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Let the bells ring out for a NEW DECADE!

Volume 32 Number 8 January 2020 50p where sold

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HELLO 2020 sounds a nice round figure. It rolls off the tongue. There’s something rather comforting in leaving the “teenie” years behind and CONTENTS heading for the Twenties. More mature somehow. More finite. The new MP—5 Hopefully 2020 will start well for new Your Year—15 MP Alicia Kearns and in supplying a Time to Remember –6 solution to the Brexit problem. Dearly Departed – 23 Let’s hope it’s also a Guid New Yahr Things To Come—27 for our remarkable Royal Family after PLUS their troubled 2019, and for everyone at Westminster where total stalemate WI Review—8/9 gridlocked Parliament for so many Chris Donovan—12/13 months. Great golf-38 Locally, Cottesmore Amateurs FC are Parish News—42 also hoping for a super season, and not only on the pitch (See story inside). Spring The “Link” team prays it will be a cracker for you too. This first magazine of the new decade contains drops all the information you might need about the turn of the year, times past in! and what’s to come. Enjoy. Regards JENNY

LET US HAVE YOUR NEWS, STORIES & ADVERTS BY NOON ON THE 20TH OF EACH MONTH! Send your stories to the editor Jenny Laidler 29 Cresswell Drive (Tel. 811038) Email: [email protected] Our advertising rates are very competitively priced and we welcome new adverts, either one-off or booked for 12 months for the price of 11 months. For advertising enquiries contact Juliet Burgess Ray on 812898 or 07903 021063 Email: [email protected]

DIARY DATES JANUARY FEBRUARY 7th WI Village Hall 7.30pm Hatha Yoga 4th WI Village Hall 7.30p, Twenty Twenty 12th Dog First Aid at Village Hall. 10am- 1.30pm. 7th WI Fashion Show, Village Hall, evening 13th Village Hall Management 17th Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.15pm Committee 7 pm 20th Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.15pm 18th Film Night, Village Hall, 7.30pm (budget setting meeting) 21st Film Night, Village Hall 7.30pm

The Link team wishes all our readers a very happy and prosperous New Year.

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Government YOUR NEW MP talks involving Syria and Iraq TO swap international involvement for pastoral as well as platitudes might seem something of a advising dichotomy, but, having been elected for the governments Rutland & Melton constituency with a thumping on dealing majority, new MP Alicia Kearns can now with such approach both issues with equal fortitude. terror groups Hand-picked by her local constituency as Daesh association as the bright young successor to (ISIS). replace the long-serving Sir Alan Duncan, Alicia Part of her duly beat off the challenge from a gallant band role has been of hopefuls in last month’s General Election to to counter seal the seat by a comfortable margin. Russian She certainly maintained the Tory momentum disinformation as well as to attend UK-led peace and, being poised to inherit one of the safest talks on Syria. She has also worked at the UK seats in the land (so safe that it was reputed, Defence Ministry and the Ministry of Justice and falsely, that Boris Johnson was interested in been interviewed on security issues on BBC standing) Alicia still felt obliged to continue to Radio 4 and in the national Press. campaign hard while meeting as many Alicia was raised in rural Suffolk and Rutlanders as possible to get the feel of the Cambridgeshire and attended Impingham constituency and its people, not just on Brexit College before gaining a degree in Social & but on equally important matters closer to Political Studies at Fitzwilliam College, home. Cambridge. She came to the attention of the “I grew up in a tiny village so I can understand Conservative hierarchy by making a stirring the needs of rural communities and I know how speech at the Tory Party Conference in 2017. often they are forgotten in the allocation of She is married with a young son and is a keen Central Government funding,” she said. “My walker. “As a family we enjoy travelling around priorities are to protect the rural way of life and our wonderful countryside whenever we get the secure the funds we need to deliver exceptional chance,” she said. “There are still many parts of health care, broadband, roads and social care Rutland I have yet to discover.” A committed cat and to keep us content.” lover, she volunteers with the Battersea Cats Her career hitherto has been dedicated to and Dogs Shelter and also fosters felines. national security and keeping Britain safe. She *Tighter than usual deadlines last month meant is a counter-terrorism expert and during her we ere unable to include a full list of General career has worked for the Foreign and Election candidates, We apologise for the error. Commonwealth Office, where she led UK

ELECTION RESULTS Alicia Kearns (Con) - 36,507 ELECTED Andy Thoms (Lab) - 9,583 Carol Weaver (Lib Dem) - 7,970 Alistair McQuillan (Green) - 2,875 Marietta King (UKIP) - 917 Anthony Watchorn (Ind) - 458

Total votes cast: 58,505 Turnout: 70.74%

August Bank Holiday on record (34C; 92F). Most WORLDWIDE -THE of Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire, was evacuated after a nearby reservoir began to crumble. Ben Stokes and Jack Leach saw England home YEAR JUST GONE by one wicket in the Third Ashes Test at JUST a reminder about the main events of 2019 Headingley; the series was drawn 2-2. Bury FC (a (in chronological order) you might have missed. Football League member for 134 years) were Theresa May lost a vote on her Brexit deal in the expelled from the League after going into Commons by the largest margin in history. The receivership. 2019 marked 100 years since the Duke of Edinburgh (97) escaped serious injury in Versailles Peace Treaty and 80 years since the a car crash in Norfolk. Argentine soccer star start of the Second World War. Emiliano Sala, who had recently signed for American Sarah Thomas became the first Cardiff City, died in a plane crash off the swimmer to cross the English Channel four Channel Islands. “Fabulous February” was the times back-to-back (130 miles in 54 hours) to warmest winter month on record. raise funds for Breast Cancer. The world famous The political situation at Westminster hit an Thomas Cook travel conglomerate went bust. impasse as protesters marched through London, Hunstanton and surrounding villages were calling for a second Brexit referendum. “Forces evacuated due to North Sea storms. Teenage Sweetheart” Dame Vera Lynn was 102. “Tiger Swedish “eco-warrior” Greta Thunberg (pictured) Roll” (ridden by Davy Russell) won his second addressed the UN on climate change. successive Grand National. Former Olympian The Duke of York got James Cracknell (46) of Cambridge University embroiled in the became the oldest oarsman to participate in the Boat2019 Race. Golf superstar Tiger Woods made an amazing comeback after 10 years of obscurity to win the US Masters. A massive fire destroyed sections of Notre Dame in Paris. Manchester City achieved the double by winning the Premiership and thrashing Watford 6-0 in the FA Cup Final. ITV scrapped the Jeremy Kyle Show after a former participant committed suicide. Nigel Farage’s Brexit Party won 32 per cent of the vote in the UK elections for the European Parliament, well ahead of more established Jeffrey Epstein scandal. parties. Liverpool became European soccer Lewis Hamilton (pictured) won yet another F1 champions, beating Spurs 2-0 in the final in world title. Madrid. President Trump arrived in June for a 3- The wife of an American diplomat stationed at a day visit amid howls of protests. Cambridgeshire air base claimed “diplomatic Mrs May continued as “interim” Prime Minister immunity” and quit Britain for the US in a hurry while Tories picked a new leader; Boris Johnson after a teenage motor cyclist died in a collision beat Jeremy Hunt for the job and became PM. with a car. Two months of rain fell in two days. The 100th Eliud Kipchoge (Kenya) became the first man to anniversary of Alcock and Brown’s first run a sub-2 hour marathon. South Africa beat Transatlantic flight was celebrated in England 32-12 in the Rugby World Cup final. Newfoundland and Ireland. England’s women England football team beats Montenegro in the footballers finish 4th in the World Cup; England’s 1,000th England international since the first men cricketers won their World Cup with a last- game against Scotland in 1872. November 8 gasp victory over New Zealand. marked 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Jo Swinson became LibDem leader. Cambridge Wall. A General Election was announced for recorded Britain’s highest- ever July temperature December 12. of 38.7C (100.7F), followed by the hottest

We had a rousing end to the year with our Christmas Party, a talk on the Tudor & Stuart Christmas traditions by Douglas Clinton and then fun and games contributed by the members along with some delicious party fare. We had lots of visitors who were very welcome but also some absences due to illness. Our next meeting will be on January 7th 7.30 pm when we will be learning about Hatha Yoga - all welcome. The Village Hall, Main Street

WI Lite Our coffee morning on the third Wednesday each month continues to be popular. Informal, no rules, just bring yourself, maybe a friend, maybe a hobby you are working on - or the crossword. Meet up, have a chat, and a cuppa. No membership required. Next January 15th 10-12

Get Crafty The Craft Club will meet again on Sunday 26th January at 2 pm when our activity will be based around The Still Room - Simple salves and balms, nontoxic household products, first aid items- take what you make, everything provided. Booking essential - £10 pp.

Further dates 23rd February Soap Making 29th March - Blue & White paper crafts ready for Easter

‘Get Creative’ Craft Show May 17th Lots of crafts to try - no charge

SOS Fashion Show February 7th doors open 7pm Tickets £5 - Discounted High Street Fashion

Table Top Sale 11am-4pm March 1st - having a turn out? Bring it along and turn it into cash - tables £10 All details from Rosemary Lorkings 07971234557 [email protected]

COTTESMORE RAMBLERS The Ramblers managed to find some bright (if year” walk in Exton Park, on a breezy) conditions on the day of last month’s circuit that is almost all on hard paths, and so outing. In another change of plan, brought capable of being tackled in all but the worst about by ground conditions, we walked from weather conditions! Ketton round through Geeston and back - though, admittedly, even in Ketton the ground The date for the Ramble is Sunday 12 January, was rather soggier than we would have ideally and we’ll begin the walk at the usual time of liked, but what can you expect after such a 10.00 – meet outside the Fox and Hounds pub in the centre of Exton village. As ever, if you damp autumn? need any further information (or would like a lift I suspect that after the rigours of Christmas we on the day), you are welcome to ring John will be ready for some exercise in January. So Meara on 812350. the plan is to undertake our usual “start-the John Meara

INVESTMENT CLUB How will the Stock Market react to the General provides plenty of interest, and Election result? Well, as Press Date for this indeed plenty of challenges. If you edition is election day itself, your scribe feel you could be interested in naturally can’t answer the question as he writes joining us, and have some time this. But by the time you read this…well, the and a bit of money to spare, why not come Investment Club will have met in the intervening along and see us in action? Our next meeting period, and the discussion at that meeting may takes place on Wednesday 15 January, at have been especially lively. More on this next 7.30pm in the Village Hall upper room – or else, time! for information about the Club, you are welcome to ring Secretary John Meara on 812350. Following the tos and fros of the Stock Market John Meara

GET CRAFTING WITH CREATEMORE Meetings of the Cottesmore craft group are held on third Tuesday evenings each month from 7-9pm in the back room of The Sun. For more information contact Tessa on 07736378051, [email protected] or Julie on [email protected] Tessa Oram

Cottesmore History & Archaeological Group (CHAG) Our meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm. For more information contact Chris Whitton 812854

Rutland Branch We meet on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 7pm for 7.30pm in the Sports and Social Club, Cottesmore. Contact No 01572 755969 Derek Bury 9

COTTESMORE AMATEURS Amateurs in line for soccer prize (as of December 7) with 25 points Cottesmore Amateurs were among six clubs from 11 games. They are seven who were presenting their case on December 9 points behind leaders Friar Lane & for a share of a Buildbase £100k deal to Epworth, with three games in hand, after renovate their facilities. beating FC Khalsa 7-4. All clubs had qualified for the final stages by Forthcoming fixtures included December 14: playing in either the Buildbase FA Trophy or FA Barlestone St G (H) and Dec 28: Thurnby Vase. Rangers (H). Amateurs, who played in the Vase competition Westray to Wembley... and back again and whose Westray Park ground is one of the As part of the club’s efforts to raise funds to finest non-League pitches in the country, improve the ground and erect a fence around reached the shortlist and along with the other the playing pitches and surrounding areas., the five clubs presented their plans to a panel of whole club were working together at the Tesco judges at Wembley Stadium (connected by EE). store in Oakham on December 21 to attempt to The two winning clubs get a £25,000 product row from Westray Park to Wembley Stadium bursary which will include building, electrical and back again in a day via rowing machines. and hire products to renovate club facilities. The marathon started at 9am and ended when Amateurs are currently third in the Everards the task was completed. Full details in next Leicestershire Senior League Premier Division month’s “Link”.

COTTESMORE WINE CIRCLE This is an informal circle, with an annual interested on to it. To do this, or for any other membership fee, where we meet and sample information, please contact the Chair via email eight wines (we do not make wine). Although on [email protected] or on 01572 our membership is currently full we do have a 812167. waiting list and are happy to place anyone Janine Rees

Power of the invitation “The power of an “Invitations” was the theme of the Rev Anthony invitation is potentially Oram’s Christmas and New Year message to life-changing,” said Mr parishioners, as outlined in the latest “Herald” Oram. “It can precede bulletin from Cottesmore Benefice. a new adventure or a Recalling how various invitations (and his new path in life. It can acceptance) had changed his life for the better, open doors to the rector explained how the season of goodwill friendship, community, provided the ideal opportunity for us all to fun, new challenges respond to invitations from Jesus Himself to and new opportunities. discover more about ourselves through Him. ”At this time of year, He maintained that the phrase “Would you like when we have the to?” contained “some of the most exciting power to invite, we are words ever spoken” and remembered how his invited by Jesus response to the question had affected his life Himself to discover for the better in terms of a job interview, his more of who He is, and because he is Immanuel proposal of marriage to Tessa and in the (“God with us”) how he wants to be part of our acceptance of his post at Cottesmore. lives so he can bring transformation to us.”

DOG RAMBLERS (RUTLAND) If mud is good for the complexion I should soon be looking 21 again! Somehow I have my doubts on this one. Everywhere is still waterlogged and as a result we humans are all getting rather tired of it and all the washing that goes with it. But as you can see the dogs are still having a great time with their friends. NEW YEAR WALKS: New Year’s Eve we will be walking at Exton for 3 1/4miles. Meet on the green at 10am. New Year’s Day—Sykes Lane, Empingham. Meet at 10am inside the hand gate of the walk. Everyone is welcome to join us. For all our other walks see our Facebook page ‘The Dog Ramblers (Rutland)’ or contact ~ Jenny Laidler 811038

Happy days at Sykes Lane

Exton Park

All things great & small Waiting patiently for home made treats.

GARDENING GROUP We had a bring and share lunch for our last Some of those passes wouldn't have shamed meeting of the year during which we also had the Lions’ rugby team! our AGM. It was a great success, with fabulous Sadly, Pat is stepping down from her role as food and company. Following on from our Programme Secretary so we are looking for a excellent instruction in wreath-making last replacement. She has brought us some great month, the competition was fierce for the best speakers and has left us with a full and hand-made wreath. All the entries were fabulous interesting programme for next year. Many and Marjorie had a very difficult task in judging thanks, Pat, from us all. them. The worthy winner was Ruth Matthews. A couple of dates for your diary next year. The two quizzes, courtesy of Linda and Ronnie, Monday March 9th is our first meeting of the were a fun way to exercise our grey matter after year and Sunday September 6th is the we had eaten our fill. We ended our gathering Cottesmore Craft and Produce Show! with a surprisingly energetic Pass the Parcel. Ros Kenny 11

website under VIEW FROM PARISH Documents. What would normally COUNCIL CHAIRMAN happen next is that the Local Planning – JANUARY 2020 Authority, RCC in this case, would consider On behalf of the Parish Council, I objections and how to would like to wish all readers of respond to them, the Plan would be ‘The Link’ a happy and prosperous amended accordingly New Year. and be subject to a further period of consultation, which would be, say, a year later. I have decided to focus primarily on the Rutland Local Plan as the best information that I have, So, why hasn’t that happened yet? The short in writing this in the middle of December, is that answer is that paralleling the publication of the early in the New Year the long-awaited next Local Plan Review, RCC were in discussion with draft of the Plan will be published by Rutland the Government about the implications arising County Council for public consultation. For from the release of the St George’s Army reasons I will explain, this is likely to be a very barracks, site of former RAF base North important document setting out the future for Luffenham. You will have no doubt seen a vast all of Rutland over the next couple of decades. amount of information and discussion in the There is, however, often very little time for press and local media ever since. The proposals people to get engaged again in this process, are, it is fair to say, contentious and have and so I thought it useful to at least begin generated a considerable volume of local focusing our minds. debate and discussion. The proposals have also caused a significant delay in the local plan Firstly, where are we at this time? Well, way process, as it was eventually realised that the back in July 2017, RCC carried out a proposals at St. George’s Barracks (SGB) are so consultation exercise on its Local Plan Review, large as to require a rethink of the whole of effectively a revision of its strategic framework, RCC’s spatial planning strategy. There has been settlement strategy and supporting policies. further consultation on how the SGB Masterplan This, it envisaged, was to guide development in could look and in strategic terms how it can be Rutland up to 2036. This sets out a slightly incorporated into and therefore alter the nature revised spatial strategy, with some changes to of the reviewed Local Plan. The position has the villages in the different settlement been further complicated as there is also a categories, including additional villages acting similar proposal, that has been put before RCC, as Local Service Centres (Cottesmore continues to provide another significant new settlement at in this category, as it is under the current Plan). the former Woolfox Airfield site, adjacent to the It also identified the specific housing land A1 near Stretton. allocations and site proposals across Rutland to achieve their minimum target of 4000 Does this all matter to the residents of additional homes to meet its identified strategic Cottesmore? Personally I think it should. At the housing requirements. Cottesmore PC very least the scale of new development that is responded, in particular focusing on the being discussed is very large in comparison to relationship with our adopted Neighbourhood what already exists in Rutland – a current Plan, the process of site identification and population of around 39,600 incorporating over selection and a number of other detailed issues. 15,000 households. Whatever residents’ views It is also worth noting that the draft said very are, and as always with planning they will no little about how planning could be used to help doubt vary considerably, it is important that calm traffic, important as speeding traffic is one opportunities are taken to respond. The Parish of this parish’s residents’ most serious Council will I am sure be making a response, concerns. Our full response should be available but individual residents, or groups of residents, to read on RCC’s Local Plan web site and on PC responding can be powerful voices and ones 12 that RCC will have to listen to and whose traffic control bollard/crossing point near the concerns (or indeed support) will have to be village shop. This was caused by a lack of responded to. adequate drainage being included! We have been assured by our ward councillors that this So what happens next? As I said at the has been raised with RCC and it is on a works beginning, we don’t know the precise timing schedule to be done by early 2020! from RCC at the time of writing this. Our best estimate is that some scrutiny and other In my December report, I mentioned that we procedures of RCC will be carried out into the have a group of councillors looking at various early New Year, which means some or all of the activities under the broad heading of ‘Village draft strategy, policies and text may be Improvements’. One of these is a proposed fun- available in the public domain before the end of day sometime in the spring (options around 2019. The best estimate of the consultation Easter/Spring Bank holidays are being looked period commencing is likely to be, at the at). There are some good ideas emerging earliest, February 2020. It will likely be a 6 week already about some of the activities. Some are consultation period, which means people have aimed at children, some for adults, and some to move quite fast to assimilate the information for both. Now we are looking for some more and provide responses. At some point in the volunteers to help us with this. So if you are future there will be an ‘Examination in Public’, interested and/or would like further chaired by an independent Inspector who will information, then please use the contact points give due considerations to all properly lodged on the parish council web-site. objections. It just remains for me to say again Happy New I am sure that we will be returning to this issue, Year to all readers and also may I say a big but I thought this is the right time to provide an thank you to Jenny and her colleagues for all update. their hard work in producing such a professional and colourful magazine for us all What else? A number of people have each month. commented to various parish councillors about the ponding on the Oakham side of the new Chris Donovan (Chairman 2019/2020)

Day by day Decorated Advent calendars were unveiled at 6pm each evening in homes around Greetham from December 1-24; the final “window” was revealed at Greetham church on Christmas Eve. More than £500 was raised for Tearfund from the Big Quiz at Cottesmore church. A cakes-and-carols event at Market Overton Village Hall on December 15 was well attended. A “Carols in the Castle” concert was held at Oakham Castle on December 13.

Call Silver for solace lonely, in distress or who simply need someone Feeling a little lonely during Christmas and the to talk to. New Year? You could try phoning The Silver The Silver Line is the only national, free, Line, a link for senior citizens in which callers confidential helpline dedicated to older people. who may not have spoken to a soul for days Since its launch in 2013 it has received more during the festive season can chat to a than 2.5m calls, most of them made overnight sympathetic listener. or at weekends when no other helpline is A small band of volunteers and paid staff available. answer calls at all hours from people who are Call the Silver Line on 0800 470 8090. 13

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VILLAGES -THIS WAS YOUR YEAR JANUARY: New Cottesmore rector Rev Anthony Oram was inducted at St Nicholas church,. Rutland MP Sir Alan Duncan joined county councillors in tributes to former RCC leader and Exton ward representative Terry King of Cottesmore who had died, aged 71, the previous November. FEBRUARY: “Link” carried a profile of Mary, Countess of Gainsborough, who died in December at Horn, aged 93. Market Overton chocolatier Helen Buff ran three marathons in five weeks to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. MARCH: Three Tornados flew over Cottesmore as a reminder of the former tri-nation air base’s glory years. Dog Ramblers (Rutland) celebrated their first birthday by attending a First Aid for Dogs session at Oakham Veterinary Hospital. Burials discontinued in the original cemetery extension but there are still burials taking place in the new extension. APRIL: Hegarty Solicitors raised £5,000 for charity by walking 34 miles from Peterborough to Oakham . A lady called Xenia told CHAG members about her wartime evacuation from London to Cottesmore Hall. It’s 90 years since the All-England Ploughing Championships were held in Cottesmore. Cigarettes were stolen in a raid on the village shop. MAY: Cottesmore Clatterpots WI held a Have-A-Go Craft Day at the Village Hall as part of the Get Creative Festival. Coroner’s verdict of “death by road traffic collision” was recorded on young cyclist Victoria Mortimer who was involved in a fatal crash involving a car near Teigh. JUNE: Sara McWhan of Toll Bar ran the London Marathon, raising £1,000 for Dementia Revolution. Cottesmore Amateurs FC completed an unbeaten 17-game run to finish seventh in the league. Hollie Saunders of 1st Cottesmore (St Nicholas) Brownies was one of the first Brownies in Britain to receive a new gold award. Market Overton Cricket Club hosted a visit by England women’s captain Heather Knight. JULY: Cottesmore Brownies leader Bernie Wallace received Rutland Radio’s “Hero of the Week” award. Rutland branch of the Royal Air Forces Association celebrated its 70th birthday in Cottesmore. Former Cottesmore Hunt Master Brian Fanshawe died at 82. Cottesmore singing starlet Pheobie Key-Warburton (pictured)) of Harrier Close reached the semi-finals of ITV’s “The Voice Kids”. Cottesmore Village Pre-School group closed. The funeral of former Leicester Tigers and Barbarians rugby great David Matthews of Barrow, who died on June 18, aged 82, was held at Cottesmore church. AUGUST: Former RAF Cottesmore station commander Air Chief Marshal Mike Wigston was appointed the new Chief of the Air Staff. Jan Harvey of Wenton Close had her head shaved to raise £500 for Cancer Research UK. Much-loved former village residents Charlotte (Lottie) McAvoy and Barbara Atton were mourned. SEPTEMBER: Cottesmore Gardening Club’s 11th annual Cottesmore Produce & Craft Show was held at the Village Hall. Second World War veteran Wilf Hamit renewed links with his old regiment (the 7th Armoured Division, of “Desert Rats” fame) as he met regimental representatives ahead of his 101st birthday; his daughter Barbara Whitworth lives in Cottesmore. OCTOBER: Cottesmore Harvest Festival included a collection of groceries for the Rutland Food Bank. Cottesmore Clatterpots WI prepared three session of Christmas Crafts afternoons. New headmaster Daniel Alfieri started at St Nicholas primary school. Cottesmore got a new defibrillator, thanks to the Karen Ball Fund and Juliet Burgess-Ray, who was hailed as “a local hero” by a county magazine. Cottesmore now has two defibrillators. NOVEMBER: The “Big Quiz” was held at Cottesmore church in aid of Tearfund, followed by the Christmas Fayre on the 23rd. The “Pudsey” rickshaw raising funds for “Children in Need”, and steered by TV personality Matt Baker, passed through Rutland. Former Cottesmore Hunt Master Simon Clarke died at 83. DECEMBER: General Election: Alicia Kearns wins seat for the Tories. Cottesmore Amateurs hold a “Westray to Wembley” rowing machine marathon.15

Cottesmore pupils will sing with the stars CHILDREN of St Nicholas CE Primary School, Cottesmore will be joining hundreds of pupils from schools from all over Britain for a special “Young Voices” concert at the Genting Arena, Birmingham on January 17. The event is a massive undertaking which attracts professional musicians, star vocalists and dancers from every denomination. It offers Cottesmore pupils the chance to perform with the largest children’s choir in the country alongside such celebrated performers as Tony Hadley and Ruti, winner of TV’s “The Voice”. St Nicholas pupils will be attending lunchtime rehearsals and regular practice sessions throughout the school day. The children do not need tickets for the concert, but adults need to purchase £20 tickets which can be booked through the school. Official T-shirts are available for £12, accompanied by a free torchlight and charity wristband. The concert is being filmed, and DVDs priced at £9.99 will be available from the school. Music co-ordinator is Mrs L Barton. -BPM

La Belle Band (“Large men making big sounds from small instruments”) stage their fun- packed show “La Belle and the Lost Chord of Ulaanbaatar” at Cottesmore Village Hall on March 13 (7pm for 7.30pm). The presentation is described as resembling “Around The World in 80 Days” crossed with James Bond and Gardeners’ Question Time, and includes charades, shadow puppetry, close harmony and musical interludes. Box office: 812350.

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Oakham firefighters and community help a resident in need Oakham firefighters teamed up with the community to rescue a resident in need at the beginning of December in a wonderful show of festive goodwill. Big-hearted firefighters at Oakham Fire Station issued a Facebook appeal on Friday (7 Dec) in the hope of tracking down a replacement washing machine for a local resident whose new machine. machine had been destroyed in a blaze that The most logistically straightforward was an morning. offer of a used machine from a lady in Thanks to Facebook they resulted in numerous Uppingham whose grandma had bought her a offers of help. new one. Within hours, they were inundated with offers of Thanks to the tremendous response to their help. The response was incredible. appeal, firefighters at the Oakham station now They had five-plus offers of second-hand intend to try to do more good deeds - with the washing machines and even private messages help of the community. from someone offering to buy him a new one When suitable circumstances arise, they intend and another willing to contribute £100 toward a asking for help for other people in need.

Say goodbye to statins? Imagine nipping to Boots for your annual flu jab and, while you’re at it, getting a once-in-a-year cholesterol “vaccine.” Such a routine would mean that the daily dose of statins, currently taken by millions of Britons to reduce their risk of heart attacks and strokes, would be a thing of the past. Experts recently revealed that the first injection to lower cholesterol could receive NHS approval within 18 months. Stunning trial results showed that the drug, given twice a year, slashed levels in patients by up to 50 per cent.

EASY MULLED WINE RECIPE

Ingredients 1 bottle red wine 1 cinnamon stick 3 star anise 3 cloves 1 orange, sliced 1 lemon, sliced 50g/1¾oz brown sugar Method Place all of the ingredients into a saucepan and simmer gently for 6-8 minutes, without boiling. Alternatively, place the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low until warm (1-2 hours, depending on your slow cooker).

To serve, pour the mulled wine into heatproof glasses or cups. 19

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essential part of the festivities, you also have to Happy Hogmanay eat. And if you’re eating, you might want to try Cock-a-Leekie soup (chicken broth), Venison Pie WHAT does “Hogmanay” actually mean? Nary a with Rumblethumps (a potato and vegetable soul seems to know. The Scottish dialect word bake) or Tatties-and-Neeps (potatoes and associated with New Year’s Eve revelry has turnips). It’s all good hearty fare. obscure origins. First recorded in the annals of a Festivities take place wherever Scots gather, church at Elgin, Morayshire in 1604, it was commencing at the end of December (or thought to have been derived from Norse/ earlier, if required) and ending on January 2 (or Gaelic script, but no-one knows for sure. later, if required). As regards Christmas, the It might even be Greek (a corruption of Agia Scots leave that to the English. Mine, or “holy month”) though how the Tartan A 1640 Act of Parliament in Scotland made the Armies came to adopt Hellenic script is a celebration of Yule illegal. Officially this law was mystery, unless they played the Ancient Greeks repealed in 1712, though the killjoy Protestant at football one distant December day and Church in Scotland continued to frown on such picked up a few phrases along with the Feta frivolities for many years afterwards. and Retsina. *Custom dictates that householders leave a What we DO know is that the feast of piece of coal and a portion of bread in a box Hogmanay equates to the first day of the year outside the front door on New Year’s Eve for and goes back to Viking celebrations of the passing strangers. Incidentally, “first- winter solstice during late December which footing” (the custom of calling on a neighbour’s were marked by wild parties, orgies and no house during the early minutes of New Year’s doubt (knowing the Vikings) plenty of pillaging. Day to wish all within a happy New Year) has its One thing “Hogmanay” ISN’T is a price for pigs. own protocol. To truly first-foot you don’t need It ain’t hog money. As far as we know. But then to be a stranger or a passing acquaintance. most Scots couldn’t care less about the origins Indeed you can actually be the occupant or of the knees-up as long as they can celebrate owner of the house in question and still “first- the occasion in style. It only happens once a foot” your own property. You just don’t have to year, after all. be in situ when midnight strikes! – BPM. Having established that alcoholic liquid is an

WHAT’S ON IN JANUARY 1: “Dick Whittington” at the Corn Exchange Theatre, Stamford. Call the box office 01780 766455. 2: Phoenix Cinema, with Cinema for Rutland, presents “Late Night” at the Rutland County Museum. 7pm for 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 from Oakham Wines or from www.wegottickets.com. A pre-cinema dinner menu is available from the Wisteria Hotel. 2 to 4: RATS presents “Aladdin” at Brooke Priory School, Oakham. 7.30pm, with Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets are £8 in advance or £10 on the door (children under 16 £5) available on www.wegottickets.com or from Colemans Stationers on Oakham High Street. Further details are available on 01572 723247. 4 to 12: “Jack and the Beanstalk” at Stamford Arts Centre. For more information phone the box office on 01780 763203 or visit www.stamfordartscentre.com. Until 4: “Winter Light Spectacular” at Nene Valley Railway (from Wansford to Overton). Further details are available on 01780 784444. For dates and times and booking, contact www.nvr.org.uk. Until 5: “Robin Hood” at Leicester’s Little Theatre. Tickets are priced at £15.50 and £13. Contact 0116 2551302 or littletheatre.net. Until 6: Original artists’ posters (including Parisian prints) are being exhibited at the Goldmark Gallery, Uppingham. 8: Big Fun Quiz at the Grainstore, Station Approach, Oakham. Phone 770065. Until 11: “West Side Story”. Bernstein and Sondheim’s famous musical is at the Curve Theatre, Leicester, with twice-weekly matinees. Tickets are available from £10 on 0116 2423595 or from curveonline.co.uk. 13: Fitness Festival at Uppingham School Sports Centre. 820830. Until 14: “Aladdin” at the De Montfort Hall, Leicester. Tickets from £23 on 0116 2333111. 25: Burns Night, with four-course meal (including haggis, neeps and tatties) bagpipes, Burns readings and ceilidh dancing. Barnsdale Lodge.

Launde 900 Launde Abbey celebrated its 900th year of existence, having been originally established as a priory in 1119. It was fortunate to have survived Henry VIII’s purge of the monasteries after the great schism from Rome; the king’s Chancellor Thomas Cromwell had earmarked it for himself but died before he could “inherit” it. His son Gregory resided there in later years. It is now used by the Church of England dioceses of Leicester and Peterborough as a conference and retreat centre.

For more information regarding hours and service please contact Sue: Mob: 0781 413 3590

BRIEFLY BURNS Night Supper is being held at Market Overton Village Hall on Saturday January 25 at 7pm. If you would like to participate, contact Lynn Lane on [email protected]. Cost is £20 per person. COTTESMORE Military Wives Choir performs at Market Overton Village Hall on Friday May 22 (7pm for 7.30pm). The choir, formed by the wives of service personnel, is always a popular attraction. Tickets are £10 via the village shop. 2019 was a great year for activities at the MO village hall, with events including the Rutland Big Band, Delicious Desserts, the ever popular Quiz & Chips and a marvellous talk by Colin Lucas- Winn on D-Day. A £4,000 grant from the Historic Churches Preservation Trust has eased Market Overton church’s financial burden in dealing with contractors’ and architects’ bills following the roof theft, though more money is needed to deal with clock repairs and an organ refurbishment planned for this year. OAKHAM All Saints church presents an evening of swing music with the “Singing Vicar”, the Rev Ron Iveson, on March 14. THE Royal British Legion’s Oakham branch reports that its Poppy Day appeal raised over £49,000, including more than £20,000 from the sale of ceramic poppies made by many Rutland residents through the Rutland Poppy Project organised by Vicky Goddard. FORMER Market Overton resident Lin Ryder thanks all who offered help after her pet cat went missing after she moved house. She finally tracked it down near her new home in Whissendine. FINAL total raised from last year’s Ride-and-Stride in Rutland was around £18,000. Half the money is being passed back to churches nominated by participants Richard Adams and Pat Morley, the two RHCPT trustees with responsibilities for the churches and chapels in the Oakham Team Ministry area. RUTLAND Foodbank distributed Christmas hampers to families, individuals, housebound and homeless people on December 12. YOUNG Rutlanders aged 18 and under have been invited to use their phones and cameras to capture “something special about Rutland” for the High Sheriff’s photographic competition. Deadline is January 31 for the winter competition. Contact www.rutlandhighsheriff19.com. - BPM

gavottes, preferring the weightier works of LOVING STRAUSS, Mozart and Beethoven. It took composers of the stature of Liszt, Brahms and Wagner to persuade the Viennese to accept that these BUT SLOWLY lighter works weren’t just frivolous fripperies to THE highlight of New Year’s Day for many music be performed only at State balls but genuine lovers is the annual morning concert by the concert pieces. Vienna Philharmonic from the ornate Johann Strauss directed his first VPO concert in Musikverin, but it’s perhaps surprising that it 1873 and by the end of the century regular took many long years for the staid musicians Viennese concerts were being held. Felix who played for the VPO during the 19th century Weingartner conducted the first all-Strauss to accept the music of “waltz king” Johann concert in 1925, and Clemens Kraus and Willi Strauss, his equally inspired family and their Boskowski made sure the New Year’s Day fellow composers of the Viennese School. tradition prospered into the TV age. This year’s Rank-and-file orchestral players took a dim view concert is conducted by Andris Nelsons. of tackling lightweight waltzes, polkas and —BPM

avoid botrytis and any GARDENING JOBS other fungal nasties. Use fleece to protect FOR JANUARY tender plants in what is predicted to be a harsh Wash cloches inside and out winter Scoop out any leaves and dead plant remains Do keep off frosted lawns that have fallen into any water in ponds or whenever possible. troughs. Check greenhouse heaters every day, if the fuel Start slug patrol as soon as the frost finish heater is smoking turn it down, Check all stored fruit every day; remove soft or Check and re-firm shrubs if the winter has rotten ones loosened them Leeks and parsnips may be lifted-gently Try to keep ponds and pools free of freezing but Currents and gooseberries benefit from a feed of do not smash the ice. The shock wave can harm sulphate of potash or even kill delicate fish, better to melt the ice Tie string around tall yews and conifers to stop gently with warm water then gently enlarge the any snow from bending the branches hole. If we do have snow keep brushing it off shrubs Keep the garden as clean as possible and especially conifers and hedges Clear away rubbish and leaf debris Sweet peas may be sowed Turn compost heaps regularly Winter prune apples and pears, but only if there Now is a good time to have lawnmowers are no frosts serviced and tools sharpened. Do not be too keen to water plants in the green Happy gardening house there is moisture aplenty in the air. David Penny Also keep the green house well ventilated to

DEAR DEPARTED The following personalities died during 2019. RIP: “Cream” drummer Ginger Baker (80); England goalkeeper Gordon Banks, whose save from Brazil’s Pele during the 1970 World Cup was described as “the greatest ever” (81); campaigning journalist Christopher Booker (81); war hero, later disgracefully tainted by totally unfounded paedophilic allegations, Field Marshal Lord Bramall (95); Irish chat show host Gay (Gabriel) Byrne (85); Broadway star Carol Channing (97); King’s College, Cambridge choir master Sir Stephen Cleobury, who directed the world famous Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols for 38 years, dies aged 70; “It Ain’t Half Hot, Mum” actor Windsor Davies (88); singer, dancer, actress, all-round sparkling star Doris Day (97); Harold Wilson confidante Lady Marcia Falkender (86); “Saturday Night and Sunday Morning”/ “The Dresser” actor Albert Finney (82); soprano Heather Harper (88); screen actor Rutger Hauer (75); former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke (89); TV personality and author Clive James (80); rascally character actor Freddie Jones (91); fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld (85); former FI racing driver Niki Lauda who, in his 20s, survived a horrendous crash with life-threatening burns (70);“Play Bach” jazz pianist Jacques Loussier (84); TV racing pundit and larger-than-life journalist John McCririck (79); legendary sports journalist Hugh McIlvenny (84); former Celtic and Scotland footballer Billy McNeill (79); theatre director and satirist Jonathan Miller (85); Zimbabwe figurehead and despot Robert Mugabe (95); serene US mezzo Jessye Norman (74); star photographer Terry O’Neill (81); pianist, conductor, arranger and all-round musical great Andre Previn (88); Lee Radziwill, beautiful younger sister of US President’s wife Jacqueline Kennedy (85); TV chef Gary Rhodes (59); former TV newscaster Peter Simmons (77); William Simons, who played Alf Ventress in TV’s “Heartbeat” (79); “Keeping Up Appearances” actor Clive Swift (82); Monkees’ bass guitarist Peter Tork (77); US stock actor Rip Torn (88); former TV political interviewer Brian Walden (86); former speedway star “Split” Waterman (85); cricketer Bob Willis (70); film director Franco Zefferelli (93). 23

2020-LOOKS LIKE A BUSY YEAR AHEAD! (DTC = Dates to be confirmed) HIGHLIGHTS: Summer Olympics (Tokyo, July 24-Aug 9); ICC T20 World Cup (Australia, start Oct 18); US Presidential elections (Nov 3); NASA Mars Mission (launch July 17); UEFA Euro 2000 finals (June 12-July 12). ALSO; New Year’s Day Parade, London, Jan 1; Burns Night, Jan 25; Chinese New Year, Jan 25; RBS Six Nations Rugby, Feb 1-Mar 14; Olney Pancake Races, Feb 25; St David’s Day, Mar 1; Cheltenham Festival (NH racing) Mar 10-13; St Patrick’s Day, Mar 17; Boat Race, Mar 29; Grand National meeting, Aintree, Apr 2-4; St George’s Day, Apr 23; Shakespeare’s Birthday celebrations, Apr 25-26. London Marathon, Apr 26; Salisbury Cathedral 800th anniversary, Apr 28; Tour de Yorkshire, May 3; Women’s FA Cup Final (Wembley) May 9; Chelsea Flower Show, May 19-23; Hay Festival of Literature, May 21-31; Men’s FA Cup Final (Wembley) May 23. Investec Derby meeting (Epsom) June 5-6; Queen’s Birthday/Trooping the Colour, June 13; Stonehenge Summer Solstice, June 21; Wimbledon Tennis Championships, June 29-July 12; Henley Royal Regatta, July 1-5; Goodwood Festival of Speed, July 9-12. The Open (golf), Royal St Georges, July 12-19; FI British Grand Prix meeting (Silverstone) July 17- 19; BBC Proms (Royal Albert Hall, July-Sept (DTC); Buckingham Palace Summer Opening, July- Sept (DTC); Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Aug 7-29; Edinburgh International Festival, inc Fringe events, Aug 7-31; Blackpool Illuminations, Sept-Nov (DTC); World Conker Championships, Ashford nr Peterborough, Oct (DTC); Melton Mowbray Food Festival, Oct (DTC); Bonfire Night, various venues, Nov 5; St Andrew’s Day, Nov 30; Christmas at Kew, Dec (DTC); Hogmanay, Dec 31.

Rutland Farm Park

Teddy Bear Tuesdays 10% off admission for children Summer (1st March – 31st October) with their bear Monday – CLOSED Tuesday – Sunday 10amTheme – 5pm day Thursdays Winter (1st November Fun– 31st activities March) to join in with Monday – CLOSEDFriday animal petting. Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 4pm Play area Open on Bank Holiday MondaysFREE PARKING Daphne’sClosed Christmas Tea Room. Day and New Years Day

Warming lunches, hot

drinks and ice creams Open 10.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. Tuesday - SundayRutland Farm Park Catmose Farm, Uppingham Rd, RutlandOakham, Farm Park Rutland LE15 6JD UppinghamTel. Road01572 722122 Oakhamwww.rutlandfarmpark.co.uk LE15 6JD 01572Follow 722122 us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter 27

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NEW YEAR NONSENSE: WORST GAGS OF THE YEAR *In some parts of the world people eat little bent pieces of wire for breakfast and call it a staple diet. *How many men does it take to change a toilet roll? Nobody knows; it’s never been done before. *The Romans built our roads. They’re still working on the A1. *As the Irishman said when he saw his X-ray: “I don’t remember eating all those bones.” *What’s black and blue and lies in the gutter? A comedian who tells blonde jokes. *How does a hen know the size of an egg cup when it lays an egg? *Eve said to Adam: “Do you love me?” and he said: “Well who else is there?”

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TV and Audio equipment set up service also available Give me a call on 01780 721663 or 01476 860139 Mob: 07733323657 Lidbetter & Hicks Ltd. 248 Pillings Road, Oakham, email [email protected] Rutland LE15 6QF Email: [email protected] 31 |www.lidbetterandhicks.co.uk

This delicious Fore rib of Beef would be perfect for a New Year celebration or a Sunday roast.

Facebook - @Northfieldfarmshop / Twitter - @Northfieldfarm / Instagram- Northfieldfarm Northfield Farm, Whissendine Lane, Cold Overton, Rutland LE15 7QF [email protected] 01664 474 271 www.northfieldfarm.com 32

Stamford and Rutland Photographic Society is showcasing some of its best work in a new exhibition at Oakham's Rutland County Museum. The society - formerly known as Stamford Photographic Society - was set up in 1996. It gives local photographers of all abilities the chance to share their knowledge and experience, as well as an opportunity to hone their skills. The exhibition is running until Saturday January 25.

Exercise your prerogative Keep active, add years to your life. That’s the New Year’s message to all those “couchers” who tend to sit more and move less. Even if you walk around your desk once in a while it helps. You don’t have to trek miles to keep fit. Take the stairs, not the lift, and go for short daily trots. Any amount of running, even just once a week, is linked to a 27 per cent reduction in the risk of premature death. And if you’re not used to physical activity, tackle it gradually with the help of the NHS Active 10 tracker app which eases you into exercise with 10-minute walks.

Cottesmore’s former postman

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COTTESMORE STORES & POST OFFICE

Proprietors Amanda and Graham Lewis OPENING TIMES Shop Post Office Monday 07.00 – 18.00 09.00 – 17.30 UPS COLLECTION Tuesday 07.00 – 19.00 09.00 – 17.30 Fruit  Vegetables Wednesday 07.00 – 19.00 09.00 – 17.30 Groceries  Wines/ Spirits Thursday 07.00 – 19.00 09.00 – 17.30 Friday 07.00 – 19.00 09.00 – 17.30 Saturday 07.00 – 19.00 09.00 – 12.30 Sunday 08.00 – 12.00 CLOSED

WE ALSO ISSUE VEHICLE TAXES Foreign Currency with a sell back facility and Travel Insurance. Pop in for leaflets or speak to Amanda, Nicky and Lauren. Tel: 01572 812322

RUTLAND REPAIRS PLUS We specialise in small repairs and most types of maintenance work – plumbing, electrical, tiling, building etc.

We can work for you (or with you) and can even offer DIY assistance.

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commented that they would still come out for people in genuine distress. I thought that would have applied to most of those currently in care. I wouldn’t be alive today if my concerned mother hadn’t called a locum to our house 30 THE Diocese of Lincoln has vetoed a stained years ago to diagnose a brain haematoma. glass window at Scampton church which was SEVENTY per cent of young people have planned as a tribute to the Red Arrows and the allegedly never heard of Mozart. It could be Dambusters because it is “triumphalist”. Why because so many schools are scrapping music are we so ashamed of our glorious heritage? tuition. Or it could be that they’re the same GRATEFUL thanks to whoever it was who bunch of blockheads who think Kipling is purely invented the TV remote. It not only gave me a brand of cake and Churchill a sort of car carte blanche to zap such irritating clowns as insurance. Lorraine Kelly, Andi Peters and Gregg Wallace THE Tories have pledged to launch “the biggest (and all the pre-Christmas tosh) but also those ever pothole-filling programme” in history. I’ll politicians who promised us the Earth by believe it when I see it. More than 40,000 miles quoting Monopoly money. of roads require urgent attention, costing INCIDENTALLY, I always suspected Rick Stein £10bn. The proposal is to spend £2bn. was his own best mate but could never prove it I’M so glad I’ve stuck with Talking Pictures TV. until I taped one of his cook’s TV tours of Some of the restored black-and-white films France. The “I” prefix came up no less than 148 look more like sepia tints, but thanks to TPTV times during one 15-minute spiel. I’ve been introduced to such “lost” stars as I DON’T want to start the year 2020 with doom Katherine Byron, Susan Stephen, Gordon and gloom but I really feel Peter Jackson’s First Harker, Frances Day and the wonderful Will World War enhancement “They Shall Not Grow Hay. Old” should be required viewing. I saw it before WHAT a beautiful sight Lake Cottesmore is in Christmas and it moved me deeply. Try to winter, with a steely sun shining on rippling glimpse bits of it for yourself on YouTube. waters. I know it’s only a temporary landmark, SO GPs don’t want to carry out home visits. One but we’re still lucky to have it. doctor at a recent BMA conference comically - BPM

Peake attendance at Peterborough Peterborough Cathedral welcomed more than 170,000 visitors in the space of three months following the arrival of astronaut Tim Peake’s Soyuz space capsule.

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Greetham Golfer Stars In USA College Leagues A young golfer from Greetham Valley GC is ripping up trees on the college sports scene in the USA. Ellie Haughton, who represents the Rutland club and is studying at Carson-Newman University in the USA, has just been ranked as No 1. in the USA NCAA Divisions I, II and III for driving accuracy and fairways hit, with an unprecedented 99.58 percentage success rate. Over half a million students compete in all sports in the National Collegiate Athletic Association programme, which is a stepping stone to professional sport for many of them. Ellie, whose parents Darren and Liz live in Rutland, is no stranger to golfing success though, having won the 2017 Midlands Golf Union Junior Champion of Champions, been Lincolnshire junior champion for stroke play and match play, part of the England Under-18 team and served as the 2018 Lincolnshire Junior captain. Bill Archer, press secretary at Greetham Valley, said: "We should all be very proud of Ellie.”

EASIER INFO IS REQUIRED ON CARE SUPPORT

The weather is getting colder, and once again caring for older people. There are no we'll be reading how older people are not being comprehensive road map leaflets in public cared for properly because of funding cuts, lack libraries, health centres or resource centres. of available support, community transport being Finding about access to care at a time of need stopped, lack of social workers, hospital beds is stressful and unproductive, with many blocked and a shortage of carers. decisions made in haste and regretted. There is also another reason why many older A new Government is in place and one of the people are not being cared for at a time of need’ first responsible things it could do is to start They and their families have no idea where to providing the public with more information on access care support. community and residential care, thus helping Unlike trying to get people to exercise, to give up the elderly to find their way quickly through the smoking or to eat healthy diets there are no red tape while offering them better access to public-funded advertisements giving guidance personal choices. and direction when it comes to the aspect of

FROM YOUR LOCAL BEAT Thirty-nine of the total arrests Drivers face random breath tests around the were made following a road clock as police clamp down on drink drivers this traffic collision and 37 were festive period. younger drivers, aged 25 or Checks will take place any time of the day or under. night throughout the seasonal road safety "Sadly, each year drink and campaign which means revellers who get drugs are a contributory factor behind the wheel the next day could still be in death and serious injury on caught out for being over the limit. the UK’s roads. Police officers will also be testing drivers for “Improved detection methods, and a change in drugs as part of their tough stance and are the law, introduced four years ago have seen a appealing to the public to report anyone who rise on the number of drug drive arrests. appears impaired. If you see someone who appears to be a drink In December 2018, Leicestershire Police or drug driver call your local police on 101 or officers made 122 drink and 33 drug drive make an anonymous call to CrimeStoppers on arrests, 56 percent more than December 2017. 0800 555 111. 38

RUTLAND ALL SET FOR WINTER Rutland County Council’s Highways Team are gearing up for winter and advising residents to do the same as the weather turns colder. Rutland is fully prepared for this season following the extreme cold weather last year, which saw prolonged periods of freezing temperatures and snow across the county. Rutland’s fleet of gritters and ploughs have been fully serviced and salt supplies closely for advanced warning of freezing replenished. temperatures, with gritters now on standby to The council’s main depot at Ashwell currently treat priority routes such as major A and B holds 4,000 tonnes of salt which will be used to roads and access routes into villages. treat freezing roads in the weeks and months As well as gritting the roads, Rutland County ahead. Council also treats the main footways in town The council is monitoring weather forecasts centres, car parks and routes to GP surgeries and schools when snow is forecast.

was watching carefully. The real St Nicholas Nicholas, not wanting to be What do unmarried girls, brides, seafarers, discovered, climbed on the bankers, pawnbrokers, Russia, Greece, and roof of the house and children have in common? dropped his third bag of gold St Nicholas is their patron saint. December 6th down the chimney. It landed is St Nicholas’ Day. You might know him better in a stocking hung by the as Santa Claus, which probably comes from the fireplace to dry. Somehow, Dutch version of his name. Nicholas was bishop the news got out. From this of Myra, in Turkey, in the 4th century. Old story comes our custom of pictures show him in the red robes of a bishop, hanging up stockings on with a red mitre on his head. Christmas Eve. Cottesmore church is dedicated to him. So are There’s another angle on more than 500 other churches in this country Nicholas. It seems possible alone, including those at Stretton and Thistleton. that he was present at the Much of Nicholas’ life is shrouded in legend. Council of Nicaea in 325. Some of the stories told about him are This was one of those gatherings that took place decidedly weird! However, there seem to be two in the early centuries of the Christian church, distinct strands that help explain why he is when leaders hammered out various details of remembered and loved. Christian teaching and practice. One story says The first strand has to do with his kindness to that Nicholas became so upset with Arius, the poor. The most famous legend is about a whose beliefs about Jesus were less than the very poor man whose three daughters were truth, that he got up and thumped him. (The unable to marry because their father could not Nicene Creed, still used today in some afford the customary dowry. Bishop Nicholas communion services, is an expression of what wanted to help them all. There are various this council decided.) versions of what comes next, the most popular So St Nicholas became one of the most beloved one being that he threw a bag of gold though an saints of the church because of his compassion open window of the poor man’s house. This for the poor and his focus on the truth about became the oldest daughter’s dowry. Nicholas Jesus. Good things to be remembered for! did the same again – and the second daughter What do you think Nicholas would be doing and was able to marry. However, by now the father campaigning about today? - AA 39

Services in Cottesmore January 2020

Sunday 5th 0930 Morning Service Cottesmore Tuesday 7th 1130 Holy Communion St Nicholas, Cottesmore Sunday 12th 0930 Morning Service Cottesmore Tuesday 14th 1130 Holy Communion St Nicholas, Cottesmore Thurs 16th 1200 Church Café Cottesmore Sunday 19th 0930 Holy Communion Cottesmore Tuesday 21st 1130 Holy Communion St Nicholas, Cottesmore Sunday 26th 0930 Morning Service Cottesmore Tuesday 28th 1130 Holy Communion St Nicholas, Cottesmore

Please note that the 11.30 Holy Communion in St Nicholas is replacing the Gainsborough Court Communion, due to repairs taking place through January.

Skull lands Oakham teenager in hot water A teenager unwittingly landed himself in hot water when he bought a crocodile skull online. The 18-year-old Oakham student's £30 eBay purchase from China had been exported and imported illegally. The National Wildlife Crime Unit discovered the sale and the teenager received an unannounced visit from an Oakham beat officer - who is also a wildlife crime officer. The young lad of 18 had bought the skull in good faith and was unaware that certain species require a permit under CITES regulations. The skull was confiscated and will be destroyed. CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, controls the trade in endangered or protected animal or plant species. 40

ST JOSEPH'S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH OAKHAM

Saturday: 4.30pm (First Mass of Sunday) Sunday: 11.00am (with Children's liturgy) join us for coffee and tea after Mass Weekdays: Mon, Tue, Thurs: 9.30am Wed: 10.00am (Exposition 9am) join us for coffee and tea after Mass Fri: 09.30 & 7pm Latin Mass Confession: Sat: 11.30am - 12.00pm St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Church Exton Sat: 3.15pm - 3.45pm Sunday: 9am Wednesday: 9.15am – 9.45am LOCAL SERVICES

Post - Last Collections: Cottesmore Post Office (01572 812322) 16.30 Monday to Friday, 09.45 Saturday. (Oakham Old Post Office 18.00 Monday to Friday).

Recycling and Refuse Tuesdays (need to put out bins on Monday evening). Alternately black and green bins one week, grey bin the following week. Enquiries: RCC 01572722577 (www.rutland.gov.uk) Email: [email protected]

Village Play Areas There are two play areas in the village, which are located at Austhorp Grove, for older children, and accessed by the drive to the left of No 2 Austhorp Grove, and Heath Drive, for younger children, and accessed by the footpath that runs between Nos 5 & 7 Heath Drive

and Nos 8 & 10 Westland Road. Mobile Library (Every other Thursday) Village Location Arrive Max. mins Cottesmore Harrier Close 9.50 20 Alternate The Sun PH 10.15 15 Thursday Wenton Close 10.35 15 Gainsborough Court 10.35 10 Cresswell Drive 11.10 15 Heath Drive (Nether Close) 11.30 15 Westland Road (Sharp bend) 11.50 15 The Pastures (end of) 12.10 20 Greetham Road (Access road) 12.35 20 Kendrew The Hub 15.25 30 Barracks Heythrop Road/Zetland Sq 16.00 30

Mobile Shops GRIMSBY FISH (DEAN’S)

Tuesdays, 10.30 Austhorp Grove Mobile 07766 527963 01472 236 769

MILK & MORE Milk and groceries delivered to your door on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays. www.milkandmore.co.uk

MOBILE FISH & CHIPS Thursday evenings 7pm. Mill Lane corner and en route to The Leas. 41

EXTRACTS FROM THE DRAFT MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF COTTESMORE PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON 18 NOVEMBER 2019 The Issues of Dogs on the Football Pitches and Possible Alternative Areas for Exercising One of the members of the public stated that they had accessed the football pitches for a number of years and had not been aware that it is private land. The Treasurer of the Football Club advised that the land in question is private land, owned by Exton Estates, and leased to the Village Hall Management Committee (VHMC) and the Football Club. The landlord has agreed in principle that the area can be fenced off, and this physical boundary, along with signs stating it is private, will ensure this is clear to the public. It was emphasised that any decision to erect fencing is a matter for the VHMC and the Football Club, and not the Parish Council. It was agreed that the Council make every effort to identify land within the village that can be used for the exercising of dogs. The Clerk reported that enquiries have been made of RCC to determine if the Pastures Paddock was one possibility. A response is awaited. Village Improvement Role It was agreed that the area of land at Jubilee Gardens was a possibility for the allotments. It was also agreed that consideration be given to what areas of land in the village could be used for the exercising of dogs. Provision of a New Village Sign for Opposite the Church It was reported that the refurbished sign was back in position. It was agreed that an excellent job had been done. The Cutting Back of the Boundary Hedges in the Austhorp Grove Play Area and the Tidying of the Access Drive Mr Barker reported that he had cut back the hedges at the entrance to the area and is waiting for a quotation to attend to the boundary hedge. The Requests for Financial Assistance From Village Organisations for 2020/21 Financial Year It was agreed that the information provided by Cottesmore Parochial Church Council was sufficient for the Council to make a decision as to whether, or not, to provide a grant towards the upkeep of the extension of the churchyard extension on Rogues Lane and the church clock. It was agreed that the information provided by Cottesmore Gardening Group was sufficient for the Council to make a decision as to whether, or not, to provide a grant. It was agreed that further information, including sight of a structural review, a detailed breakdown as to how the total costing for the proposed work is made up, how its share is to be funded and a copy of the accounts is required in order for consideration to be given to the application for a grant from the Cottesmore Scout, Cub and Beaver Group. A representative is to be asked to attend the December meeting to discuss this application further, in advance of the decision being made at the January meeting. Planning Proposed front porch and side extension. 6 Austhorp Grove, Cottesmore. It was agreed that the Parish Council has no objections to the proposal itself. However, it was noted that this extension will finally ensure the cutting off of vehicular access to the rear garage and that the applicant should be asked to show how 2 cars can be accommodated within the front garden. To build a new grain store to store 2,800 tonnes of cereals with lean-to for general farm storage. Cottesmore Lodge Farm, Greetham Road, Cottesmore. It was agreed that there were no objections to this application. Full Planning Permission Proposed 2nd storey extension above garage. Replace existing front window with new bay window and extend single pitched roof over front elevation. 1 Heath Drive, Cottesmore, Rutland.

Notice of Decision in Respect of a Section 211 Notice Proposing Work to a Tree or Trees in a Conservation Area T921 – Poplar – Reduce by up to 4m in height and proportionately in spread. Former reduction works have left large wounds that are now decayed and new growth is weak at attachments. Cottesmore Grange, 67 Main Street, Cottesmore. Rutland County Council District Council decided not to exercise its powers to make a provisional Tree Preservation Order in this instance. Next Meeting The next Parish Council meeting will be held at 7.15 PM on Monday 20 January 2020.

she said. “See you later. Take Debbie with you. A RIDGE TOO FAR She enjoys a challenge.” “Come on, Debs,” I said NEW Year’s Day 1976, and we climbed the as our eight-year-old, and eldest, daughter Wrekin. Not Everest admittedly, but still a long wavered. “How far is it?” she asked. “Not far,” I haul with a wife and three young kids in tow. said. “We’ll beat Mummy to the top.” For those who don’t know, the Wrekin stands But the going got tougher the more we climbed. 1,335ft above the Shropshire plain like a I hadn’t a clue where we were. I’m not a great dumpling in a sea of mint sauce. “All Friends lover of exposed heights and it was like being in Round the Wrekin” is a traditional New Year the Burmese jungle. “Are we lost?” asked drinking toast. Having recently arrived in Debbie plaintively. “No,” I said, “You can’t get Shropshire, I knew nowt about the Wrekin. “So lost on a hill. Look at the view.” “But it’s the how hard is the climb?” I asked a Salopian same view we had at the start,” said Debbie. workmate. “Easy peasy,” he said. ”We cycle up “We’re going round in circles.” The brambles and down it each Christmas.” tore at our clothes as we climbed. “I’m getting “Right,” I told my family on New Year’s Day. “It’s awfully tired,” said Debbie. “So am I,” I said, a lovely crisp morning. Today we climb the “but it won’t be long.” Wrekin.” After what seemed like an eternity, we surfaced We drove to the foot of one of the more gentle just beneath the lip of the ridge. People wooded slopes and parked. “It looks awfully sauntering along the top viewed us with some tall,” said middle daughter Rebecca. “I’m told bemusement as we came stumbling out of the the top is quite flat and you can see as far as undergrowth. Lancashire,”I said. “Look, there’s a group of “We’re almost there,” I cried. “Mummy didn’t pensioners over there, heading up the slope. If know what she was missing.” At least the view they can do it, we can.” But we had only trekked from the top was breathtaking and we could see a few yards when Gill halted. “I’m out of breath for miles in all directions. Gingerly, and with and Rebecca has a stone in her shoe,” she said. some relief, we clambered over rocks and tree “I’m not sure I’m up for this.” roots and past a small plantation of firs until we We slowly climbed the first few yards on could see the famous Wrekin beacon at its compacted soil amidst coniferous trees, highest point. pausing to admire a Swiss chalet-like cafe. We perched on the steps of an obelisk at the “Let’s stop for tea and a bun,” said Gill. “I’m very top and then I decided to walk around the really hungry.” “Later,” I said. Slowly we other side of the plinth. Gill was sitting there, negotiated turns in the path as hordes of with Rebecca and Alison, nonchalantly sipping walkers of all ages carrying stout sticks hello’d tea from a flask and eating a cheese sandwich. their way down the hill. She looked totally content. Not a hair out of “Look,” said Gill. “There’s a sign with an acorn place. “So what kept you?” she asked, “we’ve imprint; must mean it’s a footpath.” I saw been here for yonks.” “We were conquering the another sign to its left, pointing westward. North Face,” I said. “So how did you get up here “That’s also got an acorn on it,” I said, “and it’s so soon?” heading around the hill and not up the steep “Easy,” she said. “That right-hand arrow led to a slope. That means it’s easier.” cable car. So we took it to the top while you Gill harrumphed. “I’m going back to the cafe,” were scrabbling away like a Muffin below.” - Brian Martin. 43

VILLAGE DIRECTORY Village website http://www.cottesmoreparishcouncil.org.uk/ Amateur Dramatics Alan Lane 01572 768040 Air Cadets – Tues & Thurs 7pm-9.30pm. Cadet Centre, Penn St, Oakham. Contact: Flt Lt J Lawrence [email protected] 01572 723624 Bowls Winter Wednesdays - Brian Abbott [email protected] 01572 768468 Bell Ringing – practice Wednesday 19.30 01780 460523 Kerry Nimmons [email protected] Beavers Mondays 17.30 to 18.30 (Ages 6-8years) 01775 714211 Gary Clulow 07958 769899 Ben Leaver 07800834636 Brownies – Thursdays 18.00 to 1930 01572 812956 Bernadette Wallace [email protected] CHAG (local history) – second Wednesdays 19.30 01572 812854 Chris Whitton [email protected] www.thelivingvillage.co.uk Church - St Nicholas CE www.northrutlandchurches.org.uk. Web editor - Duncan Ball: [email protected] Churchwarden - David Morgan [email protected] 01572 756647 County Councillors - Abigail MacCartney [email protected] 07739 361008 - Samantha Harvey [email protected] 01572 345028 Create More - Crafts. Third Tuesday -Tessa Oram [email protected] 07736 378051 Defibrillator – information and training 01572 812898 Juliet Burgess-Ray [email protected] Dog Ramblers - group dog walks, Jenny Laidler [email protected] 01572 811038 Dogs Trust & Dog School East Midlands [email protected] 01509 882316 Football – Cottesmore Amateurs - Allan Westray 01572 724275 Gardening Club – second Mondays Roni Proctor [email protected] 01572 812785 Handbell Ringers – Mondays 19.00 Pat Hoyles, 01572 813034 Investment Club – third Thursdays 19.30 01572 812350 John Meara [email protected] Parish Council – Parish Clerk, Kerry Nimmons 01780 460523 [email protected] Rainbows alternate Saturdays 3-5 pm Sam Shorten 07540 664847 [email protected] Ramblers – second Sundays 10.00 John Meara [email protected] 01572 812350 Schools: Cottesmore Academy 01572 812278 Headteacher, Mrs M Lucas Email Address: [email protected] St Nicholas' Church of England Primary 01572 812337 Head teacher, Daniel Alfieri [email protected] Scouts, Beavers & Cubs Katie Smit — [email protected] https://scouts.org.uk/get-involved/groups/2nd-cottesmore-(st-nicholas) Sports and Social Club - Darren Feeley 01572 813486 Village Hall – bookings, Anna Davis [email protected] 01572 812371 Wine Circle– Janine Rees [email protected] 01572 812167 Women's Institute – first Tuesday 19.30 Secretary: Pat Hart 01572 812854 44

MEET THE LINK TEAM Jenny Laidler, Editor [email protected] 811038 Juliet Burgess-Ray, Advertising Manager [email protected] 812898 Jean Heath, Distribution [email protected] 812709 Janice Patient, Treasurer [email protected] 812424 Barbara Cameron, Committee 813055 Shirley Smith, Committee 811069 Hilary Malone, Committee 812360

Please let Jean Heath know if you would be willing to deliver a few magazines either monthly or on an adhoc basis. We always need volunteers and we are very grateful to those who help us.

Items from the Link are published on the Cottesmore Parish Council website, but otherwise this magazine has no direct connection with the council which has no control whatsoever on editorial content.

Cottesmore Village Link is printed by Spectrum Printing Services, Leicester. Tel. 0116 246 1717

POLICE

Meet Your Neighbourhood Team

If you see anybody acting suspiciously you can call Police on 101 PC 1742 Laurie Appleton For emergencies call 999 BUS TIMETABLE – RUTLAND FLYER 2 (RF2) Monday to Saturday – No Service Sunday or Bank Holiday Cottesmore (Opposite Sun Inn) - Oakham 07:16 07:16 09:26 11:26 13:26 15:26 16:26 17:36 18:31 Cottesmore (Kendrew Barracks, Main Gate) - Oakham 07:21 07:21 09:31 11:31 13:31 15:31 16:31 17:41 Oakham (John Street) - Cottesmore 08.00 10.00 12.00 14.00 16.00 17.05 18.05 Cottesmore (Kendrew Barracks, Main Gate) - Melton 08.24 10.24 12.24 14.24 16.24 17.29 18.29 Cottesmore (Chip Shop) - Melton 08.29 10.29 12.29 14.29 16.29 17.34 18.34 Melton (St Mary's Way, Stand 4) - Cottesmore 09.00 11.00 13.00 15.00 16.00 17.05 18.05 Phone Traveline for more information on 0871 2002233 Centrebus (0116 2460030)

CHURCH CONTACT DETAILS

For general enquiries please telephone: 01572 812202 (answer phone only) or Email: [email protected].

Please contact a member of the ministry team for pastoral needs or urgent matters. Rev Anthony Oram Email [email protected] Telephone 01572 812948 Anne Adamson Email: annecadamson@aol. Telephone 01572 812816 Diane Creasey Email: creaseygreetham@aol. Telephone 01572 812079 Cathy Dyson Email: [email protected] Tel 01572 812497/ 7970568305 Colin Johns Email: [email protected] Telephone 01572 812221 Website Benefice: www.northrutlandchurches.org.uk 45

DOCTORS AND HOSPITALS Empingham Medical Centre 01780 460202 37 Main Street, Empingham LE15 8PR (Dispensary) 01780 460003 www.empinghammedicalcentre.co.uk

Market Overton Surgery and dispensary 01572 490399 Thistleton Road, Market Overton LE15 7PP www.marketovertonandsomerbysurgeries.co.uk

Oakham Medical Practice and Rutland Acute Treatment Centre Cold Overton Road, Oakham LE15 6NT 01572 722621

Minor Injuries walk-in Rutland Memorial Hospital 09.00 to 17.00 Monday to Friday www.oakhammedicalpractice.co.uk

Grantham and District Hospital 01476 565232 101 Manthorpe Road, Grantham NG31 8DG Accident and Emergency (not 24hrs) www.ulh.nhs.uk

Peterborough City Hospital 01733 678000 Edith Cavell Campus, Peterborough PE3 9GZ www.peterboroughandstamford.nhs.uk

Stamford Hospital Ryhall Road, Stamford PE9 1UA 01733 678000 Website: http://www.peterboroughandstamford.nhs.uk

MINOR INJURIES WALK-IN AT RUTLAND MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Urgent Care Service (minor injury) with x-ray facilities available. Weekdays 8.30am to 5pm Urgent Care Centre (minor injury and illness) Weekdays 5pm to 9pm and Weekends and Bank Holidays open 9am to 7pm. Many pharmacies will deliver, including Boots (01572 770101)

Volunteer Drivers are available for surgery visits or to collect prescriptions. Kevin Mason 01572 813046 Sylvia Meara 01572 812350 Di Toy 01572 812355 Anne Adamson 01572 812816 Joan Bevan 01572 812624 For Hospital visits transportation ask at your Doctors surgery or Hospital. Voluntary Action Rutland (VAR) 01572 724705 may be able to help with hospital transportation. (5 days’ notice is usually required.) Voluntary Action Rutland runs a Social Car Scheme and a Community Transport Scheme, using volunteer drivers. A small wheelchair-adapted people carrier is available, accommodating six passengers, or four with a wheelchair user, for trips to the shops, seaside etc. Phone 724705 or e-mail [email protected].

Sparklers Toddler Group For parents, grandparents and carers of preschool children. We meet during term time on Tuesday Mornings between 9.30am – 11.00am in Cottesmore Church. A warm welcome awaits with crafts, refreshments, lots of varied play/toys and singing. £1 per family. For more information please contact Bernie Wallace Tel: 01572 812956 or Maureen Hubbert Tel: 01572 813061

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