Chronicle Romance Lives 50th Anniversary pages 10-11 page 12

Established 1991 Best Newspaper 2016 Shine School Media Awards Spring 2021

The higher purpose of local government

Ned Chatterton Last February one unsuspecting council and a certain Jackie Weaver were catapulted into the limelight. The YouTube video of a fractious Handforth Parish council instantly became a national talking point and phrases like, “You have no author- ity here, Jackie Weaver!” could be called out in the street to the know- ing smiles of any passer-by. Aside from its comic value, the video also reminded people of what some see as the pitfalls of local government. Amateurism, inefficiency and egotism – all these words could be thrown at those who serve as volunteers on our parish councils. But take a look at Oundle Town Council for a different picture. The council declares on its web- site that its aim is to maintain “a beautiful thriving market town re- nowned for being a fantastic place to live, work and a joy to visit”. It may appear relatively basic at face value but, of course, it takes a lot to keep Oundle this good. Georgina Backhurst, Ali Lloyd and Ali Winbolt are part of the volunteer team from Blooming Oundle who have designed The council carries out a new planting scheme across Oundle. With materials and plants donated from Coles Building Merchants, Nene Valley many day-to-day roles such as Brewery, and The Barn and with funding from many businesses, they have created new tubs, taken over old planters and renewed overgrown verges. The initiative is one of Transition Oundle's projects to promote greener living. maintaining and administering public outdoor and indoor spaces such as Queen Victoria Hall, Fletton House and Snipe Meadow Conservatives claim majority seats at new North Northants Council as well as consulting on planning, Robert Brettle Annabel de Capell Brooke, had previ- will inherit the decision of how to and allocating grant money. As Oundle has elected three councillors ously represented Oundle on the East dispose of the land. “My hope is to find Councillor David Chapple put it: to the new North Northants Council, Northants Council. “I was delighted a solution which can preserve the rich “This council punches way above all from the Conservative Party, in and honoured to be re-elected to rep- history. There are also vital planning its weight providing a small town what was a successful set of local resent the residents of Oundle and the applications afoot and I will be moni- with large town facilities.” elections for the Conservatives overall. villages. It’s a huge and diverse geo- toring these carefully.” However, local government, in These were the first local elections graphical area and I’ve been fortunate Helen Harrison was raised in Oundle at least, serves a higher to take place in ’s to get to know and work with many Laxton and went to Primary purpose. Cllr Chapple said: “Of new unitary authority, which was won community groups and organisations School. As a chartered physiotherapist, course the council is about local by the Conservatives with 60 seats to over this time. I am very much looking she worked for almost a decade in the government, and this inevitably Labour’s 14. The Green Party also won forward to continuing this work,” she NHS in and Stamford said. “The new North - and has set up her own successful means matters of administration, three seats in the Clover Hill ward in . shire unitary authority gives us all an physiotherapy clinic in . but it means - or should do - so turnout was low at only 34.64%. historic opportunity to create a Council She previously represented the much more than that. It can and In Oundle, the three elected coun- which works for us all.” Fineshade Ward on the ENC. should be about trying to ensure cillors won comfortably with over 7000 She told us that she was invested in She said her background in health that the people of Oundle have total votes. The next largest share of the continuing to work with local groups is what will drive her priorities in her every opportunity to experience votes went to the Liberal Democrats, on planning and with those who are new role on North Northants Council. and enjoy the quality of life that with nearly 3000 total votes. fighting to retain Fletton Field as a "I want to see health and well-being continued on page 2 One of the new NNC councillors, green space in the town. The new NNC continued on page 2 2 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 54 - Spring Local government grind you down!” they both said. The Council has faced its own continued from page 1 The problems. “I could write a book,” Do local councils they aspire to.” admitted Cllr Chapple. There are Former councillor Tony Chronicle the common political problems: not really matter? Robinson said: “The emphasis is on enough funding or power. Robert Foskett the wrong thing - administration. In particular, the council was Are you one of the many people Team It makes local government very very disappointed to have its who think that local elections do unimportant. It concentrates more Neighbourhood Plan - the blueprint not matter and if you vote it won’t on stopping things than starting for how the residents of Oundle make a difference? things. The governor on an engine want the town to expand with new In April, BBC News travelled to stops it from going too fast or too housing - rejected by the ENC. the Marfleet ward in Hull, which slow, it’s the fuel that makes it Cllr Clark said, “The town coun- had one of the lowest voter turn- go. We grow our communities by cil is effectively a parish council so outs in in 2019 (12.7% of helping them fly.” has limited powers – and many of eligible voters). They found that Councillor Ian Clark agrees, the decisions affecting Oundle seem many people were not interested saying that the best thing about to be taken in distant offices, which in voting due to a lack of under- the council is, “the sense of we need to get better at influenc- standing of local government. The achievement when we get a project ing.” polling expert, Professor Sir John through to completion and it’s Former councillor Peter Peel Curtice, said that the perception is well received. In my time, the new THE EDITORIAL TEAM agreed: “It is not for those who “general elections matter and local skatepark and the boardwalk feel wish to dictate from far afield to elections do not”. This perception like things that have enhanced life Noa Anderson say you must have this or that. "It cannot be further from the truth. for residents in Oundle.” Matthew Atkin is for all those who live, work and The council is funded through The councillors are all volun- Archie Atkinson play here that must come first.” a ‘precept’ which households pay teers and no one denies that this is Robert Brettle However, an arguably greater as part of their council tax bill, and a challenge. “It’s remarkably tough William Caskey blight gnaws at the heart of local local councillors are the people work for a group of amateur vol- Toby Cave government: a lack of recognition who make most of the decisions on unteers!” says Cllr Clark. But they Ned Chatterton for the role they perform in a flour- council tax and how the money is keep coming back because they Meagan Iu ishing town. then spent. want to keep that special quality Paxton Leung Tony Robinson recognises this: Councils do more than just which Oundle has. Priyanka Menon “Possibly the greatest problem emptying the bins. They provide Cllr Chapple joined the council Sofya Meshechkova facing local government is making most of the local public services, thirty-five years ago. When asked Johannes Mynhardt councillors feel successful. The for example, social care, education, how he would describe what he has Digby Pratt image of Handforth was there long highways, housing, libraries, open been doing for those past years, at Gabriel Sun before we saw the social-media bit. spaces and planning. Many people first, he said he has been serving Jennifer Yang So, image is the biggest problem, have views on these local matters Oundle. But then he added: “If I Cherry Yang and you cannot just say that it's but do not realise that their voice was going to be cynical, however, I better, it has to be that way.” can be heard. might make a more flippant com- Not just that, but it appears our In Oundle, we have the Town ment along the lines of - my years STAFF EDITORS councillors are a dying breed. Of Council as well as the new North on the council have been at times the 14 seats available, only ten nom- Northamptonshire Council. OTC both maddening and disheartening Leigh Giurlando inations were received. Before any is responsible for a number of the but I have kept coming back for Caitriona O'Brien votes had been cast on 6 May, all town’s facilities, such as the car more because at other times it has the town councillors knew they had parks, the cemetery, the Recreation been truly rewarding and the pleas- an uncontested place on the coun- Ground, Snipe Meadow, the War ure at such times always outweighs cil. Cllr Chapple said: “I have been Memorial and the graveyard at St any pain.” elected to the council as there were Peter’s . In addition to this, Cllr Chapple said: “Perhaps insufficient candidates for there to the Town Council represents the there is a perception that coun- be an election, which is disappoint- town, commenting on planning cillors are in it for personal glory ing but hardly surprising. I wish I applications. or self-advancement. But there is knew how we could attract more Participation in local govern- no glory in what we do; there are people to take up the challenge of ment is not solely confined to more brickbats than bouquets to be becoming a councillor.” voting. Observing OTC meetings found.” The council is unique in that it has made me feel more involved Former councillors Peter Peel is the only institution which serves in the town, and I have a greater and Tony Robinson were more Oundle town alone. Solely focused awareness of the issues that the blunt. “You have to keep fighting on our town, it does so much, both town faces and have been able to the b******!”; “Don’t let the b******* in terms of day-to-day adminis- contribute in the time set aside at New councillors at NNC tration and by employing a broad the start of the meetings for public continued from page 1 vision for bettering Oundle. participation. This is why Oundle Town coun- At its best, public participation at the heart of policy making. The leads to greater democratic rep- pandemic has highlighted just how cillors - and the majority of other important it is to ensure that residents people in local government - are resentation. It includes connecting have every opportunity to take care of nothing like the shouty little boxes ideas with a strategy and resources. their health, and I am determined that which appear in the Handforth Have you ever thought of what they should have access to services and YouTube video. skills and ideas you could bring an environment that promotes good Even after thirty-five years, Cllr to a project which would benefit Oundle Chronicle mental and physical health.” Chapple remains devoted to the Oundle? OTC are always pleased to Cripps Library Jason Smithers was elected in 2018 Council: “The best thing about the receive suggestions, ideas and com- to represent on the council is that it remains apoliti- ments. It also currently has four Church Street Northants County Council. He has cal. The party that all councillors vacancies, should you wish to take Oundle since been chosen by the new North a more leading role in the town. Peterborough Northants Conservative group to be belong to is 'the Oundle Party' with all of us trying to make the town as Local government really does PE8 4EE their leader. He tweeted: “On the back of last weeks #elections, we have a good as it can be, both preserving matter to our daily lives. As Helen E: [email protected] significant mandate from the electorate what is good and trying to have Keller said: “Alone, we can do so www.oundlechronicle.co.uk and will deliver upon our promises.” positive developments too.” little; together we can do so much.” ISSUE 54 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 3 of the Northamptonshire County rights of way and access to the Association of Local Councils countryside.” Parish Path Wardens keep footpaths said: “The Parish Paths Warden Mr Hoyle said he is “resigned Scheme hasn’t been supported by to wait” until further progress from being lost NCC for quite a few years now, is made by the new unitary William Caskey insuring the role is unknown. although there are still plenty of authority on the Path Warden Northamptonshire has 1929 NCC insurance cover relating Parish Paths Wardens soldiering on issue. In the meantime, he will aim miles of rights of way in a network to volunteers forms part of the informally. The creation of the new to uphold the duties of the Path that includes footpaths, bridle- council’s general insurance policies. unitaries, and the re-procurement Warden, despite the lack of official ways and byways used by walkers, “Unfortunately premiums are not of the county’s highways contract, recognition or support by the NNC. cyclists and horse riders who enjoy broken down to this level of detail,” presents an opportunity to have a “I will endeavor to walk each of getting out into the countryside. the NCC said. rethink.” the public rights of way within the Together with landowners and Oundle parish, and report issues to farmers, the county ensures that the highways authority,” he says. routes are kept open and passable. Mr Hoyle assured me that he is, At parish level, volunteer Path War- “no more than any other member dens play an important role in the of the public, exercising their right upkeep of rights of ways. of access, except that it would be The purpose of the warden role a systematic review of local rights is to help maintain the quality and of way,” and so insurance cover accessibility of footpaths by mon- would be unnecessary. itoring the rights of way network Mr Hoyle is adamant that the locally and providing annual position of Path Warden is an reports to the Parish Council. The “effective way” for the council Northamptonshire County Council and unitary authorities to fulfill Rights of Way Improvement plan, their responsibilities to maintain published in July 2020, said that the the quality of local paths and is Parish Path Warden scheme was therefore a worthwhile investment. “very much up and running”. Leon Jolly, Head of Operational The role is described as “an Delivery, Northamptonshire important link between the Rights However, local parishes are The nominated Path Warden for Highways said they "are of Way officers and each Parish and encouraged to appoint a warden the Oundle parish is Tony Hoyle. supporting existing Parish Path Town in the country”. Despite the who can liaise with the new unitary “I am an active user of public rights Wardens and have not removed recognition of the importance of authority about potential rights of of way as a walker, and I used to them" but new recruitment to the the role, the former NCC withdrew way issues. Many parish councils be a weekend horse rider,” says scheme was suspended until a support for the position due to in Northamptonshire have contin- Mr Hoyle, “so I have an interest revised Path Warden scheme could the expense of insurance cover ued to appoint a Path Warden and in maintaining and improving be developed. for volunteers operating on their sometimes cover the position under behalf. its own public liability insurance. The actual expense of Danny Moody, Chief Executive Chains of office are archived as East Northants Council is shuttered Ned Chatterton throughout the year and organised Retirement of the ENC chains ticketed events for that charity. of office marks the beginning and Rupert Reichhold, who repre- end of another phase in the cycle of sented Oundle on the ENC, served local government. as Chairman for the year 2016 – The residents of Oundle said 2017, and nominated the National farewell to the ENC after it was Autistic Society, the Royal Anglian merged into the new North North- Regiment (formerly the Northamp- amptonshire Council in April. The tonshire Regiment), and the Gur- ceremonial chains of office of the kha Welfare Trust. District “My Chairman's Dinner yield- Council (ENC) were retired to ed a total of £988 for the charities I Town Council when the nominated,” he said. North Northamptonshire Council The ENC was formed from an was formed on 1 April. amalgamation of the local Urban The chains, used by the ENC and Rural District Councils which since 1974, had previously been had been around since 1894. used by the Rushden Urban District Cllr Helen Howell, Chair of East council from 1935 until it became Northamptonshire, announced at part of ENC. a council meeting in January that There are three chains; one for funds had been made available for the Chairperson, his or her consort, refurbishing the chains to ensure and the deputy Chairperson. that they were preserved and Stepping aside from council pol- protected for many more years. Bring a splash of colour and sound to your kitchen, itics for the year, the Chairperson Councillors agreed that all three bedroom or bathroom with our cute vintagestyle wore the chains during their year in chains are historic artefacts and DAB radios uniquely designed by office. Their role included chairing should be restored and placed on the district council meetings and display at Rushden Town Council attending public or “chain gang” with a plaque to note all of the past events, as they are called. chairs of East Northamptonshire 36 Market Place ▪ Oundle ▪ 01832 275414 The chairperson also nominated Council. a charity for voluntary donations 4 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 54 - Spring Diocesan pushes closed to public access. Right to regenerate Planning rules expose The locked gates to the Chapel ahead with land sale lawns prompted objections on com- targets unused land conservation areas to munity Facebook pages. “It's hard Matthew Atkin enough to exercise in the town in a Archie Atkinson development Despite objections from Titch- responsible and socially distanced A new government initiative Noa Anderson marsh parish residents, the Peter- manner. It seems to me to be very could force councils to sell vacant The government has introduced borough Diocesan Board of Finance petty to shut this off, given that plots of land and derelict buildings new planning rules that will allow voted in December to proceed with the route has been open since the for redevelopment under plans an- commercial high-street properties the sale of 114 acres of glebe farm- pandemic closed the school,” a res- nounced in January by the Housing to be converted into housing with- land. ident posted. Another user claimed Secretary, MP. The out full planning applications from In an emergency meeting last that the school was slowly stop- ‘Right to Regenerate’ would be August 1. Although it has been July, the St Mary’s Parochial ping access to paths that they have built from an existing law where possible to convert retail properties Church Council in Titchmarsh used for over fifty years. “When an members of the public can try to in the past, any conversion into res- unanimously voted to formally ob- institution takes over virtually all buy unused land off councils. idential use required full planning ject to the diocese’s proposed sale the open space in the town, it has This existing law, created by permission. The new homes will with a 10-year development option a responsibility to the community Michael Heseltine in 1980, gave the now be able to proceed through a for light industry. However, they in which it has the privilege to be public the power to request a sale simpler “prior approval” process. were unable to alter the fate of the located,” he said. of underused land owned by public The government has said this ac- glebe land due to a change in eccle- Some residents who joined the bodies in England – this was then tion has been taken to “help cement siastical law, implemented in 2018. thread expressed frustration about extended through the Community our high streets and town centres in Stephen Barber, lay chair of the the complaints. “I am fed up with Right to Reclaim Land in 2011. De- the rightful place at the heart of our PCC, remarked on the profound people moaning about what they spite the useful nature of this law, communities”. impact that the sale could poten- haven’t got. Oundle isn’t over- it has not yet been used much by The laws follow the increase in tially have on the lives of the local crowded. It’s not impossible to the public. Since the 2014 creation high-street vacancies. Due to the community. “We will be very ro- walk around to exercise.” of the Right to Contest, only 192 Covid-19 pandemic, many busi- bust in our response to the Diocese, Another person agreed, “I chose requests have been made under this nesses have closed or switched but we also need to mobilise wider to live here and bring my family up power and only one has been grant- to online retailing only, such as village support against this mas- here - as did those people who con- ed, having usually been refused Topshop and Debenhams. More sively inappropriate proposal.” stantly moan about the School. The because the owner had future plans than 17,500 chain stores closed in The Clerk to Titchmarsh Parish School was here long before any of for the land. 2020 alone. The rules state that after Council updated the Oundle Town us. It’s our choice to live here.” Both main parties are in favour a building has been vacant for three Council in an email, expressing The Director of Communications of the policy, and it may well soon months, it can be converted. their frustration. “The letter an- at , Rachel Makhzan- begin to have an impact in North- According to Communities nouncing the decision makes no gi, explained that the School amptonshire. Secretary Robert Jenrick, the rules reference to any of the arguments grounds are generally closed to The government said: “We want “will help support the creation of put forward by the PCC, gives no the public because they are private to empower people to challenge the much-needed homes while also information about how the review property, although some areas inefficient use of public sector land giving high streets a new lease of was conducted or how such a such as the paths across the Chapel in their communities, and to bring life”. review might be applied in future. lawns are open to the public. “As it into better economic use, includ- The public, however, are split It just reiterates that the money is with all organisations, we have ing to provide new homes.” on this issue. Some argue that indeed to fund clergy in deprived a duty of care to anyone on our The latest figures show there well-maintained residences are areas. It would appear that nothing grounds and therefore it is im- were over 25,000 vacant council more beneficial to their communi- was going to shift them from the portant that anyone accessing our owned homes and according to ties than dilapidated shopfronts, fait accompli presented to us in grounds and facilities, especially recent FOI data, over 100,000 empty while others claim that allowing July.” sporting ones, does so through the council-owned garages last year. homeowners to snatch up these The diocesan board has appoint- right channel so that insurance and Underused public land could be properties will discourage small ed IM Properties to take the scheme liability, etc, are all in place.” sold to individuals or communities businesses and lead to the end of through the planning process. The During the lockdowns, however, by default, unless there is a compel- the high street as we know it. Titchmarsh council said it is pre- the School closed areas that had ling reason the owner should hold The Royal Institute of British pared to robustly counter any plan- been open to the public. “At the onto it. Architects said that the new legisla- ning application that is brought moment, the whole of our estate is This bill is not very popular tion would cause “further damage forward. closed due to COVID-19 and this among some people who would to suffering high streets by turning includes the sports facilities,” she prefer greater powers to purchase essential community amenities into, said. private property that has been left all too often, substandard homes”. Covid restrictions New routes had been created derelict. Most underused sites are Residential properties do not pro- for pupils to walk around School not owned by councils. It is ar- vide footfall, revenue or employ- impact public access safely, and movement by pupils gued that the government should ment for communities, and they around town was prohibited. The give councils more power to force remove locations for community Meagan Iu school also had to ensure pro- owners to look after their sites, or assets or new businesses. The issue of land ownership tection for the staff who were on to take empty buildings and ne- Within Oundle, long vacant and public access became a flash- the site maintaining grounds and glected sites into public ownership properties such as the former Nat- point earlier this year when Oundle gardens. The open space on South that could create some new homes, West bank could be converted to School closed access to previously Road also came under dispute at businesses and community assets. residential use. open green spaces. Most of the ex- the start of the year when signs For instance, the Riverside The new right will not apply isting open green spaces in Oundle appeared prohibiting access. Mrs Hotel, owned by Charles Lane has to listed buildings. But other are under private ownership of Makhzangi explained that the field been derelict for over 30 years. buildings within the conservation Oundle School or other schools, is leased to the town football club Since 1986 it has provided nothing area will be exempt from heritage including Prince William School and needed time to recover after but an eyesore for the residents of considerations. and Oundle Primary School, which the local floods. Dog fouling was Oundle, and many people in the Ingrid Samuel, heritage direc- do not allow the public to use their also becoming an issue, as well as area are keen for this to be changed. tor at the National Trust said that playing fields for recreation or dog complaints from neighbours about There has been a long history of councils will be practically pow- walking. disorderly groups of young people. planning applications for the site, erless. “We’re particularly disap- In January, people were disap- All these rules are under con- but none of the approved plans pointed that these changes will also pointed to find that open spaces on stant review in hope that as the have been carried forward. This is apply in conservation areas, where Road and South Road lockdown eases, the town will the sort of property that people feel extra care should be taken to safe- owned by Oundle School had been resume its normal lively routines. should be prioritised by councils. guard local history and beauty.” ISSUE 54 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 5 Historic England audits links to transatlantic slave economy

Jennifer Yang have links to slavery. descent, remembers ‘Myrtilla’ in he was held in high regard by the Earlier this year, English Herit- Astrop House in Kings Sutton the churchyard at St Lawrence in Bond family. It is possible that age published an audit of Britain’s was built in 1740 by Sir John Willes, Oxhill, Warwickshire. The head- Bacchus’ owner, Richard Bond, had built environment that had links who jointly held a plantation in stone was inscribed in 1705 with West Indian interests. Bond’s late to the transatlantic slave trade that Antigua for several years. “negro slave to Mr Thos Beau- wife Dorcas, whose first husband they had begun in early 2020. Their Ecton Hall, east of , champ of Nevis”. It is thought had held Jamaican properties, had 157-page report identified hun- has similar connections. Thought to that Mytilla was brought from made him the largest landowner in dreds of properties, including great have sixteenth century connections, Nevis by the sugar planter Thomas after her death in 1757. houses, schools, farms, and it was renovated significantly in Beauchamp to serve his wife Per- Following her death, Bond moved gravestones. 1756 for Ambrose Isted, probably litta Meese, daughter of the Oxhill to , bringing his two England played a pivotal role by Sanderson Miller. The Isted fam- rector. daughters - Sarah and Rebecca - in the early centuries of the highly ily owned a sugar and rum planta- In Northamptonshire, Charles with him; they are thought to have lucrative commerce of transatlantic tion in Jamaica from 1694 to 1766. Bacchus, a servant to Richard Bond, formed part of the family of which slavery. The Slave Voyages da- In nearby Lincolnshire, Burghley is remembered by a memorial erect- Baccus was ‘beloved and lamented’. tabases allow searches on nearly House in Stamford was built and is ed in 1762 in the Church of St Mary Apart from houses which 36,000 slave voyages that occurred still owned by the Cecil family. In in Culworth. The boy was 16 when benefited from the slave trade, between 1514 and 1866, including 1724, Cecil Brownlow, the 8th Earl he died. Part of the inscription on on the other side of the scale, those sailing from English ports. of Exeter, married Hannah Sophia, his headstone reads: “In Memory abolitionists have left their mark. Encouraged by the British gov- daughter and co-heir of Thomas of / CHARLES BACCHUS / (an Af- Part of Kettering’s coat of arms ernment, trading companies flour- Chambers, a merchant rican) / who died March 31. 1762. / features a Black man with a ished, and were supported by huge who had grown rich in the West He was beloved and Lamented / by broken chain dangling from his sums of investment from merchants Indies. When their son, the 9th Earl, the Family he Serv'd / was Grateful, wrist, symbolising the work of and aristocrats who accumulated inherited Burghley House in 1754, and Humane / and gave hopes of the Reverend William Knibb, who great wealth from slave labour. The he employed Capability Brown to Proving / a faithful Servant / and a campaigned against slavery in enormous amount of wealth gener- modernise the garden, surround- Good Man. / Aged 16' // Here titles Jamaica. A plaque to Knibb was ated was spent in buying landed es- ing parkland and aspects of the cease! Ambitions oer! / And Slave erected by the Kettering Civic tates in Britain, “including physical House, including the construction of Monarch, is no more. / The Good Society. legacies in the built environment”. of stables, an orangery and a Gothic alone will find in Heav'n, / Rewards Historic England said: “The The English Heritage report lists garden summerhouse. assigned, and Honour giv'n’. history of transatlantic slavery known linkages between a house or The audit also documents lega- Charles Bacchus was probably is indivisible from the history of building and an individual or busi- cies in the built environment that born in Jamaica, where two of his England. The work surveyed here ness with slavery associations. commemorate the presence of men, owner’s brothers held plantations. reinforces the idea that buildings Although large cities like Bristol women and children brought to At the age of eight he was brought and landscapes, and the stories and Liverpool received the bulk England as slaves. to England as a servant, likely to they hold, are sites of memory, of the investments from the slave The earliest tomb currently have been favoured by his own- identity, shared heritage, education trade, the report identified country known to have been erected to ers, for the sentimental inscription and local connection.” houses in Northamptonshire that commemorate a person of African on his stone memorial shows that

SOLD SOLD SOLD

Buying | Selling | Renting | Developing

Talk to the local experts Offices in Oundle and London woodfordandco.com 6 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 54 - Spring vegetable and flower seeds with started with National Lottery Oundle scrubs up well with initiatives by each other. Community Funding, with The team is also supporting a additional funding from the Transition's Tidy-up Team gardening club at Oundle Library. Oundle Town Council and Oundle “The Blooming Oundle project Business Association. Blooming Oundle is a new to add interest to displays. Their has really ignited a spark in people Donations from a number of volunteer project initiated by use of former beer barrels is not who want to clean up and green up local companies, include Buttercups Transition Oundle and Oundle only practical, but makes reference our beautiful market town,” said Florists, The Cycle Technician, The Business Association to encourage to the brewing industry that once Paul Eveleigh, Chair of the Oundle Splined Hub, Nene Valley Tree people to take responsibility flourished in town. Business Association. Services, Nene Valley Brewery, for improving the public spaces On Road, Talia The group welcomes any volun- The Barn Garden Centre and Coles around Oundle. The last few Borley has built a community seed teers who want to get involved. Builders Merchants. months have seen neglected swap where gardeners can share Blooming Oundle was kick- areas and town centre spaces transformed by the group’s extra care and attention. Since its launch in January, more than fifty volunteers have been hard at work planning their pro- gramme, and cleaning, redesigning, planting and tidying areas across town. Their mission is to improve the local environment and protect the town’s green spaces. The Town Tidy-up Team, led by Myra Hales, addressed Northants Highway’s neglect of seven bus shelters with buckets and sponges, cleaning off bird poo, moss, green algae, cobwebs and graffiti. They also cleaned street furniture and scrubbed off accumulated grime on the five welcome signs at the road junctions into town. Another team of experienced gardeners led by Lydia Jones, Ali Winbolt and Ali Lloyd have planted up containers around town with drought tolerant herbs and free flowering plants. They planned a colour scheme of pink, mauve and white, and have made creative Julie Wade Wallace researched permaculture irrigation techniques to design a water-saving system that she use of different planting containers installed at the base of the town's new flower planters, which will use 70-90% less water. Residents resume fight to keep Fletton Field green The ongoing fight to keep for development, one for 13 the new North Northants Council, events and learning. Fletton Field as a green space at the houses and one for 33 extra care the body which now owns the land. “The COVID pandemic has centre of Oundle has been renewed apartments; both were refused by Organisers argue that most of reminded us of the value of green by a group that includes Oundle East Northants Council. the green space within the parish space - for exercise and fresh air, Town Council, Oundle Transition, In 2016, the field was designated boundaries is privately owned. for health and well-being, and Oundle School and local residents. by the ENC as an Asset of Commu- Oundle has less green space per once it has disappeared, getting They plan to restate the case to the nity Value for its role in furthering person than other comparable it back is nearly impossible. We new unitary authority that the field the social wellbeing of the local towns in Northamptonshire: one have a created a vision for the field, should be saved from development community. Later that year, Ound- tenth that of and one fifth based on public survey, and we as a multi-purpose, public green le Town Council, supported by the that of . Losing want to see it become a reality,” space for people to enjoy and then Oundle Recreation and Green Fletton Field to development would said Camilla Sherwin, leader of the benefit from. Spaces Group submitted a further reduce Oundle's public access campaign. The 1.7 acre site is located off application for the land to be rec- green space by forty-two percent. Fletton Field is part of land that Glapthorn Road with Abbott House ognised as an official village green. Tony Hoyle said: “The ideal was sold to the Guardians of the to the north and Oundle School The application included 87 witness solution would see title to the field Poor of the Oundle Union by the Chapel to the south. The field was statements demonstrating use of transferred to Oundle Town Coun- trustees of John William Smith in used by Oundle Primary School the land by the general community cil and a charitable trust or Com- 1899 and was originally used as until the school was relocated in over a sustained period of time. Af- munity Interest Company estab- allotments for the workhouse. 2016 and has been used by local ter a lengthy and expensive appli- lished to use and manage the space, The Local Government Act in residents and pupils at Oundle cation process and public inquiry, taking inspiration from organisa- 1929 transferred the Poor Laws to School for recreational activities for NCC, as the Common Registration tions such as The Green Patch in local authorities and the ownership many years. Authority rejected the application: Kettering or The Brick passed to NCC. The Indenture for The site has not been identified “The applicant failed to prove that Yard Garden. sale of the land includes a covenant for use in any Local Plans to meet a significant number of inhabit- “North Northamptonshire that prohibits building on a sub- the town’s commitments for new ants of Oundle Town participated Council replaced NCC and ENC stantial part of the existing field. housing, and the Town Council in lawful sports and pastimes on from 1 April 2021, so now is the In 1973, it was designated as the and Oundle School are opposed “Fletton Field” for a period of at time to reassert the town’s claim.” playing field for the primary school to development on the site. In least 20 years.” In response to surveys, Oundle on Milton Road. When the school 2016 and 2019, Northamptonshire The field’s status as an asset of residents have indicated sugges- relocated to Cotterstock Road the County Council submitted two Community Value expired in Janu- tions for use, including a commu- ownership of the land reverted to outline planning applications ary, and has to be reapplied for to nity garden and venue for outdoor NCC. ISSUE 54 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 7 Eligibility for free school meals Grade assessments aim to avert problems increased during pandemic Cherry Yang Northamptonshire Conservative that beset last year's results disaster The school closures during the MP was appointed Paxton Leung demonstrated achievement. pandemic revealed how vulnerable to verify the count as a teller for the When school exams were can- Each teacher will submit several those children are who rely on free vote, so his vote did not officially celled last year due to coronavirus grades the student has achieved meals at school to help alleviate count. lockdown, within the space of less throughout their GCSE course, food poverty at home. For the October half term break than one term, exam boards had to either from practice examinations At the start of the lockdown last year, Northamptonshire come up with an alternative system or coursework, which will then in January, a mother posted a County Council announced that for awarding qualifications that be examined by a teacher, who picture on social media of the free they would fund £15 vouchers would determine university and produces the final assessed grade school meal parcel that she had per child, at a cost of £255,015, job applications. Instead of using for the student based on that received. The supposed £30 worth using the money received from exam results, they asked teachers ‘basket’ or ‘portfolio’ of work. More of pictured food meant to last 10 central government to the council to refer to previous performance in recent work will be given a bigger days looked to be worth only £5.22. for Covid-19-related costs, which the classroom, internal exams, and weighting on the final grade of the Her post prompted mass outrage included support for children. coursework, and provide a grade student, and timed examinations and an abrupt change in how the Parents applied for the vouchers based on what the school thought that are done in test conditions will government would assist families online and received them by email. a pupil would have achieved on also be given a bigger weighting. whose children would qualify for In November, the government exams. The Centre Assessed Grades The maximum mark of the free school meals. announced a Covid Winter Grant were submitted by the schools. The student can only be as high as In addition to the option of Scheme that provided funding to exam boards then calculated the the student’s maximum mark in a food parcel, the government support free school meals during grade boundaries and the actual the basket of evidence, and the launched the national voucher the Christmas and half term holi- grade for each pupil. opposite is true as well. The past scheme, enabling families to order days. The system was criticized for the performance of the school will not online £15 worth of supermarket During the period from January confusion caused by determining be factored in when the decision is vouchers per child. until March this year when pupils marks last year, with important made. In Northamptonshire, there are stayed at home, schools were able dates left unconfirmed until the The Head of Oundle School, 17,001 children who qualify for free to claim additional funding for last moment. The grading systems Sarah Kerr-Dineen said the teacher school meals. The Northampton- either food parcels or vouchers were altered to compensate for assessed grades will be “a holistic shire County Council announced for families entitled to free school the absence of exams, and finally judgement of demonstrated that they would distribute vouchers meals. an algorithm was applied by the achievement”. after the food hampers were widely exam boards that used the school’s To moderate results, exam panned as inadequate. previous performance to weigh the boards will randomly request All children in Reception, year marks of individual pupils. Many schools to submit students’ baskets 1 and year 2 are entitled to free pupils were awarded far lower of evidence to ensure the school is school meals under the Univer- grades than they had been pre- adhering to the guidelines. sal Infant School Meals Scheme. dicted by their schools. The outcry Learning from last year’s mis- If a family is eligible for benefits, forced the government to reverse takes, this year’s examination which depends on income-related the marks adjusted by the algo- system is drastically different to allowances, as well as pension, rithm. the catastrophic algorithm-based tax, and universal credit they can This year’s examinations have system of last year, with a heavier apply for their school to receive a once again been cancelled in 2021, emphasis on producing a grade on pupil premium, which is additional but the assessments have become demonstrated performance instead school funding paid directly to the the responsibility of teachers, of expected performance. This school to help improve the quality EMAT distributed food parcels to its and pupils will be awarded should hopefully make for a less of education. pupils during the shutdowns Teacher Assessed Grades. The controversial and more satisfactory Parents can apply for free school main difference between last year result. meals for older children in full-time In February, the and this year is that instead of This year, final A level grades education up to the age of 18 if they Academy Trust, which runs the making an assessment based on will be released by exam boards on are in receipt of certain benefits. Prince William school, was award- predicting what pupils might have 10 August and GCSE pupils will If a child is eligible for free school ed the prestigious Rose of North- achieved in exams, teachers this receive theirs two days later on 12 meals, the school will automatically amptonshire Award that celebrates year are making assessments on August. receive a pupil premium payment. unsung heroes during the pan- Both Oundle Primary School and demic. The award recognized the Prince William School have been trust’s work to support families in Census charts changes across the decades actively involved. need during the first coronavirus In response to a Freedom of lockdown in 2020. The national Cherry Yang including schools, health services, Information request, the NCC said school closures last spring and the The national census for Eng- roads and libraries, and decide on OPS had 22 pupils eligible for free delay in the introduction of the land and Wales took place on 21 how to allocate funds. school meals in Years 3-6 in January food voucher scheme meant fami- March, 2021. Filling in the forms In the 2011 census, the resident 2020. This increased to 29 pupils in lies that had originally been relying was compulsory and those who population in Oundle was 5735, up January 2021. on free school meals were facing did not complete it on the day were from 5347 in 2001. By projection, At Prince William School, there severe difficulties. EMAT managed sent warnings about fines of up to the population has expanded by were 70 eligible pupils in January to provide a total of 35,000 meals to £1,000. 18% in 2011-21, and will continue 2020, which increased to 101 pupils be collected or delivered to families The Office for National Statistics by 14% from 2021-31. in January 2021. from its seven schools. has been responsible for adminis- The number of houses in 2011 The increases at both schools are Lord-Lieutenant of Northamp- tering the census every ten years in Oundle was 2127. It is projected an indicator of how the pandemic tonshire James Saunders Watson, to build a detailed snapshot of our that the total housing in 2021 has has left more families financially who led the virtual award pres- society. Information such as work, increased to 2543. vulnerable. entation, commented: “The 35,000 health, ethnic background, educa- The ONS is planning on - In a controversial vote in Octo- meals EMAT provided is a fantastic tion, and marital status collected lishing the initial findings from the ber, 322 Conservative MPs voted amount and will have kept those from the census will be used by the Census in March 2022. However, down a Labour motion to extend families going at a time when they government as well as local author- the full results covering all Census free school meals over the school would have felt most vulnerable, so ities to design policies for develop- data will be revealed a year later, in holidays until Easter 2021. East many, many congratulations.” ment, plan and run public services March 2023. 8 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 54 - Spring Queen honours local volunteer with British Empire Medal Priyanka Menon developed ministries for older Thursday morning. very popular. Everyone hopes it In this year’s New Year’s Hon- people in Oundle and local villages “I began to realise that many will return.” ours, Sarah Lee was awarded a through St Peter’s Church. lived on their own and would enjoy Additionally, Mrs Lee started BEM (British Empire Medal) from She created the Senior Adults meeting more often, so in 2011 short courses throughout the year the Queen for services which she Growing and Exploring ministries with the help of some friends from to discuss topics, explore Advent gave over several years to sen- (SAGE) which were used to the church we started the Tuesday and Lent and to generally look ior citizens and young people of deepen connections between older Club,” Mrs Lee said. The club grew more deeply at faith. Oundle. The nomination came as community members and the from a handful of people to around “The SAGE ministries has been a surprise to Mrs Lee, who did not church. 30, with a team of volunteers who left in good hands, with different helped bake cakes and make the people running the different areas tea, and drove people to and from that started up whilst I was there.” the club. For the last two years Mrs Mrs Lee initiated the Monday Lee and her husband have been Munch Club in a partnership with training for ordination at Trinity Oundle Primary School and vol- College, Bristol. After the work unteers from the church and town. Mrs Lee did with younger and The school provided the hall space, older people, she felt as though she whilst the kitchen team from King- wanted to continue full-time. swood Catering cooked lunch for “I think I had been called to min- up to 100 guests at a time. The club istry for some time, but only faced focused on bringing senior mem- up to the reality of this when my bers of the community and children youngest child was in her last few together, with the school children years at school. I finally gained the performing songs and playing confidence I needed to step out in instruments. faith, through the encouragement “It was great in bringing an in- of Rev Stephen Webster and Rev tergenerational community togeth- Jema Ball at St Peter's Church,” she er in a warm and friendly way. We said. all hope it can start up again when After their ordination at Sarah Lee has been appointed to Ministry in north Covid restrictions allow.” Peterborough Cathedral, the Lees Northampton to be a full time curate for three years The big summer holiday event, will go to Kingsthorpe Team Holiday at Home ran annually Ministry in north Northampton to know that her name had been put Mrs Lee’s motivation to begin from 2014 to 2019. It included a be full time curates for three years. forward for the award. working with senior members of morning of workshops, lunch and “It's exciting to be starting The British Empire Medal the community began when she afternoon concerts followed by tea afresh in a new church setting is awarded for sustained and first moved to Oundle, joining and cakes. and helping them develop their creditable charitable or voluntary older people for the market day “This one-day themed holiday ministry to the community in this activity. Over eight years, Mrs Lee Holy Communion and coffee every extravaganza for older people was new location for us.” How to nominate someone for a national British honour Priyanka Menon careful process of scrutiny by Sarah Lee’s award for her ser- specialist non-political committees vice to the community of Oundle and a validation process, where started with a nomination. British not all nominations are accepted. A Empire Medal nominations, much national honour has a rarity value It’s the little like many other honours within the and when an honour is awarded, national honours system, are made it makes a difference not just to the details that by members of the public, who individual, but to the community allow them nominate candidates they believe that has benefitted. have made sustained and creditable The nominations themselves are to think voluntary contributions to a local a chance to thank those who have area. The starting point for nomina- made significant contributions to tions is the form and guidance on the life of a community. Without the Cabinet Office webpage for UK these, the accomplishments of an National Honours. individual or group can go unrec- An inspiring independent Nominations go through a ognised. At a national level, the co-educational day school awarding system has an important role to recognise and thank those for children aged 4-11 who have made such contributions to society. Limited places are available in Dominic Hopkins, Under Sheriff Reception, Year 1, Year 2 and Year 4 of Northamptonshire, encourag- for entry in September 2021. es people to submit nominations for honours. He said: “If you feel To find out more please contact that someone you know has gone Admissions. beyond the ordinary and been extraordinary, perhaps now is the 01832 277159 time to consider making a nomi- [email protected] nation for an individual National www.laxtonjunior.org.uk Honour.”

Oundle Chronicle 128x150mm.indd 1 12/05/2021 09:28:09 ISSUE 54 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 9 French patisserie. Lily said: “In said: “We have all sorts of ideas for , patisserie business is huge; the future about how we are going Bakery brings classic French pastries you have patisseries and boulan- to take it to the next step.” Their geries everywhere and the French aspiration is to open a shop. “We Meagan Iu Originally from Australia, absolutely love their sweets. It’s want to get our house back, don’t In February, Oundle’s Facebook Matthew has worked in hospitality very traditional; every Sunday they we? It’s just turned into a patisse- community pages were introduced and catering from all sides of the go to a patisserie and they buy rie kitchen, which is good, but it to The Delicious Factory, an online business. In the kitchen he prefers cakes.” would be nice to have our house patisserie business run by Matthew to do the breads and savouries. Lily says that the best-selling back,” said Matthew. and Lily Fullerton from their home “Lily’s the supremo in the patisse- item has been her lemon meringue Lily added, “I think it’s still im- in Lower , which has re- rie section; she does all the sweets ceived huge success since its launch and that’s hands down what the on Valentine’s Day this year. business is all about” said Matthew. They had often talked about “I’ve never gone to baking doing cake stalls at local markets. school, but I used to cook a lot with “We were originally going to buy a my grandmother and that’s just horsebox and convert it into a mo- how it started,” said Lily, who is bile patisserie stop,” said Matthew. from France, and has a background But when the pandemic restricted in events. access to markets, they created “I think everyone knows more a different business model, with or less how to bake in France; it’s online orders and delivery. They just a way of life. I used to bake at product tested, gathered photos, home every Saturday or Sunday.” created a menu and launched their The Fullertons started off baking Facebook page in the middle of professionally doing afternoon teas February. at the Cutty Sark in London. Mat- Matthew said: “We got orders in thew said: “We pitched to the book- tart, and has been surprised by how portant to have a business working the first three hours and about 6,000 ing’s coordinator, you got all these popular the clafoutis has been, a on social media.” Matthew agreed, views, and that was the start. It’s tour groups of people coming in, simple and traditional dish. “That’s “The online model has worked re- been hectic ever since.” why don’t we serve them afternoon something I quite enjoy doing be- ally well, and I think we’ll probably “The response has been amaz- tea? So we started doing afternoon cause it’s very traditional from the look at opening a shop but continue ing to be honest, we didn’t expect teas and they were a smash hit, southwest of France. It’s one of the the delivery aspect of the business to have so much business so fast,” weren’t they?” recipes I used to do with my grand- because it’s been very successful.” said Lily. “We found that social He said to Lily, “It was all your mother. It is the particular recipe Matthew said: “The response media is very powerful; as soon as macarons. We did some really great that she used to do at home, so I from the local community has been we post something, people start stuff, and it was very successful. grew up eating this clafoutis and amazing, and we’ve had so much ordering straightaway.” It was a great crew there as well, just loving it.” interest, so much positive feed- They do free delivery in the local probably one of my favourite “Macarons are always a winner. back.” area. Most deliveries are within a places I ever worked” Everyone raves about the macarons To place orders, go to their five mile radius, but can range up The Delicious Factory’s unique that we do,” said Matthew. Facebook page at The Delicious to about ten miles. selling point is as an authentic As for future plans, Matthew Factory.

Membership Coming soon

Our memberships ensure you can get the most value out of every visit to Oundle School Sports Centre.

Packages available with prices starting from £30.00

• Full Membership • Fitness Membership, including classes • Swimming Membership

Follow us on Facebook to keep updated on further discounts and promotions.

For more information, including our Covid-19 policy and to register your interest, please visit our website.

Call 01832 277208 Visit www.oundlesportscentre.co.uk

Ounlde Chronicle June 2021.indd 1 12/05/2021 09:58:49 10 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 54 - Spring bers every detail. “In the final scene in Carmen, we made the stage like a bull- 41 years as a At 50th anniversary, Chris Lowe looks back ring and put 150 children in the chorus on the stage. And what happened was on 30 years as Head of Prince William School that every night they started to cry, teacher at PWS they were so taken up with what was Matthew Atkin again. After a week, enough of the happening artistically in front of them. Graham Snelling has seen more When Chris Lowe retired in 1999 school was finished, but it wasn’t truly It was to make them understand what children pass through Prince after 29 years as principal of Prince finished for the whole of the year.” the feelings are when you get absorbed William School than any other William School, a profile in the Times The school was named in memory into any sort of art, whether it’s pop or member of staff in its 50 year Educational Supplement said he was of Prince William, the eldest son of the classical. If you really get absorbed, it history. He joined the school in the longest serving secondary head from Barnwell. He does something physically, as well as 1975 at the age of 21, and retired in of a single school in the country, and had opened the school but was killed mentally, to you.” 2016 after 41 years at the chalkface. “might also be the most famous head just eight weeks later in the King’s Air One important characteristic about Or whiteboard, as it became after the town of Oundle is the presence of in the world”. Race. “His mother, Princess Alice, and decades of change. During his career, Mr Lowe sat on the Queen let us know that they would a large, well-financed private school. He was hired to teach PE, but the board of the Royal Opera House, like the school to be the memorial to Whilst this could have created ten- was president of the UK Secondary him. We had a letter from Buckingham sions, true to his pragmatic nature, over the years he worked in the Heads Association, and visited 43 Palace saying the Queen commands Chris Lowe said: “Independent schools design department, headed the countries as one of the founders of the that its name be changed to Prince exist, and because they exist, you have careers department, developed International Confederation of Prin- William School.” to work on those terms. In strict terms partnerships, led overseas music, cipals. He was awarded a doctorate, a Of course, the creation of a compre- of education, youngsters have a right sports and cultural exchange tours fellowship, a professorship in Austral- hensive school attracted many antag- to be educated wherever they go to (including trips to Finland, Ukraine ia, and a CBE by the Queen. onists and presented challenges to the school. It wasn't for me to be interfer- and the Czech Republic), and fin- So how did Chris Lowe find himself development of the school. “There ing. And we got a lot of benefit from ished as the assistant headteacher. having such a school in the town.” at the helm of a brand-new school in were those who said we would never “Prince William School was a 1971 at the age of 33? I spent an hour get physics teachers to teach in a com- In the 1980s Channel 4 came to school of opportunities, not just with him via a Teams call to discuss his prehensive school. We'd never get an- Oundle to do a half hour programme remarkable career as an educator. ybody to university, but we did. They about a town that had both a state for pupils, but for staff. There was He was born over a grocer's shop in then said, well, you're never getting school and an . so much vitality. A great place to Newcastle under Lyme, grew up in a anyone to Oxbridge, but we did. The They interviewed pupils from both work,” he said. terraced house on the outskirts of Stoke only way to meet the doubters is to say, schools to probe different attitudes When he started, the roll was on Trent, attending Wolstanton County okay, well, you may be right. But let's about each other. “A lot of it turned just 200 pupils. It grew to 1300, . The lofty heights of see. And I can't think of any of those out to be about respect. Respect for even before the 11 year olds were Cambridge were never part of his fam- whose doubts were ever confirmed. difference.” introduced in 2015. “For the first ily’s plans. “I had never really heard of We just met them by saying, give us a Chris Lowe has remained in close 20 to 25 years, the school was in a contact with many former pupils and is Cambridge. All my connections with chance. And that's what they did.” growth mode. Any initiatives that public schools and universities were Another challenge he faced was the proud of what they have achieved. He came along, we tried to get hold of. through schoolboy books,” he said. ever-changing educational acts that not only helped build Prince William As with many promising pupils, were pumped out almost annually School up from “only six bricks high”, The headteacher, Chris Lowe, was it was a teacher who raised his aspi- from 1986-2000. In total there were 12 but he has watched thousands of a visionary, and let you try things rations. “And then I had a wonderful different acts going backwards and children grow up and go out into the out.” teacher of English. I didn't even know I forwards between both Labour and To- wide world of opportunities. Looking back on his career could write. And he was a teacher who ries. “I was in the middle of it because working with teenagers, he seems Chris Lowe brought it out of me in the sixth form. I hadTelling originally Tales Out of School been a lawyer. And most proud of the work he did Chronicling the tales he had collected throughout his He said, you are going for an interview so, careerI was in education the startedhonorary as a lockdown legal pastime for secretary Chris Lowe. The end result is Telling Tales Out of School: with pupils outside the curriculum at Cambridge.” And sure enough, after of whatfifty tales wasto mark thethen fiftieth calledanniversary ofthe Prince Second William - School, Oundle. The Tales are all based on true events doing activity based learning. For accumulating the sufficient funds, he ary orHeads stories told to Association. Chris by fellow teachers: stories,It's now called about growing up, about learning, teaching and many years he took pupils on week was on a train to Cambridge for three ASCL.”coping together. Mr Lowe found this especially Christopher J Lowe All proceeds from sales of the book will be donated Telling Tales long camps to give them the chance days of entrance exams and interviews. challengingto the James Rutterford as Trust,those which ischarged targeted at with families who need financial support to enable out of to do something different. “There After Cambridge he studied for makingtheir children decisions at PWS to take part were in school not particularly activities, school trips, to provide equipment a law degree, thinking it would be a knowledgeableto aid their study or to support about out-of-hours education. “It School were the odd few who were diffi- school activities. good career for making money. He was painful, really. Because they had cult. Why are they challenging? Be- taught in a school during the day to been to a school, they all thought they Chris Lowe cause they think they are going to support himself and his new wife and knew what a school should be like.” fail. The aim was to give them the found it thoroughly enjoyable. “The He always had an international out-

Telling Tales out of School Telling Tales out of experiences that they could succeed last thing I wanted to be was a teacher, look, stemming from sharing his bed- at. Kids learn just as much out of until I discovered it was really rather room with a German exchange student the classroom as in it.” fun.” in the 1950s when no one else in the He said the most difficult time He taught for several years, when town would host him. The banner in for many pupils was in year 11 he saw the advertisement for a head the PWS entrance hall “A school for Eu- teacher at a new comprehensive school, rope” was introduced by Chris Lowe. when they have to make the deci- known then as Oundle Upper School. He said: “The only way humanity can sion about what pathways to follow

“It was a very attractive proposition to grow is by working together.” Over the Telling Tales out of School after their GCSEs; whether to go just build a school up gradually. I said years he introduced links with twelve into work, go to college to train, I’d stay for something like seven years schools, in America, Eastern Europe, Look back over his years in schools, or stay on for A levels. One pro- to see it all through, and I ended up Australia, Gambia, India, all of which Chris Lowe wrote 50 tales for Telling gramme he developed gave pupils staying for 28.” they visited. Tales out of School. He said: "Thanks to opportunities to gain different The first year was far from easy, Professionally, he found his skills in all the staff, pupils and parents, who experiences working in the commu- there was barely a school to be the demand internationally, as well. After make up 'a school'. If you were not so nity, from primary schools to entre- head of. “We opened on September the breakup of the Soviet Union, Mr deliciously funny there would be no preneurial initiatives. “For instance, 6th, 1971. Unfortunately, the school Lowe travelled across Eastern Europe book." Proceeds from the book will wasn’t built, most of it was only about and started heads associations in coun- we formed a little business making benefit The James Rutterford Trust, picnic benches for a few years and six bricks high. There are photographs tries from Bulgaria to Ukraine. “And which enables support for PWS pupils suddenly they could see the impor- of the Sunday night before we opened you may ask what was happening back to take part in co-curricular activities, of the caretaker and I standing in the at Prince William School? Well, I had and provides materials for their study. tance of accurate measuring. They rubble. But the Chief Education Officer three very, very good deputies. They The book will be launched and on then saw the relevance of what they insisted, because he’d told the parents pretty well ran it for my last five years. sale at anniversary reunion events were learning in the classroom.” it was going to open, we had to open. I was in and out,” he admitted. on Friday 3rd September, and on Partnerships with other schools I think we could be the only school His time at PWS might best be Saturday 4th September at the Party in were another important way to in history, possibly anywhere in the remembered by pupils for his focus on the Park from 12pm-6pm. So far, over expand pupils’ opportunities. PWS world that opened at 9am and was the arts. One highlight was the school’s 2000 former pupils have reconnected established partnerships with five shut by 9.30am. The pupils arrived, collaboration with the Royal Opera on the Facebook PWS Reunion page, other schools in Northamptonshire the buses were kept there and after a House and a performance of Carmen sharing photos and memories. long assembly they were all sent home on four consecutive nights. He remem- and exchanged specialist subject ISSUE 54 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 11 teaching. “We specialised in engineering, and our pupils went to their schools to do things like What former pupils remember most about their teachers catering, hair and beauty.” He places great value on sports I remember Val Hepple with great adored him and sought his praise as he all completely captivated by the lesson in and out of school. Mr Snelling fondness, she tried so hard to teach me treated us as interesting individuals, that followed. When Tony Blair asked was the driving force for the found- French. Despite my inability to write not just a group of kids he had to the nation to remember that one teach- ing of the Oundle Rugby Club on coherent sentences and grasp any con- endure. At the time, I thought I just er that made a positive impact on us, Occupation Road, where staff and cept of trying to use verbs in different loved archaeology. Sadly, when I went it’s always Harry Stern for me. pupils played. “Coaching is a com- tenses, Miss Hepple was incredibly to university to study it, I realised it Jim Briscoe (1993) pletely different ballgame when patient, always thorough, and tirelessly was the teacher that I loved, not the Commander, Royal Navy encouraging and supportive. I love to subject. A brilliant teacher can bring you are working with youngsters, visit France and whilst I am still trying any topic to life – even one thousands because they want to be there, and to learn to communicate verbally, I am of years old. Mrs Cracknell was hands down the they want to succeed. When teach- always astonished by the amount of Sarah Champion (1988) most inspiring teacher I had the pleas- ing PE, there is always some sport vocabulary I seem to know. I did have Member of Parliament, Rotheram ure of being taught by. She set a fire in or activity that every child can do. a regular spot at Miss Hepple’s lunch me to believe in my creative expression And I includes darts in that!” table when a group of us would have and was fantastic at making a space Despite working with teenagers lunch together before the vocab retest I It was probably Mr Bailey more than to feel safe and comfortable in. There over 41 years of social and techno- invariably had to do. I did enjoy these anyone else who inspired me to was never a feeling of being judged, logical change, Mr Snelling said he lunches. Miss Hepple was incredibly become a modern languages teacher. but always supported. I have taken the could not track any great changes good company; always interesting and He was an expert in his field, and was attributes she taught me into so many often had me laughing. As a teacher strict but fair. Perhaps, above all, he facets of my adult life. I have many in the character of his pupils. “Kids myself, I can only hope that I manage was something of a comedian, having fond memories of my time at PWS, but are kids, they are more or less the to show the same dedication, so al- us rolling around in stitches much of her English lessons were definitely a same 40 years on - even though though she did not succeed in turning the time. He was keen to maximise highlight. they don’t think they are.” me into a linguist, she has been a role his pupils’ potential, stretching us Ross Duffy (2006) While any teenager can be chal- model for me in my career. through challenge and praising us Musician, Fenech-Soler lenging at times, he always found Penny Rowe (1985) sparingly, forever leaving us wanting pupils at PWS to be thoughtful. Biology teacher, Oundle School more. These days, I try (but often fail) “That’s what always impressed me. to follow his lead in every respect. Mr It’s fair to say I wasn’t the best of The majority were very caring, and Adams may have been small in stature students. I always struggled to keep cared for each other.” When it comes to the teachers, I think but had a large red face and bellowing my head focused on the work, far it's easy to remember the characters. voice, which when combined with his more interested in the social aspects He pointed to a very strong There was Mr Whitcombe, affectional- Welsh accent (one that thickened with of school. But while I was endeavour- pastoral system in the school, then ly nicknamed 'Worzel' because of his rage) become all the more threaten- ing to pull away, I had some fantastic overseen by Val Hepple. “She dealt scarecrow like appearance and huge ing – partly because you struggled to teachers dedicated to keeping me on with all the naughty boys, shall we floppy mannerisms (he didn't so much understand him! The prompt for you track. Mrs Hopkins, who took my form say. We’ll call it pastoral care, but arrive in a classroom as crash-land to reply (if you dared) was “…, boyo?!” and English classes, always went above that is what it was at the time. They in it). There was Mr Hyde, who was which he tagged onto the end of his and beyond to help with coursework; used to dread going to see her, but incredibly well suited to being a Com- outbursts. It was his strictness and a consistent rudder towards the right they would never forget her for the puter Studies teacher because he acted exacting standards that inspired us all path. Mr Baxby nurtured my love of support she gave them.” like he was assembled by a shadowy in his A-level Design group to reach for public speaking, a crucial facet of my Over 41 years there were a lot group of boffins in Silicon Valley - the stars. His praise was like gold dust career today. Mr Kelly showed me when he blinked at you, it seemed like and cherished. Mr Howe encouraged tough love when I needed it most, but of changes to adapt to, including he was taking photos with his eyes in me to pursue my love of basketball always with a warm smile. I didn't fin- the educational curriculum handed order to store on a floppy disk. There (and to become captain of the county ish school with the grades I could have down from above, and the school’s was Mr Melhuish the physics teacher, team). His kind manner always made done. Looking back it’s almost as if I management within. He said he who, I’m sorry to say, we used to tor- him easy to talk to, but he also knew was driving for that outcome. Yet, I'm just had to take them in his stride. ture by humming in class and interfer- how to keep us in line. He was a talent- certain I wouldn't have made it to the “There were a lot of changes, ing with his hearing aid. There was Mr ed sportsman and despite basketball finish line at all without the commit- including a time when the school Barnes in his cool motorcycle leathers, being his third/fourth specialism, he ment, creativity and care these special went through an unsettled period. Miss Swift with her dirty laugh, Mr could still show up the young upstarts people showed me. Their efforts wer- Unfortunately, for such a successful Ellard and Mr Bratell with their artistic who thought they knew it all (of which en't wasted; the lessons I learnt from school, we lost parents and pupils. beards…so many characters! Even I was probably one) with his steady each of them contribute to my day-to- though I remember their quirks and layups and reliable jump-shots. day life, both in and out of work. Now it’s back on its feet where it idiosyncrasies I remember those that Sam Northwood (1990) Tom Notley (2008) should be.” became friends the best, such as Miss Headmaster, Nelson Thomlinson Partner Manager, Databarracks Mr Snelling has always lived in and Headmaster Mr Lowe, who Oundle while working at PWS. He both opened up a world of words and said that in his last years he was plays and books and opera and music Harry Stern was an amazing teacher I had many inspiring teachers during teaching the third generation of performance which is both my career, and kept me engaged in every lesson my time at Prince William School, but Oundle families. “One of these little my hobby and my first love. with his perfect balance between dis- a couple that particularly made an kids said to me, 'you know you Nev Fountain (1987) cipline and brilliant humour. I am still impact on me were Miss O’Connor, my taught my grandma'.” Writer, Private Eye able to recall individual lessons that he English Literature teacher, and Miss He still sees a lot of his former taught with energy, intellect and wit. Worboys, my A level Art teacher. Miss A lesson on decimalisation included pupils around town. “Some of them O’Connor’s energy made every class a I have the fondest memories of Mr a dramatic silent entrance into the still call me Mr Snelling, they can’t pleasure, which meant I enjoyed read- Hadman, my Archaeology teacher. classroom by Harry, which in itself got ing and studying the texts in their own call me by my first name.” The eld- To say he was a maverick would be our attention. He looked over his half right, regardless of the looming exams. est former pupil is probably now putting it very lightly. In hindsight, it spectacles in the door entrance, walked One of her tips that I can't get on board 62. To keep busy in retirement, he seems a little odd that we were able slowly to his desk, looked at everyone with, however, is reading the end of a currently works part-time at a local to study archaeology at all – I’m not in the eye before placing his doctor’s book first to make sure it doesn’t have engineering company, where his sure many other schools did. We’d skin bag carefully on the desk and picked a disappointing ending. I’ll take the boss, now 59, is a former pupil. goats (dead ones!), make Mead, and up a piece of chalk. He proceeded to risk! My Art classes with Miss Worboys He said a good school has the go on field trips where we rampaged write 0.00000 all the way across the were the highlight of my time at PWS. children at the heart of the school, up the banks of Iron age fortresses. double blackboard and place “1” at the She gave us the freedom to work as Health and safety was not his strong very end. He turned around, looked led by dynamic staff, and that is we pleased yet provided much-needed point, but inspiring, empowering and at us over his glasses, and then picked what he felt most strongly about motivation (and snacks) as coursework creating a love of learning certainly up a wooden 1m ruler and whacked deadlines approached. Both teachers at PWS. “There have been real was. He would also get us involved in it against the blackboard to break the went beyond their classroom duties good characters. That’s what you extra-curricular activities – principally silence. Speaking quite softly, he said: and it did not go unnoticed! remember about your school days, helping him organise and run the “This children is a very small number. Emily Greenwood (2017) the people.” world conker championships! We all It’s smaller than a fish’s tit.”. We were Graduate, University of London 12 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 54 - Spring ran off with a pirate. It happened,” to its happy ending. Not all sex she said. scenes are well written, particularly Readers' undying love of romance fiction Although Ms Bateman writes as when terrible euphemisms, or close to the truth as possible, she graphic details are used. does allow herself some historic “You don’t want to remember Jennifer Yang time and decided to fall into “a license to suit the escapism. Ms that you are reading about sex,” Romance fiction was already a research rabbit hole”. Bateman said: “In reality all said Ms Bateman. “You can get billion dollar publishing industry While she ensures that her his- the royal dukes were fat, gouty super sexy and super romantic when in the middle of the pan- torical settings are authentic, she and disgusting. I make them all without actually doing open-door demic lockdown, the Netflix series does not get bogged down in his- gorgeous, rich, 28 and hot.” describing.” Bridgerton introduced the romance torical detail. Ms. Bateman reminds Romance book covers featuring With the popular romance TV genre to millions more fans across me that she is writing for a modern these young, hot dukes are the show Bridgerton starring a diverse the world, who turned from screen audience, and the historical fanta- genre's most immediately recog- cast of actors such as Regé-Jean to page in search of escapist stories. sy is there for the enjoy- nizable feature: brightly Page and Golda Rosheuvel, I asked Amazon bestselling author Kate ment. Romance fiction coloured, alluring Ms Bateman whether she feels a Bateman has written nine romance has changed, and images usually de- need to introduce racial diversity books that have readers yearning modern women picting two lov- in her romance novels. She replies, for even more. do not have to ers embracing “These are my experiences as a Before she launched a writing be success- passionately. fairly posh white girl in England career, Ms Bateman was known in ful in the Created in and so I think that’s what I would the UK for her appearances as an marriage Italy, the write best. I think there’s a danger antiques expert on popular shows market to hyper in somebody like myself trying to such as Flog It! She grew up in be hero- realistic write or pretend to pass off other Oundle, where her family had an ines. images voices. I much prefer to read a book antique shop on West Street, and “I don’t used written by a black author, or a Chi- she helped establish her family’s want to to be nese American, because they will auction house in Stamford. She was read physical bring such a rich experience.” living in Oundle before she and about paint- She does see publishing trends her husband moved to the United ninety ings, but that are more receptive to settings States for work seven years ago. percent they are other than Regency England. One During lockdown we spanned of the now com- of her own stories is set in Egypt, the global time zones from Shang- historical- puter- and romance fiction set in Ming hai to Illinois via a Teams meeting ly accurate generated. Dynasty China is gaining popu- to talk about her writing career in women who The larity. “What I’m the most thrilled the romance industry. were owned by covers promise about is the fact that there are more The inspiration that sparked their husbands. romance, opportunities now for different her career was a £1 bet with It’s interesting for and within the time periods and voices,” she says. her husband. She recounts that me to think about what covers, the books Romance fiction is one of the after reading an awful historical women could do within the never disappoint; flaming few genres where women write for romance book, she told her framework. They can manipulate sex scenes are inevitable in a other women. It is a $1.3m indus- husband she could write better. He or they can push the boundaries or page-turning romance novel. Ms try. For Ms Bateman, being an bet she would not finish it. “And I they can find a clever way around Bateman explains that sex scenes Amazon best-seller isn’t easy; she wrote the damn book!” she tells me something, and those are the wom- are crucial to completing the has readers constantly begging for triumphantly. en I like to write about.” characters’ relationship, as a lot of more. However, she is an absolute The majority of romance fiction Modern readers are surprised trust is needed during this delicate perfectionist. “I can’t write fast is historical, and most novels and thrilled to find out that period of intimacy. She says enough,” she says. “I want to put are set in the Regency period. historically, some women were that sex scenes are in fact, quite the best foot forward. They just Publishers have little interest in the adventurous despite the legal difficult to write. Each sex scene have to wait.” Renaissance or Victorian eras. Ms and social restrictions. “I think has to have a purpose in driving Her work ethic is condensed Bateman says her background in people are surprised by the fact the plot by worsening or bettering into the acronym “ABC”, which antiques probably helped a little; that women often did have agency. the situation. This is where the stands for “Apply your Butt to the she has handled the furniture and There were kick-ass women in difference between romance novels Chair”. After dropping off her three accessories that form the setting to history. People are like, well, she’d and literary novels comes in; sex children at school, she starts work her novels, and has absorbed “what never do that because she wasn’t in literary novels usually represent at 9am in front of her screen with a things are like by osmosis”. But it allowed out. I think you’ll find dysfunction, whereas sex in cup of coffee, either writing, corre- is solid research in historic facts there’s this historical person who romance novels speeds up the path sponding or practicing her writing. that is the source of inspiration “I never stop, I’m always going to for her plots and characters. But craft workshops. I don’t think you she cautions, she does not write can ever stop improving.” historical novels, her novels are Ms Bateman’s readership about romance and escapism, set in comprises mostly well-educated a historical period. women over 25 years old, with Ms Bateman describes herself money to spend. Before the as having two sides as a historical pandemic she used to go to romance writer. “Historical Kate Romance conferences with 3000 has those plot points. Romance readers in attendance. What she Kate is like, ooh submarines, they wants above all for her readers is are really small and dark. We that they finish her books feeling can squish two people together. happy. “I studied classic literature Romance, brilliant. So, it comes in university, so I read a lot of together quite nicely.” miserable, white men, who wrote In her book This Earl of about women, even their heroines, Mine, her story about rescuing who all die!” she says. Napoleon from exile on St Helena “The doctor patches up your using a submarine in 1815 is not body when you are sick, but the fantasy. She was fascinated by the person in the hospital bed still development of submarines at that needs a book to cheer them up. I think that’s just as important.” ISSUE 54 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 13 The high stakes work of a hostage negotiator

Gabriel Sun on the hostage’s health, age and a while and then we never heard workers to leave and settled for From the peaceful enclave nationality. He never pays the full from them again.” $60,000. “That’s one of my best of Oundle, hostage negotiation ransom, but usually settles between Another case in Iraq had a cases ever.” specialist Leslie Edwards’ work five to twenty-five percent of the happier end after appealing to the He emphasises that the process takes him on missions to negotiate original demand after what looks captors’ humanity. “Two hostages is not about a victory and defeat ransoms and the safe return of like a traditional bartering process. from Turkey had been kidnapped but calculated mutual understand- hostages with some of the most Occasionally, he has had to switch in Iraq. Before we were involved, ing. “You’re not trying to necessar- dangerous criminals in the world. from a terrorist situation to a finan- one of them had his head cut off, ily defeat the other person, you’re A new book by Colin Freeman, cial situation, where instead of a life and that was filmed and posted on trying to create a win-win. That Between the Devil and the Deep being lost, it is money. the internet. The demand was that is often true in all negotiations in Blue Sea, draws upon Mr Edwards’ “You have to have a good tac- they would cut the head off the life.” experiences as an “unflappable tical ear for what’s going on, but other guy if all foreign workers did Through his work Mr Edwards negotiator” during the peak of the every case whether it’ll be short not leave Iraq. has had to face the extreme depri- Somali piracy crisis from 2008- or long, involves an intellectual “I flew to Turkey and spoke to vation of people’s morality, from 12 when 2,000 sailors were taken appreciation of who you are deal- the guy’s mother,” he recounted. barbaric murders to inhumane hostage over the years. ing with, what their track record “We posted an appeal from her. captive conditions leading to mal- It is a gripping story, and true in is, what their expectations are and She was a widow with four other nutrition. It has helped him keep every detail. I caught up with him what your options are. And that children to support, it was Rama- the last year’s hardships during the in Oundle to hear first-hand about intellectual exercise still has to be dan. She asked that the kidnappers pandemic in perspective. “There his high-stakes work. done even in short, rapid cases.” have mercy on her son who knew is always someone worse off than Hostage negotiator work is not His experiences of communi- nothing about politics.” The captors you. People don’t realize how lucky for the faint-hearted and inexperi- cation with kidnappers covers the dropped their demand for foreign they are.” enced, and for that reason, recruits full range: they have been straight- tend to be over 40 and often former forward, difficult, and sometimes British Army officers with experi- almost impossible. The worst cases ence in conflict areas. can stretch for years. “The best sort Mr Edwards was working of case scenario is when you’re in Angola on a contract with dealing with professional kidnap- the United Nations when the pers who understand how the company hired him to work on game works and they are doing it a kidnap response team, mostly as a business. Then you can usually in South America. This led him have a straight one-to-one conver- into the work of negotiating for sation and can get a deal done after hostages’ lives. He now runs his a reasonable time, and for a rea- own company called Compass sonable amount money. The most Risk Management that provides difficult people to deal with are consulting services regarding amateurs because they don’t know kidnapping and piracy. how the system works and they’re The primary aim of a negotiation likely to turn to panic-induced vio- is to ensure the safety of the kid- lence,” he said. napped victims. To get there re- Occasionally the police track quires research where conclusions the kidnappers afterwards, but might be based on deductions, rath- Mr Edwards’ job does not involve er than facts. Within the first few caring about the kidnappers and days, he tries to identify the size what happens to them after the and professionalism of the opera- hostages are released. He is primar- tion he is dealing with: for exam- ily aiming for “a win-win situation” ple, their abduction methodology, where “hostages are released safe presentation on the phone and how and well in a reasonable amount demands are asked for. of time for a reasonable amount of Then he establishes the mission’s money in an agreement that would objectives. “You’ve got to know be honored and without high-risk where you are going to end up. It complications”. may not be that exact spot, but you Sometimes those objectives fail, should have an objective before you and he has had to be realistic about start the negotiation,” he said. what is possible when dealing with Most importantly, he has to the mix of business and emotion of establish the condition of the hos- all those involved. tages, and get proof they are alive. He recalled a failed case where Dated photographs or videos are two foreigners working for a required, or answers to proof-of- telecoms company had been kid- life questions such as the name of napped in Iraq. “I flew from Swe- a pet or other answers which only den to the communications compa- the hostage would know. “Other- ny in Egypt. When I got there, no wise, you can end up paying for one would make a decision. It was dead hostages or paying the wrong five days before I could see any de- group.” cision makers and even then, they Research also involves looking wouldn’t decide. If clients don’t Colin Freeman's new book recounts the peak of the Somali piracy crisis when three at previous cases in the same area follow advice, things go wrong. kidnapped ships were abandoned to their fate by their employers. Leslie Edwards and identifying the “going rate” I don’t know what happened to was part of the team that negotiated the high risk release of all three ships. for ransom, which can be based the hostages. We had contact for 14 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 54 - Spring Special occasion and dining domes to beat the English weather

Meagan Iu Following detailed research, “We have been overwhelmed occasions such as a Valentine’s The Duende experience was they found a gap in the local with positive feedback from Experience and an Après Ski introduced to Oundle in September market and concluded that dining both customers, and our partner Experience that helps take some of 2020 by Mayte Botella-Getino igloos were something that people restaurants,” said Botella-Getino. the pain away of not being able to and Sheridan Baker. This new would enjoy. They also considered Both Ms Botella-Getino and actually go on the slopes. venture makes spectacular dining how they could adapt the use of Ms Baker made good use of the As the community emerges experiences and special occasions dining igloos for different themes lockdown to come up with creative from the year-long covid possible no matter the restrictions and occasions that would be ideas to expand and grow the restrictions, there will be many new or the weather. in demand after the pandemic business. opportunities to organise events Pronounced “dwen - de”, restrictions had been lifted. For winter months there and celebrations made possible by “the brand name is Spanish, like Duende now caters for a variety are themed events for different Duende’s hospitality. myself!” said Ms Botella-Getino. of occasions with a range of options “Its meaning is associated with including igloos, tee-pees and flamenco, and means inspiration, bell tents for sleepovers, cinemas, passion, charm. It aligns with private dinner parties, and any our philosophy to deliver unique other special occasions. experiences of passion and Private igloos can be set up inspiration.” in any setting for anniversaries, Both Ms Botella-Getino and Ms engagement proposals and other Baker have school-aged children celebratory events, and come fully who had demanding home furnished and dressed by the com- learning, after-school schedules, pany. Each igloo seats six people and social lives to juggle amidst and is designed with two windows the pandemic shutdown. The idea and a large door. for their business came about They have also partnered when trying to arrange events such with local restaurants and pubs as children’s outdoor sleepover and set up furnished igloos in parties and outdoor cinemas that their gardens, including Dexters, complied with covid restrictions. Oundle, The Old Red Lion, Great They also realised that people were Brickhill and The Swan, Stewkley. apprehensive about going out to Bookings to dine in the private eat. As a result, Ms Baker suggested igloos are made via Duende’s The Duende igloos at Dexters offer a festive, private dining experience the use of igloos. website. ISSUE 54 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 15 Archaeological digs reveal the layers of history beneath our feet

Noa Anderson intricate brooches and beads. Signs In January, just as news of the of Roman occupation were found discovery of a significant Anglo- towards the north of the site, with Saxon cemetery was reported the bottom of a wooden vessel and in Northamptonshire, the star- various hearths with charred ani- studded film The Dig was released mal bones. on Netflix. The film’s story about Both men and women carried the extraordinary discoveries at small knives, but spearheads, Sutton Hoo evoked the drama wooden buckets and shields were and wonder of archaeological exclusively found with men. Wom- excavation and was a reminder of en’s graves contained the more his- how much history lies beneath our torically significant treasures, with feet. jewellery consistent with other digs The newly discovered ceme- all the way from York to , tery excavated in Overstone Leys including intricate findings such as was found on a Barratt and David sleeve clasps used to hold up dress- Wilson Homes development just es, belt fittings, buckles decorated 30 minutes from Oundle. The site Gold gilt brooches belonging to a woman of importance were found at with animals, and beads. dates to the Anglo-Saxon period The beads were the artefacts and is a significant discovery for layers of information about settle- in for a surprise when they churned most decimated by the diggers, the region. Closer to home, howev- ment by the , and settlement up 1,000-year-old bones. but the team was still able to find er, is the story of a dig at Nassing- by Anglians: “two cultural forces at However, the mechanical 74 beads, including blue and green ton in 1942, just three years after work, distinguishing two stages in scrapes would wreak havoc on the glass, blue guilloche with red dots, the Sutton Hoo discovery, which the early history of the occupation.” historical finds, shattering smaller and amber beads, which could undoubtedly had an influence on The cemetery in Nassington bones and sweeping away delicate have come from the East Anglia the Nassington excavators. was by far the largest in the area, artefacts and pottery. Despite this coast. The pottery was also heavily Northamptonshire has a rich despite the damage caused by its hiccup, Northamptonshire archae- damaged, but the designs that were ancient history, with artefacts from unusual discovery. The site was ologists, joined by pupils from salvaged were traced from across digs having been found that date discovered during the construction Oundle School, were still able to Britain to northern . back 4,000 years. The Nassing- of a gravel pit in June 1942 while gather a wealth of information from Among the finds were objects ton dig contained artefacts from over two feet of dirt was being the site. that were regarded as loot or acqui- the Roman occupation, but more moved. From topsoil damage, it was sitions from earlier Celtic sources. significantly, the finds documented The construction workers were clear that the graves had been loot- One was an iron pin with its head ed by grave-robbers many centuries fashioned in the shape of a shep- earlier. Luckily, three graves were herd’s crook. relatively undisturbed, and bore Boys from Oundle School Escaped parakeets go wild evidence of Roman occupation. were lucky enough to assist the The bones from the cemetery professional archaeologists on this were large and well-formed, dig, and a collection of some of the Digby Pratt Northampton. including a man’s skeleton that artefacts was given to the school. In early January, Charlotte Parakeets are small to medium- was estimated to be seven feet tall. Excavators spend their time Barford was surprised to see a sized species of parrot that can However, many bones showed digging in the dirt, but their work bright green bird in her garden. be found across the world and signs of severe arthritis and is not as dry as dust, as viewers of “I had to look twice. My initial have 155 known sub-species. The rheumatism, most likely caused by The Dig discovered. thought was it must be someone’s parakeets that have been seen malnutrition. Couples were found The Antiquaries Journal 1944 escaped pet!” After she posted in England are more specifically buried together, and skeletons from report of the Nassington dig is a photo on Facebook, others rose-ringed parakeets, or psittacula ages 10-50 were found throughout instrumental in telling us about confirmed that it was a now wild krameri, and are endemic to Africa the cemetery. Fifty graves were the ancient history of settlers in the parakeet. and Southern Asia. The rose-ringed found in total, but the true number area, and also about how digs were parakeet is easily identified by its could not be counted due to conducted at that time. The report lime green body, and its distinctive the destruction caused by the concluded with the “devout hope” black and red ring around its neck. construction machinery. that future excavations of Anglo- The sightings within Oundle Most of the discoveries were Saxon cemeteries would conform and Northamptonshire are few dated to the Anglo-Saxon era 410- to all the demands of modern and far between, and the parakeets 1066AD. The most striking finds of archaeology “to serve to illumine are more commonly found around the dig were the artefacts, including the dark page of the valley’s past”. the greater-London area. Although there have been sightings as far north as Yorkshire, these birds pre- and abundant in Africa and South- legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix. fer the abundant food and slightly ern Asia, it is a popular choice for Many believe that it was this pair warmer temperatures of the city those who fancy a bird as a com- that gave birth to the thriving and its surrounding countryside. panion. There are about 50,000 liv- population of these beautiful birds. Birdwatcher Noah Wood keeps ing in the wild now due to the large Scientists cannot provide any a close watch on local bird popu- number of escaped parakeets. evidence to back any of the stories, lations. He said: "I saw one about It is not clear how the first bird though. twenty years ago on the Oundle was introduced to Britain, and there If you happen to see a parakeet Although only a few sightings pitches, but these are rare sightings are a number of stories that include flying around the skies of Oundle, of parakeets have been reported in this part of the UK." Humphrey Bogart, a plane crash at count yourself lucky, for now. The in Oundle and local villages, they It is suspected that the popula- Syon Park and the great storm of RSPB is expecting populations to have been seen at Ferry Meadows, tion of parakeets within the UK is 1987. My favourite theory is that keep on increasing, so they might and last year the Northamptonshire largely down to how common it is the lineage of the UK wild parakeet be just as common as the house Bird Club reported breeding for people to keep them as pets. As population originated with the sparrow in years to come. residents at Abington Park near an exotic looking bird, yet cheap release of a pair of parakeets by 16 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 54 - Spring

Banks and Police issue emergency warnings Protect your pooch and prevent dog theft

not to click on unknown text messages Johannes Mynhardt its owner after it was stolen from a The pandemic lockdown has kennel in . Noa Anderson relief to those affected by such caused many disruptions to PC Michelle Clapson, from the Covid-19 is not the only pan- scams, setting up relief for ‘no- home life, but one of the most Rural Crime Team at Northampton- demic that is sweeping the UK. blame’ cases (when neither the heart-breaking has been the in- shire Police said: “We understand Thousands are being scammed by customer nor the bank is at fault). crease in dog thefts across the how important people’s dogs are to internet ruses pretending to be the The scheme was enacted in May country. These crimes have affect- them – they are part of the family, government, the NHS and even 2019 and is due to end by late ed people right up to high profile so we want to help everyone un- the World Health Organisation. June 2021, but thus far only a celebrities like Lady Gaga whose derstand the best way to keep them In April 2020, Google reported quarter of fraud victims have been dogs were abducted during a vio- safe.” finding more than 18 million scam reimbursed. lent attack. “With demand for dogs still emails per day exploiting Covid-19. It is a delicate balancing act. With the massive increase in really high, we’re sharing advice Scammers have capitalised on the Customers are expected to be vigi- demand for dogs and puppies as with owners to keep their beloved uncertainty of the pandemic to lure lant about transferring money, but companions during lockdown, the pets safe, and also sharing advice to people into giving away personal as scams grow more sophisticated prices and profits have skyrock- help those looking for a new dog to information such as addresses and and payments faster, banks have eted. The Stolen and Missing Pets do so responsibly.” credit card information. Accord- a duty to warn account holders of Alliance has seen a 170 percent Dog owners can take a few sim- ing to Action Fraud (the National suspicious tactics and trace stolen increase in dog thefts nationwide ple steps to protect their pets, such Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting funds. during lockdown, mainly because as ensure all microchip details are Centre), over £200 million was The Treasury said: “We are of the rise in prices for dogs. up to date; secure outdoor kennels; stolen through these methods in the engaging closely with the Payment Northamptonshire has not use a lead for walking outdoors; do first half of 2020 alone. Systems Regulator as it considers been immune; a springer spaniel not leave the dog unattended by a However, there are clear ways to what steps are required to tackle was stolen from a yard in shop. tell if a message or phone call you the issues – including whether leg- Harrington, a dachshund and a Those buying a new dog, should receive is fraudulent. HMRC says islative changes would help.” puppy were stolen from a home also be vigilant, ensuring that the that it is likely a scam if a message: While scammers selfishly cap- in Northampton during a pre- breeder is licensed. The Kennel uses threatening language; asks for italise off a destructive pandemic, arranged viewing of the puppy, Club advises that a good breeder a bank transfer; asks for personal both consumer vigilance and bank and there have been numerous should be as curious about you as information such as bank details; responsibility are key to keeping reports of working dogs stolen you are of them, and that when leaves a voice message; or uses the money in the correct hands. You from farms and other properties. viewing puppies, ask to see the messaging platform WhatsApp. can do your part by: Police have been working to mum and watch how the dog in- Common topics of these scams Reading each message carefully; return pets to their owners. Five teracts with the mum and the rest include government tax returns, Reviewing it against the criteria bulldog puppies were found safe of the litter. Ask to see papers and charges for the Covid vaccine (the for common scams; and well after being taken from a vet reports. Walk away if it does not vaccine is free) and a false “Cov- Reporting any messages or calls house in , and a look or feel right, and alert a local id-19 refund”. Police have advised: that you believe to be fraudulent. cocker spaniel was brought back to vet or the Kennel Club. "If you receive a text or email that This will allow the National asks you to click on a link or for Cyber Security Centre to act quick- you to provide information, such ly and prevent others from being as your name, credit card or bank affected. Police Beat details, it's a scam". If you believe you have been Sofya Meshechkova known person or company. If you receive a scam text, don’t the victim of fraud and have lost During the last year there Between February 5-12, simply ignore it: Take a screenshot money or been hacked as a result of have been fewer crimes across has or photo of any messages received this type of scam, please report it to England, largely attributed to the received over 750 reports about or make a note of the fraudulent Action Fraud: 0300 123 2040 lockdowns. Roché Security found Bitcoin-phishing fraud. People phone number, making sure that If you have received a suspicious that compared to 2019, there was received emails with fake celebrity you do not click on any links. Then, email, please forward it to the a thirty-four percent decrease in endorsements, luring the receiv- forward the information to Action Action Fraud Suspicious Email residential burglaries. er into an investment scam. The Fraud. Reporting Service: In East Northants North, there provided links in the email were Banks across the UK and the [email protected] have been twenty-six percent fewer designed to steal money online. government have been providing crimes since May 2020. According to the latest available data from East Northants Police, thirty-three crimes were reported in Oundle in March 2021. Between January 15-17 there was a car theft on Station Road. On February 8, Oundle resident, Joshua Gull, punched a police officer in the head. PC Leo Clarke On February 22, a 28-year-old suffered a brain bleed and under- who worked in Oundle died in a went surgery. Mr Gull was jailed lethal car crash on the A427, be- for 1 year and 8 months. “On aver- tween Oundle and age there are 43 assaults on police at about 2pm. officers per month.” Between April 12-14, recurring On February 10 and 11, a few malicious damage to a car parked people received text messages from on New Road was reported. a man called Adim, who claimed On the night of April 24-25, car to be from a building society and number plates were stolen on Bene- wanted to talk about their security field Road. Scammers send fake text messages to trick you into giving them your personal details. No one fell for the scam. Also between April 24-25, a information. Topics range from parcel delivery to vaccinations. It is strongly recommended not to catalytic converter was stolen from give personal details to any un- a car parked on South Road. ISSUE 54 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 17 Northants speed cameras are switched off New Road lives up to its name despite high levels of speed violations Robert Brettle police spent eight and a half hours Instead of using fixed cameras, monitoring the A605 in February. Northamptonshire Police now rely In March, the police only spent on mobile speed cameras, because just over four hours over two days all the speed cameras in the county on the A605, during which they were decommissioned in July 2011. caught 12 people on the 60mph The mobile speed cameras are run section. Of those, nine were going by local police and speed-safety above 70 – the highest speed being officers to help keep the roads saf- 82mph. er. While these cameras are often Finally, in April, the police mounted on marked vans, they can caught 119 people speeding over also be fitted to unmarked cars, ten hours of surveillance. 55 were as well as manually operated by going 10 mph above the speed officers on foot. limit, including someone going According to the most recent 106mph in the 60mph area near available data from the Northamp- Barnwell. tonshire Police, the Safer Roads According to research by Road Team monitors sections of the A605 Safety Analysis, there is no need at Barnwell and on a to turn on speed cameras because monthly basis. having sight of the cameras In January 2021, mobile cameras influences behaviour and makes were set up on the A605 at Barn- drivers more cautious. Their well in the 60mph section where 27 research indicates that there has people were caught speeding; 19 been a reduction in road deaths. were travelling over 10mph above However, if so many drivers are the speed limit. Later in the month caught speeding on two short sec- on 22 January, mobile speed cam- tions of the A605 over a few days, eras set up in the 40mph zone on there must be hundreds more who For years, residents on New Road endured an unprecedented increase in traffic the A605 by the Thrapston bypass every day routinely speed down caused by HGV construction vehicles and buses diverted by the North Bridge caught 80 people; 31 were going roads without fear of any fines. closure. The heavy use created an obstacle course of lethal potholes. After Covid over 10mph above the speed limit. This suggests that if the police and weather delays, New Road was resurfaced and is finally worthy of its name. Seven hours in total were spent wanted to reduce the amount of monitoring the A605 in January. speeding that takes place on roads In February, the police set up such as the A605, there should camera traps on the A605 on four be speed cameras, or more police ~ Est. 1981~ different days, three of which were presence by the side of the road. on the 60mph section near Barn- However, given that the Rockingham Landrovers well. At this section, 28 people were decommissioned cameras are 18 Main Street, Rockingham. LE16 8TG caught speeding; 20 of those were succeeding in their job of reducing over 70mph. In the 40mph section road deaths, there is an argument near Thrapston, 60 people were that it is not necessary to turn them Land Rovers have come a long way caught; 22 were over 50mph. The back on. since 1948 but no matter which Land Rover or Range Rover you drive we can service and repair it. Our skilled staff, 4 workshop ramps and genuine Traffic enforcement powers expanded to Land Rover equipment ensure a quality service and rapid resolution local authorities to any Land Rover problems. Robert Brettle confirmed to the Oundle Chronicle Nearly 300 local councils in Eng- that North Northamptonshire could Here at Rockingham we service and maintain all models of Land land will be given new powers to assume powers to enforce fines for Rover and Range Rover without affecting the vehicle’s warranty. hand out fines for motoring offenc- these offences. She said: “When es. Last year, the Government an- these powers come into force, it We offer a free collection and delivery service for all nounced its plans to implement the will enable those local authorities Land Rovers booked in for Service / MOT and Repair. moving traffic enforcement powers outside London with civil parking in Part 6 of the Traffic Manage- enforcement powers to apply to the Land Rover T4 & WDS diagnostic equipment to diagnose ment Act 2004. Work is underway secretary of state for enforcement of and re-set faults on Air Suspension, Engine Management, to bring these powers into force, moving traffic offences.” ABS, Gearboxes, Keys & Fobs etc…. which will take several months. Northamptonshire currently Genuine Land Rover and OEM parts available for purchase. Drivers can be fined up to has no operating speed cameras, £70 for offences such as ignoring and relies on mobile patrol vehicles Renovation and refurbishment to suit your own requirements. banned left and right hand turns or to monitor speeding. Questions Chassis replacement for Defender and Series. stopping in yellow boxes. remain about whether the authority Currently, only London will have the ability to enforce We accept payment by debit and credit card. authorities have the power to traffic violations. enforce these so-called “moving The RAC said that there were traffic offences”, although the also concerns that the powers Office and Workshop Opening Hours government aims to change this. In were going to be used as a money-

London, almost 4000 drivers a day making scheme. The head of the Monday – Thursday: 8.30am – 6 pm & Friday: 8.30am – 4 pm are caught breaking traffic rules, RAC’s roads policy said: “There is Telephone: 01536 770109 / 01536 770078 such as driving in a bus lane. a risk that some councils might use

Baroness Vere of Norbiton, Min- this as a lucrative revenue-raising The Old Forge Yard, 18 Main Street, Rockingham, LE16 8TG ister for Roads, Buses and Places tool.”

18 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 54 - Spring

Specialist help needed for sufferers of How to ward off Seasonal Affective Disorder long Covid fatigue William Caskey walk,” she said. Gabriel Sun lifestyle is staying cozy. Through Patients across the country, In November, when she suffered After having spent much of the wearing warm clothes, surrounding having recovered from Covid-19, a debilitating headache and aches, past winter confined indoors over themselves with fireplaces, drink- are still reporting bewildering she saw a doctor and an osteopath, lockdown, it is time for us all to ing soup and simply living for the ongoing symptoms of Coronavirus but could get no relief. take stock of its impact on mental simpler things in life, these Nordic for several months afterwards. This “A friend recommended a sports health and make plans to improve countries are able to bear the harsh condition is now recognized as physio who also does acupuncture. our coping mechanisms before the winter weather much more easily. long Covid, though little is under- I gave it a try and found it helped next winter season. Despite having a lifestyle revolv- stood about what actually causes it. immediately,” she said. “It was the Seasonal affective disorder ing around warmth, the Nordics Thousands of people suffering from sports physio who connected the is caused by decreased levels of still go out and appreciate nature. long Covid symptoms will soon dots and said it might be long Cov- sunlight which commonly occurs Through looking to natural beauty have access to specialist care, as the id. She had had other clients with during the winter. The effects of and living life with a positive out- government implements new meas- the same symptoms. Once I knew SAD often result in symptoms of look, the psychological and physi- ures for tackling the condition. what was happening, I was able to depression such as a decrease of ological health of Nordic residents Post-Covid-19 syndrome is a come up with a plan for trying to mood and energy levels, due to during the winter are often better form of post viral fatigue specific get better again.” the disruption of one’s body clock than other countries. to Covid-19. Its symptoms include New evidence has shown that caused by a change in seasons An easy way to combat SAD that ongoing fatigue, breathlessness, one in five people who suffer from resulting in a feeling not far off jet will not involve changing lifestyles and other debilitating conditions. coronavirus go on to experience lag, plus a drop in serotonin and is light therapy, also known as It is a condition which can persist long term Covid-19 symptoms. In melatonin levels. phototherapy. Some countries have for many months after a person has response to this new data, the gov- Countries located away from the clinics for light therapy, however recovered from the virus itself, and ernment has begun to roll out its equator such as Nordic countries you can also just purchase a light- one which can leave a person com- new initiative for dealing with long have a higher risk of encountering box which will provide a source of pletely incapacitated. Other reports Covid and is currently opening SAD due to their lack of sunlight artificial sunlight. include symptoms of impaired specialist clinics around the country hours. Now, it may be surprising My family bought one during cognitive ability, more commonly to provide both physical and psy- that the citizens of Nordic countries the long winter break in London, referred to as ‘brain fog.’ chological assessments for people are rated the happiest on the planet and had daily sessions during One local resident who came suffering from long Covid. despite being the most susceptible breakfast, which probably helped down with Covid at the start of the Anyone experiencing symptoms to SAD, but because of their coping keep our spirits up during the pandemic in March 2020, suffers four weeks or more after coronavi- methods, it has less of an impact. short, dark days. from long Covid. She said, “Long rus should speak to a GP to begin These methods include having a Through having daily sessions Covid came as a surprise. I didn’t the process of receiving necessary diet of oil-rich fish such as salmon, with the lightbox, the symptoms even know what it was when I medical attention. If the patient mackerel and herring which con- of SAD should be alleviated. The started having symptoms.” does not have shortness of breath, tain omega fatty acids and vitamin artificial sunlight should raise one’s Six months after her initial they will be sent for a blood test. If D, known as the “sunshine vita- melatonin and serotonin levels, and Covid infection, she noticed several they do have shortness of breath, min” you get from sunlight. also help your body clock adjust. symptoms including headaches they will also be required to have They also follow the Danish By recognising symptoms of and brain fog. “I felt like I had an ECG and chest X-Ray. If the lifestyle of hygge which is very SAD and planning ahead to make early onset dementia,” she said, tests provide no clarity as to what important in their culture, and the adjustments, those who struggled and it was difficult to do her job is causing the symptoms, the GP similar Norwegian version known this past year, will be able to cope for a while. She also suffered heart will refer them to the nearest long as koselig. A key feature of this better when winter returns. palpitations, dizziness, anxiety, Covid clinic. fuzzy vision, shortness of breath, More than 70 clinics currently the CEO of Lakeside Surgeries, She followed up, “Whilst we loss of smell for nine months, and exist across the UK, and a further which runs the Oundle Surgery, are working through the logistical several other maladies. 12 are scheduled to open. The near- and a local GP himself, said that challenges of hosting a “pop-up” “But the worst was that I was est clinic to Oundle is in Kettering. a vaccine service beleaguered by an overwhelming The clinics bring together doctors, centre in at pace, and complete fatigue. Even walking nurses and physiological and psy- Oundle was I would up the stairs was exhausting, chological therapists, to support not feasible like to and I'd have to sit down and rest patients suffering from long Covid at that time urge frequently. I had to stop running and to help them receive the care because of those because I felt physically ill after they need. limited vac- eligible any exercise at all, even just a dog cine supply. constitu- On 10 ents who No sign of vaccine England Showground, Peterbor- March, Jan do feel ough, as designated by the South Thomas, able to hesitancy in Oundle Peterborough Primary Care Net- the Chief travel to Ned Chatterton work of the Cambridgeshire and Executive a vac- On 8 December 2020, Margaret Peterborough Clinical Commis- of NHS Cambridgeshire & Peter- cination site outside of Oundle to Keenan became the first person in sioning Group (CCG). A CCG is an borough CCG, said in a letter to Mr book their appointment as soon as the UK to receive a coronavirus NHS organisation which delivers Pursglove MP that vaccine uptake possible.” vaccine as part of the nationwide NHS services in that area. has been encouragingly high in Only five months into the cam- rollout. Since then, the UK has had Some have questioned why Oundle with 97% of people aged paign over 60 million jabs have one of the most successful vaccina- Oundle does not a have its own 75+ and 95% of people aged 70-74 been delivered nationally and the tion campaigns in the world. vaccination centre and residents taking up the vaccine, based on vaccine is now being offered to Here in East Northamptonshire, were unhappy that the elderly had data up to the 28 February 2021. those aged 32. 90% of people aged over 40 have to make the trip to Peterborough However, she confirmed that Coupled with the news that the had at least the first dose of a coro- for their jab. Local MP Tom Purs- they were looking at setting up, Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines are navirus vaccine, according to data glove brought up the matter with “a traveling “pop-up” vaccination highly effective against the variant up to 21 May from the National Im- the CCG, asking for “a local solu- service to bring the vaccines closer identified in India, hopes remain munisation Management Service. tion,” to reduce inconvenience for to the homes of people who may high that the vaccine campaign will The nearest vaccination centre Oundle residents. not be as able to travel to existing be our ticket to freedom on 21 June. for Oundle residents is at East of On 12 January, Dr Richardson, vaccination centres. ISSUE 54 - Spring Oundle Chronicle 19 Lockdown life for the Oundle Chronicle correspondents writing from around the world

Gabriel farewells of those pupils leaving for not completely unproductive; I found able to do that, I did use the lockdown Unlike my school peers, I had it the final time last year. The pandemic more time for reading and writing, to catch up on a great deal of reading. pretty easy during the first lockdown separated our human connections, and and closely followed news and current In fact, my lockdown experience was in Hong Kong. Although I had to I have not been able to return to school events. I did more exercise from home, filled with little more than reading, self-isolate on my return from the UK, this year, yet stories can heal scars left more cooking and most importantly, sleeping and YouTube. Needless to say, restaurants and shops were open. Even by disappointment and hardship. It has spent more time with my family. the reopening of schools was a wel- masks were not a big deal since it is allowed us to understand, create, and Robert come relief. pretty common to mask up. Whilst dream. The mahogany shelves of the Lockdown was not necessarily Meagan at home, I even managed to pick up house library are a paradise for lovers unpleasant, it was just mind-numb- In March 2020 when teachers music production and vocal lessons. of literature; they are also eyewitness ingly boring. Most of my lockdown ushered us back to House to announce So, when I returned to Oundle in to enduring friendships. days were identical. I got up at 7am, early school closing, I already had a September all the covid restrictions Noa went for my daily exercise at 7:30am flight to catch with only a few days’ were surprising. My family joined me When I flew home to Dubai in around my local park in London, notice. There were no direct flights in London at Christmas, but when we March 2020, people wearing masks and then sat in front of my computer from the UK to Macau, and I had to learned about schools being closed were rare and my suitcase was light: screen for the rest of the day. I maybe transfer in Hong Kong. It took about again in January, we decided to take a “It'll be over in a month and I’ll be back watched a bit of TV, and went to bed. nine hours, instead of the usual one circular route back to Hong Kong and at school after Easter.” This prediction As a result, all the days that I spent in hour to drive across the world’s longest endure the dreaded quarantine, rather proved to be staggeringly incorrect, lockdown merged into one grey blur. sea bridge from Hong Kong to Macau than stay in London for lockdown. Due and it was more than a year before I acknowledge that it could have been because of all the Covid checks. The 14 to flights from the UK being banned, I returned to the UK via Denmark. a lot worse, and I am lucky that it was day quarantine was a rather luxurious we flew to the US west coast for a few The UAE’s immediate response to merely dull. Other people have had to experience, with meals delivered to the weeks and managed to look at some Covid-19 was swift and the measures contend with far worse – loss of rela- door, and I could indulge in Netflix for universities in the process. While on were harsh. I made it back just before tives and friends, and unemployment hours. When I finally left the hotel, I the road, I had to try and keep up with the borders closed, shutting out even - whereas I merely sat about not doing still had to isolate for a week at home, online school, but the time difference citizens and residents. There was a full much, which is completely tolerable. but the sense of freedom was enor- took more of a toll than I expected. I re- lockdown: no dog walking, no outdoor I did take the opportunity to do more mous. Macau took serious measures turned to Oundle for the summer term, exercise. A police permit was required reading than I would normally do, and early on when the first covid case was and am glad that restrictions are begin- to leave one’s house (only for groceries played the piano more, which probably reported on 22 January 2020. Within ning to ease – and that flights to Hong or medical reasons). Non-compliance irritated my family! With the roll-out of days, the entire community went into Kong look to be back on schedule. involved fines reaching thousands of the vaccine, it looks like life can return a complete lockdown. Every Macau Cherry pounds and the threat of jail time and to normal, although I seriously doubt resident was allowed to buy ten face I did not go home for Christmas permanent deportation. In December, that we will be back to 2019 for a while. masks every ten days to prevent panic and was at my guardian’s house in when tourist numbers rose in Dubai, Sofya buying. Businesses slowly opened Bournemouth when I heard about the cases spiked dramatically. As someone I spent my quarantine on the back up at the end of April and schools January lockdown. At the time, there clinically vulnerable, more time spent outskirts of Moscow, where there are resumed in May 2020; everything then was no indication about how long it staring at my laptop instead of being lots of tall forests and classical Russian felt normal again. There have been 49 would last, if flights would resume to physically in a classroom was scenery. The pandemic experience confirmed cases and no covid-related China or if schools would return to inevitable, and the monotony of daily in Russia was relatively easy, and deaths. But because Macau had closed in-person learning before summer. I life was hard. actually inspired some new trends. its borders, it was difficult to find a have to admit that I was worried about Paxton The demand for both domestic and flight to the UK in September. Then, I being in lockdown in a foreign coun- I was no stranger to masks when the exotic pets increased, and forty percent was stranded in the UK for Christmas, try without my family. I checked the pandemic began, as I would wear one of Russians dug vegetable gardens. and little did I know that I would be re- Chinese Embassy website first thing to school in Hong Kong every time I Russian pensioners mastered their mote learning at my guardian’s house in the morning to keep track of the got sick (and I got sick a lot). I adapted internet skills, blogging and setting for three months. It has been difficult rapidly changing flight policies, but quickly to online learning, and I didn’t up Instagram accounts. My friends being here knowing that everyone back I soon accepted that I just had to be have much of a social life to lose. Being even taught their grannies how to use home is living safe and carefree lives. patient. Lockdown life actually provid- the largest introvert the world has ever Zoom and Facebook! We have a saying The chances of restrictions being lifted ed opportunities to try out new things known, this felt normal and completely in Russia: “The best locomotive for and air travel to Macau returning to and I was really lucky to have such an fine by me. Due to increased free time, personal progress is a strong kick from normal are still slim. This is the longest understanding and supportive guardi- I decided to take a machine learning the outside world.” And, of course, I time that I have been away from home. an, devices to support online learning, (AI) course. I expect this will take me managed to spend a lot of time with I just hope that I will be allowed to and teachers and friends that kept in a couple years until I completely wrap my family, which would not have return to Macau when I finish my final close contact. my head around the subject. I returned happened if the pandemic hadn’t year at Oundle. Jennifer to Oundle in September, and was locked us at home. Matthew Before leaving school when the first expecting to return to Hong Kong for William I think that we were all equally fed lockdown was announced, I hastily half term as normal. But that did not When looking back on my lock- up when we received the order for a grabbed a battered copy of Cat’s Eye by happen, and I had to stretch my instant down experience, I am reminded of new national lockdown in January, Margaret Atwood from the boarding ramen supplies to Christmas, like Matt the 1993 film, Groundhog Day, where but it would not be true to assume house library. It was a gripping read. Damon in The Martian (maybe less Bill Murray finds himself trapped in that it was such a bad experience for I remember turning the dog-eared extreme though). After returning home a seemingly infinite loop, reliving the me. Whilst online lessons were far pages on several jet-lagged, sleepless for Christmas, I wasn’t able to return same day over and over. My lockdown from ideal, I am able to appreciate that nights spent in my quarantine hotel in to school until April. Now I just hope routine was similarly repetitive. I these lessons were far from the worst Shanghai. The book had belonged to a they let me back into Hong Kong for would get up late in the morning, drag possible outcome. Whilst I did not hit pupil who had gone on to read English the summer holidays as my flight back myself downstairs for a bowl of cereal, the ground running, I soon found my at university and in the margins were to HK has already been booked. brush my teeth, have a shower, and stride and was able to adapt success- annotations; her thoughts flowed like Priyanka spend the rest of the day doing what- fully to the bizarre circumstances, a river on the yellow pages. It was the When we gathered for a house ever I could think of to fill the daunting adaptations that had been universally most wonderful experience reading assembly in March last year, everyone amount of time I had at my disposal. developed across the country and the the book with another soul, a connec- was buzzing. We had just been told I would then have dinner, go to bed, globe. Whilst the streets were empty, tion that I had longed for. I got her that we were going to be leaving school and do the exact same thing the next they sprang back into a more vibrant contact details and texted her to say early. “If we’re lucky we might get a morning. The days seemed to morph and unique expression of life during that I had her old book. She replied: whole month off school,” we thought. into one, and it became difficult to periods of communal appreciation for “I hope you are enjoying New House, I went home excited to rest after a distinguish between what I had done the essential workers fulfilling their I really loved my five years there and busy term. It’s now a year later, after yesterday, and what I had done last roles on the frontline. To me, this was I have such fond memories - enjoy months spent at home, working online, week. This gave rise to a curious para- truly remarkable, creating a sense of it!” I won’t deny that tears welled up. with little real interactions. I enjoyed dox in which the days seemed to crawl community that I had never before Everything came back as I traced those the “long holiday” at first, but I found by, and yet the weeks would leap past. experienced. It did not spring from pages: our discussions of poems, of working online a very difficult task. In In the film, Bill Murray is only able to any joy that the lockdown brought, life, of everything after restless school my GCSE year, it has been hard to cope finally break the loop when he decides but rather from the acceptance that we days. These memories still linger in with the uncertainty of not knowing to improve himself and become a better were all separately simply doing our those stuffy rooms, despite the hasty what’s coming next. But lockdown was person, and whilst I can’t say that I was bit, and in that, we were far from alone. 20 Oundle Chronicle ISSUE 54 - Spring The workers who kept the community going during pandemic lockdowns During the last year’s pandemic lockdowns, communities across the country endured inconvenience, illness, hardship, loneliness and anxiety. But throughout it all, despite the health risks, a legion of workers and volunteers kept on going, providing essential services to everyone, and assistance to vulnerable and isolated groups. Featured here are just a few of these workers and volunteers, representing all those across Oundle who have been a familiar and reliable presence during the lockdowns, reassuring the community of its resilience.

Angie Boyne Cathy Wenden Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust Hermes

Liz Turnbull, Helen Hardy Michael Nyczka Community Action Oundle Primary School

Lorraine Adam Piyush Paw, Alexander Ward The Co-operative Food Oundle Post Office

Alfie Parr, Robert Hemmings, Dan Ketyi Margo North with Sue Farrell North Northamptonshire Council Volunteer Action