Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 2 Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 3 Parish Council Chairman’s Report May I start my report by wishing everybody, on behalf of the Parish Council, a Very Happy Christmas and let us hope and pray for a Happy and Healthy New Year!
It has been an incredibly difficult year for many people in the Village. Coronavirus has affected us all. The many groups that meet in the Village have been unable to do so leading to some people feeling isolated. I would like to extend the Council’s thanks to those volunteers who have rallied around helping the more vulnerable of our villagers.
The Village Events have also been casualties of the virus. In the summer we lost the annual Donkey Derby and the planned VE Day Celebrations which were due to be held at the School. More recently the Council made the difficult decision to cancel the Annual Christmas Market in the Village and also the formal switching on of the Christmas lights. To compensate in some way for the loss of the market, the Parish Council funded additional trees to go above the shops in the Village centre. From the pictures opposite I hope you agree that they bring a little bit of extra festive cheer. I think our main tree at the Village Hall is also looking particularly impressive this year.
The work of the Council has continued, despite the environment we find ourselves in, and you can read elsewhere in this magazine the progress which has been made in repairing further stretches of roads and pavements in the Village. However, it has become increasingly apparent that if the Village environs are to be maintained to a standard expected by us all, then I’m afraid we will have to pay a little more towards it. With this in mind, in early discussions determining next year’s budgets, it was proposed that the Parish Council significantly increase its’ Environment Infrastructure budget to help fund improvements in the Village. The Council has a number of projects it would like to progress.
The Parish Council is of course well aware that Coronavirus has had a significant financial impact on many people and therefore the majority of the budget increase will be funded out of Council Reserves. It is expected that the increase in the Parish Council’s portion of next year’s precept will amount to just a few pounds a year.
If you have any views on the above or indeed any other issue within the Village which the Parish Council has influence over, then I am happy to hear them. The Parish Council’s aim is to ensure that Theydon Bois continues to be a very special place to reside in.
Remember that despite the virus, the Council continues to meet regularly, albeit via video conference. These meetings are open to the public so if you wish to join a meeting please contact the Parish Clerk who will be able to provide you with a link to the meeting.
Details of forthcoming Council meetings can be found on the Parish Council website via the following link: https://theydonbois-pc.gov.uk/
Councillor Peter Gooch
Chairman Theydon Bois Parish Council
Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 4 Parish Council - Highways Report We are pleased to report further repairs to the road surfaces have taken place in Buxton Road, Heath Drive and Dukes Avenue. The footway has been re-surfaced between the Frank Foster Home and the Avenue of trees. Also, in this area the drain gullies have been jetted and a collapsed pipe under the footway has been repaired. Some ditches have been strimmed along the boundary of the Green due to continuing problems with the flow of water into the pond and beyond. Further works are planned in the New Year.
The Green - strimmed ditch- Jetting Tanker - Loughton Lane
It was very sad to see the removal of eight mature verge trees by Essex County Council in Forest Drive and Dukes Avenue, most of which had some decay. The decision was accelerated after one of the trees fell in the recent winds. It should be borne in mind that it is Essex County Council who own the verges and unfortunately the Parish Council has little influence in these decisions. However, we are to receive appropriate replacement trees which will be planted this season in those roads as well as other plantings in the Village. Following the Conservators of Epping Forest’s decision to red-line the roads in the High Beach area with funds from the North Essex Parking Partnership and implemented under emergency Covid regulations to reduce anti-social behaviour, it has now been agreed in principal to start charging in the fifty-five car parks in the Epping Forest area. This will undoubtedly impact Theydon as a Village with the three car parks up “Jack’s Hill” as well as verge parking already being discouraged. This is despite the fact that ever more people from near and far wish to enjoy the open space our Village offers! It is interesting to note all four Verderers of the Forest disagreed strongly with this decision. Please look at the Epping Forest Forum website for other news as the project develops. The “Hoppit” project, which involves restoring the area of land adjacent to St. Mary’s Churchyard and the corner of Piercing Hill and Coppice Row, has moved forward with a contribution being made by the Parish Council which follows an earlier contribution made by the Rural Preservation Society. The next stage of the project is the manufacture of replacement railings o go around the Church boundary and to clear the ground ready for installation in early Spring. CLLR. ANTHONY PURKISS Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 5 Parish Council - Allotments, Further News Following on from previous issues of the Village News the allotments continue to go from strength to strength. Although the site is now full, with a short waiting list, all those on the waiting list are expected to be allocated plots in the next few months, so it is again worth your while adding your name to the parish clerk's list and there is a good chance you would be allocated a plot in 2021. A whole list of improvements have been carried out since the last issue, all thanks to volunteers and all from funds generated from the plot rents. These include:
New noticeboard New plot holders’ communal composting facility
New signage New Plot holders’ communal bonfire facility
New plot markers Preventative measures to stop fly-tipping
We are also working on the creation of some additional plots. A great deal more clearance of historic rubbish & fly tipping has also taken place and the end of this problem is in sight. We are in particular grateful for the way Paul Argent, David Preist and other volunteers have helped clear plots ready for new holders and helped many inexperienced people with growing advice and assistance. Further plans and progress to follow in future issues. T B P C P C V
A vacancy has arisen at Theydon Bois Parish Council for a Planning Clerk to support the Parish Council’s Planning Committee.
This position would ideally suit a local resident with a keen interest in Planning Processes and Policy. Our Planning Committee meet every two weeks (currently via Zoom conferencing) and consider all planning applications submitted within the Parish. The role would involve preparing for the meetings, which involves some research on planning applications, and the creation and distribution of Agendas, and Minutes, together with the submission of Planning Returns to Epping Forest District Council. The role would also involve contact with members of the public and general administrative tasks.
Presently, the job is based at home, and the number of hours would be approximately 12 per week (ideally hours would be allocated over 3-4 days, to include Fridays and every other Monday, plus one day mid-week). The Committee meetings are every two weeks on a Thursday evening and the Planning Clerk will be expected to attend each meeting.
APPLICATIONS, TO INCLUDE A CV, SHOULD BE MARKED ‘PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL’ AND ADDRESSED TO THE CHAIR OF THE PARISH COUNCIL (& CHAIRMAN OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE), CLLR PETER GOOCH, PARISH OFFICE, THE VILLAGE HALL, COPPICE ROW, THEYDON BOIS, CM16 7ER or by email to: [email protected]
Closing date for applications: Monday 21st December 2020 Role to start in early 2021 Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 6 District Councillors’ Column
As we come towards the end of another year, it has certainly been an unusual one for all of us. The same has been true for the activities at EFDC. In our last column we called out what we thought the impact of COVID would be on the Council finances. We do still expect the overall cost, just in this Council year, to be around 7 million pounds.
We expect this to be mitigated by government support of just under 4 million pounds. It still means that after we have made savings and slow downs in some expenditure, we will need to draw on our reserves to the tune of up to 2 million pounds.
We are now well into our budget planning for next year and John put forward the Medium Term financial strategy at Cabinet in November. We are also expecting at this stage to have a significant shortfall next year. At this point, it could be as large as 2.1 million pounds, even after Government support and making use of another 1 million pounds of reserves.
As we look forward to next year, we are still looking at what can be done to help residents and businesses in the district. One area that is important to the village, is the future of the 87 bus. As you will remember, the Council stepped in to provide additional funding to keep the 87 running when it was to be withdrawn from service. After funding was extended from October to December, it still proved impossible to make the services viable.
As a result, a report is being brought to the December meeting of Cabinet proposing to replace the service with a Demand Responsive Transport offering. We are suggesting that we fund a trial of a hybrid DRT. This will be a service where a pick up can be booked, hopefully by application and phone service.
If the trial is successful, we will look to roll this out further across the area. To be clear, what we are proposing will have fares set at the same level as the old 87 service.
The district Council is continuing to meet for its regular meetings via Zoom, but consistent with our existing practice, we Webcast many of our meetings to make them visible to all residents.
We have two Cabinet meetings and a full Council meeting in December. The webcasts for these can be found by going to the EFDC website at https://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/your- council/watch-a-meeting/
Finally, we have been continuing to run our surgeries on the first Saturday of each month from 11 am to noon, all be it virtually, meeting with residents on Zoom. If you want to take part, please email John or Sue, who will provide a time slot in that hour for a private conversation with you.
We look forward to the time when we will be able to safely meet with you again in person.
We wish you all a safe and happy Christmas and look forward hopefully to a more normal New Year.
DISTRICT COUNCILLOR DISTRICT COUNCILLOR JOHN PHILIP - 812473 SUE JONES - 814548 Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 7 Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 8 New Flag for Theydon At the beginning of 2020 the Theydon Bois Flag that had been flown above the Village Hall and Parish Offices for many years was no longer found to be usable as it had become tattered, torn and faded over the many years of use. It was decided that a new flag was needed, but the original art work could no longer be found in the Parish Council archives or at the original flag makers. Jim Watts from Theydon Newsdesk kindly redrew the flag basing it closely on the original and in a form large enough to produce a 6 x 4 foot flag. Unfortunately the art work got to the flag makers just as the Covid lockdown started in March and they were unable to work and produce our new flag until recently. The new flag arrived towards the end of November and was raised above the Village Hall during our second lockdown of the year by Assistant Parish Clerk, Julia Gale with the help of her son, a former Scout. A second flag was ordered at the same time so that we now have a spare so that we can keep our flag flying. Village News Issue 111 Decemberr 2020 Page 9 Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 10 Remembrance Sunday 8th November 2020 Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 11
Remembrance Sunday 8th November 2020 (continued)
Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 12 PAT - Halloween Competition As plans for the usual Halloween trick or treating fun looked set to be scuppered by the pandemic, the Playground At Theydon decided to hold a "best spooky display" competition for All Hallows Eve. Participants were asked via the playground's Facebook group to join in by decorating their houses as spookily as possible and donate £4 to enter. A map was then produced to form a "trail" around the village with the houses marked so people could wander round at leisure and vote for their favourites by text message. As ever the village came up trumps and delivered with some wonderfully creative displays on the theme.
Bonhomie kindly donated a prize of a £20 voucher for the winner, who was Liz Kitching of 31 Baldocks Road. Her display had, among other gruesome artefacts, a levitating head above a beheaded body sat in a chair. This is shown below together with some of the other innovative displays.
Shelley Dix, chair of the PAT committee said: "Every charity has been badly hit by the pandemic as fundraising events have been impossible this year. We hope our little competition went some way to bringing some spooky fun to the village for a couple of days. Some people may be anxious about trick or treating and this seemed like a good way for people to get involved without having to worry about the virus which has been the real horror story this year. We have already planned a Best Christmas Lights competition for this year which we hope to run annually so please look out for that nearer the time."
Unfortunately the PAT committee has had to stop providing hand sanitiser at the playground so can parents please bring their own from now on. It needed topping up every two days and was becoming far too costly particularly as there were a couple of incidences where people misused it or stole the bottle.
Winner - 31 Baldocks Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 13
PAT- Halloween Competition (continued)
Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 14 Villager Lloyd’s 3 Peaks Challenge - 4th to 12th October 2020 Villager Lloyd Scott MBE is a former professional footballer and fireman and presently manages a sports centre in Leytonstone. Over the last 30 years he has also been an exceptional charity fundraiser participating in a number of marathons and other feats of endurance made even more challenging by the distinctive twist he gives to them. To date he has raised over £5 million for various charities.
Lloyd began his fund raising activities in 1989 when he was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia. This was diagnosed when, following a rescue of two brothers from a burning house, fireman Lloyd was checked over in hospital for possible lung damage and leukaemia was discovered. Fortunately with the help of a bone marrow transplant via the Anthony Nolan Trust he recovered and was determined to give something back. He was medically retired from the fire service, ran his first marathon three weeks before the transplant and began to take on more unusual and dangerous fundraising challenges, some of which are described at the end of this article. He received an MBE in 2005 for his outstanding services to charity. Lloyd has joked that this should stand for Mad, Bonkers & Eccentric!
In October this year, Lloyd decided to embark upon what he thinks will be the final challenge of his fund raising career. This was to tackle the 3 Peaks Challenge dressed in the original 130lb deep sea diving suit he wore in the 2002 London Marathon when he broke the world record for the slowest ever marathon setting a record by completing the race in five days, eight hours, 29 minutes and 46 seconds.
The 3 Peaks Challenge was raising funds for Lord's Taverners charity that provides direct and indirect support to young people, disadvantaged either through circumstance or disability, to participate in sport and through sport to further themselves.
The picture on the right shows Lloyd joining national hero Captain Sir Tom Moore, an honorary Lord’s Taverners member, on his daily walk as part of his final preparations before embarking on what will be the final challenge of a fundraising career that has included very many other wacky activities.
Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 15
Villager Lloyd’s 3 Peaks Challenge - 4 to 12th October 2020 (continued) en Nevis - Peak 1 - Lloyd set off at first light at Ben Nevis (on Sunday 4th October) to B begin the challenge amidst testing conditions in the Scottish mountains. Over the course of the next eight days he would take on the 23-mile, 3064 metre ascents. He had a tough first day on Sunday, tackling rough terrain in a 7-hour ascent which was followed by a night on the mountain. Lloyd and his support team summited the highest peak in the British isles on Monday
as part of a gruelling 13-hour second day. He remained in good spirits at the peak, saying: "I’m just glad we’ve managed to do the first part... and it is just the first part so two more to go!" cafell Pike - Peak 2 - "My legs are pretty smashed. It took me two days to get up Ben Nevis S and normally after doing that in the diving suit it would take two weeks to recover from, and I've had a day..." These were Lloyd’s words 45 minutes in to his second climb of the week
as he attempted to make his way up Scafell Pike in the Lake District. He and his team made good progress early on but it got a bit nasty as he approached the halfway point. "There were some quite steep climbs and it was pretty slippery under foot. My legs are starting to cramp up as well." There were a few scary moments as he continued again on day two after camping half Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 16
Villager Lloyd’s 3 Peaks Challenge - 4 to 12th October 2020 (continued) way up the mountain on Wednesday night. Lloyd’s determination and resolve drove him forward to get through. He made the summit of England's highest peak at lunchtime on Thursday (8 October) to a big round of applause from all those present. An incredible effort which now left just one more peak standing in the way of completing the mammoth challenge he set himself. nowdon - The Last Leg - Peak 3 - After successfully negotiating day 1 of the Snowdon S trek in good conditions it was a very different story for the last four hours of the 10 day
long climb on the morning of Monday 12 October. Very heavy cloud, strong winds and rain from all directions greeted Lloyd and his support team as they set off on the final leg of his gruelling trek of the three highest peaks in the UK. But after negotiating the elements, plenty of steep climbs and tricky terrain Lloyd reached the summit of his final challenge at midday. A remarkable effort by him and his team. "It was just a relief really", said Lloyd after taking the helmet off and speaking for the first time as a just recently retired deep sea diving trekker. "I wondered what I'd be thinking once I actually got to the top but the conditions were so appalling it just became a focus for me & everybody here getting up there and now getting back down safely. A huge thank you to everyone who helped get me up here and all those who have donated so far. The finish meant so much to me as my children and partner Lucinda were with me". A fantastic effort Lloyd & remarkable that you were able to achieve such a feat in these uncertain times.
You can still make a donation to Lloyd’s charity by going to give.as//lloydscott - Not only has he raised valuable money for the Lords Taverners (over £160,000 by late November), we should all be grateful to such a giving person who has raised a lot of funds and awareness for many good causes over the years. Lord’s Taverners website also has links to videos of Lloyd’s epic 3 Peaks Challenge.
What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” Nelson Mandela Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 17
Villager Lloyd’s 3 Peaks Challenge - 4 to 12th October 2020 (continued) Lloyd’s unusual and perhaps crazy charitable stunts over the years have included
Abseiling down Blackpool Tower London Marathon in deep sea diving suit 50 Day Penny Farthing ride across Australia John O'Groats to Land's End swim on the back of a lorry Expeditions to both North & South Poles New York Marathon in a Diving Suit 135 mile Death Valley Ultra Marathon Underwater marathon in Loch Ness London Marathon as George & the Dragon London Marathon as Indiana Jones pulling a boulder London Marathon in a yellow submarine London Marathon as Iron Giant - on stilts as 9ft robot London Triathlon in diving suit, penny farthing & armour Lands End to John O’Groats walk with lifesize T Rex Maldon Mud Race in Essex wearing a diving suit Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 18 School Christmas Card Competition
Every year the Parish Council together with Theydon NewsDesk challenge the children from the Primary School to produce a Christmas Card for our village. The judges pick a winner from each class, and an overall winner (which becomes the Parish Council’s official Christmas Card).
Piercing Winner GRACE WHITBREAD Pakes - Infants & Overall Winner Parish Council Christmas CARD 2020 EDEN CANNON
Buxton & Juniors Winner ALFIE CANNON Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 19 School Christmas Card Competition (continued)
Baldocks Winner DAISY JUDD
Blackacre Winner Harewood Winner JOSEPH FACCINI & Artistic Merit Award (Juniors) TESSA GLENDINNING Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 20
School Christmas Card Competition (continued)
Woburn Winner JASMINE DIX
Coppice Winner Forest Winner HOLLY ROCHESTER SOPHIE SOLOMAN
Th Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 21
School Christmas Card Competition (continued)
Reception Winner OLIVIA BENSON
Pakes Artistic Merit Award (Infants) Purlieu Winner RONNIE YOUNG AUSTIN WILLMOTT
he Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 22 Days Out From Theydon - Visit to Anglesey Abbey
Anglesey Abbey is a Jacobean House built on the site of a priory which was largely demolished after the dissolution of the monasteries in 1536.
The last private owner of the House, Lord Fairhaven bought the property in 1926 and extended it as well as buying and restoring Lode Mill on the boundary of his property. The Mill had been built in the 18th century but had been converted to grind cement rather than corn in 1900. When Lord Fairhaven died in 1966, Anglesey Abbey was left to the National Trust. He wanted the house preserved with its furnishings and contents – including his collection of furniture, paintings and sculptures, clocks, tapestries, and books as a (albeit grand) family home. This year the House and Mill have not been open but the house is very much a home - relatively small and personal with some outstanding art and furnishings including furniture by Chippendale, and paintings by Munnings, Constable, Landseer Lorrain and Gainsborough, amongst others. It is well worth a visit when restrictions allow! The working Mill is really interesting and now grinds flour which you can purchase. Lord Fairhaven converted the grounds of Anglesey Abbey – 93 acres which had been largely Lode Mill in the background meadow and grazing land - when he bought the property, into an 18th century style park with avenues of trees, flower gardens, statuary and ornaments. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 23
Days Out From Theydon - Visit to Anglesey Abbey (continued)
He was responsible for replanting the rose garden and creating the dahlia garden, and the herbaceous garden. An avenue of trees commemorates the coronation of King George VI and the Temple Lawn was created in 1953 to mark the coronation of our present Queen. The National Trust has continued to develop the grounds - a Winter Garden was opened in 1998 in Lord Fairhaven's memory and there is always something interesting to see from snowdrops in early spring through summer herbaceous borders and roses to wild cyclamen and autumn leaves. Throughout the year there are lawns and parkland, extensive woodland with walking trails, diverse statuary and follies, riverside scenery and a wildlife area. Anglesey Abbey is the sort of place that you can revisit many times. It takes just under an hour to travel from Theydon to Anglesey Abbey which is just 6 miles from Cambridge. We visited in September when the Café, Gift-shop and Plant centre were open and in November when despite Lockdown 2 restrictions we found that this National Trust property still provided an excellent day out with acres of formal and informal gardens, beautiful vistas, opportunities for youngsters to play and discover wildlife and kiosks selling hot drinks and snacks. The paths and facilities are fully accessible – ideal for prams, pushchairs and mobility scooters. During the restrictions you need to book timed tickets online and check what facilities are open. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 24 Theydon Bois Primary School Lock Down! Won’t keep us down at Theydon Bois Primary School! Over the past term we have been as busy as ever! If it was not for the masks, one-way system around the school, staggered lunch and play times and designated drop-off and pick-up times you would not even think we are and have been in lockdown! Call it a positive outlook, glass half-full, sense of urgency to get on with life and experience the beauty of living even though we have been bombarded with a very real pandemic! Look at our photo album of activities the past term! Cross Country and Sports Hall Athletics - After a long lock down and summer holidays, the children were eager to get back into the swing of things. That included sport and physical exercise. We had Marcus Cattell and
Julie Watkins from the West Essex School Sport Partnership to facilitate a Sport Hall Athletics Championship for Year 1 to 6 and an Intra-Cross Country competition for all our children!
Log Cabin - With the financial support of our generous parents (PTA) and a bit of skill and muscle power from Mr Bristow, Mr Rall and two of our dads – Matt Dawkes and Elliott Herbert, we built a log cabin for small group work! What a great space!
Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 25
Theydon Bois Primary School (continued) Bus Library - After a year of planning and hard work, disruption by lockdown and commitment by staff and parents we are almost there. Only a few more tweaks and bits to finish off to ensure our Bus Library is fully operational!
Flight of the Pigeons - Year 6 children attaching a message (like in World War I ) to pigeon’s foot before releasing… Can it find its way back to school?
Stone Age Day - Our Year 3 and 4 children had a blast from the past when Prehistoric Experiences visited them in October. It was a fantastic experience for all children and staff. One thing is certain – life in the Stone Age was a huge challenge!
Virtual Tour The children and staff at Theydon Bois Primary School have produced a virtual tour of our school for prospective and existing parents as face-to-face tours are not possible at the moment. If you would like to ‘join’ the tour, visit our website and click on the link. If you are a prospective parent, please ensure you apply for a school place by 15th January 2021. ANDRE RALL - HEADTEACHER Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 26 Theydon Bois & District Rural Preservation Society Since it was founded in 1943, during the Second World War, the Society has spent the ensuing 77 years trying to maintain the rural ambience of the village and its surroundings and protecting our Green Belt. The Government recently put forward draft proposals in a White Paper (https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/planning-for-the-future) to alter the present Planning System. Although there are a few acceptable changes we do have serious concerns about many of the proposed changes in this White Paper. It would allow far less local input about what, where and how things were built. In effect this would be an attack on Local Democracy and would remove much of the ability of District Councils, Parish Councils, Local Interest Groups, such as ourselves and even Neighbours to comment on individual Planning Applications once an overall Planning Strategy has been decided on putting greater power into the hands of the developers. As it stands it will also tend to encourage more development in the South East rather than in the North of the country where the need is greater and generally there is more space for housing. Already we have seen our Green Belt under attack because of the proposed, but not usually justified, demand to use this space for new housing. We have responded to a consultation on this White Paper with a nearly 4,000 word submission outlining our objections. The results of the consultation are yet to be published but fortunately we are not the only ones who strongly objected and there are signs that politicians are having second thoughts and we hope this will result in changes and eventually cause local opinion to be retained. As things are at the moment although the Society has not been able to hold face to face meetings or any of our usual events we have continued to monitor the weekly planning proposals for Theydon Bois. It seems that the lockdown has resulted in allowing more time for house owners to consider extending their homes. The number of applications in comparison to last year has still continued to grow. Since our last report in the September issue of Village News we have objected to a further six applications, including one in our Green Belt that keeps returning in a slightly different, but still inappropriate form. As usual we have continued to put up a list of applications on our noticeboard beside the estate agents so that villagers can make their own response if they wish. We have also continued to make our comments on applications available to the Parish Council prior to their own Planning Meetings that continue to take place via Zoom. The Society has always laid a wreath at the village War Memorial on Remembrance Sunday. Usually our Chairman, Peter Newton performs this on our behalf. This year despite the current difficulties a more limited ceremony took place in St. Mary’s Churchyard where we were represented this time by our Vice Chairman, Martin Boyle in this special year of remembrance. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 27 Theydon Bois Village Association Since the last issue of Village News we have, of course, suffered varying levels of lockdown and currently the Hall is only providing accommodation for the Montessori School and the NHS. Unfortunately in mid-September, our hall received unwelcome attention from several children who gained unauthorised access to the building, forced entry to the kitchen, stole items, borrowed equipment, climbed over walls and locked gates, climbed onto the main roof, and interfered with the CCTV cameras. When this was discovered, our greatest concern was for the safety of the children running about on the roof endangering their lives. As the children were seen sharing drinks and in close proximity to each other, we were also concerned about the health risk to them, not to mention to those subsequently using the hall, from the spread of Covid 19.
The hall is comprehensively covered with CCTV from which we are able to retain footage. We have tried very hard to be equitable with our response to ‘kids being kids’, but when we see children endangering themselves in this way, we have a duty to report matters to the police. It is not our wish to see any child coming before the police but in the interests of the children’s own safety, we must use our resources to protect the hall and local children from danger. We sincerely hope that we will have the support of village parents going forward to ensure that their children do not abuse Theydon’s ‘Jewel in the Crown’ which is our Village Hall. The Police have asked us to ensure that anyone witnessing dubious behaviour at the hall in future should not hesitate to call them on 999. We are glad to say there have been no further such incidents and we look forward to the New Year hopefully welcoming all our regular member groups.
MARTIN OLIVER - CHAIRMAN Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 28 View from the Vicarage Almost without exception, 2020 has been a challenging year, and for many a year full of losses. Whether that be the loss of a job, an event much looked forward to, or of a person, each loss has brought sadness across communities. In St Mary’s we have been trying to be alongside people in this strange and unprecedented season. Thanks to the generosity of many people in the community, a box of goods have been taken to the local foodbank every week since the pandemic significantly impacted the parish in March. Worship services have continued, both recorded and live using Zoom, and in person in church when that is possible. (A full archive of online worship can be found at www.theydonparishes.org/recorded-services). This summer, we were still able to celebrate a wedding in St Mary’s and have conducted baptisms as well as ministry at the end of life. St Mary’s has stood through the generations as a symbol that through faith in Jesus Christ there is still a glimmer of hope for a better tomorrow.
Due to the continually changing situation, the service pattern for Christmas itself will not be confirmed until mid-December. We are hoping to be able to host a traditional carol service on Sunday 20th December, “First Communion of Christmas” on Christmas Eve at 11.30p.m. and Family Communion on Christmas Day at 10.30a.m., all subject to the restrictions in place at the time. One of the moments which defines Christmas for so many is the Christingle services on Christmas Eve afternoon. Of all the services, this is going to be the most challenging and it is likely that it will take place virtually this year. Information will be posted at www.theydonparishes.org and on Facebook at The Theydon Parishes. St Mary’s is sending a weekly update email, please email [email protected] to be added to the distribution list. All of those involved in the planning of Christmas services, both locally and further afield find themselves facing with everyone the continued uncertainty of these days, and creative ideas that in a normal year would never make it off the drawing board are being discussed. The uncertainty gives a new perspective on the Christmas story, and the season of preparation in Advent. The changes to “normal life” which our nation has experienced would have been unimaginable a year ago. The events of the first Christmas for those involved were similarly disrupting, and I expect Mary and Joseph were unprepared a year ahead for what would come to pass that first Christmas day. She and Joseph were engaged to be married, they no doubt had their plans for what their lives would look like, until the angel Gabriel turned up and sent all their plans out the window. To Mary the message from God came by an angelic visitor, “Greetings, favoured one”, they said to her “The Lord is with you” (Luke 1.28). Their words continued “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And now you will conceive in your womb and bear a son and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High” – surely a message which would have confused a young woman just setting out on her journey through life. Joseph had committed to being with Mary and clearly found it hard to contemplate her having a baby if he was not the father. When the angel appeared the words spoken were again “do not be afraid” (Matthew 1.20). Throughout the Bible, God is calling people not to be afraid and to trust, this is a message I believe is as important as ever. When Jesus had grown, on one occasion, he found himself in a boat in the storm. On calming the waves, he asked them “Why are you so afraid? Have you no faith?” If even those who had Jesus with them asked questions I think it is more than ok for us to do the same now. Returning
Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 29 View from the Vicarage (continued) to Mary and Joseph, just as they were getting used to the idea that they would have a baby, the emperor ordered a census so they had to set off away from home on the long journey to Bethlehem. Not what they had planned at all.
Or what about the shepherds, sat happily in their fields just doing their job until the angels appeared and sent them running into the village to find the new-born Jesus? And then there were the wise men, sent on a perilous journey to a far off land because of the appearance of a new star in the sky. None of these people could have predicted or planned what would happen to them, but when the disruption came they went with it and in doing so they met God face to face.
In the Theydon Parishes in common with so many others, we approach Christmas with our own sets of expectations and hopes, rituals and traditions, and after all we’ve been through this year it may feel heart breaking that the celebrations will in parts be different from the ways in which Christmas has been marked in the past. But, the angel said “Do not be afraid”, and Jesus Himself said to the disciples near the end of his life on earth “in me you have peace” (John 16.33). Perhaps this strange and disrupted Christmas, gives us an opportunity to learn anew from Mary and Joseph, the wise men, the shepherds, and the saints gone before, to allow the strange turn our lives have taken to lead us closer to the God who is very much God of the unexpected. REVD. JOHN FRY VICAR OF THE THEYDON PARISHES
CHRISTINGLE SERVICES IN ST MARY’S
A very popular event which really begins our Christmas celebrations in Theydon has been St Mary’s traditional Christingle Service on Christmas Eve, just as the darkness descends. The excitement and wonder of light overcoming darkness symbolises the Christian message and reminds us that “Christmas begins with Christ”. “Christingles are oranges, representing the world, decorated with red ribbon, symbolising the love and blood of Christ, raisins representing all of God’s creation, and a lit candle representing Jesus’ light in the world, bringing hope to people in darkness. The money raised is donated to the Children’s Society, a national charity founded 140 years ago working to transform the hopes and happiness of young people facing abuse, exploitation and neglect.
This year it will be necessary to reserve a space to attend. Services are planned for 2pm, 3.30pm and 5pm in St Mary’s (subject to any changes as a result of Church of England guidance, for the most up to date information please visit www.theydonparishes.org and check the weekly notice sheet). To book, please email [email protected] or call 01992814725 after 9am on Tuesday 14th December. If you and your family are unable to join in a celebration in church this year, why not donate online to childrenssociety.org.uk? On the website you can also find information on how to join in the first ever National Christingle Service on Sunday 13th December at 9am.You will also find information on how to make your own Christingle and how to download the Order of Service. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 30 St. Mary’s - From the Parish Registers
Citizens Advice - Epping Forest District - Benefits: the Basics
Has the coronavirus crisis meant you have lost your job, or are earning less? You may well be unsure whether and how the benefits system can support you and your family. At Citizens Advice we are finding more and more people contacting us with this kind of issue. Many have never had to turn to the benefit system before. This is an outline of what you might be able to claim, if you or your partner are under pension age. If you have lost your job and were paying National Insurance you will probably be entitled to New-Style Jobseeker’s Allowance. This is a time-limited benefit, intended to tide you over until you can get back into work. It is not means-tested so it doesn’t matter if you have savings or other forms of capital, or if you have a partner who is earning. But if you are not entitled to this benefit, or it is not enough for you and your family to live on, or you still have a job but are earning a lot less, you will probably need to claim Universal Credit. That is means-tested, so if you have over £16000 in savings you won’t get it, and if you have between £6000 and £16000 the amount you get is reduced. How much will you get in Universal Credit? The calculations depend on various factors. You are entitled to extra amounts if you have children, childcare costs, or caring responsibilities. It will pay towards your rent. There are caps to the amount you can get overall, and in housing cost and childcare payments. The Department for Work and Pensions administers these benefits. You may also be able to get a reduction in your council tax. For that you apply to Epping Forest District Council. Benefits can be complicated but you can check your situation online at our national website www.citizensadvice.org.uk. Or you can ask us to do a benefit check for you. And we can advise and assist you if you are not happy with the advice you have had from the Department of Work and Pensions or the Council, or with their decisions. We have a telephone service available from 9.30 to 2.30, Tuesday to Thursday, but we can arrange phone appointments at other times. If we are busy you will be connected to a backup service elsewhere in the country. If they cannot deal with your issue they will arrange for one of our advisers to phone you.
The number is 0300 330 2107. It costs no more than a local call. If you just want help with claiming Universal Credit phone 0800 144 8444. These calls are free. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 31 St. Mary’s Notices
. CHURCH SERVICES IN ST MARY’S Assuming the lifting of restrictions into the New Year, Sunday services take place every week at 8am and 10.30am in the church building. There is provision for children and young people during the 10.30 service. On Sunday evenings at 6pm and on Wednesday mornings at 10am there is service online (or in church on the first week of the month.
WEDDINGS IN ST MARY’S St Mary’s and all the churches of the Theydon Parishes are taking bookings for marriages. It is straightforward for anyone resident in the Village (or who has lived in the Village for at least 6 months in the past) to arrange a wedding in St Mary’s. If you are thinking of getting married in 2021, please contact us by email or telephone ([email protected] or 01992 814725) as soon as you can. There is limited availability for a summer Saturday next year.
Loughton Astronomical Society - What to see in the Night Sky During the lockdown, members of the LAS have been meeting weekly on Zoom and we have been honoured to have some noted speakers sharing their knowledge on a range of topics. Some of our members have been busy taking some excellent images of comets, planets and deep space objects visible over the summer. With the nights getting colder, if you do get a clear sky, here are some things to look out for. The planets: Mars will remain high in the South, visible until the early hours. Look out for Jupiter and Saturn low in the Southwest, culminating in the two planets being incredibly close on 21st December. Mercury and Venus are morning objects rising before the Sun. Look out for Comet Erasmus near Venus. Visible in binoculars it has a very long tail. The Loughton Astronomical Society meets 8pm every Thursday, currently on Zoom. We welcome visitors and new members. AstroKyds, our junior section for 6-14 years old, is also meeting on Zoom on the 2nd Friday each month. For details see our website www.las-astro.org.uk BRIAN MORTON – SECRETARY Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 32 Flora & Fauna of Forest Banner Unveiled to Celebrate 50 Years
Margaret Heyes Sheila Turnbull
Frances Davies Rosemary Dickinson Jenny Flanders-Orr Janet Yeomans June Windrow Barbara Lane
Almost by accident two years ago a group of needlework enthusiasts came together to produce a banner to mark the 50th anniversary of The Arts Society West Essex. After several hundreds of hours of dedicated and painstaking work the 18 panel project was trialled in March ready to hang in Theydon Bois Village Hall for the grand unveiling at the April meeting….a meeting which never happened due to the lockdown in response to Covid-19. The unveiling had to wait until September when some 50 members gathered in the hall with another 100-plus participating online. “And now it’s Elaine Garrard back under my bed”, says former Theydon Bois resident Sheila Turnbull, now living in Epping, who led the team of 12 over the two year stint. Explaining how the project started by accident, Sheila recalls offering to respond to an Arts Society HQ request for panels to be contributed for a national exercise.
Having gathered a group of volunteers together the offer was rejected and so the idea born to produce a banner to celebrate the West Essex 50th anniversary. “It has been quite an exercise,” says Sheila. “Just putting the 18 panels together took place over three weeks. But it has also been very rewarding in terms of bringing a group together and forging new friendships”. Members of the group are pictured above (not pictured - Loes King).
In November some 80 members and visitors from other Essex Societies held a study day on Zoom organised by Diana Meteyard on Russian artists, composers and authors. The November lecture featured Napoleon and his artists and the December lecture featured the history of Inn Signs – sadly without the usual jolly Christmas Lunch to follow.
The Society is responding to an appeal to make Book Trousers - protection for rare and precious books - in response to an appeal from the Parliamentary Archives.
Inquiries to [email protected] 02085023998 or email member secretary Audrey Carson at [email protected]. Info: www.theartssocietywestessex.org Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 33 Theydon Villager nominates St Clare Hospice for an award West Essex and East Hertfordshire charity, St Clare Hospice, was awarded £25,000 funding after winning one of the Lloyd’s Market Charity Awards 2020.The award came after a successful nomination by Theydon Bois Villager, Alan Higgins whose wife Heather was cared for by St Clare Hospice until her death in September 2019.
Heather Higgins was diagnosed with aggressive, incurable cancer in January 2019 and was supported by the charity’s community nursing team, Hospice at Home team, and Inpatient Unit. Alan said: “It was so unexpected and a shocking scenario to find ourselves in – that my wife, and my best friend of 30 years who I shared everything with, had been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Heather was only in her 50s and we thought we had many more years together to look forward to. We had plans for our retirement.”
“The support we received from St Clare Hospice, at one of the most difficult times in our lives, was transformative. I hadn’t had any involvement with hospices before and thought, along with a lot of other people, that they were a place where you go to die with specialist care. I had no idea how much a hospice could do, or the breadth of support they provide.”
Alan, who works for Hampden Agencies Limited, an adviser to private capital in the Lloyd’s of London market, nominated St Clare Hospice for one of 30 awards of up to £25,000 in the Lloyd’s Market Charity Awards 2020. St Clare Hospice’s Director of Income Generation, Rosie Knowles, commented on the award win:
“We are delighted to have been awarded one of the Lloyd’s Market Charity Awards and are so grateful to the Lloyd’s Charities Trust, and of course to Alan for his nomination. £25,000 is a huge amount for a small charity like St Clare Hospice, and is enough to fund our vital Hospice at Home service for nearly two weeks. This incredible team of nurses and healthcare assistants provide vital personal care to people at the end of their lives, in their own homes, just like Heather and Alan received. The team support between 150 and 200 people at any one time, and the care makes such a difference to families in need.”
St Clare Hospice is a charity providing specialist palliative care for people living with terminal or life- limiting illnesses across West Essex and East Herts border. We care for patients and their families, providing physical, emotional, social, psychological and spiritual support, and ensuring they have timely access to skilled, compassionate and sensitive care in a place of their choice. Our services are free of charge to those who need our care, but cost around £5 million a year to run. With limited NHS funding we need to fundraise the majority of this each year through donations and other voluntary sources. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 34 Copped Hall Corner ROGRESS AT THE MANSION
P Throughout the summer, work has continued with the restoration and improvement of the Mansion. In the Wing, the steel frame for the Lightwell glazed roof has been installed. The second window for the Entrance Hall is on site and waiting to be fitted. The intention is to upgrade the Entrance so that it can once again provide a welcoming space.
On the south facade of the Mansion, a second floor window has now been installed with two further windows now available. Work has also begun to restore the badly damaged chimney breast in John Conyers’ bedroom.
ROGRESS IN THE GARDENS
P The basic structure of the Loggia is now complete. Display boards are gradually being installed on the back wall of the Loggia to illustrate the building before it was dismantled in 1950s. The displays will also include pictures of the adjacent Glazed Corridor and the Wintergarden.
As the result of donations received and a grant of £2,000, a considerable amount of stone work has been reinstated and relaid along the southern and western facades of the Wintergarden. The dedicated volunteer team now works two days a week on the Wintergarden and the Glazed Corridor and their work has transformed the appearance and structural stability of these areas. The plan is to complete further work that will enable the public to enter safely. To assist with this, the Trust has received a grant of £10,000 for which it is extremely grateful.
In the Walled Kitchen Garden, the second phase of the Orchard House has been completed with the exception of two glazed doors. The finance for this building mainly came from a legacy from the late Neville Redman. On the terraces, immediately west of the Mansion, numerous volunteers are making a considerable difference to the reinstatement of the flower beds. Throughout the gardens, as a whole, the ever-enthusiastic mowing team are keeping the lawns in good order.
AST & FORTHCOMING EVENTS - (Subject to possible change/cancellation)
P Since the beginning of the Corona Virus Covid 19 Lockdown on 9 March 2020, work at Copped Hall has been reduced to essential maintenance and gardening only. Since then, there has been a partial easing of the Lockdown therefore a major revision of planned events with attendees limited to holders of pre-booked tickets in certain instances. See the website at www.coppedhalltrust.org.uk for a possible list of events.
ITE AND GARDEN TOURS 2021 - (Subject to possible change/cancellation)
S Conducted tours of the Mansion and Grounds are held on the third Sunday of each month (Jan to Nov). Tours from 10.15 for two hours approx (gates open 10.00 to 11.00 (extended to 13.00 for July only). Gates are attended until fifteen minutes after commencement of the advertised event time.
TICKETS When required, these are available from ticketsource.co.uk - copped hall events For further information/tickets see www.coppedhalltrust.org.uk
Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 35 Theydon Bois Action Group ocal Planning Matters - Theydon Bois Action Group (TBAG) has continued to make L successful objections to what it considers to be inappropriate development in the Green Belt around our village. TBAG had objected to a planning application to build two large, detached, 5 bedroomed houses in the extensive grounds of Bowlands Meadow, Theydon Road, which the developer described as ‘limited infilling in a village’. Planning permission was refused by EFDC and the developer subsequently appealed to the Planning Inspector. TBAG submitted further objections to the Inspector, who dismissed the appeal. We also raised objections to various applications relating to two properties at Theydon Hall Cottages, Abridge Road, near the M11 motorway bridge. These were in connection with: i) the unlawful placement of a mobile home relating to one of the cottages and the proposed extension of the residential curtilage to include an agricultural field which lies behind all 4 cottages and: ii) the proposed, excessive, extension of another dwelling. These applications were all refused permission by EFDC. he Emerging Local Plan and Question over Housing Numbers - In July, TBAG alerted T the village, through our Website Updates and Mailshots, that the Inspector dealing with our new Local Plan had contacted EFDC, pointing out that the Government’s latest (2018-based) figures for Household Projections in Epping Forest District had shown a dramatic decline (by more than a half) in the number of new households required in the Local Plan. EFDC had based their original assessments on the Government’s earlier data for 2014, this being the latest available data at that time. The Inspector then asked whether the projected reduction in household growth (also shown in 2016) justifies building on so much of our Green Belt. Our District Councillor, Sue Jones, asked a question on this matter at a Full Council Meeting on the 30th July, when a prepared statement from EFDC was read out. However, the statement made reference to “Nothing will stop us getting the plan through” and “getting the local plan over the line” and, almost begrudgingly, if necessary “to remove the most environmentally sensitive sites”—presumably relating to the impact of excessive development on the environmental integrity of Epping Forest, of which the Inspector had already expressed her concerns. There is a view, locally, that EFDC just want to get the local plan over with, as more delays mean more time, work and expense. But TBAG take the view that it should be the right number of homes, in the right places. EFDC put the Inspector’s question to their commissioned consultants, who, unsurprisingly, backed EFDC against the Inspector’s question, and argued that the number of homes should actually be increased from 11,400 to 11,920! The Inspector subsequently invited a wider consultation on EFDC’s response supported by their consultant’s 27 page report. TBAG responded with an evidence based critique, stating that the consultants had ignored the impact of Brexit and Covid 19 on migration and economic growth and had chosen to use a 10 year average method which would dilute the currently low household projection figures, by combining them with previously higher figures which peaked in 2013/14, with migration into our district at +1,500, compared to only +550 during 2017/18. TBAG also responded to two Government consultations on Planning, including its White Paper on ‘Planning for the Future’. This White Paper caused great debate in Parliament by dissenting Tory MP’s due to impact on their Green Belts and countryside, including the Cotswolds, whilst ignoring ‘Growth’ in the Midlands and the North and the Government’s proclaimed ‘Levelling Up’ policy. TBAG extends season's greetings to all villagers and wishes you all a safe and healthy New Year.
Theydon Bois Action Group www.theydonbois-actiongroup.co.uk Protecting the Village of Theydon Bois - Follow @TBActionGroup on Twitter Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 36 Tippy’s Topics - Theydon Bois Facebook Groups Hello to all villagers old and new! Welcome to" Tippys Topics "- our usual round up of news and views from our Theydon Bois Villagers only and All Things Theydon Bois Facebook pages, our online forum for discussion, debates and information. In writing it almost feels as though very little time has passed since our last issue, probably due to the restrictions in place and the outward appearance of very little going on, the usual hustle and bustle of village life not necessarily as evident as usual. In our last issue I tried to give thanks to many of our individuals and businesses who had done so much for so many during the first lockdown. As I had explained, I couldn't possibly name everyone as there wouldn't have been enough space in the whole issue - however, I have been approached in the Post Office by several villagers telling me how our Bagel shop staff went to so much trouble to remain open, to donate items to the NHS, to be a place where people could see a friendly face and so much more - huge thanks to them for going that extra mile! and making great bagels! You are truly appreciated. In continuation of this I also had villagers singing the praises of our Theydon Bois Bakery - who had also gone that extra mile - prior to lockdown- many thanks to both of these much loved businesses for their generosity and kindness. So at the time of writing we are nearing the end of the second lock-down thankfully. Many of our shops and our pubs have been forced to close - this has certainly been hard for them financially. Lots of residents have proclaimed their support when lockdown finishes, aiming to buy local as often as possible. During this lockdown- Sally from The Bull offered hugely discounted beer to take away which was appreciated by many. The staff at the Queen Victoria have been working really hard providing take away roast dinners which, judging by the comments and photos shared have been hugely popular. A large number of villagers have been unable to work and have started businesses from home, they have advertised on the sites and are hopefully proving popular - we have increased the advertising slots to accommodate this and support local businesses- we have seen Aimee from the pop -up vintage coffee van, relocate to the Queen Vic car park, this has been really successful- I can personally recommend the hot chocolate with marshmallows and cream! We also now have Christmas Trees and wreaths for sale in the Vic car park, from Keely of Mediterranean plants in Abridge Road, who have also kindly donated a tree to Frank Fosters House. Hopefully this venture will be successful and supported. Halloween was distinctly different this year, the playground committee put together some maps for children to follow and there was a prize offered for best decorated home - well done for this. Some village parents were at a loss of what to do regarding trick or treating- so the maps idea appeared welcome. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 37
Tippy’s Topics - Theydon Bois Facebook Groups (continued) Our super-hero villager Lloyd Scott raised many thousands, yet again, by conquering the Three Peak Challenge in a deep sea diving suit. Well done Lloyd. Please see main feature in this edition of Village News. Sadly it was reported that a pet was hospitalised after ingesting something amongst the litter in the fields by Dukes Avenue and Forest Drive- a villager was concerned enough to post about the incident and subsequently a couple of others said their own pets had suffered similar incidents. It was assumed by the behaviour of the pets that some kind of toxin/drug had poisoned them and led to (what was described as) "madness" and becoming "out of control". News from the Post Office - we have had a couple of visits from people who have received messages "apparently" from Royal Mail - informing them they have parcels waiting for them and included in the message is a link, which, when clicked on promised free IPhones. These particular messages were scams. We are happy to go through any issues relating to this with any villagers who are concerned. A great story to tell occurred when a villager, who volunteers for a homeless charity informed me that they were desperate for toiletries and clothing. I put a couple of posts on the sites and was thereafter absolutely inundated with donations, these were given to the charity yet still more donations came. We managed to take these to the destination over a period of two days. Both our lovely villager Dale Burnett and I would love to thankyou so very much for your overwhelming generosity. We even had a couple of villagers offer to volunteer their time to help the charity. Truly wonderful. On the animal front a post was put up with instructions on how to encourage and help hedgehogs by drilling small holes in areas to support their movement. We have had some wonderful photographs shared, most recently this beautiful one by Marissa Bloom who has kindly allowed me to share it. We have also seen some inspiring artwork, drawings, paintings and wonderful positive quotes placed on trees by two young villagers, placed strategically so as to be observed whilst walking. These little "nuggets of joy" have been applauded and appreciated by so many of us - well done girls. Most recently we have had a few disagreements about the grass verges, some arguing that they get churned up by vehicles, get muddy and become dangerous for pedestrians, some others have said they enjoy their appearance. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 38 Theydon Bois Baptist Church oo often we miss the point of Advent, we are so busy T focusing on the big day, organising who to invite on Christmas day, presents to buy, decorations to put up. It reminds me of the story of a young man who called his mother and excitedly announced that he had just met the woman of his dreams. His mother said, “Why don’t you send her flowers and invite her to your apartment for a home-cooked meal?” The day after the big date, his mother called to see how things had gone. “Mom, the evening was a complete disaster,” he replied. “It was horrible!” “Why, didn’t she come over?” his mother asked. “Yes, she came over. But she refused to cook!” Just as the young man missed the point of his mother’s advice, so too we can miss the point of Christmas. Perhaps as we find our opportunities for celebration a little limited this year we can spare a thought for the true meaning of Christmas as it has a habit of getting a little lost amid the twinkling light pollution of the season, the message of Christmas gets buried deep in Christmas tinsel. Some people have suggested that Christmas may have to be cancelled this year because there is no Christmas Market, the usual turning on of the village Christmas tree lights without the fanfare, firework displays have been cancelled, the pubs may face restrictions, or not open at all, and there will be smaller family gatherings. So a shroud of winter misery is about to envelop us. Even Santa is under strict restrictions, he has to wash his hands for each visit and wear a face mask. Christmas, some say, is being cancelled, or as Ebenezer Scrooge would say Christmas is bah humbug this year. But I don’t agree, and I keep coming back to what the bible says about Christmas: ‘The people who have walked in darkness will see a great light.’ You see, Covid-19 may restrict the amount of alcohol we can consume this Christmas, it may curtail our family get-togethers, we may struggle to get our presents purchased on time. Covid may even curtail Santa’s activities, but you know what, when you strip out all these Christmassy things, you realise that there is one thing that Covid can never, ever extinguish…, chocolate, mouth watering lovely chocolate. O, and, the great light that has come into the world. And shines more brightly today then it ever has, Jesus the Saviour of you and me has come into the world. hristmas Services at Theydon Bois Baptist Church. Every Sunday morning from 10 am throughout December join us for our Advent services C from the comfort of your home live on YouTube via our website www.tbbc.org.uk or from our YouTube channel; just search for ‘Theydon Bois Baptist Church’ Why not join us for some festive fun for the whole family with our online live Christmas Quiz on Saturday 12 December at 6.30 pm via Zoom. Email [email protected] for the link. Christmas Eve Carol Service only available on YouTube from 6.30 pm. Join us in celebration as we sing some of your favourite carols. Christmas Day Service live on YouTube via our website. You are also very welcome to join us at the church from 10 am. If you plan to come in person, please book in advance via our booking form on our website at www.tbbc.org.uk as spaces will be limited. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 39 Focus on You - Steve & Harry Drew The Drew name will be familiar to many as many of the family have lived in the village for 23 years. Mum Maureen is a regular helper at the village Donkey Derby. She also helps out at St Mary’s Hall and Theydon Youth Club by serving refreshments for her son’s dog training business – Homeward Hounds. Maureen is allegedly very handy too when it comes to using her needlework skills through attending local classes. For this issue we are focusing on Steve Drew. A Firefighter for 32 years, Steve joined the Bermondsey Fire Station in January 1988. He said: “I was trained as a Firefighter at the age of 18 and did my training within a squad of twelve. Eight of those were British servicemen from the Falklands War.” Married to Karen and with 4 children who all went to St John Fisher School, then onto Davenant Foundation School in their later years. The eldest, Rosie, is now working in Sydney, Australia and Harry, an Economics Graduate is now working alongside Steve in the new family business (more to follow later). Harry said: “When I came back from Australia I thought I would be applying for jobs in the City. However, due to Covid I wasn’t sure how successful I would be in securing a new role so I came up with another idea which meant that my dad and I could work together and form a business.” Harry continued: “This idea meant taking my dad out of retirement (and his comfort zone!) after leaving the fire service! So far we have no regrets!” During the last years of working in the fire service, Steve was offered some additional work at Dean Wilson Independent Family Funeral Directors in Eltham. This was the ideal opportunity to consider a new career move for both himself and his son Harry. The experience they gained during this time meant that they were well equipped to consider their next career path. “The first wave of Coronavirus meant that we were incredibly busy.” Steve explained: “I have to say that through the skills I acquired during my career as a Firefighter, and more recently at Dean Wilson’s Funeral Directors, these qualities have held me in good stead for this new initiative.” In September 2020, Steve and Harry set up Drew & Son Funeral Directors. At the time there were no available premises in Theydon Bois so they decided to ‘undertake’ a lease in Abridge. Situated in the heart of the village means they are ideally placed to serve families and loved ones predominantly throughout West and South Essex – but also much further afield if required. Steve said “No place is too far. We are totally dedicated to the funeral services we provide. We have our own Chapel of Rest, we offer 24/7 on call services and we facilitate and care for loved ones up until the day of the funeral – whether that be a cremation or burial.” He continued: “We also offer highly competitive rates for Pre-Paid Funerals which have become very popular in recent years.” With even more information to impart, Steve said: “Our two trained Funeral Celebrants – Sue Sowerby and Richard Woolnough are both available and committed to supporting families and friends throughout the whole funeral service where they meet, discuss and offer the most appropriate and befitting Celebration of Life service.” Once again the Drew name comes into the equation recently because mum Maureen was responsible for lovingly fixing up the original soft furnishings within the funeral parlour. Maureen’s brother worked on all the fixtures and fittings in what is now a beautiful and welcoming setting to receive bereaved families. Maureen is currently busy making little red hearts which can go into the coffin with a personalised message. These hearts were particularly relevant during the initial pandemic when Theydon Bois villagers were creating hearts for onward despatch to Princess Alexandra Hospital’s ITU. The Drew family are great supporters of good causes and recently planned a Charity Forest Walk Fundraiser in support of Saint Francis Hospice which is in the catchment area of Abridge. Drew Funerals will also be a new sponsor in the March 2021 issue of Village News. It was a pleasure finding out more about the Drew family and their new business. To catch up on additional news and their services please visit – www.drewfunerals.co.uk
Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 40 Theydon Bois Tennis Club Tennis was one of the few sports able to operate during the latter part of the first lockdown, and the Club saw membership nearly double this year. This has meant we have been hugely busy throughout autumn, with lots of junior and adult coaching, Halloween holiday camps and social play, all following Government guidelines. We also took the opportunity to rollout a full online membership and booking system which has bedded in well.
Just before the second lockdown, Club Coach Dave Wright and his team of coaches ran a family tournament called the Quorn Cup, which had teams of adults and young children play against each other. Every team played five matches, which was a great introduction to matchplay for many of the youngsters.
There are fun days for adults and children planned for the Christmas holiday period, full details can be found on the Club’s website or Facebook pages. Like everyone, we’re hoping to be able to operate fully in the New Year, with leagues and competitions resuming as usual alongside our coaching sessions. Whatever we’re able to do, we’ll be kept active. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 41 Theydon Bois Golf Club As we go to press we are looking forward to our Club AGM which, like many things in 2020, will be a new experience, (you’ll have used something similar this year no doubt!) conducted by video conference and sadly won’t be followed immediately by the New Club Captain’s cry of ‘the drinks are on me!’ The pandemic has challenged us to have to get used to doing things differently so we’ll find another way to make sure that tradition happens before too long – it’s a free drink after all! Sadly, our 2020 Captains, John Turnbull and Nicky George have not had the Captaincy Year that they would have anticipated when they were elected Captains last December. They’ve missed out on lots of social golf and matches, opportunities to represent the club in Captains’ County Matches as well as the Annual Dinner and Dance which they would have organised and hosted right about now. Despite this, John and Nicky have not forgotten about the charities that they pledged to support during the year and despite holding scaled down Captains’ Days and the joint Captains’ Charity Day, our members excelled themselves with their generosity and support. It’s worth saying that if you ever raise money for charity you should seek the support of the charity itself – they will more than likely have a department dedicated to helping organisations like ours raise funds. We’ve just finalised our totals for this year and John has raised over £5,500 for Muscular Dystrophy UK (MDUK) and Nicky over £2,500 for Princess Alexandra NHS Breast Cancer Unit. We should also thank another charity, The Big Give, for matching John’s £5,000 which, with Gift Aid means that MDUK will receive £11,500 in total, which is fantastic news and John tells us ‘beyond his wildest expectation about what might be able to be achieved during his year. Although the pandemic has put a real dampener on the year, the fact that our members have enabled Nicky and I to raise so much for our respective charities is something hugely positive that I can take away from the experience.’ Like everyone we are desperately hoping that next year will change everyone’s fortunes. If this were based on enthusiasm alone, our 2021 Captains will see that everything will turn out okay. What’s certain is that their chosen charities, Dementia UK and St Clare Hospice at Hastingwood will benefit hugely from our generous membership. We wish our new Captains and all of our friends in the Village the best of luck for the New Year! Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 42 Theydon Bois Cricket Club The main aim of the Club has always been to look to the future and the long term evolvement of the younger element. However, clubs also rely on the older players to make the younger team members feel part of the set up. We are very fortunate at Theydon in having some long serving “over fifties” who are, not only worthy of their places in the team, but can still display to the youngsters just how good they are and have been.
In no particular order the “veterans” are Warren Hyde whose history has been well documented in past editions of the Village News. There is little more to be said about him other than the hope that he will continue to show off his all-round batting and bowling skills in future seasons. Simon Gilbert is a great contributor with a lot of younger players wishing they could display his fitness. His fielding and wicket keeping are of a high order and his batting is always reliable. Mike Hicks has shown over the last restricted season and previously just how good a batsman he is. Due to the success of the Saturday side his chances to bat had been limited but with two sides running since July 2020 he has been elevated back to his deserved higher position in the batting order and produced some terrific knocks. John Smith, although his availability is restricted, is a very good batsman and puts some of the younger players to shame in the field. Long may they continue.
The highlights of the curtailed season which, in the end, covered eleven weekends, were the Saturday first team losing just once with every player contributing. The performances leave great room for optimism when, hopefully, the league recommences in 2021. The second team won seven of their matches against, in the main, very strong opposition. Matthew Girling getting ten wickets in his first season in senior cricket is a great effort bearing in mind the limited number of matches.
Much has already been made of the opening partnerships but the best was to come late in the season with the same two protagonists. Theydon won by ten wickets against Rainham with yet another partnership in excess of a hundred inclusive of extras, with Warren Hyde contributing 26 not out and Dominic Small 65 not out including 62 in boundaries of which five were sixes.
To keep up with what is happening at the Club go to the website www.tbcc.co.uk
Just for Fun Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 43 The Lockdown Autumn in Theydon Bois The beginning of November was a total disaster for the Local History Recorder when he was confined to hospital by the Covid 19 Virus. He is now home again, has passed his period of self isolation and is endeavoring to pick up the pieces of past history in a rather sketchy fashion, but which hopefully, gives an indication of Village life in these unusual & most unique of times. Autumn almost “crashed out” when weather system Alex rushed across the country bringing 60 mph winds and heavy rain, in contrast to the almost balmy conditions of the previous days. Road users were warned to beware strong winds and, flooding and falling power lines which affected local supplies. Apart from a thorough drenching which ruined a few autumn garden displays the Village escaped with only minor flooding from Epping Forest “overflows” unlike nearby Loughton which had road closures in places. 6th October - A sad occasion for many, especially those unable to be present due to Covid restrictions was the funeral of a much loved and talented musician whose activities were very much a part of the Epping District and especially the Village. Norman Stanley Lansdown – Davis (27 Feb 1934 to 14 Sep 2020) was a man of many talents including high finance but especially music as a piano accompanist and he played for many local groups, especially the local U3A Singing for Fun songsters. 11th October - The Copped Hall Apple Day was held on a late summery afternoon which attracted many visitors and raised a substantial sum in support of the continuing restoration of the Hall and its grounds. 17h October - Modern aviation in an unusual form has been adopted in the fight against the Covid infection in East Anglia. A specially modified model drone from the NHS Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford was being used to convey patient's Covid test specimens to a laboratory for analysis elsewhere in the district 1st November - The Village had gone into partial lockdown regarding retail trading with only the “essential” businesses functioning including the Theydon Bakery. Regretfully the Bonhomie Cafe, a social lifeline in previous lockdowns had also closed on this occasion. But the grey early morning street scene was now banished by the number of illuminated Christmas Trees which had suddenly appeared at shop fronts, showing that the Village was refusing to succumb to the epidemic. 27th November - It was revealed that all of Essex will be in Tier 2 category when the Second Lockdown ends on 2nd December. People in this Tier will not be allowed to socialise indoors with other households: the Rule of six would apply to gatherings outdoors. Pubs and restaurants will only be allowed to serve alcohol as part of a main meal and must close by 11pm. TREVOR ROBERTS LOCAL HISTORY RECORDER
Ed - Trevor lodges a comprehensive Annual Village Report with the Essex Record Office, extracts are submitted monthly for for village news. To avoid repetition, especially where news and information has been submitted by the club, society or entity directly to Village News, then it has been removed from Trevor’s Column in this issue. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 44
News, Comments & Notices Autumn Term - In spite of these strange times we are living in, the children at the Village Montessori Nursery have had some return to normality and have been enjoying a number of Autumn topics since the term started in September. They have been learning about the season of Autumn, the Harvest Festival and Diwali. They enjoyed tasting different varieties of apples, they scooped out pumpkins and helped to make pumpkin soup. They coloured in Rangoli Designs and made pretty Stained Glass Windows. The children enjoyed learning why we celebrate Bonfire Night and made colourful rockets. They had great fun helping to build a little bonfire on the field, learning in the process about Fire Safety as part of the topic. The children have also been focussing on the importance of Remembrance Day and printed their
own poppy fields using potatoes, corks, wool and paint. In order to help the children make sense of Remembrance Day we took a small group of children to the War Memorial at St Mary’s Church where they could walk around the Garden of Remembrance, look at the crosses, wreaths and names of the Fallen on the plaques. The children observed a minute’s silence when the church clock struck 11 am. Some of the children revisited the Memorial with their parents after our trip.
Earlier in November the nursery held a fund-raising event for Crackerjacks, a small charity for children with disabilities. The nursery children were sponsored to wear their onesies or pyjamas to the setting and bring their favourite bedtime books with them. In total the children raised an amazing £219.50 and the charity are extremely grateful to everyone who sponsored the children. The children celebrated Thanksgiving and discussed what they are thankful for. Some children were thankful for being able to go to the park, others were thankful for having their mummy and daddy at home. There are certainly plenty more exciting celebrations to look forward to in the next few weeks, including Hanukkah and Christmas, and if all goes well the children will also have a Christmas Party to enjoy before we break up for the Christmas holidays. Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 45 News, Comments & Notices
The Epping Forest Group is a local group of the national Alpine Garden Society and is for all those with an interest in alpine and other small plants, whether in the wild or growing at home in the garden, frame or greenhouse.
In view of the current uncertainties we have decided to curtail all meetings of the group until further notice. Sadly, the national Early Spring Show to have been held at Theydon Bois Village Hall and Church Hall on Saturday 27th February 2021 has been cancelled. Further information is available from: Keith Ballard, Tel: 01992 813231, Email: [email protected]
https://www.alpinegardensociety.net/local-groups/epping-forest/
Local estate agents Butler & Stag Theydon Bois are pleased to announce they are winners of a prestigious Lettings Award for CM16, presented by The British Property Awards. The team performed outstandingly throughout the extensive judging period, which focused on customer service levels. They have also been shortlisted for other national awards to be announced in due course. Neil Leahy, Director Land & Homes, said “This is testimony to our staff who we are proud to herald as some of the best estate agents in the business. Each of them shares the ethos of the company in delivering the absolute best customer experience for our clients at all levels.” Visit www.butlerandstag.uk The British Property Awards provide agents throughout the UK with an invaluable opportunity to compare their services against those provided by their local, regional and national competitors. Agents who go that extra mile and provide outstanding levels of customer service are rewarded with their accolade, which acts as a beacon to highlight these attributes to their local marketplaces.
Although all our Talks, Outings and the summer Horticultural Show had to be cancelled this year, we are hopeful that these events will go ahead next year and be better than ever. During lockdown, many of us found more time to spend in our gardens and enjoyed the glorious weather and the relative peace and quiet.
Many people also decided to take on an allotment and to grow their own fruit and vegetables and there was great cameraderie over at our local site. All this leads us to hope that the Show next year could be even better supported with all these successful new gardeners and allotmenteers keen to show off their achievements. Our Talks and Outings next year will be, as far as possible, those which were cancelled this year.
Although we didn’t manage to meet formally during the year, we did meet informally outside whilst weeding and tidying the Station flowerbeds and replanting the displays by the shops. Finally, if you you are not already a Member but would like to join next year, please send an email to: [email protected] and we’ll include you on our list so that one of our collectors will call on you . Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 46 News, Comments & Notices Theydon Art Group has managed just one meeting since March - a socially distanced demonstration - but proof that it is possible to have an inspiring evening and still comply with government and Village Hall restrictions. Thankfully we had invested in video and sound systems
before the pandemic struck, which meant that everyone could hear and see what the demonstrator was doing.
At the time of writing, things are looking more optimistic for 2021. But should we find we're unable to put on our usual exhibition in May, we may still perhaps stage an online event. Some other art groups appear to be doing this quite successfully. Meanwhile many of our members are taking advantage of the extra time on their hands and producing some terrific work - See "Boris" by Tracy Reeves.
With options very limited during the second lockdown, the PTA organised a virtual quiz. It had been scheduled for later in December but as the nation was plunged into lockdown again it was felt it was best to bring it forward while everyone was captive in their homes. The quiz was on November 27th and more than 25 families took part trying to answer the fun questions. Some were aimed at the children so they could test out their knowledge alongside their parents. NIK O’FLYNN
In Memorium - Pauline Austin of Hornbeam Road Pauline was born in Buxton Road, Theydon Bois She had two sisters Hilda and Dolcie. Her maiden name was Street and the Street family have a history of living in Theydon Bois for 200 years. Pauline met Geoff on a coach trip to Southend lights and they were married in Theydon Bois Church in 1958, they remained living in Essex and moved back to Theydon Bois in 1997 and lived in Hornbeam Road. Pauline joined various clubs in the village, she very much enjoyed her bingo and her little dog. Geoff and Pauline renewed their wedding vows in February 2008 Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 47 News, Comments & Notices
Due to further Covid-19 restrictions being applied by both the government and the Essex Speed Watch Co-ordination authorities, it has only been possible for our local team of volunteers to carry out five sessions during September and up to early November. However, these five occasions each lasting about an hour (all of which took place on either Piercing Hill or Coppice Row), resulted in a total of 81 vehicles being recorded that were well exceeding the 30mph speed limit. No less than 29 of these occurred incidentally during a single session on 20th October – with a top speed that day registered at 60mph! At the time of writing this article, Lead Co-ordinator Richard Sowerby states that he has no idea when the team will be able to recommence activities. Once again though, he has expressed his concern to our local Police about the continuing level of dangerous driving being experienced in our village. They in turn seem to still be taking note of this and, for example, he personally noticed they were carrying out a speed check on Coppice Row on the 23rd November. Finally, Richard and his team would like to wish all their fellow residents a safe and Happy Christmas (hopefully with family and friends), as well as a more fulfilling and happier time in 2021 for all of us. As with many groups’ activities, we are unable to have our Christmas concert this year, which is disappointing. We had hoped in September that we might be able to sing together but as the incidence of Covid 19 increased, that was impossible. However, we have kept together as a choir and continued to rehearse every Monday at 8pm via Zoom. Lawrence, our conductor, is trying to make it as much as possible like a normal Monday rehearsal. We start with breathing and warm up exercises and then work on a variety of pieces.
Lawrence has introduced some new pieces and we are hoping to be able to perform them to an audience at some point in 2021! Another recent change is that his wife Jenny, also a professional musician, accompanies us on the piano. This enables Lawrence to concentrate on our singing and he will sing along with the various parts. We still go into ‘break out rooms’ at half time to catch up on the gossip! Although it cannot replace singing together in the flesh, it is good fun and we will continue to meet like this until it is possible to get together again. It is very unlikely that we shall have our spring concert but keep Saturday 4th July free when hopefully we shall be back singing our hearts out in our 2021 summer concert. If anybody would like to join us for a sing on a Monday evening, please contact me on tel: 01992 574892
BARBARA LANE - SECRETARY
The Village Website editor wishes to apologise for the lack of recent updates to the Village Website. This resulted from a so-called upgrade by our server supplier at the end of October that caused a number of problems both for the website and Village News. Although some of these problems have been resolved at the time of going to press we are still not able to fully carry out regular updates to the website. We are hoping these problems can soon be resolved. he
Village News Issue 111 December 2020 Page 48 Village Activities 2021 The information, opinions and views presented in Village News and on the Village Website reflect the views of the authorsThis anddiary contributors is updated of thecontinually articles and on publicthe villageation of websitearticles, advertisements- www.theydon.org.uk or product/services information does not constitute endorsement or approval by Village News, Village Website or the Parish Council.
We regret that we are unable to publish a diary in this edition of Village News as due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, many of the usual activities and events in the village have been curtailed, cancelled or subject to constant review and change.
Special mention of Trevor Roberts who has has been a regular contributor to Village News for nearly 20 years. He was recently a hospitalised Covid victim however he still managed to provide something in time for this edition of Village News. Well done Trevor. We all wish you a full recovery.
Even in these pandemic times this edition of Village News has the largest page count ever, some 48 to be precise. Well done to all contributors and let us all hopefully look forward to a 2021 that brings a semblance of normality back to our lives.
Copy for Village News & Website Send to c/o Parish Clerk, Parish Office Theydon Bois Village Hall, Phone & Fax 01992 813442
or email the editors - [email protected] NEXT VILLAGE NEWS COPY DEADLINE - 1st March 2021
Village Website www.theydon.org.uk Village News
Edited & Produced by Tony Ames Edited & Produced by Jim Watts e-mail e-mail [email protected] [email protected]
Thanks to our Sponsors : Theydon Bois Pharmacy, Indian Ocean, Theydon Garage, Theydon Bois Balti House, Martin Shepherd Solicitors, Theydon Bois Dentists, Butler & Stag, Woodland Grove Care Homes. see pages 7, 8, 9 & 27