ISSUE 132 June - July 2020

If you need a printed copy of Local Lynx 132, please call or email your village rep or [email protected]. Wishing all our readers well. And Stay alert (!) RH, Editor

Lynx 132 is now online at www.locallynx.co.uk 1

WHAT’S ON Local Lynx is a non-profit-making community JUNE* th newspaper for the ten villages of the benefice. 17 Wed. , Cosy Club, MH 2-4pm ______We welcome articles, drawings, photos, poetry and JULY* th advertisements for publication from all ages but 6 Mon. Binham, Coffee Morning , MH, 10.30am th the editor reserves the right to edit or omit 15 Wed. Binham, Cosy Club, MH, 2-4pm submissions. A maximum of 400 words is recommended. Please contact your local rep on CURRENT REGULARS IN LOCKDOWN their email or phone number listed under your own Tues, Thurs, Sat – Langham Blue Bell Pub Shop 9-10.30am village heading.

Wednesdays Village Van Shop, 2pm All submissions must go through the village rep. Wednesdays Langham Mobile Post Office VH 9.10-10am For general information: [email protected]. Wednesdays Langham Village Van Shop, 12.30pm ______

Deadlines for submissions to reps are: 6 January, REGULARS (subject to social distancing restrictions 6 March, 6 May, 6 July, 6 September & 6 November being lifted/changed)

Tuesdays Binham, Art Group BMH 9.30am - 12.30pm Newsletter and Website Advertising First and third Tuesdays in the month Binham, Sew and For enquiries about advertising in Local Lynx, contact Natter, The Gallery in the Chequers, 7-9pm Maxine Burlingham: [email protected]

Wednesdays term time Binham Youth Group BMH 6-8pm. Rates for advertising (pre-paid) are: Third Wednesday in the month, Binham, Cosy Club, BMH, One column x 62 mm (1/8 page): £72 for six issues. 2-4pm Small Ads Panel on the back page: Third Thursday in the month Binham & Open Available for individuals and businesses Circle Meeting, Hindringham VH 7.15pm providing local services. Cost: £36 for six issues. Fourth Thursday in the month Binham Local History Group BMH 7.30pm SERVICE COLLECTIONS APPEAL First & third Saturdays in month Langham Coffee Mornings, VH 10am -12noon

MOBILE LIBRARY* *Thursdays 25 June & 23 July Langham Mobile Library

3.30pm St Mary’s & 4.00pm The Cornfield An on screen MOBILE POST OFFICE service led by the

Field Dalling Every Wednesday, 10.10-10.50am, VH Revd Canon Fiona Newton with technical support provided by Ian NEW CLASH DIARY Newton.

If you are arranging a big event, contact your village rep to Dear Readers, add it to our clash diary, then check the diary to see what Collections taken at services are an important source of else is going on. funds for the churches in our benefice, and the closure of the November churches due to the coronavirus pandemic means that in 2020 Sat. 28th Field Dalling Christmas Fair 10am - 12.30pm these funds are likely to be massively reduced. If you were willing to consider setting up a standing order on your bank account in favour of your local PCC, any such GLAVEN CARING UPDATE donations would help to offset the lost service collections. For example, if 10 parishioners each set up a SO for as of 24 April £5pcm, this would amount annually to £600, plus a further The well-being of our clients is paramount. The centre £150 if gift aid were consented to and claimed on these dona- was closed some 5 weeks ago. Hairdresser, hearing aid and tions. Your local PCC treasurer can supply your PCC’s bank podiatry clinics stopped. Almost all of the staff have been details and a gift aid declaration form. You would of course placed on furlough. be able to terminate the SO whenever you so wish. If you Our manager and chef have been retained and are would like to help, please get in touch with the relevant per- producing hot meals daily for our clients and anybody else son for your parish: that would like the service. This service is covering Blakeney and the Glaven Valley but also going out to clients Bale: Martin Moore [email protected] in Hindringham, Holt and High . A phone service Binham: Neil MacArthur [email protected] takes place on a Monday morning with the weeks menu, so Field Dalling: Louise Shone [email protected] they can have a choice which days they would like one. Gunthorpe: Penny Brough [email protected] Almost 400 hot meals (main and dessert) have been Langham: Ann Sherriff 01328 830605 distributed over these last few weeks. They come in their [email protected] own heat-retained tray at a cost of £8.50. : Anne Rolfe 01263 741125 annerolfe45@ We have been assisted by some great volunteers getting gmail.com these meals out. If anyone knows of anybody that would like to have this service delivered to their doors, please contact us : Liz Peart elizabethpeart@btconnect. com on the methods below. : Martyn Sloman [email protected] t: 01263 740762 e: [email protected] : Heather Harrison heatherjh16@gmail. com Thanking you. Keith Barnes, General Manager 2

Church Services for the Stiffkey and Bale Benefice for June and July 2020 HC=Holy Communion. CFS=Church Family Service. MP=Morning Prayer. BCP=Book of Common Prayer

Churches will still be closed during June, but may be allowed to open in July and there is a service rota below if this happens. This is a tentative step towards normality and it is highly likely that virtual services will run alongside during July, at least, for those who do not wish to leave their homes.

If you wish to take part in Zoom services, usually at 11.00am on Sundays and made possible by Mr. Ian and the Rev’d Canon Fiona Newton, please telephone Ian Newton on 01328 830947 or email [email protected].

In the meantime if you would like to receive the Rector’s sermons please email [email protected]

Parish 5th July 12th July 19th July 26th July

Bale 9.30am MP 9.30am HC Field Dalling 11.00am CFS At Saxlingham 11.00am MP BCP Saxlingham At Field Dalling 11.00am HC At Field Dalling Gunthorpe 11.00am MP 11.00am MP Sharrington 9.30am MP BCP 9.30am HC Binham 11.00am HC 11.00am MP Morston 9.30am HC BCP 9.30am MP BCP Langham 9.30am MP At Stiffkey 9.30am MP Stiffkey At Langham 9.30am HC At Langham

No Additional Services

No Regular Weekday Services

RECTOR’S LETTER practically and thoughtfully. Mr. Ian and The Rev’d. Canon Fiona Newton have Isaiah 40. 28 – 31 made possible on screen Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the services of Divine everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of Worship. (See page 2) For the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no many people years of searching of his understanding. practice in care, prayer, the

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no exercise of duty and the might he increaseth strength. determination to keep things going have proved Revd Ian Whittle’s Sunday service Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young their worth. These remain the online men shall utterly fall: living foundations for building a better tomorrow. But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their People take comfort and find inspiration in a great strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they many things. Some we all share, some we do not. I love shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and wind and rain and being on top of a hill! But I also love not faint. a walk around my own garden in warm sunshine after a shower. I like the smell of wet sheep and a wet dog Dear Friends and Parishioners, outside; and beeswax and wood smoke inside. The late John Richardson, writer and collector, wrote Reversing the two would be very unpleasant. in his autobiography ‘At Home’: All over the world people have faced a great “I enjoyed the Blitz; it brought out good nature in reversal. But there is One who never changes. ‘They even the nastiest people’. The terrible time so many that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they have endured and the appalling consequences, will shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and mark us all for a very long time, and for those who have not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint.’ lost those they love, for their lifetime.” Yours most truly, There has though been a great outbreak of kindness Ian Whittle, The Rectory, Langham 01328 830246 and of gratitude. All our parishes have responded the [email protected] 3

COUNTY COUNCILLORS’ NEWS LOOKING AFTER LOCAL LYNX …from Dr. Marie Strong  covers 10 villages in North Dear All,  published every other month The support and help which so many individuals in  voluntarily produced by village members our parishes are giving to those struggling with Covid-  distributed to 1,260 households, pubs, churches, 19 is outstanding – including small but valuable acts of libraries, tourist information offices and shops kindness about which only the recipient will ever know.  estimated readership 2,000 plus 300+ on-line Added to all such support Norfolk’s organisations readers at www.locallynx.co.uk and agencies continue to be ready to help families. ‘Just

Until quite recently, all our production costs (mainly One Norfolk’ support and advice line for families can printing) were covered by donations we receive from Parish be contacted on 0300 300 0123 or log on to Councils and PCCs, and by advertisements. But, perhaps www.justonenorfolk.nhs.uk. For those without easy due to the trend towards online selling, our advertising access to broadband I have asked the Editor if they have revenue has decreased over the past few issues. space in the coming edition to select a few examples Although our overall financial position is still healthy, from the website which they believe will be useful for we need to make up the shortfall. So we are turning to you, Lynx readers. our readers, for a little help. Firstly, if you run a local [Examples include: pregnancy, childhood illnesses, business or service, please consider advertising. Secondly, staying safe, child development & additional needs, we know that you value your Local Lynx and, if you would healthy lifestyles, emotional health and Covid-19 FAQs] like to help ensure its long-term future, then please think On a personal note emails continue to arrive and as about making a small donation. Six pounds a year would be always I feel privileged when able, with help from NCC £1 per issue; ten pounds a year would be a round sum, but staff, to find solutions to the wide range of questions please give whatever you feel is appropriate. and problems. A big difference is not going out most Our bank details for making a direct BACS transfer are evenings to parish meetings as I have for the past eleven below or you may donate by cash or cheque. Please email years. Whilst pleasant to sit down for dinner at a lynxeditor @pobox.com to arrange this. reasonable time I miss the interaction and getting to know more people across the division. Other than that I Lynx Internet Banking and Standing Orders keep finding another set of files to sort out – Account number: 6500 4288 Sort code: 09-01-54 unfortunately the contents have proved too interesting to With special thanks to our individual donors. Ed. scrap. Perhaps the beginning of a book! For now good wishes and good health. Marie

Dr Marie Strong: County Councillor Wells Division (Glaven, Priory and Parishes)

COMMUNITY nEWS [email protected] or 07920 286 597

CENTURY PRINTING ...from Steffan Aquarone Another string to the bow I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many Local Lynx would like to congratulate our brilliant and officers who have worked tirelessly to cope with the supportive printers on their 25th anniversary in business. additional pressures that have been placed on key services - Century Printing joined us 20 years ago and have made such in particular adult social care, where the Council is fighting a huge contribution to the consistantly high-quality to mitigate PPE shortage, and children’s services where this production of our newsletter. We were sorry to let owner already vulnerable group is at greater risk. Roger Newman know that we would only be online this As the new Group Leader for the Liberal Democrats on time, but it seems that Century Printing has a new the County Council, I am briefed each week on production line! developments and information has been forthcoming. In this

Dear Roberta, capacity, I am taking the position of being constructively It’s kind of you to give us advance warning of Lynx 132 critical at this time – doing what we can to support the being online only. We quite understand though and it’s the County Council’s public health messaging, but equally right decision. Don’t worry, we very much plan to still be recognising that the decisions being made by all levels of here when this eventually comes to an end. government at this time are having a profound effect on In fact we are open for business even now, legitimately people’s lives and are therefore worthy of political scrutiny. so as we are counted as an essential service, whilst Now is the time to reflect on what can be learned from the following some strict response across Norfolk so far and prepare for the many safety measures. We new challenges that we face. actually have a fair It is most likely that, as lockdown measures are eased, amount of work to do, we may find ourselves facing similar urgent tactical including making some decisions to the ones taken during the start of this pandemic. face visors for the carers Nevertheless, if we escape the next phase without another who are unable to get spike, then the challenge increases: people will return to them elsewhere. ‘normal life’ at different speeds; there will be different Well done for keeping levels and lengths of the ongoing effects of the virus on the Lynx going through Century Printing’s PPE visors for different groups in society; and we must try to bank the new thick and thin. Kings Lynn hospital positive insights we have discovered, particular around the Kind Regards, strengths of our communities. Roger Newman The County Council is already facing a £20m shortfall in 4

the few short months it has been dealing with this crisis, and it seems that a return to ‘business as usual’, in particular the programme of service and spending cuts, is unrealistic as well as potentially even more damaging for the people of Norfolk who rely on them. Steffan Aquarone Flags Steffan Aquarone: County Councillor flying for Division ( incl. Bale and Gunthorpe Parishes) VE Day [email protected] or 07879 451608 in Morston

District Councillors’ Contact Details: Richard Kershaw e:richard.kershaw@north- Gunthorpe displays by the norfolk.gov.uk (Binham, Cockthorpe, Field Dalling, King family for VE Day Gunthorpe & Bale, Langham & Saxlingham) Karen Ward e:[email protected] (Morston & Stiffkey) Andrew Brown e:[email protected] (Sharrington)

telephone box or an unlocked church porch you could download a copy to place here. With many of our villages having a formal or informal volunteer network at present, it COVID-19 AND HEALTHWATCH may also be useful for someone to have a copy to hand to provide information for those amongst us who do not have NORFOLK access to a computer or are not confident in using one. Healthwatch Norfolk, www.healthwatchnorfolk.co. uk is To make contact with Healthwatch Norfolk email a registered charity accountable to Norfolk County Council [email protected] or call Freephone and responsible for gathering information from users about 0808 168 9669 although during the pandemic customer our health and social services in Norfolk and feeding this services may be more limited than usual. CD back to commissioners and service providers. Paying particular attention to under-represented groups, it can advise on creating better services working with national and MAKING THE LAST MILE GREENER local organisations. Highlighting how our shopping habits have changed It also gives out information on services and help during lockdown, the Norfolk Association of Local available and so for current information on the Covid-19 Councils (NALC) has issued some thought-provoking situation in Norfolk go the website where you will find a guidance on reducing our carbon footprint, based on a dedicated section on the virus. General guidance is given, BBC radio programme from December 2019. plus information specifically for Norfolk residents, such as The ‘last mile’, the final journey before shopping updates from hospitals and hospital trusts in our region. reaches our homes, can account for up to 50% of the Here you can also download a 30 page comprehensive carbon footprint of an item’s transport, it points out. Covid-19 resource pack which as well as giving the advice And when you have to make a special car journey to included above has a number of useful links to other buy something, it is almost always less polluting to have Norfolk websites which offer help for specific areas such as it delivered rather than collect it. The more rural the mental health or with safeguarding issues for example, plus area, the more pollution is saved and having more useful links to such services as community pharmacies, packages delivered at the same time reduces the charities and organisations that can offer help to assist footprint even more. people through this difficult time. Given that so many of us have turned to deliveries If your village has a spot that is available to all such as a for our purchases in recent weeks it is good to hear that there is a potential silver eco-lining to this form of shopping, as well as the opportunity to support local producers and traders. On the negative side, missed deliveries double the carbon footprint of the delivery, and returns even more so. However, a drop off point in a village from which people collect their items by green transport – by bicycle or on foot – has a huge positive effect in decreasing the footprint. The NALC is striving for a goal of net zero emissions for every parish in Norfolk by 2045, and the chairman of its ‘Wellbeing Task & Finish Group’, John Bunwell, comments: “My dream is that all communities would set up collection points to ease the carbon footprint of ‘the last mile’.

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LANGHAM DOME NEWS actions taken by LACW Cross. For her (www.langhamdome.org) bravery she was awarded the British Sadly, along with the plans of all of us, our plans to Empire Medal, and as we celebrate VE expand Dome activities and events in 2020 have been put day it is worth telling her story again. The citation reads: into abeyance as the nation responds to the Covid-19 th pandemic. The Dome has been closed for the months of “On the night of 25 March 1945, a April and May. We will have taken a view in mid-May, heavily loaded Wellington aircraft guided by the then latest Government advice, as to whether crashed and burst into flames near the we can open in June and July, and indeed whether we are airfield shortly after taking off for likely to be able to open at all this year. Because of the early LACW Ivy Cross BEM operations. Leading Aircraftwoman May print deadline in submitting this article, and its Cross drove her van across several publication four weeks later, it is impossible to state here fields to reach the scene of the crash. She helped drag clear what that decision will have been, but omens do not look several of the crew who had been thrown out of the aircraft good in these uncertain times. However we will keep our although ammunition and explosives were detonating at website (link above) regularly up to date, so please refer to very close quarters. Once they were clear of the flames she that for Dome news and before making a wasted journey rendered first aid to the injured. Owing to the intense heat expecting to find us open. she was unable to approach the aircraft again in order to Another plan we have had to abandon for the moment is rescue other trapped airmen. the mounting of the full size replica Spitfire outside the She returned to her station of duty at Flying Control and Dome. We are ready to go but cannot proceed until the shortly after arriving there another Wellington aircraft social distancing restrictions are lifted - so it is now more crashed on the edge of the airfield. Leading Aircraftwoman likely that this will be a project for the winter 20/21 or even Cross was first on the scene with her van. Most of the crew 2021 itself. members were able to get clear of the wreckage, but the rear One important day for us is to celebrate the 80th gunner was trapped. She assisted in smashing the rear turret anniversary of the Battle of Britain, which we have planned and in helping the rear gunner to safety. She then rendered for 13 September if we, or indeed the country, are allowed fist aid and helped members of the crew to sick quarters to hold such an event. An important part of our fund raising Leading Aircraftwoman Cross has attended fourteen for this year is a draw at the Battle of Britain event with crashes and on twelve occasions has helped members of the great prizes that include a Tiger Moth flight from Langham aircrew from crashed and burning aircraft. She has shown and also a helicopter flight, as well as a flight simulator outstanding courage and complete disregard for her own experience and a £50 cash prize. We have also been donated safety.” John Blakeley a large framed Spitfire print painted by artist Barrie Clark - a very appropriate prize for this anniversary. The draw will ADVICE ON HOW TO BE SCAM still take place at the Dome on 13th September even if we AWARE AND STAY SAFE cannot hold the celebration, and we hope that readers will Many people in Norfolk and across the country have support us by purchasing tickets and paying by BACS or come together during the coronavirus pandemic to offer cheque, either on-line by contacting admin@ each other help and support. The majority of these offers are langhamdome.org (please e-mail initially and we will get genuine, but there are some criminals who are using scams back to you with payment and ticket details), or by to exploit people’s increased vulnerability at this time. telephone to John Blakeley on 01263 861008. Books of 5 As a ‘Friends Against Scams SCAMbassador’, tickets cost just £5. All winners will be notified. Norfolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Lorne If you have already visited the Dome you may have read Green says that ‘knowledge is power’ when it comes to the heroic story of Leading Aircraftwoman (LACW) Ivy being scam aware and keeping yourself safe. “Fraud affects Cross, and you will have seen the memorial to the crew of thousands of people across Norfolk every year. Most often it Wellington F for “Freddie” outside. The memorial is the vulnerable in our society who are targeted and commemorates the crash of “Freddie” on takeoff on 25th exploited by scammers, but anyone can be a victim. It is March 1945 (just 6 weeks before VE Day), and it is still truly hideous to think that criminals would try to exploit the visited every year by the family of the co-pilot Flight situation in which the UK, and world, currently finds itself – Sergeant Frederick Harris who died in the crash (see Lynx but the evidence shows this is indeed the case. Our 130). But there were three survivors, thanks in large part to increased isolation and vulnerability at this time could make any of us more susceptible to falling for a scam, so it is particularly important that we share information and advice, and we learn how to keep ourselves safe.” We want to share with you some examples of current coronavirus scams, as well as tips on staying safe and keeping informed about the latest scams in your area. Criminals are targeting people in person, online and over the phone. Some common in-person Coronavirus scams include:  People selling virus home testing kits.  People offering vaccines or cures.  Taking money to buy food or other supplies and not returning with the goods.  Home cleaning services. Selling overpriced or fake products door-to-door, particularly cleaning or hygiene items. Some of these products can be dangerous. 6

Tips for staying safe or utility company.  Trust your instincts. While many people are genuine and  Selling overpriced or fake products online. want to help you, there are others who will try to take More tips for staying safe: advantage of you. It is ok to reject, refuse or ignore any  Never open attachments, click on links or make requests or offers. payments when you receive emails out of the blue.  Never deal with unexpected cold callers on your  Never give out your bank details or other personal doorstep. information to strangers over the phone or via email.  Take your time when making decisions. Only criminals  If you are purchasing goods or services from a company will try to rush you. or person you don’t know and trust, carry out some  Make sure you can trust the person who is offering to research first, or ask friends and family for advice. help you. If the person claims to represent a charity, ask  Where possible, avoid making payments via bank them for ID. transfer. Credit card payments and payment services  If someone has offered to buy supplies for you, don’t such as PayPal offer fraud protection and the chance to make any payments until you receive the goods. get your money back if you have been scammed.  Check with family members or friends before accepting  Type websites into search bars yourself, rather than offers of help if you are unsure. following links in emails or texts. This ensures you  Online and phone scams are becoming increasingly access the official website and are not redirected. sophisticated. Even if an email or text has your full  Use the scam prevention websites mentioned below to name, or other personal information in it, do not double-check anything you see on social media or automatically trust it. receive via email. Online and phone coronavirus scams Who can help? Some common online and phone Coronavirus scams Friends Against Scams is a National Trading Standards include: Scams Teams initiative, which aims to empower people to  Text messages and emails saying you’re entitled to tax take a stand against scams. Check out their website for refunds or loans from the government. useful tips on staying safe and practical assistance such as  Text messages and emails claiming you have been fined call blockers to screen unwanted phone calls, for going outside more than once per day. www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk/.You can also complete  Emails with attachments claiming to show coronavirus their quick and simple Friends Against Scams online cases on local maps. training which can help to better understand and spot scams,  Emails from the World Health Organisation (WHO) with and recognise when people are being scammed in our attachments claiming to contain safety measures to communities - access training at www.friendsagainstscams. combat coronavirus. org.uk/elearning/Norfolk  Phone calls from people claiming to be from your bank In partnership with Norfolk and Suffolk Victim Care,

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Norfolk Constabulary and Norfolk County Council Trading FARMING UPDATE Standards, we have set up a Scam Prevention Service. The service offers free and confidential specialist support to MARCH – APRIL 2020 those who have been targeted by scams and helps to Muck and Mendeleev increase awareness of scams in Norfolk. The emergence from a long, wet winter couldn’t have For further information, visit their website: been much more abrupt when, in mid-March, the taps were www.nsvictimcare.org/help-and-support-2/norfolk-scam turned off and the cloud replaced by glorious sunshine and -prevention-service/. clear skies for the best part of 6 weeks. There was still You can also follow their social media accounts for local plenty in the world to be disheartened by, but thankfully the updates: https://twitter.com/nsvictimcare/ weather, and with it the new flowers, blossom and birdsong, www.facebook.com/nsvictimcare/. helped to alleviate the gloom. The turnaround in the weather To help the public protect themselves, Norfolk Trading led to an equally sudden surge in productivity on the farm Standards offers a free scam alert service, which will send with a lot of cultivation to catch up on, and efforts to get you email updates of any new scams in Norfolk. You can sugar beet and spring barley drilled before it turned too dry! sign up for these email alerts here: www.norfolk.gov.uk/ (I certainly didn’t think, in February, I’d be uttering that business/trading-standards/scams. You can also follow phrase). their social media accounts for local updates: Although it has stayed relatively cool during this dry www.facebook.com/NorfolkTradingStandards/ https:// period, the sunshine and longer day lengths lead to crop twitter.com/NorfolkCCTS. growth, and as a result they need feeding. Like animals, Action Fraud plants require a ‘balanced diet’ to keep them healthy. Action Fraud is the UK’s national reporting centre for Broadly their needs can be split into macro-nutrients – fraud and cybercrime. It serves as a central point where nitrogen, potassium, phosphorous and sulphur – and micro- scams can be reported and you can find information about nutrients, such as manganese, magnesium, zinc, copper, fraud and scams: www.actionfraud.police.uk/. calcium and boron, amongst others. The classification is a If you have made a payment which you are now having reflection of the amount required by the plant, as opposed to doubts about, inform your bank as soon as possible. They how important it is, as all the elements interact to assist in can help you prevent any further losses. It is also good uptake. practice to monitor your bank statements regularly for any Nitrogen is taken up in the greatest volumes as it is a unusual activity. constituent of chlorophyll, which allows the plants to Misinformation photosynthesise, as well as being a component of amino-acids, Misinformation and fake news can spread quickly, which in turn build proteins within the plant to give it structure especially on social media. To avoid being tricked, be sure and hence grow. One of the great leaps forward in agriculture to use official sources for your information. Two safe, was the development of the Haber-Bosch process which fixed official online sources are: Gov.uk – for all government nitrogen (N2) from the atmosphere and converted it to updates and news, NHS.uk – for the latest medical news. If ammonia (NH3), which then forms ammonium ions that can be there are any changes to government advice and policy, or taken up by plants. By providing plenty of this key nutrient – a any developments in medical treatment or advice on 10t/ha crop of wheat requires about 250kg of nitrogen – yields Coronavirus, you will find it on those two websites. increased markedly but only when in the presence of the other Norfolk Safeguarding Adults Board (NSAB) elements. NSAB have a dedicated Coronavirous UK web page So where do we get the rest? Like nitrogen there are with latest advice and support available: www.norfolk synthetic processes for obtaining some, and others, such as safeguardingadultsboard.info/professionals/coronavirus potash, are mined from rock, much like coal. However, all -covid-19/. these elements can be found in the manure from livestock, This information comes from a re-formatted article in which is why using muck is such a valuable practice; evolution the April edition of the Norfolk PCC Newsletter. has taken care of making it all work! On top of this, the muck provides organic matter that feeds the various flora and fauna living in the soil, from tiny bacteria and fungi to worms and insects. Using muck is the equivalent of a healthy meal compared to a vitamin pill: they both provide nutrition but one is far more complete. Jonathan Darby Albanwise Farm Manager

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the feeds. Meanwhile, our super vets have decided that maybe spaying Pickle is an emergency so she will be off on another adventure in the next day or two. Julia Thompson

BALE PICKLE AND KITTEN Contact: Jane Wheeler 01328 878656 Last year, after my dear old (very old) cat had to be put [email protected] down, I began to be visited by a collection of feral cats – they could obviously spot a sucker at fifty paces. ALAN SANKEY One of them was particularly pretty but very scared of A tribute people. Gradually she (yes, she ballooned in size – a very It was with great sadness that we good way to discover the sex of a cat) started to accept my learned that Alan Sankey had died in presence when the food went down, and when her kittens hospital on 25th February, at the age were about two months old she began to bring them over of 86, with his family around him. with her. Four went down to three courtesy of the RSPCA Our thoughts are with them: they will and a sick kitten, one was super-friendly and the other two of course miss him greatly; and so just wanted food. I managed to take the friendly one to the will everyone in Bale. It would be no vets for spaying, and trapped another for neutering. Two exaggeration to say that for at least down, three to go – (Mum, a Dad and a kitten). 30 years he was a lynch-pin in the Mum and Dad were having none of this trapping life of the village. business but the kitten was just about there when we all Alan’s Norfolk roots were strong – went into lockdown and vets were just dealing with dating from the time that his father Bernard taught at emergencies. Was the kitten a male or female? Quite Gresham’s, even though he himself went to school at important really. Malvern and his own long teaching career was spent Well, naturally, it was a female, and pregnant. And one elsewhere. As long ago as in the late 1950s he and Margaret morning she turned up for her food, looking slightly less were well known to all dinghy sailors in Blakeney as a rotund – she is extremely furry and this makes it more lively and very popular young couple. It was there, and from difficult to tell her shape. But instead of rushing off after those days, that many of his large and varied circle of eating she lay down and went to sleep – what was going on? friends throughout his later life first got to know him. In the Were they stillborn? This continued for a couple of days, early 1970s they bought Oak Farm from Claude Spooner, when she would go off for a short time but mostly spend the who was one of the last surviving Norfolk village day sleeping in comfort, then the next morning when I blacksmiths in the old smithy opposite. Initially it was opened the door, there she was, frantically demanding food and completely ignoring the plaintive cries coming from a wooden box in the garden. And inside was a very cold little kitten, crying for food and warmth. I persuaded mum to come outside but she wasn’t impressed – she had her own needs to consider, never mind that squalling thing in the box. So I brought it in to warm up, put it in a cage with blankets etc. and food for her mother, then got the mother to go in with her. What a shock! Pickle (mum) was beside herself with annoyance – she wanted nothing to do with the kitten so I let her out – but she went in again, picked up the kitten and dropped it into her feed bowl, on top of all the food – I could almost hear her saying “Just eat that and shut up!” She then had another look at it and thought that maybe it was a large mouse, at which point I intervened. The kitten is doing very well and growing fast. It has been adopted by the loveliest person who has quite enough to do but can’t resist (yet another) cat and is happy to do all

DUNCAN BAKER M.P. N. Norfolk Conservative Assoc: 01692 558458 www.duncanbaker.org.uk

JEROME MAYHEW M.P. Conservative Assoc: 01603 865763 www.broadlandconservatives.org.uk

9 where they spent school holidays with their growing family IN APRIL COME SHE WILL – Charlotte, Katy and William. As a schoolmaster at Bale Diary, 17th April Merchiston Castle in Edinburgh and later as a housemaster And so April has with all her early flowers and leaves, at Harrow, Alan and Margaret had to spend term-time which are two weeks early by my estimation. I am so lucky elsewhere, but they always treated Oak Farm as their home, here in the countryside; self-isolation means (for me) a and retired to Bale to live here full-time some 25 years ago. closer look at where I walk - now voluntarily restricted to From the start, Alan involved himself closely in village not going in the car to close places, but to the two very life. He was always among the first people any new arrival beautiful 3 mile-ish loops I can do from the house, lucky in the village got to know, and he made all welcome – not that it is spring, and dry weather with a lot of sunshine. Of least ourselves when we moved into the barn next door over course my experience of the pandemic is incredibly 40 years ago. There was not a project or venture in the privileged by my gender, age, financial standing, retired village to which he did not lend his support, and to which he status and all the other things that have me here in North did not make an invaluable contribution; whether it was the Norfolk in a quiet village with super-helpful neighbours. In village hall, the fete, the graveyard, or any of the activities fact as everyone is around all day, every day, and doing my and interests of individual villagers. Above all it was for All shopping for me, I don't feel at all lonely, and I have more Saints’ Church, where as an unfailingly regular time to write and paint. communicant, as church warden and as chairman of the I found wood anemones, not in a wood but in a bank of parochial church council, he was tireless and imaginative in primroses in the lane below Bullfer Grove, whereas I have his efforts and commitment. Amongst other things, he and not seen any of these flowers so diagnostic of ancient Margaret will be particularly remembered for initiating and woodland in the actual wood. I have managed to establish a supporting the annual Purcell School concerts, which little patch of them in my garden, under the hazel which I became a notable feature of early summers in North coppice (I just sawed off some young poles to support the Norfolk. Even after moving to Holt, swapping houses with runner beans). his son Will who now lives at the Farm, he maintained his Bullfer is locally famous for its bluebells which are sense of duty and loyalty to the village. certainly very early this year, and it is full of birds; there is a Alan and Margaret had an amazing network of friends less obvious path that takes you to the full glory of the and acquaintances, among all walks of life in North bluebells, a path which seems to have been maintained Norfolk. As a schoolmaster and convivial natural sportsman better this year, around various fallen trees and bramble (not just dinghy sailing, but also hockey and many other patches. Bimba patiently follows me around, hopping over games) his friendships spread far more widely - across the the fallen trunks. On the lead of course. county, to the rest of , to Scotland, and overseas: People may not notice the wild cherry blossom which is among colleagues, but also among innumerable former lovely here but doesn't last long. I always trot out A. E. pupils and their families, who owed a huge debt of gratitude Housman's poem - for the dedication and interest he showed in their well-being "Loveliest of trees, the cherry now and their future lives. Alan read modern languages at Is hung with bloom along the bough, Oxford, and as a linguist was an enthusiastic and And stands about the woodland ride knowledgeable traveller, unexpectedly meeting fellow Bale Wearing white for Eastertide." residents in unlikely corners of the world, and visiting South With its memes of youth and beauty and loss. Africa regularly each winter to stay with Katy and her There is just one clump of early purple orchid every family in South Africa. year. Last year I saw so many of these in Fife, in Scotland - Those of us who were lucky enough to know him as a in the dunes fringing Tentsmuir beach, even in my friend in the village will miss his warmth, cheery sense of daughter's lawn, and in the wilderness near her house, humour, enthusiasm, great good nature, and unfailing Lumbo Den. hospitality, but may count ourselves a little unfortunate that Bullfer grove, with its dog mercury and wild garlic is we did not also have the privilege of having been taught by maintained by its owners, the National Trust, in a way that him. We look forward to commemorating his splendid life produces great habitat for wildlife. The surrounding at a memorial service in the church, postponed until later landowner, Albanwise Ltd, has more commercial priorities this year, and to welcoming Margaret on what we hope will and has recently cut all the mature oaks on its local estates, be repeated visits back to the village in years to come. including a few on the fringes of Bullfer. They won't Basil Postan regenerate on their own in woodland, as oaks do not grow from acorns dropped/hidden by jays and squirrels under the canopy, they don't get enough light, and are further inhibited by oak mildew which affects seedlings and saplings much more than fully grown trees. In contrast Bale wood is untouched, and browsed by deer to the extent that there is no underwood to speak of. Recently I prowled through a part of it which is actually overgrown wet meadow, looking for a little patch of primroses I know of amongst the hazels. The floor of the wood is so curiously bare and dry, all dead leaves and sticks. On the edge there are a lot of small ash trees that are badly affected by die-off. Deer paths everywhere. The next section is full of elm and ash. The elms get to a certain size and then attract the beetle that allows the fungus that stops them being able to transport water up the trunk and so they die, then regenerate by cloning. So the wood is full of fallen 10

elm that is all smaller trunks and branches. It is quite contact the shop by telephone; 01263 710203 or by email: honestly a mess and very boggy, but from it in recent years, [email protected] and place your order. hatch the most wonderful butterflies - the silverwashed Debbie Baxter, who runs Ethnic Fine Foods, will deliver fritilliary. The caterpillars live on the leaves of dog violet, to Bale on Saturdays or Sundays and will let you know having hibernated in rough bark crevices over the winter, which day beforehand. It is Indian or fusion food, mainly and the butterflies feed on bramble flowers and the flowers frozen and not particularly hot. Find menus at https:// of hemp agrimony which grow in the wet edges of the ethnicfusionfinefoods.co.uk/collections/products. wood, plus all the thistles and hard heads along the fringes. For the duration of lockdown the Village Van arrives in Now the oaks are pushing out their leaves and flowers; Bale and parks by the church at 1.30 pm on Saturdays ash trees have had flowers out for a few weeks, something loaded with staples, fresh fruit and veg and some treats such has been ripping them off - birds - squirrels? At home the as local smoked fish and duck leg confit, plus newspapers. garden is full of wild flowers - the cow parsley is just out, You can turn up and see what's on offer, or order a box of and the cowslips are still looking good. I'm not seeing many staples and veg, bread, eggs etc. or just a newspaper - have a insects, though a couple of weeks ago I found an unfamiliar look here https://www.neallskitchen.com/villagevan and shiny black bee, larger than a honey bee, but obviously not a email [email protected]. Payment at the van by bumble, whizzing around a patch of cowslips. I looked it up tapping your card. - a carpenter bee, solitary, just out of hibernation. The Siding Yard bakery in Melton Constable The pear blossom is out early as usual, I wonder whether delivers to Bale on a Thursday and is very helpful. Its any will get pollenated, it's a very young tree, and there was products are either sourdough type breads or breakfast type no fruit last year, after a lot of blossom. The pear is pastries like croissants (not cheap). It did wonderful hot Moonglow, a fireblight resistant variety. I may have moved cross buns at Easter. It also sells and delivers packs of fresh to Scotland before I get a chance to find out what its fruit local salad leaves from New Barns Farm at Blakeney. If tastes like. Or on the other hand, I probably won't have, you don't know it, check it out at www.sidingyard.co.uk. To considering the future eighteen months or so of Covid-19 order, email Polly at [email protected] on Wednesday disruption. Jane Wheeler before 12, and she will email you back with online card payment instructions. HUNDRED CLUB DRAW RESULTS We have had an email from Bale Garage and it is happy to deliver to the elderly and vulnerable. Ring during opening We are continuing to hold the draw, despite fish and hours on 01328878332 re delivery or collection from chips not being possible for the time being. garage. March 20 April 20 Graves in Melton Constable is delivering from Anne Peppitt £25 Paula Moore £25 butcher counter and bakery as well as fruit and veg. Ring Emily Postan £10 Ali Courtney £10 01263 860333. Mary Anne Mitchell £5 Susan Buttifant £5 Sainsburys and the other supermarkets – as we hope Paul Turnbull £5 Alastair Macorkindale £5 everyone knows, if you are in the vulnerable category you can register to get priority deliveries, so get yourself on the USEFUL LOCAL RESOURCES list, although this seems to be very long-winded and difficult Bale Covid-19 help group at the moment. In these difficult times we hope that this list of Meals delivery – Chequers Inn, Binham. businesses willing and able to deliver to our homes/to the JTS Fresh Box – a local company that delivers fresh village safely will be of help to all in Bale, especially those fruit, veg and eggs, call 07387 595938 to enquire https:// self-isolating. www.facebook.com/JTSFreshBox/

Back to the Garden is running a delivery/collection The Village Hall committee is making the hundred club service if required. Please email webshop@back-to-the- draw every month. Fish and chip nights and all other events garden.co.uk or call 01263 715996/715540 ext.1 for are on hold until further notice. We have had the hall deep- details. cleaned, but it is hard to see how we can hold community Bale residents Jules and Paul of Bird Ventures (Holt) are events until vaccination is widespread. able to offer free delivery for orders over the value of £10. This includes all their bird foods and dog foods etc. and their prices remain the recommended retail prices. Please

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vulnerable over 70s who wished to partake have enjoyed a weekly hot meal (main and desert) cooked by Simon and BINHAM Sarah at the Chequers Inn, delivered to their doorsteps by a merry band of villagers, funded by the Binham Parochial Contact: Liz Brady 01328 830830 Charities and other very generous donations. Fantastic [email protected] feedback has been received on the deliciousness of the meals that arrive as if by magic! BINHAM PARISH COUNCIL Forty-six children have received two goodie bags Who would have thought we would be confined to our containing craft items, crayons, paper, colouring sheets (VE homes for this prolonged period and only allowed out to get Day bunting) and sweets sponsored by the Memorial Hall, essential shopping, exercise once a day, medical needs and many of whom have made or written post cards to go to the travelling for work purposes? I, for one, never envisaged vulnerable over 70s as a moral boost. Surprise Easter treats, this, but if one reflects on previous pandemics as any decent and delicious flapjacks, have been included in the lunch epidemiologist, virologist, statistician, clinician or packs and children’s bags sponsored by The Co-operative researcher would, the way to tackle ‘the perpetrator’ Food, Wells-next-the-Sea and Alexandra Howells Deli emerges whether it be bacterial or viral. To that end, the respectively and very much appreciated by the recipients. targeted population can be identified to manage the effects The playground and the Priory Church have been closed, of in this case the Covid 19’s characteristics not least its although the Priory ruins remain accessible observing social acquisition, diagnosis, spread, treatment, removal and distancing at all times. Rev Canon Fiona Newton and the prevention of further disease, but all of this takes time in an Rector Rev Ian Whittle continue Benefice Sunday services ever, impatient world. This coronavirus variation has had from various studies, living rooms and outdoors with a devastating effects on the vulnerable over 70, those who lively congregation joining have underlying medical conditions and many keyworkers from nearby and further afield. especially NHS. As a celebration of Easter, The The good news is and despite the large number whom west door of the Priory Church have lost their lives, the pace of the pandemic is reducing in was decorated by Clare the UK. This is because we have all paid attention to the Winkley and Liz Brady with government’s directives and expectations and, evidenced by greenery and daffodils cut the government’s daily briefing data, the truly amazing from Veronica Lane and resolve of every healthcare professional working on the Naomi Porter’s gardens. front line in sometimes appalling conditions and that the Young and old come together every Thursday evening at 4000 bed Nightingale Hospital in has been placed 8pm as many others do across the land outside their house on standby as those beds are not needed to ease pressure in or in the middle of the road to clap or bang pans etc to say our hospitals. We must not be impatient to return to normal thank you to every NHS worker. whatever that might be in future otherwise everyone’s hard Other PC business to report is that Keith Leesmith very work will be wasted. generously decided not to retire in April as he planned to as In Binham and Cockthorpe by working together as a he felt it would be better to remain Binham’s clerk until the Parish Council, Parish Parochial Council, Binham Parochial lockdown is over. We are most grateful to Keith for staying Charities, the Trustees of Binham Memorial Hall and The on and negotiating the wodge of notices that arrive every Chequers Pub, supported by a group of amazing volunteers day from NNDC and NALC. Several tricky planning we have remained safe and well. Without this effort I am applications have finally been resolved as the NNDC not sure we would be in such good shape in week eight of approved these plans. We look forward to welcoming those lockdown. who will come to live in the village once their builds are My strategy as PC chairperson has been to achieve complete. The Broadlands build is reaching its conclusion. clarity and provide all the necessary key information to The development is beginning to look tidy and ready for full remain safe and well in knowing where the vulnerable, occupancy. Currently thirteen houses are occupied, but due children and their families reside in the village. To this end, to the lockdown, scheduling of ongoing work bound by fortnightly letters have been successfully delivered to each social distancing and suppliers unable to deliver component resident household with up to date information provided by parts such as kitchens has slowed again, but the foreman is the government (www.gov.uk) and NNDC (www.north- confident that all is well. Savills will market the remaining norfolk.gov.uk). The Memorial Hall website hosts a coronavirus page (www.binhamvillage hall.co.uk), and all four village notice boards display this information. Mini posters reminding us to ‘Stay at Home, Protect the NHS and Save Lives’ and ‘How to prevent the spread of the virus’ are strategically placed throughout the two villages. Uppermost in all our minds has been the need to be mindful of ourselves but importantly our neighbours, family and friends. A dedicated contact list, and recognising others not on that list, has kept an eye on neighbours and friends by collecting shopping, prescriptions or being available to chat. Sixty 12

houses once the pandemic lock FRIENDS OF BINHAM PRIORY down is released. Houses have Our 10th anniversary AGM evening was held on 12th been festooned with rainbows, March. It seems a little odd in these lockdown times to be bunting, ribbons, flowers and reflecting on a very successful public meeting, but indeed it the odd scarecrow to firstly was. Our usual reports were made by the chair, treasurer and commemorate VE Day on May th new membership secretary, Lotte Wynder. A healthy bank 8 and secondly to say a huge balance continues. thank you to every NHS and The year’s fundraising events had again all been key worker in Norfolk and successful, in particular the sell-out October talk by local nationally, for keeping us safe and well. artist Annie Tempest, famous for her Tottering-By-Gently Elizabeth S Brady, Chair Binham PC cartoon which appears in Country Life magazine. The chair also recalled the charity’s 10 years of very BINHAM PRIORY AND CORONA productive activities, with well over £25,000 having been VIRUS IMPLICATIONS donated to a wide variety of projects carried out at The Services Priory Church of St Mary and the Holy Cross. He paid tribute, and expressed great thanks, to retiring treasurer Following the guidelines set by government and the Hilary Brown, who had been there from the instigation of national church, the church at Binham Priory has been the Friends and had most ably steered both FoBP and other closed since 24 March. It is closed for public worship and village organisations through many a project’s complex private prayer including baptisms, weddings and funerals financial activities. She will be replaced as honorary until further notice. This is very sad for everyone, regular treasurer by John Surrey another able accountant, who has worshippers and casual visitors alike. However, the very kindly volunteered his services. monastic ruins remain open, so peace and tranquillity as The post-AGM public talk was given by Black Shuck well as a place for private prayer can be found here. Distillery. Sarah Saunders, a founder member of the Some of us in the benefice have been attending “virtual company, delighted the audience with a wonderful services” and access to these can be found elsewhere in presentation about the origins and running of the local Lynx. family business. A very successful and informative evening, Concerts including a variety of accompanying gin tastings, was It has been necessary to cancel all the concerts and other enjoyed by everyone. activities arranged for 2020. However, we are already Our stand-alone website, friendsofbinhampriory. making plans for 2021 and hope to engage everyone who weebly.com, continues to flourish with regular, daily hits should have been performing this year. Our thoughts go out and is managed by co-Secretary Carolyn Raymond. The site to all the musicians and actors who are facing unknown is a rapid and easy source of regularly updated Binham difficulties during the lock-down. coming event information and a great pictorial record of the Maureen Frost and Geoff Scott Priory and the village. Once again, I would like to express my grateful thanks to BINHAM VILLAGE MEMORIAL HALL all my fellow committee members and to all the other The hall, the playing field and the playground numerous helpers at our fundraisers. equipment have all been closed since the Covid-19 lock Also, look out for our two main events later on in the down was announced at the end of March. The website, year, which hopefully will be able to go ahead - our 10th www.binhamvillagehall.co.uk, has a dedicated anniversary celebratory gathering in the Priory and Ruins to coronavirus page for all information from the parish say thank you to FOBP members and a November talk by council, the local council and the government. Please Peter Brookes, Political Cartoonist at The Times & Sunday keep an eye on it for updates. Times. Please see our website for updates. The AGM was run virtually and it was announced that We hope you might consider becoming a subscribing Andrew Cuthbert was to retire as chairman. Andrew was a member of the Friends, for the small sum of £10 per year. founding member of the Memorial Hall Committee in 1999 Please contact our membership secretary Mrs. Lotte and absolutely key in organising the necessary grants, Wynder, Mallards, Langham Road, Binham, NR21 0DN, or permissions, designs and plans for the wonderful hall we see the form on our website, (as above). Payment can be by know and love today. He was chairman from 1999 until cheque or BACS. Clive Brady, Honorary Chair 2013 when Alex Wales took over. Andrew then returned as chairman in 2016 for what was going to be a short time at the helm but ended up being in post for another 4 years. He has spent a large part of his life being a guiding light and devoted mentor to the hall and it isn’t too much of a stretch to say that without him, the hall would very probably not exist. He will be very much missed by the remaining trustees and when this is all over, we will be raising a glass to Andrew in thanks for all his hard work over the years. We are delighted that Andy Marsh will be taking over as chairman. We are all looking forward to re-opening when this is all over and seeing you very soon. Mary Hunt

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COVID-19 REFLECTIONS FROM A BINHAM DIARY… The Covid-19 Pandemic has certainly brought a lot of ANONYMOUS heartache to some people, loneliness to others and a change in April 29th 2020 a way of life to us all. There are so many negatives that we Every Thursday at 8pm we stand outside to applaud the could dwell on but in strange, bad or weird situations, I NHS and all the other key workers who have become our always try to look at the positives. I am a warden on behalf of lifeline. We are joined, on our respective drives, by our National Nature Reserve for Warham and Wells lovely neighbours across the road and sometimes we see Marshes, a volunteer role for an amazing piece of land that and hear others applauding further along far flung Westgate. we are so lucky to have on our coast. It’s a SSSI (Site of The first Thursday was extremely emotional for me but it Special Scientific Interest) like a lot of sites in Norfolk and has now become an event to look forward to, an uplifting part of Holkham Estate stretching along from Warham way of venting frustration by clapping, ringing bells and pot westwards, including the ever popular Holkham Beach and bashing to honour everyone on the frontline. part of the amazing area that we live in being an Area of Yesterday we ventured into Holt for a prescription. We Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This area is a massive detoured via the town centre where virtually every shop was draw to tourists with over a million visiting Holkham Beach shut. Baker’s and Larners big windows were empty save for alone every year. wooden display stands and there were very few people Although this is great for local businesses usually and I about. The big fruit and veg shop was open. The display understand they are feeling the pain of loss of earning due to outside was as tempting as a sweetshop. We saw no traffic these very strange times, I can't help but feel happy at the lack on the way home through Saxlingham and Field Dalling, of humans and dogs visiting the beach, marsh and generally just a couple of walkers. The rapeseed fields glowed in the the coast at this crucial time of year. The time of year when sunlight and the cow parsley by the roadside danced in the we welcome back the very vulnerable colonies of little tern, breeze. the second rarest breeding sea birds in the UK, and the ringed I worry about my children who live far away in city plover, which is one of our fastest declining birds in North suburbs but thank goodness for mobile phones and the Norfolk due to recreation pressures. Oystercatcher and internet. I know that they are doing everything possible to regular sea bird residents and visitors to our shorelines start to stay safe. Here in Binham, we are so lucky to have access to look for safety to breed. Most of these birds all have very well wonderful countryside for walks, we see amazing wildlife camouflaged nests which can’t be seen well, and people can on our doorstep, groceries are available locally and we have easily walk over nesting sites without even realising it. easily accessible delivery services from various other food Although Holkham NNR wardens regularly cordon off areas suppliers close by. for these special birds, there are still areas that are not marked I have managed to complete several DIY tasks during out. lockdown but I have lost the will to go looking for the The reserve is noticing a huge change on the beach within hoover. My hair looks awful - it hasn’t been cut since the weeks of lockdown, with these birds already starting to January - but this is such a small price to pay when the goal scrape out nests and adopt sites that they wouldn't usually due is to stay alive and protect those around us. Ever onwards… to public presence. Also, out on the beach sanderling and we will get there. oystercatchers have been freely feeding along the shoreline free from being moved or spooked by people and unleashed dogs and the very rare visitor, the shore lark, a winter visitor BINHAM ART GROUP all the way from the Scandinavian highlands have been seen The group has not been meeting at the Memorial Hall to be venturing to a tideline of shingle where usually they since Tuesday the 10th March. Since then we have all been would not be able to. trying to keep in touch, and maintain our Tuesday morning Around the village you may notice lots of changes too, a painting sessions albeit from our homes. beautiful change to me is also the lack of the chemical trails We have created a ‘corona competition’ which will be from aeroplanes, making our big blue Norfolk skies look for members’ paintings done during the lockdown. Each even more blue and big! The bird song seems to be louder member will be allowed two pictures and these will be and more amplified, probably due to the lack of vehicles judged by the members when we all return to our regular driving through the village. It’s been nice to see the butterfly painting sessions. All the entries will then be displayed in populations flourishing on the lanes and hedgerows, the gallery at the Chequers. especially orange tips. More than usual? I don't know. Is it The other way we have been communicating is by a because I have more time to wander and look or are they flourishing more due to the lack of pollution from vehicles. Usually favouring damp habitats such as meadows, woodlands and banks of streams and rivers, there seems more on the roadsides. The garlic mustard that is the larval food plant of them is not so tainted by car fumes? Brimstones, commas, peacocks, speckled wood and holly blues all being very noticeable. Also, so much bird life. On our walks we have seen wheatear, white throats, bullfinch and meadow pippits and high up, lots of the regular buzzards and red kites with the added bonus of marsh harrier over the house and even a goshawk! All in all, to see nature flourish in these strange times and benefit from us humans keeping away is a huge break that I can’t help feeling Mother Nature truly deserves. Helen Owen 14 restricted group on Facebook. Here we can make AMANDA’S POEM, APRIL 2020 suggestions and post images of our work. Other members can then make encouraging and constructive comments. I wake up every morning Several of the members have taken up the 10 minute The birds are full of song challenge. This involves asking a family member or friend And it takes me several moments To remember what is wrong to suggest a subject for you to paint in the 10 minutes. Set the timer and away you go. Not so easy as it sounds, but it The world we know has changed does concentrate the mind. It’s a strange time for us all We are all looking forward to getting back to our We have been asked to change our ways Tuesday morning sessions at the village hall. Hopefully that And we must answer to the call will not be too long now. John Hill We must all protect each other

From the threat we cannot see BINHAM YOUTH GROUP We have to stay confined at home Binham Youth Group is closed until further notice and In order to be free will open up again once the coronavirus lockdown is lifted. Binham Youth group is held in the Binham Memorial The virus rages everywhere Hall on Wednesdays 6-8 pm, term time only, age 5-16 We can’t let down our guard years, £1 entry fee, tuck shop. All staff DBS checked. And This time of social distancing Is going to be hard there is a NO mobile phones policy. We have art ‘n’ craft, board games, table tennis, pool Our hearts go out to all those table, karaoke, books, 10 pin bowling, indoors during winter Who are suffering or have died and summer time we use the large playing field and play Our thanks to doctors and nurses equipment or just chill out and make new friends. Working side by side

“It’s a great way to spend your time” (William), “You can To all key workers we say thanks make new friends” (Lily) and “There’s lots of fun”. (Ben) We owe you all so much We are always looking for volunteers to help out, even if We must not spread this virus only now and again. Contact Amanda Able (01328 830828) By a thoughtless, careless touch or Andrew Marsh (01328 830178) for further information. We must be patient, calm and strong HINDRINGHAM AND BINHAM And not fuss or complain The reward for sticking to the rules OPEN CIRCLE Will be normal life again While we aren't in a position to meet I thought it was important that the group supported some of our local charities FOODBANK at this time while they are struggling to cope financially and Foodbank in Holt is open from 1.30 – 3.00 on Fridays continue to deliver their important services. So, we have made only, it is located in the Youth Centre behind the old donations to both Norfolk Hospices, the Norfolk branches of Thatchers site on the Holt bypass. Age UK and Mind, and also a organisation that They are very happy to receive anything non-alcoholic supports women suffering from domestic abuse. and of course excluding fresh foods. They are in urgent I have kept in touch with our members via email and we need and would be delighted to see anyone. have been able to send best wishes and flowers to one of our Anyone who would rather donate by cash please go into members who has recently been ill. www.cromerdistrict.foodbank.org.uk where you will see Another member has written a poem to describe her a “Donate” option. Follow the route and away it goes, takes experience of how life has changed. Sue Elkins, Secretary approx. 5 mins only. Norah and Richard ([email protected]) THOUGHT FOR TODAY To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow. And no matter how small, much more than you have sown will grow in your garden.

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everyone informed. In addition, Amanda is maintaining the FD&S COCKTHORPE WhatsApp group- details from her at 07741 932242 and on [email protected]. Contact: Maurice Matthews 01328 830350 [email protected] BEREAVEMENT GROUP COMMUNITY SUPPORT Lizzie Boal and I have decided to pause the At the time of writing we are locked in which can be Bereavement Group until we can meet face to face, to listen traumatic for some, however we in Cockthorpe are in a and to laugh in the same room, rather than online. pleasant rural location with just ten occupied houses, It won’t be so long - and we suspect that there will be a each with its own garden, life is probably more bearable number of people for whom the understanding and support (and quieter). The weather up until now has been most of others in grief, will be a great comfort. Fiona Newton pleasant and the view all around of the new born lambs is a treat. Pity about the TV programmes though. I am FIELD DALLING AND SAXLINGHAM most impressed by the community spirit shown by the SUMMER FETE Binham and Cockthorpe Parish Council together with Due to the continuing uncertainty as to when restrictions the Binham Parochial Church Council who are ensuring for social gatherings may be lifted, the Fete Committee has everyone is thought of and helped if required. This decided that regrettably it will not be possible to hold the includes getting shopping and medicines, not to mention fete this August. The Fete Committee a weekly meal cooked by Sarah Day in the Chequers pub and delivered to the vulnerable, children and the elderly. VILLAGERS’ HALL A special thanks is given to the contacts. Liz Brady, Liz www.fdands.org Brown, Jan Hewitt and Alex Smith and all the other Broadband volunteers who make themselves available to help the Broadband has now been installed at the Villagers’ Hall village. which is a great asset for use by the community, and to By the time this Lynx is published ‘House Arrest’ may future bookers of the hall. possibly be over and those of us who are grandparents will Coffee Mornings & Bingo be able to get close to their young ones again and I will be These are cancelled until further notice. able to go out and get a decent cappuccino. MM Important Diary Dates Mobile Post Office: Every Wed, 10.10-10.50am, VH

200 CLUB Jan 2020: £50 Ian Allison, £25 John Kirby, £15 Judy Dunn Feb 2020: £50 Angela Harcourt, £25 Anne Gardner, £15 Roy Nicholson Mar 2020: £50 Jennie Lane, £25 Joanna Cox, £15 Sheelin New lambs in Northside field on the Case’s farm in Cockthorpe. Cuthbert

FIELD DALLING GUNTHORPE Contact: Julie Wiltshire Contact: John Blakeley 01263 861008 [email protected] [email protected] www.gunthorpefriends.co.uk ST ANDREW’S CHURCH We have been overwhelmed by the response to online FOGPC services with folk from near and far. We will maintain these 50/50 Club Draw Results until we can return to church and then seek to learn what we March April can about how to use these techniques where appropriate in Libby Norton £20.00 Angela Ryde £20.00 the future. For the present we are grateful to have them Vivienne Wilson £15.00 Jeremy Denholm £15.00 available to keep us in touch and to maintain the life of Dorothy Tomic £10.00 Fred Worsley £5.00 prayer and worship. Ian Newton John Clark £5.00 Sharon Lloyd £5.00 Mike Whyman £5.00 John Rush £5.00 VILLAGE NEWS AND NEWSLETTER Nuala Howard £5.00 Diane Blakeley £5.00 These have been strange times and we cannot know Emma Price £5.00 Val King £5.00 what the arrangements will be by the end of July. Up-to- As you will know the Covid-19 restrictions have led to date information will be posted on the Field Dalling and the cancellation of our monthly coffee mornings and at the Saxlingham News Facebook page, and on the A Church time of writing we do not know how long it will be before Near You Field Dalling website, as needed. I will produce they can re-start. However, the monthly draws have and extra editions of the Newsletters as necessary to keep will continue, and the results for March and April are given 16

above. The final enhanced draw for this year will take place and make permanent changes for the better. Jenny Kelly in late May and all winners will be notified. gives us her view, which will be shared by many, and We finished this year with 131 members of the Club and also on behalf of all of us thanks all to whom we owe an many of those members have already re-joined. We also incredible debt – both locally and nationally. have new members and hopefully the Club will again be At the time of writing (13th April) we in Gunthorpe, well supported in the next year from June 2020 to May like everyone else, are deep in lockdown due to the 2021. If you have not yet renewed your subscription or coronavirus crisis. Let’s hope that when this is would still like to join please do so before 27 June to ensure published in June/July we have seen the dreaded curve you are in the first draw. flattened out and our daily lives returning to normality. As a reminder it costs just £1 per month (payable in It is likely that once we resume our daily routines we advance for the year) to join and you can get your might forget some key impressions formed during the subscriptions and more back if you are lucky enough to win crisis. a prize. Importantly the 50:50 Club has contributed over We are so lucky and privileged to live in a place £1,100 to the “Friends” funds as we finish this subscription where humanity and community are strong. Most of us year have homes with gardens and access to footpaths and Payments can also include your “Friends” membership country lanes and were able to re-discover the joy of of a minimum of £5 per annum (or part of a year). BACS just being in nature, especially during the April payments can be made as detailed below, but please inform sunshine. John Blakeley (e-mail: [email protected]) if you In Gunthorpe, as in most villages in the area, a pay by BACS (date and amount) so that records can be kept network was quickly set up to give people access to up to date and you do not miss the chance to participate in a information about local businesses which would deliver future draw. The Friends membership and any other groceries, newspapers, milk and even compost! There donation, but not the 50:50 Club subscriptions, can be Gift were volunteers in abundance offering to collect Aided and if you have not already completed a form we prescriptions and other items. A book exchange was set would, be most grateful if you could consider doing this – up (including guidelines on handling) and offers of provided you are and remain a taxpayer of course. Easter bouquets, seedlings and plants were forthcoming. NAT WEST Bank plc Hopefully, the lessons learned about the kindness of Sort code 53-50-73 neighbours, the incredible debt we owe to workers in Account number 25727532 the NHS and care homes and others serving in the To again quote the motto of a somewhat larger lottery community will not be forgotten and their true worth can we remind you that “you have to be in it to win it!” acknowledged both in thanks and in a fair living wage. Myfi Everett & John Blakeley This could be a turning point in how we treat our fellow citizens and the creatures we share this earth with ST MARY’S CHURCH NEWS (the majority of pandemics have had a connection to It is very sad to see our beloved church left to her own wild animals); our relentless pursuit of the unsustainable devices. We keep a careful eye on her, and Stephen is doing growth of the economy and our failure to stop climate great work keeping the churchyard mown and tidy. I hope it change and pollution which threatens the future lives of won’t be too long before we are back to our services again. our families. We should question the inequality we have Meanwhile, Ian and Fiona Newton have set up an online accepted as part of our system, as the gap continues to service each Sunday at which Ian Whittle officiates. It is a grow between rich and poor, and the ‘us and them’ huge success with 120 participants on Easter Day. Please mentality which has emerged in recent years is ever get in touch with me or Ian Newton directly, if you would more obvious. Perhaps it takes a pandemic to show us like details of this. Penny Brough Church Warden that we are interlinked and all citizens of one world.

WILL THE PANDEMIC CHANGE US? Many readers will have seen articles circulating asking the question as to whether the coming together of much of society to overcome both general and individual problems linked to the coronavirus pandemic will cause us to re-think our values and our way of life,

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GUNTHORPE FETE 2020 If any readers of the Lynx (or their acquaintances) - The fete organisers, after discussion with Gunthorpe regardless of their level of ability - would like to send me by Hall and others involved with running the fete, have email images of their work, or want advice about how to get reluctantly come to the decision to cancel Gunthorpe fete on started with painting as a hobby (I don't recommend it as a Sunday 26th July due to the pandemic. The same decision profession at the moment!), then I will be happy to reply to has been made for the Friends BBQ which was planned for them as soon as I can with positive, encouraging and Saturday 25th July. We know that many people will be hopefully helpful advice. disappointed by this decision, but hope you appreciate how My email address for this purpose is: bobclockhouse@ difficult it is to plan such an event in these uncertain times, gmail.com. Bob Brandt and without knowing what the situation on lockdown and social distancing will be in July. We plan to be back for VILLAGE HALL 2021 and hope you will be able to support us once again. Chairman’s Annual Report 2020 Firstly, the committee of the village hall in Langham WELCOME hopes that everyone is keeping well in these troubled times A warm, if somewhat belated, welcome goes to when so much of our normal world has temporarily been Linda and James (Jim) Hill who have moved onto 19 put on hold. As you will all be aware, the village hall has Road. They returned to the UK from closed following the announcement of the lockdown by the France at the end of January this year and moved into, government and all events cancelled for the foreseeable as they said “your lovely village in this beautiful future. Normal life will eventually return and we shall all county”. They had brought cats, but one, Sprinkles, has meet up again at some point. been missing, since March 21st. Despite a poster This is a brief summary of the annual Chairman’s report campaign and the many people who have kindly helped that would have been presented at the AGM in May. to try to find her, Sprinkles has still not been found. Firstly I would like to thank all of the committee The Hills lived in South West France for almost five members for their support and hard work and support over years having previously lived in Berkshire where they the year; this certainly makes the life of the chairman a lot still have family. They also have family in Suffolk. easier! Sadly the lockdown has left them isolated here, and Monthly inspections and general upkeep to maintain the prevented planned family get togethers, and in particular fabric of the building have been performed regularly and they miss their granddaughter Evie who is growing up minor repairs and work have continued to take place, so fast. However, they feel that everyone has been so including electrical PAT and fire safety reviews. This friendly and helpful in Gunthorpe, so the isolation included the rather unfortunate incident when the brick and doesn’t seem so bad. flint wall in the car park was damaged which required quite Linda and Jim are both retired. They like walking the a lot of repair at some expense to the hall. local area and Jim particularly likes cycling. Despite the The major makeover for the hall in the previous 12 lockdown they are getting to know the locals and the months was the replacement of the floor covering in the laidback way of life here and we wish them a happy entrance and lobby area adjacent to the kitchen which I am stay in our eclectic and sociable village. sure everyone agrees is a huge improvement. The ladies toilet area now has heating as well. The quiz evenings were well attended from September through to February and many thanks to all of our quiz masters. We will let everyone know when they will resume LANGHAM after lockdown restrictions have been lifted. This also applies to coffee mornings. Various groups in the village Contact: Christina Cooper 01328 830207 had continued to make use of the village hall, although all [email protected] activities are on hold at the moment. Although income from hall rental and events has FRIENDS OF LANGHAM stopped, we can report that we have applied for one of the 200 Club Draw Winners grants that the government has set up which will help us March 2020 £20 April 2020 £10 through this period of uncertainty. 65 Mr & Mrs O’Hare 40 Mrs S Hughes The hall is run by a committee of volunteers but we 69 Mrs A Cox 86 Mrs A Hazelhurst 119 Mr A Rogers 26 Mr S Newman 153 Mrs G Newton 63 Mr A Laurence 42 Ms J Snell FOL Committee

ONLINE ART CLASSES With the Langham Thursday morning Art Group having had to close until these difficult times are over, I have offered our members a free, online tutoring service. A surprising number of people in this country enjoy painting and drawing as a relaxing pastime, and with most of us being confined now at home, art as an occupation and therapy has become even more important. 18

always look for new ideas from the village community and advance and a delivery time is allocated. Phone them on anybody wanting to serve on the committee would be very 01328 830630 for information or to make a booking. welcome. If you would like to join then please speak to me Other local village stores such as the Spar in Blakeney, or any other committee member. Stiffkey Stores and our local butchers Howells and H G Finally, stay safe and we shall all meet up again when Graves all offer a delivery service too. this is over. There is also the Village Van, which comes to Langham Peter Adams, Chairman Langham Village Hall, May 2020 on a Wednesday around 12.30pm, selling pastries, groceries and plenty of locally sourced produce. A POEM Not everyone has access to the internet, so although this The Dreaded Lurgy edition of Lynx is online this time due to restrictions (with Come join the Going Nowhere club, it's very close to home printed copies being distributed where necessary), please Cos of this wretched virus, we're told we mustn’t roam. make sure any of your friends/neighbours who you know do The diary's running empty, events are all crossed out not use the internet are aware of these fantastic services. We're living now in limbo, that's what it's all about. Remember – not everyone is ‘tech savvy’ and a I don't know what the day is - should I wash my hair, telephone call or visit (at a safe distance of course) is always Or should I do the laundry, - really I don't care. welcome right now. There are jobs to do in the garden, there's clearing out and cleaning STREET FAYRE 2020 There is so much time for these now, I still have time for We're sure that this will come as no surprise to anyone "screening". but the committee have decided that it will be unwise to Tuesday is for shopping, I queue for half an hour, hold the street fayre this year. So that there isn't too much of Toilet rolls are plenty, but no sign of any flour. a gap between fayres though, we are looking to possibly Is panic buying over, is boredom setting in? hold it next year. This virus won't defeat us, eventually we'll win. We are also hoping that we may be able to organise Thursdays we thank the NHS, we sing and clang our drums, something, just for the village, later in the year as no doubt We're in the streets at 8 O'clock, and catch up with our we'll be ready for a party – we'll just have to see how the chums. socialising restrictions develop. The quiet streets, the quiet skies, there's now a solace here, In the meantime – stay safe!! The birds still sing the wildlife thrives, some things we must hold dear. LAUGHTER LINES When will the dreaded lockdown end, we're tired of doom Random Thoughts and gloom,  Half of us are going to come out of this quarantine as But our gardens brighten up our day, all in springtime amazing cooks. The other half will come out with a bloom. drinking problem. But garden waste is mounting, the council closed the tip  I used to spin that toilet paper like I was on Wheel of So bags of stuff are waiting, when it's back we'll all let rip! Fortune. Now I turn it like I'm cracking a safe. The year rolls on, all sports are gone, we're all in this  I need to practice social-distancing from the refrigerator. together  Still haven't decided where to go for holidays - The We still fight on despite the gloom, we've WhatsApp and sunny weather! We miss our friends and family, we miss our liberty, Will normal life return again, and be forever free. But every cloud has a silver lining, communities pull together Maybe when this pandemic has passed our lives will be for the better. by Lois

VILLAGE SUPPORT Delivery Services During these difficult times, the support and delivery services that have been created have shown that the community spirit is alive and well in the UK and businesses have adapted to embrace this where possible. Need help or support? There are many in the village of Langham who have offered their services and are more than happy to help. You may also have had a leaflet posted A personal message from Claire Dye through your door or seen a poster with more details. Please As a result of the COVID19 situation, I am currently do get in touch. Contact Sam or Tim Schofield with your unable to carry out any face to face consultations. This details so that assistance can be given wherever possible. is due to guidelines set by my governing body based Tel: 01328 831821 or email [email protected]. on the clear government advice. We have a convenience store at the Blue Bell open three I am pleased to be able to offer remote consultations via FaceTime or Zoom. I can also answer mornings a week, supplying all the basic groceries you any questions / advise on musculoskeletal problems need, plus frozen ready meals prepared by their chef. They via email if required. Please contact me via email will also deliver if needed. They have also been running a [email protected] for more information. Saturday night take away and have just started take away wood fired pizzas on a Tuesday. All these are order in 19

Living Room or The Bedroom.  Every few days try your jeans on just to make sure they fit. Pyjamas will have you believe all is well in the MORSTON kingdom. Contact: Jock Wingfield 01263 740431  Home schooling is going well. 2 students suspended for [email protected] fighting and 1 teacher fired for drinking on the job.  I don't think anyone expected that when we changed the Please note the updates – as at 6 May 2020 - on these events clocks we'd go from Standard Time to the Twilight – are shown in italics. tbc = to be confirmed. Zone. Further details will be announced nearer the time.  This morning I saw a neighbour talking to her cat. It was Fri 19th June PCC Crab Supper & Visit to the Seals. obvious she thought her cat understood her. I came into £25.00 a head. Enquiries/bookings: Mary Athill 01263 my house, told my dog - we laughed a lot. 740306. .Event postponed. New date later. We much look  Went to this restaurant called THE KITCHEN. You forward to welcoming you soon… have to gather all the ingredients and make your own Sat 20th June FMC AGM in VH. 6.30 pm. tbc. meal. I have no clue how this place is still in business. Sat 22nd August Morston Regatta. The Sailing Race  My body has absorbed so much soap and disinfectant will start at the north end of Blakeney Cut – first boat will lately that when I pee it cleans the toilet. push off at 8.30 am. tbc.  I'm so excited - it's time to take out the garbage. What Prize-Giving and party at NorfolkEtc. 7pm. tbc should I wear? Charlie Ward Traditional Boats Ltd. Office: 01263-740377;  I hope the weather is good tomorrow for my trip to 07771 597985 (mobile). tbc. Puerto Backyarda. I'm getting tired of Los Livingroom. Sun 23d Aug Gypsy & Oyster World Championships.  Classified Ad: Single man with toilet paper seeks 01263 741172. tbc. Sat 12th Sep. NCT bike ride. tbc. woman with hand sanitiser for good clean fun. th  Day 6 of Home schooling: My child just said "I hope I Sat 17 Oct. FMC Shovell Dinner at the anchor. Talk by Charlie Ward on ‘East Coast Sailing Barges and the don't have the same teacher next year". I'm offended. th  Better 6 feet apart than 6 feet under. building of Juno’. 50 tickets obtainable from 17 July from Pete Tibbetts (01263741282). tbc. SPRING SALE It is ironic that before Covid-19 we were ready with MORSTON COMMUNITY seeds, plants and lots of sale items clean and marked, so we SUPPORT GROUP were very disappointed to learn our sale would not be The Morston Community Support Group was formed by possible, but we shall have to see how things proceed. We Jill Tibbetts and Heather Harrison before the lockdown feel sorry that our regulars who have supported us for many began to offer practical support during the Covid-19 crisis. years were not able to have access to our nice plants and Since restrictions were imposed, the group, including other goods. volunteers Letitia Knight., Milly Cardoe, Suzi Harrison, St Mary’s has seen some of us on a Thursday evening Sally Metcalfe, Pippa Sharp, Jane Temple, Helen Ward, showing our appreciation for the NHS and it is a great Anne Rolfe and Tracey McClean, has been busy collecting and shame that the 75th VE cannot be celebrated – we are all delivering shopping and prescriptions for villagers. hoping that we can organise something later when we are all The group has also acted as a hub for information about back to some normality. the various support initiatives available to residents in North I feel we are very lucky to have our pub acting as a shop Norfolk as well as providing an updated list of shops and and offering take away, and the Post Office continuing to suppliers offering home delivery to Morston. Baking is visit the village weekly. A big thank you to these people being despatched weekly to the Norfolk & Norwich hospital helping us all get these services in very difficult and a newly created email network is circulating circumstances. Maureen & Peter Dennis information as well as facilitating ad hoc requests. Need a sachet of yeast or a cup of sugar? Someone in the village can usually help. Meanwhile, grateful thanks go to Galton Blackiston and the staff of Morston Hall for providing a weekly soup delivery to the village.

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As well as practical assistance to help everyone through lockdown, the Morston Community Support Group is providing emotional support too, offering a friendly ear for anyone who needs a chat on the phone at the moment. For more information contact Jill Tibbetts ([email protected]/ 01263 741082) or Heather Harrison ([email protected]/ 01263 740000).

SHOPS AND SUPPLIERS WHO DELIVER TO MORSTON

Blakeney Deli 01263 740939 ©AndrewMoncur Homemade ready meals and usual store range.

Bayfield Catering 01263 741497 Veg boxes – small £12, large £20. “That’s the best-selling bike for 2020: the Social Distancer…”

Freshly cooked fish & chips / burgers delivered on Fridays and Saturdays – email info@bayfieldcatering. co.uk MORSTON MASKS

Budgens, Holt 01263 715895 The lockdown has found many of us seeking Phone between 8.30-10.30 for same day delivery or e- diversion in unexpected ways: In one case unearthing a mail [email protected]. Give phone long abandoned sewing machine with the determined number and they will ring back for card payment. Free effort (a reasonable substitute delivery on orders over £20. for any sewing skill!) to meet Cley Smokehouse 01263 740282 the impending challenge head Bread, meat, milk, butter and grocery basics as well as on and armed with a mask. No usual range. mask is complete without elastic and a collective whip- Graves Butchers 01263 860333 round in the village produced In Morston 7-9am each morning. Meat, veg and salads. a wonderful range of elastic £5 delivery charge. from Sheila, Alice, Jill and

Henry Randell 07582 756900 Jane. Jane also added Dressed crab and lobster. Sunday deliveries. ‘distribution’ to her daily expanding portfolio by finding P&S Butchers 01263 713227 a need for cloth masks among Holt butchers. Email [email protected]. the, often overlooked, residents of care homes locally. Delivers on Fridays. As for the masks, they are washable, double

Pastonacre layered, have an envelope for the filter and were made Cley bakery. Contact via email: [email protected] in a range of sizes, fabrics and colours to suit any family member however shy about going out in public Picnic Fayre 01263 740587 with what may soon become normal – a face mask. Cley. Open for collections and deliveries. Strangely empty of its usual flood of visitors the

R.P. Crowe 01263 712260 village is actively engaged in both helping each other Holt greengrocers. Will deliver fruit and veg. via an exuberant WhatsApp group, and others, further away in need of our support. Pippa Sharp Siding Yard Melton Constable bakery. Order by email - SAVOURY MUFFINS [email protected] – and tell Jill Tibbetts (01263 Below is a recipe I used for the hospital cooking this 741082), who will collect on Friday mornings. week. Thought that it might be fun to share and set a Willie Weston 01263 741112 challenge. Blakeney, fish and seafood. Wednesday to Saturday, Makes 12. Bake 15 -20 minutes at 180° C. delivery or collection from shop. You will need a muffin tray well-greased or lined with parchment squares or paper cases. Morrisons has launched a service for the vulnerable and elderly, offering delivery of a food box or doorstep  2 cups of self-raising flour (or plain flour + 2 tsp baking delivery from a range of 45 essentials. Available 8am- powder) 4pm Monday-Friday. Phone 0345 6116111 and select  1tsp salt option 4 to order a box or option 5 for a doorstep  A good grind of pepper delivery. Allow 24 hours to process the order. Payment  Half a cup finely chopped ham (grated courgette or is by contactless card on delivery. carrot if you want vegi ones)  1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms The Little Dairy at Binham Priory does not deliver  1 small red pepper finely chopped but you can get fresh milk and cheeses from its vending machines.  1/2 cup of strong cheese, coarsely grated  1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan

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 125g melted butter or 125ml vegetable oil day before by Peter & Pippa Sharp, and the night before by  1 cup of milk Mary and Charlie Athill – all of whom thought it was “a  1 egg lightly beaten weasel or cat”. The next day Anne & Richard Rolfe took pictures of the dead animal outside Mary’s, noting “Looking In one bowl mix the wet ingredients (last 3) and in a at the Vincent Trust brochure I would say it is definitely a separate bowl mix the remaining ingredients together. polecat. It has no white under the throat and no white paws Combine the wet and dry, mix together until just about but I suppose a hybrid wouldn’t necessarily have the combined, do not over mix and don't worry if it looks a definite features of mess. Spoon immediately into muffin tin and bake. either species.” Local These freeze well, wrap individually and they you can gamekeepers say take strait from the freezer, microwave approx. 20 seconds polecats are common and serve. in the Glaven and Do try changing things around! Make up your own Stiffkey Valleys. combinations. Here are some ideas!! The polecat  A couple of tablespoons of fresh herbs makes a great (Mustela putorius) is addition. expanding its range in  Go nutty chopped nuts sunflower or pumpkin seeds Britain, and in many  Try cooked bacon, chorizo, cooked chicken areas across Britain,  Grated parsnip or beetroot , chopped spinach, peas, ferrets (Mustela furo) occur either as individuals recently mixed veg or sweetcorn (defrosted if frozen) lost from captivity or as feral populations. Polecats and  A little finely chopped chilli or dried chilli ferrets interbreed to produce fertile offspring. The polecat is  Skinned and chopped tomatoes, sundried tomatoes, the ancestor of the domestic ferret but exactly where and leftover antipasti when ferrets were domesticated is still uncertain. Given  Finely chopped onion is great too but it is best softened their close relationship, it is not surprising that it may be in a little oil first try with some garlic too? very difficult to distinguish them in the field.  Use wholemeal flour or 50/50 with white “Thank you so much for getting in touch with us  Remove 1 table spoon of flour and swap it for 2 tbsp oats regarding the dead animal you found. Unfortunately it is Are you up for a challenge ? exceptionally hard to distinguish between a European Perfect your favourite recipe for a savoury muffin and polecat and polecat ferret, according the Vincent Trust the share it with us all. Jill Tibbetts only reliable ways of telling polecats and ferrets apart is “from close examination of the pelage and skull of a NATURE TAKES OVER MORSTON specimen and analysis of mitochondrial DNA. The Vincent With fewer cars and therefore less noise in the village, Trust has produced a really good guide on distinguishing birdsong in Morston gardens can be easily heard again and between the two species, and I recommend taking a look at the birds are getting bolder. Within a yard of us watching this link:https://www.vwt.org.uk/wp-contentuploads/ 2015/ from inside the house, we have had under the bird-table a 04/ polecat-ferret-leaflet-.pdf”. cock pheasant almost daily, a beautiful bullfinch and a great Now we are in lockdown, Jimbo & Jane Temple’s spotted woodpecker and the garden is full of birds including “farmyard paddock” is a wonderful zoo to gaze into. It goldfinch parents and their four babies, keen bird-food contains a goat, a North American turkey pair [B] which eaters. have just produced four light chicks and two dark chicks, a On the marsh the gaggles of geese and wild duck pair of Pekin Bantam Chickens [C] and four inseparable literally grazing has rocketed and the surface of Morston chicks, and five enchanting pairs of Indian runner ducks [D] Creek by the first three bridges daily – especially at high – all of whom run together everywhere (and chase off the tide – is around 50-60 wild duck, and level with the fourth Temples’ cat when it visits). bridge 50-60 geese – mainly Brent – and redshank, taking Notes. [A] The European polecat (Mustela putorius) – over ownership of the waters from the seagulls, which they also known as the common ferret, black or forest polecat, drive away. foumart (from Middle English 'Fulmard', meaning 'Foul', Last week, on the half acre ‘havokey’ level with and 'Mearth' , meaning 'Martin'), or fitch (as well as some Scaldbeck, a 15 inches long, male polecat (A) had its neck other names) – is a species of mustelid native to western broken – probably by a car . This poor animal was seen the Eurasia and north Morocco. Male: 13.5 to 18.0 inches; female: 11.5 inches to 15 inches. [B] The male turkey is a large bird, which is a native of North and Central America. Males have a distinctive fleshy wattle or protuberance that hangs from the top of the beak (called a snood). The male is much larger and much more colourful than the female. Turkeys were domesticated in ancient Mexico, for food and/or for their cultural and symbolic significance. The Aztecs, for example, had a name for the turkey, wueh-xōlō-tl (guajolote in Spanish), a word still used in modern Mexico. There are two theories for the derivation of the name turkey. One theory is that when Europeans first encountered turkeys in America, they incorrectly identified the birds as a type of guinea-fowl, which were already being imported into Europe by Turkey merchants via Constantinople and were therefore nicknamed Turkey coqs. The name thus became turkey 22 fowl or Indian turkey, which was then shortened to just 7. Which Beatles song is the most recorded song of all time? turkeys. Middle Eastern merchants were called Turkey 8. What are the two main ingredients of a Hollandaise merchants as much of that area was part of the Ottoman Sauce? Empire. Hence the name Turkey-cocks and Turkey-hens, 9. How does paella get its name? and soon thereafter, turkeys. In her written memoirs Lady 10. Why was Income Tax first levied in Britain? Dorothy Nevill (1826-1913) recalls that her great- grandfather Horatio Walpole, 1st Earl of Orford (1723- RED KITES OVER MORSTON 1809), imported a quantity of American turkeys which were It has been exhilarating to watch two red kites lazily kept in the woods around Wolterton Hall and in all circling over our field as I daily refill the rabbit scrapes on probability were the embryo flock for the popular Norfolk the campsite. With wingspans of 6 feet, they seem so close I turkey breeds of today. could stroke them; like huge burnished swallows gliding by [C] The Pekin bantam chicken is a true bantam, without a care in the world. diminutive in size but large in love-ability. Breeds can be (Red kite at NWT Cley Marshes. Picture left by categorized into two types – true and miniature standard. Chris Mills.) Their feathers continue to their feet. Only females quack In the EDP, April 2017, Paul and drakes are limited to a hoarse whisper. These demure Stanicliffe, from the Thetford-based and docile birds are almost comically round and watching British Trust for Ornitholgy, said: “The them waddle happily around is a pure delight. red kite is on the increase - the [D] Indian Runner Ducks are a breed of the domestic reintroduction schemes around the UK duck. They stand erect like penguins and, rather than have been hugely successful and birds waddling, they run. They were found on the Indonesian have been moving out from them. The islands of Lombok, Java and Bali where they were 'walked' red kite is largely a carrion feeder and to market. They do not fly and only rarely build nests and does very well feeding on roadkill. incubate their eggs. They walk – or more often run - often “It is difficult to say how many red kites there are in dropping their eggs wherever they happen to be. Norfolk, however, the largest count was of 30 individuals at "Next issue: Morston’s seals and deer and Langham’s a winter roost in hares.” JJRW “The birds are easy to identify as they gracefully soar in search of their next meal. Apart from their colour, they are VOLKO TRIO the only large bird of prey which has a forked tail.”

Something for Everyone Listening to the hour-long Facebook concert given by our very own jazz trio from their living room has become an evening treat as I attempt to pull Lynx 132 together; and it’s a SAXLINGHAM chilled and soothing antidote to the chaos of Contact: John Pridham 01328 831851 Covid-19. [email protected] Musicians Hector and Calypso have also been busy weaving, painting and growing LIFE IN LOCKDOWN seedlings. Thank you so much for sharing During this extraordinary period we have all been your lockdown life for our special edition. experiencing there has been much to be happy about. RH(ed.) Uninterrupted by traffic and airplane noise it has been lovely to hear the widespread birdsong in all its range and variety. However, in place of much of the motorised traffic a noticeable increase in pedestrians walking, jogging, running and cyclists too have livened up our leafy lanes. One aspect that your scribe’s household has grappled with is the technology that is Zoom. What a marvel this is that you can meet up for drinks with folks at a very respectable social distance – in one of our get togethers even at 4,541 miles distant. So perhaps this virus has had one bonus in that it has brought us together in unlikely ways.

MORSTON QUIZ by Samphire (answers on p.32) 1. Which planet has the largest number of moons? 2. What is the main constituent of natural gas? 3. What does OPEC stand for? 4. What does an Arab horse have fewer of than any other? 5. How is the heir to the throne known in Scotland? 6. Who or what were Susan, Sugar, Honey, Whisky and Sherry? 23

absences of regular collections and the cancellation of fund- raising events. Most of us are fortunate enough to have SHARRINGTON gardens and access to the countryside so have not been Contact: Claire Dubbins 01263 862261 stuck inside. May it all end soon, but to its credit our community has [email protected] responded well. Martyn Sloman Church Treasurer www.sharrington.org.uk MUSIC NIGHTS IN SHARRINGTON LOCKDOWN IN SHARRINGTON Well these are indeed troubled times and all of us really Although they won’t be top of the list in terms of do need something to look forward to. concern, we should all feel sorry for the local journalists. Obviously, all events at our hall, and indeed in halls and Every week the North Norfolk News sends a reporter out to theatres right across the country, have come to a grinding check on the extent of compliance with official advice on halt and diaries are completely empty. At the time of avoiding social contact on beaches and beauty spots. There writing, we have had to cancel all music events in the hall seems to be universal observance and it is hard to fill two or along with all other scheduled events. Sad days indeed and, three pages with nothing to report and pictures of empty at present, it is difficult to know exactly when we will be spaces. able to resume normal service. When our Local Lynx representative asked for However, let’s try to give you something to look forward contributions on activities in Sharrington, I was faced with a to. Many of you will know that, to our great delight, we similar problem of making something out of nothing. From managed to book the Strawbs for a gig here at Sharrington my vantage point of observation in the front window next to village hall. The gig was going to be in May and it sold out our church, supplemented by telephone calls, it seems that, immediately. Because of that the band decided to play here given the gravity of the crisis our village is in good shape. on two successive nights. Sadly, we have had to postpone Immediately the extent of the epidemic became apparent both events. a joint note from the Chair of the Parish Council, Debbie The band is, however, very keen not to let us down and Hyslop and our churchwarden, Pippa Long, was distributed have asked to return on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th to every house asking for volunteers. This produced a good December. The Saturday gig remains sold out but I am response. We stand ready to assist, but it is evident that an taking names of anyone interested in attending the following informal network of support has sprung into action with day. Please let me know if you would like your name put on people anxious to ensure that their immediate neighbours the list so I can reserve your tickets. have adequate supplies. You can contact me by emailing on this address: Sadly, like all the other parishes in the country, we have [email protected]. been instructed to close our church for worship. To their Please also use the above email address if you would immense credit the Rev. Fiona Newton and her husband, like your name added to our music email list to get early Ian, have introduced a regular Sunday service using virtual notification of upcoming gigs and music nights. technology. I have recently been contacted by two other well- known Pippa Long led a team acts both requesting an evening gig at our village hall in of flower arrangers and 2021. The first of these is a brilliant musician called Charles decorated the church gate Bourbon. I have seen him playing live and he is superb. He for Easter Sunday and at the has supported many well-known artists in his time including time of writing it is hoped to th Gordon Giltrap, who many of you have enjoyed seeing in do the same for the 75 VE concert here. Besides playing instrumental music he also Day Anniversary weekend sings. As he is also very amusing, it’s going to be a very in May. varied evening’s entertainment. We have also been able to maintain the collection and The second act is a duo called Winter Wilson. They have delivery of items to the food bank. received great reviews and have just recorded an album with This is not to underestimate the extent of the challenges Fairport Convention. Dates for both these will be publicised that many people may be facing. Some changes in on our website under Live Music at www.sharrington. behaviour and relationships are inevitable as we return to org.uk. normal. Our church finances are in a parlous state with the Edwina Hayes and Carrie Martin are about to make an

24 eagerly awaited return in August. We have not postponed CARPET TABLECLOTH this event yet as we do not know what the situation will be Like many people when the weather is not so conducive by then but, at this time, I suspect it will also have to be to outside exercise, lockdown has provided the time, postponed. I will inform those on our email list of the new although not necessarily the inclination, to clear out the date as soon as I know it along with details of upcoming cupboards! music nights when we are able to resume events safely. My stitching friends have been making all sorts of items Very best wishes to you all and stay safe! Chris Abrams out of scraps, from a delightful golden wedding present to a tablecloth. SHARRINGTON AND DISTRICT My intention was to sort out some fabric to make a GARDENING GROUP tablecloth myself when I discovered a pile of old fabric at Unfortunately our full programme of events has had to the back of the cupboard. And then I remembered it was be shelved for the time being, so no film, no visit, no talks fabric I rescued from a relative’s house in Cumbria where and above all no socialising with our lovely members. time had stood still. However we will be back when circumstances allow, One item was a woollen tablecloth embroidered with and the committee will be rescheduling events where silk thread. Sadly through being on a table in the possible for the autumn. ‘withdrawing’ room it was sun bleached and faded. In the meantime we can be thankful that we live in such However the beautiful stitching added its own charm a wonderful part of the country – and that lockdown despite the rotten threads. coincided with a busy period in the garden, so at the very The larger, heavier piece of red and blue required a wash least we have plenty to do! We may not be able to share our - not a task to be undertaken lightly with old fabric. Luckily, tulips and wallflowers with our friends, but the groundwork a sunny day meant a cold wash and laying it flat outside to we are putting in will be invaluable later in the year. dry was possible. Woven on linen thread with wool and silk Stay safe, and enjoy the glories of your own garden. PEL it revealed itself to be a table carpet, popular in households from the late 1700’s until Victorian times. The pile created what we would now call velvet, cut in varying heights to STITCHING VOLUNTEERS give an added dimension. Now cleaned and stripped of its Across Norfolk Berninas are still buzzing and Singers rotten backing fabric it awaits a new backing, not something sewing. Not because we have Kirstie Allsop encouraging us I have in my stash of fabric, before being given its new lease to craft or because the ‘Great British Sewing Bee’ is back, of life in my ‘withdrawing’ room. Anne Abrams but the NHS needs us. Knitters and stitchers have always generously given their A VILLAGE HALL IN ISOLATION time and resources to make blankets and quilts. The most st well-known organisation for taking these gifts is Project It’s the 1 of May. In a field just round the corner a Linus who give them to disadvantaged and sick children young family of hares has been making the most of the fine across Norfolk and the UK. They also support breast cancer spring weather; floppy ear close to floppy ear. The village patients with ‘heart cushions’, provide knitted hats for premature babies and covers for incubators. And once again volunteers have risen to the challenge, providing scrubs for returning medical personnel who are helping us combat the coronavirus emergency. Permanent medical personnel have their own sets of scrubs but the influx of volunteers has led to a shortage. Online there are free patterns and the contacts for sending your completed items. And when we bang our saucepans on Thursday evenings at 8pm spare a thought for all the others who are still working: the postman bringing a letter from a friend, the shop delivering our food, the chemist dispensing our drugs. In line with government guidelines our We thank you all. Anne Abrams gardening programme is postponed up until the end of June. We are working hard to reschedule events that have been cancelled. With best wishes to all our members.

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swallows are back; they chase each other across the skyline postponed, the opportunity for residents to get together has in close formation a bit like the Red Arrows. But for me, for been severely curtailed and elsewhere in the Sharrington me it’s jolly quiet and not really jolly at all. section you can read in more detail how this has affected My main purpose in life is to encourage society and the those parts of our village life. new vigour of spring usually sees the last of hibernation and Other challenges include having to home school and the return of my various visitors. entertain children unable to meet up with school friends, The Tuesday morning exercise session; the Wednesday trying to work from home without entirely reliable afternoon Zumba class; the monthly song-full Jammin’ for broadband connections or business owners planning for Scones, the creative crafters, the attentive Gardeners, the survival in the future. sometimes too jolly Noble Rotters; those sing-along, dance- Some of us have been grappling with new technology to along music nights; the sell-out concerts; the councillors and meet friends and family online to catch up with news, see the voters. But, none this spring. grandchildren, chat with friends about books we have been Here I am, grass cut, clean as a whistle ready to greet the reading, exchange recipes and zoom into church services. various tribes. It’s not the same as actually being together but helps to But, for this spring, it seems, I have been ignored. What combat the feelings of isolation that could so easily is the in vogue expression? I have been furloughed. Not the overwhelm us. self-isolation to which my extended family nervously We are lucky here in being able to access beautiful adheres. No, left in isolation. countryside to walk in, very often bumping into other Not for me the fun of the Diamond Wedding, the Sharrington residents doing the same and exchanging a few mother’s 90th birthday party or the VE Day celebratory tea, words – albeit at a safe distance – that social distancing to all of which I was so looking forward, me and my thing. Members of ramblers groups, sporting and sailing sparkling new glasses. clubs will be missing their walks and activities and the What does the future hold? accompanying camaraderie but the bluebells in Bulfer Maybe at times like these I need to learn to live again. Grove have lifted the spirits and the fine display of tulips SVH this year, bought from the annual Sharrington and District Gardeners bulb sale are still going strong as I write this. FOOD BANK However we are all making the best of it and many will In the current lockdown the number of people needing to have been hard at work in their gardens to ensure they look use food banks has risen hugely as many people who are not their best over the summer flowering season. covered by the government’s furlough scheme are running The swallows are back too, the fledgling tits are taking out of cash and getting desperate. The contributions from their first tentative flights and we also have a wren Sharrington, which are normally collected in a box at the frantically making one of his many nests in a disused lantern back of the church are taken regularly to the Salvation Army in our courtyard. All great fun to watch. in Fakenham, opposite Tescos, which is one of the We may not have a village shop but deliveries from nationwide distribution centres supermarkets and local suppliers have kept us well supplied run by the Trussell Trust. and of course we have our own Sharrington Strawberry stall Since the church has been selling soft fruit, asparagus and other vegetables throughout closed we have still managed the summer. An added bonus during the lockdown has been to continue to deliver Claude, the Village Van, a contributions on alternate reconditioned 1970’s Citroen H Mondays. Items can be left van transformed by Tom Neall into either on the doorstep at All a mobile village shop, visiting Saints Cottage, next to the Sharrington each Saturday since church – ring the bell and we Easter Saturday and parking up for will take them in – or left in an hour or so by the telephone box one of Pippa Long’s two in Bale Road. It carries fruit and greenhouses at The Place. Don’t feel you have to produce a veg plus groceries and other bagful. One or two items will be extremely welcome. supplies and has proved popular, Cereal, long life milk, pasta, tea or anything in a tin are offering not only the goods it sells but another opportunity among the things asked for. The Monday deliveries to to see friends in the well-spaced queue and have a chat. Fakenham will continue in this way while the lockdown is in force. AS

IT’S LIFE…BUT NOT AS WE KNOW IT On the surface, life in Sharrington looks the same but underneath there have been many changes since the end of March. Everyone has been touched in some way by the Covid-19 virus and most people will have a friend or family member, near or far, who has been affected. New words have entered our everyday vocabulary such as ‘lockdown’, ‘furloughed’ ‘social distancing’ and new meanings have been given to other words such as ‘COBRA’, ‘Zoom’, ‘Houseparty’ and ‘front line’. With both community centres – the church and village hall – being locked and services and events cancelled or 26

Tom has turned his newish catering business into a service APART WITH CRAFT for our villages and he is a welcome visitor each week! Annie and I would usually put together a small article In the last issue of The Lynx we were looking back at regarding the details for upcoming ‘Get Together with the end of the Second World War and VE day, when the Craft’ events but sadly we are not in a position to do so and phrase ‘front line’ had a military who knows at this stage when we will be able to meet up meaning. Now the front line means again. Only time will tell. something very different and every I know many of you are missing this monthly event, not Thursday evening at 8pm people in only for the chat but also the practical side of learning a new the village have been joining in the skill and going home with something handmade. big ‘thank you’, ringing bells, So, let’s try and create something during lockdown. One banging saucepans and blowing on of the easiest things to have a go at is decoupage. It’s bugles to acknowledge the something we have experimented with before in one of our tremendous work done by all our meetings, but let’s try and practise it a bit more. NHS staff and carers in care homes Here’s what you will need: and throughout the community. Nor do we forget the 1. A glass jar of any size, or a wine bottle or any old glass supermarket staff, delivery drivers, pharmacists, transport vase you would like to decorate. workers, farmers, fishermen, members of the armed forces, 2. White paint, but if you don’t have any don’t worry, you police and public services along with many many others can do without. who have been working so hard and in difficult situations to 3. PVA glue and a napkin with a pattern, or magazine keep our country going. cuttings (paper must be thin and glossy). In early May, it is hard to see when the pandemic 4. A small paintbrush or piece of sponge to apply paint and situation will ease and life in Sharrington resumes its normal glue. pattern but we are all looking forward to that and hope by Here’s what to do: autumn we will see better times. CD Paint your glass vessel with a good layer of white paint and allow to dry. HOME SCHOOLING IN Your napkin will have two or four layers which you will SHARRINGTON: A SNAPSHOT OF need to separate as you will only be working on the top TEACHING LOCKDOWN LESSONS patterned layer, so if you don’t have any white paint, use one of the layers without a pattern to coat the glass. Do this If OFSTED were to rate me on my teaching prowess, I would get a ‘Requires Improvement’. As it stands, my six by cutting up the napkin layer into small squares which don’t have to be uniform. Apply a thin layer of PVA glue to year old already gives me a thumbs down when nanny and grandad ask her how her new teacher is doing on their the jar and place a square on top of the glue and carefully evening Skype calls. Mind you, daddy also gets a thumbs apply another thin layer of glue on top of the napkin square. down so at least our home school educational methods are If you don’t have a napkin or white paint, use kitchen roll. consistent! Work your way around the glass until it is covered. Let this Jokes aside, we are doing okay, thanks to the support we are still receiving from my daughter’s school. As an only child, she is missing her friends and the physical interaction from being at school, but her teachers are providing lots of videos and task setting exercises daily. At 9am we log on to a system called ‘Tapestry’ (many schools use this to keep parents informed) to receive a video message from the head teacher welcoming us to school, just as she would have done had we been walking through the school gates. Next up are video lessons on maths and English. To complement these, we also log on to dedicated apps and websites that allow my daughter to practise her phonics, reading and sums. All the data is processed (how many questions she gets right and how long it takes to answer them) and a report is sent to her teacher so that they can monitor her progress. There is also a specialist subject video sent once a day (science, dance, music or outdoor learning). For our part, we must send photos and updates a few times a day to show the teachers what we have been up to and this is usually focused on a weekly theme. So far, the themes have been fairy tales, space and under the sea. We must ensure either daily indoor or outdoor exercise is taken too. I have just asked my daughter what her favourite thing about home schooling is and she replied: “I like being at home and learning because I have all my things around me”. I guess we must be doing something right after all! Sarah Bell

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dry overnight. Separate yolks & whites of eggs & beat each well, must Once your bottom layer is completely dry, cut your be quite stiff. napkin according to your pattern. So, for example, if it has Put sugar & lemon with yolks & beat again. Stir in flowers, cut out the flowers. If it has characters, cut them whites & fold. Lightly whisk in sifted warm flour. out. If it has one continuous pattern that you would like to Bake in moderate heat oven for approximately 20 minutes. use, cut it in one rectangular piece that fits the height and circumference of the NORTH NORFOLK BOOK WORMS jar. If you are using magazine cuttings, These interesting times led to a new way of meeting for get them cut and prepared. the book club. Thanks to Isabel we set ourselves up by our Apply a thin layer of PVA glue to the jar computers with our wine, tea or beverage of choice and we and start to assemble your pattern or held ‘Zoom’ meetings. cuttings design to the jar or vase. Don’t We had already borrowed ‘The worry about creases. The more creases Sapphire Widow’ by Dinah Jefferies so the better as it creates a lovely textured having disinfected it, members read effect. and reported back with very mixed Give the jar or vase another coating of reviews. It was a ‘Richard and Judy’ PVA glue on top of your decoration and special. A departure from our usual again, allow to dry overnight. To finish, literary choices but recommended by you could tie a ribbon or wrap some Wells Library. garden twine around the neck of the bottle or jar, especially Some members found it to be a to cover the thread. very silly book, saying that the You now have a pretty vase to display flowers in or a jar wooden, one-dimensional characters, to use as a pen tidy, paintbrush or toothbrush holder. The florid, overwritten descriptions and a convoluted plot rushed possibilities are endless! Sarah Bell through at breakneck speed all combined to make this a real disappointment. The descriptions of Ceylon (as then) in the 1930’s were very evocative, yet there were too many of them. The characters never felt real. All the dramatic events were glossed over and could, and should, have been made STIFFKEY more of. Other members thoroughly enjoyed this book. It Contact: Dr.Sally Vanson 01328 830560 described what life was like in Ceylon during the thirties, [email protected] and how the British lived and worked amongst the different nationalities. With the descriptions of the dresses that the main character wore and the intoxicating and delicious GENERAL NEWS descriptions of the landscape, narrative and characters it Thank you for all the contributions in the last issue. I allowed us to feel as if we were there, as well as being fully wondered if we could be even more adventurous in Stiffkey involved in the storyline which held our imagination and and, after a reader’s suggestion, this month we have a recipe attention completely. As usual, we are a group of many contribution to try out. If you have any favourite recipes eclectic tastes and you need to decide for yourself. please send them in as this could become a regular column. With the library being closed we each found our own Feel free to suggest or contribute anything else of way of reading the May choice - ‘Beloved’, a Pulitzer interest. I need your offerings by 5th of the month on winning novel by Toni Morison. This is an account of life alternate months (from July) although I am happy to receive as a slave in the Southern States of America, both before them whenever it’s easier for you. If you would like to place and after the Civil War. This novel has a quirky twist, in an advert, these cost £12 per issue. Contact me at that the character ‘Beloved’ is a ghost, and the social history [email protected]. of attitudes and lives of both male and female slaves, some Stiffkey Sponge Cake (1900) of whom buy their freedom, is extremely well researched  3 eggs and portrayed. At times this is a harrowing book to read but  2 1/2 oz self-raising flour it is beautifully crafted, switching between the  4 1/2 oz sugar consciousnesses of the characters, men and women,  1/2 rind of lemon children and teenagers. Much of it is written in first person

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narrative and is totally convincing. We definitely felt we had years he spent most weekdays helping young women in read one of the classics. London. Following a breakdown in his relationship with the Our plan for June is to read ‘Where My Heart Used To local establishment an investigation by the church led to his Beat’ by Sebastian Faulkes. defrocking for immorality at Norwich Cathedral in 1932. In normal times, the book club meets one evening a Wanting to clear his name, he spent his final years trying to month in a member’s home and we borrow our books from raise money in increasingly eccentric ways. Sadly, his death Wells Library to reduce costs. We welcome members from came through being mauled by a lion at a Skegness seafront nearby villages to enjoy wine and soft drinks and great sideshow. conversations which lead to new topics and learning. Nowadays and despite not being able to open for We have vacancies for two more members so if you are services at this time it is still being cared for by our helpers. interested please contact me. dr.sallyvanson @gmail.com. The door remains unlocked and the interior is clean and with vases of flowers. I don't know when, if ever, in its STIFFKEY VILLAGE FACEBOOK history it was made to shut for prayer, times are very Stiffkey Village Facebook page now has 179 different now, however, it is ready for when we are told we members and can be found at https://www.facebook. can use it again for worship. We are also so grateful to com/groups/ 790563987749800/. David, Steve and everyone else who keep the churchyard My goodness, use of our Facebook page grew cut and looking good. The gate to the Churchyard is left exponentially in the last month, possibly because we all had open during the day for those who tend their loved ones' more time on our hands or were feeling lonely and wanted graves, however, if you do go to the grave please take home to connect. all your dead flowers, greenery and plastic and not leave it It is a useful way of sharing local government, PC, anywhere in the churchyard. Due to the lockdown the bin Police and health information during lockdown and also for will not be used at this time. keeping our second homers up to date as well as warning Our vicar, Ian, is still producing a sermon each week and them to stay away. We ensured they stayed connected by by e mailing [email protected] you can posting photos of our lovely village and marshes, and they leave your request for the sermon. There is also a service on could follow the odd debates that regularly appeared. Zoom and this can be found very easily by emailing Generally comments were kept polite when villagers felt the [email protected] for details. need to share and discuss their occasional frustrations. We can only hope that the restrictions will not go on for Information about food deliveries was posted regularly too much longer and the virus is brought under some sort of and we welcomed supplies from Wells and from Cley and control, but in the meantime take care and stay safe. HH even a regular Indian food menu and fish and chips being delivered from further afield. RESCUE WOODEN BOATS Grateful thanks are also due to the villagers who posted Five years ago, Lucy lavers departed Wells on a some wonderful photos and film clips from days gone by. historic journey to Dunkirk, 7th May 2015. There are These included the Jordan family, where 13 siblings grew many photos on our website for you to enjoy, including up in the same house, some before and after photos of the all of the restoration of this beautiful ex-RNLI boat and countryside showing how trees have matured and the her Dunkirk trip www.rescuewoodenboats.com. landscape has changed, and of course our wonderful marsh. Will Darby has been Our page became our ‘virtual village green’ and it is ‘working from home’ where hoped that even more use of it is made in the future. possible so Harvester’s gaff If you have a Facebook account, then just enter Stiffkey (from her previous cutter rig) Village in the search bar at the top and it will take you to our has been converted into a lug page. If you don’t have an account, they are easy to set up yard. This has involved and do not have to be available for public viewing unless shortening it and planing off you wish. SV over half an inch of diameter over the entire length. Once CHURCH NEWS the ends have been tapered, he will attach the pickup and get The Church of St John and St Mary has a history which her rigged. Whelker Harvester has been generously donated goes back over 900 years and there is a suggestion that it to Rescue Wooden Boats by Graeme Peart. She was built in occupies a burial mound from the pre-Christian era. At the time of the Norman Conquest the village contained two principal estates. Only one church appears in Domesday but either then, or soon after, there were two churches (St John and St Mary) in the same churchyard. One was deconsecrated and from the mid- 16th century it crumbled away. The current building is an attractive mixture of flint work, dressed stone and old red bricks. In the porch and the parapet, there has been liberal use of the white knapped flints which are so much a feature of churches in this part of Norfolk. The mouldings on the porch entrance show this to be early 15th century. The grave of Harold Davidson, the former Rector, is near the north side of the churchyard. The trial of Harold Davidson was a sensational story in the 1930s. For many 29

1951 by Emery of and her first owner was Sid Thank you, Caroline and the team and we are looking "Custard" Cooper. David Hewitt restored her for Graeme forward to supporting you as you re-open. Various suppliers Peart as a pleasure boat and she now has a gaff rig. She and farm shops delivered fresh food into the village, so no- needs some maintenance to get her back afloat. David has one was left without. taken out the engine in order to get to the keel bolts. The On Thursday evenings we clapped to show appreciation stern post had to be removed, as the bolts would not tighten for those working to keep us safe. Being such a long linear due to rust. The aft apron needs attention and the engine will village with several empty properties, the clapping was be serviced while out, and the drive plate will be checked. intermittent, so many thanks to those who made the effort Keep up with the progress of Rescue Wooden Boats on even if it made the Harrison’s cows and their calves run to their website, Facebook page or even better, come and visit the top of the hill in their astonishment at the unexpected us in Stiffkey. noise. The Wells & Cley, Coastguard Rescue Teams were out CORONAVIRUS NEWS on patrol over the Easter weekend and were speaking to Life has certainly changed in Stiffkey over the last people to find out where they had come from and if months. The reduced traffic has been much appreciated as necessary, asked to turn around and go home. Whilst visitor villagers escape for their daily walks. The air has been numbers were much reduced there were some who seemed clearer, and the smell of lingering fuel fumes has unable to comply with the simple instruction to ‘stay at diminished. home’. We had reports of two groups picnicking together For those that were unable to get to the post office or and a naked man sunbathing on the marsh. Luckily this post box. Wells Postmen picked up letters whilst on their improved as time went on and we have seen fewer visitors rounds. As part of a local agreement, villagers were able to on the coastal path although some people apparently thought hang letters out of their letterbox for collection. it was clever to get round the closed car park by parking on Holt Medical Practice planned for delivery of The Greenway and even in the camp site. prescriptions and Lynne Pettit, a village Health Care Local businesses have certainly taken a hit, and it will be Assistant, is to be thanked for bringing prescriptions from fantastic if we can support them to get back on their feet as Wells-next-Sea medical centre where she works. We know soon as possible. other villagers (including Charlie from Camping Hill) have It was extremely exciting to hear from Elizabeth Fisher helped with this as well and apologise for not having all the who lives in the village but runs an engineering company in names. Thank you. Birmingham. Her company worked over Easter to make Several villagers adopted elderly residents and ensured 400 cubicles for the hospital and managed the feat of a five- their needs were met, and we sincerely thank the majority of day turn-round from drawing to installation. Her story second-homers and holiday makers who stayed away, thus follows later. reducing the load on local services. It was lovely to hear about one lady in her eighties being set up with iPAD, email OBITUARY: PAT PRICE etc so she could stay in contact with friends and family. Sadly, Pat Price lost her very courageous battle against Our village Facebook page (or ‘virtual village green’) cancer on the 15th January 2020. She died peacefully at was regularly updated with news, bulletins and activities in home with her family by her side. the village and we thank Sally Vanson for taking that on and Thanks to the support of her husband also those who provided pictures and entered into debates to Robert and a team of carers she was keep it fresh. It was a great way for those locals (who can able to stay at home. access it), and our second-homers to keep in touch, Robert has taken great comfort especially those who have been working on the front line. from all the cards and letters of The Parish Council circulated a vital leaflet with help condolence he has received, which is numbers and links to Council services, so we all received a a great tribute to the memory of Pat. useful reference document. Pat was born Patricia Ann Our village shop stayed open and made deliveries. Gooding in Slough to parents Joyce Thank you, Andy. The Red Lion was sadly closed due to and Harry in 1941. Her parents were originally from government requirements but were able to offer a take-away Newport in South Wales. Pat and her younger brother Ken menu and delivery to those in need. The free beer as they were very proud of their Welsh heritage. Although she was cleared the pumps was a great surprise and much enjoyed. born during the Second World War, Pat was too young to be evacuated and stayed at home with her parents in Buckinghamshire. After school, she worked as a civilian clerk for Thames Valley Police at Slough & Iver Police Station, as a secretary at Sony and Pinewood Film Studios. It was at Sony that she met her long-time friend Howard. Thank goodness she did, because he was responsible for catching Robert and Pat’s wedding cake top tier when it decided to take a tumble at their wedding reception! Robert and Pat met in 1985 at Didcot Railway Centre where they both helped in the gift shop. Romance blossomed and they were married at Reigate Registry Office on 13th June 1987. Their first home together was in Tatsfield, Kent. Later they moved to Biggin Hill. When Pat was made redundant from a firm of architects in Westerham, she started up Pat Price Transport Books 30 with Robert. She embraced his hobby travelling all over the WARBOROUGH HOUSE country, attending model railway exhibitions, British Railway open days, transport rallies and toy fairs selling OPEN GARDENS transport books. Sadly, the planned open gardens for May had to be During this time, they had a caravan that was in Norfolk cancelled due to government regulations. The warm spring at Wells-next-the-Sea and a Beach Hut, called ‘Jasper’. weather, combined with showers has brought the plants on Robert and Pat shared many happy holidays together at beautifully, leaving them in good stead for next year when Wells. During one of these holidays, in 1986, they saw a we are looking forward to welcoming you again. lovely new house in Stiffkey that certainly caught their eye. Arabella Morgan It was up for sale, so they looked around it. 6 years later it was still up for sale at a more realistic price and “Langley” STIFFKEY RESIDENT HELPS NHS became Robert and Pat’s Forever Home in Norfolk. It was NIGHTINGALE HOSPITALS named “Langley” because Robert was born in Park Langley Ann Fisher lives full time in Stiffkey after having a second and Pat lived in Langley Park. For the first thirteen years home in the village for many years. She runs a business in after moving to Stiffkey, Robert was still working for BT Birmingham that is part of a UK four site operation based at only spending the weekends at home. During the week Pat sites in Wales, Birmingham, Reading and Scotland. She threw herself into creating their beautiful home and her usually commutes for the week and returns home at weekends. beloved garden. Ann is delighted to share with us that the teams at SAS Pat certainly had green fingers. She grew plants for International in Birmingham and Bridgend designed and made family members and for numerous charity plant sales, 400 antibacterial cubicles for NHS Nightingale over Easter including raising money for The Gambia. and following week. A five-day turnaround! There now Pat was an active member of the local community in appears to be new requirements so they remain on call to Stiffkey. She was chairman of the local history group and engineer some more cubicles in the next month. helped with the production of ‘The Stiffkey and Cockthorpe SAS International are a UK business involved in Book’. She put her detailed collection of postcards and engineering of amazing ceilings for landmark buildings and historic information about Stiffkey, and the surrounding installations, so this project called for rapid diversification. areas, to good use in its production. She also helped to raise They received a call to assist the week before Easter weekend money for the church fabric fund. Pat was the founder and the team designed, made member of Stiffkey Mardlers, a group where older people and delivered a module to get together to “Mardle” or talk over tea and cakes. She Nightingale for NHS approval hosted the Stiffkey Mardlers at her home “Langley”; they on Good Friday. also met in the Red Lion Pub in Stiffkey. The teams then worked all over When she lived at Langley in Buckinghamshire, she was Easter. They contacted suppliers a keen church bell ringer and continued this by ringing the who opened to get access to single church bell here at St John’s Church. Her picture, more raw materials, they met appeared on the ITV website as one of the bell virtually using video conferencing and the factory reopened ringers who rang bells to herald the start of the 2012 with a small team only phoned on Good Friday to restart. Six Olympic Games in London, which also set a world record started Saturday and a few others for the number of church bells rung a one time. on Sunday, using site safe Last summer, despite poor health, she was determined to measures and social distancing. ring the church bell at the funeral of her next-door neighbour They stayed incredibly positive Michael. with music and treats to work If you looked around the home she shared with Robert right through the weekend. you could see Pat’s interests in every room. She loved bees, Efforts and energy levels were had several meerkat ornaments. Closest to her heart was a sky high with everyone focused collection of Diana, Princess of Wales memorabilia. All over on helping to produce the NHS requirements. The team spirit the house there were countless horses, witches and black was amazing with positive attitudes and a real pride in being cats. able to do something to help. Rest in Peace Pat. Tracey Steeds The design, antibacterial finish and metal panels are very robust and have allowed the fixing of services and oxygen

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supply simply. One cubicle can be installed in 30 minutes so it LANGHAM VILLAGE SCHOOL NEWS is easy and fast to get areas transformed into new environments suitable for this challenging covid virus. Just because classrooms haven't been open, it doesn't There are now new versions being designed and proposed mean that our teachers haven't been able to help families to include different cubicles for clean room changing areas and through this time. We have been working in school to office area spaces safe for new working requirements. provide childcare and working from home to create and The safety for us all in having innovative, medical, distribute learning resources to our families. We have working, schooling, leisure and retail spaces is going to need ensured free school meals vouchers have been provided for fast solutions that enable a new normal to evolve. the children that require them and keeping in touch by Ann Fisher www.sasint.co.uk email and phone. Of course, as a team, we cannot wait to have the children back in school and learning with us. But, in the meantime, they are working hard at home. We have been ANSWERS TO MORSTON QUIZ collecting photos of home learning on the website; the (Questions on p.23) creativity has been amazing with so much beautiful 1.Saturn. 2. Methane. 3. Organization of Petroleum artwork, delicious baking and lots of creative writing, Exporting Countries. 4. One vertebra fewer. 5. Duke of scientific experiments and maths. Rothesay. [Rothesay is the capital town of the Isle of Have a look at the photos here: http://www.langham Bute]. 6. The Queen’s corgis. 7. Yesterday. 8. Egg yolks villageschool.com/home-learning/. and butter. 9. From the pan it is cooked in. 10. To pay We very much hope that our children will remember for the Napoleonic Wars. [18 May 1803 – 20 Nov 1815] this time in a positive way; a time they spent with their families and did fun things that they wouldn’t usually do. I found this poem by O'Meara that suggests that we view this era of social distancing as a chance to undertake purposeful activities like meditation, exercise, and dancing, and result in a kind of global healing.

The poem, “And the people stayed home" reads: ‘And the people stayed home. And read books, and listened, and rested, and exercised, and made art, and played games, and learned new ways of being, and were still. And listened more deeply. Some meditated, some prayed, some danced. Some met their shadows. And the people began to think differently. And the people healed. And, in the absence of people living in ignorant, dangerous, mindless, and heartless ways, the earth began to heal. And when the danger passed, and the people joined together again, they grieved their losses, and made new choices, and dreamed new images, and created new ways to live and heal the earth fully, as they had been healed.’

Everyone at Langham Village School sends you very best wishes at this difficult time. Take care and stay safe… Langham Village School: ‘A place for fun, creativity, friendship, ambition and discovery.’ Polly Kossowicz - Head teacher For further information please visit our website www.langham.norfolk.co.uk or follow us on twitter @langhamvill.

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Home schooling at Langham Primary

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