The Signpost

The Signpost Signpost - Issue 64 Village Contacts Editorial Team: Editor: Jim Mullenger David Hotchkin [email protected] [email protected] 01760 722 849 Sub Editor & Invoicing: David Stancombe Foulden Next copy date: David Stancombe 14th of May 2021 [email protected] 01366 328 153 Website: fouldennorfolk.org/signpost/ Hannah Scott I think that most of us would [email protected] care to forget the last year 07900 265 493 / 01760 440439 since Lockdown against COVID began. At least most of our and readers will have had one Kate Faro-Wood vaccination by now and the [email protected] “Roadmap” out of the current 01366 328441 condition has begun. (I had to go to Bury St. Edmunds to get Fiona Gilbert mine - a 60 mile round trip in [email protected] wet and draughty conditions). So, I really do hope that the & next edition will be on paper Keith & Linda Thomas again… Fingers crossed. [email protected] I would like to thank Hannah 01760 756 455 Keeler and Cathy Mumford for their articles from The Churchside Federation of David Hotchkin (The Editor) Schools and Citizen Science, Email: See above left. respectively. 01366 328 442 Again, I will be saving some articles for future editions… In & Threxton the meantime: “Happy Easter!” Chris Cannon [email protected] Ed. 2 The Signpost CONTENTS Page

Signpost contact details ...... 2 Contents ...... 3 Parish Councils ...... 4-6 Village News Village News ...... 7-12 Churchside Federation ...... 13 Church News Church Services ...... 14-16 From the Vicar ...... 17 Articles From our MP ...... 18-19 Citizen Science ...... 20 Wildlife at Beck Springs ...... 21-22 Healthwatch ...... 23 Classified Adverts ...... 24-52

For Advertisements Charges Per Issue: Whole page £14, back cover £16, 1/2 page (landscape) £7. Copy should be in MS Word or JPEG formats, please. Contact: [email protected]

Please note that all ads. in this issue are ‘free’ because it is not a paper copy distribution. The‘copy count’ will restart when our distributors can go door-to-door again.

3 The Signpost OXBOROUGH PARISH COUNCIL

Chair: Simon Willies Vice Chair: Linda Buckingham Members: Ian Monson, Bernie Chapman Clerk: Susan Hernandez 07900 587825 Website: oxborough-pc.wixsite.com/website Next meeting: 12 May 2021 (to include AGM) start at 7.00pm

The Village Green is available for hire (terms & conditions apply). Please contact the Parish Clerk for details and fees.

COCKLEY CLEY PARISH COUNCIL Chair: Sir Samuel Roberts Bt. Vice Chair: Mr Jim Mullenger. Members: Mr Steve Mumford, Ms Karina Eagle. Mr David Johnson. Ms Donna Smith

Parish Clerk: Sir Samuel Roberts Bt. Cockley Cley Hall, Cockley Cley, , PE37 8AG Tel.01760 721 308

Next meeting: Date: TBA, 7.00pm, subject to COVID-19 restrictions. Website: cockleycleyparishcouncil.wordpress.com

GREAT CRESSINGHAM PARISH COUNCIL Chair: Michael Halls Vice-Chair: Marcus Rutterford Members: Victoria Rutterford, Kate Forsythe, Peter Heath, Ed Kittell, Sally Blundell Clerk Hannah Scott Homestead, Farm Common Road ,Ashill IP25 7BA 07900 265 493 / 01760 440439 Website: www.impulse-music.co.uk/great Cressingham Next meetings: TBA, (March meeting postponed).

4 The Signpost FOULDEN PARISH COUNCIL Chair: Stephen Parker. Vice Chair: Jayne Winterbone Members: Stephen (Billy) Pye, Neil West, Richard Cooper, Marianne Christian. There is 1 casual vacancy: please contact the Clerk, if you would like to be co-opted. Parish Clerk: Claire Prentice, Tel: 07591 220390 Email: [email protected] Next meeting: Monday 10th May 2021 at 7.00pm, Check for confirmation of the details! Website: www.fouldennorfolk.org

GOODERSTONE PARISH COUNCIL Chair: Andrew Boughen Vice Chair: Ann Melhuish Members: Martin Belton, Judy Chandler, Kate Faro Wood, Lucy Mason Closs, Vince Martin. Clerk: Judith Taylor. Tel: 01366 500722. email: [email protected]

Website: gooderstonepc.wixsite.com/gooderstonepc

Next meeting: Normally: second Monday every two months: Tuesday 4th May, virtual, Annual Parish Council meeting. Monday 24th May, physical if possible, Annual Parish meeting. Monday 12th July (back to physical presumably) Monday 13th September Monday 8th November.

Gooderstone Community Facebook Page: search for Gooderstone Community Group.

5 The Signpost HILBOROUGH PARISH COUNCIL

Chair: Andrew Steward. Tel: 01760 756247 Members: Mrs. Sharan Newnham, Ms. Sarah Mennell. Carol Cox, Claire Bowes, Henry Sands, Steve Gornall Clerk: Melanie Cousins. Tel: 07840 814417. [email protected] Next Meetings: From 2021 the Council will meet 4 times during the year at 7.00 pm on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at the Mills Memorial Hall, Westgate Street, Hilborough. The next meeting is to be: 18th May 2021 – AGM, Annual Parish Meeting & Parish Council. Other Parish Council meetings for 2021 are 21st September and 16th November. All to be subject to Covid-19 advice.

Website: hilboroughpc.wixsite.com/hilboroughpc/hilborough-parish-council

LITTLE CRESSINGHAM & THREXTON PARISH COUNCIL

Chair: Tony Abel. Mob: 07836 338100 Email: [email protected] Vice Chair: Tim Leonard Tel: 01953 882739 Members: Ashton Austin, Martin Kay, Chris Cannon. Clerk: Melanie Cousins. Tel: 07840 814417. [email protected] Website: lcparishclerk.wixsite.com/lcressinghamthrexton Next Meeting: Thursday 13th May 2021 at 7.30pm Venue, time and date to be confirmed.

STANTA (Training Area): Details of military training activities are available from the Parish Council website quoted above. New information is now available for February.

6 The Signpost VILLAGE NEWS & WHAT’S ON HILBOROUGH

Mobile Libraries Due to the COVID-19 lockdown all Norfolk Mobile Library services remain suspended until further notice. The following local libraries are now open for an ‘at the door’ service: King’s Lynn, Swaffham and Downham Market. Details are available on the Norfolk County Council website, which must be studied for COVID-19 restrictions, protocols and opening times before making any journey to use the facilities on offer: www.norfolk.gov.uk/libraries-local-history-and-archives

[Please note: Make & Mardle and Village Hall activities are suspended due to COVID-19, Ed.]

HILBOROUGH VILLAGE HALL Hall Bookings: The hall is available for functions, parties and other activities. Capacity 120 persons: Rates £12.00 per hour. Please contact Clare Gornall on 01760 756 561 or Gerald Gray on 01760 756338 or on [email protected]

HILBOROUGH VILLAGE COMMUNICATIONS Hilborough Village has two forms of Communication. The aim is to provide residents with the means of sharing local news, events alerts, updates and general items of chosen interest to Hilborough villagers. If you would like to be included in this initiative you can do so via: 1. Facebook – Via your Facebook page search for Hilborough Village Community News and click the ‘joinrequest’ button; OR... 2. Email –[email protected] to be included in future mailing. (Please contact Sarah on 07974 955175 / 01760 756126 if you have any questions or difficulties in joining) 7 The Signpost FOULDEN EVENTS & NEWS There is still a vacancy for a Parish Councillor. Application is by cv and cover letter to the parish council clerk [email protected]. The village hall is still currently closed and a re-opening date has not yet been decided. Also any parishioners requiring safety visors can obtain these free of charge by contacting the Parish Council Clerk. It is now two years since the pub was open and the building has been stripped of all its furniture, catering equipment, bar and decorations. The car park will soon turn green as the weeds wake up in spring and the garden will ‘go wild’. Despite the refusal for residential planning on two occasions an appeal has been lodged with the secretary of State against Council’s decision. We do not expect to this appeal to succeed. Objections had to be submitted by March 21st and submissions were made by CAMRA, Foulden Parish Council and the White Hart Inn Community Benefit Society (WHICBS). Then we just wait for the result of the appeal. WHICBS has made an offer to buy the pub based on the valuation as a public house but his offer was refused. The owner has set an asking price based on the building as a residence rather than a business. The plan is now to raise sufficient funds to purchase the pub and get it into a suitable condition to start trading. The recent government announcement of a match funding grant to support community projects such as this looks hopeful. It is planned to raise the necessary funds by obtaining grants and by public subscription. To achieve this we will need to have full support from the village. To keep up to date with what is happening you will find information on our Facebook page. STOP PRESS: Plunkett’s Foundation have awarded the WHICBS a bursary of £2,500 to be used for the initial expenses in their attempt to purchase and open the inn. The money will be used to pay for the survey and valuation; the advertising costs and the production of the prospectus. Let’s hope this donation is the start of an eventual successful campaign to “Save our Pub”.

“Hope you can fit this inn…” David Stancombe [Pun or typo? Ed]

8 The Signpost COCKLEY CLEY EVENTS & NEWS

The Parish Council welcomes Ms. Donna Smith to its ranks. Details of meetings and minutes may be found on the PC website: https://cockleycleyparishcouncil.wordpress.com

OXBOROUGH EVENTS & NEWS

Wednesday. Every week. Fish & Chip Van On the Pound between 6.30pm and 7.00pm. (May remain longer depending on the volume of customers).

Oxborough Website ‘The Oxborough Voice’ website exists in addition to the ‘Oxborough Village Hub’ Facebook page. Simply put the following into your browser’s search/URL field: oxborough.org.uk.

BEDINGFELD ARMS RE-OPENING

Re-opening . Friday 21st May 2021, Midday

Food service times: Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: Breakfast 8 – 9.30 am Lunch 12-3pm Dinner 5.30 – 9pm Saturday: Breakfast 9 – 10 am Lunch 12-4pm Dinner 5.00 – 9.30pm Sunday: Breakfast 9 – 10 am Lunch 12-5pm Dinner 5 – 8pm

[Taken directly from the Bedingfeld Arms website - Ed.]

For other pubs in our area: I do not have any information supplied as to when they may be opening. Please check their websites and social media for details. Hopefully, a ‘third wave’ will not result in more temporary closures, however it would be sensible to check with the management before making any arrangements… Ed.

9 The Signpost GREAT CRESSINGHAM NEWS

Great Cressingham Defibrillator Charity. Great Cressingham Defibrillator Charity monthly prize draw is to support the ongoing running cost. It costs £1 a month and you are given a number that is in a cash prize draw each month. To enter or for more information contact [email protected] / visit our Facebook page or call 07775866642.

Great Cressingham Parish Council Meeting 30.03.21 – will report what happens in the next issue Things that have happened in between meetings 1. Various streetlights that haven’t been working have been reported and fixed 2. Help Campaign – if you need anything during lockdown please contact Peter Heath 3. Village Sign - Has been removed for repairs 4. Litter Picking - The Parish Council has donated £200.00 for litter picking equipment 5. Bulbs – The litter picking group will be getting £50.00 to purchase some more bulbs ready to plant September 2021 6. Blocked Gully at Chalk Hill has been reported and its on Highways List to unblock

If anyone has anything they need to bring to our attention, we are always here … please contact Hannah on 07900 265493 or [email protected]

Litter Picking - Tony Smith is organising litter picking if you would like to volunteer please contact Hannah and she’ll put you in touch with Tony or you can contact Tony via Great Cressingham Facebook Page

Great Cressingham Church - The church will remain open for private prayers during the lockdown unless we are told to keep it locked. Cont’d...

10 The Signpost Events: We will advise (once known) re Duck Race / Harvest Festival/ Village Fete, etc.

GREAT CRESSINGHAM VILLAGE HALL

Currently the use of Great Cressingham Village Hall is suspended, due to Covid-19 restrictions, until further notice. However, it is hoped that normal activities will be able to resume in the not too distant future.

Provisional bookings for 2021 are still being accepted, but will obviously be subject to Government restrictions that may still pertain on the booked date.

Great Cressingham Village Hall is an excellent venue available for hire at reasonable rates; spacious hall, stage, tables and chairs, recently modernised kitchen facilities, lighting and PA system, and parking.

For further details contact Sally Lovick on 01760 756 433

Or visit: greatcressinghamvillagehall.co.uk

For any developments and news regarding events and bookings please visit our website.

GENERAL NOTE ABOUT LITTER PICKING

It should be noted by all Parish Clerks and any member of the public that Breckland Council do support roadside litter picking efforts by the local community in the parishes - by providing equipment and bags for collection from somewhere like a village hall. They must be notified that a special collection will be required. The website with information and contact details is: www.breckland.gov.uk/article/3039/Litter-Picking-Equipment

Ed.

11 The Signpost GOODERSTONE VILLAGE NEWS

Every Wednesday at around 3pm: fresh fish delivered to your door by John Skelly who is available on 01502 583 164. Also every Wednesday: a mobile fish-and-chips van is at Elm Place from c4:30pm to 5pm and at Walnut Place from c5pm to 5:20pm.

Neighbourhood Watch news Several Gooderstone residents have been receiving automated telephone scam calls in which a robotic voice leaves a message…. When the ‘phone rings, the caller-display may show ‘International’ or ‘Out of area, unavailable’ or similar, making it impossible to block further calls from the same number. The message threatens to cut off your internet service unless you press button 1 immediately. Please ignore any instruction left in the message. If you are new to Gooderstone or just haven’t got around to joining our Neighbourhood Watch scheme, you are most welcome to contact Kate at [email protected].

Parish Council: 8 March 2021 meeting, 7pm (by Zoom) Playground equipment: the new equipment should arrive at the end of March and will take about two-and-a-half weeks to complete. This is subject to covid restrictions. It is hoped that we will celebrate the installation in the late summer, combining this with the VE Day celebrations which we missed last year – watch this space! Dog-litter bins: the council agreed to install two more bins in the village to alleviate recent problems and to encourage dog owners to keep the village tidy and clean. Flooding: some progress has been made on the issue of flooded roads in the village, following recent correspondence with the Highways Department. Money has been set aside at county level to help us deal with the ongoing problem of flooding in this area.

Kate Faro-Wood

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What a busy half term it has been so far. We have enjoyed welcoming back all the children across the Federation and continuing our learning journeys together in the classroom.

Thank you to everyone who has supported the ever changing garden at . We have been lucky to have donations of nest boxes, bird tables, tyres and top soil to make a start. We have also had support from parents and villagers with the construction. This is our progress so far.

Our next theme will be “Kings and Queens” so we will look forward to the children’s questions and ideas for after Easter. Have a very lovely and restful Easter holiday everyone.

Hannah Keeler

Proverbs 22:6- ‘Train a child in the way they should go and when they are old they shall not depart from it’

13 The Signpost THE ANGLICAN CHURCH HILBOROUGH, MUNDFORD AND OXBOROUGH GROUPS

CHURCH SERVICES: MARCH/APRIL/MAY 2021 Due to COVID restrictions, some Sunday church services are not taking place in situ until later in the year. There will, however, be ZOOM meetings each Sunday with the Venerable Linda Lubbe and/or the Reverend Hilary de Lyon. Face coverings and two metre spacings are still advised during church services.

Abbreviations: HC Holy Communion MP Morning Prayer EP Evening Prayer EW Evening Worship *Asterisk next to timing: Change to Service time *** Services marked with three asterisks may be cancelled

MARCH

Palm Sunday Sunday 28th March Hilborough 1100 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe ZOOM Meeting 1000 MP Reverend Hilary de Lyon

APRIL

Maundy Thursday 1st April ZOOM Meeting 6 pm EP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon

Good Friday 2nd April ZOOM Meeting 1200 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon

14 The Signpost Easter Day Sunday 4th April Didlington 0930 HC Reverend Kit Chalcraft Gooderstone 1100 HC Venerable Linda Lubbe 3 pm EP Yvonne Westgate. ZOOM Meeting 1000 HC Reverend Hilary de Lyon

Sunday 11th April Oxborough 0930 MP Reverend Hilary de Lyon Foulden 1100 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe ZOOM Meeting 5 pm EP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon

Sunday 18th April 8 am HC Venerable Linda Lubbe Lt Cressingham 0930 MP Reverend Hilary de Lyon Gt Cressingham 1100 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe ZOOM Meeting 5 pm EP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon

Sunday 25th April Bodney 0930 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe Mundford 0945 MP Reverend Hilary de Lyon Cockley Cley 1100 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe Ickburgh 1115 MP Judy Gallop ZOOM Meeting 5 pm EP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon

MAY

Sunday 2nd May Didlington 0930 MP Reverend Kit Chalcraft Foulden 1100 HC Venerable Linda Lubbe Cranwich 3 pm EP Reverend Linda Lubbe ZOOM Meeting 5 pm EP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon

15 The Signpost Sunday 9th May Oxborough 0930 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe Mundford ***0945 MP Reverend Hilary de Lyon Gooderstone 1100 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe ZOOM Meeting 5 pm EP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon Sunday 16th May Ickburgh 8 am HC Venerable Linda Lubbe Lt Cressingham 0930 MP Reverend Hilary de Lyon Gt Cressingham 1100 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe ZOOM Meeting 5 pm EP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon

Pentecost Sunday 23rd May Bodney 0930 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe Mundford 0945 MP Reverend Hilary de Lyon Hilborough 1100 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe Ickburgh 1115 MP Judy Gallop ZOOM Meeting 5 pm EP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon

Sunday 30th May Didlington 0930 MP Reverend Hilary de Lyon Cockley Cley 1100 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe ZOOM Meeting 5 pm EP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon

JUNE

Sunday 6th June Oxborough 0930 MP Reverend Hilary de Lyon Foulden 1100 MP Venerable Linda Lubbe Cranwich 3 pm EP Yvonne Westgate ZOOM Meeting 5 pm EP Venerable Linda Lubbe Reverend Hilary de Lyon

16 The Signpost APRIL 2021 REFLECTIONS

A full year of “doing things differently” – but there is hope. The progress of vaccination and lowering of infection statistics give us hope, as well as the return of spring weather. We have passed through a very dramatic cold spell, with heavy snow and freezing temperatures. I have never seen so much snow, and was not here to experience the so-called “beast from the East”. This was bad enough! My little dog seemed to enjoy the deep snow. His legs sometimes disappeared into the snow, so only his body and head were visible. Being African-born, experiencing this weather was also something new for him. We are now preparing ourselves for Easter, which I do hope will include opportunities to celebrate together, either by gathering for worship in small numbers, or in our homes. We continue to offer Morning Prayer on Zoom every Sunday, and a regular group of participants shares together week by week, even though we have been advised not to gather together at present. A small group also meets on Zoom on Tuesday evenings for Alpha. As we look forward to Easter and the joy and hope that it brings, we can take the opportunity to rebuild, and perhaps build something better than we had before. The message of Easter is demonstrated dramatically in the re-emergence of our communities after months of lockdown, and the rediscovery of hope for the future. A very welcome grant from English Heritage to Gooderstone Church has enabled us to plan repairs to the roof after lead theft early in 2020, and to look forward to making our church building more of an asset to the whole community. We thank Gooderstone Parish Council for their input and encouragement and hope that we will be able to make progress in a number of places as restrictions are eased. Special thanks, also, to those who have offered to help with cleaning and tidying the church and churchyard at Hilborough. We also look forward to several weddings in our churches in the second half of the year – some new bookings, and many postponed from last year. We hope to hold three baptisms, in four different village churches, most of which were postponed due to the pandemic. I do hope we will now go into a season of celebration, as we adapt to changing circumstances. Wishing you every blessing and good health, as we go on to make a new beginning, and a blessed and happy Easter season. Rev Linda Lubbe 17 The Signpost FROM OUR MP

I know the last few months have been extremely tough but the Prime Minister has set out our roadmap for a cautious easing of national restrictions, which will ensure we do not undo the incredible progress we have made so far. The roadmap out of lockdown was very welcome news and has been achieved due to the brilliant work done by all our NHS staff and volunteers to deliver the vaccine at speed, and also by the tremendous work done by teachers in maintaining our children’s education, the British public following the COVID-19 guidance and all our key workers keeping the show on the road this past year. The decision in early 2020 to invest significantly in COVID-19 vaccine development means that the UK can now look towards a brighter future and much praise must go to the world leading team of scientists, business leaders and medical experts who have been working at pace on this programme. The Prime Minister has provided clear guidance for our roadmap out of lockdown, offering with it considerable optimism for the coming months.

I am also extremely pleased that further vaccine provision will be made available in Downham Market, located in the Town Hall. I raised directly with the vaccine minister, Nadhim Zahawi, the need for vaccine facilities to be located in the town. This builds on the exceptional work already being done by the three Downham Market GP surgeries in delivering vaccinations, which started vaccinating patients in February. At the start of the vaccine rollout, vaccine centres were located across the region to ensure as wide as reach as possible. The Pfizer vaccine, which was the first one licenced to be used in the UK, requires extremely cold storage hence only a limited number of sites could offer this provision. As the vaccine programme developed, and as more of the Oxford / Astra Zeneca vaccine became available, more hubs have been able to be established as the Astra Zeneca vaccine is easier to store and transport. Combined with GP provision, pharmacies, the mobile units and larger scale hubs, South West Norfolk is benefitting from the incredibly successful vaccine rollout. To date over 50 percent of the 16 plus age groups have received their first covid vaccination and Norfolk has now started delivery of the second jab.

18 The Signpost In March the Chancellor Rishi Sunak outlined the Budget - to protect the jobs and livelihoods of the British people with a three- part plan: Supporting people and business through the crisis, beginning to fix the public finances and building our future economy.

For full details of the budget please go to: www.gov.uk/government/publications/budget-2021-documents

Restart grants of up to £18,000 are available to help get our retail, hospitality, leisure and personal care businesses going again. There is also more money for apprenticeships and traineeships, plus investment in our future economy with Felixstowe and Harwich becoming one of the first of eight freeports in the UK. I supported colleagues in lobbying for this and it will be a fantastic boost for driving forward investment, economic prosperity and jobs for the region.

I am also delighted that Banham Zoo and Africa Alive are to receive a Zoo Animal Fund grant. Working with my colleague Peter Aldous MP and local councillors, financial support for the zoo was a critical issue that we raised with ministers and the £750,000 will help maintain all the excellent work currently being done by staff and protect animal welfare. Banham and Africa Alive are much loved and important attractions in East Anglia and I am keen to ensure they thrive for the long term enjoyment for everyone. Liz Truss MP

In view of the Secretary of State’s news about freeports, here are some figures: The ‘Ever Given’ is 400m long, weighs 200,000 tonnes and was carrying 18,300 (out of 20,000) containers when it got stuck in the Suez Canal (104 NM long), which carries 12% of global trade. The tailback came to 450 ships, costing the global economy $6.7m USD for every minute of the standstill period. Rotterdam to Taiwan is 10.000 NM via the canal, 13,500 NM by the Cape of Good Hope. (Information taken from the BBC Business website and Lloyd’s Lists), Ed.

19 The Signpost CITIZEN SCIENCE You might not think you are a scientist but if you have ever taken part in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch then you ARE a citizen scientist! Over half a million people contribute each year making it one of the largest citizen science events in the world. The volume of data scientists can collect from people all over the UK, or even from across the globe, can be a powerful tool in research and help in the work to support our natural world. It’s too late for the Garden Birdwatch this year (watch out for it next January) but there are other wildlife surveys, and one of most appealing insects to look out for are butterflies. Butterfly Conservation organises an annual count in July- August and other regular ways to record the butterflies you see in your garden and elsewhere. The iRecord Butterflies app has clear photos to identify your sightings and a reporting system. The Garden Butterfly Survey asks for monthly recording of sightings throughout the year submitted through an online account. All of these are available at www.butterfly-conservation.org

Another useful insect app you can download is Asian Hornet Watch, about the non-native species which threatens our native insects, including honey-bees. The app helps with identification and allows reporting including a photograph of your possible sighting. This could really help with early detection of this invasive predatory species. If you fancy being a citizen scientist from your own home, there are many old records to be digitised. Just two examples are UK tides, at https://www.zooniverse.org/projects/psmsl/uk-tides, and deciphering handwriting on old plant and fungi records at the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. https://www.kew.org/science/engage/get-involved/ citizen-science/decipher-handwriting If none of those inspire you then there are more ideas at https://www.zooniverse.org/ where you can find international projects from Monkey Health Explorer to Gravity Spy. Copy from: Cathy Mumford 20 The Signpost WILDLIFE AT BECK SPRINGS Will They Or… Won’t They?

We have had swan visitors most years and one year they did manage to produce an egg, but I guess the gander was not up to it and the egg did not hatch. This year we decided to lend a hand and provide them with a nesting site consisting of an old tractor tyre filled with straw. It has been paid some attention and we are hoping that this year a family of cygnets will appear. Mute swans lay from 4 to 10 eggs. The female broods for around 36 days, with cygnets normally hatching between the months of May and July, Perhaps with global warming it will be on the early side this year. The young swans do not achieve the ability to fly before about 120 to 150 days old, so I guess they will be around for quite a while. They feed on a wide range of vegetation, both submerged and floating aquatic plants, which they reach with their long necks and they certainly spend a lot of time with their heads way down in the water, so hopefully they will help get rid of much of the weed that invades the water body. They also feed by grazing on land which is where they probably go when they fly off at various times. There is one downside to all this in that they do tend to leave rather a mess at their defaecating sites. Poo is good for the grass I suppose.

21 The Signpost Mute swans are usually strongly territorial - with just a single pair on smaller lakes and it was interesting when a second pair decided to visit. A decision on who was going to stay was soon made and we were back to our original pair. Luckily, mute swans are less vocal than other species so they will not disturb our neighbours. The most familiar sound associated with mute swans is the vibrant throbbing of the wings in flight which is unique to the species. It can be heard from a range of 1 to 2 km and is important as a contact sound between birds in flight. Cygnets are especially vocal, and communicate through a variety of whistling and chirping sounds when content, as well as a harsh squawking noise when distressed or lost. Mute swans can be very aggressive in defence of their nests and are highly protective of their mate and offspring. Most defensive attacks from a mute swan begin with a loud hiss and, if this is not sufficient to drive off the predator, this is followed by a physical attack. Our cob does get a bit agitated if we go too close but generally they ignore us and have even got used to the noise of the tractor during grass cutting. Now it is a case of wait and see to note the final outcome...

David Stancombe

22 The Signpost HEALTHWATCH NORFOLK Cancer Research

At Healthwatch Norfolk we are launching a project alongside Healthwatch Suffolk to find out how people affected by cancer have accessed their appointments during the pandemic. We are working with the people in charge of cancer services in Norfolk and Suffolk to help shape the way appointments are accessed in the future, so it is vital that we get as much feedback as possible to get an authentic sense of patient opinion. If you live in Norfolk or Waveney and have had a cancer diagnosis, referral or treatment since March 2020, Healthwatch Norfolk and Suffolk would love to hear from you. Whether you have had virtual appointments (by phone or video call, for example), in-person appointments, or a combination of both your experiences could help shape future provisions. If you would like to participate, please contact Healthwatch Norfolk by calling: 0808 1689669. Email: [email protected] Alternatively, the survey can be completed online by visiting:

www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/cancerappointments/

We are also asking our audience to forward the information to as many people as possible, to help us with this important piece of work. We would be extremely grateful for any support you can offer. Healthwatch Norfolk and Healthwatch Suffolk are the independent voices for patients and service users in our counties. We gather your views of health and social care services to ensure they are heard by the people in charge. For more information about what we do, visit our websites:

www.healthwatchnorfolk.co.uk www.healthwatchsuffolk.co.uk

Copy supplied by Caroline Williams

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25 The Signpost GOODERSTONE WATER GARDENS

DON’T MISS THE EASTER BUNNY HUNT ! 2 - 5 April 2021: £3 per child with Prize! (Normal admission for adults)

GARDENS open daily all year; summer season: 10.30 am – 5 pm. NORMAL ADMISSION: Adults: £7.00 (Seniors: £6.50) Children 0-16: Free, Wheelchair user and pusher charged as one. Electric buggy users £3.50.

Sorry, no tearoom at present, but picnics welcome!

The Street, Gooderstone, (nr Swaffham), King’s Lynn, PE33 9BP

Enquiries Tel. 07730 551945.

26 The Signpost PAWSOUTDOORS

Analysing & Correcting Behaviour Problems/Dog Walking/Day Care Puppy training, Training tips, basic to novice training. Separation Anxiety, Dominance, Possessiveness, Nervous aggression. Choosing the right dog for your lifestyle. Fully insured Elizabeth Devery, Pet Psy. APBC, AHCP Contact - email: [email protected] Tel: 01366 328609 / 07767 708933

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Countryside and Rural Management Services Richard Gould 01359 409012 / 07879 620116 [email protected]

Pest Control Residential, Commercial and Agricultural properties All pests dealt with including; Wasps Flies Bedbugs / Fleas Rats Mice Large Vermin

Woodland Management Consultant and Practitioner Firewood Hedge laying Coppicing Tree / Hedge Planting Woodland Management Advice. Follow us at: www.facebook.com/countrysideservice_uk

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29 The Signpost Phoenix House Bed & Breakfast

Charming country house accommodation close to Watton in a quiet hamlet location. Call Chris or Irene on 01953 883587 or contact us through our website at www.phoenixhousebnb.co.uk Open all year round

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Get in touch today for a no obligation, free quote and survey of your current pest position. We offer routine commercial contracts, call out visits and emergency cover for residential customers 7 days a week at times that meet your requirements. Mobile: 07552 400596 Landline: 01553 841700

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33 The Signpost Traditional Values ...

Life has changed so much since this photograph was taken…But the traditional values of honesty, integrity and service associated with the time are an essential part of our business. So if you are thinking of buying, selling, letting or renting and seek the reassurance of an Agent practicing these traditional values, yet with a modern approach, please call us on 01366 388991

19a High Street,Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 9DA [email protected] www.ashtonroberts.co.uk

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37 The Signpost GRAHAME GILLIS AUTO REPAIRS M.O.T. STATION Full Servicing and repairs for cars & vans all makes and models petrol & diesel Brakes, Clutches, gearboxes suspensions engine repairs, diagnostics and welding Tyres, puncture repairs, wheel balancing and four-wheel laser tracking Collection & delivery available Open 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday And Saturday mornings Also AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE & REPAIR SPECIALISTS Whittington Garage Phone 01366 500606 Stoke Ferry [email protected] PE33 9TF A Friendly Family Business www.grahamgillisautorepairs.co.uk

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P.R.Bowers & Son Funeral Directors

Anmer Cottage, Road. IP26 5LN

( 3rd Generation Family Owned Business est. 1921 )

Private Chapels of Rest 24 Hour Service Tel 01366 727432 07796 780270 Upholding Traditional Values

Of Dignity & Respect

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41 The Signpost WINDYMILLERS PET SUPPLIES 01842 815551 website:www.pigsearsdirect.com WE ARE NOW MAIN AGENTS FOR FLO GAS {Bottled Gas}. You WILL find us CHEAPER than Calor gas for the same size bottle and we operate a FREE DELIVERY service within 10 miles of Brandon. No Flo-Gas bottle to exchange NO PROBLEM just come and see us. If you have a Gas BBQ we have the bottle. If you have a gas bottled room heater we have the bottle. Caravan/Catering gas bottles in stock. Plus the NEW LIGHT GAS BOTTLES. We also stock gas regulators and new flexible gas pipe. START SAVING MONEY ON OUR BOTTLED GAS SUPPLIES.

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47 The Signpost R H Bond Funeral Directors Salisbury House, Lynn Road, Stoke Ferry, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE33 9SW Office hours: 9am - 4pm Monday to Friday Saturdays by appointment only. Sundays closed. 24 hour phone service.

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT - DEBBIE STEWART

Tel: 01366 500241 ● Email: [email protected] ● Web: www.rhbondfunerals.co.uk

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50 The Signpost Bryan Cater Ltd Your Local & Professional Chimney Sweep

Chimney Sweeping, Stove Repairs, Servicing, Installations, Cowls, CCTV, Chemical Tar Removal.

For more information and pricing give us a call.

01366 728342 option 2 [email protected] www.catersweeps.co.uk

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GOOD FOOD EXCELLENT HOSPITALITY At the Olde Windmill Inn Great Cressingham

Fine Food, Real Ale & Hospitality The Windmill inn is a rambling, old country pub with real beams, log fires and ‘olde worlde’ charm . A real pub with rooms which serves fine food & beverages 3 bars, 3 dining rooms, 3 family rooms, games room & conservatory, beer garden & play area, terrace Opening Times are changing at the mill NOW OPEN ALL DAY – EVERY DAY – 7.30AM TILL LATE Drinks are served from 11am (Sunday 11.30am) to 11.00pm Food is served 11.30am to 2pm and 5.30pm to 10pm (Sunday 11.30am to 2.30pm and 5pm to 9.30pm) New En Suite Accommodation The Olde Windmill Inn has completed the construction of eight superior large Queen Double Rooms which can be booked for single, double or family occupation. Each bedroom is furnished to a very high standard, with en-suite bathrooms, built in wardrobes and tea and coffee making facilities, hair dryers, remote control TV and free local telephone calls, plus broadband access. Why not go online to www.oldewindmillinn.co.uk to download a brochure or make a booking. Traditional Roast Sunday Lunch at the Mill – The Antidote to Carveries Treat yourself to a country portion of roast beef or Sunday roast or a bit of both, with a choice of 5 vegetables, deep dish apple pie or gateau &coffee for only £10.95. Alternatively order just the main course for £8.15. Remember we offer choice and country portions at competitive prices – so order your meal from the bar (or at your table for bookings) and our staff will deliver your food at the table. Meet in the Middle – Mardle at the Mill Six private meeting/dining rooms are available at the mill Catering for 6 to 60 people The Windmill is the ideal venue for small wedding receptions, funeral teas,, ‘all-day’ conferences, meetings, private family parties & birthdays, product promotions and interview rooms. No room hire is charged when a food and beverage spread is ordered. 5* Start Happy Hour Enjoy a 10% discount off all drinks on weekdays, Monday – Friday, from 11am – 12noon and 4pm -7pm. 60s Plus Lunchtime Discount Enjoy our senior citizens (60 Years) 10% discount off all meals displayed on specials board and main pub menu on Monday – Friday lunch times from 11.30am – 2pm Country Music – Sing, Say and Play Tuesday night is country night. In the Old Bar from 8pm to late. Buskers welcome – no entry charge Location, Location, Location THE OLDE WINDMILL INN, Water End, Great Cressingham Twixt Watton and Swaffham IP25 6NN Email:- [email protected] - Web:- www.oldewindmillinn.co.uk Tel:- 01760 756232 Fax: - 01760 756400 / 756407

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