Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Classifieds
Your new, family run Opticians in Long Stratton Your local, family run opticians at M Shepherd are here to provide you with the utmost in quality care for your eyes; a friendly, helpful and truly personal service and the latest in dispensing technology. For straightforward advice, comprehensive eye examinations, an extensive range of standard and designer frames and sunglasses, contact lenses, accessories and a warm welcome, drop in to see us at M Shepherd on The Street.
Opening Times Monday – Closed Tuesday to Friday – 9am to 5pm Saturday – 9am to 1pm Sunday – Closed
1 Cooper Court, The Street, Long Stratton, NR15 2XG Telephone: 01508 532669 www.mshepherdoptom.co.uk 2
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
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Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Parish Council, Serving the Village of Tasburgh
Meetings Parish Council meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month in the Committee Room of the Village Hall at 8pm (refreshments available from 7.30pm). Planning Meetings, if required, are usually held on the first Tuesday of the month, in the Village Hall Committee Room at 7pm. Agendas are posted on the village notice boards and the website at least three days beforehand. Public are welcome to attend all Parish Council meetings; there’s an opportunity to speak or ask questions. Please note, if you would like an item to appear on the agenda, details must be sent to the Clerk at least eight days before the meeting. The Council is unable to make a decision on anything not included on the agenda but can discuss newly raised matters and refer them to the next meeting. Minutes of meetings are posted on the website or are available from the Clerk. Parish Council Surgeries Councillors are always willing to discuss any issues with you; their contact details are on page 5. In addition, Councillors are available on the evenings of their main council meetings (third Tuesday of the month) between 7.30pm and 8pm during which time refreshments are served. 4
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Parish Council, Serving the Village of Tasburgh Contacting the Parish Council If you would like to know more, have any comments about Tasburgh Parish Council and its work or you have any issues you wish to be raised, please contact one of the Councillors or the Parish Clerk. Chairman Dave Moore 16 Henry Preston Road 471041 david.g.moore@homecall.co.uk Vice-Chairman Geoff Merchant 14 Orchard Way 470606 geoffmerchant@btinternet.com Councillors Jill Casson 12 Hastings Close 470334 jillian_casson@btinternet.com Brian Hill 8 Harvey Close 471011 brian.hill2@homecall.co.uk Tony Lacey 1 Grove lane 470870 tony_lacey@btinternet.com Don Proudfoot Aprilia Lodge, Saxlingham Lane 471408 fulmech@macace.net Keith Read Thornly Barn, Saxlingham Lane 470229 k.a.read@btinternet.com Deborah Sacks Glebe Cottage, Low Road 471002 deborah.sacks@btinternet.com Rachel Simmons 2 Prior Close 471197 rachelsimmons1974@yahoo.co.uk Clerk Catherine Moore Jubilee Farm, Fleggburgh Road 01493 Rollesby, Norfolk NR29 5HH 749918 tasburghpc@btinternet.com Website http://tasburghpc.norfolkparishes.gov.uk/ 5
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Parish Council Parish Council Report
It’s been a busy three months since the last Quarterly and you will find elsewhere in this edition details of two projects that the Parish Council have completed so far this year – the official opening of the Horseshoe Way (another footpath in the village) and the refurbishment of the War Memorial that stands in the grounds of St Mary’s Church. Plus, only recently, the Parish Council held its annual meeting of the Parish which gives everyone the opportunity to hear a report of the Council’s activities, examine the financial report and to hear from the various community groups within the village. Of course, you don’t have to wait a full 12 months to hear what the Council are doing. Parishioners are welcome to attend any of the monthly meetings, held in the Committee Room at the Village Hall on the third Tuesday of the month. The dates are published on the Parish Council website as well as posted on the notice boards around the village. The proposed solar park on a site just outside of the parish boundary and which borders Long Stratton has moved on further in the planning process. Tasburgh Parish Council are keen to see a permissive footpath constructed as part of the development which would improve links between Tasburgh and Long Stratton. The group behind the project had indicated that there would be some money available to move a track through the site to allow footpath access around the development. South Norfolk Council have kindly agreed to fund the defibrillator which will be housed outside the Village Hall. So that everyone has an idea on how it works, the Council have invited the Ambulance service to demonstrate the equipment in September - further details will be published in the Autumn Quarterly, and we hope that as many people as possible will take this opportunity to find out how to use this 6
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Parish Council lifesaving equipment. The Parish Council is pleased to be able to offer the facility to the village. Finally, the new vehicle activated signs have been installed on the Grove Lane bends and after some initial teething problems, seem to be working as they should. Of course, the hope is that motorists will navigate the bends as slowly as possible and be aware of both oncoming vehicles and pedestrians.
The Horseshoe Way Official Opening On Wednesday 23rd April 2014 the Parish Council was proud to welcome the Chairman of Norfolk County Council, Mrs Hilary Cox, to officially open the Horseshoe Way. Arriving at the end of the second day of her three day walking and cycling journey from King’s Lynn to Great Yarmouth, Mrs Cox had set out from Gressenhall at 7am and reached us at 6pm. After making a speech where she mentioned her amusement at the price paid for the footpath - a pint of Adnams - Mrs Cox cut the ribbon and led walkers through to the village hall where light refreshments were offered. The Parish Council was then proud to host an evening where other parish councils were invited to find out about how they could set up footpaths in their local areas. This was an interesting evening enjoyed by all who attended.
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Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Parish Council
Tasburgh Emergency Co-Ordinator Julie Lawrence The Tasburgh Emergency Plan is all but finalised and I would like to thank everyone who has made offers of help or resources that could be taken up in the event of an emergency, or who have assisted in its preparation. The aim of the plan is to increase the short-term community resilience in the event of a significant event that threatens to overwhelm the usual functioning of the village, such as flooding, loss of power or serious storm damage. It may also include a breakdown in communications or transport where vulnerable residents may have vital services disrupted such as the provision of health care, medicines, home help or delivered meals. This winter saw many villages that had to manage the severe flooding by themselves for a considerable time before help was received from the wider society. We are very fortunate to have the agreement of the Village Hall Committee to use their building as an emergency centre should it be necessary. Being centrally placed within the village, this building proves an ideal place to co-ordinate any disaster and provide a refuge for any displaced individuals until temporary accommodation can be found. My role is to provide a link between this village community and other organisations who plan and respond to an emergency, by working with both the Parish Council and the District Emergency Planning Team at South Norfolk Council. At home, there is also much that you and those around you can do to prepare for an emergency. If you are the sort of person who writes a list before you go on holiday to make sure you pack everything you need, (such as make arrangements with family or neighbours to feed the cat, water the plants or look after the children, or list jobs to do 8
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Parish Council as part of your day-to-day life), you could also do them to help yourself prepare for an emergency if you had to leave the house quickly for a few days. This could include a list of key telephone numbers, policy numbers, a copy of your prescription, information that is safely tucked in that box at the back of the cupboard in that ‘impossible to get to place’, so that you could grab it quickly on your way out of the door. If you have any comments or suggestions regarding the implementation of the Emergency Plan, I can be reached through the Parish Council Clerk at tasburghpc@btinternet.com.
Tasburgh War Memorial In the last Quarterly we reported that the Parish Council had taken over responsibility for the war memorial in the churchyard of St Mary’s Church. Following a light pressure wash, Mike Amiss of Mike Amiss Signs kindly offered to repaint the names free of charge, which the Parish Council is extremely grateful for. I am sure that you will agree, looking at the pictures below, that the improvement is a fitting tribute to the brave men who fought in the first and second world wars.
Before....
....and after! 9
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Useful Contacts Parish Council Chairman Parish Council Clerk District Councillor County Councillor Norfolk Police Safer Neighbourhood Team Church Reverend Martin Hartley Parochial Church Council Yellow Pages Village Hall Chair Bookings
Mr Dave Moore 01508 471041 Mrs Catherine Moore 01493 749918 Mrs Florence Ellis 01379 650032 Mrs Alison Thomas 01508 530652 Emergency 999 Non-emergency 101 sntlongstratton@norfolk.pnn.police.uk Church News Mrs Julia Orpin Mrs Julia Orpin
07976 643560 01508 470983 01508 470983
Mr Tony Lacey Mrs Sheila Plunkett Mrs Melanie Goodall
01508 470870 01508 470485 01508 470195 01508 471189 01508 470454
Village Hall Preston Primary School Village Groups Playschool Mrs Amanda Ellis 01508 470795 Scout Group Mr Graham Pates 01508 471518 Social Club Mr Don Proudfoot 01508 471408 Netball Club Mrs Rebecca Heaser 01603 812472 Eurolink Mr Steve Beckett 01508 471198 Allotment Society Mr Simon Orford 01508 471539 Coffee Pot and Crafts Mrs Shirley Brooks 01508 470369 St Mary’s Guild Mrs Margaret Madgett 01508 471525 Fitness Club (Over 50's) Mrs Ann Gibbins 01508 470225 Fat Dad’s Football Mr Bill Wheeler 01508 471633 Martial Arts Mr Andrew Gillingwater 07775 890359 Inaccuracies or omissions? Please contact the Parish Clerk tasburghpc@btinternet.com.
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Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Are you interested in affordable housing? Do you live or work in the South Norfolk district? If so, you could be eligible to join the housing register. Contact South Norfolk Council’s Housing and Advice team on 0808 168 2222 or email housingadvice@s-norfolk.gov.uk for more information.
Superfast Broadband I don’t know how many businesses in this part of Norfolk need Broadband to assist in running their businesses but there must be many individuals who get frustrated by the slow download and upload speeds currently available. Fibre optics are very slowly being introduced in various parts of Norfolk and my daughter, who lives in Kenninghall, has just got superfast Broadband with download speeds of 69.8 mb/s and upload speeds of 17.3 mb/s compared to my current speeds of download 5.1 mb/s and upload speeds of 0.4 mb/s!! She is also paying LESS for the privilege! I think these speeds speak for themselves! I believe that BT are rolling out Infinity (fibre optics) on a “most demand” basis and if this is correct then it is down to us to create the demand. Could I suggest that we all register here: http://www.superfast-openreach.co.uk/expression-gen.aspx (I did this some time ago) to create the demand which hopefully will bring us faster speeds this year instead of some time in the future. The Swainsthorpe exchange (which covers Tasburgh) is still “under evaluation” according to BT – let’s try and hurry this along – please!
Sue Hines 11
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Village Hall
Thanks to everyone who joined us for our Quiz and Spud evening, a great event with many teams and the added bonus of some good profits to share with Tasburgh Sea Scouts. Join us for the upcoming fundraising events organized by the Village Hall Management Committee: 31st May 2014 - Bingo! - we are joining forces with Tasburgh United Football Club to host a Bingo event. As mentioned in the last Quarterly, we’ve got ambitious plans looking to greatly improve the parking, drainage and recycling facilities. We expect this to be a complex project in terms of project planning and obtaining grant funding – so if you feel that you have some skills which could help with this we’d love to hear from you. Please contact either our Chair Tony Lacey tony_lacey@btinternet.com or Secretary Angela Schug aschug@btinternet.com if you’d like to get involved. We are also working with Tasburgh Parish Council to enable a new defibrillator to be installed at the Hall. Tasburgh Village Hall & Playing Field Grove Lane, Tasburgh, Norfolk, NR15 1LR Bookings Tel: Sheila 01508 470485 Mel 01508 470195 Bookings@tasburghvillagehaall.org.uk Registered Charity No. 304085 12
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Tasburgh Village Hall
Tasburgh Village Hall Annual General Meeting Tuesday 3rd June 7pm at the Village Hall Please come along to raise any suggestions, offer support and hear what we’ve been doing over the past year.
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Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Mobile Library Timetable Dates of visits to Tasburgh
5th June 19th June 3rd July 17th July 31st July 14th August 28th August
Stop
Arrival Time 14.15 14.55 15.10 15.25 15.55 16.15
Harvey Close Valley Road Opposite No. 2 Valley Road Near No. 27 Lammas Rd / Henry Preston Rd Lammas Rd Near Prior Close Orchard Way
Any queries please telephone 01603 222267.
Long Stratton Library Opening Times Monday: 10.00–1.00; 2.00–5.30; Tuesday: 2.00–5.30; Thursday: 10.00–1.00; 2.00–7.30; Saturday: 9.00–1.00.
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Departure Time 14.50 15.05 15.20 15.50 16.10 16.30
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh United Charities The Trustees of Tasburgh United Charities would like to remind parishioners that they have available each year a certain amount of money to be applied in helping the residents of the Parish who, regardless of their age and for whatever reason, find themselves in need of financial help. Assistance can be given by outright grant towards general expenses, by contribution towards a particular expense, a temporary loan or by purchases of equipment for use. Items of further education will also be considered. Remember, the money is there for use by any resident of Tasburgh. All applications are considered in the strictest confidence. If your circumstances are not already known to the Trustees and you feel that they might be able to help you please contact one of the trustees: Mrs. Jill Casson 12 Hastings Close, 470334 Mr. Keith Read, Thornly Barn, Saxlingham Lane, 470229 Mr. Ben Goodfellow, Rookery House, Saxlingham Lane, 470668 Mr. Geoff Merchant, 14 Orchard Way, 470606.
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Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Players This is the last article from Tasburgh Players. Formed in 1977, the group has decided to close its curtains for the final time. At an emotional meeting, where at least 3 people present were among the original Players, it was agreed that we could no longer support a new production either in terms of the cast or directors. This has come about for a variety of reasons. Our problems at the village hall are well documented but we have increasingly found it difficult to arrange dates and the loss of our stage, which was rebuilt from the one at Rainthorpe Hall, meant all of our scenery, props, curtains etc were of no use. None of these were fit to be used on the new stage. We did look at alternative venues and had a few possibilities, but found that our cast base had diminished and people could not commit to the level of rehearsal that would be demanded. So after 37 years Tasburgh Players have had to disband. We have already sold one of our storage containers to the village hall and are in the process of emptying the other. We aim to offer costumes to other local groups or charities while the props will probably have to be dumped. The players have a small balance in the accounts and the group wanted to leave a legacy in the village so that the memory would not be forgotten. We agreed to fund the cost of 5 new bell ropes in St Mary’s which will be greatly appreciated and hopefully will last as long as the present ones. We are talking with the school to see if they have an item or event that the players could fund or sponsor and similarly we may approach the village hall or parish council if funds permit. We would like to thank all the cast and crew past and present for their dedication, professionalism and support for the group, and of course all the thousands of people in our audiences who supported and enjoyed our productions. Efforts will be made to compile an official history of the players so that a permanent record can be kept of the achievements of this remarkable group. 16
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Eurolink This year sees a remarkable anniversary; the 25th year of our association with our friends in Linden Belgium. To mark the occasion we are planning a busy weekend at the end of June when they arrive in Tasburgh. On the Friday we are hosting a formal reception at South Norfolk House, where we hope that the new Chairman of the Council will lead us in acknowledging the achievements of the group and the fond memories we all share. On the Saturday we are trying to give them a taste of Norfolk with a trip to Cromer to enjoy tea and cakes and the End of the Pier Show in the evening. On Sunday it will be a time to relax and hopefully enjoy the summer weather. We have also booked a date for our Safari supper on August 2nd so keep the date free if you can and enjoy what is always a fun evening.
Dates for Your Diary 3rd June
Tasburgh Village Hall AGM, 7pm
21st June
TasFest, Tasburgh Playing Field, 12noon
12th July
Playgroup Paper Skip, Tasburgh Village Hall, 8.30 - 11.30am
2nd August
Tasburgh Eurolink Safari Supper
If you would like your event listed on this page just let us know. tasburghpc@btinternet.com 17
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Long Stratton Surgery Along with 18 other Practices in Norfolk this month we are advertising and competing for new GP’s to join our team. Never in the history of this county have there been so many vacancies chasing so few suitable applicants. As one of only three Practices in Norfolk with the coveted Quality Practice Award of The Royal College we should be in a good position to recruit excellent replacements for myself, Dr Kestin and, in due course next year, Dr Bamber. There is an alarming national shortage of GP’s which threatens the family doctor service, as we know it, with extinction. The bad news this week is that a third of training vacancies in Norfolk remain unfilled. The youngsters are giving this difficult job a wide berth. We actually need double the number to keep up with the current rate of wastage. All discerning Doctors, when looking at a job vacancy, will want to know how the patients rate the service. The first port of call for this is NHS Choices - where we currently have a ‘one star’ rating on the basis of scoring from three disaffected clients over the last 5 years. This is the problem with these ratings websites – satisfied customers don’t feel the need to express their satisfaction. I personally believe this one star rating and some of the negative comments are a travesty. I love this practise, it’s staff and it’s patients. It has been a wonderful 28 years of my life. This is a fantastic Practice trying hard to do a good job - and substantially succeeding! All our current lists are full so there’s little chance of absorbing 4,500 patients onto the remaining doctors’ panels. And our neighbouring practices also have GP vacancies. There is something we can all do about this. Type the following into Google “NHS Choices Long Stratton” and give us your rating. If your experience has in any way been positive, if it compares favourably to what your friends are getting elsewhere and you care about who will be your family GP for the next 20 years then give us a rating. If you’ve got a good GP say so. Your comments really count. 18
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Tasburgh Keep Fit Club FITNESS AND FUN FOR THE OVER FIFTIES The Tasburgh Keep Fit Club for the over 50s was set up in September 2008. Funding to purchase equipment was received from South Norfolk District Council and subsequent funding received from Norfolk Community Foundation purchased further pieces of equipment and allowed the Club to reduce its fees to members. The Club is a non-profit making club. At the time of the Club’s proposed formation Craig Fleming, the former captain of Norwich City FC, lived in the village and, although no longer playing football, he was a qualified personal trainer. When approached about the possibility of establishing a local fitness club for the over fifties, he was totally receptive to the idea and after a short recruitment period the Club commenced operation in September 2008. The Club operates a system of circuit training concentrating on core strengths, balance and cardiac exercise, using a variety of equipment. It is all very beneficial and great fun with much banter and laughter throughout the sessions. Although at present we have around 15 active members, 45 have at some time benefited from the Club’s activities. New members are always welcome and a free taster session is offered, after which members are charged £5 per hour to cover costs (less if Craig cannot be there). The Club covers not only Tasburgh but the surrounding area too and holds the sessions in Tasburgh Village Hall, where there is ample parking, each Thursday between 2pm and 3pm. If you are over 50 (men and women) you are welcome to come and see us in action. General enquiries can be made to Ann Gibbins on 01508 470225.
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Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tas Valley Pre-School and Playgroup T as Va ll ey
P re - S c h o ol
&
P l a y g ro u p
We offer 5 sessions a week Monday to Friday 9.30 to 12.30 Tasburgh Village Hall. for children aged from 2 to 5 We are now accepting children from age 2 We currently have spaces in all sessions and we are now able to accept eligible funded two-year-olds, as well as funded three and four year-olds. We are now well into the final term for our current pre-schoolers, who all seem to be eagerly looking forward to going to ‘big school’ in September. We have planted potatoes, carrots, radishes, peas and sunflowers on our allotment plot, and are running a ‘who can grow the tallest bean’ competition. Thanks to a generous grant from Norfolk County Council we have been enjoying our new laptop, and the children have been showing the staff how to use a touch screen. We have also purchased a range of other new toys and equipment, mainly resources that we hope to be able to use outside this term such as a large wooden garage, bricks and various water and gardening tools. Future events – we will be running stalls at both TasFest and the school fete on July 4th. On Friday June 27th we are having a Sponsored Toddle around the village hall field to raise money for our funds. Please come along and cheer the children on – last year we had some very competitive boys who ran round 10 times! Then on Friday 18th July we are holding our leavers party and Sports Day, 20
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Tas Valley Pre-School and Playgroup on the field – fingers crossed for good weather. Also, following the success of our last 50/50 sale in March, we are planning another, so watch this space for further details. Is there anybody out there who would like to join our friendly committee? You don’t have to be a parent – all are welcome, especially if you would like to take over as our treasurer. If you are interested, please contact Julie (number below) or Jill Casson, or come along to our AGM on 21st July.
For more information or to register a place please contact: Julie King 01508 470759 Julieking22@btinternet.com Or feel welcome to just pop in and see us any morning.
WE NEED YOUR PAPER!! (AND CARDBOARD AND NEWSPAPERS) Please save your paper, card and newspapers and bring it along to the paper skip at the Village Hall on July 12th. 8.30am – 11.30am
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Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Preston Primary School
Since the deadline for the last bulletin in February a Tag Rugby Team was arranged at Diss Rugby Club for Year 3 children where we won some matches but were not overall winners, School closed on 17th February for half term re-opening on 24th February. A parents discussion over ‘a cup of tea’ was arranged for Friday 28th February. These discussions allow parents to put their points forward and the school identity and sport were the main topics. On Tuesday 11th March Grasshopper Class visited Flixton Aviation Museum in connection with their 1940’s topic. Their exemplary behaviour and costumes were commented on by the organisers. From 12th - 14th March Year 5 and 6 went on a residential trip to Aylmerton. The children had a marvellous time visiting the seals at Blakeney Point, orienteering, agility training and hunting monsters in Felbrigg woods. They also visited Cromer for an evening bowling session, had a late night walk and spooky story session. Once again the children behaved impeccably throughout their stay. On 25th March Dragonfly Class visited the Norfolk Record Office. Here they looked at local documents from the 1940’s On Thursday 27th March Year R had a trip to Norwich to see the ‘Gruffalo’ where they had fun interacting with the performers. On Friday 28th Year 6 had a Maths Day at Long Stratton High School. 22
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Preston Primary School The Friends ran an Easter Bingo on the evening of 28th March and a grand sum of ÂŁ250 was raised. Easter Assembly was held in Tasburgh Church on 3rd April and the following day marked the start of the Easter holiday. Decorated eggs were left in the church for churchgoers and visitors to look at and vote for, and the winner was announced on Easter Sunday. On 23rd April Years 1 and 2 had an outing to Gressenhall Museum where they joined in some of the many activities available. On 24th April there was a competition for the best Easter Hat. A great deal of imagination went into the manufacture of these. A parade was followed by a prize giving. Progress is being made on a new wooden playground ship being built in the playground. The diggers are causing great excitement amongst the children who are watching each stage with great excitement. There will also be a new sandpit to take the place of the old play train which has had its day and will be leaving us soon. This project is being funded mostly by the Friends of the school and will cost three to four thousand pounds. The children are organising their own special event on Friday 23rd May to help towards this and will be doing sponsored laps on wheels! Road safety training for Years R and 1 will begin on Monday 12th May. One extra after school club item that has been very successful is Lacrosse. This will be replaced later by Tennis. We would like to invite any Senior Citizens (60 plus) who are not already known to us and who would like to be invited to events at school such as the Christmas play to please get in touch with the school office. We feel that we may not be aware of everyone who would like to be included on our list. You would be made very welcome. 23
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Scout Group We have had a good start to the Summer Term with a full Colony of 26 Children. Several of the children enjoyed being part of the Group’s parade for St. Georges Day. As in theory it should be nice weather this term (its raining as I’m writing this) we intend to be outside as much as possible, activities to include a hike, a visit to Whitlingham Park for a picnic, and cooking sausages and burgers over an open fire. Then in July we are having a space-themed sleepover. Beavers are the youngest section of the Scout Group, open to girls and boys between the ages of 6 and 8. We are operating a short waiting list at the moment but if you would like more info please contact me, Kirsteen, on 01508 471739 or kirsteen_mills@hotmail.com This term has been one of transition for Tasburgh Cubs. We have welcomed four Beavers to join our ranks, but have lost four to move on up to Scouts and a couple more to life in general. This means that at present we have some capacity, so if there are any young people aged eight to ten and a half who would like to join in with what we get up to, please get in contact. We have also welcomed some new help on the leader front, although we still need more people willing to put on a very smart uniform and do some training to enable us to carry on. The team we have at present will reduce in the near future and replacements must be found. If you cannot commit to this level, we would love to hear from you about being an Occasional Helper. Please get in touch with Graham Pates as Group Scout Leader, or myself, and have a chat. This term we will be hiking, map reading, trying for the new Outdoors Cooking Badge and cycling as well as the usual water games night at the end of the summer. We are also going to camp again at Great Hautbois in June, an event that has been very enjoyable in the past. The setting is idyllic and there are a great range of activities for the Cubs to partake in, 24
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Scout Group from canoeing and climbing to camp fires and maybe even sleeping. Finally, mention should be made of two of our Cubs, Matthew Richardson and Nicola Dawson, who have gained their Chief Scout’s Silver Award, the highest achievement a Cub can make – well done. Mike Dawson, Tasburgh Cubs. Tel 01508 471002 mikedawson1@gmail.com At Tasburgh Scouts this term, it's been a mixture of 'business as usual' and changes, to both the leaders and the programme. In the Scout section, we've kept most of the activities we did last year - games, camps, and the odd Christmas visit to Quasar - but with a few new additions, such as a Christmas quiz organised by the Young Leaders and a hike in the far-away fields of Poringland. In addition to this, the Scouts were given the opportunity to immerse themselves in Scottish culture with the annual Burns Night activities; these included tossing the caber, eating haggis, tatties and neeps (although most of them were unaware what haggis was actually made from, which is probably just as well), and a debate over whether or not Scotland should become independent - you can't say that the Scouts lack knowledge of world affairs. That's around all for this term - we all hope that the next one will be just as fun and action-packed. Tom Musgrove Explorers have had a busy few months since last Autumn's report in the Quarterly. November saw us helping with a tuckshop at the Bear Music event at the Village Hall, raising money for Children in Need. The following week 3 hardy Explorers spent the night camping in the frost to raise money for Shelterbox. The rest of the Explorers came out and helped set up camp and kept us company on the Friday evening and in total we raised over £700, more than enough to send a Shelterbox to help victims of the typhoon in the Philippines. 25
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Scout Group The Explorers have been encouraged to express their creativity at a talent show and a portrait painting evening. Social activities have included a film evening at the start of the Spring term and a pancake night in March. They have also taken part in more physical events such as Tae Kwon Do at the Norwich Association of Martial Arts, a hike from Aslacton to Long Stratton, a wide game out in the woods and the excavation of the Tasburgh milestone. Only about a foot was visible above ground but we had to dig out another 4 feet underground! The milestone is currently being cleaned and repainted before being returned to its site by the Foundry plant centre on the A140. Murder was on the menu in January, 14 Explorers dressed up in glamorous 1940s costumes for a 4-course murder mystery meal set in Casablanca. This was great fun and all the Explorers really entered into the spirit of the evening, remaining in character throughout. Also in January was Wintercamp, a weekend trip to the home of UK Scouting at Gilwell Park on the outskirts of London. A muddy weekend but packed full of great activities! Two of our Leaders have recently had to withdraw from Scouting but our thanks go to Matt and Sian for all they have done for the Explorers. Thanks also to Tom, Chris, Roger, Diane, Andy, Trudy, Stewart, Alice, Laura and Graham for stepping in to keep things running smoothly for the Summer term. The Explorers have taken up the challenge by organising more of the events themselves, it's been great to see them taking responsibility and developing their organisational skills. As well as many of the above activities they arranged a "dragon egg hunt" at the Village Hall after our St George's Day service and several Explorers have been working hard to plan a fund raising quiz which we hope to run this Autumn. We will need more adult help from the Autumn term onwards, if you'd be interested in helping 14-18 year olds develop their independence and skills (and have a great time yourself!), please get in touch. Paul Williams, Explorer Scout Leader. 01508 471682 26
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Tasburgh Scout Group Group Scout Leader Message Baden-Powell said that ‘A week of camp life is worth six months of theoretical teaching in the meeting room” and I am pleased to say that this is something we are trying to uphold in Tasburgh Scouts and we are giving our members plenty of opportunity to do this over the next few months. Our Scouts and Explorers are attending the Norfolk Scouts Water Activity Weekend at Decoy Broad at the end of May. Always a great camp for activities mainly on the water but some on land, this is hugely enjoyed by those who attend. The Cubs have a camp planned at Hautbois Residential & Activity Centre, Coltishall at the end of June. We have been here a couple of times before and it is a great location and there are some interesting activities available. The Beavers are having a sleepover a bit closer to home in Saxlingham in July. They will be sleeping in tents but in the scout hut, providing a bit more comfort for our youngest section (and their leaders). The Explorers are hoping to try some Glamping towards the end of July, camping with a bit more comfort than usual! The Scouts and Explorers are really excited to be joining 5,000 other young people at NorJam at the Norfolk Showground in August. This year we have been ‘buddied’ with a contingent from Kenya which should be a great experience for our young people from Norfolk. Further ahead we are looking at organising a family camp in September, inviting parents and other members of our scout families to come along and experience this important element of Scouting. I must also mention the St George’s Day parade this year when we were invited to St Mary’s here in Tasburgh to renew our promises. This was a great event, well attended by all sections and a great service led by Martin. We followed the service with Cakes and Coffee down at the village hall attended by scouts, their families and members of the Church which was a great success. If anyone is interested in getting involved in Scouting within the village, please get in touch with me or any of the other leaders. We would be grateful to anybody who came forward to offer us some of their knowledge, time and experience even if it is for a one-off event and we are always looking for more people to come into uniform. Graham Pates, Group Scout Leader
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Tasburgh Allotment Society Down on the Allotments: May 2014 Looking out of my window as I write, it’s a day of blustery showers and sort of warmish bits inbetween. Its early May and that’s just about where we want the weather at this moment. A bit of a fright though a week ago with the temperature dipping just into the minus figures. Nothing really serious, but enough for a few plot holders to be seen pulling the duvets up and over their young potatoes for a couple of nights. A wise move too, with those that failed to, getting a nasty case of some blackened leaves if their plants happened to be at a vulnerable stage. Generally though, a kind start to the growing season with dry mild spells enabling work to be done and since the start of May, a few welcome showers to get seeds germinating and young plants up and away. The Society itself has also shown signs of new growth in the last few months as well, with new members joining this spring. This is crucial to the long-term running of the allotments. We’ve an annual rent to pay and keeping the plots full is vital to our future. Not everyone can keep a plot going though for all sorts of reasons and having keen people waiting in the wings to take over those that step aside is very important. Please get in touch with me if you feel an allotment plot may be what your life is missing and we will let you know when an opportunity arises. Another great way to feel part of the allotment community is to get involved with some of the events and competitions that we run and open up to all village residents. Of particular note, and a chance for me to forewarn you all here, is the TAS Produce Show held as part of the Village Fete on the 20th September. Last year we had over 30 classes and this year we hope for even more. So get working on those longest runner beans, largest pumpkins and heaviest marrows. 28
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Tasburgh Allotment Society Of course size is not everything and a host of most beautiful veg classes and food products will be on show as well. Keep an eye out for a Classes List to appear nearer the time and contact me for entry. We’ve also got a potato yield competition on the go with results to be announce also at the Fete Another way that we have recently tried to engage the wider village community was holding a Speaker Evening in February. Gardening journalist Angela Youngman, from the village, gave us a talk to help us along with our quest of having successful allotments or gardens. A raffle on the night helped the coffers and it was great to see a handful of non-allotment holders at the event. We hope to hold more in the future, so watch those notice boards. Everything is coming up roses on the TAS site then? Well not completely. Unfortunately, somebody with very little else to keep them amused decided to break into some plot holders sheds back at the end of the winter. Nothing was taken, as the sheds are not exactly bestowed with riches. Of course all the affected members had repair jobs though to get sheds back in order. The Police took the matter very seriously and luckily no repeat has occurred. Back to prize winning runner beans and a little fact to whet the appetite in preparation for the TAS Produce Show. Did you know the longest runner bean in the world has been recorded at 1m 30cm (USA 2009). Our current show record stands at 31.4cm held by Mick Ireson. We’ve a little way to go but who knows what may turn up in September? Simon Orford Secretary to TAS
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Allotments Available in Saxlingham Nethergate Are you interested in growing your own this year? Saxlingham Nethergate currently have allotment plots available. Annual cost is ÂŁ30, water is available at extra cost (exact amount depends on the number of allotment holders signing up, but likely to around ÂŁ15). If you would like to know more please contact Julie King, Parish Clerk, 01508 470759 or saxlingham.pc@ticali.co.uk.
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NHS Complaints Advocacy Service Unhappy with the service you or someone you know has received from the NHS? The NHS Complaints Advocacy service is here to help you if you are unhappy with the service you have received from the NHS, including services, care or treatment provided by a doctor, dentist, hospital, ambulance service or pharmacy. The NHS Complaints Advocacy service is free, confidential and independent of the NHS. In Norfolk, the NHS Complaints Advocacy service is provided by a partnership of Age UK Norfolk, Equal Lives, Norfolk RCC and POhWER. Our advocates can help you to make a complaint and support you through the NHS complaints process. This can include explaining your options and supporting you with things like writing a complaint letter, attending a complaint meeting or signposting to other organisations if appropriate. You can also make an NHS complaint on someone else's behalf. Whilst many of us don’t like complaining, the complaints process is not only a way of resolving issues you or those close to you have faced but it is also an important way to help improve the NHS care in Norfolk. To talk to one of our team call 0300 456 2370 or visit http://www.pohwer.net/our-services/nhs-complaintsadvocacy for more information about the service.
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Tasburgh Tips and Treats Many of us roll out the same old tried and trusted meals that we can make with our eyes shut. Daring to try something new, especially if it involves buying a large quantity of something where the recipe only requires one teaspoon of it, can often put us off trying it. The rest of the ingredient then sits languishing in the bottom of the fridge until a layer of mould forces us to throw it away. The joy of visiting friends for a meal is that there is the opportunity to experience new recipes that can be added to your own repertoire, using a different set of food types, and without slaving in the kitchen for hours. You just have to remember who gave it to you so you don’t serve it up on the return invite! Our neighbours, Caroline and John, introduced us to this recipe that has definitely become an old friend and a firm favourite amongst everyone who has tasted it. I used to make this recipe with plums from the garden as there were a couple of very old, straggly plum trees along the border of our property. They probably dropped more twigs and unripe plums than mature ones and were definitely past their ‘sell by’ date but if I reached the plums before the wasps and birds they did taste wonderful. How ever big your garden is, I would always recommend putting in a fruit tree of your choice. Most types of fruit have been grafted onto dwarfing rootstock which control the vigour of the tree so pick one to suit the space you have. On our list of things to do was to remove these aging trees and replace with a new variety but we never quite got round to it. It reached the top of our ‘to do’ list last month when our neighbour, Keith, armed with a chain saw, leaned over the gate and said ‘would you like me to help you cut the trees down?’ There was only going to be one response and one outcome, and 30 minutes later the trees were horizontal! Time to go shopping. And so to the recipe. Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall's tender chicken, crisped on the outside, dressed with sweet plums and soy sauce, and spiced with chilli and ginger – delicious! It is versatile too as the recipe can be modified, the chicken thighs can be cooked with a variety of different ingredients that can be added to give it a different overall 32
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Tasburgh Tips and Treats flavour, for example swap the plums for 2 sliced oranges and 1 sliced lemon, swap chillies, ginger and soy for 2 tablespoons marmalade and 100ml dry sherry or white wine at the beginning of the cooking time. I have also used a jar of artichoke hearts and white wine so mix and match, no one will know you made it up! Julie Lawrence
Chicken and plums with soy Serves 4
8 bone-in, skin-on, free-range chicken thighs, or 1 small free-range chicken, jointed into 8 pieces 1 tbsp sunflower oil 1–4 red, mild-to-medium-hot chillies, to taste (optional) 2-4 garlic cloves, sliced A thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and coarsely grated (optional) 8 plums, halved and stoned 3 tbsp soy sauce A small bunch of coriander, leaves only, chopped (optional) Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Preheat the oven to 200C/gas 6. Put the chicken thighs in a roasting tray, trickle with the oil and season well. Roast for 30 minutes, turning once or twice. Meanwhile, halve and de-seed the chillies, then cut each into 1cm strips. After 30 minutes, take the chicken out of the oven and add the sliced chillies, garlic and ginger to the roasting tray. Turn the chicken again to make sure the aromatics are evenly distributed around and under the pieces. Roast for a further 10 minutes. Tuck the plum halves around the chicken pieces and trickle the soy on top. If there doesn't seem to be much liquid in the tray, add a few tablespoons of water. Return to the oven for 10–15 minutes until the plums are soft and yielding their juices. Baste the chicken and plums with the pan juices, then leave to rest for 10 minutes. Finish with a scattering of chopped coriander, if you like. Serve with noodles or plain rice, salad or vegetables. Enjoy! 33
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Tharston & District WI In February 45 members heard Barry Holdstock’s talk on a rather unusual corner shop. This one has four corners, ten doors and a staff of over five thousand. This is a corner shop with a difference; this is Harrods. When our speaker started working there Harrods would buy and sell your house or arrange your funeral. There was a huge lending library in the basement along with kennels for shoppers’ dogs, a pub and a men’s hairdresser. Barry worked in the furniture department which covered four and a half acres, 2500 beds were available in the sale and the staff worked on a commission of one per cent: one of his sales was £800,000. When the store was bought by the Al Fayeds, the staff was put on fixed salaries and his salary fell from £40,000 to £10,000. It was time to move on. In March 51 members were well entertained by our speaker Melissa Sheldrake. Melissa had what she called her “Box of Delights” which contained items that were “magical, fascinating and memory nudges”, items which she bought “for love” at auctions. First out was a white ostrich fan. Fans like these were used for many years to allow ladies to communicate discreetly with admirers without saying a single word. From coyness to nudity the fan became used in the Fan Dance invented by the Windmill Theatre in 1831. The second item out of the box was a cup. This had been recovered from a Dutch merchant ship which sank in 1751. 235 years later in 1985, its cargo, including 150,000 pieces of fine Chinese porcelain, which had been used as ballast, was recovered. Melissa’s cup was one of these pieces. She also had a candle snuffer used, not to extinguish the flame but to trim the very long wicks while the candle was still burning. Finally, she pulled from her box a bag, not any bag, but one bearing the Christian Dior logo and inside was the actual Dior handbag. At a local auction of designer bags, when many went for several hundreds of pounds each, Melissa managed to acquire this 34
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Tharston & District WI one for £40! At times members were reduced to a spellbound silence! Also this month 39 members attended a pancake lunch when valiant cooks Cynthia Hill and Gina Cugnoni cooked over 80 pancakes. In April 2 members won bursaries at the Federal Annual Meeting; we entered the Cator Cup and came first; some members went on a craft day organised by Bunwell WI; some went on a guided tour around the John Innes Centre; several members went to the WI Group Meeting at Denton to hear Julian Taylor, events director of the Royal Norfolk Show, give an insight into what is involved in staging such a huge annual event and of course we had our monthly meeting when 55 members and guests turned out to hear Linda Scholes talk on “The Yanks are Coming”. In the opening few seconds she surprised us twice; firstly when she produced a set of steps and proceeded to stand on them and secondly when she told us that her talk had nothing to do with the Second World War, but was about her experiences as a wife of a USAF officer who was posted to Lakenheath. Carrying us along with her infectious laugh and giggles she introduced us to the village characters who gave her family such a warm welcome. What a treat! What a month!
Next Edition The summer edition of the Quarterly and Church News will be distributed by the end of August. Contributions from local organisations are always welcomed and can be emailed to the Parish Clerk for inclusion. We would be particularly pleased to receive suggestions for regular articles. All articles to the Parish Clerk, tasburghpc@btinternet.com by Friday 8th August. 35
Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News - Summer 2014
Tasburgh Memories There are two brothers who are recorded on the memorial; John and Frank Rix. These are the sons of John and Fanny Rix of Manor Farm, Lower Tasburgh, and the family have a long association with the village. Their grandfather, also John and born in 1805 at Ashwellthorpe, farmed in the village in 1851 having his land described as 53 acres and employing 2 labourers. He was married to Mary, born in 1804 at Hempnall, and they had at least 5 children. One of which, George, ran the White Horse pub in 1871 where his elderly father was living. John and Fanny married quite late in life and had three children, all boys. The youngest son inherited the tenancy of the farm and worked on it until the middle of the war when he was called up. He survived the war and probably returned to farm in the village. The two older brothers left the village to seek their fortune elsewhere. Frank Ellis Rix was born in 1884 in the village and went to the village school until the age of 12. The census of 1901 shows Frank Ellis Rix as working in Old Buckenham as a Pupil Teacher. Before the Education act of 1901 schools were allowed to be run by a qualified teacher, usually but not always holding a degree, and a number of pupil teachers, whose role was very like the teaching assistant of today. The teacher oversaw discipline and the instruction but small groups of children were then taken by the pupil teacher. As with everything some were good and some not so good, some had their lives made miserable when the teacher was not present and others managed well. Frank must have made a go of it as he went in 1904 to train at Peterborough’s St Peters College. Originally built by the Diocese of Peterborough as a male teacher training college in 1859, St Peters closed in 1914 but then re-opened in 1921 as a female teacher training college until closure in the mid-1930s. Most of the entrants before the war would have been pupil teachers. From there we know he was teaching in Sudbury on Thames in 1911 and married Annie Gladis Horn in 1913. Her address at his death is given as School 36
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Tasburgh Memories House, Wallingford. His service was in the London Regiment 12th Battalion. This was a territorial Battalion formed pre-war. It transferred to France in late 1914 and was present on the western front until the end. His death in 1917 was at the Battle of Arras. His battle was taking place at the same time as the Canadians were attacking Vimy Ridge and as such has received little attention. The First Battle of the Scarpe actually achieved it objectives and he is buried in the cemetery built on the German Fortified Village that was part of the objective. John Browne Rix, born 1886, went as an apprentice carpenter in Aylsham in 1901 and lived in Millgate Lane. Then in 1905 he emigrated to Canada aboard SS Canada from Liverpool to Halifax. In 1915 he joined the 58th Battalion of the 3rd division of the Canadian Army and arrived in France in February 1916. The Canadian army had been at Ypres since the 2nd battle in 1915 when they steadied the line during the first gas attack in the war. John Rix came into the line in August 1916 and he was one of the hundred who died every day away from the major battles. The Battalion War Diary recounts his death thus: 19th August 1916. Rain, N.W. wind, cool. Quiet all morning. Capt Tyron, 73rd Can Bn. 12Bde. 8th Division arrived and shown over line. His coy. ”C” will be attached for 3 days instruction. Casualties 1 O.R. killed, 6 O.R. wounded, 1 O.R. wounded shell shock. At 9-45 a.m. enemy blew small camouflet and destroyed face of Sap “C” causing casualties to tunnelling Coy. Tunnelers report sound and suspect camouflet work continues. “B” coy. Ordered to stand to. Bombing and consolidating parties detailed and in readiness. Enemy bombarded our front line and supports with trench mortars 2-20p.m. Artillery effectively retaliated. Quiet at night. A typical day on the Western Front. Bob Davison Tas.war.memorial@gmail.com 37
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Tasburgh Sports and Social Club Chairman’s Blog Just a short blog this time. Firstly thanks to all you who returned the forms to renew their membership for another year, your new cards can be collected from the club from the first of June. Also thanks to the members who enjoyed the Whisky tasting evening with Dominic Roskrow on 12th April, it was a very pleasant and interesting evening which will be repeated next year. As in previous years we will be supporting Recreation For All at their TasFest on the 21st June 2014, the club will be putting on a beer festival with ten or more real ales and a couple of ciders, there should be a good variety of first class local ales to suit all tastes. Now for the help bit. Please can you help, I know I ask this in every blog but due to the increase in functions at the Village Hall when the club supplies the bar, we desperately need temporary bar staff to help at functions. It is voluntary but the incentive is that you are helping the club to support groups within the community, of course training is given and as I have said before it’s a good way to meet people. Another way you could help your club is to join the committee of directors, we do have vacancies, perhaps you could bring some fresh ideas and help take some of the workload as we are just a bit stretched at present, again the position of a director is unpaid and voluntary. Well that’s that, oh there was one other thing, if you haven’t been in the club room lately its looking really smart, new carpet on the floor and bar area is a nice shade of peppermint green, nice surroundings to enjoy your favourite tipple. Hope to see you soon! Cheers for now Don (Chairman )
• Opening Times • Tuesdays & Wednesdays 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. Fridays 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. 38
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Eastern Savings and Loans Credit Union (formerly Norfolk Credit Union) works with, and for, people from all walks of life in Norfolk to tackle financial exclusion, by offering alternatives to mainstream bank services, to help integrate people into communities and help them resist the lure of payday lenders. Membership brings together people from both ends of the financial spectrum, and everywhere in between, to promote good financial ethics and habits. As a financial co-operative, it is an organisation that shares any surplus profits with its members, not outside shareholders. Eastern Savings and Loans Credit Union has been a firm advocate of equality and inclusion through the provision of financial services for over ten years, and promotes good personal financial habits across the county. Services include a Credit Union Current Account or prepaid Visa Debit card to those who cannot get these from mainstream banks. Small loans are available, a heating oil loan scheme for example for those who cannot afford to pay the upfront cost of a tankful of heating oil, thus enabling the member to stagger the cost and encourages a small savings scheme alongside the loan repayment to go towards the next heating oil purchase. The jamjar Budgeting Account is promoted by many Housing Associations and Local Authorities to help people budget their bigger bills like rent and council tax. Eastern Savings and Loans have a firm commitment to customer service, providing the personal touch to Norfolk residents, regardless of their bank balance. www.norfolkcu.co.uk
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Volunteers Required in Norwich Norwich Combined Support Group at St Francis Church, 100 Rider Haggard Road, Heartsease, Norwich, NR7 9UQ You would need to be available the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 10.30.12.30pm. It is important that you have good listening and communications skills, are willing to develop your knowledge of dementia and are able to be calm, patient and caring. You would be able to facilitate independence during activity or have ideas for future activities. We have people at varied stages of dementia so have different needs within the group setting. We can provide ongoing support, good training and any out of pocket expenses Helen Dingle 01603 763517 Helen.dingle@alzheimers.org.uk
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A large print version of the Tasburgh Quarterly and Church News is available upon request. Please contact 01493 749918. Cost of Advertising If you wish to advertise in the Quarterly please contact the Parish Clerk, tasburghpc@btinternet.com. Prices as follows: Greyscale: full page £31.00, half page £21.00, quarter page £11.00 Colour: full page £62.00, half page £42.00, quarter page £22.00. Discount of 10% available to those living and trading in Tasburgh, and a further 5% when four issues are booked and paid for in advance. 41
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Classifieds
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Classifieds
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