Local Lynx No.110 - October & November 2016

ISSUE 110 BALE - BINHAM - COCKTHORPE - FIELD DALLING GUNTHORPE - LANGHAM - MORSTON SAXLINGHAM - SHARRINGTON - STIFFKEY

NEWS FROM OUR VILLAGES

WWI Special Supplement on Centre Pages i - iv.

October & November 2016

(above: a selection of Victory cards from WWI.)

NEW! Lynx 110 Ads Directory on back page 1 and at www.locallynx.co.uk

WHAT’S ON VH = Village Hall

- 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.

OCTOBER 1st Sat. Bale Harvest Supper, VH 7pm 2nd Sun. Stiffkey Harvest Festival, Church 11am 5th Wed. Binham Priory Concert, 7.30pm 5th Wed. Sharrington Gardeners talk, VH 7pm 5th Wed. Stiffkey Local History Group 11am 7th Fri. Field Dalling Fish and Chips VH 7pm 8th Sat. Binham Harvest Supper, VH 7pm 9th Sun. Binham Harvest Thanksgiving Service, Priory, 11am 9th Sun. Gunthorpe Harvest Festival St Mary’s, 11am 12th Wed. Sharrington Joy of singing, VH 7.30pm 14th Fri. Bale Fish and Chips, VH 7 pm 14th Fri. Field Dalling Bingo, VH 6:30pm 15th Sat. Binham Village entertainment and supper - Have you come far? VH, 6.30pm 15th Sat. Morston Shovell Dinner (ticketed) Anchor 6.30pm 15th Sat. Sharrington Quiz, VH 7pm 16th Sun. Binham Charity Dog Walk and Lunch, VH 10am 20th Thu. Binham and Hindringham Open Circle, Harvest Supper and Auction, Hindringham VH 7.15pm 21st Fri. Binham Bingo, VH 6.30 for 7pm 22nd Sat. Gunthorpe Quiz and History, Institute 7pm 27th Thu. Langham Mobile Library, St.Mary’s 9.50am, The Cornfield 10.20am 28th Fri. Langham Fish’n’Chips & Quiz, VH 7pm 29th Sat Gunthorpe 50:50 Club Institute 10:30am

Copy deadline for next issue: 6 NOVEMBER 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….

Lynx 110 and all 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.)

NOVEMBER 4th Fri. Field Dalling Fish and Chips, VH 7pm 4th Fri. Sharrington Gardeners Bob Flowerdew talk, VH 7pm 5th Sat. Gunthorpe Friends Harvest Supper, Institute 7pm 11th Fri. Bale Fish and Chips, VH 7 pm 11th Fri. Binham Coffee morning , VH 10-12 noon 11th Field Dalling Bereavement Group, 4pm 11th Fri. Sharrington Remembrance Poetry with Music, Church 6.30pm 11th Fri. Stiffkey Remembrance at Village Memorial, 10.45am 13th Sun. Gunthorpe Remembrance Service St Mary’s, 10.50am 18th Field Dalling Bingo, VH 6:30 pm 18th Fri. Sharrington Noble Rotters Wine Club, VH 7pm 19th Sat. Binham Christmas fair, VH 9am – 2pm 24th Thu. Langham Mobile Library, St.Mary’s 9.50am, The Cornfield 10.20am 25th Fri. Langham Fish’n’Chips & Quiz, VH 7pm 26th Sat. Bale Quiz Night, VH 7 pm 26th Sat. Gunthorpe 50:50 Club, Institute 10:30am 26th Sat. Sharrington Christmas Fayre, VH 11am

BLAKENEY METHODIST CHURCH High Street, Blakeney, Sunday services: 6.30pm Minister: The Rev’d J Pathmarajah 01263 712181.

BLAKENEY CATHOLIC CHURCH Back Lane, Blakeney Parish priest, Father Keith Tulloch, 12 Hindringham Road, Gt. Walsingham, Norfolk 01328 821353.

Priest in residence, Father William Wells (The house behind the church.) Service times: Masses: SaturdayVigil Mass 6.00pm. Sunday 11.00am.

Wednesday 9.30am.

DEANERY NEWS The next Deanery Synod meeting will be held on Thurs. 20th Oct. at 7pm in Binham Memorial Hall.

Please watch out for posters with further details. All are welcome for the meeting or for the talk alone, which is the first item on the agenda.

REGULARS Tuesdays Binham Guild of Artists, VH 10am-12noon.

Wednesdays term time Binham Youth Group, VH 6-8pm 3rd Thursday in the month Binham & Hindringham Open Circle Meeting, Hindringham VH 7.15pm 4th Thursday in the month Binham Local History Group, VH 7.30pm

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Church Services for Bale and Stiffkey Benefice for October and November 2016 HC=Holy Communion. CFS=Church Family Service. MP=Morning Prayer. BCP=Book of Common Prayer

Field Dalling

2nd October 9.30am Harvest Festival At Saxlingham

Saxlingham

9.30am HC

Parish Bale

Gunthorpe Sharrington Binham

9.30am MP BCP 11.00am HC

Morston Langham

9.30am HC BCP At Stiffkey

Stiffkey

11.00am Harvest Festival

Parish

6th November

9th October 9.30am HC

16th October 9.30am HC

23rd October 9.30am HC

30th October At Field Dalling

11.00am Harvest Festival At Field Dalling

At Saxlingham

11.00am MP BCP

11.00am HC

At Field Dalling

10.30am HC Group Service At Field Dalling

11.00am Harvest Festival 9.30am HC 11.00am Harvest Festival

4.30pm Silent Meditation 9.30am MP CW 11.00am CFS

11.00am HC

At Field Dalling

9.30am HC 9.30am HC

At Field Dalling At Field Dalling

9.30am MP

9.30am HC BCP At Stiffkey

9.30am HC

At Field Dalling At Field Dalling

At Langham

9.30am HC

At Langham

At Field Dalling

20th November

27th November

9.30am HC

13th November Remembrance Sunday 9.30am Service of Remembrance

9.30am HC

9.30am HC

Field Dalling

At Saxlingham

10.45am Service of Remembrance

At Saxlingham

11.00am MP BCP

Saxlingham Gunthorpe

9.30am HC

At Field Dalling 10.50am HC Service of Remembrance

At Field Dalling 11.00am HC

Sharrington

9.30am HC

Bale

9.30am MP BCP

9.30am HC Service of Remembrance

11.00am HC 4.30pm Silent Meditation 9.30am MP CW

Binham

11.00am HC

10.50am Service of Remembrance

11.00am CFS

Morston

9.30am HC BCP

2.00pm Service of Remembrance

9.30am HC BCP

10.50am Service of Remembrance At Langham

At Stiffkey 9.30am HC

Langham Stiffkey

9.30am HC

9.30am HC At Langham

Additional Service Stiffkey: Friday 11 November, Remembrance Day Service at the War Memorial at 10.45am.

Regular Weekday Services Binham: Tuesday, Evening Prayer at 6.00pm until the clocks change, thereafter at 3.30pm; Langham: Wednesday, 10.00am Holy Communion th

to provide for a Christian Ministry among us: to give and to make sure of an informed, educated and concerned shepherding. And with all our limitations and lack of omniscient capacity we aim to offer a simple Christian preserve, available to all, open to all, maintaining the middle way; and furthering the Faith.

May I wish you a fruitful and bountiful Autumn, with so many good things to share.

RECTOR’S LETTER Dear Friends and Parishioners, The beginning of a lovely and wonder-full Autumn.

Fullness and plenty and joy and delight. Well, at least it is here. Twenty-four meals from a five foot square of artichokes; sixty meals from eight buckets of potatoes; and this evening a mountain of raspberries for everyone, whether they want a mountain or do not.

As a very little person aged four, five, six and seven I was told every year to give such and such a lot of raspberries, or strawberries or gooseberries or rhubarb: to Mrs... or Mr... or Miss … or Mr. & Mrs… Whatever was left over, I was allowed to sell, and I did!

And at the age of ten I supplied the fruiterers of the area with strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, and rhubarb.

But my strictly catholic mama had her own priorities of kindness and charity: Mrs. …, Mr…, Miss…; and so on; and there was no room in her economy for freezing or keeping. I thank God for her. My profits, by the way, went to Catholic charities. Drat ‘em I thought!

In our Group of Parishes, we are asked to work together:

O soul, canst thou not understand Thou art not left alone, As a dog to howl and moan His master’s absence? Thou art as a book Left in a room that he forsook, But returns to by and by, A book of his dear choice, That quiet waiteth for his Hand, That quiet waiteth for his Eye, That quiet waitheth for his Voice.

Michael Field, 1914 Yours truly, Ian Whittle Langham Rectory 01328 830246

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©AndrewMoncur

NEW: INDEX TO ADS In a recent meeting of the village reps, we hit on an idea for making your Local Lynx more useful both to readers and to advertisers. It is quite simple: providing an index to advertisements. You’ll find it on the back page of this issue, and also accessible through a nifty new page on the Lynx website – and, in case you are irritated by the pop-ups on most websites, the only ads you will see on our website are those that have been paid for by our advertisers, appearing in the current print edition.

It seems to us that some readers, sometimes, just want to find out if a particular service is offered locally and don’t have time to flip through all the pages. The index is for those times. And advertisers might like to know that their ad is easier to find, both in print and online.

But what’s important is whether you think this is a good idea. Do email the editor or your village rep and let us know.

Anthony Smith

justice to the displays of food and beverage and we came away with a trolley full of provisions.

Composting Not such a ‘time-sensitive’ item as the amnesty week -end. Since more and more people are taking gardening seriously and there is an increase in renting allotments I thought to include a link to the NCC Master Composter website at www.norfolk.gov.uk/jobs-training-andvolunteering/volunteering/master-composters.

COUNTY COUNCILLOR’S NOTES Particularly for any new readers, I thought to let you know that I am Marie Strong and have the privilege of being county councillor for the Wells Division which includes the parishes of Binham, Cockthorpe, Field Dalling, Langham, Morston, Saxlingham, Sharrington and Stiffkey. The easiest way to contact me is by email: marie.strong@norfolk.gov.uk. My telephone number is 07920 286597 and if you cannot reach me on that number please persevere – a change to a more modern ‘phone is giving me teething problems! In the meantime, I hope the following items are of interest:

Adults at Risk of Abuse On a serious note the number of adults being abused does not abate so I am repeating the following advice: If someone you know is being abused call NCC Adult Social Services on 0344 800 8020 (24 hours a day); text 07767 647670; email SCCE@norfolk.gov.uk.online. norfolk.gov.uk/socialcareenquiry.

Leaflets are available in the library. (You can also use these contacts if you are worried about a child). For more information see www.norfolk.gov.uk/speakup. In an emergency call the police on 999.

Cockthorpe Mobile Telephone Mast Whilst I gather that Vodafone and 02 have continued to transmit from this mast there have been on-going problems regarding EE and Three. I have been in contact with the Corporate Affairs Manager for Ericsson UK Ltd and he assures me that a solution to the problem is in the offing and that I will be kept informed.

Devolution for Norfolk and Suffolk Unfortunately I have to confirm press coverage that the devolution process continues to become more and more confusing – including a statement that because of earlier voting by councils North Norfolk residents will not be given a vote in respect of a mayor. The briefest and simplest statement I can make is that Norfolk County Councillors across the political spectrum have given strong if cautious support to devolving powers and finance down from government but have no enthusiasm for setting up an additional tier of local government with a mayor. Whilst Norfolk has nearly one million residents the consultation for Norfolk and Suffolk achieved just under 11 thousand respondents.

However I am confident that when NCC has its final debate on devolution councillors will give serious consideration to the outcome of the consultation together with views expressed at town and parish council meetings and by individuals across our urban and rural divisions. I am also confident that councillors, elected to represent the people of Norfolk, will demonstrate due diligence before casting a vote on a mayoral combined authority for Norfolk and Suffolk.

North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival Congratulations to all those providers and suppliers of excellent produce, particularly the considerable number of stall holders from our local parishes. The beautiful location of Holkham’s walled garden did

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Hi-tech Access to Library Services Just to impress ‘techie’ readers I offer the latest tool service from NCC’s library service which has launched Spydus Mobile, a free app that residents can download onto their smartphone or tablet to access library services and manage their membership at any time ‘on the move’.

The app allows users to search for books, place holds on interesting items, download e-books and e-audio books, keep track of their library account and manage their loans. Even those who are not library members can use Spydus Mobile to scan barcodes on books, CDs, DVDs and other items, using their device's camera while they are out and about, and search for available copies at their local library. To download Spydus Mobile for Apple and Android devices visit the App Store or Google Play and select Norfolk Library and Information Service.

Concessionary Bus Passes I know in the changeover from my mobile ‘phone and email equipment I have lost one email but I recall one of the questions – asked by many. The answer is that the Government will not allow the county to take any money in relation to a concessionary bus pass. (I hope the reader will re-send his email with the second question.)

For now all good wishes, Cllr. Marie Strong

of the building and equipping it with state of the art displays covering the history of RAF Langham and the Dome Trainer from Langham’s early days as a grass satellite airfield of nearby RAF Bircham Newton, to the final closure of the Dome and the airfield as a flying base for the No 2 Civilian Anti-Aircraft Co-operation Unit (operated by Marshalls of Cambridge), were met by generous donations from a range of donors. In particular the project was only made possible with the vision displayed by the “Friends of Langham Dome” (FoLD) who were set up in 2010, with the support of Langham villagers in the first instance, but which is now an organisation which enjoys a much wider support base from both the local area and indeed other “Friends” across the UK, and as far away as the Antipodes and USA. One of the generous donations resulted from the decision by Bernard Matthews PLC to hand over the Dome and surrounding land to the North Norfolk Heritage Buildings Trust who now own the facility and who are key members of the Trust’s management as well as being the administrators of the largest grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

However in the not too distant future the Dome will have to become totally self-funding and as well as meeting day to day running costs some of the expensive high tech equipment which the Visitor Centre uses will have to be replaced. The first key element of achieving this status is to seek more members of FoLD, who are happy to pay a yearly subscription (currently £15.00 for an individual and which can be gift aided as the Dome is a registered charity) in return for unlimited visits to

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 District Councillors’ Contact Details: Vincent Fitzpatrick e:vincent.fitzpatrick@northnorfolk.gov.uk & Simon Hester e:simon.hester@northnorfolk.gov.uk (Binham, Langham & Stiffkey) Andrew Wells e.andrew.wells@north-norfolk.gov.uk (Sharrington, Field Dalling, Saxlingham & Morston) Ann.R.Green (01328 878273) e: ann.green@northnorfolk.gov.uk (Gunthorpe & Bale)

LANGHAM DOME VISITOR CENTRE Regular readers of the Local Lynx will be aware that the old ground to air gunnery training dome at RAF Langham has been developed as a Visitor Centre and is now one of North Norfolk’s leading tourist attractions, with some eight thousand visitors in the two years since it opened on 19 July 2014.

The major costs of the refurbishment

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the Dome.

The second key element is to open the Dome more often, particularly during the school holidays, and to open at other times to encourage more educational and special visits by groups eg schools, RAFA branches, other historic associations etc, but to do this we need to increase our pool of dedicated volunteers to staff the Dome.

So we need to ask these bottom line questions to members of our local community and visitors - are you willing to join the “Friends” and ensure the Dome Visitor Centre remains available in the longer term, and would you be willing to join our pool of volunteers (for which FoLD membership is encouraged but is not essential). For volunteers full training is given, and you will find that it is a most enjoyable social interaction with members of the public who are visiting the Dome with a genuine and sometimes very wide ranging interest and knowledge of the history we are displaying.

If you would like more information on the Dome and/or wish to join FoLD or volunteer please contact the Dome Manager Val Bowers on 07762 205578 or e-mail val@langhamdome.org. We very much look forward to welcoming you to our friendly and eclectic Dome community.

THE POPPY CENTRE Holt & District Dementia Support Group Every Tuesday morning 10.30-12.30 pm Our drop-in café is held in the Meeting Room, St. Andrew's Church, Holt, NR25 6BB. A warm welcome is offered to those living with dementia, in Holt and the surrounding area, and to their carers. Do come and see what we have to offer and stay as long as you like. We serve coffee, tea and delicious home-made cakes. A number of activities are available including games, reminiscence sessions, art and craft, singing sessions and quizzes. Monthly relaxation sessions are available for carers. We also have visiting speakers; and information is available from specialist agencies.

Parking is available at Gresham’s Pre Prep School (to the right of the church drive). Wheelchairs are available from the Centre, if required, and we will provide you with a parking sticker to put on your car's dashboard.

If you wish to arrange help with transport please contact Holt Area Caring Society, 01263 711243. For more information please contact Wendy Richley, 01263 715950.

DEMENTIA FRIENDS INFORMATION SESSION Tuesday 6th September, 5 - 6pm The Meeting Room St. Andrew's Church, Holt, NR25 6BB The information session will be presented by Eleanor Sidgwick and Wendy Richley, both Volunteer Dementia Champions. The purpose of the session is to give people an insight into what it is like to have dementia and, through gaining a better understanding of the disease, be enabled to help those living with dementia in our community. The session is free of charge.

Tea and cake at 4.45 pm. Please ring Eleanor 01263 710617 or Wendy 01263 715950 to book a place.

The Home Visiting Service The Home Visiting service offers respite for carers looking after someone living with dementia in their home. Our trained volunteers offer company, support and reassurance to the client, enabling carers to take time out for 2-3 hours. Visits are pre-arranged to suit the needs of clients and carers. For further information please contact Eleanor Sidgwick, 01263 710617, mob: 07876 185345, e-mail: emsidgwick@gmail.com or Bizz Horsley 01263 713918 e-mail: bizzh@tiscali. co.uk.

Both the Poppy Centre and the Home Visiting services are free of charge, although donations are welcome. For further information please visit our website: www.holtdementiasupport.org.uk.

For more articles on WWI see centre pages i - iv.

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WW1 AUXILLARY HOSPITALS AND VADS At the outset of WW1 in the hot summer of August 1914, it would have been impossible for anyone regardless of where they stood in the social structure to have envisaged the immense changes in the coming four years that would impact on the whole fabric of life as they knew it.

Men went off to fight a war on foreign soil and suddenly everything changed. Firstly, there was the everyday work still to be done and in addition the work arising from the very consequences of the war.

It was in this maelstrom of upheaval that women in particular suddenly found themselves in a very different world and new doors opened for them. The range of work undertaken was immense from the Women’s Land Army to keep the nation and its army fed through to the Munitionettes manufacturing weapons and everything else in between.

However, from the beginning it soon became very clear that the one role that soon became a necessity was that of a Volunteer Aid Detachment (VAD) working under the Red Cross and St Johns Ambulance. Very quickly a network of over 3,000 temporary auxiliary hospitals were set up chosen from over 5,000 offers of accommodation. These would range from large houses down to small local village halls.

In our area of North Norfolk the following were the nearest to Binham: Berry Hall, Walsingham Oddfellows Hall, Walsingham Gunthorpe Hall, Melton Constable Swanton House, Melton Constable Letheringsett Hall, Holt Cranmer Hall , Fakenham Holkham Farm House, Holkham A very disciplined structure was set up to manage the wounded from the battle zones at the Front moving them away through clearing stations and for those not well enough to resume fighting were brought back to the UK to recuperate. Those who did not have life threatening injuries found their way to these more rural locations and it is known were preferred to the stricter regime of the military hospitals.

In many cases local women from the neighbourhood volunteered in the hospitals part-time. There were also

some paid roles, such as cooks. Volunteers who worked at auxiliary hospitals were usually too old or young to work in a military hospital. Many were unable to leave home for six months due to family commitments, but were willing to sign a three-month hospital contract.

The Red Cross has now digitised the records of serving VADs and you can search by name or hospital.

The records for Walsingham indicate that two ladies from Binham undertook duties and shows the diversity in the tasks they undertook .

Miss Gladys Fox was engaged from 22 March 1915 to 30 November 1916 as a night nurse. Her personnel card indicates that she completed 850 hours with no pay. She later went on to undertake nursing training at The Norfolk and Norwich Hospital.

Mrs Margaret Harris was engaged from February 1915 through to December 1918. Her personnel record states “Has worked at home, making shirts etc for the hospital at Walsingham.

Sent garden produce once a fortnight.”

The women came from all walks of life to engage in the war work as the record shows to the left.

Miss Violet Parry Okeden 1875 -1966 was born in 1875 at The Abbey, Little Walsingham, the niece of Mr Henry Lee Warner. At the age of 39 having lived the life of a genteel lady, she signed up to become a Nurse finishing on 31 December 1918 in the senior position of Matron Commandant in charge of the day to day running of the hospital in Walsingham. She was mentioned in the Gazette 1917 and awarded the OBE in the Kings Honours List 1918.

Penny Alford

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You can find a wealth of information and records at http://www.redcross.org.uk.

de Guerre (both are medals for bravery) the same night: 2lt Muriel Thompson and Sergeant Norma Lowson. The Croix de Guerre was also awarded to Tpr Winnie Mordant and Aileen Faulkner; and the MM was awarded also to drivers Sadie Bonnell, Margaret Davidson, Nellie Dewhurst, Hilda Dickinson, Win Elwes (of Congham), Gordon Brown, Catherine Fabling, Aileen Faulkner, Josephine Pennell and Sergeant Evelyn, as well as to three drivers from the FANY (First Aid Nursing Yeomanry) called Elizabeth Callender, Elsie Curtis and – Richardson. (Note B).

Lady Dorothy Feilding, daughter of the Earl of Denbigh, with three of her sisters, Lady Clare, Lady Elizabeth (“Bettie”) and Lady Victoria, became ambulance drivers in Belgium, for the Munro Ambulance Corps (an all-volunteer unit), where they met May Sinclair, Elsie Knocker and Mairi Chisholm. “Dot” was the first woman to be awarded the MM for bravery in the field and she also received the Croix de Guerre from the French and the Order of Leopold from the Belgians.

Perhaps the bravest of the brave, were the Scottish lady Mairi Gooden-Chisholm and Elsie Knocker, who set up a British First Aid Post in a cellar 100 yards behind the frontline in Pervyse, just north of Ypres (“wipers” to the British) – where over three and a half years they treated the wounded. And these two highly courageous women were both decorated with the Order of Leopold II, Knights Cross (with palm) by King Albert I of Belgium, and with the MM, and both were made Officers of the Most Honourable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem; and Chisolm was also decorated with the Order of Queen Elisabeth of Belgium and with the 1914 Star. The two became the most photographed women of the war. (Note C). Mairi Chisholm.

Notes/Sources. (A). Kate Adie, Fighting on the Home Front: the Legacy of Women in World War I [2014]. (B). The Daily Mirror p.1, dated July 23rd 1918, “Medals for Women”, courtesy of Julet Webster - and from her book in draft entitled “Leaves from Honor Elwes’ Diary”; Monica E. Baly, A History of the Queen’s Nursing Institute: 100 Years 1887-1987, pp.8184. (C). Adie, ibid; pp.207-210; Wikipedia sub Mairi Chisholm.

For more articles on WWI see centre pages i - iv.

MORE BRAVE WOMEN IN WWI Perhaps you know these names (This is the second part of an article in Issue 104, centre pages iii & iv by Jock Wingfield. See www.locallynx.co.uk)

In 1914, 652 nurses of the Queen’s Nursing Institute were called up to do district nursing in hospitals in England, but some were sent out to the Serbian Relief Fund and some, like Miss Tylecote, were on the retreat to Salonika. Some went to India and some, like Miss Graveson, went to the Russian steppes and a few went to France and Belgium. Ysabel Birkbeck of Westacre was most brave working on the continent with the formidable Scottish Womens’ Ambulance Service.

Mabel Stobart took 16 nurses to Serbia, where they met Dr. Elsie Inglis of the Scottish Women’s Hospitals; and Nurse Flora Sandes of Popplewell near York actually became a Serbian Army sergeant-major! (see note A) In late July 1918 the following courageous ambulance drivers – in the VAD (Voluntary Aid Detachments) - who had travelled to the continent were awarded the MM (Military Medal) and the Croix

“FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS” Film Night at Blakeney Village Hall Friday 21 October, 6.30 for 7pm A significant patron of the Arts in the 1940s, this New York socialite always wanted to sing opera, despite her distinct lack of talent. Directed by Stephen Frears, this comedy drama is highly entertaining and features a quality performance from Hugh Grant as Jenkins’ attentive husband and a totally charming performance by the wonderful Meryl Streep in the title role.

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BALE DIARY

BALE

26th August 2016 There’s something special about August. It’s late summer with a tinge of regret, but at the same time it’s school holidays and beaches and sand-between-the-toes and silly season.

The verges are full of seed heads and dry flowers that have finished, or the grass and plants are cut down and drying. The oak trees in the hedges are dark green, some full of pale acorns, mornings are darker, misty and cool, some evenings there is a harvest moon before the sun has gone down, or there are wonderful displays of cloud - our short evening walks always a pleasure.

I went on a bat and moth watching evening at Natural Surroundings on the Bayfield estate; saw and heard wonders – five kinds of bat, including the one we heard but couldn’t see, Daubenton’s bat, which skims the lake there. More different kinds of moths, trapped the previous night, including a huge poplar hawk moth, young harvest mice in a big aquarium ready to release, and slow worms, a whole shiny metallic taupe wriggling mass of youngsters and one huge adult – which we released in the dark under a sheet of corrugated iron.

Morning skies are also a delight though some mornings we are up too late, the sun gets up a bit too fast and hot for us and tree shade is always welcome.

Cakes Lane has more shade, but where the sun comes in it’s trapped and there’s no wind. Mostly it is quite overgrown and the lower part a green tunnel.

Miss T, the little lurcher, has caught so many sweethearts, which I’ve combed out of her woolly wispy coat that she’s looking exceptionally well groomed at the moment.

In the garden the chicory has outgrown the salad bed with huge blue flowers every morning and ripe damsons falling make me think of that cake I used to make.

Olive oil and yoghurt cake with damsons and dark chocolate, adapted from Ottolenghi’s apple and olive oil cake: A big handful of pumpkin seeds, lightly toasted (in the oven as it heats up) As many ripe damsons as I can pick from my tree, maybe half a kilo, a kilo would probably be better, cut into quarters and de-stoned A bar of Green and Blacks 70% cocoa dark chocolate sliced up with a knife

Contact: Jane Wheeler 01328 878656 design@janewheeler.co.uk

BALE CHURCH FETE June 2016 The Tea Lady’s Tale We stand behind the tables of cups and saucers, sugar and milk, giant teapots filled (about fifteen teabags each) the water boilers bubbling behind us, and other tables full of cakes and filled rolls, ready for two hours of hectic tea-serving. Not too windy today, a plus, and sunny as well, very promising. Behind the low garden wall there is a queue of people – Walter announces the opening, and in they stream. The brass band (Sheringham and Cromer) in their blue blazers, begin to play with a swing.

We have a little while before people start to feel thirsty, to make sure we have everything as ready as possible. But very soon here they are, familiar elders, mums and dads with hungry children clasping cakes, asking for squash, three teas please, make it strong, how much is that, do you have a tray? We start to run out of cups, have to fill more empty teapots, trying not to scald ourselves – quite an art – coffees on the table behind, keeping the milk jug full.

At half time the band join the queue, and there are stall-holders needing refreshments, four or five teas at a time. We don’t get much of a chance to buy remnants, cakes, plants, books, white elephant goodies, guess the weight of the cake, try the bottle stall, the tombola... until the end when all exhausted punters are on their way home or collapsed at the tables on the lawn waiting for the raffle prize-giving, full of tea, cake, rolls; the teapots have the last dregs cooling, and the delicious filled rolls are on sale (I grab a couple for supper).

This year the fete was a great success, we made five hundred pounds or so more than last year. Thanks, as always, to Walter and Joanna Hammond, for organising it all and providing their idyllic garden for the event.

Thanks to all the village volunteers for their hard work, and thank you to all the givers for the donations.

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280g plain flour (I used organic pasta “O” flour) 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 tsb baking powder 1 1/4 tsp bicarbonate of soda 120ml olive oil 160g caster sugar (I used organic granulated cane sugar) 1/2 vanilla pod 2 eggs (large) lightly beaten 2 large tablespoons of plain low fat yoghurt grated zest of 1 lemon 2 egg whites (large) 1. Grease and line 20cm springform cake tin with baking parchment.

2. Preheat oven to 170 deg c. (gas 3 to 3.5) sift flour cinnamon, salt, baking powder and bicarb. Set aside.

3. Mix oil and sugar in a fresh bowl. add the seeds of the vanilla pod. gradually add the lightly beaten eggs; the mix should be smooth and thick. add the damsons, yogurt, and chocolate, then lightly fold in the dry ingredients.

4. Whisk the egg whites in a clean bowl until they have a meringue consistency. fold them into the batter in 2 additions. (Try to lose as little air as possible).

5. Pour the batter into the lined tin, add a topping of toasted pumpkin seeds and place in the oven. bake for 1 1/2 hours or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. remove from the oven and leave to cool in the tin.

This adaptation of the recipe rose beautifully. the damsons turned a rosy red colour, and the cake was brownish.

Jane Wheeler

Doye family were not only extremely speedy with the dicerolling, but also very competitive and proved too good for the rest of the participants. We hope that the visitors from Field Dalling (also very welcome!) were not put off and will join us again next year to try to exact their revenge.

The barbeque on August Bank Holiday Saturday was well-attended by the usual happy crowd, plus various visiting family and friends, and the food was fabulous.

Many thanks to Alastair and Paul for the exotic lamb and salads and to Geeta for the wonderful Eton Mess dessert.

Now, sadly, a low point on the social calendar…

We must apologise to everyone who attended Fish and Chips in August, when the van didn’t get to us in time. This was due to an unfortunate misunderstanding which has now been dealt with and we are pleased to say that we are back on track for the traditional gathering on the second Friday of the month. We hope to see you all there on 14th October and 11th November. As always, bring your own drinks and, if possible a little something for the raffle.

By the time you receive this, the Open Book Group and the Tractor Run will have taken place and news of these events will be in the December Lynx.

The Harvest Supper is on 1st October, so you will probably be reading this too late if you haven’t already bought your ticket. If you receive this Lynx before the end of September and would like to come, tickets are £12 from 01328 878511. If you are one of the unlucky people who miss out, a report will follow next time!

We are holding another Quiz Night on Saturday 26th November. Tickets are £10 including supper and there will be a wine/soft drinks bar. Teams of 6-8 are welcome, or individuals can be put into teams on the night. As we have limited space in the Village Hall, it is advisable to book as soon as possible. Call 01328 822012 or 07793 214703 for tickets.

VILLAGE HALL NEWS Some highs and lows to report this month on the Bale Village Hall front. First, the highs…

Since writing the last Lynx piece, the postponed “Spring Fling”, renamed “Summer Fun” has taken place and seemed to be aptly named. A new activity was introduced this year - Speed Snakes & Ladders – which proved to be quite manic, as was the Beetle Drive section of the evening.

Unfortunately for the more mature amongst us – and here I mean anyone over thirty – we had some very welcome newcomers to the village taking part; the children of the

VILLAGE HALL SOCIAL CLUB DRAW July 2016 Dan Moore £25 Holmes family £10 Alastair Macorkindale £5 John Allison £5

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August 2016 Mary Turnbull John Wall Susan Buttifant Adam Chapman

£25 £10 £5 £5

BINHAM Contact: Liz Brady 01328 830830 lizdavenport@f2s.com

MARION HUNDLEBY 1925 - 2016 In 1967 Marion and Arthur bought Hill House, the pretty 16th century cottage standing proudly looking straight up Front Street. From then on they drove from their family home in London to spend most weekends in Binham becoming increasingly involved with the Priory. Both, being talented artists, fully appreciated the beauty and significance of the Priory, as our parish church and an historic building of national importance.

Arthur was Churchwarden for over 30 years and Marion, one time Secretary of the PCC. We got to know them well through the Priory, Maureen becoming the fellow Churchwarden with Arthur and both of us helping with presenting the summer concerts they had been organising after taking over in 1990 from the founders, David and Jane McCormack.

Looking round the Priory today you see much evidence of the impact they made on restoring the fabric, especially the conservation of the octofoil window at the west end, and designing and over-seeing the printing of much of the literature, cards and other merchandise displayed to raise funds for the Priory. In all these activities they were a team, Marion supporting and being very complementary to Arthur.

As a couple it was an education to be with them, Marion was widely read and very articulate, both loving travel when they had the opportunity, recounting the sights and atmosphere of places visited. They also derived much pleasure from entertaining their family at Hill House.

In the last few years, becoming frailer, they came to live permanently at Hill House, struggling a little to come to terms with their reduced abilities, but greatly helped by their resident carer. Through the summer this year Marion’s health deteriorated. We saw her a few days before she died peacefully at home on 5th August with the family around her.

In this last visit Marion was very tired but lucid, reminiscing about the concerts. A particular occasion

again amused us when she spoke of the time Trevor Pinnock, the international harpsichordist and orchestral conductor they had introduced to Binham Concerts. He stayed overnight with them after a Saturday evening concert and agreed to play the organ for the Sunday service. The word went round that “Trevor had played really well last Sunday”. Most in Binham were surprised when they heard “Trevor” had great musical talents to add to that of running Binham Superstore!

Marion smiled serenely and gently dropped asleep.

We will remember that smile for a long time. A fitting memory of a fine lady it has been a privilege to know.

Maureen and David Frost

SUMMER IN NORFOLK As described by children As part of the 2016 Binham village show at the start of the summer holidays, the local and visiting children were encouraged to submit poems about their school holidays, paintings of their favourite places, gingerbread person or seed tray gardens.

We wanted to share with you just how creative they were this year. The winner and runners up of the 7-15 year old poems were: On my summer holiday (Holly Cook), Lifeboats (Samuel Riley) and Muddy Creeks (Thomas Riley) shown here.

Thomas Riley

Oscar Burnett-Hall - Lion

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Louis Carpenter - Red Kite

BINHAM VILLAGE FETE We had a very successful fete this year despite the wind! Everything had to be tied down but it all went well and we raised a good amount of money for our village hall.

Thank you to everybody who gave up their time to help on a stall, you all know who you are and we couldn't do it without you.

The fun dog show was very well supported and it was lovely to see such a variety of animals.

As usual local businesses supported us with prizes for games and the raffle. So thanks go to GJL Animal Feeds, The Chequers Pub, Wordingham Plant Hire, Arthur Howell Butchers, Howells Superstore, Pensthorpe Reserve, Abbey Farm Dairy.

I hope to see you all next year.

Alex Wales (on behalf of the village hall committee)

Binham Priory Harvest Thanksgiving Service Sunday 9th October at 11am Everyone welcome.

BINHAM VILLAGE HALL Bingo, Friday 21st October for Binham’s Christmas celebrations. Doors open 6.30pm, eyes down 7 pm.

Hope to see you there. More information Liz 01328 830519.

Coffee morning for the Poppy Appeal. Friday 11th November. 10am – 12noon. Raffle, tombola and bring and buy. More information Liz 01328 830519.

Christmas supper. Saturday 3rd December. Traditional Christmas meal, £8, more information later, watch out for posters.

Make a note on your calendar, everybody welcome.

BINHAM PRIORY CONCERT Wednesday 5th October, 7.30pm Schola Cantorum & Orchestra directed by John Bowley sacred choral music including excerpts from Fauré's Requiem and orchestral items Free admission (retiring collection)

BINHAM ART GROUP In August the Group held a very successful Exhibition in Binham village hall. There was a tremendous range of styles and mediums produced by members of the Group, which this year was supplemented by several local guest artists. The Friday evening preview was a great success, attended by over 100 invited guests. They were all treated to a fine display of artworks, as well as delicious canapes and wine.

The Exhibition was held over the Saturday and Sunday and was well attended by locals and visitors to the area. In total 18 pictures were sold, which gives great encouragement to our members.

We have arranged a demonstration by that very well know local artist Martin Sexton for Tuesday 8th November. Come along and learn with us.

If you are interested in painting or other crafts please come along to Binham Village Hall on a Tuesday morning between 10 and 12, and you will find some like minded and friendly people, plenty of encouragement and coffee and biscuits all for £3.

Any enquiries or further details please ring John Hill 01328 830378 or Brenda/Lionel Wilde 01328 830525.

BINHAM HARVEST 2016 It is time to give thanks and celebrate the annual harvest. The majority of the crops are gathered and in storage. As we prepare this edition of the Lynx we see the farmers preparing for next year’s crops in and around the village fields, ploughing, planting and irrigation pipes being laid to give the crop the best chance.

Harvest Supper Saturday 8th October Binham Village Hall £8 tickets include supper and a glass of wine/fruit juice.

For tickets ring Liz 01328 830519.

Everybody welcome.

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BINHAM & HINDRINGHAM OPEN CIRCLE We are a women's group that meet on the third Thursday of each month at 7.15pm in Hindringham village hall. It would be lovely to welcome new members to our group. Either come along or ring our secretary Sue Elkins 01328 878487 for more information.

Our next meeting will be on Thursday 20th October when we will be holding a Harvest Supper and Auction of produce. If you would like to come along we each take a contribution to the meal and something for the auction.

In November Pauline Scott will be talking to us about Binham Priory in past and present times.

CHARITY DOG WALK AND LUNCH On Sunday 16th October there will be a charity dog walk to raise money for Cancer research UK at the village hall.

You do not have to have a dog, you can just come for a walk around the farm followed by bangers and mash in the hall. If you cannot manage the walk but would like to come for lunch that is fine but please let me know so that I can cater for you.

It costs £5 per person and there will be a raffle. I am hoping that Barclays Bank will be matching the amount raised again this year. Please join us to raise money for such a great cause.

Alex Wales (01328 830580)

BINHAM LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Letter of Our Lives The Royal Mail has been part of the historic fabric of our country for 500 years. 2016 coincides with the 500th anniversary of the knighting of Brian Tuke, secretary to both Henry VIII and Cardinal Wolsey. Sir Brian Tuke, became the first Master of the Posts, in 1516.

To mark this anniversary, Royal Mail is asking people to unearth letters and postcards that give a personal account of life in the UK from centuries ago to the present day. Any handwritten letter or postcard that you are prepared to share can be submitted to the project, and examples will be published online at www.royalmailgroup.com/letterofourlives.

The idea is that personal letters will build a picture of how life really was for communities throughout the ages.

HAVE YOU COME FAR? An Evening with Royalty Queen Victoria, who emerged as a surprise TV star in this autumn's schedules, will go on to enjoy a leading role in another royal show, this time taking place right here in North Norfolk. The Queen Empress figures in the latest fund-raising supper show to be staged at Binham Memorial Hall - Have You Come Far? An Evening with Royalty - at 6.30pm on Saturday 15th October.

This production explores the rich - and sometimes outrageous - story of Britain's kings and queens from the 10th Century to the present day and takes in, almost to the hour, the 950th anniversary of the best-known date in British History: 1066 and all that.

The show derives its title from the all-purpose question reckoned to be used by the royal family - "the firm", as they call themselves - when confronted by tongue-tied members of the public. It takes an affectionate and more or less random look at some of our memorable monarchs, their consorts, their downright ill-behaved servants and even their beloved dogs.

It is brought to you by the same team which produced previous popular village entertainments drawing on words, music and images to celebrate the restless sea, the romantic moon and the pleasures - and pains - of love.

So, in this year of important royal milestones, make a possibly historic date for a royal night out. Tickets £12, including supper and a complimentary glass of

Future Talks Thursday 27th October 2016, Shakespeare’s Gardens Jackie Bennett Thursday 24th November 2016 The Wool Story Roger Arguille Both at 7:30pm Binham Village Hall. £2 members , £4 non members, all welcome

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wine or juice, are available from 01328 830639 or 01328 830362. Proceeds to the Friends of Binham Priory.

BINHAM CHRISTMAS FAIR Saturday 19th November 2016 At the village hall you should find just what you need for those affordable and different presents and stocking fillers for all ages.

This year we have several new things with lots to offer the young so that they can buy well priced presents for family and friends.

It is open from 9am till 2pm. Try to be early so as not to miss the best bargains.

BINHAM SUPPORT FOR THE HOLT FOODBANK Many thanks to all for continuing to support the Foodbank. Our village’s contribution was 49.3 kg of food during July, out of a total for Cromer and District of 2,150.25 kg. To this will be added the cash contents of the collection box in the Chequers where the receipt will be published on the pub notice board. Details of items currently needed are at the Chequers, the Church and Howells Superstore. They do vary but currently include UHT milk, long life fruit juice, tinned meat and fruit, children’s toothpaste and toothbrushes, also chocolate treats for children.

The need for help does not diminish during the holiday months. Children are at home with no access to free school meals etc. Added to this is the lack of sufficient social housing and ever increasing cutbacks to the support services.

For more information please contact Richard and Norah on 01328 830723.

BINHAM AND COCKTHORPE PC Priory Crescent/Walsingham Road site development We have recently learnt from Broadland that procedures for issuing all formal consents are proceeding more slowly than anticipated. The site start is now not expected until next year, probably by the late spring/early summer. Consequently we have decided it is premature to begin the consultation with the parish about suggesting a name for the new access road or set up the Liaison Group with Broadland and the contractor to represent the interests of the village generally and local residents in particular. We will continue to monitor the situation and report any progress.

Additional notice board With the initiative of Liz Brown and the skills of Stan Hewitt an additional smart notice board has been made and erected in the bus shelter on Front Street.

Residents and local business can use this board to display notices, subject to the Parish Council’s guidelines displayed on the original board, but we ask that out-of-date notices be removed.

David Frost

COCKTHORPE Contact: Maurice Matthews 01328 830350 maurice.matthews@peppard.net See page 14 for Binham and Cockthopre PC news.

BINHAM MEMORIAL HALL 100+ CLUB WINNERS July winners: £25 Wendy Marsh, £10 Lionel Wilde, Hannah Wales, £5 Mandy Shortis, Julia Wright, C Fowle August winners: £25 Mike Calvert, £10 June Read, David Frost, £5 Alex Howell, S Jennings, Becky Bunting 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 As we acquire more knowledge, things do not become more comprehensible, but more mysterious.

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continued on page 15

STORIES FROM OUR READERS: A WWI SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT WE WILL REMEMBER

completely enveloped in smoke and flame. Bursts registered occasionally on the enemy, but on the whole they persisted in looking rather neat and toy like. Our own B.C.s began to take it. Suddenly “Indefatigable” was hit in her magazines and almost at once blew up. Great chunks almost as big as ourselves were flung in the air above us. The tempo was changing quickly. Our destroyers were sent in to attack: and were met halfway by the enemy … Everyone knows, (or could if he wished) of the fighting at Jutland. It was an unholy dogfight, and an unholy mess…

As we formed up to go in, looking for a torpedo target, rather astern of us with sudden ugly dark red flash and huge explosion “Queen Mary” went the way of “Implacable”. Our calm sunlit grand-stand view was torn with the angry wash of shops altering course at speed to attack, and evade. The air was filled with cordite fumes, and funnel smoke, gunflashes and escaping steam, some of it for screen. Shells shrieked overhead and torpedoes must have been loping in on all sides. “Nestor” was ‘stalled’ ahead of us with two other destroyers in the offing: our remaining B.C.s and the huns were each turning 16 points back to the north. The hun battle fleet was coming into view from the south: they were part of our target. We got off 4 “fish” on them in two hectic runs, unsupported, and I knew then how a partridge must feel as it passes down a line of guns.

We had been holed in the deck above my cabin, and in the oil tanks below it: the firemain was cut and water was pouring into the oil. Our mainmast and after gun shelter had gone over the side altogether and the Chief Stoker was busy with a hatchet on the wire rigging which looked like fouling the propeller. We had been about an hour and a half between the lines, dodging the salvoes like a snipe, and our silhouette looked rather un-English as we came back.

“Warspite” with her helm jammed, and rather suspicious, told us afterwards that she nearly sank us on spec.! That really ended our own part of the action.

After that we had another watching brief. Our Battle Fleet was coming in from the north, and we watched “Windy Corner” at less hazard-range. Our ship’s company was one of the many that cheered as “Defence” crashed to her end, and soon after her, “Invincible”. We passed the bow and the stern of the latter afterwards up-ended but until then I thought they were both enemy ships: the first we felt sure we had seen put in the bag the whole day. Visibility was going and had soon gone. Between 9 and 10 pm night formations and courses were being detailed, and, short of oil we returned to Rosyth to fill up.

My cabin was a joke! Shell fragments, flattened bullets, (from my own pistol holster!) bedding, books, clothing, and a good plastering

Now in our third year of commemoration, we include a mix of memories and memorabilia sent in to us by readers from our local villages.

Bale rep Jane Wheeler writes: This is an extract from my great uncle, Samuel George Wheeler from Norwich. There is 18 months of diary with lots of photos, up to a few weeks before Jutland, when it stops. He edited this right down for an article in the EDP.

A TRUANT FROM HARWICH Some recollections of the 31st May 1916 With seven others of the Harwich Force, near the end of May 1916, the Morsom, a fairly new “Admiralty M” class destroyer, unexpectedly found herself despatched to Rosyth.

Another submarine hunt, we understood, and were rather bored. We were also rather lonely without our Captains D. and Commodore T. to organise us for fun and games, and with my stoker messenger at a small table in the cabin flat, I had just made up the leeway on about 18 month’s store accounts. As a result the Surg. Prob. Had ordered me to my bunk. The tedium and ignominy of store accounts invariably gave me a temperature, but this time I was firmly diagnosed as “flu”.

We left immediately after oiling and apart from minor disturbances I slept fairly solidly through most of the morning, forenoon, and early afternoon. The battle cruisers appeared to be with us, but it was our own action bell that made me think it was time to get up. By way of reporting ‘fit’ I clambered up to the forebridge, and there they all were: not submarines but big ships: our own dark grey B.C.s to starboard and five others, light grey, looking like toys in the bright afternoon sun, on the horizon to port.

It was the complete grandstand view: and we appeared to be on the now engaging bow of the “Lion”. We were doing about 27 to 30, but soon had to push on to “full” to clear the range. I took a hurried tour below, and by the time I got to the top of the engine-room ladder again a long-range exchange of shot was taking place above our heads: the sharp crack with the flash, the tearing noise of the projectile, and then the heavy boom from the gun succeeded each other in steady sequence. It was exciting, but anxious to watch: “Lion” was hit almost at once, and from time to time looked

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of oil fuel! – all mixed!: and amongst them – my store books! Anyone who knows the efficacy of the single entry “destroyed by enemy action” will appreciate my stoker messenger’s feelings, and my own.

Our casualty list, having seen so many at such close quarters, it seems almost impossible to believe, was “one man slightly wounded”. The total British casualties at Jutland were I believe 6685 of whom 5999 gave their lives.

Samuel George Wheeler, retired as Captain.

It is romantic to see the lights of other ships, lighthouses, and lightships, to think of all the good people asleep in their beds, and to hope that one's service is adding a trifle to their security.

"Sleep on a little while, And in thy slumber smile."

First Sight of the Enemy The great story of taking the Grand Fleet to sea from Scapa or the Firth of Forth has never been fully told.

A couple of short signals from the Commander-in-Chief and the whole armada, perhaps 100 vessels, threaded its way out through the Pentland Firth, with its furious tides, aided by a minimum of shore lights, the ships showing but one dim light each. There were few accidents and the whole business was a triumph of mathematical precision designed

by Lord Jellicoe and his staff. The same process was, of course, being carried out with level skill from such places as the Firth of Forth, the Humber and Harwich.

We swept the North Sea over and over again - without a "find" as far as the Scapa Force was concerned, and we envied our comrades in the battle cruiser force under Admiral Beatty, who had various opportunities to engage the enemy and drive him back to harbour. In March 1915 we were steaming in line-abreast when Dreadnought, 400 yards on our port-hand, reported a submarine in sight. The division of battleships was turned away from the direction reported, but it was too late for Dreadnought to conform, as the submarine was close to her, and my captain decided to continue with Dreadnought.

Within three minutes of the first alarm, Dreadnought rammed U29 as we steamed at high-speed 900 yards from our sister ship, ready to ram in case Dreadnought missed.

The bow of the submarine came out of the water alongside Dreadnought's bridge, then about 14 feet of her upper-deck, more or less horizontal. Finally, the submarine sank vertically stern-down, but not before her number had been read. It was our first sight of the enemy, after many thousands of miles of cruising, and it was strange to think of the crew going to so terrible a death while scenes of such great enthusiasm were being enacted in our ship.

The German captain, Otto Weddigen, had been given the name of "The Polite Pirate," and would offer the captain of a merchant ship a box of cigars, procured from the latter's ship, which he had just sunk. Our ship was commanded by Captain A. T. Hunt, whose fearlessness brushed every difficulty aside. He was reputed to have shot five lions before breakfast. We had a small billiard-table aboard and he could beat everyone playing only with his right hand and with his left behind his back.

A SAILOR REMEMBERS Gunthorpe resident and Church Warden Penny Brough’s great uncle was Vice Admiral Sir James Troup KBE, CB. Sir James wrote his memoirs “A Sailor Remembers” for his family before he died in May 1975, and Penny has kindly offered them to be published in the Lynx – starting with this extract covering his service in WW1 and at the time of the Battle of Jutland in this the 100th anniversary year. Readers will recognize that today’s revisionist historians would probably disagree with some of Sir James’ recollections.

Dreadnoughts As I was qualified in 1909 to navigate any of HM ships, appointments to larger ships followed. I was serving in HMS Temeraire, a Dreadnought class ship, when war broke out in 1914, and later in HMS Royal Sovereign, a super dreadnought. Almost all the First War was served in the Grand Fleet in the North Sea, and based at Scapa Flow.

In the Navy, ships are navigated under the captain's direction by the same officer throughout every passage, whatever its duration. This officer can therefore apply all his effort to learning and eliminating the effects of errors which are inherent in everything used in navigation - charts, compasses, patent logs, sextants, etc. It was also possible to develop one's judgment, although the sea can defeat the best efforts.

On the 36-hour run defending a convoy, from Scapa to Norway, the ship's course was altered every quarter of an hour or so - a most restless business. On two successive convoys we were at the first landfall within 500 yards of where we thought we should be, and ten miles wrong at the second landfall. Average visibility over the North Sea is low, but good landfalls were invariably made by Lord Jellicoe's flagship, which we endeavoured to emulate.

Landfalls had often to be made after 48 hours of cruising at high speed with incessant zigzagging necessitated by the submarine menace. To match personal skill against such difficulty and "making the land" after sighting nothing for a long spell gave one a bracing satisfaction.

All such work involved many sleepless nights. Once after the war we had the master of a college and a professor from Cambridge aboard. They were brought up to the bridge in the afternoon to see how we navigated the channels between the sandbanks of the Thames. One asked who replaced me on the bridge, and they could hardly credit that if they cared to look up again anytime between then and the next forenoon they would find me ready to welcome them. Sleepless nights were little worry until I was over 50, and a half-hour "doss" in the chart-house had a marvellous, reviving, effect.

Royal Sovereign I had the privilege of following Captain Hunt to HMS Royal Sovereign, which we took over from Portsmouth Dockyard. I had to sign my name under his on a receipt for this ship - rather a large transaction for me! We sailed from Portsmouth with a large company - all the ship's complement, naval "passengers" joining other ships at Scapa and numerous experts and workmen to ensure that the machines from their firms and the dockyard worked correctly -

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perhaps 1400 personnel in all.

We were not long away before I observed every time I came down from the bridge that the same civilian was always hanging around on the boat deck near the bridge ladder. He got into conversation with me and his only topic was the prospect of a submarine attack. Indeed, I heard that when he was absent he had a workman stationed to give instant per-sonal warning.

“I suppose we're in the worst part now for submarines?"

"Yes".

"How soon will we get clear?" "I wish I knew."

Then, next time.

"I suppose we're getting clear of the submarine area now?"

"I'm afraid not."

So it went on all the way round Cape Wrath to the Pentland Firth, any sadism I might possess having full play.

Poor devil!

Jutland It was a great disappointment that while we were working up our efficiency at Scapa the Battle of Jutland took place on May 31, 1916, shortly after our arrival, for we were not yet fit to fight in the Grand Fleet. The Battle of Jutland disappointed some critics. For myself, I am content to recall how Lord Jellicoe, with a minimum of information, deployed the Grand Fleet across the enemy's van; how they withdrew in confusion from his first cannonade, turned again towards the Horn Reef, then turned away from Lord Jellicoe's second cannonade and fled-76 hits by the Grand Fleet, two by the German High Seas Fleet. The withdrawal of the German fleet from Lord Jellicoe's battle fleet is a stubborn fact.

Lord Jellicoe I had the privilege of the friendship of Lord Jellicoe, a great, good, man. It was a moving experience to march in his funeral procession from Admiralty to St Paul's Cathedral. His body rests there with Nelson and Beatty. The route was packed by the public paying their last tribute to one of our greatest patriots and admirals, but it seemed singularly unnecessary for a woman to be standing on the Embankment with a placard which told us "Prepare to meet Thy God." The approach to the Cathedral was thronged and the bells of St Paul's ringing loudly seemed appropriately almost to drown the "Dead March”. A friend to whom I described the procession observed:"The British public is not a bad jury”.

With two other men I had shared the last meal Lord Jellicoe had downstairs. The talk was much about how to help the numerous officers and ratings who wrote to him with their troubles. He was experimenting with a hearing aid. At the end of the evening he said "If you don't mind, I don't think I'll come down to see you off. I've got a bit of a chill, and I think I'll take an aspirin and get to bed." I looked at him and saw something in his face that alarmed me. It was typical that nevertheless he came downstairs after us to give one of our number an address which he had recommended. Two days later the first bulletin on his health was issued, and I acted on the assumption that I would never see him again. It

is the only time I had ever had such a warning about anyone.

From Stiffkey, Steven Bashforth writes: Harold Parkin was my wife Beverley’s uncle. I bet there are not many people around who had an uncle who died in the First World War. He was older brother to Beverley's father Albert & she was late comer to the family (both parents over 40 when she was born). There is a plaque to Harold's memory in his old school at Barnsley, at the school which both Beverley's brother & our daughter Fritha attended. We still have Harold's 'death penny'. If I recall correctly, Harold died in the Battle of the Somme 100 years ago this month.

SOMEWHERE, 30 JUNE 1916 My dear Mother, I thought I would just drop you a line to let you know I am getting on alright. I am feeling in the best of health & spirits, & hope you are all keeping well at home.

The weather at present is a lot better than it was, though we still keep having showers of rain.

How did Frances like the handkerchief I sent her, I am sending one in this letter for Doris. I thought she would like one, they are very pretty little things. I should like to get something to send for our Albert only it is very difficult to send any parcel. I suppose he does get a warm little beggar. I should like to see him, never mind I am hoping to see you all before long, I am hoping the war will be over very soon, it’s getting a bit hot out here now.

I had a letter & a packet of cigarettes from Donnie today, he is getting a regular correspondent. You might tell him if you see him that I have received them alright. I will try & write him in a day or two but we are much too busy at present. Well I must close now with best love to all your loving son, Harold

MY DEAREST MOTHER Letters from Maj. Philip Hamond (Morston) 4 Aug 1916 Here I am writing to you two years exactly after that first dreadful Aug 4. Thank God we are all still here, but it is sad to think of two years clean gone out of our lives, though it comforts me very much to know that we are two whole years nearer the end than we were then. What a lot we have to be thankful for since that day. How little we guessed what a long dragging misery we were in for.

But anyway, we are now in a fair way to do the job and do it well and if I have to see it out, I shall be satisfied. What ages ago it is when we were happy at home and how deadly old I feel. I have only seen Rita for about 6 months since I married her and my child hardly knows me. Still, let’s cheer up and be thankful for what we have received, it’s only for a little longer, we are fully 2/3 through it.

7 Aug 16 I am sorry the Zepps have been annoying you. I don’t suppose Alice ever takes her boots off now. The swine fired a number of 15 inch shell into a town here (on market day) today, the place packed with women and children besides a few soldiers. They

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killed swarms I hear in the market place, which was like a butcher’s shop. But I didn’t go to see and don’t know if it was exaggerated, all these things are, but they did a lot of damage.

There are any amount of refugees on the roads just in like the old days but they ought to be thankful it’s summer time. Still it’s very sad to see the little children being lugged along dead beat. The gun that does it simply shakes everything here though it is 20 miles away.

25 Aug 16

Wipers Times, May 1916

I cannot conceive how you can be so stupid as to think of burglars. They are all here now and if they weren’t they would do you no harm, always supposing one could be found idiot enough to go to a place like Twyford.

We are still on the green hill quite happy strafing and getting nothing much back.

Why hasn’t Jack gone to the war instead of fooling about in Canada teaching signallers all this time, it’s all very nice and no doubt very useful, etc., etc., but if I live, I shall always thank God that I stuck it from the early bad days to the glorious finish, which is coming one day. If I’m not spared, I can’t help it.

I’ve done my bit anyhow.

There is no one here now of the fighting troups who has been so long as me.

God bless you all, Philip Hamond

THE MENIN GATE We Shall Remember Them In December 2015 my wife and I were privileged to have the opportunity to visit the Flanders battlefields and to witness the remembrance ceremony and wreath laying which takes place every evening, come rain or shine, and has done every night since 1928, apart from during WW2, at the Menin Gate - when buglers from the Ypres Fire Department play the Last Post.

It is a very moving and emotional experience to watch the ceremony and to be surrounded by the engraved names of almost 55,000 UK and Commonwealth dead (except New Zealand and Newfoundland), who fell in the Ypres Salient before August 2017. All those named on the walls of the Gate have no known graves, but they are only part of the 90,000 British and Commonwealth dead with no know graves, and in turn this is still only part of the 300,000 plus

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British and Commonwealth casualties on the Ypres Salient.

Thus the Menin Gate is just one of many memorials in the area as well as part of a much larger number of what are now Commonwealth War Grave cemeteries. Looking at the numbers of these sites, and the thousands of graves and names, any visitor has to wonder at the folly of politicians and the failures of our so called leaders from all the nations who led us down this road - not just once but twice within less than 30 years.

There are several web sites which provide detailed information on the Menin Gate and other memorials and cemeteries with commemorations to the battles in the Ypres Salient - one which I found very informative and with good links to other sites is www.greatwar. co.uk/ypres-salient/ memorial-menin-gate.htm. With so many casualties at the Menin Gate and other memorials and cemeteries, it is difficult to find individuals’ names or graves for oneself, but the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website at www.cwgc.org/ will provide any details required and is very easy to use.

As well as remembering our own dead we should also remember the losses of young and innocent lives amongst our allies and indeed our enemies. During our visit we also went to the German cemetery just outside Ypres at Langemark where 44,296 German war dead are buried more than 25,000 in a mass grave with only around 17,000 having been named. At Menin there is the largest German military cemetery in the West with some 48,000 dead having their final resting place.

According to Wikipedia the British Empire (as it then was) suffered some 931,000 combat deaths including missing in action in WW1, with another 2 million plus wounded. Amongst all the combatants there were some 8.2 million combat deaths or missing in action with more than 23 million wounded - both frightening and very depressing figures.

Another visit we made was to Tyne Cot Cemetery the largest cemetery for Commonwealth war dead in any war anywhere in the World. The area of the cemetery was fought over several times and the name "Tyne Cot" is believed to have been used by the Northumberland Fusiliers who saw a resemblance between the German concrete pill boxes, which still stand in the middle of the cemetery, and a typical Tyneside workers' cottage – hence Tyne Cot. The cemetery was designed by Sir Herbert Baker. The land on which the cemetery stands is the free gift in perpetuity of the Belgian people to those who are honoured here. It is a beautiful spot to locate the cemetery, but again it was for both of us a sobering experience, and we were left deeply saddened and wondering at the folly of mankind- which many might argue still exists today. Tyne Cot has another memorial to the missing containing the names of 33,783 soldiers of the UK forces, plus a further 1,176 New Zealanders, as well as graves for 12,000 dead more than 8,000 of whom are unnamed.

John Blakeley

continued from page 14

FIELD DALLING Contact: Anthony Smith 01328 830546 aesmith@pobox.com

FIELD DALLING & SAXLINGHAM SUMMER FETE Our village fete, held in mid August, was a very happy and successful afternoon aided, without doubt, by perfect summer weather. Right from the opening at 2pm, kindly carried out by our Rector Rev’d Ian Whittle, there were always a substantial number of friends, visitors and families of all ages, many of whom return year on year.

Whether browsing or buying from the stalls, trying their hand at the games, or just having a chat over a cup of tea and a slice of cake, there was plenty of traditional fun to be had whilst at the same time being entertained by excellent music, at just the right tempo, provided by The Norfolk Jazz Quartet.

As always on these occasions, the list of thank-you’s is extensive – from those who generously make donations in many different ways, to those who help to set up, run and then dismantle stalls, games or provide refreshments, as well as those who do all the background work, and then particularly the visitors who come to enjoy themselves and make the fete such a success.

We are also very grateful to the charity BREAK, who come at the end of the afternoon to collect things that have not been sold for distribution to their shops, thus ensuring that nothing donated goes to waste.

We are delighted this year to have raised in excess of £3,500, a record amount, which after expenses will be shared equally between the two village churches and the Villagers’ Hall. It was an afternoon of happy enjoyment to remember.

Bridget Nicholson, Chairman of the Fete Committee

Fixing the Roof The church roof has been leaking in several places for quite some time. One of Roy Findlater’s last acts as Fabric Officer was to submit an application to the Listed Places of Worship (LPoW) fund for a grant to help repair it. The fund is much in demand; it has received over 1500 applications against a budget of £88 million.

So we were very pleased to hear recently that Roy’s was one of 400 successful applications totalling £25m. St Andrew’s was awarded a grant of £76,000 and we will supplement this with £10,500 from our own Restoration Fund.

Birdsall, Swash & Blackman have been appointed to oversee the project. Our first task is to get a more detailed survey of the roof to determine more accurately the scope of the project. We will then need to go out to tender for the major works. We will also need to engage a structural engineer, an ecologist (bats!) and a Principal Designer (health and safety). Regular progress reports will follow.

Amanda Maundrell, Fabric Officer

THE BEREAVEMENT GROUP Fri 11th Nov 4 – 5:30pm It provides a safe, confidential space to talk through the issues that face us as we grieve. Meetings take place at Manor Farm Cottage, 67 Langham Road, Field Dalling. Normally held each month, but not in October, so the next one will be on Friday 11th November from 4.00 - 5.30pm.

Fiona Newton 01328 830947

ST ANDREW’S CHURCH Family Service & Animal Blessing Nine dogs and five homing pigeons brought their families to the church family service in August. Only our golden retriever was taken home; he got far too excited at the thought of being ordained and leading a service.

The homing pigeons went home on their own - a mere dalliance for them. James, their owner, told us that one had flown back from Lerwick in the Shetlands, and another from France. We marvelled at their speeds and their ability to find their particular shed in Field Dalling.

The dogs just wanted to be let off their leads to run and greet, with tails a-wagging. The bitches sat beautifully behaved with their owners in their pews, probably chatting to one another.

And so, owners and onlookers alike, we gave thanks to God for his amazing and varied creations.

Do join us another month. Everyone is most welcome.

Fiona

VILLAGERS’ HALL… …the place to meet Having hosted a very successful Summer Fete, Villager’s Hall is also proud to be the location for two charity events: the recent Charity Bingo and the Macmillan Coffee Morning to be held on Fri 30th Sep from 10am to 12 noon. These are just three examples of how our hall is being put to good use for the local and wider community.

To book Villagers’ Hall or find out more please see our website www.fdands.org.uk or contact Jeremy Mason: 01328 830573 or Steve Collins: 01328 830365.

Charity Bingo Night raises over £1,000!

Ian and Debbie Ladley, supported by family, friends, those who donated and the players who attended, raised

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GUNTHORPE Contact: John Blakeley 01263 861008 jbconsult@btinternet.com www.gunthorpefriends.co.uk

FOGPC July

50/50 Club Draw Results August

Be Kassapian £20.00 Louisa Clark £20.00 George Brough £10.00 Colin Dewing £10.00 Gertrude Shaw £5.00 Richard Francis £5.00 Penny Brough £5.00 Alice Campbell £5.00 Erica S-B £5.00 Fiona Flint £5.00 Sam Worsley £5.00 Daniel Worsley £5.00 Ali Lomax £5.00 Steve Lomax £5.00 At the time of the August Draw we had 123 members who had renewed their memberships - if you have not yet rejoined we would still urge you to do so every member adds to the monthly prize money!

Whether you are new to the village or have been here a while but not yet joined, and you would like more information on both the 50:50 Club and “Friends” memberships, please contact John Blakeley on 01263 861008.

As an early date for your diary the 50:50 Club Christmas Party with an enhanced draw and raffle prizes will be held on 17th December - more details in Lynx 111. Myfi Everett, Jeanette Rigby & John Blakeley

an astonishing £1,207! The evening broke all records in support of North Norfolk Radio Kids Trust Charity. A full house of about a hundred regulars and newcomers enjoyed a fun packed evening while raising muchneeded funds to support children in need in our area.

Debbie and Ian send a big thank you to all involved.

And not being ones to rest... it’s eyes down as normal on Friday evenings: Oct 14th, Nov 18th and Dec 16th.

Doors open at 6:30pm and, as ever, all are welcome. Do remember early booking with Ian is essential for the Christmas Prize Bingo on 16 December, as it is always well attended. Email him at: ian.ladley@yahoo.co.uk

Fish ’n’ Chips evenings We had a good turnout for the later start of 8pm on the 2nd Sept. All enjoyed fantastic fish and chips or anything else from the menu. For the remainder of the year it’s back to our 7pm time slot. If you haven’t tried supper from ‘The Man with the Van’, do come along next time - you won’t be disappointed. They normally take place at 7pm on the first Friday evening of every month: 7th Oct; 4th Nov and 2nd Dec.

ST MARY’S CHURCH NEWS As Churchwarden it is nice to be able to report on some personal news. On July 9th our grand-daughter, Isabella, was christened at St Marys. Ian Whittle took the service. Our daughter and Ben were married in Gunthorpe two years ago so it was lovely to see them home from Singapore to christen Isabella in the same church.

The Harvest Festival this year will be held on October 9th. Any donations of fruit, vegetables and dry goods would be greatly appreciated. Any help with decorating the church beforehand would be great. As always the produce will go to The Holt Youth Project after the service.

Penny Brough, Churchwarden

Harvest Supper on Sat 15th Oct at 7pm Please join us for a real community celebration at our harvest supper. Proper home-cooked food is provided (e.g. shepherd’s pie, lasagna, various puddings). You need to buy tickets in advance for £7.50 from Jill Labouchere on 830431. Please bring your own drinks.

Work continues on improvements In mid September, work is due to start on a second ladies toilet. It will take about two weeks. During this time the men’s toilet will serve as a somewhat trendy ‘unisex’ facility, so the hall will be still available for use.

200 Club If you're not in it - you can't win it! You may join the 200 Club at any time and pay pro rata for the remaining part of the year. To join contact Susie Collins on 01328 830365.

July’s lucky winners were: Rosemary Beeson – £50; M.Metcalfe – £25; Jill Labouchere - £15 August’s lucky winners were: Jenny Allison - £50; Jennie Lane - £25; Ian Allison - £15 Chas Lister

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grandest of grand draws. Happy visitors went away with purchases and prizes – many clutching exquisite knitted rabbits made and contributed by Nuala. Huge thanks to all from Gunthorpe and beyond who took part and made it a record-breaking year. A magnificent £6,000 plus was shared by the PCC and Village Institute.

We would like to say a big thank you to those who generously contributed prizes and donations, including a very kind anonymous donation to the funds.

We are extremely grateful to Marie and Jeremy Denholm, for opening the beautiful grounds of Gunthorpe Hall for all of us to enjoy and for their support and commitment to this event. Enormous thanks goes to them and their wonderful team who worked so hard throughout and provided superb cream teas and refreshments.

Now it’s time for Aunt Sally to retire for the year and helpers to build up their energy for July 2017, when the fete will be on Sunday 30th July - a date for your new diaries.

Appeal: Knitting yarn needed for future rabbits More old cricket balls needed for the Coconut Shy Contacts: Val King 01263 862265 valatt@btinternet.com Jenny Kelly 01263 860095 jennykellynorfolk@hotmail.com

FRIENDS OF GUNTHORPE PARISH CHURCH The Friends Fete BBQ was held in the Gunthorpe Hall gardens on Saturday 30th July. Many attended and the weather was kind. There was a raffle and a painting

by Paul Quail, who lived in Gunthorpe for many years before his death, was auctioned to a villager who remembered him fondly and well. Paul’s wife, Jane, very kindly gave the Friends a few of Paul’s paintings some years ago to ‘use’ to raise money for the Friends.

They serve as a lovely reminder of all Paul and Jane Quail did for our village in their Gunthorpe years. Allin, the BBQ raised over £1,000 so many thanks to all who attended for their support!

The Friends Harvest Supper is set to be held on Saturday 5th November, starting at 7pm in the Village Institute. Please phone Gunthorpe Hall on 01263 861373 to reserve your seats and pay on the night.

Tickets are £9 for adults and £6 for children 12 years and under with under 5’s free. The menu will be shepherd’s or cottage pie with peas and carrots followed by autumn fruit crumble with cream and custard and tea/coffee/mints. If you are vegetarian let us know when you book your seat and a veggie pie will be waiting for you on the night!

There will be a raffle so come prepared to win. We hope to see many of you there – book early as the seating is limited and feel free to bring your friends. It is always good fun! Marie Denholm Friends Chairman

Village Rep’s Note: The whole village owes a major debt of gratitude to Val and Jenny who not only took on the Fete when volunteers were not around in abundance but who managed to not just build on but even exceed the great success which the previous fete organiser Zena Churchill had achieved. Thank you to both of you, and we hope that you will want to take it on again in 2017!

INSTITUTE NEWS We now have an autumn date for the diaries and on this occasion have something a little different at the Institute on Saturday 22nd October. John Blakeley has kindly offered to organise a Gunthorpe History evening providing an insight into bygone days of village life and this will be preceded by what promises to be an entertaining quiz on local and general knowledge with a prize for the winner. We do hope you can join us on the night for an interesting evening and a buffet. We look forward to welcoming the familiar and also many new faces to the village. Further details will be posted on the

GUNTHORPE VILLAGE FETE 31st July 2016 The sun shone, wellies were wanged and coconuts were pounded. This year’s Gunthorpe Fete basked in sunshine and goodwill as visitors relaxed and enjoyed themselves at the many stalls and games, whilst the brilliant Aylsham Brass Band provided the perfect soundtrack. The cake stall exceeded all expectations with its professionally finished flans and sponges. The plant stall shimmered and the jumble and bric-a-brac buzzed with enterprise. The finale to the event was the

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Village notice-board and by means of a flyer nearer the time.

The Gunthorpe Village Institute is available for hire for small events and meetings. If you wish to make a booking please contact Tony Dufor on 01263 860051 or Pippa Bunting on 01263 86141.

Tony Dufor & Committee

LANGHAM Contact: Amanda Deacon 01328 830908 amandajd@live.co.uk

FROM THE REGISTERS Holy Matrimony

INTERNATIONAL AGILITY FESTIVAL

Nicholas Graham Stafford Allen and Amy Louisa Hopkins 6th August

Gunthorpe resident Diana Arthurson has this August taken part the world’s largest agility festival at the age of 80, to compete in the festival with her dog. Diana, a retired special needs teacher, was one of the oldest competitors at the festival, and she believes that she would not be as active as she is today if she was not taking part in these events.

After training in agility for seven years with Winston, her ten-year-old Poodle/Yorkshire Terrier cross, this was the first time the pair had competed at the International Agility Festival, which this year was held in Rockingham, Market Harborough. Although not placed, despite two clear rounds and with 168 dogs and their owners’ competing in her class, the competition experience was one of the most enjoyable events that Diana can remember taking part in.

Diana said: “Agility makes me do things I never expected I could do. I have made a lot of new friends through it, Winston has lost 2kg and it keeps me active and fit. I know I would not be as active as I am if it wasn’t for agility. I am very pleased that at my age, with arthritic feet, I went to the Festival to compete, and really looked forward to seeing all those top dogs and handlers run.” Diana has owned dogs for the last 62 years, but only decided to take up agility because she was worried her dogs were becoming too restless and disobedient. She also owns another Poodle Chihuahua cross called Pixel, who also runs in agility, but she was not competing at the festival this year.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary commented that: “Diana’s story shows that agility is for any age, young and old alike. Not only is it good for your dog to keep active, but also it improves mobility of the owner.

The International Agility Festival is the largest agility festival in the world. Anyone can enter their dog in the show and it’s a fantastic event for both competitors and spectators alike.”

The Kennel Club International Agility Festival was held at Rockingham Castle in Rockingham, from Thursday 11th August until Sunday 14th August. More than 2,900 dogs of all types, sizes and experience levels competed across 16 agility rings, with dogs jumping and weaving their way around the various courses. For more information on the Festival visit: www.thekennelclub. org.uk/agilityfestival.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY Sunday November 13th 10.50am This will be the only service in Langham church on that day. Please take a special note of the time.

WELCOME We would like to extend a warm welcome to Nigel and Idin and to Peter and Pam Smith. We hope you will be very happy living in Langham.

MOBILE LIBRARY Thursdays 29th Sept, 27th Oct. & 24th November On each of these days the van will call for 20 mins.at St. Mary’s 9.50am and The Cornfield 10.20am.

Enquiries: Wells Library 01328 710467

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Langham Village Hall 3 December 10-12noon rd

I know, it doesn’t seem possible that we are talking about Christmas as I sit here in September sunshine!

More details in the next issue but meanwhile please would you be kind enough to save all your unwanted presents, books and anything suitable for the raffle or tombola for this event. The P.C.C. would be most grateful. Goods can be deposited in the porch at 30, Binham Road, with a note, so that I can thank donors or I can collect, any time after mid November. Many thanks for your continued support. Proceeds will be for Langham Church General Fund.

Langham P.C.C. Further enquiries: Ann Sherriff Tel: 01328 830 605

STALL ON THE GREEN 2016 TALK ON CAPTAIN MARRYAT

Total proceeds from this event amounted to £383.52 for the Langham Church General Fund. Many thanks go to all who bought and brought produce and cakes to the stall. It was very much appreciated and most kind of you to give your support.

Grateful thanks are extended to Alison Curtis and Ann Hazelhurst who took over the running of the stall this year and also manned it for two of the Saturdays.

Thanks also to Barbara Allen, Ann Hill, Barbara North and Carole Blundell who helped with the other two Saturdays. Thanks also go to Sue and John Hughes who kindly took care of the tables and to Sue who provided refreshments for the stall holders which were much appreciated. The weather was mainly fine which enabled another traditional social event to be enjoyed.

Friday 18th November 6.30 for 7pm in the Village Hall or Church, (depending on the temperature) An historical talk about the life of Captain Marryat, Langham's most famous resident to date.

Captain Marryat wrote the novels "Children of the New Forest", "Midshipman Easy" amongst other novels and also designed the Naval Flag System for communcation, before the invention of the wireless.

Come and brush up on your historical facts of someone so famous who lived in your village. It will be fascinating.

Edward Allen

CAROLS WITH COASTAL SINGERS

Langham P.C.C.

Following the huge success of the carols and mince pies in the church last year, the Coastal Singers will again compere the evening on 14th December at 7pm in the church. Please put a note in your calendar and look forward to seeing you here.

Edward Allen

COFFEE MORNING Langham Village Hall Saturday 1st October 10am Cakes, bakes and coffee. Please come and support.

POUND SALE

MORSTON

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Sat. 8 Oct. Langham Village Hall 10-12 noon A great opportunity to obtain a bargain. Books, gifts and bric a brac on sale, all for £1. Refreshments available. Roadside parking. Admission free.

Proceeds for Langham Church General Fund.

Contact: Jock Wingfield 01263 740431 jocelynwingfield@gmail.com

DATES th

Mon 26 Sept. 9.30am. PCC Meeting Chez Rolfe.

Sat 17th Sept. 10am at Cley Beach NWT car park. NT annual Autumn Blakeney Point beach clean.

Bring gloves and snack.

Sat 15th Oct. From 6.30pm. The Shovell Dinner and Illustrated Talk by John Villiers, entitled “Admiral Augustus Keppel, Viscount Keppel of Elveden, Victor of Havana, 1762”. At the Anchor pub.

Sun 13th Nov. 1.50pm. Remembrance Day Parade & Church Service at 2pm.

Fri 23rd Dec. 3pm. Candlelit Carol Service - All Saints Church.

Sat 24th Dec. 5.30 pm. Carol singers meet at Anchor.

'FISH'N'CHIPS AND A QUIZ NIGHT th

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Fridays 28 October & 25 November 7pm Just a reminder that we are back in full swing with our 'Fish'n'Chips and a Quiz night on the last 'Fryday' of the month in the Village Hall at 7pm. Feel free to come along for food only (from the Fish and Chip van), quiz only (from some of the best quiz masters around), or come along and enjoy both amongst friends old and new. Quiz entry £1 per person, bring your own tipple.

CHRISTMAS FAIR 19

PCC STALLS ON QUAY

Most Improved time: Oyster Calypso Oldest Helm: Oyster Swallow

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On 22 August the PCC ran stalls on the carnser.

There were stalls selling books, bric-a-brac, bottle tombola, crafts and plants. The proceeds went to the PCC for church upkeep – in the region of £900 which included just under £500 from the bottle tombola stall.

Many thanks to all those who donated items for sale, those who erected and ran the stalls and not least to the punters – many of whom on reaching for their money said “If it’s to keep the church roof on, of course we’ll have a go!”

Norfolk Gypsies 1st Place: Morston Anchor Cup, Gypsy Molly 2nd Place: Tankard, Gypsy Amanda Middle of the fleet: Gypsy Chuckle Best Dressed Boat : Gypsy Enchantress Most Improved Time: Gypsy Amanda First Married couple across the line: Gypsy Enchantress

For more articles on WWI see pp. 7-8 & centre pages i – iv.

THE SOMME The Somme Offensive was fought between 1st July and 18th November 1916 – 100 years ago. In round terms the Germans lost 500,000 soldiers, the British Army lost 400,000 and the French 200,000.

Let us remember especially the family of George Balding of Morston, in their great loss.

MORSTON REGATTA WINNERS 2016 MORSTON PC TROPHY Graham Barker (first boat across the line) Wayfarer 8888 MAJOR P HAMOND TROPHY Stuart Martin (first Morston resident) Oyster ‘Mischief’ HASSALL TROPHY Pete Tibbetts (first Stiffkey Cockle) “Lapstrake” WARD TROPHY Gill Kay (first Norfolk Oyster) ‘Swallow’ WILSON CHALLENGE CUP Ben Rickards (first Slow Class boat) Leader 1214 MORSTON REGATTA CUP Allan Jackson (first Fast Class boat) Seafly 701 CARTER TROPHY Paul Strickland (first single-hander) Laser 181634 JOHN BEAN’S TROPHY Hugo Williamson (first helm under 16) Laser 4.7 180292 LAPSTRAKE JUNIOR CUP Ben Coast (youngest helm) Mallard WOOD TROPHY Tom Greene & crew (first fixed seat rowing skiff) Hoi Lanten NATIONAL TRUST TROPHY Victoria Holliday (first sliding seat rowing scull) MUCK BOAT CUP Nick Hamond (first ex-working boat) Orion ATHILL TROPHY no entries (first pleasure boat) TEMPLE TROPHY no entries (first catamaran)

PTE GEORGE JAMES BALDING DIED OF HIS WOUNDS 12 OCT 1916 George Balding was born in Morston, son of Mr.W.J. & Mrs H.A. Balding of Morston and uncle of (1) Gunner Edward George Balding (who was killed in action at Tobruk (Libya) in World War II in 1942) and of (2) Albert Balding of Morston. George enlisted in Norwich as 40001 Private GJ Balding, and was by mid1916 posted to the 9th Battalion of the Norfolk Regiment. In 1915 men of the “9th Service (or Kitchener) Battalion” of the Norfolks, after their basic training of “square bashing”, skill-at-arms and fitness training in Norfolk, proceeded to their “Battle School” at Montcavrel in France, where they were trained for a few weeks if possible – but only for a few days sometimes, depending on the situation at the front – in digging, wiring and trench warfare.

OYSTER AND GYPSY WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 Norfolk Oysters 1st Place: Model Oyster, Oyster Anna Bella 2nd Place: Neil Thompson Tankard, Oyster Skylark 3rd place: Norfolk Etc Cup, Oyster Killimore Kate Junior Helm: Bullard Cup, Oyster Charlotte Louise Youngest Ballast: Pearl in the Oyster, Oyster Mary Middle of the Fleet: Oyster Valley Longest Married Couple sailing across the line: The Harmony Plate, Sailing Oyster Lucinda Following the fleet home: Oyster Warrior

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The first ever tank attack The British invented the “armoured land-ship capable of crossing trenches” and codenamed it “tank” – the same name as the wheeled water-carriers they used. On August 2nd 1916 the 9th Norfolks entrained for the Somme front. At 1am on 15th August 1916 the 9th Norfolks, two companies forward and two in support, with their right on the railway, on a front of 250 yards, took up a line on the sunken road from Ginchy to Leuze Wood for an attack on what the Norfolks called “the Quadrilateral”, a 4-sided trench 300 by 150 yards.

At 5.50am a single tank (British of course) passed through the two front battalions for the attack on the first objective.

On 9th September a successful attack by their brigade (the 71st) captured Ginchy and Leuze Wood – but the Germans were holding very strongly the high ground which lay in the form of a horseshoe between the above-named points, which dominated the country to the south. Their key position was at the top of the spur to the Quadrilateral. At 7pm the first of the three promised tanks – two never “got away” – had reached the German front line. As the Norfolks advanced up the glacis-like slope with insufficient artillery support – since a gap in the barrage was left for the tanks – they encountered uncut wire which meant they were unable to get forward. By 11.45am the 9th Norfolks had Major Bradshaw and about 40 men close up to the enemy’s wire in front of the Quadrilateral and the rest were scattered in shell holes between there and the Ginchy road. At 12.55, orders were issued that the 71st Brigade was not to attack the Quadrilateral, but was to improve its position by working round the flanks.

After midnight – so now it was September 13th 1916 – the 9th Norfolks were relieved and moved back to trenches near Trones Wood. The casualties in “this unfortunate action” were serious: 431 Other Ranks had been KIA (killed in action), WIA (wounded in action) or were “missing, believed killed”. Private George Balding of Morston was admitted to No.1 South African General (Military) Hospital, Abbeville, France, suffering from “a gunshot wound to the leg”. He died of his wounds on 12th October 1916 there in France and is commemorated in Abbeville Communal Cemetery. [“History of the Norfolk Regiment”, vol. II, pp.252-257; CD-ROM “Soldiers that Died in World War I”; NMS].

IT’S A DODMAN NOT A HODMEDOD For one from Morston with or without a Tittermatorter “Hodmedod” or “hodmandod” are East Anglian dialect words - which in Suffolk usually mean “snail”, but can also refer to the curls in a girl’s hair or an ammonite. Norfolk speakers, however, when they say “hodmedod”, generally mean “hedgehog”, and they call a “snail” or someone from Morston a “dodman”: e.g. – “Thass not a hodmedod, thass a dodman!” And a “dodman” is not necessarily a “doddy”! (meaning “small person”). Politically-correct words “dodwoman” and “dodperson” have yet to be invented.

The large collection of family letters of 1422 to 1509 written to and from the Pastons of Gresham and Caistor Castles (“the Paston Letters”), have the most wonderful old Anglian terms of those days e.g. a “draught chamber” was a lavatory; “clot shon” were clouted or patched shoes, “harness” sometimes meant “armour”, “lobsters” were stoats and “hedermoder” meant “huggermugger.”

And the children had “tittermatorters” (seesaws)!

BLAKENEY NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE - NT UPDATE The bird breeding season is now well and truly over with, the reserve having experienced mixed fortunes.

Blakeney Freshes had another good year with many Avocets and Oystercatchers fledging young along with two broods of Little Ringed Plovers. Sadly the news was not so good on Blakeney Point with the Black-

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stories of collecting lobsters and mussels out of her hold (as well as coal!). The National Trust is doing some work on filling in some of her history as are BHA, so if you have any detail do please email us at info@ blakeneyharbourassociaition.co.uk.

Cley Harbour Restoration project had its opening event with races, best decorated boat competition, bar, food, music and all the trimmings. Cups and medals were dispensed!! Simon and all the volunteers have done a fantastic job on Phase One. They estimated that 350 people attended and raised much needed funds for Phase Two which should be complete by next year.

Brilliant effort. CP chairman Dick Allen was dunked to the understandable hysteria of all.

Beautiful nearly autumn days, some fantastic sailing, lots of exciting racing and fading memories of a brilliant Olympics - the tide is starting to run - shame to have to grizzle about some members who still haven’t paid their subs!!

Headed Gull colony suffering significant rat disturbance very early on in the season causing the Sandwich Tern colony to move to Scolt Head Island where they had a bumper season fledging nearly 2,900 young from over 3,300 pairs. Following advice from a world-leading expert, we will be working very hard this Autumn and Winter to combat the rat issue in time for the next season.

The dog restriction on Blakeney Point has been lifted and we would like to thank everyone for their cooperation as we saw very little dog disturbance this year.

Autumn migrants have been arriving on the reserve since late July with most recently a male Black Redstart hanging around the Lifeboat House. We expect the first arrivals of the Pink-Footed Geese within the next couple of weeks.

Now our attention turns towards our winter conservation work and the arrival of the Grey Seal pups in early November. Join us on 17th September for our annual Autumn Blakeney Point beach clean; meeting at Cley Beach NWT car park at 10am – please bring a sturdy pair of gloves and a snack.

To keep up to date with latest news from the reserve please check out our website www.national trust.org.uk/blakeney or follow us on social media at NorfolkCoastNT. Alex Green, Digital Media, Marketing & Interpretation Officer

WATER AID FOR RWANDA Thank you, thank you to everybody who joined us for our garden party at Hall Farm, Morston on the 30th July. Thanks to all the brilliant helpers, everyone who made all the yummy cakes - and of course all those who came and made the afternoon such fun.

The weather was kind, and everybody agreed that it was an occasion not to forget. Moreover we raised nearly £1,700!! What an amazing amount!

All the money is going towards the Glaven Valley mission to Rwanda.

To find out more about this check out our website.

Google 'Africa Glaven mission'.

Special thanks to Claude and Ethne Scott who made this all possible.

Heather Harrison

BHA REPORT Blakeney Harbour Association’s lobbying of Trinity House has resulted in a new lit buoy to the East end of the Hjordis wreck. The media has got very excited about Hjordis with press, TV and radio coverage. BHA member Sam Sykes took some brilliant pictures, which if you haven’t seen them - then do have a look on the website www.blakeneyharbourassociation.co.uk.

There are dramatic images of an eerie reincarnation of the 1000-ton collier emerging from the sand; just the stuff adventures are made of. Anyway, all that apart, she’s safely marked and thanks to the BHA volunteers who took that job on and thanks to Sam. Some of the Hjordis’ history is starting to come out with all the publicity; this isn’t the first time she has sat in the middle of the channel apparently and there are

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MORSTON QUIZ

SAXLINGHAM

By Samphire (answers on p.26) 1. In Scrabble, how many points does the letter “Q’ score?

2. What do we today call the place the Romans knew as Camulodunum?

3. Where did the rumba originate?

4. In Morse code what letter is represented by three dots?

5. What is it called when consonants or vowels are switched between two words in a phrase?

6. What went from 405 lines to 625 lines?

7. What is the former colony called the Gold Coast now called?

8.What in 1984 became illegal on the London underground?

9. What word can go before “cup”, “scotch” and “fly”?

10. What is the height in feet of a football goal?

Contact: John Rayner 01328 830564 johnsrayner@btinternet.com

BRIDGET REMEMBERED Following the Communion Service on Sunday 4th September taken by the Revd Peter Bowles there took place the dedication of a repaired and reglazed chancel window in memory of Bridget and John Watson.

Bridget was a much respected and much loved resident of Saxlingham. St. Margaret’s meant a great deal to her, serving as she did for a long time on the PCC and acting as Churchwarden. Present at the service were several members of her family, including her daughters Stephanie and Frances and son Sean, together with friends from the past who used to live in our villages.

The event was rounded off with coffee and cake, exactly the sort of friendly gathering Bridget enjoyed. All expressed satisfaction with the memorial window.

Whilst the repairs to the window were borne by the PCC, the cost of the inscription was contributed by Bridget’s family.

PARISH COUNCIL NEWS Meetings: Wed. 27 July, August 2016 – no meeting.

Verge Cutting County Highways have cut our grass verges on bends, straights and junctions during July and August.

County Councillors News For latest news see County Councillor’s Notes on p4.

Pond Update The first treatment to destroy the invasive weed in the pond will begin later this Autumn.

Village Green Seat It has been agreed to go ahead with restoring the village green seat with plastic wood to ensure longevity.

FETE SUCCESS

Morston Regatta

Thanks are due to all those in the village who contributed in any way to our combined fest whether by physical, financial or other means, also by visiting or lending support to stalls. The overall amount raised was a record, benefitting our hall and two churches in equal measure. Just as important are the active involvement and local spirit that this annual event generates! As a follow-up the unsold books that we had left on our hands have been given to the charity, BREAK..

The Regatta was a great success. Thanks was given to Charlie Ward and his team for excellent organisation.

For a detailed report see page 20.

Next meeting: Wed. 28 September, Village Hall at 7pm. All welcome.

Morston Parish Council members: Carole Bean, Steven Bean, John Burdell (chair), Roberta Hamond, Jim Temple, Jill Tibbetts and Charlie Ward. Contact via parish clerk Peter Bullimore, beestonpc@ btinternet.com or 01263 822864.

QUINQUENNIAL INSPECTION The five-yearly assessment of the overall condition of St.Margaret’s Church has been submitted.

BOTTLE BANK The bottle bank just off the green has contributed over £600 to the Parish Council coffers this year, which enables the PC to fund events such as the Queen’s Birthday Boat Trip and BBQ and the Morston Regatta.

Thank you to all those who helped fill it up! Please remember to put all your bottles (whatever colour) in the bottle bank to support the village.

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SHARRINGTON Contact: Claire Dubbins 01263 862261 cdubbins@btinternet.com www.sharrington.org.uk

NOBLE ROTTERS For our second tasting of the current series we homed in on the region between Macon and Lyon and the wines of Beaujolais. The red wines of this region are a delight in the summer months and, when slightly chilled, ideal for a picnic.

Our benchmark was a 2014 Beaujolais Villages from the Wine Society, but our main focus was on the wines which have achieved ‘Cru’ status; wines that are more sophisticated and in some cases capable of ageing.

Members sampled wines from Juliénas, Côte de Brouilly, Fleurie, Morgon and Moulin à Vent alongside a little youthful brie and the odd Sharrington strawberry.

Thanks to Dan Earp, members were also able to taste two South African white wines, a sauvignon blanc and a chardonnay from Groote Post supplied by North Walsham merchant Graham Page.

In November we feature wines from Greece and in December, an additional meeting entitled ‘Wines Beyond The Pale’ when members will bring along wines which may be past their best or may be magnificent.

For more information visit the Noble Rotters page on www.sharrington.org.uk .

RD

has continued to work on the plans to obtain funding for replacement windows and an overhaul of the heating and lighting systems. Hopefully, we will know by the end of the year what funding we have been able to secure.

October 12th at 7.30pm sees the return of Natasha Hood for another liberating evening of song.

On 15th October, as election fever gathers pace across the pond, we host a general knowledge quiz night with an American theme. There will be a licensed bar and soft drinks available. There is no need to come along with a team; you can just turn up at 7pm and join in the fun.

Our ever popular Christmas Fayre will take place on Saturday 26th November from 11am until 2pm. We will welcome back the colourful pottery of Katherine Barney, the internationally acclaimed wildlife photographer, David Tipling, the books of Humphrey Boon and the paper crafter, Sarah Bell who now lives in the village.

Joining our guest exhibitors this year will be Irene Miller (a successful pet artist who exhibits locally and who will take commissions) and Rita Taylor a published knitting designer.

Our main stall will once again feature seasonal plants and bulbs, dried flowers and Xmas decorations. If you have admired our reindeer and penguins, come and see what our chief elf has added to our festive wooden family this year.

Cakes, preserves and seasonal refreshments will be available and there will be a last chance to snap up tickets for our Christmas raffle which will be drawn on the day.

Footnote: In view of the success of the music evening in May, Chris Abrams is working on establishing open mic evenings and hopes to attract musicians from near and far. If things come together, the first evening will take place early in the New Year.

All will be welcome so watch this space.

RD

VILLAGE HALL The committee is delighted to report that its application for a premises licence was granted on 13th July. This will facilitate the sale of refreshments at events and the showing of films without the need for giving special notices on each occasion which are both time consuming and expensive.

The committee is also extremely pleased that the result of the asbestos survey it commissioned has recommended that there are no remedial works that need to be undertaken.

During the summer months, the committee arranged for a few minor repairs to be carried out to the roof and

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TWO YEARS ON AND WE’RE STILL THINKING OF THEM… Two years ago on Remembrance Sunday, to commemorate the start of the Great War, we held a village tea party in Sharrington village hall. It was a way of drawing our village family, old and new, together. In addition to a delicious tea and sharing each other’s company, it was the chance to see the results of a special village project.

Over the previous six months a group of interested people had worked together to create biographies, albeit sometimes sketchy, for the names of the fallen on our memorial plaque in the church. On one of the presentation boards we commented that the names were read out reverentially every year but with little knowledge of where those men had died or the lives they had lived. The fact that some of their family members came from some considerable distance away to our tea party certainly endorsed the aliveness of the fallen to those families. We also tried to create some context for the lives of those Sharrington men; looking at farming and its vital work in feeding the nation.

Two years on and with remembrance now focusing on 1916 and the Somme, we in Sharrington are still thinking of our men, as we came to call them. With this in mind we are planning an evening’s entertainment of readings with music on this Remembrance Day. It is hoped that this will again give us a glimpse into those times: the people just like us and from places like this.

‘From a place like this…’ will be performed in Sharrington church at 6.30pm on Friday 11th November.

Tickets are £5 and available from Lesley Forrest on 01263 860215 or Pippa Long on 01263 860613.

LF

donations will be most welcome. You will find the foodbank box at the back of the church. Thank you as ever for your support.

APG

NEWS FROM SHARRINGTON AND DISTRICT GARDENING GROUP After a busy summer our autumn programme began on 7th September with an illustrated talk on using grasses in the garden by Jane Lister of local specialist nursery Hoecroft Plants. The continuing popularity and versatility of these plants made this an interesting evening and Jane brought along some plants for sale.

On Wednesday 19th October members will enjoy a “fungi foray” with local expert Tony Leech. The foray will take place at 2pm at Brinton Hall by kind permission of Esme and Jeremy Bagnall-Oakeley.

We have a busy and exciting 2017 programme lined up with more news to follow in the next edition of the Lynx.

If anyone would like to come along to one of our meetings or would like further information on joining the group please get in touch with either Françoise Allenby on 01263 860910 or Robin Burkitt on 01263 861939.

RB

CHURCH NEWS The last few weeks have been quiet in our church life following the normal pattern of Holy Communion and two lay led services with the group service in the event of a fifth Sunday in the month. However Holy Communion on the 14th August, taken by Michael Handley was special: five children ranging in ages from 16 months to six years, all grandchildren of current residents, were present, and very well behaved they were. Occasionally the two youngest needed to visit the green grass of the churchyard to stretch their legs and recover from the strictures of having to be fairly silent and still. But it was a lovely service and Michael was able to cope when decibels rose.

As I write this piece we are looking forward to our Sharrington All Saints barbeque on Sunday 28th August in the churchyard. The two main factors in the success of such a venture are the numbers of people attending and, of course, the weather: the latter we have no control over but the former is promising. More news in the next issue.

We continue to support the Fakenham food bank and deliveries of various foodstuffs are regularly made to them. With the festive season fast approaching we will soon be thinking of suitable items to pass on and all

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STIFFKEY Contact: Geraldine Green 01328 830245 green978@btinternet.com

NATURE NOTES As I write, this strange summer is drawing to a close.

Rain and heat has caused lush growth all around. Some species have loved it others found it a disaster. The sea lavender was amazing but butterflies have suffered. This is of course the nature of mother nature. Swallows and house martins seemed to have made catch up despite the appalling spring weather and are now gathering for their return to Africa. Hopefully a good September will see them in good fettle. Hedgehogs are conspicuous by their absence this year; hence the huge number of slugs and snails in the garden ravaging anything that is the least bit tender. Don’t forget to leave a rubbish corner for them to overwinter in if you are fortunate enough to have any. I was pleased to see a nice lot of water voles in the river Stiffkey this year. The river seemed to have a much more even flow despite torrential rain at times.

Perhaps it is due to new management measures that are being set up on all the chalk streams in North Norfolk.

Don’t forget to consider nature when you plan your abode or garden. A bit of consideration can help a lot.

In memory of Pightle

Keith. With joyful memories and tears; goodbye old friend The committee, Stiffkey Local History Group P.S. We are meeting at Sheringham Museum (the Mo) at 11am on Wed 5th October for our delayed summer outing, followed by refreshments. All welcome, members or not.

CHURCH NOTES Our Village Community and Parochial Church Council have been saddened by the loss of Keith McDougall who died suddenly on August 22nd. Keith has been the main stalwart of the PCC, holding the position of Chairman and also Churchwarden for many years. For much of this time he has also led the Family Service on the first Sunday of each month. One of his other roles in the village has been to write the church notes and to keep us amused with his 'Pightle' letter in this Local Lynx. For these concerns and other interests he will be truly missed. Over the Bank Holiday week end the Church held its usual Stalls on the Knoll and served teas to those visiting the Local History Exhibition in the Church. It was a very successful three days and a total including donations of over £1,200 was raised. As mentioned by Keith in the last Lynx magazine a now seriously depleted PCC will endeavour to keep the church and churchyard open for all. Our services arranged are Sunday, 2nd October, 11am. Harvest Festival. Friday 11th November, 10.45am. Remembrance at the Village Memorial and Sunday 18th December, 3pm. - Carol Service will go ahead as planned.

Heather Harrison

STIFFKEY LOCAL HISTORY GROUP We were all shocked and saddened to hear the news of Keith McDougall’s sudden passing on Monday 22nd August. Keith was a founding member of SLHG and a regular and consistent presence among us.

He was our chairman from the outset. He guided us through the ups and downs of committee life with his own version of eclectic kindness which we all appreciated. His enthusiasm took us onwards and upwards to achieve things that sometimes seemed beyond a bunch of amateurs, but with great success: A book on Stiffkey and Cockthorpe History, Six exhibitions, outings and quite a few talks. Our last exhibition, “Rectors and Rascals” was dedicated to his memory. He had been looking forward to it with his usual enthusiasm. We hope that the groundwork done over the last 10 years will serve as a lasting legacy to

MORSTON QUIZ ANSWERS (Quiz on p 23) 1. Ten. 2. Colchester. 3. Cuba. 4. “S”. 5. Spoonerism. 6.

TV. 7. Ghana. 8. Smoking. 9. Butter. 10. Eight feet.

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Then he strikes like lightening Fossils by Daisy When I hear the fossils they make me feel alive and jingly. If they were graceful, if they weren’t lively, if they were slow, then they wouldn’t be fossils. They were loud, but fast. The fossils make me feel awake, or alive. They are lively, yet dead. The fossils make tip, tappy noises, so tap, tap, tap. Energetic, lively, happy as the fossils tap their skeleton bones. They do really funny, beautiful dances. The fossils sound is a bit like Christmas.

LANGHAM VILLAGE SCHOOL NEWS September We would like to welcome our new Reception children Harry, Lily, Edward, Phoebe, Millie, Tyler, Jemima, Boden, Paddy, Bethany, Daniel, Ella and Charlotte.

This term, we continue our pen pal links with France and Spain and will be emailing India. We’re currently making plans for a Columbus Day event. A variety of after school activities have already started, including football, cross country running, cookery, drama and Fit Kids.

We were very proud of our year 6 SATs results. This year the tests were more challenging and nationally there was much talk of low pass rates. However, for the Reading test and for Spelling, Grammar & Punctuation our pupils achieved 100% expected level or above and for maths 86% achieved expected or above. Well done to all and thank you to Mrs Cotton and Miss Edgington for their fantastic teaching, this really is an amazing result.

Last term we were busy with the Carnival of the Animals project, organised by The Cromer Ridge Schools and the local charity ‘FALCON’. As well as many art and musical activities, we wrote poems and entered them into a competition along with four other local schools. The theme was ‘Animals large and Small’ and three Langham pupils were awarded 2nd prize in their category!

Wolves by Izzy Wolves are running through the woods Their eyes gleaming green They are dodging the hunters’ guns Bang bang bang ringing in their ears Protecting their young Tearing through the undergrowth The leader of the pack Leading them from danger Sniff sniff sniff smelling meat Chase it chase it missed it young whining with hunger Up up up the hill running through the mist The church bells clanging out a warning How; how; howl howling up at the big round moon Shining down on them Racing down the hill Like a streak of grey Smelling meat Run run run caught Young ones filling them selves Til they are full More running to the pack den hidden in the leaves Fall asleep just as the sun rises safe at home til the night Then they will be out of danger of the poachers

Scorpion by Rafe A Scorpion is balanced Like a leaf His dull colours camouflage him His tail is A swirly curl A scorpion has A metal backbone He is still as a stick And patient too…

For further news about Langham Village school please see our website: www.langhamvillageschool.com.

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LYNX 110 ADS DIRECTORY Care Services Caring First Home Care Polka Day Care: For ages 0-5

page 21 front cover

Domestic Cleaning Services ACS Oven Cleaning Colin’s Cleaning Service

22 24

Garden/Landscape Country Gardner/Country Pest Control Stephen Beal Landscapes TGS Gardening

7 11 25

Health Claire Dye: Physiotherapist Gunthorpe Osteopaths Counsellor and Psychotherapist Marianne Atherton Homeopathy Pilates at Binham Memorial Hall Sea Breeze Therapies Philippa Stancomb Reflexology

16 4 27 6 22 15 11

Hotels/Cottage Rentals Blakeney Hotel Glaven Cottages: Property Management Morston Cottage

front cover 7 17

Interiors/Art/Textiles/Furniture Bluejacket Showroom, Morston Jane Wheeler Textiles closing down sale

20 5

Paul R Smith - handmade furniture Sandra’s Soft Furnishings Walsingham Gallery & Framing

9 21 front cover

Leisure Langham Football Club for 7-15 year olds Morston Swimming Pool Services and Suppliers Adam Sexton Washing Machine Services Allied Glass: Trade and Domestic Glazing PC Problems: Andrew Benn Daren Betts Building and Maintenance David Thompson Chimney Sweep Elv’s Stoves: Woodburner Services Hayes & Storr: Legal Advice Keeble Roofing Contractor Malcolm Mellor: Heavy-duty land clearance Matthew Coe Heating Services M G Myhill Chimney Sweep P J Electrics Taxworx Whitear Roofing

14 8 27 front cover 14 10 24 13 18 13 12 17 16 9 23 26

Taxis Strong Cars Stuart’s Taxi Town and Country Cars

10 6 26

The Small Ads Panel - Advertising Local Services JAYNE BIRD MCFHP MAFHP Foot care in your own home Routine and Diabetic Foot Care 01328 851332 or 07881 107571

CLEARVIEW PEST CONTROL Moles Rats Mice Wasps, Etc Etc Contact Kevin 01328 829154 or 07952 750265

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE HERE? email: maxineburlingham@me.com

LANGHAM FOOTBALL CLUB Saturday Mornings Young people 7-15 years Contact Paul Belton 07833 206842

CHIMNEY SWEEP David Thompson 01328 851081

B.A. TREE SERVICES (Tree Surgeon) Free quotes available Full Public Liability Insurance held 01263 588994 or 07748 570121

INSIDE OUT Gary Waller Painter and Decorator – Fully Insured Tel: 01263 860705 Mob: 07990 993406

NICK RIVETT Qualified Domestic Plumber Also: Lead Work Undertaken Tel: 01263 861065 Mob: 07747 690049

HAMLYN PEST CONTROL County Council Accredited—NPTA Member Control of Rats, Mice, Wasps, etc., 01263 860112 or 861587

ALICE MARTINEAU YOGA Tuesdays 5.30-7.00pm & 7.00-8.30pm 07973 278895 www.alicemartineau.co.uk

Local Lynx is printed by Century Printing, 132 High Street, Stalham, Norwich NR12 9AZ 28 Tel/Fax: 01692 582958