North Weald Village Life January 2022 issue

North Weald Village Life Strengthening the Community

FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine Issue: 185 JANUARY 2022 Page

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Page 2

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

HAPPY NEW YEAR. WELCOME TO 2022 I can’t believe we are now in 2022. I hope everybody had a good Christmas.

I find the start of a New Year exciting and hopeful. Sometimes it doesn't last long but at least for a few days the feeling is there.

I do still make new year resolutions and of course I still break them within a few days.

I have to mention the weather, it was so unseasonably warm over Christmas and the period leading up to New Year, but very wet.

The dogs came back from their walks absolutely black and muddy. Our westie enjoys rolling in the puddles and has had to be bathed a few times.

We did manage to see family, in small groups and taking lateral flow tests before we met up. Better than last year but not as risk free as we had hoped. I hope you managed to meet up with friends and family safely.

I have started to walk a bit more (New Year resolution) and I am so upset to see the piles of rubbish strewn around the village. Either black bags or groups of building or household rubbish, empty bottles and wrappers. Thinking about it, maybe it is because the Road Cleaner has been on Christmas Holidays, quite rightly, and it shows how much they must clean up.

Covid-19, Omicron, seems to be everywhere, every household seems to have had a positive member or someone had it over Christmas. I must admit it is confusing with rules changing, you don’t need to isolate even if someone in the house has tested positive as long as your lateral flow tests are negative, if you are positive you can now test days 6 and 7 and if both of them are negative you don’t need to isolate for 10 days etc.

Now there is a shortage of lateral flow tests and they can be difficult to get hold of, and I understand even PCR appointments are hard to book. I guess we have to be sensible, and do the best without risking any others.

I read in Church Chat that Jaimee prefers to list things she wants to do during the year rather than making New Year Resolutions and maybe that is something I should do. I definitely want to go on holiday this year and do less house DIY. I would still like to write a book—something my mum wanted to do and never did. It would be a fictional book.

Maybe 2022 is the year.

I want to take this opportunity to remind you to please send me photos, news, events, letters and anything else you would like to share with me and the readers.

I hope more events open up in 2022 and the events calendar can start to fill up.

Please take care, stay safe and I hope to see you on one of my many walks.

June

Editor

Page 3

Tel: 07814 863955

Cover photo: How cosy does this cat look?

Contents January Issue Page No.

4. Brain Teaser 5. Parish Council opposes alcohol licence for barbers 6 Events 7 Events 8. Planning applications 11. Compassionate Neighbours Training 12. Have your say on plans for North Weald Airfield 13. Firework Legislation 17. Poem 18. New Year Honours 19. Free training to help stop suicide 21. Photos 25. Citizen Advice 27. Thirteen Nine Three 29. Citizen Advice 28. Rockin Robin 29. Birds

Editor June Peachey june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk 07814 863955 Write to: 49 York Road, North Weald, Epping, Essex CM16 6HU www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Subscription: If you would like to guarantee your personal copy or perhaps you have relatives or friends who would like to receive their own copy, you can subscribe for £25.00 for 12 issues.

Contributions & Editorial: If you would like to contribute editorial, poems, recipes, letters or anything else, we would be delighted to receive these. Please send them to us via letter or email.

Advertisers: Please email or telephone us for full advertising rates and sizes. Booking

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure any data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor it’s editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party, or loss or damage caused by errors or resulting from negligence, accident or any other concerns. North Weald Village Life does not officially endorse any advertisement material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reported, stored in retrieval systems or transmitted in any form electronically. Mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the permission of the publisher.

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

NEW YEAR BRAIN TEASER • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

New Plans Journey Exciting Together Start Fresh Happy Toast Drink Health Diary Events Family Wealth Future Exercise

T

R

F

N

O

H

S

E

R

F

E

G

O

T

K

E

O

U

H

R

P

I

N

N

E

Y

E

A

R

N

W

W

G

O

M

T

R

E

H

T

E

G

O

T

I

E

E

E

S

J

E

L

L

E

I

P

D

E

E

R

A

F

R

J

T

Y

S

T

R

A

T

S

I

X

D

L

A

U

S

O

R

P

I

B

C

D

E

O

A

S

T

A

T

O

L

U

T

P

C

A

P

E

L

H

R

H

E

U

S

G

J

R

F

D

R

I

N

K

O

S

Y

A

F

X

N

N

O

E

R

A

E

A

V

E

E

T

I

M

A

F

A

I

Y

R

H

H

X

E

L

R

I

N

W

F

R

Y

L

S

L

F

E

T

E

V

U

P

D

E

P

E

E

T

P

N

I

A

S

I

L

T

L

D

I

V

A

N

Y

O

W

P

M

I

H

S

U

A

E

X

C

E

R

E

L

A

E

L

A

D

Q

F

N

X

E

O

T

U

I

V

I

W

L

L

F

H

W

S

E

V

H

O

R

T

E

M

A

E

T

J

F

W

T

W

E

J

D

N

O

N

A

H

A

N

H

E

A

T

O

S

T

I

N

A

S

F

I

R

D

C

D

A

Thank you to N. Bradley and well done for winning the Christmas Competition Just search and find the words, ring them and then send your completed wordsearch to me by 20th January Please send it to:New Year Brain Teaser, NWVL, 49 York Road, North Weald, CM16 6HU. This month’s prize is a bottle of wine.

Don’t forget to include your name, telephone no or email address and home address.

9.30am

18.00

Page 4

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Parish council opposes barbers' alcohol application North Weald Bassett Parish Council is opposing a licence application by the Turkish barbers recently refurbished in the High Road, North Weald, to allow it to sell alcohol.

The barbers has applied to Epping Forest District Council for a Premises Licence for alcohol sales on and off the premises between noon and 7pm Monday to Sunday.

Councillor Andy Tyler told Monday's parish council planning committee: "I don't think we need any more places in North Weald selling alcohol."

Council chairman Alan Buckley said the council should object to the application "in the strongest possible terms" adding: "A definite 'no'."

Don’t forget to visit our website: www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Or sign up to the Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/ Northwealdvillagelife

Patients asked to show compassion as NHS staff under pressure to deliver Booster programme Essex residents are being asked to show compassion to NHS staff and volunteers who are under intense pressure as they deliver the Covid-19 and flu vaccination programme on top of routine appointments.

In a recent meeting, representatives from local authorities and the health sector heard that GPs, acute hospital and social care staff are concerned by the level of attack they are coming under because of delays to some appointments and treatments.

Cllr John Spence, who is responsible for Health and Adult Social Care at Essex County Council as well as Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Board has called on his colleagues and peers across the public sector to come together in an ask to ‘be kind.’

He said: “All of us are frustrated and worn down after two years of Covid. We recognise the anxieties and feel them ourselves. “But we are all on the same side and we need to respect those helping us at this time and continue to be strong and united.”

The whole of the NHS is experiencing enormous pressure with more appointments being delivered now than prepandemic.

With the upscaling of the Covid-19 vaccination and booster programme workload pressures are intense with NHS across Essex saying many staff are feeling exhausted.

Page 5

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

DOG WALK From Boxers to Beagles, Greyhounds to Golden Retrievers, all pups are welcome at St Clare Hospice’s 16th annual charity dog walk, taking place on Sunday 27th February.

Dozens of dogs of all shapes and sizes are set to take part in the Hospice’s sponsored 5km countryside walk, which raises more than £5,000 for the charity each year.

Entry for Winter Walkies is £10 for adults and £5 for children. Or, £27.50 for a family of four. Every penny goes towards our vital palliative care and bereavement services for local people.

And don’t forget to join in with St Clare Hospice’s Cutest Canine competition on facebook and Instagram. The competition is open to all pooches taking part in the Hospice’s Winter Walkies.

For more information and to book your Winter Walkies place, visit the Hospice’s website: https://stclarehospice.org.uk/event/winter-walkies2022/

Copy Deadline for Event Details For the February Issue 15th January

Page 6

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

If you run a community event or charity event, don’t forget to let me know so I can share the details with readers—just email me June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Ploughman’s Lunch Held in the North Weald Village Hall Every Second Saturday each month - This is organised for the the benefit of the Senior Citizens Society, a North Weald institution, get there early!!

North Weald WI Meeting North Weald W.I Meeting will be held at North Weald Village Hall on Wednesday 12th January starting at 1.45pm. This months speaker is Mr Andy Bennett with tales entitled ‘ 90 years of Social History in Mildred our Austin Seven’ Sounds interesting!

Jazz in North Weald Every Third Saturday each month

Memory Café 4U Every 3rd Wednesday of the Month 10am—12pm

The Jack Free Show The most popular event in North Weald, from 12.30pm. Great music and meet people, the happiest afternoon in Essex. Come and join the party. Tickets on the door.

At St James’ Church Hall, Ongar Welcoming café especially for those with varying degrees of memory issues and those who love and care for them.

Enjoy activities, bingo and more.

Next week one will be the Christmas event.

Please don’t forget to tell Mention to advertisers that you saw their advert in North Weald Village Life

.

Page 7

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Planning Applications Application No: EPF/2591/21 Officer: Kie Farrell Applicant Name: Mr Andrew Nyman Planning File No: 008737 Location: 2 Park Close, North Weald Bassett, Epping CM16 6BP Proposal: New detached 3 bedroom house adjacent to 2 Park Close, CM16 6BP. Application No: EPF/2592/21 Officer: Sukhvinder Dhadwar Applicant Name: Mr Juniper Planning File No: 024642 Location: 17 Tempest Mead, North Weald Bassett, Epping CM16 6DY Proposal: Single storey rear extension with pitched roof and 3 skylights.

Any representations on the above applications should be made in writing, by Monday 17th January 2022.

Epping Forest District Council www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk Comment online at www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/iPlan or by post to: The Director of Planning and Economic Development, Epping Forest District Council, Civic Offices, 323 High Street, Epping, Essex CM16 4BZ

Any enquiries should be made to the Application Processing Team T: 01992 564436 or E: appcomment@eppingforestdc.gov.uk

Page 8

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Parish council planning "landmark" tree planting project North Weald Bassett Parish Council is looking to create a woodland area featuring between 2,000 and 4,000 trees at Weald Common.

Parish council chairman Alan Buckley told Tuesday's environmental committee the project would be the biggest tree planting initiative carried out in the district.

He said: "We are making a landmark move."

Mobile: 07885 871508 www.nmonkplumbingandheating.co.uk

Make getting your booster your new year’s resolution

The parish council has the idea of linking the planting scheme with next year's Queen's Platinum Jubilee - with each local school child allocated a tree, possibly bearing their name.

Each child would be given a certificate with every tree plotted on a commemorative map.

Councillor Andy Tyler said: "This is probably the best thing this parish council could do for The local NHS is urging everyone who hasn’t had their booster – or hasn’t started generations." their COVID vaccinations yet – to make getting the jab their New Year’s resoluThe council hopes to receive grant funding tion. through the Essex Tree Initiative, and also provide some funding itself, to meet the cost • Make an appointment via the NHS national booking service online at nhs.uk/ of the project which would see the trees plantcovid-vaccination or call 119 (free), between 7am and 11pm seven days a week ed on a 2.09-hectare area of land off the ac• Attend a walk-in site cess road which leads from the North Weald The websites are updated daily and throughout most days so please keep check- Village Hall car park to the former Ongar Radio Station site. ing back for more appointments and walk in locations.

Dr Rachel Joyce, Director of Clinical and Professional Services at Herts and West Councillor Tyler added: "It's a great way enEssex Clinical Commissioning Groups said: “The vast majority of those currently gaging with the school. in hospital with serious complications from COVID are unvaccinated. All of our sites offer first and second doses as well as boosters – it’s not too late to catch up. Getting a vaccine is the single biggest step you can take in protecting yourself, your family and friends from COVID. “Infection rates are still high and the more of us that get fully vaccinated the more chance we have of getting back to normal quickly and reducing the pressure on our hospitals”.

"I think it's a brilliant idea and would be a great way to engage the children at the school about what trees they would like to see planted there."

The committee agreed to move forward with the idea.

Dr Joyce added: “Let’s start 2022 with the best New Year’s resolution and the one you can achieve now – getting vaccinated to protect ourselves, and our family and friends.”

A reminder of those who are eligible for the COVID vaccine, and should now come forward: • Anyone aged 18 or over, who had their second dose more than 12 weeks ago can get a booster • • Anyone over 18 who has not yet had any vaccine • • 12-15 year olds can now get their second vaccination three months after their first dose • Immunocompromised patients are now eligible for a fourth vaccine dose three months after their third dose and will be contacted by their GP practice or can book an appointment or walk- in if three months has already passed.

Page 9

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

New Princess Alexandra Hospital Scrutinised

•

OBC – the Outline Business Case – a key document in the release funding is 60% drafted.

Negotiations for the land purchase are also at an advanced The new planned hospital was discussed at the Epping Forest stage following agreement of the purchase price.

District Council Overview and Scrutiny meeting on Tuesday 7 However, further progress has been delayed as the governDecember 2021. ment assesses all hospitals in the national programme with a Current and future health services came under the spotlight of Design Convergence Review to promote common areas of Epping Forest District Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Com- design and similar construction methods. mittee when senior Princess Alexandra Hospital executives The review conclusions are expected in the New Year, but it answered questions around the recent Care Quality Commisdoes mean the New Princess Alexandra Hospital project is sion – CQC reports and development of the New Hospital. delayed.

Plans are being developed for a brand-new hospital close to Hospital executives also took questions on the recent CQC Junction 7a of the M11. The New Princess Alexandra Hospital report published in November. Caring Services received a is one of 8 ‘pathfinder projects’ in the government’s New Hosgreen light but the CQC also found improvements are required pital Programme. Councillors heard that a great deal of proin other key categories including:gress had been made including: • Are services safe? Requires improvement • Design brief completed • Are services effective? Requires improvement • Schedule of accommodation – complete and incorporated • Are services responsive? Requires improvement into building design • Are services well-led? Requires improvement • Procurement strategy completed

• • • • •

Facilities management strategy Digital strategy Modern methods of construction Net zero carbon strategy Very wide engagement

Page 10

Tel: 07814 863955

Hospital Trust Chief Executive Lance McCarthy and Stephanie Lawton, Chief Operating Officer outlined the pressures of trying to improve services during the Covid Pandemic. If the CQC came in tomorrow, councillors were told they would see is a workforce committed to improvements and the steps to improve services for patients.

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Protect your home from fire this Christmas Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is asking Essex residents to take extra care in the kitchen this year, after last December saw a rise in kitchen fires.

Throughout December 2020, the Service was called on average to more than four house fires a day, and kitchen fires were found to be the most common cause.

Statistics show faulty wiring and candles were the second and third most common cause of house fires last December.

07926987207 Call for a free quotation Based in North Weald. Essex CM16

New Compassionate Neighbours training in January 2022 The Compassionate Neighbours project at St Clare Hospice is appealing for volunteers to come forward in an attempt to end social isolation throughout West Essex and East Herts, amongst those coming to the end of their lives or living with a life-limiting illness.

The programme matches volunteers to members of the community who are experiencing loneliness as a result of healthcare needs, often related to barriers such as not being able to get out of the house or a lack of confidence. Volunteers then meet up with their match on a weekly basis as part of a mutually-beneficial friendship.

Becoming a Compassionate Neighbour involves enrolling on a two-day training course to learn more about the project, and how to make the most from the role. There are training sessions taking place in January 2022, on Monday 17th and 24th January and Saturday 22nd and 29th January; people will need to attend one day one session (Monday 17th and Saturday 22nd and then one Day two session Monday 24th and Saturday 29th) in order to complete the training.

If you’d like to speak with a member of the St Clare Hospice team about the Compassionate Neighbours project, and to book a place on the forthcoming training, please email: cn@stclarehospice.org.uk or for more information about the Compassionate Neighbours project, visit: stclarehospice.org.uk/how-we-can-help-you/wellbeing-hub/ compassionate-neighbours/

Page 11

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Now is your chance to have your say on the North Weald Airfield plan Epping Forest District Council is seeking your views on the North Weald Airfield Employment Site Strategic Masterplan.

Further technical studies have been undertaken and the srategic masterplan for the North Weald Airfield Employment Site has been updated. This will guide future development within the site.

From Wednesday 8th December 2021 to Sunday 30 thJanuary 2022, these updated designs are being shared and EFDC have stated that they want to listen to your feedback before submitting to Cabinet for endorsement in early 2022.

They are encouraging you to have to hear your views on the strategic masterplan.

You can view the exhibition in different ways:Online, or by downloading a PDF from their website— www.nwairfieldconsultation.co.uk • In person at North Weald Library CM16 6BZ • At one of our drop-in events in January 2022—Drop-in exhibition 1: Saturday 15 January 2022, 1pm to 5pm – Queens Hall Community Centre, North Weald Bassett CM16 6EY and Drop-in exhibition 2: Wednesday 19 January 2022, 3pm to 7pm – Queens Hall Community Centre, North Weald Bassett CM16 6EY Once you have seen the exhibition you are encouraged to complete out a feedback form, you can do this by:•

•

•

•

Picking up a printed copy at North Weald Library, and return it to:Thornwood Common Parish Hall letterbox – Weald Hall Lane, CM16 6NB or a survey box is located at North Weald Library, CM16 6BZ Online feedback session: Being held on Tuesday 11th January 2022, 6pm to 7:30pm – Zoom, please email northwealdairfield@soundingsoffice.com to register for a link You can feedback at the drop in events listed above.

If you would like to request a separate Zoom meeting, get in touch using the contact details below.

Please submit your feedback before Sunday 30th January 2022.

You can contact the company carrying out the strategic masterplan by emailing northwealdairfield@soundingsoffice.com Or by Phone +44 (0)20 7729 0770 and ask for a member of the North Weald Airfield Consultation team Remember—don’t complain if you don’t like what happens in the future of the Airfield if you don’t take a few minutes now to find out what is planned and have your say.

Page 12

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Firework legislation Throughout the year, fireworks are widely used to mark public and private celebrations, but for many people including children and service veterans and of course animals hey can cause tremendous stress.

Combat Stress, the organisation concerned with veterans’ mental health is calling for a ban on noisy fireworks because many experience distress due to sudden flashes and bangs reminding them of the horrors of war.

Legislation covers the sale, possession and use of fireworks and since January 2005 their sale to the public is prohibited, except from licensed traders. However, fireworks can be sold by unlicensed traders for: • • • •

Chinese New Year and the preceding three days, Diwali and the proceeding three days, Bonfire Night celebrations (15th October to 10th November) New Year celebrations (26 to 31 December)

There are curfews around all of these events to prevent the prolonged use of fireworks.

For instance it is an offence to use fireworks after 11pm and before 7am without permission (except on permitted fireworks nights when the times are extended).

There is legislation around excessive noise and strict rules for manufacturers, importers, distributors and users as well as storage of fireworks.

Using fireworks illegally can result in prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000 and/or a prison sentence of up to 6 months. An on-the -spot fine of £90 may also be levied.

The penalty for committing an offence of supplying a category F2 or F3 firework to any person under 18 years or supplying a category F1 firework to any person under 16 years, is a fine of up to £5,000 and up to 6 months’ imprisonment.

From 1 January 2021, the UKCA mark became the recognised conformity assessment mark for fireworks sold on the GB market.

However, CE marked fireworks that continue to meet EU requirements (where these match UK requirements) can be sold/used on the GB market until 31 December 2022.

If you have concerns over the sale or standard of fireworks available at a premises contact Essex County Council Trading Standards through Citizen advice.

If fireworks are being set off outside of the permitted hours or in a public space contact Essex Police via their website.

You can visit the Health and Safety Executive website for guidance for putting on a major public event.

Page 13

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Epping Christmas market attracts bumper crowds The Epping Christmas market took in the afternoon of Saturday 4th December, it has previously been held on a Friday afternoon and evening.

To add to the atmosphere entertainment was provided by Academy Arts Theatre School, Epping Primary School Choir, the Ivy Chimneys Primary School Choir, Epping Music School, Rock Choir and local musicians 'Hanna and Music' and Matthew Shepherd.

There were also visits from Olaf from 'Frozen', and two reindeer whose visit to the market was sponsored by Luxe Watches. Santa's Grotto was based at a Epping Fire Station.

The Rotary Club of Epping sponsored the Christmas tree on the piazza and it was officially lit at the end of the day.

Many people were overjoyed the market was on a Saturday as they previously missed it on a Friday, however feedback received on the day confirmed that visitors would have loved for it to have continued until 6pm. Many visitors came in the morning and came back with other family members expecting it to be open as it got darker as the feedback confirmed they loved the market with the twinkling lights and atmosphere as it got darker.

The atmosphere was great, many people loved shopping locally and were delighted to see so many local talented people selling on the market.

HOME GLAZING REPAIR SERVICE LTD The Local Company You Can Really Trust!

We specialise in the repairs to all makes of windows and doors

Broken Down/Misted Sealed Units Replaced Locks/Hinges Renewed Conservatories Cleaned/Repaired Cat & Dog Flaps Fitted Front Door Panels Renewed Handles Replaced Letter Plates Replaced Guttering Replaced/Cleaned Full Maintenance of UPVC & Aluminium

A Complete Service To All Windows & Doors FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE CALL FREEPHONE 0800 917 2794 Or VISIT US AT

www.homeglazingrepairservice.co.uk Page 14

Tel: 07814 863955

Transport for Essex residents unable to get to Covid-19 booster appointments People who are struggling to attend their booster jab appointment because of transport issues can now get help from Essex County Council.

The Essex Wellbeing Service is now able to organise transport for Essex residents who are finding it difficult to organise a way to attend their vaccine appointment. Transport will be provided by taxi service.

This service is free of charge and can also be used if you need transport to get to your first or second dose appointments.

Essex residents who would like help getting to their appointments can email provide.essexwellbeing@nhs.net or call 0300 303 9988. The phone line is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 7pm and from 10am to 2pm on Saturdays. Callers’ needs will be verified, and they will be asked to provide their booking reference or a screenshot of their appointment confirmation.

Cllr John Spence, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care said: “We don’t want anyone to be left behind in receiving their Covid-19 booster jab.

Alternatively, in some areas of Essex there are Community Transport routes which residents without transport can contact directly. These are also for pre-booked appointments.

Community360 for the Colchester or Maldon area: 01206 216600.

Epping Forest Community Transport: 01992 579556.

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

North Weald Airfield Staff struck by Covid 19 On Sunday 2nd January 2022, North Weald Airfield was closed due to staff shortages because of Covid 19.

It was re-opened on Monday 3rd January.

Oak trees to mark Queen's Platinum Jubilee Three 6ft oak trees are to be planted by Epping Town Council on the Stonards Hill recreation ground to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee next June.

Support your local hospice by donating to their charity shops Do you have good quality items that you no longer want or need that you could donate to St Clare Hospice?

The Hospice relies on regular donations of pre-loved goods to re-stock its charity shops. Please pop along to your local charity shop with anything that you no longer need. From clothes and toys, to furniture and furnishings - St Clare Hospice will turn your preloved items into vital funding for its services.

Please don’t forget to Mention to advertisers that you saw their advert in North Weald Village Life

St Clare Hospice’s books and records charity shop, in Bishop’s Stortford, is always in need of good quality popular music vinyl records. If you have any old records in your loft or garage you no longer listen to, or want, please give them to St Clare Hospice. The Hospice will turn your old tunes into hours of care and support for local people.

If you have anything that could be particularly valuable or collectible that you no longer want please donate it to St Clare Hospice. The Hospice will sell it on their eBay site to raise the most it can for it. You can donate items to the Hospice’s ebay site at your local St Clare charity shop, or by sending them directly to the Hospice.

For more information about how to donate items to St Clare Hospice’s charity shops, visit: http://stclarehospice.org.uk/howyou-can-helpus/shop-withus/donate-toour-shops/

Page 15

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance reaches 1000 days Blood on Board Milestone Monday 13th December marked a milestone at Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) as it reaches 1,000 days carrying blood on board its helicopters and rapid response vehicles.

Over 130 patients have received blood transfusions from EHAAT’s critical care teams since the charity first started carrying blood products on 19th March 2019.

Laurie Phillipson is Head of Clinical Development and Blood Project Lead for EHAAT. He said: “Previously patients who suffered blood loss were given a saline solution, which although effective, doesn’t carry oxygen or help with clotting.

“With blood on board our helicopters and RRVs now carry packed red blood cells of blood group O Negative, meaning they can be used on any patient, and when needed, these are given with plasma, the other major component of human blood.”

“Together they enable our pre-hospital critical care teams to provide a blood transfusion rapidly and safely at the scene of an incident. This can be a life-saving intervention for the most seriously injured and is another example of how EHAAT is bringing innovative care to the patient’s side.

The 1,000-day milestone would not have been reached without the support from the laboratory and transfusion team at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) in Harlow, who provide the blood, and the volunteer drivers and bikers of the Essex Voluntary Blood Service (EVBS), who deliver the blood to EHAAT’s airbases at Earls Colne and North Weald daily.

Blood is replaced daily and replenished as required. It is delivered and stored in special insulated boxes that keep it at a cool temperature for over 24 hours. These are fitted with a data logger that indicates if the temperature is trending outside of safe limits. If unused after 24 hours the blood is returned to the Princess Alexandra Hospital for use elsewhere, preventing any wastage of this precious commodity. When the blood is required, it is warmed to body temperature to make it safe to administer and prevent unnecessary cooling of the patient.

We are committed to supporting this essential service and to be a part of helping make a real difference in patient care.”

“We enjoy working with our EHAAT colleagues and continuously look at ways to improve the service and are excited to continue supporting them on this project.

It has been a pleasure and honour to work with such a dedicated team.”

On average it costs £500 to help one patient in need of blood and EHAAT launched its ‘Blood on Board Appeal’ in March this year. The appeal managed to raise just over £23,000, but EHAAT needs continued help to secure blood on board. Can you help by making a donation and supporting EHAAT by visiting their website at https://www.ehaat.org.

Your support will ensure they can continue to carry blood on board into the future.

Page 16

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

New Year 2022

Town Green bell bollard replaced

As we pick through the pieces of the year that has just gone, So desperate to make sure that in this year nothing can go wrong.

A second bell bollard has been installed near the Epping war memorial on the Town Green after the first was demolished by a turning lorry.

Wanting so much to bring some normality back to our land, Hoping no-one still remains with their heads buried in the sand.

We have a vaccine and it’s our duty to get a jab, As if not, what will stop this year from being just as bad.

The original bollard was put in following another incident where an HGV got stuck in the grass fronting the memorial off Lindsey Street.

For we hold the answer in our hands but I guess we always do, It’s just making sure we all do the right thing to make the reality come true.

A happy New Year is something that we all desperately desire, So to achieve that, the numbers of fully vaccinated must be higher.

Then maybe we can all start to plan ahead in the way we once did, Planning holidays abroad in search of a sun that until now has been hid.

Enjoying friends and parties in the many months ahead to come, With no further restrictions to be enforced to ruin our fun.

Don’t forget to visit the website

Yes this years future in potential is looking so bright, Just as long we all contribute to assist in destroying covid’s plight.

With all that mind I wish you all a New Year that is happy and safe, Allowing us all the freedom to explore a world that until now has had to hide its face.

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Source: Andy—resident poet. Of course it is everybody’s individual choice on vaccination, however it does seem to be one of the only ways in which we can try to life with Covid and all its variants.

Regular updates of news, Events etc.

Bench honours 'Brambly Hedge' creator A bench has been donated for the Market Garden off Epping High Street by the sister of 'Brambly Hedge' author Jill Barklem, who lived in Epping.

The bench is in honour of their parents, John and Ivy Gaze, who owned Pynes Store - which is now the Wildwood restaurant - in the High Street from 1955 until 1992.

Specialising in plastering, external rendering and K rend

Earlier this year Epping Town Council recognised Jill Barklem's links with the town by unveiling a blue plaque on her former home in Church Hill, where she moved too from Theydon Grove having earlier lived in Buttercross Lane.

Jill Barklem died on November 15, 2017.

Page 17

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Twenty-nine Essex people have been awarded honours in the Queen’s New Year list Twenty nine Essex People have been awarded honours and of those recognised, seven received awards for helping their communities in the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst, Lord-Lieutenant of Essex, the Queen’s personal representative in the county, said: “The past year has again been challenging for all of us and without people such as those who are honoured, our lives, our county and country would be much the poorer. But these New Year honours reflect and recognise only a small part of the huge contribution made by many who work tirelessly for their communities in Essex, Southend and Thurrock.”

“I would encourage anyone who knows someone who has made a big difference to others during this Coronavirus pandemic or for other community work, to nominate them for an honour.”

Included amongst those who received a Queens New Year Honour:Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) • Ms Joy Michelle Brown, Chelmsford, lately Senior District Crown Prosecutor, East of England, Crown Prosecution Service. For services to law and order.

• Mr Obumneke Ndudirim Ekeke, Chelmsford. For services to computing and artificial intelligence education, and to championing diversity and inclusion in the technology sector.

• Mr Keith Andrew Meade, Harlow, Assistant Head, Physical Security Policy, Ministry of Defence. For services to defence and to diversity.

Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) • Mr Ashley Banjo, Bicknacre. For services to dance.

• Mrs Sushma Bhanot, Chigwell. For services to wellbeing and the community in Chigwell, particularly during Covid-19.

• Mr Roger Colin McFarland, Chelmsford. Of YMCA Essex. For services to the community in Chelmsford.

• Mrs Valerie Metcalfe, Loughton, lately councillor, Essex County Council.

For political and public service.

• Mr Mitesh Puspakkant Sheth, Loughton, Chief Executive Officer, Redington. For services to diversity and inclusion in the financial services sector.

Medallists of the Order of the British Empire (BEM) • Mrs Linda May Dutaut, Maldon. For services to the community in Maldon, particularly during Covid-19.

• Miss Sharon Marie McLaughlin, Chelmsford, Business Support Manager, Community and Children’s Services Department, City of London Corporation.

For services to the community in the City of London.

• Mr Martin Graham Palmer, Billericay, manager, Children's Burns Club, Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford. For voluntary and charitable services to injured children and their families.

• Mr Ralph Charles Springett, Maldon.

For services to the community in Maldon, particularly during Covid-19.

Page 18

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

IMPORTANT Defibrillators Recently I understand defibrillators from both Thornwood and North Weald have been needed to help people who have become unwell whilst awaiting emergency services.

So to ensure all residents are aware of the location of our defibrillators, here are the details. Once you ring emergency services to inform them of someone needing emergency assistance, they will give you the code required to access the defibrillator looked in coded cabinets.

North Weald:- Outside the Methodist Church Hall.

Thornwood—Outside the Parish Hall.

It’s time to take the training and safe a life #LetsTalkAboutSuicideEssex campaign is all about hope and it is aimed at reducing the stigma around talking about suicide and encourages people to take the free online suicide prevention training, as well as highlight the other mental health resources.

Anyone can suffer from suicidal thoughts but every one of us can make a difference.

A life is lost through suicide every two hours in the UK but suicidal thoughts and feelings affect thousands of us every single day.

The Free training focuses on 3 key elements: 1. See – See the problem – Spot signs in people experiencing suicidal thoughts 2. Say – Say the words – Feel comfortable speaking out about suicide in a supportive manner 3. Signpost – Signpost to support – Signpost individuals to the correct services or support The free online suicide prevention training gives people the knowledge and confidence to talk to someone who might be at risk of or thinking about suicide.

Helen Kane, Chairman of Epping Forest District Council said: “In Essex alone, in 2019, 111 people took their own life. Suicide is in fact the leading cause of death in the United Kingdom in men under 50.”

Suicide is a preventable and avoidable death, and we believe everyone should know how to talk and support someone who is having suicidal thoughts. By taking part in this campaign we hope, in a small way, that we can do our bit in raising awareness in our community.

If you would like to find out how to get involved visit letstalkaboutsuicideessex.co.uk for more information. #talksuicideessex is a suicide prevention campaign. If you’re feeling suicidal and need urgent help, or if you’re worried about someone you know, help is available from the services below: Please dial NHS 111 and select option 2 if you are experiencing a mental health crisis. You will be connected to the contact centre where trained staff will provide appropriate support and advice 24 hours a day/365 days of the year Page 19

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

A bit about planning.

Brace yourself! Very shortly you will be ‘consulted’ yet again on local planning matters.

Developers are obliged to consult those that will be affected by their plans, but in practice this usually only results in their being able to tick a box that says that they have done so. Invariably, it means that they have spent a lot of money employing professional wordsmiths to present their plans and design questions that give the right answers. In the same way, the pretty pictures they produce for a consultation show scenes of houses and roads and people on bikes interspersed with trees and ponds and green spaces - all within their own site. They keep very quiet about the ways that their plans will affect those already living near their exciting new development.

North Weald is due to have 2,100 new houses and a large number of warehouses in the next few years. The Latton Priory development of 1,050 houses will be near the M11/A414 junction at Hastingwood. The Countryside development will consist of another 1,050 houses located roughly behind Queens Road and Vicarage Lane just near the A414. The warehouses will be on the part of the airfield nearest the village and the new houses. It seems that Epping Forest District Council, who are the developers and owners of the airfield are hopeful that their new warehouses will provide employment for lots of the people that buy the new Countryside houses so that they can walk or ride their bikes to work and not add to the traffic problem. Let’s hope this will be the case as most of North Weald’s residents usual journeys start by trying to get to Epping or to the M11 Harlow roundabout.

Climate change and traffic are higher up the priority list nowadays, particularly in our area as the conservators of Epping Forest are so worried about the traffic effect on the trees that they are trying to protect and is why they are so nervous about developments anywhere near the forest. There is another aspect of the traffic problem that is less well known and needs some explanation.

Developers have quite rightly to engage with those bodies responsible for our roads and in our case, this includes Essex County Council Highways Department. Understanding this process reveals things that the public would find surprising and although the reluctance to build new roads - (Alison Blom-Cooper, the leader of the EFDC Local Plan famously said we won’t build any new roads as people will use them) - the decisions on who bears the cost for highway improvements is interesting. Essex County Council’s policy is only to deal with one developer and therefore one development at a time. The reason for this is that generally the developer has to pay for any changes to the road layout and they are reluctant to deal with two developers (or more) at one time as they fear that the developers will argue about who pays for what and most likely reduce the Council’s negotiating position.

What does this mean for North Weald? The 1,050 house Countryside development will have a traffic survey showing the impact on the junction at The Plain in Epping and the A414; there will be another for the 1,050 houses at Latton Priory and of course the airfield warehouses development will have their own traffic impact survey. What we will not see is a proper combined impact assessment. It is a fair bet that none of these developers traffic surveys will mention the problems caused when the M25 or M11 have they’re ever-increasing shutdowns. I am sure that most people living in North Weald can forecast what will happen to local travel for us when the developers have done their bit!

Terry Blanks

Page 20

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

PHOTO GALLERY This month’s photos feature Robins which are very seasonal and beautiful to look at.

Please send in your photos to me at June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Photo: Terry Taylor—who says Happy New Year Everybody

Photo: Jake Jones

Page 21

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Page 22

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

STREETLIGHT NOT WORKING? If the label on the lamp column is numbered beginning with ‘60* *’ please report direct to the Parish Council via: EMAIL – clerk@northweald-pc.gov.uk or PHONE – 07572 507591

St. Andrews Church Chat Reflection for January

•

Kitchens and bedrooms supplied and fitted to your specification

•

A complete service from design to finish

•

Competitive prices guaranteed

•

High levels of expertise by a locally recommended craftsmen For a free estimate contact:Roger Linsdall Telephone: 01992 523277 Or mobile: 07980 555147

Page 23

Tel: 07814 863955

Happy New Year, North Weald!

Much like Will Ferrell’s character in “Elf”, I LOVE Christmas, but early January always feels a little flat after the yuletide buzz.

This year, however, I’ve decided to look at all of the hopeful and exciting things coming up, and it’s cheered me up!

Do you make New Year’s resolutions? For the last few years, instead of resolutions, I’ve written a list of all the good things I’d like to experience that year; things I’m looking forward to, instead of things I wish I could change about myself.

It’s a really positive thing to do if you’re a little down. It also means you get to try new things as the year goes on!

The amazing thing is that whilst I usually break my New Year’s Resolutions by February (I have low impulse control, especially around sweets!) when I look back at the year’s “things I’d like to do” list, I have usually done all of them, and acquired great memories in the process.

So, if you’re feeling a little despondent this January, why not make a list of things to look forward to? Things to experience, memories to make, people to reconnect to? And maybe, if you’d like, you could come along to a church event as one of your “new things to try”. We’d love to see you!

Season’s blessings, Reverend Jaimee

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Page 24

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Citizens Advice: The Household Support Fund Many people are going to struggle financially this winter, especially with soaring fuel prices. The government has established a Household Support Fund to provide extra support to households struggling with the cost of food, fuel and other costs over this winter. Essex County Council has received about £1.9 million from the Fund. Some of it has been spent already; the rest has been distributed to local organisations, on the assumption that they know their areas best and can directly help those in need.

You should contact the organisations listed below to access support.

You do not need to be claiming benefits. Whatever your circumstances, if you are struggling this winter you may be able to get help with your essential costs.

Essex Essential Living Fund Anyone living in Essex can apply for this funding. You will need to answer questions about your income, earnings and savings. You also need to give proof of your financial situation.

The Essential Living Fund can help pay for: • • • • •

Furniture household furnishings white goods clothing and footwear, including school uniforms in exceptional circumstances general living expenses such as groceries, nappies, toiletries and money for pay-as-you-go fuel meters

The Essex Essential Living Fund is administered by Southend Borough Council. You apply through their website: https:// www.southend.gov.uk/extra-financial-help/essential-living-fund.

Voluntary Action Epping Forest (VAEF) - VAEF provides a wide range of services to older and vulnerable residents. Please contact 01992 910 701 or email admin@vaef.org.uk.

Slow cooker education programme—Active Essex and the Essex Youth Service are working with community organisations to deliver a slow cooker and food education programme, providing families and young people with the chance to cook healthy meals on a budget. Families will be given equipment and food after attending the programme so they can continue to use a slow cooker to make nutritious meals at home. Email haf@activeessex.org for information.

Essex Cultural Diversity Project (ECDP) - ECDP will be managing a food and fuel fund within its network of organisations supporting culturally diverse communities to ensure they have access to support and funding as needed. You can apply for support through their website: https://essexcdp.com/about-us/ How Epping Forest Citizens Advice can help We don’t have funds to distribute but we can help you to contact organisations that do. We can provide foodbank vouchers. We can check whether you are getting all the benefits to which you are entitled, and help you to deal with the Department for Work and Pensions and the District Council. We can advise you on how to deal with debts, including the various ways of getting them writtenoff. All our services are free, and open to anyone who lives, works, or studies in the Epping Forest District.

The easiest way to contact us is by phone: 0808 278 7855. Calls are free. The service is available from 9.30 to 2.30, Tuesday to Thursday.

If we are busy when you call you will be connected to a backup service elsewhere in the country. They will try to resolve your issue but if they can’t they will arrange for one of our staff to call you back.

If you really prefer to see someone face-to-face for initial contact we are now at the Community Hub at the Civic Offices in Epping between 9.30 and 2.30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If we can’t help you completely on the day we’ll schedule an appointment for you.

The Epping Community Hub is a new one-stop shop organised by the District Council for residents to access a wide range of services for help and advice.

Source: Paul Stockton Page 25

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Make Fire Safety your New Year's Resolution As we enter 2022, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents across the county to make sure they have working smoke alarms on every level of their home.

In 2021, ECFRS attended 377 fires which were caused accidentally in homes across Essex. 30% of these incidents occurred in homes with no working smoke alarms. Buying and fitting smoke alarms, and ensuring they are properly maintained, could give you those precious extra minutes to escape safely in the event of a fire.

In a recent survey ECFRS found that, while most residents have smoke alarms at home, just under half test them regularly.

Will Newman, Head of Prevention at ECFRS, said: “Smoke alarms are the single most important thing you need in your home - but only if they work.

“We encourage all our residents to fit a smoke alarm on every level of their home and test them monthly to ensure that they are working correctly. In the event of a fire, working smoke alarms will give you valuable time to get out, stay out and call 999.”

The Service also recommends making an escape plan with your family.

If there is a fire in your home, you may have to get out in dark or difficult conditions. Escaping will be a lot easier it everyone knows where to go. Keep escape routes free of clutter and check that there are no loose floor coverings that could trip you on your way out.

When purchasing smoke alarms, remember:

•

Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home.

•

If possible, opt for mains-powered alarms that are linked together.

•

Fit your smoke alarms in the right place. The ideal position is on the ceiling, in the middle of a room or on a hallway or landing.

•

Consider fitting additional alarms in other rooms where there are electrical appliances and near sleeping areas.

•

Don’t put alarms in kitchens and bathrooms, where smoke or steam could set them off by accident.

•

Vacuum the inside of your alarms regularly to make sure that dust doesn’t block the sensors.

•

Test your smoke alarm batteries monthly. Testing your smoke alarm only takes a few seconds and it could save your life.

People who are moving house, or to university, are advised to contact their housing provider to ensure that the correct safety measures are in place.

Alarms for the hearing-impaired Smoke alarms that use a vibrating pad and/ or flashing light are available for those with hearing impairments. ECFRS can supply and fit these free of charge.

To find out more about or to book a home fire safety visit, go to: essex-fire.gov.uk/book Source: Essex County Fire & Rescue

Page 26

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

But on this occasion no one ended up dead Just eight sent to hospital Then no more was said The Thirteen Nine Three keeps the folk from their bed

The Thirteen Nine Three.

Sirens wail again on the Thirteen Nine Three This road has become notorious this century Mainly a result of the Essex Speed Management Strategy The sirens still wail on the Thirteen Nine Three Long, long ago in days of the past When the Thirteen Nine Three Was made of gravel and dust Across the Thornwood Common to London it cut But accidents were caused if you fell in a rut

Coaches could throw punters from the roof The horses could bolt Or throw a shoe from the hoof And travel was feared if we all knew the truth The Thirteen Nine Three, a road so aloof Under the guise of the swish A.11 The new tarmac surface just seemed like Heaven With wide clean swept pavements A new die was cast Nobody knew this state would not last

The road on occasions became rather jammed Traffic too high for the old road to stand And after the government had leant it a hand With a new high-speed bypass – The M.11 so grand

The Essex Speed Management Strategy flies in the face Of plain common sense when you study the case Forget the flash jargon, the problem indeed Is so plain simple Just cut the speed!

I’ve witnessed the crashes and grief that is spread Tel: 07814 863955

CM16 is the place to be seen But the Thirteen Nine Three Has just shattered a dream Life changing injuries and all that that means For God’s sake! – It wants to make you scream!

So the sirens still wail on the Thirteen Nine Three And the traffic flow is now stationary Mainly a result of the Essex Speed Management Strategy The sirens still wail on the Thirteen Nine Three.

Jimmy Waters.

Photos by Jimmy Waters & Murad Kutay.

The old road class number was dropped to a B And given the code of the Thirteen Nine Three Unlucky for some?

If you ask me ’Cause the sirens still wail on the Thirteen Nine Three

Page 27

ECC or County Highways to you and me Tell the Thornwood residents -‘The road’s not for thee’ The Strategy dictates ‘It’s for those who pass through’ But something just tells me they haven’t a clue!

The current B.1393 (ex. A.11) road was developed from an earlier muddy, rutted trackway across the Thornwood Common over a period of hundreds of years. Originally it only had one local junction, that at Woodside and continued towards London on the Stump Road through Coopersale.

Fast forward to the present and we find an improved surface but on the same road and junction design yet the vehicle speed now ranges from 30 – 60mph throughout the village roads!

This, in my view is the sole reason for the number of deaths, accidents and general unpleasantness occurring within our village and particularly along the B.1393 London Road/ High Road Thornwood Common that currently has a speed limit range of 40 – 60mph.

You can find out more about the roads and the background behind this lament from the book by Jimmy Waters—Details of the book, Thornwood Common an Essex Village 2nd Edition, price £18.60p + post is available at; thornwoodcommoner@gmail.com Following another crash on the same road on New Years Eve, a petition has been launched, you can find details here https:// chng.it/dVwvRYQgCn

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Page 28

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

BIRD FEATURE - JANUARY 2022

Here is the first article for the year 2022, another year for the natural world to offer us surprises and spectacle although in many ways it is the reassurance of the familiar things that is what we most look forward to when considering our local wildlife. We don't have a coastline, large lakes or reservoirs, massive forests or noteworthy hills in North Weald so we can't expect to see a vast range of bird and animal species but we can expect to see Buzzards and Red Kites, deer and foxes, squirrels and rabbits and various garden birds at any time of the year. And come spring there should be Cuckoos to be heard, Swallows & Swifts to be seen and butterflies and bees to watch. All rewarding sightings in their own way.

Looking back on 2021 it was a good year for birdwatching with over 80 species recorded locally, slightly up on most previous years. During a cold snap in March there were two species added to my village bird list - Wheatear and Dunlin, both sighted on golf courses. I had taken a walk on a cold, snowy day and this shows that sometimes with nature watching it is just being in the right place at the right time that results in good 'spots'. I have said it before and I will continue to say it - if you are out and about and keep your eyes and ears open then you WILL see wildlife and the more you get to recognise the familiar species the easier it is to be aware that you are looking at something more unusual.

One unexpected sighting I had recently was a Woodcock which flew up from a damp ditch at Weald Common just as dusk was falling. I have seen this species on a handful of occasions locally and it will even come into gardens to look for food but only in really harsh weather' Not a true rarity but certainly not a common sighting about these parts.

Other than that most sightings have been of the familiar species and the interest has really been generated by the circumstances or the numbers rather than the bird(s) themselves. For instance at this time of year we get to see quite a few winter thrushes - Fieldfare and Redwing - but it is when there is a flock of maybe 100 or more that they grab your attention. A recent damp spell saw good numbers foraging in fields looking for invertebrates and on one occasion just before Xmas I clocked movement in a nearby field and when I got my eye in it suddenly became apparent that there were 200 or more winter thrushes in that field. I had not actually seen them until I got much closer to the field, from a distance it just looked like a muddy expanse until closer scrutiny revealed all these birds spread out over the acres of farmland. An adjacent field that consisted of rough pasture contained similar numbers of Rooks and Jackdaws with a smattering of Starlings also in attendance. Within about 6 or 7 acres of farmland there must have been over 500 individual birds, all quietly going about their urgent business of foraging for food. Unlucky for the worms, grubs, beetles etc inhabit those particular fields.

The group of Red legged Partridges that I have reported in previous editions seems to still be about the North Weald area, most sightings have been at Weald Common but also a bit further afield. Like the Pheasant this species is not native to the UK, indeed one of their alternative names is the French Partridge which hints at their native range in continental Europe. Our UK native partridge is the Grey Partridge which is rarely seen around our area.

With the colder, wetter weather I have started seeing more of the Little Egret, normally a single bird but from time to time a pair are together. They favour damp grass, small streams, pond and lake margins etc but can be seen flying right over the middle of the village and are pretty obvious to spot. But for climate change we wouldn't be seeing so many egrets in the UK. There is a bigger species called the Great White Egret that is turning up in Essex - some are at Abberton Reservoir but others have been seen at a variety of sites including Hatfield Forest. I am hoping we might just get one flying over some time soon checking out potential feeding locations in our area. They are as big as a Grey Heron so would be really easy to identify - could 2022 be the year I can add this species to our local bird list ???

Sporadic sightings of Red Kites continue. One flew low over the village on Xmas Eve and there was a pair overhead a week or so before that. If you ever get a close look at a Red Kite then you will see what a beautifully marked bird they are and the plumage combined with their size and the wing and tail shape just makes for the 'wow' factor. Often the first giveaway of their presence is the sound of Jackdaws mobbing them.

Every winter I mention Waxwings as a potential sighting. It is a decade since we had a flock frequenting the village. Like the Red Kite this is a stunning bird with beautiful plumage and a 'look' that just shouts out 'charm'. But yet again the UK is not being visited in any great numbers and winter 21/22 looks like being another dud in terms of Waxwing flocks. Some years see 'invasions' of Waxwings from continental Europe and Scandinavia but with less severe cold becoming the norm in those regions the birds are not being forced to head for our shores so only small numbers are turning up. Oh well, there's always next winter.

But of course many of our native garden birds can be just as enchanting in their own way and that is why many of us take to putting food out for them. We all like to see a Blue Tit or Goldfinch in the garden but even Starlings have their own attractions. No bird report at this time of year is complete without mentioning that seasonal speciality the Robin, officially Britain's favourite bird. In winter numbers of this and other species are swollen by migrants from colder parts of Europe and unless we get an unusual blast of cold from the east they are better off here than in their breeding areas. Even just a few hundred miles into say Germany can see more snow and ice than we get here.

Feeding the birds is a longstanding tradition in the UK, more so than in many other countries. Putting out a regular supply of food can be a lifesaver for our feathered friends and the provision of clean, fresh, ice-free water is just as crucial.

Of course we see the birds during the day. We put food out to see a Blue Tit or Great Tit balanced on the feeders, we hope to see a Robin brightening up the dull winter days, we notice the Blackbird or the Wren or the Dunnock as well as bigger birds such as Woodpigeons or crows. But in winter there are that many more hours of darkness when all the birds can do is roost, finding safety and warmth to keep them alive until morning.

Some will take over nest boxes or abandoned nests and roost communally - Wrens for example have been known to cram into suitable spaces, one bird pressed up against another, desperately trying to lessen the heat loss from their bodies. Once daylight comes they have to get out and about finding food and of course if they know their is a supply of seeds or nuts close by then they will head straight for it and will often set off on a route that takes them to other known sources of vitally needed calories. Studies have shown that they will subsequently retrace their steps until they get back to the roost, hopefully suitably sustained to last the night.

Unfortunately the modern trend of setting off fireworks on increasing numbers of nights doesn't help our wildlife. The fireworks 'season' gets longer and longer. So you get birds roosting in a safe, warm place that are suddenly woken up by what to them are enormous explosions of noise. They panic and do what birds do when they panic - they fly off. Out into the cold, into the dark. They collide with trees etc but worst of all they are now exposed to the elements. If they are lucky things will settle down and they will find their way back to their roost. But for many they are doomed, they will find somewhere in the dark but they are now cold, unable to settle, unable to prevent increased heat loss. For smaller species it can be fatal. Birds that struggle to survive as winter continues suddenly have their life chances diminished as a direct result of human activities. Of course we don't see it as it takes place under the cover of darkness and most of the avian corpses are fall, hidden under bushes and in undergrowth to become food for opportunist scavengers and decomposers.

Anyway, 2022 is upon us. If the last couple of years have shown us anything it is the beneficial nature of being out and about in the countryside, of being aware of the wildlife around us.

Paul Corbet Page 29 Tel: 07814 863955 Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Advertiser Directory Aerials & Satellites T J Aerials & Satellites

Furniture 11

Car MOT & Servicing

RSL Interiors—Kitchens & bedrooms

23

CJA Upholstery

25

Kings Head Garage

12

Garden Centre/Gardening

Matts Motorz

15

Art Nursery Garden Centre

Carpets & Flooring Little Carpet Co

Glazing 2

Home Glazing Repair

Cleaning

14

Jobs

Boss Cleaning Services

13

North Weald Parish Council

Maid in Essex

10

Kennels & Catteries

Steve’s Window Cleaning

11

London & Essex Kents Farm

Computer Services Andrews Computers

23

5

Online Shopping Local Bodyshop —Sparkle & Shine

15

13

Painting & Decorating

Council North Weald Bassett Parish Council

18

Dancing Hamilton School of Dancing

Jim’ll Paint It

5

S I Painters & Decorators

11

Plastering

7

G F Plastering

Electricians

17

Plumbing & Heating

Turner & Sons

18

Estate & Letting Agents Montagues

32

N Monk

9

Pikes Plumbing & Heating

16

Robert Rayment

21

Property Services

Events Mini Shooters

6,7,12, 14, 21

Village Hall

24

Fitness

Garolla Roller Shutter Doors

8

KLF Property Services

26

Handy Andy

23

Bassett Building

16

Residential Home

J D Fitness

4

Abbeyfield Cunningham House

Yoga Swan

6

Roofing R J S Roofing

Funeral Services 13

Tree & Garden Maintenance

Stuart Poulton Ltd

20

GTF Tree Care

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

8

11

Daniel Robinson & Sons

Page 30

22

19

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Essential Local Numbers The Alzheimer Society

01992 717676

North Weald Chemist

01992 523887

Cats Protection

0333 200 1484

North Weald Methodist Hall

01992 522143

Citizens Advice Bureau

0808 278 7855

North Weald Library

033301 32683

Crimestoppers

0800 555111

North Weald Village Hall Bookings

01992 523731 www.northwealdvillagehall.org/

Doctors High Street, Epping

01992 579270

North Weald Parish Council

07572 507591

Doctors The Limes, Epping (visits/emergencies)

01992 566500

Queens Community Hall Bookings

07522 473024

Doctors The Limes, Epping (appointments)

01992 573838

NHS Urgent help & advice

111

Doctors The Limes, North Weald 01992 524383

Essex Police

0300 333 4444

Epping Forest District Council

01992 564000

Police, Neighbourhood/local

101

Epping Town Council

01992 579444

Police, Emergency

999

EFDC & ECC Cllr Chris White-

01992 573557

Police Online reporting

www.essex.police.uk/doitonline

MP Alex Burghart

0207 2191613

RSPCA

01279 306058

Samaritans 24 Hours a day

116 123

Stuart Poulton

01992 522607

24 Hour

01992 572607

alex.burghart.mp@ parliament.uk

MP Mrs Eleanor Laing MP

020 8508 8608

MP For Thornwood

Eleanor.Laing.mp@parliament.uk

Hospital, St Margarets, Epping

01992 561666

Hospital, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow

01279 444455

St Andrews Church

01992 577168

London & Essex Boarding Kennels & Cattery (Kents Farm)

01992 522183

St Andrews Primary School

01992 522283

North Weald Airfield

01992 564200

Traveline

0870 6082608

LOCAL CLUB DIRECTORY 3rd North Weald Beavers

North Weald Preservation Society

Queens Hall Charity

Tel: 01992 524672

Tel: read 01992 522618/522630

Tel: 522910

British Legion, North Weald Branch

North Weald Cricket Club

Rapier Cycling Club

Tel: 01992 614415

Northweald.play-cricket.com

Tel: 524631

Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer

North Weald Scouts Group

Taoist Tai Chi Society

Tel: 01277 365200

01992 524672

Tel: 01992 523854/07803243625

Harlow Badger Group

Theydon Jazz Club

Tel: 07941 185171

North Weald Seniors Society for over 70’s

Friends Force Hertfordshire/Essex

Tel: 522196

Thornwood Seniors

Tel: 522464

Tel: 577872

Epping Forest Rotary Club

North Weald Wireless Station Bowls Club

Tel: 07855 911323

Tel: 522803

Forest Highlanders Pipes & Drum

North Weald Women’s Institute (Afternoon)

Tel: 01279 415563 www.3valleymvc.org.uk

Tel: 01708 250820

Tel: 522700

West Essex Flower Club

North Weald Angling Club

Queens Hall Bowls Club

Tel: 524631

Tel: 01992 522303

Tel: 523375 or 522052

Page 31 Tel: 07814 863955 www.nwdas.co,uk

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

01945 588325/davedyer24@gmail.com

Three Valleys Male Voice Choir

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Page 32

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk