Cople News October 2019
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Editor’s Notes Last month I had a struggle finding items to put into the magazine. This month I have too much, including many excellent photographs that will have to be filed for future use. Thank you to everyone who sent pictures. The annual rounders match between Cople and Cardington was a great success, both on the field and in the Sports and Social Club. Photographs by Ian Whiting are on the back cover. I have no score line which would indicate that the social side was more important than the contest. Quite right. On the front cover there is a flyer for a fund raising event in the Church on Friday 18th. The previous Friday there will be a “wear it pink” evening in the Sports and Social Club. (page 12). The GNiC committee are holding their first afternoon event on Monday 14th in the Village Hall See page 18. Opposite is a notice from Sheerhatch School for an open day at the Willington site which will be of interest to parents of rising 5 year olds. There are numerous dog owners in Cople who may be interested in an article by Fiona Hughes on page 28 about caring for puppies. This, and another piece next month about older dogs, accompany her new advert. Ged Peeke
Cople News Editor : Ged Peeke 39 Willington Road, Cople, Beds, MK44 3TH. Tel 01234 838379 Email: coplenews@gmail.com Deadline for copy and advertising 15th of every month
Advertising Rates
Annual Charges. Full Page £96.
Half Page £48
Delivered free to every home in Cople every month circulation 365 copies
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Letter from the Vicar Dear friends As I write, it’s the fifth anniversary of my becoming your vicar. believe how quickly that time has gone!
I can’t
By the time you read this, Cople will have celebrated harvest festival; Moggerhanger and Willington will be holding their harvest festivals in October to give thanks to God for his provision for another year, and to honour the work of the farmers who sow, tend, harvest, and plough year by year – look out for the details. One other service that we hold every year in our Benefice around this time of year is the All Souls Commemoration Service. This year the service will be at 6.00pm on Sunday 3rd November (hence my telling you in October, so you have plenty of notice). St John the Evangelist, Moggerhanger will be hosting the service this year, and it is open to all in the parishes of Cople, Moggerhanger and Willington, as well as friends and family from further afield. The idea behind the service is that all those of us who have lost loved ones in the last few months or years can come together to support one another, to give thanks for the life of our loved one, and to pray for God’s comfort and presence in our lives.
We will be reading out the names of those whom we wish to remember during the service. There will also be an opportunity during the service to reflect, and to light a candle as we do so. Refreshments will be served after the service. If you would like to come, or you know anyone whom you think would like to come, please do look out for the invitation cards and posters later this month, and spread the word that all are welcome. Please let us know in advance the names of any whom you would like us to remember at the service, and whether you are able to attend in person or not, so we can make sure all are included. Y ou can email us on cmwbeneficeoffice@gmail.com to give us the details of any names you wish to be read out. With best wishes Revd Fiona Gibson
From the Church Registers Wedding 24th August 2019
Philip WALSH and Katie SMITH
Funerals 27th August 2019 29th August 2019
Kenneth Jeffrey (Jeff) COOPER (67 years) Christopher MURPHY (78 years) 4
Cople Church Coffee Morning Saturday 26th October 2019 10.30-12.00 (in the church) The coffee morning in October is being run by the local Knit and Stitch Group. Come along and admire some of the things they have made. Some items will be for sale. Homemade cakes and hot and cold drinks will be available throughout the morning. Please visit with friends and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of All Saints church. All money raised is for the church.
All welcome.
News from the Tower. This Summer we had the pleasure of ringing at weddings at Cople and at Willington. The increase of Church Weddings gives bell ringers a much needed opportunity to use their skills in a enjoyable and very satisfying way and makes all of the practice worth while. We do of course have to rely on help from the Biggleswade district ringers as we do not always have enough ringers available what with holidays etc for which we are very grateful. If you are interested in joining us either to have a go or just to see how its done we usually practice on a Tuesday evening at 7-30 until 9-00 at which time we retire to the 5 Bells for a well earned drink and chips!. Mike Vacher
01234 831207.
All Saints Church Revd Fiona Gibson The Vicarage. 3 Grange Lane. Cople, MK44 3TT. Telephone 01234 838145. email; cmwvicar@gmail.com Churchwardens June Thomas 34 Grange Lane Cople Beds MK44 3TT Tel: 01234 831705 juneshanahan748@btinternet.com 5
Julie Scherrer 26 Grange Way Willington Beds MK44 3QW Tel: 01234 838623 julie@scherrer.co.uk>
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New Pilates Studio open in Willington
1:1 & 1:2 matwork sessions or on Reformer & Tower equipment, times to suit you. All classes run in the classical style with limited places to ensure purity of the method, pre booking only. Julie has been teaching Pilates in the local area for 12 years this year, and teaching Pilates in Cople since 2006 She has been working within the fitness industry since 1989. Julie's wealth of experience means she is able to teach and help people of all ages and abilities, it is recommended that a 1:1 is taken at the studio prior to attending a class. The studio is conveniently located in your area. Monday 1:00pm Absolute Beginners intro as 1:1 or small group (45 mins) Studio 2.00pm Mixed ability—Cardington Reading Rooms
Thursday 12noon Studio suitable for all 1:00pm Absolute Beginners intro as 1:1 or small group (45 mins) Studio 2.00pm Mixed ability – Cardington Reading Rooms 5:30pm Absolute Beginners intro as 1:1 (45 mins) Studio 6.30pm Memorial Hall, Willington 7.35pm Memorial Hall, Willington 8.40pm Absolute Beginners Memorial Hall, Willington Bookings for intro or 1:1 (30 mins) Julie also teaches at other locations, 1:1 Pilates, Relaxation and Meditation. Retreats in Spain, France, and the UK.
For more information please see website www.forwardfitness.co.uk or contact Julie Crawford Ring 0794 6067266 or email julie_griff@hotmail.com 8
Autumn Supper Marilyn and Pippa are organising an Autumn Supper on October 18 th in All Saints Church at 7.30pm. It will raise money for the Kings Arms Project in Bedford, a local charity which is celebrating its’ 30th anniversary. It provides accommodation and opportunity to homeless and disadvantaged people in Bedford and believes that everyone should have a route out of poverty and despair. There will be a 2 course meal provided and musical entertainment after the supper We won’t be providing a paid bar although soft drinks will be on hand. People are encouraged to bring their own bottle of wine. The tickets will be £10.00 each and the numbers will be limited to the available space in the Church. So if you would like to come please ask for tickets as early as possible. We hope that it will be a jolly evening with good food, great entertainment and some money raised for a very worthwhile local cause.
Mothers Union Members met in Cople in September for our communion service. During the service Fiona read from her book Between the Lines, a collection of daily readings. Afterwards everyone enjoyed tea and cakes. Our next meeting will be held on Monday 14 th October at 2pm at 2 Woodlands Close, when we shall be arranging our programme for 2020. Liz Buck
Prayer
O Holy Spirit, giver of light and life, illuminate our hearts that we may make wise decisions for the well-being of others and to your glory. (Praying Round the Clock)
Community Cinema Blunham Community Cinema Village Hall presents on Friday 25th October, 'The Children's Act' (Cert 12a) starring Fion Whitehead, Emma Thompson and Richard Eyre. As her marriage crumbles, a judge must decide a case involving a teenage boy who is refusing a blood transfusion on religious principle. Film starts promptly 7.30 pm doors open 7pm. Tickets costs Adults £5.00. Children £2.50. Family (2A + 2C) £12.00. Sweets, Drinks, Ice cream and pop-corn are available. For tickets or any further information contact 07783 046020. 9
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Stylish bathrooms and kitchens to suit your current needs and budget. With a spacious working showroom in the heart of Bedford, P & R Interiors is a local family-run firm that provides inspirational modern design and cost-effective solutions for both kitchens and bathrooms. There are 54 stunning display in our beautiful showroom that are constantly being updated. So, you can come in, see exactly what you are buying and experience first-hand with working displays. We can undertake all aspects of building work supply and fit or supply only.
P & R Interiors, 9 Lurke Street, Bedford Mk40 3HZ Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00 pm Saturdays 10.00am to 4.00pm Tel: 01234 352414 Email: sales@pandrinteriors.store Web: www.pandrinteriors.co.uk
With a large showroom right in the heart of Bedford our aim is to offer our clients, old and new, the best products and the best service for their Bathrooms, Kitchens and Tiling requirements. We have been supplying and installing bathrooms and kitchens in Bedford and surrounding areas for over 30 years. Bringing together reliable, skilful and trusted tradespeople we personally ensure every installation is completed to the highest possible levels of workmanship and to the satisfaction of our clients.
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YOGA
Energising, Flowing, Hatha Vinyasa classes with Genevieve Cardington Village Hall Southill Road, Cardington Sundays 10 – 11 a.m. Classes also held in Bedford Monday and Wednesday evenings and Thursday morning.
Phone Gen on 07849 158 850 mail@chandrikayoga-dance.co.uk
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HOLISTIC THERAPIST & BODY WORKER Suzanne Edgington
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ACE PEST LIMITED Fast Efficient Service
Rats, Mice, Fleas, Moles, Wasps, Bird Proofing etc We offer very competitive rates with normally same day service Proprietor: Mr J. T. Hillyard Telephone 01234 - 838391
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Great Neighbours in Cople Great Neighbours in Cople are introducing a friendly get together at the village hall for Cople residents to come and say hello and meet other local people and enjoy a complimentary tea/ coffee and a slice of cake . All residents welcome . Our first GNIC afternoon is on Monday 14th October 1:30pm to 3:30pm and they will continue to be held on every second Monday of each month. (Please note the change of dates). If any help is needed is getting to the village hall or returning home please ask and GNIC will be of assistance . Hope to see you there !! The GNIC committee
GNIC Panto GNIC are organising a theatre trip Wednesday 11th December at Milton Keynes Theatre and we have managed to get a group rate plus arrange transport. The meeting point is The Five Bells pub at 5:45 pm. We are also being picked up after the show and dropped off at The Five Bells (time tbc). GNIC are happy to escort people to and from their homes if needed. This is open to all Cople residents. The price includes your ticket and transport to and from the Theatre, Prices are : Over 65s and 16 and under ÂŁ35:00 Adults ÂŁ40:00
We have 32 tickets and its first come first served. Contact number is Tracy Herrick 07711680984 18
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WILLINGTON VILLAGE HALL MONDAY NIGHTS DURING TERM TIME 6:30pm until 8:00pm If you are interested in joining us please register online:JoinUs@girlguiding.org.uk Further information can be obtained from Brown Owl Tel :07914 240494 / Email: willingtongirlguiding@gmail.com
B. W. Taylor Plumbing Roofing and all Building Maintenance From “Complete Bathrooms and Kitchens” including tiling and plastering through to “Ball Valves and “Garden Taps” No Job too small Local Reliable service at Reasonable Rates References Supplied if Required
Telephone: Barrie Taylor Mobile
01234 - 838 676 07979 - 928 186
COUNTRY STOVES & SWEEPS HETAS Registered Wood/Multi Fuel Stove Installation Gas Fires Fitted – GAS SAFE Chimney Sweeping Insurance/Safety Certificates Issued Chimney Lining Bird Guards Fitted Free Survey & Quote Competitive Prices
01767 627591 / 07950 705479 Julian Biggs, Northill, Bedfordshire
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October Diary Church Services 6th
10.00am 11:30am
Sunday School All Age Communion
13th
10:00am 11:30am
Sunday School Holy Communion (Book of Common Prayer)
20th
11:30am
Family Service
27th
10:00am 11:30am 3pm
Sunday School Sung Communion Forest Church at Bottom Wood Moggerhanger Park
Morning Prayers At Willington Church 9am on Thursday 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st October
Cople - Coffee Morning In Cople Village Hall Run by The Kempston Centre Every Tuesday 10:30am to 12 noon Tea / Coffee Home Made Cakes Come and have a chat with friends in a relaxed atmosphere.
Cople Carpet Bowls Club Carpet bowls is played indoors on a 30ft carpet in Cople Village Hall on Wednesday evenings 7:30 to 10:00 pm. Any enquiries contact Pauline on 01234 838102. Pauline Baynes.
Mobile Library for October Wednesday 2nd, 16th and 30th October 10:00 to 10:20am All Saints Road, 10:25 to 10:40am Water End, 10:45 to 11:05am Outside Five Bells Tuesday 1st 7:30pm
Bell ringing practice
Wednesday 2nd 11:00am
Sheerhatch Primary Harvest Assembly
Saturday 5th 10:30am
Traidcraft Coffee Morning & Bookstall 24
Willington Church
Monday 7th
Black Bin
11am
Benefice Tiny Tots Praise
Cople Church
6:15pm
Junior Choir/Instrumentalist Practice
Cople Church
Tuesday 8th 7:30pm
Bell ringing practice
7:30pm
Tuesday Club. Behind Closed Doors by Pauline Martingdale
Village Hall
7:00pm
Wear it Pink evening. See page 12
Sports and Social
Monday 14th
Orange and Green Bins
11am
Benefice Tiny Tots Praise
Cople Church
1:30pm to 3:30pm
GNiC Afternoon. see page 18
Village Hall
2pm
Mothers Union
2 Woodlands Close
6:15pm
Junior Choir/Instrumentalist Practice Cople Church
7:15pm
Benefice Choir Practice
Friday 11th
4 Grange Way Willington
Tuesday 15th 7:30pm
Bell ringing practice
Thursday 17th 2:30pm
Afternoon Tea
Moggerhanger Church
7:30pm
Autumn Supper. See cover.
Cople Church
Monday 21st
Black Bins
12:30pm
Luncheon Club
Cople Church
7:30pm
Benefice Choir Practice
Cople Church
Friday 18th
Tuesday 22nd 7:30pm
Bell ringing practice
Saturday 26th 10:30am
Coffee Morning
Cople Church
Monday 28th
Orange and Green Bins
11am
Benefice Tiny Tots Praise
6:15pm
Junior Choir/Instrumentalist Practice Cople Church
7:15pm
Benefice Choir Practice
Tuesday 29th 7:30pm
Bell ringing practice 25
Cople Church 4 Grange Way Willington
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Prices from £50 per night per double room Dogs welcome Contact Mel Ebbage Tel: 07538257632 Email : info@thepinkcottage.co.uk 26
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Puppies and Exercise – how much is too much? After recently becoming the owner of a puppy I know how energetic and into everything they can be. The temptation is to give them plenty of exercise to get rid of some of that exuberance and hopefully tire them out – but too much exercise can be detrimental to the young growing dog. Rest is essential for healthy physical, emotional and mental development. Without it your puppy may be less co-ordinated and more prone to injury. Constant interaction teaches them to always be alert and on the go. This can lead to them becoming anxious and stressed, it is important to teach them to have rest periods during the day. Exercising a dog to tire them out only makes them fitter! Most importantly, too much exercise for the growing body is dangerous – bones are not yet fully formed and the growth plates not closed so can easily be damaged. Too much exercise or stress on the growing skeleton increases the risk of early onset arthritis. The Kennel Club recommends two daily walks of 5 minutes per month of life – so a 3-month-old puppy should have two 15-minute walks per day. Safe activities for puppies: Uneven surfaces encourage independent movement of the limbs. Places like a woodland floor with leaf litter and small twigs for them to step over. Obedience and ‘trick’ training are also good as they are tiring without the need for as much physical exercise. Things to avoid or manage: Rough play and discourage dogs from slamming into each other. Ball throwing which involves excessive high speed running and sudden directional changes can be harmful to the growing puppy. Avoid stairs and jumping into and particularly out of cars, manage access to furniture. Hard flooring like laminate or tiled floors. Slipping puts pressure on developing bones and joints – the use of non-slip mats and runners can help prevent this. Early neutering. Sex hormones produced at maturity play a role in growth plate closure of the bones at the end of growth. Without the presence of these hormones bone growth can be disrupted resulting in joint dysplasia, knee problems (cruciate & patella) and arthritis. Massage and your puppy. Massage is beneficial for puppies for a number of reasons: It’s a different handling experience which ensures easier and less stressful handling in the future. Can identify small soft tissue injuries that may occur as part of being an inquisitive puppy. Encourages greater body awareness and stimulates the growing nervous and immune systems. Helps promote relaxation, reduces anxiety and stress, which in turn helps the puppy process new experiences. 28
Fiona Hughes is the owner of Cople Canine Massage Therapy and a member of the Canine Massage Guild. If you think massage could benefit your dog contact me on 07808 588133.
COPLE VILLAGE TRUST (Registered Charity No. 1090113)
200 CLUB
Prize winners for September 2019 st 1 prize of £60 117 Helen James 2nd prize of £30 259 Vernon Poulter 3rd prize of £10 215 Roman Edwards Thank you for your support All monies raised are used to maintain and improve the Village Hall, Playing Field & Playground. Treasurer Catherine Bayliss catherine.bayliss@btinternet.com
01234 838704/07880 890508
Contact
01234 838004
JaneB2014@hotmail.com
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Willington Peace Memorial Hall, Church Road, Willington, Beds, MK44 3PU
Open daily Mon-Fri 9.15-12.15 With lunch club available 12.15-1.15
Sessional day care for 2-4year olds during term time. ÂŁ12.00 for a 3hr session (ÂŁ4.00 extra for lunch club) We also except 2 and 3/4 year old NEF funding To enquire about a place for your child please email Kelly and Stacey at willingtots@outlook.com or call on 07972 148085 30
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Tuesday Club Amanda’s creative journey started over 20 years ago, making clothes for her “Barbies” and Sindy dolls. Amanda went on to have an exciting career journey through film, television and theatre, giving us an insight into running a successful accessories business. After completing a 4 year B.T.E.C. and HND in fashion design at the London College of fashion. Amanda launched into her working career as head buyer at London’s Opera House. Working on numerous productions including Jesus Christ superstar, fringe theatre productions, commercials and for B.B.C. and L.W.T.(London broadcasting studios). Working for the worlds leading costume house was a life changing opportunity, working on film, theatre and television-assisting high end fashion designer shows. Amanda’s own accessories label was launched in 2002 has continued to grow from strength to strength ever since. In 2013 her “bespoke” range extended to hats neckwear and vintage style cravats. (some made from men’s ties!). Her unique jewellery pieces are constructed from used Aluminium drink cans.! She dispatches her designs worldwide, winnings many awards along the way. A stunning display of headdresses and accessories completed her award winning presentation. We were completely amazed at her enthusiasm and creativity. Before we said goodbye we were able to shop at a discount! and there were no shortage of buyers! We next meet 8th October at Cople Village Hall 7 30pm. Pauline Martindale-“Behind Closed Doors” who is an exprison officer. Giving us a fascinating insight into prison life. All welcome. Eithne Dandy.
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Gardening in October Given recent temperatures, you might be forgiven for thinking that it is still summer but it is officially autumn, and that means, amongst other things, less light. Indeed, from the start of this season for the next few weeks, it means in total, 30 minutes of less light per day and this has a dramatic impact on many plants. As previously stated in these pages, some plants respond to temperature, some to light levels. However, it is still remarkably dry so a regular watering regime remains a priority. Along with the heat, remember also that the wind can be very drying and we are currently experiencing both so, if you care about your plants, there is still plenty to do before you can put your feet up! Trees and large shrubs have had a very tough couple of years and despite what the vociferous sun lovers will tell you, many of these magisterial plants are not in the rudest of health. So many are beginning to show the signs of last year’s drought and punishing heat and with the aquifer levels in this country recently described by TalkSport’s fishing expert, Nigel Botherway, as ‘perilous’, a regular drench will help them no end. For many, Lavender has, by this time, done its job for the year, for both us and more importantly, the insects. If the flowers are faded, it is time to give it a trim. I like to wait until the flowers are pitted so as to give the beleaguered insects the best possible opportunity to feed from them and then I attack them with secateurs. Some of you will prefer shears but this means then having to pick up the debris afterwards. Using secateurs, I am able to cut with one hand and collect with the other but each to their own. If adopting my method, take very great care not to stab yourself as I did a number of years ago, a point at least one regular reader, (that’s you Harry M!), will remember. Either way, simply remove the flower stalk and do not cut into wood. Over time, lavender often gets leggy, that is, its flowers get further from the rest of the plant, and can look unattractive. In this scenario, the best course of action is to replace with fresh plants or take cuttings from extant plants which is simple and rewarding. Please contact me for a guide if you want to try. Among my correspondence this past month has been a number of horror stories involving what many refer to as ‘cowboy/cowgirl gardeners/tree workers/landscapers’. In one case, a lawn has been absolutely ‘scalped’ by mowing way too close as well as very old roses being ‘hacked down’ and probably killed. My advice, as always, is to check qualifications and references with everyone you employ. The two together create a picture which though not infallible might just prevent an avoidable and expensive catastrophe. After all, would you be happy to employ an untrained electrician, vet or GP? Last month’s just for fun question, inspired by a sighting, asked, what is the difference between a dragon fly and a damsel fly? Despite looking similar, eyes, body shape, wing shape and position of wings at rest are all distinctly different. Simply, dragon flies have chunkier bodies than the svelte damsel and at rest, the wings remain in the same position as when in flight.
This month’s question is in two parts and relates to the plant commonly 36
known as ‘the butterfly bush’. What is its correct botanical name? And why is called this? As always, there is no prize but assume a self satisfied, smug demeanour if you know the answer! Thank you all very much for your fascinating correspondence, mystery plants, horror stories, strange sightings etc. – please keep them coming. And do please contact me with any with any gardening tasks or queries you may have, lawndocgardens@aol.com or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855. Lawn Doctor
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B. WELLS PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 01234 831314
barrywellsltd@btinternet.com www.barrywells-plumbing.co.uk
"professional by choice, helpful by nature, knowledgeable by experience" All plumbing and heating works carried out to very high standards We specialise in the design and installation of new or replacement Oil and gas boilers and heating systems LPG registered installations All renewable energy systems installed including solar thermal and pv panels Heat pumps and rain water harvesting Bathroom design and installation 5 and 7 year parts and labour guarantees on certain boilers Service and maintenance contracts Minor building works From ballvalve to bathroom, radiator to boiler we have the experience, knowledge and expertise to meet all your requirements. Contact Barry on 07831 377351
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PB ELECTRICAL SERVICES All electrical works undertaken from :Full rewires, part rewires. New distribution boards. Additional sockets and light fittings. CCTV installations. No job to small. Call Paul on 07840 683417 or email paulblackmore3@gmail.com
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Wild about Cople We’ve got our hedgehogs back! I don’t know if anyone else has noticed but we seem to be seeing slightly more hedgehogs around the village. Being nocturnal they can be pretty secretive animals but loud snuffling outside alerted us (and our dog) one evening and we now seem to have at least one, and possibly two, hedgehogs using both the back and front gardens – which is great news! We have been feeding them and they have a nice cosy house to tuck themselves into for their winter hibernation if they choose to do so. Our prickly friends have declined by at least 50% since 2000 and the usual suspects are to blame – a loss of habitats, plummeting insect numbers and an increase in deaths from pollution and increasing traffic numbers. Even more scarily, since the 1950s, hedgehog numbers have fallen by 97% - so they need all the help they can get. Part of the problem is that gardens are so secure and fenced nowadays that hedgehogs cannot move between gardens so they are forced out onto roads – if possible leave small gaps under fences for them to squeeze under or, even better, simply plant hedges and do away with the ugly fences! Another nocturnal mammal that attracted my attention recently is very rarely seen and most people don’t even know that they are in the area. European Polecats are small members of the weasel family, otherwise known as Mustelids, and they were once common across the UK. Like so many natural predators with hooked beaks and sharp teeth and claws they were regarded with hatred and as vermin (how I hate that word). The Victorian and Edwardian gamekeepers almost succeeded in exterminating them entirely apart from a few small areas in the rugged parts of Wales. Luckily, they didn’t succeed and, since the 1950s, when the persecution of predators started to relax, they started making a comeback across the UK. They are now present across large areas of the country from the West Country to Norfolk and Suffolk and north to the lake District and even parts of Scotland. Polecats have a body shape similar to a mink or very small otter (sleek fur, long and sinuous with a small, flat head and small ears). They have a distinct bandit-like face mask with cream fur and cream-tipped ears. They are mainly nocturnal, and I saw one at dusk lolloping along the road verge, between Cople and Cardington, probably hunting for prey such as rats and mice, in early September. Some confusion can arise as polecats can breed with their domestic relatives – ferrets – and many are now hybrids between the two species. Polecats are protected by EU/UK law and it is great to see them back. Those of you who attended my talk for the Church last year on how I got into wildlife conservation will remember my rather unusual childhood and teenage years and my obsession with everything natural and wild! Well, I always felt ‘different’ and never really ‘fitted in’ with conventional school or university activities such as sports or social occasions. But I knew that I had a passion for wildlife and the countryside, I have known it all along; 42
and that it just felt right to me.
It is always nice, therefore, to know that I am not the only one and that there are others out there just like me with similar degrees of sensitivity, artistic creativity, understanding, fragility, anxiety and wonder at our natural world and everything that lives in it. And with a passion (wherever it comes from) that drives us and makes us quite unique. One such young person is Dara McAnulty from County Down, Northern Ireland. Dara is 15 and was diagnosed with Asperger’s/Autism when aged five and by seven he knew that he was ‘very different’ (just how I felt). He says: “I was diagnosed with Asperger’s/autism aged five … By age seven I knew I was very different, I had got used to the isolation, my inability to break through into the world of talking about football or Minecraft was not tolerated. Then came the bullying. Nature became so much more than an escape; it became a life-support system.” My goodness, how strongly I can relate to that – the feel of that green fuse throbbing in my veins and heart but not being understood because of it… And the feelings of social awkwardness and anxiety over what seem to many to be small or tiny issues of no apparent relevance. It is a difference which, as I have got older, I have got prouder of… Dara is about to publish a book ‘Diary of a Young Naturalist’ by Little Toller Books in May 2020. Well done and thank you Dara for doing what I have not been able to achieve – to get yourself and Nature up onto a bigger stage. As he says about people like us ‘We’re not lost, we just haven’t been found’. It’s good to know that I’m not alone. Thank you, Dara… More on Dara here: https://youngfermanaghnaturalist.wordpress.com/ contact/
stevehalton@gmail.com
Polecat (Mustela putorius) 43
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Village Contacts Over 60's Club Secretary : Hazel Shreeves Tel : 838817
Cople Web Site Ian Whiting Tel : 838347 Email: ian@cople.org.uk Web Site :www.cople.org.uk
Mothers Union Contact: Jill Ebbs Tel : 838659
Village Agent Wendy Worgan 0800 039 1234
Cople Village Trust Chair : Sandra Thacker Tel : 831344
07717 269 440 wendyw@bedsrcc.org.uk
Cople Sports & Social Club Chair: David Hughes Tel : 838669
Cople Parish Council Clerk to the Council: Jeanne Pope 42 Wingfield Road, Bromham, Beds. MK43 8JY Tel: 01234 823 297
Tuesday Club Joy Duthie Tel : 838407
coplepc@outlook.com
Biggleswade Chronicle Village Correspondent: Jill Ebbs Tel: 838659
Our local good neighbourhood scheme GREAT NEIGHBOURS in COPLE seeks to support residents of our village in a manner that will enable them to remain independent for as long as possible. Our volunteers help local people by giving some of their time to undertake tasks such as shopping, picking up prescriptions, light household duties, gardening or putting out the bins or by spending some time with people who may feel isolated or lonely. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or want to talk to someone about using the service please feel free to contact us on 07746624208 on Monday and Thursdays between 1300hrs – 1500hrs or email us at gniccople@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook for further information.
Cople Village Hall & Playing Field Available for Hire for: Parties, Wedding Receptions, Meetings, Conferences etc. Main Hall and/or Committee Room - hire charge from £9 per hour, special rate of £25 for children’s parties of up to three hours (conditions apply) Contact 01234 838704 or villagehallenquiries@cople.org.uk for more information 46
Machine Services Limited Water End, Cople, Bedford
Suppliers of leading Brand Names in Domestic & Professional powered garden machinery at BIG DISCOUNTS with full service back up Petro, Diesel, Electric, Battery Allen, Atco, Billy Goat, Countax, Eliet, Flymo, Hayter, Honda, Klippo, Lawnflite, MTD, Mountfield, Robin, Ryobi, Stihl, Viking, Westwood, Yardman, etc. For details of Products and Savings visit our website www.groudcarebedford.co.uk Tel: 01234 831123 Sales + Service + Spares + Repairs
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Above: The Rounders Match Players.
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Below “That Way”