About Us
Barton Today is a Not-For-Profit Community Interest Magazine with over 6,000 readers. Delivered FREE every single month to every home in Earls Barton. We are not controlled by, or affiliated to, any political, religious, social or commercial group.
Website: www.bartontoday.co.uk
Managing Editor: Steve Watkins
Email: bartontoday@gmail.com
Online: http://issuu.com/b2day
Advertising: Contact us by email, via facebook, or drop your contact details into: The Library, The Square, Earls Barton (Please address all items to ‘Barton Today’) and we’ll discuss advertising rates and payment methods, and help you in any way that we can. All adverts to be sent in by our deadline please and paid for by return.
Deadline: Space permitting, we try to print everything sent in, but our deadline is the 10th of the month (for the January issue it is December 4th).
After that date we’re flexible but we can’t guarantee publication. Include your name, address and phone number as we do not publish anonymous articles. If you don’t want your name published let us know. Articles may be shortened if space is limited.
If you live in Earls Barton: Your magazine which is kindly delivered by volunteers, should arrive by the first week of the month, if not, please drop us an email so we can look into it. You can pick up a copy from Premier Stores, Espresso, Glebe Farm, The Boathouse, Scotch Lodge and Jeyes.
If you live outside of Earls Barton: A year’s subscription costs £30 to cover postage and packing. Please make your cheque out to ‘Earls Barton Community Magazine CIC’ and remember to give us the address for mailing.
Our Aim: We wish to bring all people together in peace and harmony and to celebrate the diversity of the human spirit by encouraging talent in all its forms. Barton Today does not discriminate against anyone.
Copyright Warning: No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopied, recorded or otherwise without our prior written permission.
The Legal Bit: © Barton Today 2025 All views expressed in this magazine are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the publishers, or anyone involved with the production or delivery of the magazine. The acceptance of an advertisement or an article does not indicate any endorsement of a product or service by this publication. Barton Today is a Community Interest Company.
The decision of the Managing Editor is final Printed By: Future Print, Unit 1, Kingsthorpe Business Centre, 63 Studland Road, Northampton. NN2 6NE
A Volunteer Without Equal
Our front cover this month is dedicated to George Blackwell, a volunteer without equal, who sadly passed away on 5th January. Tributes have been pouring in for George, praising the huge effort and time he devoted to helping others and to making Earls Barton and the local community a better place to live. We feature our own tribute inside the magazine.
When you read the tribute to George you might be inspired to do some volunteering of your own. On 1st May, there will be local elections for parish councillors. This would be a real chance for you to do something positive for your village. Looking much further ahead to 24th December, you might decide to join the small band of much needed volunteers to help spread the workload for the annual Carols On The Square event. Take a look at Nick Chapman’s article.
If you’re looking for some local events to go to, there is The UTTD’s production of Little Grimley on 21st and 22nd February, Earls Barton Music will be singing those well-known numbers from ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ at their performances on 7th and 8th March, with tickets selling fast and the much awaited biennial event, the Soap Box Derby, is coming back to our streets on 14th September. The theme this year is ‘Earls Barton’s World Sightseeing Tour’. Entry forms will be available from 1st March. All three events are publicised in this month’s Barton Today.
If you’re a lover of birds, our regular feature ‘Nature Notes’ by Elaine, focuses on the amazing albatross. Did you know there are 22 different species and there is a wonderful protected nesting site where these birds can be viewed? Unfortunately you would need to travel 12,000 miles to New Zealand, like Elaine was lucky enough to do, to explore the Otago Peninsular.
Don’t forget it’s Valentine’s Day on Friday 14th. I asked ChatGPT to do a two line poem for me. Don’t tell Viv. Perhaps you can do better. We’d love to see your efforts.
Viv, you’re the spark that lights my way, Happy Valentine’s, with love today!
TOWN & COUNTRY
...your local friendly village sales and lettings agent
Becky Simpson Director
WHAT’S ON IN FEBRUARY 2025
Womens Breakfast Pg 11
Coffee Morning at Methodist Church Info pg 22
The Old Silver Band Club Tom Betts Band Info pg 13
The Works Poker Competition Info pg 25
Quiz Night at The Old Swan
Bobbin Lace with Alison Wilson at Scotch lodge Info pg 16 Parish Council Meeting
EB WI Medical Conditions Info pg 27
The Works Big Bingo Incl Snowball House and Raffle Info pg 25
Luncheon Club 2 Valentines Disco Party Info pg 32
Kontra Roots Info pg 24
Valentines Afternoon Tea pg 16
Silver Band Club Valentines Bingo Info pg 13
EBL&CC Film Night Info pg 15
Fairtrade Cafe, Booksale and Seed Swap Info pg 13
Quiz Night at The Old Swan
EB Millennium WI Fish & Chips and Quiz Night Info pg 35 Heritage Group “Secrets and Scandals of Canons Ashby” Info pg 11
Luncheon Club 3
The Works Big Bingo Incl Snowball House and Raffle Info pg 25
The Old Silver Band Club Beer and Band night Info pg 13
EBL&CC Coffee Morning Info pg 15
The Old Silver Band Club Live Singer Info pg 13
EBL&CC Film Night Info pg 15
REGULAR EVENTS
Death of a Clown Info pg 28
St Davids Day menu at Scotch lodge Info pg 16
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY
Northampton Morris Dancers
7.30-9.30pm Silver Band Club
Bobbin Lace 2 - 4 at Scotch Lodge
Stay & Play at EBL&CC
2.30-3.30pm
Baby & Toddler
2-3.30 Methodist Yoga at EBL&CC 7-8pm Tennis 6-8pm Keep fit with Sarah at Scotch Lodge
6.30pm – 7.30pm Short Mat Bowls 9.30am -12 Noon at The Youth Club
Walking4Health 10.30am meet at Library
At EBL&CC: Stay & Play at 10.3012.30. Scrabble at 10.30am. English lessons 6-7pm. Art Group 7.15-9.15pm Short Mat Bowls 1.30pm - 4 at The Youth Club
Junior Bowls 5-6pm
Crafternoons at EBL&CC 2.30-4.30pm Short Mat Bowls at the Bowls Club 6.30pm Bellringing Practice 7.30-8.30pm Knit & Natter
The Old Swan 2-4pm
Friendship Group in the church hall 2.30 - 4.30pm
Rhymetime for Under 5’s at EBLCC 2.30 - 3pm
Music in the Cafe at Scotch Lodge 1.30pm - 3.30pm Mah Jong at EBL&CC 10.30-12.30
Carols on The Square
Well 2024 saw another Carols on the Square and I hope you agree it was a good one. The weather was fine and there was a massive turnout. We reckon several thousand of you turn out each year. We all know that this has become an Earls Barton tradition over very many years and, from very modest beginnings with a few people clustered outside what was then the Tower Home and Garden shop, it has grown into the huge event we all know and love today with a great brass band and the whole centre closed off. This year your generosity raised £2084.58 for the two charities supported by the churches, Save the Children and Action for Children.
I don’t suppose though that many people think about what it takes to put this on every year. Why would you? After all it just happens and then you go to the pub, or home, and carry on with the excitement of Christmas. Nothing at all wrong with that of course, exactly as it should be.
The thing with any event such as this though is that there has to be a team behind it that organises it, and runs it on the night, to make sure that it is both technically successful and as safe as we can make it for all of you who attend. Make no mistake this is a significant event and one that not many communities can manage. This work is largely unseen and, understandably, not in most people’s thoughts on the night.
Just for information it takes a tech team of 5/6 for sound and lights, a fireworks team of 2, 12 road closure marshals and as many more other marshals/donation collectors plus the St John Ambulance first aiders. There is also all the admin work in advance to organise things. So we need in excess of 30 people to be involved on the night, if we can get them.
Please don’t misunderstand me; nobody is moaning about doing this. If we didn’t want to do it we wouldn’t but the Churches Together committee can’t do it all on their own and every year it seems that there has almost to be a threat on social media that it will be cancelled before enough marshals come forward at the last minute and this is despite the parish clerk asking several times in advance.
There is also the fact that many of the organisers are past retirement age and there will eventually be a time when we are forced to take a back seat.
As far as the tech team is concerned ideally we would like to see some younger people come forward who have some experience or interest in live sound engineering to help out for a year or two with a view to gradually taking on a greater part of the process over time.
It would also be great to have a larger pool of other marshals to call upon for this event rather than having to go to the wire every year.
Yes we know it is Christmas Eve and people want to be with their families but they also want to be at Carols on the Square. If nobody is willing to help though, the event will eventually run out of steam.
So if you want to be one of the few that make things happen for the many then please get in touch with the parish clerk Rosie Smart theclerk.ebpc@gmail.com and let her know your area of interest and she can arrange for you to talk to someone already involved to get more details.
Nick Chapman
On behalf of Churches Together
Established in 1986, our Nursery is designed to inspire the children’s curiosity and support their learning opportunities
We provide quality childcare for children from 12 weeks to pre-school
Freshly prepared breakfast, lunch and tea provided Secure outside area
Secure parking and drop-off area Soft play room
Father Christmas comes to Earls Barton Library
As usual, Earls Barton Library were fortunate to secure the services of the real Father Christmas to meet the children of our village. He remembered lots of them from previous years and, luckily, when he checked with his elves, they all seemed to be on his ‘Nice’ list!
Although he could only spare us a few hours, he met 36 children and their families. One lucky little girl was even there on her birthday!
Save the date of 14th December 2025, as he has already agreed to come back to see you all then.
SOAP BOX DERBY
SOAP BOX DERBY
SUNDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER 2025 10-5
SUNDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER 2025 10-5
The Soap Box Derby Organising Committee, in conjunction with Earls Barton Parish Council, are proud to present the 5th Earls Barton Soap Box Derby. A fantastic day of fun racing, thrills and spills will take place on Sunday 14th September 2025, with the first cart racing at 11am. We would love to see you on The Square to watch this year’s creations racing through the village centre.
We are pleased to announce that the theme of the Earls Barton Soap Box Derby 2025 is “EB’s World Sightseeing Tour” and we are looking forward to seeing your creations. Will we see the Eiffel Tour, the leaning Tower of Pisa or the Statue of Liberty transcending the course? Or maybe you prefer a beach holiday, and your cart will be designed like a lilo, flip-flop or sandcastle? Or, if winter breaks are more your thing, Mont Blanc or huskies and sled? The only limit is your imagination and prizes will be on offer for the most imaginative design.
Previous main and programme sponsors will be contacted in due course to ask if they would like to continue their very kind and generous support of the Soap Box Derby, without whom the event would not be possible. Please note that cart entry is offered as part of the main sponsor package; a guaranteed way of securing a place in the race. We would love to have as much support from village businesses, companies and organisations as possible, whether you have sponsored the event before or are new to the village and would like to be involved. Please contact Michelle Reeves on 07854 607554 or email: michellereeves42@btinternet. com for more details or to have a chat about sponsorship packages and prices.
The event has capacity for 30 carts in total and any individual village residents, either junior (under 18) or adult (18 and over) can enter the event by completing an entry form. Forms can be found in Earls Barton Library and Community Centre or Jeyes, or via download from the Earls Barton Soap Box Derby Facebook page. An entry fee of £50 (cheque or cash) is required to confirm each entry. All completed entry forms with payment should be posted or delivered to Archie Reeves, 38B Doddington Road, Earls Barton, NN6 0NF. All entries will be dated on receipt and places allocated on a first come first served basis. A waiting list will be employed if necessary. As this is a village event, priority for entries and sponsors will be given to Earls Barton residents and businesses.
Entry forms will be available from 10am on 1st March 2025 and entries will close on the 31st March 2025. All cart drivers/entries will be notified to confirm if they have a place or not, or if they have been placed on the waiting list.
In the spirit of the event, no previous designs will be permitted.
For all queries or questions, please contact Wayne Mills on 07726 282494 or email waynegmills@msn.com.
See you on The Square!
In order to futureproof this event, we are looking for volunteers to join the Organising Committee to shadow existing committee members. If you are interested or have any questions, please email: theclerk.ebpc@gmail.com.
Thank you
Earls Barton's World Sightseeing Tour Earls Barton's World Sightseeing Tour
Saving the Planet LITTLE GRIMLEY
By David Tristram
Fri 21st & Sat 22nd Feb 2025
All Saints Church Hall Earls Barton NN6 0JG
Doors & licensed bar open from 7:00pm Curtain up 7:30pm
Purchase tickets from: Jeyes on the Square or online at ticketsource.co.uk/under-the-tower-drama or scan the QR code below
£15.00 including a leek pie supper For any other dietary requirements please ring 07904 277719
Under The Tower Drama
O’Riordan Bond specialises in selling and renting properties in Earls Barton and the surrounding villages. Offering real local knowledge and bespoke marketing packages including free video content and drone photography.
We are the only estate agents with an office in the village - on The Square - and all property is marketed across our fourteen Northampton branches. We are independent - born and bred in Northampton - and focus on providing bespoke specialist advice in local communities.
Please call 01604 810088 for a free sales or rental market appraisal - if you instruct O’Riordan Bond to sell your home in 2025 you will be entered for a monthly draw where you could win your Mortgage Paid For A Month -up to £1500!
Rebecca Simpson Director
Digger writes... At this time of the year there is an almost irresistible urge to start sowing seeds outside and planting out, but be patient! Unless your soil is very well drained and you live in a sheltered, mild district, it is far better to wait until the spring. Most vegetable seeds will not germinate until the soil reaches 7 degrees C and if sown in cold soil will just rot. But you can get ready for an early start outside by covering the soil with clear polythene. This warms up the soil, protects it from getting too soggy and encourages weeds to germinate, so that they can then be dealt with before sowing to produce a “weed free” bed.
You can sow seeds inside with heat if you can provide the right conditions. In the fruit garden you’ll need to protect the blossom of early flowering apricots, peaches and nectarines from frost damage by covering with fleece.
You can finish apple and pear pruning as soon as possible and it is a good idea to check on fruit cages, especially the netting, replacing it if it has become damaged. At this time of year birds, especially bullfinches may peck at developing fruit buds, reducing the summer yield.
Top vegetable jobs to consider are:
LOVELY garden tips
FEBRUary Digger’s
• If you’ve kept seeds from previous years check to ensure they’re worth sowing. Small seeds can be given a germination test – place about 20 on a piece of moist kitchen paper and put somewhere warm. After about 7 days check for germination. If the germination rate is less than 50 per cent they may not be worth keeping.
• It is sometimes better to buy young vegetable plants or seedlings rather than take the time, trouble and effort of raising your own from seed (especially if you do not have a greenhouse). Check catalogues now and place orders as they can be in short supply in the spring and you will have to purchase from garden centres which are a lot more expensive.
• From the middle of February onwards you can start to sow seeds of tomatoes, peppers, aubergines and cucumbers for plants to grow in a greenhouse. Sow the seeds in small pots of good compost and germinate in a heated propagator or warm room at 21-24C.
• If you can’t provide the right temperatures and conditions delay sowing until March.
• Starting peas under cover gives them a head start. For an alternative method for indoor sowing, sow peas in a greenhouse in lengths of guttering. Drill drainage holes in the bottom and fill with good compost. When ready for planting out the whole row can be gently pushed out of the guttering into a prepared bed.
• Now is the time to chit potatoes, especially the early variety. An easy method is to place the seed potatoes in an egg box or in trays and place in the garage or greenhouse. Stand them with the “rose” end (the end with the most eyes) uppermost. The tubers will be ready to plant out late March/early April. Finally remember to clean out and wash seed trays, pots and other containers ready for seed sowing. If you haven’t finished your winter digging then get a move on!!
Happy digging!
32 Broad Street, Earls Barton, Northants NN6 0ND 01604 983490
Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 11am - 4pm
Donations of good quality clothing, toys and household items accepted at anytime of when shop is open
Our next Women’s Breakfast
Saturday 1st February 8.30 in
All Saints church hall
Everyone welcome whether you’re new to our breakfasts or have been lots of times before.
We start with continental style breakfast, (including bacon rolls) with plenty of time to chat followed by the talk from around 9am and we’re usually finished by around 10am, so it’s a really great way to start your Saturday.
This time Rebecca will be talking about ‘The Earls Barton Tree Project,’ so we do hope you can join us!
To help us with the catering arrangements and to let us know any dietary requirements, just let one of us know beforehand if you’d like to attend and if you need any more information. (We ask for a voluntary contribution towards costs of around £7 on the day).
Contact Nicola on 07812 686944 or Glynis on 07919 952736.
Wednesday 19th February at 2.30pm at Earls Barton Library and Community Centre, Broad Street
Secrets and Scandals of Canons Ashby Laura Malpas presents a light-hearted romp through 1,000 years of history concerning the Northants manor house.
Please note this is an afternoon meeting. Free to Members; visitors pay £5.00.
Further information: Iona Flanagan: 01604 811735
Children’s Society Boxes
The Children’s Society Boxes boxes will be opened on the 12th April 2025 during the Fairtrade Coffee Morning between 10am and 11.30pm. Thank you Amanda Mayne
Our shop opens every Saturday 10am – 1pm at All Saints Church Hall opposite the Co-op and our Fairtrade Cafes are on the 2nd Saturday of the month
Growing ‘seeds of hope’ through Transform Trade
Our cafes, events and profits from our shop mean we can send donations to the ‘Transform Trade’ charity who are working with small producers and campaigning to make trade work more fairly for everyone.
We’re all involved in trade as we buy and consume food and other products every day. The choices we make about the clothes we wear, the food we eat, the devices in our pockets - they’re all part of a global story. But the system is set up to make a tiny percentage of the world extremely wealthy. Meanwhile, producers are exploited - underpaid, undervalued, and forced to work in unsafe conditions.
other retailers, so thank you and please keep doing that and more!
Transform Trade focus on 3 main aspects:
FAIRER paying people a decent wage is somehow an alternative practice. We support producer groups who treat people well - and pay fairly - so that their impact and influence grows.
Many of you are helping already by buying fairtrade products from us and
SMARTER Let’s say it how it is - making pure profit at the expense of people and planet is a bad idea. Everyone agrees with the principle but their actions tell a different story. We partner with producers to shine a light on bad practice and show a better way forward.
GREENER Trade has powerful solutions to fighting the climate crisis. We support producers who are finding innovative ways to protect the planet and work sustainably even in the most difficult circumstances. One recent campaign has been asking the new UK government to change the law restricting seed use as local farmer seed systems are critical for climate adaptation and food security in under-developed economies but are under threat and smallholder farmers may be very restricted from saving, exchanging or selling some seeds. Do go to https://www.transformtrade.org to find out more about these campaigns
Talking of seeds…SEED SWAP at our next café…You may all be aware of the Annual PLANT Swap in the summer, well this year we will be having our first annual SEED Swap and Sale, at the Fairtrade Coffee morning on February 8th in the church hall - please see attached for details. Our MP Stuart Andrew will also be in attendance. So please join us:
FAIRTRADE CAFÉ AND BOOKSALE on SATURDAY 8th
February as we also have the new annual SEED SWAP plus will be visited by our new MP And of course we’ll also have lots of beautifully ethical groceries, artisan gifts and cards in stock to help you make good choices in 2025. Enjoy chatting, browsing our products and secondhand books, and fresh coffee and delicious homemade cakes… Everyone welcome!
ANNUAL SEED SWAP & SALE
Saturday 8th February 10am- 1pm
At the Fairtrade Coffee Morning
All Saints Church Hall
Earls Barton
A great way to share excess seeds and gain new ones!
Seeds can be donated, swapped or just bought!
(Valuation of seeds will be at the organisers' discretion) (need more info? – phone 07775 708771)
Saturday 1st - Food Truck in car park from 6pm Saturday 1st - Tom Betts Band from 9pm Friday 14th - Valentines Day themed Big Bingo from 8pm
Saturday 22nd - Beer & Band night -with Matt Rees Trio, from 8pm Sunday 23rd - Live singer from 4pm in member’s bar.
Sunday Funday every week from 12pm, Raffle, meat Raffle, Joker and Bingo! (must be a member to participate, Renew or sign up with a member of bar staff)
Follow and contact us on social media: Facebook: Earls Barton Old Silver Band Club Instagram: earls_barton_silver_band_club
LOCAL Podiatrist / Chiropodist with over 26yrs NHS & Private Practice experience
Based at Studio 28, 28 Broad St, Earls Barton, NN6 0ND from Tuesday to Saturday A home visit service is also available
SewStephanie
For beautiful, hand sewn, made to measure curtains, blinds and other soft furnishings please contact me: sewstephaniec@gmail.com 07760 161 038
Luncheon Club Treated To Christmas Entertainment
Nina writes... On Friday the 13th of December, myself, Molly and Karen and some of our children visited the Luncheon Club to spread some festive joy and sing some songs. With matching Christmas jumpers and jingle bells in hand, the children took their places on the stage. They sang their favourite songs and then gave out gifts for everyone. There was an amazing round of applause when they finished. There were laughs and tears and it definitely started Christmas off. Thank you to Karen Davies for letting us come and visit. We hope to see you all at the Luncheon Club again this year!
Cloudy2Clear, A Local Family Service, Saving You Money.
Established for over 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows have become the UK’s leading company for domestic glass replacement. Customers are no longer needing to replace their complete window frames, instead, now they can join over 320,000 happy customers and have their glass replaced and/or upgraded in an affordable and ethical manner. Remember, a failed glazing unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing? If you act now you can avoid any future costly problems.
When talking to Trevor & Wendy Skidmore the owners of Cloudy2Clear Northampton & Oxford it became clear that these values have been held for over 16 years. Since buying the local franchise in 2006 they have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community whilst introducing their 2 sons Lloyd & Ross & daughterin-law Lori into the family business along with Dan, Tom & Jo as demand for their service has grown.
The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the
unit has failed. Trevor commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.
For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www.cloudy2clear.co.uk.
FEBRUARY
Despite 2025 not being a Leap Year, February still contains St Valentine’s Day. So red roses will shoot up in price and heart-bedecked cards will be in all the shops!
If you need have no plans for the night, why not have a blind date with a book! Come in and choose a wrapped novel, ready for you to give as a gift or simply take for yourself, and completely free!
Don’t be lonely this February, either - if you are cold, or simply a bit fed up sitting at home on your own, you can always pop into the library. Even if you don’t want to take part in any of our activities, there is always a paper or magazine to read and, of course, lots of lovely books. There will be a jigsaw, partially finished, to help with and one of our super volunteers will be very happy to make you a cuppa and have a chat.
It was pointed out that I did not put the time of our film club in the magazine. Let’s correct that here - the doors open at 6.30 and the film starts at 7.00 pm on the Second and Last Friday of each month.
On the 14th We will be showing a comedy starring Kevin Kline and Sigourney Weaver set in the White House.
On the 28th We are showing a film version of a very successful stage musical, with Richard Gere, Renee Zellweger and Catherine Zeta Jones, showing a different side of their acting abilities and winning the first ‘Best Picture’ Oscar for a musical since Oliver!
Don’t forget that transport is available if you don’t want to walk here on a dark night. We ask for a minimum donation of £3, which, for a film plus tea and biscuits, we think is a bargain!
Our Coffee Morning is always on the last Saturday of the month from 10-12.00, and we look forward to seeing you all again on the 25th February.
Earls Barton Library
and Community Centre
Charity Number 1184350
Whilst I am afraid that the weather may well be grim this month – do cheer yourself up by coming to one of the activities which we run.
If you need a change of scene for you and your under 5 year-olds, why not come to the Stay and Play times on Monday after noon from 2.30 – 4.30 and Wednesday mornings 10.30 – 12.30. Rhyme time is great fun on a Friday afternoon from 2.30-3.00. All the children’s activities are free.
Every Tuesday our lovely IT tutor helps anyone who has problems with iPads, mobile phones or computers. You do need to book an appointment with him and, from January 1st, we will be asking for a minimum £2 for this incredible service.
On the second Tuesday of the month, we host a Book Club in the library at 4.30, then Scrabble is held on Wednesday mornings at 10.15. Crafternoons on Thursday provide a terrific opportunity for you to pursue whatever craft you enjoy, whilst chatting to a group of other ‘crafty’ people
Even though the library is closed, you can come and learn and play Mah Jong on Sunday from 10.30 – 12.30. Ring Bob Watts on 01604-811688 for any more information
All of these adult activities cost just £2.00 per session
Monday 2-5pm
Tuesday 2-5pm
Wednesday 10am-1pm
Thursday 2-5pm
Friday 2-5pm
Saturday 10am–1pm
All Saints Church Feeling Rather February…
Revd Jenny Bland writes... Recently I’ve spoken, overheard or seen on social media so many people who are feeling a bit ‘dark’ at the moment. They seem to express that the demands of life are increasing and the pace of life getting is fasterso finding time for one’s own rest, renewal and recreation is slipping away.
Sabbath may be a familiar word to you. I once heard that Sabbath is time delighting in the reality of the living God. How good is that? Time spent joyfully in a way that reminds you how loved by God you are and how good God is. So what is it in life that gives you deep joy, brings awe or space to feel more fully yourself and who you were created to be? What brings you closer to God?
It can feel difficult to find time alone and in the quiet to even start thinking about this question, but in the Christian tradition, the Sabbath invites us to do exactly that: stop, rest, and delight in God’s goodness and to carefully and with discipline, guard time to spend delighting and resting in God’s realness and ‘aliveness’, whether for a day or an hour.
Recently, I started keeping a gratitude journal. Every morning, I jot down three things I’m thankful for that day. Some days it’s easy - beautiful sunshine, a kind person I get to meet with that day, or good news from the day before. Other days, it’s harder. But even on the most challenging days, I’ve found there’s always something to be thankful for, no matter how small. This small practice in the morning feeds my soul throughout the day too as I collect more and more for which I am grateful. It’s helped me to notice so much more.
The pace of life often makes it hard to notice the good that has been (we’re already onto the next thing) or is (we’re worried about it going or ending or have missed it entirely). But slowing down, taking even an hour of Sabbath, can help us see more clearly. A quiet walk, a time of deep breathing and stretching, or even sitting with a cup of tea in silence can be simple ways to pause and reset, to connect with God and yourself.
This time of year can feel especially dark, both literally and emotionally. The long nights and cold days can weigh heavily and we find ourselves eagerly looking out for signs of spring. Will you remember to be kind to yourself in this season, and gentle, perhaps trying a Sabbath practice or daily time of gratitude? And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to a loved one, tell someone you trust how you’re feeling and know you’re not alone.
Jesus himself practised rest, often stepping away from crowds and the expectations of others to pray and listen to God. His example reminds us that rest isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. Sabbath is a mindset we can carry into our everyday lives, a reminder to pause, to give thanks, and trust that God is at work, even when we can’t see the full picture.
What’s on at All Saints Church?
Every Day - We are open every day 10am - 4pm* for everyone in our parish to make use of their parish church. So pop in, have a look around, make time to pray, read from the Bible or enjoy a pit stop with your little ones as they play with the toys. We’re open for you. *Subject to occasional offices (weddings, funerals, baptisms) and special events/ circumstances.
Midweek Worship
Every Wednesday - 9:30am Holy Communion.
On the first Wednesday of the month there is a short service of Holy Communion in the Church Hall at 3pm followed by refreshments - everyone is welcome. We often have new people joining us.
February Sunday Services
2nd 9am Holy Communion, 10am All Together, 6pm Evensong
9th 10am Holy Communion with JaM 16th 10am Holy Communion with JaM 23rd 10am Holy Communion
Everyone is welcome to join us for our services and we warmly encourage children. We have an area with books and toys for families and a toilet a short walk away in our Church Hall. Refreshments are served and friendship and fellowship encouraged after every Sunday 10am service in the Church Hall.
Other events in February
1st - Women’s Breakfast - 8.30am in the church hall. Please contact Nicola on 07812 686944, Sandra on 07979 961902 or Glynis on 07919 952736 if you would like to book a place or would like more information.
2nd - All Saints Youth Group 7 - 8.30pm, contact Sarah Howes at howes_africa@yahoo.com for location details
8th - Fairtrade Coffee Morning and our first annual Seed Swap and Sale, 10am to 1pm, the Church Hall. Our MP, Stuart Andrew, will also be in attendance so it’s an opportunity to come and meet him.
9th - All Saints Youth Group 7 - 8.30pm, contact howes_africa@yahoo.com for location details
16th - The Upper Room (young people’s group) - 7 to 8.30pm at All Saints Church
23rd - All Saints Youth Group 7 - 8.30pm, contact howes_africa@yahoo.com for location details
Earls Barton Primary School
Cross-Country finals…Earls Barton Primary School recently celebrated a remarkable achievement at the cross-country tournament held at Croyland Park, Wellingborough. We took 48 enthusiastic children from the KS2 age range to compete, and their hard work and determination paid off as we secured first place overall among all the participating schools. This victory is a testament to our continued success in recent years, showcasing the dedication and talent of our young athletes.
The children truly ran their socks off, with many of them winning individual medals and qualifying for finals events. Their outstanding performances not only brought pride to our school but also highlighted the importance of teamwork and perseverance as the children supported one another in their individual events.
Building work/Extension Exciting progress is being made on our school’s building work! New carpets have been installed in three KS1/EYFS classrooms, providing a fresh and comfortable environment for our youngest learners. The first foundations for the new build are now laid, and the footprint of the new structure is clearly visible. The crane has begun lifting parts of the foundations and flooring into place, marking a significant step forward in the construction process.
The car park is now complete, with half of the spaces handed over for staff use. We kindly ask everyone to be mindful of parking around the school site during dropoff and pick-up times, as we understand it can be a tricky period with the ongoing building work. Despite the temporary inconvenience, we are thrilled about the progress and eagerly anticipate the opening of five new classrooms next academic year. This expansion will provide even more opportunities for our students to learn and grow in a modern, well-equipped environment.
Governor Vacancy Are you passionate about education and eager to make a difference? We are seeking dedicated individuals to join our governing body as school governors. As a governor, you will help shape the future of our school, oversee financial performance, and support the school leadership team in driving school improvement.
This is a rewarding opportunity to give back to the community and develop your skills in leadership and strategic planning. If you are interested, please contact the school for more information. Join us in our mission to provide ‘Excellence in Everything’.
Marie Lally & Ben Morris Co-headteachers on behalf of the EBPS community.
Thank You George
The flags have been flying at half-mast outside the North Northamptonshire Council offices at Swanspool House, in recognition of the passing of our wellknown and highly respected Earls Barton resident George Blackwell. As a former county councillor, he had become an Honorary County Alderman in 2013 in recognition of over 40 years of service. He also served as a borough councillor for many years and became an Honorary Alderman of the borough. Here in Earls Barton he was a parish councillor, also for 40 plus years.
George was a Labour supporter to the core but throughout his time as a councillor never let party politics get in the way of seeking what was best for the people of Earls Barton and the wider community. He was a man of detail and a man of his word and liked nothing better than talking to people and finding out all about them and how he could help. “Go and ask George,” became a familiar refrain and many people shared a cuppa and a few words with him in his house in White Way. He never turned anyone away. Over the years George fought the corner for many people and his successes included reaching an agreement for there to be a chemist at Jeyes, pressing successfully for Earls Barton to have a fly over built across the new A45 and helping to prevent the closure of Ecton Primary School.
George was born at home on 21st September 1934 in West Street. His parents Mabel and Henry already had two sons Ken and Ray, and younger brother David followed ten years later. By this time the family had moved to Station Road. George loved his village and was to become an active and influential member. He was proud to be a ‘Barton Leek’ and reminded people of the fact that he was one of those who had been born in the village itself. It was in Earls Barton that he remained for most of his life. He completed all of his education at the local school and left at the age of 15. He was a keen member of the Church Lads’ Brigade where, as well as enjoying the company of others, he learnt to play the bugle and was able to do a very passable rendition of ‘The Last Post’.
At the age of 19, George was called up to do National Service. He recalls his time as an army recruit based at Warminster, as being two very happy years where he made lots of new friends and learnt many things.
He also had the chance to play rugby which became a passion of his, playing the game at Wellingborough Rugby Club and becoming a very enthusiastic Saints supporter. It was perhaps appropriate that he chose to play at hooker, a position that is right in the thick of things where you have to work closely and cooperatively with the players around you.
George loved people and he loved his family. He got married to his wife Pat in 1961 and they moved to Overstone. They had 4 children, Cindy, Wendy, Julie and Robert. They had a long and happy marriage, but Pat passed away in 2005. It is sad that she couldn’t see the family grow to its current 8 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. George spent his working life in the engineering trade and as a young man completed an apprenticeship as a tool maker at Hunter Penrose in Wellingborough. Early in their marriage, he and Pat made a big decision; to start a new life on the other side of the world in Australia. George, Pat and their three young daughters left the cold winters of Earls Barton behind and became ‘ten-pound poms’, taking advantage of the assisted package scheme on offer. On arrival in Adelaide, they criss-crossed the huge country, travelling to Perth as a possible location but finally decided to return and settle in Adelaide. George secured a job with Hawker Siddeley and soon there was an addition to the family, when son Robert was born.
And so began George’s love of Australia. He and Pat enjoyed the weather and the outdoor life and the opportunity to socialise. It was a great place for a growing family. After five happy years though,
the pull of home became too strong and in 1967 they returned to Earls Barton and a new family home in White Way. Son Robert later emigrated to Australia, giving George a welcome excuse to visit Australia and spend some more time in his adopted country.
Back in Earls Barton, George started a new job at British Timken in Northampton. It was here that his involvement in an official capacity as a supporter of workers’ rights began, and he became an elected shop steward. Over the next thirty years his responsibilities as a union man increased and he eventually became an elected full time official of the Amalgamated Union of Engineering Workers. He will be remembered for his passionate commitment to seeking equal rights for workers and helping to reach a fair resolution during industrial disputes.
the Saints win the 2001 European Trophy and being in Sydney with Pat in 2003 to witness Jonny Wilkinson’s winning drop goal as England beat Australia to win the World Cup.
Sometimes you wonder how someone manages to fit so much into their lives, but George found a way of doing it. He would always acknowledge the support he got from Pat, who herself was a very active lady, always wanting to improve the lives of others. She worked at Scott Bader and in 1995 received an MBE for services to the community of Wollaston. As well as managing a busy family life, George had a demanding full-time job which later involved a lot of travel as a union representative. He was simultaneously a councillor for the parish, borough and county councils, none of them paid positions and all dependent on election. He was also a director at Wellingborough Homes and helped many people resolve their housing issues no matter how big or small. He was captain of the trophy winning 1967 Earls Barton Cricket Club 2nd X1. He played bowls and was president of EBBC. He was a trustee at All Saints and chair of governors at the village school.
George liked being out in the countryside but preferred to walk on his own. It probably gave him a chance to reflect and think about the world around him and provide a balance to the daily strains of a very busy life. As stated earlier he was a very committed Saints fan for many years and attended games with Pat, his brother David and his grandsons, who inherited his love of the game. He reminisced fondly about two games in particular; going to watch
George spent the last two years of his life at Grangefield Care Home where he quickly settled in and was well looked after. True to form he made lots of new friends. There were a few quips made about the names of the two lounges; one was the Harold Wilson room and the other the Maggie Thatcher room. No questions needed to be asked about which was his preference.
His career as a union representative and his role as a councillor depended totally on the votes of the people. It is remarkable but also a huge testament to how highly regarded George was, that for 30 years as a union representative and over 40 years as a councillor, he consistently retained the support of the people. Being re-elected was something that he never took for granted.
George always took time to talk to people. Someone told me that if you were in his company for an evening, you felt you’d known him all your life. He certainly has had a full and rewarding life.
Thank you, George. Earls Barton will miss you.
Steve Watkins
SAVE THE DATE! AUTHOR EVENT 7th MAY
We’re so excited and privileged to welcome this famous author and can’t wait to give you all the details. Follow us for more clues before the big reveal! Make sure you save the date.
Black sheep of the family.
Earls Barton Library
Charity Number 1184350
I’m sure there are many of us who have black sheep in our families. They, according to social media, are those who are bad, and bring shame to others. It is easy to look upon people like this as outcasts, and to isolate them. ‘What would the neighbours say?’ we might well ask ourselves when faced with those who have ‘gone off the rails’.
I always remember two members of our family who were ‘black sheep.’ One drank heavily, and we rarely found him sober, and the other was turned away by his close family for personal reasons. Unloved and uncared for by some members of the family, part of his life was lived in isolation, and this was so sad. This having been said, my dear mum never closed her door to the needs of others, and she loved and cared for these lost souls. On countless occasions she would provide hospitality and a meal to those who many would ‘pass by on the other side’.
I’m sure there are many, like Mum, who love and care for the ‘black sheep’ in their families, and who reach out to those who are in deepest need of love. I’m reminded of the story that Jesus told of the prodigal son, who left his home with the share of his inheritance. He squandered the lot by extravagant living, and found he had many friends when his pockets were filled with money, but when these were empty, those so-called friends were no longer there. After work on a farm, and in desperation, he decided to go back to his father, and plead for forgiveness. The story ends with the father running to greet his lost son, and throwing a party for his return. His elder brother felt only jealousy, but his father rejoiced for the one who ‘was lost, but had been found,’ and that is the heart of God.
There is a lesson there for all of us, and at the heart of Christianity is the love, grace, and forgiveness of God, seen through Jesus Christ, His own dear son. Jonathan.
We give thanks to God for the life, work, and witness of Alison Philips, who passed away at the end of December. Alison was a very faithful member of our Church, a very dear friend to many, and alongside her late husband, John, brought so many blessings to our fellowship. May she rest in peace, and rise in glory. We send our sincere condolences to Rachael, Steve, and the family.
Prayer & Share is held every Tuesday from 10.00am for tea/coffee, and from 10.30am to 12.00 noon for Prayer and Praise. All are welcome.
Our next Coffee Morning is on Saturday, February 1st from 9.30am to 11.30am. We will have the usual variety of stalls, with your favourite sausage rolls, shortbread biscuits, and a raffle. Do join us, and thank you for all your kind support.
Preachers in the Methodist Church for February. Services begin at 10.30am
Sunday, February 2nd - Nita Gould
Sunday, February 9th - Marie Armitage
Sunday, February 16th - Jonathan Thompson
Sunday, February 23rd - Claire Jennings
Contacts for the Methodist Church
Minister - Rev.Ruth Charlesworth: 01933 312778
Steward - Diane Thompson: 01604 811958
Bookings Officer - Jane Surtees: 01604 813875 and Community Centre
Nature Notes
The Albatross (and a few other birds) Nature Notes
Elaine writes... You would expect the wildlife of New Zealand to be different from that of the UK – and it is –mostly. However, when I was there recently, I was surprised to see many birds that are very familiar to us in this country. Blackbirds, thrushes, chaffinches and goldfinches are thriving in New Zealand. How did they get there? English settlers, perhaps wanting to recreate their homeland, and nostalgic for English birdsong, took them on the long journey overseas and released them into the wild during the 1860s and 1870s. Obviously the birds adapted well, but imagine what they had to endure: being caught and then caged for months on end before finally regaining their freedom.
New Zealand has no foxes or snakes and few birds of prey; the only one I saw frequently was the swamp harrier. It’s very like our marsh harrier and behaves in a similar way, hunting in marshes, reedbeds and farmland. The other two are the morepork (the native owl) and the New Zealand falcon. Several birds of prey have become extinct, which makes me think that we are lucky to have so many different birds of prey in the UK.
For me, the most spectacular and amazing bird is the albatross. Even if we haven’t seen one, we have all heard about albatrosses, probably due to the saying ‘to have an albatross around one’s neck’, which originates from Coleridge’s ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’. In the poem, a sailor kills an albatross. After this, the ship’s crew have nothing but bad luck, so they make the sailor wear the dead albatross around his neck, as a sign of his guilt.
Albatrosses have a wingspan of about three metres and can fly 1,000 kilometres a day. They can fly without flapping their wings, which saves energy and means that they can stay airborne for days at a time. They don’t breed until the age of ten but can live for more than sixty years. When they are not breeding or raising chicks, they spend their whole time at sea. They can drink seawater because they have special holes in their beaks that drain the salt away. They sleep while on the water. Because they mate for life, they always return to the same partner at the same nesting ground.
On the Otago Peninsula (on the southeast coast of the South Island), there is a protected colony of royal albatrosses, which you can visit. You can watch them on the nest by means of a camera, and if you’re lucky, you might see them in flight too. There are 22 species of albatross in total, yet many of their populations are vulnerable and in decline. The royal albatross, though, is doing relatively well because it has a safe nesting area. The big threats come when the birds are at sea; they mistake plastic for food, and they feed from the baited hooks of fishing boats, swallowing the hooks too. Thankfully, measures are gradually being put in place to reduce the incidence of albatross deaths, for example, putting out fishing lines at night when they are not feeding, and weighing fishing lines down so that they sink underwater out of the birds’ grasp.
It’s heartening to know that something is being done to protect such a special bird.
Book Review
By Cally Palôt-Watts
I’ve reviewed a Matt Haig book before, as I am quite a fan of his. Much as I (and I know an awful lot of visitors to the library) like a series of books, by one author, I do have a really soft spot for writers who can change genres with every title they issue. Enter Mr Haig. This was published in 2010 – yes I know –I’m late to the party. I also had no idea that he wrote a screenplay and the novel side-by-side, as it were. The film, pictured on this copy of the book, was released in 2024, billed as a comedy-horror – again, this passed me by as it isn’t my normal sort of cinema viewing. Having read the book, I might see if I can find it somewhere online and have a look.
The Radleys are a very average family, with father, Peter, working as a GP in the village of Bishopthorpe in Yorkshire and Helen, his wife, a stay-at-home Mum who paints. Rowan, the eldest is a poetry-loving depressed insomniac who has a very serious crush on his sister Clara’s best friend Eve. They do the usual things: PTA events at the school, dinner parties with the neighbours, children having playdates etc.
Despite the entire family being allergic to sunlight, meaning that somewhat weedy Rowan is always covered up even in the hottest weather and covered in Factor 60, making him a target for the local bullies, there seems little to draw attention to them. They do, it’s true, eat very large amounts of red meat but things are going well until Clara decides to become vegan.
Then, when she is sexually assaulted during a party of her local friends, she turns on her attacker and kills him and ‘it all kicks off’! Arriving home covered in blood and suitably hysterical her parents must, finally, tell their children that the whole family are vampires. They have to explain this whilst planning how to dispose of the body which Clara has left in a field!
Peter’s brother soon arrives to ‘help’. The brothers have been estranged for years, during which time Will, who has the charming, good-looking, louche edge on boring old Peter, has been living as a ‘proper’ vampire.
The fact that Peter and Helen have been resisting all their ‘natural’ urges for so long, has meant that they have grown apart emotionally. Peter is anxious to re-establish their relationship and, meanwhile, being denied sex at home, lusts, rather obviously, after his neighbour. Helens history with, and attraction to, Will adds to the family’s difficulties.
Although this is a story with vampires as the main characters, it is far from being just a vampire book. Matt Haig is a skilled writer and addiction, mid-life and mid-marriage crises, teenaged angst and coming-ofage are also covered in the narrative.
There is humour in it too and, although I don’t think is a young adult book as some people have described it, I found it a fun easy read (despite the blood!).
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did, even if currently, you must read a large print version or listen to it, as they are the only two ways in which we have it in the library. I have just ordered a copy of it though, so keep an eye out on our New Stock shelf!
KONTRA ROOTS CLUB IN FEBRUARY
Kontra Roots Club is the region’s premier acoustic showcase and runs monthly on 2nd Fridays at Earl’s Barton Working Men’s Club, 1 Queen Street, NN6 0LN. It starts at 8pm and admission is just £3.
FEATURED ACTS AT KONTRA ROOTS CLUB 14th February
IONA SKY – terrific up-and-coming 5-piece Anglo-American band who blend pop and country with indie-rock, creating songs that meld traditional storytelling with indie-pop guitar riffs and dreamy melodies.
ATTILA VURAL – a long overdue return to the club for this unique virtuoso Swiss guitarist who takes solo guitar to thrilling and unexpected places!
RHYS WILSON – also returning to the club, Rhys is a popular and very fine singer-songwriter from Cambridge.
Queen Street, Earls Barton
BT Sport and ESPN Channels
Serving four traditional ales and a great selection of draught beers and lagers
FEBRUARY WHAT’S ON
Sat 1st - POKER COMPETITION start at 1pm Fri 7th - BIG BINGO. Inc SNOWBALL HOUSE & RAFFLE
Fri 14th - KONTRA MUSIC CLUB from 8pm £3 Fri 21st - BIG BINGO. inc SNOWBALL HOUSE & RAFFLE
ADVANCE NOTICE
EARLS BARTON DARTS COMPETITION From 11am - entry £10/person
Room hire for all occasions (free for members) CIU AFFILIATED
Please contact by our Facebook page: The Works Earls Barton or by Email: dave.ebwmc@btconnect.com or by telephone: 01604 810444 (evenings & weekends)
Quest Goes To Milton Keynes
Quest here. It’s been so cold, and me and Mum have had to be careful going out in my toilet area, as sometimes we go skating on the ice! I’m very glad I have four paws to steady myself, as Mum can slip about a bit with having only two! We had some more of the white stuff, but I didn’t worry about it any more. We went to a massive shopping centre in Milton Keynes. We walked around lots, and me and Dad sat down a lot while Mum wandered in the shops. It was nice and warm in there too!
We also went to a lace fair. I didn’t know what a fair was, but it turned out to be just a big hall with people selling lots of bobbins and thread. Mum uses things like that a lot at night on a pillow, and she doesn’t like me resting my chin on it. Says I might accidentally get hold of a pin! Humans do like to play with funny things sometimes! I prefer to play with my toys. My favourite thing is for them to be thrown across the room. Then I can see how many I can pick up in one go. I can manage five, but it’s easier with three, and Mum says I can count, ‘cos I always remember how many she has thrown. Once I’ve picked them all up, I like to run around the room with them. I then take them back to start the game all over again. I also have to put them down again, so they can pick them up again. I like to keep them busy!
Anyway, will have to go for now, as mum is putting lots of clothes on, and dad is putting some doggy spread on a bone for me, so I’ll be on my own for a while. Bye for now.
Presentation Night for Swan Bowls Team
The photo below shows the winners of the Damian Wright Trophy. In the photo are Jason, Kevin, Dave, Trickie and Paul with Martyn and Luke inset. The team would like to thank Paul Dexter and the Swan staff for their individual trophies and their meals. ( Sorry it wasn’t published last month...you just can’t get the staff.)
Earls Barton WI
We meet on the second Wednesday of the month at 1.45pm in All Saints Parish Hall, Earls Barton. Visitors are most welcome to join us. On Wednesday 12th February Carol Coleman will be giving a talk on “Medical Conditions” including heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, asthma and severe allergic reactions. Carol is well known in the local area for her work with St.John Ambulance. This should be an interesting and informative talk. Why not come along and get to know your local WI? There will be tea and biscuits after the talk. Visitors pay £5. Do come and join us. You will be most welcome. Call Maggie Jarvis our WI president on 07881 418420 if you would like more information.
New One-Man Show at Earls Barton Library
Saturday March 1st at 7pm
Robin Hillman presents his latest one-man show ‘Death Of A Clown’ at Earls Barton Library on Saturday March 1st. Many of you will have seen Robin’s other shows, especially ‘I Am John Clare’, and this one tells the story of the famous Elizabethan clown, Will Kemp, who worked with Shakepeare and acted in many of his most famous plays. It’s a full length play with an interval and the ticket price includes free refreshments. Tickets are £15.00 and are available at Earls Barton Library and Community Centre.
Robin describes his play thus: It is the year 1600 and one-time theatrical superstar Will Kemp is down on his luck. Reduced to long-distance morris dancing as a publicity stunt, there’s only one person to blame: Will Shakespeare. T’other Will. Our Will wants to tell you about it…
Pied Piper News
We had a lovely end of term; Christmas Crafts, A Christmas party, a magic show from Banana Brains and a visit from Father Christmas. We have started the new term full of fun. Our child led activities have included hand painting, super hero masks, a train set, an airport, painting with car wheels, paper aeroplanes and lots of outdoor play. Hopefully we will be able to go on walks again soon as progress is being made with the school building works. Staff are again enrolling on training courses including bereavement training, pathological demand avoidance and oppositional defiant disorder. We have been introducing basic Makaton to help children communicate with us and their peers when speech doesn’t come naturally.
Eco-Watch
By Rebecca Groom
-Chocolate is Good for You! Eco watch Eco
It’s no secret that I have a sweet tooth and those big plastic tubs of chocolates have always bothered me. I find it crazy that something made to last that well is in fact really a single use item and discarded almost immediately. There is a really good nationwide charitable recycling scheme for these tubs run by Greene King. In 2024 over 150,000 tubs were collected and £12,600 was raised for Macmillian Cancer Support.
You have until 16th Feb to get your chocolate, cracker and biscuit plastic tubs to the nearest participating Greene King pub (Overstone Manor, Quays or the Ock n Dough).
From there they are sent to a reprocessing plant, shredded and sold on to plastic manufacturers to use in place of virgin plastic. This is fantastic both in raising funds for charity and for creating a circular economy. But it isn’t a true circular economy as plastic can’t be recycled repeatedly. Once shredded and melted the polymer chain is broken down and the plastics lose their quality the more they are recycled, so a plastic bottle would be a worse quality plastic bottle the second time round. This means that plastics are used to make other products like clothes to create the loop. But plastic takes centuries to break down and will remain as micro plastics for centuries more.
Paper on the other hand can be recycled roughly seven times before the fibres are too broken down to make quality paper but can then be used to make lower grade paper products, like newspaper or egg boxes. Paper takes about six weeks to biodegrade. So I was really pleased to see the ingeniously designed Quality Street paper tub this Christmas. A trial by Nestle was tested in select Tesco stores. Luckily, Wellingborough was one of them and we tested several in the Groom household. The plastic wrappers moved to paper in 2023 and I love the fact that it now means all parts are both fully and easily recyclable. The chocolate is also ethically and sustainably sourced, the Nestle Cocoa Plan having been established in 2009.
Chocolate is just a treat to us, but life can be challenging where it is grown, and it’s important that big companies lead the way in creating fairness across food supply chains. In the case of the Cocoa Plan, that means “Better Farming, Better Lives, Better Cocoa” by having a positive impact on the communities and lives of those farming the cocoa. Nestle developed the Child Labour Monitoring and Remediation System in 2012, now the industry standard, and their Income Accelerator Program is a family centred approach aimed at closing the gaps to a living wage, reducing the child labour risks, and placing greater value on women in the communities being agents for positive change. The farming practices are also improved with a focus on protecting and restoring forests, and the cocoa is Rainforest Alliance certified. Around the world people are living in vastly different situations to us but by making informed purchases we can support projects that put a real value on people’s livelihoods, communities and the planet.
And talking of purchases and the impact you can have with where and how you shop, as promised I’ve started my quest to not buy new in 2025. At the time of writing we’re only a few days in and I’m really pleased to say two birthday presents were not purchased new. Instead one was from eBay auction and one was an exchange of goods. I’m not sure every month is going to be as easy as these first few days but I will keep you posted!
Planning is now underway for the 2025 season. We will be competing in the Monday Night triples league with two teams, the Tuesday Rushden League with two teams as well as the Manfield Cup. We have individuals entering both national and county competitions as well as our own club competitions. We have a full programme of friendly games arranged for weekends and Thursdays.
There is always room for new members to join the club and get coaching or just help from other members to ease them into the sport. we have the equipment to get you started no matter if you are 8 or 88.
We enjoyed an excellent New Year’s Eve Party and thank you for your support. More events are being planned which will be advertised in Barton Today.
The club opens on Thursday evenings throughout the close season where you can enjoy a social drink or take part in the short mat bowls on offer. We arrive at 6.30 and are there as long as people want to stay.
The club is also an excellent venue for hire. Baby showers, birthday parties, wakes, meetings can all be held there. The bar can be opened for you and we can arrange catering if needed. Please contact Ian Butcher on 07973 790145 to discuss your requirements
Local businesses can advertise at our ground with boards located around the green. We have several companies supporting us at present and welcome new enquiries. Please contact Rob Butlin on 07929 917043 who will be pleased to discuss your requirements. We can arrange for your boards to be made and they would remain your property.
We are always pleased to welcome new members to our friendly club which has been known as the best kept secret in Earls Barton due to its tucked away location. If you are not sure where we are please contact me for directions and any other information
Phil Gibson (Secretary) secretary@earlsbartonbowlsclub.org 07504 882394
Saxon Pre-school
A big Happy New Year from us all at Saxon Pre-School. We had a brilliant end to the year and the children particularly enjoyed our Christmas party with Mr Banana Brains and a special visit from Father Christmas! They laughed, danced and enjoyed a delicious party lunch.
We would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank-you to Paul Dexter and the team at The Old Swan for once again supporting Saxon this year and for raising an amazing £1500 for the pre-school with their Christmas fundraiser. The money raised goes a long way for the children at Saxon and will go towards resources for them to support their development and learning.
Earls Barton Millennium WI
Keri Gibson writes...By the time you read this, Christmas will be a figment of our imaginations and all our New Year resolutions broken! However, our ladies celebrated pre-Christmas in style. December’s meeting was our traditional meal out. This year, we held it at Wellingborough Golf Club, (and they let us in��)a lovely, majestic building. As we entered, there was a wide, grand staircase, very Downton Abbey. Its all very well going up, I didn’t want to make the wrong kind of entrance coming back down later on. We were met with a complimentary drink of fizz (non-alcoholic version was available) and gathered in the main reception/bar before transferring upstairs to our own private room.
We were served an excellent two/three course meal depending on what option we had chosen. (I have to say, I had done a bit of a ‘Vicar of Dibley’, having had a full Christmas Dinner at lunchtime!). however, I was determined to do this justice. Service was prompt and smooth and all dietary requests catered for.
Our entertainment crew had set out cards which we were to look at one by one and was a great ice breaker and caused much laughter and debate, round our table at least. In between some courses, we were highly entertained by various games provided by the ‘Two Kate’s’. You’ve seen pin the tail to the donkey, well this was finding Rudolph’s nose! Kate and Kate spent lots of time creating a wonderful Rudolph, only to have him poked and prodded by a very large knitting needle! Poor Rudolph. If you saw him on Christmas Eve, you can blame us if he was wearing an eye patch because someone poked him in the eye. He might also have had a runny nose as he got poked up the right nostril (at least he won’t suffer sinusitis on that side). You know that old game of pass the parcel? Yep, you guessed it. We had three of those being passed around four tables, each layer having a forfeit on it before getting to the prize in the middle (missed me thank goodness, no-one wants to hear me singing at all, never mind a Christmas song). We nearly lost our president when one parcel was thrown across from one table to another table, hitting her on the head with quite a thump. Needless to say, she passed her HIA (head injury assessment to those uninitiated in rugby terms). The final prize turned out to be a small glass tee-light holder (no wonder it hurt!). Our final game of the evening was a new one on me. Large bars of chocolate, yum, appeared as did gloves, scarves, cutlery and dice. The aim was to cut the bar up into its small squares first but with the frenzy of changing places each time a team member rolled a 6 on the dice. Lots of screeching, shoving and pushing ensued as each team tried to achieve their goal. Really ladies, such ungainly behaviour not expected from members of the WI. We were supposed to eat the chocolate that we had cut but as this came during the mince pie course, we were a bit full by then. Even Moi, who never turns down chocolate.
Two of our worthy ladies were voted ‘Club Person’ of the year and presented with a cup in recognition of the work and support they have put into the WI this year, Congratulations Lynne and Tracey. Same time, same place next year?
February’s Meeting - Fish & Chips and Quiz Night
Remember, we meet every 3rd Wednesday evening, 7.45pm at the Methodist Church Hall.
Contact: Lesley Smith - 07966 026663
Earls Barton Cricket Club
EBCC Elected Committee 2022
Chairman: Barry Smith
Secretary: Caroline Rees
Treasurer: Matt Kennedy
Youth Cricket: Matt Rees
January 2025
1st Team Captain: Charlie Lawrence
Adult Cricket: Chris Ellis
Parent Liaison: Dharmendra Jadeja
Up & coming fixtures
Sat 04 June 2022
1st XI vs Haddon CC (home) 2nd XI vs Finedon CC (away)
Sat 11 June 2022
1st XI vs Irthlingboro CC (away) 2nd XI vs ON’s CC (home)
Minutes of the Meeting held at Earls Barton Library and Community Centre on Monday 13th January 2025
Sat 18 June 2022
Draw
Grounds: Mike Davis & Liam Bond Club
Safeguarding Officer: Alex Ayling Club Development: Rob Mair
1st XI vs St Crispin CC (away) 2nd XI vs Poddington CC (home)
Present: Cllrs N Chapman (Chair), J Bond, T Brennan, G Broadhead, S Dodds, P Hadman, C Lloyd-Staples, P Morrall, L Morrison, D Smith, C Wells.
Sat 25 June 2022
Key Dates
001/25 Public Speaking Time
1st XI vs Kettering CC (home) 2nd XI vs S&L Corby CC (away)
No members of the public were in attendance.
Sat 02 July 2022
Our monthly Fund Raising draw has started. Our April Winners are:
002/25 Apologies for Absence
Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs V Gould and C Wood.
Adult training every Wednesday. Friday night junior training is back for 2022, with the bar open for supporters.
U11, U13 & U15s from at 6pm.
(a) Income – income received in December noted and approved.
1st XI vs Irthlingboro CC (home) 2nd XI vs ON’s CC (away)
Sat 09 July 2022
Sam Smart : £100
Charlotte Orton : £60
003/25 Declarations of Pecuniary Interest
All Stars & Dynamos programmes from Friday 6 May at 6pm.
No declarations of pecuniary interest were received.
1st XI vs Haddon CC (away) 2nd XI vs Finedon CC (home)
004/25 Minutes of the Meeting of 9th
Contact us
December 2024
It was resolved to adopt the minutes as a correct record.
005/25 Accounts
If you are an adult cricketer who has moved to the area or has played cricket and wants to get back playing again. Maybe you have a child who is interested in learning to play cricket?
Expenditure - it was resolved to pay the following accounts: 189
Get in touch with Earls Barton Cricket Club
Email enquiries to: secretary_ebcc@hotmail.com
Follow us:
Wayne Wellborn : £40
Legend Shirts still available -, please visit www.EBCClegends.co.uk to buy a shirt and help raise funds to run our club.
(b) Internal Financial Checks – the Chair of the internal checks had been carried out and that there are no discrepancies or concerns to report.
006/25 Planning
(a) Planning Applications Received:
EBCC 2nd XI
NW/24/00692/VAR – Application for Variation of condition 2 (approved plans/details) of planning permission reference NW/22/00550/FUL this application seeking to substitute originally approved plans with the amended plans in relation to the proposed pavilion building only being delivered within phase 1 of the wider development of this site – Earls Barton Sports Association, Northampton Road.
Nether Heyford vs EBCC 2nd X1
After a rebuilding year, our second team has a mixture of experience, youth and some returning Legends. After being put into bat, EB 2nds openers Chris Ellis and Duncan Coverdale got off to a steady start. Returning Legends Paul Smith and Mike Smart made 25 and 41 runs respectively. With rising talent Josh Ford adding 15 runs, we set Heyford a below par score of 142.
A superb opening spell from ever reliable medical mystery Sean Carter and Mike Smart bowling 10 overs each we got some early wickets and were always in the game. Josh Horspool’s 10 overs was the stand out performance bagging 3 wickets for 25 runs and after Archie Rees was given the ball showed us what he’s capable of. Heyford reached the target but only after losing 7 wickets. Game lost but we have a winning future with excellent performances by our youth players.
NW/24/00693/FUL – erection of 2.4 metre high boundary security fencing with vehicle and pedestrian access/egress gates – 1-5 Baron Avenue Following discussion, it was resolved to support both applications.
EBCC 2nd Xi vs Rothwell 2nd XI
After skipper maintained his 100% toss losing run, EB were put into bat again. On a sporting track Chris Ellis dug in to protect one end whilst wickets fell around him from a decent Rothwell bowling attack. Mike Davis showed his experience and once at the wicket put on a 100 run stand with ‘hampered’ Ellis who soon fell 1 short of his 50. Davis finally ended on 70* not out and after 45 overs we had set Rothwell 169 to win.
(b) Green Hill Solar Farm – it was reported that, following community engagement, a response was submitted to Island Green Power consultation indicating that, based on the information received so far, the community is opposed to the proposal based on the scale, and a number of points were raised regarding the proposed development.
Once again Sean Carter (3 for 26 off 10) and Mike Smart (1 for 30 off 10) got us off to a good start. Tom Smart also added to the attack taking 2 wickets. Archie Rees took a superb catch sending their danger man back to the tent and then came on to bowl his allotted 5 overs for only 21 runs whilst taking 2 further wickets. A game that could have gone either way, Rothwell reached the target in the final overs with their last wicket. Once again, lot’s of promise but Rothwell took the win.
007/25 Police/Community
Safety
(a) Crime Figures and Report – it was advised that 10 crimes were reported in December
(b) Community Speed Watch – it was resolved to support volunteer participation in Community Speed Watch 2025.
008/25 Sports and Leisure Development
Due to delays relating to the discharge of planning conditions, the start date has been delayed
009/25 Finance
010/25 George Blackwell
The Score Board
Discussions were held regarding a fitting tribute to former Cllr George Blackwell. It was agreed that all suggestions be discussed with the Blackwell family before a decision is made.
Mike Smart in action at Nether Heyford on the way to his 41 runs
a) ¾ Bank Reconciliation – it was resolved to approve the ¾ Bank Reconciliation as presented by the Clerk.
(b) Grounds Maintenance Committee – it was resolved to approve the minutes of the Grounds Maintenance Committee meeting held on 9th January 2025.
(c) Grounds Maintenance Contract 2025/26 –following discussion, it was resolved to award the contract to carry out maintenance works on Aggate Way open space for the financial year 2025/26 to Mowerman.
(d) Grounds Maintenance Treeworks Contract 2025/26 – following discussion, it was resolved to award the treework contract for 2025/26 to Midland Tree Specialists.
(e) Finance Committee – it was resolved to approve the minutes of the Finance Committee meeting held on 9th January 2025.
Rothwell 1st XI vs EBCC 1st X1
(f) Grants 2025/26 – following discussion, it was resolved to approve the Finance Committee’s recommendations for grants for 2025/26.
011/25 Carols on The Square
Cllr Chapman reported on the event, which went well. Churches Together asked that their thanks be passed on to Cllr Smith who took on the position of Head Marshal.
012/25 Highways and Maintenance
(a) Station Road (south of River Nene) – no report has been received so far from NNC Highways regarding the coring work that has been carried out. It was resolved to delegate powers to the Clerk to liaise with Grendon Parish Council on a response.
(b) Church Floodlighting – the Clerk will make contact with NNC regarding responsibilities within the churchyard.
013/25 NCALC/SLCC/ACRE
(a) Standards and Conduct Framework – it was agreed that the Clerk make a recommendation for a response at the next meeting.
014/25 North Northants Council
(a) Councillors Report – apologies were received from Cllrs Lawman and Hallam – Cllr Brown reported on the following:
EBCC 1st X1 vs Long Bucky.
The second game away at Rothwell was a more significant challenge for the 1sts with the lads bowling first and being put to the sword by Marc Jackson of Rothwell scoring 153* to set a monumental 281-7 to chase.
Kyle Lawrence picked up 5 wickets and some more important points.
The 1st X1 started with a win against a weakened Long Buckby side.
(g) Risk Assessment/Asset Register/Audit Controls 2025/26 – following discussion, it was resolved to approve the Asset Register, Audit Controls and Risk Assessment 2025/26, as recommended by the Finance Committee.
• Work still continues on the NNC Draft Budget. An increase of 4.9% is expected.
Earls Barton bowled out the visitors for 143 with early inroads from Tom Todd and Matt Desborough picking things up where he left off last year.
Kyle Lawrence cut through the tail to pick up 4 wickets.
• An extraordinary meeting was held over devolution plans for regional mayors. No further progress has been made.
Earls Barton then cruised to an 8 wicket victory led by Callum Ward’s classy 61* and a solid 30* from Liam Bond ensured all the points went to Earls Barton.
(h) Budget and PRECEPT 2025/26 – following discussion, it was resolved to approve the Finance Committee’s recommendation for the budget and PRECEPT 2025/26 (total figure £208616, Band D equivalent £92.18 – an increase of £2.42 for the year or 2.7%. This included an increase in the Pioneer upkeep budget to make improvements to the access road following the recent flooding.
Despite a solid start from Matt Rees, Callum Ward and Chris George the chase was never really on by the time we got to 30 overs. So the team showed real character and dug in to ensure that the old adage “if you can’t win don’t lose” was applied successfully! The game ended as a draw with Earls Barton not allowing Rothwell the points, ending on 176-6.
(i) Fencing Repair Quote – it was resolved to delegate powers to the Clerk to order the works following receipt of a second quote.
• The following grants are currently available; NNC Business Grant Scheme, Rural Business Grant Scheme, Community Grant Fund, Community Safety Fund and Councillors Empowerment Fund. Details can be found on the NNC website.
(b) School Transport – an update was provided on Wrenn School’s communications with NNC over school transport. They have requested a meeting with the relevant officers.
Date of Next Meeting
Monday 10th February 2025 – 7.15pm
(j) Treework Quote – it was resolved to accept a quote to remove self-set trees at the allotment.
(k) Solar Lighting Quote – the Clerk was asked to seek additional quotes to present to the full council.
Captain Charlie Lawrence although injured is currently leading the team from the sidelines and although is doing a great job we hope he has the new ball back in his hand soon rather than the scorebook!
It should be noted that these minutes are subject to the approval of Earls Barton Parish Council
Rosemary Smart – Clerk to the Council 01604 812850
theclerk.ebpc@gmail.com www.earlsbarton.gov.uk
Earls Barton United Football Club
Email: ebufc@email.com
Website: www.ebufc.co.uk
Building a More Sustainable Club for the 2025/26 Season
At EBUFC, we continually strive to develop our club in response to the ever-changing social and economic environment. The FA has announced significant changes for the 2026/27 season, which will likely require us to redevelop pitch layouts, goal sizes, coaching, volunteer roles, and squad sizes. Here’s what we know so far:
• Under 7/8: 4-a-side (smaller pitch)
• Under 9/10: 5-a-side
• Under 11/12: 7-a-side
• Under 13/14: 9-a-side
• 15 onwards: 11-a-side
We will learn more about these changes as the season progresses.
Pioneer entrance road update
It was agreed to replace the entrance road at the Pioneer after the last few years of wash outs. Whilst a £1000 was spent recently on a temporary repair a decision has been made to do a more permanent repair. With a grant from Sport England’s fund for flood affected facilities and £7,500 from the Club mainly raised from the tournament and other fund-raising ventures we hope to have the new road in the next month.
County Cups
Veterans: Through to the semi-final on 2nd March.
Under 11 Whites: Through to the semi-finals after a nail-biting quarter-final performance.
Under 11 Whites Looking Sharp in New Jackets
The Under 11s are thrilled with their new sponsored tops, thanks to our generous sponsors: Lleshi and Sons Building Services, i-party entertainment, and TM Business Solutions Limited!
Thank you, Lucy!
Lucy Payne has stepped down as the rep for the under 6 fun football and the girls’ recreational football both on a Saturday morning.
Over the last few years, you will have seen Lucy ever present in helping with the coaching and as a go between with players parents and coaches. We have seen these age groups go from strength to strength and this year saw our first competitive all girls team come out from the new girls’ only recreational football.
The under 6’s is one of the largest and most successful in the area with between 30 and 40 regularly attending and producing around 3-6 coaches a year moving up to under 7’s football. These achievements wouldn’t have been possible without Lucy’s commitment, enthusiasm and hands on approach. She even became a qualified coach herself. Thankfully, we are not losing Lucy completely as she will continue in her Treasurer role.
Snow-Play Day!
With games cancelled due to the cold snap, the Under 8s took the opportunity to create our first-ever EBUFC snowteam!
Dates for Your Diary
Mark these key dates in your calendar:
• EBUFC Tournament (Under 7 to 10): 7th and 8th June 2025
• EBUFC Presentation Day: 22nd June 2025
• EBUFC AGM: Tuesday, 13th May 2025
Join the EBUFC 500 Club!
Are you aware of the 500 club? This exciting fund raising monthly prize draw is just £3 a ticket per month. Currently the prize pots are 1st prize £100, 2nd prize £50, 3rd prize £25. It’s easy to join through the Teamfeepay app… the more people that buy tickets the bigger the prize pots may increase!
Volunteering
A big thank you to everyone who joined us on a cold morning at the Grange to construct new goals for the youth sides. EBUFC thrives on the support of our amazing community, and we always welcome more volunteers. Whether it’s working on the pitches, organizing events, supporting administration, or helping with coaching, every little bit helps!
Stay Up-to-Date with EBUFC News Online!
There’s always more happening at EBUFC! To stay updated on all the latest news and events, visit our revamped website www.ebufc.co.uk, join the Friends of EBUFC on Facebook, or follow the club and the 1st team on Instagram!
Mick and Hazel Higham write...Planning is underway for the 8th Earls Barton Transport Show on 23rd to 25th August 2025, and forms have been sent out for exhibits, trade, craft and charity stands. If you have not received yours yet or would like to apply for the first time, please either download a form from the website www.earlsbartontransportshow. co.uk or email us at info@earlsbartontransportshow. co.uk You can also call us on 01604 811633. Please also download or request a GDPR form to complete at the same time, so we can keep your details on record for future years. We look forward to hearing from you.
• Professional photos using a digital SLR camera, not a phone camera
• All properties have an itemised floor plan with room sizes
• No misleading wide angle lens used
• Aerial drone photos/video where applicable
• Full details of every room, not just room sizes
• I’ve lived in Earls Barton for over 24 years and I’m a part of the community
• Extensive social media coverage
• Personal viewings - I know each and every property inside and out
• I am available from valuation to completion 24/7, not just office hours
