Local Lynx No.100 - February/March 2015 by Robert Metcalfe

LOCAL LYNX BALE - BINHAM - COCKTHORPE - FIELD DALLING GUNTHORPE - LANGHAM - MORSTON SAXLINGHAM - SHARRINGTON - STIFFKEY

ISSUE 100 February & March 2015

NEWS FROM OUR VILLAGES

1998– The Gruffalo is published and Local Lynx is launched. Artist: Arran Coe age 10, Langham School

1 www.locallynx.co.uk

WHAT’S ON FEBRUARY 4th Wed. Sharrington Gardeners: AGM Village Hall 7pm 7th Sat. Langham Coffee Morning Parish Room 10-12 noon 7th Sat. Morston FMC Quiz Village Hall 7pm 12th Thu. Bale Police Street Surgery 3.30-4.00pm 12th Thu. Gunthorpe Police Street Surgery Institute 3-3.30pm 13th Fri. Bale Fish and Chips Village Hall 7pm 13th Fri Field Dalling Villagers’ Hall Bingo 7:30pm 14th Sat. Binham ‘Lots of Love’ Village Hall 6.30pm 19th Thu. Langham Mobile Library 21st Sat. Langham Coffee Morning Parish Room 10-12 noon 26th Thu. Binham Local History Group Village Hall 7.30pm 26th Thu. Gunthorpe PC Meeting Bale Village Hall 7pm 28th Sat. Gunthorpe 50:50 Club Institute 10.30am

- is a non-profit-making community newspaper, run for the ten villages of the benefice. We warmly welcome drawings, articles and letters for publication, but must reserve the right to edit or exclude items. A maximum of 400 words is recommended. The items published do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors or the village representatives. For information about submitting items for publication, or if you want to help in any other way, please contact your village representative, through whom all village news must be submitted. For general information please send a message to our email address lynxeditor@pobox.com.

Copy deadline for next issue: 6 MARCH

MARCH 4th Wed Sharrington Gardeners: ‘Opening a garden to the public’ Village Hall 7pm 7th Sat. Langham Coffee Morning Parish Room 10-12 noon 9th Mon. Field Dalling Parish Council at 7:30pm 13th Fri. Bale Fish and Chips at Bale Village Hall 7pm 14th Sat. Bale Police Street Surgery 1.30-2.00pm 14th Sat. Gunthorpe Police Street Surgery Institute 1-1.30pm 19th Thu. Langham Mobile Library 20th Fri. Field Dalling Villagers Hall Easter Bingo 7.30pm 20th Fri. Sharrington Noble Rotters Wine Club Village Hall 7pm 21st Sat. Langham Coffee Morning Parish Room 10-12 noon 26th Thu. Binham Local History Group talk Village Hall 7.30pm 26th Thu. Langham Dome Volunteer Open Evening 5-7pm 27th Fri. Binham Friends of Priory ‘The Rood Screens of Norfolk’ talk Village Hall 7.30pm 28th Sat. Gunthorpe 50:50 Club Institute 10.30am 28th Sat. Langham Leukaemia Sale Parish Room 10-11.30am 28th Sat. Langham FOLD Service Langham Church 2.30pm 30th Mon. Field Dalling Villagers Hall AGM 30th Mon. Morston PCC at Carnwaths’ 10am

CONTACT FOR ADVERTISERS For enquiries about advertising in Local Lynx, contact Maxine Burlingham tel: 01328-830375 email: maxine.burlingham@me.com Rates for advertising (pre-paid) are: One column x 62 mm (1/8 page): £72 for six issues. Small Ads Panel on the back page: Available for individuals and businesses providing local services. Cost: £36 for six issues. And please don’t forget…. Lynx100 and many back issues are permanently available on our website at www.locallynx.co.uk. The website also has an ‘In More Detail’ page and a ‘Local Charities’ page to cover relevant articles in greater depth. (Paper copies of website articles are always available from Roberta on 01263 740188.)

BLAKENEY METHODIST CHURCH High Street Blakeney Sunday Services:6.30pm. Minister: The Rev’d J Pathmarajah T 01263 712181

REGULARS Mondays: Binham Pub Quiz, The Chequers 7.30pm Mondays in term time: Binham Parent & Toddler Group, Village Hall 10-12noon Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: Sharrington Bus Service Tuesdays: Binham Guild of Artists, Village Hall 10-12noon Tuesdays: Field Dalling Villagers Hall Yoga at 7:30pm Wednesdays term time: Binham Youth Group Village Hall 68pm Every other Wednesday: Field Dalling Villagers Hall Coffee morning 10:30 to 12noon Every fourth Wednesday: Field Dalling Villagers Hall Friends and Neighbours at 2:30pm Thursdays: Field Dalling Carpet Bowls at 7:30pm 3rd Thursday in month: Binham & Hindringham Open Circle, Hindringham Village Hall 7.15pm.

DEANERY NEWS Our next meeting will be on Thursday 12th March 2015 starting promptly at 7pm. at The Meeting Place, St. Andrew’s Church, Holt. Speakers: The Rev’d Helen Garrard and the Rev’d Canon Mair McFadyen. Subject: ‘End of Life Care’. Check with posters for any changes.

BLAKENEY CATHOLIC CHURCH Back Lane Blakeney Parish Priest, Father Keith Tulloch, 12 Hindringham Road, Gt. Walsingham Norfolk T 01328 821353 Priest in Residence, Father William Wells (the house behind the church). Service Times: Masses: Vigil Mass Saturday 6.00pm. Sunday 11.00am Wednesday 9.30am

Church Services for Bale and Stiffkey Benefice for February and March 2015 HC=Holy Communion. CFS=Church Family Service. MP=Morning Prayer. BCP=Book of Common Prayer

Parish Bale Field Dalling

1st February 9.30am HC At Saxlingham

8th February 9.30am HC 11.00am CFS

15th February 9.30am HC At Saxlingham

22nd February 9.30am HC 11.00am MP BCP

9.30am HC

At Field Dalling 11.00am MP 9.30am HC 11.00am HC

11.00am HC 4.30pm Silent Meditation 9.30am MP CW 11.00am CFS 9.30am HC BCP At Stiffkey 9.30am HC

At Field Dalling 11.00am HC 9.30am HC 9.30am HC

Saxlingham Gunthorpe Sharrington Binham Morston Langham Stiffkey

9.30am MP BCP 11.00am HC 9.30am HC BCP At Stiffkey 9.30am MP

Parish Bale

1st March 9.30am HC

8th March 9.30am HC

15th March 9.30am HC

22nd March 9.30am HC

29th March At Saxlingham

Field Dalling

At Saxlingham

11.00am CFS

11.00am MP BCP

At Saxlingham

Saxlingham

9.30am HC

At Field Dalling

11.00am Mothering Sunday Service At Field Dalling

At Field Dalling

11.00am MP

4.30pm Silent Meditation

11.00am HC

10.30am Group Service HC At Saxlingham

9.30am MP BCP

9.30am HC

At Saxlingham

Binham

11.00am HC

9.30am HC

At Saxlingham

Morston

9.30am HC BCP

9.30am Mothering Sunday Service 11.00am Mothering Sunday Service 9.30am HC BCP

Langham

At Stiffkey

9.30am MP

9.30am HC

At Saxlingham

Stiffkey

9.30am MP

At Langham

11.00am Mothering Sunday Service 9.30am HC

At Langham

At Saxlingham

Gunthorpe Sharrington

9.30am MP At Langham

9.30am HC At Langham

At Saxlingham

Additional Services Regular Weekday Services Binham: Tuesday, 3.30pm Evening Prayer. Langham: Wednesday, 10.00am Holy Communion. Stiffkey: Friday, 10.00am Holy Communion.

Lifts earth to heav’n, stoops heav’n to earth’. Here is the wonder which moves us from Christmas to Easter, from Life to Death to Resurrection. How do I respond, but by giving up every day to the Lord Jesus Christ, who puts the Merry into Christmas, and the Happy into Easter, and the Good into Friday.

RECTOR’S LETTER Dear Friends and Parishioners, A New Year is always full of hope – however gloomy the news. The lengthening days also cheer the spirits: blue morning skies turning misty and milky before a ruddy sunset. It’s an encouragement to wrap up and get out. A great many people got out and went to church at Christmas, which for me was wonderful and heartwarming. May I say thank-you here to all who made the last season so lovely? One little bit of the17th century always touches me at Christmas, Richard Crashaw’s ‘Full Chorus’:

‘To thee, meek Majestie! soft King, Of simple Graces and sweet Loves, Each of us his Lamb will bring, Each his paire of Silver Doves, Till burn at last in fire of thy faire eyes, Our selves become our own best sacrifice’. Yours very truly, Ian Whittle The Rectory, Langham 01328 830246

‘Wellcome, all wonders in one sight! Eternitie shut in a span, Summer in winter, day in night, Heaven in earth, and God in man; Great little one! whose all embracing birth

LYNX 100TH EDITION! Local Lynx began in July 1998 with the opening statement… “This article is being written prior to the EnglandArgentina World Cup match. Tim Henman is still in with a chance at Wimbledon, as is the No.1 women’s tennis hope. Although my hopes and good wishes go with them, I really don’t expect much…” Some things never change, including Local Lynx, which still represents the ten villages of the benefice and is run solely by volunteers with revenue from local advertising. There are nearly 40 in the team, which includes editors, administrators, church-village-local school reps, distributors and an accountant. Thank you to them and to all our contributors, too. There wouldn’t be a Local Lynx without you.

NEW LYNX DEADLINE DATE Please note that the new Lynx deadline for getting copy to village reps has been moved back by two days to the 6th of the month. Therefore the deadline for Lynx101 is now Tuesday 6th March 2015. Ed

Online archive The majority of editions are now available on line at www.locallynx.co.uk where you can trace births, deaths, marriages, new neighbours, fetes, concerts, exhibitions, local school news (written by the students), even a tidal surge!

Re-uniting families across the world The Lynx now has readers from all over the world, keeping in touch with relatives and friends through the generations. In our recent October/November edition, an extra eight page centre-spread covered “The villages in WWI” with contributions from all ten villages. Local Lynx listed six members of the Gotts family from Morston village (population under 100) who joined up in WWI; three in the navy (3 ships/units) and three in the army (2 units) but with no pictures or information. Since that edition went to print, members of the Gotts family visited Morston Church and we will shortly have archive WWI pictures and stories from Gotts relatives as far afield as Canada. We have also been contacted by Alf Starman’s grandson (Morston) who is collecting information about family members.

by Leah Bushell

SHORT-TERM LYNX APRENTICESHIPS If you are interested in publishing and are aged 15-18, Local Lynx could offer you a chance to shadow the production team when the newsletter is due for publication. Areas covered by professionals volunteering their time include: design in Publisher, writing and editing copy, proofing, working in a team to a strict deadline, finance and advertising. For more details email lynxeditor@ pobox.com.

Thank you Langham School Thank you so much to children at Langham Primary who contributed the excellent art work throughout this issue.

Three Cheers MACE CONSTRUCTION! Three cheers and very hearty thanks to Mace Construction Holt; the only current advertiser to have also appeared in our very first edition! Ed.

HOLT SNT NEWS We have had an on going spate of minor thefts across the area. The thieves have been targeting cars, garden sheds and outbuildings/garages. Often items taken have included gardening or professional tools which can be resold at markets and car boot sales or on the internet. Where possible please secure any valuable items. There is a particular message for Church Wardens to be aware. On 26th September a crime occurred of theft of lead at St Mary’s Church in Gunthorpe. Please keep your eye out for criminals or suspicious activity and be very security conscious in your parishes. If you see something suspicious please call police on 101 or 999 if urgent. If you have any information concerning active criminals please telephone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111 and the information will reach us.

GLAVEN CENTRE SERVICES

Mobile Phones

Toe-nail clinics Friday 6 & 20 February; Friday 6 & 20 March Hearing Aid clinics Wednesday 18 February; Wednesday 27 March Hairdressing Every Wednesday. Regular, occasional or casual appointments can be made. Ring 01263 740762 to make and check appointments.

Delighted as I am for all our successful communities what we want of course are good signals across the county and despite recent publicity there is not an easy answer to the problem but members on the NCC Broadband, Mobile Phone & Digital Working Group, which I chair, will not be discouraged in the task. As one of the first steps I am pleased to say that representatives from the major providers EE (the company that runs EE, Orange and T-Mobile in the UK), O2, Three and Vodafone have now met with us and shared their plans. These plans relate to the £5 billion investment announced by the Culture Secretary intended to improve mobile infrastructure by 2017. So whilst our meetings with providers suggest that improvement will be noticeable we look forward to seeing the plans and actual effect on the ground for Norfolk and expect to remain in regular communication with the providers as their plans develop.

COUNTY COUNCILLOR’S NEWS Better Broadband for Norfolk As Chair of the Broadband and Mobile ‘Phone Working Group I am pleased to see the new green cabinets appearing around our division. I know it seems a long time since I first sought your support in order for us to obtain the important Government money and I know for some parishes there is still a wait. Please occasionally check www.better broadbandnorfolk.co.uk (or the site ending gov.uk); go to the postcode checker, that is the box on the right beneath the counter, click the T & C box and enter your postcode. You can also use BT Wholesale Line Checker: www.btwholesale.com/pages/stati/Community/ Broadband_Community/Coverage/ ADSL_Availibility_Checker.html#http:// www.betterbroadbandnorfolk.co.uk. And for speed and prices go to the Ofcom Comparison sites at http://consumers.ofcom.org.uk/tv-radio/pricecomparison/. And I would also remind everyone that when better broadband is available to you it is necessary to contact your provider and ask what speeds and cost they are offering. A change from your existing system does not happen automatically. Nor do you have to change if you do not want to – the existing cabinets will remain.

Colin Douglas I am sure there are many others who have good memories of Colin Douglas. Colin came into my life and role as County Councillor some six years ago when he approached me, determined that there would be access to public transport for Sharrington and neighbouring parishes – and equally determined I would play a role in his plan. Together we gained the willing support of the Parish Council; Colin obtained signatures of potential passengers which I presented at County; we talked with Mr Sanders. Colin did most of the persuasive talking, I just did what he asked me to do. The result, as some of you will know, is that three times a week, Monday, Wednesday and Friday, the Sanders 46 Holt to Fakenham bus calls at Letheringsett then diverts to Sharrington, Hindringham, Binham, back on route to Field Dalling and onwards before making the return journey. To those who use this route they will know how useful it is and how it enables onward journeys. And for others I would ask you to think of Colin’s words to me, that if you can get to Holt or Fakenham you can access the world. Think about it because he was right and I have repeated those words on many an occasion when seeking support for public transport within our division. With good wishes for 2015, Cllr.Marie Strong

Vodafone Sure Signal Programme When the first tranche of thirty successful communities across the United Kingdom included four Norfolk parishes, Hillington, High Kelling, Upper Sherringham and Blakeney, it was already worth all the effort taken informing all our Norfolk communities about the programme and Vodafone’s requirements. Vodafone have announced a further thirty communities and this time seven, Croxton, Horning, Loddon, Salhouse, Saxthorpe, Reepham and Martham, are from Norfolk. I hope to see more Norfolk parishes in subsequent tranches.

County Councillors’ contact details: Dr Marie Strong: County Councillor Wells Division (Glaven, Priory and Walsingham Parishes) marie.strong@norfolk. gov.uk or 07920 286 597 David Ramsbotham: Melton Constable Division (Bale and Gunthorpe Parishes) david.ramsbotham@norfolk.gov.uk 01263 577418

Did you know… Gillian Bradshaw’s thoughtful and compelling novel for young people about Roman conquests across 2nd century Europe was published in 1998. Picture by Charlotte Everitt.

DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S NOTES With the General and District Elections due to take place in May, NNDC is undertaking a review of our polling districts and polling places to ascertain whether communities are properly served by the places and the facilities chosen. Consideration will be given to how a sparsely populated rural area can best be served. Comments and suggestions to elections@northnorfolk.gov.uk. At Full Council meeting it was resolved that: The Constitution Working Party should be expanded to include Group Leaders and asked to examine existing structures to look at all options to ensure the governance arrangements for the working of the Council are more open, democratic and accountable and include examining the committee system and other available governance systems. The Constitution Working Party is asked to report progress to the new Council in May 2015. A series of Town and Parish Council Forums have been held across the North Norfolk district. The focus this year was predominantly on Planning when our Head of Department gave an excellent overview of the system and the role of the town and parish councils in the planning process. Lindsay Brettle

AGE UK VOLUNTEERS Would you consider volunteering in 2015? A little of your time could make a big difference. Age UK Norfolk is a local charity, helping local people. Each year we provide support to thousands of older people in Norfolk and have been doing so for over 65 years. Our free Information, Advice and Advocacy Service offers support on a wide range of issues, including benefits and entitlements, advocacy, bereavement advice, money matters, housing and care options and much more! Age UK Norfolk also offers dementia support services, telephone befriending, day support clubs and respite care. Last year our Benefits Outreach service helped older people living in Norfolk receive a total of £2,942,986 in benefits and entitlements that otherwise would have been unclaimed.

District Councillors’ Contact Details: Jonathan Savory (01328 820719) e: jonathan.savory@north-norfolk.gov.uk & Peter Terrington (01328 711126) e: peter.terrington@north-norfolk.gov.uk (Binham, Langham & Stiffkey) Lindsay Brettle (01263 710030) e: lindsay.brettle@northnorfolk.gov.uk (Sharrington, Field Dalling, Saxlingham & Morston) Ann.R.Green (01328 878273) e: ann.green@north-norfolk.gov.uk (Gunthorpe & Bale)

Could you help? The services and support Age UK Norfolk offers would not exist without our volunteers and we are currently in urgent need of new volunteers! Volunteering for Age UK Norfolk is an opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people and work within a friendly, professional organisation and have the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a real difference to people’s lives. Volunteering benefits not just the older person receiving your support, but also, their family, friends and the wider community - and you!

But don’t just take our word for it…

Did you know… Seahenge at Holme Next-the-sea was constructed in the Bronze Age. Drawn by Abbi McCallum.

“Since volunteering for Age UK Norfolk, I have gained a tremendous amount. I have a personal feeling of being able to help, if only in a small way, and giving something back to the community of which I feel a part. So to anyone who is considering becoming a volunteer for Age UK Norfolk, I would say "go for it, you won't regret it!"I&A volunteer

Something for everyone! We offer a wide variety of volunteering opportunities throughout Norfolk. Just a selection of volunteering roles at Age UK Norfolk: Telephone befriender, Day support volunteer, administrative assistant, fundraising assistant, information and advice assistant, benefits outreach advisor, trustee, money matters assistant, advocacy assistant.

To find out what Age UK Norfolk can offer you, call our volunteer recruitment line on 01603 785241 or check out our website www.ageuknorfolk.org.uk.

WEA SPRING PROGRAMME, WELLS The 2015 Spring Term programme commenced at 10.30am on Tuesday 20th January with a seven-week course of very local interest: “Coastal Landscapes of East Anglia”. Tutor Chad Goodwin will consider the forces of change working on the coasts of our region, both man-made and natural, and will look forward to possible changes in the future. Much of this North Sea coast has only formed relatively recently in geological terms, and many low lying areas close to the coast may well expect to suffer from rising sea levels and increased storm frequency in future decades. The first Spring Day School will be on Saturday 7th February. (10.00am to 4.00pm). This will be an “Introduction to Modern Italy”. Tutor Sean Meleady will review the sometimes difficult political, economic and social history of Italy since the Second World War. This will include its membership of the EU, the many political under-currents, the role of Italy as a guardian of so many important cultural artifacts, and the creativity of Italians in the arts and in many key industries. The second Day School will be on Saturday 21st March. Rachel Pinner will explore some of the remarkable cultural developments in Europe in the opening years of the twentieth century, a period deserving greater attention, under the heading of “Art, Literature and Culture before the Great War”. The seven-week course fee is £45 and the Day School fee is £15. All meetings are held at The Friends’ Meeting House in Wells. For further information please email Mary Baker on marybaker02@btinternet.com.

FALCON EVENING OF MUSIC St. Andrew’s Church Holt Saturday 7 February at 6.30pm February sees the start of the next series of concerts set up to provide a showcase and performance opportunity for ex-pupils from the Purcell School, as well as a way of raising much needed funds for both FALCON and St. Andrew's Church Development Fund. This concert features Dorin Tuca playing violin and Daria Bitsiuk playing piano. Both musicians have won national and international awards and have performed with highly regarded orchestras and artists. No booking is necessary so do come along and join the growing number of people who have been delighted by the warm welcome, the quality of the music and the enthusiasm of the musicians. St. Andrew’s Church provides a welcoming venue, with wine and soft drinks available before the concert and during the interval. Donations are requested to support FALCON www.falcon-norfolk.org.uk and the St Andrew’s Church Development Fund. For further information on FALCON, see our ‘Local Charities’ page at www.locallynx.co.uk.

SNOWDROP WALKS AT BRINTON HALL Sundays – 15, 22 February & 1 March 1-4pm

NORTH NORFOLK CHAMBER OPERA

Adults £4, children free. Dogs on leads. In aid of Brinton Church and St John’s Ambulance. Due to the wet winter, it may be muddy in places so walking boots or wellies are advisable. Homemade teas will be served in the (heated!) church. South Creake plant stall. Directions – 1 mile from B1110 Holt – Guist road, signed at Briningham. Also from A148 Holt-Fakenham road, signed at Sharrington.

Auden Theatre, Holt, Thu 16 - Sat 18 April The North Norfolk Chamber Opera (NNCO) will present Gaetano Donizetti’s well-loved opera ‘The Elixir of Love’ in an English translation by David Parry at the Auden Theatre, Holt on 16th, 17th & 18th April 2015. This lighthearted rom-com combines beautiful tunes with love potions and romantic entanglements. Tickets £14, concessions £12 from Auden Theatre Box Office on 01263 713444. NNCO is one of a very few amateur groups performing opera in North Norfolk and we are keen to spread the word to both audience and new members. If you would like to know more about the society, please contact christineawheeler@tiscali.co.uk.

FAKENHAM CHORAL SOCIETY Bach – Magnificat Mozart – Requiem Fakenham Parish Church Saturday, March 21 at 7.30pm Tickets £15 from 01328 830639 or on the door.

OH NO, NOT YOU Do you remember the film with Hermione Gingold and Maurice Chevalier recalling the days when they were young lovers. Chevalier said “We met at nine,” to be corrected “We met at eight.” Then “I was on time,” “No you were late,” to which Chevalier says “Ah yes, I remember it well.” Just like a man to forget those details. “Men are from Mars.” In the film Chevalier says “Am I getting old?” and she replies “Oh no, not you.” Yet it’s only natural to be more forgetful as we get older, and no wonder when we have so much more to remember in these days of information overload. My wife still has a phenomenal memory for the past, but not for names, whereas I am quite the opposite, or used to be. Now they often elude me, only to leap back later, but sometimes days go by, just like the name of that film. Surely we all have “hereafter” moments? At the top of the stairs we ask ourselves “What am I here after?” And how can we be expected to remember everyone, especially years later or in a different location? It’s so easy to forget, like the tennis player who said to his lady partner “I did not recognise you with your clothes on!” Sometimes we are forced to say “Hello there” and “How are you?” until the penny drops, if it ever does, or they give you a helpful clue. So embarrassing! I find it more and more difficult to remember the names of singers and other musicians, when there are so many more splendid artists today. But we all just forget words from time to time. I heard Helen McDermott on Radio Norfolk talking about forgetting words. She was once the TV news presenter on “Look East” with a real sense of humour, but is now on Radio Norfolk. She was stumped for the word “tablecloth” which started her worrying. Did it mean “you know what”? Many people have mental blanks occasionally, usually of names or words infrequently used. Perhaps “tablecloth” is like that, in these days of TV dinners. I forget words and the meaning of words, like “eclectic.” I look it up only to forget next minute, but it’s another word that people use to mean whatever they choose, just like Humpty Dumpty did.

But I digress and that’s another sign of getting older. Forgetting happens a lot to me now and I sometimes have trouble spelling, which never used to trouble me. Thank goodness for “I before E, except after C.” Mind you, at least I am better than whoever writes the TV subtitles; they even struggle with “affect” and “effect.” We get more conscious of memory loss as we get older, in case it is “you know what,” that thing we don’t like to think about. But forgetfulness on its own does not mean “you know what,” so we can be thankful that it happens to us all at times. Over the age of 80, they say one in six people has a form of dementia (there, I’ve said it). There are 800,000 dementia cases in the UK and the numbers are increasing as we live longer, which is alarming. Of course there are different kinds and degrees of affliction, even for quite young people. For information and advice there is a local group called Dementia Support North Norfolk (01603 763556), manned 9 am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. You can also find helpful information on the Alzheimer’s Society web site. However, keeping active physically, mentally and socially is very important, though easier said than done. One more sign of the onset of dementia is increasing irascibility, so hurtful to the carers to add to their problems. It may be anger at the loss of independence, but it is sadly too common and so unfair to the carers. Mind you, some people are naturally irascible and born grumbling, like Victor Meldrew and a baby’s first cry is its first complaint! Yes, old age is not much fun, with its deafness, arthritis, hip replacements and so on. Forgetfulness is just another consequence of growing old. (Sorry, elderly!) The good news is that 5 out of 6 of us don’t ever suffer from any form of dementia that is if we make 80, so cheer up. And the film was “Gigi,” by the way. Ian Johnson

By Oliver age 9

BALE DIARY DECEMBER Sun-walking Winter dawn near solstice, horizon brimming, outlining thorn in the hedge. Last quarter moon high in the blue, the sun rising, a blinding orange bead behind my left shoulder, catching grass seed heads, glinting through the hedge on Cakes, shining through translucent leaves, illuminating red spotted yellow maple. Along the woodshore, wind tamed, a white jay (spirit bird) bobs through the trees, and roe deer linger. Pigeons flap and clatter in the branches above as I walk up the wet tarmac lane into the sun with arms open and eyes shut. Sun walking, immersed.

BALE’S LOSS We had very sad news last month; Bale lost two village elders, both guiding lights in their own way, with a high sense of duty to the village. John Church, very active until relatively recently, was the chairman of Bale and Gunthorpe Parish Council, secretary of the PCC and much more. He will be very much missed. Grace Allison has been absent for a few years, after a stroke laid her low, but she has been, and will continue to be there in spirit at every village hall committee meeting, event and fish and chip night. It is largely due to her ideas and steering that we have the hundred club set up as a social club and a charity to keep the village hall funded and used, and a strong community in Bale. When I first took on the task of Bale rep for the Lynx I talked to Grace about her early life in the village, and wrote her wartime experiences up as an article, “Bombs in Bale”. She was one of the two eleven year-olds who had to hide in the ditch from a German aircraft trying to machine gun civilians. We forget, those of us who were born later, that Bale, being in North Norfolk, was exposed to enemy action against billeted soldiery and encampments. But she mainly described to me the sense of community in this little village. Something of which she was a staunch supporter, and to which she made a huge difference. The cake stall at the fete was never short of traditional Norfolk baking provided by her, no event went without her sausage rolls, and she contributed plain recipes to the Lynx, mostly from her housekeeper aunt’s Felbrigg cookery book. She will be remembered as a kind, selfless, generous and inclusive person by all who knew her. A few words about John Church kindly provided by Alan Sankey: From the moment he arrived he was prepared to give time and take trouble over helping in the village. He and Patricia were a breath of fresh air. He very soon became secretary of the PCC, bringing communications up to date, and his experience of the modern business world gave him an instinct for the proper running of an organisation. His integrity saw to it that nothing, be it important or trivial, was neglected. As a friend he was of the most convivial and to sit down over a glass of wine with him was an uplifting moment. I have written of the side of him I knew. Others will, I hope, write of his work with the PC, NADFAS etc, and of his happy retirement in Bale.

Benarty Hill My boots printing in thin snow, a steep walk up through woods, then out in the open, paths in the heather frozen solid and slippery. And at the top the wind enough to slice your ears off. To the north west the Ochils visible between ochre grassy humps, far away north the Cairngorms, white and small in the distance. Loch Leven below (where Mary Queen of Scots was at first imprisoned, on the island). To the south the Firth of Forth, Bass Rock, and most of Fife spread out. Further south the misty blue Lammermuirs and perhaps even the Cheviot. The exertion, the sunshine, the piercing air and the vertiginous views brought on wobbly knees and a dizzy feeling. Tremendous, Scotland! Jane Wheeler

VILLAGE HALL SOCIAL CLUB DRAW December 1014

Christmas Draw

John Wall £25 Christine Broughton £ 25 Anne Wall £10 Christine Broughton £5 Freddy Powney £5

EVENINGS AT THE CHEQUERS

Did you know… in 1998, Red Dwarf celebrated its 10th anniversary by releasing a remastered VHS with new computer graphics and digital sound effects. Drawn by Archie , age 11.

There are quizzes at The Chequers on Monday 2nd February and Monday 2nd March starting at 7.30pm, everyone is welcome, and there is the regular Monday Madness £5 meal deal on these nights too, so why not make an evening of it. Our curry nights continue every Tuesday evening and we have a lunch club on a Wednesday and a supper club on a Thursday. We have plenty of board games, cards and darts too, if you fancy your hand. We hope to see you soon. Simon, Sarah & The Chequers Team

BALE VILLAGE HALL NEWS A good time was had by all at our annual Old Year’s Night party. The later than usual start time didn’t seem to confuse anyone and from 8pm we were fed and entertained until well after Big Ben chimed the New Year in. The food was, as always, excellent. Alastair, Paul, Victoria and Martin treated us to French onion soup, coq au vin (with an aubergine alternative for the ‘famous five’ vegetarians amongst us – something with an unpronounceable name, but very tasty!), then the lightest, most delicious ginger sponge pudding for dessert. It never ceases to amaze me how such culinary fare can be produced in their kitchen for around 50 people, so humble thanks to the chefs. Sandy and Ali’s team were the quizmasters this year, having won the honour by out-smarting the rest of us last year. The lucky (?) winners this time were “The Newbies” who enjoyed the bottle of bubbly they were awarded, but not the idea of having to set the questions for next time! Sandy also provided us with some surprise musical entertainment after dinner, in the shape of her brother, a singer-songwriter-guitarist, and niece who added harmony with her beautiful treble voice. The annual Whisky-rolling competition was won by Harry Hammond; such a useful prize with Burns Night just three weeks away! Plans are still afoot to have a monthly Sunday lunchtime “pub” in the Hall, but this is dependent on securing a licence so look out for posters towards the end of the month. We are keen to hold more social gatherings in the Hall, so please contact me (822012) or Margaret Dent (878511), or email balevillagehall@gmail.com if you have any bright ideas. This is also the email address if you would like to be added to the emailing list, and be kept up to date with future events.

LOTS OF LOVE Lots of Love, the latest in our popular series of village supper shows, will appeal to hearts and minds with a lively programme of words, music and evocative images for Valentine’s Night at Binham Memorial Hall on – when else? – Saturday, February 14 at 6.30pm. There will be prose and poetry; laughter and perhaps a few tears; a dash of agony; a hint of ecstasy; some gorgeous heroines and handsome heroes; one or two lonely hearts; some words of advice for the lovelorn; glimpses of young love and old passions; sweet music and some beautiful singing. There may even be a lot of kisses on the bottom. It’s the latest in Binham’s sell-out series of charity supper evenings, this time supporting the Friends of Binham Priory. If you enjoyed the two previous shows – celebrating, respectively, the shiny moon and the restless sea – then you will love this one, which promises to be a truly heart-warming affair. Tickets priced at £10, including supper and a glass of wine, are available from Fiona Thompson (01328 830639) or Maureen Frost (01328 830362). So, make a date for February 14. And remember, you don’t need to be with a partner to enjoy this event. Just come along anyway - you may meet somebody very special.

BINHAM & HINDRINGHAM OPEN CIRCLE Anne Mason will be the speaker at our February 19 meeting, telling us all about the ancient Thetford Forest. Partners very welcome. At the March 19 meeting, John Barnes, of the Samaritans, explains it’s Not all Tears. The Open Circle Women's Club meets at 7.15pm on the third Thursday of each month at Hindringham Village Hall. New members are always welcome - just come along on the night or ring secretary Fiona Thompson on 01328 830639.

BINHAM LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Our November talk was "The Role of Women in The First World War" with local author and historian, Neil Storey. Neil brought along a good selection of quality photo slides showing many of Norfolk women who found themselves occupying a whole host of different roles. The thing that struck us as we looked at the photos was the pride and happiness displayed by the groups of women. It transpired that it was the done thing for the women in war work to organise group photos at the local photographers. For some it was no doubt a real challenge both physically and mentally to conquer fears and adapt to the rigours of handling hard physical labour from working on the land as part of the Women's Land Army, navvies on the road, lumberjills felling timber, conductors on trams, delivering mail and manufacturing parts for war and the necessary but demanding munitions work. These ladies called munitionettes, not only faced danger from the hazardous chemicals they were handling but also the toxic exposure to the sulphuric acid turned their skin yellow giving rise to them being called Canary Girls. TNT exposure caused other health problems and there was always the very real risk of explosion. Nursing and Red Cross and St John's Ambulance work as a VAD (Volunteer Aid Detachment) was a path for many and the horrors that these women would have witnessed and shared with the men fighting at the front we can only begin to imagine. Norfolk's Edith Cavell is heroism in the face of the enemy served to inspire more women to join. It was a time during which women found a new role of responsibility for themselves, four years came and went and when the war ended, the fortunate men came home and resumed their roles. It must have been a very difficult time

for all concerned, women working with a purpose on war work and then overnight no longer required, but that is another story. I think the smiles on the women's faces from the photos of a long time ago made it an evening where we admired them and smiled back.

Future Talks 26 February 2015, Binham Village Hall, 7.30pm ‘Wells at the Reformation’ by Roger Arguile. 26 March 2015, Binham Village Hall, 7.30pm ‘The Western Front Association’ followed by ‘Norfolk Goes to War’ by Major Hugh Bradbury and Dick Rayner. Pennie Alford, 01328 830700/blhg@btinternet.com

CHRISTMAS IN BINHAM The season started with the traditional Christmas dinner in the Memorial Hall on Saturday 6th December. Thanks go to Liz Brown for organising it and overseeing the cooking, also to everyone else who helped with the meal or made the hall look really festive. The next event was the Advent carols and readings with the Iceni Choir at the Priory on Saturday 20th. This was very well attended with the choir in excellent voice. Mulled wine and mince pies rounded off a delightful evening. The collection for “Crisis at Christmas” raised £241. On the evening of Monday 22nd, the biggest attendance we’ve had participated in “Carols on the Green” (actually now outside the Chequers), lustily singing the carols lead by the Fakenham Town Band and enjoying the hot punch generously provided by the Chequers. Liz Brown also arranged this evening and the provision of the splendid Christmas tree on the Green, dressed with lights supplied and wired by Paul Frost, the electricity being by courtesy of Mrs Sullivan. Services at the Priory, on Christmas Eve, the Family Service and the Midnight Communion, both conducted by Revd Peter Hartley, together with the Service of Carols and Readings on Christmas Day were all very well supported and the total of the collections of £578 will be divided between The Children’s Society and Glaven Caring. The Priory looked wonderful with great displays by our band of talented flower-arrangers and three fine trees dressed with decorations and lights. The church community is most grateful to Juliet Case for providing the trees and decorations helped by Tracey. It will be a pity that all will be taken down by Twelfth Night! The New Year was seen in at the Chequers in fine

fashion. Sarah, Simon and their team have been resident for over a year now and it is lovely to see how they are putting so much effort into brightening up community life in Binham and making our village pub so inviting. Midnight was briefly enlivened by fireworks from a number of locations. The season came to an end at the Priory on the afternoon of Sunday 4th January with Epiphany Carols and Readings lead by the Richeldis Singers. It is hoped all enjoyed this Christmastide and New Year at Binham, blessed with generally fine weather and a spirit of goodwill.

FRIENDS OF BINHAM PRIORY

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Dates of events already arranged for 2015 Saturday 14th February “Lots of Love” Binham Memorial Hall, 6.30pm

Friends of Binham Priory The organisation is now four years old and we have fortunately attracted a core of loyal and committed members who continue to organise and support events. As with all successful organisations Friends continually audit performance and the Management Committee have concluded that it must now involve younger members to influence the future direction of the organisation and extend membership. At our Annual General meeting in March 2015 a number of committee members will retire and this affords an ideal opportunity for existing committee members to seek re-election and we invite new members to join the Management Committee following election at the AGM. It is our intention to enter into the field of social media, marketing, brand management and increased sales. Although the present committee includes members with a wide range of managerial and educational skills, future success will require us to extend our skill base in the field of electronic communications technology. We very much hope that younger members will take up the challenge and fill these vacancies. If you have channel expertise in Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Google, Pinterest, Vine and others, blogging and posting or designing web sites and would wish to make a difference to our approach then we would welcome you joining the committee. We assure you that you need not worship at the Priory or reside in Binham but we do ask that you have an interest in the maintenance, conservation and enhancement of our Grade I Listed building. Finally we confirm that meetings are only held on a quarterly basis and we do attempt to arrange meetings at suitable times to accommodate the busy schedules of individual members. Again you can make a difference by becoming a Binham Priory Tour Guide and joining our existing team. Tours last for about an hour and are given May to September on Tuesday and Sunday afternoons. Anybody interested in participating in this informative and rewarding activity will be given an induction pack, detailed information and guidance by an experienced guide. If you wish to register interest or require further information then please contact Michael Calvert: mdc@ckp.co.uk/01603 457885 or David Frost: davidfrost226@btinternet.com 01328 830362 or Pauline Scott: pauline@scotthome2.fsnet.co.uk 01328 830940.

Friday 27th March “The Rood Screens of Norfolk” Binham Memorial Hall, 7.30pm An illustrated talk by Canon Jeremy Hazelock. As the Norfolk churches have some of the finest medieval screens in the country, and Jeremy Hazelock is a very qualified presenter, this evening promises to be both enjoyable and instructive. Tickets, £5 including a glass of wine, from David Frost 01328 830362 or davidfrost226@btinternet. com. Saturday 4th July “Picnic2Jazz” with DixiMix Jazz Band Priory cloisters. 5 to 8 pm Tickets available in the late Spring. Thursday 1st October Magna Carta and the Binham Connection Binham Priory, 7.30 pm A presentation by Professor Nicholas Vincent, acknowledged expert on Magna Carta. He will chart the important role played by Baron Fitz Walter, influenced by his early actions as Lord of the Manor of Binham and patron of the Priory, in the Barons’ revolt against King John which precipitated the drafting of the Magna Carta. More details nearer the date. This evening will be hosted jointly by Friends of Binham Priory and Binham Local History Group, with the Priory being a most appropriate venue.

WANTED: TOUR GUIDES Do you enjoy talking to people? Are you fascinated by Binham Priory, its buildings and history? Have you some time to give in the Summer months? Three affirmative responses? Great! Contact me for more details – Pauline Scott 01328 830940/pauline@scotthome2.fsnet.co.uk.

BINHAM PLAY AREA After a further two years of fund raising and grant applications, we are thrilled to announce we have managed to raise the grand total needed to complete the play area project. The final phase of the project was for a further 3 pieces of equipment, all aimed at children 6 years and above. We are now therefore able to install a 25m aerial runway, a jungle climber (climbing logs and nets) and a tower with slide, fireman's pole, twisted scramble net and rope ramp. Installation should commence by the beginning of February. I would like to thank all those who have supported us over the past four years and especially to the small team of committee members - Helen and Robin Owen, Cath Witton, Andy Marsh, Liz Brown and Joanna King, without whom I could not have completed the project. Rebecca Bunting

team of volunteers involved in moving SAM and changing the battery, please contact me. David Frost, Chairman, Binham Parish Council 01328 830362/davidfrost226@btinternet.com

VILLAGE HALL PLAYING FIELD During the night of Friday 2nd January some totally irresponsible people drove onto the playing field in a big vehicle and did handbrake turns in front of the goal posts. The ground was marked out for a football match at home between Binham and the Red Lion. The match was abandoned due to the damage to the grass and there were a lot of disappointed players and supporters. The police have been informed and are looking into the matter. Alexandra Wales, Chair of Binham Memorial Hall

BINHAM PARISH COUNCIL The highlight of the last meeting was the presentation by Michael Bond of a summary of the data recorded by SAM (our Speed Awareness Monitor) at the first four of the nine locations approved for its deployment on roads entering the village within the 30mph limit. The percentage of vehicles exceeding the limit: Hindringham Road 63%, Warham Road, Westgate 38%, Cockthorpe 36% and Langham Road 30%. It is hoped the use of SAM, and its movement every 30 days to a different location, will help to make us all, when in control of a vehicle, aware of how easy it is to break the law and if involved in an accident considerably increase the severity of any injury sustained, particularly by any pedestrian or cyclist involved. This year the remaining locations will be monitored. The full information will be discussed with the Police and NCC Highways to see how best we can try to make the roads of the village as safe as possible. It really depends on all of us. If anyone wants to know more about SAM or to join the

DIARY OF A BINHAM FARMER’S SON Aged 36 1858 - December 7th Middleton and I went hunting at Melton and breakfasted at the Hall; a great many ladies there but moderate sport. 10th I rode ‘Nora’ hunting. She was nearly mad. They had a very good run with their second fox from Swanton wood. 11th ‘Nora’ would not feed after hunting! 14th I went to a Board meeting – we elected a doctor – thence to a book club meeting then dinner at Binham. 17th We went to tea at Walsingham, it being May’s birthday but the madam was the other guest; it was a very cold evening. 25th We had 2 services with sacraments here, I attended both with Ems. We dined at Binham according to custom. 1859 - January 1st Drove to Walsingham with my guns and Edward worked with me but we only got 2 waterhens. Ems had bad cold and headache. 2nd Ems cold so bad and weather so frozen she didn’t attend church at all, obliged to fetch Eliza from Binham to nurse her, 5th Sharman came to draw 10 score hoggetts at 31/14th I spent the day doctoring 2 bullocks with the Pleurs on the homeopathic plan recommended by Overmans. 17th Went over to Egmere to see Overmans about some bullocks that had the Pleurs. 24th My bullocks are both dead. I rode to Warham to see

Overmans’ patients there lest I should have any more taken. 31st Had 2 new cases of Pleurs today, begun treating them.

PAROCHIAL CHARITIES LUNCH The Parochial Charities will be hosting a lunch in Binham Memorial Hall on Friday 10th April and invitations will be sent out nearer the time. Alex Wales

JOYCE PYE

BINHAM GUILD OF ARTISTS

Some of you may well remember Muriel Joyce Pye who died last October aged 99. She was a real character known and loved by many. This is taken from the eulogy from her memorial service. Joyce spent a large part of her influential years at her mother’s old home at Goswold Hall in Suffolk where she developed her love of horses and dogs. In the late 1930s she married Cyril, a North Norfolk lad and while he was at war, moved with son David to a friend’s farm in Leicestershire continuing her association with horses. After the war she divorced Cyril and went to Loughborough as a chef at the university. It was here she met a student, Morris Pye from Blakeney, who was studying engineering. He became an engineer at RAE Farnborough and they set up home in Hampshire, with Joyce becoming a laboratory assistant there. In their free time together they enjoyed motor car rallying and then sailing at Blakeney whenever they could. Eventually they retired and moved, first to Blakeney, where the Pye name was already established (Pye's garage) before they bought the Old Barn at Cockthorpe. The Blakeney Sailing Club became an important and active part of their lives. Joyce enjoyed her dogs, black labradors with names such as Tarka, Marsh and Scaup who became well known characters in their own right. After Morris passed away in 2000, Joyce eventually moved back to a cottage in Blakeney. Her last years were spent in a nursing home in Sheringham. She was a memorable person who loved both life and people who surrounded her. She would often recall what a good life she had had, followed by “I have no regrets”. She loved to tease you with her list of favourite loves in her life – horses, dogs and men! For all those who knew Joyce she will be remembered with great fondness and smiles, missed but never forgotten.

We meet every Tuesday morning from 10am to 12 noon in the Village Hall. A fee of £2 per morning includes coffee and biscuits. A demonstration of painting or craftwork normally takes place on the first Tuesday of every month except in January and February and the week in which the annual exhibition takes place. For further information contact James Bucknill on 01328 830651.

BINHAM 100+ CLUB WINNERS November: £25 Roger Newman, £10 Mrs P Newson, Mr G Scott, £5 Ann Massingham, Shelia Law, Tim Walduck. December: £50 Tracy Fowle, Shelia Law, £25 Amy Walduck, £10 Lucy Walduck, D Tann, £5 C Winkley, Ann Massingham. If anyone would like to join the 100+ club, please call at 8 Priory Crescent or ring June Read on 01328 830106.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT When we call ourselves Muslim, Christian, Indian, European, or anything else, we are separating ourselves from the rest of mankind. By separating ourselves by belief, nationality, tradition etc., we will never achieve unity with our fellowman.

NEW YEAR’S DAY CAROL SERVICE The first service for four years was held at the village’s redundant church on the 1st of January and very well attended. Everybody is optimistic that the long awaited repairs to the roof will be completed and the scaffolding and wind-torn plastic sheeting removed this year. Looking forward with fingers crossed to holding the occasional service especially the popular candlelit carols there next Christmas.

CHURCH SERVICE STOPS TRAFFIC! Parking on village roads St Andrew’s Church in Field Dalling hosted the Group Communion service on 30th November, which is St Andrew’s Day. We were so blessed with a plentiful congregation that two large lorries (which perhaps should have been using another route?) could not proceed along the road in front of the church, because of all the cars parked on both sides of the road. Fortunately, it was sorted out without a great fuss just before the sermon, and as Rev Ian Whittle commented “the church service today stopped the traffic”! There is a serious point, though. Many of our villages have narrow roads; drivers need to be aware of this when parking, and leave a generous road width. Another time it might be a fire engine or ambulance needing to get to an emergency. But back to the service. Thank you to the Cantelina Choir for your music, and to everyone who celebrated St Andrew’s Day with us, and shared in the refreshments afterward. Margaret Smith, Churchwarden

Engineer. Henry’s account of his adventures and celebrities he has met in his amazing life made a fascinating and very entertaining evening. A wine tasting was held in December by a wine importer to show the ranges and quality of Chilean wines to our very happy villagers stocking up for Xmas. December was the most celebrated Bingo session of the year, the Xmas Bingo held by Debbie Ladley with over 90 people pre-booking their places! An enormous range of prizes was raffled to the participants along with cash prizes to the happy and successful players.

Diary Dates Bingo at 7.30pm with doors open at 6.30pm, on: 13th Feb, 20th March Easter Bingo - 10th April Yoga classes with Richard Redmayne every Tuesday at 7.30 – 8.30 pm. Coffee Mornings every other Wednesday from 10:30 to 12 noon. Friends & Neighbours every fourth Weds in the month at 2:30pm. Carpet Bowls every Thursday at 7.30pm. AGM: provisionally, 30th March; details to follow. Parish Council Meetings at 7.30pm on: 9th March 27th April, 11th May. For more information, go to: www.fielddallingsaxlingham.org.uk. Steve &Susie Collins

VILLAGERS’ HALL FD & S 200 Club November’s lucky winners were: £50 Amanda Maundrell, £25 G. Peel, £15 Jan Barlow December’s lucky winners were: £50 Linda Peachey, £25 John Rayner, £15 Pat Wallace January’s lucky winners were: £50 Peter Harris, £25 Vincent Lane, £15 Debbie Ladley.

Villager’s Hall The hall committee would welcome any helpers or more members to be involved with a happy and rewarding team for the good of the village community. Contact any member for more information (or phone Mark on 01328 830755). An excellent evening was held in November called Dr Moth – an evening of flying and fun with Henry Labouchere, Tiger Moth Pilot &

Did you know… JK Rowling released her second Harry Potter novel, The Chamber of Secrets, in 1998. By Karina Allison.

FOGPC November

50/50 Club Draw Results December

Seana Broom Carole Wallace Hilary Bevan-Jones Julia Ackerman Colin Dewing Annette Ward P J Cutterham

£20.00 £15.00 £10.00 £5.00 £5.00 £5.00 £5.00

Jill Stuart-Black £25.00 Kerry Youngs £20.00 Elaine Vaughan £15.00 Noel Hinton £10.00 Lindy Soame £5.00 Nigel Ford £5.00 PJ Cutterham £5.00 Penny Brough £5.00 Martin Swindells £5.00 Lisa Rush £5.00 The 50:50 Club Christmas Party was held on Saturday 13th December - with an enhanced monthly draw and raffle. Very many thanks to all who provided food and raffle prizes. The Christmas food and drink included Rutties sausages (courtesy of Pippa Bunting), vegetable tarts (Penny Brough), mince pies (Myfi Everett) and mulled wine (courtesy of Rob Cutterham and Diane Blakeley). If you would like more information on the 50:50 Club and “Friends” memberships please contact John Blakeley on 01263 861008. Membership subscriptions until May 2015 are £5.00 per person for the “Friends” and £1.00 per month for the 50:50 Club - (which can be paid with one cheque if you are subscribing to both - cheques should, please, be made out to “FOGPC”). Many thanks to all who continue to support us.

a joyful service, we are so lucky to have them, not only for our special services but throughout the year. Well done also to all the young readers, the youngest to participate was three! In late September, two pieces of lead were taken from the porch roof. The culprits have been caught and will appear in court in January. It is sad to think someone could even contemplate stealing from a church, and it is good to know that the police took it very seriously. Very kindly our “village” local builder, Michael Bunting, has offered to replace the lead at no cost - an offer for which we are most grateful. As advance warning the provisional date for the PCC AGM is Saturday 25th April at 6pm in the Institute. Penny Brough Church Warden

FROM THE ARCHIVE With this 100th Issue I thought it would be worth looking at the back issues of the Lynx (on line at www.locallynx.homestead.com/backissues.html) to see what was happening when news from Gunthorpe first appeared. In fact when the Lynx started - Issue 1 was in July 1998, Gunthorpe was not one of the 10 villages you see covered today - Blakeney was. By issue 5 in March 1999 Gunthorpe was listed but no village news appeared until Issue 7, when the Fete was advertised. But Issue 8 in September/October 1999 carried the first “proper” village news - and for interest this is repeated below - you will note just how little has changed, and particularly how much the village continues to owe to Jeremy and Marie Denholm’s outstanding generosity.

ST MARY’S CHURCH NEWS We had a lovely full church for our Christmas service with some 80 worshippers attending. It was a very happy event with lessons and carols. Afterwards we all enjoyed mulled wine, cake and mince pies. Thank you to the flower ladies, especially Marie, who made the church look spectacular. Thank you, too, to everyone who helped with the pew polishing, it is really beginning to make a difference, and we have a good time as well! The biggest thank you goes to Michael Wilson and Martin Jacklin for

Lynx Issue 8 Two big events have taken place since the last “Lynx” both in the lovely gardens of Gunthorpe Hall, so expertly cherished by Mr Bob Wade the head gardener. This is by kind permission of Mr & Mrs Jeremy Denholm, who not only allow their tranquillity to be shattered but work incredibly hard to ensure the success of any function at the Hall. The first, on an idyllic evening of 24th July, was the barbecue, when about 80 guests sat under a star-studded sky, munching delicious chicken and other succulent delights, expertly prepared under head chef Denholm. Not only did we all enjoy a very happy evening, but £575 was raised for the Friends of Gunthorpe Parish Church. Gunthorpe Fete was held the next day, a Sunday, when we were blessed with perfect weather, dry but not too hot.

Thanks to Mr Fred Wright (chairman of the Fete Committee) and his team, some of whom are perhaps no longer in the first flush of youth, but all of whom get through a prodigious amount of work setting up, running and clearing up, the afternoon was an enormous success. Congratulations and thanks to everyone on a record result £2,558, all bills paid. Just as important everyone appeared to be enjoying themselves! The money from the Fete is divided 50/50 between the Village Institute and the Church. So far as the latter is concerned this comes at a most opportune time when urgently needed repairs to the stained-glass windows, designed by Frederick Reedy, are under way, at a cost of £17,000. Norfolk Churches Trust have generously donated £2,000 and the Friends £6,000, but £2,208 is snatched back by the government, by way of VAT! Looking ahead, there are three more events before the millennium: 26th September - Sunflower Competition 9th October - Harvest Supper 11th December - 50/50 Club Christmas Party In addition, of course, the monthly meetings of the 50/50 Club are held at 10:30am in the Institute on the last Saturday of each month. People from all neighbouring villages are more than welcome at all our functions. It’s great to see you! John Blakeley

Hall Bookings The New Year will see a change in the day to day running of the Institute with Sandra Warner stepping down from the role of Hall Manager due to work commitments. This is a good opportunity to thank Sandra for all her efforts in the past, and for ensuring the smooth running of the Institute in recent years. From April Pippa Bunting and Chrissie Whyman have very kindly offered to step in and oversee future Hall bookings, general enquires and hire of equipment (tables, chairs, gazebo) etc. Thank you both for your help it is very much appreciated. Contact details are: Pippa 01263 861416 and Chrissie 01328 878052. Finally on behalf of Gunthorpe Village Institute can I offer congratulations to all on the Lynx Team on their 100th Edition. Tony Dufour and the Committee

INSTITUTE NEWS Village Christmas Party No snow but a beautiful clear cold evening on the 6th December marked the start of the festive season and the occasion of the Village Christmas gathering at White House Barn. Some 30 to 40 folk, which included friends, families and neighbours, gathered together to enjoy the evening in the lovely barn so generously offered again by Carole and Sandy Wallace this year. A heartfelt thank you to Carole and Sandy for their kindness, hospitality and providing a wonderful Christmas atmosphere for all to enjoy. We also say a big thank you to everyone who turned out on this “nippy night” and supported the spirit of the occasion and of course for all the contributions to the festive fayre. Perhaps by the time you read this the Institute will have hosted another Pie & Pud night (Sat 31st Jan) which has in the past been very popular and well supported - more to follow on that and any other forthcoming Institute events in the April/ May edition.

PARISH COUNCIL NEWS A meeting of the Gunthorpe and Bale Parish Council took place at Gunthorpe Village Institute on 27th November. The meeting covered several routine administrative matters, but the following topics may be of interest to the Parishioners of the two villages.

Holt Police Report There had been two crimes of significance reported in recent weeks - both in Bale and involving the theft of contractors’ plant and the theft of diesel. The latter in particular was a priority for the local Safer Neighbourhood Team, but resources are limited and diesel users are reminded that they need to take positive security measures to safeguard their fuel. Street surgeries will continue to be held in both villages and details can be found on the village notice boards and, when available, in the “What’s On” section of the Lynx.

Traffic Issues for Bale and Gunthorpe There had been a very useful and informative meeting with the NCC Highways Department sponsored by our County Councillor. There was little that could be done to ban HGVs from the villages, but the NCC agreed to place “Not Suitable for HGVs” signs at the entrance to both villages on the A148. However, it will not stop farm vehicles and delivery vehicles entering the villages. It was also suggested at the meeting that the Parish Council contact local contractors and possibly satellite navigation companies directly to ask for HGVs to be routed away from the villages.

Speed remains a separate issue and the Holt SNT representative was again requested to carry out speed checks as previously agreed. One suggestion from the meeting with the Highways Dept was that the villages should purchase a SAM2 LED speed sign which could be moved between the two villages on a regular basis - these had been used in other local villages and were considered to be very effective in slowing traffic. Also they presently qualified for consideration for a 50% grant under the NCC’s Parish Partnership scheme. The Parish Council agreed to pursue a grant application, for the purchase of a SAM 2 sign. More details on progress with this will follow.

Precept There has been no change in the precept (£1,800.00 for the year to 5 April 2015) since 2003 (with a nil precept in 2011/12) but with annual costs for the Parish Council running at a similar level as the precept and cost increasing annually there was a need to consider an increase. Given this, and the decision to purchase a SAM 2 LED speed measuring device to improve road safety in both villages (see above), it was agreed that the precept should rise to £2,500.00 from April 2015.

Donations It was agreed that up to £200.00 should be allocated to respond to donations requested by relevant non-village charities in any year. So far we have donated £50 each to Magpas (the emergency medical charity) and NARS (Norfolk Accident Rescue Service).

Road Damage Council, and several local Bale residents had offered to pay for future repair and upkeep. It was not intended that the Council itself would incur additional costs following the adoption of the kiosk.

The Highway Rangers will continue to visit approximately every quarter - please notify the Clerk if you see something you would like to be put right. A particular issue was clearance of mud left by farm vehicles and the local farmers needed to be reminded of their responsibilities.

Next Meeting The next quarterly meeting of the Parish Council will be held in Bale Village Hall at 7.00pm on 26th February. Just before this article was submitted for publication we learnt, with great sadness, that the Chairman of the Parish Council, John Church, had passed away on 21st December. Although he had been ill for some time he had devoted as much time as he could to his Council responsibilities. He was greatly respected by all of his fellow Parish Councillors. John's experience and guidance in our council meetings enabled us to fulfil our duties in supporting our two villages, and along the way he always managed to impart a pearl of wisdom to us - he will be sorely missed. Sandra Warner Vice- Chairman Gunthorpe PC

Removal of BT Payphones BT had signified its intentions to remove the payphones and kiosks in both villages (there had been just one call from each in the past 12 months). The Parish Council had been offered the chance to adopt the boxes (less the telephone equipment) with BT meeting bills such as lighting for a period. The new style but dilapidated kiosk in Gunthorpe was not considered worth keeping, but there was strong support from local residents to retain the vintage kiosk in Bale and the Council agreed to adopt this. The kiosk would be insured under the existing policy held by the

WELCOME A very warm welcome to Gunthorpe goes to David Allen and Samantha Gaston who have moved to 19 Swanton Road from Yaxham. David is a Paramedic/ Manager with the East of England Ambulance Service working both in the Hellesdon Control Room and “on the road”, and Samantha is an ambulance controller based at Hellesdon. We wish them every happiness in their new home.

LEUKAEMIA AND LYMPHOMA RESEARCH Sat. March 28th 10 - 11.30am Early Sale Sat. May16th 10 - 11.30am - Spring Sale with plants Do hope we shall see you all at the above events. Thank you for your support. Maureen 01328 830731

FROM THE REGISTERS

RVS LANGHAM CAR SERVICE

Holy Baptism

Schedule to April 5th 2015 Fare: 25p per mile. December 28th December 28th

Beth Forrest Olympia Bray

Weekly driving duties beginning on a Monday. Jan 26th 830 605 Mar 2nd 830 847 Feb 2nd 830 348 Mar 9th 830 606 Feb 9th 830 696 Mar 16th 830 624 Feb 16th 830 677 Mar 23rd 830 731 Feb 23rd 830 537 Mar 30th 830 605 * These drivers do not go to Norwich If the driver for the week is unable to do the trip, contact the next person on the list. If your appointment is cancelled, please also cancel your car service booking. Please give three days notice wherever possible, except in an emergency. It would be very helpful if a car booking is made as soon as an appointment is arranged or journey planned so that drivers can arrange their schedule. When booking please tell the driver of any walking aids to be transported. Please bring change. In the infrequent event that no driver is available – contact the Holt Caring Society 01263 711243 giving as much notice as possible. This roster is also placed on the church porch and the village notice boards with dates beyond the above schedule. To avoid drivers having to do a double duty we are in urgent need of three drivers for our full complement. If anyone would like to join us please give me a call. Ann Sherriff 01328 830605

Funeral Mr. Philip Ronald Massingham

December 4th

HAPPY NEW YEAR Langham PCC would like to thank all those who help to keep Langham Church a going concern; all who preach, attend and help with church services, clean, arrange flowers, put up flags, play the organ, wash the altar linen, help with refreshments, work in the churchyard, maintain our churchyard equipment, look after the clock, supply church leaflets, carry out administration and support us financially. You are all very valuable to us and we appreciate your participation most sincerely. We wish you all a very Happy New Year. Langham PCC

COFFEE AND GLŰHWEIN MORNING Thank you very much to everyone who ate cakes, drank mulled wine or otherwise generously supported the December coffee morning, held at Crafers Barn in aid of the Fe y Alegría school in the slums of San Salvador. The fantastic total sum of £411.17 was raised. Sister Cruz, the headmistress, as well as the volunteers of the Romero Trust who transferred the money and at the end of the year saw the fantastic work that is being done by the school, send their heartfelt gratitude. The money is currently being used for a school psychiatrist who treats the children, many of whom suffer from physical and sexual abuse in their families and the gangs operating in the slum. Jutta and Roger Davis

THANK YOU FRIENDS OF LANGHAM A very relaxing, free trip to Norwich, was enjoyed by members of the Friends of Langham ‘200 club’ in early December. Later in the month we had another challenging quiz evening and at the end of the month a pantomime trip was organised for the children. All this was very much appreciated by the various people of the village. A big thank you to the Friends of Langham for all their efforts during the year in providing the village with such an enjoyable variety of events. Like all organisations they need our support so if you are not in the ‘200’ club do give it a thought. You’ve got to be ‘in it to win it!’ You can contact the treasurer, Peter Barlow, on 01328 830 606. A Villager

LANGHAM ILLUMINATIONS Throughout Christmas, Langham was illuminated firstly with the decorated tree opposite the Blue Bell and then by the floodlights on the church. We must thank Friends of Langham and helpers, for the tree lights plus Mr. and Mrs. Hughes for the power supply. The church was brightly lit over the twelve days of Christmas thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous parishioner. A big thank you to them all, on behalf of the village, for their kindness.

CHRISTMAS FAIR Parish Room 29th November 2014

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

Proceeds for this annual event, eventually, after two late sales, amounted to £700.00 for the Langham Church General Fund. Competition & raffle results: Plant Raffle June Dawson No of Sweets Helen Leach Weight of Christmas cake John Tovey Christmas Hamper Maxine Burlingham

From the above service collection, a donation of £99.93 was made to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal 2014.

Thank you to everyone for all your help and support! We could not have done it without you!

MOBILE LIBRARY Thursday February 19th

Thursday March 19th

On each of these days the van will call for 20 mins at St. Mary’s 10.25am, The Old Post Office 10.50am, The Cornfield 11.15am. Enquiries Wells Library, 01328 710467.

COFFEE MORNINGS IN THE PARISH ROOM These will continue, with a sprinkling of ‘special events’ throughout 2015. The Parish Room will be open for coffee and conviviality, (or even tea and sympathy if need be), from 10.00am until 12.00 noon on the first and third Saturdays of each month. It’s an opportunity to meet up with fellow villagers and to enjoy the facilities of your parish room. Who knows, you might find you wish to book it yourself for a party or event. Dates will be: Saturday February 7th Saturday February 21st Saturday March 21st Saturday March 7th

for her bravery. On the afternoon of Saturday 28th March 2015, the Friends of Langham Dome are planning to commemorate the 70th anniversary of this sad incident. It will take the form of a service in Langham Church at 2.30pm followed by an unveiling of a plaque plus the planting of a tree at the Dome, and a visit to the crash site. Finally, an adjournment to the Langham Blue Bell for a buffet tea! Many of the relatives of those involved, including Ivy Cross, are intending to attend. I hope many of the village will be there to support the occasion. Patrick Allen 01328 830348

FOL PANTOMIME SNOW WHITE 2014 On Tuesday 30th December, a coach of Langham children and adults visited the traditional pantomime of Snow White at the King's Lynn Corn Exchange. The jokes, singing, dancing and audience participation were enjoyed by all. Everyone agreed it was an excellent way to spend an afternoon. Thank you to Friends of Langham for organising another exciting event. Happy New Year!

THE LANGHAM DOME The Langham Dome was rescued from dereliction by many individuals who supported our aim of preserving this iconic building; creating a visitor attraction that will educate future generations about the role of Langham, during the period 1940 – 1958. We aim to ensure that the individuals from near and far who served here, and particularly those that made the ultimate sacrifice, are not forgotten. If you share these aims and believe, as we do, that these things are important and need to be recorded and preserved, please look at our website – www.langhamdome.org - and consider, if you are not already a member, joining us as a ‘Friend of Langham Dome’. We officially opened on the 19th July 2014 and then, with the help of volunteers we opened four days per week until the end of October. During that time we entertained around 3,000 visitors and received many very complimentary comments. We will be reopening on Easter Sunday and thereafter on Thursdays and Sundays initially, adding extra days as the summer progresses. Obviously the more volunteers we have, the more days we can be open; so if you think you might have the odd hour, that you could spare to help out, then do please get in touch with me or Kate Faire our Development Manager and Volunteer Coordinator – kate@langhamdome.org. There will be a ‘potential’ volunteer ‘Open’ evening between 5 pm and 7 pm on Thursday 26th March – so why not come along, get involved and have some fun! We are also in need of a ‘Secretary to the Trustees’. This role would involve setting the Agenda for Trustees

WELLINGTON BOMBER CRASH 26TH MARCH 1945 In the early hours of Monday 26th March 1945 Wellington bomber ‘F’ for Freddie, MKX111, serial NB824, took off from Langham airfield on an anti-shipping strike off the Dutch coast. There was light rain at the time. A few seconds after take-off, it is thought that the starboard engine failed and the plane crashed just in a field off the Cockthorpe/Binham road. It immediately burst into flames. Sadly four of the crew were killed but three survived. They were helped away from the burning plane, with armaments exploding, by WAAF Leading Aircraftwoman Ivy Cross, who was subsequently awarded the British Empire Medal

meetings in conjunction with the Chairman, then taking and printing up the minutes of those meetings. We would be looking to hold between four and six meetings per year, so not particularly onerous but definitely fun! If you have a little time and would like to help then please get in touch with me. Patrick Allen 01328 830348

AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN LANGHAM

CAROL SINGERS The Morston Carol Singers on Christmas Eve are to be congratulated on raising £159-04 – which has gone into the PCC Building Fund.

As a result of the ongoing development of the old Langham Glass Factory site by Avada Homes, the village has the possibility of a further development of Affordable Houses. The Parish Council will be debating, over the next few weeks, as to whether there is a need for any more such houses. In order to assist in this debate, we would like any individual, or family, who feels they would be eligible, to register with us. The criteria that we will be looking for is: That you presently live in the village, perhaps still with your parents. That you are living in poor quality, privately rented, accommodation in the village. Your parents or grandparents live in the village but because of the lack of available housing, you have had to move away but would like to return to live in the village. You work in the village but live elsewhere. There is no guarantee that the Parish Council will agree to go ahead with any such development but it is critical to the debate that we know what the level of need is in the village. If you feel that you can tick any of these criteria please contact me, Patrick Allen – patallen@lineone.net or 01328 830348.

CAROL SERVICE Beautifully decorated All Saints Church was packed for the candlelit Christmas Carol Service, taken by the Rev. Ian Whittle. The Service - with its wonderful Gough descant was truly uplifting. The collection, which was divided equally between the Wells Community Hospital Trust and Kelling Hospital, amounted to £678-68 (nearly reaching the 2013 total of £709-55).

PLEASE USE OUR BOTTLE BANK There is a new bottle bank in Morston by the green that now takes all colours of glass. Every bottle you recycle in Morston’s bottle bank will continue to generate revenue specifically for the village. Please use it whenever you are able. Morston Parish Council

NATIONAL TRUST UPDATE Blakeney National Nature Reserve Happy New Year to you all! We are now approaching the end of what proved to be a very busy pupping season for the grey seals on Blakeney Point. The first seal pup was born at the beginning of November and the numbers since then have grown to more than 2400, an increase of over 800 pups on the previous year. This has secured Blakeney Point as England’s largest grey seal breeding colony, overtaking both the National Trust’s Farne Islands in Northumberland and the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust’s Donna Nook Nature Reserve. Whilst the vast majority of pups survive, we have seen a couple of incidents of unnatural injuries to seals in a typical corkscrew effect, consistent with mechanical cuts. We have also had a weaned pup found dead on the beach with cuts confirmed as an attack by a bull seal. If anyone finds any

CAROLS AND MINCE PIES What a marvellous evening to start off the Christmas Celebrations. A wonderful atmosphere prevailed through the haze of mulled wine, mince pies and carols. Many thanks to Pauline for playing the piano and to Jan and Nic for their poignant and also their hilarious readings. Thanks also go to Bob for supplying the mulled wine; to Cathy, Alison and Sheila for their help with refreshments and the raffle. We also had a quartet of Vicars to keep us in order. A great way to gear up for Christmas. Edward Allen, Chairman

freshly dead seals with unusual cuts please do ring the office on 01263 740241. As part of our care for the seals we monitor those that are unwell or injured. We recently took a sick seal with a poorly eye to the RSPCA wildlife hospital at East Winch near to King’s Lynn. This year seals that are admitted for treatment are being named after Harry Potter characters, and Fluffy, apparently a three-headed dog, joins Dumbledore, an adult grey seal that was found with pneumonia some 20 miles from the coast, in a field in Merseyside. There have also been some unusual sightings recently – a pod of Long-finned pilot whales in November were present for an afternoon and became popular with the media, and there were a couple of dead Sunfish that washed up over Christmas and New Year. In terms of project work, we are still awaiting a decision for planning permission for the Morston footpath works to link the new bridges and also for funding from the Marine Management Organisation, locally delivered by the North Norfolk FLAG project. As soon as we have heard back on both these points we will be able to let the contracts and proceed with the works. We will keep you posted. The team would like to thank all of you who supported our work in any way last year, we very much appreciated it. 2014 was a challenging year with the tidal surge recovery work but on the whole a positive one and we look forward to seeing many of you in 2015. Victoria Egan Countryside Manager, Norfolk Coast

CAROLS AT CHRISTMAS In lieu of a Christmas Day service in St.Margaret’s our PCC opted to hold a Family Carol Service on Sunday 21st December at 4 pm. A surprising number (over 70) people of all ages filled the pews to sing traditional carols and listen to the Christmas story read aloud by children and adults. With it being the shortest day of the year, a combination of candles and glowing radiators provided just enough light and warmth for the occasion! The atmosphere was lovely thanks to the seasonal decorations and the tree donated by Albanwise and enhanced by the Beeson family. Accomplished organ-playing by Matthew Rice who volunteered his services added greatly to the occasion as did his son’s trumpet solo! The service, led by our rector Ian Whittle, was very energetic not least because people from other parishes swelled the volume. The service was rounded off as promised with mulled wine and mince pies much appreciated by everyone. Particular thanks are owed to Liz Peart, Caroline Robson and Jan Barlow for all their hard work!

MORSTON QUIZ By Samphire (Answers on Page 26)

1.What sort of meat is silverside? 2.What is sake wine made from? 3.Which is the largest Greek island? 4.What is the House in TV’s “House of Cards”? 5.Who recorded “Bridge over Troubled Water”? 6.The airline Aer Lingus is from which country? 7.On a Monopoly Board what colour is Regent Street? 8.What is the square root of 121? 9.What is the term for a group of beavers? 10.What is the largest land animal?

By a student at Langham School

WORLD WAR ONE EXHIBITION Throughout last summer a group of people was busy researching the history of the names on the war memorial in All Saints church. As noted in a previous issue of the Lynx the research expanded to include background information on the home front and the role of women during the war, who came to the foreground on the employment front. The relationship with Brinton was also included particularly as the children of Sharrington at the time would have attended Brinton school. All this research and hard work culminated in the village hall hosting an exhibition and village tea party on November 9th. It was also open on the morning of November 11th when the national two minute silence was observed. The hall was filled with display boards showing biographical details and photos of the men from the village who had died, as well as artefacts of the time from Gressenhall museum, Holt railway museum and people’s personal collections. A collection of medals and cap badges were also on show. A map of the village gave the location of the servicemen’s homes and old photos had been obtained with one showing a group of men outside the pub – now Chequers, a private home. Tables were set out in the centre of the hall for everyone to enjoy tea after viewing the exhibition, with sandwiches and cakes referencing the recipes of the time with such delicacies as corned beef and fish paste sandwiches, trench cake and vinegar cake. Although the theme of the day was a sombre one it provided an opportunity for the village to come together and reflect on the momentous events a century ago and made a fitting tribute to those who gave their lives. Admission was free on both days but thanks to the generosity of visitors to the hall a donation of £290 was made to the Royal British Legion. The plan is to move part of the display into the church

giving everyone an opportunity to view it again and to show visitors to our church a little more history of our village. We will keep you updated on any further information that emerges as a result of this event. Thanks are due to all those who worked so hard and gave up their time to produce such a professional and moving exhibition. Thanks also to everyone who contributed their home made cakes and other tea time offerings. CD

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY During the Remembrance Day service in church on the th 9 November Brenda Young’s beautifully embroidered kneeler commemorating World War One was dedicated by the Ven Michael Handley. On the top a meticulously worked poppy wreath is set against a map of the world with a peaceful pastoral scene to one side and a battlefield scene on the other. On the front edge the words ‘we will remember them’ are embroidered in red and the dates ‘1914’ and ‘2014’ are along the short edges. The kneeler was placed on the altar steps and will prove a fitting tribute for many years to come. CD

CHRISTMAS FAYRE On Saturday 29th November we held our first Christmas Fayre as part of our programme of events to raise money for the village hall. The Sharrington Gardeners played a key part in the organisation and the provision of goodies for sale. We had refreshments and sold cakes, jams and preserves. P & S butchers of Holt and Broadland Wineries generously donated prizes for our raffle and we were supported by eight outside exhibitors. At 11am the doors to the hall opened and we held our breath. We were not, it is fair to say, trampled in the rush but as time went by, there was a steady stream of visitors. It was very good to see holiday makers join folk from the village and visitors from the surrounding area and all leave laden with festive wreaths and table decorations, plants, bulbs, cakes, preserves, cards and reindeer. It was also great to hear such positive comments from those who visited us on the quality of the event. And when the pennies were counted, we had done surprisingly well. Wow £1,200 and a profit of £1,100 give or take the odd farthing.

Many thanks to the village hall committee and everyone else who helped make the event such a success particularly Francoise Allenby, Ann Abrams, Mary Lee and Adrian’Rudolph’ Allenby. RAD

Our last meeting in the current series will be on 20th March but, with increasing interest I am confident that we shall see a second season. r.dubbins@btinternet.com

SHARRINGTON GARDENERS

NOBLE ROTTERS

Our 2014 programme was topped off in December by an engaging and entertaining workshop on willow weaving run by the talented and enthusiastic Bob Lever of White House Willow. 30 participants including 10 non members constructed hoops, plant supports and fish, with, it has to be said, varying degrees of success. It will, I suspect, be some time before we have a shot at emulating Bob’s wild boar. Once again, the generous Adrian and Francoise Allenby hosted a pre-Christmas drinks party for members and their partners which was great fun and much appreciated by those who attended. It has been a good year for the gardeners with a significant increase in membership and a varied programme including five outside speakers, a trip to Thorpland Hall and visits to members’ gardens. The group has also done much to help the village hall with significant support for the Christmas Fayre and a donation of £250. Thanks are due to members of the committee for their hard work throughout the year and to Bob McQuade for his brilliant posters. Our first meeting next year is our AGM on 4th February and on 4th March we will host Christine Miskin, an outside speaker from West Yorkshire who will talk to us about opening a garden to the public. RAD

Tasting number four in November featured the blackcurrant and cedar flavours of the cabernet sauvignon grape. Seven wines were up for tasting and with the exception of the opener, a Morrisons special for under a fiver, all the wines were tasted blind. We journeyed from new world to old and back with wines from Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, South Africa and USA. Members were challenged to guess which of the wines were blended with merlot and their appropriate age and price. Most made a decent stab at the answers and pretty well all agreed that the 2004 Weinert from Argentina took the plaudits. What better way to finish the year than with a Christmas fizz tasting in December. We lined up seven wines from Italy, New Zealand, England and France which were augmented by a Prosecco kindly provided by Broadland Wineries. We compared Italian Prosecco with Franciacorta, English Chapel Down with a New Zealand vintage Pelorus and champagnes from Drappier and the rather better known Louis Roederer. Thanks to Claire Dubbins and Robin Burkitt our wines were accompanied by rather better fayre than usual and we finished the evening with a sweeter Prosecco and mince pies. Although, not surprisingly, the champagnes came out on top, the Chapel Down from Kent also got good reviews.

CHURCH NEWS Sunday 21st December, the winter solstice, was the date for our carol service and this year we returned to the well loved readings and carols that most of us remember from our childhood. Most of the day was spent flower arranging and decorating the church and the tree and then later lighting all the candles. By 4pm the church looked very welcoming and

VILLAGE HALL In issue 87 last year I wrote a short piece about the financial plight of the village hall and the steps that were being taken to try and improve the facility and, in the meantime, restore its financial stability. A small team led by Gary Grunwald has been working on possible improvements and the committee is currently awaiting a report and recommendations from A Squared Architects (who have been working for us on a pro bono basis) so that we can investigate the availability of funding for what they recommend. Four well attended events have been held; talks by Richard Furnival-Jones on Harrods of Knightsbridge and BBC wildlife presenter, Mike Dilger, on making his living from wildlife; an antiques evening with Richard Scott and the Christmas Fayre. Each event has made money thanks to the efforts of all those who have helped stage them and the support we have had from the residents of Sharrington and surrounding villages. In 2012, as a result of essential works, the hall made a loss of £3,156. In 2013, there was only a small loss of £23. In 2014, although income from the hire of the hall and its equipment continued its pretty steep decline, income from the 50/50 club grew by 10% and income from the events was £2,328. Donations were £324 giving us an overall surplus (on draft figures) of £2,037. In addition to the events Chris Abrams has been working on a village website that is intended to raise the profile of the village and provide a better means for the distribution of news and information. If it has not been launched by the time of publication of this issue, we hope to do so very shortly. By the time of publication the committee will have met with a view to arranging the 2015 programme in the hope that we can build on the successes of last year. We have also started collecting the 2015 renewals for the 50/50 club and would welcome donations (however small) to help swell the coffers. For those of you who continue to support our efforts a very big thank you. RAD

warm and those who wished to process from the village hall to the church departed with various small children to do just that. The Ven Michael Handley took the service this year and was there to greet those who did not wish to walk, rather favouring the warm and pretty perfumed venue. At 5pm the service commenced with the opening prayers, lighting four of the Advent candles and the first carol, followed by a reading and thus it proceeded until the final prayers. Alison Summers sang a German song very beautifully and Maire Sloman played the violin with Anna Moore on the organ. During the various carols adults and children alike took the figures up to the crib to be placed in some semblance of order although a few small people were obviously not altogether satisfied and spent some time changing them around. At the end of the service we were treated to mulled wine, mince pies and sausage rolls and eventually departed for home replete and contented. On Christmas morning we celebrated Holy Communion at 9.30am, again with Michael Handley and again with Anna at the organ. Yet more carols and readings, the gospel being said by the crib but this time with new baby Elizabeth Rose Forrest – granddaughter of David and Lesley Forrest and daughter of Tom and Emma Forrest, one small child, Poppy and one small dog, mini Rufus who is very well behaved in church and always a welcome addition. Another lovely service but without refreshments as we were anxious to get home to the kitchen before trying to get a walk in on such a beautiful day. In fact the whole of the Christmas season seemed to be full of sunshine, very pleasant indeed for us and our visitors. We’ll do it all next year and so it remains for me to wish the residents of Sharrington a happy and peaceful 2015. APG

by Poppy Honey Nixey Godfrey age 10

LYNX REP FOR STIFFKEY Please support your village Steven Bashforth is looking to hand over the Stiffkey rep baton to an interested village resident. The Lynx publishes every two months and local articles are submitted to the rep via email. Our team of editors and reps will give support and advice. There is a bi-monthly meeting following each of the 6 publications throughout the year. Please contact Steve directly or via lynxeditor@pobox.com.

welcome but on our bigger services we manage to find willing helpers. We need help. There is a suggestion that our 9.30am services on the first and third Sundays of each month are unsuitable for family support. This may well be the case and we will be looking into a change in conjunction with our Rector’s busy schedule. With 9 parish churches in the Benefice it is quite a nightmare juggling things! Meanwhile fund-raising goes on and our generous and regular supporters are to be thanked – perhaps there are more lurking out there? The church is in fine fettle but R and M is relentless. Keith McDougall

CHRIS JARVIS (TROG) David, Pat, Stephen, Kevin & Martin Webb were very sorry to hear of the death of Chris. Chris was a very likeable person in the Wells area, he would help anyone. If you needed to know about Stiffkey in the last 60 years Chris could tell you. Chris was not mentioned in the book which I found hard to believe. Chris had done a lot of voluntary work in Stiffkey, namely the building of the new Village Hall 1981-82. Chris will be best remembered for running the football club with Stanley Sutton for a number of years, not the best of teams but Chris ran the club with passion. Chris you will be very sadly missed. The Webbs

NATURE NOTES What has happened to all the migrant birds that normally pour into Norfolk every autumn? I have hardly seen a Fieldfare, Redwing, Snipe or Brambling. Was it a bad breeding season in Scandinavia? Garden birds are unusually sparse. Even waders are not so common. I walk the marshes at Morston regularly and find the creeks quite empty. As for the enormous crop of Grey Seals the publicity is attracting visitors but I continue to worry they are pushing out the rarer Common Seal. You can have too much of a good thing. As I write the Snowdrops are appearing and there are signs of change – but don’t be deceived – March can be a foul month for weather. Farm crops here over-wintered quite well even if farmers are being denied some key sprays for oilseed rape. Our malting barley remains a key crop in north Norfolk – long may it remain so! Most farms in our area are well keepered and shot over with reared game birds. All this aspect of our countryside seems in good hands. Our two hunts, the North Norfolk Harriers and the West Norfolk Foxhounds regularly meet and what a wonderful sight it is to see the children so well turned out on their ponies enjoying the riding and even if little is ‘hunted’, it is a tradition which keeps the pony clubs active, and is part and parcel of our countryside. Long may it continue. Pightle

CHURCH NOTES How quickly things seem to go by. Advent, Christmas, Christingle, carols at the Red Lion, Epiphany with Lent looming – and Easter day (early this year on April 5th) beckoning. Does anyone know how & why Easter day is arranged? This is a mystery to most of us! It goes back centuries and is not entirely ‘religious’. Our dramatic ‘Nativity Scene’ on the green was, as always, a feature – so many thanks to those who erected (and dismantled) this creative marvel! In Stiffkey we were well supported over Christmas and the church looked lovely with our new candelabras – the old ones were stolen. Petty pilfering in open churches is deplorable. We still lack a regular organist – volunteers are always

MORSTON QUIZ ANSWERS (Quiz on Page 22) 1. Beef. 2. Rice. 3. Crete. 4. House of Commons. 5. Simon and Garfunkel. 6. Ireland. 7. Green. 8. 11. 9. A colony. 10. An elephant.

Peel High School for not one but two swimming galas. For the first stage a large group battled it out to try and reach the second stage! We were swimming against Burnham Market, Wells primary, Fakenham, Hindringham and Blakeney. We swam our hearts out winning some and losing some but trying our best. In the end half our group made it through to the second round. The second round was held at Aylsham High School; we are currently awaiting the results, and will keep you posted. Class 3 have been busy thinking about their aspirations and what they would like to be when they are older... Here are some of their thoughts: Arran Coe – Writer /illustrator My diary – 22nd July 2029 Dear diary, I am very nervous and excited because I have nearly finished my first fiction novel – the unknown and obscure. It is about the after – life for magic words and phrases. The question is when I send it for publishing will they accept it or not? I really hope they do because I will have been writing the book for a whole year tomorrow! I have been so busy writing that I didn’t realise what day it was (my own birthday) 24th July 2029 Dear diary, today I sent my finished novel into a publishing company: Bloomsbury, I spoke to a very nice lady who handed me over to her boss the associate Director, then to the manager who sent me flying off like an obscure, dirty atom to a lower member of staff who finally sorted me out... I’ll never use them again. Joel Philpott – Footballer I’m running down the line quickly, weaving in and out of the defenders. I look up no one is there just me and the keeper. I knock the ball high in the air ( the stadium stop shouting everything is still and quiet waiting for that net to buldge) sweat pours down my face, Now! I jump up raising my right leg, quickly I swing my leg and wait for the ball to make contact (Bang) I feel my foot make contact with the ball, I feel the ground hit me, I roll over, the ball is in the back of the net, I had done it, I had scored. The Ref blows two short blows and then one long one indicating the end of the match. Elijah Jackson – Marine Biologist I would love to be a notable marine biologist, discovering new types of Coral, fish, sea birds, jelly fish and octopus. I love the sea (and the white horses) and the wildlife. It would be a dream come true to be a distinguished marine biologist. Do you think I can swim all the way to my dream job? Do you think I can do it? Because I do! This month’s Lynx contributors were: Honour, Harriet, Poppy, Arran, Joel, Karina, Flo, Evie, Eli, Jude, and Emily – Thank you.

LANGHAM VILLAGE SCHOOL At the time we are writing this, we are filled with nervous excitement. This afternoon is the dress rehearsal for our Christmas Play. This year’s play is a new format for us, with the whole school taking part in an ‘out of this world’ Christmas, with two performances on Tuesday 16th Dec at Blakeney Village Hall. The play is all about space, and four astronauts who crash land on a planet full of aliens… There are lots of Christmas songs and fun for everyone. At the moment we are wondering how to transport mission control and our rocket down to Blakeney. Watch out for strange objects in the sky!... We have had a wonderful run up to the end of term. The Christmas Fayre is an annual event much anticipated by all of us. The week before the Fayre is spent making crafts and cooking wonderful gifts to sell on the day. This year we also had the opportunity to buy Christmas trees and bulbs from Edgefield nursery. Other stalls included homemade decorations, a wonderful raffle, a tombola, and amazing face painting… You may have spotted some gorgeous reindeer wondering around Langham afterwards. The Friends of Langham Village School are pleased to report that we raised £781.41. A huge thank you to Sam Duncan, and her team of wonderful volunteers. What a lovely morning, getting us all in the festive spirit. On Thursday 11th December the whole school enjoyed a marvellous Christmas dinner, with Christmas crackers, and jokes galore “What do Santa’s little helpers learn at school?... The Elfabet.” The food was delicious and we particularly liked having a choice of 3 desserts; chocolate log, trifle and Christmas pudding. We also used the opportunity to listen to our Christmas production song and have a sing a long. Christmas jumper day was held last Friday, raising money for Save the Children. Some wonderful woollies were worn, some even had flashing lights! We will be sending £56 to the fund. Langham have also had another successful term of Sport. The Football team have a new coach – Benny. This season we have played four matches so far, and scored a total of 11 goals. We are very pleased with the performance of the team with three wins out of four. Scores as follows: Langham vs Cawston (4 vs 3) goal scorers Joel Philpott 3 and Jude Philpott 1 Langham vs Buxton (1 vs 2) goal scored by Joel Philpott Langham vs Colby (2 vs 1) goal scorers Joel Philpott and Charles Cox Langham vs Holt (4 vs 1) goal scorers Joel Philpott 3 and Jude Philpott 1 We are really looking forward to Playing Wells primary school early on next season. The Swimming team have also been in action, in the past two weeks a brave group of children travelled to Alderman

GOODBYE ANNE-MARIE, HELLO JO Local Lynx would like to thank Anne-Marie Coe for all her time and care as the Langham School rep. She has ably encouraged all the students to write for the newsletter over the years and we wish her well in pastures new. We also extend a warm welcome to Jo Holden, who has seamlessly taken on the job of rep and is responsible for organising our super cover and drawings dotted throughout Lynx100. Ed

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