans and ary bikes - his top tip for adding in The Coffee Tavern, where cyclists practice miles to a busy lifestyle. 20 to 30 riders. too, with men and women taking socialise and refuel with calories, We went on to meet Steve and Constant innovation in cycle up life on two wheels in almost caffeine and chat. Rich from Market Deeping and design means you can buy spe- even numbers. On a Sunday morning at Beans, Newborough who have been cific bikes for particular types of More than a hobby, more than we met cyclists who regularly fit cycling for 20 years. These two cycling or landscapes, but recently a means of getting about, once you Oundle – and cake and coffee - happily cover up to 80 miles in the famous names in the industry begin cycling, you enter a world of into their route. Sam, 16, has been a day and each has five bikes for have started bringing in bikes in kit to buy, health and fitness targets cycling for two years. He lives in different terrains. Steve and Rich the cross-over category which can to hit, adventures to have, and for Yaxley and will cover 35 miles on stress how social riding can be, be used for roads, for off-road, or many cyclists a boost to their social a good day, usually with friends. often setting out in mixed groups of just to go down to the shops. These life too. sound a good place to start for a The health benefits span in- new entrant to the field on a limited creased mobility, improved cardi- budget. ovascular fitness, better posture, The cyclists we met recommend healthier weight, and increased Gorilla Firm Cycling in Oundle, lung health. While research proves and Terry Wright Cycles in Peter- that anything done socially helps borough for good quality bikes. lighten dark moods and chases Then there are those who like to away wintery depressions. mix their cycling with other sports. For all ages, for all levels of seri- Adrian and Dan said they cycle a ousness, and for those who want to couple of times a week from Alcon- be alone or those who like to share bury, can cover 60 miles on a Sun- their fun with others, cycling is on day, and mix cycling with running the up and available to you. Here and swimming. in Oundle there are particularly Those cyclists pausing for a well- good roads for this sport, and when earned break represent a global you need a break, excellent cafes lifestyle industry worth $45 billion or pubs to stop at and recharge. As Sam often refuels with cake and coffee at Beans along his 35 mile circuit a year and with 70 million partici- spring arrives - what’s to stop you pants. It’s great for gender equality taking a bike for a spin? 18 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 50 - 2019 Former musician and Oundle ENC Ioan Thomas made headlines as councillor David Bateman dies at 87 an inspirational teacher Joseph Meisner rational man. He was “non-judge- Joseph Meisner junior boys rugby, making the The musician and teacher, David mental. He took people as they For decades Ioan Thomas was game fun to even the most disin- Bateman died at Polebrook Nursing were and taught the whole person”. a familiar figure riding his bicycle terested, who reacted with surprise Home in December, aged 87, after a His warmth and empathy made on busy errands through Oundle's that sport could be fun. long illness. new students instantly feel at home streets. Following a few years Ioan took over the role of Head Mr Bateman came to Oundle in in a strange environment. “Vulner- of declining mobility, he died in of Biology in 1971, where he led 1981 as Head of Strings at Oundle able pupils often found comfort March, aged 90 . many expeditions in the UK and to School, a position that he held for and strength through his friendship Ioan was born in Newcastle, Africa. His knowledge was “unsur- ten years. and understanding.” where his father was head of passed among his contemporaries”. One colleague said: “David At home, he was a keen garden- Newcastle Royal Grammar School. During his tenure, the school’s embodied the axiom that a teach- er, with a garden so diverse that it During the war his father evacu- Natural History Society flourished er teaches not only his subject but was compared to the Amazonian ated the whole school to Penrith, and contributed to the documenta- himself.” rainforest. where pupils shared facilities with tion of the local environment. His Mr Bateman was a free thinker After he retired from Oundle pupils’ research was published in at a school with a conventional School, he played in chamber music Flora of Oundle and the Bird List, outlook, and his search for truth led ensembles, particularly with Jenny and his archive of photos and pa- him in many directions. At Oun- Firth, and was elected twice as a pers from 1958-1973 record the de- dle School he was well known for Conservative to the East Northamp- velopment of Barnwell County Park planning to be in many places at tonshire Council in 2007 and 2011, from gravel pits to nature reserve. the same time. That he was dubbed where he worked hard to represent His depth of knowledge and ‘disorganised’ was a fact that he Oundle’s interests. High on his list experience was invaluable to the took with good humour. of priorities were environmental Northamptonshire Wildlife Trust, His spontaneity frequently in- issues and transport. for which he was a regional sec- spired pupils to achieve the qua- When he left Oundle, the retary. In 1987 Ioan was made a si-impossible, with the Chamber valete in the school magazine read, In 2016 Ioan Thomas returned to the Fellow of the Institute of Biology. Orchestra reaching unprecedented in tribute to him: “People who classroom to talk about the war years Among Ioan’s many students levels. knew David will look on him, as are prominent scientists who Helen Smith, a former student, truly life-enhancing: wherever he local schools and were housed with looked back over long careers to maintained a lifelong friendship. goes, with our warmest wishes, he other families. His father bought acknowledge the debt owed to their She described him as a very inspi- will remain close to our hearts.” an old house to live in without former teacher. Among them was electricity or water, and which the the late David Baker, the clinician family still own. During this time, and scientist who changed the face Ioan enjoyed incredible freedom to of medicine with key discoveries, walk and cycle in the Lake District and the scientist Richard Dawkins, and nurture his passion and skills author of The Selfish Gene, who for observing nature. said his first lesson with Ioan at the After completing a degree in age of fourteen was inspirational. “I natural sciences at Cambridge, he don’t remember the details, but it decided to follow in his father’s conveyed…what I would now call footsteps and become a teacher. He ‘science as the poetry of reality’ ”. joined Oundle School in 1951 on a In 1980, Ioan married Alice one year contract, but stayed for 37 Stevens, who he had known for years. 31 years. After moving to Oundle His colleague, Nick Owens, not- Alice was a founding member of ed that Ioan’s exceptional teaching the Oundle Historical Society, and ability was innate: “In teaching, the author of a number of historical Ioan found challenges on many publications. In retirement, Ioan fronts in which his personality, shared her interest in history and sense of fun and wide-ranging soon became a prominent member skills were ideally suited.” of the historical community. In the classroom he drew inspi- He wrote many papers ranging ration from the teachings of Ound- from the “History of Oundle Street le’s famous headmaster, Frederick Names” and “Transport links in Sanderson. He avoided dictating Oundle”, to the “History of Short facts, and was quick to undermine Wood” and “Sewers and Water unfounded assumptions, expecting Supply in 19th Century Oundle”. pupils to make deductions from He was a founding member of their own observations. the Oundle Museum and served on He looked out for struggling stu- its management committee, as well dents and gave many extra hours as Transition Oundle, to which he for extra tuition and advice. He brought a profound concern for the could also be relied on to help new future of the planet. members of staff adjust to work In 2013 he was presented with and life at a new school, and regu- an honorary award from the North- larly volunteered for mundane jobs amptonshire Museum and Historic that others avoided. Houses Forum for the important Having been a resident tutor in role he played in setting up the fo- School House, Ioan was appointed rum. Their citation read: “His ener- Housemaster of Sidney House. gy and enthusiasm for the heritage Representing the over 75s, Ioan and Alice Thomas, David Bateman and Tony Ioan often played the viola in of the county and the forum has left Hodgson (who died in 2016) were photographed by the Oundle Chronicle in 2012 the school orchestra, and directed a legacy of this successful organisa- in a feature about cyclists in town many school theatre productions. tion which the Forum felt, needed He also took a keen interest in to be acknowledged.” ISSUE 50 - 2019 Oundle Chronicle 19

and communications, and also the 50th anniversary issue of the Oundle Chronicle evolving world of digital media, Johnny Capstick-Dale had initially been met with some Wind up Villagers”. Four years which did not even exist when they This issue is the 50th publication objections about concerns to the later the headline was “Wind Farm began writing at the Chronicle. of the Oundle Chronicle. Although future of the Market Place. By 2014, Regulations Relaxed”. We caught up with a few of our Oundle is a small town, the Chron- Norman’s Greengrocer closed after One obvious change the town former writers who once worked icle manages to fill every issue with 65 years in the Market Place. Simi- has experienced is in its growth, on the paper as pupils and brought stories on local crime, property, larly, the building which now is the and the development of new hous- to our readers the local news in business, politics, and the residents restaurant Salernos has changed ing. Since 1991, Oundle’s popu- and around the town that often who live in the town. hands repeatedly, having recently lation had increased by 47.9%. In has more importance to our lives The Oundle Chronicle is written been ’62 Love Me Do. 2012 articles about planning devel- than the national and international by a team of Oundle School pupils A copy of every issue of the opments reported that residents headlines. who meet once a week, and is Chronicle is sent to our MP in West- “felt unease and anxiety about Tim Robey, who worked on the Chronicle in the 1990s, is the deputy film critic for the Daily Tele- graph. He has been reviewing since 2000 and is known for his fierce scrutiny of current films. Former Chronicle journalists have not only influenced UK journalism, but have touched the profession across the world. Catri- ona Morgan has been working for science publications in Germany, while Nick Briggs who started out as a copy editor, has since gone on to set up Debtwire’s Emerging News service which now covers finance across Europe. In particular the world of motor- ing journalism has attracted former Chronicle journalists. Tim Pollard, an award-winning motoring jour- nalist and digital editor, is currently editorial director for Bauer Media's motoring and specialist digital portfolio. Both Dan Strong and Piers Ward worked with Auto Ex- press magazine. The former holds The Oundle Chronicle is produced by a team of Oundle School pupils the role of Deputy Managing Editor of the Auto Express magazine, supervised by two staff editors. minster, and once even attracted a the new home development” and while the latter won the Sir William Each issue is entirely self-funded by response from the Prime Minister. “overcrowded development raises Lyons Award 2001 given by the advertising, with any profits In response to an article about Tony concern”. Since then, the Neigh- Guild of Motoring Writers. donated to charity. Blair and his relationship with the bourhood Plan and ENC housing The Chronicle provided a path The first issue was printed in then Oundle School headmaster, plans have grabbed headlines. into broadcasting for Dotty black and white in 1991 when copy Blair wrote: “I remember David The Chronicle has adapted to McLeod, who is a BBC Radio pre- needed to be pasted manually onto McMurray very well - and my days changes in technology, communi- senter, currently at Radio 5 Live, pre-press sheets. Hoping to attract a at Fettes - and found your article cations and distribution. While the while her editorial colleague, Kate wide readership, the paper report- most enlightening!” paper used to be sold at Oundle Mason is currently a TV presenter ed on a crime wave of six burgla- Prominent residents and visi- News for 50p, since 2012 the for beIN Sports in Qatar, and will ries, a ghost sighting in the Talbot tors to town sometimes attract a Oundle Chronicle has been dis- soon be joining Sky Sports as a foot- Hotel, the success of a pupil from feature article. In the third issue tributed free to every household in ball presenter. Miles Eames moved Prince William School who went to of the Chronicle, the two editors town by the team of writers. into radio as a BBC producer, Australia for a lecture course, and interviewed HRH the Duchess of On the digital front, its website followed by a stint as commission- the appointment of a tree warden. Gloucester Princess Alice about and Twitter account can keep ing manager at Channel 4 before Crime is always a headline-at- her birthday. In 2010, a staff writer readers updated throughout the moving over to social media and tracting story. The lead article of interviewed the comedian Jo Brand, year. digital communications. the 2011 winter issue was titled who described entertainment as In the world of government, “Return of the Ram-Raiders”, “taking people away from the Lauren Martens works in the media and reported on the second ATM drudgery of their ordinary working Chronicle writers - office managing communication of “smash-and-grab” robbery to have lives”. department policies and campaigns occurred during the year. The Flooding by the River Nene is a where in the media across all platforms. Police Beat column is a regular big news story. In the spring issue world are they? In the field of arts, wordsmith feature. of 1998, “Spring Floods hit Oun- Daisy Watt works in book publish- News stories track the chang- dle”; 2006 saw the council having Lily Wolfson ing as an editor, and former Chron- ing fortunes of local businesses. In to defend its record on flooding Anyone who works in journal- icle editor Shanna Martens is a film 1991, a local shop was “honoured issues; in 2012 roads were closed, ism will advise that the best first and TV script editor and developer. with the distinction of winning the and a local resident described the experience in the field is reporting Of the most recent Chronicle Midlands Region Delicatessen of flooding as the “worst flooding in local news. While not every writ- graduates, Francesca Coates is the Year Award”, while in 2012, Oundle for twenty years”. er who has contributed to the 50 studying journalism at university. Hambleton Bakery, which is cur- Stories about technology and issues of the Oundle Chronicle has Jonathan Lane, the first co-editor rently situated on the Wharf Station countryside developments reflect had ambitions to work in journal- of the Chronicle recently wrote: “It Road, was named Britain’s Best changing attitudes. On the conten- ism, many have found the paper is no understatement to say that the Bakery by ITV. tious issue of wind turbines, the to be a very good training ground Chronicle was probably the single In 2012, the cover story featured Chronicle wrote an article in 2005 for successful media careers in the most worthwhile activity I under- the arrival of Waitrose, which about how “Turbines Plan Puts the world of print, television, radio, took at that time.” 20 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 50 - 2019 50 issues of Oundle news from 1991 to 2019

The Oundle Chronicle has sought to report on the highs and lows of life in Oundle and nearby villages, and its legacy provides a fascinating historical record of events that shaped the town we live in today. Johnny Capstick-Dale

1991 1992 1993 1995 "With six burglaries occurring over "Plans for the new health centre have "The fortunes of Oundle's oldest "Feelings are still running high over the the past month accompanied by a vast received an unexpected setback which supermarket, after a history of nearly way in which a major gas emergency increase in violence..." has put the entire scheme in jepardy..." 100 years finally came to an end..." on South Road was handled..."

1996 1998 2005 2009 "The Warmington bypass, costing "The worst flooding that Oundle has "The proposal for the "The Queen Victoria Hall on West £3.6m has been completed, and cuts known for over fifty years struck construction of six wind turbines has Street is soon to undergo a £500,000 out the bends through the village..." during the Easter break..." led to outrage among residents..." renovation, planned by Mark Benns..."

2011 2012 2014 2016 "Barclays Bank was ram-raided "The Labour party stormed to "In its long history, Oundle has never "Just over a month after the OTC was during the early hours, leaving an 11 ft victory by a dizzying margin of 7,791 seen anything as exciting as the big day described as having the potential to be high hole where the ATM had been..." votes, representing a 13% gain..." when cyclists took over the streets..." a beacon council, it fell apart..."