North Weald Village Life August 2016 issue

Celebrating 10 Years Strengthening the Community

Circulation: Monthly

Issue: 120 August2016

FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine

NORTH WEALD VILLAGE LIFE Summer is here (fingers crossed) just in time for the school holidays.

Although I would love to have gone on holiday this year with the family and dogs – it is not going to happen. However, the whole subject of going on holiday must be quite a tense subject especially if you are travelling abroad – is anywhere safe?

North Weald Village Life is an independent magazine and website, owned and published by a local resident who is What a busy few weeks in North Weald and the local area it has been, with Thorndedicated to strengthening the local community, improving wood Village Day, the Dog Show at North Weald, school fete at St Andrews School, a communication and promoting local businesses and sup- fantastic fundraising event held at The Merry Fiddlers, Race for Life and of course the pliers to local residents.

100th Anniversary of North Weald Airfield to name a few.

Now to name another celebration – 20th July 2016 celebrates 10 years since launching North Weald Village Life magazine, the first issue was on the 20 th July 2006 which I The magazine is available free of charge monthly and is can hardly believe. 10 years, the changes I have seen in my family life over this time is distributed from 20th of each month. absolutely astounding but the most amazing fact has to be that North Weald Village Life magazine, website, Facebook group etc is continually growing and developing and still has so many readers - are you not fed up with my writing yet??

I cannot thank everybody enough for all the opportunities I have had over the last 10 years, I have been invited to many events, meetings, visited places I would not have  News Shop, High Road visited ie., the Airfield Tower and have met so many fantastic people.  Kings Head Garage, High Road The village has changed over the last 10 years with more housing, younger families,  North Weald Library different events and activities coming to the village, more roadworks and different .

Art Nursery, Vicarage Lane types of crime, to name a few but it still is a village that I am proud of to live in and  Newsagents, Coopersale bring my family up in. I hope that the next ten years for North Weald Village Life will  Party Package Thornwood continue just as well.  Happy Grow Nursery, Thornwood Please remember that North Weald Village Life would not be here if it wasn’t for ad Davis Estate Agents, High Road vertisers, contributors and supporters and most of all YOU, so thank you very much  North Weald Chemist for reading the magazine. I am always amazed when people say how good it is, although I do my best, I am always delighted to hear that people do find it interesting and helpful.

If you would like to guarantee your personal copy or per- As I write this, my little dog, a Patterdale Terrier cross (the grumpy one as people who haps you have relatives or friends who would like to re- meet me on the dog walk will know him as) is chasing a fly – I don’t know how he ceive their own copy, you can subscribe for £18.00 for 12 does it but he seems to smell them, his nose is twitching and he is bouncing off the issues. Please email me, download a copy of the form furniture, jumping over my paperwork and has just fixed me with a very beady stare from the website or write to me at the address below. rendering me to believe that a fly is on my shoulder and I will soon be pounced on – so if there are any spelling errors it is his fault!!

Advertising rates start at £19.00 for quarter page, £36.50 Our six week school holidays will be spent with me working on the magazine and for half a page and £68 for a full page. Colour advertising website, hospital and doctor appointments and days out or just family time. I have rates are now available and there are some premium tried to be ultra-organised and made a six week schedule with days pencilled in for all positions available at this current time. Please contact us of the above. So weather please be good because picnics are on the schedule!! Mayfor more information. The deadline for booking is the 5th of be even the chance to sit in the garden and read a book but it is difficult working at each month. home because there is always the temptation to work. A change in scene would be welcome and we are lucky enough to have some lovely places to visit and not too far from the seaside!

If you would like to contribute editorial, poems, recipes, th letters or anything else, we would be delighted to receive Andy and I celebrate our 20 wedding anniversary this month also, so celebrations all these. Please send them to us at the address below or via round. 20 years I can’t believe we have been married for that long, 26 years together in total. I am not sure what 20 years anniversary is – is it china? If so, that’s an easy email. one to buy a present for – I will get a new mug for Andy to make my coffee in!! Who says romance is dead?

I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU because without sounding soppy– North Weald Telephone: 07814 863955 Village Life is only celebrating my 10th Anniversary because you still read the magazine Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk and please carry on so it will make the next milestone.

About North Weald Village Life

Circulation

Copies can be collected from:

Subscription

Advertisers

Contributions & Editorial

Contact Details

Address: 49 York Road, North Weald, Essex CM16 6HU

Epping,

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

June Editor

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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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

AUGUST BRAIN TEASER —Win a bottle of wine              

Decade Community Village Information Strength Church Life Readers Loyalty Circulation Website Celebrate Advertisers Ten

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Congratulations to Mr Rich who won last months prize and will be celebrating with a bottle of wine. This month the lucky winner can also celebrate with a bottle of wine. To enter this month, please send your completed entry to August Brain Teaser, NWVL, 49 York Road, North Weald, Essex CM16 6HU. Entries need to be received by 10th Aug2016. 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.

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

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

North Weald Village Life celebrates 10 Years

London & Essex Kent’s Farm Boarding Kennels and Catteries

On 20th July 2006, my first issue of the magazine, all black and white and printed at home was ready. Andy, the girls and I hand delivered about half of these through ad hoc doors and the rest went into the Kings Head Garage, Post Office and News Shop.

I remember clearly visiting Art Nursery Garden Centre and seeing Nigel who had not long taken over from Tony, and he said he would advertise within a few minutes and then I went to see what was the Health and Leisure Centre in North Weald and they also agreed within minutes. How lucky was I to have advertisers who supported me?

In January 2007, I sent out a questionnaire within the magazine asking readers to confirm what they liked and what they didn't. I was delighted to receive so many responses. One clear fact that was unanimous was the format of the magazine, keep it A4 and do not reduce it to A5 size, this was a very welcome size and I think has been a big difference between the other ‘community magazines’ that were around at the time and have been launched since.

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

I would never have guessed that it would still be going very strong 10 years later. I hoped it would be, but you never know.

Along with the issue that you can download each month from the website, every month at least 1500 households read the magazine and I know that it is ready by many people in the home, often visitors read it and I have heard from people that when children have moved out of the house always ask to read it when they return.

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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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

North Weald Horticultural

Society Annual Show

The above will take place on Saturday 20th August 2016 At North Weald Village Hall The Schedule will be available from LIBRARY & NEWS SHOP *Side Shows *Raffle *Auction of produce *Licensed Bar *Refreshments *Kids sections (Pre school, Under 11’s and Junior)

DON’T MISS IT This year we are hoping to encourage more allotment holders to take part.

The Ladies have always been super active with their enthusiasm at flower arranging and baking but they would dearly love some extra competition.

Please don’t be afraid of not meeting some high standard this does not happen at our show.

We certainly have entrants who reach RHS standards but the majority of us simply enjoy the afternoon and love to pick up an award for our efforts.

07432 843128

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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

10.30am —12.30

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

Every Tuesday

Taoist Tai Chi

7.30pm —9pm

Queens Hall, School Green Lane. Tel 01992 523854 for more information

Every 1st Tuesday

Ongar Flower Club

7.30pm

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?

Every 3rd Wednesday

Crib Evening

7.45pm

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

Every Thursday

Bingo

7.30pm

Wheelers Farm Gardens, 9 games for £4.00, Good money prizes available. All welcome (over the age of 18 years)

Saturday 23rd July

Summer Fete at Leonard Davis House,

11am

Kiln Road, North Weald

Saturday 23rd July

Summer Fete at Cunningham House

2.304.30pm

Pike Way, North Weald

Wednesday 3rd August

WI Meeting

7.30pm

North Weald Village Hall. Members arrange the meeting to give committee members a rest so it will be a surprise either games or speaker.

Saturday 20th August

North Weald Horticultural Show

2.00pm

North Weald, Entries, stalls, refreshments, auction of produce.

Saturday 27th August

The Jack Free Show

12.30

North Weald Village Hall. Tickets £8 on the door.

Monday 29th August

Bank Holiday Monday

For activities taking place in the summer holidays for children, please visit pages 28 and 29.

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

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

What has been happening in the village?

Fantastic Fundraising Fun On Saturday 18th June, a fund raising event was organised Dean and Natasha from North Weald.

The event was to raise funds for Cancer charities after Dean sadly lost his mum and sister to Cancer.

The event was held at the Merry Fiddlers Pub and despite the rain everybody had a wonderful time.

After months of planning and hard work, they have now confirmed that over £5,000 was raised.

They would like to say a huge thank you to everyone that made the day and for their donations.

They are delighted to be able to have raised these funds and hope they will help local Cancer charities to carry on their good work.

Celebrating 30 years of care On Saturday 26th June, Cunningham House Care Home, Pike Way, celebrated their 30th anniversary with residents, friends and families past and present.

Despite the rain, everybody joined in the celebrations and the singers Treble Trouble and the Bass Clefs were present and kept everyone entertained.

Christian Aid Collections Monies collected for Christian Aid in North Weald Thornwood this year totalled £2,035.00.

Well done to everybody who volunteered to collect monies and who gave towards this charity.

Roll on next year ….

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

North Weald enjoys a summer day On Saturday 2nd July, staff at St Andrews Primary School took a gamble and set up their fete outside on the school playground.

Despite concerns, the sun shone and despite the odd welcome breeze the weather was lovely.

Many people came along to enjoy the many tombolas, have their face painted, guess the number of balloons in the Davis Estate Agents car, and enjoy some of the lovely refreshments.

New and old pupils were in attendance with their families.

Events cancelled The annual Epping Town Show which was to be held at Stonnards Park on Sunday 3rd July due to flooded ground.

The Community Service originally planned for 10th July at St Andrews Church was also cancelled.

The sun shines at Thornwood On Sunday 26th June, Thornwood Common was very wet after days of heavy rain, but this did not stop Thornwood Village Day. This year it was held on the car park at the village hall. The sun even shone for a little while, and ice creams were enjoyed by all.

One visitor I had not seen before was a bearded dragon who was happy to say hello.

Well done to all again, maybe next year the weather will be even kinder.

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

07432 843128 Page 10

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Help disrupt fraudsters by reporting scam emails that you receive Essex Community Police urge people receiving scam emails are urged to report them.

The reports received by Action Fraud will be forwarded to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau run by the City of London Police for collation and analysis. This will enable crucial intelligence to be gathered and preventative action to be taken. The activity will seek to disrupt the fraudsters and close down the links between them and the victim.

Last year (January 2015 – December 2015) they received on average 8,000 reports per month, with 96,699 people reporting that they had received a phishing scam.

What should you do if you’ve received a scam email?



Do not click on any links in the scam email.



Do not reply to the email or contact the senders in any way.



If you have clicked on a link in the email, do not supply any information on the website that may open.



Do not open any attachments that arrive with the email.



Genuine computer firms do not make unsolicited phone calls to help you fix your computer.

If you think you may have compromised the safety of your bank details and/or have lost money due to fraudulent misuse of your cards, you should immediately contact your bank.

If you've been a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud.

Fake emails often (but not always) display some of the following characteristics:



The sender’s email address doesn’t tally with the trusted organisation’s website address.



The email is sent from a completely different address or a free web mail address.

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A sense of urgency; for example the threat that unless you act immediately your account may be closed.



A prominent website link. These can be forged or seem very similar to the proper address, but even a single character’s difference means a different website.



A request for personal information such as user name, password or bank details.



The image contains an embedded hyperlink to a bogus site.

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

100 years of North Weald Airfield Many people enjoyed the summer sun and spent the day at North Weald Airfield enjoying the atmosphere, entertainment and refreshments as well as walking around the many different things to see including vintage cars, aircraft and other vehicles.

The bouncy castles and carousel were enjoyed by children under 11 years old.

The atmosphere was fantastic, the costumers, music and dancing all set in the early days and providing an authentic feel to the day.

I am looking forward to the next 30 years of the Airfield.

Photographs : Courtesy of David Bland, Bassett Photography.

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Beware of pot holes Recently on a Friday afternoon after having played a few games of bowls at North Weald Bowls Club, a local resident suffered a bad fall.

The Bowls Club based up the road past the North Weald Village Hall is a regularly visited by Mr Eyre.

On this particular Friday in early July, Mr Eyre left the club to walk back to his home in Wheelers Farm Gardens.

However, a few minutes into his walk, he found himself coming too, lying on the ground of the roadway and bleeding. He had fallen due to a large pot hole.

Damage and abuse from local children Recently on a Saturday morning on the 9th July, a group of three boys thought to be aged between 12 and 14 years old were seen to be causing damage to the newly laid garden area outside the shops in the village.

The boys were witnessed to be kicking the flower heads of plants.

Some residents stopped and asked them to stop this behaviour and one lady who was passing in her car asked them to stop politely and was told ’to stop being menstrual’.

The garden area outside the shops has caused a lot of positive comments from readers after hard work on behalf of the Parish Council and has been sponsored by local businesses in order to continue with this.

CCTV outside the shops has been viewed by Epping Forest District Council and witnesses have been asked for statements.

His glasses had broken and his head was bleeding. He got up and made his way slowly to his home in Wheelers Farm Gardens where he raised the alarm and was taken to hospital by ambulance where he was stitched and had several CT Scans.

Mr Eyre has given me authority to share a photo of his injuries with the main aim to urge residents to be careful when walking to the Bowls Club or taking your dog for a walk.

He is making the owners of the land aware of the problems.

If you have a son who is aged similarly who was playing out in the village on that day, perhaps you could have a word with them and remind them that this is not fun or clever.

The ongoing situation of children riding bikes in a dangerous manner and hurling abuse at local residents throughout the village continues and this could of course increase during the school holidays.

I am aware it is difficult and often children will not own up to being involved if questioned by parents, but please take the time to remind them of riding their bicycles safely in the village.

I really don’t want any accidents during the summer holiday with traumatised drivers, children being hurt and school holidays ruined.

Most children work hard at school and school holidays should be fun not dangerous.

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Blue Light collaboration: an update The government has asked Police and Crime Commissioners to consider the case for closer collaboration between the blue light services in their local area.

Roger Hirst, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, has said ‘I believe there is the potential for real benefits for Essex. As a first phase, I will be exploring the options with Chief Officers of Essex Police and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, and the Essex Fire Authority.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and Essex Police have long and proud traditions of serving the public. They share the key objective of making our county a safer place. But there are many opportunities for delivering a better, more effective, service through working closer together and sharing resources. This is already happening - though initiatives such as Parish Safety Volunteers, who work with communities in rural areas, to the Safer Essex Roads Partnership.

To explore options for closer collaboration, we have created a strategic board whose members include Acting Chief Fire Officer Adam Eckley, Essex Police Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh and Essex Fire Authority Chair Tony Hedley. Over the next few months, a small team working to the strategic board will develop a business case, including options for governance of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and Essex Police in collaborative work, as required by the draft legislation.

As part of this process, we will ensure that we engage both the public and keeping them up to date with the development of this work.’

Hate Crime Essex Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex have condemned hate crime.

Deputy Chief Constable Matthew Horne said: “We don't tolerate hate crime. Whether it’s an incident that takes place online or in the street, it’s important to let us know about hate crime to give us a chance to investigate and prosecute offenders and to ensure that victims and the wider community are protected. We can’t deal with the problem unless it is reported to us so we need anyone experiencing hate crime or knows someone who is to tell us about it.

“Call 101 to report all non-urgent cases or report online at www.essex.police.uk If you or anyone else is in immediate danger call 999.

We will take action and we will do our best to help you.”

Roger Hirst, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “Hate crime is unacceptable.

“If you are the victim of racist abuse or witness hate crime taking place, if the crime in in progress please contact Essex Police on 999. In a non-emergency situation, you can 101 or use the online crime reporting feature on the Essex Police website.

“You can also contact a number of Hate Incident Reporting Centres across Essex, which can also offer support and guidance. Details of the nearest specialist centre can be found here:

Page 14.

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Staff take part in Menin Gate ceremony BLOCK PAVING WORK PATIOS DAM FENCING WALLS

CRAZY PAVING

BRICK-

FENCING

TARMACA-

CONCRETING SLABS

GRAVEL

Operations staff based at North Weald Airfield took part in the famous Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate in Belgium.

On the evening of 10th June 2016 Darren Goodey and Colin I’anson laid a wreath on behalf of North Weald Airfield and the Epping Forest district at a moving ceremony at the Menin Gate in Ypres.

The Menin Gate holds the names of over 55,000 allied soldiers who were lost and never found.

North Weald Airfield Manager Darren Goodey said: “It was a truly humbling experience and an absolute honour to be part of such a fantastic tradition.”

“We laid our wreath not only to honour those killed or injured in the Great War, but also to mark the 100th anniversary of North Weald Airfield which came into being in 1916 as a Royal Flying Corp base.”

“The act of remembrance is led by members of the Last Post Association and the Belgian Fire Service so it seemed fitting that we wore our North Weald Fire and Rescue uniform.”

Find out when the next bus is coming?

NextBuses is a useful service available on your smartphone which helps to find bus times in your local area.

Visit www.nextbuses.mobi from your smartphone, then simply enter your postcode, street name or town for all of the latest departure information from any stop around Essex.

NextBuses is a free service provided by Traveline, however usual operator mobile data charges apply.

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Page 15

Walk is GLOWING success!

Flashes of fluorescent lit up the night as more than 600 neon walkers turned out for St Clare Hospice’s Midnight Walk on Saturday 2nd July at The Water Gardens.

Luminous pink, yellow and orange outfits set the streets of Harlow aglow as walkers of all ages came together to support the biggest fundraiser in the charity’s calendar.

Following a DJ set from Su Harrison, breakfast presenter on Heart Radio, and lively warm-up dance routines following either a 5k or 10k circuit through the streets of Harlow.

The event organiser, Jade Clarke, St Clare Challenge and Events Fundraiser said: ““We would like to say a huge thank you to each and every person who took part, as well as our army of volunteers and marshals who helped ensure the night was a success, and the many local businesses who supported us.

The first people across the finish line were Sarah Swan and her family who walked the 5k route in just under an hour. Sarah (50 from Harlow) was walking in memory of her best friend and colleague at Harlow Council, Andrea McGirr, who passed away at St Clare Hospice in March 2016 aged just 44 years.

As she finished the race Sarah said: “Tonight is my 50th birthday weekend but I just couldn’t imagine celebrating it without Andrea. So my family and I decided to take part in the Midnight Walk in Andrea’s memory. My sons, Joe and Zack, let me cross the finish line first so I could be the winner! I also walked with my partner Bruce, daughter Victoria and her boyfriend Connor. It has been a great event – we are so pleased to have been part of it.”

First back from the 10k route were Veronica Johansson, Kathy Forrest and Alan Hope who completed the longer route in 1 hour 21 minutes. The trio walked using Nordic walking poles as part of their training for the Three Peaks Challenge which they are undertaking in August.

It is hoped that the event will have raised £60,000 once all sponsorship money has been collected – enough to fund the Inpatient Unit at St Clare for two weeks.

Page 16. Tel: 07814 63955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Essex Fire Service visit local nursery school The children at the Red School based at the Queens Community Hall in the village were very excited to be visited recently by Essex Fire Service.

Funky annual show The Dance Factory had our annual show on 2nd July. This year it was called 'Funky Town' and was held at the Epping St. John's school in Epping.

It was a great success, all the children performed so well and made their dance teacher, Mandy, very proud of them and pleased that all their hard work paid off.

As usual they sold the programmes at the event in aid of St Clare Hospice and raised ÂŁ33. 00.

If you would like o find out more about classes please contact Mandy on 07976 786404,.

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Page 17

In Memory of the Fallen The commemoration begun at sunset on 30th June 2016 as Councillor David Stallan, ViceChairman of Epping Forest District Council lit a brazier beside the reconstruction of a WW1 trench.

Lighting the brazier, Councillor Stallan said: “As the sun sets, it is my honour to start the vigil by lighting the brazier which we will be tending throughout the night in memory of the fallen.”

Staff of the Airfield Operations Team, dressed in the British Army uniform of soldiers from 1916.

07956 821961

They kept watch over the flames before taking their places for the service of commemoration the following morning led by Father James Rodley of St Andrew’s Church in North Weald.

The Somme claimed more than a million casualties, one of whom was Rifleman Paul Kinnell. He was killed in action on the first day of battle on 1 July 1916. John Duffel of the Royal British Legion paid tribute to Paul and all his fallen comrades in an address to the congregation. He told Paul’s story of a young man born in Church Hill, Epping. His father who died soon after he was born had been a manager at William Cottis & Sons Ironmongers in the High Street. His mother was a teacher.

Paul’s regiment, the London Rifle Brigade took part in a diversionary attack. There was fierce fighting. When the roll call was next taken, 572 men from the battalion were reported killed or missing and Paul was one of them. His body was never found. He was just 22 years old.

Councillor Jeane Lea, Chairman of Epping Forest District Council thanked everyone who defied the atrocious weather and attended the service. She said: "I would like to thank everyone who got up early and made the journey despite the rain to North Weald. By keeping the memory of the Somme alive, perhaps we can play our part in ensuring nothing like it ever happens again.”

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Staff won award for the wackiest idea Staff from Cunningham House, North Weald, recently travelled to Chelmsford Race Course to attend the Prosper Awards. PROPSPER stands for Promoting Safer Provision of care for Elderly Residents and has a focus on prevention and reducing the prevalence of falls, pressure ulcers and urinary tract infections across care homes, with the ultimate aim of reducing the number of emergency hospital admissions.

Paula Blundell and Leigh Howe, activity coordinators were nominated by their Manager, Paul Buckle, in both the ‘Prosper Champion of Champions’ category and the ‘Prosper Wackiest Idea’ category.

The whole day was a huge success. Paula and Leigh came up with the idea of holding an Alice In Wonderland ‘ Mad Hatters Tea Party’, and a’ Dominoes Day’ to raise awareness of how good hydration can help prevent falls in the elderly. They also introduced ‘hydration stations’ throughout the care home and worked with the Chef to actively encourage fluid intake by offering jellies, fruit, melon and ice lollies throughout the day.

All staff at Cunningham House monitored everyone’s fluid intake carefully and developed a system of coloured coasters to indicate where additional drinks should be offered.

Cunningham House has seen a staggering reduction in falls of just over 50% since the project began which has led to an increase in wellbeing and a significant drop in hospital admissions

Flags at half-mast for Nice attacks Many readers will be aware of the horrific events that occurred in Nice on Thursday 14th July evening when a lorry was driven into crowds of people celebrating Bastille Day killing 84 people and injuring many more Epping Forest District Council lowered the flags outside the civic offices in Epping to half-mast in support of the French people.

Leader of Council Councillor Chris Whitbread said: ‘I am appalled by the terrible events in Nice and my thoughts are with the victims families and the French people.’

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Lucky winner gets a Hanging Basket of her choice Plants Galore and Tyndells Garden Centre launched a competition on Facebook whereby the lucky winner would win a hanging basket of her choice.

Lucky Jackie Boughton from North Weald won this competition and was the lucky recipient of a hanging basket.

Well done Jackie.

READER’S COMPETITON—WIN 6 DAHLIAS OF YOUR CHOICE Plants Galore have kindly offered one reader the chance to win 6 Dahlias of their choice. These pretty and hardy plants flower all summer long and come back every year. You can choose the colour of your choice but Justine at Plants Galore has given a little insight into the latest summer trend which is all shades of pinks.

All you have to do is send in your name, address, telephone number and email address to me either via email—june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk or to 49 York Road, North Weald, Epping, Essex CM16 6HU. Entries to be received before 10th August.

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Rain does not stop local dogs looking good On Sunday 9th July, despite being summer the heavens opened early in the morning and carried on until the sun made a brief entrance later in the show.

Despite this, people and families bought their family dog along to enter the various classes in the Dog Show held at North Weald Village Hall.

Dogs of different shapes and sizes were on their best behaviour whilst being judged in the arena area.

The lucky winners were:Prettiest Bitch:- Elsa Handsomest Dog: - Bear Child Handler: Max and Eliie Veteran: - Dexter 24 Puppy: - Hattie The Odd Couple: - Buddy and Jesse Best Trick: - Dexter Best Rescue: - Ron Weisley Best In Show..—Bear.

Well done to Faith Wallace who organised the event and all hard work raised £500 for local charities.

Winners of the Oddest Couple

Bear—winner of Handsomest dog and best in show

Elsa—winner of Prettiest Bitch Tel: 07814 63955

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Litter problem in Vicarage Lane After a resident posted on the North Weald Village Life Facebook group how disappointed she was having driven past the North Weald Cemetery and seeing all the rubbish dumped outside in the layby. This was obviously both concerning because of the unsightly impact but also the lack of respect.

This then led to the confirmation that this problem was on a larger scale than initially highlighted. Many people may have seen rubbish consisting of furniture dumped in Church Lane, particularly the church end of the road, and also rubbish is often left at the top of Vicarage Lane in the small layby area when leaving the A414 an driving down Vicarage Lane towards Art Nursery.

Judith Goodey, volunteer at St Andrews Church and Lesley, manager at Scribbles Pre School based in the Church Hall, confirmed that the Church car park was particularly troubled with rubbish being dumped, either from cars, barbeques and even in appropriate rubbish.

As the Car Park does not come under the ownership of the Council, Judith can often be found there collecting all sorts of rubbish along with Lesley.

BBC Essex Radio found out about this problem by the Facebook Group and contacted Judith to arrange an interview to highlight this problem on Friday 5th July. So I was asked to attend along with Judith and Lesley, on behalf of the residents of the village and North Weald Village Life to talk about the unacceptable rubbish being left in our village. This interview was aired later that day on the Dave Monk show on BBC Essex and they also managed to get a live interview with Richard Gardener from Epping Forest District Council.

(EFDC) Sue Deluca, Clerk to the Parish Council, confirmed that she had been made aware of rubbish on a couple of occasions and had reported it to EFDC to arrange collection and also a number of residents had done the same.

We do take pride in our village and it is great that we report the rubbish in order to inform EFDC to collect the rubbish, although sometimes it does take as many people as possible to report it and it can take a few days.

Not only is it unacceptable and disrespectful but fly tipping does carry significant fines.

Kings Head Garage Targeted Again At 1am on Friday 15th July, an intruder broke two small windows at the rear of the Kings Head Garage and gained entry.

A large wheelie bin had been pushed and high small windows were broken.

Items were disturbed, the till had been touched, and cupboards opened, but nothing was taken.

CCTV shows a small slight person wearing a black hoody enter via the broken window, move around inside the premises before leaving shortly after without taking anything.

There was damage caused that will cost several hundreds of pounds to repair.

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‘Freeze not throw New research from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has revealed that 68% of UK adults report that they have thrown food away in the past month.

Over two thirds (36%) of those who had thrown away food said they have discarded food as it was past its use by date. Other top reasons for throwing food away include buying too much and not eating it, which was reported by 30% of people; and not having the chance to eat food before it went off, which almost a quarter (23%) gave as an excuse for putting food in the bin.

This contributes to the 7 million tonnes of food that is wasted in the UK each year which, according to the Love Food Hate Waste campaign, costs each household around £470 annually.

Epping Forest District Council is backing the FSA’s campaign to encourage residents in the Epping Forest district and across the UK to help tackle the problem of food waste by planning ahead and, if necessary, to freeze food within its use by date if there is a chance you may end up throwing it away once the use-by date expires.

Kevin Hargin, head of Foodborne Disease Control at the FSA said: “Every year, we throw away 7 million tonnes of food and drink from our homes.

Much of this waste is unnecessary, and a better understanding of how to freeze food safely could go a significant way towards tackling the problem.”

“Our research shows that many of the fears the public has about freezing food are unfounded and we need to ensure they know the facts. 31% of the people we spoke to said that more information about how to safely freeze food would help them to reduce their food waste – that’s why freezing is the focus of this year’s Food Safety Week.

Councillor Will Breare-Hall, Environment Portfolio Holder at Epping Forest District Council said: “Lots of people believe food can only be frozen on the day of purchase, but the freezer is like a pause button and you can safely freeze most foods right up to the use by date.”

“While food is kept safe in the freezer, it’s the quality that deteriorates over time, so the FSA recommends eating it within 3 to 6 months and checking for any freezing instructions on the packaging. Once defrosted, the pause button is off, so defrost food as and when you need it and eat it within 24 hours of it being fully defrosted.”

For more information on freezing food safely, visit www.food.gov.uk/useby.

THANK YOU AND GOOD LUCK! Helen Gould from The Red School, Queen’s Hall, School Green Lane, North Weald would like to say a huge THANK YOU to the children who recently took part in a Sponsored Nursery Rhyme Event and raised over £400 The monies raised have been used to purchase a permanent wooden climbing frame for the outside play area.

She said ‘I would also like to wish 23 children going to schools in North Weald, Moreton, Matching Green and Theydon good luck and my very best wishes as they leave us to go to “big” school. It is always sad when we have to say “Goodbye” but I look forward to September when we welcome the new intake ready to start all over again!

Finally, my thanks to the hardworking staff whose dedication, knowledge and support make The Red School a fun place to be!

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August Gardening Tips August is the month of the year when you can sit back and enjoy the fruits of your hard work. Harvesting crops from the vegetable and fruit plots.

I don’t think you can beat the taste of home grown carrots, runner beans, peas, beetroot, lettuce, potatoes, tomatoes, cucumber etc.

If you only have a small garden you can still grow plenty of crops in pots, tubs and watering cans etc. It’s worth thinking about what you can grow and where you can grow it, in readiness for next spring. Harvesting your own crops in my opinion is one of the most satisfying aspects of gardening.

Pinch out side shoots growing on tomatoes, these are the shoots growing out between the axis of leaf and stem. It’s important to keep your tomato plants evenly watered. Uneven watering where the plants get very dry then very wet will cause the tomato fruit to split.

Although we had a very wet June and early July, still keep runner beans well-watered, this will produce lush tasty non stringy beans. With runner beans I always pick them before they get too big because I think they are more tender and tasty than if you let them mature and grow too long.

Keep on top of the weeds by spraying and hoeing while they are small. For weeds on driveways and patios spray with Weedol Pathclear. I use this product in early April when weeds start appearing. This kills the weeds and also prevents further germination for up to three months, so it is usually about August I spray them again. I personally find this particular a real gem, saving loads of back-breaking hand weeding, much needed at my age!

Keep dead heading all your roses and for most varieties this will keep encouraging another flush of flowers later in the season.

Continue to dead head, water and feed your hanging baskets. I have always fed mine with tomato food which is high on nutrients to encourage more flowers and or fruit. Many customers have been singing the praises of Miracle Gro so this year I have decided to try this product on a few of my baskets at home, feeding one a week. I will report the results in a later column.

As the hanging baskets become bigger, it’s important they are watered thoroughly every day, regardless of whether it’s raining or not. Rain will not penetrate the flowers and foliage to water the baskets properly.

As blackcurrants, raspberries, logan berries start to ripen it may be necessary to cover with a net to prevent the birds devouring your crop.

Keep the lawn cut and trim edges. If it’s looking a bit tired give it a good rake with a wire grass rake and apply a good feed to reinvigorate it.

Last night (at time of writing) was a still warm evening, and I sat in the garden under the pagoda. This is covered with sweet smelling jasmine and honeysuckle. I had a beer in my hand and I had a little chuckle to myself. Sitting there enjoying my garden listening to the birds busying themselves and surrounded by the heavenly scent of jasmine and honeysuckle and I thought about the end of my column I had written every month for the past 8 years and here I was doing exactly what I encourage readers to do. And it still is just the best feeling of contentment.

So as always take time out, sit back and relax in your garden and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells with a drink of your choice (I might treat myself to another cold beer).

Cheers!

Source: Nigel, Art Garden Nursery Centre, Vicarage Lane.

NOTE: Thanks to Lisa Harmen we now have a Facebook page, please Like our page – Art Nursery Garden Centre.

ART NURSERY GARDEN CENTRE North Weald ‘s Hidden Secret Family Run Business

Hanging Baskets Bedding Plants, Fruit trees, shrubs & perennials Large selection of vegetable plants & seeds Trees Fruit tubs & shrubs Terracotta & glazed pots

TELEPHONE 01992 523346 Vicarage Lane West, North Weald CM16 6AL

Home made snacks, cakes & soups Wide range of coffees always available

(on the same road as St Andrews Church)

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(Open weds to Sun 10.30am—4pm)

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LETTER

Dear Editor,

I would like to thank North Weald Parish Council for planting the flower beds outside the shops in the High Road. As I passed by with heavy clouds overhead in Mid Summer they brightened my day.

Pam Smith

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Epping Forest Multi Sport Days (for young people aged 7 – 14 ) Monday 1 August Wednesday 3 August Monday 8 August Wednesday 10 August 9.15am – 3pm Take part in fun-filled days of activities including: Football, Netball, Tag Rugby, American Flag Football, Athletics, Handball, Dodgeball, Boxercise, Tennis, Zumba, Street Dance plus many more.

Children should wear sport clothing including waterproofs is essential along with a packed lunch and drinks bottle. Indoor and outdoor sport facilities will be used.

Venue: Epping Upper Clacton Rugby FC, Thornwood.

Price: £15.00 per day.

Booking is essential: 01992 564226

Play in the Park This is all about playing games and having fun outdoors. Play Rangers bring along a range of equipment for children and young people to enjoy and will encourage everyone to take part.

Activities may include; tennis, football, cricket, rounders, frisbees, space hoppers, art and craft and lots more.

No booking is required just turn up, join in and have fun!

All participants may come and go as they please. Parents/carers are encouraged to join in.

Free. For ages 0 –19 years.

Monday 8 August 10am – 12 noon Norway House, Epping Road North Weald CM16 6BJ

Monday 8 August 1.30pm – 3.30pm Thornwood Village Hall, Playing Field, Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood.

Monday 15th August 1.30pm – 3.30pm Queens Hall Memorial Playing Field, North Weald Other dates and venues are available including Epping and Ongar. Please visit the Epping Forest District Council website for more information.

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SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES Epping Family Fun Day and Farye Saturday 6th August 12—5pm ADULTS £2.00 CHILDREN £1 UNDER 2’S FREE Lindsey Street Social Club, Frampton Road Attractions on the day will include: Mascot appearances Bouncy Castles Donkey Rides Fun and games (Egg and spoon race.....)

Free Arts & Crafts sessions Taster dance sessions Dance performances Halfords will be attending checking childrens bikes Children's entertainer Bungees Face painters Glitter tattoos Sand Art Themed balloons & Modelling Variety of stalls adults and children themed Hot and cold food & drink Sweets And more

Forest Families Monday 8th August 10-12 noon Child: £5 Adult: £2 Find out how to find your way in the Forest using a map, compass or journey stick! Please note that while siblings of all ages are welcome to join us, the activities are aimed at children aged 7 and over accompanied by an adult.

Make sure to bring appropriate clothing and footwear in case the ground is muddy, and plenty of enthusiasm. Booking required.

Epping Forest Field Centre,Pauls Nursery Road,High Beach, Loughton, Essex, Essex IG10 4AF

S. I. Painters and Decorators

Contact telephone: 020 8502 8500 www.field-studies-council.org/centres/londonregion/ eppingforest.aspx

Established 1980

Quality Painting & Decorating Service

Forest Families: Water Challenge Thursday 11th August 10-12 noon Child: £5 Adult: £2 Take part in some team games and build a mini raft to cross our pond! Please note that while siblings of all ages are welcome to join us, the activities are aimed at children aged 511. Make sure to bring appropriate clothing and footwear in case the ground is muddy, and plenty of enthusiasm. Booking required.

Epping Forest Field Centre,Pauls Nursery Road,High Beach, Loughton, Essex, Essex IG10 4AF Contact telephone: 020 8502 8500

       

Interior & Exterior Specialist Domestic & Commercial Plastering Professional & Reliable No job too small or too large Locally based in North Weald Free Estimates All work is guaranteed Telephone: 01992 524 560 or 07860 494095 Email: stephaniesinteriorsltd@live.co.uk Www.stephaniesinteriorsltd.co.uk Check out our customer references at www.yell.com/S.I.Painting and Decorating Ltd

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Citizens Advice suggests what to watch out for and how you can protect yourself What is a scam? A scheme to con people out of their money or personal information. You can call it a fraud, a hoax, a con, a swindle.

They’re a menace. It’s estimated that UK consumers lose a total of £5 billion per year to phone and post scams. They come in all forms and the crooks target different groups of people. Here’s a few of the major current scams:  Pension scams – Since the introduction of choice in how to draw an occupational pension in April 2015 Citizens Advice has calculated that 8.4 million people have been offered unsolicited pension advice or reviews. Typical elements to scams are offers out of the blue promising in excess of 8% returns on pension investment, pressure to sign paperwork including sending a courier, and offers to access pensions before the age of 55 (which can’t be done).  Investment scams – Often initiated with an unsolicited phone call, frequent scam investments include wine, shares, rare earth minerals, film production and land investments overseas. Average losses are £20,000. Men aged 45–70 are the commonest victims.  Subscription traps or free trial scams –Women aged 50–64 are most at risk of subscription traps offering health and beauty-related products such as slimming pills or face/skin creams. The scammers often insist on continuous payment authorities which enable them to help themselves to victims’ bank accounts.  Job scams – Usually based online, scams include taking money to write CVs or carry out security and police checks. Some offer expensive training programmes that don’t exist, some even offer jobs that don’t exist. Another scam involves holding a phone interview which costs the applicant hundreds of pounds in call charges. The most likely age group to be targeted is 18–24 and the average loss is £4000.  Computer scams – People are cold called or get an online advert or prompt saying they have a problem with their computer which, for a fee, can be fixed. Some callers also steal financial and personal details. PC virus scams were by far the most prevalent scam calls reported to the Citizens Advice consumer service in 2015–16. Older or less technologically-aware people are most at risk.  Ticket scams – Consumers buy tickets from a website but the event is already sold out or the tickets haven’t yet gone on sale.

Sometimes the tickets are never delivered, or are fakes. Genuine sellers are members of STAR – the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers.  Telephone Preference Service (TPS) – Scammers demand payment for this service, which is free, or sell call blockers which either do not work properly or are part of an expensive subscription service.

What can you do?  Be aware:  If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.     

Reject cold calls offering investments or pension advice.

Walk away from job ads that ask for money in advance.

Genuine computer firms do not make unsolicited phone calls to help you fix your computer.

If you think you’ve been targeted or conned you should do three things: Get advice from Citizens Advice consumer service 03454 04 05 06 or online at www.citizensadvice. org.uk. To report a problem to Trading Standards, contact the Citizens Advice consumer service.

Report scams and suspected scams to Action Fraud 0300 123 2040 www.actionfraud.police.uk. This is the national reporting centre for fraud and internet crime. If debit cards, online banking or cheques are involved in the scam your first step should be to contact your bank or credit card company.

Tell family, friends, neighbours so that they can avoid scams.

A reminder on how to contact us: - Where we are and when we are open: at Loughton Library on Mondays to Wednesdays, and on Fridays, from 9.30 to 1.00, and at Waltham Abbey Town Hall on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. You can also get advice via the Citizens Advice website (www.citizensadvice.org.uk) or the Essex Adviceline – 03444 77 0808.

Source: Paul Stockton

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Dhruve and Preeti Now this is just a very quick note to say thank you To all your family including you, Just to say how much we appreciate Everything you so generously do.

Although some are so naive And take all you do as a given, Putting it all down to the fact It’s your job and just your living.

Though you and your family always Go so much further and beyond, Despite all your own personal hardships, The village does appreciate your natural unselfish bond.

As you and your family hide so much pain and turmoil, Whilst dispensing a never ending supply of good, I wish I had a magic wand, for if only I could repay and rid All your families’ troubles, believe me I would.

Now every village must have a focal point, A refuse to which everyone can turn, Happily that point is Dhruve and Preeti, Two truly monumental people form whom we could all learn.

Source: Andy – resident poet. We all carry on our busy lives every day, popping in to pick up our prescriptions all ready, with enquiries and the need for help and the whole team at North Weald Chemist are there to help and do everything they can, despite changing regulations, more red-tape and prescription problems. Remember our independent chemist is so important to us and we must do everything we can to keep North Weald Chemist.

Our Local Floods ‘Washout’ Revised Booklet Release.

My apologies to those readers who attempted to obtain a copy of the revised ‘Happy Wandering In and Around the Parish of North Weald Bassett’ Booklet featured in last month’s Village Life. All my best laid out plans for its release to readers was washed away by the horendous flooding in the village on Sunday 12th June, when the Library and Parish Council office building was filled with water and sewage from the burst nearby drains. The damage was so savear that the whole building had to be closed to the public until Monday 4th July. Even then it was still not possible to use the printing machine to run off the copies for readers because damaged ‘new parts’ had to be ordered before the machine can be fully used.

I am keeping all my fingers (and toes) crossed that by the time that you are reading this article, copies will be available free of charge from the Parish Office/Local Library, our new Post Office and the Kings Head Garage.

As that old saying goes ‘All the good things in life are worth waiting for’.

The Happy Wanderer.

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Parish council welcomes Norwegian Air Force veterans North Weald Bassett Parish Council was represented among the welcoming party when Norwegian Air Force veterans flew in to North Weald Airfield ahead of the Community Air Fete.

The visiting dignitaries were headed by Retired Lieutenant General Wilhelm Mohr, 99, who served at North Weald and was Commander of 332 Norwegian Squadron.

He later became Chief of the Norwegian Air Staff and became known as the 'Father of the Norwegian Air Force'.

He was accompanied by his daughter, Retired Lieutenant Colonel Knut Fossum and Serving Colonel Aage Longva.

After landing on Saturday morning in a DA20 Falcon EW - following a two-hour flight from Oslo - the party were welcomed by the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Lord Petre; Epping Forest District Council chairman Jeane Lea, North Weald Bassett Parish Council chairman Cyril Hawkins and other parish councillors, North Weald Royal Air Force Association chairman and airfield historian Arthur Moreton and John Young, chairman of North Weald Flying Services (The Squadron.

The guests dined at the Kings Head in North Weald, which was a popular drinking venue for servicemen during the war, on Saturday evening and visited the North Weald Airfield Museum and took part in a wreath-laying ceremony on Sunday.

Frightening Times So the whole world watched the football with the expectation of a horrific act, Though happily it was just purely football, with only our team’s so called talent that lacked.

It seemed that finally the whole world was happy and could finally breathe again, Then suddenly all is brought crashing down, as terror is conducted once more by the insane.

How could any kind of faith condone this total massacre of lives?

How can anybody be so cold that they would willingly cause such an epitome that’s so contrive?

I can only try to feel the pain, that so many families have had to endure, While there are people out there believing that causing such atrocities is the only cure.

A cure to what is the something that I’ll never understand, As having faith should surely allow all communities to stand hand in hand.

I have to admit that this whole situation scares me to death, With so many people simply willing to carry out such inhumane acts, until their final breath.

How or when this will end I have no idea, with a culture that has no respect for the living, What can compete with a brain washed set that have no compassion for the life they’ve been given?

It seems that through some twisted ideas, in their eyes they are doing right, While through radical extremism, their whole rational thought process has been drained out of sight.

So sadly I’m afraid that there is no simple fix.

There is no magic wand to make it all better with no box of tricks.

No in this case, there is something that is so badly broken, That no quick fix or clever words will suffice as a good will token.

I don’t know what will be done, but in the meantime my fears are escalating, As in these frightening times it’s the next apocalyptic actions that all of us are sadly anticipating.

Source: Andy – resident poet. I hate to watch and hear about so many people being hurt in today’s world, adults and children throughout the world. So many places relying on tourism but are not being visited because holiday makers are scared and confused as to where to go. A simple gathering or celebration cannot be held without cause for alarm.

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BIRD FEATURE - AUGUST 2016 Welcome to the article for August. This edition feport the last week or so of July through to the latter part of August.

The month of June saw double the normal average rainfall in our area with several thundery spells with torrential downpours. Such conditions can result in failed breeding attempts for many birds. Nevertheless I have seen quite a few fledgelings locally, ranging from Blue Tits, Robins and Blackbirds through to Magpies, Jackdaws and Starlings. On one early morning visit to the Weald Common area I saw family parties of Bullfinch and Green Woodpecker. So quite a good number of birds have succeeded in raising young although of course many of this year's fledgelings will succumb to predators, illness or accidents.

We need enough to survive to sustain or even increase the population of birds locally.

Looking at what has been about recently, the highlight for me has been a couple of sightings of a Kingfisher - one at Cripseys Brook near Weald Bridge and a second sighting a few days later this time right in the heart of the village just behind Wheelers Farm Gardens. Its sharp call alerted me to its presence as it dropped down between the trees that overhang that part of the brook. It was a brief but superb view of its electric blue and deep red plumage. Hopefully it will stay in our area and be spotted by other people.

Other sightings recently have included quite a few Blackcaps, they seem to be quite widespread in our area, and also another member of the warbler family the Chiffchaff which is only really conspicuous thanks to its loud "Chiff-chaff" call that gives it its name. Less notable have been Willow Warbler which at one time was thought to be the same species as the Chiffchaff as they look almost identical. Observations by the famous naturalist Reverend Gilbert White established that they are in fact two different species. In terms of sightings the Chiffchaff is well ahead this summer.

As the summer progresses there is an increased chance of seeing warblers in our gardens as young birds disperse and then spend time looking to feed up so they can endure the autumn migrations which will see these very small birds set off from the UK and spend the winter months in places as far away as southern Africa. A small greenish bird flitting through bushes and trees in your garden whilst uttering a sharp "Weet" type call will be a Chiffchaff or Willow Warbler. You might need a bird I.D. book or internet search to establish exactly which one you have seen.

There is an outside chance there could be Cuckoos to be seen. As I stated in reports in the spring and early summer there have been Cuckoos about, these were adult birds normally heard calling rather than actually seen. Now however there is the possibility of seeing this year's young Cuckoos - they will have spent the last few weeks being fed by their smaller host parent birds such as Dunnocks and now will be feeding up before they join other species in migration. They are slim birds with long tails and can look almost hawkish, quite distinctive if you do spot one.

Linnets continue to be about, feeding on the seeds of small weeds especially in verges of quiet side roads. Despite the males being handsome birds flushed with red markings they can be unobtrusive and only come to your notice as they fly up from the ground uttering a trill call. Another handsome species that is present in the countryside mostly to the west of the village is the Yellowhammer which can often be seen sat on telegraph poles etc adjacent to quiet county lanes. This is the prime time to see them locally as during the autumn they will often disperse into flocks away from our area. As the name suggests there is a good splash of yellow in the plumage and the males in particular are very showy.

One very recent sighting (mid July) that has been reported to me is a Little Egret flying towards Weald Common. Actually the Little Egret and Kingfisher need a healthy water based eco system to prosper so the appearance of both these species bodes well for conditions in our area. Long may it continue.

Of course other wildlife is about. My favourite butterfly is the Orange Tip but they had their time in the sun in the spring.

Now I am seeing butterflies of various sizes and shades of blue and brown and the familiar Red Admirals, Peacocks and Tortoiseshells should be in evidence too. And if you sit out on a warm summers evening then various moths can be glimpsed along with a few bats. It is all there to be seen.

Dragonflies are out and about, normally there are a few at the pond at Weald Common, I keep meaning to determine the actual species present, that is on my list of things to do during August. You can actually see occasional dragonflies darting about over our gardens or quieter streets. They can be fascinating to watch.

By the end of August the Swifts that are about will have left, followed later in the autumn by House Martins and Swallows.

This year I have seen more Swifts than Swallows, they can be particularly conspicuous in thundery weather and also can be very obvious on warm summer evenings when they whizz around 'screaming' as they go.

So there is plenty about, just a few minutes of actually looking at what is around can prove rewarding, you don't need to be obsessive about it, just keep your eyes peeled and your ears tuned. Walking the dog, popping to the shops or taking the kids to the park - all opportunities to just take in the natural world around us.

All the best, Paul Corbet.

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Essential Local Numbers The Alzheimer Society

01992 717676

North Weald Methodist Hall

01992 522143

Cats Protection

0333 200 1484

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

01992 579270

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

Hospital, St Margarets, Epping

01992 561666

Police Online reporting

www.essex.police.uk/doitonline

Hospital, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow

01279 444455

RSPCA

01279 306058

London & Essex Boarding Kennels & Cattery (Kents Farm)

01992 522183

Stuart Poulton

01992 522607

24 Hour

01992 572607

North Weald Airfield

01992 564200

St Andrews Primary School

01992 522283

North Weald Chemist

01992 523887

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

Dance Factory

North Weald Kickboxing

Taoist Tai Chi Society

Tel: 07976 786404

Tel: 07433 2843128

Tel: 01992 523854/07803243625

Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer

North Weald Scouts Group

Thornwood Seniors

Tel: 01277 365200

01992 524672

Tel: 577872

Epping Forest Badger Group

North Weald Seniors Society for over 70’s

Three Valleys Male Voice Choir

Tel: 576038 Friends Force Hertfordshire/Essex

Tel: 522196

Tel: 522464 Epping Forest Rotary Club

North Weald Wireless Station Bowls Club

Tel: 07855 911323

Tel: 522803

Forest Highlanders Pipes & Drum

North Weald Women’s Institute (Evg)

Tel: 01708 250820

Tel: 522258

North Weald Angling Club

Queens Hall Bowls Club

Tel: 01992 524071

Tel: 523375 or 522052

Tel: 01279 415563 www.3valleymvc.org.uk West Essex Flower Club Tel: 524631