North weald village life november 2015 magazine

Strengthening the Community

FREE North Weald Basse� Community Magazine

Circula�on: MonYHy

Issue: 111 NOVEMBER 2015

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Photograph Courtesy of David Bland—Basse� Photography

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NORTH WEALD VILLAGE LIFE About North Weald Village Life

It would be wrong of me not to mention the weather, but this time it is not to moan or groan but to say how great our October weather has been — catching many people out. Lovely sunny days with blue skies and mild temNorth Weald Village Life is an independent magazine and peratures, we couldn't ask for much more. website, owned and published by a local resident who is dedicated to strengthening the local community, improving communication and promoting local businesses and suppliers to local residents.

Walking in the forest with all the signs of nature signalling Autumn has arrived, with the leaves on the trees turning orange and red, a carpet of fallen leaves on the ground, and even some trees with bare branches but with the Circulation ability of enjoying lovely weather really has been a fantastic start to Autumn The magazine is available free of charge monthly and is this year. distributed from 20th of each month.

Copies can be collected from:     .

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North Weald Post Office News Shop, High Road Kings Head Garage, High Road North Weald Library Art Nursery, Vicarage Lane Newsagents, Coopersale Happy Grow Nursery, Thornwood Davis Estate Agents, High Road North Weald Chemist

As I write this, the nights and early mornings are turning chilly but the sun has shone in between the clouds so it is turning a little more seasonal, if there is such a thing with our weather nowadays.

This month we have an emphasis on bees, with a feature on bees and also a local person who is selling their honey made in North Weald. I was lucky enough to be given a jar to try of this honey, I do like honey and this is lovely honey and I can’t stop eating toast and honey now—a lovely start to the morning, at elevenses, before bed … well whenever! So for all our residents who like locally made food—please take a look at Paul’s advertisement which can be found on page 8. Paul has also offered to deliver to homes in the village.

Subscription

I can’t believe that this month, Halloween will be enjoyed by many, and fireworks will be exploding into the sky. There are lots of events to celebrate If you would like to guarantee your personal copy or perhaps both of these in the local area, details of which you can find in the magazine you have relatives or friends who would like to receive their own copy, you can subscribe for £18.00 for 12 issues. Please and on the website. email me, download a copy of the form from the website or write to me at the address below.

Christmas is also knocking on our door, so to speak, with Christmas gifts and decorations being in the shops for a quite a few weeks now, the resident Advertisers poet has written a poem about his feelings on this, however you can’t esAdvertising rates start at £19.00 for quarter page, £36.50 for cape the fact that it is creeping up on us fast. half a page and £68 for a full page. Colour advertising rates are now available and there are some premium positions available at this current time. Please contact us for more information. The deadline for booking is the 5th of each month.

On a personal note, many of you will be aware that Andy, my husband, left the garage earlier this year because of health reasons, and we have been working hard on building our other business—Wooden Dreams. We design make by hand a number of items including wooden plaques, signs, Contributions & Editorial and Christmas decorations, as well as handmade fabric decorations, we also sell If you would like to contribute editorial, poems, recipes, let- a range of Christmas card making kits. We have been selling very well on ters or anything else, we would be delighted to receive these.

Amazon and I am in the process of finishing our website which will go live at Please send them to us at the address below or via email. the beginning of November, so please check it out and if you would like to Contact Details order any Christmas gifts or decorations, please order and send you can send me a message at june@woodendreams.co.uk and we will happily drop Telephone: 07814 863955 off your order to your home in the village. Www.woodendreams.co.uk.

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Address: 49 York Essex CM16 6HU

Road,

North Weald,

Epping,

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Do you get the idea that I like to keep busy!!

June

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.

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NOVEMBER BRAIN TEASER —Win a box of biscuits                 

Ghost Witch Halloween Pumpkin Trick Treat Scare Apple Moonlight Gruesome Sweets Cobweb Scream Skull Face paint Shadow Spider

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Congratulations to D. Cooper won last months prize and will be celebrating with a box of biscuits. This month the lucky winner can also celebrate with a box of biscuits. To enter this month, please send your completed entry to November Brain Teaser, NWVL, 49 York Road, North Weald, Essex CM16 6HU’. Entries need to be received by 10th November 2015. Please ensure you put your name, address and telephone number on your entry so that I can telephone you if you are the lucky winner. Good Luck.

THE EPPING TREE COMPANY TOTAL TREE MANAGEMENT Your local Tree Surgeons Approved by the Local Authority & established for over 25 years You can be assured of personal attention Fully Insured

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www.eppingtreecompany.co.uk Email: info@eppingtreecompany.co.uk Page 4

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Cash machine thefts could be linked

London & Essex Kent’s Farm

Essex Police Detectives believe the thefts of three cash machines in the Harlow area are linked. These all took place in the last few weeks.

Boarding Kennels and Catteries

A JCB digger was used to remove a cash machine from the outside wall of Martins newsagents in Prentice Place, Harlow, shortly before 1.45am on Saturday 26th September. It was loaded onto a waiting van or pick up truck, which left the scene with a red car, believed to be an Audi.

Up to eight suspects are believed to have been involved in the theft.

Substantial damage was caused to the wall and the machine contained a five figure sum of cash.

The JCB, which was later confirmed to have been stolen, was left at the scene and a window of a red Kia Cee’d nearby was smashed.

It followed an incident at 2am on Wednesday, 16th September when a forklift truck was driven through the window of the McColl’s store in High Street, Roydon. Up to four men are thought to have used the forklift to remove an ATM from the wall and load it on to a red Hilux pick-up truck .

The truck and cash machine were found abandoned near a cricket ground and allotments in Occupation Lane at 2.50am and a white Kia Sportage car was found nearby. The pick-up, car and forklift truck had all been stolen in the previous 48 hours.

Open: Mon - Sat 9.30am - 12 Noon & 2pm - 4.30pm Sun 9.30am - 12 Noon Closed to the public on Bank Holidays Family run business since 1970.

Professional caring staff Extra large kennels, heating Door to Door collection and delivery service Export worldwide. Imports worldwide Quarantine Kennels & Cattery Pet accessories (www.dapperpets.co.uk) Grooming Parlour Kent’s Lane, North Weald, Essex CM16 6AX Tel No: 01992 522183/523499 Fax: 01992 522705

Have your say on Crime

Although the ATM was damaged, the five-figure sum of cash inside remained intact and detectives believe the thieves abandoned plans to Everyone is welcome to have their say about crime and combreak it open because it was bigger than expected. munity safety at a public meeting in Epping on Wednesday October 28, 2015, where the Police and Crime Commissioner Detectives are also investigating the theft of an ATM containing a five for Essex, Nick Alston, and the Essex Police district commandfigure sum of cash from The Food Store in The Chase, Harlow. A red er, Chief Inspector Denise Morrissey, will answer questions Mitsubishi Shogun was reversed into the shutters at about 3.15am on from the audience. The meeting starts at 6.30pm on WednesFriday 28th August, causing substantial damage to the shop premises. day 28th October at the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, High The vehicle was left at the scene and seized for forensic examination. Street, Epping.

DCI Stuart Smith, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “There have been a number of similar incidents across the eastern region and we are working closely with our colleagues in the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit.

Crime trends for the area will be discussed but the meeting will concentrate on the proposals recently announced for police buildings and front counters, improving contact between police and members of the public, and the future of local policing.

“As well as appealing for anyone with information to come forward, I would also particularly ask people such as taxi drivers and lorry drivers who are out on the road late at night or in the early hours of the morning to be on the look-out for forklift trucks, telehandlers and similar vehicles being driven around. t is unusual for this type of machinery to be on public roads at these times Anyone with information about the ongoing police investigation into the three thefts is asked to call the Serious and Organised Crime Unit on 101. Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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Leonard Davis House Autumn Faye Saturday 28th November 11:00AM RAFFLE, CAKES, CRAFTS, BRIC-A-BRAC & MORE HOT & COLD REFRESHMENTS SAUSAGE AND BACON SANDWICHES MULLED WINE & MINCE PIES

W I AUTUMN BAZAAR 7TH NOVEMBER 2015, NORTH WEALD VILLAGE HALL, WE WILL HAVE A RAFFLE, TOMBOLA, PLUS OTHER STALLS. COME AND HAVE A LOOK ROUND AND THEN HAVE A HOT LUNCH OF SOUP, JACKET POTATO, HOT CRUMBLE/PIE AND CUSTARD. Page 6

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LOCAL EVENTS Every Monday

Ballroom and Latin American Dancing Classes

8.15pm & 9.15pm

North Weald Village Hall. Beginners at 8.15 and intermediate at 9.15. Contact Debbie on 07872 427946.

Every Monday

Taoist Tai Chi

Epping Hall, St Johns Road, Epping. Tel: 01992 523854.

Every Tuesday

Baby & Toddler Group

Every Tuesday

Taoist Tai Chi

Every 1st Tuesday

Ongar Flower Club

10.30am —12.30 1.15 – 2.45pm 7.30pm— 9pm 7.30pm

Every 3rd Wednesday

Crib Evening

7.45pm

Every Thursday

Bingo

7.30pm

Every Thursday

10.30am

Saturday 24th October

Baby & Toddler Rhyme Time Sessions for under 5’s.

1940’s Dance

Sunday 25th October

Pumpkin Plod

2pm

Wednesday 28th October

Public Essex Police Meeting

6.30pm

Friday 30th and

Steam and Scream Halloween Specials

Saturday 31st October

7pm

Queens Hall, School Green Lane. £2 per family (Term time only) Queens Hall, School Green Lane. Tel 01992 523854 for more information Zinc Arts Centre, High Road, Ongar. A floral art demonstration given by a qualified and experienced demonstrator. guests/visitors £4.50 members free. If you love flowers, why not come along?

North Weald Village Hall Lounge.£3.00 entrance includes snacks, and the bar facility.

Wheelers Farm Gardens, 9 games for £4.00, Good money prizes available. All welcome (over the age of 18 years) North Weald Library. for under fives and their parents/ carers.

North Weald Village Hall. Tickets £10. Please contact 07941 389232 to book. Treble Trouble and Bass Clefs. Licensed Bar. Vintage craft stalls. Raffle. In aid of British Legion Pumpkin Plod 2nd year. Choice of 2k, 5k or 10 walk. Prices range £5. Suggested sponsorship £10/£20 for a family.

Www.entrycentarl/com/pumpkinplod. To raise funds for Haven House Council Chamber, Civic Centre, High Street, Epping. Police and Crime Commissioner will answer questions from the audience.

Epping Ongar Railway. The trains will be decorated in true Halloween style. There will be treats for all the kids, a fancy dress competition and great entertainment on board. Advanced booking is essential. Tel: 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk North Weald Village Hall. For children aged 6 months to 7 years. Tickets £5 in advance, £6 on the door. For tickets email NWMums@gmail.com.

North Weald Village Hall. Mrs Hazel Perry is telling us about being STUCK FOR WORDS - afterwards stay for a cup of tea and biscuits.

North Weald Village Hall. Raffle, tombola, other stalls, soup, jacket potato and much more North Weald Airfield Museum—to raise money for the museum Lots of different stalls available—come along and do some local shopping.

Saturday 31st October

Halloween Party

2—4pm

Wednesday 4th November

North Weald WI Meeting

1.45— 4.50pm

Saturday 7th November

W I Autumn Bazaar

Saturday 7th November

Charity Christmas Shopping Event

2pm— 6pm

Saturday 7th November

Trip to Wisley Garden Centre

8.30am

Coach leaves Thornwood Duck Lane. Coach Fare £10.00 will also pick up in North Weald. Free Entry. Please contact Iris Smith 01992 577872—Thornwood Seniors Sent.

Sunday 8th November

Remembrance Service

10.50am

St Andrews Church and service afterwards.

Sunday 8th November

12.15

North Weald Airfield Museum

Monday 9th November

Annual Act of Remembrance and Thanksgiving West Essex Flower Club

1.45pm

Thornwood Village Hall. Christmas comes early with a Christmas demonstration. Visitors pay £5 on the door.

Saturday 14th November

Ploughmans Lunch

12—1pm

North Weald Village Hall

Friday 20th November

Quiz Night

7pm

Thornwood Village Hall. £2.00 per person (booking only) Bring your own refreshments. Elaine Davis 01992 560591

Saturday 28th November

Leonard Davis House Autumn Fayre

11.00am

Leonard Davis House. Refreshments, stalls, raffle, bric a brac.

Monday 30th November

St Andrews Day Celebration Festival Service & Party

7.30pm

St Andrews Church. All welcome.

Tuesday 8th December Coach Tripknow to seeand London Leavingcalendar Wheelersand Farm and returning approx.

If you know of a local event, please let me I will include 3pm this in the events at Gardens www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk.

10.30pm. £20 per person. If interested call Lin Hannam Lights & Sights 01992 265390. You can also enjoy and chips and the Hyde Park Christmas Market

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The future of policing Statement from Councillor Gary Waller—‘I am sure that that members are already aware of the announcements which the Chief Constable and the Police and Crime Commissioner made on Tuesday about the future of policing in Essex.

In short, there are 2 reasons why the shape of policing in our county is changing. First, crime is evolving, with more emphasis on the need to prevent and deal with crimes like sexual exploitation and domestic abuse, as well as telephone and online fraud, the extent of which is in my view greatly underestimated.

Second, there are unprecedented financial pressures on the police. The Essex force has already saved £40 million, but is still expected to save a further £60 million over the next 5 years.

We can not argue with these facts and those figures. We just have to ensure that adaptations are made to ensure that together the police and their community safety partners can work as effectively as possible to combat crime and disorder.

As far as this district is concerned, the most visible changes will be the closure of Epping police station and the loss of the public counter at Loughton police station. In reality, the impacts will not be as great as some people fear. For instance, Epping is no longer an operational hub, and the operational base will continue at Loughton. Community policing is not coming to an end. On the contrary, new community policing teams are being established to protect people from harm and to prevent crime.

Few people these days use police stations. Over 2 separate months, the records show that 744 people visited Loughton’s front counter, and only 381 at Epping – and only a handful were to report crime. Those numbers compare with 6,389 at Harlow.

Going forward, it’s essential that alternatives must be provided, so that those things that could only be done by visiting a police station – reporting a crime, for instance – can be done in other ways.

Don’t forget to visit the website: www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk To find out details of the latest new & events

I want to place emphasis on innovative and low-tech means of communicating with the public, bearing in mind that those who do not have access to broadband are often the most vulnerable in our society.’

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No Smoking in cars—new law From 1st October, it is illegal to smoke in cars carrying children under the age of 18 years.

The law will apply to parents, carers, and other adults in a car with a child, making it an offence to light up in the car, Fines in the region of £60 plus points on your licence can be issued together with fines of up to £10,000 for drivers who fail to stop their passengers smoking in their vehicle whilst carrying a child.

Disability training course for clubs & Coaches Epping Forest District Council are holding a ‘How To Coach Disabled People In Sport’ coaches workshop delivered by Sports Coach UK. As part of their continued work with local clubs under our Six for All project we are running this training course to allow coaches and clubs of all levels the chance to become more inclusive.

Suitable for all coaches, this workshop aims to answer the commonly asked questions about disabled sports participants and it will show you how, with a few minor adjustments to the way you work, you can make your coaching more inclusive and effective.

The course will take place on 29th October 2015 and starts at 7pm and will finish at 9m.

The venue Loughton Methodist Church, Loughton, Essex, IG10 1RB, This course is free to coaches from clubs in the Epping Forest district. For coaches outside the district the cost is £10.

For bookings and further information please contact Olivia Worsfold on 07711 014879 / 01992 564220 or email oworsfold@eppingforestdc.gov.uk.

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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Deer Rutting Season

HOME GLAZING REPAIR SERVICE LTD

With the clocks changing and the evenings becoming darker earlier together with the Autumn weather and leaves on the road you may think driving with caution is a good idea. Just to add to this, when driving on roads through the forest please remember that the deer rutting season is also in force.

At this time of year, right through to the end of December, the bucks do not pay as much attention to cars on the road and accidents with deer have increased at this time of year in the past.

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

Please also keep your dogs under close control when walking in the forest for the same reason.

Front Door Panels Renewed

The highest risk period is when driving from sunset to midnight and the hours shortly before and after sunrise.

Letter Plates Replaced

Handles Replaced Guttering Replaced/Cleaned

Advice includes driving with full beam when there is no taffic, the headlight beam can illuminate the eyes of the deer and provide time for reaction, for both driver and deer.

Full Maintenance of UPVC & Aluminium

The most important piece of advice and something that many people forget, is do not serve to avoid a deer, unless of course you are a motorcyclist. If collision with the deer is inevitable, you are advised to keep full control of your car during impact.

Only break sharply and stop if there is no danger of being hit by other traffic on the road.

A Complete Service To All Windows & Doors

You should report any deer-vehicle collisions to the police, who should be able to contact the local person best placed to assist with an injured deer.

www.homeglazingrepairservice.co.uk

FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE CALL FREEPHONE 0800 917 2794 Or VISIT US AT

Charge for Carrier Bags I am sure most of you will be aware that as from 5th October, large retailers with 250 employees or more must charge at least 5p per carrier bag.

If a smaller company wishes to charge they can do so voluntarily.

Shops have to report to DEFRA how many bags they have sold etc and the proceeds have to be donated to a worthwhile cause.

There has been some speculation that this may break some laws because retailers are making you pay 5p to promote their brand by buying a bag branded with their shop.

Sales of the good old fashioned trolleys on wheels have increased as a result of this.

So when you go shopping next time, do not forget to take your bags with you.

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100 years birthday celebration for North Weald Resident, Violet Archer Looking forward to celebrating her 100th birthday on the 21st October is Wheelers Farm Gardens resident Violet Archer.

Violet, who was born in Bow, East London was the second youngest of a family of 10 (5 boys and 5 Girls). She left school at the age of 14 and in later years was married and had a daughter. She spent her working life as a cook and waitress. Violet moved to North Weald 15 years ago to be near her son in law who lived in Epping.

When asked the secret of looking so young, fit and healthy, Violet said she puts it down to taking 6 teaspoons of cod liver oil every day!

Violet plans to celebrate her 100th birthday with a special family lunch and a get together in the afternoon with all her friends & family at Wheelers Farm Gardens.

Editor’s Comment: I would like to wish Violet a wonderful 100th Birthday on behalf of my family and the readers of North Weald Village Life magazine

Photograph—Courtesy of David Bland— Bassett Photography

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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Stay safe on Bonfire Night Bonfire night is full of fun and excitement but it is also the night of the year which creates the most risk of fire. By following a few simple safety tips you can make sure that you have a safe and enjoyable evening.

The best way to stay safe on Bonfire night is to head out and enjoy an organised fireworks display. However if people insist on hosting their own display it is vital they take the proper precautions to keep them and their guests safe.

Divisional Officer Neil Fenwick, Essex Fire and Rescue Service Community Safety, said: “Firstly buy fireworks sensibly. Make sure that all fireworks have passed the British Safety Standards and have been purchased from reputable shops.

"Take some care setting up for your display and make sure that you have equipped yourselves with a couple of buckets of water, a bucket of soft earth to put spent fireworks in, a torch to read instructions by and a slow burning firework lighter to light the touch papers with“Never use petrol, or any kind of accelerant, to light or fuel a fire. Always ensure that the fire is a safe distance from your home or anything else it could set light to, for example sheds or fences.

“Garden fires should only be made up of garden refuse and no one should burn anything other than natural garden products. Plastic and rubber burn in an unpredictable way and create extremely noxious fumes and are not suitable for residential areas.

“Make sure that all fireworks have passed the British Safety Standards and are set off a safe distance from all spectators, buildings, sheds and fences. People should only light one firework at a time and remember do not return to a firework that hasn’t gone off because it could yet go up. ““Always follow the fireworks code and you won’t go too far wrong, it is a few simple rules all of which are just common sense really.”

The Firework Code • Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.

• Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.

• Keep fireworks in a closed non-flammable box.

• Follow the instructions on each firework.

• Light them at arm’s length, using a taper.

• Stand well back.

• Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode.

• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.

• Always supervise children around fireworks.

• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.

• Never give sparklers to a child under five.

• Keep pets indoors.

• Don’t set off noisy fireworks late at night and never after 11pm.

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Rogue traders As mentioned in earlier issues of the magazine, Rogue traders are people who call at your door pretending to be qualified tradespeople and offering to do work on your home.

They may seem friendly and persuasive but too often they target vulnerable elderly people and carry out poor quality household repairs to roofs and driveways They may claim to know your neighbours and have done work for them but often the work they promise to complete didn't need doing in the first place.

We're working with Essex County Council and Age UK Essex as part of a campaign to warn residents to 'Be Sure at the Door'.

You decide whether you need any work done to our house, not them. Free fridge magnets with advice on how to avoid cold callers are available from your local library and GP surgery.

If you think you've been taken in by a rogue trader, please let us know by calling 101, contact Trading Standards on 08454 040 506 or talk to a friend or relative.

A genuine trader won't::- Call without an appointment - Ask you to go to the bank to withdraw cash or make a money transfer - Offer to take you to the bank to withdraw cash for payment - Ask you to pay in full before the work is complete - Insist that you make a decision about the work they're offering to do on the spot - Bully or scare you into doing the work If you do think you need some work doing, get a number of quotes and get a written estimate detailing exactly what work will be carried out, how much it will cost and what the terms of payment are It is advised that you take your time to make sure you’re happy with what you’re undertaking – ask a trusted friend/relative for advice or ring the Buy with Confidence number 08454 040506.Doorstep sellers As well as calling at your door and offering to carry out work on your home, other rogue traders try to sell poor quality goods for highly inflated prices. It can be difficult to refuse some sales people on your doorstep and you can be pressured into buying something you do not want or that is not good value for money.

A sticker saying ‘No Cold Callers’ can be displayed in your front door, you can order one of these free of charge by calling Trading Standards on 03454 040506.

If you have a chain on your front door or a small window you can open this and tell the visitor that you do not buy at the door, or that you have to discuss it with a relative or friend, or if they are insistent—tell them you will call the police.

Your door, Your house, Your choice—buy with confidence

VILLAGE FEET Mrs Rita Smith DipCFHP MPSPract

07464 698273 Professional Qualified Foot Care Home Visits for: Toenail cutting & treatment for corns, Callus, verruca, ingrown toenail & other foot conditions

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Businesses are audited by Trading Standards to ensure they comply with consumer protection legislationn and only once they pass can they display the Buy with Confidence logo and be entered onto the website. Approved businesses are monitored on a regular basis andfeedback is invited from their customers.

If member companies fall below acceptable standards, they may be expelled from the scheme. The scheme also allows for an arbitration service in instances where the business and the consumers cannot achieve a satisfactory resolution.

REMEMBER – Your door. Your House. Your choice. Buy with Confidence.

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Sports and Creativity Award If you are aged between 13 and 25 years old and have a real talent or interest in sports or the arts, Epping Forest District Council would like to support you or your group in further developing your skills with our Sports & Creativity Awards.

Ranging from £50 to £1,500, they are designed to support and develop artistic and creative talent in the Epping Forest District.

To be considered for a Creativity Award, applicants are required to demonstrate their commitment to their area of interest and explain how the award will help them develop their talent. Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they are actively pursuing their area of interest. This can be through volunteering, education, exhibition, performance or other routes.

To be considered for an award you will need to be at least regional standard in your sport and be able to support your application with detailed information as well as one referee. You must be competing at a county, regional or national level in a nationally governed recognised sport (if you are unsure if your sport is a recognised sport please contact Fabrizio on 01992 564567) To be eligible for either award you must: be aged 13 – 25 on the closing date of the applications and live in Epping Forest District (or if at college or university your family home must be in the Epping Forest District).

Can you conquer the coals for St Clare?

Closing date for applications 30th November 201

Calling all courageous soles...are you brave enough to conquer the For Sports Awards: 01992 564567 and for Creativity Awards: 01992 564551 or you can apply online by visiting coals for St Clare Hospice?

Promising to be one of the most memorable journeys you will ever www.eppingforestdc.gov. undertake, the St Clare Firewalk on Saturday 14th November is a barefoot walk over red-hot wood embers smoldering at about 800 degrees Fahrenheit.

St Clare challenge events fundraiser Jade Clarke said: “Man’s fascination with fire goes back thousands of years, and while it is tempting to look at fire walking and explain it with physics, that is not enough to dispel the primal fear caused by the feeling of intense heat on your face as you stand at the edge of the fire pit.

“Participants will need to get fired up to fight all their survival instincts to take the first step on this thrilling challenge, but what a fantastic sense of achievement once you’ve crossed the embers and conquered the coals.”

Registration for the St Clare Firewalk is £25 per person, and participants are asked to pledge to raise a minimum of £150 in sponsorship. The event is open to all ages, but under 18-s must have signed parental permission to walk.

To sign up today, visit http://stclarehospice.org.uk/event/st-clarefirewalk/ or contact Jade on 01279 773750 or jade.clarke@stclarehospice.org.uk.

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www.cjaupholstery.co.uk Tel: 07814 63955

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The last flight Some of you may have been lucky enough to look up into the skies and see the magnificent sight of the Vulcan XH558 flying over North Weald on Sunday 11th October.

Even for someone like myself, who is not an enthusiast of planes, you could not help but be impressed by the sheer impressive size and style when she flew overhead.

Unfortunately the Vulcan XH558 landed for the last time. She has far exceeded the 250 flying hours promised before her restoration and she has completed significantly more flying hours than any other aircraft of her type.

Many people visit the North Weald Airfield to see the the Vulcan XH558 on her farewell tour of the UK

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Fun in North Weald North Weald Mums (NWM) held their Fun Day on 6th September, on which the sun shine and the Teddy Bear’s came out to play (a family of 4 bears – for which they would like to thank PartyPackage in Thornwood for supplying these costumes), with them and those who attended enjoying the inflatable giant slide, swings, Fun Day races (with medals awarded) and the cookies, cakes and Pimms (for the adults). T The sun was on their side, and everybody had lots of fun. A week later they also held another quiz night, with a new team member comparing the event with the occasional but amusing mispronunciation. The fundraising group were delighted to raise a couple of hundred pounds at the event, with the help of a raffle with items donated by Cinnamon, the Coop, Ashlyns and donations from NWM team.

They would like thank all their local friends, attendees and supporters for continuing their attendance at our events. Without them these things would not happen.

Their next event is the Halloween dance, you can find details of this to the right.

Halloween Advice If you do decide to go trick or treating, here are some helpful hints to ensure you are safe but still having fun.

Do: • Only go trick or treating in your own road and ideally only visit those houses you know will appreciate it • Stay in well lit areas and keep to pavements.

• Make sure an adult knows the area you plan to visit and what time you'll be back • Look out for 'no callers please' posters and respect your neighbours • Wait to eat any treats until you get home so that an adult can check them Don't: • Don’t trick or treat too far from home • Don't go alone - take an adult with you or stay in a group.

• If you do decide to go trick or treating, please respect the wishes of householders who do not wish to take part, and please do not use the season as an excuse for antisocial or intimidating behaviour.

• Even if you are not involved in trick or treating, bear in mind the following: • If you are driving on the evening of the 31st, remember that excited children don't always do as they are expected, so slow down in residential areas and take extra care.

Have fun, be safe and remember be thoughtful of others.

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Scribbles Day Nursery ‘Dresses Loud’ On Thursday 8 October, Scribbles Day Nursery in North Weald ‘dressed loud’ to raise money for a national charity ‘Make Some Noise’ which helps disadvantaged children and young people right here in the UK. These youngsters may be affected by illness, disability, bereavement or lack of opportunity. As a nursery we felt it would be a good opportunity to support disadvantaged children, as well as offering our children at the nursery an understanding of those who are less fortunate.

‘Make Some Noise’ is Heart FM’s char-

ity and the team at Scribbles Day Nursery were lucky enough to receive a visit from the Heart FM Angels who came to see how the fundraising was going and also judge the competition for ‘loudest dressed person’.

The children made a huge colourful floor picture for the Heart Angels and every child in the nursery contributed; even the babies were involved and were covered from head to toe in paint!

Thank you to everyone who was involved in making the day a huge success and lots of fun for the children!

Work begins at St Clare Hospice Work to provide additional office and storage space at St Clare Hospice got officially underway when long-serving volunteer Pat Prior helped demolish two dilapidated sheds to make way for the new purpose-built facilities.

Following rapid growth in St Clare services over the past four years, and a threefold increase in the number of people being cared for, the Hastingwood-based charity was granted permission over the summer to replace the old sheds at the rear of its site with a twostorey building accommodating extra office space and storage facilities.

The new facility will mean St Clare will be able to free up space in its main building for its expanding community, day therapy and family support teams, as well as bring its retail team back on site from rented accommodation.

It will have storage space for vital clinical equipment and fundraising resources on the ground floor as well as dedicated facilities for the maintenance and gardening teams, while the upper floor will provide an open plan office for some of the Hospice’s essential support and administrative staff.

The Hospice car park is also being expanded to create additional spaces, along with extra disabled bays closer to the Hospice entrance.

Construction is due to be completed in the spring.

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Airside view 7 It has, so far, been a year of mixed fortunes.

The serious accidents involving impeccably maintained home based aircraft, flown by highly trained and experienced pilots, who were well known figures on the airfield, casts a shadow over what might otherwise have been an entirely joyful period.

The weather has been patchy and pre-planned flying has often had to be adapted to the prevailing conditions but has not been too bad overall. The “Indian� summer of recent days has certainly been welcome.

The events have been well attended and first time visitors as well as regular attendees have all commented favourably upon the entertainment provided. The addition of a flying display during the open day has been particularly praised. It is after all an airfield and one with a history at that. It is to be hoped that safety measures can be put in place to permit the continuance of active displays.

The Battle of Britain commemorations with visiting Hurricanes and Spitfires were full of memories to many still alive who remember WW2, as well as a significant number of those who served at North Weald both on the ground and in the air. Their presence and the stories they have to tell were highly entertaining although not necessarily repeatable in polite company.

The silhouette, shown in our picture, of the Vulcan bomber overflying the airfield during it’s last ever flight is a reminder that the history of the RAF continues and their role evolves continuously. The huge crowds who turned out to see the fly past were given a treat as the bomber banked to fly down the runway exhibiting the remarkable shape of the wings.

Of course we all airside await with baited breath, the outcome of the Council initiative in seeking a new partner to help improve the fortunes of the airfield. Keep North Weald Flying !! is the cry as seen on one well known mobile advertising campaign.

Source: John Young, North Weald Flying Service.

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Epping youth clubs win Jack Petchey awards Epping Forest youth clubs were awarded an amazing £4,500 at the Jack Petchey Crystal Awards.

The money was awarded to Epping Forest Youth Council (EFYC) – £1,500 Voluntary Action Epping Forest (VAEF) – £1,500 Loughton South Cricket Club (LSCC) - £1,500 The Jack Petchey Crystal Awards at City Hall, London took place on Friday 2nd October 2015 to mark the 15th anniversary of the Jack Petchey Foundation and the milestone of having invested £100m to youth projects in London and Essex.

Matthew Tinker DMYP, Epping Forest Youth Councillor said: “Going up to London’s City Hall and collecting the £1,500 grant on behalf of the youth council was a real privilege! The fact that the youth council is still receiving recognition for the work we are doing is very rewarding – it really tells us that we are doing a good job at representing our 12,000 young persons electorate.”

“The Jack Petchey Foundation has really supported us over the years, I would like to thank them for being so generous and allowing us to complete our projects to their full potential. Mr Jack Petchey himself is a real inspiration for us young people – his generosity is overwhelming! Happy 15th birthday Jack Petchey Foundation!!”

The Jack Petchey Foundation is not only a grant funder, it also initiates and delivers many youth programmes to ensure that young people can find their unique talent and make a positive contribution to society including the world’s largest public speaking competition for young people, Speak Out. At a time when many youth services are being cut the Foundation provides over 2000 organisations with the means to recognise young people’s accomplishments through membership of the Achievement Award scheme. This in turn invests almost £3m per year in grass roots youth work.

The founder, Jack Petchey left school aged 13 with no qualifications yet went on to become a multi-millionaire. His driving ambition has been to inspire and motivate young people and give them positive encouragement to achieve.

Jack Petchey CBE said: “I am proud of all the programmes we’ve been involved in and every single young person who has participated. We aim to help young people believe that ‘If I think I can, I can’, so that whatever their background, they will achieve, they will make positive contributions to society, and they will be satisfied in their lives. I am so committed to this that aged 90 I still come to the office every day. It is why we have given £100m to realise this.

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London said: “As Mayor of London I have seen that the work of the Jack Petchey Foundation is inspirational and really motivates the young people of London and Essex to achieve!”

Dame Helen Mirren said “I am so proud to be a Patron of the Jack Petchey Foundation. It truly is inspirational to see so many young lives transformed as they come to believe in themselves and in what they can achieve. Happy 15th Anniversary Celebrations.”

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November Gardening Hints November! Winter is upon us all too quickly although at the time of writing the weather has been very sunny, bright and warm for the time of the year. This has extended the summer basket season, with most pots and baskets still looking good.

Keep the lawn free of falling leaves by raking them up. Use a metal lawn rake if you feel energetic, you can then rake out the dead and decaying material that lays within the lawn at the same time. This will aerate your lawn and make for a lush green next season.

It’s still not too late to plant spring flowering bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, snowdrops, crocus, hyacinths etc. As the summer plants fade and are damaged by frost, replace with winter flowering plants, such as pansys, violas, cyclamen, heathers etc.

Before the winter weather becomes severe, it’s worth identifying the plants in your garden that perhaps are not totally hardy (if you are in doubt please do not hesitate to come in and speak to me, and I will endeavour to help).

If tender plants are in pots, these can be moved to a more sheltered part of the garden (south west facing) or into a greenhouse, for those planted in the garden its worth planning in advance for protecting them with garden fleece and a mulch to prevent the roots freezing.

On dry days cut back all dead and decaying material from your herbaceous perennials and remove any remaining weeds.

Put into your shed or garage any plastic hosepipes and fittings, watering cans and attachments not now being used to prevent frost damage.

On empty patches of the vegetable plot, dig in well -rotted manure and leave large clods for the frost to break down in readiness for next year’s crops. The manure along with the winter frosts will help improve the structure of your soil.

If you’re lucky enough to have a greenhouse, I always think November is a good month to de-clutter and thoroughly clean and disinfect all the glass and rooks and crannies were overworking pests and diseases lurk.

Although the evenings are nippy, I am still finding time to sit for a few minutes in the garden and enjoy the fabulous Autumn colours well worth it, especially with a nice warming sloe gin or a hearty homemade soup. Cheers!

Source: Nigel – Art Nursery Garden Centre

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SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES Steam & Scream! Halloween Specials - Ongar 30th-31st October The trains will be decorated in true Halloween style. There will be treats for all the kids, a fancy dress competition and great entertainment on board. Be prepared to be scared on this unique fullsize Ghost Train. Advanced booking is essential. Tel: 01277 365200.

Epping Ongar Railway, CM5 9BN. www.eorailway.co.uk

Kids Holiday Activities - Harlow 26th-30th October Lots of great fun activities for kids to enjoy during the October half term including multi activity days, karate, trampolining, pumpkin carving and much more. Booking essential. Tel: 01279 621500.

Harlow Leisurezone, Second Avenue, Harlow, CM20 3DT. www.harlowleisurezone.co.uk/kids

Family event: Pumpkin carving Thursday 29 October, 10am-3pm The View Join us for an afternoon of pumpkin carving. From Jack -o-Lanterns to spooky faces. Learn how to create a design which will impress any trick-or-treaters! Prizes for the best-carved designs. £5 pumpkin at T-light, and a free hot or cold drink. £3.95 if you bring your own pumpkin. £1 for noncarvers.

Booking required (2 hour time slots).

Tel 020 7332 1911

Pond Dipping Tuesday 27th October 10.00am—12.00 Epping Forest Field Centre, Pauls Nursery Road, High Beach Aimed at children and families. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Wear appropriate clothing.

Adults £4 Children £2 Booking essential Telephone 020 8502 8500 Page 26

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CHURCH CHAT St Andrews Church PARTY TIME!!

No apologies by starting with another mention of our St Andrew’s Day celebrations. They’ll be on Monday 30th November at 7.30pm: a special service at St Andrew’s Church, followed by a party in the church hall. And everyone is welcome – no need to book tickets or anything, just come along and celebrate our Patronal Festival, as we call it, with the regular congregation. Any queries, please get in touch with me (details below): it should be a good antidote to those dark November evenings (it’s not my most cheerful time of year!) and hopefully before all the Christmas parties start in earnest.

It’s been lovely to have two weddings at St Andrews in recent weeks, involving couples who were born and brought up in the village. St Andrew’s is, as I’ve said before in this column, the parish church for the whole village (and indeed for Thornwood and Hastingwood as well as North Weald). Maybe if we were building St Andrew’s now, we would locate the church in the High Road rather than where it is – but at least there’s no problem parking in Vicarage Lane, and we do have a beautiful building to enjoy!

In an age where, for many reasons, fewer people go to church on a Sunday than they once did, the Parish Church remains unique in that it’s there for everyone who lives in the parish, even those of other religions or none.

But what many people don’t realise is that Parish Churches have to be paid for by those that worship there: we get no Government money, and we have to pay a contribution to the Diocese (called the “Parish Share”) to cover at least some of the cost of a priest-in-charge; and although the wider Church of England has lots of assets, it has (relatively) little cash to offset against the costs of parish ministry and life. It’s a sad fact that many churches in remote parts of the countryside, even in Essex, may have to close in years to come, as it’s just not possible to keep them going as they are; but I hope that, as St Andrew’s rebuilds its links with the community, this won’t be something that happens to us.

Look forward to seeing you on St Andrew’s Day!

jwerodley@yahoo.co.uk or 01279 451065)

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Great Thornwood Bake In

Ongar Flower Club Update

It's a strange place Thornwood, no Church, no school, no shops, no village green for the clock to stand at ten to three, but we do have a wonderful generous community and a Village Hall.

With a distinct feeling of Autumn in the air, we met for our October meeting to be given by Diane Blomfield who took as her theme the title "It's All Art". The interpretation of this theme was really fascinating as Diane took six different disciplines of the art world, starting with architecture.

On Friday 25th September the community showed their support along with the local businesses and joined in for our annual coffee morning/lunch. It turned out to be memorable. record breaking day.

"The Great Thornwood Bake-In" we have decided to call it. We received donations of cakes, money, bric-a-brac and raffle prizes and as a result were able to donate the grand total of £1,428.00 to Macmillan Cancer Support.

It was a real team effort and one week after the event we are now able to say was an enjoyable experience.

A sincere thank you to include the Parish Council, for your generosity.

Sadly most of us know of someone who has benefited from the support given by Macmillan's so you know your money will be going to a worthy cause.

Source: - The Helpers of Thornwood's Macmillan Cancer Support Day.

Making a bold horizontal design with contrasting upright of yellow roses and freesia, it was definitely reflective of Antoni Gaudi.

As Diane worked on each design, we learnt some very interesting facts. The Austrian painter and illustrator Gustav Klimt was her next inspiration, particularly his most famous painting "The Kiss". She used a turquoise glass vase to create her design, a colour Klimt and Diane both love! Using some wonderful vintage roses and amazing blue gentian, we all sat stunned at the amazing colour. Next came the discipline of metal work and the artist Antony Gormley.

Using a tall metal container to reflect the theme, Diane created a beautiful arrangement of evergreen jasmine, mauve gladioli and lisianthus with some dark red carnations placed deep to suggest the furnace. Next came the work of sculpture with a nod to Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth. Diane made a continental style arrangement, very balanced, using beautiful myrtle greenery and all white flowers, and placed it in front of an abstract style black ornament... very striking. For her final design, basketwork was the theme. .

Our next meeting is our new famous DIY evening, when members share some floral ideas and bravely bring them along. There will be a warm welcome awaiting you, plus a raffle and refreshments as usual. And dont forget our Christmas extravaganza when we will have Chelsea medal winner Rekha Naidoo demonstrating "It's Christmas". This will be a wonderful demonstration so book your ticket now £10 (£8 for members) including Yuletide refreshments.... tickets from Dee 363874.This will be the hot ticket in Ongar over Christmas.

Source: Jenny Stone 899727

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BANTHAM & ONGAR BOWLS AND SOCIAL CLUB North Weald, CM16 6GP For your outdoor and short mat bowling - Bowling Membership £40 per annum OTHER ACTIVITIES OPEN TO ALL - membership not required Short Mat Bowls – Monday – 7.00pm - 9.00pm -£2.00 inc. refreshments Bridge –Wednesday – 10.00am to 1.00pm - £2.00 inc. refreshments Cribbage – Thursday – 9.15am to 12noon - £2.00 inc. refreshments Table Tennis – Thursday – 7.00pm to 9.00pm - £2.00 including refreshments (qualified coach) Yoga (qualified instructor) Friday – 12.00pm to 1.00pm and Saturday - 9am to 11.30am £8.00 per session Whist Drive – Friday – 7.30pm every other week

For further information contact: Jim Heppel – 01277 362631 or jimheppel571@gmail.com, www.banthamandongar.org.uk Page 29

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Bah Humbug Well everywhere I look Its seemingly Christmas this and that, With decorations already flooding the shops From cards to even a Santa suit for a cat!

Now I do truly love Christmas But summer has only just ended, With Halloween and Guy Fawkes not even cold, My Christmas spirit is feeling offended.

I simply can’t get all excited about something I hoped was still so far away, We’d no doubt celebrate Christmas all year round If the shops all had their way.

Christmas should be a season of wonder With a couple of weeks of thankfulness, happiness and joy.

Not to be thrust in your face so many months in advance As a barrage of many a shops clever advertising ploy.

People might well say to me ‘bah humbug’ But life is already expensive enough, Without all this constant pressure to buy Even more soon to be discarded stuff.

Yes I do love Christmas And all the excitement and gatherings its brings I just wish it was more about being with loved ones Rather than the pressure for material things.

Source: Andy – resident poet. I agree Christmas does appear in the shops too early, but it soon comes around!

Bassett Community Action Group In 2008 the Community got together to show solidarity in preserving their chosen way of life, in fighting off the 'East of England's' plan to build 6000 houses around the North Weald area.

This hard work paid off and the plans were eventually dropped.

When formed, it was agreed to raise money for any unknown expenses which might have been incurred and any remaining funds to be used for charitable needs within the community.

Now some 7 years on, a working committee decided to fund a shelter for the young people in our community, to protect them from the elements when playing or just meeting up on Weald Common by the football pitch beyond the play areas.

We feel it befitting that surplus funds raised by the community should go back into the community and more to the point, the youth of our community.

This shelter, now fully installed with seats, has been presented as a gift to the Parish Council who is the custodian of Weald Common.

Any remaining money after the shelter is fully paid will be given to St Clare Hospice.

The closing of our account will be the final action by the Group which will then be disbanded.

May we thank all of you who successfully supported the cause in whatever way you could, as this demonstrated the strong feeling of our community to remain as we were, a Village Community and not a New Town suburb.

Source: Peter Collins.

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Families Families can truly be a wonderful thing and I do love mine to bits, For I am very lucky as mine, although sometimes a puzzle, all the pieces somehow

fits.

Now I’ve been blessed with three fabulous kids and a wife whom I adore, While most would be content with that, I’ve been blessed with even more.

Besides all my blood relatives who are all fantastic in their own special ways, I have all my extended families through my in-laws who never cease to amaze.

With a very special credit to my brother and sister-in-laws, whose support has been second to none, They’ve shown me so much love and understanding and been so instrumental in every battle I’ve won.

It’s hard to truly portray the feeling I have for this family that without fate I may never have known, Though from even the very first meeting our bond and love has flourished and grown.

I’m in no doubt that I’m very lucky. as so many families don’t have what I’ve got, For me that is truly tragic as without my family network I would struggle a lot.

I guess my point is embrace all that you have and show those close that you care, As a family network should never be taken for granted and just expected to be there!

So it’s for that I’d like to thank all of my family, both old and new, Knowing that together there is no problem that we can’t face and get through.

Source: Andy – resident poet, feeling grateful.

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New printer at North Weald Library The team at North Weald Library would like to apologise for the lack of a customer printer over the last few months but we are now very happy and relieved to announce the arrival of our brand new printer!

If you need access to a computer North Weald Library is just the place as we now have four ‘free to use’ computers and printing from just 10p per sheet. We also have a scanner as well as photocopy and fax services.

Library members can use the computers for an hour each day but this can easily be extended in quieter periods. Alternatively you can bring your own laptop to the library and take advantage of the free Wi-Fi service.

Not a member already? Simply visit us or join online by visiting www.essex.gov.uk/libraries. No proof of identification is required. And just in case you’ve forgotten, here is a list of just some of the other great services we offer at North Weald Library, as well our opening times: Baby and Toddler Rhymetime (every Thursday at 10.30am) EFDC Recycling Bags Bus Pass Application Forms Local Events/Information Noticeboards and Literature Which? Magazines Online Magazines via Zinio Home Library Service Large Print Books Spoken Word CDs DVDs Teenage/Young Adult Collection College Prospectuses Enquiry/Information Service Helpful and Friendly Staff Open six days a week (Mon, Wed and Fri 9.15am to 1.15pm, Tues 2-5pm, Thurs 10am-7pm, Sat 9am – 1pm) Why not visit us and see for yourself, we look forward to welcoming you to your local library!

Don’t forget to visit the website: www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk or visit our Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/ groups/Northwealdvillagelife/ To find out details of the latest new & events

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BIRD FEATURE - NOVEMBER 2015 Well, another month is upon us and thoughts are starting to turn towards colder weather with the expectation that we will get more birds visiting our gardens.

The last of the summer visitors have been lingering on. I had my last sightings of House Martins and Swallows during the first week of October and it is possible a straggler or two will fly over during the latter part of the month although it would take a bit of luck to actually be looking out at the right time. There have been Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs about with one of the latter species in evidence during the weekend of 10th / 11th.

Today I saw a flock of Redwings which flew over the village allotments and on towards the airfield. Roaming flocks of these birds will be in our area over the next few months as they spend the winter here rather than in their breeding grounds, which is mostly in the much colder Scandinavia. They seek out berries and fruit but are not averse to worms and will readily come to gardens if the weather is harsh and food is hard to find.

I mentioned in the last report that I had been informed of sightings of Little Egrets in the Weald Bridge Road area. Well I can now confirm their presence as I saw one of these birds myself, so my informant proved to be very reliable ! Hopefully this is a portent of further sightings to come, over the last couple of winters there have been Little Egrets about the area, even frequenting the village itself. Favoured places for sightings have been in fields behind Wheelers Farm Gardens and also the area of Weald Common / village hall. They do like ditches, brooks etc or damp fields etc. Fingers crossed a few of you get to see one over the next few months.

You may recall during the summer that there were sightings of a Red Kite in the Hastingwood area. I saw one myself during the second week of October, it was flying over the High Road towards the fields behind Queens Road. It may have been a younger individual as they tend to disperse away from the main breeding areas. Buzzards were very scarce in this area 20 years ago but are regularly sighted now and are clearly breeding, I wonder if Red Kites will colonise our neck of the woods within the next few years.

Seeing the Red Kite was one of those casual sightings where it just happened to fly over as I was walking along. I have said before that it is well worth keeping an eye out, even if just walking the dog or strolling to the shops. Sometimes you are alerted to the presence of some birds, Buzzards for example, by their calls but an occasional scan skywards can produce some good sightings. Only a few weeks ago I also saw a Hobby, another bird of prey, flying over the village, again this was from just having a quick 'scan' whilst walking along.

During the warm spell at the back end of September I saw two Spotted Flycatchers at the top of the Weald Common open space, both engaging in the classic species behaviour of dashing out from a perch to catch flying insects. It happens to be the first time I have seen this species in the North Weald area so I consider that to be a good spot.

Anyway, if you are out and about you should be seeing flocks of Jackdaws, Rooks and Starlings at various places around our area. Starlings will fly around in flocks before settling down to roost for the night, accompanied by lots of 'chattering'. These roosts are mini versions of the huge roosts that feature from time to time on nature programmes - the same activity is going on around our area but on a much smaller scale.

Pied Wagtails also tend to roost communally and I have seen a dozen or so in the vicinity of the school lately with others flying towards that location so I suspect there is a group of them roosting somewhere nearby. You may see small numbers of them flying over in the hour or two leading up to dusk, they have an undulating, almost bounding flight and are often heard calling before they are seen.

We are likely to be getting more birds in gardens as the weather gets colder, especially as natural food sources such as seeds, nuts and berries diminish. I must again stress the need to keep feeding areas clean and I would also point out that a supply of fresh water is of great benefit to the birds if you are able to provide it.

All the best, Paul Corbet.

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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Have you heard of Big Energy Saving Week?

Your local Citizens Advice Bureau is part of a nationwide structure which provides backup and support, and which also leads on national campaigns. These campaigns are based on the experiences of clients in local bureaux, and those we have advised online or over the phone. For years we have campaigned for a better deal for electricity and gas customers. Part of that is Big Energy Saving Week, which this year runs from the 26 October to 1 November. We encourage people to Check; Switch; Save.

Big Energy Saving Week: check

Check you are getting the best deal from your current supplier

Although energy bills are the top financial concern for households, 63 per cent of people say there is nothing that they feel they can do about them. But you could save hundreds of pounds a year on your fuel bill by simply checking you’re not paying more than you have to for your energy.

Most suppliers offer up to four tariffs for gas and four for electricity, along with discounts for choosing a ‘dual fuel’ deal. Once a year your energy supplier will tell you which of their tariffs is cheapest for you. If your circumstances change in the meantime, call your supplier to discuss your options.

Check if there is a better way to pay your bills The way you pay your bill can also make a difference. For example, most suppliers offer a discount for paying your bill by direct debit.

You may also get discounts for receiving bills online, as this cuts down on paper and reduces costs for the supplier, and is good for the environment.

Check you are getting all the benefits and help you are entitled to Making sure you are receiving all the help you are entitled to will make paying for fuel bills and other household expenses easier.

If you've reached state pension age you may get a Winter Fuel Payment to help with winter heating costs. Some people who receive benefits can also get a Cold Weather Payment of £25 if the temperature drops below freezing in their local area for seven days in a row.

There is also the Warm Home Discount scheme, whereby energy suppliers provide rebates to households on certain benefits.

Big Energy Saving Week: switch Many people stay on the same tariff or with the same energy supplier for years, without realising they could be getting a better deal elsewhere. By switching suppliers you could save hundreds on your fuel bill if you have never switched before. There are lots of price comparison websites that can help you compare what’s on offer. Visit Ofgem's switching website for helpful tips to get started. It’s http:// www.goenergyshopping.co.uk/en-gb/power-to-switch.

If you don't have internet access you can phone the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 040506. They will send you a factsheet with the deals available in your area.

Big Energy Saving Week: save The best way to pay less for your fuel is simply to save energy around your home. For instance you can insulate your home. Check with your energy supplier if they will help. And the Energy Saving Trust website has lots of ideas for saving energy. It’s http:// www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/domestic/improving-my-home-0.

And of course the CAB can always help: online at https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/; by phone on 03444 770 808; or at a drop-in session at St Mary’s Church Centre in Loughton High Road from 9.30am to 1.00pm Mondays to Wednesdays, and on Fridays (i.e. no sessions on Thursdays) or at Waltham Abbey Town Hall from 10.00am to 1.00pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Source: Paul Stockton Page 34

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

All you need to know about the Life of Bees As a member of the North Weald Bassett & District Rural Preservation Society I receive a Newsletter (Booklet) four times a year, full of information including ‘what’s on in the months ahead’. In the latest issue there was a great article by Ken Knight reporting on the evening meeting when the Beekeeper Jim McNeill, gave a fascinating and enjoyable talk on the life of bees. Ken has kindly given permission for me to pass his words onto the readers of Village Life to enjoy.

For any Bee Colony to survive it must have four components. A Queen, Worker bees, Drones (during the summer period) and a Nest (Hive) for the eggs, larvae & pupae.

The Queen is fed by the worker bees and the more she is fed the more eggs she lays. At the height of summer she can lay up to 2000 eggs per day. She usually lives between 1-3 years depending how good she is. If her production falls below a certain level the other bees will discard her and raise a new queen from existing eggs. If the queen dies or goes missing for any reason the other bees will start preparations to replace her after about 30 minutes. This is done by feeding the larvae a high sugar Royal Jelly and constructing a different kind of breeding honeycomb known as Queen Cup. Drones only live for about 40 days and their only job is to fertilise the queen. At about September when they are no longer required, most will be pushed out of the hive and new ones will be produced in the following spring.

Worker bees are sterile females and are required for the day to day running of the hive as well as collecting pollen to make the honey & feed the hive. They can travel up to three miles from the hive but usually less so as not to waste energy. An average hive will contain up to 60,000 bees during the summer and slim down to about 15,000 during the winter months.

Bees generally swarm between April & June when the weather is warmer and the hive is likely to be overcrowded, but on occasion they will swarm at any other time if necessary.

Honey can come in a variety of colours, generally the darker the honey the more different types of flower the bees have visited and it can be runny honey or set honey. Sometimes when the honey is changing to the solid state crystals will appear which makes people think that the honey is not edible. This is not the case as it is only a stage in the process and is perfectly safe to eat.

Raw Honey has great medicinal properties and can be used to treat minor cuts and grazes, and is also good for warding off hay fever if local honey is taken regularly, as it builds a resistance to those nasty effects of pollen. However, this offers little or no protection if one moves out of the area, as the range of pollen encountered will be different. If you are unfortunate enough ever to be stung by a bee, do not try to pull the sting out with your fingertips or tweezers as you will squeeze the venom sack and make it worse. The best way of removing it is to gently scratch the skin with your fingernail and drag the sting out.

Hope you enjoyed Ken’s jottings as much as I did. Getting to read such great articles is only one of the many joys of being a member of our local preservation society. In fact much of the information in my previous articles about our beautiful countryside or local history has come from ‘picking the brains’ of fellow members. I strongly urge anyone who cares about the Green Belt, Our Trees, Local History or the protection of our wildlife, to sign up and become a member of the preservation society for less than the cost of a local pint and at a price even ‘Aldi’ could not beat. It could be the best value £2 you ever have to spend each year. To join or obtain further information just phone David Lodge on 01992 578078.

Become a ‘True Friend’ to our Environment.

The Happy Wanderer.

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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Tel: 07814 63955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Essential Local Numbers

Essential Local Numbers

The Alzheimer Society

01992 717676

North Weald Methodist Hall

01992 522143

Cats Protection

01992 579539

North Weald Library

01992 522896

Citizens Advice Bureau

0844 257 1909

North Weald Village Hall Bookings

07870 465129 northwealdvillagehall.org/

Crimestoppers

0800 555111

North Weald Parish Council

01992 523825

Doctors High Street, Epping

08445 769797

Queens Community Centre Hall Bookings

01992 522910

Doctors The Limes, Epping (visits/emergencies)

01992 566500

NHS Direct

0845 4647

Doctors The Limes, Epping (appointments)

01992 573838

Police, Epping Station

0300 333 4444

Doctors The Limes, North Weald 01992 524383

Police, Neighbourhood/local

101

Epping Forest District Council

01992 564000

Police, Emergency

999

Epping Forest Burial Park

01992 523863

RSPCA

01279 306058

Hospital, St Margarets, Epping

01992 561666

Scribbles Pre School

01992 523846

Hospital, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow

01279 444455

Stuart Poulton

01992 522607

24 Hour

01992 572607

London & Essex Boarding Kennels & Cattery (Kents Farm)

01992 522183

St Andrews Primary School

01992 522283

Early Years—St Andrews

01992 522283

North Weald Airfield

01992 564200

Traveline

0870 6082608

North Weald Chemist

01992 523887

The Red School

01992 522073

North Weald Golf Club

01992 522118

Village Pre School

01992 572662

LOCAL CLUB DIRECTORY

LOCAL CLUB DIRECTORY

3rd North Weald Beavers

Jujitsu Weald North Club, North Angling Weald Club

North Weald Queens Hall Bowls Women’s ClubInstitute (Evg)

Tel: 01992 524672

Www.parklodge.co.uk Tel: 01992 524071

Tel: 523375 522258 or 522052

British Legion, North Weald Branch

North Weald Preservation Angling Club Society

Tel: 01992 522955

Tel: 01992 01992524071 578078.

Queens North Weald Hall Charity Wireless Station Bowls Club522910 Tel:

Coopersale Horticultural Society

North Weald Bassett Cricket Club & District Rural

Tel: 574945

Tel: Northweald.play-cricket.com 523417 or 522618

Dance Factory

North Weald Bassett Kickboxing Singers

Tel: 07976 786404

Tel: 522258 07433 2843128

Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer

North Weald Weald Cricket Cricket Scouts Club Group Club

Tel: 01277 365200

Northweald.play-cricket.com 01992 524672

Tel: 522910 Seniors Thornwood Rapier Cycling Club Tel: 577872

Epping Forest Badger Group

North Weald Weald Kickboxing Kickboxing Seniors Society for over 70’s 524279 Tel:

Tel: 524631 Three Valleys Male Voice Choir Thornwood Seniors Tel: 01279 415563

Tel: 522196 North Weald Scouts Group North Weald 01992 524672Wireless Station Bowls Club Weald Seniors Society for over 70’s North

www.3valleymvc.org.uk Tel: 577872

Tel: 576038 Friends Force Hertfordshire/Essex Tel: 522464 Epping Forest Rotary Club Forest Highlanders Pipes & Drum

Tel: 522803 Tel@ 522196 North Weald Women’s Institute (Evg)

Tel: 01708 250820

Tel: 522258

Tel: 07855 911323

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Tel: 522803 Rapier Cycling Club Queens Hall Bowls Club Tel: 524631 Tel: 523375 orSociety 522052 Taoist Tai Chi Queens Hall523854/07803243625 Charity Tel: 01992

Three Essex Valleys Male Club Voice Choir West Flower Tel: 524631 01279 415563 www.3valleymvc.org.uk West Essex Flower Club Te: 524631 www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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