Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 2 Parish Council Chairman’s Report

This past autumn has been an interesting one for the Parish Council. As detailed below, we are now on our third clerk this year. We are fortunate to have Caroline on board and I am sure many of you will have met her already. We have started the budget planning for next year and in identifying areas that we may need to spend more, we also look for areas where we can make what we have go further. We will not finalise the budget until our Council meeting at the end of January, after which it will be incorporated by EFDC in to the overall bill. The planning committee has also been making a significant start on working out what should go into the Theydon Bois Neighbourhood plan. This work is in addition to their regular review of all planning applications in the village. The agendas for these planning meetings are published the week before the meeting on our notice boards.

The major activity for this part of the year, however, is our Christmas market and tree. Last year, for the first time in many years, we put a tree on the Green, having managed to get permission from the City of London Corporation. However, although many people were pleased to see the tree back on the Green, there were also a lot of comments concerning the size and brightness of the lights.

We have looked at what we could do to improve the situation. As is often the case, it is only when you peel back the first layer of issues that you come across the bigger ones. We have managed to source a 27 ft tree for this year. With the increase in height and width, this becomes about 70% larger than last year. This brings its own problems. The increase in size makes it more difficult to deliver and the Corporation will not permit a crane to be driven on to the Green to erect the tree, and the delivery crane can only erect the tree up to five metres from itself. The mounting hole for the tree on the Green is at least twelve metres from the roadside.

Now, the issue with the lights that we had last year, was that using battery powered lights in that location and on that size of tree meant that they lacked impact. We need to be able to use mains power to get sufficient brightness. We have looked at a number of options, including taking power from the zebra crossing lights. That was not possible this year. We will explore for next year whether the Corporation will allow us to pay for and install a permanent, buried power-supply. This is likely to take significant time and could not be done for this year.

Moving back off the Green was not a decision that we took lightly and we looked at various other possible locations, including near the crossing on the side of the road by Greens, The Queen Victoria car park, etc. Here, the size of the tree becomes the issue; the breadth made these locations impractical. As a result, and with the kind permission of the VA, we are putting the tree back at the Village Hall for this year. Its location will be significantly more prominent than when we had it there before.

Thank you to all the villagers who have kindly donated for the Christmas Tree and lights this year. I am delighted to say we have raised over £500 with an additional amount donated from Joyce Hammond in memory of her husband Peter Hammond. This amount will pay for the tree lights that we will have for many years. As we work through things for next year, we would welcome positive assistance from anybody who would like to get involved. Please contact the Parish Clerk in the first instance

The Parish Council and I would like to wish you all a Happy Christmas and a great New Year. We look forward to seeing many of you around the tree and in Forest Drive for the Market.

JOHN PHILIP Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 3 Parish Council News & Notices

NEW PARISH CLERK Unfortunately our recently appointed Parish Clerk Karen Anello decided that she wished to take up a post elsewhere, but we now welcome a new Parish Clerk, Caroline Carroll who also takes on the role of Responsible Financial Officer for the Parish Council.

Many who have visited the Parish Office in the last few weeks will already have been met by Caroline's smile and welcoming manner. Caroline spent her childhood in Theydon Bois attending Theydon Bois Primary School and later Davenant Foundation School. After leaving school, Caroline worked in the City as a Graduate Recruitment Manager for Ernst & Young, Credit Suisse and Lloyd’s Banking Group.. She married Zak in St Mary’s Church in 2007 and moved to Kent but returned in 2010 to bring up her family. She now lives in Hill Road with her husband and their three young children Luca 8, Heidi 7 and Francesca 5, all of whom attend the village school. In her spare time Caroline enjoys walking her dog, playing tennis and socialising with friends. She is a member of St Mary’s Church where she serves on several committees. BUS SERVICES UPDATE We are pleased to announce that the 418 bus service has been reprieved: the current service and timetable will remain as it is until at least March 31 2018, when it will undergo another review.

CLLR ANNIE WOOD

Theydon Bois Village Association

At the recent six-monthly Members’ Meeting the Chairman reported on a reduction in the number of bookings & associated income for the Association over the current year. As a result, the Trustees were looking to promote the Hall more widely & more aggressively, He was also able to report that the current booking charges would not be increased for 2018.

The hall is used regularly for functions of all descriptions including special birthday celebrations, and children’s parties, wedding receptions and anniversaries, christening celebrations. It is also a popular place for local businesses and organisations to hold meetings, presentations and seminars. With a variety of rooms and flexible hiring arrangements many groups and clubs enjoy their regular meetings and activities at the hall. The photo above shows how attractive the main hall looks when decorated for a wedding.

A range of rates apply (Residents of Theydon Bois are able to hire the Village Hall at reduced rates). E-Mail the Bookings Manager – Tracey Dunstone or phone 01992 815150 for further details. ([email protected]) Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 4 Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 5 News from County Hall Dear Resident, the past six months at Essex County Council have certainly been very busy. I have enjoyed working with residents, parish and district councillors to address the local concerns which have been raised. Indeed, I am pleased that a number of the issues, including safety concerns raised over speeding, that have been raised are now being evaluated by the Highways Panel, of which I am Vice-Chairman. I have also supported calls by residents to address the parking problem on the Abridge road. A temporary no stopping restriction on the road (including grass verges) has been in operation since 20th November. This should end the parking problems along this stretch of road.

In recent weeks, a number of residents have raised concerns over the 418 bus which runs through the village and the news that it was likely to be stopped in January. I am pleased to report that following a meeting with the relevant cabinet member at Essex County Council, I am able to confirm that we have been able to secure arrangement to allow the continued operation of the 418, under a de minimis arrangement. This is initially set to run until 31st March 2018 but is extendable by mutual agreement.

Your District Councillors John and Sue already hold regular surgeries which I attend on a regular basis. I am always happy to hear from residents directly to discuss local issues. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. I look forward to continuing to work for the Village in 2018.

Councillor Chris Whitbread County member for Epping & Theydon Bois Telephone 07866 749783 Email: [email protected]

DETAILS OF CHRISTMAS VILLAGE NEWS SERVICES WISHES A VERY AT ST. MARY’S ARE

MERRY CHRISTMAS Sunday 17th December 8am. Holy Communion (BCP) TO ALL OUR DISTRIBUTORS 10.30a.m Family Communion 6.00p.m. Nine Lessons and Carols CONTRIBUTORS & SPONSORS Sunday 24th December  3.30p.m. and 5.00p.m. Christingle Service for All Ages 11.30p.m. First Communion of Christmas

Monday 25th December 10.30a.m. Family Communion with Carols

Sunday 31st December 10.00a.m. Benefice Carols and Communion at All Saints Theydon THANK YOU Garnon Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 6 Xxxxxxxx Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 7 District Councillors’ Column

This autumn at the District Council has primarily been focussed around our number-one priority, namely the production of the Local Plan. In October, the Secretary of State announced a consultation on a standardised method of assessing housing need in the various areas around England. This new method would apply to all authorities that did not have a Plan submitted to the Planning Inspectorate before the end of March next year. At the same time, he published the figures that would apply to each District. For Epping Forest, this would mean a huge rise in the number of houses that we would have to provide. The numbers would rise from just above 500 a year to over 900. This would equate to us needing to look for 20,000+ in the period, rather than the 11,400 that was included in the draft Local Plan that we consulted on last year. Due to the complexities of the way that the system works, we would not only have to deliver that 900 but also the difference between 900 and what we have been delivering since 2011 (around 250 a year). So that would be six years of 650. Added to that, as we have been under-delivering, a top-up rate of at least ten percent would be required. Adding that all up, you would be looking to have to deliver 1,700 to 1,800 dwellings a year, or the equivalent of a village the size of Theydon Bois every year for 5 years.

Clearly, this is an unacceptable position. Eleanor Laing MP has spoken to the minister on a number of occasions and John has spoken to him as well. He is clear that we would have to meet what has been laid out. There is further confirmation of his intent, as in the middle of November, he announced a list of Councils where the Government would step in to take control of the production of their local plan. Again, this is not something that we would want to happen to Epping Forest.

As a result of the situation above, the Cabinet took the decision to slightly accelerate our Local Plan work to ensure that we are able to submit to the Inspectorate before the end of March. To make that happen, the Council is having an extra-ordinary Council meeting on the 14th of December, where we will hopefully agree our Submission Version of the Plan. The Plan will then be published for a period of 6 weeks. At that point, only responses regarding the soundness (which is a particular term around plans) and legality of the Plan are valid. Those responses will not be dealt with by EFDC, but we do have to collate them and provide them to the Planning Inspector who is assigned to examine the Plan.

John has asked the officers to significantly shorten the time looked for, for that set of final preparation tasks, to ensure that the Plan is submitted in good time. It is worth noting that even after March, there will still be a significant time before the Plan is finally adopted. It is likely that, with the preparation work, the actual Inspection in Public will not happen before at least October and various sessions may run for a couple of months from then. The Inspector will probably take three or four months to provide their final report, and it may take six months after that to get their required alterations into the Plan before the final adoption. As hopefully is clear, there is still much to be done and we will be coming back to the subject of the Plan in future columns.

A brief note on one other subject. You will be aware that we now have restrictions on the Abridge Road, and that they are being enforced. It took much longer than we would have liked to get there and would not have happened if we had not had support from the residents, our MP, our County Councillor and the local Police Inspector.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of you about our monthly surgeries. We know we mention them almost every column but all too often when we talk to people around the village, they are not aware of them. No appointment is necessary, and you can come and talk to us about any subject. They run, each month, on the first Saturday from 11 am to noon in the Queen Victoria.

We wish you a Happy Christmas and look forward to a good New Year. We look forward to seeing you about the village in the coming months.

DISTRICT COUNCILLOR DISTRICT COUNCILLOR JOHN PHILIP - 812473 SUE JONES - 814548 Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 8 Theydon Bois & District Rural Preservation Society Walks. The Society's guided footpath walks have again proved popular in 2017 and the last for the year was on Sunday 8th October. Robert Levene led a total of 14 villagers, and a number of visitors to the village who had heard about the guided walk, to 'Theydon Wood' the Woodland Trusts new wood that contains the 'Outdoor Earth Sculpture'. The walk took in Theydon's 'Sheep & Goat Farm' and although the weather was not at its best there were still clear views across to London with 'The Shard' and Canary Wharf clearly visible. Theydon Wood has been planted with over 30,000 native trees since the Woodland Trust acquired the site in 2006, with funding support from Essex County Council. Substantial numbers of trees were planted by Society members, villagers and people from a wide range of groups across Essex and London.

The Society hopes to run a similar program of guided walks in 2018 from April to October, but is short of volunteers to lead them. We know there are many keen ‘Ramblers’ in our village so if any are able to assist with a walk please contact one of our committee members whose details are on Village Notice boards.

Talks. Our talk on Friday, 13th October in the Village Hall by Georgina Green was attended by about 40 people. The illustrated talk: “Keepers, Cockneys and Kitchen Maids” revealed fascinating stories about those who worked in the Forest: the keepers, the horse brake drivers and those who managed the refreshment venues. It also included many tales of the fun and adventures had by visitors from London and the local children for whom the Forest was a playground.

Remembrance Sunday. Our Chairman Peter Newton represented the Society at the annual service of remembrance at the village war memorial and laid a wreath on behalf of the Society.

Planning. The Society recently objected to the planning applications for a 5 Bedroom and a 4 bedroom house plus a large 4 bedroom chalet bungalow on the site of ‘Rozel’ in Loughton Lane. We are of the opinion that these proposals would be over development of this site with buildings out of keeping with the street scene and detrimental to neighbouring properties. The Society has also objected to the Planning application at Lillicroft Nurseries, Abridge Road for the demolition of a detached bungalow and the erection of a replacement. This is a Green Belt site full of important trees and the proposal is for a building significantly higher and 5 times greater in volume than the present bungalow. As always when making objections such as these the Society’s aim is to protect our village and its surrounding Green Belt as we have done since 1943.

Things should become clearer with regard to the amount of new housing development that Theydon is expected to accept in December as there will be a full EFDC council meeting on 14th December to consider agreement by councillors that the Draft New Local Plan proposals should go forward to Regulation 19 Consultation. If the council do not finalise the proposed plan by the end of March 2018, then as suggested in the recent Government Consultation, ‘Planning for the Right Homes in the Right Places’, Epping Forest District could be required to take yet more housing. This together with the November budget statements with regard to increased housing development is causing further uncertainty. As usual the Society will carefully monitor and respond to any proposals and consultations. Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 9 What is Epping Forest U3A? U3A (University of the Third Age) is a UK movement of retired and semi-retired people who come together to continue their educational, social and creative interests in a friendly and informal environment.

Taking tea with the U3A At its heart, the U3A believe that continuing to learn, develop your interests, make friends and try something new, is a life-long passion. In November, at its AGM, Epping Forest U3A celebrated 27 years since it was established in 1991 by Jack Aitkin who, until his demise in 2012, was Life President. EFU3A is one of 1,000 groups nationwide with a membership of 750 and a waiting list of 75 people.

The U3A is a learning and social co-operative made up of independent groups set up and run on a voluntary basis by the members. There are no assessments or qualifications to be gained and the accent is on learning for pleasure, drawing on the skills and knowledge of the members. The EFU3A has over 60 groups, many based at Theydon Bois Village Hall. They cover a diverse range of subjects including art, mathematics, languages, history, board games, crafts, forest walks, computing, photography and table tennis to mention but a few, plus a wide range of social activities.

At the heart of the organisational structure is a Committee which is 13 strong. It hosts a regular monthly meeting with visiting speakers, held in Theydon Bois Village Hall, usually on the first Monday of each month.Social events are held too. A celebration ‘Afternoon Tea’ in November at Theydon Bois Village Hall was enjoyed by 90 members who shared first-class sandwiches, home-made cakes and scones with tea and coffee. Entertainment was provided by the energetic and enthusiastic Singing4Fun group and quiz questions, featuring Essex answers, were another enjoyable part of the mix.

New Chair Chrystine Hobbs said “EFU3A is a great organisation with a wealth of activities to enjoy. We want to focus on supporting our groups and looking for leaders to start new activities. We would love to hear from you.” Anyone interested in starting a new group is urged to complete the on-line questionnaire. Please visit https://u3asites.org.uk/epping.

CHRISTINE BAKER Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 10 Parish Council’s School Christmas Card Competition

Every year the Parish Council together with Theydon Purlieu NewsDesk challenge the BOBBY POLAIN Overall Winner children from the Primary School to produce a Christmas Card for our village. The judges pick a winner from each class, winners for Infants/ Reception & Juniors and an overall winner (which becomes the Parish Council’s official Christmas Card).

Forest ALFIE YORK

Blackacre ISABELLA LESTER

Orchard & Reception Winner Baldocks ELODIE CAHARI WILLIAM SMITH Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 11

Parish Council’s School Christmas Card Competition (continued)

Pakes Harewood LEO BOLTON MILLIE EWING

Piercing CHRISTINA CROOK

Woburn Buxton HANNAH EVES OSCAR HALL-JACKSON

Artistic Merit Award ISABELLA EATON

Coppice SOPHIE GOOCH Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 12 Theydon Bois Primary School Theydon Bois Primary School began the term by reflecting on the 60 years the school had been open. We welcomed many visitors who were former pupils to come and look through the archives and share their memories. Many thanks to all those who came and made it such an enjoyable day and evening. The children were fascinated to look at paintings of the school by Miss Burke who was the head teacher when the school opened in 1957.

Pictured left are ex pupils and Theydon Bois residents Gary Wager and John Wakelin. Gary is holding the school logo that he drew all those years ago when he was a pupil at the school and which is still being used today. Pictured below are some of the pupils & staff past & present from across the years.

More photos may be found on the Village Website. Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 13 Theydon Bois Primary School (continued) This term we have been thinking of and helping those less fortunate than ourselves. For Harvest we collected food and toiletries for the local foodbank. In aid of Children in Need we dressed up in spots and courtesy of Roding Rotary we were awestruck by a visit from Pudsey Bear.

The year 5 and 6 classes have all been to Harlow Outdoor Centre to experience a variety of activities to develop their perseverance and team building skills while challenging themselves to try something new.

The PTA have been busy this term organising their fabulous Firework night where the display was enjoyed by everyone who attended.

Many thanks to everyone from the village who supported this evening.

We look forward to seeing you at the Christmas Fair on Sat 2nd December.

The school looks forward to welcoming Mr Andre Rall as our new headteacher in January 2018.

KIM WILLIAMS - ACTING HEADTEACHER

Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 14 The Past Autumn in Theydon Bois The Past Autumn in Theydon Bois, as described below, covers the extensive period from September to November 2017, as recorded in the Theydon Bois Local History. Therefore, due to space limitations, much detail has been omitted and so this Past Autumn copy gives a "broad brush" picture of the extensive and possibly momentous events which occurred during the autumn of 2017.

In September, a large congregation was present at the Theydon Bois Baptist Church to witness the ordination and induction of Peter Pilavachi (pictured) as minister of this very active part of the Village Religious Community.

The Women’s Institute held its September meeting in the village hall when Helen Beard spoke about Pets as a Therapy and brought with her two dogs as working examples.

Villager Lloyd Scott, a former professional goalkeeper, firefighter and professional underwater diver was diagnosed with leukemia some thirty years ago. He has since raised substantial amounts for charity with some forty feats of endurance through sponsored activities which have included cycling across Australia on a penny farthing cycle. Scott had now raised some 5 million pounds for charity since his diagnosis, and was awarded an MBE in 2005 for his services to charity.

The first of a series of Harvest Soup Lunches was held in the St Mary’s Church Hall and was a resounding success being supported by the members and friends of churches in the Theydon area. At one time the queue of diners extended to beyond the Hall entrance, and in excess of £1,000 was raised for charities supported by St Mary’s Church.

Local lecturer and writer, Georgina Green, was the speaker at a special meeting of the Rural Preservation Society held in the Village Hall. Her subject was Keepers, Cockneys and Kitchen Maids, which was also the title of her book and the basis for her talk which was predominantly about Epping Forest and is environs in the early 1900’s. She explained how the Forest was managed by Keepers responsible for particular areas in which they were also resident. The cockneys were invariably East Enders from London who arrived in droves on most days in the summer days and enjoyed the refreshments provided by the Forest Retreats notably those at Theydon Bois. Servant Maids were invariably the staff of the local Mansions at Hill Hall, Birch Hall and Copped Hall, which were the residences of notable local families. At the other end of the social scale were Macedonian travellers with a fearsome reputation for theft and other crimes who would only depart in their horseless caravans when forcibly removed by the local authority. In a short period of one hour she described a period in English history featuring an almost forgotten age in which the Epping District and its Forest had been an important part.

The annual St Mary’s Harvest Supper took on a different aspect this year with all four churches of the new United Benefice taking part. An increased number of “house hosts” were able to offer their services (and hospitality) for the occasion. The participants enjoyed a three course meal with different courses in different houses with different guests, so making this Supper especially entertaining.

In October the St Clare Hospice held a midday “Lite Bite” event in St Mary’s Church Hall to raise funds for the charity. For a nominal £5, tea/coffee and snacks were available with a Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 15

The Past Autumn in Theydon Bois (continued) Raffle, Cake and Christmas stalls providing festive interest.

On the eve of Halloween, concern was expressed in medical and ophthalmic circles regarding the eye lenses which were a part of the fancy dress being worn, particularly by children and young people. The current trend was to use theatrical eye contact lenses which, when worn, created a demonic and ghoulish appearance; the normal use of contact lenses requires special care and high standards of cleanliness if eye damage is to be avoided. The College of Ophthalmology and Moorfield’s Eye Hospital both warned against the use of “novelty lenses”.

The Epping Railway Circle (ECR) held its annual exhibition in the Village Hall on a cold autumn day which reminded Villagers that Christmas was on its way. There was a large attendance of "young and old" enthusiasts which provided a good boost to ECR funds. Twelve running layouts generated much interest including the smallest 009 gauge to a extensive Hornby 0 gauge tinplate layout which ran both electric and clockwork model trains. However the largest and most popular was the ERC Club Layout “Tanglewood Common” of 00 gauge, which even ran underground trains, and remained a centre of attention throughout the day. A number of stalls were also busy including the ever popular refreshment kiosk manned by the ladies of the ECR.

A Thanksgiving Service to Celebrate the Life of Patricia Jean Pleasant was held in St Mary’s Church following her sudden and unexpected death on the 4th October 2017. She was aged 88, and an active part of the Village community being a member of the Women's Institute, Bridge Club, Short Mat Bowls Club and the Theydon Singers, among other organizations. She possessed a very pleasant personality, was friendly to all and had a becoming manner. She also had the knack of quickly resolving problems without fuss and with her friendly smile - a lady that would be missed by many.

Theydon Bois Art Group held a special demonstration evening in the Village Hall when the well known artist William Newton gave a practical demonstration of portraiture using acrylic paints. His subject was “Ivor” a local man who had been living a nomadic life in Epping Forest, became ill and was eventually housed in a flat in Epping where he is now a "local character”. William’s remarkable skills as a painter enabled him to produce an excellent portrait from a photograph in just over one hour, instead of much longer as in a studio.

An early morning major traffic hazard in the Abridge Road out of the Village was finally cleared when "no parking" restrictions were introduced and enforced in this area. For some time commuters using the Central Line had parked in the nearside lane opposite hazard markings in what had been a central lane of a three lane road constructed in the 1930s as the "green route", the forerunner of the current M25 Motorway. The central lane had been dispensed with and so vehicles proceeding up the hill from the Village were forced into this old lane and into the path of vehicles proceeding in the opposite direction. Traffic wardens were present to TREVOR ROBERTS enforce the restrictions. LOCAL HISTORY RECORDER

Ed - Trevor lodges a comprehensive Annual Village Report with the Essex Record Office, extracts are submitted monthly for the village website and quarterly 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 100 December 2017 Page 16

Theydon Bois Action Group ocal Planning Matters - Rear 33/34 Piercing Hill - Old Coach House. The application L to demolish the building and replace it with a new dwelling, because of the 'uneconomical' costs of a conversion, has since been withdrawn. Lillicroft Nurseries - Following a refusal to demolish and replace the existing bungalow and build a second bungalow on the nursery land, an application has been made to replace the existing small wooden dwelling with a new bungalow more than 4 times the size. Theydon Bois Action Group has submitted a strong objection to the plans which are contrary to Local and National Green Belt Policies.

FDC Draft Local Plan & Protection of the Green Belt - Councillor John Philip, the E District Council Planning and Governance Portfolio Holder, will present a report on the Regulation 19 Pre-Submission Local Plan at a full Council meeting (Epping Forest District Council) in December. The Public Consultation on the Plan will then commence and continue over the Christmas/New Year period into January 2018 without any prior consultation on the new (in excess of 160) sites put forward for development. EFDC is now racing ahead with a view to submitting the new Local Plan to the Planning Inspector by 31st March 2018. Failure to meet this deadline could see an additional 9,000 homes, on top of the 11,400 already allocated for Epping Forest District, under a new methodology to calculate housing need, which was put forward by the Government in a recent Consultation. TBAG submitted a robust response to this Consultation - 'Planning for the Right Homes in the Right Places' - pointing out fundamental flaws in the proposed new methodology and citing local knowledge of the housing situation. We also wrote directly to Sajid Javid, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, copied to the Prime Minister and our MP. We are pleased to see that our Local Authority and MP are at last making a stand against these unrealistic housing targets but remain extremely disappointed that they were not prepared, at the outset of the Local Plan process, to challenge the Government over the loss of our 'precious Green Belt', unlike MPs in Surrey, Kent and Hertfordshire. The current housing target of 11,400 new homes would already mean a loss of about 500 hectares of Green Belt land which, by comparison, amounts to almost a quarter of the size of Epping Forest. It is simply not good enough to say that we are only losing around 1.5% of the District's existing Green Belt!

The Chancellor of the Exchequer announced in the Autumn Budget that the Government would "Continue the strong protection of the Green Belt." Unfortunately, the Government has not delivered on its past promises in this respect, effectively passing the responsibility or blame on to Local Authorities who are forced to build on their Green Belt to meet unrealistic housing targets. The Chancellor also stated that there are 270,000 potential new homes in London which have planning permission but have not been built. Land banking by developers? It is unfortunate that the previous Chancellor chose a policy of building our way out of the 2008 recession and developers choose green field sites rather than brown field because it is cheaper for them.

TBAG's Chairman sits on the Executive Committee of The London Green Belt Council, who have been active in facilitating the recent creation of the All Party Parliamentary Group on London's Green Belt. This will enable a more effective pro-Green Belt voice to be heard, both in the House of Commons and the Lords.

TBAG extends season's greetings to all villagers and wishes you all the very best for the New Year.

Theydon Bois Action Group www.theydonbois-actiongroup.co.uk Protecting the Village of Theydon Bois - Follow @TBActionGroup on Twitter Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 17 Focus on You - Hannah Marker Scoutleader

‘Focus on You’ focuses on people who live or work in the village of Theydon Bois. People who perform interesting and sometimes unusual jobs.

Meeting Hannah was a bit of a revelation. With so many interests; through work and through the community, this is one interview we truly relished. So when we asked Hannah to tell us about herself, she was keen to give us a bit of a history about her family and her life in Theydon Bois. Hannah told us: I have lived in the village for over a year but my family has been in the village for around 50 years! We live in what is called the ‘Tin Town’ part of the village which used to have old prefab houses built as temporary holiday homes for soldiers. She added: My great-grandparents wanted to live in the village and set their heart on the house, so camped at Debden House until it was officially theirs. After the death of both great grandparents the house was then inherited by my grandmother who had to have it demolished due to it being unsafe and built the current house.

What do you do at the moment? Hannah remarked: I have been in Scouts for a very long time. Scouting has been in the family a long time, from my late grandma being a Beaver Leader to my mum being Akela at Cubs. My grandad was also a Scout Leader on the old army bases in Germany but the groups were merged with the local groups after UK troops left Germany.

I am a Scout Leader myself. We meet on a Wednesday at 7.30 - 9.00pm at the Scout Hall every week during term time. We’ve got around 20 Scouts in this group but have around 10 - 15 each week. At the beginning of the year we entered Brass Monkey where the Scouts are given tarpaulin and poles to construct a bivouac then have to 'survive' for 24 hours. They are then marked on all sorts of things like how well the shelter looks, how clean it is and consider the menu and how inclusive it is. When kids move up from Cubs, their natural transition is to move to Scouts but we are always keen to take on more Scouts. However we are after new Leaders too! With Scouts we have done other things but Brass Monkeys is a competition for the whole district.

My day job is as a Business Administrator. I work for Another Studio for Design within Cockpit Arts, Chancery Lane in London. I do the day-to-day running of the business, invoicing, reconciling and emails.

Another area of interest is the allotment in Theydon Bois which is my passion and definitely a labour of love. I mainly grow asparagus, root vegetables, runner beans, all types of fruit berries and pumpkin. From this I make jam, chutney, juice and anything else that springs to mind. The more innovative the better! I believe there are a couple of allotments available and would recommend this to anyone interested. Having a bbq there in the summer is a great way to reward yourself for all the hard work. Unfortunately I have been a little slow at getting things ready due to a shoulder operation so try and get friends involved. I hope to grow chamomile and will concentrate on things that are rare.

If anyone has an interest in joining as a Theydon Bois Scout Leader, please contact Jane Ellison via email - [email protected]

Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 18 Theydon Bois Drama Society - Panto returns to the Village Hall. It’s been 8 years since Theydon Bois drama society produced a panto but the long wait is over! Theydon Bois Drama Society is delighted to present a pantomime depicting the magical fairy tale Cinderella. This lavish production will be filled with music, laughter, fun, dancing and the time honoured story of the beautiful young girl, bullied by her wicked stepmother and stepsisters, who meets a handsome prince who falls in love with her. Her loyal friend Buttons loves her too, but he puts her happiness before his own in order to unite Cinderella and her Prince Charming.

We have four performances to choose from starting on Thursday 11 January 2018 and finishing on Saturday 13 January 2018. Evening performances start at 8pm and we have a matinee on Saturday which starts at 2.30pm. Tickets are £10 for all performances. We have tickets at £8 for children under 12 years for the Saturday matinee only. Tickets are on sale now as detailed below.

We’d be delighted to hear from you if you are interested in getting involved in this and any future productions. If you are happy to wield a paint brush or willing to serve drinks and sell programmes, please get in touch with us. Use the ticket phone line number and one of our team will call you back.

- Our Last Production - Hound of the Baskervilles Theydon Bois Drama Society’s October production of Hound of the Baskervilles was hugely well received, with many positive comments on the quality of the staging, the acting and great enjoyment of the play. In keeping with the Sherlock revivals on television, the director, Bernard Paveley, decided to place the play in a contemporary period which worked well. Each production by TBDS is reviewed by a representative of the National Operatic and Dramatic Association. It is fair to say that on this occasion the reviewer was not enamoured of the script, but he saw much to admire on stage including mention of the excellent set and strong performances from the actors. He observed the encouraging reaction from our appreciative audience.

“This then was a very popular production which had a great audience response. For me, viewed objectively as NODA reviewers must, the play itself had many flaws but you all worked hard to try to overcome them. The humour was more successful than the moments of tension but some good portrayals and a good set did much to make this an entertaining evening. I look forward to seeing your future productions.” Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 19 Theydon Bois Drama Societ y - Our Last Production

Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 20 Copped Hall Corner PROGRESS AT THE MANSION - In the State Hall the plastering has been completed and the scaffolding removed. A panelled arch has been installed between the State Hall and the inner passage – together with four plaster wall plaques. The four chandeliers are now being refitted and a large central chandelier has been introduced. The large quantity of oak floor boards has been removed from its storage and is being sent away to the planers. The two fire places in the room are soon to be fitted with fire brick hearths. Once completed, the architraves to the doors and the windows can be made and fitted. In the Wing, six windows have been fitted and three more are about to be delivered. Two firebrick hearths have been installed – one in the caretaker’s apartment and the other in John Conyer’s dressing room. The Parlour on the ground floor- to the left of the front door – has been fitted with its plaster ceiling. PROGRESS IN THE GARDENS - In the Walled Kitchen Garden, the Orchard House awaits its glazed roof and a set of entrance doors. Once completed, the work benches can be set up inside for the educational classes. In the main gardens, further path edgings have been installed near the Racquets Court. These not only contribute to the restoration of the gardens, but also give clear indication of the position and routes of the paths. In the ruined Winter Garden to the south of the Mansion, much clearance has taken place. The plan is to reinstate the concrete floor over at least one of the underground rainwater reservoirs. This would make the building safer and also prevent water in the tanks becoming full of algae. The Winter Garden was a wonderful building and it is important not to neglect it. Although full restoration will be very expensive, there is no reason why limited work should not take place e.g.. reconstruction of the southwest corner from original material still on site. PAST EVENTS IN SUMMER & AUTUMN 2017 A very full programme of well attended events attracted much support and interest. An equally interesting programme is planned for 2018 as the restoration of Copped Hall progresses steadily.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS UP TO 30TH DECEMBER 2017 Dec 3, 4, 9 and 10 - Christmas Carol Concerts

SITE AND GARDEN TOURS 2018 Guided Tours of the Mansion and grounds/walled garden are held on the 3rd Sun each month (from Jan to Nov). Tours from 10.15, for two hours approx (gates open 10.00 to 11.00 only - extended to 13.00 for July only).

Special openings of the Gardens are held on 1st Sunday each month from Apr to Sep - between 14.00 and 16.00.

Unless otherwise stated, all events are held at the Copped Hall Mansion. Car parking is always available, as are refreshments. Vehicle access is only possible via the London entrance in the Upshire Road off the B1393.

For further information/tickets please contact 07749 397932 or E Mail [email protected].

TREVOR ROBERTS for the Copped Hall Trust Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 21 Village News proudly presents its 100th Edition Some of our front pages from the last 16 years follow. Opposite is the earliest copy (1998) that we have on file. If anybody has earlier versions then we’d love to hear from you.

Village News has come a long way over the years from a 4 page monochrome news sheet which contained just the minutes of the Parish Council to a regular magazine of around 40 pages in full colour.

We are very grateful to our sponsors for their generous support. Many thanks to our regular contributors and especially our deliverers who ensure that Theydon Residents get their magazine on time.

Jim Watts, the Village Website Editor applies his camera skills to many of our photos. As editor, our proof reader Martin Oliver is a vital team member as he makes sure my typos are properly corrected. My thanks EDITOR Jim, Martin and the other members of the editorial team.

Tony Ames Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 22 Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 23 Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 24 Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 25 Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 26 Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 27 Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 28 Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 29

Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 30

West Essex ArtsFest at the Village Hall True happiness, according to one John W. Gardner, involves the full use of one’s power and talent - and if that is so then there were 50 or so members of The Arts Society West Essex who were very happy indeed to have their work displayed in the society’s ArtsFest staged at Theydon Bois Village Hall towards the end of November.

The 60 exhibits exposed talent from woodworking in the form of an exquisite table through high quality paintings and sketches to quilting, needlework and dressmaking, photography, pottery and floral art. Judges were on hand to select three items to go forward to an Essex Area ArtsFest and thence to a national digital display of selected items by The Arts Society. Also on show was the recently completed Church Recording by Angela Peachy and her team of All Saints, Epping Upland.

During the afternoon the exhibition was viewed by visitors who included other members of the Society, friends and the general public. The exhibition followed a sequence of lectures during the morning and early afternoon on “Opera - The Melting Pot of Culture” by lecturer and Broadcaster Sarah Lenton accompanied by some fine operatic excerpts to illustrate her talk. This was one of two Days of Special Interest ‘DOSI Days’ held during the year enabling deeper study of topics judged of particular interest and delivered by ‘five star’ lecturers and in addition to monthly one hour lectures.

Two highlights of the autumn: adoption of the new name The Arts Society West Essex to stay in line with the national organisation switch to The Arts Society from National Decorative and Fine Arts Society (NADFAS). Secondly the highly successful trip made by 50 West Essex members to City of Culture Hull, an eye-opener to southerners unfamiliar with the many fascinating features of that City and its environs.

Interested in joining? Programme for 2018 and other information at www.theartssocietywestessex.uk. Inquiries to Lis Goodwin 01992 812083 [email protected] Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 31 Theydon Bois Tennis Club Our new Club Captains hosted their first Captains’ Day events in September. Lynn Howarth and Mark Squire organised a trio of inclusive activities, which started with a group walk for members, families and friends around Epping Forest in the morning. This was followed by an American Tournament for 32 players, and finished with an evening meal in the clubhouse. In total the day raised an outstanding £1,100 for the Captains’ charities, St Clare Hospice and the Breast Cancer Unit at St Margaret’s Hospital.

September means Finals Day for both Seniors and Juniors. Ian Smith continued his dominance of the Men’s Singles, while Heather Brady won the Ladies’ Singles for the third time. Holly Smith won her third Junior Girls’ Singles title, beating Olivia Shaw in the final, while Sean Meyer beat his older brother Owen to win his debut Junior Boys’ Singles crown. Pictured opposite are the Junior Tournament Finalists; Olivia Shaw, Holly Smith, Sean Meyer & Owen Meyer.

The Tennis Club’s commitment to community involvement extended to hosting the local Contact the Elderly group in October (pictured opposite). Seven ladies plus volunteers came for a fine afternoon day, and had a great day watching the tennis.

Our new Head Coach David Wright started in November, and more on him in the next issue. He's already made an impact running coaching for all ages and abilities, plus Cardio Tennis sessions for the more fitness-minded. Non-members and beginners are welcome to join in.

Some of the members, families and friends who took part in the dog walk as part of Captains’ Day are pictured here.

Visit www.theydonboisltc.hitstennis.co.uk for more information on all our activities.

Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 32 Theydon Bois Golf Club Village News is delighted to have two contributors for the Golf Club column in this December edition namely Club Manager John Reeder and Club Professional Kevin Delaney.

evin tees off first, with tips for playing from muddy lies

K How to pitch from muddy lies - For many of us, muddy lies are a frustrating reality of winter golf. These are most threatening when you’re faced with a soft, delicate short game shot. Being able to hit the ball a relatively short distance but still commit to the shot in hand is tough but with some crucial changes to your approach, you should survive. The key to coping with this scenario is to rely on your bigger muscles – feeling that the club is responding to the rotation of your core.

Start by moving the ball a little further back in your stance and place more weight on your left side, this will help you find a steeper angle of attack to ensure you make contact with the ball before the mud. During the swing, make sure that your arms work in synchronisation with the rotation of your body. Feel that your elbows are almost connected to your rib cage – this will give you the synchronised feeling that lies at the heart of this play. A lot of golfers use their hands and arms for chip shots without rotating the body but this brings inconsistency into play, both in terms of the strike and your distance control. A compact stroke that works in conjunction with your body rotation is a far more reliable technique – regardless of the lie. One thing to watch out for is to not flick your wrists at the ball, this will make poor strikes far more likely and brings the smaller, twitchy muscles in your hands into play. Keep your wrists fairly solid throughout the stroke. Finally, concentrate on rotating your upper body through the shot. In the finish position your chest should be pointing at the target along with the clubhead. This is essential. By using your bigger muscles, the club should keep moving through the sticky turf.

Don’t forget that in the run up to Christmas we have a well-stocked pro shop that can cater for every golfers needs. Please pop in and see us if you are looking for some gift ideas. If you would like to book lessons as a gift for somebody we can do vouchers for lessons. The charge is £20 per half hour lesson or 6 ½ hour lessons for £100.

ohn continues with the latest club news

J Here at the Golf Club we are delighted to have a new addition to our greenkeeping team in twenty three year old Kyle from Hainault. We were put in touch with Kyle through Sycamore Trust UK, a charity based in Barking and Dagenham www.autismemployment.org.uk, which supports parents, carers and individuals affected by Autistic Spectrum Disorders and/or learning difficulties. Sycamore Trust are, in turn, being supported by the Glyn Hopkin Charitable Foundation CIO.

Kyle has been with the Team for a week now and is settling in really well. Unsurprisingly, leaves are a major source of frustration for our members at this time of year but Kyle is tackling the issue head on, armed with his leaf blower. Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 33

Theydon Bois Golf Club (continued) Kyle tells us that the best part of the job is being out in the open air and peaceful surroundings of the forest. As well as responsibility for leaf clearing, Kyle will be maintaining the quality of the tees and fairways with divoting work as well as keeping the car park and clubhouse surrounds in good order. We wish Kyle all the best in his new role and look forward to working with him to develop his skills. If you have a business and wish to benefit from a diverse workforce then we recommend you contact the Sycamore Trust UK [email protected]. ‘SPACE’ – Supporting People with Autism into Continued Employment.

At the end of November we said ‘goodbye’ to our Club Captains for 2017, Brian Hatwell and Anne Zoers. Brian and Anne have had a wonderful year working very hard to raise money for their nominated charities (more on that next time) and to find exciting ways to entertain the members while they do so. On Saturday 25th November, our Captains hosted a memorable Captains’ Dinner and Dance where as well as enjoying a sumptuous dinner, we were entertained by the superb trio that is ‘Déjà vu’ whose music and dancing provided something for everyone to enjoy. After thoroughly successful years our Captains can now relax a bit and enjoy their golf.

ther great news at the Club

O Club Manager John Reeder was very successful at the Golf Club Managers’ Association (GCMA) Management Awards. John attended the GCMA’s Conference held at Mercedes-Benz World in Surrey in November having competed in the category of Newcomer of the Year. John has only been our Club Manager since April and has stepped up to the challenge of Club Management with great gusto.

Following two tough interviews including a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style test at the Finals held at the Oxfordshire Golf Club John did us proud by taking the Runners-up spot, having been pipped to the post by Gordon McLeod of St. Ives Golf Club (Hunts). We are really proud of John’s achievement which has helped put our club even more firmly on the golfing map.

Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 34 Tippy’s Topics - All Things Theydon Bois - Facebook Group A big hello to all villagers and a huge welcome to any new residents! - from our Theydon Bois Villagers Only Group and our All Things Theydon Bois Facebook pages.

This is a summary of discussions over the past few months.

FUNDRAISING - A main topic of conversation has been the Christmas Tree on the green. What started as a debate about its positioning escalated into a venture to improve its size and lighting from previous years efforts, one villager suggested that maybe we, as a village, could perhaps contribute towards this, and so far the donations handed in at the Post Office have amounted to over £500 - a web page has been created to allow donations online which, as far as I am aware, has amassed £100 plus - anyone wishing to contribute can do so via either aforementioned method. The online page is entitled Theydon Bois Christmas Tree Fund/ Theydon Bois. All monies will be given over to the Parish Council who, along with their own contribution, will help towards a grander and more welcoming sight for both villagers and visitors alike. I would also like to point out that both the pre-school and the playground are also trying to raise funds and donations can be given in at the Post Office as per usual.

PARKING - New car parking restrictions in the Queen Vic have been implemented following a sharp increase in commuter parking since the old signage was removed. There is now a fifteen minute window for shoppers, which many have welcomed.

CRIME - Crime has been discussed at some length, with many villagers reporting being victims of crime, in particular a large number of thefts from vehicles - some believed that they had locked their vehicles, yet contents were stolen without evidence of a 'break-in'.

A very helpful resident posted a video of a contraption used to unlock cars usually opened with an electronic key. This system can read the information in your key and override it, allowing the perpetrator to gain access to a vehicle and even start the engine.

His suggestion was to keep your keys as far away as possible from your front door, in a plastic container and wrapped up in tin foil, thereby blocking the signal!

A large number of vehicles were damaged badly in one evening, in one street, they were 'keyed' and had obscenities scraped into them, people were asked to be vigilant and report anything suspicious to both the police and neighbours, especially anyone with CCTV footage. A large number of villagers were affected and were very upset.

Tesco was severely disrupted with two break-ins over a two day period, damage was major and villagers and staff were badly inconvenienced. Villagers discussed this at some length and many offered to help in any way they could. One of our local shops decided to assist and stocked some of the necessities which we rely on. Coincidently it was announced that the suspected perpetrators had been apprehended.

There is currently an online review from both Roger Hirst, the Police, Fire and Crime Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 35

Tippy’s Topics - All Things Theydon Bois - Facebook Group (continued) commissioner for Essex - who is trying to ascertain as to whether residents would be happy to pay more, "so more resources can be invested in policing across the country, as Essex police receive the lowest funding per resident across the country". There has been a mixed bag reaction to this survey.

ROADS AND PAVEMENTS - Villagers have discussed the current state of our roads and pavements especially with regards to those who are less able to get out and about. There have been complaints about cracked pavements and differing levels and surfaces after works had been carried out. Many feel this is quite dangerous and needs attention.

FLY TIPPING - Several times over the past few months there have been items dumped in and around our village, many feel this looks unsightly. A kindly resident has given the number for reporting these issues 01992 564608.

BUS SERVICE - This is a subject that I am particularly passionate about - it has been announced that the 418 bus service, which runs a skeletal two-hour service is under threat and it was in danger of being withdrawn in January 2018. However as you will read elsewhere there has been a stay of execution and an arrangement reached to continue the bus service until at least 31st March 2018 when discussions for extension will take place.

PETS - There was a long discussion regarding keeping dogs on leads so as not to frighten other dogs, even if an owner's pet is friendly. There have been incidents where dogs have jumped up and knocked people over, in other cases, attacked other dogs.

HISTORY - We had a very interesting debate regarding the correct pronunciation of 'Theydon Bois and were treated to some enjoyable historical content from www.british-history.ac.uk and also from a number of villagers.

POPPY APPEAL - Many villagers were very pleasantly surprised to hear about an individual's efforts to raise funds for the poppy appeal, by going door to door. Congratulations were in order and their pot ended up full of coins.

AND FINALLY - We have had a large number of items reunited with owners, from mobile phones to cuddly toys. Anyone wishing to join our groups can access them via Facebook.

We have been treated to some wonderful photos of the garden at the primary school and activities at the pre school.

With information and updates, they have been a pleasure to view.

We have also received some great photos, including this one taken in Theydon Park Road at night - taken by Sharon Granston.

Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 36 Countryside Walks - Epping & Theydon Epping Forest Countrycare - Is Epping Forest District Council’s award winning Countryside Management Service. It is the key resource for advice, information and practical assistance on the countryside, nature conservation and wildlife law. Countrycare undertakes a wide variety of community-based activities and coordinates a regular programme of practical conservation work. They have prepared some guided local walk leaflets. These walks take in some lovely areas of countryside and some interesting and informative history. Choose your walk based on an area or the length of walk you would like. In this and future editions of Village News we will try to include details of some of the walks. The walk below is obviously best enjoyed during the summer months when the illustrated flora and fauna is in full flow but as always winter time exhibits its own special attractions. You can download complete leaflets from

http://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/index.php/out-and-about/countrycare/get-involved/walks

History - The Epping & Theydon Country Walk is a pleasant six mile walk through the parishes of Theydon Mount, Theydon Garnon and Epping and will take about 3 hours to complete. The footpaths are in good condition but these may become muddy after wet weather. Sturdy footwear is advised. This is an undulating walk with many small hills and inclines. There is a small amount of road walking, please be aware of traffic and take care. Please follow the Country Code. Keep dogs on a lead near livestock and keep to the footpath when walking across privately owned land. There is a free public car park located at Stonards Hill, Epping,

For any footpath queries please contact Essex County Council on 08457 430 430. Website: www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/countrycare Email: [email protected]

About the Walk - Archeological finds show that as far back as 7500BC there were settlements in the area surrounding Epping. A coin dating back to the reign of Roman Emperor Domitian (AD81 to AD96) was found in a garden near Hemnall St indicating a roman presence in Epping at one point. The remains of a roman road and brickworks were also found close to Fiddlers Hamlet.

Epping market is an important part of Epping’s history. It dates back to 1253 when King Henry III granted Waltham Abbey the right to hold a weekly market in Epping Street. Over the years the market St Alban the Martyr developed into an important cattle market so much so that cattle pens became a permanent feature in the high street. It is recorded that even wives could be bought and sold on Epping Market.

In the 1800’s world famous lepidopterist Henry Doubleday lived in Epping. He was the author of the first catalogue of British butterflies and moths and named a number of new species of moth. His moth collection remains intact in the Natural History Museum, London. Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 37

Countryside Walks - Epping & Theydon (continued) Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 38 Countryside Walks - Epping & Theydon (continued) POINTS OF INTEREST

1. Epping Union Workhouse/St Margaret’s Hospital - The Epping Union Workhouse was built in 1837 and was capable of housing over 200 of the District’s poorest residents. A common task set the workers was picking Oakum which consisted of pulling apart old ropes, the fibres were then mixed with pitch and used to seal the seams of ships. The site was requisitioned by the British Military in the first and second world wars which led to development of better medical facilities. The main workhouse building was eventually demolished in 2001 to make way for further development of St. Margaret’s Hospital.

2. St. Alban the Martyr, Coopersale - The church, vicarage and original parish school were built in 1852 at the bequest of Miss Archer-Houblon. A new school has since been built to the north of the church and the original school building now serves as the parish meeting rooms.

3. Garnon Bushes Local Nature Reserve - This Local Nature Reserve is owned and managed by the Essex Wildlife Trust. Once part of Coopersale Common this ancient woodland contains many old Hornbeam pollards, and is important for many species of flora and fauna.

4. Ongar Park Wood - Ongar Park Wood once formed part of a medieval deer park dating back to 1046. Areas of wood pasture were enclosed with log fences, hedges and ditches to prevent the deer escaping. Some of the ancient boundaries can still be seen today. The park remained intact up until the 1950s when large parts were taken over for agricultural use.

5. Roman Road - This section of the walk follows the path on an old Roman road. It was a main route out of London via the Roding Valley and is traceable from Abridge to Dunmow.

6. Gayne’s Park - The Gayne’s Park Estate has a long history dating back to the 13th century. In 1870 the large mansion house was built using a hard limestone called Kentish Rag. The Mansion house was at one point used as a private school but fell into disrepair and in 2007 was bought and converted into luxury apartments. Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 39 Mike the Fish Village News previously ran an article about one of Theydon’s lesser-known retailers, mobile Fishmonger, Colin Halliday, (Issue 82 June 2013) - pictured opposite, who has been making his weekly trip to the village for around 24 years. Colin recently retired and he has asked Village News to express his sincere thanks to all his customers for their loyal custom over the years and for all the cards, gifts and good wishes he received on making his final rounds.

Colin’s round has been taken over by a fellow Lincolnshire man, Mike Bullen. Village News caught up with Mike and heard about his future plans to expand his round to two days in the village. First though a little about Mike. His family have been in the fish trade for around 28 years but this is his first solo venture. Mike is a family man with three young children aged 3, 7 and 12. One of his sons likes to accompany him to Grimsby to select his fish! A typical week starts each Monday around 4am when he buys his fish freshly landed from Grimsby fish market. The van is loaded and he drives down to the village arriving around 1pm to start selling to his customers at the doorstep on Monday afternoon and again on Tuesday morning between 7am and 11am.

Mike stocks a variety of fresh and smoked fish, shellfish and you can even purchase breadcrumbs and batter mix for the complete meal! He also sells fresh farm eggs sourced from a local farmer in Barnsley. We asked Mike about his favourite fish and he said his personal treat is Rainbow Trout, easy and quick to cook and delicious baked in the oven with olive oil and a little chilli and lemon!

Customers generally come by word of mouth but if you are interested in obtaining fresh fish from Mike then give him a call on 07720 256654 or stop by when you see him doing his rounds in his van marked “Fresh Grimsby Fish”. Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 40 Theydon Bois Horticultural Society In September the Society visited a garden on the east coast of Norfolk called East Ruston Old Vicarage. To break the journey we stopped in Norwich for lunch and a look round arriving at the garden in the afternoon. The site of the garden was originally flat and exposed but thanks to the planting of numerous trees and tall hedges, it is now an oasis of calm sheltering many rare shrubs and flowers all beautifully kept. There was an excellent nursery selling plants from the garden and a cafe with great cakes.

The Society's AGM was held on the 22nd November in the village hall. The Committee reported that it had been a very successful year for the Society with a record number of entries to the Show in July (including 13 tortoises for the tortoise race), and attendance at the Show itself was high, despite wet weather. The 2 outings to Sissinghurst and East Ruston were fully booked and the Talks well attended.

In addition, members of the committee continued to plant and care for the flowerbeds on the station and the planters by the shops. The Front Garden Competition is also organised by the Society and involves a good deal of leg work! There was a talk by Tom Cole preceding the meeting. He is a part time lecturer at Writtle College and talks about gardening on Essex radio so his talk for us was both interesting and instructive. He showed many beautiful photos of shrubs for winter colour and of climbers for all seasons.

For your new diary don’t forget to put in our talk at the Village Hall on Wednesday, 15th March 2018 at 8pm. It’s entitled Creating a Butterfly Garden and is being given by David Bevan.

Horticultural Society Show, 21st July 2018, Photographic Classes.

In order to give people time to plan and take their photographs we are publishing the subjects for the photographic section now.  Seed heads  Pens and pencils  A War Memorial (memorial to be named)  The night sky  A beach scene (not necessarily in the UK)  A photograph of a bird or birds  Set of 3 photographs depicting three different hobbies Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 41 PAT Appeal - Three Peaks Challengers Return Victorious Three intrepid young men from local estate agent Butler & Stag, based in Theydon Bois, have returned victorious from their heroic charity challenge. Last weekend they successfully climbed the three highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales ‘all in one go’ over 24 hours. Neil Leahy, Michael Woolley and Tyler Dunkin tested themselves against rugged terrain and challenging weather so that children using Theydon Bois playground can have a safer and more secure future with new, updated equipment.

Victory was achieved completing their three peaks challenge in 13 hours and 13 minutes of climbing plus ten hours of time allotted for travelling. The Playground at Theydon Appeal has already benefitted by £5,000 as fundraising gained pace prior to the climb. It’s still hoped the target of £10,000 will be reached as more people appreciate the personal sacrifices that went into making the conquest a success. Visit www.playgroundattheydon.co.uk

Neil Leahy said “It was hard going but we loved it. Of course, there are highs and lows emotionally, largely from fatigue and lack of sleep. The mini bus was horrible, no room to spread out and smelt of sweat and feet, and we were cooped up with four people we had never met before. But it was all part of the experience and after the first walk we had bonded.”

 Ben Nevis 1,345 metres (4,411 ft) was climbed while battling wind and rain with 40-50 mph winds around the summit.  Scafell Pike 978 metres (3,209 ft) arrived late due to traffic diversion, climb started at 10.30pm, in heavy rain, strong winds and complete darkness. The guide felt safety was being compromised but the team pleaded to summit and returned to the group having reached the top.  Snowden 1,085 metres (3,560 ft) The team arrived in Wales feeling positive. Racing against the clock they pushed on unescorted to complete the challenge. They raced up, quickly summitting, and returned in good time meaning the challenge was completed in 23 hours and 33 minutes.

The Playground at Theydon Appeal, a registered charity, must raise £115k including insurance and maintenance. Shelly Dix, Charity Chair said “We are really grateful to Butler & Stag and to everyone who has donated so far. Thank you. Plans also include apparatus that provides play for disabled children plus an outreach for the wider local community.” To further support the Three Peaks Challengers visit https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/PaT3Peaks

Cheques made payable to ‘Playground at Theydon Association’, or cash, can be given to Butler & Stag, 4 Forest Drive Theydon Bois CM16 7EY in the special post box. Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 42 Remembrance Sunday November 12th 2017

On a bright, but chilly morning our young and more senior citizens gathered at the War Memorial in St. Mary's Churchyard for the annual service of commemoration. For more photos of the service see the photo gallery & video on the village website - www.theydon.org.uk Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 43 Theydon Churches Update t. Mary’s Soup Lunches - The takings for the St. Mary’s Soup Lunches in S November were £1,238 and so far the mini Christmas cakes sold at the lunches have made £505, but we still have about thirty of these to sell. Cash donations also amounted to about £200 but Linda Hammond, who looks after the shoe box appeal, is away at the time of writing so we cannot be sure of the final total yet. I think it would not be unfair to claim that we have made a total of £2000 when all things are taken into consideration. The committee members are always thrilled by the support we get. The customers are generous to a fault and are very interested in our little talk and prayer that is given at every lunch. Everybody laments the last lunch of the series, saying can't we have some more and always sit around the tables even after they have finished their lunch. I think we can say that it is not just a fund raising event; it is a much cherished community event where people who have not seen one another for a while are reconnected and they enjoy dining and talking together! John Eaton said “that from St. Mary’s perspective, we are very grateful for the support for our charities and we are happy that it makes others happy. And at the end of it all though, we are exhausted”.

Christmas message from the Vicar of the Theydon Parishes - The beginning of December A marks the beginning of Advent, the season of the year in which the church prepares for Christmas. Traditionally Advent, was a time of going without, (a bit like a mini-Lent) in preparation for the festivities of Christmas which began on December 25th and continued for at least the next 12 days until Epiphany, which marks the time the wise men eventually found the child Jesus.

In recent years, Christmas celebrations appear to have been reversed from that traditional pattern. Once December 25th has passed, decorations are often fairly quickly removed from the shops to be replaced by signs for the Boxing Day sales. Sadly shopping has become a key part of Christmas. Only in relatively recent times in the span of human history has shopping become a leisure pursuit. But, Christmas is not about shopping, Christmas is all about Jesus Christ. It starts with Him, and without thinking about Him, Christmas is simply a winter festival, a moment of light in the seasonal darkness. A consumerist approach to Christmas has at its heart a belief that light is going out, that darkness will win ultimately, so it is important to celebrate while we can. Instead, why not explore the Christian faith a bit more this Christmas, a faith which is a call to celebrate always because the light has not and will not be put out.

The Church of England invites us to go on a Christmas Journey, exploring the faith from Advent through to Epiphany, (which is the festival marking the arrival of the wise men) and beyond. Why not take a moment to explore at www.churchofengland.org/Christmas & begin your Christmas journey. A warm invitation is extended to come and celebrate in St Mary’s Theydon Bois as we journey together through Christmas, there will be both traditional services, and others with a particular focus on children, including a special pre-school crib service on Wednesday 13th December at 1.45p.m.May the joy of Christ be yours this Christmas!

ou may ask, “What is a Benefice”? The Church of England works through the parish system: a Y geographical division of our country into small units, each containing one or more parish churches. In times gone by every parish would have its own Vicar, or Rector, but as rural populations shifted to the cities, parishes began to join together in order to share their clergy. Such a union of two or more parishes which remain distinct legal entities is called a benefice. So our benefice is the coming together of four churches (All Saints Theydon Garnon, St Mary the Virgin Theydon Bois, and the joint parish of St Michael’s Theydon Mount and St Mary the Virgin Stapleford Tawney).

e are: one Benefice, three Parishes, three congregations, four W Churches. See the new website at https://www.theydonparishes.org/ where a warm welcome is extended to all visitors, both to the website, and of course visitors to our four churches. Details of our Christmas Services may be found on page 5 of this issue of Village News. REV JOHN FRY Vicar of the Theydon Parishes Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 44 Theydon Bois Baptist Church agic Night - Review

M How can a rabbit throw balls out of a basket when no-one is nearby? If you love illusions and comedy, I hope you were in the Baptist Church on the evening of Saturday 4th November. Nick Lear, an experienced magician and member of the Magic Circle, amazed a packed house with his illusions and humour.

We saw a white rabbit (of course!) who wanted to throw a knife at a man who was ‘volunteered’ by his young son, as well as various illusions with cards, and a conundrum with keys and a wooden box. Nick also carried out a Houdini- style escapology feat, showing us the stages in- between. We were none the wiser at the end, though. How did he manage to get out of those tight handcuffs? Nick included lots of children, of various ages, in his show, inviting them up to take part. Many of us adults were trying to fathom how he carried out his illusions but the children were totally absorbed in his act, enjoying every minute of it.

Delicious refreshments at the interval - hot dogs, drinks, and lots of nibbles. No-one left hungry! Children, who had initially sat with their families in the first half, decided to sit near the front so that they could be involved in his magical feats. Pleasingly, they looked after each other and made sure that they all had a seat, including the tiny ones, and could see what was going on. My 5 year old granddaughter had a wonderful evening, giggling out loud at the rabbit’s antics and enjoyed being on stage and throwing cards over her shoulder into an umbrella until just one was left. What a surprise; it was the same as the one inside a cushion cover! It all ended too soon. A wonderful evening of fun.

Nick Lear is a Baptist minister. He uses his ‘magic’ to amuse and bemuse but also to share news about Jesus. Nick has said ‘Consider how you can bless, encourage, support, amuse, strengthen and enhance the lives of those around you by what you do with them and for them’. This seems a good message for all of us.

omen’s Meeting Centenary W We celebrated our long-awaited Centenary on 12th October. Our Thanksgiving Service was on the theme “Thanks for the past – Trust for the future”, and included contributions from a number of friends with connections to the Women’s Meeting. Ninety five people attended, including representatives from local women’s groups and many others with long-standing associations with us, as well as members of our own Church, and, of course, members of the Women’s Meeting itself. One of the highlights was the cutting of the magnificent cake, by our oldest member and the lady who has been a member for longest. A collection was taken up, and the proceeds divided between three of the charities that we support. The charities were:- Macmillan Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 45

Theydon Bois Baptist Church (continued) Cancer Support; Christian Hope; and The Falconer Trust. After the service, we adjourned for afternoon tea which was much enjoyed.

An event like this requires a great deal of work, and we would like to thank all those (too numerous to mention) who helped, in whatever way, to make it such a happy occasion. We thank God for his faithfulness to us over the past century, and remember those who went before us, and established, in very different times, the work that we continue today.

If you would like to join us at one of our weekly meetings, please just turn up. We meet at 2:30pm on Thursday afternoons for about an hour, but you are very welcome to come any time after 2pm to have a cup of tea with us. Please come to one of the side entrances of the Church. If you need transport, this can be arranged.

MENS FORUM

The Forum meets at the Theydon Bois Baptist Church (Rear Halls), The Green, at about 10.15 am and finishes at 12 noon. If you would like to know more about the Forum please telephone David Walling 01992 813133

2017

Dec 13: Y-Care International” by Ana Stojanovic & Joel Bundy

2018

Jan 10: Life in an Ivory Tower” by Graham Williams 24: First World War art” by Anne Marie Craven

Feb 14: Investigating Murder” by Roy Tyzack 28: The Lost Railways of Essex” by Nathaniel Dodd

Mar 14: The Postal Museum” by Jessica Woolf 28: Facing Obstacles & Troubles” by Peter Pilvachi Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 46 News, Comments & Notices THEYDON BOIS SINGERS Christmas Concert Tuesday 12th December 2017 at 7.45pm Theydon Bois Village Hall Bar Available Light Refreshments Tickets £10 in advance £12 on the door For tickets Email: [email protected] Tel: 01992 573855

We shall be performing Haydn’s ‘Creation’ on 28th April 2018 at St. John’s Church Buckhurst Hill

Beware of Scams!

About 4pm on Thursday 19th October, a very tall male in casually dressed clothes, attended an address in the Epping area purporting to be a Police officer checking up on cold calling incidents. The victim saw an ID card with a photo and the words “Metropolitan Police” above, but later realised there was no warrant number underneath. It’s not sure what this person’s intentions were, but the suspect left with the victim’s phone number and nothing else.

When you have unexpected callers, please check all ID carefully and if in doubt, do not let them into your house. Leave the caller on the doorstep, shut the door, and contact their company using a phone number you can find via directory enquiries or other means. If they are genuine they will not mind the wait. Do not phone a number they give you as it could be an accomplice.

When answering the front door, always make sure that your rear doors are secure, and that no one can enter at the rear whilst you are being distracted at the front. Not all callers are bogus, and if you are interested in what the caller has to say, obtain their details and call them back later when you have had time to think and check them out. Never be pushed into making an immediate decision, or pass on any personal details, no matter what they say. You Take Control! MADELEINE MCCARTHY NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH CO-ORDINATOR THEYDON BOIS Village News Issue 100 December 2017 Page 47 News, Comments & Notices Village Website Editor, FLORI DIAZ FOLLOW UP VISIT Jim Watts visited members of the Romero family (the children and grandchildren of Vincente Romero) in San Sebastian, Spain at the end of September and while there was invited to visit Flori Diaz at her home in Barakalo near Bilbao. Flori featured in the September issue of Village News recounting her memories of staying in Theydon as a Basque Child refugee from the Spanish Civil War. Vincente, who sadly is now dead, had featured in earlier Village News issues. These can all be found on the Newsletters Page of the Village Website.

Jim spent a very pleasant few hours with Flori and her son looking through some of her 'archive' on the Basque Children and was also able to present her with some printed copies of the September Village News that contained her article.

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. The Group meets every month from September to May usually on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings take the form of an illustrated lecture or a demonstration, followed by refreshments. There is also a plant raffle, sales table and an alpine plant display. We meet at Theydon Bois Village Hall, starting at 8.00 pm. Tuesday 5 Dec Members’ slides with seasonal refreshments Tuesday 9 Jan Washington Wild Flowers – Alan Oats Tuesday 13 Feb AGM then -California Native Flora, the wonder of Calochortus - Solène Dequiret Further information is available from: Keith Ballard, Tel: 01992 813231, Email: [email protected] - www.alpinegardensociety.net/groups/Epping-Forest

Judging the Primary School Christmas card Commuters to and from Theydon were amused by competition - Elizabeth Thomas, Tony Ames Halloween displays at the Station House - see the & Jim Watts Village Website for more photos. pp g p g p p y

Village News Issue 100 Village Activities December 2017 2017/18 Page 48

This diary is updated continually on the village website - www.theydon.org.uk The information, opinions and views presented in Village News and on the Village Website reflect the views of the authors and contributors of the articles and publication of articles, advertisements or product/services information does not constitute endorsement or approval by Village News, Village Website or the Parish Council.

12 Dec Theydon Bois Singers Christmas Concert 7.45pm Village Hall - see page 46 13 Dec Women's Institute 2pm Village Hall - Members Christmas Meeting 13 Dec Men’s Forum Talk - Baptist Church Rear Hall - see page 45 14 Dec Toy & Train Fair - Village Hall 7 - 9pm 19 Dec Fairlop Brass - Christmas Crackers at the Village Hall - see page 46 10 Jan Theydon & Abridge Jazz Club - Abridge Village Hall - see page 45 10 Jan Men’s Forum Talk - Baptist Church Rear Hall - see page 45 11-13 Jan Theydon Bois Drama Society - Cinderella - Village Hall - see page 18 24 Jan Men’s Forum Talk - Baptist Church Rear Hall - see page 45

25 Jan Parish Council Meeting with Public Participation - 8pm - Village Hall 14 Feb Men’s Forum Talk - Baptist Church Rear Hall - see page 45 22 Feb Parish Council Meeting with Public Participation - 8pm - Village Hall 28 Feb Men’s Forum Talk - Baptist Church Rear Hall - see page 45 10 Mar St Clare Quiz Village Hall 7.30pm - tickets Marion Oliver 01992 812042 14 Mar Men’s Forum Talk - Baptist Church Rear Hall - see page 45 15 Mar Horticultural Society talk-Creating a Butterfly Gdn-plants will be on sale - VH 8pm 29 Mar Parish Council Meeting with Public Participation - 8pm - Village Hall various Copped Hall - Christmas Carol Concerts - see page 20

Village News has only a small selection of event photographs - for most of the events covered there are usually many more which can be found on photos page of the Village Website. There is also a diary page which is continuously updated - www.theydon.org.uk

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]

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]

NEXT VILLAGE NEWS COPY DEADLINE - 18th February 2018 Thanks to our Sponsors - Stevenette, Theydon Bois Pharmacy, Indian Ocean, Theydon Bois Balti House, Martin Shepherd Solicitors, Theydon Bois Dentists and Woodland Grove Care Homes see pages 4, 6, & 29.