CHURCHES TOGETHER ...... 3 THOUGHT FOR FEBRUARY ...... 3 SERVICES MEETINGS & OFFICERS...... 4 UNITED REFORMED CHURCH ...... 9 MOTHERS’ UNION – WROXHAM BENEFICE BRANCH ...... 9 FRIENDS OF WROXHAM CHURCH ...... 10 ST HELEN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH ...... 10 LIBRARY AND SCHOOL NEWS ...... 11 COFFEE MORNINGS ...... 11 BOUNCE AND RHYME TIME ...... 11 AFTERNOON TEA ...... 11 GET ONLINE WITH GO-ON: ...... 11 JIGSAW SWAP ...... 11 NNAB DROP-IN ...... 11 SCRABBLE CLUB ...... 11 CLUB NEWS ...... 11 WROXHAM & DISTRICT LADIES’ LUNCHEON CLUB ...... 11 WROXHAM FLOWER CLUB ...... 11 HOVETON WROXHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB ...... 12 WROXHAM SOCIAL CLUB ...... 12 ROYAL BRITISH LEGION WOMEN’S SECTION ...... 12 WROXHAM & HOVETON LIONS CLUB ...... 13 INNER WHEEL CLUB OF BROADLANDS: CHARITY CONCERT ...... 14 WROXHAM BURE VALLEY ROTARY CLUB ...... 14 HOVETON & DISTRICT CONSERVATIVE COFFEE CLUB ...... 14 ROTARY CLUB OF BROADLANDS ...... 15 THE PROBUS CLUB OF BROADLANDS ...... 15 HOVETON ST JOHN 100 CLUB ...... 16 WROXHAM FOOTBALL CLUB ...... 17 HOVETON & DISTRICT WI ...... 17 WROXHAM WI ...... 18 WHB TWINNING ASSOCIATION ...... 18 1ST WROXHAM GUIDES ...... 19 RAINBOWS, BROWNIES, GUIDES AND SENIOR SECTION...... 19 NEATISHEAD COMMUNITY GYM ...... 20 WATER BIRD RESCUE ...... 20 BARTON HOUSE RAILWAY ...... 21 HOVETON VILLAGE HALL ...... 23 COUNCIL NEWS ...... 23 NORFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL ...... 23 BELAUGH PARISH MEETING ...... 23 NORTH NORFOLK DISTRICT COUNCIL ...... 24 HOVETON PARISH COUNCIL ...... 25 BROADLAND DISTRICT COUNCIL ...... 26 ARTICLES AND PRESS RELEASES ...... 27 HOVETON VILLAGE HALL DIAMOND JUBILEE 2013 ...... 27 NHS HEALTH TRAINERS ARE COMING TO A PLACE NEAR YOU IN 2013! ...... 28 WROXHAM WORSHIP AND COMMUNITY CENTRE ...... 28 U3A – UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE ...... 29 NOTICES ...... 29 FOR SALE ...... 30 WANTED ...... 30 FORTHCOMING EVENTS ...... 30 SECONDHAND BOOK SALE ...... 31 SNOWDROP & ACONITE WALK AT HOVETON HOUSE WITH BRUNCH ...... 31 EVENING OF WORDS & MUSIC ...... 31 HORNING BOAT SHOW...... 31 “THE PIED PIPER” ...... 32 ANNIE SLATER'S CHARITY “JAZZ AND JAM” EVENTS ...... 32 ST MARY WROXHAM COFFEE MORNING ...... 32 HOVETON ST JOHN CHURCH COFFEE MORNINGS ...... 32 CHURCHES TOGETHER THOUGHT FOR FEBRUARY The essence of God World Human and Self Practicing the presence of God will make us good at it R. Alan Woods,
In February we go through an emotional and theological change from the Christmas season which ends with Candlemass on 2nd February, to Lent which begins with Ash Wednesday on 13th February. It is a theological change from the Revelation of Christ to the recognition of Christ as Saviour, and an emotional change as we face up to suffering sin and failure. The Lenten season focuses on people renewing their lives by becoming more aware of God and people. It is a time for reflection and a time to find meaning. It strikes me that this requires us to pause, observe and meditate, taking note of things all around us. In our increasingly busy lives we can become seriously myopic, concentrating on the immediate requirements for our well-being and daily needs. Lent gives us a chance to observe and find a bigger picture with direction and meaning. Finding a bigger picture requires two mental and spiritual processes; ‘stepping back’ and ‘looking closer’. One imagines this is like taking a God’s eye view. Step back, we see the whole, a comprehensive picture, the fullness of complexity. However that picture is inevitably lacking in detail, like the view of earth from space. So we need to observe closely and see the intense detail and the intricacy of the small scale. We need the view of the radio telescope seeing across galaxies, and the view of the electron microscope seeing clusters of atoms. In a spiritual sense this process makes time for exploring God, The World, People and Self. As the invitation to Ash Wednesday says “I invite you... to the observance of a holy Lent, by self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and self-denial; and by reading and meditating …” Start Big and look at the questions about God by reading or maybe through the study courses available locally. Come Close and meditate within oneself by prayer and silence over time and find an inner being which yearns to become one with God. In between notice a World created beautiful and changing; with people who are diverse, handsome, clever, amazing and resilient. Do any of this and I bet you will be changed and I hope for the good. Michael SERVICES MEETINGS & OFFICERS
WHB BENEFICE SUNDAY & Holy Day SERVICES – February 3rd February Presentation of Christ (Candlemass) 9.30am Parish Communion (JD) Hoveton St John 9.30am Parish Communion (MS) Wroxham 11.00am Parish Communion (MS) Hoveton St Peter
10th February Sunday next before Lent 9.30am Parish Communion (MS) Hoveton St John 9.30am Parish Communion (JD) Wroxham 11.00am Parish Communion (MS) Belaugh 6.30pm Sung Evening Prayer (MS) Wroxham
13th February ASH WEDNESDAY – The beginning of Lent 10.30am Holy Communion (said) with ashing JD Wroxham 7.00pm Holy Communion (sung) with ashing MS Hoveton St John
17th February Lent 1 9.30am Parish Communion (MS) Wroxham 9.30am Parish Communion (JD) Hoveton St John 11.00am Parish Communion (MS) Hoveton St Peter
24th February Lent 2 9.00am Said Holy Communion (MS) Hoveton St John (1/2hr service – before snowdrop walk) 9.30am Parish Communion (JD) Wroxham NO INFORMAL COMMUNION at St John’s (Snowdrop Walk)
3rd March Lent 3 9.30am Parish Communion (JD) Hoveton St John 9.30am Parish Communion (MS) Wroxham 11.00am Parish Communion (MS) Hoveton St Peter 6.30pm Sung Evening Prayer (MS) Wroxham
Church Diary – February
6th Wed 10.30am Holy Communion (MS) Hoveton St John 8th Fri 3.15pm Bats in the Belfry Hoveton St John 11th Mon 11.45am Heron Lodge Service (MS/VH) 12th Tues 2.30pm Overbury House Service (VH) 13th Ash Wed 10.30am Holy Communion (said) JD Wroxham 7.00pm Holy Communion (sung) MS Hoveton St John 18th Mon 10.00am Coffee Morning Wroxham Hall 19th Tues 10.30am Mothers’ Union St Helens 20th Wed 10.30am Holy Communion (JD) Wroxham 21st Thurs 7.30pm Ecumenical Discussion 1 Neatishead Bapt. 24th Sun 11-2 Snowdrop & Aconite Walk Hoveton House 27th Wed 10.30am Holy Communion (MS) Wroxham 28th Thurs 7.30pm Ecumenical Discussion 2 Hoveton St John 1st Mar Fri 10.30am Benefice Study Course (MS) Wroxham 1st Mar Fri 3.15pm Bats in the Belfry Hoveton St John
Wroxham Church Bell-ringing Tuesday 7.15pm Handbell-ringing with Tea & cake Thursday 2pm Choir Practice Friday 7pm
SUNDAY READINGS 3rd Malachi 3:1-5 Hebrews 2: 14-18 Luke 2:22-40 10th Exodus 34: 29-35 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2 Luke 9:28-36 13th Joel 2: 1-2,12-17 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10 John 8: 1-11 17th Deuteronomy 26:1-11 Romans 8:8b-13 Luke 4:1-13 24th Genesis 15:1-12,17,18 Philippians 3:17-4:1 Luke 13:31-35 3rd Mar Isaiah 55:1-9 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 Luke 13:1-9
Bats in the Belfry
Bats in the Belfry is open for any child in KS1 & KS2 at any school. Dates for the Spring Term are 8th Feb; 1st Mar; 15th Mar Full details from Michael [email protected] or 784536
Notes Funerals We give thanks for and commend to God’s sure keeping Edward Leonard Byford who died on 14th December aged 82years Funeral on 28th December at Earlham Crematorium
Audrey Bowen Smith who died on 15th December aged 85 years Funeral on 11th January at St Mary Wroxham followed by Cremation at Faith’s
Ernest Frank Prentice who died on 17th November aged 73 years Funeral on 17th January at St Faith’s Crematorium
William Edward Whipp who died on 1st January aged 79 years Funeral 17th January at St Faith’s Crematorium Service of Thanksgiving St Mary Wroxham 18th January
Wedding s We rejoice with Michelle Jane Lake and Benjamin Jack Guest Who were married at Hoveton St Peter on 15th December
Lent 2013 - Ecumenical Study Course - Where on Earth is God? A series of discussions on important questions about our understanding of faith. These link in with Fresh Grounds, the URC monthly discussion evenings.
Week 1; Thursday 21st February 7.30pm “Why does God allow Evil and what does he do about it?” Matt Stone at Neatishead Baptist Church Week 2: Thursday 28th February 7.30pm “What does God expect us to do with His Creation?” Michael Sears at Hoveton St. John Week 3: Thursday 7th March 7.30pm “Is God to blame for suffering?” Reverend Bill Bazely at St. Helen’s Week 4: Wednesday 13th March 7.30pm “Will the poor always be with us?” Father David at St. Helen’s Week 5: Tuesday 19th March 7.30pm “Is death the end?” and “ how does God expect us to deal with the dying?” Michael Sears at St. Mary’s Wroxham Benefice Study Course - Patterns of Belief A Study into the Nature of Christian Faith and its relationship to other systems of Belief
Christians believe that Jesus is a pattern or icon of the nature of God. (Many people would say Jesus is a PARADIGM of faith.) Such beliefs are categorised as Christian Doctrine. This study looks at the fundamental principles of belief and seeks to understand them, see modern insights into them, and to see the resonances and differences in other religious thought. There will be 4 sessions weekly at 10.30am on Fridays starting on 1st March in Wroxham Church
Week 1 GOD The human understanding of God has developed and changed over millennia. We will look at Polytheism and Monotheism, The Trinity, Comparing and contrasting Animistic Religions, Hinduism and Islam
Week 2 GOD and The WORLD – Human Beings Creation and its nature; Ecology and God; God in Human Kind (Incarnation); Equality Resonances in Hinduism, Islam and Sikhism
Week 3 SUFFERING & RESTORATION (Crucifixion & Resurrection) Patterns within Christian thought which build on Christ’s Crucifixion and Resurrection Religious insights into suffering from a variety of different religions. Insights into the future in religious thought
Week 4 SPIRIT and God’s Continual Presence Spirit in the Old Testament; The Holy Spirit Spirit in some other religions Mysticism and Prayer
NICK WALMSLEY At the Belaugh Carol Service on December 23rd the Rector, the Revd. Michael Sears, conferred the title of ‘Organist Emeritus’ on Nick Walmsley, in recognition of 40 years’ service as organist at St. Peter’s Belaugh, as well as at the other churches in the Wroxham Benefice. Churches Together in Wroxham Hoveton Belaugh & Neatishead Church of England Rector The Revd Michael Sears The Vicarage Church Lane Wroxham NR12 8SH Tel: 01603 784536 [email protected]
Assistant Priest The Revd Jane Dodd Locheil Tunstead Road Hoveton NR12 8QN Tel: 01603 782509 Churchwardens Wroxham St. Mary Mr Arthur Davies Tel: 783399 [email protected] Mr Rod Stone Te l : 782735 [email protected] Hoveton St John Vacant Hoveton St Peter Mrs Sandy Lines Tel: 782282 [email protected] Belaugh Miss Vivien Hunn Tel: 783935
United Reformed Church Minister Rev Matt Stone The Manse, 15 Waveney Drive, Hoveton NR12 8DP Tel: 781623 [email protected]
Secretary & contact for JAM (Sunday School) Mr Chris Billing Tel: 783992 [email protected]
Roman Catholic Church Parish Priest The Revd David Bagstaff The Presbytery 4 Norwich Road North Walsham NR28 9JP Tel: 01692 403258 www.sacredheartnorthwalsham.com Sacristan Tryddyn Horning Road West Hoveton NR12 8QJ Tel: 782758
Baptist Church Pastor The Revd Sue Seeley Neatishead Baptist Church, Norfolk, NR12 8YF Tel: 433303 www.neatisheadbaptist.org.uk
In Association with The Salvation Army Major Janet Bishop Tel: 01692 402837 [email protected] UNITED REFORMED CHURCH Minister: Rev Matt Stone, Tel: 01603 781623, [email protected] Wroxham & Hoveton United Reformed Church is an informal and friendly church, meeting in different venues around the village, whilst our own church building is constructed on the Norwich Road opposite The Avenue in Wroxham.
Services & Events in February
Date Preacher / Event Time & Venue 3rd Worship led by Miss Vicki Brown 11am, St. Helen’s 7th Fresh Ground: Is Jesus the only path to God? 7:30pm, St. Helen’s 10th Communion led by Rev Matt Stone 11am, St. Helen’s 17th Family Service 11am, St. Helen’s 21st Lent Talk & Discussion: Creation 7:30pm, St. John’s 24th Worship led by Mrs Carrie Sant 11am, St. Helen’s 24th JAM: Sunday Kids Club 10:30am – 12:15pm, Wroxham Church Hall 28th Lent Talk & Discussion: 7.30pm, Sin, Evil & Forgiveness Neatishead Baptist Church 3rd March Communion led by Rev Matt Stone 11am, St. Helen’s When we are at St Helen’s, coffee is served in the church from 10:30am onwards. Please do join us! Matt’s Musings JAM, our Sunday kids club, is open to all children aged 4 - 14. We have fun, play games, make crafts and sing songs. Please contact Chris Billing (01603 783992) for more details. Our monthly Family Service is suitable for all ages and includes activities for children. Our Alpha Course continues on Wednesdays from 7 - 9pm. Alpha is an 8-week course to discuss life’s big questions from a Christian perspective. We also have “Fresh Ground”, a monthly cafe-discussion evening, to look at difficult questions of faith. This month’s, on Thursday 7 February will be asking “Is Jesus the only path to God?” All are welcome!
MOTHERS’ UNION – WROXHAM BENEFICE BRANCH Please try to get along to the Members’ Day on Thursday, 7th February. It is at 10:00am at St. Luke’s Centre, Aylsham Road, Norwich, and it is a chance to learn what is planned for the year and to meet other like-minded people. HMP Bure is a category C prison, built on part of the former RAF Coltishall site. It accepted its first offenders at the end of 2009. The Prison Chaplin, the Reverend Anne Hedges, is coming on Tuesday, 19th February to talk to us about her work there. Everyone (not just members) is very welcome to join us at 10:30 am at St. Helen’s. Please contact Suzanne Barnett (782002) or Val Ovenden (782466) for more details or to arrange lifts. FRIENDS OF WROXHAM CHURCH President: Right Reverend Graham James, Bishop of Norwich Our film program for February to April has been rearranged, due to the early release of the DVD of the new James Bond movie “Skyfall”. We shall now be showing this in February and we anticipate that there will be a high level of local interest, so make sure to book your tickets in advance. “Skyfall” - Saturday 23rd February at 2:30pm and 7:00pm in Wroxham Church Hall, starring Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Ralph Fiennes, Albert Finney, Roy Kinnear, etc. Bond’s loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her, bringing MI6 under attack. When Bond’s latest assignment goes gravely wrong and agents around the world are exposed, MI6 is attacked, forcing M to relocate the agency. On the previous day we shall be putting on a show as part of Broadland Children’s Film Festival to be held at various venues throughout half-term week. “Madagascar 3” and Circus Tricks Workshop hosted by Foolhardy Circus - Friday 22nd February at 2:00pm in Wroxham Church Hall. Admission - Adults £2, Children 11 and under FREE, but MUST be accompanied by an adult. We are planning to present an Evening of Words & Music in May. This will be a friendly, relaxed social occasion, and we are hoping that as many local groups and individuals as possible will get involved. If you would like to join The Friends, get involved or have ideas for fundraising activities, please contact Val Ovenden on 01603 782466 or email [email protected].
ST HELEN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH The Three C’s: The coffee, tea and cake and chat returns on 6th February and then on the first Wednesday of every month 10:30 - 11:30. The cost is still only 70p at the “Old Original”: proceeds go to charity. Mine hosts Cyril and Lesley look forward to seeing all the regulars and greeting new guests at the Three C’s in 2013. Fourth Wednesday Club: meets on Wednesday 27th January. A social club for “Senior Citizens” over 60 from 11:30 – 16:00, with a buffet lunch at 12:30; £2 per person includes homespun entertainment and a raffle. “Children’s Church”: looks at the themes in our weekly Mass and works towards First Communion. It takes place in school term-time during the Parish Mass on Saturday evening at 17:30. Our “Children’s Church” is popular: perhaps because our catechists are qualified teachers and are all CRB-checked. Rooms available for hire: St Helen’s has rooms available for hire at reasonable rates: several village organisations meet here on a regular basis. Centrally situated with excellent car parking, it is ideal for small bona fide meetings and gatherings of up to 30 people. Facilities for preparing light snacks and hot drinks are available (you bring your own refreshments). Please call 01603 782758 for further details.
LIBRARY AND SCHOOL NEWS
WROXHAM LIBRARY For details and information: Tel: 01603 782560 or Email: [email protected] COFFEE MORNINGS every Monday, 10:00am - 12:00pm. All welcome. BOUNCE AND RHYME TIME at the library on alternate Tuesdays, 1:30pm - 2:00pm. Songs and rhymes for babies, toddlers, parents and carers. The next dates are: 12th and 26th February, 12th and 26th March. AFTERNOON TEA on Thursday afternoons, 3:00pm – 4:00pm. All welcome to join us at the library for afternoon tea and coffee. GET ONLINE WITH GO-ON: The Go-On website is designed to help people take their first steps with computers and the Internet. Free 1 hour sessions - book yours now for help with getting started and online. HAPPY HOURS 2 for 1 on DVDs and CDs: Monday: 10am - 1pm; Wednesday: 2pm - 5pm; Friday: 4:30pm – 7:30pm. JIGSAW SWAP: Swap your jigsaws at Wroxham Library - bring in a complete one that you have finished and swap it with one of the jigsaws we have here. Available whenever we are open. NNAB DROP-IN at the library on Thursday 14th March: A NNAB representative will be here between 2:30pm – 4:30pm, offering advice and support to all of those who have or care for someone with sight difficulties. SCRABBLE CLUB: The last Thursday of each month, 2:00 – 3:30pm. The next dates are 28th February, 28th March and 25th April. All welcome and refreshments provided.
CLUB NEWS
WROXHAM & DISTRICT LADIES’ LUNCHEON CLUB We meet on the first Tuesday of each month (excluding July, August and September) for an excellent lunch, followed by a talk, which is always interesting and entertaining. New members and visitors are always welcome to join us for good food and good company, and to hear speakers on a wide variety of topics. Mrs Jenny Atkinson on 01603 472556 or 01692 535932 will be happy to give you further details.
WROXHAM FLOWER CLUB Our February meeting will be on Wednesday 13th at the Wroxham Church Hall at 7:30pm. Our demonstrator will be Adele Kent from Hethersett. Her title “Well Heeled”. Visitors always welcome. For more information, Tel: 782075.
HOVETON WROXHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB 7:30pm Hoveton VIllage Hall - Pam 01603 782041 Interested in gardening? Why not come along and meet some very nice people, and hear some very interesting speakers, makes for a very pleasant evening. Only £10.00 annual subscription, with discounts and local garden centres. 1st February: How to care for your Plants - Shelaugh Ashe 1st March: Behind the Scenes at Felbrigg Hall - Penny Clarke 12th April: Spring Show - Spring Woodlanders - Ben Potterton 9th May: Three Way Quiz at Sheringham 7th June: Around the world in 80 plants - Jamie Blake July t.b.a.: Visit to Hyde Hall RHS Garden 2nd Aug: Growing Herbs for Health - Val Thomas 6th Sept: Autumn Show - Plants of the Moment - Ian Roofe 4th Oct: History Beneath your Feet - items dug up from your garden - G Simmonds 1st Nov: Wildlife in my Garden - Mrs H Reid 6th Dec: Chelsea and Hampton Crt F/Shows Stephen White 10th Jan: A.G.M. plus.
WROXHAM SOCIAL CLUB The WSC party was held at the club on 22nd December, at which our vice president, Les Harman presented Jeff Sandell with a painting by a local artist of Irstead Church as a thank you for his services to the club. The crib competitions get underway mid-January and continue until mid-February, hopefully we will win a trophy this year. Events for February: 2nd Feb Beetle Drive 7:45, 9th Feb Whist Drive 7:30, 16th Feb Bingo 8.00, 23rd Feb Darts Competition 7.30. A full events list is available at the Club. New members always welcome. Contact Tel: 01603 782883.
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION WOMEN’S SECTION WROXHAM HOVETON & DISTRICT BRANCH Snow has fallen, but let us hope it will not stay too long. February is a month when we like to hibernate away from the wintry weather, but please Ladies, do not let that stop you from paying us a visit on Tuesday 19th February at Trafford Walk Community Room at 2pm. As well as our usual business part of the meeting and the refreshments, chat and raffle, we have a speaker joining us, who will be telling us all about his responsibilities as a First Responder. We are ever so friendly and will always give you a very warm welcome. May we also remind you that you do not need a background in the Services to become a member, just a wish to help with the provision of care and support to the ex-Service Community’s Widows and Children. For any more information, please ring 782312.
WROXHAM & HOVETON LIONS CLUB Here we are, already in February, with Christmas but a memory and maybe those New Year resolutions already on the scrapheap! We have been extremely fortunately in this part of the country not to have suffered from the floods, which have affected so many parts. Lions Clubs in those areas will be working hard to assist the people in their communities and we, along with other Lions Clubs throughout the country, have made a donation to the relief work. This money will go directly to the Lions Clubs in those areas, so they can give direct practical help to as many of those requiring assistance as possible. Santa’s sleigh has now gone to its summer quarters after experiencing one or two gremlins during this year’s rounds. Fortunately, there was nothing too serious and all scheduled trips were completed as planned. Santa’s “maintenance team” returned the sleigh to full working order. It is strange that after six years of untroubled journeys, all the problems should occur at one time. I have heard of the “seven year itch”, but that is stretching it a little!! Thanks to the generosity of the public, I am pleased to announce that a total of £2,540.81 was collected, which will be used for local deserving causes. A sincere thank you from the Club to all those who contributed. Our January Furniture Sale went quite well, although we did not have as large a selection of items as normal. This was due to the incapacity, through illness, of Nick from Wroxham Removals, who undertakes all our collections. I am pleased to report however, that he is now fully recovered. 24th February sees the Club hold its annual Charter Dinner, which this year celebrates our 37th year and I am delighted to say that two founder members are still part of the Club. Our special guest will be Michael Brunson OBE, the former Chief Political Editor for ITV. I am sure he will have some interesting and amusing stories to tell about his time within the annals of Westminster. Advanced notice: Our next Craft Fair will be held on Sunday 3rd March, (10am to 4pm), so if you have now recovered from Christmas and have a few pounds to spend, why not come along. As usual, there will be a good selection of quality, local handmade crafts at reasonable prices. Refreshments will also be available, including delicious bacon rolls!! This month’s £100 Charity Shop Draw Prize goes to the Children’s Liver Foundation, which was nominated by Andrea Bean, who donated items to our shop. If you have a few hours to spare occasionally and would like to make a difference in your local community, whist having some fun, why not give out President, Lion Mike Clipston a ring on 01603 429380 or alternatively contact our Membership Chairperson Lion Suzanne Barnett on 01603 782002. If you prefer, come along to one of our meetings, which are held in the Broadland Youth and Community Centre at 8pm on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month. We are a friendly bunch and you will be made very welcome.
INNER WHEEL CLUB OF BROADLANDS: CHARITY CONCERT
Geoff Davidson and Songbyrd in Concert Saturday 20th April at 7:00 for 7:30pm, St Mary’s Church Wroxham Tickets £10.00, to include refreshments, can be obtained from: Rosalie Howard (Tel: 01603 782067) and Sandra Hurrell (Tel: 01263 734605) Proceeds to Sparks for Hearts and Priscilla Bacon Hospice
WROXHAM BURE VALLEY ROTARY CLUB We are pleased to announce that our Christmas collections raised just under £2000, which will be shared between East Anglian Air Ambulance, East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and other local charities, supported by our Rotary club. A big thank you to everyone who supported us – and the good news is that Santa so enjoyed his time with us, he has already promised to join us again next year! Our next event is our collection for Polio support, which takes place in Norwich on 16th February – if you are in town that day, look out for us near St Stephens. Following this, some of our members are off to India to help with National Immunisation day over there when some 5 million under 5’s will be given the polio vaccination. By the time you read this, we expect that the tractor for the Faith project in Zambia will have been shipped – a massive thank you to all who made this wonderful project possible, and look out for photos next time. Our sponsored walk along the Bure Valley railway will take place over the weekend of 20th/21st April. This is a joint effort with Macmillan Cancer charity and we are hoping for a great turn out to support this great cause. Please put the date in your diary now and we will let you have full details about registering again next month. We are once again running the Schools Technology tournament, which takes place at Broadland School, Hoveton on 15th March, where we hope to have 8 local secondary schools competing. Looking further ahead, we will be running our popular summer dance again, date to be confirmed next time. As ever, there is a lot going on as we continue to implement the Rotary motto of “service above self” and if our lively social group sounds good to you, we are looking to build our membership for 2013. We welcome both men and women from all walks of life, so if you are interested in joining us, please come along to one of our meetings, where guests are always welcome. We meet Monday evenings from 7pm at the Norfolk Mead Hotel in Coltishall. Visit our “new look” website on www.wroxhamrotary.org.uk for more information or contact our president, David Prichard on 01692 631544.
HOVETON & DISTRICT CONSERVATIVE COFFEE CLUB Our next meeting at The Hotel Wroxham will be on Thursday 28th February at 10:30am. Our speaker will be Mr John Bolan, his subject “Trust The Trader”. Contact Tel. No: 01603 783490.
ROTARY CLUB OF BROADLANDS The week before Christmas, members of the Rotary Club of Broadlands were pleased to be able to transport some of the 8 to 10 year old students from St. John’s Community and Primary School and Nursery in Hoveton, to display their singing talents to the local community during the festive period. The club organised a minibus to take the cast and their Teaching Assistant Ann Roberts around the Wroxham and Hoveton area. In all around 15 different locations were visited over a two day period. The venues varied between local care homes, private dwellings and the reception in the Doctors Surgery in Hoveton, where the children entertained the waiting patients and the staff. The repertoire was from the School’s Pantomime, which this year was an updated Cinderella. Instead of being the Prince, he was a Rock Star and Cinderella was a member of the audience at one of his Rock Concerts. The storyline however remained fairly similar. It was all good fun and at the end of each session the pupils gave out handmade Christmas cards, which were exchanged for drinks and chocolate. The Rotary Club of Broadlands is always looking for new members, so if you would like to give something back to the community, have fun and make new friends, find out more about us. Please telephone Richard Mayer on 01603 715796.
THE PROBUS CLUB OF BROADLANDS There was no formal meeting of the Club in December: instead Members and their guests met for Christmas lunch at the Old Rectory Hotel. As there was no presentation or other matters relating to the Club during December to report on, it is worthwhile taking this opportunity to reflect on the purpose of the Club and the benefits it brings to its Members. Its purpose is to provide an environment for socialising between Members, who share common interests and to enable them to increase their social contacts. It is non- political and non-sectarian. The Club meets on the last Wednesday of the month at the Masonic Hall in Wroxham. The next meeting will be held on 27th February 2013 at noon. Initially we get together in the bar to socialise and meet new members. This is followed by a three course meal, which is always varied and of a high standard. It gives us further opportunities to meet with friends and catch up on what we have been doing during the past month. The meal is followed by a guest speaker, always on a topic of interest and often relevant to our lives in Norfolk. The presentation at our next meeting will be by Chris Green on the subject of Roys of Wroxham. To maintain its vibrancy, the Club is always seeking new members and welcomes applications from those whose background comes from the business or professional spheres and who are either approaching retirement, are newly retired or have been retired for some time. Those who have retired will be aware that moving away from the daily activity and interactions of the working environment mean that significant changes in lifestyle are unavoidable. This does not necessarily have to lead to reduced horizons. For various reasons society seems to have become less social: many have lost the inclination to join social groups. The advantages of doing so are, therefore, becoming less well known. We are a social species and it is natural for us to find mixing with others in a social environment a pleasurable experience. So why not take a positive step to broaden your horizons and make the most of the new opportunities retirement brings? Come and experience the benefits for yourself. The Club will be made better by the contribution of your personality and you will meet people of like mind. We want you to feel comfortable and at ease, whilst you are with us so we have designated Members who will meet you on arrival and make sure that you are introduced to others. The objective is to make sure that you are immediately made to feel welcome and part of the group, so that you do not feel isolated at any time. If you are new to the area and you are looking to make some new friends, then the Club provides an ideal opportunity. Many of our Members have held senior management positions in business; others were top professionals in their field. They are more than willing to share their experiences and are keen to hear those of others. Some have given presentations to Members on the specialist knowledge they have gained from their hobbies or business background. Last year they included talks on the advantages or otherwise on the expansion of wind farms and the wartime combat activities of the American air force at the former Rackheath airbase. There is always time afterwards for Members to ask questions of the speaker on their presentation. The Club has always arranged occasional special activities in addition to the monthly meeting. These have included trips to restaurants with our wives and partners. With the start of the new financial year, the committee will be reviewing the extent and nature of these activities with a view to expanding their number and variety. Whilst the club does not get involved in charity works, it does regularly contribute to local charities from donations by Members to a charity box. If this sounds like it might be of interest to you, please make contact, in the first instance, with either Richard Williams on 01603 720184 or Ian Anderson on 01603 737298 at any time. We hope to see you at our next meeting.
HOVETON ST JOHN 100 CLUB The winners of the December draw were, 1st Prize R France with number 20, 2nd prize A Rogers with number 37. The winner of the special Christmas prize A Rogers with number 36. January winners are 1st prize T Martin with number 27 and 2nd prize R France with number 18. Congratulations to all the winners and many thanks to all who support this fund raising club.
WROXHAM FOOTBALL CLUB Happy New Year to all Bridge readers! The recent balmy weather has caused all sorts of problems and we have tried to fit games in when we can. Unfortunately, it is not possible to always get things right. We had one situation, where it was fine here throughout the day and our pitch was playable, but our opponents Soham arrived only to find the temperature dropped dramatically and the referee called the game off for a frozen pitch We also had a situation on 15 Jan, where we were due to travel to Concord Rangers on Canvey Island in the League Cup Q/F, but could not get away due to the adverse weather conditions. As a result of postponements, results have been mixed and we have dropped to 18th in the Ryman League Div 1 North. But we only need a run of better results and we could easily shoot up the table. The Reserves have had an “enforced winter break”, but they are still 3rd in the Anglian Combination Premier Div. The U18’s have also fallen behind with games and have some catching up to do. They were however knocked out of the league cup by Dereham. We are still looking for more volunteers to help out on match days, but we desperately need more sponsors to come forward. Please contact Secretary Chris Green on 01603 783936 or email [email protected]. We held a successful Xmas Draw with some good prizes - thanks to everyone who supported and to those who offered prizes. We hope to hold a DVD, CD AND BOOK FAYRE in the spring and any offers of unwanted items would be welcome. The clubhouse continues to be available for parties and celebrations - please contact Geoff Skeet on WFC Clubhouse No 783538. Full details about the club, and all events and match reports on www.wroxhamfc.com or follow us on Twitter @The_Yachtsmen.
HOVETON & DISTRICT WI At the beginning of each New Year many of us make New Year’s Resolutions. Women in general have to be ready for all eventualities that the year ahead may bring. This was the case at our January meeting, when our speaker was unable to attend due to work commitments. Remaining calm and level headed, our secretary stepped into the breach. Calling on her experiences as a public sector worker, she informed us of a wide ranging number of ways that unscrupulous people try and con the unsuspecting and vulnerable out of their money and possessions. Using real life scenarios, we were given advice on how to avoid falling victim to bogus callers, online fraud and telephone scams. This was followed up with practical tips for personal safety and property marking. We would like to express our thanks for a surprising and informative talk. Our next meeting will be at 2:15pm on Wednesday 6th February at Hoveton Village Hall. Margaret Furness will be demonstrating the making of handmade chocolates. Do not forget your chocolate boxes ladies! Visitors and new members are very welcome. For further information, please ring 01603 783387.
WROXHAM WI We started the New Year on a jovial note, when Don Wescott told us all about his life as a child actor and then as a props man, so there was lots of name dropping and nostalgic tales to brighten our meeting. We will hold a Craft and Chat afternoon on 14th February at 7 Staitheway Road, at 2pm. As always, I am sure there will be just as much Chatting as Crafting, so even if you do not bring any work with you, there will still be a warm welcome awaiting you. Our February WI meeting will be on Wednesday 20th at 2:30pm and our speaker will be Mike Wabe, who will tell us all about Life in Medieval England. I am sure this will make us all appreciate our lives in Twenty - first Century Wroxham all the more! Do not forget: new members are always welcome, so why not come along. Jenny Walkinshaw
WHB TWINNING ASSOCIATION A very good turnout for our post-Christmas dinner, with 35 members enjoying a social evening at Wroxham Barns on 16th January, organised by Aileen and Helen, a great evening and thanks to all involved. The French Conversation evening on 9th January was also well attended at Gill Hood’s in South Walsham, where we read, translated and discussed a French article on New Year’s resolutions, and discovered not many of us practised this tradition any more. This summer’s trip to our French Twinning villages of La Pommeraye and Mont-Jean-sur-Loire has reached the magic number of 25 for our coach excursion, so we can take advantage of the lowest costing, which is great news: we also have some members making their own way and still places are available, so do let Gill know if you would like to come, new members welcome too, of course. Our 20th exchange with our French friends promises to be a great visit, as ever, with varied excursions in the Loire region and, of course, a tour of the chateau of Fontainebleau en route. We have postponed our quiz evening until mid-October and will let everyone know when we have a booking, but we are still intending to organise a wine tasting lunch in April, so look out for this shortly. The Book Club in January discussed two books: “Wolf Hall” by Hilary Mantell, chosen by Phil from Horning and “On the Island” by Tracey Garvis Graves, chosen by Joyce from Wroxham, both sparking a lot of debate as usual. The Book Club meets on the last Wednesday of every month and the French Conversation group on the second Wednesday. Our Beginners French class is also continuing in to its second term at Kevin and Ruth’s in Wroxham every Thursday evening. If you would like any more information on our association, please contact Stewart on 01603 738555 or [email protected].
1ST WROXHAM GUIDES We have been busy the last couple of months. Guides had fun at the Christmas Sleepover at Patteson Lodge. We had a fish and chip supper before we held a campfire, where we toasted marshmallows and squeezed them in between chocolate digestive biscuits - yum. Before going to bed, we made pompom animals and then chatted until the early hours. After breakfast, there were a variety of crafts to try, whilst watching a Steve Martin DVD before it was time to head home. The following weekend, eight Wroxham Guides attended the Winter Camp at Eaton Vale – there was a wide game in the dark – trying to find letters to post to Santa. Other activities included Goecaching; climbing and abseiling; toasting dampers over open fires; making catapults to fire snowballs at Santa; turning our hands to pyrography – we made key-rings and name plaques; there were a couple of quizzes and we each made a snowman in glitter; we watched The Nativity and on Sunday we decorated Go Karts to look like sleighs before a competition to race them around the car park. After Christmas, we joined the rest of the District to see the Show at the end of Cromer Pier. Sophie, Grace, Holly and Harriet have now completed the Baden Powell Challenge – the highest award they can gain as Guides. They have completed 2 yearly challenge badges; done activities from healthy lifestyles; global awareness; discovery; skills and relationships and celebrating diversity. They also went on a Regional Adventure Weekend with other Guides working on the same challenge. Guides in the other patrols completed the Top Job or Passion for Fashion Go For Its! Guides designed their own t shirts, using fabric paints; made jewellery; cooked fashionable foods and recycled old clothing by adding a selection of trimmings. Now Wroxham Guides are just over 4 years old, we have said goodbye to Sophie, Grace, Holly, Harriet, Katy and Shannon, who have all turned 14, to Sashka, who has returned to gymnastics and Jess, who was struggling to find time to finish her homework before Guides. In January, we welcomed Ezzie and Georgia, and we have started on the Independent Living Badge and Campfire Challenge. At the Patrol Leaders Council meeting lots of plans were made for this and some of the Wednesdays in the summer term, but you will need to read about all these in the next edition of The Bridge magazine.
RAINBOWS, BROWNIES, GUIDES AND SENIOR SECTION To enable all the girls who want to join the local units, we need more female volunteers aged 14+ willing to attend weekly meetings and work on the Girlguiding UK leadership Qualifications. You do not need to have been a Rainbow, Brownie or Guide as support and training provided. Both Hoveton Rainbow and Brownie Units are up to their maximum child to adult ratios. There are units at Neatishead, Salhouse and Rackheath that all need another assistant leader to enable Guiding to continue to offer the girls fun and adventure. Girlguiding UK welcomes volunteers of all backgrounds, age groups and abilities. Guiding is flexible and volunteering can be arranged to fit around a busy lifestyle. You can volunteer to help out with: a) Rainbows aged five to seven b) Brownies aged seven to ten c) Guides aged 10 to 14 d) The Senior Section aged 14 to 26 Helping girls achieve their potential is hugely rewarding, but there are lots of benefits for you too. a) A role in Girlguiding UK can give your CV a boost! As a volunteer, you could get involved with marketing, recruiting other volunteers, raising funds, handling budgets and managing large-scale events. In the process, you will develop skills in communication and organisation, teamwork and leadership. b) If you become a Leader or Assistant Leader, you will take Girlguiding UK’s Leadership Qualification, and will be offered lots of other training at a local and national level. Perhaps you have always wanted to become qualified in first aid or event management. Volunteering with guiding can provide the opportunity. Leaders in training are given a mentor to help and support them with their journey in Guiding. c) You will have lots of fun! The guiding programme is packed with activities and challenges and you will have a chance to experience them along with the girls. Not sure about working with girls? Hautbois District need a new District Commissioner, a three year appointment, more of an administrative role, without the responsibility of running a unit. Give me a call to find out more or alternatively have a look at the website www.girlguiding.org.uk. Kate, Tel: 01603 722665, [email protected].
NEATISHEAD COMMUNITY GYM Now is the time of year when many of us think seriously about our health and well-being. Why not do more than just think about it – find the time to put yourself first and come along to the gym! You will soon reap the benefits. Discuss with Louise, our instructor, the kind of exercise routine, which would suit you. We cater for everyone in the community, who could benefit from being more active – that means you! We are open Sun, Mon and Weds mornings between 8:30 and 12:30 at the New Victory Hall, Neatishead. Our prices are affordable (from £15 per month). Unlike larger gyms, there is no contract to sign. Save time and money by keeping it local! Come along for a FREE TASTER SESSION by emailing us on [email protected] or ring 01692 535342. No special clothing is needed; wear something loose with trainers or soft-soled shoes.
WATER BIRD RESCUE with the hands-on assistance of valued supporters, retrieved on the same call-out, two sick swans, “STARVING” and “HUNGRY”, which were succumbing to weaknesses arising from winter malnourishment. (Swan 01603 782626).
BARTON HOUSE RAILWAY 01603 782008, www.bartonhouserailway.org.uk, [email protected]
ALL THE STAFF AND JOINT FRIENDS SEND EVERY GOOD WISH FOR 2013 TO ALL THE READERS OF THE BRIDGE Our final running of 2012 was of course the Santa Special on Sunday 16th December. This was undoubtedly the best attended running day of the year. There were 148 admissions. 23 Special Santa Trains ran between Riverside West & Santa’s Grotto with 59 children & 84 adults. As usual, a festive Christmas Dinner was provided for those who took the First Class Option. Mulled wine & mince pies were available in the marquee at Riverside West Station. Thanks to our usual hosts here Nigel & Julie Preston. A group of handbell ringers also added to the festive spirit. A normal train service ran between Riverside East & Wroxham. The year overall has been disappointing, with low attendances not helped by the poor weather from time to time, but we must now look forward to 2013 with encouragement being the Golden Jubilee Year of BHR
WE CELEBRATE OUR GOLDEN JUBILEE IN 2013 (1963-2013) SO THIS WILL BE AN EXCITING TIME WITH ONE OR TWO SURPRISES AND EVENTS, WHICH ARE ALREADY BEING THOUGHT ABOUT. SO DO KEEP WATCH. DO NoT MISS THE TRAIN! A PRELIMINARY PROGRAMME OF EVENTS IS INCLUDED IN THIS ISSUE.
We will be starting our Anniversary Year with our Annual Meeting on 19th January, followed by our Annual Dinner on 2nd March. Our first running day will be on Monday 1st April (Easter Monday) and the first 3rd Sunday Running on 21st April. THIS IS THE ACTUAL ANNIVERSARY DATE, so quite an important event not to be missed.
PLEASE REMEMBER THAT CHARGES ARE NOW A STANDARD £3 ADULT AND £1.50 CHILDREN (under 14), WHETHER ARRIVING BY ROAD OR BY BOAT.
Please be aware that events listed in the 50th. Anniversary programme may be subject to change. Any significant alterations will be published.
PRELIMINARY PROGRAMME OF EVENTS 50th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
AMATEUR Photograph Competition This is open to everyone and must be a of a railway theme. One picture per entry 50p, maximum size 6 x 8, including mounting. Entries may be submitted from 1st April and closing date will be 1st August. Winner announced on 15th September. Full details available later. Grand Draw Tickets available throughout the season. MANY QUALITY PRIZES. Easter Monday 1st April Easter Bonnet competition, quiz, guess number of sweets in jar, Easter Egg Tombola. Sunday 21st April – COMMEMERATIVE DAY – (St. George’s Day Theme) Grand opening with celebrity, presentation of cheque for Nelson’s Journey (our supported Charity for 2012), Dedication Blessing by the Rev’d William Hill and naming of locomotive “Paul Bower”. Locomotive 251 will be on static display. Introduction of new locomotive head boards “Broadsman” and “50 years” produced by two Junior Members of Staff. Sunday 19th May – Children’s Day With bouncy castle, face painting, caving simulator, lucky dip, tombola, portable organ. Sunday 16th June – Father’s Day Model Exhibition with trains, planes etc., plus boats on “Boating Pond”. Sunday 21st July Our nominated charity for 2013 (1st Stalham Sea Scout Group) will be providing their own theme for the day. Sunday 18th August A “Steam” day with all steam exhibits and locomotives, portable organ. Sunday 15th September Amateur Photograph Competition winner announced. Attendance of Stalham Brass Band. Saturday 21st September – Evening Running Usual magical atmosphere, plus live musical entertainment including portable organ. Sunday 20th October – Halloween Theme Story Teller, Pumpkin Lantern Competition, Dickerson’s Diner Decorated, children invited to wear costumes. Steam Launch “Falcon” will be providing river trips by kind permission of “Museum of the Broads”. Sunday 15th December – Santa Special Usual Santa special arrangements, plus carol singers and handbell ringers.
HOVETON VILLAGE HALL Volunteers wanted - Each week the back rooms of Hoveton Village Hall are open to 11-16 year olds to come along and socialise. The Club, which has been running for over 3 years, provides the opportunity for young people to play games and take part in activities in a safe, supervised environment. We are in urgent need of additional volunteers to help run this local facility. If you are looking for an opportunity to support your local community, please contact Tracy Armitage (Tel: 01603 782897) to discuss further.
COUNCIL NEWS
NORFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL Further Exhibitions Proposed Regarding the Norwich Northern Distributor Road In Spring/Summer 2012, Norfolk County Council held a series of public exhibitions, regarding the latest proposals for the Norwich Northern Distributor Road (NDR). It now intends to hold further exhibitions in February 2013, to provide feedback on the comments received and detail how the proposals may be amended. The dates and venues of these exhibitions will be appearing on Norfolk County Council’s website in the near future. Details of these can be viewed at this website location: www.norfolk.gov.uk/ndr. If you have any questions relating to the NDR, these can be made by e-mailing [email protected] or telephoning 0344 800 8020.
BELAUGH PARISH MEETING As you may have noticed, if you have travelled along the B1354 recently, our poster campaign regarding the proposed Trafford Solar Farm has come to an end and I would like to update you on the current situation. The Application was withdrawn on 21st December 2012 on the advice of both North Norfolk DC and Broadland DC for a variety of reasons. Both Authorities felt the quality of the Application was sub-standard in that it contained many inaccuracies and was not detailed enough in respect of adequate visual screening and traffic management arrangements. They also felt that drainage issues adjacent to Chapman’s Barn, more research into the level of background noise, archaeological surveys and the loss of amenity to the three footpaths on site needed to be addressed more thoroughly. I would like to feel that our Campaign, robust as it was, played its part in highlighting many of these issues and we would like to thank all those of you, who joined us in voicing those concerns. However, it is very likely that the Application will be redrawn and re-submitted within the next few weeks. To that end, I can assure you that we have not ended the Campaign and anticipate many more months of hard work. Our website: nobelaughsolarfarm.co.uk remains open and current. We sincerely hope that should the need arise, we can once again count on your continued and valued support. NORTH NORFOLK DISTRICT COUNCIL MESSAGE FROM COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR NIGEL DIXON The Broads Hotel Station Rd Hoveton Those of you, who have been following this sad saga, may recall my last mention of this topic in May when I advised, “even when Planning Permission is given for redevelopment of the site, the greatest concern is when will the visually offensive and derelict Hotel building be demolished”? That question remains unanswered and many of you are rightly asking what can be done to compel the owner to clear to site. Having waited a reasonable period for signs of action, I am now pressing North Norfolk District Council to take whatever measures necessary make the owner do the right thing and remove this blot on the landscape of Station Rd. I have also raised similar concerns about the redundant Waterside Rooms and the decaying Annex house of the Broads Hotel, both which are in the Broads Authority area. It is over 4 years ago that Planning Permission was given for the Hotel Annex House and car park site to be redeveloped; again there has been no signs of progress to even clear the site. While the planning laws seem to allow owners and developers to ignore the interests and views of communities, I will strive to ensure all possible steps are taken by those authorities that have influence and enforcement powers. Those of you who feel equally strong about the state of Station Rd, may wish complain direct to NNDC, the BA or the press to express your views, every little helps. Solar Farm Planning Application at Belaugh/Hoveton Most of you will know a planning application for a very large solar farm on several agricultural fields on the northern side of the road from Hoveton to Coltishall was made in the autumn and that this was not well publicised until a group of residents made their concerns and objections known. The site falls mainly in the Broadland District Council area, but a large field to the east is in North Norfolk District Council area and both Councils would decide on the application as it affected their respective areas. The solar farm would comprise of rows of photo-voltaic panels mounted on metal framework, almost as far as the eye can see and there would be other facilities dotted around the site and a power line, of some kind, to the electricity sub-station beside the railway station. The applicant had not followed the recommended practices for major applications and had not provided all the necessary information for the application to be properly processed and accordingly withdrew the applications just before Christmas. However, the applicant may well carry out a public consultation before re-submitting the applications with all the necessary information in the coming months. This is another example of planning applications potentially gaining approval without the general public being aware of the likely impact. Please look out for publicity about either a consultation or another planning application if you have views about how this might affect the local area. My contact details, if you wish to raise any other concerns Tel: 783885, or e mail: [email protected] or [email protected].
HOVETON PARISH COUNCIL Granary Staithe Update We are very pleased to report that the Parish Council’s bid to Norfolk County Council for the purchase of Granary Staithe was accepted by NCC in December. Following the public meeting on 19th October and considering the results of the public consultation, the Council put in a bid of £100,000 for the staithe and, although there was a rival bid of a higher figure, NCC accepted ours, because of the public interest. Many thanks are due to all the parishioners, who supported our plans and those who have donated so generously to our fundraising appeal. We intend to fund the purchase with some of the funds, raised by the appeal together with a loan from the Government Loan Board, which will provide us with £80,000 over 10 years at a very competitive interest rate. It will not be necessary to raise the Parish Precept to cover the repayments as the Council had already made provision for this eventuality. Although our bid has been accepted, we cannot yet consider the Staithe to be ours until the contractual negotiations between our solicitor and Norfolk Property Services’ solicitor are concluded. We do not expect that these negotiations will be protracted and we will keep you informed as the legal process continues. In the meantime the Parish Council’s working party are making plans for the work required to tidy up the staithe and to consider what needs to be done in the way of improvements. Top of the list will be a plan to provide a crossing over the dyke at the side of the staithe to provide another entrance to the Riverside Centre. We would like to bring together a small group of local residents to form the nucleus of a team to be responsible for the day to day upkeep of the area. If you are interested in becoming one of the “Staithe Guardians”, please contact Peter Howe either by email to [email protected] or by phone to 01603 783096. Emergency Heater Loan Scheme North Norfolk District Council has initiated a “heater loan scheme”, working with Town and Parish Councils and voluntary groups. The idea of the scheme is that portable domestic electric heaters are distributed across the district to nominated individuals, who can then make them available to vulnerable people needing temporary support with heating. Hoveton Parish Council has taken delivery of one of these heaters. In the words of the Health Improvement Officer at NNDC the heaters are “all new, mobile, energy efficient and effective with a range of heat settings. They are aimed at supporting vulnerable people, who may be more adversely affected due to cold housing. This could be because they are elderly or a family with young children, have a disability or long term medical condition.” Because they are electric heaters, they are clearly not appropriate in a power cut, but will provide additional heating in times of extreme cold or when the gas or oil heating system in a vulnerable person’s house breaks down. So, if you become aware of any vulnerable person in Hoveton, who has a heating problem, then please let us know and we will be happy to deliver the heater to them. The heater is very light and portable. Please contact Alex or Peter Howe by email at [email protected] or phone 01603 783096.
BROADLAND DISTRICT COUNCIL £1 million to be invested in lowering fuel bills and creating warmer homes Broadland District Council is to act as an East Anglia centre of excellence in promoting the government’s new “Green Deal” energy saving scheme and a suite of other projects, worth more than £1 million. Broadland’s Climate Change officers led a bid for government funding with neighbouring authority South Norfolk Council. The Energy Secretary, Edward Davey, announced this week that their bid has been successful and has attracted Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) funding of £269,500. This money means that residents in Broadland and South Norfolk will be benefitting from investment to help people to keep their homes warm and their energy bills low. The funding included £232,000 of Green Deal Pioneer Places Funding, which will be used for a range of projects all geared to spread awareness of the green technologies available under the government’s Green Deal. Planned projects include providing Parish Councils with Green Deal Awareness training and providing parish councils with a finder’s fee for every household they refer for a Green Deal Assessment. One business and one community building in each of the two local authority’s areas - Broadland and South Norfolk, will be given a free retrofit with energy saving measures in return for their owners or occupants becoming Green Deal ambassadors and allowing the buildings to be used to showcase the technologies and show people interested in taking up the Green Deal what is possible. An Eco Van and trailer will tour the area visiting the heart of our communities, acting as a mobile demonstrator of the available technologies and providing information on the Green Deal to the public. £37,500 of the DECC funding will be used to operate a Collective Switching exercise across Broadland and South Norfolk. This will allow all residents in both districts to collectively switch their energy provider. The funding will be used to market this opportunity to householders that would benefit most from switching their energy providers (people in fuel poverty and/or those that have not switched energy provider recently). An auction will then be commissioned where energy providers quote to provide energy to residents that have registered their interest in switching. The lowest price quoted is then offered to participating residents. The funding will also be used to set up oil purchasing cooperatives in areas of both districts not currently covered by a cooperative. This will allow the collective purchasing of oil resulting in reduced prices through greater purchasing power achieved by the co-operatives. Councillor John Fisher, Broadland District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment said: “The team have also been successful in securing £337,900 funding from the European Regional Development Fund that will be added to £507,000 of previous government Eco Town funding to deliver demonstrator projects, covering 8 properties in Rackheath and Salhouse, owned by Wherry Housing. Renewable materials and technologies will be used to achieve reductions in energy use and carbon emissions of up to 90% per property. This is a really exciting project, which will act as a trial to discover the best ways to increase energy efficiency of older properties and identify best practices that can be used on over 50 million older, hard to heat properties in the UK. “When you add in the DECC funding we have more than £1 million to invest in properties to demonstrate that we can all benefit by reducing our energy use, lowering our energy bills and reducing carbon emissions. The benefits of investing this money are almost exponential, householders and businesses will benefit by learning what is possible, local trades people will fit the technologies, a green technology supply chain will develop and we will be addressing fuel poverty. This fits precisely with two of our core Business Plan priorities at Broadland - to achieve Economic success and Environmental Excellence and it just shows the opportunities there are for us to lead the way in Norfolk on pioneering new technologies and ensuring that it is our residents, who receive tangible benefits for many years to come as a result. ”South Norfolk Councillor Yvonne Bendle, Cabinet Member for Housing and Public Health said: “This substantial investment from the Government follows our successful joint bid and just as local councils came together to win this funding, so in practical terms, we can help bring together residents to win cheaper energy deals, using their collective power as consumers. More specifically, in South Norfolk the Green Deal initiative means we can transform a community centre and a building at one of our business parks into a modern, well insulated and energy efficient models of sustainability. This Government’s pioneering Green Deal initiative has united with Norfolk’s leading edge local councils, and thousands of people will benefit as a result.” Residents in Broadland or South Norfolk, who would like more information about the Green Deal, should contact the climate change team on 01603 430 627.
ARTICLES AND PRESS RELEASES
HOVETON VILLAGE HALL DIAMOND JUBILEE 2013 Hoveton Village Hall celebrates its Diamond Jubilee this year, having been officially opened on 2nd June 1953. The East Norfolk Operatic Society is presenting a musical evening on Saturday 1st June to mark this anniversary. Also, on Sunday 14th April, a Village Games event for all ages is being organised by Active Sports (Norfolk). With this celebratory year in mind, the car park has already been resurfaced and old fencing replaced, financed by a lottery grant and local donations. Mindful of the need to be eco-friendly, to reduce heating costs and to provide a warmer ambience for hirers, our next major project is to consider insulation of the Hall, if enough grant funding can be obtained. However, during the last 2 years extra major maintenance costs, not attracting grant funding, but paid from hire charges, have been necessary: re-roofing of a side room cost £1800, cleaning and replacement of guttering with realignment of surface water drainage, felling of dead trees and branches £1500. Play equipment repairs and inspections have cost over £1500. In the middle of the year, a demand was received doubling the cost of the entertainment licence/levy for no extra benefit. This was both disheartening and devastating; increasing lettings or hire charges will increase this iniquitous “tax”, as it is based on hire receipts. This very large and varied facility is extremely costly to maintain. The ENAOS evening in June will be a fund raising event to assist in paying for Hall improvements and to sustain this village amenity. Rita Massingham, Chairman
NHS HEALTH TRAINERS ARE COMING TO A PLACE NEAR YOU IN 2013! Health Trainers give you the motivation and support you need to change your alcohol, physical activity, smoking and food habits. We will listen and help you to achieve your health goals and motivate you to succeed. Seeing a Health Trainer is free, if you live in Norfolk and we will see you 1:1 for up to six sessions, which typically last for half an hour each. We can also help with those lifestyle- based New Year’s resolutions that you are thinking of making. Why not contact us, it might be the best thing you do for your health in 2013. To see a Health Trainer or to get more information you can: Call us on 01263 516310 Email us on [email protected] Write to us at NHS Health Trainer Service, NNDC, Holt Road, Cromer, NR27 9EN Speak to your GP about the Service Or visit www.norfolk.nhs.uk/health-trainer-service We hope you have a happy, healthy 2013!All the best, Christine, John, Mary, Sally and Hannah
WROXHAM WORSHIP AND COMMUNITY CENTRE (to be built at 114 Norwich Road, opposite The Avenue, sponsored by the United Reformed Church). Well, you must be wondering if anything is actually going to get started after all the false starts last year. Network Rail has been the main cause of the hold up, but we think these problems have now been solved. Fisher Bullen has put a fence around the property, and the latest is that they intend to start in the next few weeks. Let’s hope it really happens this time! Applications for grants have been pretty successful and the donors have been very patient with the delays, for which we are very thankful. We did apply to the Norfolk Community Construction Fund in December, but were refused because we were not ready to start. However, a further application will go in for March, by which time we should be well underway. Meanwhile, the launch of a new U3A group will take place in the Church Hall on 26th Feb at 2:30pm, and the URC’s “Fresh Ground” monthly open discussion groups are meeting in St Helen’s, next one 7th Feb at 7:30pm (details elsewhere).
U3A – UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE Do you: Enjoy meeting others in an informal atmosphere? Like to learn or enjoy various leisure activities? Have a skill or hobby you would like to share? U3A caters for those no longer in full time employment. It is an international organisation with many branches in the UK. Activities are whatever the members want and are organised by them. Examples of interest groups could be for instance walking, painting, languages, music, practical skills, keep fit, theatre visits to name a few. Groups can meet in people’s homes or in a community space, perhaps in Wroxham Hub (Wroxham Worship and Community Centre), when it is completed. Our nearest branches now are North Walsham and Norwich. NEWS! LAUNCH DATE TUESDAY 26TH FEBRUARY, 2:30PM WROXHAM CHURCH HALL Enough people have so far shown an interest for the Regional Officer to come and explain everything and help us start a group, if that is what the meeting wants. So, if you want the opportunity to pursue learning for sheer enjoyment, share it with a range of interest groups and make new friends, come to this meeting and help us get it started. If you would like to be present, but are unable to do so, please ring Corrie Mould on 01603 782755 to register your interest.
NOTICES
WROXHAM AND HOVETON LIONS CLUB I, David Barnett, give notice that the collection, which took place at Roys on Saturday 22 December 2012, raised the sum of £382.70. No expenses were incurred and the total amount will be donated to local charities. Many thanks to all who donated.
HOVETON ST JOHN CHURCH All wreaths must be removed from St John’s churchyard by Friday 1st February.
COFFEE MORNING Apologies for cancelling the January Coffee Morning for St. Mary’s Church, due to weather conditions. The next coffee morning will be on Monday 18th February from 10:00am in the Church Hall. Marion’s gifts and a cake stall - everyone welcome.
FOR SALE
Philips DVD player DVP3120, brand new, boxed, unwanted present, £27. Same model s/h on Amazon £35. Pair of portable home telephones, complete with chargers £10. Sony VHS player/recorder - £offer. LG VHS player/recorder, unused, still as new - £offer. Echostar satellite digital receiver, worldwide coverage, little used & unused for the past 5 years - £offer. Viking 2 ton hydraulic car lifting jack - £offer. Panasonic Telephone/Fax/Answering machine – little used. £offer. Tel: 01603 782899
Hotpoint automatic washing machine – perfect working order. £75 ono. Black leather curved settee and large curved matching chair - £200 ono. Tel: 01603 270840 or 07809 696629
Dry, secure, shipping container storage in Hoveton. Tel: 01603 782603 or 07836 388152 Email: [email protected]
I am Maria, a classical soprano singer, who would like to perform at your wedding or special occasion. Please call or email with your requirements and type of occasion, and I will be happy to give you a quote and availability. Please telephone 01603 782603 daytime or 01603 784085 evenings or weekends, or email [email protected].
WANTED
Knitters wanted - Can you knit or crochet? If you have some time on your hands and would like to help me knit or crochet items for 2 dog rescue groups I raise funds for, please contact Sara Royall on 01603 784108 or email me [email protected]. Materials provided, but donations of wool always welcome.
Female carers required in Hoveton to cover a total of 36 hours per week to assist an elderly woman with personal care, domestic support & social activities. 7 mornings & 2 afternoons per week. Job share. £7 per hour. For details: Job Reference 2074-1, Tel: (01508) 491220.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
SECONDHAND BOOK SALE Saturday 16th February, 2 - 4pm at Scout H.Q., Nobel Crescent, Wroxham, NR12 8SF. Large selection of paperback fiction, plus hard backs, non-fiction, children’s etc. 30p - 50p. In aid of Scout funds.
SNOWDROP & ACONITE WALK AT HOVETON HOUSE WITH BRUNCH MR & MRS TOM BLOFELD invite you to enjoy a relaxing stroll in the beautiful gardens at Hoveton House on Sunday 24th February 2013 from 11:00am to 2:00pm. Tickets £7.50 Adults, Children under 12 - £3.00. Price includes Winter Soup, Barbecued Hotdogs (Veggie available) glass of wine or soft drink. In aid of Autism Anglia and St. John’s Church, Hoveton. Tickets and information: Telephone 01692 630892. Tickets also available at the gate. Hoveton House can be found off the A1062 Hoveton to Horning Road. Note: This event is at Hoveton House not Hoveton Hall.
EVENING OF WORDS & MUSIC FRIENDS OF WROXHAM CHURCH We are planning to present an Evening of Words & Music in May in Wroxham Church Hall. This will be a friendly, informal social occasion and we are hoping that as many local groups and individuals as possible will get involved. If you are interested in helping or taking part, please contact Di Stagg on 01603 784214 or [email protected].
HORNING BOAT SHOW Saturday 4 May 2013 More organisations, businesses and individuals are becoming involved in the Horning Boat Show to be held on Saturday 4 May. We are delighted that local business Norfolk Yacht Agency has agreed to become a principal sponsor of the event and the journal Anglia Afloat has become our media partner. Coverage in the January edition of Anglia Afloat has resulted in a great deal of interest from potential exhibitors and more exhibitors are coming on board all the time. This new event, organised by local residents, will raise essential funds for local projects. On display will be traditional and modern, luxury and affordable motor cruisers, yachts and launches, plus inflatables and RIBs. Other exhibitors include marine insurance and finance providers, hire fleets, yacht brokers, car dealers and some with broader appeal. Entry to the Boat Show will be free and special parking arrangements are have been organised. The show is being planned as a family event and BeWILDerwood will be there with water-inspired crafts and other Twigglish stuff. They will also be offering reduced price entry to the adventure park after 3pm for visitors to the Boat Show. For more information go to www.horningboatshow.org, follow us on Twitter at Twitter@BoatHorning and find us on Facebook.
“THE PIED PIPER” THE WHERRY ENTERTAINERS After the success of our Big Variety Show in October 2012, The Wherry Entertainers are pleased to announce our next production “THE PIED PIPER”. This classic tale, with a modern twist, will be performed as a musical play at Broadland High School over the weekend of 21st/24th March. A show for all the family, The Pied Piper will be coming your way soon, so watch this space for further details. If in the mean time you would like to know more or book reduced advance tickets before they go on sale to the general public, then please contact 01692 580 339 or email [email protected].
ANNIE SLATER'S CHARITY “JAZZ AND JAM” EVENTS In spite of the on-going effects of the economical situation, coupled with a very late start in last year’s fund-raising efforts due to house-moving, I am very happy to report that the £3,000 target was surpassed with the final total raised standing at £3,279.13. This is a fantastic result, which is entirely due to the huge support, received from all those who have generously helped in my efforts in so many ways - donating raffle prizes, attending events, supplying fruit, jam jars and produce to sell, buying jams etc. from my roadside stall and other outlets, selling produce for me, assisting with admission and raffles at events, generous monetary gifts, etc. My sincere thanks, once again, to all - this is your success. The lion’s share of the funds raised has been gratefully received by Worstead Day Centre, who have made improvements to the premises and equipment, and with funding for extra staff have been able to increase care days from two to three per week (with continuing funding, it is hoped to increase this to four), so the money raised is helping to provide first-class professional care for more needy folks in the surrounding area. The balance has been donated to other charities, such as Macmillan Nurses, Big C Cancer Research, Alzheimers Research and The Stroke Association, all organisations, which many of us identify with, and who need assistance to carry on their work. My good wishes for 2013 - I look forward to seeing you at events, the first of which is on Valentine’s Day at The Lighthouse (see poster elsewhere in this magazine). Annie.
ST MARY WROXHAM COFFEE MORNING Apologies for cancelling the January Coffee Morning for St. Mary’s Church, due to weather conditions. The next coffee morning will be on Monday 18th February from 10:00am in the Church Hall. Marion’s gifts and a cake stall - everyone welcome.
HOVETON ST JOHN CHURCH COFFEE MORNINGS are planning to have monthly coffee mornings this year. If you are willing to host one, please phone Sarah Tomkins on 01692 630892. These mornings are popular and friendly.