Courtesy Call Summer 2017

Vol Five No. Eight

Courtesy Call SUMMER

2017

MAGAZINE

Society founded 1986

Registered Charity No. 328296

CAMPAIGN MEMBERSHIP INCREASE

In her Treasurer/Membership Secretary Report of 2016 LIZ HALL expresses her delight in the increase in Campaign membership. Read her report on this and the financial state of the Campaign on page 5.

SKIPTON RECEIVES 2016 TOP TOWN TROPHY

Acting N C for C Chairman JOHN STOKES presents the Mayor of Skipton Councillor MARTIN EMMERSON with the Salop Leisure Top Town Trophy at Skipton’s Rendezvous Hotel last November. Hotel proprietor and Campaign member MALCOLM WEAVING hosted the Presentation Lunch which was attended by Campaign patron DIANA MORAN, Committee members JOHN STOKES, VANESSA BOND, LIZ HALL, MARY ZOELLER, ROBERT ZARYWACZ, North-West Regional Executive ALAN COLES and Council guests.

Photo by DIANA MORAN SEE PAGES 8 & 9 FOR MORE PICTURES TAKEN AT THIS MEMORABLE EVENT

ROCHDALE COUNCIL TO BAN SWEARING - WITH £100 FINES Council leader defends proposal to fine people £100 for using abusive language after Liberty says it would breach human rights.

In March Social Justice Campaigner GEORGE BARDA and National Campaign for Courtesy Chairman PETER G FOOT debated the Rochdale agenda on RT Television (the UK based Russian Television Station) both being interviewed by presenter LAURA SMITH. The above picture shows our Chairman with George Barda and programme producer CLEUDI GOSSAGE following the debate.

■ Full story by HELEN PIDD –North of England editor of The Guardian — is told on page 5 PLUS comment from our Patron and Rochdale resident JIMMY CRICKET.

NATIONAL

CAMPAIGN FOR

TOP TOWN NOMINATIONS FOR 2017 NOW INVITED

Your nominations for this year’s Top Courtesy Town Award are now wanted. Please contact JOHN STOKES, LIZ HALL or VANESSA BOND with your selection (plus reasons for nominating it). See page 9

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE… Remembering our Patron BARONESS RACHAEL HEYHOE-FLINT OBE DL

WE ARE ALL VOLUNTEERS If you would like to support us, please join at campaignforcourtesy.org.uk/join

COURTESY ⓕ­facebook.com/campaignforcourtesy

“Farewell to a trailblazer Tributes to the W G Grace of womens cricket”

Thursday 19 January 2017

www.campaignforcourtesy.org.uk

­ⓣ twitter.com/cforcourtesy

NATIONAL

CAMPAIGN FOR

COURTESY CAMPAIGN CONTACTS Founder and Honorary President

REV. IAN GREGORY

Honorary Vice President & Motoring Correspondent

DAVID WILLIAMS MBE, FIRSO

Contact: Tel: 01342 825676 e: david.williams@motoringassist.com Honorary Vice President

EDWARD THOMAS

COURTESY CALL

BACK ISSUES AVAILABLE FROM…

Egmont House 240 Tolworth Rise South, Surbiton, Surrey KT5 9NB Tel: 020 8330 3707 (Mon-Fri / 9.30am - 1pm) e: peter.foot1@btinternet.com

Acting Chairman

JOHN STOKES

Contact: Tel: 020 3565 1852 m: 07975 562128 e: johnstokes13@gmail.com

Flat 8 Buckingham Apartments 178 Elmers End Road Beckingham, Kent BR3 4SZ Treasurer/ Membership Secretary

LIZ HALL

Walmere, Wrigglebrook Lane, Kingsthorne, Hereford HR2 8AW Tel: 01981 540479 m: 07771 925561 e: amba@medicalflightline.com Sport & Leisure Executive Officer

PAUL SMITH

Tel: 020 8567 4659 e: paul@prsmith.org

Contributions, articles, reviews and letters are welcomed, although the editor cannot guarantee to publish same. Letters, emails and messages that are not intended for publication should be clearly marked ‘Not for Publication’. Restrictions on available space may also require the editor to reduce or alter submitted copy, although every effort will be made to retain its original meaning.

Courtesy Call does not accept responsibility for loss or damage to materials submitted relating to magazine copy and/or any projects connected with this publication – or for the accuracy of the information contained in such material.

The views expressed in Courtesy Call are not necessarily those of the editor.

Reproduction of any copy, photograph or illustration from Courtesy Call and/or the Campaign’s website is not permitted without the approval of the editor.

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

Printed by Ridgeway Press 01256 300420

Public Transport Spokesperson

VANESSA BOND

Contact: Tel: 020 8952 7890 e: vanbond6@gmail.com

BBC Light Entertainment Consultant

ANNE LING

REGIONAL EXECUTIVES - ENGLAND

NORTH NORTH WEST ALAN COLES 6 Eden Park Lancaster LA1 4SJ Tel: 01524 67570 e: alan@alancoles80.plus.com

WEST

Tel: 020 8460 5788

Campaign Photographer

JOHN McKENZIE

Contact: m: 07432 291252 e: johndouglasmck@gmail.com

RACHEL STOKES Contact: c/o John Stokes

PR Officer

MARY ZOELLER Contact: Tel: 020 8873 1633 e: mary@maryzoeller.co.uk

TIM PRITCHARD

St. Anthony’s Rowberrow Somerset BS25 1QR e: stanthonys@hotmail.co.uk

CENTRAL WEST LIZ HALL

Walmere, Wrigglebrook Lane, Kingsthorne, Hereford HR2 8AW Tel: 01981 540479 m: 07771 925561 e: amba@medicalflightline.com

SOUTH EAST JOHN STOKES

Flat 8, Buckingham Apartments, 178 Elmers End Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 4SZ Tel: 020 3565 1852 m: 07975 5621287 e: johnstokes13@gmail.com

STEPPING DOWN…

PETER G FOOT Chairman Courtesy Call Editor

ROBERT ZARYWACZ Vice Chairman

MARY HALL Secretary

NOMINATIONS FOR THESE EXECUTIVE POSTS NOW INVITED IN TIME FOR ELECTION AT THE NEXT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING. (See facing page list)

PLEASE NOTE…

THE 2017 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING WILL NOW BE HELD IN THE AUTUMN AND WILL BE LINKED WITH THE TOP COURTESY TOWN AWARD PRESENTATION IN THE WINNING TOWN. Date to be advised.

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COURTESY CALL

Consider others and show you care

SUMMER 2017

NOMINATIONS INVITED For all posts on the Campaign Executive

MOIRA ANDERSON OBE

OFFICERS: CHAIRMAN…

Nomination JOHN STOKES

VICE CHAIRMAN… SECRETARY…

Nomination VANESSA BOND

TREASURER…

Standing LIZ HALL

COLONEL JOHN BLASHFORDSNELL OBE

OUR PATRONS

THE NATIONAL CAMPAIGN for COURTESY is proud to have the support of our PATRONS

DAVID HAMILTON

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY… SPORT & LEISURE EXECUTIVE OFFICER… Standing PAUL SMITH

ANNE BRUZAC

ROY HUDD

WYN CALVIN

JOANNA LUMLEY

FIONA CASTLE

DIANA MORAN

JIMMY CRICKET

DAME ESTHER RANTZEN

OBE

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Standing

VANESSA BOND (Public Transport) ANNE LING (BBC Ent. Consultant) JOHN McKENZIE (Photographer) RACHEL STOKES

MBE

OBE FRGS

MARY ZOELLER (PR Officer) ALL NOMINATIONS FOR THE COMPAIGN EXECUTIVE POSTS to be submitted to JOHN STOKES or LIZ HALL by 2nd June 2017

OBE

REGIONAL EXECUTIVES: Standing

ALAN COLES North, North West England TIM PRITCHARD West England LIZ HALL Central West England JOHN STOKES South East England

DBE

NOMINATIONS INVITED For the following Regions: SCOTLAND NORTHERN IRELAND WALES NORTH EAST ENGLAND NORTH WEST ENGLAND CENTRAL ENGLAND EAST ENGLAND CENTRAL EAST ENGLAND EAST ANGLIA CENTAL SOUTH ENGLAND GREATER LONDON SOUTH ENGLAND SOUTH WEST ENGLAND Applicants wishing to serve the Campaign in the above Regions should contact JOHN STOKES or LIZ HALL

LESS ME...MORE WE SUMMER 2017

DAVE DENNISON

DAME BERYL GREY DBE

DIANA MORAN

... tune in to her weekly excercise spot on The Wireless from Age UK on digital radio.

EasyFit DVD available from www. amazon.co.uk

Don’t miss those ‘hello’ opportunities

JUNE WHITFIELD

CBE

DAVID WOOD

OBE

DAVID HAMILTON

... tune in to his daily programme on The Wireless from Age UK on digital radio.

Current Book: A FULHAMISH TALE www. ashwaterpress.co.uk

COURTESY CALL

3

°

THE SWEARING BAN DEBATE (continued from page one)

A council leader has defended plans to ban swearing in his town after free speech advocates said the £100 fines levied as punishment would breach people’s human rights.

Rochdale borough council in Greater Manchester wants to intro¬duce a public spaces protection order, which could lead to anyone caught “using foul and abusive lan¬guage” being warned, moved on or given an onthe-spot fine.

Begging, “loitering”, antisocial parking, playing loud music, loudly revving car engines, street drinking, unauthorised charity collections and skateboarding

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COURTESY CALL

could also be banned under the move, while under-18s could be barred from the town centre between 11pm and 6am.

LARATEN CATEN, the legal officer for Liberty, told the Manchester Evening News that the plans would be difficult to enforce and could criminalise vulnerable people: “These proposals would unjustifiably curb the rights and freedoms of Rochdale residents. The swearing ban is so vaguely defined, it would prove impossible for any¬one to know whether they were breaking the law or not, while a blanket ban on begging will criminalise some of the most

vulnerable people in the town.”

RICHARD FARNELL, the leader of Rochdale borough council retorted: “With all the horrific human rights abuses happening around the world right now, I would have thought Liberty had bigger things to worry about. We are clamping down on a small minority of antisocial ne’er-dowells who drunkenly shout and swear and harangue shoppers in our town centre.

I make no apologies for trying to make Rochdale a more welcoming place for people to enjoy and this is supported by the overwhelming majority of local residents. The council is spending £250m transforming Rochdale town centre and we are not going to let a small number of drunken and abusive idiots spoil it for

Life is richer with respect and good humour

everyone else.

Offensive and abusive behaviour is already an offence, but police resources are stretched in dealing with this low-level crime. We are working in partnership with them to use our powers to deal with this more effectively.”

The plans, presented to Rochdale council cabinet on Monday, acknowledge that the council “must have regard to articles 10 and 11 of the European convention on human rights, ensuring that the making of a public spaces protection order is not used to stop reasonable activities where no antisocial behaviour is being committed.”

The swearing ban was largely well-received in Rochdale.

SUMMER 2017

Our Patron JIMMY CRICKET Adds his view to the controversy over the proposed banning of swearing in his home town…

“I’m so glad my adopted town Rochdale has banned swearing from its town centre. It just isn’t nice for people going about their business to hear foul language, especially families. I hope more places follow suit!”.

Gillian Duffy. Photograph: Gary Calton for the Observer GILLIAN DUFFY who was famously described as “that bigoted woman”

by Gordon Brown during the 2010 election, said she thought it was a good idea. “Do I think there are foul-mouthed people in Rochdale?

Among certain section of Rochdale, yes,” she said.

“It is more common now. No one seems to bat an eyelid but I don’t like it. I never swear and I never heard my late husband swear once in all the time we were married.”

Duffy is still cross that Brown thought she had sworn at him when she asked him about eastern European immigrants in Rochdale, insisting she had asked the then prime minister: “Where are they flocking from?” rather than “Where are they fucking from?”

Duffy, 72 said she had once challenged a swearing schoolgirl on a bush going through the Falinge estate in Rochdale. “She was searing her head off and there was this old lady—this was a while ago, I’m an old lady myself now — shaking her head and saying , ‘Oh dear, oh dear’. I said to this girl: ‘Shut your filthy mouth’. It shocked her,” she said.

SIMON DANCZUK, MP for Rochdale, said: “There are a number of wrong ‘uns in Rochdale who hang around the town centre getting drunk and using foul language. People have had enough of them and the council are right to sort them out.”

CHANGE OF “ON BUSINESS” NUMBER FOR BRITISH AIRWAYS TRAVELLERS

Help our Campaign – please ensure you enter our “on business” number

0B10655332 into your BA bookings online.

For details and instructions on how to book, please see our website and then a link to the appropriate page. www. campaignforcourtesy.org

Campaign for Courtesy Courtesy is ‘Cool’ and warms the heart

www.campaignforcourtesy.org

SUMMER 2017

Treasurer/ Membership Secretary

LIZ HALL

Treasurer and Membership Report 2016

As this role is now combined here is the report for both for the past year.

In 2016 we were delighted with the new membership applications and our membership now exceeds 350 which is a big increase on the past year.

Many thanks to Malcolm Weaving of the Rendezvous Hotel, Skipton and the ladies of the Kingstonian FC who have driven this increase in membership con¬siderably. And also to all those members who have encouraged their friends and family to join. We now have a larger membership than we have had for many years.

The membership fee is still a little “scattergun” as it was increased (for concessionary members) to £10 but many people did not realise this and continue to pay the old concessionary membership of £7.50. Details of the increase in membership costs are on the reply-paid form which we urge you to complete and return in order to keep our records up to date.

At our recent committee meeting in Skipton it was agreed that it was essential to ascertain how many of our past members still wish to receive “Courtesy Call” by post. As a small charity we have to watch every penny and the cost of producing the “Courtesy Call” magazine and sending it out by post has, inevitably, risen over time. We do have a very kind and considerate printing company – and Peter Foot, of course who has masterminded the whole things for many years, but with the rise in the cost of postage and printing it is now becoming untenable to continue to send out the printed copy of the magazine two or three times a year for the membership fee we ask for at the concessionary rate. We are in danger to becoming an organisation which only exists to produce a magazine which, I am sure you will all agree, is not a position we should be in.

During our discussions in November we envisaged many

www. campaignforcourtesy.org.uk

Courtesy - the human passport

areas in which we could expand the courtesy message but in order to do that we need to use our funds for something other than printing and postage of the magazine.

The magazine will continue to be available free of charge on the website but we are going to have to make a charge to cover the costs to those people who wish to continue to receive the printed version. Please see details on the reply-paid form in this issue.

It was also discussed that having an AGM in London (which is quite poorly attended) was an unnecessary waste of much needed funds. Our officers are based throughout the UK and asking them to travel to a central location to meet is both expensive and wasteful of their time. Whilst we acknowledge the need for an AGM, both as part of our charitable status and for informing our members what we are doing each year, we cannot justify this considerable expense.

Therefore we are proposing that from now on our AGM is held at our Top Town Award Ceremony and not as a separate meeting.

More of this is included in the Acting Chairman’s report.

On the money side, I am not going to list here all the thanks to the various people who have donated money in 2016 because it will fill several pages! Suffice to say that with those kind donations, our lovely members, and funds from other sources we had, as of December 2016, some £12,000 in the bank. However some of those income streams are unreliable. We cannot rely on this level of funding be available in the future albeit we are secure for now. The detailed accounts are available via the Charities Commission or from me directly amba@medicalflightline.com Please do return the reply-paid form enclosed with this issue of the magazine. If we don’t hear back from you we will assume you no longer wish to be a member and receive the magazine either online or through the post.

The financial situation is looking stable for the past year and continues to improve at the moment. We hope to use those funds to promote those causes we most believe in. And we thank everyone for their continued support.

NEW MEMBERSHIP APLICATION BROCHURES NOW AVAILABLE

COURTESY CALL

5

SPORTSMANSHIP

announced that he will be retiring at the end of the season. Lahm has played 501 matches for the Bayern Munich, 113 games for Germany, helped win 21 trophies for the club and has never received a red card! The ultimate professional.

MATTERS PAUL SMITH

American Female Boxer’s Courtesy Shares The Glory

e: prsmith@gmail.com Young Sunderland Fan’s Woe Reduced by Defoe

Bradley Lowery is 5 years old and has been re diagnosed with cancer. He loves Sunderland FC. He goes to many games. Players from all clubs show him love and time and its lovely to see. He especially loves Jermaine Defoe and recently, when Jermaine went to visit him in hospital, he fell asleep in Jermaine's arms producing a lovely picture.

Zafar is a young female Muslim boxer from Oakdale, USA. She was banned from boxing because she wore a hijab and leggings. Her opponent Alaiya Charbonier was declared the winner. This didn't sit right with Alaiya who went up to Zafar put the belt in her lap and said to her “This is yours. They disqualified you. You're the true winner. This is unfair”. Courtesy amongst opponents. A lovely touch.

Campaign for Courtesy Courtesy is ‘Cool’ and warms the heart

Top German Pro 600 Caps Not One Red Card

www.campaignforcourtesy.org

Did you know that….

Warring German and British soldiers played football together on Christmas Day? A heavyweight boxer carried his old adversary’s coffin and paid for his funeral?

An English sailor abandoned his dream of winning to save a Frenchman’s life?

A Czech Olympic runner secretly gave his gold medal to an opponent?

COURTESY CALL

After the tragic news that nearly all of the Chapecoense football team (from Brazil) died in an air crash, the football world showed its brotherhood and togetherness.

PSG (from France) donated £40 million, Cristiano Ronaldo donated £3 million. Brazilain clubs have announced that they will loan Chapecoense players for next season free of charge and that they are exempt from relegation for the next 3 years. The team they were going to play in the Copa Sudamericana Cup Final, Athletico National (Columbia), have asked CONMEBAL to award the cup to Chapecoense. Many wonderful gestures of courtesy help have helped to ease the pain.

French Courtesy & Kindness Brings A Tear To The Eye Racing RFC fans opened their homes to Munster rugby fans. The Munster coach, Anthony Foley (holding the cup in the photo), died suddenly before the original fixture. Match was cancelled.

When the match was rescheduled, the Munster fans are 'blown away' by the kind gesture from the Parisian rugby club - to open their homes to the Munster fans - who are returning to see the postponed Champions Cup clash.

The brotherhood of rugby knows no bounds.

CD

COMEDIC DELIGHT!

£5 including p & p Cheque/POs to ROY HUDD ENTERPRISES P.O. Box 604 IPSWICH IP6 9WZ

Phillip Lahm is a German football player who plays for Bayern Munich and has done all his career. He's won everything there is to win in the game and

6

World Courtesy Amidst Columbian Tragedy

“Read this book”…

RICHARD DUNWOODY “This book is wonderful”…

PAUL McGINLEY “Thought provoking and inspiring”…

OLYMPIC COUNCIL OF IRELAND

DAVE DENNISON

FERDIE YEATSY

perfect gift books

For Adults...

A GIFT FOR AN IDIOT and it’s sequel A GIFT FROM AN IDIOT For Children...

CLIP CHEESECAKE AND THE MAJELLIC BEANS the adventures continue CLIP CHEESECAKE MEETS BEANIE £5 each - donated to the Campaign funds by the author.

All orders to Campaign H.Q. with cheque payable to National Campaign for Courtesy 240 Tolworth Rise South, Surbiton, Surrey KT5 9NB

Ridgeway Press

For all your print requirements

01256 300420

FIONA CASTLE OBE

Latest book: TOPIC OF CANCER - a positive and supportive guide for patients, families and friends.

Patient quote “I’m going to die living, not live dying” Available for small donations to Campaign funds - contact H.Q. at 020 8330 3707 e: peter.foot1@btinternet.com

£10 incl. p & p…with Author kindly donating £3 from each sale to National Campaign for Courtesy (add word ‘Courtesy’ when ordering).

Orders by website (as below) or via Amazon or bulk orders direct to paul@prsmith.org

www.GreatMomentsofSportsmanship.com

by PRSmith.org

Telephone enquiries : +44 (0)20 8567 or +44 (0)7747116123

Lower the volume, raise the tone

SUMMER 2017

JOHN STOKES e: johnstokes13@gmail.com GOOD MANNERS EXAMINED

I am basing my account on a newspaper article from "The Times" of February 15 this year.

The article is headed "Table manners earn families a peace deal". The owner of an upmarket wine bar and restaurant in Padua, Italy is fed up with what he sees as declining standards of table manners and general behaviour amongst children.

He complains that parents defend their children's behaviour along the lines of "My child can do what they want". He thinks that the situation has deteriorated since he started opening for Sunday lunch.

Therefore, he offers a monetary discount to parents of polite, wellmannered children, a discount which he considers to have been deserved only rarely.

I think that there are two main issues here: 1) the children's manners and behaviour, and the parental response; 2) the giving of a discount where deemed appropriate. Both merit careful discussion, but, for reasons of length and clarity, I have decided to concentrate solely on the first issue.

My account is based on the main points in the article; I have neither first-hand knowledge nor reports from those attending the restaurant. I hope to show that the "real life" situation is much more complex than a cursory reading of the article would suggest. I shall argue also that there is a paradox: On the one hand, the necessary rules and attitudes can be quite easily described, whilst, on the other, to actually carry them out every time is distinctly more difficult.

Extreme Relativism

This suggests that any option is as good as any other, and that individual children or families follow their own rules, independent of the mores or expectations of society.

A Possible Parental Answer

Of course, if we all literally did whatever we wanted, our whole way of life would disintegrate; society would be unworkable.

However, parents should ultimately decide on what behaviour is acceptable for their children. In any case, in the oft-

SUMMER 2017

repeated "real world", there is in practice a high level of conformity.

Therefore, they should be left alone, to exercise their judgement; there's too much external pressure. Outside agencies should concentrate on the small minority of people who are genuinely antisocial.

There is much to recommend this approach. For example, it emphasises responsibility and liberty.

However, there are many other aspects to consider.

Some Things To Bear In Mind The extreme relativist position might be rejected, but we could still be affected by its essentially selfish attitudes, especially in view of the pressures and influences to which we are subjected. We might focus on "entitlement" and "rights", at the expense of "responsibilities".

Some people possess special knowledge, insight, skill or responsibility.

Thus, the restaurant owner in question could deem himself to be hugely responsible, especially in his awareness of dangers in the workplace. He might wish to avoid litigation.

The restaurant owner might consider other customers' needs and desires, in the face of children’s' presence. However, this argument can be reversed. Maybe other customers should make allowances, being kinder, and more thoughtful and welcoming towards children. It is surely significant that the situation seems to have deteriorated since opening for Sunday lunch; maybe the restaurateur should revise his attitudes, as, inevitably, more children will be present at that time. Patrons who wish to have a quieter meal could then pick from a wide variety of other times. In any case, it is not made clear exactly how much "worse" the situation has become, at times apart from Sunday lunchtime.

If the owner is extending his opening hours to increase his profit, shouldn't he be prepared to endure a certain level of "problem"? Is he being intolerant, and thereby unreasonable?

Attitudes towards acceptable behaviour are often notoriously subjective, depending on a variety of factors. Thus, we have the mantra "Children should be seen and not heard", supposedly beloved of the Victorians, whilst others advocate children's positive engagement in all activities and topics of discussion.

It is all too easy for those without children, or for those to whom parenthood is but a distant memory, to pontificate unrealistically on how "the younger generation" should

behave. Bringing up children is usually satisfying and pleasurable, but undoubtedly hard work as well. This is particularly the case, in view of the appreciable pressures parents are often under.

They are confronted with so many guidelines, however wellintentioned they might be individually.

They have many work commitments, and frequently both parents work, in order to pay household bills.

Many of us live in nuclear families and do not sufficiently enjoy the benefits of the wider community or extended family. Even without all these complications, it is clear that we all feel different from day to day; sometimes, for no apparent reason, we cope well, and, on other days, not.

Many parents feel beleaguered, tired and confused, and feel that they have somehow "failed". The bringing up of families can become a chore, when parents would like to see it as a privilege. It is therefore easy to understand how faulty rationalisation, aggression and unexamined assertion can be used to cover such feelings.

Colloquially speaking, people so affected "cannot see the wood for the trees". They resort to seeing "each man as an island".

At the same time, some would see this support for parents and children as an unwarranted, excuse-ridden apologia, maybe as an example of modern, liberal "newspeak". These people too should express their views; such is the nature of our democracy.

The Way Forward

It is clear that we can become so easily mired in often contradictory detail. None of us is capable of total knowledge or management of societal ills. Thus far, we are at an impasse composed of competing interest-groups. There is no "quick fix".

Now let us change our focus. Let is concentrate instead on basic rules of good behaviour, to which we are ALL subject; they are UNIVERSAL. These are rules such as "Do to others only what one would have done to oneself", or "Do not judge others unthinkingly, or from a position of prejudice". We should always try to show empathy; that is, put ourselves in another's place. We should aim to understand, and to look for similarities, rather than differences, between people. We should always try to avoid hypocrisy in our dealings with others; this is especially important when interacting with children.

Some might criticise these rules as being too general and few in number, but that's my very point.

It makes them easier to follow in

Slow down – what’s the rush?

the "real world". They are an important and understandable AIM, rather than some sort of narrowly focused ACHIEVEMENT residing in an unrealistically long list.

The Concepts Of Discipline And Control

These are important in the teaching and operation of basic rules. They apply to everyone, and especially to children and adults' dealings with them. However, they need to be carefully distinguished; they are not synonymous.

Discipline involves the understanding, internalisation and application of underlying principles. Our behaviour can be adapted according to context and situation. It is fundamental to education.

Control, by contrast, involves a positive response to external sanction or command, and is therefore more limited in its scope.

It does not of itself sit easily with education, save in restricted ways.

It is sometimes, though, extremely important, as when a child runs towards a busy road or plays with sharp knives. The concept of control is of a lower order than that of discipline. Thus, a child who is well disciplined in a restaurant is preferable to one who is merely controlled; they can adapt their behaviour according to situation and parental input. My own children, who I don't claim to have been unrealistic paragons of virtue, were able to adjust to a permissive, informal restaurant in France, but also a more formal wedding reception in the U.K. Just like the basic rules, discipline represents a vital AIM. No one, of whatever age or experience, can be said to have fully achieved it; we can all make errors or judge poorly.

Education in its broadest and most relevant sense involves the inculcation and development of basic rules and discipline. It starts at birth, and is the onerous, yet hopefully pleasurable, job of us all, especially parents.

The Nature Of My Model

If anyone still believes my model to be idealistic and somehow lacking in rigour, let me disabuse them of that notion. It is necessary and proper to seek understanding, to help inform our words and actions. However, no amount of understanding can of itself make them morally right. A "highminded" approach is a more productive, yet difficult, way. It faces a stark and pithy truth, namely that "Explanation is not exoneration".

Readers' comments are welcome.

John Stokes

www.campaignforcourtesy.org.uk

COURTESY CALL

7

COMMITTEE & GUESTS RENDEZVOUS FOR A GREAT DAY IN SKIPTON GATEWAY TO THE DALES TOWN WINS OUR TOP COURTESY TOWN AWARD FOR 2016

Pictured L to R are: LIZ HALL (Treasurer/Membership Secretary), MARY ZOELLER (PR Officer), ALAN COLES (Regional Executive – North North England), ROBERT ZARYWACZ (Vice Chairman), Cllr. MARTIN EMMERSON (Mayor of Skipton), JOHN STOKES (Acting Chairman), MALCOLM WEAVING (Proprietor, Rendez vous Hotel), VANESSA BOND (Councillor – Public Transport Spokesperson).

Photo: DIANA MORAN

Ridgeway Press

Proud printers of Courtesy Call

Our ever-smiling Patron DIANA MORAN organised these two photographs taken at the Skipton Lunch—one with the town’s Mayor and host MALCOLM WEAVING; the other with the Mayor and guest Cllr ROBIN SIDER who was twice ex-mayor of Spelthorne Council. (The latter gentleman has duly nominated his Shepperton town as a candi¬date for the 2017 Top Courtesy Town Award).

Proprietor of the Rendezvous Hotel MALCOLM WEAVING shows his expertise with the carving knife in the hotel’s restaurant. Malcolm proved the perfect host for the Top Courtesy Town Presentation Lunch.

Photo: DIANA MORAN

OUR CODE ... l GOOD MANNERS l RESPECT – for others and their property l RESPECT – for yourself l REJECTION OF ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR NATIONAL CAMPAIGN FOR COURTESY – FAIR PLAY CODE 8

COURTESY CALL

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Opponents are also people The other side is not the enemy To lose graciously is true victory The spirit of the game matters as much as the rules • Winning by cheating is worthless

Campaign for Courtesy

Campaign for Courtesy

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Let’s have a polite intermission

Courtesy costs nothing and profits everybody

Courtesy is ‘Cool’ and warms the heart

SUMMER 2017

NATIONAL CAMPAIGN FOR COURTESY

COURTESY TOP TOWN AWARD

Previous winners…

2012…..ILFRACOMBE 2014…..SHREWSBURY 2015…..EPSOM 2016.....SKIPTON

The Campaign invites Nominations for the….

2017 COURTESY TOP TOWN AWARD

SHEPPERTON NOMINATED FOR TOP TOWN AWARD

Cllr. ROBIN SIDER of Spelthorne Council has nominated Shepperton town for the 2017 Campaign ‘Top Courtesy Town’ Award. Attending the Campaign’s Presentation Lunch at Yorkshire’s ‘Gateway to the Dales’ in November, when Skipton took the 2016 title. Robin (pictured left) imme¬diately nominated his Shepperton town for this year’s title. The above photograph was organised by Campaign Patron DIANA MORAN (pictured centre) - who is also a Shepperton resident. The Mayor of Skipton, Cllr. MARTIN EMMERSON completes our picture. He received the Award Trophy from Acting Chairman JOHN STOKES.

THE LAST WORD from Chairman

PETER G FOOT

Sadly this has to be my last message to you as your Chairman and the last issue of Courtesy Call as it’s editor. Aging and health problems have combined to erode any regular concentration and travel and participating at meetings is now not possible.

I would like to thank so many dedicated and talented people who have made the past decade such a pleasurable experience during my Chairmanship. They have proved so supportive and inspirational — Edward Thomas, David Williams and Ian Gregory from the outset and Vanessa Bond, Mary Zoeller, Liz Hall, Robert Zarywacz, John McKenzie, Barry Price and Paul Smith since. Also our Regional Executives — Peter Cresswell, Tim Pritchard, Alan Coles, Alan Bula and the late Phil King. All great servants to the cause.

My thanks go to all our Patrons too. Having their names associated with the Campaign has been an enormous endorsement. Particular thanks go to Anne Bruzac, Wyn Calvin, Fiona Castle and Dave Dennison for attending some of our

SUMMER 2017

meetings and, of course, Diana Moran for her great work at Skipton in November.

We will always remember those great supporters who died in recent years — namely the lovely Baroness Rachael Heyhoe Flint (see obituary etc. in this issue), our loyal friend and wordsmith the late Jim Kennedy, my old school friend and ace photographer — the late Keith Crosswell. The late Doug McKenzie (who’s wonderful photographs captured so many memorable Campaign events) and one of our every-smiling administration heroines Gillian Roberts.

Now I look forward to the ‘new blood’ John Stokes and his daughter Rachel Stokes joining the committee team.

Finally, I send a big thank you to Mary Doyle for all her hard work and wise counsel over the forty or so years we have shared the Surbiton office. We have shared the trials and some triumphs running a theatrical agency, a show production company, as well as running two national charities. So many great memories. Now she

Salop Leisure’s COURTESY TOP TOWN TROPHY (sponsored by Campaign Member TONY BYWATER)

The winning Town Council retains the trophy for a year, with framed A3 Certificate for Town Hall display

HOW TO NOMIMATE YOUR TOWN Contact any of the Campaign Officers listed on page 2 joins me in stepping down from the Campaign office and we both wish the Campaign much success in the future — a future which needs Courtesy championed more than ever. Good-bye.

Campaign for Courtesy ‘Please’ unlocks the stiffest door

www.campaignforcourtesy.org

CLOUD LUCKY SEVEN PUBLICATIONS Prop: PETER G FOOT - publisher and editor of

- and

Courtesy Call

magazine

Mitchell Music -quarterly magazine of the GUY MITCHELL APPRECIATION SOCIETY

Egmont House • 240 Tolworth Rise South • Surbiton • Surrey • KT5 9NB Tel: 020 8330 3707 e: peter.foot1@btinternet.com

Courtesy – something always affordable

COURTESY CALL

9

LETTER re. LITTER Dear Peter…

Re. KATHERINE BALL – Courtesy Call Winter issue (p.16) Litter is a scourge.

It injures wildlife, makes an area look and feel dirty and lowers the value of nearby houses.

Fifteen-year-old KATHERINE BALL in clearing a local road of litter. I used to have a litter-clearing group and we had people dropping litter where we’d just cleaned too, but nobody swore at us. People who are outnumbered don’t act aggressively! I’m right behind Katherine on her litter clearing.

JACQUELINE DEEKS (Rustington, West Sussex)

RADIO INTERVIEWS BBC Radio Essex 25/11/1…Gordon Livesey on driving courtesy/parking ….Chris Penhall BBC Radio Warwickshire 1/2/17…PGF on history and aims of Campaign…..… ....Vic Minett BBC Radio Tees 14/3/17...PGF on Rochdale Council ban on swearing ….John Foster

TV INTERVIEW

RT Television (London) 9/3/17...PGF on Rochdale Council ban on Swearing ….Laura Smith

Campaign for Courtesy Good manners are their own reward

www.campaignforcourtesy.org 10

COURTESY CALL

OUR CODE ... l GOOD MANNERS l RESPECT – for others and their property l RESPECT – for yourself l REJECTION OF ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR REWARDING GOOD SERVICE

Who have you met today who deserves a

CAMPAIGN COURTESY CERTIFICATE? 1. Please get their name (and title?)

2. Advise Campaign H.Q. 3. Confirm you are willing to Present Certificate.

Thank you

John McKenzie Photographer / Speaker

CHANGE OF “ON BUSINESS” NUMBER FOR BRITISH AIRWAYS TRAVELLERS

GILLIAN ROBERTS

It is with great sadness that we report on the passing of an ex-Campaign Administrator GILLIAN ROBERTS, who lost her battle with cancer in December. She brightened up the Campaign H.Q. office with her evercheerful personality and her work on behalf of the Campaign was always of great quality. She leaves a husband Ray and daughter Vicki and a son Matthew.

‘Thank you’ costs nothing but means so much

Help our Campaign – please ensure you enter our “on business” number

0B10655332 into your BA bookings online.

For details and instructions on how to book, please see our website and then a link to the appropriate page. www. campaignforcourtesy.org

SUMMER 2017

OLIVER PRITCHETT And another thing…

Sunday Telegraph 30/10/16 As provided by EDWARD THOMAS

LESS ME...MORE WE SUMMER 2017

‘Please’ – the magic word

COURTESY CALL

11

Treasurer/ Membership Secretary

LIZ HALL

COURTEOUS SMOKERS

I put my hand up and say that I do smoke. When I was growing up in the 60’s and 70’s it was not only accepted in all places but almost expected in a social environment – made you “cool”.

In my Parents’ era it was actively encouraged by the Red Cross and the BMJ. And please don’t bash me over the head about the health issues.

I know it could kill me – so could a lot of things.

Whilst I understand perfectly the more modern view on this – and all the health implications for myself and anyone in my environment - and go out of my way not to inflict my habit on others I think there is a somewhat wider issue here.

I was at a lovely hotel, recently, in Skipton (winner of our Top Town Award for 2016) and they had placed, very correctly, a wallmounted ashtray outside the hotel for us pariahs.

As a representative for the Campaign I thought I would clean up all the cigarette ends which had been thrown on the floor or pushed into the flowerbeds. So I did that (27 to be exact) and put them into the ashtray. Next morning there were 22 new ones. The ashtray is about 20 feet to the left of the door.

People who smoke have been relegated from normal, functioning and intelligent members of society to somewhere down the social ladder under unemployed heroin addicts on benefits and around the level of child abusers and serial killers.

Just above Hitler and the antiChrist, last time I looked.

And here is the point. If you take away people’s dignity and sense of self-respect they tend to revert to “throwing the toys out of the pram”!

I was in an environment a few years ago (for a research project) where we were deprived of money, phones, possessions except essential ones, books, television, music, personal food or drink and privacy – in fact everything.

Alike to being in prison. By the way, I was not in prison!

And it was remarkable how a dozen adults of all ages and backgrounds became “rebels” in about five days!! Whereas before if we had to wait a bit for our 12

COURTESY CALL

sandwich at Greg’s or our coffee at Starbucks that was life and we deal with it – and maybe moan a bit. Now we are now banging on the shutters of the canteen who are five minutes late opening. We were not starving! Just being too “controlled” So my point, really, is that if you give people responsibility they will mostly embrace it. If you give adult smokers a little place they can indulge their, totally legal, habit with a little dignity and without feeling that they are “outcasts” then we will behave with propriety and consideration for others – most of us.

Likewise, if you give children, young people and people in restricted circumstances the respect they deserve you normally get that back.

There is an old Computer adage - GIGO. Garbage in, Garbage out.

We need to make sure that there is no garbage going in!

Apart from the nicotine,

FIRST REPORT ACTING CHAIRMAN JOHN STOKES

In this, my first report as acting chairman, I must record immediately my thanks and appreciation for the long-standing and significant work of Peter Foot, in whose stead I am writing. I must also wish him well for the future. I am sure that these sentiments are echoed by other officers, patrons and mem-bers. Indeed, my comments are tempered with a good deal of healthy humility, given that I am a relatively recent arrival, and many will know better than I of Peter's accomplishments.

The Campaign is vibrant and positive; there are many ideas for future progress. However, they take account not only of inevitable changes (not all bad) in our society, but also of the indispensible base which Peter has laid.

The ceremony held at Skipton, Yorkshire last November, in connection with the "Top Town" award, was very successful, on several levels. Our thanks must go to the

TRIP BIT Public Transport Spokesperson VANESSA BOND

e: vanbond6@gmail.com INADEQUATE BUS SHELTERS

Although I live in London, I’m pretty sure this is a countrywide problem. Have you ever wondered what on earth happened to our bus shelters and the “seats” inside? I thought I was the only person who had noticed this, but here I quote Bill Bryson (with his consent): “But nobody, absolutely nobody, hates you as much as the people who make English bus shelters. I’ve no idea why, but their most earnest wish, the single-minded thought that carries them through every working day, is to make sure that no user of a bus shelter in the United Kingdom ever experiences a single moment’s comfort. So all they give you to rest on is a red plastic slat, canted at an angle so severe that if you fail to maintain a vigilant braced position you will slide off, like a fried egg off Teflon.” “…Bus shelters used to be like little cottages, with pitched roofs and built-in wooden benches. Now they are just wind tunnels with advertisements” hotel owner and staff, who made our stay a pleasant one.

The officers gained so much from the opportunity to speak face-toface over an extended period of time. This was because we all have many other time-and energyconsuming tasks, and wished to efficiently circumscribe and maximise our individual contributions to the Campaign.

The idea was mooted that such meetings would be held on a yearly basis, in conjunction with the "Top Town" awards, these being open to all members, not only officers.

In consequence, the existing arrangements for AGM's would alter, from 2018, it being felt acceptable to have a popular vote, without a physical meeting.

Members would thus have the chance to speak to officers, without having to make a possibly long, impractical and temporally truncated journey to London. The change proposed would be fairer to all, and not contravene official regulations and guidelines.

Concerns were voiced over the not inconsiderable cost of mailing

‘Please’ unlocks the stiffest door

These very thoughts have often flitted into my mind as I’ve stood freezing, waiting for a bus - and attempted to sit on that silly bit of plastic. I thank Bill Bryson for putting my thoughts so eloquently!

His quote is from “The Road to Little Dribbling” and if you haven’t read it, I highly recommend it. But beware, you will be chuckling, giggling and laughing out loud!

RIVER POLLUTION

On another topic. I recently volunteered at a Clean Up in our local park. It was organised by Thames21. Their passion is to keep the rivers and parks in London clean and they are working their way through the 32 Boroughs. On their way they can train local people who can organise a Clean Up on a regular basis.

In the three hours on a Sunday morning, we collected hundreds of beer cans and bottles, general rubbish and two supermarket trolleys, a wheelbarrow, guttering, a pub umbrella, chairs and a flat screen tv.

Some of this was dragged from the stream that runs through the park. However, because of so much rain, the stream was quite deep with rushing water and not everything could be reached.

Thames21 intend to return with their waders and see what else lurks in it’s depths. Why oh why do some people feel a need to throw things into our rivers and leave their detritus for someone else to clear up? I don’t think any of us will ever be able to answer that question! and producing a printed magazine, even though it was done so well. It was suggested that this could still be available, but at an extra cost to recipients. All members, however, could access the same material online.

An important issue has been, and is, as to how funds are used by the Campaign. It appeared that practical attempts to disseminate our core values in the wider community should have priority.

(For example, school visits and displays and visiting head teachers' meetings.)

The issue is not one of the complete lack of funds, but of the practical and reasonable level of members' fees, and the imaginative distribution of monies.

John Stokes

SUMMER 2017

NOTHING IS EVER LOST BY COURTESY

by RICHARD TODD There are many definitions of Courtesy but few definitions of the purpose or need for Courtesy. I take that need to be the unselfish desire to ensure that one’s behaviour puts the other person at ease and pleases them by the consideration, respect and attention you have shown. Good manners are almost synonymous with courtesy but are not quite the same.

“Courtesy is consideration for others; politeness is the method used to deliver such considerations.” Bryant McGill, the author of that quote, might, might well have said ‘good manners are the method’ instead of politeness.

Emily Post put it well when she said, “Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others.

If you have that awareness, you have good manners.” I think the key is the need for sensitive awareness that only comes from a genuine consideration for the feelings and sensitivity of the other person and having respect for that person. (I should emphasise that this essay deals with courtesy at a person-to-person or social level and does not cover the occasions such as police operations, dealing with prisoners of war or business negotiations for example where courtesy is apparent on the surface but does not require genuine caring nor even respect.)

Etiquette is often mentioned when discussing courtesy but is completely different. It is a specific code of behaviour applicable within an organisation or grouping such as the Armed Forces, the Courts, Freemasons or in Parliament for example, and while it is designed so that everyone knows what the form is and how to behave and not be embarrassed, it does not have the personal and considerate nature for the individual that good manners do. Etiquette training also involves how to deal with introductions, job interviews and how to behave in numerous social environments, from funerals to shooting parties.

Typically, people are taught manners from a very early age so they grow up accustomed to the basic rules of conduct in social situations. In many cases manners become second nature. In order to learn etiquette however one has to take special lessons applicable to that specific situation. It is, of course, true that failure to observe the etiquette would certainly be considered bad manners but that is clearly different from the one-onone situations where courtesy usually applies.

One of the fundamentals about good manners and courtesy is that it assumes that there is mutual respect between the people involved.

Remember too that respect cannot be taken for granted, it has to be earned and that applies in every situation, from the family to the highest institutions in the land and for every person regardless of how important or powerful they are. Yet it is surprising just how often the vital need for respect is overlooked.

Respect is not deference. That received its deathblow in the Great War and had largely disappeared by the end of the 1939/45 War. But sadly, it seems that respect too is now diminishing in this country especially in the wider community.

Some examples when it is particularly noticeable is in the behaviour of some people when in a car, of a couldn’t care less attitude towards throwing rubbish on to the roadside, and in the priority so many people give to the use of their mobile phones when in the company of others.

The latter example is important because when someone answers or uses their mobile phone in the middle of a meal or conversation it shows a lack of respect for the other person or those present. It breaks the first rule of courtesy, which is to show consideration for others. It does however offer an opportunity for the person who has suddenly been ignored by the owner of the phone to show their good manners.

As Kahlil Gibran, the poet said, “The real test of good manners is to be able to put up with bad manners pleasantly.” Perhaps the mobile phone is still too new to society for its use to have been incorporated into the accepted code of good mannered behaviour.

It is possible that the influence of the Internet in all its forms, from Facebook to iPhone, together with the emphasis society places on the individual, are together having a disproportionate and adverse effect on society as a whole. Patricia Neal, the American author and actress said, “The line between the public life and the private life has been erased, due to the rapid decline of manners and courtesy.

There is a certain crudeness and crassness that has suddenly become accepted behaviour, even desirable.”

This is not a new phenomenon, as I’m sure our grandparents would agree, but it is sad that too much behaviour today is just plain bad manners.

The author Robert Heinlein wrote that, “A dying culture invariably exhibits personal rudeness. Bad manners. Lack of

° Above article courtesy of JUNE PERRY of Whitewater Benefice Magazine

SUMMER 2017

consideration for others in minor matters. A loss of politeness, of gentle manners, is more significant than is a riot.” Another American author Connie Brockway said, “Ideologies wax and wane, religions develop and erode, political parties rise and fall from power. Only courtesy remains one of the few things valued by all civilized men.”

I will end with one final quote by Erastus Wiman, a Canadian journalist that sums up my opinions on this subject. “Nothing is ever lost by courtesy. It is the cheapest of the pleasures; costs nothing and conveys so much. It pleases him who gives and him who receives, and thus, like mercy, it is twice blessed.”

LANCASTER GUARDIAN Thursday November 24th 2016

‘POLITENESS WINS NURSE TOP NATIONAL AWARD’

A former Royal Lancaster Infirmary advanced nurse practitioner has been awarded a national campaign award for courtesy.

Tracey Ingham, a member of the ENT Department team until September 30th, has been recognised for her exceptionally courteous approach to each and every patient under her care.

Alan Coles, the regional executive for the National Campaign for Courtesy since 2009, made this nomination as a result of being one of her patients. He said: ‘One of the outstanding memories whenever I was treated by her, was the politeness and courtesy she expressed not only to me, but also to every patient including her staff colleagues, without exception.’

The National Campaign was founded 30 years ago with the purpose of promoting courtesy by creating greater awareness of the huge positive effects it has on individual people and the wider community. To meet another person and be greeted by a smile followed by words of recognition and acceptance, can be a transforming experience. It breaks down barriers between people and touches the deep need of everyone of us to be recognised, accepted and valued for who we are.

Regional executives are expected to be always on the lookout for individuals, groups and teams, who consistently express exceptional levels of courtesy and kindness to everyone they encounter.

NATIONAL

CAMPAIGN FOR

COURTESY

LEGACIES FOR OUR CHARITY

Registered Charity No. 328296

You probably have a number of causes and people whom you want to benefit when you pass on.

How about leaving a portion of money to the perpetuation of a nicer, kinder, politer world?

The National Campaign for Courtesy would welcome any bequest – large or small – so do think about remembering us in your Will.

Thank you Enquiries to: Treasurer LIZ HALL Contact details as on page 2

Good manners are their own reward

COURTESY CALL

13

Remembering BARONESS HEYHOE FLINT

Our Patron DIANA MORAN [the Green Goddess] was in shock and disbelief at the passing of her dear friend, and ‘twin’ RACHAEL HEYHOE FLINT. Rachael was born on the same day and year as Diana and, as

such, they were known as the Gemini Twins – only a quarter of an hour separated them. Now that mortality has separated them for the final time adds her words to the tributes that have been flooding in over the past 24 hours

Diana says “Rachael was more than just a friend….we called each other “Twin” and shared a close fellow feeling and sense of humour.

I admired her and will never forget sharing our 70th birthday celebrations with both hers and my family and friends in the Long Room of the MCC 7 years ago. We asked everyone to not give us presents…but to give us money….not for ourselves but for a special charity fundraiser. We both dressed up as fairies to encourage the auction bidding which was ably MC’d by close friend Chris Tarrant.

I will never forget the proud moments when we presented not one…but two Lady Taverners mini buses…… to help transport children and young people particularly those with disabilities to events and venues in order to give them a sporting chance in life. Hers was presented to a school in Wolverhampton and mine to The Orpheus Trust in Dorking.

We both agreed that was the best Birthday Present ever! Her death leaves the world with one less ‘angel’ and me the loss of my best friend”.

Above: The ‘Gemini Twins’ – RACHAEL HEYHOE FLINT and DIANA MORAN in their charitable partnership activities. Both being Patrons of the National Campaign for Courtesy.

Pictures by Diana Moran

DAILY EXPRESS – 28/1/17

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COURTESY CALL

Courtesy is ‘cool’ – and warms the heart

SUMMER 2017

It was a huge shock while watching the main evening news bulletin on BBCtv1 on the 18th January to hear that BARONESS RACHAEL HEYHOE-FLINT had died. When I became Chairman in 2008, we published a letter from Rachael in the Spring Courtesy Call in which she confirmed she was delighted to continue as one of our Patrons. Three years later we reproduced the marvellous maiden speech she made in the House of Lords in which she spoke with passion and much humour about the need to recognise the role of women in sport. As a result, sportswomen have achieved so much since some funding has been introduced. Now, not only Rachael’s beloved female cricketers have made great strides, but 2012 London and 2016 Rio Olympics have seen women achieving greatness in hockey, cycling and rowing.

However, there is still much to be done to back women’s football, rugby and cricket – all of which are deserving of greater coverage in the national press sport pages.

IF FEMALES CONTINUE TO OUTNUMBER MALES IN OUR POPULATION FIGURES ARE THE PREDOMINATELY MALE SPORT EDITORS WORRYING OVER POSSIBLE CIRCULATION INCREASES? Rachael Heyhoe-Flint has left his country a rich legacy and for that reason I think we should all re-read that maiden speech she delivered at 12.17pm on 3rd March, 2011 in the house of Lords. Here it is…

www. campaignforcourtesy.org.uk

SUMMER 2017

My Lords, I am trembling at the batting crease, waiting to face the Opposition’s fast bowling, but am relieved that the traditions of this honourable House mean that interruptions are not considered cricket.

With great pride, I have moved from Lord’s NW8 to the Lords SW1, and I thank everyone for an incredibly warm welcome – from the Doorkeepers to the highest officeholders among your Lordships. I also thank very much my two calming supporters, my noble friends Lord Coe and the Minister, Lady Verma. I know the Doorkeepers by the football teams that they support. I must declare an interest as a former director and now a vice-president of Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club. Sadly, no Doorkeeper is a Wolves fan, but on the Floor of this Chamber, I can reveal two Wolves supporters: the Lord Speaker – who perhaps is in the changing room now – and my very kind mentor, my noble friend Lady Perry, both of whom, like me, are former pupils of Wolverhampton Girls’ High School, where cricket was our main summer team sport. What a very strong batting line-up, you might say.

My father was director of physical education for Wolverhampton and my mother taught gymnastics at local schools. With that sporting background, I again declare an interest. Not only do I understand the LBW law in cricket, I actually understand the offside rule in football.

Our debate today presents an opportunity to emphasise the challenges that women have to face in gaining acceptance and recognition in the world of sport: in participation, funding, media coverage and representation at board level. My challenges in sport began at the age of seven with garden cricket with my brother and his friends. I was not allowed to bat for three years – “Girls don’t play cricket”. When I eventually got to bat, the boys could not get me out for three days so, in the middle of June, they decided it was the football season.

The challenges were out there for me at an early age, and the challenges are out there nowadays for most young girls who want to get involved.

As Peter Evans, Midlands regional development manager for baseball, softball and modern pentathlon - what a mixture – has written, it may seem simplistic, but if you provide an activity for girls with good quality coaching and proper clothing that combines a cool image and a fun environment, they will thrive and commit themselves wholeheartedly. It is sport that will help to tackle issues such as obesity,

self-esteem and prejudice.

The image and profile of females in sport could be helped enormously if more women were represented on the boards of sports governing bodies – providing of course, they merit such an appointment and are not merely the statutory women.

The 2010 Commission on the Future of Women’s Sport, ably chaired by the noble Baroness, Lady Tanni GreyThompson, found that only one in five members of national governing bodies are women. One quarter of sport governing bodies have no women on the boards at all, yet, ironically, almost half the staff of 44 out of 47 Sport England-funded NGBs are female.

The business is unarguable. The presence of suitably qualified women will provide a balance of skills and perspective.

The England and Wales Cricket Board, if I dare mention cricket on a day like today after what happened to the English team in Bangalore yesterday – I hope there are some happy Irish people in the House today – is a shining example of an NGB which offers recognition, given that two out of 10 of the board’s non-executive members are women.

The MCC at Lord’s – the home of cricket – which is a private members’ club with a public responsibility for cricket, admitted women as members in 1998 after a mere 211 years. I was there at Lord’s to hear of the victorious result. One very sad, senior MCC member saw me, looked me straight in the eye and said “My life will never be the same”. I certainly would not advocate a quota system.

I do not believe legislation is the route: no breaking of the glass ceiling – more a level playing field.

Greater media coverage for women in sport will assist development and improve sponsorship opportunities. When I was an active journalist – last century – I tried to get a better profile for the England women’s cricket team and, as a result of that, because he read about us in the Daily Telegraph, Sir Jack Hayward sponsored the England women’s cricket team for five years and developed the first women’s World Cup cricket, two years before the men’s.

I thank the noble Baroness, Lady Gould of Potternewton, for giving me the opportunity to speak to this motion.

It may only be by persistent persuasion that women will overcome the problems that I have highlighted, but in challenging economic times we need companies, charities and philanthropists to invest in the potential of women in sport who, after all, are 50 per cent of their market.

Friendship usually begins with a smile

SHC photos - timrederphotography.com

MEET OUR LATEST SMILE CHAMPION

While it is accepted that hockey is very much a team game, and that success once again has seen the ladies of the Surbiton Hockey Club retain the National League title, the ever-present record of defender EMILY ATKINSON has been a major contribution to her side’s amazing achievements.

Our Campaign Chairman PETER G FOOT has been supporting the Surbiton club for the past two seasons and has admired the many talents of Emily in the hockey arena. Her physical attributes such as high energy, speed, competitiveness and anticipation all contribute. She is also very vocal and dictates play with confidence.

The Chairman is delighted that this delightful and extremely talented young lady has agreed to be an inspiring Smile Champion for our Campaign.

However, Emily’s time spent studying at Bristol’s Clifton College, The University of Birmingham and The University West of England has proved very fruitful gaining high grades and achieving a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Geography and being awarded a MSc in Real Estate Management. As a result she now works as a Qualified Chartered Surveyor at the Savills plc offices in London. While at college and university she managed to find time to gain many sporting honours playing for the England Under 16 and England Under 18 teams before winning a European Championship Bronze Medal with the England Under 21 side. She also proved able to excell at golf, getting selected for England Ladies Golf Association Birdie Development Group, and also at tennis, competing at the LTA National Finals.

NATIONAL CAMPAIGN FOR COURTESY – FAIR PLAY CODE • • • •

Opponents are also people The other side is not the enemy To lose graciously is true victory The spirit of the game matters as much as the rules • Winning by cheating is worthless

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DAILY TELEGRAPH 11/4/17 Provided by BARRY PRICE

NATIONAL CAMPAIGN for COURTESY ANTI-LITTER DRIVE

As supported by

JOANNA LUMLEY OBE 16

COURTESY CALL

DAILY EXPRESS 15/4/17

Courtesy – the most rewarding virtue

SUMMER 2017