Garden Lodge Care Home in Glinton
Three small family run care homes in Peterborough and Market Deeping providing a real home-from-home environment with exceptional care from devoted, trusted carers.
in Glinton is a detached chalet style bungalow with a very attractive and peaceful garden.
in Peterborough with all en-suite bedrooms. Situated just a few minutes walk from central park where the residents can enjoy the café and watching the world go by.
Garden Lodge: 01733 252 980/07801 273 804 or e-mail: managers@gardenlodgecarehome.co.uk
Florence House: 01733 315 900/07801 273 804 or e-mail: info@careatflorence.co.uk
The Laurels: 07801 273 804 or e-mail: thelaurels@nenevalleycarehomes.co.uk
www.gardenlodgecarehome.co.uk
in Market Deeping (taken over by us in February) is a beautiful Grade-2 Listed Building within walking distance to Market Deeping town centre.
20 ROOMS
I’m delighted to be delivering this bumper 72-page issue to our Tribland readers – we have almost 40 advertisers in this edition, including seven local businesses promoting their products and services for the first time – thank you all for your support. Without advertising revenue we cannot fund the production and printing of the Trib’
We have some great articles from our brilliant contributors and a whole host of diary events to look forward to during September and October – details can be found towards the rear of the magazine.
I’m delighted to welcome Clair Wordsworth onto the editorial team. Clair successfully bid to be an issue Editor at the Helpstonbury silent auction in July and rather than picking a single edition, Clair will be developing a number of ideas and articles in this and future issues.
You will also read in this issue about the twelfth planned humanitarian convoy going to Poland/ Ukraine before Christmas. Please support the ‘Helping our Ukrainian Friends’ organisation by providing goods for the next delivery and
consider purchasing the brilliant Tribune Charity 2024 Calendar (see Facebook for more details). Every calendar sold will see the full amount (£7.50) donated to the cause.
Regular readers of the Village Tribune will be familiar with the film work of Glinton resident Mick Child. Mick has been producing a series of short films featuring local residents. The films are now available to view on the Village Tribune Channel on Vimeo - simply go to www.vimeo.com/ showcase/10502417 to take a peek. The three films feature Anne Lees, John Parsonage and Dave Radcliffe.
Mick is currently working on a major project for the Helping Our Ukrainian Friends group - more news about that in the next issue!
The next issue (143) will be promoting events and activities planned for the pre-Christmas period (where did the rest of the year go!). So, if you want to publicise your November/ December events, highlight your business during this important trading period or want to submit articles for consideration, please note that the deadline is Friday 13 October.
Contributions: 07590 750128 e: villagetribuneeditor@me.com
Social media: /groups/villagetribune
Website: www.villagetribune.org.uk
www.villagetribune.org.uk
Advertising: Alison Henthorn 07702 640361 e: alisonhenthorn@btinternet.com
Editor - Tony Henthorn
35 Maxey Road, Helpston PE6 7DP
T: 07590 750128 E: villagetribuneeditor@me.com
Advertising Sales - Alison Henthorn
T 07702 640361
E: alisonhenthorn@btinternet.com
Distribution
AILSWORTH Saqib Farooq
10 Peterborough Road, Castor PE5 7AX saqib.farooq@peterborough.gov.uk
ASHTON Hilary Smith
Thatched Cottage, Ashton E: hilly.smith@virgin.net
BARNACK Mike Mills
17 Bishops Walk, Barnack PE9 3EE
T: 07523 312387 E: mills.mh@gmail.com
CASTOR Saqib Farooq
10 Peterborough Road, Castor, PE5 7AX
ETTON Anne Curwen
The Coach House, Rectory Lane, Etton
T: 01733 253357 E: acurwen@hotmail.com
GLINTON Shirley Hodgkinson
30 Websters Close, Glinton
T: 01733 252351 E: hodgkinsons@talktalk.net
HELPSTON Clive Marsh
Clive Marsh, 34 Maxey Road, Helpston clive.marsh815@btinternet.com M: 07511 011662
MARHOLM Saqib Farooq
10 Peterborough Road, Castor, PE5 7AX
MAXEY Cllr Peter Hiller
E: Peter.Hiller@peterborough.gov.uk
NORTHBOROUGH Polly Beasley
15 Claypole Drive, Northborough
T: 01778 380849 E: polly.beasley@btinternet.com
PEAKIRK Trish Roberts 9 St Pegas Road
PILSGATE Sally Hullock
3 Hillside Close, Ufford
sally@sallyhullocktraining.co.uk T: 07795 565658
SOUTHORPE Daphne Williams
The Old Dairy Barn, Main St. T: 01780 740511
UFFORD Sally Hullock
3 Hillside Close, Ufford
sally@sallyhullocktraining.co.uk T: 07795 565658
The views expressed within this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor. All copy is believed correct at time of print but no responsibility can be taken for errors and/or omissions. No part of this publication and/or website may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without prior written permission of the Publisher. Permission is only deemed valid if approval is in writing. The Village Tribune own all rights to contributions, text and images, unless previously agreed to in writing.
5
Harvest Festival
(See
From a September spring clean to a full-blown house (or even office) clearance, embarking on this for the first time can be a daunting –and sometimes emotional, experience.
Perhaps you are looking to get your own property sale ready, making preparations to sell a family member’s house or are moving out of your working ‘home’.
But before you enlist the clearout services of a clearance company – wise up to their waste disposal offering to ensure they don’t mess up your good intentions.
Taking the time to do a few checks can help make sure that your unwanted belongings won’t be fly-tipped illegally. There are a few things you can do to reduce those chances with some top tips:
Ask the company if they have a waste carrier’s licence. These are issued by the environment agency and makes it legal to carry your rubbish. Without it they are breaking the law, businesses that are willing to break one law will break many –so don’t hesitate to ask.
Professional businesses will have measures in place to
protect their employees, staff and of course you. Ask them if they have public liability insurance as good house clearance companies will certainly have one.
House clearance companies have overheads such as fuel, labour, tipping and recycling fees. If a price sounds too cheap then it might be they intend to dump your stuff on the side of a road, down an ally or even a field.
Normally a good online reputation will reflect in the real world, ensure that they have good reviews on reputable platforms, or simply get in touch with tried and tested traders at House Clearances in Peterborough recommended by Safe Local Trades by visiting www.safelocaltrades.com/PE/ pe-central/house-clearances/ Sustainability and caring for the environment may also be a concern when it comes to house clearance and waste disposal, and leaving this element to the professionals can help meet those expectations.
If you are looking to declutter on a small scale why not:
Start small until you feel in control of the situation. Maybe kick off with a drawer or cupboard and work your way methodically through, one room at a time.
Work to some kind of order or have a system in place– have labelled boxes for items you want to throw away, recycle or sell.
Think about clutter control if you are selling your home. In preparation for viewings, pack away any items that may make your home look crowded, including toys.
Encourage young members of the family to tidy their own space and help them to set aside any unwanted or unused toys and clothes.
However, there may be some larger projects that you just don’t have the time or capability to manage alone, and that’s when calling in the experts can help clear your mind as well as your surroundings.
Safe Local Trades has a number of tried and tested reliable tradesmen who can carry out a range of property improvements that can save you money, as well as those who specialise in energy saving solutions for your home or business.
By Eileen Le Voi
August -the season of holidays and harvest and the time to clean up the church and churchyard! This year our annual clean up takes place on Sunday 10th September from 10.30am-12.30pm. We hope to finish strimming the churchyard and weeding the graves. We will attempt to complete the edging of the path to the gate. The notice board needs some renovation, and inside, there is the usual cleaning and polishing to be done.
If you don’t fancy any of these jobs how about sorting our mini library in the telephone box?
As last year, we plan to have a simple lunch at the church. We will provide a BBQ but ask that you bring your own picnic. Tea/ coffee and cake will be provided mid-morning. All welcome!
On Sunday 17 September our new priest Revd Keir Dow will be instituted by the Bishop at St Peter’s, Maxey at 3pm. Afterwards, refreshments will be served at Glinton primary school.
You are welcome to attend but it would be helpful for catering if you were to reply to Jane Harris: 9bridgescommunications@gmail. com
Our Harvest festival will be held on Sunday 1 October at 10am. We will be collecting items for the foodbank and collection boxes will be available at the Coach House, in the telephone box, and at the church. Many thanks in advance for your generosity.
Poppy appeal- I’m delighted to report that we have at least 84 poppies towards our Remembrance display. We hope to smash our original target of 100 so please keep knitting and crocheting! If you have made poppies, and haven’t told me yet, please let me know so I can keep a tally. Soon, I will be asking you to hand them over so that I can attach them to the net. Would you like to adopt a poppy in memory of a loved one? During the period of the display there will be an opportunity to do this and support the British Legion and the church.
On Saturday August 5th our Benefice organists raised the roof on all our churches to raise money for the upkeep of our heritage buildings. Despite the rain some hardy souls turned the day into a musical cake crawl as refreshments were available in the churches. Well done to everyone who supported this event. Finally, we are delighted to welcome Elinor Beesley as the new Etton Parish Clerk. You may see posts from Elinor on the Etton FB page. She will also update the notice board and support the Council in its duties. At the last election, Graham Smitheringale decided to step down after many years of supporting the Council and the village. A big thank- you to Graham for all he has done and I’m sure will continue to do for Etton village. We have received an application to join the Council and hope to announce who our new member will be very soon.
P.S. Did anyone notice that the photos in the last issue didn’t match the words? Apologies, it was an editing error!
This is an urgent appeal for volunteer drivers to transport patients to appointments, particularly those who have no transport of their own or cannot use public transport.
If you are a car owner and have time to spare, please contact one of our coordinators on 07858 373 912 between 2 and 4pm Monday to Friday, who can explain more of what the roll is about and provide an application form. Renumeration for volunteers is provided to cover expenses.
We also have a vacancy for another co-ordinator which must be filled urgently. If you feel that you, or someone you know, could help, please contact us on the above number to enquire about this important roll.
This scheme is for the benefit of the people of The Deepings and surrounding villages who are registered with Deeping Medical Practice.
Thank you for taking time to read this and hope that you can help use in some way.
By the time this issue is published the Packhorse will have reopened. NPC were delighted to welcome the new tenant Lesley Newitt to their July meeting. Lesley introduced herself and her team and described her plans for the future. Lesley has vast experience in the pub and restaurant trade and will be known to many village residents as a result of her previous local pub tenancy. On behalf of the residents of Northborough we welcome Lesley to the village and wish her every success in breathing new life into the Packhorse which has been sadly missed for far too long.
NPC has funded new speed signs for the village to replace the old and increasingly inaccurate ones. The replacements are solar powered, more user friendly than the old ones and display messages that can be varied , they can also
provide data on traffic speeds within the village. Hopefully, they will be more effective than those they replace!
The burial ground gates have also been replaced as the previous ones were decaying and difficult to use. The smart new gates are in oak, use refurbished ironmongery from those they replace and are in the same style.
It’s that time of year! Sadly, we have to report that the seat next to Tindall Bridge on Maxey Cut has been torn from its concrete foundations and thrown it down the embankment and picnic benches are “wandering” around the playing field, as if by magic! This results in costs (which can be ill afforded) and time to sort out. We would ask that those doing these things have a thought for others as ultimately, their actions it could lead to the loss of these well used amenities.
A Big Thank You! To all involved in the SOSt Andrew’s Cream Tea at Northborough Manor on the 17 June.
After a brief shower late morning and a frantic 30 minutes of putting up gazebos we welcomed in our first guests.
With over 250 home-made scones, pounds of local grown strawberries (kindly donated by Sue and Andy Garford), strawberry jam, clotted cream, a glass of fizz and pot and pots of tea and we had a very pleasant
afternoon. At both sittings a raffle was held and with the great generosity of our guest’s a lots of funds were
In a remarkable endeavour that spans the heart of Tribland, Anglian Water's groundbreaking water main network project has recently unveiled a surprising connection to the past.
As pipes are being laid for a colossal 90km pipeline, linking Grantham to Downham Market, a truly captivating piece of history has emerged from beneath the soil.
Tribland residents in Maxey, Etton, Glinton, and Northborough are witnessing the construction's significant impact on their surroundings. Vast fields are transformed into worksites, and new speed restrictions have been introduced to ensure safety and efficiency.
A monumental effort, both in scale and significance, it is one of Europe's most ambitious environmental initiatives and marks the UK's most significant drinking water project in decades. Extending underground across hundreds of kilometres, interconnecting pipelines are weaving a hydrological web from Elsham in North Lincolnshire to the regions of Essex and Suffolk. The overarching purpose is to transport water from areas
of abundance to those more parched, offering a solution to water scarcity and drought risk that has long loomed over the east of England.
Once operational, this intricate network will facilitate the daily movement of an astonishing 265 million litres of water. This substantial flow is poised to safeguard the region against the looming threat of drought, a crucial endeavour for a region known for both its dry climate and its rapidly growing population. However, beyond the engineering marvel, Anglian Water is determined to leave behind an enduring legacy for both the environment and the communities along the route. Project manager Glenn Harvey underscores the importance of this initiative, noting that the east of England harbours the dual challenge of being one of the driest regions in the UK while also experiencing rapid population growth. He explains, "Our investment and efforts mirror the gravity of
the challenge. After years of meticulous planning, we are now taking tangible steps to enhance water resilience and ensure a sustainable future for this region."
Harvey adds, "Without the new water main grid, the demand for water could potentially surpass supply as early as 2030.”
The work is having a huge impact on landowners - and particularly farmers across the area with swatches of acreage being swallowed up to the pipeline work.
Farmers are likely to have smaller fields for the next two years at least while the construction work is carried out. In places the pipeline is also being pulled underground to avoid roads being disrupted by drilling under the surface. This has been particularly evident around Glinton, Maxey and Etton with large compounds being created.
Anglian Water is taking drone shots of the sites ‘before’ the
work so they can ensure that restoration in about two years time will be as close as possible to the sites as they are now.. The pipeline work will also go through the eastern side of Langdyke Countryside Trust’s Etton Maxey Reserve. One planner described the reserve as one of the most important in the Peterborough area,
Negotiations between the Trust and AW mean that the impact on nature on the site - and elsewhere on the route - is being kept to a minimum with constant monitoring to ensure as little damage to the eco system as possible.
For instance on the Etton Maxey Reserve conservation work has been carried out to move areas of turf which contain field bindweed - used by the rare fourspotted moth that inhabits the reserve and the nearby Maxey Cut. It is hoped that this will mean the survival of the moth. The work has also been held up to ensure the breeding season
of the threatened Turtle Dove is not disrupted. Langdyke volunteers regularly put out supplementary feed for the birds on the reserve to help them and a number of young birds have been seen on the site this summer as a result..
Anticipation is building as the new grid is scheduled for operation in 2025. However, amidst this modern marvel, an unexpected twist has captured the imagination of both historians and locals. During the construction of the water main network, archaeologists stumbled upon a remarkably preserved artefact, shrouded in history and mystery alike.
An ancient jug, believed to date back almost two millennia, has been uncovered during the preparations for this ambitious water project. Experts speculate that this well-preserved vessel served as a "votive offering" – a gesture to curry favour with the gods, according to "Romano-British" traditions.
Prior to its possible divine intentions, the burnished jug likely functioned as an oil storage container.
Excavated from Tribland, the discovery included two intact copper rings and a decorative pin, each offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship of its era. One ring even retains traces of its original enamel. Experts classify the rings as "late Roman," and the accompanying coins are thought to hail from the third or fourth centuries, a testament to the rich historical tapestry that lies beneath our feet.
As the water main project marches forward, it serves as a conduit for more than just water – it brings to light a hidden connection between the past and present, reminding us that the very ground we walk upon holds secrets waiting to be unveiled. In Tribland, history and innovation coalesce, creating a narrative that bridges the ages and enriches the community's story.
Happy Autumn… hopefully! Seems hardly the blink of an eye that all the celebrations of the Spring and Summer are over, and we are planning for Christmas!!!
The Friendship club goes from strength to strength with new members and activities planned in our forthcoming meetings. It’s been lovely to see so many regular members coming weekly and some also helping out with the backscene duties too.
We had very helpful talks on dealing with scams and rogue callers, and avoiding falls in and out of the home, and the trip to Nottingham was very successful but it seems to be becoming more difficult for our more mobility- challenged members to access the transport or venue these days, so we will be planning future outings to help in this. An inevitable outcome of aging and we have members and helpers now who have been
with us for over twenty years!! Also, many thanks to our super treasurer who does sterling work getting help with financing the trips which are becoming more pricey of course. In October we will be going to Downtown shopping centre near Grantham, and members will be able to bring friends etc if there are spaces available. We will be having the very popular Blue Plaque gentleman back with his poetry soon to celebrate a 90th birthday, and after our two-week summer break for the last two weeks of August, we return in September with a great programme of activities including a lady telling her Tales from Puddleduck Farm! We all wish the very best to our chef Jessie, who got
married recently! If anyone is interested in helping or joining us please call in at the Village Hall in Glinton on Mondays from 10am till 2pm.
Cllr Gerry Kirt - Chairman - 01733 252839
Cllr RW Randall, Vice Chairman - 01733 253276
Cllr Helen Aylesbury
Cllr DJ Batty - 01733 252749
Cllr CB Bysshe - 01733 253164
Cllr Steve Jackson - 01733 252409
Cllr David Lane - 01733 252593
Cllr Andy Staines - 07412 158885
Cllr Sukhvinder Singh
Cllr Gordon Wright
Mr J Haste - Clerk - 07591 834163
Cllr Rita Joshi-Boparai
rita.joshi-boparai@glinton-pc.gov.uk
clerk@glinton-pc.gov.uk
Speaking to Tribland constituents about waste disposal and environmentally friendly packaging over the last few years, it’s apparent the issue garners quite strong opinions.
A recent example highlighting the current methodology of the main retailers for me was an amazing example by Amazon of just how it shouldn't be done. A pair of car key lithium batteries were sent in a box, with internal packing, which would comfortably home a pair of wellies! Saqib and I have made known to our MP our concern about further government delays to the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) that will cost both taxpayers and the environment.
The UK-wide EPR scheme is designed to encourage businesses to reduce packaging and boost recycling by passing
the costs of managing the waste to them, in ways that significantly reward using recyclable material. The government first proposed the scheme in 2018, with the aim of it beginning in 2023. It has been widely supported by partners but has already been delayed by a year to 2024.
Data shows that delay has meant producers haven’t had to pay £1.2 billion to meet waste and recycling costs. This has left local taxpayers having to continue to pick up this bill, which would double to £2.4 billion if EPR is delayed by a further year. As rural ward councillors we are aware that residents’ satisfaction with our
local council waste service remains high, but everyone wants to see less waste and more recycling. Currently, local taxpayers foot the bill for processing the waste, often dealing with excessive packaging and the challenges of material that is difficult to recycle. EPR is a sound policy, widely supported by partners, in helping to cut packaging waste, boost recyclability, save money, and protect the environment. We really cannot afford further delays. Councils need the flexibility to meet the needs of communities and play their lead role working with government, industry and communities to lead this change in partnership.
www.glinton-pc.gov.uk
Cllr Gerry Kirt, Parish Council Chairman
Following the success of our recent Coronation Event we have created our very own live music festival called GlintonFest which will feature many local bands. These include Eye2Eye - acoustic duo; Tom Stone - accomplished singer/guitarist; High Rollersgood time covers band, and Grove Cartell - nine piece Funk & Soul band. This phenomenal event will take place on 9 September 2023 from 4pm until late and although pizzas, burgers, curries, hot, cold and alcoholic beverages will be available, please feel free to bring a picnic. Tickets are available in advance for £6/adult; student 14-16 £4; under 13 free. Premium rate on gate and via QR code.
We are grateful that Mr Kendall has kindly offered use of the Primary School playing field for the event. However, in common with most UK schools, dogs are unfortunately not allowed on the premises, with the exception of assistance dogs.
Glinton Great Garage Grab takes place on Sunday 8 October 10:30am–1:30pm. This is an ideal opportunity to sell stuff you no longer need from your garage or a table in your drive. £5 will buy you a place on the map which will be sold on the day for £1 from the village hall where refreshments will be sold. On the reverse will be a treasure map for the children with a special prize for the winner. This is an ideal opportunity to stroll
around the village, meet people and pick up a superb bargain.
Planning is already underway for Glinton’s Great Celebration taking place on 8 June 2024. As it is the 80th anniversary week of D-Day, we intend to have a D-Day theme as part of the event and have already requested a fly past from the Battle of Britain Memorial flight and/or the Red Arrows. Given the tremendous response to local bands Cosmic Rodney and MG and the Nightbeats, we have booked them again for 2024. The formal commemoration of D-Day will take place on the evening of 6 June when the beacon will be lit near the village pump. Please see Glinton Social Events Facebook page and noticeboards for further information.
PCC Highways have agreed to sort out the potholes on North Fen Road and Mile Drove by the end of the summer to ensure safety of cyclists and others who use the road. We have requested Glinton’s 20mph limit be extended to the North Fen / Mile Drove junction. This is to resolve potential safety issues particularly with students cycling along a road where vehicles are permitted to travel up to 60mph. Hopefully, if implemented, it will reduce the number of vehicles that do not slow down for horses, walkers and cyclists that regularly use the road.
It is worth reminding residents that if they see fly tipping, a problem
with the highways, etc, the easiest way to sort it is to report it online via Peterborough City Council’s website: www.peterborough.gov. uk/report-it-online
Transfer of the Ashburn play-park from the City to Parish Council ownership is now underway. To provide further facilities for children we are considering purchasing a monkey challenge for the recreation ground (see photo).
Architects are developing a range of schemes for Glinton’s Village Hall. Hopefully towards the end of the year we should have decided how to proceed. It is likely we will initially tackle essential work that has a tangible payback without compromising much more ambitious schemes requiring grant funding. Hopefully over the next few weeks a number of damaged and missing village noticeboards will be replaced. This will be carried out at the same time as erecting new posts for the new village sign and defibrillators. It is worth noting that although the new village sign has been ordered, delivery is not anticipated until 2024.
Many who knew and loved Gordon Wright packed into St Benedict church on Thursday 22 June before moving to the Bluebell. Given the high esteem in which he was held within Glinton and his service as a councillor the Parish Council unanimously voted to make a donation to Sue Ryders Thorpe Hall hospice where Gordon spent his last days.
Glinton Community Association are holding a Macmillan Coffee Morning on Friday 22 September at Glinton Village Hall.
We will be serving cake and coffee from 11am to 2.30pm. Please come along and support a good cause. There will also be a raffle and bric-a- brac stall. We will be taking cash donations. If you can donate Raffle Prize, Cake or bric-a-brac(no books) we would be most grateful.
I am sure we all know someone with cancer. It means a lot to me as both my sisters and a very good friend have cancer who are being very strong getting through their treatment.
We will also be holding our Bingo on Friday 22
September, eyes down 7pm, £5 for 8 games of bingo, hot drink and biscuit and raffle ticket. Any profit from this will go to Macmilian.
If you can donate anything contact Sue 0n 07923 475 966 or email glintonvillagehall@ icloud.com
Monday, October 2 is the start of the next annual membership draw for St. Benedict's Church 100 Club.
The last few months have seen prizes between £100–£10 to lucky members. In June numbers 135, 144 and 107 were drawn. In July numbers 133, 108 and 189, whilst more recently in August 116, 103 and 152. We have a few spare numbers so why not join us for only £24 for the year. Contact Veronica Smith on 01733 252 019 or veronica@collingwoodsmith.co.uk for an application form.
Dr Avril Lumley PriorThis autumn, Peakirk Archaeological Survey Team will be joining forces with FRAG [Fen Road Archaeology Group] to sink a 2m x 3m trench across the Car Dyke, close to where it enters Peakirk village green.
The excavation will be coordinated by Kevin Redgate, Field Officer for Peterborough Archaeology, and myself and will take place over five days from 23 to 27 October (half-term week). Visitors to the site will be welcome.
However, we are looking for volunteers to help us. You don’t need to have any previous experience as you will be given basic instructions. You may attend as many or as few sessions as you like.
However, it is essential that you register for the event. If you are interested, please, message me via Facebook with your email address so that I can send you further details and an application form.
It is quite incredible to think that when we started making this 4-episode series of films autumn seemed so far away.
Filming it through the winter and into early spring certainly created some challenges for us in terms of weather, and now it’s starting to feel quite autumnal as the nights begin drawing in. We present to you Episode 3, and it is the turn of John Parsonage to meet with photographer Dave Radcliffe over at Crowland, alongside the river Welland.
Both John and Dave share a passion for photography and the great outdoors. John often writes for the tribune and champions environmental issues both through social media and by sharing his knowledge of nature through visits to schools with his taxidermy. He finds that his exhibits help to engage his audience and
of course, he only has them because they have met their untimely demise through human intervention/action.
John is keen to stress that all of his taxidermy subjects have been acquired through people calling him when they have found the animal dead by the roadside, on farmland or in a garden. Depending upon how the creature has met with its maker also directly impacts on whether it can be preserved as an exhibit. Some creatures like the otter are strictly protected, so John has to hold a license issued specifically for that animal.
Fly tipping and discarded litter is a big killer of our wildlife and as
many of the Trib readers will be only too aware, this is prevalent around the area. Often local landowners and farmers can also find themselves, through no fault of their own, liable for clearing it away at their own cost.
In this episode John talks about our responsibilities in helping to reduce the impact on nature, be it reporting fly tipping to the local council when you see it, or doing something directly like simply taking time to pick up litter when you see it. There appears to be a void in education too, so we can all do our bit to ensure that all generations understand how discarded litter can mean the difference between life or death for our wildlife. It doesn’t stop at
educating children either, local agencies need to consider the impact on the environment as our habits change. John points out that you will find nice picnic tables and a boat launching facility installed at Crowland, but no bins. People are now using the passing places along the Welland north bank as parking places for recreation, but no bins. These changes in our habits and lifestyle have a direct
impact on our environment, and this needs to be recognised. John is keen to add that he views the litter problem as thoroughly avoidable, which is as much a blight on the landscape as it is a danger to wildlife.
Our young composer Rohith Varadarajan provides the music used as a soundtrack again and we thank him very much for his
ongoing support. A link to his YouTube channel is linked from the description of each of our films so please do go and visit his channel. At just 13 years of age he is already proving himself to an accomplished composer and we fully expect to see much more from him in the future.
You can view John’s short film here; www.vimeo.com/847702604/ b363ecd4c9
We are excited to announce that throughout the coming year we will be adding more film content to the new channel, this will include a focus on 5 local artists and a feature documentary about our local community’s generous contributions to the Ukraine Friends Appeal. The appeal has topped £150,000 (check with Richard) and seen 10 vehicle aid convoys travel to Poland as well as the involvement of local people with summer camps for the wives, widows and children of some of the Ukraine soldiers.
You can find our films at our channel here as they are published; www.vimeo.com/showcase/10502417
Chairman: Susie Lucas 01780 740 159 susie.hall34@gmail.com Responsible for: Staffing/HR, Community, Allotments Association, PCC Liaison and Good Neighbours Scheme.
Councillor: Cliff Stanton 01780 749 123 cliffstanton@btinternet.com Responsible for: Nature Recovery Plan project, Village assets, maintenance and website.
Councillor: Michael Perkins 07587 240 607 hawthornfarm@ hotmail.com Responsible for: Internal finances checker.
Councillor: Irene Walsh 07753 203 844 walshirene@yahoo.co.uk Responsible for: Planning, Staffing/HR and Community Liaison and Road Safety.
Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer: Jenny Rice 07889 669 550 bainton.ashton.clerk@live.co.uk
Vacancy: Please see website/notice board when applying for this position.
Back in early 2022 I discussed the idea of a history board, with some friends and Newborough and Borough Fen Parish Council, which was to be placed on what was then called Soke Road Corner. The idea was received well, however, the parish council informed us that it did not have a budget for one and would not likely to have a budget in the near future as the precept for 2023 had already been set and agreed. Not to be beaten at the first hurdle I enquired if there were any objections if I could get one funded privately. This was met with overwhelming approval. Work began in the summer of 2022. There were two people I knew who were keen on the idea and also have a wealth of information and family history with the area around Soke Road Corner. Vanessa Goodliffe’s family were associated with the Crown Public House that was demolished in order for the Waterfall Gardens development to go ahead. She is also a very keen historian and has a wealth of information regarding the village. The other person who made
up the team was Vicki Colman. Vicki has lived here all her life and her family goes back several generations in the village. Her father, John Rowell also has a large collection of village information. We decided at the onset that the board should contain information regarding the immediate area. This included the Crown Inn, The church, butchers shop (There has been a butchers shop on the crossroads of Guntons Road and School Road for well over 150 years). Lastly we thought we should include the War Memorial.
In the meantime the parish council decided to rename the corner as Crown Garden and asked if we could we include this on the history board. By November 2022, after several months of research and meetings, we had a sample board together. After several edits and proof reads it was ready to send to the printers. The proof copy came back satisfactory; we were concerned that some of the old pictures may not reproduce well. But full credit to the printers they
did a great job and the pictures came out really clear. Irene, the Parish Council Clerk handled the private funding for us and made the order for the board. The research work was now done and we eagerly awaited delivery of the final product. The finished board was delivered several weeks later and we were not disappointed, it looked really great. By this stage most of the private funding was used up and the board still needed installing. The Newborough and Borough Fen Women’s Institute came to our support. In exchange for a talk on the history of Newborough at one of their meeting they would donate £25 towards the installation of the history board. With the very grateful help from local builder Kevin Angrave who gave his time for free to help install the board, it was finally in place on Monday 19th June 2023. I would like to take the opportunity to thank the following people who have helped to make this project into a reality;
• Vanessa Goodliffe and family
• Vicki Coleman and family
• Irene Healiss
• Kevin Angrave
• Juliette Cooper
• Newborough and Borough Fen WI
• Newborough and Borough Fen Parish Council
• Newborough Speedwatch
It just goes to show what can be achieved when people work together. Our aim is to install more of these boards around the village in the future. I feel it is important to keep the history of our village alive for future generations. Please get in touch if you feel you can help in any way.
In the last update I mentioned that Peterborough City Council was planning repairs to the atrocious conditions of our roads around the parish.
Further to the meeting attended, I have received confirmation from Mr Martin Brooker, Peterborough City Council (Highway Maintenance and Schemes Commissioning Manager) advising of the current plans as follows:
• Bridgehill Road (Gunton's Road to the first farm on the left);
• Northside (North Bank to Thorney Dyke);
• Guntons Road (Bridgehill Road to Middle Road);
• B1443 Thorney Road (speed limit to Crowtree Farm).
These works are subject to costings and we have no detail on just what work will involve. One of the areas in desperate need of repair is Thorney Road, from the Decoy heading east up to the resurfacing done last year. If you use this road, you will know exactly what I mean. In view of the condition of the road, please take care when travelling on it.
On the topic of roads and working with our city councillors, we are still in discussions (and have been for a few years now) about speeding in and around the village. Whilst the focus is on Thorney Road, we are looking at both Guntons and Werrington Bridge Road to see what can be done. We have some ideas but as ever this always comes
down to funding. However, rest assured if and when anything is decided, full consultation will be put in place by the city council. I had hoped to share a picture of the newly formed volunteers who have come together to help look after the newly named Crown Gardens, but due to looming holidays I am writing this column early and the group hasn’t yet met. If you do see them weeding, planting, cutting, etc., do thank them – but don’t keep them talking too long!!! On a serious note, a big thanks to all of them for volunteering, and remember if you’re interested in this or starting your own scheme on an area that sits with the parish council, let Irene (the parish council clerk) know and she will pull together the names and put you all in touch.
A group of parish councillors gave up their Sunday morning recently to take up an offer from the police to have a walk around the village looking at areas of concern. Thankfully as a community we don’t suffer from a high crime level but we did take the opportunity to mention, amongst other things, areas such as speeding and inconsiderate parking around the school (which is more of an issue at the start and end of the school day). Rural issues were also discussed with input from Councillor Wiliam Cave, who is a farmer. We have asked for a further meeting at our
normal parish council meeting in November so the wider public can come along, listen and ask questions – once this is confirmed, it will appear on the parish council notice boards and the agenda.
Within the parish we are fortunate to have 4 easy-to-use defibrillators available for use in an emergency. However, if any of us were to urgently need to use one of the defibrillators, I am sure you would feel more comfortable having had a demonstration on just what you need to do. With this in mind, we are seeing if we can put in place a demonstration
so we can all see firsthand what would be required. Again, if we can organise this it will be open to everybody with details on the parish notice board and website. Just a reminder, the 4 defibrillators are in the following areas:
• Village hall – Guntons Road
• Newborough Pharmacy on School Road
• Shop on the corner of Guntons Road and Fenside Drive
• Inside the bus shelter on Werrington Bridge Road (near Laws Close)
Always a good idea to make yourself familiar with the locations now if you’re not sure. Finally, we are moving forward with the neighbourhood plan, though it is as expected painfully slow with all the forms required. We have now formally registered our intention to develop the plan, which will include all of Newborough and Borough Fen.
In addition, we have applied for a government grant to cover costs going forward. We are desperate for more volunteers to be included in the working group to take the plan forward. The plan must be developed by the community and as such we need more volunteers that are not parish councillors. Please give it some thought, and if you can help, then please contact our clerk, Irene.
Peterborough celebrated its first anniversary of the monthly Friendship Teas.
Forty two residents from the parish attended the birthday celebrations at Newborough Village Hall. In addition to the usual homemade sandwiches, cakes and savouries the attendees were treated to some live music from Dave Parry. Dave delivered a variety of songs from the 1950’s to the 1980’s. The Newborough Good Neighbours Group has evolved from the team that delivered meals to residents during the recent pandemic. With many village groups not starting up again after Covid there was a void that needed filling to enable people to come together again. The Friendship Teas have done this successfully.
Some of the comments from the birthday celebration tea bear witness to this;
“You do more than you can imagine for so many of us”
“Brilliant scheme, so helpful”
“Good to be able to meet people”
“Bringing us all together”
“Just Perfect”
“Thank you for bringing the village together”
“Thanks, now getting to know more and more people”
Wendy Sayer; Group leader for the Newborough Good Neighbours Rural Peterborough branch and Friendship Tea organiser said; “We need to thank all of the volunteers, for without their hard work the teas would not be possible. I would also like to thank the residents for supporting the teas and each other. It is great to see the number of attendees growing and the community spirt being reborn.”
Next Friendship Tea Dates:
Thursday 28 September
Saturday 14 October
Thursday 26 October
Thursday 23 November
2–4pm, Newborough Village Hall
For more information, contact Wendy on 07507 635 617.
Launching in September, Sing for Life will sign up 40-plus local women - women just like YOU - to take part in a ten-week pop-up singing project, working towards a fantastic live performance event at The Cresset this November, supporting charity partner Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice.
You’ll learn to sing, meet new people, challenge yourself, perform live on stage AND raise money for this much-loved local charity – what’s not to like?!
Absolutely no previous singing experience is needed, just a willingness to step outside your comfort zone, get stuck in and give it a go… it’s all about the journey! “Sing for Life is not about finding the next Adele; it’s about helping ordinary women find their voice” says project director Will Prideaux. “So many people lack confidence or genuinely believe they can't sing, but deep down just about everyone secretly has a favourite karaoke number… we promise we’ll have you singing, and loving it, in no time!”
Over one hundred brave women took part in Sing for Life 2022, all eager to learn to sing and raise money for Thorpe Hall Hospice - and they smashed it, giving the performance of their lives and raising over £10k for
the charity, a fantastic total and more than the project has ever raised before! For most of them, this was their first experience of rehearsing and singing as part of a group, and of performing in public, and here’s what some of them had to say about it:
“Absolutely loved every second! Met some amazing people along the way, raised a lot of money for a fabulous charity and I want to do it all again!”
“An amazing experience! Lovely to meet new people and take part in such an important project.”
“The best experience I’ve had in a long while!”
“A pleasure to sing with so many amazing women. I have loved every second of the journey. Thank you for the opportunity to take part in this wonderful project!”
“The final concert was an amazing experience, so much fun - the atmosphere was just fabulous!”
“Absolutely incredible – such a joy to be part of!”
“It was time to get out and do something for me” says Gaynor from Stamford.
“Singing was a passion when I was younger so I was excited to try it again with a group of amazing women. It was the best experience and decision ever. I learned new skills, made new friends and pushed myself out of my comfort zone and I loved every minute!
Singing is so empowering and such good fun!”
“Sing for Life opened up a whole new world” says Joanne from Yaxley. “It became a time for me, for personal enrichment, learning and selfdiscovery, building friendships through a shared love of music while working towards a common goal - raising money for Thorpe Hall Hospice.”
Helen Kingston, Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, says: "A big thank you to the Sing
for Life team who will, once again, bring our community together in perfect harmony to raise vital funds for our hospice. With your support we can continue to provide expert and compassionate care in the local community and fill last days with love. Good luck to everyone who signs up this year and we look forward to seeing you all on the stage at the grand finale concert!”
The project kicks off with introduction sessions on Thursday 7 September (7-10pm), Friday 8 September
(7-10pm) and Saturday 9 September (2-5pm) when you can meet the team and some of the other women who’ll be taking part. Don’t worry, this is NOT an audition and there’s no big red buzzer, it’s just an opportunity to find out more and get involved. So, if you’re looking for a challenge and you’d like to know more, get in touch TODAY, we’d love to hear from you so you can start YOUR singing journey… there's a whole new world waiting!
For more information about Sing for Life visit www. peterboroughsings.org.uk, email info@peterboroughsings.org.uk or call 01733 425 194.
Introduction sessions will be on Thursday 7 September (7-10pm), Friday 8 September (7-10pm) and Saturday 9 September (2-5pm) at The John Mansfield Campus Dogsthorpe, PE1 4HX. Please call/email first to register and book your time-slot.
The Sing for Life concert will be at Peterborough’s Cresset Theatre at 7.30pm on Friday 10 November.
Friend of many in Tribland, Dave’s infectious enthusiasm for life generally, but within his local community in particular, has inspired young and older residents to get involved in supporting their own neighbourhoods.
So Dave, what brought you to Glinton?
We settled in Glinton whilst I was based at RAF Wittering in 1990 and wife Brenda was working in Operating Theatres at Edith Cavell Hospital. Our son was already at AMVC with our daughter soon to start.
Where were you born and raised?
I was born and raised in Norwich, a fine Norfolk city.
What did you do as a career?
I joined the Royal Air Force as a Halton Apprentice straight from school. I served for 39 years as an aircraft engineer including being based in Singapore, W Germany, Belize and the Falkland Islands. In that time, whilst working on a variety of aircraft, I was also lucky enough to visit more than 40 countries. Following that I was Parish Clerk in Glinton for some 8 years.
What makes you happy?
Watching our family grow. We are now proud Great Grandparents and
I think it’s important to reflect our own values but also have respect for others’ views. The England rugby team winning. I well remember welcoming the RWC to Deepings Rugby Club on its country wide tour in 2003.
What makes you angry?
Dangerous, inconsiderate driving. Especially lane discipline on roundabouts and speeding through our ward’s villages. Some drivers appear particularly inconsiderate.
Claim to fame?
As a kid, riding up our street on the back of an elephant. It was part of a circus performing at the Hippodrome, Norwich back in the 1950s, not something you do every day! Other memorable moments were flying in the legendary Lightning and Harrier aircraft – both wonderful, exciting moments I’ll always remember.
Hobbies?
Community and people really. I’ve always felt it was right to ‘give back’ and hope my volunteering with the RAF Air Cadets for the past 31 years has benefitted and helped young people to go on to achieve their goals. The Glinton Friendship Club, where I have been the treasurer since 2008, is a really well-attended group
regularly meeting at the village hall and regarded as a valuable way of people getting to know each other, as the name suggests.
Most famous person you’ve met?
Meeting with quite likely one of the best-known people in the world, Princess Diana. I had a lovely chat with her when she visited RAF Wittering in her capacity as Honorary Air Commadore. She seemed a delightful person who was genuinely interested in what we did and why our base was a vital element within RAF facilities. Most treasured things you’ve owned?
I’d have to say, my MGB cars before the family came along. Firstly, a classic 1965 roadster and then a more advanced 1972 MGB GT. I did indulge myself later and owned a MGTF for 13 years which was super to drive and great fun. I see now these are making a resurgence on the roads.
Brenda and I have pretty-much been sun seekers for holidays but mostly staycations these days. So pleased I made a trip down memory lane when we visited Singapore and Malaysia in 2019 before Covid came along. So much remembered of past times over there.
Having travelled the world during a career in the RAF Dave Ellis has been very active in his home village of Glinton since moving there over 30 years ago.
'Rich music breathes in Summer's every sound;
And in her harmony of varied greens, Woods, meadows, hedge-rows, cornfields, all around
Much beauty intervenes,
Filling with harmony the ear and eye; While o'er the mingling scenes
Far spreads the laughing sky.'
From Summer Images by John Clare
People often take delight in the thought that our countryside is much as it would have been in John Clare’s day (although set out very differently, due to the Enclosures Act). The poet would roam the countryside and be attuned to the nature happening all around him. Of course, life was much simpler then – and far less noisy – but we can have a similar experience any day of the week, and let summer beauty ‘fill with harmony the ear and eye’.
by Anne LeesAs I write this, near the beginning of August, we are enduring a ‘typical’ British summer day – for which the sodden garden is grateful, no doubt. The past week has been quite damp, and it is tempting to think that summer has been a washout – ‘as usual’ – and that, as the rain continues and the horizon looks grey, it is now over. But the temperatures should be picking up again over the coming week and, looking back at photos taken during the Amblers’ strolls over the last two months, I have been reminded that we have had sunny days and seen truly beautiful sights.
In early July, a few of us went for an evening stroll at Castor Hanglands, to avoid the heat which was forecast for the following day. It was an absolute joy! We didn’t see another soul there and it was so peaceful. We ambled wherever we liked, and took great joy in
the small wonders surrounding us: the sun was low in the sky and cast everything in a warm, golden glow; butterflies, moths and beetles were feasting on the abundance of wildflowers in the meadows, whilst sheep grazed on the heath; and the woodland gave shade where birdsong could be heard. In fact, it was so full of interest that we went back again the following week. And although it rained as we set off – and again on the way back – we had sunshine too, and experienced all the wonders of the site a second time round, in different company; with the added bonus of the Granary café at Willowbrook for coffee and scones afterwards!
One of the greatest joys in the harmony of summer is the vibrant palette of colours on display – a rainbow selection which provides as much nourishment for us as the nectar does for insects. Red poppies in
the field margins and ripening blackberries among the brambles; orange butterflies and beetles, hawkweed and tiny scarlet pimpernel flowers; an abundance of yellow flowering plants such as bird’s-foot trefoil, ragwort, mullein, creeping cinquefoil, plus ripe corn and wheat, bees and wasps; lush green pastures and trees; bright blue skies, cornflowers, bugloss and harebells; indigo skies, tufted vetch creeping under the hedgerows and banded demoiselles; violet scabious and ivy-leaved toadflax; purple toadflax and self-heal; and the numerous pink flowers such as mallow, thistles, crane’s-bill, burdock, willowherbs and – in
the insect world – the everpopular knapweed.
Rivers have featured on our walks too, with the opportunity to witness grey herons stalking prey, and (such a shame it’s so invasive) Himalayan balsam scenting the air. Swan families glide effortlessly along and kestrels hover above banks before dropping down onto their prey. The sound of water is always attractive and adds to the tranquillity of a summer stroll – and there’s always the chance of spotting a kingfisher if we are lucky. The nights may be drawing in but we will be making the most of late summer mornings as we approach autumn. Feel free to join us!
We amble on Friday mornings in various Trib’land locations and you are welcome to join us. If you would like to come along, or offer to show us around your locality, text the Amblers on 07714 021 131 for more information, or PM me on the Village Tribune Facebook page. We look forward to meeting you.
Jackie Robinson
The Helpston Local History Group held an open meeting in the Village Hall on the 20 July 2023 and the speaker, Chris Carr gave a very informative and interesting talk on the life of Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of the first Tudor king, Henry VII, and her links to the local area.
Dressed as Margaret Beaufort would have been clothed in the 15th century, designed more for cold, stone-built castles, Chris was a very convincing Lady Margaret, albeit a very hot one!
As part of the John Clare Society Festival weekend, on Saturday 15 July 2023 the group had a display in the Scout Hut based on the 1964 booklet by local resident Daniel Crowson, “Helpston in the time of the poet John Clare”. A guided walk around the village was organised and coordinated by committee members, pointing out landmarks and buildings that John Clare would have been familiar with during his life at Helpston. The participants of the walk were also very impressed with the earthworks and related finds in the garden of the
former Royal Oak beer house in Woodgate. Brian Cocks had very kindly displayed the finds in his garage for everyone to see
Our next meeting on 21 September 2023 is an open meeting. Clair Wordsworth will be presenting a talk about the forgotten bandleader “Ivy Benson: Original Girl Power” at 7.30pm in St Botolph’s Church. The talk taken from Clair’s BBC 4 documentary draws on interviews with some amazing women, who were all members of Ivy’s band in the 1940's. They risked their lives entertaining Allied troops in war-torn Europe and fought their own battle of the sexes at home! This links in nicely to our upcoming “Home Front” project display. All are welcome, entry £2 for non-members, free entry to HLHG members.
There are some great things being discussed for the future, a new project, a new publication and more articles for the website. Watch this space!
Don’t forget to search to the back of your cupboards and in your lofts to see if you have any photos, artefacts or information that we can use for our November project “Helpston’s Home Front”. We are still looking for wedding, Land Army, Home Guard photos or memorabilia, anything you have that would be of interest to the community and we could use in our November exhibition in the church.
Please consider becoming a member of Helpston Local History Group. Membership is £12 per annum for single membership and £18 per annum for a couple in the same household.
Website: www.helpstonhistory.org.uk E: helpstonhistory@gmail.com
Planning the 2023 Festival took 9 long and often very stressful months but it was something which I gave everything to.
heavily on my mind way in advance of the first planning meeting on October 2022 until days after
and prepared the prizes for distribution by Cllr. David Over. In the few days before the Festival there was great concern over the weather forecast, which was for
This was my first time as Organiser, taking over from Sue Holgate who had moved on to become Chairman of the Society, but having such hugely successful boots to fill was both an incentive and a burden! Living 55 miles from Helpston (nearer to Lincoln than Peterborough), albeit with a 27year connection to the village, made planning our annual event more complicated, but my committee of six, including local stalwarts Revd. Gary Alderson, Karen Lakey and Anna Kinnaird – gave me important and much-needed back-up. Fortunately, the basic framework of the Festival has remained the same over many years but I was starting from scratch, with everything to arrange – a poetry competition and the Midsummer Cushions’ Ceremony, stall holders, entertainment, speakers, book sales, parking, venues to book, and so much more. The responsibility seemed tremendous at times, weighing
than three months’ researching and writing articles for the official 20-page Programme, two hundred of them arrived from Ely Printers in May and went on sale. Sue Holgate then ran a successful Friends of the Festival scheme in June, distributing Programmes, books and concert tickets and bringing in much-needed early funds for the Festival, which has always been free to attend. One final push by Stamford Poet Laureate Scott Coe and planning committee members Gary Alderson, Karen Lakey and David Smith brought the poetry competition to a conclusion with their visits to John Clare Primary School and then the judging, whilst I ironed the medal ribbons, wrote the book plates
torrential rain, high winds and little, if any, sunshine.
On Friday the children of the John Clare Primary School, ably supported by the wonderful
Ann Marshall, The John Clare Society. Vice-Chairman, Publicity Officer and Festival OrganiserSarah Nicolson and her staff, arrived at St. Botolph’s Church for the Midsummer Cushions’ Ceremony, which was beautiful, if brief, in the somewhat damp churchyard, but the bonus was rain provided helpful conditions for the trays of flowers. The poetry prize-giving which followed took place inside the church and as usual was a really special occasion. Friday’s Choral
Evensong in the Church and the Folk Evening in The Bluebell, both open to the public – as is the entire Festival – were full to bursting and a great success. Thank you also to Gary Alderson who had the brilliant idea of displaying all 135 entries for the poetry competition in the church from Saturday until Tuesday, giving everyone the chance to see them, what a genius!
Saturday, although marked by some heavy showers turned out to be nowhere near as bad as expected. The worst of the rain came in the morning while most visitors were in the Church for the AGM and President’s Address, and fortunately it wasn’t cold. In the afternoon there were plenty of places to retreat to – Botolph’s Barn for books, and the Bluebell Inn where the new landlord, Paul, was experiencing his first Festival, complete with the Morris dancers who never fail to attend and perform. There were plenty of visitors to the Welcome Tent, the Scout Hut and the Cottage too, and the Village Hall was crammed with folk enjoying the home-made food, served by Kate Hinchliff and the ladies of the village (too many to mention, but they’re
all fabulous!). I heard someone comment that the puddings would not have been out of place in a top restaurant, and they were right!
The afternoon walks, one in the village led by the local History Society, and the other at Maxey Cut organised by The Langdyke Trust, went ahead and were greatly enjoyed. There were plenty of blue skies and sunshine, not what we expected, and it taught me a valuable lesson –don’t ever be put off attending an event by a forecast because it may well, as in this instance, be more wrong than right. There was some wind but it wasn’t a gale, there was some rain but it wasn’t heavy for very long and there was no thunder or lightning. Fingers crossed for a drier, sunnier 2024, but if we do get more of the same just come with suitable clothing and umbrellas and you’ll have a good time whatever the weather.
Saturday concluded with a marvellous concert by The Big Fiddle Band who performed with enthusiasm and great talent. They are all amateurs, although you wouldn’t believe it. Thank you so much to them for coming, as well as the choir from All Saint’s Church in Northampton, who were the stars of Friday’s Choral Evensong. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make the Festival 2023 happen, including all of the enthusiastic participants and those who supported me whole-heartedly in the months before and on the day. And for those who did attend the Festival, despite the doom-mongers at the Meteorological Office, thank you from the bottom on my heart for coming and making it such a happy and memorable weekend.
Henry Clark, Chairman
www.peakirkvillage.co.uk
For all Peakrik news, minutes and agendas visit: www.peakirkvillage.co.uk
Chairman: Henry Clark – Tel: 01733 253 203
Sally Jackson – Tel: 01733 253 483
Emma Crowson – Tel: 01733 252 200
David Fovargue – Tel: 01733 254 227
Anne Tuley – Tel: 01733 254 114
Sarah Smith – Tel: 07588 055 553
Kamal Sisodia – Tel: 07958 053 439
Clerk: Angela Hankins – Tel: 01733 253 397, Email: clerk@peakirk-pc.gov.uk
PCs James Cullimore and Steve Main from the Peterborough North Neighbourhood Police Team visited Peakirk on Saturday 29 July. Councillors Tuley, Crowson, Fovargue and Clark took them on a tour of the village, raising points as we walked around.
Much of the discussion was about traffic and speeding. We have a persistent problem with drivers entering and leaving the village at excessive speed – over 80 mph in some cases. We have had two visits recently where PC Main used his speed camera to check speeds in the village. We also discussed the options for traffic calming and the general conclusion was that most are expensive and not very effective.
We are looking at obtaining some ANPR cameras that will
photograph the vehicle, record the registration number, speed, and time and date for use by the police. At the moment the data produced is not acceptable to Cambridgeshire Constabulary for prosecution purposes, although other constabularies do accept the data. More information can be seen at autospeedwatch.org.
Other items that were discussed were parking, speed limits and rat-running down Meadow Road.
When Mary Webber was our PCSO we used to get a monthly crime report. Whilst this thankfully included very little crime it was useful to know what was going on. We asked for this to be reinstated monthly, even if there was no crime to report. This will help us make residents aware of any spates of burglary or car crime.
Unfortunately, Mr Harding, who has done an excellent job for many years, is no longer able to do it. We are seeking another contractor but in the meantime the grass may not be cut as often as we are used to.
Peakirk Archaeological Survey Team (PAST) and Fane Road
Archaeological Group (FRAG) are planning on digging a test pit on the village green on 23-27 October. The aim is to find out more about the track of Car Dyke, which is believed to cross the village green.
Spectators are welcome and anyone wanting to help can do so; no experience is necessary.
Details of events will be posted on the noticeboard by the Village Hall, www.peakirkvillage.co.uk and facebook - www.facebook.com/ groups/peakirkvillage/
Enjoy the magic of cinema as it used to be with a special screening of the classic 1929 silent movie 'Piccadilly' complete with an authentic, live musical accompaniment by The Brief Encounter Duo (Veronica & Chris Perrin).
'Piccadilly' was “the last great British silent movie”. Released in 1929, it’s a story of jealousy seething with sexual tension, combined with a murder mystery. The film also contains themes of social injustice that are as relevant today, as when it was first screened, almost a century ago!
The screenplay, written by Arnold Bennett (popular British author of the era), contrasts the lives of wealthy socialites at a central London nightclub with the plight of the staff working below stairs. The screen goddess Anna May Wong stars as a young Chinese woman working in the kitchen, who is suddenly given a chance to become the club’s main dance act by its owner Valentine Wilmot. This, proves the catalyst for betrayal, forbidden love and murder, when Valentine’s former lover becomes jealous. The film ‘Piccadilly’ established Anna May Wong as a major artist, who used her fame and language skills to bring about change and understanding on the world stage. Today, she is recognized for her achievements in the UK, Europe, USA & China.
“Piccadilly, restored to its original glory, was a genuine revelation to me. It’s a bold, beautifully crafted, completely modern picture… one of the truly great films of the silent era” (Martin Scorsese).
So, don’t miss this culturallythrilling event coming to Helpston on the evening of 18th November. ‘Piccadilly’ was acclaimed for its innovative camera work and lighting. Today, the film is supplied for public viewing under licence from the British Film Institute.
Musicians Veronica and Chris Perrin (The Brief Encounter Duo) perform a live authentic soundtrack, drawing on music from the 1920s. A review of their recent screening of ‘Piccadilly’ at the Ludlow Fringe Festival is glowing: “An exquisite evening’s entertainment. The 1929 film Piccadilly is itself a masterpiece of cinema… Watched with the score, devised by Veronica and Chris, makes this an extraordinary experience… Beautiful music played on a variety of ten different instruments by two very accomplished musicians. Do go and see this show!”
'Piccadilly' is credited as “the last great British silent movie” - to put this into historical context, the first Hollywood “talking picture” had been released two years earlier, in 1927. Yet, as Europe was still struggling with the lasting impact of the First World War, silent movies remained the norm on this side of the Atlantic when 'Piccadilly' was released. It was actually the advent of “the talkies”
that cemented America’s position as the global centre of movie making. Incidentally, 2023 marks 100 years since the Hollywood Sign first went up – originally, it spelling out the word 'Hollywoodland', rather than just plain ‘Hollywood’. It was erected to promote a new housing development and was only supposed to be up there for a year. Since then, of course, it’s become one of the best-known landmarks in the world and is closely associated with America’s film and television industry. By the way, the first British “talkie” was actually directed by Alfred Hitchcock in 1929 and the unique success of it opened up important doors in Hollywood for him. The rest, as they say, is history! Intriguingly, the year ‘Piccadilly’ was released, Arnold Bennett had been in discussion with a young Hitchcock to script another silent movie, but the project foundered on artistic differences, notably, Bennett’s refusal to see the film as a “talkie” rather than a silent! In 1929, Bennett’s era was definitely drawing to a close.
Arnold Bennett, born in Staffordshire in 1876, the son of upwardly mobile family in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, he completed 34 novels, 7 volumes of short stories and 13 plays (some collaborations with other writers), a daily journal
and more than 100 articles for newspapers and periodicals, before he died in London in 1931 of typhoid fever, having unwisely drunk tap-water in France. A memorial service was held in London and attended by leading figures from journalism, literature, music, politics and theatre. Arnold Bennett also has the distinction of having a dish named in his honour. ‘Omelette Arnold Bennett’ is one that incorporates smoked haddock, hard cheese (typically Cheddar) and cream. It was created at the Savoy Gril in London by the celebrated Chef Jean Baptiste Virloguex.
Tickets for the Silent Film Night in Helpston (including refreshments) on 18 November are available from Eventbrite or 0789 444 8012.
£10 in advance (HLHG members £10) or £12 on the door.
7pm start time (doors open 6.30pm). Venue: Helpston Scout & Guide Centre, West Street, Helpston.
Parish Council Clerk: Syd Smith
E: helpstonpc@hotmail.co.uk
Chair: Joe Dobson
T: 01733 252 192
E: councilmessages@btinternet.com
Vice Chair: Ali Peat
T: 07399 532 266
E: alastair@alfrescolandscaping.co.uk
Councillor: Alastair Bradley
T: 07941 570 653
E: alastairbradley@hotmail.com
Councillor: Andy Ratnett
T: 07798 651 872
E: andy@ratnett.co.uk
Councillor: David Dykes
T: 07515 288 606
E: david.dykes@btopenworld.com
Councillor: Eric Sieker
T: 07464 092 273
Councillor: Gill Jolly
T: 07713 329 141
E: ghaigh6d@hotmail.com
Councillor: Leslie Newitt
T: 07766 616 961
Councillor: Rosemary Morton
T: 01733 252 243
E: g.morton526@btinternet.com
www.helpstonparishcouncil.org
WE TEST, BUT DON’T REPAIR, SO YOUR MOT WILL BE CONDUCTED IN YOUR BEST INTERESTS
In April, our fish and chip supper was enjoyed by all, and our May meeting was ‘A little taste of France’, getting ourselves in the mood for the upcoming visit from our friends in Bourges.
June is the month we have an outdoor meeting and this time we took a leisurely circular stroll in Glinton, starting and finishing at the Bluebell. Finally, after two cancelled twinning visits, due to COVID 19 restrictions, on the 6 of July 2023 we welcomed twenty very weary French guests from Bourges (they had left home at 1am and arrived in Peterborough at 7pm via a stop-off at Canterbury) and had a very successful and busy five days.
After Mia Hansson’s Re-creation of the Bayeux Tapestry (a work in progress) talk, a fish and chip lunch where Mayor Nick Sandford and Deputy Mayor Judy Fox joined us, a River Witham boat trip on the Boston Belle, guided visits at The American War Cemetery and Buckden Towers, (home of Catherine of Aragon for 18 months), and not forgetting The Bubblecar Museum visit, our guests went home tired but happy. It was a first visit to Peterborough for some of them, we think they’ll be back again in the future.
We have been invited back to Bourges in 2024 and are very much looking forward to the trip. If you have never seen the beautiful city of Bourges, in the Berry region of France, here is a link to their website. www.villebourges.fr/_en/site/introduction Our autumn programme includes a BBQ, Holiday Tipples, and a Harvest Produce and Homemade evening. If you would like more details of the PAFA and our meetings contact Gary Peterson, Secretary PAFA email: garyn.peterson@outlook.com
Feel free to look up our Facebook page, Peterborough Anglo-French Association (don’t forget the hyphen) or copy and paste www.facebook.com/groups/697608323628779 Social Secretary Ann Elliott: ameuk@btinternet.com
This issue I am creating a simple, inexpensive yet impressive menu for informal entertaining and outside eating, with servings of colourful mixed salads, paprika potato side dishes, and other barbecued meats or fish.
It’s this time of year when we in France tend to eat and socialise with friends and family outside, with different dishes to choose from rather than perhaps the more traditional single menu suppers or lunches more common in the UK, non? Although this particular main is very inexpensive and the whole serving is very easy to prepare it was a great favourite of the Greek shipping tycoon, billionaire Stavros Niarchos – who had a beautiful estate in the South of France during the 1970s and 80s and who was a regular at our family’s restaurant. Similar ‘Quatre à Table’ menus are served pretty much all over France, with perhaps slight regional variations, but essentially the same good dish.
Whilst at CP we always serve on white plain plates, this outside food often benefits from and adds interest by being displayed on the table in a big, patterned serving dish as a centre piece, as we used to back in the day. These can be bought for next to nothing from bric-a-brac shops and boot fairs over here and make a distinctive impression on your guests.
At CP we normally serve with crusty bread, a green salad in a large shallow bowl with sliced red peppers, well-drained tinned artichokes, black and green olives, lightly microwaved broccoli spears and dressed with a simple 3:1 French dressing.
For Four:
450g small waxy potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
2 red onions, halved and cut into wedges
1 head of garlic, cloves separated but not peeled
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt flakes
Freshly ground black pepper
8 good-sized skin-on bone-in chicken thighs, excess skin neatly trimmed
Finely grated zest of 1 unwaxed lemon, plus juice of ½ lemon
75–100g feta cheese, crumbled
10g dill leaves, torn
250g Greek yogurt
A dozen black olives, halved
1 tablespoon harissa.
Steps
Preheat the oven to 190°C fan (400°F), Gas Mark 6.
Put the potatoes, onions, garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of the oil, salt and pepper into a 30cm wide shallow casserole or ovenproof sauté pan.
Toss everything around with your hands.
Put the chicken thighs on top, skin side up.
Brush the remaining oil on the chicken and season it.
Roast for 40–45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and the potatoes tender when pierced with a sharp knife.
Squeeze the lemon juice over, then scatter on the zest, feta, olives and dill.
Put the yogurt into a bowl and spoon the harissa on top.
Serve the chicken with the harissa yogurt on the side.
Our cereal harvest started in the winter barley on 17 July – and has been stop start through until Sunday 30th July. As one farmer put it “as soon as our neighbour gets his combine out the weather changes” It certainly has this year.
No two seasons are the same, over the years you learn a catchy harvest will follow an easy one which 2022 turned out to be. In fact some days were too hot in temperature to combine, we had to wait until late in the day until the extreme heat dropped 2023, we and our neighbours have taken advantage of any opportunities in a let up in the
wet weather in July. By Sunday late afternoon we managed to complete our winter barley and two fields of Winter wheat with reasonable yields coming off varying soil types, so far the different soil types have yielded respectable yields and the thinner, brashy land generally yielding lower yields and quality. We have still a lot of ground to
cover before finishing the 2023 harvest, so looking forward to some good combining days in August however the first 8 days of August has continued with wet periods, starting combining again on 9th August. The exceptional high temperatures in the “growing” period have not only affected the cereal crops but root crops too (potatoes, sugar beet) have had extra costs, many hours of irrigation for the potatoes. This follows a poor 2022 season for potato growers. Sugar beet growers were hit with severe frost damage and loss in many cases
both crops being expensive to grow, so no wonder some growers have either cut down on their normal acreage or left out those crops from their rotation altogether. As we go further into August combining days normally are shortened, with September harvesting days quite often down because of heavy dews etc so really August is the month if at all possible you try to complete the cereal crops, when the weather improves I am sure we will be able to continue combining with all the different crops without any waiting for
ripening as can happen when starting early in July.
The sugar beet season starts early September with factories opening so it is good to get the cereal harvest out of the way, Autumn I think is the busiest time with the weather usually deteriorating and shorter working days, let’s hope the autumn weather is kind to all. The gardens this summer have given of their very best quality and abundance of flowering display that I can remember for many years after a very slow start in early summer. The roses have
had an excellent show as have my agapanthus and many other shrubs which I hope will continue until we get the frost later into autumn. I always feel it helps us get through the short, dark, dreary days before Christmas, once we get Christmas over and into January the daylight hours get longer but the old saying “as the days lengthen the cold strengthens” and hopefully the bulbs start to show and other early flowering shrubs brighten up those still quite long Winter days.
As the Nine Bridges Benefice eagerly awaits the induction of Reverend Keir Dow on 17 September in St Peter’s church, Maxey, I find myself reminiscing about Tribland’s past incumbents. Some are held fondly in living memory, like Reverend Mark-Aaron Tisdale and the late Dr Hilary Geisow, Reverend Dave Maylor of Bainton, Helpston and Ufford and Reverend Canon William Burke (who brought Time Team and Access Cambridge Archaeology to Castor, leading to two ‘Digs’ at Peakirk).
Other renowned people who took holy orders are firmly consigned to history. Springing to mind are the saintly seventh-century princesses, Kyneburgha and
Kyneswitha, who exchanged their crowns for a convent at Castor; St Pega (died 719), who gave her name to Peakirk; William Morton, the fifteenth-century
Peterborough Abbey official who kept accounts of his transactions relating to his monastic manors of Maxey and Sutton; and Reverend Kingsley, Rector of St John
the Baptist’s, Barnack (182432), father and namesake of Charles Kingsley, author of The Water Babies.
Of course, there were men of the cloth who led less than virtuous lives. Reverend Kingsley was followed at Barnack by the disreputable Reverend Canon Herbert Charles Marsh MA (1832-44), whose father, Herbert Marsh, Bishop of Peterborough (1819-39), appointed him to the living.
Unfortunately, by 1844, Herbert junior was being blackmailed for 10,000 francs [£400] by his French mistress, Nathalie Miard, whom (he later admitted under oath) he had met ‘a few years earlier’ in a London brothel and had been ‘keeping’ ever since. When Mademoiselle Miard, who barely spoke English, appeared at Northamptonshire Assizes, she was acquitted by a sympathetic jury, which was lustily cheered by a packed court.
Astonishingly, the Reverend Canon was not defrocked for his unseemly conduct but was obliged to leave Barnack for a parish in Cambridgeshire. He married another Frenchwoman, Sedonie de Ponsard, in Kensington, in 1848. Two years later, he was declared insane (causes open to speculation) and died on 4 September 1851, in Brompton Sanatorium, Surrey, aged 43. He was buried in Hillingdon
Cemetery, Middlesex, where his headstone describes him as the ‘Son of the Lord Bishop of Peterborough, Rector of Barnack in the County of Northampton and a Canon
After a six-year interregnum, Barnack’s next incumbent, the family-orientated Reverend Canon Marsham Argles MA (1851-91), must have brought a sigh of relief to his parishioners. The office was bestowed upon him by Herbert Marsh’s successor as Bishop of Peterborough, George Davys (1839- 64), Marsham Argles’s father-inlaw. Another blatant case of nepotism! By now St John’s was in a state of neglect. Fortunately, unlike many of his contemporary clergymen, Argles just carried out essential repairs rather than ruthlessly sweeping away the old and rebuilding anew in the trendy Victorian-Gothic style.
of Peterborough Cathedral’. Thus, Herbert Marsh’s sense of entitlement even extended beyond the grave!
Nevertheless, Argles recognised the significance of St John’s Anglo-Saxon tower. He unblocked its openings and removed the thirteenthcentury wall that separated it from the nave. Thus, the massive archway could be seen in all its glory. The EarlyEnglish doorway, which once led to the tower, was
>> redeployed as an entrance to his rectory garden. (It was repositioned in School Road in 1963). During the alterations, the stone seat in a gabled recess in the western wall was revealed, together with more fragments of seating for about 40 people and the threshold of the disused south doorway. Argles obviously intended to end his days in Barnack for he then turned his attention to the early-nineteenth-century rectory opposite the church (now known as Kingsley House).
By the 1860s, it was too small to accommodate him, his wife, Margaret, and their nine children. Wealthy in
School Rd, Barnack: Resited 13th-century arch
his own right from estates in Cumbria, Argles financed its partial rebuilding to his own specifications, brazenly planting his family crest on either side of the front door. He also funded an extension for the local school, ultimately becoming the Chief Inspector of Schools for the Northamptonshire Education Society, and was a major benefactor to Peterborough Cathedral.
Tragically, of Marsham and Margaret’s five sons, only the eldest, George, outlived them. Henry died, aged eight, in 1858; Francis in 1871 and Marsham junior in 1883, whilst Charles was drowned when swimming in the Thames, in 1879. The grief-stricken rector transformed St John’s chancel
into a memorial chapel with a sumptuous Italian mosaic reredos, depicting four angels, behind the altar. In 1873, he commissioned the great east stained-glass window, which he dedicated to his father-in-law, Bishop Davys. It is flanked by two others in the north and south walls commemorating his lost sons Henry and Francis. Two more windows in the south aisle, inserted in 1884, honoured Marsham and Charles.
Argles retired after an incumbency of 40 years in 1891, dying on 19 December 1892. He was buried with his wife and sons in the family plot to the east of the churchyard. He must have been a very hard act to follow.
Walter Debenham Sweeting: An Enquiring Mind
Thankfully, Argles’s contemporary, Reverend Canon Walter Debenham Sweeting MA (1839- 1913), Rector of Maxey from 1881 until 1901, was also far too busy to interfere with the fabric of St Peter’s church. In addition to providing pastoral care for his congregation, he was headmaster of Peterborough’s King’s School, editor of the Fenland Notes & Queries journal and a prolific author, lecturer, amateur archaeologist, tenacious researcher of local history and a father of seven. In his spare time, he scoured local church archives and travelled the length and breadth of Tribland and beyond, making copious jottings and condensing some of them into his book, Historical and Architectural Notes on the Parish Churches
in and around Peterborough (published in 1868).
Within its pages, we find interesting vignettes of everyday life from the 1550s onwards: In 1678, the Marholm parishioners collected £1.19s.10d [£1.95] towards the redemption of ‘English captives out of Turkish slavery’. In 1566, Robert Angell of Peakirk left two stooks of barley and 20 pence [10p] ‘unto the repairinge of St Pee’s image [wall painting?]’ and, in 1767, the village was plagued with moles and rats.
Anglo-Saxon foundations, and described, a holy-water stoup in the porch, which now supports a bench.
Suddenly, in 1901, it was announced that Reverend Canon Sweeting was to exchange livings with Reverend Henry Selby Hele of The Holy Trinity Church, Rotherhithe. It is difficult to
his cabinet of curiosities which stands beneath St Peter’s church tower. It contains examples of the treasures that he unearthed in the churchyard, including a fragment of an Anglo- Saxon grave-slab. Some of the numerous medieval coffin lids that he found are now redeployed
At Castor church, as late as the 1860s, the sexes were separated during services (a relic of Puritan times), with women sitting on the left (north side) and men to the right. Sweeting also witnessed the rebuilding of Helpston tower in 1865, revealing its
comprehend why, at the age of 62, Sweeting should want to uproot himself from all that he held dear. Was it that, after the death of his wife, Maria Georgianna, in November 1900, he wished to be near his youngest son, Gerald? Or were his extra-mural activities causing him to neglect his Maxey flock and he received a nudge from the bishop?
Whatever the reasons for his departure, Sweeting kept fond memories of his erstwhile parish. He died at his home, ‘Maxey’, in Wallington, Surrey, on 19 January 1913, aged 74. His legacy is his writings and
as coping stones for the churchyard wall.
So preoccupied were the Reverend Canons Marsh, Argles and Sweeting with secular matters it is surprising that they had any time to prepare their sermons and to preach. We may wonder how they would have coped with today’s multiple parishes under their care. At least their busy lives meant that all three incumbents left their churches alone so that we can still enjoy them as their AngloSaxon or medieval master masons intended. For that we must be eternally grateful...
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Stuart will be giving a talk on “Mrs Cromwell’s Cookbook: Food, Politics and the Life of Elizabeth Cromwell” at 7pm in St. Andrew’s Church Northborough, on Saturday 23 September, as part of Northborough’s celebration “Elizabeth Cromwell Remembered” on 23/24 September. £15 per person – refreshments provided.
Elizabeth Cromwell, wife of Oliver Cromwell, died in Northborough Manor in 1665 and is buried in the local church, St Andrew’s. Here, Stuart Orme, the Curator of the Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon reflects on her life, in particular an extraordinary cookbook.
Most people have heard of Oliver Cromwell – soldier, statesman, regicide, and Lord Protector. He’s one of the most significant figures in British history… and one of the most controversial. He’s been revered as someone who helped establish Parliamentary sovereignty in Britain, championed religious toleration and helped found the modern British army and navy, but also been accused of being a king-
killer, tyrant and (in Ireland) a war criminal.
Fewer people have heard of his wife though. Elizabeth Cromwell was a remarkable woman in her own right, who became the first ‘First Lady’ of the English Republic, a stalwart support to her husband and children and (through a book purporting to have been written by her) someone who gives us a window not only into the
government of the time but the middle-class recipes of the period in one of the strangest cookbooks ever written.
Elizabeth was born in 1598, the eldest of twelve children of London merchant Sir James Bourchier and his wife Frances. We know nothing about her childhood, though she must have received some sort of education as we know from her surviving
correspondence that she was literate. How she and Oliver Cromwell met is unknown, but they were married at St Giles Church, Cripplegate on 20 August 1620. The Cromwells were a devoted family, despite the ups and downs of their fortunes; from a comfortable existence in Huntingdon to living in reduced circumstances in St Ives. Cromwell was plunged into a period of ‘melancholia’, widely interpreted as depression during this period, before developing a deep faith within the ‘Godly’ movement known to us popularly as Puritans; Elizabeth seems to have become similarly devout. An inheritance in
“Thou art dearer to me than any creature; let that suffice…”
Elizabeth responded: “Truly my life is but half a life in your absence…”.
During the Civil War, and Cromwell’s resulting rise to prominence from relative obscurity, the family seem to have spent an increasing time in London. Elizabeth was accused of intrigue in some contemporary pamphlets and historians have disagreed on the issue of how much influence she had on her husband, some suggesting that she was a spur to his ambitions, others that she limited herself to domestic matters. By the 1650s Elizabeth and her family were living in
As part of the Elizabeth Cromwell celebrations, The Sealed Knot will feature at Northborough Primary School on Saturday the 23rd and Sunday the 24th September between 11am and 4pm - see page 61 for more details.
well provided for, but the Restoration in 1660 left her position more uncertain and she left London. Newsbooks accused of her of trying to remove royal property, accusations she strenuously denied, petitioning Charles II that she might be allowed ‘a safe retirement… now in her old age”. Elizabeth lodged with her widowed son-in-law John Claypole at Northborough Manor, just on the north side of Peterborough. She was visited by her children on occasion, who expressed concern at her increasing ill-health, until she died in November 1665, and was buried in the local church, St Andrew’s.
1636, including a substantial house in Ely, provided for them comfortably. The couple had 9 children; one, James, died in infancy, whilst their two oldest sons Robert and Oliver passed away after barely reaching manhood. Whilst these losses must have put a strain on their relationship, there is no serious suggestion that either of the Cromwells strayed from the marriage bed and judging by their few surviving letters to each other they developed a deep affection. Cromwell wrote to Elizabeth from on campaign in Scotland in 1650, telling her:
lodgings adjoining Whitehall Palace. By the Spring of 1654, after her husband became Lord Protector, they moved into apartments in Whitehall Palace and Hampton Court. She was now the wife of the head of state, accordingly termed “Her Highness the Lady Protectress’. Elizabeth played a minor supporting role in some public occasions, entertaining the wives and daughters of ambassadors and dignitaries, but otherwise stayed in the background, with no political role. At Cromwell’s death in 1658 Elizabeth was
The year before her death a recipe book ‘The Court and Kitchen of Elizabeth, Commonly Called Joan, Cromwell, wife of the Late Usurper’ was published, purporting to be that of Elizabeth and containing an anti-Cromwell essay. It’s probable that some of these recipes were used by her and give a window into the middleclass recipes used in the Fens in the mid-1600s.
Northborough Garage Sale
“One man’s trash is another man’s treasure”
Sunday 10 September, 10am–2pm
Northborough
Northborough is having a Clear Out so come along, park carefully, and browse for bargains. With lots of addresses taking part throughout the village, there will be something for everyone. Northborough residents... please do take part, even if you think you don’t have much to sell. Maybe do a tombola for a charity, sell teas and cakes, or crafts. Last year’s Garage Sale was an enjoyable social day for the village, seeing neighbours and friends for a chat. It’s also a great way to clear some space and convert into £££££s!
Just email me on suegarford@me.com or text/ ring 07729 502 486. Cost is £5 per address and the proceeds will all go to village causes. Please let me know asap if you wish to take part.
Paper maps of addresses taking part will be a available from the Packhorse garden from 9.30 in return for a donation to village causes. Maps will also be available online.
The Arts Society Peterborough’s Monthly Talk
14 September, 10.15am
The Fleet, PE2 4DL
‘The greatest art patron in the world’, Rudolf 11and his Kunstkammer. By Dr Albert Godetsky. Albert explains the practice of Kunstkammer and then explores the impressive collection of art, artifacts and scientific instruments amassed by the Holy Roman Emporer Rudolf 11. Doors open for coffee and a chat, the talk lasts an hour, just come along and enjoy your first talk free, so why not come and join us? All are welcome.
For information and details of how to join the society, visit: www.the-arts-society-peterborough.org.uk
St Botolph's Church Harvest Chip Supper
Saturday 16 September, 7pm
Helpston Village Hall
Harvest Fish and Chip Supper with home made puddings. Bring your own drinks. Steamed fish available or vegetarian/vegan gluten-free alternative can be easily arranged - please contact Kate below. Tickets £11.50 each from Kate on 07745 116 621 or kate.hinchliff@gmail.com
Glinton Horticultural Society
78th Open Show
Saturday 16 Spetember, 2–5pm
Arthur Mellows Village College
The Langdyke Trust & John Clare Country: A Talk by David Cowcill
Friday 20 October, 7.30pm
Glinton Village Hall
Adult-only Live Music Event
Saturday 16 September, 7.30pm–late
Newborough Village Hall PE6 7RX
Tickets £10 each includes supper. Bring your own drinks.
Helpston Church Coffee Mornings
Saturday 23 September & 28 October, 10am–12pm
Helpston Church
All Welcome Coffee Cake and Chat in the Church!
M.A.D. Art Exhibition
Friday 6, 10am–8pm
& Saturday 7 October, 10am–5pm
Maxey Village Hall, Maxey, Cambridgeshire PE6 9EJ (just off the A15, south of Market Deeping)
The popular joint art exhibition of Maxey Art Group and Deepings Art Club is taking place again this year at the beginning of October. Over the two days there will be high quality new work from many talented local artists. Entry is free and refreshments will be available to purchase. Disabled parking, access and facilities.
Castor, Ailsworth and District Gardeners’ Society: Italian Evening
Friday 17 November
Castor Village Hall
Three course meal and entertainment. For more information or to book tickets please contact Peter Huckle 07719 547 684
Friday 17 November, 7pm.
Main Exhibition: Saturday, 10am–5pm
Helpston Village Hall
Following the successful exhibition in 2022 enjoyed by many artists and visitors, we are holding another art exhibition. There will be teas and cakes. Funds raised will go to our local villages’ efforts to help our friends in Ukraine in these difficult times.
Artists should put this in their diary if they would like to enter and contact will@insuranceinsights.co.uk
I am taking a break in this issue from the Newborough Pubs series. They will be completed in the next issue though. This time, as it is the last issue before Remembrance Sunday, I thought I would tell the story of two of Newborough’s young men who won the Military Medal for their courageous actions in World War 1. Each story is just a brief biography of each for the magazine. A more detailed version will be available soon. Hope you enjoy reading about them both.
He enlisted in Peterborough on 4th September 1914, his records show that he was:
• Age: 23 years and 3 months
• Height: 5ft 4 ¼ inches
• Weight: 126lbs
• Chest measurement: 35 ¼ inches with an expansion of 4 ¼ inches
• Brown hair, fair complexion and grey eyes.
• His attestation form also identified him as being Church of England.
Robert was born in 1891 to John William and Emily Cave from Bull Bank, Newborough. He had four brothers (John William Jnr b1890, Edward b1895, James b1899 and Walter b1892) Robert was a Farm Labourer working on his father’s farm before joining the army. At the time of his enlistment Robert and his family were living on Bull Bank. The house was known as Berkeley House.
• His medical also identified a scar on the left side of his back.
Robert was assigned to the 6th Bn Northamptonshire Regt the next day (5th September). His Regiment was posted to France on 25th July 1915.
6th (Service) Battalion
Northamptonshire Regiment Battle of the Somme 1st to 14th July 1916
Between the 1st and 5th July the 6th Battalion were involved in a series of actions and suffered numerous casualties. On the 6th July the 6th
Northamptonshire Regiment were taken out of the line. On 14th July they took part in an attack on TRONES WOOD The battalion was to clear the wood of the enemy to its extreme Northern point. The wood was heavily defended and on the approach to the wood subjected to artillery fire. Fighting through the wood was fierce with the Germans well dug in. The 6th Northants succeeded in reaching to top corner of the wood with large numbers of casualties. (Only 100 of Roberts Company were left) The advance was held up by a well dug in machine gun post. Robert with a bag full of bombs advanced forward under constant fire and destroyed the machine gun post. For his heroism he was awarded the Military Medal.
5th April 1918
The 5th April 1918 the enemy artillery was “quiet”. Later in the morning the Germans could be seen advancing and occupying a quarry. At 3pm the enemy commenced an intense bombardment on the
Northamptonshire’s front. This resulted in the forward posts being destroyed. The Germans proceeded to then advance upon the town and towards the 6th Battalions line to the North. The 6th Northants delivered a counter attack to retake a sunken road back from German occupation. The Northamptonshire’s advanced, under a continual barrage from the enemy, and succeeded in reaching within 20 yards of the sunken road. Here the battalion was halted by very heavy machine gun fire. The Northamptonshire’s suffered several casualties in the counterattack including the commanding officer. It is certain that Robert was wounded in the advance on the German lines during the evening of the 5th. The Advanced Dressing Station he was taken to was situated at CACHY. Their records show that 6 officers and 100 other Ranks passed through the station that evening. After basic First Aid they were transported to 43 Field Ambulance who had set up at Hospital Acheul, in the village of St Acheul, close to Amiens on the Somme River. It is here that Robert succumbed to his wounds. The 43 Field Ambulance War Diary mentions that, the hospital was set up there on the 4th April 1918. The entry for the 5th April refers to; “Routine duties at M.D.S Had so much death and horrendous injury it become just routine.”
John. W. Cave, Robert’s father, was notified of his death on the 20th April, Robert was 27 years old.
Robert only came home once, in 1917 on two weeks leave to receive his Military Medal. Robert had the award gazetted in the London Gazette on 21st December 1916.
Robert’s last resting place is the St Pierre Cemetery, Amiens, France. A cemetery that was, in 1918 close to the Field Ambulance hospital, where he died. He is buried in section IX, Row F, Grave number 1. The headstone records indicate that Robert’s father and mother, William and Emily Cave, requested the following inscription be added to his gravestone; Fight the Good Fight 1. Timothy. VI. 12. He does not sleep alone. He is buried close to two of his comrades from the 6th Battalion Northamptonshire Regiment who died on the 5th and 6th April 1918. Both mortally wounded in the same action as Robert.
George William Nichols was born on 3rd July 1899 in Werrington, near
Peterborough. He was the third child of Arthur and Emily Nichols. Arthur married Emily Pestell on 29th October 1894 in Peakirk. In total they had nine children; Arthur Ernest (1895-1964), Emily Jane (1896-1986), George William (1899-1983), Nellie Hilda (1902-1994), Ada May (1904-1924), Lily Maud (1907-1980), Violet (1909-1994), Bertha (1913-1998) and Annie Margaret Ethyl (19161989). In the 1901 census the family are recorded as living in Werrington where Arthur Snr is listed as being a labourer in the stone pits. However, the 1911 census has them living in Crosby, Lincolnshire. Arthur is describes as being a Foreman of Labourers for a contractor. From 1921 till his retirement he was Peterborough City’s Highways Superintendent. What is interesting with the entry for 1911 is that the family are named “Pestell” which was Emily’s maiden name and not Nichols. This could of course be a mistake by whoever made the census entry. What we do know is that in 1915 the family are living in the hamlet of Milking Nook, Newborough. We can be assured of this from official documentation recorded at the inquest of George Beasley. George died as a result of a drowning accident in the River Welland during the evening of 31st July 1917. The incident occurred whilst he was home on sick
>> leave from the Army. George Nichols was one of his friends who he was with at the time of the drowning. He gave a sworn oath as a witness to the drowning. He identified himself as a labourer and living in Milking Nook. He claimed he was 17 years of age. If his birth records are correct he had only just passed 16 years old. This is reinforced by his age at enlistment. George enlisted in the 4th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment on 6th November 1917. His age upon enlistment was recorded as 18 years and 4 months; this would have been correct and indicated that he could not have been 17 in August 1915. His military records tell us that he was 5ft 7inches tall and had a chest measurement of 33 inches with 2 inches of expansion and not married. His next of kin is listed as his father Arthur. It appears that by the time of his enlistment George was now a horse-keeper. George was sent to France on 20th April 1918 with the 4th Bn Northamptonshire Regiment. However, due the heavy losses from its sister regiment George was transferred to the 6th Bn the next day (21st April). On the day George joined the 6th Bn Northamptonshire’s most of the regiment was moved back into the front line East of Cachey. The remainder was put to work to consolidate the defence line behind them. Apart from some shelling the front was quiet.
Unfortunately the records of the action for which George was recommended for the Military Medal have not been discovered. The medal citation
appeared in the London Gazette on 13th February 1919. It is accepted that the citations of the MM usually appear in the supplement to the London Gazette 6 months after the award of the medal. This would put it recommendation in August 1918. The heavy fighting that took place in early August and the fighting later in the month were significant actions where individual acts of bravery were evident. So my guess is that the medal recommendation was either made between 6th and 9th August or 22nd to 24th August 1918. Should further research reveal more accurate information I will update George’s biography. Interestingly on 29th August 1918 the battalion found themselves on the Eastern edge of Trones Wood. Where, two years earlier Robert Cave’s won his Military Medal. Early on the 18th September, in heavy rain, the battalion attacked the German positions near Ronnsoy, reaching their objective just 8 minutes before the protective barrage lifted. Later, the battalion came up against barbed wire and the area enfiladed by German machine gun fire. By 5.20am they had reached Ronnsoy Wood. Despite several unsuccessful attempts to capture May Copse overnight the battalion advanced again early on the 18th and captured it. At 11am the 6th Northants positions in readiness to attack. The barrage planned for the East edge of the copse was inaccurate and some shells fell on the 6th Northants positions wounding three men. One of these men was George.
On Army Form B 122 his date of being wounded was 19th September 1918. A telegram sent on 21st September to Warley depot states that “L/C 49243 G. W. Nichols has been identified as having wounds to his arm, left hip and thigh”. A further telegram sent on 23rd September 1918 to his father Arthur Nichols of Milking Nook. Reads: “Regret to inform you 49245 L/C G. W. Nichols, 6th Northamptonshire Regiment. Dangerously wounded (Shrapnel wounds to arms, legs, hip and thigh) in 54 General Hospital, Boulogne. Regret permission to visit cannot be granted” Sadly much of George’s records are damaged and unreadable. However, is appears that he was promoted to unpaid Lance Corporal prior to him being wounded.
After being released from the hospital in Boulogne on 4th October 1918, George was sent to a hospital in Cambridge to recover from his wounds. It is from there that he was discharged from the army on 3th April 1919. He spent 167 days in France and 208 days recovering from his wounds. When he was discharged from the Army George was only 19 years old. He was assessed for fitness and classed as 50% disability of the wound to his elbow. Interestingly most of his discharge paperwork still lists him as a Lance Corporal. Yet a small number still lists him as a Private. George never married; he died on 29th March 1983. His death certificate described him as a retired painter and decorator.
T: 07731 866 718
E: kurstym@tinytalk.co.uk
Please contact Kursty to book classes in the following areas: PE4, PE6 and PE8.
Micro pub. No music, no fruit machine, no sports, no fizzy terrible lager!
Up to eight real ales on tap at any given time, direct from the barrel. 20+ traditional ciders, nice wines (no rubbish!) and genuine German lager bier. A choice of Belgian beers and some quality spirits.
You can order your takeaway from any of our neighbouring establishments and eat in the pub. We’ll even provide proper plates, serviettes and cutlery (we won’t actually spoon the food into your mouth but you get the idea)
OPEN TIMES Wed 3–9pm, Thur 3–9pm, Fri 3–10pm, Sat 3–10pm, Sun 3–7pm Mon/Tues: Available for private functions, plotting of revolutions or respectful shenanigans.
Cheese Club: Last Wednesday in the month bring cheese to share!
Tapas Night: 20 Sept, 11 Oct, 8 Nov & 13 Dec Bring something nice to share.
Giraffetoberfest: Thur 28 Sept–Sun 1 Oct Ten different German biers to try.
Deeping Bike Treasure Hunt: Sat 7 Oct. Meet midday, prizes, answers, finger pointing and shouting from early evening.
Visit to Nottingham BF: Thur 12 Oct
Meet at 11am at railway station. Please arrange your own tickets.
Dark Beer Festival: 13 Dec until we run out! 10 dark ales to worry the soul.
For up-to-date info: /thirstygiraffedeeping
Considering John Clare’s poem, “September”, you realise just how life changes in just two centuries:
Harvest awakes the morning still, And toil's rude groups the valleys fill; Deserted is each cottage hearth
To all life, save the cricket's mirth;
Helpston is empty in Clare’s poem, because everyone is out in the fields, bringing in the harvest. It was a communal activity – if everyone worked together, everyone would eat. It was backbreaking, of course. You’d hope for a fine day, but then have to worry about burning in the sun if you got one. But then the Harvest Home, and the Harvest Festival, would be a communal celebration of everyone’s work and God’s good gifts.
Whereas the bulk of harvest these days is a solitary activity. Soft fruit and tomatoes and so on are still gathered by hand (although technology is getting in there as well) but the harvest of barley, wheat, and sugar beet is well and truly
Bainton: 10 September, 9am
Ufford: 10 September, 4.30pm
Barnack: 17 November, 9.30am
Helpston: 17 November, 10.45am
automated. Resulting normally in one person gathering in the harvest, in an isolated cab, while everyone else is free to sit at home, work from home, commute, or mess around in the street according to choice.
Which makes our celebration of Harvest Festival a different thing. We have farmers in our communities – and in our churches – but we haven’t all contributed to the harvest. If Facebook is something to go by (not sure it generally is) you get as many complaints about tractors, mud, and straw on the road, as you do any sense of thankfulness for the next year’s provisions being brought in. But in our world of changing climate and uncertain food
supply, Harvest is still a crucial thing. We have seen the last two years how delicate and extensive the world’s food chain is – our world is wonderful and beautiful, and yet so fragile. This autumn, as the world turns from green to brown, why not take time out to be thankful that we have such a wonderful world in which to live. And give a thought to those whose food supply is uncertain.
And if you see a tractor coming the other way on the road, make sure the driver has enough space to get through. And if you meet a farmer or farm worker, be kind to them. They’ve had a busy time.
