Parish News December 2020

Christmas Church Services See back page for details Christmas Eve Christmas Day 4pm Online Nativity 8am St Thomas' 6pm Online Christingle 9.15am St Andrew's 11.15am St Mary's (Zoom)

Little Hadham Parish News is distributed free by St Cecilia’s Church Little Hadham Parish News is distributed free by St Cecilia’s Church Letter from the Rectory Little Hadham Parish News

Revd. Steve Bate Rector of the Parish: Revd. Steve Bate Waiting seems to play a large part in my waited for him to be 01279 842 609 [email protected] life at the moment: waiting for the next born. It’s on Christmas I heard the bells on Christmas Zoom call, waiting for a delivery slot or for Day, at the end of our Day my click and collect slot, waiting at the own time of waiting, Churchwarden: traffic lights as I continue to travel, when that we mark the end Karin Green Their old, familiar carols play, 01279 771 532 necessary, around our three parishes. of all those centuries of waiting for God And wild and sweet, Waiting has become part of all our lives to come among us, coming as one of us, [email protected] this year as we wait in appropriately- born as one of us. That’s when we light the The words repeat, spaced queues at the doctor’s, the candle at the centre of our Advent wreath, Editor: Anne Wright Of peace on earth, good-will to shops, or even at the pub as we wait to the candle that’s a symbol of Jesus, the men! collect take-away food. Perhaps, like light of the world. [email protected] me, you’re waiting to see what happens To find out more about the life of our Christmas Bells by Henry next when the current restrictions are I’m waiting to see whether we’ll be Church, please visit our website: Wadsworth Longfellow lifted after 2 December, Perhaps, like me, able to gather in church once again, www.riverashchurches.org.uk you’re waiting to see when a Covid-19 during December. As it’s likely that vaccination will become available and physical distancing will still apply in Wishing you all a very Merry a time when life can begin to look like it our churches and it’s unlikely that Christmas from everyone at did around nine months ago. Perhaps, congregational singing will be permitted, Editorial Deadline: the Little Hadham Parish News like me, you’re waiting to find out what we’re preparing for a different kind of All articles for inclusion, sponsorship & PCC. See you next year! we will or will not be able to do over the Advent and Christmas. We’re preparing Christmas season. online versions of events that normally and copy and payment for advertising fill our churches, so look out for the in the next issue must be received by The season of Advent begins on Advent Online Nativity and Online Christingle the15th of the month. Prayer Chain: Sunday, which is on 29 November this on Christmas Eve. Although our usual year. Advent is all about waiting. In Advent, Carol services won’t take place, we’re (BACS preferred, email the editor for as we wait to celebrate Christmas, we’re looking into new ways of sharing the joy details.) Within our congregations we have a network of people who will receive reminded of those who had to wait for of Christmas through Carols. Services Editor reserves the right to edit down prayer requests. Whatever the the coming of Jesus into the world. In our in church will continue to be streamed – copy received and omit accompanying worship, it’s our practice to light candles including our Christmas Day services. To problem, worry, anxiety or personal pictures where necessary. on an Advent wreath each Sunday in see how we’re waiting for Christmas in a need, when received, it will be Advent. As we light each new candle, different way this year, please take a look View the Parish News Online including forwarded to the people on the we’re reminded of different people who at our website for any new developments, back issues: www.littlehadham.com chain who will pray immediately for waited for the coming of the Messiah, including this year’s travelling crib. The each request for a period of time. All the Christ, Jesus. First, we remember address is www.riverashchurches.org.uk. requests will be confidential. the Patriarchs: people like Abraham and David. Then we remember the Prophets: May I wish you all a very happy Christmas The magazine is written by Please ring anytime: people like Isaiah who wrote about and may God’s peace rest upon you and many contributors who report your homes this Christmas and into the Janet: 842 671 the coming of Jesus. We move on to for themselves or for a club or new year. Karin: 771 532 remember John the Baptist who told his organisation they represent. The people to “Prepare the way of the Lord”. church and production team does not Alice 504 781 Finally, we remember Mary, the mother necessarily agree with the opinions of Jesus who welcomed God’s message Cover Photo: Christmas Tree by Anton that she would give birth to Jesus, and aired in any article printed here. Scherbakov, Unsplash.

2 3 Down at the Doctors Your local Dr Paul Haimes www.muchhadhamhealthcentre.co.uk independent wine incoming calls on some days, which equates almost to a call per minute!) Locally based lawn care merchant The new system will also remind We stock a selection of services and bespoke more than 200 wines patients of our e-consult service for treatment programmes from most French Free delivery to non-urgent problems which allows wine regions including the Hadham’s Specialists in: Bordeaux, Loire Valley, a & surrounding you to add photographs of moles, villages from 12   Weed & Moss Control few international gems, bottles. rashes etc. If you use this service, Champagne & Cognac. a response will be sent by the end        We deliver to all UK of the next working day, usually addresses. Following our 5 flu immunisation Top Dressing Disease Diagnosis sooner. Feedback so far has been sessions at Little Hadham village Email us for full private very positive.        catalogue or contact Thibault on the details below. hall we have vaccinated 1325 Lawn Pests Rats & Mice patients, breaking all records of jabs Finally, I would like to express our Moles Bees & Wasps done by mid-November. Special good wishes to all for the imminent We have 12 bottle mixed cases starting at £99 thanks to our dedicated team of festive season, whatever it may bring [email protected]

volunteers from the PPG; Kay & in these difficult times. +44 (0) 7725415826 [email protected] supalawns.com 07921 770 691 | www.winestory.co.uk Bob Kerr, Jan Williamson and Hugh 2 Hadham Hall, Little Hadham, SG11 2AU Be sensible and stay safe Labram, who gave up their Saturday mornings for the cause. Thanks also to Kathryn Marriott and all of our nursing team; Cheryl Sampson, Carmel Naughton and Sheryl Moody. Covid here we come!!!??? HAND CARVED MEMORIALS I have two bits of news regarding staff. From 1st January 2021 we welcome Dr Natalie Jennings as a new partner. Natalie has worked here as a salaried GP for a number of years and has now been promoted to the dizzying heights of partnership! We also welcome a new member of the reception team, ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 10 YEARS namely Charlie Parker (minus the A local craftsman making Saxophone!) who has integrated beautiful memorials in stone and wood using traditional extremely well already. tools and techniques We have a new phone system which 07701 027042 will direct you to the right service Pardon Mill, Harlow, , CM20 2HP you require and, hopefully, make [email protected] www.simonlangsdalelettercarver.co.uk things easier for both patients and staff (recently there were over 500 HOUSE SIGNS BIRDBATHS BENCHES PLAQUES 4 5 available to you through HertsHelp - Little Hadham Parish Council our county wide information, advice, Carole Page www.littlehadham-pc.gov.uk signposting and support service - from 8am-8pm Monday-Friday (10am-6pm weekends/bank hols). As we don’t have a Parish Council matters which require a decision meeting in January, our last one including the views of others As we move into the winter period, and for this year will be Monday 1st expressed at the meeting at any time, support continues to be This network also acts as a support and December. This meeting will be via available for vulnerable residents, carers co-ordinator for smaller but important zoom. If you wish to join us, please • take part in voting and respect and families in accessed community groups including mutual aid contact the clerk on 01920 870809 or decisions made by the majority of through HertsHelp (HH) who will triage groups, foodbanks and good neighbour [email protected]. In the those present and voting clients’ needs taking and making schemes, assisting with organisational meantime, some valuable information appropriate referrals or signposting to development and fund raising. • ensure, with other councillors, that if you need support through the relevant support services. the council is properly managed Winter months. To view opening hours and to access all Volunteer support (including shopping, of these services call or visit: The flooding season is upon us. There is a vacancy for the Parish medication collection, befriending, HertsHelp on 0300 123 4044 Clerk position As I’m sure you have been noticing over dog walking) via the Community Help the last few weeks. The new bypass Hertfordshire (CHH) service model www.hertshelp.net/winter-health.aspx This is a salaried position and requires alleviation scheme is not yet finished under which all the Hertfordshire CVS 8 hours per week. You need to have a and therefore not functioning so at the organisations and Volunteer Centres www.hertshelp.net genuine interest in your community, moment there is no help coming from have come together to provide a unified be flexible and have a ‘can do’ attitude. there. Likewise with the Lloyd Taylor response to support people in need. or email [email protected] This is a really nice role and one that culvert which is also not completed and would suit someone who doesn’t not due to be for some months. But we work full time. If you would like to hear can report floods to the County Council more, please contact the Clerk at at with photos attached. If more people do [email protected] or this it would be helpful. So - go to www. 01920 870809. Hertfordshire.gov.U.K. Put Water and A New Councillor is needed Flooding in the search. From there you can click on “Do you have a flood you If you are interested in hearing want to report “ and add the details. more, please contact the Clerk at They should get back to you and I would [email protected] or appreciate if you can copy me in if 01920 870809. possible: Carolynwestlakelhpc@gmail. com. What Does a Councillor Do? - As a councillor you have a responsibility to: Thank you

• attend meetings when summoned HertsHelp – we’re here for you! to do so; For Herts residents, carers & • consider, in advance of the meeting, families general: the agenda and any related documents which were sent to you Need help and don't know where to with the summons turn? Have a question or problem? If you or someone you know are struggling • take part in meetings and consider this wintertime or any time, we’re all the relevant facts and issues on here to offer help and support. This is 6 7 Do you use Amazon? If you switch to Little Hadham Village Hall News Amazon Smile, Amazon will donate Jan Williamson [email protected] 0.5% of the value of your order to the charity of your choice. No extra cost to I would like to start by saying a massive start until December so everyone you. It is easy to set up. thank you to all our volunteers who will be vaccinated well in advance of helped paint the outside of the village the season. However having been at Google smile.amazon.co.uk hall in October/November. They have every session over the past few weeks Log in as normal - your account details done an incredible job all thanks to I have been staggered at the amount do not change vice chair Joan McKinlay for organising of people who fail to attend their it. We have had many compliments! We appointment and in particular the last At left of the task bar, click onto could not do this without volunteers! clinic 80 people failed to attend! Amazon Smile We have also received some generous donations to help us with the first I hope that we are allowed to re- Follow instruction to choose charity open our doors in time to have Village Hall Trust Little Hadham stages of refurbishment without which Have a Hadham. we would not be able to continue. On our community coffee morning on All done! Shop as normal behalf of the Village Hall Management Wednesday 9th December. It will be bookings only with me (Jan) on 01279 Committee we thank you. Bookmark the site, so you always 771272. When we are out of lockdown return to the Smile version of Amazon I would also like to say thank you to I will know more about the numbers Herts Community Foundation for I am allowed so please ring me for • www.easthertslottery.co.uk allowing us to re-purpose a £5k grant advice and how to book your table. helps many charities to raise which was given to us prior to Covid19. money like us and is easy to set Copley’s breakfast couldn’t go ahead in This has allowed us to spend money up. Our charity comes under November but Fiona is looking forward on many items that have been required Little Hadham Village Hall cooking Christmas luncheons on in order that we could open our doors Refurbishment Project. If you don’t 14th and 15th December (advanced to our community. have internet it can be done on the booking only) phone: 01279 912777 Although we have had to shut again Bookings for tables for up to 6 available we have been allowed to remain • We are also registered for gift aid open for the flu vaccinations which from 12.30pm to 1.15pm. I would like to take this opportunity are now well over 1300. The system Christmas Lunches - £18.50 pp for to wish you all a safe and Merry has worked extremely well with the glass of wine, traditional 2-course Christmas from Little Hadham Village most vulnerable residents being lunch + coffee & mince pie / Christmas Hall Management Committee. Let’s inoculated first. This might not have hats / napkins always seemed fair as we all think that hope 2021 brings back some normality our needs are greater than others but Wednesday 23rd December will see to this strange new world we have had I can assure you all that the Health the first Copley’s breakfast, (advanced to adjust to. Centre has worked tirelessly to booking only) 9.30-11am. Please If you would like information on any ensure everyone one gets vaccinated contact Fiona on 01920 449292. despite the fact that flu vaccines are of the topics in this newsletter please ordered a year in advance and that If you would like to support our hall contact Jan Williamson 01279 771272 Government encouraged many more here are some ways you can donate:- or [email protected] people to get the flu jab this year due • Smile - Amazon can help our to Coronavirus. The flu season doesn’t village hall 8 9 Covid 19 Support & Recovery through River Ash Churches Online Alpha the Winter Revd. Steve Bate Jan Williamson [email protected] • Do you have questions about There is no charge for attending the Little Hadham Covid 19 volunteers requested specific digital technology Christianity? course. response group will continue to support help. They will be contacted over the • Are you interested in being To take part or for more details, please any self-isolating residents in need of food/ coming weeks via email or phone to build baptised or confirmed? contact Steve Bate (Rector), medicines/befriending etc. during this a relationship to enable them to connect second lockdown. in better to their friends, families and • Are you new to church or [email protected] essential services, such as NHS, food looking for a refresher course? or Tel: 01279 842609 If we are unable to respond you will be ordering & online banking. The aim is to Alpha explores the Christian faith in Or, to find out more about Alpha visit directed to the Herts Help team on build our residents' digital confidence, a relaxed small group setting over www.alpha.org/try. 0300 123 4044 particularly around scams, video calls and ten sessions. online ordering. Other useful numbers are:- Our next course begins online, via There will be one to one phone support Zoom, on Monday 11 January 2021. Citizens Advice from IT volunteers this side of Christmas 01920 459944 and digital confidence workshops will Each session begins at 7:30 pm NON 999 CALLS follow at our village halls next year, if and with an informal chat followed by call 111 for health, 101 for police when social distancing allows. a 30-minute video from The Alpha National domestic violence line Film Series. We finish with a short 0800 970 2070 If you did not ask for digital help on the conversation about the video content. survey but have reconsidered and would Health Centre like to be added to our list of 54 Residents 01279 842242 asking for help please ring Jan on 01279 Covid-19 volunteers- For Little Hadham 771272 and I will be happy to add you to is 01279 771272 or 07710 325363 (Jan our list. Williamson) For a full and comprehensive update Driven by the Community (in need of please go to www.carebank.uk transport) 0300 123 1677 FRAUDSTER HOTLINE 0800 587 5030 Where you will find information on how to Check, Switch and Save on your energy ADULT CARE SERVICES. 0300 123 4042 bills and much more. CARERS IN HERTS 01992 586969 We have started a crowdfunding page Gilly B Interiors Active East Herts are offering over150 which we are looking to raise £5-10k to Bespoke, handmade curtains, blinds & soft furnishings. streaming activities which you can view allow the Hadham’s Community Hub Interior design and access at www.activeeastherts.org. to happen early next year with regular uk/whats-on/. Run by fantastic instructors, streaming services via our village halls they include seated exercise classes, and drop in or listen from home sessions gentle dance fit classes, Pilates sessions for Wellness and digital confidence. We for back & joint care. need to cast our net wide to spread the word as we can get £2k match funding on Digital Connection Survey the amount we raise, please visit: www. No. 2 Duckling Lane, , CM21 9QA Following a 16% response rate to our tinyurl.com/HadhamsCommunityHub to 01992 276082 / 07710 146941 www.interiorsbygillyb.com [email protected] survey, 54 (of those 290 Residents who support us. Tuesday-Friday 10am – 5pm Monday & Saturday client appointment by request responded across our villages) have 10 11 Millennium Wood Update Cruelty to Animals - Fireworks Jono Forgham [email protected] for more information please visit: www.tinyurl.com/LHfireworks

Bug Hotel and Flower Area

This is not about spoiling people’s unnecessary suffering to animals. fun - there are plenty of ways to Those convicted face a fine of up to Busy times in the wood as always at bulbs and seeds. The plan is to build up have fun in our beautiful pocket of £20,000 or up to 51 weeks in prison. this time of year. The planned work a really good seed bank in the wood and Hertfordshire countryside without Enforcement of this lies with Trading party was postponed in November once these nectar offering plants are causing suffering to animals by Standards, the police or the RSPCA. due to the enforced Lockdown. I am established there will be an increase in letting off fireworks. In the context of the ACT, DEFRA has now planning this for Sunday 6th butterflies and bees. stipulated that “Fireworks must not December, beginning at 10am and I There are many horses and livestock Next job is to get on with coppicing be set off near livestock or close to shall be there all day until dusk. If you in Little Hadham, including a Livery the hazel and hornbeam. However, the buildings that house livestock, or near can offer an hour or more of help it ground is just too slippery at present for Yard and Polo Club. The fireworks to horses in fields. Anyone planning a would be greatly appreciated. Please this as I wouldn’t want to lose my footing set off on the evening of Saturday firework display in rural areas should contact me on [email protected] in the mud with a chain saw in hand. 7 November caused great distress stating the times you can manage and warn neighbouring farmers.” The bird feeders have been filled and to many, and very sadly one of the hopefully we will have full coverage for are attracting a selection of birds, the day. Jobs to be tackled are: bramble Polo Ponies was injured. These The RSPCA states: "Many animals, including a superb nuthatch along clearance, wood piling, general tidying were rockets at volumes we've of all shapes and sizes, find fireworks with pheasants, Blue tits, Great tits, and strimming. Thank you in advance. not experienced before and many frightening, and it is important for Robins and chaffinches. A Great This month I have constructed a Bee residents have come forward to people to remain responsible and spotted woodpecker makes an share their upset at them but also bear in mind that animals may and Bug hotel from wooden pallets and, occasional visit also. with help from Natasha, Sean, Harvey their dismay at having had no become confused, distressed and Lloyd we managed to begin filling Harvey checking under logs warning. Cats and dogs can be kept and can even go into shock when it with sticks, leaves and moss. Around inside and comforted if there is a fireworks are let off in or around this I have put up a perimeter chicken warning. A horse in a frightened their immediate surroundings." wire fence and planted over 80 native state may not consider obstacles in So please, have fun in different woodland plants grown from seed at its pathway. It may bolt and attempt ways in your home - apple bobbing home. The fence will, hopefully stop the to jump or run through fencing, is brilliant, writing your name in rabbits from feeding upon them. I have which imposes a danger to people, also planted 75 Snowdrop bulbs and 50 the dark with a sparkler before it other horses and itself. This is a wood anemone tubers so these should burns out, a bonfire (or firepit) and rural community and we urge those be in full flower by late April/early May. marshmallows. There are many wanting to experience fireworks to With the help of Tina, I managed to clear cheery winter ways to celebrate. go to organised events. the area at the entrance of unwanted With thanks in advance from all the blackthorn and shall be strimming the Under Section 4 of the Animal Welfare animals and owners affected :) ivy back with a view to planting more Act 2006, it is an offence to cause 12 13 christmas NOTICEBOARD greetings Christmas Tea Poem Autumn/Winter Photos

We hope we will see the It's that time of year where we back of this pandemic soon. are on the look Brian and Brenda Kain wish Until then, we will take all out for Wintery life has to offer and make photos of the everybody a healthy, peaceful village now. the best of it we can. So Please email and happy Christmas. Hoping we wish you a very merry hi-resolution Christmas and a happy and On Christmas Day, at half past jpgs to: for a better 2021 [email protected]. healthy 2021. Stay safe. three, brew yourself a cup of tea. Thank you to everyone who Hilary and Nick I'll think of you and you'll think of has sent me photos already - some really stunning pictures me, Christmas Greetings from Ford Hill of our beautiful village - but Much Wenlock, Shropshire! While sitting around your we can always use more! Christmas Tree. I’m building up a seasonal I would like to wish all Christmas wishes repository to ensure the my good friends in and Frank & Karin would like cover always looks fresh From Little Hadham Afternoon Teas and relevant. around Little Hadham, A to wish everybody in Little Very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year Hadham a Happy and safe Christmas and let's hope for a With love, Sue Cotton xxx better year in 2021.

Dear Little Hadham, very Maggie and Mike many thanks for all of the Smith wish all their caring over the last few There is no meeting in December friends and neighbours but the Committee would like to months. Best wishes for a wish everyone a Merry Christmas a very Merry good Christmas time & a and a Happy New Year. Christmas and a Happy happy & healthy New Year. The Little Hadham & Albury and Safe New Year. Garden Club Love Ennis, Peppa et al xxx 14 15 Heard It Through The Grapevine Platon Loizou www.fouracresestate.co.uk

It’s nearly time to start pruning Getting ready for pressing

WINTER AT FOUR ACRES (Where The Orchard we will be locked down until May) In the next couple of days (mid The Vineyard November) we are pressing the apples which we picked this autumn. Well the grapes have been harvested It has been a strange year, some trees and pressed and the wine is in the were heavily laden with fruit while tanks. We are asked what do you do others had none at all. The frosts in in the winter? Can you put your feet April really had an effect. All in all it up for a few months? Well the answer was a very good harvest and we have is actually NO. The vineyard has to plenty of apples to press. Hopefully have its annual maintenance check with the love and care that goes into VST to make sure all the poles and wires our cider, six months in the tanks and are in order. There is also the small a second fermentation in the bottles, PAINTING & matter of pruning 2,300 Vines before we will have a finished product that is the spring! If you are interested in as good as last years. DECORATING learning how the Vines are pruned A lot of work but a lot of fun as well. and want to give a hand please get in As always we have to thank all the touch as we are planning on having friends and neighbours who kindly a pruning morning in December and give their time to help out. you are very welcome to join us. Laurence Baldwin If you are interested please email me, [email protected] there is no shortage of vines! Families 01279 491704 are welcome. 07989 968278 Email: [email protected] www.fouracresestate.co.uk Mobile: 07802313075 Fully Insured

16 17 Notes from a Small Garden Harlequin Ladybird Merveille du Jour Jono Forgham [email protected]

With another Lockdown I have been busying myself with garden safaris Little Grebe and come across plenty of new species to add to my list. Highlight was a Rose ringed parakeet in the holly tree next door. These birds have increased in number over the last decade and are rapidly spreading north and east from London and the Home counties. They are numerous Rose Ringed Parakeet around Watford and Rickmansworth Male Kingfisher and I suspect will become a common on the site here over the next couple of years. at Twyford locks This individual was a first to be seen from the garden Araneus Diadematus A “Daddy longlegs spider” (Pholcus phalangioides) took up residence in our bathroom and held on to her egg sac. She didn’t move for 27 days until the spiderlings hatched. She now has 17 tiny ones in her web. Wendy non A common wasp too keen! (Vespula Vulgaris) With the cold snap in early November, eating a pear moth numbers decreased to zero but Pholcus Phalangiodes holding her eggs to a few have been taken since. Couple keep them safe of good coloured ones being Merveille du Jour (Pleasure of the Day) and the Red-Green carpet. Red Green Carpet A walk along the Stort gave cracking views of Kingfishers whilst on the evening of the 9th a Barn owl flew over the garden whilst in the distance, A Little Owl and a Tawny owl could Common Buzzard be heard. Garden list on all things wild which began on 23rd March is now totalling 771 species of birds, insects, spiders etc. Don’t think I’ll make 800 but a pleasing total nonetheless. December Moth

18 19

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The Society is still functioning albeit more people. It was great to contact and/ somewhat differently and I would like or meet people, some still living here, to take the opportunity to highlight one who had grown up during and just after !"#$%%$&'()**)+',&-'-$.(/)+(*,*-%.(Excellent opportunities for pupils recent sequence of events. Some of the War. I would therefore, like to thank 01$2(3455(6$0+.7((aged 3-11 years you will remember the July article in the the Parish Magazines for initiating the 8&4.-'$(#0+$(*+)9-.-)&(/+):(Care provision from Much Hadham Parish News by Yvonne above sequence of events. Lee recounting her friend and neighbour 7.45am;7<=0:(')(>73?*: to 6.00pm. Ross Guy’s recollections of her youth in On a related note, I was recently @)&'0#'Contact&23456&553478 01279 771285 or()+ Much Hadham. Ross, a trainee Nanny at informed that someone wished to 02:-&A%-''%$B02B0:7B$+'.7.#B7,[email protected] Moor Place at the time, was pictured in publish images, presumably of historical relevance to the Hadhams’, on our web /)+(:)+$(2$'0-%.for more details the front row of the 40 strong cast of a show by the “Hadham Follies”. This was site. If anyone wishes to do this please A " #!‘Good’ school that nurtures a love contact me using the telephone number for learning OFSTED 2018 put on in commemoration of VE day at $    the Village Hall. Eleven members of the below. We will be pleased to consider !!! www.littlehadham.herts.sch.uk cast were identified from the photograph the matter. and an appeal made for readers to As this is the last magazine of 2020, identify others. thoughts turn to our AGM which we The Follies were a Much Hadham normally have in January. Clearly, we theatrical group who put on a number do not yet know whether a normal AGM of shows in the 1940-50s. The same will be possible. If not, we will, like many S.Southgate photograph, with 20 of the 40 Follies other local organisations, organise an labelled, is one of a collection from this equivalent meeting electronically. I would Carpentry Services period given to me, by Julia de Waal. Julia hope that we will be able to recommence

A is the daughter of Audrey Jessel who activities early in the New Year. L

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P safe Christmas and a Healthy New Year.

Door Hanging E very interesting afternoon in Yvonne’s Skirtings / Architraves C T TREE SURGERY garden with the labelled photographs, Our Web Site will give notice of any Wood Flooring S reminiscing with her and Ross over updates under the Heading "Events". T General DIY & Maintenance R tea and cakes, but we were unable to E STUMP GRINDING 22 Years’ Carpentry experience E identify any more Follies’ members. S

E HEDGE CUTTING Former Postmaster John Groom, also a R

07971 228735 V member of the Follies, is shown in Julia’s I

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S established contact with the help of Little . @hotmail.co.uk C Hadham Magazine editor Anne Wright. O 01279 755545 Sue was very pleased to see my labelled . U

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[email protected] pleased to see more of Julia’s collection, and others of the time, identifying a few 20 21 to increase the choice available to transport users and reduce barriers to prosperity, development and growth.

County Cllr Graham McAndrew 4. Attractive Place - Enhance the function and character of E and SE [email protected] Hertfordshire’s neighbourhoods and Call or Email Tracy on public locations supporting vibrant Christmas Countdown Ware, Hoddesdon, Broxbourne, communities and preserve and 07521 977997 Cheshunt and Waltham Cross, and enhance the local environment and This year, Christmas and the Festive quality of life. [email protected] the key transport links between these season will be different from those towns and to surrounding areas. The 5. Efficient - Make the most efficient of previous years. It will be a time of For ALL your PC / IPAD needs; consultation documents consider the use of resources and technology reflection and remembering those lost Repairs, Upgrades & Training key problems and opportunities which by reducing the need to travel and to the Covid-19 virus. For those of us currently exist or may in the future on enabling a shift to more sustainable www.learnpc.co.uk who remain in good health and practise the transport network and identifies modes of travel. safe measures we have to be strong what types of interventions are needed and keep a vigilant watchful eye on our 6. Healthy & Safe - Promote measures to improve the transport network. neighbours who are not so fortunate, to improve safety and reduce the ensuring they don’t go hungry and The East Hertfordshire GTP has been negative impacts of motorised travel; without appropriate heating. God bless developed at the same time as the to reduce the harm caused to public and wish you all a Merry Christmas and South East Hertfordshire GTP due to health, the environment, and to a healthy New Year. the number of linked trips between minimise safety risks. the areas. Avoid Scams The EGTP is a new transport If you think you've been scammed strategy to help direct and plan there are three things you need to do: transport improvements and investment in Bishop’s Stortford and 1. Stop sending money straight away. Sawbridgeworth and surrounding 2. Report the scam to Action Fraud areas: www. tinyurl.com/EGrowth on 0300 123 2040, use the Action Fraud online reporting tool, or the The GTP's set the following All repair work undertaken FCA Scam Smart website. 6 objectives: 3. Beware of follow-up scams. 1. Connected - Improved transport 24hr Roadside Recovery connections between and within East Hertfordshire Growth urban and rural locations and Aircon Servicing and Transport Plan (EGTP) services to support economic activity, Opening date: 31 October 2020 education, access to services and the Body shop Closing date: 31 January 2021 development of new jobs and homes. The public consultation is now open 2. Reliable - Improved network And more for the draft East, & South East Growth resilience and journey time reliability & Transport Plan (GTP), covering for all users, providing consistent and the towns of Bishop’s Stortford & dependable journeys through the day. Sawbridgeworth, down to Hertford, 3. Accessible - Provide improved transport networks by all modes, 22 23 The Hundred Parishes Society Stop Stansted Expansion Ken McDonald www.hundredparishes.org.uk Sarah Cousins [email protected]

With Christmas just around the corner we Public Inquiry video link, either from your own home are thinking of calling friends and family but or a designated safe venue. not, I suspect, from a red telephone box. The Government's Planning Applications to make representations In 1924 the Royal Fine Art Commission Inspectorate ('PINS') have rejected (i.e. to speak) at the Inquiry invited three architects to submit designs all calls to delay the Public Inquiry to for new telephone kiosks. The winner was consider the Appeal by the Manchester should be sent by email to info@ Sir Giles Gilbert Scott who also designed Airports Group ('MAG') over the refusal programmeofficers.co.uk Liverpool Cathedral where he is buried. Scott of its 2018 planning application to copied to elizabeth.humphrey@ was at the time a trustee of Sir John Soane’s expand Stansted Airport to 43 million planninginspectorate.gov.uk. You Museum and he topped his kiosk with a passengers per annum (about the should then be advised of further dome similar to that on the mausoleum same size as Gatwick). information about the arrangements. Soane had designed for himself. It was produced in cast iron as GPO model K2, Despite the current pandemic – and SSE expects that there may be a word replacing the K1 concrete kiosk. the fact that Stansted will handle only limit of about 1,000 words and a time limit of about 10 minutes. However, Later designs had a similar appearance. The about 8 million passengers this year – these are only 'guestimates’. PINS most common, the somewhat smaller K6, PINS are insisting that the Inquiry must was introduced for King George V’s silver start at 10am on 12 January 2021. have yet to advise. jubilee in 1935. The venue will be the Radisson Blu Please make every effort to ensure The colour red was chosen to make them Hotel at Stansted Airport and the that your voice, and the voice of our easy to spot, although Scott had suggested Inquiry is expected to last for 10-12 community, is heard! silver. These robust and iconic survivors of Standon listed phone box / greenhouse weeks until about the end of March. the 20th century, found in almost every town and village, are worth preserving. At the last SSE will be involved throughout the count, 51 within the Hundred Parishes had Public Inquiry, presenting evidence been listed. on all the main topics and, with the Most red phone boxes have now been help of our QCs, we will be cross- decommissioned although a few, like the examining all MAG’s witnesses. The one in Anstey, still operate as a pay phone. SSE team, supported by external Many villages have used the box to house a consultants, is currently hard at work defibrillator; others have inventively turned preparing its evidence. them into informal book exchanges and information points. As well as the technical evidence, it is vital for the Planning Inspectors to hear Some villages have been even more the view of local residents. Anyone can imaginative: the box in Standon has been register to speak at the Public Inquiry transformed into a greenhouse full of colourful plants. and it is important that local voices are heard. Your statement need not With Christmas in mind, the Society still has be lengthy, technical or complicated. a limited supply of its book The Hundred A heartfelt, personal, view from a local Parishes: an Introduction. The 400-page resident can be far more powerful than hardback with a thousand photos is available for £25 from tourist information centres and an 'expert' consultant's report. good book shops, or by arrangement with You would not need to appear in me – 01279 813226. person. Arrangements are being put listed phone box / defibrillator The Society’s trustees wish you all a very in place for evidence to be given by happy Christmas. 24 25 Your Advert Here Jill Goldsmith

graphic design Advertise in the Parish News www.eastonlodge.co.uk This size for £15 per issue (£150 pa) Do you need a graphic designer? (12 for the price of 10)

I’m an experienced freelance designer Also available: based in the village. I can help you with: Half this size: £9 per issue (£90 pa) Half page £25 per issue (£250 pa) Branding & Logo Design Full Page £40 per issue (£400 pa) Leaflets, Posters, Brochures, Reports Packaging Web Design Keep your Parish News in print Social Media Campaigns, Banners & Ads - invest in your magazine and reach Copywriting / Typesetting over 500 homes each month with CV design (make your CV stand out) your product or service. because all design begins with a humble line Contact the Editor for details at: [email protected] www.thehumbleline.com

It has been a year like no other, hasn’t it? start the coming year with a big burst of colour and will open for snowdrops Local honey for sale Last December the marsh cypress on 14 and 21 February and additional Call Kate: 01279 776041 was spectacular in the sunshine and Snowdrop Thursdays on 18 and 25 we looked forward to 2020, but the February; for Open Thursdays from year kicked off with storms Ciara and March to November; and as usual for Dennis and we lost trees and scarcely monthly full Open Days during the main managed to open for snowdrop days. season. Details to follow. Locked down in March, we wondered when anyone would next get to enjoy For the rest of the closed season we the Gardens. But we were allowed to will be working on a wide range of open from July and we loved welcoming projects: to add interest in forgotten visitors back, with new weekly Open corners of the Gardens and extend the Thursdays and a record number of area open to visitors. And, of course, visitors for an October Open Day to the stonemasons will be busy turning finish the season. the balusters for the restoration of the lilypond. For details of how to support So, we are optimistic for 2021, despite our restoration project go to www. the continuing pandemic. We know eastonlodge.co.uk/the-gardens/ we can open the Gardens safely and restoration. O.P.I, Jane Iredale Makeup, Shellac & LVL provide a pick-me-up breath of fresh air in lovely surrounds for our visitors. Wishing you all a very merry Christmas We have been busy adding bulbs to and happy new year. 26 27 Rural Ramblings Cherry Mardell

In just a few days... unless Boris has truly believe I might run screaming jumped the gun ...we should know from the kitchen should another if this lock-down is about to end. If Cottage Pie appear from the oven. it doesn’t, will you survive? I have Why, I even raved over the thought of doubts that I will! The first lock- an air fryer – which was duly bought down, despite its length, wasn’t so for me -only to find that we are now bad. I became almost used to being bored with chips. In fact the best use closeted with my husband. He is I’ve had from it is inspirational.... shop not the most garrulous of men. But bought cheese straws are reborn after we struck an amiable compromise. three minute in an air fryer! I would talk and he would listen. Obviously friends are all important at Sometimes he amazed me by starting times like these, but the telephone a conversation and I would gratefully is a poor substitute for a face to face natter on. But, this time, we seem to meeting. Our ‘bubble’ (and how I have run out of subjects to discuss. I hate that expression) is precisely us drone on about my new knee, which two. Husband’s family all have their refuses to work properly and has a own bubbles and my two children live habit of getting an infection should my too far away – Cornwall and America exercises get too much for it. – it would take one huge bubble to WOOD Bishop’s Stortford Chimney Services He buries himself in the Daily Mail, incorporate them! BRIQUETTES not so much to read the news – which So you, dear readers, have become is constantly boring, but to do the my bubble friends, albeit using social Sudoko. I swear that if the house distancing! Your jovial comments Office: 01279 771462 caught fire, the Mail competition Mobile: 07990 770883 about my failings are what keeps page would be the first thing he me going these days. So may I wish High burn temperatures, grabbed before heading outside! Safe for wood burners, • Chimney sweeping each and every one of you, a happy Very low ash content, • Stove installation Only the dog, who is nearing 14, Christmas and a wonderful, Covid- Clean to handle • Maintenance & repairs seems happy with the situation. She free New Year. • Pots & cowls fitted doesn’t want to walk these days, so to Certificates issued £3 per bag collected from • be let out for five minutes is her idea or • Free estimates £5 per bag free local of perfection. Also, as she is the only delivery (min order bishopstortfordchimneyservices.co.uk other living creature in the home, I vapplies) [email protected] talk to her quite often. She’s a good listener too! For more info please call 01279 777666 or email Obviously food is on the agenda every [email protected] day. I used to be quite a decent cook, but , as the years have passed I have All prices are inclusive of VAT charged at 5% relied much more on ‘ready meals’.

And now, when they really matter, I 28 29 Puzzles Page

Christmas Quiz Suduko 1. How many reindeer were in the story “Twas the Night Before Christmas?”

2. Who played George Bailey in It’s a Wonderful Life?

3. Which Christmas food is it considered good luck to eat one of on each of the 12 days of Christmas?

4. Who created Rudolph, the most popular reindeer of Santa Claus?

5. Which country was the first to use the tradition of Christmas trees?

6. Which of Santa’s reindeer is named after another animal?

7. In the carol, “We three Kings,” which direction is the star of wonder and star of light leading them?

Answers at the bottom of the page. Answers from Last Month: by: S J ComberSet ©2020 Across Down Crossword: 1. It is involved in undercover operation to produce 1. Starting price is correct in spirit (7) ACROSS: 7. Diabolic 9. Abroad 10. Clue 11. Reasonable 12. Cygnet 14. Briefing 15. this type of session (7) 2. Make toast to military displays (7) Wet Nurse 22. Insure 23. Silly Point 24. Bail 25. Cornea 26. Strategy DOWN: 1. Disloyal 5. Its customary for him to be in charge (7) 3. Opening in main trombone part (5) 2. Able 3. Claret 4. Majority 5. Breakfasts 6. Fallen 8. Crabby 13. No Mans Land 16. 9. Either way it will twist around (7) 4. A regiment starting to shoot (9) 10. It sounds like this newcomer will be a European 18. Marriage 19. Remiss 21. Editor 22. Intern 24. Bate 5. Rushed into sporty car to get permit (5) competitor (7) 6. Cold wind could upset Royal Navy theory Intermediate Suduko Challenging Suduko 11. Rock student Googles it (9) about learner (9) 12. This animal is half laughing about money (5) 7. I arrive in disorder on the Mediterranean (7) 13. Try showing a little refinement (5) 8. Song that could calm sailor at beginning of 15. Ray is endlessly against this opponent (9) year (7) 17. It can change colour of each lemon (9) 14. Might make for soothing viewing (3,6) 19. Brewery cart overturned before start of street 16. Somehow never able to deserve reverence (9) enclosures (5) 22. Transmit message to include commercial in 17. Vulgar song we hear from this type of ship (7) South American city (5) 18. Make speech from where you live (7) 23. In making sharp points I am able to guard 20. Understand how you might accomplish gateways (9) something (7) 25. Mother is back with Heather in the country (7) 21. Doubtful about one of the usual lineup (7)

26. Maybe I'm bored if this is given to me (7) 23. Looks very pleased with support (5)

department store. 5. Germany 6. Vixen (a fox) 7. Westward leading, still proceeding still leading, Westward 7. fox) (a Vixen 6. Germany 5. store. department 27. Sounds as though unhappy about messages 24. Coins arranged for you to venerate (5)

L. May created Rudolph in 1939, when he wrote a Christmas-themed story-poem to attract customers in his his in customers attract to story-poem Christmas-themed a wrote he when 1939, in Rudolph created May L. that have gone out (7) 1. Eight. Rudolph wasn’t in the story. 2. Jimmy Stewart 3. Mince Pies 4. Robert Robert 4. Pies Mince 3. Stewart Jimmy 2. story. the in wasn’t Rudolph Eight. 1.

Answers to Christmas Quiz: Quiz: Christmas to Answers 28. Not the hardest in puzzle as I established (7) 30 31 Parish Services December 2020 Benefice of: Little Hadham | Much Hadham | Albury Advent 2 Advent 3 Advent 4 Christmas Christmas 1 6th Dec 13th Dec 20th Dec Eve & Day 27th Dec

St 9.15am 9.15am 9.15am Christmas 9.15am Andrew’s Eve 4pm Holy Holy Holy Online Nativity Holy Much Communion Communion Communion Communion Hadham with Christmas Christingle & Steve Steve Day 9.15am Tim collection of Holy toys Communion

Steve St 11.15am Christmas 11.15am Cecilia’s Eve 6pm Holy Online Holy Little Communion Christingle Communion Hadham (Zoom)Steve Tim St Mary’s 11.15am 11.15am Christmas Albury Day Holy Holy 11.15am Communion Communion Holy (via Zoom) (via Zoom) Communion (via Zoom) Steve Steve Steve Services 8 am 5.45pm Christmas BCP Holy at other Refresh at Day 8am Communion Holy Churches St Thomas Communion Perry Green St Thomas Steve Perry Green Wednesday 2nd 10.00am Midweek Service via Zoom (Mark) Wednesday 9th 10.00am Midweek Service via Zoom (Mark) Wednesday 16th 10.00am Midweek Service via Zoom (Mark) Saturday 19th 4.00pm Messy Church St Cecilia's Wednesday 23rd 10.00am Midweek Service via Zoom (Mark)

Other Dates: Wednesday 30th 10.00am Midweek Service via Zoom (Mark) When coming to a service please bring a mask to wear in Church, there will be sanitising solution, for your hands, at the entrance and exit. Most services are also being streamed on Zoom. For Zoom details and link please contact the rectory: [email protected] or call: 01279 842609.