Nwvl july 2018 magazine

North Weald Village Life Strengthening the Community

FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine Circulation: Monthly

Issue: 143

July 2018

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

NORTH WEALD VILLAGE LIFE About North Weald Village Life North Weald Village Life is an independent magazine and 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.

Circulation The magazine is available free of charge monthly and is distributed from 20th of each month.

Copies can be collected from: • • • .

• • • •

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

I have to start by saying we really do know how to celebrate in the village don’t we? The Parade and picnic for the 56th Squadron and 100 years of RAF was a lovely day and I really felt proud to be part of such a wonderful community. I took lots of photos and residents kindly shared theirs, so in there is a collection of photos.

So much is going on in the village at the moment, especially regarding talk of development. I am hoping you have not only heard of the North Weald Bassett Neighbourhood Plan, and but you will have received a copy of the questionnaire.

It may seem unimportant to you, but it really is important that you have your say.

A lot of work has gone on in the background to design the questionnaire, some kind volunteers agreed to deliver these to 2600 homes in the Parish with perhaps two further visits. An online questionnaire has also been implemented. Please have your say, and ensure everybody in your home has their say. How else can the plan be produced for our neighbourhood without knowing what you like, dislike, want or don’t want. There are drop in sessions in both North Weald and Thornwood during the day and evening, so please drop in if you need help completing your questionnaire.

I can’t believe we are in July, I have even heard the word ‘Christmas’ mentioned.

However I really hope that summer and the good weather continues, it is so lovely to go out and about at any time, and enjoy the fresh air.

Subscription If you would like to guarantee your personal copy or perhaps you have relatives or friends who would like to receive their own copy, you can subscribe for £18.00 for 12 issues. Please email me, download a copy of the form from the website or write to me at the address below.

Advertisers Advertising rates start at £19.00 for quarter page, £36.50 for 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.

I must admit, we do take our surroundings for granted. Andy, my husband, gets transport to and from home to Mile End Hospital each week. They organise a London private hire taxi company to pick him up (he is very lucky). The drivers are always so surprised and delighted to see the green surroundings and always say how they feel they are breathing clean fresh air instead of the stale London air and concrete jungle they refer to. They always say how lucky we are, and we really are lucky in so many ways.

So please remember this when you next step out in your garden, walk down the village or take the dog for a walk. Breath in the fresh air, notice the surroundings and listen to the noise of birds etc. Enjoy.

Contributions & Editorial

I even managed to go for a drink with a friend one evening recently and sat outside the Kings Head Pub and I must admit it was lovely just to sit and chat and enjoy the surroundings Something I must do more of, and I don’t just mean having a drink!!!

If you would like to contribute editorial, poems, recipes, letters or anything else, we would be delighted to receive these. Please send them to us at the address below or via email.

Race for Life is fast approaching, I have seen quite a few people training n their pink t-shirts. Such a wonderful cause and one very close to my heart. I hope to do this too, just haven't signed up for it yet.

Contact Details

As the Thornwood Village Day is no longer, they have organised an Open Garden event on Sunday 24th June. So why not support this initiative and raise some money for charity.

Telephone: 07814 863955 Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Address: 49 York Road, North Weald, Essex CM16 6HU

Epping,

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Hope to see you around and about in the village.

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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JULY BRAIN TEASER —Win a bottle of wine • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Victoria Sponge Cream Jam Tart Slice Éclair Doughnut Swirl Ciinnamon Danish Crumble Turnover Pudding

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Congratulations this month to Mrs J Bird who won last months prize and will be celebrating with a box of chocolates. This month the lucky winner can celebrate with a bottle of wine. To enter this month, please send your completed entry to July Brain Teaser, NWVL, 49 York Road, North Weald, Essex CM16 6HU. Entries need to be received by 10th July 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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Developer reveals plans for former North Weald Golf Club site Development plans for up to 690 homes and a host of potential community benefits including a primary school, shops and medical facilities on the edge of North Weald have been revealed.

Developer Quinn Estates and homebuilder Redrow Homes have submitted a joint planning application for the former North Weald Golf Club site off Rayley Lane.

Outline planning permission is being sought for up to 555 dwellings, including affordable and key worker homes, a 70-bed retirement development and 70-bed extra care / nursing care accommodation.

The application also details a two-form entry primary school with outdoor space and parking, a Special Educational Needs Centre, a 'local centre' with retail space and a community centre along with a sports hub with open-air pitches, a pavilion, facilities for scouts, office space, and a country park covering more than 25 acres.

A new roundabout onto the A414 is also proposed.

Full planning permission is being sought for 135 dwellings, including 40 per cent affordable housing, with access off Rayley Lane and internal circulation roads.

Quinn Estates' Development Director Hamish Buttle told Monday's North Weald Bassett Parish Council meeting that the planning application had been submitted.

On Monday 18th June, the North Weald Bassett Parish Council considered the application at their monthly planning meeting.

Approximately 50 people attended in addition to the Parish Councillors, Clerk and staff.

Many people were present from sporting clubs that have been promised new facilities within the new Development. Mr Buttle was also in attendance.

There were quite a few questions from the audience.

A letter was read out that had been received by the Parish Council concerning the development being so close to the Airfield.

Parish Councillor T. Blanks asked if the infrastructure could be built first.

Parish Councillor D. Stallan suggested that this should be submitted to the Inspectorate and considered as part of the Local Plan.

The proposed 690 homes are in addition to the 1050 homes planned under the Local Plan.

You can review the application on the Epping Forest District Council website, and make comments on the application.

It was agreed at the Parish Council planning meeting to say that there was no objection but only on the grounds that the Epping Forest District Council consider this development to be part of the proposed 1050 homes agreed for the area and not in addition to.

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Race for Life—North Weald This year, Race for Life is on Wednesday 11th July and as usual is held at North Weald Airfield, starting at 7pm.

This is such an important event as it raises essential funds for Cancer Research UK. So come on, what are you waiting for.

There are two distances available either 5k or for the really fit or adventurous there is the 10k.

You can still register at raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org Having done it about 8 times, here are some hints and tips I have found to be useful:1.

Do not wear new trainers, it is best to wear comfortable supportive footwear.

2.

Take a bottle of water with you to keep you hydrated.

3.

Take a note of the forecasted weather conditions, I have done this event every year at the same time of year in blazing sun, wind and torrential rain. It is best to be prepared and dressed accordingly.

4.

Although the event starts officially at 7pm. It is worth getting over there about 60—30 minutes earlier. They do a warm up and it is, although desperately sad, a really supportive atmosphere that does make you glad you are doing it.

5.

It is worthwhile doing some practice before, as if you are not used to walking—5k can be quite a long way.

Good luck everyone.

07432 843128 Page 6

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

LOCAL EVENTS Every Monday

Ballroom and Latin American Dancing Classes

8.15pm & 9.15pm

Every Monday

Taoist Tai Chi

10.30am— 12.30

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

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.

Every Tuesday

Baby & Toddler Group

1.15pm— 2.45pm

Queens Hall, School Green Lane. Term time only. £2 per family.

Every Thursday

Baby & Toddler Rhyme Time

10.30am— 11am

North Weald Library. For under 5’s and their parents/carers (term time only) Songs, rhymes and stories. Free to attend

Every Thursday

Bingo

7pm— 9.30m

Wheelers Farm Gardens, £4 for book of 8 pages (2 games per page) Option Flyer £1. 50p for small raffle and cup of tea/coffee. Over 18 only

Every Saturday and Sunday

North Weald Airfield Museum

North Weald Airfield Museum, Hurricane Way

Every second Saturday of the month Every second and Fourth Wednesday Every Tuesday

Ploughmans Lunch

12 noon— 5pm 12noon

Theydon & Abridge Jazz

8pm

Board Games Session

2.30— 4.30pm

Friday 22nd June

Mid Summer Evening Stroll– Moletrap pub.

7.30pm

Sunday 24th June

Thornwood Village Open Gardens

11.00— 4pm

Thornwood.

Monday 25th June

Drop in session for help or questions Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire Drop in session for help or questions Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire Epping Town Show

10am—12

North Weald Library—all welcome

7pm— 8pm

Parish Hall, Thornwood—all welcome

10am-12

North Weald Library—all welcome

Wednesday 4th July

Drop in session for help or questions Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire North Weald WI

1.45pm

Saturday 7th July

St Andrews School Fete

11am— 3pm

North Weald Village Hall.Mrs. P. Obee’s talk entitled ‘ In America’. All welcome visitors pay £3.00 on the door St Andrews School, Beamish Close, Fun, stalls, bbq, Pimms. Support your local village school.

Sunday 8th July

Neighbourhood Plan Submission Deadline

Monday 9th July

West Essex Flower Club

2.15pm

Wednesday 11th July

Race for Life

7pm

Wednesday 27th June

Sunday 1st July Monday 2nd July

North Weald Village Hall. In aid of NWSS. All welcome Abridge village hall. Enquires davedyer24@gmail.com or phone 07903 879209 North Weald Library. Learn new games. Share your knowledge and enthusiasm. All ages welcome Free drop-in session Meet at 7.30pm Park top of Kiln Road. Organised by Preservation Society.

Stonards Hill, Epping. Fun for all the family, stalls.

Return your completed questionnaires or complete your online questionnaire before this date.

Thornwood Village Hall.Annual Luncheon members only followed by a demonstration by National Arranger Lorena Dyer entitled ‘A Moment in Time’.

Visitors pay £6.00 on the door.

North Weald Airfield

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

There is also a new Facebook Group— North Weald village Life events—events are posted by myself and members that are taking place throughout Essex, London and Hertfordshire.

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Planning Applications Planning File No: Application No: Officer Name: Application Name: Location: Proposal:

01797 EPF/1427/18 James Rogers Mr & Mrs Mike Binstead 6 Rose Cottages Mill Street Hastingwood CM17 9JQ Outline planning application with all matters reserved for erection of 2 No pairs of semi detached 3 bedroom houses

Planning File No: Application No: Officer Name: Application Name: Location:

001473 EPF/1494/1 Sukhvinder Dhadwar Quinn Estates Limited and Redrow

North Weald Park Former North Weald Golf Course Rayley Lane North Weald Bassett Epping CM16 6AR Proposal: Hybrid planning application with outline planning permission (all matters reserved except for points of access) sought for up to 555 dwellings, including affordable and key worker housing; a 70-bed retirement accommodation (Class C3) and a 70-bed extra care / nursing care accommodation (Class C2); a two-form entry primary school with associated outdoor space and vehicle parking; a Special Educational Needs centre; Class D1 medical facilities; a local centre comprising a Class A1 retail space of up to 500 sq m and a community centre of up to 300 sq m; a sports hub with associated open-air sports pitches, a sports pavilion of up to 400 sq m; a scouts hut facility; B1 office space of up to 3,744 sq m; and formal and informal open space incorporating SuDS, a new Country Park, new planting / landscaping and ecological enhancement works; points of access including new roundabout on the A414. Full planning permission is sought for the erection of 135 dwellings including affordab le housing (40%), open space, associated access off Rayley Lane and internal circulation roads, vehicle parking, associated services, infrastructure , landscaping and associated SuDS. For clarity - the total number of conventional dwellings proposed across the site is up to 690.

Any representations on applications should be made in writing by Monday 2nd July 2018.

Epping Forest District Council www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk Comment online at www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/iPlan or by post to: The Director of Planning and Economic Development, Epping Forest District Council, Civic Offices, 323 High Street, Epping, Essex CM16 4BZ Any enquiries should be made to the Application Processing Team T: 01992 564436

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E: appcomment@eppingforestdc.gov.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

St Clare celebrates 2500th referral to Hospice at Home team St Clare Hospice’s Hospice at Home team is celebrating receiving its 2500th referral to the service since opening in January 2014.

The team of registered nurses and nursing assistants provide free, short-term, compassionate care for people with life-limiting illnesses in the comfort of their own home, across West Essex.

NEW Fresh hot Coffee Available now

Every year the Hospice at Home team provide support for more than 450 families, ensuring that patients, families and their carers receive compassionate care at the right time and in the right place.

Commenting on achieving the milestone of 2,500 referrals, Hospice at Home Manager, Sonia Haigh, said: “We have consistently achieved our target of responding to all referrals within 2 working hours, and it is fantastic to have responded to a grand total of more than 2,500 referrals.”

Calling on local medical, social and voluntary professionals to make even more referrals to the Hospice at Home service, Sonia Haigh Referrals can be made by all health, social and voluntary care professionals, including GPs, District Nurses, Clinical Nurse Specialists, social care or hospital teams. Also, patients, their family, or carer can refer themselves directly. The team will then need to discuss the referral with the patient’s GP.

said:

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The Hospice at Home team leaders work from 8am to 8pm and aim to respond to any telephone, faxed or electronic referral on the same day. Please note Night Service referrals are assessed and allocated on a daily basis by team leaders.

If you’re not sure if the person you are referring is eligible for Hospice at Home care, call us.

Call: 07877496903 or 01277412522 For a free no obligation quotation WEBSITE: www.haydenlandscapes.co.uk Page 9

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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How to check if waste removal company is approved?

Trading Standards Buy With Confidence team are currently working with Epping Forest District Council and the Recycle for Essex team on a project to guide consumers to reputable waste removal companies.

They are looking for honest businesses to join the ‘Buy With Confidence’ approval scheme to help with the fight against fly tipping project.

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

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

Broken Down/Misted Sealed Units Replaced Locks/Hinges Renewed

Conservatories Cleaned/Repaired Cat & Dog Flaps Fitted

Other authorities in Essex have already been keen to help roll out the project across the county, so watch this space…

Front Door Panels Renewed

Are you are a business or know of a reputable business that would like to join Buy With Confidence.

Letter Plates Replaced

The Buy with Confidence scheme continues to grow within Essex and nationally. Essex Trading Standards manages the East of England hub for the scheme and have recently approved minibus hire, home security and internal blind companies amongst others.

Handles Replaced Guttering Replaced/Cleaned Full Maintenance of UPVC & Aluminium

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So if you are a consumer looking for an approved trader why not think about using the scheme .

Or VISIT US AT

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You can do this by visiting www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk/finda-business.

Victim Support Volunteers Needed Are you a good listener?

Why not volunteer for Victim Support Essex Police are looking for reliable volunteers with great listening skills, who have 4 or more hours a week to spare.

They will train you to offer emotional and practical support to people affected by crime in your local community.

Apply now to be on our next four day training course this June and you could soon be learning new skills whilst making a positive difference to people’s lives. Course dates: 29th, 30th June, 6th & 7th July.

To find out more call the Essex Victim Support team on 01277 357557 or email essexvolunteering@victimsupport.org.uk or visit www.victimsupport.org.uk/getinvolved/volunteer

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Barbecue Time The sun is shining and there is nothing better then getting into the garden and cooking outside on the barbecue.

Here are some simple hints to make sure you keep safe whilst barbecuing this summer:1. Always make sure the barbecue is up to temperature before beginning to cook. For charcoal grilling, the charcoal should have a light grey ash on it for a good hot fire, this normally takes between 20 and 25 minutes. For other types of barbecue please follow the guide booklet supplied before using.

2. Keep the lid on. Always cook with the lid of your barbecue down or on. This will reduce the chances of flare ups and it will cook your food faster with even cooking.

3. Flipping Mad:- Unless the recipe calls for continual flipping, only turn your meat over once. .

4. Sugary Marinades:- When you have marinades that contain high levels of sugar or other ngredients that burn quickly, leave them until you are 10 to 15 minutes away from the final cooking stage.

5. Always keep the barbecue at least 3m away from any combustible materials including the house and especially the fence.

Enjoy.

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Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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Community Speed Watch Volunteers As confirmed by Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, volunteers carried out a total of 1343 Community Speed Watch sessions across Essex last year.

More than 500 volunteers working across 90 registered Community Speed Watch groups gave up their spare time to work alongside the Safer Essex Roads Partnership to help reduce speeding.

Last year, 4108 people were killed or injured on the county’s roads and speed was a major contributory factor.

Community Speed Watch is a national initiative that sees fully trained members of the public use speed detection devices to monitor vehicles travelling on roads with limits of 20, 30 and 40 miles per hour.

If a speed offence is detected, a letter is sent to the registered keeper of the vehicle with the aim of educating them to reduce their speed and stick to speed limits. Repeat offenders or those who are well over the speed limit are highlighted to Essex Police’s Casualty Reduction Team and could face prosecution.

Last year 15,290 letters were sent to Essex residents, 125 new volunteers were trained and 133 new sites were approved as locations for Community Speed Watch sessions.

In November 2016, Essex Police and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) began jointly managing the scheme. The arrangement is just one of the ways emergency services are working together to provide the best service to the people of Essex.

Chief Supt Carl O’Malley, programme lead for collaboration between Essex Police and ECFRS, said: “This a great practical example of day to day collaboration between emergency services. Essex Police had a number of volunteers providing speed watch coverage across the county and ECFRS were able to manage the administration of these committed and dedicated members of the public in order to achieve a more effective and efficient way of delivering road safety.”

Community Speed Watch is always on the lookout for volunteers.

If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, please email community.speedwatch@essex-fire.gov.uk

If you want to include an announcement for a birth, death, marriage, anniversary or birthday of a local person —please send these to me via email and I will include it in a future issue

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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HMRC Fraud and Scams HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are currently processing tax refunds after the end of the tax year and criminals are taking advantage by sending out phishing emails and text messages.

The fraudulent emails and texts include links which take victims to fake websites where their personal and financial information can be stolen.

In March 2018, HMRC requested 2,672 phishing websites be taken down and received 84,549 phishing reports. HMRC have warned that this kind of phishing is expected to continue in the coming months as genuine tax refunds are issued.

Treasury Minister, Mel Stride MP, the Financial Secretary to the Treasury said: “HMRC only informs you about tax refunds through the post or through your pay via your employer. All emails, text messages, or voicemail messages saying you have a tax refund are a scam. Do not click on any links in these messages and forward them to HMRC’s phishing email address and phone number.

“We know that criminals will try and use events like the end of the financial year, the self-assessment deadline, and the issuing of tax refunds to target the public and attempt to get them to reveal their personal data. It is important to be alert to the danger.”

There are other types of fraudsters who use spoofed calls and leave victims automated voicemails saying that they owe HMRC unpaid taxes. I have had a few that have said you must answer otherwise a Police Officer will attend.

In most cases they ask for payment in iTunes gift card voucher codes, which is something I mentioned in last month’s issue and tell victims they have arrest warrants, outstanding debts or unpaid taxes in their name.

Here are some suggestions on how to protect yourself from Essex Watch:-

Recognise the signs - genuine organisations like banks and HMRC will never contact you out of the blue to ask for your PIN, password or bank details.

Stay safe - don’t give out private information, reply to text messages, download attachments or click on links in emails you weren’t expecting.

Every Report Matters – report phishing emails to us and forward them onto HMRC at phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk.

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Dogs get their day in Thornwood On Sunday 17th July, dogs and their owners came to the Thornwood Common not only to show off but also to raise vital funds for St Clare Hospice.

Approximately 40 dogs entered the various classes and many went on to win Rosettes.

The day was a success with many smiling owners and dogs feeling happy with themselves.

We are definitely a Parish of pet owners who love their pets and really love an opportunity to show them off.

All photos were taken by Karen Andrews.

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Cabinet meeting update Councillor Nigel Avey was welcomed to the first meeting of Cabinet since his appointment as Environment Portfolio Holder. Councillors received reports from Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Asset Management and Economic Development and the Finance and Performance Management Cabinet Committee.

Further reports outlined progress on the Council’s Transformation Programme and office Accommodation Review. Following the listing of the Civic Offices, Councillor Chris Whitbread described the sensitive process of negotiation with Historic England needed to obtain the best outcome for residents.

Leisure Portfolio Holder Helen Kane emphasised the importance of fitness and good mental health encapsulated in its Leisure and Wellbeing Strategy. Addressing a petition supporting the retention of sports facilities in Epping, Councillor Kane reassured councillors that significant investment has been made recently in Epping and other centres. There is a long term aspiration to redevelop the site of the current sports centre for housing but Councillor Kane was committed to sports provision. She is looking at potential options and locations for better facilities in the future.

Councillor Chris Whitbread added that Waltham Abbey Swimming Pool had remained open while Waltham Abbey Leisure Centre was being built and Epping Sports Centre would remain open until any alternative developments were complete

Plenty on offer at Epping Town Show A fun dog show is one of the new attractions at the Epping Town Show which is being held this year at Stonards Hill Recreation Ground on Sunday, July 1 (noon-5pm).

Epping Town Council, which is organising the show, are expecting a flypast by a Hurricane and Spitfire. More than 60 community stalls will be manned providing information about numerous local organisations, and offering games and selling a variety of goods.

Refreshment options will include a hog roast.

Younger visitors can enjoy fairground rides and bouncy castles, Punch and Judy shows, donkey rides, petting farm animals and a circus skills workshop.

There will also be arena entertainment including pipe, jazz and silver bands, local theatre, singers and dance groups, Morris men and a karate demonstration, special appearances by Peppa Pig and Marshall Dog and a children's art exhibition.

The Jack Silley Pavilion will be hosting an art exhibition and serving refreshments. Admission is free.

Limited parking is available on-site.

For more information about the show email Geraldine Vallis at gvallis@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk or ring 01992 579444.

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North Weald celebrates in style North Weald residents did what they do best on Sunday 10th June, when residents lined the High Road in the village ready for the parade for the 56 Squadron Freedom of the District and to celebrate the RAF’s 100 year anniversary.

Waving flags and cheering, families, residents young and old, enjoyed the March and music played. Traffic was stopped for a brief while so that the March could take place from the Village Hall to the Memorial at the North Weald Museum. It was here that two wreaths were laid at the Memorial at North Weald Museum.

Everybody made their way to the Airfield, and enjoyed family picnics, live music and marching bands. It was a delight to see so many local people at the Airifield, enjoying the weather, atmosphere and surroundings.

Thank you to everybody who took photos, please find a selection below.

Photos: Thank you for Mr Cole for these four photos.

Photo source: North Weald Village Life

Photos source: North Weald Village Life Page 22

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Photos Source: North Weald Village Life

Photo Source: North Weald Village Life

Photo Source: James Patterson Above photo Source: James Patterson

Photo Source: R. Lewis

Photo Source: James Patterson Page 23

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North Weald Bantham and Ongar Bowls Club (Behind the Talbot) Meets every Tuesday

at 5.30pm or 7.30pm Phone Cara: 0779 2778225

Saturday—8.30am Call Mandy on 07778117128

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SRING IS COMING! Lighter nights, warm sunshine...and not being able to hide under the baggy sweaters and winter layers.

This was how I used to feel, but now I’m looking forward to being able to wear lighter, figure flattering clothes. For the first time I want to go shopping for clothes that I like, not clothes that would cover the wobbly bits I was ashamed of.

Slimming World has made an incredible difference to my life, I really did eat myself thin, and so can you. With Slimming World there is always something you can eat regardless of the time of day or night so there is never a time when you need to feel hungry. If you do feel peckish , ( and we all get those ‘time for a little something’ moments), then you really can go to the fridge and pick. And best if all..with Slimming Worlds free food there is no weighing or measuring, just as much as you like when you like.

Slimming World has made such a difference to me that I have become a consultant myself, opening the door to a whole new career.

And if I can help even just one person feel as good about themselves as I do about myself then I what a very special thing to be able to do.

At Slimming World you can lose a half a stone or more in your first two or three weeks which means you could be half a stone lighter

by Easter. And with the May bank holidays eight weeks away, at two pounds a week that is over a stone and a whole dress size (or two) smaller just in time for barbecues and beach holidays.

So if all this sounds good to you, why not come and find out more at one of our warm and friendly groups where there are a lot of people all like you ready to support you on your journey to that weight you have been dreaming of.

Come and join us on Saturday mornings 08.30 (call Mandy on 07778117128) or Tuesday evenings 5.30 and 7.30 (call Cara on 07792 778225), at the Bantham and Ongar Bowls Club Weald Bridge Road behind the Talbot. Look forward to seeing you there xx

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NORTH WEALD NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH Lets Get those signs up!

Hi and Welcome to North Weald Neighbourhood watch (NHW) As crime is on the rise in our village, there has never been a better time to join your local Neighbourhood watch.

What is NHW? We are a national organisation, and we offer a free, confidential service, run by volunteers, for their neighbours, and it is up to you how involved you want to be.

We aim to encourage people to inform the police of any suspicious activity, and coordinators let neighbours know if anything has occurred on their road or nearby.

NHW aim to make its members become more aware of local crime problems and be more security conscious about their home and property, too often we make it too easy for thieves.

We also want to encourage neighborliness, and especially looking after elderly or vulnerable people who might not be on the internet, telling them about scammers who might be targeting them for example.

There are so many benefits of joining NHW and in the UK over 4 million people have done just that.

We have a very active NHW in North Weald, but desperately need more coordinators for individual streets, in order to reach out to our neighbours. Only NHW is entitled to receive lamp post signs with our logo on, as well as free door stickers and other security resources.

What is involved ?

There are two levels of involvement- either becoming a street coordinator if your street does not already have one, or becoming a NHW member.

It’s really easy and honestly doesn’t take up much time at all.

As a coordinator, all you need to do is share information you receive with your Neighbours. For more information please contact suem1@ live.co.uk or call Sue – 07931659589.

The role of NHW members When a new coordinator is appointed, they will call at your door and ask you to sign a membership form, which is an agreement between you and our organisation that we will not misuse the information you give us, and notify your coordinator of any suspicious activity in your road.

You will receive security stickers for your door, as well as other security material and useful literature.

There are a number of roads that still need co-ordinators .

North Weald Neighbourhood Watch would like to thank Montagues estate agents for their support and leaflet design, and the North Weald Village Life, for your support.

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Gardening Hints for July What a fantastic time of year, our gardens and allotments are bursting into colour, after a very late start to the season with the weather at Easter being so poor, I think I can safely say the gardens are now catching up.

How ever along with the perennials coming through and the lawns starting to require more regular mowing the weeds are also growing faster than a blink of the eye! I’d recommend using evergreen feed, weed and moss killer on your lawns (if it doesn’t rain within a day or 2 after application then water it in with a hose) for weeds in flower beds either dig them out trying to remove as much root as possible or use a spot weeder, taking care not to allow the spray to drift on to wanted plants.

During hot spells your pots and baskets may require watering twice a day, feeding weekly. There’s lots of plant foods on the market but tomato food will do the job nicely, use this on most flowering plants as well as fruit and veg plants. Baskets will also require dead heading.

If you’re growing tomatoes remember to pinch out all side shoots weekly, tumbling tomatoes and other basket varieties do not require side shoots to be removed.

Runner beans, peas, courgettes, strawberries and other fruit and veg plants should all be coming along nicely now. Feeding vegetable plants will not only increase the yield but will help to produce a nice strong healthy plant.

If you’re growing marrows, harvest them regularly, marrows that grow towards the end of July and August can be left on the plant for a while allowing the sun to toughen up the skin before cutting. These can then be stored for use during the autumn and winter.

Herbs can be picked, dried and then frozen for use later on in the year.

Remove sweet pea flowers regularly to encourage the plants to continue flowering.

Spray roses monthly with Rose Clear to reduce the chance of black spot, if you do get black spot dispose of the leaves in the bin and don’t compost them. Remove faded roses.

Buxus (box plants/hedging) have been hit hard this year by caterpillars, spray them regularly with either Provado Ultimate Bug Killer (Bayer) or Bug Clear (Scott’s) if you keep on top of the spraying the plants should be able to recover.

As always if we can be of any help please pop into the nursery to see us and we’ll try to assist you, or message us on our Facebook page.

On these lovely warm evenings I like to sit in the garden and look at how it’s changing from one season to the next, obviously such hard work requires a liquid refreshment - mines a nice cold beer.

Cheers Nigel Art Nursery Garden Centre.

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Don’t forget to visit the website: www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk To find out details of the latest events Or sign up to the Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/ Northwealdvillagelife

JOKE This joke was sent in by Terry Blanks, he wanted to share it with readers.

An old man lay sprawled across three entire seats at a symphony concert. When the usher came by and noticed this, he whispered to the old man, "Sorry sir, but you're only allowed one seat."

The old man didn't budge.

The usher became more impatient.

"Sir, if you don't get up from there, I'm going to have to call the manager."

Once again, the old man just muttered and did nothing.

The usher marched briskly back up the aisle, and in a moment he returned with the manager Together the two of them tried repeatedly to move the old disheveled man, but with no success.

Finally, they summoned the police.

The officer surveyed the situation briefly then asked, "All right buddy, what's your name?" “Bob," the old man moaned.

"Where you from, Bob?", asked the police officer.

With a terrible strain in his voice, and without moving, Bob replied; "The balcony."

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Photo of the Month Thank you to Ken Care for sending in these lovely photos. Ken says ‘Itook these two pictures in May in our garden in Greensted. This is the first time I’ve known them this far out from London. Rumour has it that some escaped from Ealing studios in the 1950s when they were filming the African Queen. Some also escaped from aviaries during the Great Storm in 1987 and others from a pet shop in Sunbury-on-Thames in the 70s. They now appear to be migrating into areas outside London and into the home counties’’ Thank you Ken, not only lovely photos but some interesting facts

Please remember To mention to Advertisers That you found their details in North Weald village Life

The Jack Holden Trophy The Queens Hall Short Mat Bowls Club held the Jack Holden Trophy competition on Friday 25th May. An enjoyable afternoon watched keenly by Doris Holden who presented the trophy to the winner, Anne Wingworth.

Members enjoyed tea, coffee and cake which was kindly donated by Doris.

Anyone looking for a new past time please come along and give short mat bowls a try on either a Wednesday or Friday afternoon at 1pm at the Queens Hall, School Green Lane.

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LETTER

Dear Editor,

Your article regarding the woodcock in the snow was somewhat similar to my experience.

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A woodcock, during the same snowy period, crashed into my glass patio doors and knocked itself out.

However after a little help from myself it managed to get itself up after a few minutes, albeit somewhat shaky, it hid behind a large flower pot in the snow. I could not approach it without causing it to panic. It appeared uninjured.

I therefore left it overnight, hoping a fox had not discover it (there being evidence of snow prints). It was still there in the morning and when I disturbed it, I was pleased to see it fly off towards the fields.

Was it the same Woodstock?

Source: Brian Eldrige (Hastingwood) Editor’s Comment: Sorry Brian for not printing this before. With such an unusual sighting it could have been the same Woodstock visiting the entire Parish!! Thank you for sharing this with readers.

Malcolm Root Painting Unveiled To mark the first anniversary of "The Penny Salon" at Ongar Station, Malcolm Root F.G.R. A. unveiled his latest painting at Ongar Station on 9 June 2018. The painting was inspired by the Epping to Ongar line in the early 1950s, when the line to Ongar was connected by the steam "Push and Pull" trains from Epping Station. The new Malcolm Root painting will features one of the Holden F5 2-4-2Ts in its final years of service with its 2- coach push- pull train at Epping London Transport Station. The unveiling was at the start of special 2 day exhibition of his work, hosted by Mr Root in the Railway’s ‘Penny Salon’ art gallery Malcolm Root, from Halstead, said, “It’s wonderful to be here at the Epping Ongar Railway today giving something back to the railways that have supported me over the years.

Unveiling my latest picture, featuring a scene at Epping Station, makes it particularly fitting that I am here at Ongar Station.

Dean Walton, Business Development Manager said “Malcolm is rightly held in the highest regard for his wonderful compositions. It is an honour to have him here at the Epping Ongar Railway with a new painting featuring a locomotive and coaches that almost 70 years ago ran to Ongar.”

He added, “The Penny Salon is now one year old and a great thank you must go to Geoff Silcock and Malcolm Batten who have created this wonderful gallery space and the displays which go into it. It was a delight to meet Mr Root and see his work over the weekend. “ Page 34

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LETTER

S. I. Painters and Decorators

Dear Editor,

At St Clare Hospice we are indebted to the more than 500 people from across West Essex and East Herts who volunteer their time to support us each week.

The Hospice simply couldn’t continue to provide the level of care we give to patients and families without our volunteers’ support.

This Volunteers’ Week (1st – 7th June) we want to say a huge thank you to them for their dedication and to recognise their invaluable efforts.

Aged from 14 years through to 92 years, our volunteers work in more than 25 different roles across the organisation – from helping out in our eight charity shops, to caring on our Inpatient Unit, and providing companionship to people in their own homes.

Last year they donated more than 100,000 hours of their time to volunteering for St Clare. Their time, skills and dedication makes such a difference to the care we provide and literally changes the lives of people in our local communities.

We humbly appreciate their generosity all year round, but want to make an extra effort to thank them during national Volunteers’ Week.

Established 1980

Quality Painting & Decorating Service • • • • • • • •

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

If you would like to speak to find out more about volunteering at St Clare Hospice, please call me on 01279 773722 or email volunteer@stclarehospice.org.uk

To view our current volunteering opportunities visit: www.stclarehospice.org.uk/volunteer Rob Wallace, Voluntary Services Manager, St Clare Hospice

All are welcome to come along

The members welcomed two visitors to their recent meeting on 14th June. Jane Bird who is the Chair of the Advisory Committee and local lady Val Gauntlett who joined us as a visitor.

Jan read a thank you letter from Tricia Evans for the flowers presented to her at last month's meeting.

Every Fourth Sunday of the month

Ann told us that the group who took part in the quiz night at Harlow had a very enjoyable evening.

Lea Valley Card Club meeting

Cathy distributed copies of the Resolution Update which made disturbing reading. This year's Resolution is Mental Health Matters.

They were all shocked to learn of the scale of the problems effecting all ages and particularly young people. It was agreed that all of them would try to think of ways that we can help to make a difference.

One of their members, Jean, is holding an 'open garden' on the 19th July to raise funds for the charity 'Mind'. It was suggested that they all support this occasion as a way of making a start.

From 10am until 2pm.

North Weald Village Hall

Refreshments and bar available.

Stamp, coin & postcard dealers also wanted.

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Update from Moreton and District W.I.

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The much anticipated speaker this month was Magdalena Marsden of Cocoa Heart - the Chocolate Lady and they watched fascinated while she explained and demonstrated the art of hand made chocolates. to the delicious chocolates we had watched being made. Jane told us how much she enjoys visiting all the many and varied WIs. The diverse nature of each group and that it is the members who make a WI into what they want it to be. A meeting should be friendly, supportive and welcoming to all those attending.

The next meeting on 12th July will be held in Jan's garden, Spencer's Lodge, Magdalan Laver. Please be sure to bring a chair.

Source: Marianne Binder

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A Spiritual Reflection with Fr James – July 2018 Why are there so many churches? It’s a question that was asked, I think, a lot more when I was younger than it is now. After all, where I live in Harlow, we’re used to a huge range of choice in everything – schools, shops (five different major supermarkets within a 3 mile drive and even Waitrose in Bishops’ Stortford if desperate, not to mention on-line options). Consumer choice seem to be regarded almost as a human right in our modern British society. So why shouldn’t there be lots of different churches too?

Of course, in one sense it’s a good thing that people have the chance to express their faith in so many varied ways. Those from different cultural backgrounds now have the chance to worship in their own language and tradition, in a way that would have been unthinkable sixty years ago – indeed it’s largely through the impact of the so-called “Windrush generation” (much in the news recently) that this came about in Britain. And of course in most of Britain, one can find Christian churches not too far away that are “lively”, or “traditional” or just about everything in between. This too, is a good thing, in that God has made us all uniquely different and we are all drawn to worship God in our own way. But, sadly, the idea of loads of different churches isn’t really what Jesus and the first Christians anticipated or, indeed, thought was right. Jesus prays for his friends the night before he died that “they might all be one” (John 17.20) – he knew that, in the face of persecution, they needed to stick together. And, in our own day, where Christians are persecuted for their faith (as sadly they are in many parts of the world), the luxury of having lots of little churches all doing their own thing would be unthinkable – they need to be united to survive,

W . J. CRUMP Crash Repairs Established local company

High quality car repairs Body Repairs Approved Insurance Repairer

Telephone: 01992 522351 Tylers Green, 284 High Road, North Weald CM16 6EG

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But this isn’t to suggest that we should be “one” in the sense that some have tried to achieve it over the years – by one tradition dominating another. It’s entirely wrong, in my opinion, for one church or group of Christians to say that their way is “right” and others are “wrong”. This leads to an exclusiveness which says “you’re welcome to join us, but only if you do things our way” and this , for me, is far removed from the all-inclusive love of God. None of us knows in our earthly lives what we’ve got “right” or “wrong” as regards the practice of the Christian religion – we should perhaps concentrate on loving God and our neighbour and leave bigger questions to God! And what of those many people reading this column who would say they don’t really have a faith at all? Simply this – that Christians, united, can help achieve so many of the things that our troubled world longs for - like peace, justice and reconciliation.

Our own “traditions” don’t matter if we’re not actually doing God’s work of sharing his love in the world as no-one will be in any mood to listen to us. This is why, in my own ministry, I’ve spent much time (though never enough!) working with those of different Christian traditions. But Christians working together to bring about what we call “God’s kingdom” can achieve a better world and life for everyone, whether they go to church or not.

Do get in touch if you want to talk to me about any of these things.

With best wishes, Fr James

(jwerodley@yahoo.co.uk or 01279 451065)

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Blue Badges: a guide from Citizens Advice A Blue Badge helps those with physical disabilities to be able to park closer to their destination. It is intended for on-street parking only.

You don't have to own a vehicle to apply. You can apply if you're a driver, or if you travel as a passenger, including in taxis.

Are you eligible?

Before you apply, check that you are eligible for a Blue Badge. Depending on your condition, you may be automatically eligible, or your mobility may need to be assessed. You are automatically eligible if you meet one or more of the following: You receive the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance You receive the Personal Independence Payment mobility component and your “moving around” score is 8 or more You are registered blind You receive a War Pensioner's Mobility Supplement You have received a lump sum benefit at tariffs 1-8 of the Armed Forces and Reserve Forces (Compensation) and have certification eof having a permanent and substantial disability which causes inability to walk or very considerable difficulty walking You're terminally ill (with a progressive disease and are not expected to live for more than 12 months).

If you’re not automatically eligible you can still get a Blue Badge if: You are unable to walk, You have considerable difficulty in walking, You have a severe disability in both arms and are unable to operate all or some types of parking meter; or You have a child under 3 years of age who has a medical condition and needs to be near a vehicle at all times. This is so that they can be treated in the vehicle or quickly driven to receive treatment, or they need to travel with bulky medical equipment.

How do you apply?

You apply to Essex County Council. You can apply online via their website but if you would prefer to apply in writing you can ring the Blue Badge Team on 0345 603 7630 and ask for an application pack. You will need to provide: An up to date passport quality photograph of yourself Your National Insurance number Proof of identity, such as a birth certificate, passport or marriage/divorce certificate Proof that you live in Essex, such as a utility bill, council tax statement or letter from the NHS or a GP Evidence to support your automatic entitlement or discretionary entitlement Once your application has been received, the Blue Badge Team will decide if an Independent Mobility Assessment is needed. You be will contacted separately to arrange this. There is a £10 administration charge for a Blue Badge. The Council only asks for this when your application is successful.

Contacting Citizens Advice If you need our assistance or advice the nearest branch to North Weald is at 50A Hemnall Street in Epping.

We are open for drop-in from 10.00 to 2.00 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. Elsewhere, the branch in Loughton Library is open between 9.30 and 1.00, Monday to Thursday and the branch in Waltham Abbey Town Hall is open between 9.30 and 1.00 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

We also have drop-in sessions in Ongar Library, between 10.00 and 12.00 on the third Tuesday each month.

You can also get advice over the phone on 03444 770 808, and we’re on the Web and social media: www.citizensadviceefd.org.uk, www.facebook.com/ CitizensAdviceEppingForest and www.twitter.com/CAEppingForest Page 39

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Pure Summer Dreams So where has all this beautiful weather come from As I have to seek shelter under a tree, While all the fantastic ‘summer’ weather Brings back so many memories for me.

Having marvellous summer holidays When you’d just jump on your bike And meet up with your mates and just ride, Because the weather set you free.

Then maybe have a kick about or a game of tennis, The memories all come flooding back to me.

With the holidays away with my family To the same place every year.

Though that didn’t matter because it meant The beach and blue sea was now so near.

We’d all be loaded with what we were able to carry, As we would always be set after the hike To stay on the beach all day.

As mum would have made so much food and snacks We were really spoilt With what was really enough for a party buffet The priority then was to claim our pitch And put the windbreaks up all around, Then obviously the ritual of buying dad With sand deep into the ground.

After some food we would all nag dad To come down to the sea, While mum stayed behind to watch our stuff But it looked more like sun bathing to me.

Once at the sea’s edge at first it was far to cold So we’d all run in and out until dad took the plunge.

That somehow made us all fearless As we’d all find the courage to take a flying lunge.

What a sight we must have been All covered head to toe in white factor 90 sun cream Laughing and building castles with the beautiful sun Beating down so clear and hot.

Until inevitably the tide would go out and the sun would begin to fade Meaning it was time to pack up and track back to the car, With what seems like poor old dad carrying the lot.

What wonderful memories rekindled by our current blue blue sky, As more and more memories come flooding back as I sit un-lotioned with the sun burning my skin While I relive my youth without even having to try.

I truly hope the weather lasts all summer long while we make memories with our own kids As they now do things on their own, Hoping that maybe one day like today, they will remember all the good times They had whilst on holiday or at home.

Yes there is something magical about a true summer with evenings still so warm you just want to be outside, As I sit in the garden and watch all my family, maybe just like my dad did So very happy and full of such love and pride.

Source: Andy—resident poet. The words of this poem must ring true for many parents. Time flies so fast and children grow so quickly. If you get the chance make more memories this year whilst enjoying the summer weather.

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Sparrows are not smart

This male sparrow has just seen its reflection in the window of the human’s house and thinks it’s a threat to both him and his new family.

I entered the human’s house (as they trust me and think I’m cute) and tried to show him that there’s nothing there, but he was convinced this other guy needed sorting.

He spent over an hour fixated upon this image that was the reflection of himself. Not realising that every move of his head, wings or beak was in fact, his!

I left the poor guy to his shadow boxing, as I’d better things to do with my time now the kids have gone – three this year. For a start I need to moult, as these old feathers are getting very tatty and itchy. I’m lucky; the humans have a cool pond just right for a drink or bath although they don’t seem to like me eating the Damselflies!

Have a good summer!

Rockin’ Robin.

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Bird Feature Welcome to the bird article for the July 2018 edition. We've been having quite a bit of warm weather through May and into mid June and hopefully finding insect food for their young has not been a problem for all the breeding birds that have been nesting this spring and early summer.

I have seen quite a few juvenile birds in recent weeks with a variety of familiar species noted. Often of course the young birds don't quite look like the adults and can cause some confusion in identification. For instance fledgling Robins do not have red breasts, they are speckled brown and at first sight look like a different type of bird. Starlings are browner than the adults and this scruffier appearance is mirrored with other species. There have been plenty of nest sites to note. Some are more obvious such as the large nests and noisy comings and goings at small rookeries and of course some of you will have House Sparrows, Starlings or House Martins actually utilising your buildings to nest.

And of course nest boxes can be monitored once they are occupied. I watched young Great Tits being fed in a nest box as one of my neighbours has a box with a camera in it, there were five chicks being constantly tended to by the adults and apparently they all successfully left the nest. But some of the nest sites are harder to identify and it is only when watching a few subtle signs of adult birds coming and going that you realise they have a nest close by. Of course it is now illegal to disturb nesting birds so the days of exposing the nest and taking an egg or two are long gone.

For adult birds the breeding season is a massively stressful time, everything they do is driven by the instinct to raise young and they invest huge amounts of time and energy to succeed. Some will have a first brood and then start over again to raise another batch of young. Whilst for others the breeding attempt will fail, often through predation or lack of food and of course in some cases the chicks may simply be weak or diseased. Locally another reason for failure can be as a result of the actions of the Cuckoo which will target a nest and the host species ends up raising a Cuckoo rather than its own young. With a serious decline in numbers globally we are lucky enough to still get Cuckoos in our area and spring 2018 has been a good year for this species locally with them spotted almost daily from late April through to the beginning of June. Of course having laid their eggs in other birds' nests the Cuckoo doesn't have to hang about to feed chicks etc and by mid June they are on their way back to their sub Saharan wintering grounds. Job done ....

July can often be a month when bird activity is less obvious with many becoming more skulking in nature. The foliage is thick, the weather is warm and as stated for many breeding is concluded so this is a time for adult birds to recover from the exertions of raising young and concentrate on feeding themselves and getting peak condition back. Some of our smaller more familiar species can be quite elusive as they keep to the thicker cover.

During the summer we get occasional sightings of a bird of prey called the Hobby, a dashing flier that will take dragonflies on the wing, I have noted 3 so far this year. It can be hard to confirm that you have seen one but this is where getting to know more familiar birds such as Sparrowhawk and Kestrel becomes of value because then if you do see a Hobby there is just that something different about it that you will notice.

There aren't many gulls about at the moment, most will be off at their breeding colonies and it will take a while for numbers to build up again as they disperse back into areas such as farmland. There are a few to be seen and the most obvious are the Lesser Black-backed Gulls that are prone to fly low over the village, they are big birds with dark wings and will also be noted rising on thermals on suitably warm days.

There are still occasional sightings of Little Egrets. This bird nests in colonies and I am not sure where the nearest one is to our area but there are individuals about and they can sometimes turn up in the middle of the village, a very obvious all white member of the heron family. They have spread rapidly through the UK over recent years. They were once targeted for their plumes for fashion reasons and numbers declined seriously throughout Europe but they have recovered well.

Happily Greenfinches continue to be more noticeable after a period where I hardly ever saw them locally. I have seen some young ones as well so there has been breeding in the area. Numbers are generally down throughout the UK but maybe there is an upturn on the way.

One of the reasons for the decline is a disease that has hit Greenfinches. This shows that if you feed the birds in your garden then you have to exercise good hygiene practice because these diseases can be passed from bird to bird but also to humans. Uneaten or mouldy food should not be allowed to build up and it is a good idea to move the site of feeders from time to time to prevent the build up of food and droppings. Also bird tables should be cleaned occasionally using a mild disinfectant. The provision of fresh, clean water is also a bonus for birds at this time of year.

There have been lots of butterflies and moths to see, I have identified some species that I didn't previously know so I am happy with that.

Of course there is a vast range of flying and crawling insects about and I can only identify a tiny percentage of the actual species and I am trying to find a way of getting to know a few more. There is so much about and it is always worth keeping your eyes and ears open when out an about, we have easily accessible countryside and an occasional walk can be an opportunity to get to know that bit more about wildlife.

The BBC Springwatch etc series have provided some great inspiration and probably opened the eyes of many people who wouldn't have previously shown any interest in natural history. Some of the stories they show are from really wild sites around the UK but my favourite bits are where they concentrate on the everyday species such as Robin, Blackbird and Blue Tits and how easy it can be to engage with nature, you do not have to be obsessed with a vast array of equipment, you can just be out and about and keeping alert.

All the best, Paul Corbet

Page 42

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Essential Local Numbers The Alzheimer Society

01992 717676

North Weald Chemist

01992 523887

Cats Protection

0333 200 1484

North Weald Methodist Hall

01992 522143

Citizens Advice Bureau

03444 77 0808

North Weald Library

033301 32683

Crimestoppers

0800 555111

North Weald Village Hall Bookings

01992 523731 www.northwealdvillagehall.org/

Doctors High Street, Epping

01992 579270

North Weald Parish Council

01992 523825

Doctors The Limes, Epping (visits/emergencies)

01992 566500

Queens Community Hall Bookings

07522 473024

Doctors The Limes, Epping (appointments)

01992 573838

NHS Direct

0845 4647

Doctors The Limes, North Weald 01992 524383

Essex Police

0300 333 4444

Epping Forest District Council

01992 564000

Police, Neighbourhood/local

101

Epping Town Council

01992 579444

Police, Emergency

999

EFDC & ECC Cllr Chris Whitebread

01992 573557

Police Online reporting

www.essex.police.uk/doitonline

EFDC Will Breare-Hall

01992 575843

RSPCA

01279 306058

MP Mrs Eleanor Laing MP

020 8508 8608

Stuart Poulton

01992 522607

Eleanor.Laing.mp@parliament.uk

24 Hour

01992 572607

Hospital, St Margarets, Epping

01992 561666

St Andrews Church

01279 451065

Hospital, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow

01279 444455

St Andrews Primary School

01992 522283

London & Essex Boarding Kennels & Cattery (Kents Farm)

01992 522183

Traveline

0870 6082608

North Weald Airfield

01992 564200

LOCAL CLUB DIRECTORY 3rd North Weald Beavers

North Weald Preservation Society

Queens Hall Charity

Tel: 01992 524672

Tel: read 01992 522618/522630

Tel: 522910

British Legion, North Weald Branch

North Weald Cricket Club

Rapier Cycling Club

Tel: 01992 614415

Northweald.play-cricket.com

Tel: 524631

Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer

North Weald Scouts Group

Taoist Tai Chi Society

Tel: 01277 365200

01992 524672

Tel: 01992 523854/07803243625

Epping Forest Badger Group

North Weald Seniors Society for over 70’s

Theydon Jazz Club

Tel: 576038 Friends Force Hertfordshire/Essex

Tel: 522196

Thornwood Seniors

Tel: 522464

Tel: 577872

Epping Forest Rotary Club

North Weald Wireless Station Bowls Club

Tel: 07855 911323

Tel: 522803

Forest Highlanders Pipes & Drum

North Weald Women’s Institute (Afternoon)

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

Tel: 01708 250820

Tel: 522700

West Essex Flower Club

North Weald Angling Club

Queens Hall Bowls Club

Tel: 524631

Tel: 01992 524071

Tel: 523375 or 522052

01945 588325/davedyer24@gmail.com

Three Valleys Male Voice Choir