The Signpost The Signpost Signpost - Issue 53 Village Contacts Editorial Team Jim Mullenger Editor: David Hotchkin [email protected] Sub Editor: David Stancombe 01760 722 849

Foulden David Stancombe Next copy date: [email protected] 01366 328 153 14th of September 2019 Hannah Scott Firstly, I would like to give a [email protected] very warm welcome to the new 07900 265 493 / 01760 440439 members of our readership….. the good parishioners of and & Threxton. Ann Melhuish I hope that you will enjoy the [email protected] newsletter and that you will also 01366 328 057 find it useful. Fiona Gilbert Grovelling apology: In compiling [email protected] the last edition, I typed in my new Editor’s email address. I & Bodney blame Microsoft’s ‘ever so Keith & Linda Thomas helpful’ Forms Autofill software [email protected] for what happened next… It 01760 756 455 decided to add a dot in the address, as a result of a previously failed attempt to set David Hotchkin (The Editor) up the account! Email: See the next page >>> I must blame myself for not 01366 328 442 triple checking. Anyway, what you now see on the next page Little Cressingham & Threxton should be correct. Sorry for any Chris Cannon inconvenience, Ed. [email protected]

2 The Signpost The Signpost OXBOROUGH PARISH COUNCIL CONTENTS Page Chair: David Hotchkin Signpost contact details ...... 2 Vice Chair: Paul Gilluley Members: Graham Allison, Ian Monson, Simon Willies Contents ...... 3 Clerk: Susan Hernandez 01366 328 047 Parish Councils ...... 4-6 Website: oxborough-pc.wixsite.com/website Next meeting: Ordinary Meeting: Wed. 18th September 2019 Village News 7.30 pm in the Village Hall. Village News & What’s On ...... 7-14 The Village Green is available for hire (terms & conditions apply). From our MP ...... 15-16 Please contact the Parish Clerk for details and fees. Church News

Church Services ...... 17-18 COCKLEY CLEY PARISH COUNCIL From the Vicar ...... 19 Chair: Sir Samuel Roberts Bt. Vice Chair: Mr Jim Mullenger. Articles Members: Mr Steve Mumford, Ms Karina Eagle. Wildlife at Beck Springs ...... 20-21 Mr David Johnson. Parish Clerk: Sir Samuel Roberts Bt. This Autumn ...... 22-24 Cockley Cley Hall, Book Plug ...... 24 Cockley Cley, , PE37 8AG Tel.01760 721 308 Age Concern ...... 25-26 Next meeting: TBA— 2019 at 7.15pm. Nautical Expressions ...... 27 in the Twenty Church Wardens. Beyond our Villages ...... 28 Classified Adverts ...... 29-52 GREAT CRESSINGHAM PARISH COUNCIL Chair: Michael Halls Vice-Chair: Marcus Rutterford Members: Victoria Rutterford, Anna Smith, Peter Heath, For Advertisements Ed Kittell, Sally Blundell Charges Per Issue Clerk Hannah Scott Homestead, Farm Common Road ,Ashill IP25 7BA Whole page £14, back cover £16, 1/2 page (landscape) £7. 07900 265 493 / 01760 440439 Copy should be in MS Word or JPEG formats, please. Website: www.impulse-music.co.uk/great Cressingham Next meeting: Tuesday 24th September 2019. Contact: [email protected] .

3 4 The Signpost The Signpost FOULDEN PARISH COUNCIL HILBOROUGH PARISH COUNCIL Chair: Stephen Parker. Vice Chair: Stephen (Billy) Pye. Chair: Andrew Steward. Tel: 01760 756247 Members: Neil West, Jayne Winterbone, Richard Cooper, Vice-chair: Roger Longmate. Tel: 01760 756229 Marianne Christian. Members: Mr. S. Gornall, Mrs. C. Gornall, Parish Clerk: Claire Prentice, Tel: 07591 220390 Mrs. Sharan Newnham, Ms. Sarah Mennell. Email: [email protected] Carol Cox, Claire Bowes, Nigel Wilton. Clerk: Melanie Cousins. Tel: 07840 814417. Next meeting: Ordinary Meeting: Monday 9th Sept. 2019 [email protected] at 7.00pm in the Village Hall. Website: www.hilboroughpc.norfolkparishes.gov.uk Website: www.fouldennorfolk.org Next meeting : Tuesday 17th September 2019 at 7.00 pm in the Mills Memorial Hall, There is currently one vacancy for co-option, please contact the Westgate Street, Hilborough Parish Clerk if you are interested in becoming a Councillor. A full Council should have a complement of seven in this Parish. LITTLE CRESSINGHAM & THREXTON GOODERSTONE PARISH COUNCIL Chair: Andrew Boughen PARISH COUNCIL

Vice Chair: Ann Melhuish Chair: Tony Abel. Members: Martin Belton, Richard Chalkley, Judy Chandler, Mob: 07836 338100 Email: [email protected] Kate Faro Wood, Lucy Mason-Closs,. Vice Chair: Tim Leonard Tel: 01953 882739 Clerk: Judith Taylor. Tel: 01366 500722. Members: Ashton Austin, Martin Kay, Chris Cannon. email: [email protected] Clerk: Melanie Cousins. Tel: 07840 814417. Website: gooderstonepc.wixsite.com/gooderstonepc [email protected] Website: lcparishclerk.wixsite.com/lcressinghamthrexton All Parish Council information can be accessed Next Meeting: Wednesday 18th September 2019 at 7.30pm. using this website, including agendas and minutes It will be in All Saints Parish Church, Threxton. for meetings, all finance documents, news and village services. STANTA (Training Area): Details of military training activities are Next meeting: Second Monday every two months: available from the Parish Council 9th September, 11th November, website quoted above. 13th January 2020, 9th March.

Grazing Land available to lease: See page 31 for details.

5 6 The Signpost The Signpost VILLAGE NEWS & WHAT’S ON HILBOROUGH GREAT CRESSINGHAM VILLAGE HALL MOBILE LIBRARY: Tuesdays every 4 weeks:

Great Cressingham Village Hall is an excellent venue available Date Village Location Time for hire at reasonable rates; spacious hall, stage, tables and 20th Aug Hilborough Swan Pub 10:20 – 10:30 chairs, recently modernised kitchen facilities, lighting and PA 20th Aug Hilborough 12 Westgate Street 10:35 – 10:45 system, and parking… www.greatcressinghamvillagehall.co.uk 17th Sep Hilborough Swan Pub 10:20 – 10:30 17th Sep Hilborough 12 Westgate Street 10:35 – 10:45 For further details contact Sally Lovick on 01760 756 433. HILBOROUGH VILLAGE HALL REGULAR EVENTS Hall Bookings: The hall is available for functions, parties, and other activities. Coffee and Nostalgia Morning – first Saturday of every month, Capacity 120 persons: Rates £12.00 per hour. 10am to 12 noon, 10th August & 7th September Please contact Clare Gornall on 01760 756 561 or Gerald Gray on 01760 756338 or on [email protected] Quiz – Fridays, alternate months, 9th August & 6th September, doors open 7pm, first question 7.30pm MAKE and MARDLE Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm Bingo – Saturdays, monthly, 3rd August and 14th September, £2.50 per session to include tea and coffee. doors open 6.30pm, eyes down 7.30pm All crafts and all skill levels - beginners welcome. Location: takes place at each others homes. Village Hall Committee Meetings – Thursdays at 4pm, Contact: Jayne Bowes 07880 318 160 every 5 weeks, 8th August & 12th September. HILBOROUGH VILLAGE COMMUNICATIONS Taekwondo - Wednesdays from 6pm - 8pm. All welcome. Hilborough Village now has two forms of Communications. For further information: contact John Fowler on 07894 312 693 The aim is to provide residents with the means of sharing local news, events alerts, updates and general items of chosen interest Weekly Healthy Wildlife Rambles at The Grange to Hilborough villagers. If you would like to be included in this most Thursdays from 10.30am to noon. initiative you can do so via: 1. Facebook – Via your Facebook page search for Hilborough Village Community News and click the The Mobile Library stops in The Street for 20 minutes at 11.05am ‘joinrequest’ button; OR... every 4 weeks, next due 16th August & 13th September. 2. Email –[email protected] to be included in future mailing. (Please contact Sarah on 07974 955175 / 01760 756126 if you have any questions or difficulties in joining)

7 8 The Signpost The Signpost COCKLEY CLEY NEWS FOULDEN VILLAGE HALL

FORTHCOMING EVENTS Foulden Village Hall has recently been refurbished and is situated August/September 2019 in the centre of the village. A welcoming, inviting hall it offers so All events take place in the Twenty Church Wardens. much to residents or people from neighbouring villages. Whether you are looking for a venue for a special event, or would like Coffee mornings, somewhere to hire on a regular basis, we offer competitive prices to support our All Saints Church are held on the £8 for residents and £10 for non-residents. Second Wednesday of the of the Month, from 10.00 – 11.30 am: the next two dates being: To book or if you require further information. Wednesday 14th August and Please contact: Rosemary Pye (Hall Manager) on Wednesday 11th September 2019 01366 328152 or 07753 439803. Everyone, from near and far, are welcomed. Or email us: [email protected] The last two Coffee Morning in June and July were supported by Or: [email protected] 11 people on both occasions and raised a total of £80.

The Senior Citizens’ Lunch Club, WHAT’S ON meets on the last Wednesday of the month from 12 noon for 12. 30. Tuesday evenings--- Carpet Bowls night 7.30pm until 9.30pm The next two dates being: £2.00 per person (first week free) th Wednesday 28 August and contact Neil West--tel:01366 328566 th Wednesday 25 September 2019. or [email protected] for further details. Please book by the previous Monday with Babs Main (Tel: 01760 721 439) First Wednesday in the month--Church Coffee Morning- 10am--12 noon. SPEEDWATCH A morning with home made cakes and savouries. tea and coffee There is an initiative, now being taken up by the Parish Council in a friendly environment. bring and buy stalls are available and to form a Speedwatch Team in Cockley Cley. This is partly as a there is also a raffle. result of some recent incidents involving speeding / dangerous Come along! Everyone is welcome. driving, especially along Pine Avenue. An extraordinary general meeting of the Parish Council is being Wednesday evening-- Yoga Classes- 6.30pm---8.00pm. held on 31st July to discuss the matter. It may be too late, by the Whether you’re a beginner or are well practiced in this relaxing time you get this, to attend the meeting - but please do contact form of exercise come along and do as much or as little as you can your Parish Council for further details and information about and feel great. becoming a volunteer. Class cost £6.00 per session. Call Jayne on 07544 974342 for further details. FIBRE-OPTIC cables have been run into the village - watch out for broadband upgrades!

9 10 The Signpost The Signpost Thursday morning-- Chi Kung / Tai Chi-- -10am---12noon OXBOROUGH EVENTS & NEWS spiritual, vibrational and well-being. A wonderful way to start your day. all welcome. Wednesday. Every week. For cost per session and further details call Aerobics. Village Hall 5.30 - 6.30pm. £4. Marion-Tel:07814 733902 Call Susan 07900 587825 Please wear loose clothing & trainers, bring an old towel Thursday evening--Taekwondo--5.30pm onwards. (for time on the floor) and a bottle of water. all ages are welcome. cost per session--£3.50p. Wednesday. Every week. contact John for further details on tel:07794 422 301. Fresh fish delivered by fish4you. Door-to-door. See Oxborough Messenger website for details. Friday evening-- Craft Fortnightly--6.30pm---9pm a pleasant way to spend an evening: Make a card, sew or paint a Wednesday. Every week. picture. If you would enjoy making things, whatever your skill level, Fish & Chip Van On the Pound between 6.30pm and 7.00pm. with this friendly group of ladies, then this is for you. (May remain longer depending on the volume of customers). all Jane on tel: 01366 328510 Thursday evenings. Every weeK Cash Bingo night-- every six weeks. Oxborough Village Social Evening From 7.00pm onwards. doors open at 7pm to start at 7.15pm. Venue Oxborough Village Hall. Our next session is on 15th August 2019 for further dates (tbc) check our website: www.fouldennorfolk.org OXBOROUGH DEFIBRILLATOR or see posters / tweets. There is now a Public Access Defibrillator on the wall of the It is a great social event and an opportunity to win some cash (18) Village Hall, just to the left of the main, double door entrance from children are welcome if accompanied by an adult. the carpark, and near the notice boards. The cabinet is illuminated. Cake and tea / coffee available or bring your own beer or wine. A keycode for access can be obtained by dialling 999, asking for Please note: visit our new website and find out what’s happening the Ambulance Service, and then giving them the identification in your parish. www.fouldennorfolk.org number on the front of the cabinet.

Foulden Tweets: Oxborough Fun Day, Dog Show & Car Boot Sale Events/things of interest [email protected] (In conjunction with the Desert Rats Association)

Sunday, August 25th, 2019: 9.00 am - 4.00 pm Car Boot Pitches £2.00 - Setup at 12.00 noon

Burger Van & Ices

For Dog Show details see page 29

11 12 The Signpost The Signpost FOULDEN PARISH COUNCIL NEWS GREAT CRESSINGHAM NEWS

The Council said goodbye to Kathryn Cross who has been the The Duck Race raised £1040.00 so a ‘Big Thank You’ to everyone Parish Clerk and wished her well in her move back to friends and who supported it….. already planning for next year. relatives in Banbury. Subsequently Claire Prentice has been appointed to take her place. The Harvest Festival Date has Changed to 19th October 2019 - Tickets will be available in September. Attempts have been made to contact the Dog Warden and hopefully reduce the potential problem of fouling on the recreation The Village Green: please respect it and look after it, so that all ground. users can enjoy it… [See the Editor’s comment on page 13]. Dog Owners: if your dogs are a bit lively please put them on a lead Unfortunately vandalism has occurred on the recreation area and when others are about, as not everyone is confident around dogs. it was agreed that CCTV should be installed. We have Bee Orchids on the green which are rare but lovely to see – please be careful they have been cordoned off The Website is still very problematic and the current manager has been difficult to contact. Mr. Mathews has installed and concreted Defibrillator in the railings by the disabled ramp outside the Village Hall. We are still looking for volunteers to help with fundraising, anyone interested please contact Hannah Scott Parish Clerk Sewage Problems Surveys were completed and no problems were found. A service was carried out on the pump house and this Notice Boards will continue every six months. Problems are normally due to We have just received match funding for some new notice boards, blockages caused by people putting unsuitable items down the so these will be put up in the village as soon. toilets. Anglian Water has agreed to provide educational leaflets to put through doors. Facebook There have been a few comments on various FB pages – with The village lights are to be augmented and Wescotec have regard to moans and groans about the village. If you feel it’s erected the new pole ready for UK Power Networks to connect the something the Parish Council can help with please contact Hannah electric supply. Scott as we are happy to help.

The defibrillator is installed but still has to be connected to a Methodist Church power supply. Hello from your local Methodists! On 23rd July we held an open day to invite ideas for the future of the Methodist Church on Chalk Hill. We would like to see the building and grounds used by church and local community for quiet gatherings to explore things that The Editor has heard a number of recent complaints, coming from matter in today's world and touch all our lives, or simply for friendly several Parishes, about dog fouling on and around Village Greens get-togethers. If you have any thoughts or suggestions, please and recreation areas. This is a reminder that failure to clean up contact John Hull on: [email protected]. after your dog is an offence. This applies to residents and visitors alike, so please use bags and the dedicated bins to clean up!

13 14 The Signpost The Signpost From Elizabeth Truss MP When I joined campaigners on a chilly January morning to walk through the proposed area, it was extremely apparent then that the It was great to meet the next generation of craftsman in South close proximity to historic and natural treasures, plus the fact that West , with one of our youngsters going off to the Skills RAF Marham is a close neighbour, made it an unsuitable location. Olympics in Russia. Twenty one-year-old Jack Goodrum from Wimbotsham has been selected to represent the UK at WorldSkills Last month I had a lively meeting with Runcton Holme Parish Kazan 2019 – the Skills Olympics for young people – in the council and the local community. Discussions ranged from local carpentry competition. This represents the pinnacle of bus services and health provision, to the impact on farmers achievement for apprenticeships and technical skills. post-Brexit. This is something that was discussed in greater depth at the Royal Norfolk Show when I held a roundtable meeting with Jack was selected as a member of Team UK after excelling in the representatives from the NFU and CLA in my capacity as Chief WorldSkills UK National Finals. The standards required are Secretary to the Treasury. A number of extremely positive points exacting and only the very best competitors achieve a place on the were made at the meeting. Also attending was DEFRA Minister plane to Russia. The Skills Olympics will see teams of young Therese Coffey MP – Swaffham Young Farmers popped along to people from more than 60 countries competing for the right to be have a chat with her and updated Therese on the work they are named the most-skilled nation in the world. WorldSkills UK, which currently doing. Great to see such enthusiastic young people, plus helps young people go further and faster, is spearheading the use the show put on a fantastic display of events and activities for all of competitions in the workplace, training centres, schools and attendees to enjoy. colleges to inspire the next generation and fill the skills gap. By participating in international events, the UK is able to demonstrate We have so many excellent businesses and good entrepreneurs in the high quality of our apprenticeships and technical skills. A Norfolk, and I was very honoured recently to open a new office for recent survey found that 87% of those taking part in skills Lockertek, based in . In 2008 Ashley Morrison was a competitions had increased their technical skills levels. 91% sales rep for a locker company when he was made redundant. agreed that their employment prospects had improved. So fingers Ashley then decided to start his own company specialising in crossed for a very successful outcome for Jack in Kazan. replacement locker parts and repairs. At the time there were no I was delighted to note that the proposed site, SIL 02, for silica companies offering this and like all good entrepreneurs Ashley extraction in Marham and Shouldham has been recommended to spotted a gap in market. The challenge at that time was that banks be withdrawn for any future quarrying by Norfolk County Council. and other funders were reluctant to lend money. Ashley decided to This is very welcome news – I have long argued that the proposed design his own website and purchased second hand office site at Marham / Shouldham is not a suitable location for silica furniture and equipment. His hard work has been recognised by extraction and I fully supported local residents with their campaign the FSB and other important business bodies, with Lockertek to have this site . winning 6 awards including best e-business. He graduated from Oxford University in 2017 and recently earned the Goldman Sachs Continued overleaf... 10Ksb award.

15 16 The Signpost The Signpost CHURCH ROTAS: AUGUST 2019 – amended 23rd July 2019 CHURCH SERVICES: SEPTEMBER 2019

4th Oxborough 0930 MP Julie Wood 1st Oxborough CANCELLED 1st 0945 HC Reverend David Hanwell 4th Mundford 0945 HC Reverend David Hanwell 1st Cockley Cley 1100 HC Venerable Linda Lubbe 4th Hilborough 1100*MP Pauline Read 1st 3 pm EW Yvonne Westgate

4th Cranwich 3 pm EW Yvonne Westgate 8th Lt Cressingham 0930 MP George Lynne 8th Gooderstone 1100 HC TBC 8th Mundford 4.15 Compline Nick Crampton 11th Lt Cressingham 0930 MP Tony Powell

11th Foulden 1100 * HC Venerable Linda Lubbe 15th 8 am HC Venerable Linda Lubbe 15th Bodney 0930 MP George Lynne 11th Mundford 3 pm EP Nicholas Crampton 15th Mundford 0945 HC Venerable Linda Lubbe 15th Foulden 1100 HC Venerable Linda Lubbe

18th Ickburgh 0800 HC Venerable Linda Lubbe 22nd Didlington 0930 MP TBC 18th Bodney 0930 MP George Lynne 22nd Mundford 0945 MP TBC 22nd Hilborough 1100 HC Venerable Linda Lubbe 18th Mundford 0945 HC Reverend John Handley 22nd Ickburgh 1115 MP Judy Gallop 18th Gooderstone 1100* MP Venerable Linda Lubbe 29th Oxborough 0930 MP Julie Wood

29th Mundford 0945 HC Venerable Linda Lubbe 25th Didlington 0930 HC Reverend Kit Chalcraft 29th Gt Cressingham 1100 HC Venerable Linda Lubbe 25th Mundford 0945 MP TBC ABBREVIATIONS: See previous page.

25th Ickburgh 1115 MP Judy Gallop THREXTON CHURCH SERVICES 25th Gt Cressingham 1100 HC Venerable Linda Lubbe Details of services at All Saints’ Church are also available on the website. Currently they are: ABBREVIATIONS August Sunday 4th at 10.30am & Sept. Sunday 1st at 10.30am

HC Holy Communion MP Morning Prayer MW ‘Hard Hat’ Tour of the church to view renovations in the company Morning Worship EP Evening Prayer of the architect on Friday 9th August, 10.30am - 3pm.

17 18 The Signpost The Signpost Reflections from the Vicar Wildlife at Beck Springs - Burrowers What glorious summer days we have been enjoying. It is a time for outdoor gatherings and activities, and for enjoying nature. If you drive along Beckett End you will probably have seen the little white scutt of one or more of the resident rabbit population. Celebratory teas were held at Ickburgh on the 22nd June, at They have a number of burrows in the side of the ditch that runs Mundford on the 29th June and at Foulden on the 30th June. They alongside the fence. Those dear little creatures, so popular in the were all great occasions, and a good time was had by all who Beatrice Potter books, but if you have too many in your garden they attended. can create an eyesore. Unfortunately they have the habit of making scrapes all over the place and despite my efforts to fill these in, The Foulden strawberry tea was very well supported, and well they get regularly dug out again organized. Thank you to Nan and Andy Marrs and their team and also to all who joined in the fun, consuming vast amounts of Rabbits originate from the strawberries, cream, meringues and other goodies! western Mediterranean and were introduced to Britain by the Proceeds will go towards much-needed repairs to the church Normans in the 12th century to building at Foulden. provide meat and fur. Rabbits are now widespread throughout St John’s Oxborough held a flower festival and open gardens on Britain and Ireland and can be th th th the 6 and 7 July. Although it rained on the Saturday, Sunday 7 found almost anywhere where was a beautiful day, and the church was filled with colourful they can burrow for a food arrangements. Two children were baptized on that morning, Leo supply, such as a woodland and Mathilde Sherwood, and it was a wonderful celebration. edge and hedgerows, conditions th ideally found at Beck Springs. On the 6 July, Hazel Brun was also baptized at Cockley Cley, They are found in gardens, another cause for joyful celebration. We seem to have entered a woodland, grassland, and arable land. They eat a wide range of season of baptisms. plants including grasses, cereal crops, root vegetables and young shoots of meadow plants and they will eat tree bark when food is in In a time when many people are being pulled apart and separated short supply. it is good to see communities, old and young, coming together to encourage and support one another. Rabbits are not a protected species in Britain and their numbers are controlled where they become pests. When the virus Wishing you joy and peace. myxomatosis appeared 99% of the population died within two Rev Linda Lubbe years. Rabbits have developed a resistance and the population has largely recovered. It is estimated that rabbit damage is over £100 million a year. Young rabbits are preyed on by badgers, buzzards and weasels. Rabbits of all ages are taken by foxes, cats, stoats and polecats.

19 20 The Signpost The Signpost Rabbits don’t often live for more than 3 years and 90% die This Autumn in the first year of life but they Ann Murphy was now back at school, not as a teacher this time, breed prolifically They breed but as a student. It was the first time she had been inside the local throughout the year but mainly technical college, but there she was for her first pottery lesson. from January to August and produce one litter of 3-7 young The tutor, Tom, was a tall, thin and rather gaunt man but he per month. The female forms a was clearly well versed in the skills needed to produce artisan nest from grass bedding lined pottery. He was telling the class about how to centre the clay when with fur from her underside. The first starting on the wheel. It looked easy enough when performed young are born blind, deaf and by an expert but as beginners they should be aware that the lump almost hairless. Their eyes open of clay had a mind of its own and was more inclined to slide off the at 10 days, and they are weaned edge of the wheel, rather than remain in the middle. Tom then at 21-25 days. Male rabbits are able to Both photos by: showed the class what he meant, centring the clay and gradually mate at 4 months, females at 3.5 J Ligero and I Barrios months. This is clearly the basis of the drawing it up into a bowl shape. It all looked very straightforward. saying “breeding like rabbits”... He then told the class where the clay was and allocated the students to the available wheels. He turned to Ann, welcomed her David Stancombe to the class and hoped that she would enjoy the activity. He asked her if she had attempted any sort of pottery before and when Ann said that this was a completely new experience he suggested that on this occasion she watched the others members of the group Many years ago, for about six months of my life, I worked in the and then he would show some simpler ways of using clay to make old Admiralty building in Chiswick known as Lamb House. This contained an eclectic mix of businesses, with a bias a bowl. towards the creative side of things. There was a photographer’s Tom then moved off to help one of the group who was studio on the top floor (next to our design consultancy), struggling to keep the clay on the wheel. By the time Tom had underneath that was a small TV production company. One of the helped each member of the class it was the end of the session. He larger set of rooms was occupied by a small clothing manufacturer apologised to Ann that he had not been able to spend some time making fashionable Indian / Asian articles. with her, but he assured her that he would do so at the next People would happily lend or borrow stuff from the other lesson. Ann thanked him and said that she had enjoyed watching businesses on a regular basis - especially when Jerry Hall turned and felt that she now had a much better idea about what was up for a photoshoot, causing a constant, curious queue... On the ground floor was a small, well equipped, recording involved. studio. By the entrance door was a little notice that read: The pottery session over, Ann decided that as it was a fine ‘If music be the food of love… then why don’t rabbits sing?’ evening and not quite dark, she would walk home rather than wait for a taxi. The exercise would do her good and she took off at a The Editor. brisk pace.

21 22 The Signpost The Signpost After a while she turned around to look back and noticed that a Ann tried again, “Could you please tell me why you have forced black car was slowly driving along in her direction. She turned me into the car and where you are taking me?” back and carried on towards her home but she had a strange “You will find out soon enough but for the time being just sit feeling that she was being followed; but why? When she next silently and wait” turned round there was no sign of the black car so she thought no There seemed to be nothing that Ann could do about her more about it. current situation. She sat still thinking about why this could have She was now out of the town and there was no longer a footway happened and suddenly remembered the phone call she had so she followed the guidance of the Highway Code and kept to the received from Inspector Jones a few days ago. The conversation was about her involvement with criminal right hand side, facing the oncoming traffic. activities in Aberlynn while she was on holiday in Wales last Her mind slipped back into thinking about her experience at the summer. “Could this be something to do with that?” The inspector college and she wondered if she would ever master the basic skills did warn her that Charles Grantly had made a rapid escape and needed in pottery. She could do with a couple of nicely decorated had remained at large ever since. But why would he want to see vases especially if she had made them herself. her? Only time would tell... While she was daydreaming about these events a black car Suddenly the car came to a swift halt and all around there was drew alongside and a rather swarthy man, wearing a black suit got a bright light. What was going to happen now? out of the rear door. He came up to Ann and firmly grasped her David Stancombe (to be continued) arm. “We would like you to come with us in the car,” he said. Ann’s initial surprise now turned to considerable concern. She assured the man that she was quite happy to walk home and that she did A PLUG FOR A BOOK not require a lift in the car. The man then made it clear that walking home was not an option and that she should oblige them by I have had an interesting time with the sorting out and getting into the car. His grip hardened and the nearside rear door publication of the forthcoming Church Services in this edition… and so have our clergy and Churchwardens - to whom, many opened to show another man seated on the far side. Ann didn’t thanks for their combined efforts at short notice… seem to have much choice as the grip on her arm hardened and With that in mind, I would like to recommend: she was firmly guided into the car next to the other man already seated there. The hold on her arm was released and the man A Field Guide to the English Clergy responsible for forcing her into the car, joined them in the back by The Revd Fergus Butler-Gallie seat. Subtitle: A Compendium of Diverse Eccentrics, Pirates, Prelates and With that the car drove off. Adventurers; All Anglican, Some Even Practising “Where are you taking me?” asked Ann in a rather shaky voice. There was no reply and the car continued its way along the dark As Tom Holland says, on the cover, ‘Ridiculously enjoyable.’ country lane. There was a thick hedge on one side and a wooded He’s absolutely right… (I did ‘laugh out loud’…) The Editor. area on the other.

23 24 The Signpost The Signpost Some of our Volunteers having a well earned day at Gooderstone Water Gardens. We try to get together with all the volunteers once a month for either SWAFFHAM SUPPORT SERVICES fun or some training sessions… BEFRIENDING AND HOSPITAL BUDDIES We appreciate our volunteers and everything they do to help us keep going with our wonderful service. These guys make all the Swaffham Support Services is a project of Age Concern difference, so if you would like Swaffham and District and is funded with a multi-year more information about grant from The Big Lottery. volunteering with us please get in touch… We provide a befriending service and a hospital buddy transport service for people in a10 mile radius of Swaffham, We accept referrals for our services from either the individual or with around forty Volunteers. from anyone else who might be concerned about that person, if the individual is aware of it. We then arrange a brief assessment to The volunteer befrienders usually visit their determine the suitability for our services, and we often effectively befriending client on a weekly basis, can signpost to other services if we are unable to help. Our while our Hospital Buddy drivers provide a services always are limited to the number of volunteers we have full-support transport service for health-related available. appointments to our regional hospitals and medical facilities, New Volunteers are key to helping us reach more people and to make a positive difference in their world. We always need more including local GP’s, dentists, Norwich, Addenbrookes, volunteers, so please contact us for further details about joining Papworth and Queen Elizabeth Hospital. our wonderful volunteer team or receiving our services: Office: 07393 981295 If a hospital buddy client would like the driver to join them Email: [email protected] during their appointment, the driver is able to take some Take a look at our website: www.swaffhamsupportservices.co.uk notes about matters discussed Or pop into Swaffham Community Centre on Mon, Wed, Fri that otherwise might be forgotten. between 9am and 4pm for a cuppa and a chat…

25 26 The Signpost The Signpost

NAUTICAL EXPRESSIONS What’s On Beyond Our Villages

BELAY (STOP) Breckland Ramblers Short and Brisk Walks The Breckland Walkers meet every morning except Saturday at Belay means to take turns with a rope around a cleat or bollard, around 10:00 am. The walks take place regularly at locations in fasten it, and make it secure. On land or sea belay is a general Breckland. command to stop or hold. Sundays: Swaffham Mondays: , Mundford, Brandon. Tuesdays: Weeting, and Watton. BALLAST (STABILITY) Wednesdays: Swaffham. Thursdays: Watton. This comes from the Old Teutonic term ballast which means belly load. Fridays: Thetford. At sea it refers to any weight, other than cargo, carried deep on the Walkers walk at their own pace with a front and back marker. We hold, or belly, of the vessel in order to give stability. After a ship do not stop during the walk, but there is a break for coffee or tea at has offloaded her cargo ballast is taken on board to compensate the end. There is no need to book – just arrive in good time to hear for the loss of weight. the pre-walk introduction. You are welcome to come for three tast- Ballast is therefore used to convey a sense of stability in er to see you like it before you join the Ramblers! A good pair of something or someone. walking shoes and adequate outdoor clothing are all that is need- ed. For further details: please go to: A 17th Century writer William Gurnall wrote “ If he be not well www.ramblers.org.uk ballast with humility, a little gust will topple him into sin”. Film Night Doors open 7pm for 7.30 start BAMBOOZLE (DECEIVE) For details of the programme and tickets contact Ann Howarth 01366 727772 th This word first appeared in print in the 17 Century where it Ice-creams on sale in the interval. described the Spanish trick of hoisting false flags to deceive, or Tickets £6 on the door or £5 in advance bamboozle, the enemy. Swaffham Jazz Club Later the term was used to describe the fairground betting game Swaffham Conservative Club, 23 London St. PE7 7DD where a pea is placed under 3 cups which are then shuffled and Tuesday 13 August at 7.30. the punter has to guess which cup hides the pea. The operator The Stella Goodey Glocal All Star Quintet usually cheated to ensure that the punter lost. Tuesday 10 September at 7.30. From the U.S - Helen Welch vocals, with Lee Vasey and Friends Bamboozle thus means to confuse. Information from Geoff 01366 328730 or Norman 01760 722384

27 28 The Signpost The Signpost

SWAFFHAM SUPPORT SERVICES

SERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY SINCE 1999

BEFRIENDING & HOSPITAL BUDDY SERVICE Do you have 1-2 hours free a week? Do you enjoy driving, or maybe just visiting a lonely elderly person near to you? Are you caring, compassionate and a good listener? If you said to yes to any of these questions, then we NEED you to join our fantastic team of Volunteers.

We are here to improve the quality of older people’s lives in Swaffham and surrounding villages within a 10 mile radius.

TEL: 07393 981 295 EMAIL: [email protected] www.swaffhamsupportservices.co.uk

Our office is open 9am-4pm Mon, Wed & Fri Pop in for a coffee, tea, biscuits and an informal chat

The Community Centre, Campingland, Swaffham, PE37 7RB

29 30 The Signpost The Signpost

Land for rent at Gooderstone approx. 1 acre available from 1st October 2019

For details contact the Parish Council Clerk [email protected] or 01366 500722

(The land is owned by the Former Highways Surveyor's Land Charity, with the council as sole trustee).

31 32 The Signpost The Signpost GRAHAME GILLIS AUTO REPAIRS M.O.T. STATION Full Servicing and repairs for cars & vans P.R.Bowers & Son all makes and models petrol & diesel Brakes, Clutches, gearboxes suspensions Funeral Directors engine repairs, diagnostics and welding Tyres, puncture repairs, wheel balancing and four-wheel laser tracking Collection & delivery available Anmer Cottage, Road. Open 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday Northwold IP26 5LN And Saturday mornings Also AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE & REPAIR SPECIALISTS ( 3rd Generation Family Owned Business est. 1921 ) Whittington Garage Phone 01366 500606 Stoke Ferry [email protected] PE33 9TF Private Chapels of Rest A Friendly Family Business 24 Hour Service www.grahamgillisautorepairs.co.uk Tel 01366 727432 07796 780270 Upholding Traditional Values

Of Dignity & Respect

33 34 The Signpost The Signpost METHWOLD

New Displays 2019 – 5 Galleries

The Ben Emmerson Room - Swaff- ham Treasures The Monique Slaven Room – Archae- ology and the Col- lection The David Butters Room – The Rota- ry Capture Swaffham Display Conflict and Consequences – The Ef- fects of conflict on a small market town and its environs. The Carter Connection. The story of Howard Carter and the Discov- ery of the tomb of Tutankhamun. Opening Times: Mon-Fri 10-4 a small admission fee. Sat 10-1 Free admission this year!

35 36 The Signpost The Signpost

37 38 The Signpost The Signpost WINDYMILLERS PET SUPPLIES 01842 815551 website:www.pigsearsdirect.com WE ARE NOW MAIN AGENTS FOR FLO GAS {Bottled Gas}. You WILL find us CHEAPER than Calor gas for the same size bottle and we operate a FREE DELIVERY service within 10 miles of Brandon. No Flo-Gas bottle to exchange NO PROBLEM just come and see us. If you have a Gas BBQ we have the bottle. If you have a gas bottled room heater we have the bottle. Caravan/Catering gas bottles in stock. Plus the NEW LIGHT GAS BOTTLES. We also stock gas regulators and new flexible gas pipe. START SAVING MONEY ON OUR BOTTLED GAS SUPPLIES.

39 40 The Signpost The Signpost

41 42 The Signpost The Signpost

GOODERSTONE WATER GARDENS FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS Est. 1872 R. H. BOND Formerly G.P. Riches & Son

Still family owned and now run by the 5th Generation Offering a Complete Funeral Service 24 hours a day, to all areas Welcome to a Summer Visit Opening Times: Garden & Wildlife area Salisbury House, Lynn Road, Stoke Ferry. 10.00am - 5.30pm (or dusk if sooner) (last admission 4.30pm) Tel: 01366 500241 1ST JAN - 31ST DEC DAILY Mobile: 07861 671325 Tearoom: Open daily from 11th March 2019 to end October 2019

(if weather fair) to check tel: 01366 328118 / 01366 328007 Help and understanding All Bank Holidays except Dec & Jan. when you need it most Sorry, unable to take card payment

Contacts: Garden 07730 551945, Tearoom 01366 328007 / 01366 328118 www.gooderstonewatergardens.co.uk. email [email protected] Postcode PE33 9BP

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR - November (date to be fixed) Cards, Gifts, Paintings, Table Decorations, Tombola and usual tasty eats! PLUS - Free entry to the Gardens. https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/629449 43 44 The Signpost The Signpost

Cesspit Full?

Call John Allen On 07767 823 137 Or 01842 827 627 (evenings) Any tanker work considered

Norfolk Woodburners offer the best local service for the Hilborough Honey is now on sale supply and installation of: • Wood Burners & Multi-Fuel Stoves Order soon to avoid disappointment • Main agents for Aga, Hunter & This year we have concentrated on letting our Cleanburn Stoves bees build strong colonies. So our supplies for • Flexible Chimney Liners sale are limited to just 150 jars. • Twin Wall Chimney Systems 1lb jars of honey are £6.00 • Fireplaces Opened Up 1/2lb jars of honey are £4.00 ( limited quantity For a free site visit and available) quotation contact us on: To order please contact: cathe- tel: 01328 700161 m: 07966 661175 [email protected] email: Michael: 07879 615288 [email protected] Catherine: 07976352003

45 46 The Signpost The Signpost

Wil Smith T.T.S.R. Ltd Coal and Log Merchant Seasoned Hardwood Logs and Coal

Logs cut to under 10” Sold by Cubic Metre Split/Seasoned Ready for Your Fire Stock up Now for Winter!

All Coal Suitable for Wood Burners, Sold in Pre-packed Bags or Tipped into a Bunker

Call Us for Special Offers and Multi-buy Discounts Office: 01760 440806 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ttsrltd.co.uk Park View, Houghton Lane, , Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 8LF

47 48 The Signpost The Signpost

49 50 The Signpost The Signpost

GOOD FOOD EXCELLENT HOSPITALITY At the Olde Windmill Inn Great Cressingham

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

51 52