Local Lynx issue 52, February/March 2007

LOCAL LYNX

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

NEWS FROM OUR VILLAGES

FEBRUARY & MARCH 2007

ISSUE 52

Church Farm, Sharrington

Adam Raphael

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01328 821826 Mobile Quote Line

PAUL R. SMITH

Chartered Accountants, Business Advisers and Tax Consultants

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Personal Tax Returns & Self Assessment Advice ▪ Annual Accounts & Audit ▪ Independent Pension & Investment Advice ▪ VAT Returns ▪ Payroll & Book-keeping Service For an appointment please contact

Mrs K H Gigg, FCA on 01485 534800

The Office, 20 King’s Lynn Road, Hunstanton PE36 5HP

www.spicandspancleaning.co.uk

Registered to carry out audit work and regulated for a range of investment business activities

by The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales

What’s on

LOCAL LYNX

In our ten villages

- is a non-profit-making community newspaper, run for the benefit of ten villages.

FEBRUARY 1st Thurs. Langham Mobile Library 3rd Sat. Langham Parish Room FOL Coffee 10 - 12 7th Wed. Stiffkey Music Group 7.00 pm 12th Mon. Binham Community Policing comes to area 17th Sat. Binham Local History Quiz. 7.00 21st Wed. Langham Parish Room FOL Coffee 10 - 2 22nd Thurs. Gunthorpe Parish Council, at Bale. 7.30 22nd Thurs. Binham Local History Meeting 22nd Thurs. Langham Mobile Library 24th Sat. Gunthorpe 50/50 Coffee 10.30

We warmly welcome drawings, articles and letters for publication, but since we never know until shortly before publication how much material we will have, we must reserve the right to edit entries.

We prefer to edit rather than to omit items altogether.

For information about submitting items for publication and about distribution, or if you want to help in any other way, please contact your village representative

MARCH 3rd Sat. Langham Parish Room FOL Coffee 10 - 12 6th Tues. Field Dalling Village Hall Lent Course 7.

7th Wed. Morston Parish Council 7.00 7th Wed. Stiffkey Music Group 7.00 13th Tues. Langham Parish Council. 7.00 13th Tues. Field Dalling Village Hall, Lent Course 7 15th Thurs. Langham Mobile Library 17th Sat. Morston Friends of Morston Quiz 19th Mon Sharrington APCC Meeting 7.00 20th Tues. Field Dalling Village Hall Lent course 7 21st Wed. Langham Parish Room FOL Coffee 10 - 12 23rd Fri. Langham FOL Quiz Night 7.30 26th Mon. Binham Local History. 7.30 27th Tues. Field Dalling Village Hall Lent Course 7 30th Fri. Gunthorpe PCC AGM Village Hall. 7.00 31st Sat. Gunthorpe 50/50 Coffee 10.30

For general information please ring 01328-830056.

Address: Local Lynx, 28 Binham Road, Langham, Holt NR25 7AB. email: bob@clockhousestudio.demon.co.uk.

COPY FOR APRIL/MAY ISSUE REQUIRED BY 9th MARCH

PLEASE NOTE: CONTACT FOR ADVERTISERS For enquiries about advertising in Local Lynx, please contact David John, tel: 01328-830933 Rates for advertising (pre-paid) are: One column x 62 mm (1/8 page): £60 for six issues.

Small Ads Panel on the back page: Available for individuals and businesses providing local services. Allocated on first-paid, first-in basis.

Cost: £5 per issue.

A LENT COURSE FOR THE BENEFICE

“Pray as you can, not as you can’t” - A five week Lent Course, looking at how we pray and exploring some different forms of prayer that could enrich our relationship with God. Tuesday Evenings Field Dalling Village Hall, 7 - 9 pm.

Dates:- March 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th and April 3rd.

DISTRIBUTION CONTACT: For all enquiries or offers to help, please contact: Rita White, tel: 01328 821

BLAKENEY CATHOLIC CHURCH Father Michael Simison 12, Hindringham Road, Gt. Walsingham, Norfolk. NR22 6DR Tel:01328 821353 Service Times: Sunday Mass 10.30am.

Thurs. & Sat. evenings 6.00pm.

METHODIST CHURCH Minister - Reverend Rosemary Wakelin Tel. 01263 712181 For services at Blakeney and Holt see ‘Glaven Valley Newsletter’ or ‘Holt Chronicle’.

FAKENHAM CHORAL SOCIETY

NORMAN LAMB M.P.

EASTER CONCERT

holds regular advice surgeries in the constituency. He can also be contacted via the constituency office at: 15 Market Place North Walsham Norfolk NR28 9BP Tel: 01692 403752 Fax: 01692 500818 e-mail: normanlamb@hotmail.com www.normanlamb.org

Fakenham Parish Church, Saturday, 17th March, 7.30

MUSIC FOR PASSIONTIDE The Crucifixion by John Stainer and music by Bach and Handel.

Tickets £9 on the door (under 18 free) or ring 01328 830639

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

Parish

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Week 4

9.30am HC

9.30am HC

9.30am HC

9.30am HC

At Bale

11am HC

11am FS

11am HC

Gunthorpe

No service

9.30am HC

No Service

11am HC

Saxlingham

At Bale

At Field Dalling

11am HC

At Field Dalling

Sharrington

9.30am MP

9.30am HC

9.30am MP

9.30am HC

Binham

11.00am HC

11.00am HC

11.00am FS

9.30am HC

Langham

9.30am HC*

9.30am HC

9.30am HC

11am FS

Morston

9.30am HC/BCP

No Service

9.30am HC/BCP

No Service

Stiffkey

11.00am HC

11.00am HC*

8.00am HC*

11am FS

Bale Field Dalling

All Communion Services are in traditional language except those marked *

Please note that in Week 1 in March the shared service for Bale, Field Dalling and Saxlingham parishes will be held at Saxlingham Church.

21st February, Ash Wednesday 10am Holy Communion and Ashing at Langham 7pm Holy Communion and Ashing at Gunthorpe During Lent there will be a course on the theme of ‘Prayer’. This will be held on five consecutive Tuesday evenings, starting on Tuesday the 6th March at Field Dalling and Saxlingham Village Hall, from 7pm-9pm. All are welcome.

REGULAR WEEKDAY SERVICES Binham: Tuesday, 6pm Evening Prayers, Langham: Wednesday, 10am Holy Communion Stiffkey: Friday, 10am Holy Communion

FUNDING

RECTOR’S MESSAGE

FOR COMMUNITY PROJECTS OR GROUPS

As the New Year has begun I’ve been looking towards the coming months and thinking about Lent. This, like Advent in the church year, offers us a time to reflect on our lives and do some spring-cleaning on our inner life, our relationships with others and with God. We are given six weeks to use Lent, to prepare for the Mystery of Easter, but often we don’t get much further than giving up chocolate.

This year, why not try Christian Aid’s creative fundraising programme for Lent? It is called “Count Your Blessings” and encourages us to make connections with the lives of people around the world, by daily reflection and giving. For example, on March 15th, we learn that, if we lived in Afghanistan, our life expectancy would be 42 years - we are then encouraged to give 2p for every year that the oldest member of our family has lived beyond the age of 42.

And on March 12th we learn that nearly 1/3rd of the world’s population is off-grid, living without electricity.

We are then encouraged to give 5p for every plug socket in our home. At the end of Lent we could have raised a very decent sum for Christian Aid and have paused to reflect on how our lives are inextricably linked with others, right across the globe.

Not a bad way to journey through Lent.

Norfolk Rural Community Council may be able to help from one of the grant schemes it administers: Local Network Fund: Aims to help provide projects for children and young people with limited opportunities or access to services. Grants available for voluntary and community groups working with children and young people up to 19 (25 if with learning disabilities) - Parents & Toddlers, Pre-school, Youth Clubs, Sports and Drama Clubs. Minimum grant £250, Max £7,000 Contact NRCC and ask for the LNF Team. e-mail:LNFchildren@norfolkrcc.org.uk Rural Projects Fund Grants for small community projects in rural Norfolk arising from Parish Plans or Appraisals or after carrying out local consultation.

Grants available, up to £1,000, must be matched pound for pound from other agencies. Voluntary, Community Groups and Parish Councils can apply.

Pauline High Contact at NRCC or e-mail: pauline@norfolkrcc.org.uk

NOTICE All patients registered at Holt, Melton Constable and Blakeney Surgeries

The leaflets for “Count Your Blessings”, for you to use at home, will be available in each church building from the start of February.

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The surgeries will be closed ALL DAY on Thursday 8th March 2007, for training purposes.

Emergencies:Please telephone the usual number Holt 01263 712461.

Repeat prescriptions and routine appointments:Will not be available on this date.

We apologise for any inconvenience.

DEANERY NEWS

CHRISTMAS PUZZLES IN LYNX 51 Answers

Deanery Synod

The next Deanery Synod will be on Thurs. March 8th, 7.15 for 7.30, in St Andrew’s Church Hall, Holt, when the Deanery Plan will be discussed. Prior to this, the document will have been made available for PCCs and the gthe general public to view and discuss. For further details contact your local Deanery Synod representative.

WORD SQUARE Beech, Blackthorn, Cedar, Damson, Elder, Elm, Fir, Hazel, Holly, Ivy (not really a tree) Judas tree, Lime, Maple, Oak, Osier, Peach, Plane, Quince, Sppuce, Sycamore, Thorn, Willow, Yew.

Deanery Day Out

MORSTON QUIZ

If anyone has any good ideas for an outing, please contact Fr. Howard Stoker. Tel: 01263 72048

England. 1. The Old Bailey. 2. Hadrian’s Wall. 3. Stratfordupon-Avon 4. Harley Street. 5. Windsor Castle.

History. 6. Boudicca aka Boadicea. 7. Ten. 8. Agincourt [1415]. 9. 1917. 10. Tax evasion.

Norfolk. 11. To fool about. 12. Damp, ragged. 13. stupid.

14. A floor cloth. 15. Damp, chilly, windy (weather).

16. A small puddle. 17. Close or oppressive weather.

18 A thunderstorm. 19. Talking at length. 20. A troublesome cough.

Carols. 21 Holly. 22. Page. 23. “All seated on the ground”.

24. “Born in Thee tonight.” 25. “Ding Dong merrily.”

26. Baby. 27. “triumph of the skies.” 28. “their sheep.”

29. “westward” [and] “light”. 30. “stable” [and] “stall.”

DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ NOTEBOOKS From Bernard Crowe, OBE Glaven Valley I am retiring as a member of the District Council in May 2007. Lindsay Brettle, from Letheringsett, will stand as my replacement Save our Post Office campaigns - results New government policy proposes - New access criteria to ensure that 99% of the population will be within 3 miles of a PO outlet. Retaining the Post Office Card A/c and continued support of the PO network after ’08.

Council Tax NNDC opposes proposal for Norwich City to becomea Unitary Authority, preferring a 2-tier partnership with Norfolk County Council.

Norfolk Police Authority (NPA) - launched the Safer Neighbourhoods initiative, to give the public more contact with the Police and have a greater say in policing policy. This plan included providing increasing numbers of Police Community Support Officers (who do not have powers of arrest) - up to 280 by March 2008.

However, the Home Office has gone back on its funding offer, putting the initiative under threat. I am resisting plans to increase Council Tax to bridge the gap and hope the Police will be able to persuade the government to fulfil its earlier pledge.

From Jonathan Savory - Priory Ward Burglar Alarms As of 1.1.07 N.Norfolk District has become an Alarm Notification area, now part of Central Governments Cleaner Neighbourhoods Act. Anyone with an audible intruder alarm, commercial or residential, must notify the Environmental Health Department of keyholder details (information covered by the Data Protection Act), so the Council can deal with misfiring alarms more effectively and prevent annoyance to neighbours.

Failure to notify can result in a fixed penalty notice of £75, should any alarm become faulty and the Council employ contractors to deal with it. For further information call Environmental Health Department 01263 513811 Forthcoming Smoke Free Law Regulations coming into force on 1 July 2007 under the Health Act 2006 will make most enclosed premises and vehicles smoke free, exceptions will be private accommodation, care homes and prisons. These regulations to be enforced by local authorities who can issue fixed penalty notices. Enquiries: NNDC Commercial Team 01263 516008 or visit www.smokefreenorfolk.org Bernard Crowe OBE: Field Dalling with Saxlingham, Morston and Sharrington (01263 740137 bernardcrowe@north-norfolk.gov.uk).

Jonathan Savory: (01328 820719 savory@farming.co.uk.) and Joyce Trett (01328 710300) Binham, Langham and Stiffkey.

Mrs A.R.Green: (01328 878273) - Gunthorpe with Bale.

TWELVE LITERARY QUESTIONS 1. John Donne. 2. Dr Samuel Johnson. 3. Anne Bronte.

4. Scoop. 5. Missolonghi. 6. Chatsworth. 7. The Tempest.

8. Eton. 9. John Keats. 10. Bawdeswell.

11. To the Ends of the Earth. 12. T.S.Eliot.

SHARRINGTON SAVING THE PLANET QUIZ 1) 150 pounds CO2. 2) 1 pound CO2. 3) 4,800 pounds CO2.

4) 3%.

5) 500 pounds.

6) 2,000 pounds.

7) 1 ton.

8) £180-£220. 9) £130-£160. 10) 10%. 11) 50%. 12) 10%.

CHRISTMAS CROSSWORD SOLUTION C A R O L S A E O R E L I C C T I A U E N V E L O P R E I R E I N D M N S A I L E D B D A C A T S A H P L I G

MAY WE HELP YOU? 4

B R E R A L I S E E

A N D Y A O C K E R E K N D I E R R S E G R A D AWL

E O P AW T H T R

G S R OO S E N E A S O

U T E N

COTTAGE CONCIERGE We provide flexible and efficient domestic management services to second home owners. Whether you let your home or use it yourself we can help you with: ● ● ● ● ●

management of weekly changeovers lettings administration cleaning/linen welcome packs maintenance and security checks

tel: 01263 862133 mobile: 07904 692182 email: enquiries@cottage concierge.co.uk website: www.cottageconcierge.co.uk

DOORS Doors opening that make you glad, Doors closing that make you sad.

Doors onto a woman giving birth Banal, yet its mysteries never run to earth.

For

Nannies, Au pairs House Keepers / Couples

Doors, first opened proudly by baby hands, Kicked against in tantrums, making rewarding sounds.

Doors onto the headmaster’s room, Courage to knock, trepidation and gloom.

Also

House and Pet Sitters Peace of mind whilst you are away

Doors onto pulsing shadowy discos, Teenage inhibitions thrown, confidence grown.

Doors being slammed after a lover’s quarrel, Venting frustration, satisfying high-minded morals.

Anna de Soissons Emma Stimpson 01263 834 290 / 01263 768 675

Doors onto a bride being dressed Excitement, words of admiration, being caressed.

Doors onto a growing family, Bewilderment, responsibility, sort of money.

www.helpunlimited.co.uk Info@helpunlimited.co.uk

NO. 2 CAACU We have been sent an illustrated copy of notes and memories of the post-war civilian anti-aircraft cooperation unit that functioned in Langham’s former wartime airport. Eventually dis-banded by January 1959.

Not only will Norfolk born-and-bred find familiar names and anecdotes, but incomers will learn the recent history of the area. The booklet is available at the Bluebell and also during Langham Wednesday and Saturday coffee mornings.

Copies from Ken and Peter Jackson, 165 Hall Street, Briston, Melton Constable, NR14 2LQ. £5 each. Profits will be given to the Air Ambulance.

Doors opening onto old age, Some wise, some foolish, never changing their ways.

Doors onto music, flowers, friends, relations, Passing through the last door of this creation.

Doors opening onto a wonderful light, Work done, released, renewed, ecstatic flight.

Queenie Marshall

BLAKENEY NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSING SOCIETY Blakeney Neighbourhood Housing Society, founded in 1946 to provide affordable housing for local people from the villages of Salthouse, Cley, Wiveton, Langham and Morston as well as Blakeney. Currently we have properties in Blakeney, Cley and Wiveton.

David Grove wrote a history of the Society, published to celebrate its Golden Jubilee (1996). To celebrate the Diamond Jubilee (2006) he has up dated this booklet, available from 99 High Street, Blakeney, Holt, NR25 7PS, (£2.50 plus 50p p&p), or from Stratton Long Marine (Westgate Street) and the Anchor Shop (High Street) Blakeney, also ‘Made in Cley’ (50p).

NORFOLK E-MAP EXPLORER WEBSITE www.historic-maps.norfolk.gov.uk This is an interactive, free-to-use, web-based service that provides on-line access to digitised aerial photos and historical maps of Norfolk, of interest to anyone with an interest in the history of their parish or of Norfolk in general. It provides: Over 600 parish tithe maps of Norfolk (1836-1850) Over 100 enclosure maps of Norfolk (1800 - 1850) Ist Edition 6”/1 mile OS maps of Norfolk (1882-87) Over 8,000 photos - 1946 RAF Aerial Survey, Norfolk.

Over 4,000 photos from 1988 Aerial Survey, Norfolk.

Historical maps of Norfolk, Norwich and several Norfolk towns - various dates.

YOUTH GROUP HELPERS WANTED Local youth groups are in need of helpers to support their growing numbers of children. You have to be willing to have a CRB (Criminal Record Bureau) check, normal for anyone working with children these days, but of course every parent wants to know that their child is as safe as possible in all circumstances.

PRINTING & COLOUR COPYING ENLARGE & REDUCE UP TO A3 SIZE

It is only a couple of hours a week and is an enjoyable way of teaching our children new things and making new friends. It is FUN!

also Personal, Business and Wedding Stationery, Encapsulation, Comb-binding, Raffle Tickets, Colour Postcards and lots more!

To learn more about helping the youth in our communities, especially Briston and Melton Constable, please call Andrea Surridge - 01263 587503.

PLEASE GIVE US A CALL ON 01328 711220

CLEY WI

NORFOLK CENTRAL PRINTERS

Will meet at 1.20 pm in Cley Village Hall on Thursdays, 1st Feb and 1st March.

Watch out for posters on subjects.

Jan Hope

2A Maryland, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1LY (easy free parking outside)

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LOCAL LYNX DEVELOPMENT PLANNING

BALE News

Twenty-eight people attended a meeting in the Langham Parish Room on 13th January to hear and discuss the emerging plans for the future development of Local Lynx. The aim of the Development Group, led by Anthony Smith from Field Dalling, is to protect the future of the paper by making the last stages of its production less dependent on a very few people.

Over recent years there have been three occasions when by reason of illness or family crisis the paper nearly did not get published. Helpers rallied round and ailing editors dragged themselves from their beds so that, in the best traditions of the newspaper business, the presses could roll on time. But these occasions have demonstrated how vulnerable the paper has become, despite the efforts of the large number of people now involved in its production.

Anthony Smith was able to explain to the meeting the changes which it is hoped can be gradually introduced during the course of this year and it was very encouraging to hear that every village now has its own ‘secretary’ whom, from the next issue, will be submitting the news from that village by email, in a standard layout.

Some ‘secretaries’ are the current representatives but in some cases new volunteers will be working with those reps who do not have the necessary computer skills.

A few days before the meeting we received a letter which raised a number of criticisms about the way the paper is run, suggesting that not all villagers were properly represented or allowed to express their views. It is very sad that any reader should feel this way and we would have liked to discuss the issues raised with the writer of the letter. Unfortunately he/she did not give a name or address so we cannot properly respond.

Let us please repeat that Local Lynx is YOUR paper.

It exists to air your news and views. It is not written by a select few. Anyone is entitled, and encouraged, to write to the paper by way of their local village representative and present their news and opinions. Space and the laws of libel permitting, you can be heard.

Contact: Jane Wheeler 01328 878 656

For Church Services see Panel on Page 3

CHRISTMAS AT BALE CHURCH The year ended with the Carol Service on December 7th and then Midnight Mass on Christmas Day. Thanks to our newly restored organ these two services were greatly enhanced by the music provided by The Creake Singers for the Carol Service and by the Jacklin family for Midnight Mass, to whom we are all most grateful.

For the Carol Service and to counteract the bareness of the Church in Advent, Richard Scott had lit dozens of candles. In the glow of this special light Canon Bradbury led the service of seven readings and carols. Bill Purchase played the organ and conducted the Creake singers. The soloists Judy Scott and Chris Purchase inspired us with their singing of “Jesus Christ the Apple Tree” and “Bethlehem”. The presence of the choir led us all to sing more heartily. The church was full and it was a memorable service Afterwards Geeta Maude Roxby, despite a serious fire at home just two days earlier, managed to provide mulled wine and mince pies for the large congregation. She has done this for several years and it makes a popular occasion. Thank you so much, Geeta. Thanks also to Joanna and Walter Hammond for providing and decorating the Christmas tree, which they have done year after year. Thanks are also due to those people who provide and arrange flowers during the whole year and to those who clean the Church not only for each Sunday but who also turn out to clean it before weddings, funerals and memorial services. And of course our heartfelt thanks to Cedric Bradbury, without whom this church would not function. .

For Midnight Mass on Christmas Day the Church was now filled with flowers and greenery. The altar, font and every windowsill were thrust full of red, white and golden flowers, holly and ivy. There was the scent of lilies in the air. Against this colourful backdrop the Jacklin family gave a truly inspirational performance.

Before the service the packed congregation was treated to performances of music by Handel, Bach, Poston, Adam, and Palestrina. With the mood now set in the spirit of Christmas we rose to sing “Once in Royal David’s city” and the communion service began. This was a most joyous Christmas occasion with the further delights of “Torches” and “Ave verum Corpus” to support the prayers and the receiving of communion. Canon Bradbury took the service which ended with the closing anthem “Have yourself a merry little Christmas” arranged

by Martin Jacklin for three cellos, horn and voice. An uplifted congregation walked out into the darkness.

Christmas had begun.

Margaret Sankey

“Mavis, where’s the remote?”

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WINTER CORDIAL (Makes 6-8 glasses) Ingredients 1 large lemon 2 tablespoons rolled oats 2 tablespoons Demerara sugar 1 ½ pts well-strained tea. (Darjeeling or Kenyan) ¼ pt whisky or dark rum.

BALE AXE-HEAD Lost 5,000 years ago? Deposited 5,000 years ago?

Abandoned 5,000 years ago?

Just the tip of this axe-head was sticking up out of the mud when it was found in the bottom corner of a field bordering old marsh overgrown with scrub woodland. It came out into the light of day in one smooth pull, a surprisingly long and bulky object to have survived whole; orange churt 24 cm long, 8cm wide and 3cm thick.

Sent to Norwich Castle Museum for identification it turned out to have possible links with Scandinavia. The method used to work the flint, which is not like that of most local Neolithic flint tools, seems to be similar to that found in Norway.

This enigmatic piece of stone, dull ochre, marked with the brown lines of root attachments, hefts in the hand in a strangely familiar way, as though it belongs there. Yet presumably once it was attached to a wooden haft. It must have been a valued tool, essential for clearing land for settled farming and cutting timber from which tools, human shelters and animal pens could be made. Was it owned by someone who farmed here, or were they just passing through? Or did it belong to a small community working the land rather than one individual?

It raises more questions than it answers, but it unquestionably draws us close to our very distant ancestors and our roots here in Bale.

JW & HT

Method Finely grate the lemon rind, and squeeze out the juice.

Put the rind, oats, sugar and hot tea into a saucepan. Bring the mixture to the boil. Add the lemon juice and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring all the time. Strain the liquid, return it to the saucepan then add the whisky or rum. Heat the liquid through but do not let it boil.

Serve in warmed glasses.

MIXED PICKLE Ingredients 1 quart spiced vinegar 1oz mustard 1oz ground ginger 1 med sized colander mixed vegetables ¼ lb white sugar 1 tablespoon flour ½ oz turmeric.

Method Marrow, onions, apple, green tomatoes, or any other vegetable can be used. When prepared and put into a colander, sprinkle well with salt and allow to drain overnight. Simmer in half the vinegar for 20 mins. Take the other half of the vinegar and other ingredients and mix well, then add to vegetables, and boil for 10 minutes, stirring gently. As soon as cold, ready for use.

Grace Allison

BALE VILLAGE HALL SOCIAL CLUB DRAW September October Henry Carter £25 Anthony Hayward £25 Mary Ramm £10 Katie Andrews £10 Lady Nicolson £5 Betty Carter £5 Katrina McCubbin £5 Betty Preston £5 November December Patricia Church £25 Colin McCubbin £25 Richard Scott £10 William Sankey £10 Margaret Barnes £5 Sarah Mitchell £5 Albert Dent £5 John Allison £5 Special Christmas Draw - Betty Preston £25

OLD YEAR’S NIGHT Bale village hall has been the venue for a number of excellent and well-attended social events during the year.

This continued on Old Year’s Night when a band of 35 hardy souls assembled there to see out 2006. The group comprised those born and bred in the village, those recently arrived and all sorts in between.

With enough food and drink laid on to sustain a small army we ate, drank and laughed away the evening. Parlour games were the order of the night, including a particularly competitive round of Simon Says. A keenly contested quiz was won by the Famous Five - quite possibly Blyton’s originals, but plans for a round of musical chairs were shelved following a comprehensive health and safety risk assessment. The more reckless revellers did, however, engage in a bit of dancing under the watchful if lazy eye of a trained first-aider. Arms were linked and songs sung at midnight and then festivities carried on until 2am.

Old Year’s Night is as much about looking back as it is looking forward and this hasn’t been the best of years for everyone in Bale. What the evening showed, though, was that good company in a good village can go some way to making things a little better. Thanks as ever must go to Ann, Grace and Margaret, and their respective spouses, for making it happen.

AM

HAMLYN PEST CONTROL RODENT, RABBIT, MOLE, WASP and INSECT control by a professional, friendly service, specialising in farm, domestic and retail premises www.hamlynnorfolk.co.uk

(01263) 860112 7

BINHAM

TOFTREES SKIP HIRE

News

Contact: Carolyn Wright Tel: 01328 830270 Fax: 01328 830840 Email: cpwrightuk@aol.com

FAKENHAM (01328) 863915 AGGREGATE DELIVERIES SAND . SHINGLE . PREMIX . TOPSOIL MUSHROOM COMPOST . . ETC

For Church services see Panel on Page 3 MOTHERING SUNDAY IN THE PRIORY Sunday, 18th March, 11.00 am A special Family Service for Mothering Sunday

DIRECT LINE TO DRIVER: 07850 281 448 PROMPT RELIABLE SERVICE LICENSED WITH N.C.C. M BALDERSTONE, HAWTHORN COTTAGE, TOFTREES, FAKENHAM, NORFOLK NR21 7DX

SANDERLINGS NIL - DOGS TWO The Sanderlings boules players met for their annual New Year's morning match on Wells beach with high hopes for a good game and a delicious picnic.

The players' ranks were depleted by bad throats and conflicting commitments but Sanderlings' founder and president Carolyn Wright and I were there to represent the women vs the men - Andrew Chubbock and Andrew Moncur. (Have you noticed just how many Andrews there are about at the moment? They're as common as muck, as a friend says about Border terriers.)

The game began in brilliant sunshine and a brisk wind and the men had (unusually) taken a slight lead over the women when disaster struck. Over the top of the dunes came two black Labradors, noses down, racing unerringly towards our picnic bags, lured by the scent of hot sausages.

It was a wonderful slow motion film. We all shrieked and ran towards the sausages. The dogs' owner and his children all shrieked and ran towards the dogs. But it's so hard to move quickly in deep sand and we didn't stand a chance. The Labradors swallowed every last one - leaving the foil wrapper lying neatly on the sand. The family looked sheepish and apologised profusely. The dogs looked very happy.

But luckily they didn't get into the other bags so we still enjoyed a picnic of smoked salmon sandwiches, mulled apple juice, mince pies and chocolate biscuits, sitting in the dunes watching the sea.

And the game? Unusually, the men won.

The Sanderlings boules season resumes in May. Watch the Lynx for a fixtures list. All welcome. Fiona Thompson

DIARY OF A BINHAM FARMER’S SON, 1842 aged 20 Jan 2 Mr Upjohn preached well but shortly from the words “Prepare to meet thy God” OH! Jan 11 We all dined at J. Adcocks. Very winey party, the old doctor was very merry.

Jan 12 I went to Holkham audit and dined there. The poor old Earl just came to look at us in the evening.

Jan 22 Father went to Walsingham on tithe commissioning.

Jan 25 This was a cruel winter’s day. The governor went to the committee meeting of the North Greenhoe Advocates and dined with the committee.

Jan 30 Charlie Sparham breakfasted here and we went hunting at Snoring - had a very good run after the Holkham pack.

Feb 12 Went to Wells with Sally, got the paper with Sir Robert Peel’s Corn Laws included.

Feb 13 I rode Miss Blandy up to Norwich and back again today to see the Polytechnic and I think was paid for my ride - found George quite well - busy binding Valentines.

Feb 23 Began drawing of Cromer for Rason. I was very much interested with Captain Marryotts’ Poor Jack.

Feb 26 I went on limekiln to course hare, but having nothing but the two old bitches could do nothing with them at all.

Feb 27 I went to Barsham to meet the foxhounds but we had very moderate sport indeed. Tom Thurston brought 25 more sheep today - very nice hoggetts indeed.

Richard & Norah Lewis

BIRD-VENTURES Helping you to help our wildlife We stock a huge range of wildlife products Open 9 - 5.30 Monday - Saturday

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Many, many thanks to all those involved in creating a very enjoyable and successful Bazaar. A lot of hard work before the event and on the day resulted in £1700 being raised for the Church and Priory Access & Conservation Project. This year's Grand Binham Bazaar will be on Saturday 17th November so please mark this in your new calendar.

Brenda and Marie

Quality Wild Bird Foods, Live Meal Worms, Bird Feeders, Bird Tables, Feeder Poles, Window Feeders, Sqirrel Baffles, Nesting boxes. Insect Homes for Bumble Bees, Solitary Bees, Ladybirds, Lacewings & Butterflies. Pond Dipping Nets.

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8

NEWS

BINHAM LOCAL HISTORY GROUP

FROM OUR PARISH CLERK The 3rd of May seems rather a long way off, particularly in the middle of winter. But, as in previous years, it will be here before you know it! This is when the elections take place for District and Parish Councillors – four years from the last time. You will hear a lot about these in coming weeks, because the Government is concerned that, recently, the number of people standing, and of people bothering to turn up at the polling stations has been falling. So expect a big campaign to get more people interested.

I understand why people do not want to become Parish Councillors. Volunteers, they get little thanks when things go right, and often vitriolic hatred when things go wrong.

Things do go wrong, because Parishes have few powers, and decision makers in ivory towers don’t always understand the needs and wants of people at local level.

Here Parish Councils come into their own. They may not have power to act on many issues, but they have power to make decision-makers sit up and take notice on occasions.

Planning is a good example - decisions on planning matters are not taken locally, but local Parish Councils are always consulted. Very often, local people with local knowledge can influence the planners and sometimes (just very occasionally!) make them change their minds on a particular issue.

What makes a good Parish Councillor? Potential global leaders need not apply! The best Councillors are not those who want to change the world, but who can work in a small team, respecting the views of others, recognising that their own views will not always win. Equally, the opposing views don’t always win, so by small victories a good Councillor can help improve the lot of a local community - and give himself a pat on the back when that occurs - it’s unlikely that anyone else will do it! So if you’ve ever considered, just for a moment, that you might join the Parish Council this the year to fill in the nomination papers - to paraphrase JFK - “Ask not what your Parish can do for you”!

Following the sad death of Michael Beckham, David Rose has “asked what he can do for his Parish” and has agreed to be co-opted to fill the vacancy.

Binham village sign is looking a little tired! It has been looked at, with a view to smartening it up, but the decision has been taken that it is beyond help! The Parish Council has decided that it is time for a new model and has put some money aside to get the “ball rolling”. This is where you come in. We are looking for designs. This is your chance to have your idea displayed for the next few decades - possibly long after you’ve joined your forefathers in the Priory! Or perhaps the chosen design will be an amalgamation of more than one idea - so the kudos gets spread around a little. Pass your ideas to me or to any of the Parish Councillors. We intend to try to choose a design at the Annual Parish Meeting in April - which will be here before you know it which is where I came in!

We began the Festive Season with a fascinating talk about Christmas Past by Katrina Siliprandi followed by some seasonal celebratory food and drink … and now onto a new year …..

Sat. Feb. 17th THE BIG QUIZ is being organized by our History Group and Binham Priory. All proceeds divided between the History Group and the Priory Project (for disabled access to the Priory). 7 p.m. for a prompt 7.30 start. Teams of 8 people each. 10 categories of questions: History, Literature, Sports, Plants & Animals, Pastimes, Religions, Norfolk, Entertainment, Food & Drink, Pot Luck A Super Supper includes: Sausages & Mash & Ratatouille, and Scrumptious Home-made puds. Free glass of wine or juice on arrival. £10 per person. Prizes of absolutely no intrinsic value whatever! Cash bar. Don’t worry if you can’t make up a team – we can do that for you – it’s just that the tables are for 8 people. For an entry form call Carolyn at 01328 830270. We need your entries on or before 12th February.

Thurs. Feb. 22nd. Dr Mike Petty will talk to us about Pickwick’s Fenland Scrapbook 1838. Dr Petty was Librarian of the Cambridgeshire Collection for 35 years and was awarded the MBE and an Honorary Degree from Cambridge University for his work. He has written numerous books on the Fens. He is currently President of the Cambridgeshire Association of Local History.

Mon. 26th March Dr John Goodall of English Heritage will talk about Binham Priory and the Monastic Architecture of East Anglia.

All talks start at 7.30 in the Village Hall, refreshments provided. £1 members, £2 non members. All very welcome. For more information call 830270. ..

BINHAM 100 CLUB WINNERS October £25 Wendy Marsh, £10 Andrew Moncur, Ann Griffith Jones, £5 Mr Marshall, William Wales, Stanley Hewitt.

November £25 Amanda Savoury, £10 Mrs J Dickerson, Ricky Hewitt, £5 William Wales, Mrs J Cook, Andrew Taylor.

December £50 David Frost, Tracy Martin, £25 Linda Eagle, £10 Mrs Johnson, Richard Lewis, £5 Mr G Griffiths, Amanda Able, Wyer family.

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Terry Hurlock FCMA Chartered Management Accountant

t: 01328 855666 fax: 01328 853888

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Why do we say that we 'slept like a baby' when babies wake up every two hours?

Brenda Wilde

e: terryh@aims.co.uk

9

w: www.aims.co.uk

ON YOUR MARKS...

REALISE YOUR AMBITION -

The countdown to this summer's Mediaeval Feast and Fayre in Binham has now begun and the advice is: don't be like Ethelred the Unready! Start planning now.

Learn a musical instrument this winter Individual tuition for adults in your own home, at your pace, from a patient, qualified and experienced teacher on: Piano, Organ, Keyboard, Recorders, Saxophone, Brass.

The village event takes place from Friday to Sunday, August 3 to 5. It may seem a distant date - but it is already time to think about: * booking a place at the mediaeval banquet for yourself and your knife and spoon (no forks which, in the period, had still to be invented) * preparing a fittingly historic costume, with expert advice * coming up with your ideas to drag the village back to the Middle Ages with all the fun of the fayre and plenty of knavish tricks as well.

The entire weekend will celebrate 900 years of the Royal Charter, granted by Henry I, allowing Binham to hold an annual fayre. It will begin on the Friday evening with a concert of early music by the Minstrels Gallery in the Priory Church. And the music-making will continue throughout the weekend.

On the Saturday night there will be boisterous scenes, strolling musicians - and a groaning board - at the mediaeval banquet in the village hall.

The menu is still under wraps but could well feature a boar’s head, a hog roast, a surprise pie and, possibly, a special ale brewed at the Binham Chequers. You will need to bring your own groats to buy ale and wine.

Invitations will be sent out in the next month or two. To reserve tickets now contact Richard Lewis (830723) or Liz Brown (830519). (Please book early as we think tickets are going to be in short supply !)

It is expected that lords, ladies, monks, varlets and everybody else will come to the banquet in costume.

Beverley Taylor, the wardrobe mistress, will be happy to receive calls (830208) from those needing advice about creating their own simple, effective outfits. In May she will set aside a week when suitable costumes will be displayed at her home.

The mediaeval weekend will culminate in a grand fayre on the Sunday with stalls, displays of traditional skills and fun for all the family. It is hoped that there will be demonstrations of falconry and archery, a dog show and a gurning competition: fortunes will be told, apples bobbed and a tug-of-war tugged. Wrong-doers will be confined (under almost any pretext) in the stocks or in gaol. Anyone wishing to help with the fayre should please give Andrew Spinks a call (07810 121617).

All those interested in being involved or wishing to learn more about plans for all of these activities should come to the next open meeting in Binham Memorial Hall at 7.30pm on Friday , February 9. This will be almost the last chance to add your input to this exciting and historical event.

AM & FT

Free loan instruments available.

Paul Wraith 01263 740533 BINHAM GUILD OF ARTISTS The Group consists of anyone interested in Art or Craft, beginner or otherwise. Artists with professional experience form part of the Group and will gladly advise if needed.

We meet every Tuesday morning from 10 to 12 in the Village Hall. A fee of ÂŁ2 per morning includes coffee and biscuits. A demonstration of painting or craftwork normally takes place on the first Tuesday of every month. In November the Group enjoyed a demonstration of drawing in pastel from still life by Lilian Shaw.

For further information contact James Bucknill at 01328 830651

FLOWERS IN THE CHURCH Binham Church is graced with beautiful flowers throughout the year. Many thanks to Maureen, Helen, Liz, Pauline, Gill, Linda and Roger - for your time and support in producing such inspiring and lovely arrangements.

We would welcome anyone to join our team, all you need is a love of flowers. We will be organizing a Flower Festival this year May 25th - 28th. Brenda Wilde 830525

Peggy Corney D.O.

Barbara Shearing BSc (Hons) Ost Giulio Martini BSc (Hons) Ost Osteopaths Osteopathy is a gentle, effective method of treatment which can help with back pain, joint pain, migraine and head pain, as well as many other conditions.

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Tel: 01263 861184

10

FIELD DALLING News

COCKTHORPE News

Contact: Anthony Smith 01328 830546

Contact: Ann Massingham

01328 830558

Email: aesmith@pobox.com

For Church Services see Page 3 NEW VILLAGE REP

COCKTHORPE CAROL SERVICE First of all, I would like to thank everyone involved in our Carol Service for all their hard work - cleaning and decorating the Church and Christmas trees and bringing the sherry and mince pies.

It was specially nice for me as all four grandchildren read, with Mrs Juliet Case taking them under her wing.

This made four generations of our family present together at the service.

You will see from the heading above that Field Dalling has a new Lynx village representative. The contact number is unchanged. Thank you everyone who sent me articles and contributions during my time as village rep; please keep them coming in to Anthony.

The Lynx production team would like more input from Field Dalling -- I am sure there are village memories and history which would be of interest to Lynx readers.

Margaret Smith So far, I have been involved more in the production of Lynx, carrying out tasks such as copy typing, cutand-paste, and setting up pages for printing, using the MS Publisher software, though I have contributed occasionally. I am also leading the newly-formed Development Committee which will work with the editorial teams during this year to bring about various changes to the way Lynx is produced, to enable more people to get involved.

So it seems natural to take on the role of Village Rep for Field Dalling. I echo Margaret’s plea for more material.

If the creative muse strikes you and you think you would like to write something for Lynx but aren’t sure where to begin, just give me a call.

Anthony Smith

MEMORIES OF LANGHAM AND COCKTHORPE I have had some response to my plea for memories.

David Craske, son of Tom and Ruby, rang me and said he would let me have some of his memories. He talked about remembering his father being the captain of the cricket team, and the smell of the oil his father used to oil the bats. He remembered how Dick Fuller used to pick them up on a Friday evening to go up the Dalling road to mark the pitch out for the Saturday afternoon game - with just the slight problem of having to get the cows off the field first.

There was quite a lot of livestock in Langham in those days. Mr Crafer had a dairy herd of Fresian cows. Mr Ryer had cows. Mr Allen had pigs, and bullocks were also kept. People, including my grandmother, kept chickens and the man from Sainsbury used to come on a Wednesday tea-time, and grade and buy the eggs.

I am hoping more old friends will send me their memories of life here years ago.

HAYES+STORR

Solicitors

CRICKET I refer Ann Massingham’s piece entitled ‘Calling all Senior Langham Lions’ I was born in Langham in December, 1950 and have wonderful childhood memories of the village cricket team. I will send these to Ann for publication in future issues.

David Craske

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11

ORIENTATION OF THE CHURCH

GUNTHORPE

This short article is about local geography rather than theology!

News

A quick look at the OS Map (1:2500) reveals that St Andrew’s, Field Dalling is very badly oriented. We have been taught at school that churches are always oriented east-west, with the tower at the western end. So why is St Andrews misaligned?

Contact: Di Cutterham 01263 860693

For Church Services see Panel on Page 3 ST MARY'S NEWS

Measuring with a compass, it turns out that the Nave is fourteen degrees off the east-west axis and the Chancel is sixteen degrees out, but these are hardly noticeable.

The Tower is much more obviously misaligned when you look at the pattern of its floor tiles, but actually is only ten degrees out.

Just for the time being, the services at Gunthorpe Church will be reduced to the second Sunday in the month at 9.30 (HC) and the fourth Sunday at 11.00 (HC).

THE CHRISTMAS SERVICE A service of carols and readings on Christmas Day was well supported with over eighty people. Canon Micheal Wilson took the service and Micheal Jacklin played the organ, supported by his family on their instruments, who also sang 'Have yourself a very merry Christmas'. Nine young people from the village read the readings.

Thank you to everyone who took part, to those who organised everything and to all who decorated the church.

A Happy New Year to all.

If the Nave symbolises the body of Christ and the Chancel his head, then seen from above, Christ’s head would be leaning slightly to his left. This is known as a ‘weeping chancel’.

The misalignment of St Andrew’s is not extreme, compared with 195 other churches surveyed on the border between Norfolk and Suffolk, but is at the outer limit of the variations measured.

The survey also found that, where the Nave is misaligned to the Chancel, it was usually an attempt by the builders to correct for the misalignment they had already introduced, rather than to align more closely with sunrise on the saint’s day for that church, as some have supposed.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY This was attended by 20 people with Canon Micheal Wilson taking the service and Mr Jacklin and his family providing the music. Mr Ray White laid the wreath at the War Memorial. Miss Jacklin played the Last Post and Reveille on her bugle.

The collection at the service amounted to £80 and was sent to the Royal British Legion.

In towns where other streets, boundaries and buildings had already been laid out, the church builders would have been restricted and therefore misalignment had to be accepted. This may have been the case at Field Dalling too.

NORFOLK CHURCHES TRUST As there was nobody riding for Gunthorpe, John and Mary Smith were sponsored as recorders at the church and raised £155 in sponsorship and donations. Thanks to all those who came up and sat in the church too.

Fred Morley

More recently, when drains were laid on the north side of St Andrews, the builders exposed the foundations and it was obvious that the buttresses were not sitting centrally on them. If the roofing was originally of thatch this lack of squareness would have been unimportant

50/50 CLUB RESULTS NOVEMBER B White £15 K. Webster £10 L. Russell £7 C. Suckling £5.

N. Ford £5 J. Blakeley £5

Given that St Andrews sits in a relatively small rectangular plot of land, it may simply be that the builders thought it best to align the church with the boundaries rather than accurately east to west.

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12

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS January is named for Janus, Roman god of gates and doorways, beginnings and endings. To him, at the symbolic threshold between past and future, New Year's Eve, Romans offered their pledges and resolutions. More importantly also to their neighbours and associates, for New Year's Eve was a time to seek forgiveness from those you had offended in the last year. Presents were also exchanged, to sweeten the deal.

New Year's resolutions in the modern world are a little different. On the whole, they're about self-improvement, or to be more 21st Century, "personal development". We go on diets, start exercise regimes, pledge to make more of life's opportunities, whether by climbing a mountain or watching less TV. We might do something like the Romans, resolve to try to be nicer to Auntie Gladys, the boss, or our siblings.

Still, we're unlikely to actually seek them out and apologise for last year's behaviour. Because we weren't really that bad, were we? They probably deserved it anyway. Best just to let sleeping dogs lie.

My New Year's resolution is of the self-improvement kind: eat more fruit and vegetables. I like to think it's unashamedly clichĂŠd. Beyond that, it has several faults as a New Year's resolution (but I've made it now, and there's no going back, right?). First, it's wonderfully vague. How much fruit, how many vegetables, did I actually eat last year anyway? One more portion - I've made it. Resolution fulfilled. No way I'm going to do "5-a-Day", that's for sure.

Second, it's no fun. Now, I know fruit and veg can be fun and exciting. "Crunchy raw beetroot salad with feta and pear!" "Must-try red cabbage braised with apple, bacon and balsamic vinegar!" Thanks, Jamie. (okay, I added the exclamation marks myself.)

But I mean real fun. Take up a new sport; go on an exotic expedition; even learn a musical instrument or a language; those are resolutions you can get excited about. What about something a bit more off-the-wall? Spend the year living by Danny Wallace's lifestyle injunction, "Say Yes to every favour, request, suggestion and invitation." Join a band or choir. Start one! Start writing that book you've been thinking about; set a target, so many words in a year. Build yourself a boat, using only traditional methods. Your resolution should really be something that you actually want to do. Most of the things I listed take time. There are lots of things in life for which we never find the time. We can always find time for things we need to do for ourselves, or do for other people, like brushing teeth, or looking after a neighbour's pet.

New Year's resolutions are a way of committing yourself to something for you. Once you've resolved to learn Farsi, you're in. You can't say any more, "Oh, as when I get a moment, I'll see about ordering that language course." What are you doing right now? Did you resolve to read every word of the Local Lynx for the entire year? Go and do whatever it was you said you would do. Maybe your resolution was simply, "Be kinder." Well, write a letter to someone you haven't seen in a while. Maybe it was, "Stop drinking." Good. Think of something to reward yourself for your success! Was it something like, "Eat more fruit and vegetables?"

Excuse me while I reach for an apple...

Tom Cutterham

D. THOMPSON

All chimneys, Flues & Appliances Swept

Brush and Vacuum Used

Certificates Issued for insurance purposes

Weddings attended as Lucky Sweep

Bird/Rain Guards and Cowls Supplied and Fitted

TEL: 01328 851081 50/50 CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY The end of an era Lynn Marr's final Christmas party as the organiser of the FOGPC's 50/50 Club, after years of stalwart service.

It had to be a good 'un. Team 50/50 were in attendance early; tables set out, mulled wine on, the Bunting range pressed once more into sausage service, institute cooker filled with mince pies warming. The raffle prize table resplendent with pheasants, wine, chocolates, Christmas pudding and cakes all donated by members.

The aroma of oranges, cloves and other secret ingredients of the mulled wine filled the room. Crackers and sweets were decorating the tables, candles lit and festive spirit prevailed as the first guests arrived.

Sausages were savoured, mulled wine and soft punch guzzled (with the special one-off cuppa for our churchwarden!) raffle tickets snapped up, mince pies nibbled and a good time was had by all. After the monthly 50/50 Draw, excitement built for the raffle. It was really nice when one of the prizes was won by someone who had cajoled mum into buying more and more tickets to win that specific item.

The generosity of all concerned, both organisers and attendees, led to record takings of ÂŁ143.30 and more importantly, some real seasonal spirit. The whole event was a huge success and a tribute to Lynn's unstinting efforts.

Looking forward, from 2007 the 50/50 Club needs a new organiser to run the coffee mornings on the last Saturday of each month so please telephone either Lynn or Di C. if you would like to help.

Rob

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LANGHAM

The Blakeney Hotel

News

Blakeney, Nr. Holt, Norfolk NR25 7NE

Tel: 01263 740797

Contact: Ann Sherriff 01328 830605

www.blakeney-hotel.co.uk

AARAC

Overlooking the estuary, the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing break, a meal or just a coffee.

For Church Services see Page 3 LANGHAM CHURCH NEWS

We have seasonal and permanent employment opportunities Telephone Helen for information.

Remembrance Sunday Service The collection from this service amounted to £101.50 which was all sent to the Earl Haig Fund.

Church Flowers We are most grateful for the work of all the kind people who have provided and arranged flowers in church during the year.

Volunteers are always welcome, especially at festivals. Flowers and foliage can usually be provided from our gardens, so if you would like to help, do get in touch with Margaret Freeth or with anyone whose name appears on the flower roster in the church porch.

Vera Colombé

JIMMY FULLER I feel I must pay a very short tribute to Jimmy Fuller whom I had known all my life. A true Langham lad through and through. Jimmy, like his brother Dick, always had a smile on his face and loved to share a laugh or two. Throughout his life, he always tried to help others and I remember the kindness he showed to my mother and father over many years. There is no doubt that during his lifetime he faced illnesses with courage and determination.

He will be missed by his family and friends but he will be remembered for all the good deeds he did over many years. I never heard anyone say a bad word about Jimmy Fuller but I did hear many good things said about him.

Rest well Jimmy, you travelled your journey well.

David Craske

FROM THE REGISTERS th

Dec 6 : Cremation of Mrs. Stella Wyer Dec 15th: Funeral of Mr James (Jimmy) Fuller Dec 29th: Funeral of Mrs. Diana Edna Waller.

The Children’s Society Donations from the Carmel and the Bluebell collection box together with half the church collection at Midnight Mass enabled us to send £98.34 to The Children’s Society. Thank you to all who gave.

PARISH ROOM Thirty-nine people came to the Annual Carols and Mince pies evening in the Parish Room on 13th December to sing carols to start off the festive season.

Pauline played the piano, Eileen and Wendy sang duets, Ken, Bob and Jan sang two German carols, dressing up in suitable attire and the rest of us sang in admiration.

Church Flag & Floodlights It was wonderful to see the church lit up for the twelve days of Christmas. Thank you to those who made generous contributions to make this possible.

Many thanks also to Paul Freeth, for putting up the flag in all kinds of weather, not an easy task on occasions. Any person may request the floodlights to be on for a fee of £5 a night.

Contacts: Ken Tel: 830696 or Ann Tel: 830605

The attendance was lower than before due to two rival functions on the same night but everyone went home in good spirits and a total of £75.42 was raised for Parish Room funds.

Christmas Fair We were anxious to re-create the festive atmosphere that was expertly achieved by Molly last year. Judging by the comments we heard everyone seemed to have an enjoyable morning. The net proceeds of £637 for the Langham church general fund was very pleasing. Thanks must go to ALL those people who helped in any way and to all who brought and bought.

Competition results were: Won by: Christmas Cake Jan Hope Quilt Valerie George No. of Sweets The Rev. Joanna Anderson Basket of Flowers Valerie George Hamper Dr. Rex Dawson

Please put the date of 12th December into your diary for the 2007 evening.

G J PARSONS Landscaping & Complete Garden Service Patios, paths, driveways and shed-bases laid.

Decking, fencing, carports and sheds erected.

Strimming, Rotavating, grass-cutting, hedge-cutting, mole-catching, pressure washing, and garden clearance undertaken.

Mini-digger/JCB hire and general property maintenance. Free estimates.

Joy’s Coffee Morning Saturday March 31st 10am – 12 noon.

Watch out for posters to see where the venue is!

Tel: 01263 587867 or 0787 622 6551

14

FARMING REPORT

ANGLIAN BUSINESS SERVICES

My aim over the next six issues is to give the readership of the Local Lynx an insight into the farming year at Grove Farm, Langham; I hope that another one of my farming colleagues, who farms within the 9 parishes, will volunteer to continue with their story into 2008.

Established for 19 years

    

I manage the business on behalf of the Phelps family and moved here nearly 10 years ago; before that I spent 16 years as an assistant manager at Cantley in East Norfolk.

January is one of the quietest months on the farm; the cattle are housed for the winter so Victor Tully is occupied every day with feeding and littering and then carting it all out again as farmyard manure every 6 weeks or so, while Michael Massingham is busy ploughing in preparation for the spring drilled crops of barley, sugar beet and potatoes.

Business admin assistance a specialty P.A./Secretarial back-up Bookkeeping, spreadsheets Design/maintain database records Business presentation design

‘phone Sandra Tel/Fax: 01328 830406 (Langham) email: anglian.sec@virgin.net

LANGHAM CAR SERVICE Schedule to April 22 Rate: 18p per mile Jan 29th Tel:830 605 Jan 22nd Tel: 830 821 th Feb 12th Tel:830 537 Feb 5 Tel: 830 696 Feb 19th Tel: 830 847 Feb 26th Tel:830 847 th Mar 5 Tel: 830 606 Mar 12th Tel:830 731 th Mar 19 Tel: 830 056 Mar 26th Tel:830 348 Apr 2nd Tel: 830 036 Apr 9th Tel:830 097 Apr 16th Tel: 830 537 The roster is displayed on the notice boards of the playing field, the vicarage wall, church porch and also in the Bluebell. If you cannot get to any of these sites, give me a call and I will be glad to help. Ann Sherriff 830605

We used to cut the hedges straight after harvest but now we delay until January so that the seeds and berries are left for the birds to feed on. The roadside hedges are cut every year, if we did not do this vehicles would get scratched and visibility would be impaired, but the other hedges are cut just once in three years; again to maximise the fruit and berry harvest for the birds as fruits are only produced on second year wood.

We use a contractor for hedge trimming because we cannot justify the cost of owning a cutter which would only be used for one or two weeks of the year; he uses the machine all year round, and therefore does a very neat and speedy job.

Our first harvest of the year is calving which happens during February and March. We have 66 cows and 12 heifers and, hopefully, they will have one calf each. We calve at this time of year so that the work is completed before the bulk of the spring arable work begins and so that we have strong calves to turn out to grass in early April.

MOBILE LIBRARY This will visit Langham on Thursdays: Feb 1st and 22nd, March 15th and April 5th. calling each day at: The Carmel: 9.35 am. Swan’s Close: 10.50 am.

St. Mary’s: 10.00 am. The Cornfield: 11.15am.

Old Post Office: 10.25 am.

Enquiries: Wells Library Tel: 01328 710467

Ours is a beef suckler herd, I need to make this clear because I am often asked about how we do the milking we don’t; the calves do it for us. The calves stay with their mothers at grass until the autumn, when we wean them; the residents of Langham and perhaps neighbouring villages, when the wind is in the right direction, will know about this from the noise they make for the first few days after they are separated. The weaned calves are housed over their first winter; we do not have sufficient grazing to keep them any longer, so we sell them to other farmers in March or April; they then fatten them for slaughter by 18 to 24 months of age.

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PARISH COUNCIL

FRIENDS OF LANGHAM Quiz Night

Election During my nearly 20 years in Langham there has never been an elected Parish Council. The retiring Council has been re-elected en bloc because there has never been more candidates than positions and when members have resigned mid term replacements have been co-opted.

I have never been happy with this and would prefer to have an election this May so that if re-elected I and the other councillors at least know the village wanted us to be on the Council.

With this in mind and as we already know there will be vacancies I would like to ask as many people as possible to think of putting their names forward for the election, both female and male. At our next meeting I hope to have the nomination forms available, and if not, at least be able to tell everyone when they will be available and the process of completing and returning them.

Colin Sherriff. Chairman Seat on the Green Some of you may have noticed the existing seat is damaged beyond repair. With the money donated by the Street Fayre we have chosen a more modern replacement and hope to have it in place by Easter.

Posts around the Green Again, some of these are damaged and will be replaced using money donated by the Street Fayre.

Village Sign This is due for a workover and will soon be removed for the work to commence. Sandra Reville has kindly offered to undertake this job for us.

Precept At our finance meeting it was decided to increase the precept by £500 to help cover the cost of a replacement village notice board. The extra costs of using the Parish Room for public planning meetings and the loss of income from the glass bank will be met from the reserves for this year.

Road Sign Some of you may be wondering about the blank road sign on the Field Dalling road when approaching Grove Farm from the South. This in fact is a ‘Cattle Crossing’ sign that the farm can open out as necessary before driving cattle across the road.

Next meetings. Tues 13th March & Tues 8th May.

Friends of Langham will be holding a quiz night on Friday 23rd March, 7.30pm in Langham Parish Rooms.

Entry per team of 4 is £8 but if you cannot find partners just give us a call and we will find you another pair After the success of the previous quiz night it would be advisable to pre-book your table as soon as possible by contacting either David Reville (01328 878989), John Hughes (01328 830595) or Peter Barlow 01328 830606.

There will be free refreshments but feel free to bring any other beverage of your choice to help activate the brain cells. There will also be prizes for the best team.

Friends of Langham would also like to thank all those people who have come along to the village coffee mornings, as money donated at these mornings was used to purchase new tree lights to decorate the tree on the green over the Christmas holiday.

Friends of Langham Pantomime 2007 48 adults & children (a sell out!) climbed aboard the coach organised by The Friends Of Langham on Tuesday 2nd January and went to see 'Jack & The Bean Stalk' at the Princess Theatre in Hunstanton. As usual it didn't disappoint. It was full of songs, jokes (some truly awful), outrageous costumes and dancing. The baddie was booed and the usual 'He's Behind You!' was chanted by the audience. Everyone enjoyed the panto from the very young to the not so young. We all went home very happy albeit with sore throats. Roll on next year!

Marcel & Cathy Schoenmakers

Village Coffee Mornings in the Parish Room Our second year and still as popular as ever. So don't forget to put the following dates in your diary and come along to meet your friends and neighbours and enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea. We always need volunteers to run these mornings so if you would like to help just call John Hughes: 830595.

Future meetings: Feb. 3rd & 21st and March 3rd & 21st from 10 am to 12 noon

Tree Lights Many thanks once again to the Friends of Langham for the lovely decorated tree on The Green. The lights looked fantastic.

A Villager

Keep Fit Don’t forget our not too demanding and enjoyable classes every Monday morning in the Parish Room

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16

MORSTON

VILLAGE DESIGN STATEMENT

News

The VDS went to the Printers at Christmas and we expect to see the finished article very soon.

Contact: Joc Wingfield 01263 740431

CAROL CONCERT There was a great turnout for our candlelit carol concert, the congregation numbering about 130. The wonderful new chandelier (see above) was the highlight of the illuminations; and during the Service it was consecrated by the Revd Michael Wilson.

The Collection for Kelling and Wells Hospitals amounted to £460.34.

For Church Services see Panel on Page 3 MORSTON MARDLE

by Samphire Dates for Your Diary March 7th Wed. 7.00 pm. Parish Council Meeting.

17th Sat. Friends of Morston Church Quiz 2007.

April 18th Wed. 6.30 pm. Parish Council Meeting (with John Sizar, NT).

June 7th Wed 7.30 pm. Parish Council Meeting: to Parishioners.

July 21st Sat. Friends of Morston Church Committee Meeting 5.30 in Coastguard House followed by 6.30 AGM in the Village Hall.

August 4th Sat. Morston Regatta.

5th Sun. Oyster Regatta.

September 8th Sat. Norfolk Churches Trust (sponsored) Cycle Ride.

CHRISTMAS EVE CAROL SINGING The village carol singers were magnificent. Starting from the Kays’ (since sadly the Anchor was not available as the traditional start-point) just two hours after the Kays’ lovely, traditional Village Drinks Party finished, the carollers were collecting for the Church Building Fund. And they beat the record for the third year running - with the sum of £265.13. A tremendous success!

MORSTON QUIZ

by Samphire (Answers Page 23) 1. By what name is Harry Webb better known?

2. Before taking up politics, was Hitler a shopkeeper, a house painter or a lawyer?

3. At the start of a game of Scrabble how many letter tiles does each player pick up?

4. Which King Louis was called “The Sun King”?

5. Which state has the 4th largest population in the world (after China, India and the USA)?

6 & 7. Which British monarch reigned from 1837? And for how long?

8. How many arms has a squid?

9. What type of animal produces wool called “cashmere”?

10. Which Chinese vessel has a name that means “rubbish”?

MORSTON HALL Maybe being on our doorstep means we don’t keep up to date with what goes on at Morston Hall. Gleaned from their website is the following information.

“Morston Hall is an intimate country house hotel with its origin in the 17th century. Morston Hall has won great praises from regional and national press, including East Anglia Small Hotel of the Year, and also for its outstanding cuisine and high standard of accommodation.

It has the only restaurant within a 50-mile radius with both 3 red rosette's and a Michelin Star award.

Cookery Demos, Wine Evenings & Barbecues Chef patron Galton Blackiston conducts a number of half-day cookery demonstrations every year to show guests how certain menus are prepared for harmonious results at the table. Additionally there are two three-day residential cookery courses. Since these activities are invariably over-subscribed, early reservations are essential. Additional information is available on the 3day residential course or half day courses.”

1849 BOYD DESCENDANTS VISIT MORSTON John Boyd of Barry in the Vale of Glamorgan with his wife and daughter visited Morston and All Saints in August.

John’s daughter is the great-great-granddaughter of Alexander Boyd of Holt Lodge who in 1849 at All Saints’ Morston married Louise Wood of Morston Hall.

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SAXLINGHAM News Contact: Bridget Watson 01328 830248

For Church Services see Panel on Page 3 We seem to have plunged so swiftly into the New Year that the joys of Christmas-time have almost been forgotten - but fond memories can still linger on.

Our Christingle Service This was, as always, very well attended, with the children delighted each to receive an individul orange adorned with sweets, and a lighted candle. Tea and mince pies were served afterwards and it was a very jolly occasion, enjoyed by everyone.

Christmas Day Service This service of Holy Communion took place in a splendidly decorated church, with favourite carols dung enthusiastically by a full congregation.

The Epiphany Service The presence of Three Kings and the Virgin Mary, with Baby Jesus, made this service extra special this year. All performed extremely well and entertained us afterwards with several ‘modern’ carols. Our sincere thanks go to the children, Emily, Lucy, Isobell and Angus, all of whom attend Langham School, and also to Mrs Sheila Harris who teaches music at the school.

Caroline Lister We were all greatly saddened by the sudden death of Caroline Lister, who had lived at the Old Forge with her husband, Chas. and children, Helen and Matthew, for nearly eight years. We offer our heartfelt condoleences to all her family. Caroline was a much valued member of our little community. Although not in the best of health, she generously gave of her time to assist and support village and church events. She was a sincere and kind person, and we shall miss her a lot, remembering her with true affection.

Emmie Barrie We were also sorry to learn of the death of Emmy Barry, who lived in Saxlingham before moving to Fakenham. Whilst she was able, she gave her utmost support to church and village, always with a fine sense of humour and disregard for her increasing ailments. We remember her in our thoughts and prayers and send our condolences to her family.

AMAZING HAMOND COIMBRA CHANDELIER

“A labour of love made from turned oak (for the central orbs) and light copper (for the ornate “candles” was hung in All Saints’ in time for the Carol Service.

Ned Hamond has presented Morston Church with his wonderful work of art.

For pictures see: www.flickr.com/photos/ bananarublev Or, better still, come and see it.

“In 1996, my son Nick”, wrote Ned, “ while working on a dig in Portugal, visited the New Cathedral in Coimbra, where he saw this Chandelier.

He did this lovely drawing. When I saw it I knew that if I could get my act together, it would make a wonderful addition to Morston All Saints.

Ten years on and several months in the making it is there in all its glory and was lit for the first time at the Carol Service 2006. My special thanks to Friends of Morston Church who helped with the cost of the construction.”

MORSTON ANCESTOR SEARCH Mrs. P. Austin of Gillingham, Kent seeks the surname of the Sarah of Morston who married William Elwood of Langham at All Saints’, Morston in the 1800s.

If you know the missing name and/or date, please inform the Morston Representative (who holds Mrs. Austin’s full address).

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INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

SHARRINGTON News

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All Saints’ Church looked stunning over Christmas, with every window-sill and available ledge decorated with flowers and evergreeens and lit by a myriad of candles - much appreciated by the villagers who attended the carol service and Christmas Day communion.

The service of lessons and carols told the Christmas story from its roots in Genesis right up to the powerful message of St John’s gospel and we sang all the traditional accompanying carols. Mulled wine and mince pies kept everyone chatting in the aisle long after the service, and sent us all off into the night cheerful and glowing.

This year we decided to send our collection to Marie Curie, and thanks to the generosity of the congretaion, we were able to send £203 to that charity.

One child asked why we hadn’t sung ‘Away in a manger’, but that had to be saved until Christmas morning, when we gathered round the crib to hear again the story of the shepherds and the angels - and to sing the carols that we hadn’t had space for earlier in the week.

One recent innovation for Sharrington church over the winter has been the introduction of ‘coughs and colds corner’ - appropriately enough situated on the font - where water, cough sweets and a box of tissues are available for those in need. Please note that the Churchwardens do NOT think that a bottle of whisky is a necessary addition to these comforts.

Those on the electoral roll should expect to be contacted by Betty Rivett in the next few weeks, since a new roll has to be prepared this year, ready for our annual parochial church meeting on March 19th.

Everyone is welcome to attend, starting at 7pm in the church.

PEL

BATTLE OF SALERNO This is written with the greatest respect and admiration for those who fought in this battle.

Particularly for an Artillery Captain who lives in our village who fought on with rifles, because the big guns sank deeply into the soft sand. Also, my cousin Tony, who added his authority and military expertise to the eventual victory.

A similar Geordie account of the battle of Waterloo was greatly enjoyed by many discerning folk. This eyewitness account of Salerno has all the clarity and knowledge inspired by Tony ‘Ancock’s ‘alf ‘our of ‘istory’- you remember? He said - ‘Does nobody care about Magna Carter. Did she die in vain?’

Hence - them involved:- ‘Ike’ - ‘im of the Fairway.

Cousin Tony - ‘im of the rough. Musso - ‘im of the spaghetti. Ned - great, great, grandson of Ned, who won the Battle of Waterloo.

Ike sez to Cousin Tony ‘Ah dinn’t kna’ what’s to be done, Tone.’

Tony replies ‘Ah dinn’t kna either, Ike, but ah kna a man as can fixit.’ Tony goes to wor Ned. ‘Wot Cheer Ned - Ike wants ye to fix this invasion for us.’

‘Ah’ll dee whativers needed for Ike and ye, Tone.’

‘Great - well ye see ah’ll those lads clutterin’ up th’ fairway? They’re stoppin’ us gettin’ out of this bloody sand bunker. Ike wants ‘em shifted - ‘e divn’t want ‘em jostled, ‘e wants ‘em shifted ah’lltagither. So - gan up to that little fat fellar ahl dressed in black, looksl like a tin of Cherry Blossom with a string of gongs across ‘is chest - and have a word wi’ im - a stern wed.’

‘I’m on my way Tone - divn’t bother yer head naymore.’

Ned gangs Tappy Lappy o’er the watter in his smart Tacketty Buits. Gans up to Cherry Blossom - ‘Wot cheer Musso - my yur won a lot of darts matches, ah’ll them gongs, hinney!’

Musso says - ‘Wy, if it isn’t wor Ned, What fettle the day kidder?’

‘Champion - but Ike wants ye to shift your lads off the fairway so that ‘e can get oot o’ the sand bunker.’

Musso replies ‘Wy aye Ned, it’s only common courtesy and ah’l du it for thee and Ike.’ So ‘e gets up on his dais and shouts ‘Gan yam lads’ then summat like ‘spaghetti, macaroni b--r offi.’

That’s how Ned fettled the Beach Head at Salermo ‘ey up.

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THE RIME OF THE ANCIENT VILLAGER

E. & M. Grimes BUILDERS

An attempt to show gratitude and respect to the ‘true villagers’ and their many generations - from a Furriner.

Telephone (01263) 740274

Alas - ent no quarter for no Tittermatortor, No Bandy wicket - nor fun in the thicket.

The pubs have gone private - and the Green?

Ent no flash of the Green to be seen.

Dardledumdews are yesterday’s news.

But we still have the reckless, the daft and the feckless.

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No trundling Dumpling Hunter At peace with God, self seeking asunder, Spreading the word, praying for all Accepts any dumpling, large, medium or small.

Norfolk’s ‘Bread of Life’ (Mrs Moore’s were the best.

Her soul has been saved - this world and the next.

She’s an Angel, blessed hands, sacred, divine With flour, water and worship, she creates ‘bread & wine’).

His old spirit lives on in village and lane, No equal today to heal grief and pain.

He’s wandered away, like the milestone inspector -

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Ironically now many crops are deemed surplus.

Open hearts, open houses, families cared for, Close families, close friends, all efforts shared - for The good of each other, Child, father and mother.

Then - in a quiet invasion, came a few, one or two Who said - ‘We know best!’

An attitude villagers quite rightly detest.

Men of the past, now in the Heavenly Sector.

Like Hid Stifflers and Hedgers and Ditchers, Whose art has been ruined by men who are richer, With their massive machines, no respect for the land.

Rip it up, slash it down, no art of the hand!

No blacksmith, strong docked.

Shepherd’s love of his flock.

No grazier. No cowman.

Remember the ploughman?

(One man, one horse, one plough, one acre, one day - one shilling - the thought is so chilling)

But - came many more, more and more, Who bent their backs and their pockets to help to restore The church, the village - no destruction, no pillage.

Architects, builders, plumbers and chippies Better than having those squatters and hippies?

Turn your barns into time shares, upstairs and downstairs, Sleep in the hayloft, eat in the stable But do swap the trough for a dining-room table.

We feel lucky and grateful in this beautiful place.

Our future’s together whatever the pace.

The flints and the bricks are the ghosts knowing all, For centuries past, now, and what’ere may befall.

Thanks to the families, who have lived here for years For generations, descendants, their work, laughs and tears.

They lived through the strife of wars, plagues and famine.

They died young, they died old - the churchyard examine.

Now - One man, one tractor ploughs one square mile in 24 hours) Dawn to dawn, through nature’s night, Agin Nature’s harmony and rhythm we fight.

The seasons are blurred which does seem absurd.

No clopping fine horses - pulling harvest’s last load.

No steel rims of cartwheels crushing the road.

All year round, deafening tractors pull giant trucks Crushing the roadside, and we have to duck.

Death duties, super-marts, electronic inventions, The over-all rule of combustion engines, Deal death to the village, their skills, common purpose.

Praise be

Glossary Tittermatortor = See-saw, Bandywicket = Cricket, Dumpling hunter = Travelling Priest, Dardumdews = feckless folk, Mileston Inspector = Tramp, Hid Stifflers = Head farm hand.

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STIFFKEY

COUNTRYSIDE COTTAGES

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For Church Services see Panel on Page 3 CHRISTMAS SERVICES

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Christmas was celebrated in Stiffkey with two very well attended services on consecutive days: Christingle on Christmas Eve and Holy Communion celebrated by our rector Joanna, on Christmas Morning. It was heartening that so many visitors to our village join us on occasions like these. We are also grateful to all who helped decorated the church and to Keith in particular for the excellence of the mulled wine after the Christingle service, lingering aromas of which greeted first arrivals the following day! The collections at the two services were given to the Salvation Army to support their excellent work with the homeless at Christmas.

In between, Joanna led the now almost traditional carol singing in the Red Lion on Christmas Eve. Joanna made the point that as Christ was born at the back of an inn, this was a highly appropriate venue for singing carols.

The enthusiastic singing seemed to suggest that others shared this perception! Our crib on the knoll also emphasised that the Christmas message is not confined to the insides of churches. A collection was taken up and donated to the Gambian project.

John Adnitt

5 Old Stable Yard, Holt, Norfolk. NR25 6BN

SHARRINGTON SOC. CHRISTMAS JOLLY This was a splendid event. Highly enjollyable, with all ages in the village in full flood. Wee yuns whizzing about distributing the festive manna prepared by the next generation down? - tasty, tasteful, nutritious even.

Crackers, streamers, daft hats, candles, all contributed to this cross generation event. Thirty-five or so assorted souls meant a surplus of decibels, laughter and chat. It was, however, noted that the Phantom Balloon Blower of Old Sharrington Town is saving his breath for next year.

Over the loaded tables hung a large Beast - a sculpted boar with prehistoric fangs. This was ritually slaughtered and disembowelled by the tribal young, allowing cascades of sweeties to be harvested in a most unselfish manner, ‘mine’- ‘me’ - ‘mine’ yelled between swipes.

This is an ancient Mexican custom - PINJATA Followed by dancing, further laughter and chat, the evening was declared to be a ‘Right Good Do’.

STIFFKEY VILLAGE SIGNS

May I, from my exalted status of Post-Graduate Geriatric - Hell, I HATE that word, rhymes with Wearyatric) - may I comment that Sharry is a very lively village, increasingly so, from the 90s to the wee yuns.

It’s all a breath of fresh air and our thanks to go Debby and her Hench-people. Brilliant, and may you go from strength to strength.

PJG

A few years ago Randal Fielden who, for many years, lived at the Old Hall, created the lovely metal signs depicting terns and the Parish Council helped erect them, mounted on an oak post at both ends of the village.

We are pleased to note that they have now had a face lift; repainted and bright and cheerful. (If only the 20mph signs were so noticeable and responded to!)

And who is it that continues to deface and vandalise the regular County Council signs by erasing the letters?

Vandalism – from who/where? Any information, please, to the police.

M. G . MYHILL

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OLD NORFOLK DIALECT

HOW WAS BINHAM PRIORY BUILT?

In old Norfolk, ‘to imitate’ means ‘to attempt’, as in: ‘I shouldn’t imitate to do that if I was you’. If you speak pompously, you ‘spaffle’.

Old Norfolk shepherds counting their sheep - Ina Tina,Tether, Wether, Pink, Hater, Slater, Sara, Dara, Dick

How was the stone used for the building of Binham Priory transported? Was it by ox and tumbrel from a quay heading below the old hall, or up the Stiffkey River as far as Warham? Or even up the Binham brook which joins the Stiffkey near the ruins of the old Warham manor House just below Fiddlers Hill ford? Obviously the Stiffkey valley was a broad estuary in medieval times.

Anyone with information or knowledge? Contact Keith McDougall or Ann Bell at the Old Hall.

Keith McDougall

CLIVE AND EVA’S LEAVING BASH THANK YOU – THANK YOU – THANK YOU. What a lovely leaving party and what an amazing gift you gave us. When John collected us we had no idea what to expect. We arrived at the pub to find the conservatory and dining room full; so many people had turned out on such an awful night. Food and drink had been laid on and what a spread it was, the quiche was superb, as was everything else.

Andy and Alice presented us with our leaving present. I think ‘gob-smacked’ just about sums up how we felt when we opened the envelope and saw all that money. We are not sure how we will use it yet but it will be on something special.

We would like to thank Gill and David, Sally, Cherry, Keith, the Bashforths and the Adnitts for organising the whole thing. And the Red Lion for allowing us to take over the pub and all that wonderful food. Thank you to all of you who donated to our very generous leaving present and a special thank you to all who made the effort to come and make the party such a special evening.

Our life has slowed down now we are no longer working 60 hours a week and we are enjoying the freedom to get away at weekends. But we are missing seeing you all everyday and life will never be quite the same again.

Eva and Clive

STIFFKEY MUSIC GROUP Regular monthly meetings continue and the regulars keep turning up and contributing generously towards the funds for helping Sally and Albert in The Gambia. Albert is very hopeful of coming to the UK soon to complete his accountancy studies. He will be staying with a Gambian family in Barking, but maybe we will see him sometime in Stiffkey.

In December a programme of music in films proved popular and in January members had programme of music chosen by them from earlier Evenings, which they wished to hear again or sample more extensively. Tchaikovsky and Mozart proved the most popular requests but there were some more unusual and surprising requests from John’s motley selections over the years!

The next two meetings are on Feb 7th and March 7th. The second of these will be in aid of local UNICEF fundraising.

All are welcome. First arrivals get best seats for a 7pm kick off! Nibbles and tipples at half time!

John Adnitt

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INSIDE - OUTSIDE House & Garden Maintenance First class service for permanent or holiday homes in the North Norfolk area and beyond

    

General house & building repairs Painting & decorating Garden maintenance (clearance, weeding, new borders etc) Lawn and grass cutting Hedge cutting No job too small - Free estimates - References given

For further details or to arrange a visit call Roy Findlater on: 01328 830442 or 07818 422625

SCHOOL NEWS

e-mail: roy.findlater@btinternet.com

CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT

THE OLD HALL

This always takes a lot of time, commitment and (on behalf of the children) courage to put something like this together, and once again it was a great success, Cley Village Hall was full to capacity for each performance.

Restoration works continue under the watchful control of the Bell family, what a fantastic work of heritage reconstruction it is! And we have been welcomed so generously by John and Ann as their labour of love unfolds; to see around and admire.

We share their pride in a wholly inspiring project. .

Keith McDougall

Netball Club Lesley Bowman will again be running the club for years 4, 5 & 6 on Tuesdays 6th, 20th and 27th February and 6th, 20th and 27th March.

NATURE NOTES Why is it that sparrowhawks seem to target woodpeckers – both Green and Greater Spotted? (And for all old Pightle knows, the Lesser Spotted as well, which are rare). Is it their bright plumage and convenient size as prey?

The Green Woodpecker is less common than the Greater Spotted which visits hanging from garden feeders. The Green is more a ground feeder on worms, ants and other insects.

And yet the Greater Spotted is a predator of nestlings of small birds in the summer!

The balance between predators and prey is a challenging issue in our highly managed farm and garden environments. Some people think the dashing sparrowhawk is too numerous, but all raptors are protected by law.

Pightle

Travel Plan Following the publication of our successful School Travel Plan we have been awarded a grant of over £4,000 to spend on travel related projects. The school council had decided on a new bike rack to replace our present rusty 1920s version. We still have several high visibility waistcoats in various sizes for £2.

Saturday Art Club Having received 3 donations we will be able to run this in Spring and Summer term. Details from Vee.

Energy Busters This has had an impact with fewer lights and computers being left on unnecessarily

MORSTON QUIZ (p. 17)

Half Term

by Samphire. Answers 1. Sir Cliff Richard. 2. House painter. 3. Seven. 4. XIV. 5. Indonesia. 6. Queen Victoria. 7. 64 years (until 1901).

8. Ten. 9. A goat. 10. A junk.

Mon. 2th Feb - Friday 16th Feb inclusive

SALES  SERVICE  REPAIRS 

UNICEF

For all makes of Washing Machines Dishwashers Cookers etc.

No Call Out Charge

Local members of the North and West Norfolk Unicef supporters group have arranged for Norman Lamb, MP for North Norfolk, to speak at a meeting at Gresham’s school on March 29th at 7.30 on his experiences visiting Ghana with Christian Aid. The group is raising funds to provide toilets for schools in Ghana and donations by those attending the meeting will go towards this project. Please reserve a date in your diaries. For further information please call 01328 830044.

John Adnitt

44a Holway Road Sheringham

Tel: 01263 825273 23

THE SMALL ADS PANEL ADVERTISING LOCAL SERVICES

01328 851081

DERICK TIPPLE - HOME & GARDEN SERVICES For all your Building Maintenance and Repairs 10 Greenway, Stiffkey Phone 01328 830494

PETSTOP and STOCK

ROBIN PEEL GARDEN SERVICES

CHIMNEY SWEEP David Thompson

Petfood and accessories delivered free to your door Stockists of major brands - Specialist Diets - Treats

Grass & Hedge Cutting - Fencing Patios & Paths - The complete garden service

Phone your requirements: 01328 856711

Tel: 01328 830694 or 07747 001261

GLEN ALLEN Tel: 01263 712203 Mob: 07900 293291

NICK RIVETT Qualified Domestic Plumber Also: Lead Work Undertaken Tel: 01263 861065 Mobile: 077 47 690049

ALISTAIR STEVENSON

ACUPUNCTURE & HERBAL MEDICINE

Decorating - Carpentry - General Property Repairs

For delivery of newspapers in Bale, Field Dalling, Saxlingham and, now, Langham:

Suzanne Reid BA, LicAc, MBAcC, LicOHM, MRCHM Holt Consulting Rooms, Church Street

Tel: 01328 878271

Tel: 01263 711712 - Email: suzanne@reidreid.abel.co.uk CARPET CLEANING

INSIDE OUT

Gary Waller Painter & Decorator - Fully Insured

From a rug to a single room or the complete house We also clean 3-piece suites and leather furniture

Tel:01263 860705 Mob: 07990 993406

Call: Mike Barrett at Clean Tech - 01485 609223

A. R. Pigott

COASTAL TREATMENTS by HENRIETTA V.T.C.T. Holistic Treatments: Reflexology - Indian Head Massage - Aromatherapy Facials & Beauty Treatments - all in the comfort of your own home.

Painter & Decorator Cley: 01263 741013

Tel: 01328 711440 Mobile: 07880 816498

STEPHEN BEAL LANDSCAPES (S.R.Beal, A.Beal, M.P.Lee)

2 The Willows Chapel Lane Wiveton Norfolk NR25 7TQ

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Garden design and landscaping Lawn and grass cutting, lawn maintenance Turfing and seeding new lawns Garden maintenance for private and holiday homes Patios and paths laid Seasonal pruning of shrubs, trees, fruit trees and roses Hedge cutting and fencing Garden clearance

Tel: 01263 740591 Mobile: 07831 102592 Also 01263 511587

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