Rivenhall & Silver End Parish Magazine

July 2013 40p Our Services this Month

7th July 2013 6th Sunday after Trinity 9.30 am St. Francis Holy Communion Rev. Paul Watkin 11.00 am St. Mary’s All Age Worship Rev. Paul Watkin

14th July 2013 7th Sunday after Trinity 9.30 am St Francis Morning Prayer Rev. Paul Watkin 11.00 am St Mary’s HC with with Sunday School Rev. Paul Watkin

21st July 2013 8th Sunday after Trinity 9.30 am St. Francis Holy Communion Rev. Paul Watkin 11.00 am All Age HC Giving for Today Rev. Paul Watkin/ Jenny Tomlinson

28th July 2013 9th Sunday after Trinity 9.30 am St. Francis Morning Prayer Rev. Paul Watkin 11.00 am St. Mary’s Holy Communion Rev. Paul Watkin

Church Contacts Priest-in-Charge Rev. Paul Watkin 01376 583930 [email protected] Churchwarden Oliver Clarke 01376 514825 Churchwarden Peter Hope 01376 502605 Rivenhall Contact Carole McCarthy 01376 512781 Silver End Contact Ruth Aitken 01376 583846 Please hand articles for the magazine to Peter Hope or email to [email protected] by 18th of the month. Rivenhall Website www.stmarysrivenhall.co.uk St Francis Silver End Website www.st-francis.org.uk/ Rivenhall School www.rivenhallprimary.co.uk/

CAR TREASURE HUNT—In Aid of St Mary’s Building and Appeals Sunday 11th August 2.00 p.m

For More Information Contact: Martin Andrews 07952 708220

Church Opening For all those who would like to visit the church or show Friends round St Mary’s Church Rivenhall is open from 2.30 to 4.30 p.m every Sunday from 5th May to 6th October

We (The editorial team) reserve the right to edit (i.e. cut, précis, alter, correct grammar or spelling) any item published and our decision is final Monthly musings from your parish priest.

I wonder if you've ever had the feeling as though you've been at a loss about something or a particular situation? Or have you ever found yourself actually being lost in a strange place? Visiting new towns, cities, or even walks in the country can be an exciting adventure, but enjoyment can quickly turn to worry if you suddenly find yourself unsure of which way to go. Or if you turn around, and the person who was with you is suddenly nowhere to be seen; especially if in a foreign country where everything is different and communication is possibly a challenge.

But when you feel unsure of the way to go in a practical sense, one of the things that you can do is to turn to a map of the area which you wish to navigate. Now maps can be a fantastic tool, and with the correct one, there will be situations when they're invaluable to have. But sometimes they can be a little confusing, and signposts or the actual layout of the road ahead may not look quite how you'd expect it to, sometimes causing you to still end up going in the wrong direction. So in more recent years many people have also started using Satellite Navigation systems (also known as Sat Nav or GPS) to guide them in the correct direction when driving. As long as these systems are up to date and working as they should, you can simply enter the postcode to your destination, and then receive directions as your journey un- folds which should lead you to the right place. And I must admit, that although I'd never want to do-away with paper maps altogether, using a Sat Nav has meant that I've undertook some journeys which I might not have done so easily before.

But for all of us there will probably be times when life generally can feel a little like this in one way or another. Life, and in particular our faith are sometimes seen as a journey which we're on – though in one sense it's also an exciting adventure. But the world can sometimes be confusing as we try to make sense of our relationship with God, and we can sometimes feel a little lost on the way. To counter this difficul- ty there are all sorts of 'maps' which we could consult to help us find our way. But when it comes to matters of faith there are a huge variety of views and opinions from the very conservative to very liberal – even within the Christian faith itself. And a little like on a street map, the messages (or directions) which we receive can sometimes be confusing, leaving us a little unsure on the direction to take to move our journey forward. So what might we do?

1 As we might listen to the directions given on a Sat Nav to help us along the road, we can listen to another sort of voice in matters of faith too. Whenever we're wrestling with questions of faith or direction, we will often do well to stop and pause and listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit which is there within each of us. It might seem obvious to stop, pray, and talk to God, but there will be times when almost everyone who holds faith will need to remember to do this, and we'll often find a sense of inner peace and clarity when we do.

But when we do try to use maps to find our way on the road, sometimes we'll find one that really works for us. One which we can un- derstand more easily than other, and which even compliments using a Sat Nav. Likewise it can be very helpful to have the right person or people to accompany us along our journey of faith as well; ans alongside listening to God's voice. With this is in mind some people find it helpful to have a special fellow Christian in their life who they can talk to when the need arises or with whom they have periodic meetings to chat about how their faith is going. Someone with whom one might have this special and completely confidential relationship is often known as a Spiritual Director or 'soul friend'.

This person could simply be another Christian whom one feels they can particularly relate to in matters of faith. Or it might be someone who follows the religious life e.g.: a friar or nun, or perhaps a priest. If the latter this will very often be someone other than their own parish priest, though in some cases it is. And this isn't something which is only available to clergy, but for everyone who feels they would like it, so if this something which is interesting to you, do get in touch with me and I'll happily provide further information.

But finally, if you're going away or out and about this summer, whether just out for the day or for a longer time away. I hope you find your way to and from your destinations safely and easily; what- ever way you use to navigate. I also pray that everyone in our parish will be able to take some time out with God as well, and that his gentle voice will continue to guide and lead you on your journey of faith too. Paul Watkin.

2 From the Registers Funerals: Non Baptisms: 16th June Sophie Pratt Weddings: Non

Readings & Collects for June 7th July 2013 6th Sunday after Trinity Isaiah 66:10-14 Galatians 6:(1-6), 7-16 Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 Collect Creator God, you made us all in your image: may we discern you in all that we see, and serve you in all that we do; through Jesus Christ our Lord 14th July 2013 7th Sunday after Trinity Deuteronomy 30:9-14 Colossians 1:1-14 Luke 10:25-37

Collect Lord God, your Son left the riches of heaven and became poor for our sake: when we prosper save us from pride, when we are needy save us from despair, that we may trust in you alone; through Jesus Christ our Lord

21st July 2013 8th Sunday after Trinity Genesis 18:1-10a Colossians 1:15-28 Luke 10:38-42

3 Collect Gracious Father, revive your Church in our day, and make her holy, strong and faithful, for your glory's sake in Jesus Christ our Lord. 28th July 2013 9th Sunday after Trinity Genesis 18:20-32 Colossians 2:6-15, (16-19) Luke 11:1-13 Collect Lord of heaven and earth, as Jesus taught his disciples to be persistent in prayer, give us patience and courage never to lose hope, but always to bring our prayers before you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. CONGRATULATIONS! We are very pleased to announce that Jackie Allan will be visiting the Palace to receive an award announced in the Queens Birthday Honours List which reads as follows:-

Queen's birthday honours list 2013: Military Queen's Volunteer Reserves Medal has been awarded to:- Lt Col Jacqueline Anne Allan, TD. Royal Corps of Signals, Territorial Army.

The 50/50 Club The Churches in Rivenhall and Silver End are suffering financial diffi- culties and one way people could help is by recruiting new 50/50 club members or even taking out a second membership for a family member as a Christmas or Birthday gift. The prizes are £30 for first, £20 for 2nd, and £10 for third prize and the draw is monthly. Annual membership is £12. If you would like to sign up or want further information please let me Peter Hope 01376 502605 or Oliver Clarke 01376 514825 know. Many Thanks Peter

The 50-50 winners for May were:

1st Mrs Button, 2nd Mrs K Spalding, 3rd Ms T Taylor

4 St MARY’S CHURCH RIVENHALL 2013 SUMMER OPENING The Church will be open every Sunday between 5 May and 6th October fbetween 2.30 and 4.30 p.m for visitors. If you want to visit the church during the week the Church yard gang are there between 9 am and 12 noon on Wednesdays.

Note if you would like to help in the Church Yard on Wednesdays go along and I am sure they can find you a job. RIVENHALL PARISH COUNCIL NOTES OF MEETING HELD 4th JUNE 2013 Present: Cllrs. Abbott (Chairman), Bills, Wright, Brailey, Turner and Clark. Also present: Parish Clerk and 4 members of the public.

Public Forum The following matters were raised:

 Resurfacing of Rickstones Road  Flooding in Henry Dixon Road  A supply of recycling bags is available at Oak Stores Matters for Discussion Parking restriction at the Recycling Site, Oak Road A report was considered that showed a significant increase in the num- bers of vehicles being parked all day mid-week in the recycling site in Oak Road and in the lay-by in Henry Dixon Road. Also that vehicle parking in Oak Road close to Oak Barn is at times causing problems during peak traffic times. Much of this parking is believed to be com- muters. It was agreed that the Clerk contact the NEPP requesting considera- tion for a parking restriction of one hour duration for both the recycling site and Henry Dixon Road lay-by and for action to be taken to alleviate the Oak Road problem. Tarecroft Wood – possible freehold transfer Following a lengthy discussion it was agreed that the Council once again indicate to ECC an interest in obtaining the freehold transfer and requesting details of what action is to be taken by both parties. Also a

5 2nd quotation is to be obtained for the possible repair/replacement of the rabbit fence surrounding the wood. County Highway maintenance ECC report that Oak/Rickstones Roads potholes require underground utility status confirmation prior to repairs; no timetable for com- mencement. Rickstones Road has been resurfaced and road chippings swept from the roadway but not the footways. There is a projecting concrete slab near the first drain coming from Rivenhall up towards Stoverns Hall Farm, which has caused vehicle damage. This will be reported to ECC. General maintenance The Village Sign on the Village Green has been inspected and passed as safe. It was reported that Mr. Dennis Gibbons, who had previously under- taken work on behalf of the Council in and around the parish had just recently died. Dennis grew trees from local seed and planted them around the parish. He also carried out many hours of voluntary litter picking, even into his eighties. It was agreed to plant a tree in his memory in the autumn. EALC Conference & AGM 26th September 2013. Cllr. Prime is to be asked to attend. Planning applications Maldon DC 13/00036/FUL: Solar farm at Little Braxted Hall. It was reported that MDC Officer’s were recommending refusal of this application. Planning results 12/01495/FUL: Continued use of site for storage and distribution of security and safety fencing, plant, machinery and equipment – Former North Side BP Filling Station, London Road. Application with- drawn. 12/01658/FUL: New commercial building – Polish Camp, Allshots Farm, Woodhouse Lane, Kelvedon. Application granted by BDC. 12/00256/FUL: Change of use of agricultural barn/granary to be used in connection with veterinary surgery etc. – Hoo Hall. Applica-

6 tion granted by BDC. Ongoing Planning Issues Local Development Framework

At the meeting of the BDC LDF Sub-Committee on Thursday 30th May it was agreed : 1. To not allocate Burghey Brook Farm as an employment site. 2. To not include the Old Rectory site, Rectory Lane within the development boundary and to not allocate it as a residential site of 10 or more dwellings. 3. To not allocate any other alternative developer proposed sites within Rivenhall and Rivenhall End. 4. To approve the Draft Site Allocations and Development Man- agement inset map for Rivenhall. 5. To approve the Draft Site Allocations and Development Man- agement inset map for Rivenhall End subject to removal of ‘informal recreation’ on the former site at Oak Road/Henry Dix- on Road and the removal of ‘Henry Dixon Hall’ as a defined community use on the map (note: it remains protected by poli- cy for that purpose), and addition of a cycle/pedestrian path between Rivenhall End and Witham adjacent to the A12. The request of the Parish Council that Little Braxted Lane be desig- nated a Protected Lane was not supported by BDC. The same request for Rectory Lane was supported. Final decisions on these re- quests will be made at a later BDC LDF meeting. Braintree District Local Highways Panel All three Rivenhall projects continue to be on track and the Chair- man has requested updates from ECC for each. The next Panel meeting is on 4th July 2013.

Correspondence An invitation was received from RPFA for the Council to have a pres- ence at the Fun Day on 20th July in the Village hall. It was agreed that this invitation be accepted. Information exchange and items for the next agenda  Network Rail parking on the footway and verge in Henry Dixon

7 Road/Oak Road to be on the next agenda.  The Chairman will request that the bottle bank at the former Fox PH be emptied.  No reports of Ash Die Back have been received.  There is to be a Greenfields estate inspection on 14th June. Dates of future meetings Tuesdays 2nd July and 6th August both in Rivenhall Village Hall, starting at 8pm.

Sky Notes July 2013 Venus remains visible throughout July but will always be low in the North West in the evening dusk, setting about an hour after the Sun. Although our "Sister planet" is on the far side of its orbit around the Sun from Earth, it is easily the brightest object in the night sky apart from the Moon and so with a clear Western horizon it should be visible in the twilight. Saturn is still fairly well placed at the start of July but by the end of the month is starting to sink low in the sky soon after 11 pm BST. The first quarter Moon is nearby on the evening of the 16th. Following the Summer Solstice on June 21st, the nights start to draw in again through July but only very slowly. For most of July the Sun still sets after 9 pm BST. Full Moon is on the night of the 22nd/23rd, low down in the Southern sky. As the Moon wanes in the last week of July and leaves the late evening skies, clear nights will reveal the Northern Milky Way almost over- head. Away from streetlights in the countryside it is possible to see detail in the Milky Way. The individual stars we can see at night are all relatively close to us in space, typically tens or hundreds of light years away. The hazy Milky Way is made up of millions of faint stars much further away, forming the spiral arms of our galaxy. Looking at the constellation of Cygnus, an obvious dark rift in the Milky Way can be seen. This is due to huge clouds of dark dust obscuring the spiral arm stars. Late July is also a good time, with hopefully warmer evenings, to watch for meteors - which are also dust, but much closer to home. As well as the well known Perseid shower which starts in late July there are several other showers active. Almost all meteor showers are

8 streams of dusty debris left behind in the orbits of comets. The Earth crosses a number of these through the summer and each shower is different depending on the way in which the comet orbit intersects that of the Earth and the physical properties of the comet dust. Perseids strike our atmosphere at a velocity of nearly 40 miles per second. The energy produced as the dust grains burn up means we can see them even though they are over 50 miles up in the atmosphere. Fragments of meteor dust drift down to the surface of the Earth and across the whole planet material from space amounts to many tons per day - there is bound to be meteor dust in the gardens of Rivenhall and Silver End ! Sky Watcher RIVENHALL SCHOOL REPORT In return for the privilege of being able to access both the church and grounds we would like to extend an invitation to the wider community to our Open Evening on Thursday, July 11th from 6.00 pm until 7.30 pm. This will be an opportunity to look at displays of children’s work and witness the breadth of their learning. Rev. Paul has kindly agreed to the staff and children using the church- yard for outdoor learning activities. All the staff spent a wonderful morning with an advisor from Essex County Council being inspired by our fabulous surroundings. Starting a new half term with a sense of awe and wonder was indeed good for the soul. As a result of this focus the children are being made more aware of St. Mary’s. I look forward to building further links with the community as I head towards my first Autumn Term. Cathy Mann Silver End Gad About’s all Welcome Day trip to Southend on Sea, Wednesday 24th July, £14, pick up in Silver End and Rivenhall if required. *********** Day trip to Southwark, (Shard, Southwark Cathedral, HMS Bel- fast in that area) £20, pick up in Silver End and Rivenhall. *********** Come and meet new friends, to book call Denise on 01376 583055 after 7.00pm

9 Rivenhall Playing Fields Association Table Tennis

Rivenhall Village Hall 2nd & 4th Monday of the Month 2pm – 4.30pm, Entry £3 Membership of Witham and Braintree U3A required £15 pa visit the Witham and Braintree U3A website or for further information please call Gerry Gunton 01621 819682 or email gun- [email protected] or visit the table tennis page on the village hall website www.rivenhallvillagehall.co.uk

Riventots "Play & Stay” Cancelled

Riventots Pre-school Rivenhall Village Hall Monday –Thursday 9 am—12noon Lunch if required 12noon– 1pm Pre-School setting, Ofsted registered Settling in sessions available Call Ruth on 078 111 04813 or email [email protected]

Rivenhall Carpet Bowls Rivenhall Village Hall Every Thursday - 7.30pm – 10pm Come along for an evening of fun with this friendly club.

Medium Sized G-Plan Armchair Upholstered in Pale Green dralon and in good condition. Free of charge as there is no attached fire label and hence cannot be resold or given to a charity. Carole on Tel 01376 512781

10 Recipe for July by Ann Clarke Fresh Lemon Squash Mum made this every summer, so refreshing.

4 large, unwaxed lemons 2 lbs of granulated sugar 1 pint water 1 oz Tartaric acid

Boil the water with the sugar until sugar dissolved Peel lemons, then cut in half and squeeze out the juice. Put all the bits, juice and peel in a large jug and pour over the boiling liquid. Leave to stand for 24 hours. Mix tartaric acid with a small amount of water and stir in to the mixture. Then strain through a sieve and store in old squash bottle. Use like squash, and dilute to taste with ice. Delicious

Witham & District Lions & Lioness Clubs

will be holding another FREE Diabetes Screening and Blood Pressure test session. This will take place in Rivenhall Village Hall on Friday 19th July from 10.00am. Screening tests will be carried out by Dr N Brunton and the St John Ambulance will carry out the blood pressure tests. Please allow at least 2 hours from eating or drinking before having a test. Remember Diabetes is a silent killer if left untreated. Why not come along for a test and meet members of the Witham Lions, Lionesses and the St John Ambulance volun- teers. Find out what we do to help in the community. We are always looking for new members. Please Contact Tony Stote.01376515291

11 The Ark It's Open House at Rivenhall Village Hall Saturdays 2pm - 4pm Come along with friends for Tea, Coffee & Cake Have fun with Arts, Crafts & Puzzles Meet new friends all ages welcome Tel: 07538 599584 or email [email protected] Bingo! Saturdays 7.30pm - 9.30pm Rivenhall Village Hall, Entry 50p Bring a friend for an evening of fun! Everyone Welcome Call Jack on 01376 514255 Scottish Country Dancing Rivenhall Village Hall 2nd & 4th Monday of the month 7.30 -10pm Great for fitness and a good laugh too! Call Sue on 01206 303338 Coffee Morning Rivenhall Village Hall Every Friday 9am – 12 noon Tea, Coffee, Cake and a chat with friends

CAR TREASURE HUNT Sunday 11th August 2.00 p.m

Start from Rivenhall Hall Farm adj St Mary’s Church £9.00 per Car In Aid of St Mary’s Building and Appeals Com- mittee

For More Information Contact: Martin Andrews 07952 708220

12 GLEN’S

Glen’s School of Motoring DOT ADI Approved Learner Driver Training Manual and Automatic Pass Plus Training Refresher Courses First 2 lessons from £10.00 per hour Tel: 01376 503881 Mob: 07860 356159 [email protected] www.glenssom.co.uk

13 SpeedyBroadband.co.uk

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FOR YOUR FREE SURVEY AND QUOTATION CONTACT SpeedyBroadband on Tel: 01376 568057 Mob: 07904 235101 Janet C Davies Dip. F.D. M.B.I.F.D BRAINTREE & KELEVEDON’S LADY FUNERAL DIRECTOR Offering a full and Comprehensive Funeral Service Telephone 01376 339300 For a Personal and Caring 24 hour service Local Chapel of Rest at Fern House 72 Coggeshall Road Braintree and Victoria House, Trews Gardens, Kelvedon Funerals are arranged and carried out in the Traditional Manner but With ‘The Gentle Touch’ Pre payment Plans available—Floral Tributes arranges—Woodland Burials Bereavement Care—Low Cost Simplicity Funerals - Memorials—Printing Catering—DWP Funerals Part of the Hunnaball Family Group Members of the National Association of Funeral Directors

14 DO YOU USE YOUR CHIMNEY ?

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Cod Father EXCEPTIONS The best Fish & Chips Unisex in the Parish Hairdressing Salon Located in Silver End Village Nr Coop Ring Alex on:- Tel No 01376 584845

Silver End Village Rear of Boots For Appointments Call:- Friendly Service 01376 583133

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15 Jeremy Larke All Televison Systems Catered for Freesat, Freeview, Sky

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16 Backpacking - May 1990 - John Macrae For eighteen consecutive years I planned my own backpacking walks in remote parts of Scotland: these were all tramped during May with my best friend Bruce. In 1990 I plotted my first wild route from Mallaig to Kyle of Lochalsh. There was no internet at this time so much library work and letter writing was required to establish whether my route was possible and to obtain landowners consent. Alighting from a sleeper at Mallaig I headed eagerly inland with compass and maps in hand. In significant heat under cloudless skies we successfully made the intended camp spot by a stream on the south shore of Loch Morar. Tent up, cooked an evening meal, then with our backs to a warming campfire and glass of malt in hand we watched the sun dip out of sight at 9:50pm - and it was still over a month to mid-summer! The next day was a beautiful but long and tiring walk skirting Loch Nevis (loch of heaven), then into Inverie (a coastal village not connected to the road network): there the tent was tucked against a forest edge - loads of midges but fortunately no bites. Day after day of blazing sun scorched all exposed parts of my anatomy (!) so walking by the dark and sheltered shores of Loch Hourn (loch of Hell) gave a short respite. We arrived at Glenelg where after five consecutive nights under canvas we had the luxury of the superb local hotel, a well-earned bath and a very fine dinner. Two more days of nose and ear “treatment” from the scorching sun saw us traversing northwards by the Falls of Glomach (a 370 foot waterfall) until we reached Dornie where I had a particular interest in re-visiting the much photographed Eilean Donan Castle in the heart of traditional Macrae country. My navigational skills next took us to a night in lovely Plockton where its palm-tree lined bay was silhouetted against a magical night sky of luminescent turquoise. The final day was a leisurely stroll around the coast to Kyle of Lochalsh where the twin Skye ferries were then still plying their trade, though the new Skye bridge was nearing completion. So that was my first very own planned and navigated wild walking trip very successfully accomplished.

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19 With considerable sadness we left our Highland tropical climes and caught that night’s sleeper back to London, holiday over and back to work (and yes, the next day it rained!). This was an exciting and remote walk, 146 miles in 9½ days, much of it over open moors, craggy peaks, dizzy cliff tops, refreshing loch shores and dramatic coast. I knew I must do more of this and so it was to be for many years until my companion Bruce sadly died a few years ago. Remaining on my to-do list was a tough remote camping walk in the Flows Nature Reserve in Caithness. So in May this year aged 62 year I dusted-off out my trusty tent, cooking gear, kitchen sink et-al, and tested myself solo (successfully and most enjoyably) but that is yet another story. There is still life in this old dog! John Macrae RIVENHALL GARDENING CLUB The monthly meeting was held in Rivenhall village hall on Tuesday 11th June 2013. The Chairman welcomed members and reminded them of the July visit to Wickham Place Farm and the Fuchsia Show on 13th July. The talk for the evening was a little different when Natalie Smith from Little Bromley Hall came to tell us about her experiences farming rare breed sheep. Natalie started off by farming Portlands but they proved rather difficult in the handling and were not easy to farm so she decided to change to Black Leicester Long Wool sheep, a very rare breed. They have very distinctive and attractive features which ensures a good fleece and Natalie is very involved with sourcing new bloodlines to improve the breed and hence the fleece. These are sent to the Natural Fibre Company where they are organically treated culminating in the beautiful wool that Natalie brought with her to sell — Brumleya Blackwool in double knit, chunky knit and aran. A lovely product from sheep who answer to their name for their 11 to 12 years lifespan! A very enjoyable and amusing evening. COMPETITION RESULTS

Horticultural ( any vegetable ) 1st Don Scott 2nd Faith Murton 3rd Maurice Bacon

Domestic ( Banana Loaf ) 1" Shirley Bacon 2nd Karen Hopegood ( 2 entries )

Flower of the Month 1st Tracy Taylor 2nd Shirley Bacon 3rd Maurice Bacon

20 Please note that there will not be an evening meeting in July, because of the afternoon outing. The Club does not meet in August and the next Club meeting will be on Tuesday 10th September.

************ The FUCHSIA SHOW @ Rivenhall Village Hall will be held on Saturday 13th July, doors open at 2.15pm.

************* The SUMMER SHOW @ Rivenhall Village Hall will be on Saturday 7th September, also opening at 2.15pm.

************* Both Shows are well worth a visit and we look forward to seeing you. Homemade refreshments will be served and there will be a raffle at each event. For further details contact the Club secretary on 01376 512781.

The Club's Plant Sale held in May raised £303 for Club funds. Thank you to everyone who grew plants and donated cakes and who came along to support the event.

21st of July 11.00 a.m St Mary’s Giving For Today Welcome our Guest Preacher the Rev. Jenny Tomlinson

The service today will be about giving and answering the fundamental questions:-

Why Should we give? How much? How is our money spent? How does the Church make ends meet

21 The East Window at St Mary and All Saints, Rivenhall French Glass

the stained glass windows in churches led by Christopher Parkinson. The period of the 11th and 12th Centuries were probably the golden era of stained glass

this period. The East Window at St Mary’s is considered by the experts to be

Rivenhall church was remodeled in 1838-9 by J. A. Repton (2), but archaeologi- cal 0th or 11th century sur- vives. Much of the old glass together with some other pieces at the Rectory was brought to the church in 1840 from France by the then rector, Revd B. D. Haw- kins. The 12th and possibly the 13th and 16th century panels are said to have come from the church of St Chénu in Sarthe. The church at Chénu was rebuilt in the 16th century but has architectural features of a late Romanesque

brought to Rivenhall being made about 1170-80. The fact that parish churches in France and England were installing painted glass during the 12 th century has been explored by Marks (3). Whilst there is no documentary evidence that the later 16th century glass came from Chénu, the rebuilding of the church in the 16th century suggests it could well have come from here. Chénu The glass from Chénu was set in the east window at Rivenhall around 1840. The layout was modified in the 1950’s. Current Layout of the Glass in the East window entombment late 12th C; two large figures of bishops or abbots, 12th C; a figure on horseback in banded

bishop and various panels with ﬁgure subjects, fragments etc of various dates. SW window 3 medallions, including one of God the Father, late 15th /early 16th C. Nave, middle north window Shields of arms, various fragments and two roundels, one with a skull and one with the handkerchief of St Veronica, 16th and 17th C; in tracery 14th C ornament.

22 Middle S window 14th & 15th C fragments in tracery. The glass was removed for safety during the Second World War and following

CHRIST IN MAJESTY (1)

body halo) supported by two angels. Christ has ascended in triumph and both rules the world, symbolised by the open

by the right hand gesture

THE ENTOMBMENT (2) Of course, Christ was raised from the grave to ascend into heaven, and this medallion tells that part of the story by

of the sarcophagus and the lamp show the current fashion in design.

VIRGIN AND CHILD (3) The Virgin Mary has always been important in the life of the sis on her role as Mother of God. Our medallion is unique in combining the iconography of the Virgin in Majesty with the sceptres (the Virgin is Queen of Angels). Yet on her lap she holds the Child Christ and tenderly she looks at him and not straight ahead and oﬀers him her breast, symbolising her motherhood of Christ. The dove of the holy spirit reminds us of his role in bringing Christ to birth.

THE ANNUNCIATION (4) holds up her hand in surprise and prayer at the visit of the Angel Gabriel half kneeling on

23 Family Fun The seventh commandment is "thou shall not admit adultery." David was a Hebrew king, skilled at playing the liar. God sent a message to Abraham that he would have a son with his wife Sarah. Sarah was listening behind the door, and she laughed. A notice on a church notice board read:- Come Early and Get a Back Row Seat A Somerset couple visiting Canterbury Cathedral were approached by an American tourist who asked: “Say—is this place open on Sundays?. A child was asked why no man can serve two masters. He prompt- ly replied: “ Because you are not allowed to have two wives”.

An English Rose.

The rose is England's national flower. There are fourteen species to be found in the UK, but the one we are most likely to know is the Dog Rose, Rosa canina. The Dog Rose has a single flower with white to pink petals, and the fruit, the hip, is red and flask shaped. The remains of these hips have been found in pre-historic dwelling sites, which suggests that these plants have long been used by man. In fact as recently as the second world war children in country schools were asked to collect rose hips, which were made in to a syrup, rich in vitamin C, which was given to babies and young children as oranges were unavailable during the war. The roots of wild roses are cultivated and used in the commercial production of hy- brid roses. The buds of hybrids are grafted onto the wild rose root stock, thus speeding up production. I have been successful in rooting hardwood cuttings of modern varieties. In October I cut a 12inch hardwood stem, about as thick as ( my) index finger, and push 8 ins of it into the soil. The following Spring (with a bit of luck ) there will be signs of new growth. I leave it for 2 years and by then it should have a good root system. New varieties of roses are protected by plant breed- ers rights. They must not be sold! Gardeners learn to be patient, you cannot hurry nature. Treehugger

24 End to End Nature Care. Sometimes the group spend evenings focussing on botany, and I thought it might be interesting to recount a recent such evening. You don’t have to go to nature reserves or RHS gardens to enjoy plants and we simply walked out into the countryside down Western Lane from Silver End. The nominal aim of the evening was to complete the wildflower count survey organised by the charity Plantlife (www.plantlife.org.uk) but aside from filling in a form as we went along, it was essentially a stroll just looking at and identifying local wild plants. One or two within the group were quite experienced at plant identification while others were much less so, but it was a chance for all to learn and improve their skills and liberal use was made of field guidebooks. In taking the trouble to record what is found, it can be surprising what turns up and also which common plants are not seen. We had not gone far when were pleased to encounter wild hops but, despite recording many well known plants such as daisy, creeping buttercup, cow parsley, bramble, stinging nettle, cleavers and hawthorn we soon became aware that we were struggling to find any plantains, or holly, or red campion, or red dead-nettle, all very common plants in our area. Eventually we did find hoary and ribwort plantains but none of the others. One of the more interesting points of discussion on the evening con- cerned plants of the cabbage family (Brassicaceae or Cruciferae). Some of the fields contained a crop of oilseed rape, a member of that family, but several wild species of the family were also noted. It seems to have been a very good year for garlic mustard, which was growing in thick clumps in numerous places (and is a much beloved food of pet tortoises so I’m told) and close attention had to be paid to the guidebooks to identify all the hedge mustard which was very vari- able in character, partly due in places to being affected by the crop spraying but tending to be given away by the shape of the basal leaves and the size and arrangement of its flowers. Another plant ex- hibiting a great variety of form and habit and hence making identification a little tricky at times, was nipplewort, this time a member of the daisy family (the Asteraceae which, like the Brassicaceae, con- tains a very large number of British wildflower species). We ended up by a quite diverse local hedgerow containing, amongst other things, knapweed, scabious and the local speciality sulphur clo- ver, yet to flower but recognisable by its large leaves. By this time,

25 after the best part of 2 hours of botanising, the light was beginning to fade and the temperature to drop, so we adjourned to the Western Arms to discuss the evening’s findings. Forthcoming activities are listed below and all are very welcome to join in. Full details of these and all the group’s activities are available on our website at www.e2e.silverend.org or by contacting Simon on 01621 810141 or 07947 388180.

Wildflower Count. Meet at Hole Farm, off Cressing Wednesday 19.30 Road (under the small railway bridge - TL803187). 3rdJuly Bring plant ID guides. Small-leaved Lime survey in Tarecroft Wood. Meet in Wednesday 19.30 the parking area at the bottom of the track to the 10thJuly Wood (TL824171). Church geology. Visiting a couple of local churches to Wednesday examine the geology of the building materials. Meet at 19.30 17thJuly Stovern's Hall Farm (TL825172) from where we will be travelling on. Summer Social at Stovern's Hall Farm (TL825172). Plant Wednesday and invertebrate surveying in Wilson's pond plus a 19.30 24thJuly Committee meeting and a social evening - bring a bottle and/or nibbles. Daytrip to carry out further freshwater recording on Wednesday 9.00 the River Cam at Audley End, with Peter and Pam 27thJuly ALL Wilson. We will arrange car share in advance. Bring Saturday DAY wellies, nets, etc plus packed lunch. Glowworm surveying on the River Walk, Witham. Meet Wednesday 21.00 in the Mill Lane car park, opposite The Swan pub. Bring 31stJuly LATE a torch.

Book your ticket to attend a wonderful wildflower event at Plantlife’s Ranscombe Farm Reserve, on Saturday 27th July, 12-4pm. Bring your own picnic lunch. Light refreshments, cakes and cream teas will be available. Guided wildflower walks and talks will begin at 2pm. The event is a partnership event between Plantlife and the National Gardens Scheme. It is open to members and non-members of both organisations. Tickets will be allocated on a first come first served basis – so early booking is advised as places are limited. Book via the National Gardens Scheme website here: http://www.ngs.org.uk/shop-online/product.aspx?id=53 Booking will close on Monday 22nd July. Tickets are £5 in aid of Plantlife – under 16s free.

26 SEUFC are proud to host the annual

Saturday 27th July 1pm –5pm “Conker Park” (behind Co-op) Silver End

This year we are raising money for Silver Tots and improve- ments to SEUFC pavilion to enable greater community use

 Teddy Tombola  Tug of War  Bouncy Castle  Cross Bar Challenge  BBQ  Tombola  Treasure Island  Golf  Raﬄe  Coconut Shie  Wine or Water 

   Bean Bag Game  Cakes

28 Sideshows

Pony Rides FETE Saturday 20th July 2pm — 5pm Albert Moss Playing Field Tug of War

Races

Rivenhall Heritage Event Exhibition of “Old Rivenhall” Paintings by Local Artist in Village Hall

Rivenhall Heritage Event

Rivenhall Village Hall Saturday 20th July 1.30pm - 4.30pm

Rivenhall - Past & Present Free Entry

And while you're here, visit our Summer Fun Day on the Albert Moss Playing Field, rear of the village hall. If you have any old photos or artefacts you could lend for the exhibition we'd be very pleased to hear from you. Please contact any committee member or email [email protected]

27 Organisations in Rivenhall Clerk to Parish Council Keith Taylor 516975 Email [email protected] meets every first Tuesday Age Concern (Witham area) Margaret Prime 514255 End to End Nature Care Simon Taylor 01621 810141 Gardening Club Carole McCarthy 512781 Meets on 2nd Tuesday at 7.30pm in Village Hall Carpet Bowls Mick Marshall 512836 Meets every Thursday at 7.30pm in Village Hall Playing Fields Association Stephanie Bills 07594 648117 Facilities Hire of Village Hall Stephanie Bills 07594 648117 Hire of Henry Dixon Hall Dot Taylor 571551 Mobile Library 10th 24th July Beech Road 4.10 to 4.30. p.m. Oak Stores is open Mon to Fri 6.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat & 7.30 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. Sun The proprietors are Sam and Kirsty Norman 618659 It is planned to have the Post Office re-opened as soon as possible

Organisations in Silver End Clerk to Parish Council Mrs B. M. Temple 618464 Email [email protected] Bowls Club Roy Howard 583222 Children’s Centre Jane Carey 587960 Neighbourhood Police PC Simon Hull 07974 457258 Congregational Church Sharon Gray 583913 First Responders Mel Gymer 585535 Friendship Club Ruth Aitkin 583846 Silver End Gad Abouts Denise Sullens Smith 583055 Gardening Club Cynthia Wright 583485 Guiding Group Sam Hutchings 07977 418192 Neighbourhood Watch Judy Hill 07896 975839 Scouting Group Denise Sullens Smith 583055 St Mary’s Church (R.C.) Vivian Phillips 583598 Tennis Club Jason Cairns 584581 Workers Educational Assoc. Brian Gillion 583706 Luncheon Club Helen Thomson 583255 Doctors Surgery 583387 Silver End Heritage Society Jackier Nesbitt 585702 Post Office in Co-op - please note that it closes at Lunchtime Library: Tues & Thurs - 2pm to 6pm Saturday 9am to 1pm St. Francis Church Silver End Saturday 20th July 2013 7.30 p.m. Harp Recital By Kirsten Smith

Tickets £8 Inc Strawberries & Cream and a Glass of Wine

IN AID OF ST FRANCIS RAISE THE ROOF APPEAL All enquiries to Clare Hope 01376 502605