Issue 52 Produced forP argesei d1e nts Theydon Bois of Theydon Bois Issue 52 Village News Dec 2005 Lighting of the Christmas Tree

Peter Newton switches on the lights

Village News Sponsors - Lead Sponsor James Sear Estate Agents, Sponsors Theydon Bois Pharmacy, Theydon Bois Balti House, Woodland & Wildlife Conservation Co Ltd, S & F Electrics - see pages 13 & 27

IIssssuuee 5522 Page 2

Grazing in

Issue 52 Page 3 Public Consultation - Grazing in Epping Forest The Corporation of , the Conservators of Epping Forest, is seeking the public’s views regarding how cattle grazing on Epping Forest should be managed in the future. Cattle grazing has taken place in Epping Forest for over 1,000 years and has helped to create the unique landscape and wildlife diversity for which the Forest is renowned. Grazing is currently viewed as an important aspect of Forest management as mowing alone cannot provide the complex mosaic of habitats which make up a pasture-woodland like Epping Forest.

Grazing by Commoners’ free-ranging cattle continued throughout the 20th century but started to decline in the latter half of the century, with the last free-ranging cattle leaving the Forest in 1996. In 2002 a small conservation of rare English herd of Longhorn cattle were introduced to the Forest in an area between High Beach and Chingford. However, extending much needed grazing safely into other parts of the Forest is a complex challenge. The number of vehicles on the roads has significantly increased over recent years, and traffic would pose significant safety concerns if cattle were allowed to wander freely without extra controls such as road signs, traffic-calming and cattle grids (see photos top opposite).

The Superintendent of Epping Forest, Jeremy Wisenfeld said: “The Corporation of London is fully committed to protecting the commoners’ ancient rights and believe that grazing is of vital importance to preserving the Forest’s special character and wildlife diversity. We need to have a robust strategy for the future safe and economic management of grazing and would like the public’s views on the issues and possible solutions as outlined in the ‘Cattle Grazing in Epping Forest’ document.”

There are limited options available in managing the areas in which cattle can graze – they include more cattle grids, the use of temporary electric fencing and permanent fencing. Both fencing measures have been used successfully in the Chingford / High Beach areas of the Forest since 2002. Should more fencing be installed there would need to be frequent access points for all Forest users, so that public access to Forest land is not restricted.

In 1874, enclosure of Forest land for private development, which prevented commoners freely grazing their cattle, was declared unlawful. This move was crucial in preventing Forest land from being ‘sliced up’ and therefore played a key role in preserving London’s largest green space for future generations to enjoy freely.

For a copy of the consultation documentation and a questionnaire, please contact the Visitor Centre (02085080028-e-mail [email protected].) You can visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/epping to view the information and complete the questionnaire online. The Conservators will also be organising ‘drop in’ sessions across the Forest area for members of the public – details of these will be advertised on the Epping Forest website and will be available throughout local libraries. IIssue 52 PPaaggee 44 Parish Council Chairman’s Report Dark evenings have been upon us now for some weeks. Halloween and Guy Fawkes nights and Lighting the Christmas Tree ceremony have come and already gone and now we are rushing towards the Christmas and New Year festivities. I want to be wishing you all the best for Christmas and the New Year and do not want, therefore, to dwell on those important issues which have challenged our village this year such as the threatening East of Plan, the severe problems associated with the Parsonage Golf development and Blunts Farm Estates. They will continue to create problems for many next year and we will need to rise robustly to the challenges as they occur. We welcome and fully understand the protests from those who are most affected and, quite rightly, are most vociferous about these developments. High level contacts continue with Council and we have made representations to the Environment Agency.

There is one issue, however, which I cannot ignore because of the urgency. At the end of January the hearing into County Council’s Appeal against refusal of Outline Planning Permission for ten houses on the land on which the Youth Community Centre stands, will be reconvened for a further two days to bring the hearing to a conclusion. Other articles in this journal expand on this issue and if you have any information, material or pictures, I urge you to contact Councillors Peter Hammond or Anthony Purkiss at the Parish Office. Every piece of information is vital.

To return to the seasonal background of this issue, at the moment of writing we are enjoying some rare old fashioned cold winter weather – a reminder of Charles Dickens’ famous old story ‘Christmas Carol’. Need I remind you that it is a story about the life of Scrooge, a wealthy but mean spirited business man who treated his employee and others badly but was afforded the opportunity to see how his frugal lifestyle had adversely affected the lives of others, especially his poor employee and family. The tale set in the cold snowy days approaching Christmas, features the hopes of the innocent children; the frustrations of their hard working and hard up parents; and the most unexpected transformation of the villain of the story turning into a great and generous benefactor, resulting in a happy ending to the story.

Since last Christmas day, we have been shocked and mortified by the scenes on television of the horrific events in the Pacific caused by the devastation wrecked by the Tsunami, the floods which swamped New Orleans and Louisiana, the terrible effects of the ongoing drought and malnutrition in Africa causing great suffering amongst the young, the July bombings in London and more recently, the earthquake in Pakistan, the death toll of which still threatens to rise because of inability to treat all casualties and because of the onslaught of winter snows in the remote regions. Whatever your beliefs, one can surely not be impervious to the sufferings of these IIssue 52 Page 5

Parish Council Chairman’s Report (continued) people, nor ignore their terrible plight. Many of us I am sure, have already donated generously to help these poor people and yet, they need much more by way of aid. In the last weeks before Christmas and in the early weeks of the new-year and beyond, with all our comparative wealth and luxury, please spare a thought for these poor desperate souls living on the cusp of life and death and give thanks for the blessings life has brought to us. Please therefore be generous every time the opportunity presents itself to you. Help to begin to turn around the lives of these poor people of this world, to give them hope and relief from suffering - to give and not to count the cost.

Meanwhile, I would like to thank all those people who have volunteered and assisted with the work of the Council and I would like to thank Madeleine our Clerk and all members of the Parish Council for all their support during this year. All that remains is for me, on behalf of Madeleine and all the members of the Parish Council, to wish all readers a very merry Christmas and a happy and peaceful new year. JOHN EATON Theydon Bois Village Association A local man has responded to the advertisement for a gardener, which was placed in the summer edition of ‘Village News’. He has since done a lot of pruning and clearing, and the hall surrounds are looking much tidier for his efforts.

At the last Executive Committee Meeting, mention was again made on how well used the village hall is. There was a meeting of the Trustees from the Societies affiliated to the VA, at the end of November. During this meeting, the subject of the hiring charges and any increases was discussed and it was decided not to raise the charges for member societies for the coming year.

A number of projects have taken place since the summer and these include: Hornbeam and Holly Rooms (the multi-purpose rooms at the back of the hall) re- decorated.

• A new radio microphone, stand, amplifier and two speakers have been purchased for use in the Beech and Poplar rooms (small front hall). These will be locked away until required.

• Two new hot water urns have been purchased for use in the kitchen and bar areas.

• The oak floor in the main hall (Oak Room) is to be completely sanded, cleaned and a new sealer applied. This will take place just before Christmas and the hall will be closed for several days. IIssue 52 PPaaggee 66 Winter Fun in Epping Forest Winter is a wonderful time to explore the delights of Epping Forest and there are many seasonal Forest events planned throughout the coming months!

December: On Sun 18 Dec from 10.30am-12.30pm visitors are invited to join Epping Forest’s traditional festive guided walk in the High Beach area, which will be followed by a hot drink, mince pies and seasonal music in the Photo by Forest Keeper Brian Gotts Visitor Centre. Please meet at the Epping Forest Visitor Centre, High Beach.

The Epping Forest Visitor Centre (Wed to Fri, 11-3pm.; Sat, 10-4pm.; Sun 11- 4pm. closed 24/25th Dec, open again 26th Dec) will be full of festive cheer throughout December. As well as Epping Forest displays, information and free leaflets there will be a wonderful range of woodland and wildlife inspired Christmas cards, books, souvenirs and hand crafted items which would make ideal gifts.

January: New Year is celebrated in spectacular Tudor style at the Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge on Sat 7th Jan from 11a.m. – 4.00p.m., with music, mummers and displays of seasonal food. A guided deer walk is planned on Sun 15th Jan from 10.30 -3pm. Bring a packed lunch and dress appropriately, as this is a 10km walk including a visit to the Deer Sanctuary. Booking (020 8508 0028—Visitor Centre) is essential.

February: At Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge on Sat 4th Feb from 1– 4pm. where activities and crafts for Spring and Valentines Day will be taking place. Explore the History of Wanstead Flats on a guided walk on Sun 5th Feb from 2p.m. – 4p.m. Meet at the Alexandra Lake car park, Aldersbrook Road. Come along to the Visitor Centre on Sat 11th Feb, from 10 – 1pm to make a bird box, help the birds in your garden as Spring begins to blossom. Tudor Games will be taking place at the Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge during half term, on 16th Feb from 1-4p.m. There will be a magical guided evening lantern walk on Frid 24th Feb from 4– 6pm. Come along to the Visitor Centre and make your own special lantern, then join us on a magical walk of discovery through the Forest at night!

With all of these activities planned, there really is no excuse for staying indoors throughout the Winter months! For more information on any of these events or Epping Forest generally, please come along to the Visitor Centre in High Beach or telephone us on 020 8508 0028. Issue 52 Page 7

Citizen’s Advice Page

I bought a digital camera while on holiday in Spain a few weeks ago. Now it has stopped working. What should I do?

Most EU countries have implemented a EU directive, which gives consumers who buy goods rights for two years and for the first six months any defect is presumed to have existed at the time of delivery unless proved otherwise. Spain is one of these countries.

This means you are entitled to ask for your camera to be repaired or replaced free of charge. But also, if you paid with a UK credit card and the camera cost over £100, the credit card company may be equally liable. It could be easier to try and get redress through them. However, it is up to individual card issuers whether they decide to provide this consumer protection on overseas purchases, it is not an automatic right.

You will need a proof of purchase to pursue a claim – till receipt, credit card statement or confirmation of order will do. Contact the seller or the credit card company and explain what the problem is and what you want, enclose copies of your proof of purchase and send the letters by recorded delivery – keeping a copy. If the seller or the credit card company do not respond, refuse to do anything or make a final offer you are unwilling to accept, you should get advice.

For more detailed advice on buying abroad, visit www.euroconsumer.org.uk , part of the UK European Consumer Centre, an online advice service for UK consumers with European consumer queries run by Citizens Advice.

Last year Citizens Advice Bureaux across the country helped people with 5.6 million problems of which CAB handled over 8,000 covering everything from benefits, consumer and employment.

Loughton CAB is an independent registered charity reliant on grants and donations as well as the dedication and commitment of our volunteer advisers. Our opening h ours and other information may be found on our website detailed below.

the charit y for you r com m unity w w w . lo u g hto n ca b . co. uk

Issue 52 Page 8 New Trees in the Village Theydon Bois Tree Strategy Committee has arranged for a further 20 trees to be planted in the village roads for the 2005 winter planting period, some of which may have arrived as we go to print.

This work is carried out in co-operation with EFDC Parks Dept. and funded partly by District Council and the remainder from village funds provided by those residents who have very kindly donated for a Memorial Tree, the Parish Council and the Preservation Society.

Our trees are of a type specially selected so they are of a size and species suitable for planting in the verges, this year they are, Pyrus, Rowan, Upright Hornbeam, Cherry (not fruiting!!) and Birch .

Our aim is to help to enhance the Village for the benefit of our residents, this is the third year we have carried out the planting programme under this scheme and we are grateful for the support we have received to enable this to be achieved.

The Annual Meeting of the T.B. Tree Strategy took place on 6th October 2005 in the Village Hall. This was attended by Epping Forest District Council, Corporation of London (Epping Forest), Parish Council representatives from T.B. Rural Preservation and Horticultural Societies also our village Tree Wardens.

Our work during the year was reviewed, this included new trees planted, maintenance of the Village Green, works carried out to The Avenue of Trees and discussion on further work needed.

Our concern was expressed in regard to new pavement cross-overs for cars that have resulted in green verges and trees being removed, also discussed were foot paths, the possibility of planting an oak tree as part of the Trafalgar Day Celebrations and the continuing problems with Parsonage Golf Course.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on our plans for the next year of our 5 year programme. WILFRED S SHALES  If you have a concern about environmental pollution please call this Freephone number  Issue 52 Page 9 USEFUL CONTACT NUMBERS

DISTRICT COUNCIL SERVICES ADVICE, HELP & INFO

Epping Forest Dist Council 01992 564000 Citizen’s Advice B-Loughton 0208 502 0031

Epping Sports Centre 01992 564564 Citizen’s Advice B-Epping 01992 574989

Loughton Sports Centre 01992 564574 Samaritans 020 8520 9191

Waltham Abbey Sports C 01992 716733 Local Police (non-urgent) 01279 625442

Waste Management 01992 564320 Environmental Agency Hotline 0800 807060

COUNTY COUNCIL SERVICES TRAVEL & TOURISM

Registrar Births & Deaths 01992 572788 Arriva Herts & Essex 0870 728818

Registrar of Marriages 01992 572789 Gatwick Airport 08700 000303

Education Office 01245 436231 Heathrow Airport 08700 000123

Loughton Library 020 8502 0181 Luton Airport 01582 405100

Social Services 020 8508 9311 Stansted Airport 08700 000303

HEALTH & HOSPITALS London Regional Transport 020 7222 1234

Abridge Surgery 01992 812961 National Express (Victoria) 0990 808 080

Epping High St Surgery 01992 572012 PUBLIC UTILITIES

Epping Forest PCT 01992 902010 British Gas 01279 429571 Gas Emergency Freephone 0800 111999

Holly House Hosp (Private) 020 8505 3311 Eastern Electricity 0800 783 8838

Limes - Epping (Appointment) 01992 573838 VILLAGE

Limes - Epping (Emergency) 01992 566500 Village Hall Bookings 01992 815150

Limes - Epping (Enquiries) 01992 566501 Village Hall Caretaker 01992 813771

Limes - Epping (Cancellation) 01992 566502 Parish Office 01992 813442

Limes - Theydon(Appointment) 01992 812450 Cemetery Burial Clerk 01992 813100

Limes (Primecare) weekends 01245 444486 CINEMAS

Princess Alexandra Hosp 01279 444455 ABC (South Woodford 0208 989 3493

St Margaret’s Hospital 01992 561666 Odeon (Gants Hill) 0208 554 2452

The Rivers Hosp (Private) 01279 600282 Odeon () 0871 224 4007

Theydon Pharmacy 01992 812130 UCG (Harlow) 0871 200 2000 Issue 52 Page 10 Copped Hall Corner CONTINUING SUCCESS—2005 was a year packed with activity. This has included two successful open days, three study days, topiary days, four Copped Hall lectures, a per- formance of Shakespeare’s Othello, a violin recital by Miriam Kramer, two "Glyndebourne" style evenings with the Opera Live Group, a Jazz and Buffet evening with the Hugh Rainey Jazz Band and an exhibition by the Epping Art Society. Various outside organisations have held their functions at the Mansion and, in a dramatic week, a film company used the mansion and grounds as a major film set. The archaeological digs in the grounds continued with fur- ther progress made regarding the history of the Tudor and Medieval Copped Halls. All these events helped raise revenue for the work of restoration, which is ongoing ad infinitum.

THE MANSION—The most significant restoration work to the Mansion in 2005 was that to the anteroom to the Lady's Bedroom, which now serves as a lecture room, and the clearance of the Servants Hall where a blazing log fire now welcomes all to the Mansion’s events (even in summer!). Repairs to the fireplace in the Entrance Hall are also underway and the stabilisation and waterproofing of the Victorian Extension continues following a generous grant from the Essex Environmental Trust for this work.

THE FRIENDS OF THE COPPED HALL TRUST—This organisation, with a con- sistently increasing membership, continues to provide vital support to the Trust with voluntary labour and fund raising activities. The Friends especially enjoyed an outing to Cressing Temple and Audley End House where the head gardener conducted them around the walled garden, which provides produce for the great house. The Copped Hall Walled Garden continued to be improved by steady cultivation, the installation of an irrigation system and the restoration of green houses. Produce from the garden can be purchased at the Mansion on public days.

FUTURE EVENTS—Another active year is being planned for 2006 and further de- tails will be published later but the following events are already established

5 February First Spring Lecture: Peter Street will talk about, the life and work of William Morris “In Pursuit of Beauty”.

19 March Second Spring Lecture: Alan Cox will speak about "The Previous Year of Restoration at Copped Hall” (tickets for both lectures available on 01992 619834).

28 May & 27 August: Copped Hall Open Days

Issue 52 Page 11 Re-cycling In the last edition of village News I reported that the Parish Council were in communication with EFDC in the hope that we could persuade them that it might be possible for Theydon Bois to reach its re-cycling targets without the need for fortnightly collections of residual rubbish. I now have to report that we have failed in this quest and that the new proposals are likely to be introduced next autumn. We will, of course, carefully watch the outcome of the pilot scheme in . In the meantime I thought it might be useful to remind readers of the current proposals for re-cycling

COLLECTION OF RE-CYCLING  Fortnightly, on the same day as the residual collection. Please endeavour to put out your refuse no earlier than the night before collection day. EFDC have the power to fine any householder who leaves rubbish out for days on end.

PAPER/TIN CANS  Collected in the clear sacks with black writing provided by EFDC, or any plastic or paper bag except the black residual bags.  No plastic wrappers to be included.  Newspapers, magazines, catalogues, corrugated cardboard, cereal packets and rinsed out tin cans will all be collected together.

BOTTLES

 Glass bottles collected in blue boxes provided by EFDC  No broken glass or other sorts of glass other than rinsed out bottles and jars.

GREEN WASTE  Collected in current edition clear waste sacks with green writing provided by EFDC (previous sacks were not bio-degradable). Grass, small timber items, weeds, plant cuttings, dead flowers, pruning, fruit and vegetable remnants hay, straw and sawdust will be collected.

PLASTIC BOTTLES  Please use the bottle banks, or place cleaned out bottles without the caps in with the paper collection sacks.

Further supplies of green waste and paper collection clear sacks available at the Bookshop, free of charge.

Sawdust/shredded paper waste from animal hutches should be placed in the black sacks for residuals.

Full details regarding re-cycling can be found on EFDC’s Website at eppingforestdc.gov.uk

CLLR KEN CUSHING Issue 52 Page 12 News in Brief

 The Parish Council are pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs Sharon Surridge as Assistant to the Parish Clerk. After a period of training it is intended that Sharon will work in the Parish Office on a Tuesday and a Friday morning. Madeleine Murphy, the Parish Clerk will be in the office during the other week day mornings and attend most of the evening meetings.

 The local school would like to thank those residents in the village who have donated their Tesco vouchers to the school.

 A green parrot has taken up residence in Theydon Bois and can often be seen in one of the trees on the island of the village pond.

Quality & Excellence Refurbishment

Well it’s that time of year when we look forward to |Christmas & the prospect of a new year. This year has been full of surprises for us at Quality & Excellence Family Butchers. It started with selling fruit & vegetables after the Market Garden closed in January.

Then came the BBQ season and whilst the summer wasn’t the scorcher they said it would be, we still saw a rise in demand for our BBQ range. Especially with the launch of our Gluten Free range of marinades which was launched at our annual BBQ.

Our home delivery service, which is totally free & available to all customers started soon after & this has seen a remarkable rise in demand. “Still not sure about the bike riding though!”

In August, as many of you are aware, we suffered a massive flood which damaged our beloved kitchen. This saw a temporary end to our home-made pies. After a few weeks we closed for a total refurbishment of our shop & kitchen and we re-opened on Tuesday 24th October.

As we write this we are going to have an open day when there will be some new & interesting lines to try. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Mark & Sarah-Jane Issue 52 Page 13 Village News Sponsors Page

10 Forest Drive - Telephone 01992 - 812130 For all your Pharmacy Needs & Specialist Health Services

We are pleased to announce availability of the following services by appointment Please call in at the shop or phone for further details

 Physiotherapy Treatment by Maggie Keeling BSc MA - State Registered Physiotherapist.  Podiatry (Chiropody) Treatment) by Karen Ames BSc (Hons)- State Registered Podiatrist.  Acupuncture by Ms Lu a member of the British Acupuncture Council  Food Intolerance Testing, Smoking Cessation Services. In addition the pharmacist can advise you on how to get the most benefit from medication, on unwanted side-effects and general advice on managing minor ailments at home. We stock a large range of blood pressure monitors, tens machines & diabetic testing kits all at very competitive prices.

Cosmetics & Beauty Products - Our shop has a well stocked cosmetic counter, and carries a wide selection of popular cosmetics & beauty products — including; Revlon, Max Factor, Clarins and perfumes such as; Calvin Klein’s Eternity, Channel no.5. 9am - 1pm & 2pm - 6.30pm - (Mon, Tues, Thurs, Frid) 9am - 1pm - (Wed) 9am - 5.30pm - (Sat)

THEYDON BOIS Family Funeral Directors BALTI HOUSE Own Private Chapel of Rest; TANDOORI your loved one never leaves RESTAURANT our care. FULLY LICENSED & AIR CONDITIONED BURIAL OR CREMATION STATION APPROACH & ASHES BURIAL COPPICE ROW (among the bluebells) THEYDON BOIS

ESSEX CM16 7EU You can have a gentle, unhurried funeral service in our Hall of TEL: 01992 813850/814104 Remembrance at Herongate Wood. 10% Discount on take aways Call 01992 814909 Opening hours www.green-burial.co.uk 5.30pm till 11.30pm everyday Woodland & Wildlife Conservation Co. Issue 52 Page 14 Annual Service of Remembrance St.Mary’s Parish Church 13th November 2005

The Church was very full, with many standing at the back, as the village gathered to show their respect for all those who gave their lives in the conflict of wars and to give their support to the Royal British Legion.

The service began around the War Memorial where many wreaths were laid, Firstly by Peter Twinn British Legion, followed by our M.P. Eleanor Laing, and then representatives from Epping Forest District Council, Theydon Bois Parish Council, St. Mary’s Church and most of the organisations in the Village.

Our youth were well represented by the Guides, Rangers, Brownies and Rainbows, also the Scouts and Cubs. Hannah Amies , a Ranger, acted as standard bearer for the Union Flag.

Following the laying of the wreaths Harry Memory read the names of the 29 men from the village who gave their lives in the first world war, 25 in the second war and then the 30 men from The King’s Own Scottish Borders who were killed by a German parachute- mine that fell on their camp in the village on the 18th November 1940.The Last Post was then sounded, by bugler Louise Brough, the standard of the British Legion was lowered for the two minutes silence and all stood in respect.

Following the bugler playing Reveille the Legion’s standard bearer, Alan Hollingbery lead those on parade into the church where the service continued conducted by the Vicar, the Rev. Canon Colin Travers. The sermon was given by the Curate Rev. Dr Anthea Cannell, the Rev David Penegar, Minister of the Baptist Church, lead the prayers for peace and for those who died in the violence of war, including those conflicts since the second world war ended.

During the sermon Anthea mentioned a happening from the first war when one Christmas night in the trenches in France the soldiers on both sides called an ‘unofficial truce’, stood up out of the trenches and exchanged greetings of goodwill for Christmas. Now we pray for the end of conflict in this world so all can live in peace and good will.

We are very grateful to Jim Watts who was our village photographer for the event, numerous photos were taken, some can be seen on the opposite page and others can be seen on the village Web Site - www.theydon.org.uk.

The Poppy Appeal organiser reports that the final amount collected was £3,328.98, a grateful thank you to all who contributed and a special thanks to all the collectors. Issue 52 Page 15 Issue 52 Page 16 by Georgia Edmondson

Cards drawn by pupils of Theydon Bois Primary School for a competition sponsored by the Parish Council. The card above was the overall winner of the competition. Below and on the opposite page are the winners of each individual class.

by Jack Hamilton by Sam Brown

by Greg Price Issue 52 Page 17

by Archie Buisson by Eloise Surridge by George Johnson

by Amy Hunt by Gabriella Rossetti

by Jasmine Lok by Jordan Lee Issue 52 Page 18 TRAFALGAR DAY PICTURES

Issue 52 Page 19 News from County Hall Forecasters are predicting that Britain could be facing one of the worst winters in a decade. Here in Essex the County Council’s winter maintenance service is at the ready and is well prepared. A squadron of almost 70 gritters and 80 personnel is on round the clock standby to get gritting on one of the most extensive gritting networks in the country – within 2 hours. This can be tripled to over 200 staff during periods of severe winter weather.

In normal winter conditions 1,800 miles of major roads will be salted. In future more rural roads will be included in the main gritting network. During severe winter weather, when there are persistent periods of icy conditions or snowfalls, the service is extended. In these circumstances roads are treated in order of importance. Minor roads are treated once roads on the main precautionary salting network have been dealt with. Farmers and other highway contractors will also be called upon to help out with snow clearance.

The atrocious terrorist bombings in London caused transport difficulties that extended well in to Essex. The Counties Emergency Plans and Essex Core Resilience Team was alerted and the Emergency Response Centre and Communications Facility responded immediately to react and co-ordinate the various emergency services as required. I have now attended the Centre on a number of occasions and have been briefed on the reactive role of the service to all emergency situations which extend throughout Essex and beyond. I have also been briefed on the requirements of the Civil Contingencies Act 2004.

I have also been able to attend the new Call Centre in which is rapidly getting up to speed as the staff become experienced in dealing with a wide range of enquiries and ensure that the enquirer is connected to the relevant officer or department to deal with specific issues. Many enquiries are simply dealt with when they are a matter of information, some are more complex and require detailed information to ensure that the centre can follow this up with the appropriate department. This is in my view a helpful call centre service based in Essex and operated by County Council Staff.

May I wish you all the Seasons Greetings and a healthy and happy 2006.

County Councillor John Spencer Telephone 01992 560025 Email: [email protected] Issue 52 Page 20 

We meet on 2nd Thursday of the Month at Theydon Bois Village hall starting at 8pm. We have excellent artists booked for our winter season as listed below. The Society welcomes new members and if you appreciate good music in good company then why not join us, or come as a visitor.

Jan 21st — Annual New Year Saturday Coffee Morning 10.30am Village Hall Feb 9th — Octavia Trio — Violin — cello — piano Mar 9th — Kokila Gillet — Violin with Piano accompaniment

For further information about us & a copy of our current programme please contact Harry Memory (tel: 01992 812696)

Theydon Bois Primary School

Meeting for Prospective Parents Tuesday 17th January 2006

A meeting will be held at 4 o’clock for all prospective parents of children who will be five years old between 1st September 2006 and 31st August 2007.

All are welcome to come along and have a tour of the school. During the meeting Mrs Bonds, the Head Teacher, will talk about the school and explain the admissions and induction procedures.

Please note that everyone should have received the new Common Application Form if they are registered with a doctor in Essex. If you do not have a form you may collect one from the School Office. The closing date for applications is 27.02.06.

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact the school.

Tel: 01992 813083 Issue 52 Page 21 The Past Autumn in Theydon Bois

The Blunts farm (Parsonage Golf) development continued to cause controversy with claims that the EFDC (Epping Forest District Council) Planning Authority had not learnt from the problems experienced with the construction of the North Weald Golf site, particularly regarding the survey of the site levels. The associated lorry movements were also a contentious issue especially for the residents of and their concern for the safety of the bridge over the . John Knapman, the leader of the EFDC, had tried to gain site access for these lorries via the but had difficulty in obtaining the agreement of the Highways Agency and Traffic Police. Users of the Abridge to TB (Theydon Bois) Road continued to find this route both hazardous and filthy, especially in the wet, because of soil spilt from vehicles.

On the other side of the village there were similar concerns about the environmental damage. The early appearance at 6.30 am. of heavy earth moving equipment and chainsaws at the now empty Wansfell College brought a sharp and prompt reaction from local residents, and particularly EFDC Councillor Janet Whitehouse. She alerted the EFDC about work, which had already commenced on the clearance of the grounds, and enforcement officers were quickly on the scene to prevent the felling of many listed trees. However the pond was filled in and the tennis court cleared in what was claimed to be a cosmetic exercise prior to a planning application being made for the conversion of the main building into a number of apartments, the replacement of the groundsman’s house with two dwellings and the building of a new house on the tennis court. Chingford based developer Mountcharm Ltd had purchased the site according to Stuart Mowle, director of real estate consultancy Lambert Smith Hampton. A new educational facility, Wansfell College II has now been founded by ex principal Marilyn Taylor and is operating successfully at other locations.

A new Register of Commoners for the election of Epping Forest Verderers was being prepared by the Epping Forest Conservators and claims for registration were therefore invited. Those eligible had to be owners or occupiers of at least half an acre of land not covered by buildings and lying within the ancient boundary of Epping Forest, as set forth in the perambulation made in the 17th year of the reign of Charles II. The right of Commoners to put cattle in the Forest has existed for more than 800 years and the Office of Verderer was of similar antiquity. However, under the Epping Forest Act of 1978, four Verderers are now elected every seven years, two for the northern and southern Forest Parishes respectively. Verderers had to live in a Forest Parish and be members of the Epping Forest and the Commons Committee of the Corporation of London. The next election of Verderers would be in March 2006.

Issue 52 Page 22 The Past Autumn in Theydon Bois (continued)

The EFDC’s decision to revise the refuse and recycling system in the District, which had resulted in much controversy and correspondence during the previous months, commenced in a welter of confusion! The usual regular refuse collection day for the village was changed from Monday to Friday. Domestic (black bag) collections continued to be made weekly, but those for recyclable materials would also take place on the new collection day, but only fortnightly. Householders were caught off balance and waste material of all kinds was lying in the village for some days until the new collection system clicked into place. The confusion was compounded by the decision to also collect garden waste on this new day and throughout the year! The dreaded wheelie bins were expected to reach TB Blimey another bin-rebel ! early in 2006.

In the early autumn, a series of electricity supply disruptions left some 800 residents without power, often at breakfast time, because of problems with underground cables and overhead distribution networks. A local resident commented that it was unbelievable that this situation could occur during the 21st century and wanted the power company to look at its distribution systems and provide a proper service; a spokesman for EDF Energy subsequently apologised to customers for the interruptions. It was pointed out by an electrical engineer that TB was possibly connected to a “spur” in the distribution network and so was one of the first areas to be affected when “load shedding” was necessary. However, this was not a good omen for the future with a severe winter forecast.

Extensive cloud cover prevented villagers from witnessing an almost total eclipse of the sun by the moon, which occurred on a November morning. Further south, the shadow of the moon produced the unusual sight of a crescent shaped sun. The moon’s shadow then progressed further until perfectly centred within the sun's image, which then took the form of a ring of bright light. The eclipse resulted in partial darkness for a short period of time, which was apparent in Theydon Bois despite the cloud cover.

Motor vehicle traffic continued to cause problems. Piercing Hill was the site of a number of accidents the most recent when a stolen VW Polo car hit a post and rebounded into thick undergrowth; the driver fled the scene before the police arrived. Issue 52 Page 23 The Past Autumn in Theydon Bois (continued)

A mobile police speed camera had been used on a random basis in order to deter speeding but without any apparent affect. Concern was expressed for the safety of pedestrians in this area, especially those attending St Mary’s Church.

An equally serious situation existed in neighbouring Coppice Row where the fixed speed camera, the subject of much complaint from lawless motorists, had been destroyed by fire and the ineffective hulk still remained after some weeks. The tragedy was that this camera, sited near the dangerous cross roads of Piercing Hill and Coppice Row, had probably saved a number of people from injury or death during its years of use. However, on the credit side, the hazard caused by youths driving illegal motorised scooters around the area on pavements and roads, and without lights after dark, appeared to cease when several were apprehended by the police and their machines confiscated.

Trafalgar Day was celebrated with an all day social event in the car park of the Queen Victoria Pub. The many events included a treasure hunt, displays of nautical dancing, games of petanque and a tug of war. Sustenance was available in the form of a hog roast, hot burgers/dogs and liquid refreshment from the pub. These festivities lasted until early evening when a beacon on the Green, representing those lit in 1805 to signal Nelson's victory, was formally lit by Peter Simmance, Chairman of the Event Organising Committee. See photos on page 18.

The November Fifth weekend was celebrated by the TB Primary School with a "treason themed” bonfire night. The traditional guy was burnt and other attractions included treasure hunts, safe cracking, coconut shy and many stalls. (See photos on page 2)

Remembrance Sunday was commemorated in the village on a fine morning with the usual parade to St Mary’s Church. This is reported on pages 14 and 15 of Village News.

Members of the Theydon Lodge were present at Freemason’s Hall in London to see a local Freemason installed as their new Provincial Grand Master. John Webb of Loughton, a retired director of a building company, became the leader of 12,000 Freemasons in the Province of Essex, which is the fourth largest in the country.

Businesses in TB continued to make news. The AND Technological Research business of Forest Drive, celebrated its 25th anniversary with an open day to which Issue 52 Page 24 The Past Autumn in Theydon Bois (continued) both industry and public were invited. Its premises were transformed into themed areas featuring the different services and skills, which the business provides. The Woodland and Wildlife Conservation Company based in Coppice Row received a special award in the 2005 Cemetery of the Year awards for the best New Green Burial Site in the British Isles, which is at Herongate, Brentwood. The Company specialises in establishing environmentally aware cemeteries in allowing trees to grow among single burial plots, marked with a simple plaque, containing the deceased in a biodegradable casket. On a happier note, despite competition from the big multiples, the small retail outlets in the village continued to provide a vital service to the community. But the constant message remained “use them or lose them”.

The TB WI retained its strong niche in the local community with regular meetings at one of which Sister Maureen Shaw of the Princess Alexander Hospital Cardiac Care Unit in Harlow was presented with a cheque for £1,000 for the purchase of medical equipment; this sum had been raised by the members through their 2005 "Special Efforts" events. Some fifty members with their husbands and friends recently visited Westcliff on Sea by coach to attend a matinee performance of Cole Porter’s musical “Anything Goes”, staged by the Southend Operatic and Dramatic Society at the Cliffs Pavilion.

The TB Music Society commenced its new season of meetings with recitals by such artists as Laurette Pope – Harpist and Lucille Burns – Flute, Carl Murray – Baritone, and Marcus Andrews – Piano. The Society also organised coach trips to concerts at the Walthamstow Assembly Rooms and the Barbican Centre in London.

Other noteworthy events in the village were a production of “The Roses of Eyam” by the TB Drama Society, a lecture by Georgina Green on behalf of the TB Rural Preservation Society entitled the “Trees of ”, an exhibition by the Epping Railway Society, a Business Golf Day at the TB Golf Club which raised over £5,400 for the Chigwell Riding Trust for Special Needs and the St Clare Hospice, a great success for The Victorians Petanque Club who became the first National Clubs League champions of the English Petanque Association and, to round off this autumn, the TB Branch of the Epping Forest Conservative Association held a very happy wine tasting (?) evening.

Local people who made news were Tony Ames who accepted a Certificate of Excellence on behalf of the Loughton and District Voluntary Citizens Advice Bureau, Jennifer Cresswell who at the tender age of 67 skydived over the Kent countryside to raise some £1,000 for research into the disease of multiple sclerosis, Chris Breavington who married his university sweetheart Michelle Archard, from Issue 52 Page 25 The Past Autumn in Theydon Bois (continued)

Chippenham, a “green fingered ” Mandy Davies who received a “Best Student” award from the Capel Manor Horticultural College in Enfield, and Richard and Carol Risdon who celebrated the hundredth birthday of Richard’s father, Norman. Finally, on a fine early autumn afternoon the ashes of Florrie Benjamin were laid to rest in St Mary’s Churchyard. Although of a retiring disposition, Florrie had been a receptionist at the Village Surgery for some years and was a staunch member of St Mary’s church. She typified a generation of TB residents of whom not many now remained.

The great festive season of Christmas is rapidly approaching and will help take the edge off what could be a hard winter. So deck the Halls with holly, start writing all those greeting cards, organise the Christmas shopping and make sure the goose is getting fat. A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. TREVOR ROBERTS LOCAL HISTORY RECORDER FOR THEYDON BOIS

Theydon Bois Drama Society After the successful 80th Anniversary production of “The Roses of Eyam”, the society changes the mood with an Alan Ayckbourn comedy “A Chorus of Disapproval” on January 12th – 14th.

A diffident widower attempts to escape from his loneliness by joining the local amateur light operatic society. By accident, rather than design (in fact by not saying ‘no’ to anything, be it a request to obtain confidential information from his company or an offer of illicit sex) he advances from a one-line part to lead. As the play progresses the author skilfully draws parallels between John Gay’s “The Beggar’s Opera” and the day to day activities of the Society who are performing it. Ayckbourn goes on showing how painfully embarrassed are the British in the face of emotion and keeps the audience laughing in happy recognition.

On March 16th – 18th the Society’s production will be “84 Charing Cross Road” by Helene Hanff. In 1949 a struggling American writer, hoping to indulge her love of beautiful books, started a correspondence with a firm of British antiquarian booksellers that was to last 20 years. The warm, compassionate and very human exchange of letters was published as a book and is here skilfully and lovingly adapted for the stage. As described by the critics when produced on the London stage, ‘This is the rarest of theatrical events, a good and happy play about good and happy people. An evening of fun, happiness, a little sadness and a lot of goodwill’

Tickets are available from Carol James 01992 812250 Issue 52 Page 26

District Councillors Column On November 24th the new Licensing Act 2003 came into full effect. Officers and Members of the District Council have been working long hours to ensure that all applications were processed before this date, and only a few were not completed before the deadline. These licences cover not only public houses and clubs but also restaurants, late night cafes and shops selling alcohol. The four public houses in the village have successfully updated their licences. All applied for an extension of hours (none for 24 hours!), and although most of these have been granted it does not necessarily mean that they will open for all of their permitted hours, but that they have the right to do so when required.

Residents who visit the surgery in Thrifts Mead will have noticed that the third phase of the updating of Robert Daniels Court is now underway and should be finished by the end of January2006. and the the work on the communal lounge, front entrance and bin store has a provisional finish date of end of February 2006.Clearance of the site and work on repairing the damage done to roads and pavements will follow as will the planting of a tree to replace the damaged chestnut tree which was removed earlier this year. The Tree Strategy Group are considering a suitable replacement. It will be good not to have to negotiate the building site to get to the surgery and we are sure that the residents of the surrounding houses will not miss the skips and portakabins!

Finally we would both like to wish all residents a Merry Christmas and Very Happy New Year. District Councillor [email protected] District Councillor

Kay Rush [email protected] Robert Glozier

DO YOU HAVE A CHILD OR GRANDCHILD LIVING IN THEYDON BOIS?

Would you be interested in becoming part of an information forum? Share your views, issues, queries, concerns with other parents? Be part of a group created to represent the interests of children, from toddlers to teenagers, in our village? If the answer to any of the above was 'YES' then you may be interested in the new group that has just started up called THEYDON PARENTS.

We are here to pool opinions and use them to the best effect as well as pass on important information regarding our children. For more information or to register your e-mail address contact us at [email protected], Alternatively you could call Tom or Kerry on 01992-813357. Issue 52 Page 27 Village News Sponsors Page

James and Heather Sear, proprietors of James Sear Estate Agents, were born and raised in Theydon Bois and have now worked together in the property industry for some 28 years and their combined experience together with other family members gives them an unrivalled knowledge of the business.

They have been at 311 High Street Epping for the past 7 years and they specialise in property in Epping, Theydon Bois, North Weald & all of the 'surrounding areas’. They employ staff with good local background & specialist knowledge of the local marketplace an important consideration for house- hunters who rely on local agents with local knowledge. website: www.jamessear.co.uk

YOUR VILLAGE S & F ELECTRICS NEWS & WEBSITE ALL ELECTRICAL

INSTALLATIONS

Lighting - Heating - Power - Points, etc

5 Forest Road Loughton, Essex IG10 1DR

tel: (020) 8508 7426

Most Domestic Appliances Supplied Copy deadline for next edition Repaired & Maintained of Village News is 28 Feb 06

Issue 52 Page 28 Annual Newsletter Competition & Other Awards We are delighted to report that Village News has again received recognition by winning first place in the annual competition run by the Essex Association of Local Councils . After reviewing a number of entries from councils all over Essex the judges commented ‘The standard of Newsletters from Parish and Town councils in Essex is high. The winning newsletter from Theydon Bois combined relevant news and information with a genuine feeling of a sense of community and communicated a sense of place.’ The award was picked up by our editor, Tony Ames at a ceremony in —see picture on page 31

Other awards In the Station Garden Competition Theydon Bois underground station was awarded a 1st class certificate of merit in the category Cultivated Garden.

In the Best Kept Village Competition run by The Rural Community Council of Essex and sponsored by Calor Gas Theydon Bois won a merit award in our category.

Essex Playing Fields Association Awards The Buxton Trust has won several awards from the Essex Playing Fields Association and Ron Smith Chairman of the Buxton Trust reports. The awards were made on the 17th November at the County Cricket Club, Chelmsford and the presentations were made by Lord Petre, Patron of Essex Playing Fields together with Cllr. Chris Manning-Press, Chairman of Essex County Council.

There were seven different classes and eighty two entries from all over Essex. Buxton Trust entered for three classes and were successful in receiving:

Runner up for Class one. Playing Fields serving a population of 1,500 or more. Merit in Class four. Cricket grounds on which a winter game may or may not be played. Winner of the trophy in Class seven for exceptional work carried out during the year. This was for the new roof on the Cricket Club pavilion.

The Buxton Trust have every reason to be pleased with the awards and will enter the competition next year. Possibly in another two classes.

Buxton Trust members are mindful that nothing is achieved without community effort and in this respect they can only register their grateful appreciation to Matt O' Reilly for all his hard work and time so freely given, to make the ground a pleasure for everyone. Issue 52 Page 29 Forthcoming Village Events

13 Dec Theydon Bois Singers Xmas Concert 7.45 pm Village Hall

18 Dec LAS observatory open evening 7pm—see www.las-astro.org.uk

8 Jan LAS observatory open evening 7pm—see www.las-astro.org.uk

12-14 Jan Theydon Bois Drama Society'A Chorus of Disapproval' by Alan Ayckbourn Tickets from Carol James 01992 812250

13 Jan Astrokyds Junior Astronomy club—St Mary’s Church Hall 6.30pm

26 Jan Parish Council Public Meeting

29 Jan LAS observatory open evening 7pm—see www.las-astro.org.uk

10 Feb Astrokyds Junior Astronomy club—St Mary’s Church Hall 6.30pm

19 Feb LAS observatory open evening 7pm—see www.las-astro.org.uk

25 Feb 06 Theydon Bois Drama Society Quiz Evening - Tables of 8 Details from Martin Oliver 01992 812042

16-18 Mar Theydon Bois Drama Society '84 Charing Cross Road' by Helene Hanff Tickets from Carol James 01992 812250

30 Mar Parish Council Public Meeting

29 Apr Theydon Bois Singers 40th Anniversary Concert 7.30 pm Village Hall

Various Friends of Copped Hall Events - (see page 10)

If you would like your event included in the forthcoming events section either in Village News or the Village Web-Site please notify the Parish Clerk on 01992 813442 or by e-mail at theydon- [email protected]. Entries for Newsletter diary must be received by the relevant copy date and are NOT automatically rolled over to the next diary. Onus is therefore on the organiser to re-confirm for the next village news.

Copy for Village News & Website to be sent to Madeleine Murphy, Parish Clerk, Parish Office, Theydon Bois Village Hall Phone & Fax 01992 813442 [email protected]

Village News Edited & Produced by Tony Ames Village Website www.theydon.org.uk Edited & Produced by Jim Watts Issue 52 Page 30 Youth Club Planning Fight Continues Many Theydon residents including the Baptist Church Minister and Primary School Head Mistress along with Roy Newland, Tim Dolan of The Box and members of the Parish council attended and gave evidence at the public enquiry. This was held as a result of the EFDC decision not to grant planning permission regarding the outline planning application from Essex County Council (Essex CC) for 10 houses on the site of the playing field and Youth Club Site.

Support from the people of Theydon Bois was huge. Due to the numbers giving evidence the enquiry has been adjourned until the 31st January and 1st February 2006.

Please come along and ask questions of the Planning and Education consultants. They will be giving their evidence on the 31st. The general public have the right to question them on the reasoning behind the closure and subsequent loss to the community of this youth facility.

We need pictures of activities that have taken place on the field adjacent to the new Youth Centre over the last 40 years. Also if anyone has tried to hire the Youth Club from Essex CC at any time, please provide us with a statement and/or letters if you have them. Please get in touch with the Parish Clerk with any information.

Essex CC have stated that our children can use the new facility at Borders Lane Loughton with no consideration as to the inherent dangers this would cause. We have a purpose built building in the centre of our Village.

Theydon Residents raise your voices - OBJECT!!!!! Let us reopen the Youth Centre along the lines of The Box in Epping. We need to give our children a place in our locality. The Box has proved that by giving children the right choices they attend in force and stay out of trouble.

We on the Parish Council are determined not only to get this planning rejected by the inspector but also to re-open the youth centre as a viable youth facility.

THIS CAN ONLY BE DONE WITH YOUR SUPPORT

Issue 52 Page 31

Supporting the Cause

Theydon Bois resident Steve Barnes recently took part in a charity abseil down the face of the 400 foot high Centre Point Tower in central London to raise funds for the Royal National Institute for the Blind.

At County Hall, Village News editor Tony Ames holds the certificate presented for our Village winning first place in in the Essex Local Councils’ Newsletter Competition.

Rural Community Council of Essex Award Issue 52 Page 32 Santa Arrives