I really enjoy editing the Ashlink. It has enabled me to get to know the village a lot better and the people in it. There are times however when my hair would be going grey if it were not already white. This issue in particular has had some real challenges as for the first time there are adverts. This is not a necessary thing for us to do but there was a great demand for it so this issue has them. It also helps stretch the funds provided by the Parish Council! So many thanks to our generous advertisers. If feedback is positive we will produce another "advert special" later on in the year.
We have also included a section about the contentious issue of the plans for a solar farm. The Ashlink is apolitical so we will happily print a reasoned argument for the pro solar farm views but so far none has been forthcoming.
My review a couple of issues ago of Andy Reid's book about Ashill produced a good deal of interest so we have arranged for Andy to return to the village and make a presentation in the Community Centre which will be open to all. This will be at the beginning of September so details in the next issue.
A new feature this issue is a report from the book club. I am hoping this will become a regular feature. I love a good book myself and am currently reading An Infamous Army by Georgette Heyer. Believe it or not this was recommended reading for officer cadets at Sandhurst ‐ it may still be?
Finally, there are so many things going on in our village that I can not get to them all! If you would like to write a piece for the Ashlink that you think might be of interest, please drop me an email or you might spot me at church on a Sunday.
Ashill Community Gardens
As I write this at the end of February the dafodils are just starting to poke through in the barrels. Hopefully, by the time you are reading it in April they will be in full bloom and making a good show.
April is also the time we start to think about putting in bedding plants for the summer any donations of plants (or cash) will be very welcome
The AGM will be held at the Call In on 23 April at 2pm. All welcome especially if you are interested in joining our little group. If you are unable to attend but have some ideas about what should go in the barrels please let one of us know
Sue Field 07880 508930: Jean Skeggs 01760 440142; Ruth Day 01760 440743
All Parish Councill minutes etc can be found online at https://ashillparishcouncil.norfolkparishes.gov.uk/ as well as lots of extra community information
The Ashlink is also published online at https://www.ashlink.co.uk/
I would like to thank the boys and girls for running the Saturday Breakfast Club at the Call In Centre. It brings the community together. It has been running for two years and is a wonderful commitment to the village.
J.F Stowell
Friday Luncheon club
If you are on your own, need a cooked meal once a week and would like to socialise with people then contact the organiser Denise Hucklesby on 01760 441514.
If you normally attend but are unable to come please let Denise know by Wednesday afternoon. We are also always looking for volunteers!
What's on at The Call In
Where is The Call In?
The Green, Hale Road IP25 7AT
Next to the duck pond
Find out more: Contaact Chair person Dee Bolton 01760 441 622 07926917409
AVA Contact, Ray Hucklesby 01760 441 514
AVA ARCHIVES GROUP Monday 10.00 ‐ 12.00am
COFFEE MORNINGS TUESDAY and THURSDAY 9.30 ‐ 11.30am
All Welcome Come along, for a Mardle (Chat) and meet New Friends
PHOTOGRAPHIC CLUB Every other Wednesday7.00‐9.00pm,For Details
Contact Ray 07808 922171 Email: Raydee100@googlemail.com
MEMORY CAFE from the 8th January, every second Wed of the month from 10.30 1200 Further information telephone 0754 862 6337.
BEETLE DRIVE every other Thursday 2.00 ‐ 4.30pm
LUNCH CLUB Every Friday 12.00 ‐ 1.30 For information regarding the Lunch Club, Contact Denise on 07808 551952
KNIT ‘n’ STITCH GROUP Friday 2.00 ‐ 4.00pm
BREAKFAST CLUB (All Welcome, No Booking Required) Saturdays 9.00 – 12.00am Last Orders 11.30am
small breakfast £6.50
Regular £8
Extra Large £10
Are you sitting comfortably? Then I’ll begin. ‘Once upon a time…. ’
Iconic words that conjure up so much for almost everyone; a story, a storyteller, a particular time or place, an explosion of imagination, along with feelings of fear, excitement or wonder. The simple power of books. We all read. Everyday we are surrounded by road signs, emails, newspapers, adverts, magazines, websites, social media or even letters (remember those?). Each one has a purpose – guiding us, warning us, challenging our thinking or entertaining us – but books, they open up whole new worlds that transport us to unexpected characters and storylines. When Ashill Book Club started at the end of 2023 we had no idea how it would develop. Within 9 months we were not only full but had birthed a second book club in Saham Toney. The best thing about it? Not just the amazing authors we have discovered, or the incredible plots we encountered, or even the wide‐range of writing styles that surprised us at every turn but the deep lasting friendships that now exist between all those involved. Laughter leads us as we journey through the world on a page.
Why not join us? If you would like to join the Ashill Book Club get in touch. Or why not read along with us from the comfort of your own home?
Some titles we recommend:
His and Hers by Alice Feeney
An easy‐to‐read murder mystery told from two perspectives – his and hers. Big twists in every chapter. Being made into a Netflix series that will air in the summer.
You are Here by David Nicholls
A gentle, poetically written love story.
Someone Else’s Shoes by JoJo Moyes
Caution – don’t pick up the wrong bag…
Let us know your thoughts on these or other books you have read: terryanneuk@gmail.com
The Best Dog Breed for the Older Generation?
Choosing the best dog breed for pensioners involves finding a companion that matches their lifestyle, energy levels, and living situation. While many breeds could fit the bill, some stand out for their adaptability, temperament, and low‐maintenance needs.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is often hailed as an ideal breed for older adults. Known for their affectionate and gentle nature, they form strong bonds with their owners and are content with moderate exercise, such as a daily walk or play session in the garden. Their small size makes them manageable, and their friendly demeanor suits both quiet homes and social outings.
Another excellent option is the Miniature Schnauzer. This breed is intelligent, easy to train, and highly adaptable. Their moderate energy levels mean they enjoy a brisk walk or engaging playtime but are equally happy curling up on the sofa. They’re also low‐shedding, making them a great choice for those with allergies or who prefer a tidier home.
For those looking for a slightly larger dog, the Labrador Retriever is a wonderful choice. Labradors are gentle, loyal, and eager to please, making them excellent companions for active pensioners who enjoy outdoor activities. They thrive on companionship and are particularly good with grandchildren and other pets.
Lastly, something which has been very rewarding for all concerned, to consider adopting a retired gundog from a Gundog Trainer. These older dogs welcome the slower pace of life once work has become less enjoyable for them, they are usually very well trained, on recall, lead walking, and general manners through having to be very obedient in the shooting field. Some will have lived in kennels, but many have lived indoors.
The best dog breed for the Older Generation ultimately depends on personal preferences and activity levels. Whether it’s a small lapdog, a mid‐sized schnauzer, or a laid‐back Labrador (ex‐gundog), the right dog can provide unmatched companionship, joy, and motivation to stay active and engaged in life.
For more information or to discuss a retired gundog, Contact Steve @ Breckland Gundog Training on 07795 466007
next meeting date 9 April
April is the month we celebrate our volunteers and the invaluable work they do. With this in mind I’d like to thank again the brilliant ones we have at the memory cafe. They are Jackie, Roy, Anna, Carole, Jason and our latest recruit Sue. In February everyone took part in the chair exercises to music It was lovely to see how enthusiastic the members were and we had a lot of laughs. In March we will have played bingo and no doubt will have had a good time with that too. In April there will be an Easter card making session. All these activities are always optional, those who prefer to sit, chat or watch are always welcome to do so. Some months we may have 2 sessions which will always be on a Wednesday This will be for fund raising and special events. Please look out for more information on the Nextdoor neighbour app and the Ashill face book page .We look forward to seeing you all on the 9 April .
7 May fund raising event . 14 May regular session
Ashill Sky at Night
April
On the 19th of April:
Mercury is not really observable at Ashill this month.
Venus is also not observable this month.
Mars is high in the SW with the beehive cluster close by. The Beehive is a cluster of stars can be seen to advantage using binoculars.
Jupiter is visible lowish in the W with Orion and its nebula directly below it.
Saturn is behind the Sun and not seen in the night time here.
Uranus is going behind the Sun just now and not observable.
Neptune is also not observable at this time.
On the 21st April the Lyrids will be at maximum, this shower of meteorites has a radiant (this is a point from which the meteors appear to come from) is high in the NE near to the bright star Vega.
May
On the 19th of May:
Mercury is still not observable. Venus also not obsevable.
Mars is an early evening object in the W.
Jupiter can be seen just above the western horizon, and it will set at 2300hrs.
Saturn, Uranus and Neptune can’t be seen this month.
Use of Binoculars
Binoculars are reasonable way to improve your observing. Any binoculars will improve things. On the binoculars there is a number which gives vital information on the optics. Eg 10x40
The first number is the magnification achieved by them, the second is the diameter of the lenses.
The bigger the lens the more light is collected and the more things you can see.
The magnification should probably be no greater than 12 as at high magnification the view will wobble about too much.
It is best to find the position in the sky you want to see and then bring up the binoculars up to your eyes.
Swaffham & District u3a
This month our March meeting was entertained by John Vigar, a retired lecturer from the University of Kent, who gave a talk on ‘Betjeman’s Britain’ This took us on a tour round some of the buildings that Betjeman had visited, including churches, houses and even railway stations Betjeman was interested in what he called ‘Sense of Place’ where the buildings were in keeping with their surroundings. For many years he edited ‘The Shell Guide’ for motorists and he co‐founded ‘Friends of Friendless Churches’ which looks after disused churches.
Our next meeting is on Thursday, 3rd April when our speaker will be Gary Powell who will give a talk on ‘London Squares’. On 1st May, Adam Woolcott will be reminiscing on ‘Our Chelsea Flower Show Memories’.
As usual, we will meet in The Pavilion at Holme Hale. Doors open at 9.45am for socialising and the meeting starts promptly at 10.30am finishing by 12 noon. Swaffham & District u3a offers monthly meetings, over 20 special interest groups and trips out. Further details on the activities covered by Swaffham & District u3a are available on our website: www.swaffhamu3a.org
St Nicholas Church
Incumbent ‐ Revd Patrick Morrow 01760 330258.
Churchwardens – Wendy Peckham 01760 440952
Margaret Barker 01760 751771
ASHILL CHURCH SERVICES
30th March 9.30 a.m. Group Holy Communion for Mothering Sunday.
6th April 9.30 a.m. Lay Led
13th April 9.30a.m. Moring Worship
18th April 2 p.m. GOOD FRIDAY LITURGY (reading of the Passion of John)
20th April 9.30a.m. EASTER DAY HOLY COMMUNION
27th April 9.30 Holy Communion. Followed by Annual Parochial Church Meeting.
Sun May 4th 9.30 a.m. Lay Led
Sun May 11t 9.30 a.m. Morning Worship
Sun May 18th 9.30 a.m. Lay Led
Sun May 25th 8.30 a.m. Holy Communion
EASTER SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE
On Maundy Thursday at 7.30 p.m, at OVINGTON there will be a service of Holy Communion.
Good Friday at 10 a.m. at SAHAM TONEY Walking of Witness and Stations of the Cross.
Easter Saturday at 7.30 p.m. at SAHAM TONEY Easter Vigil with Holy Communion,
THANK YOU ‐ To everyone who came on the very cold morning in February to help tidy the Churchyard and the Village Green. A trailer full of twigs and branches were cleared along with holly wreaths, dead flowers, broken vases etc from the graves, all ready now for the contractor to start cutting the grass.
MOTHERING SUNDAY SERVICE 9.30 a.m.
We will be joined by the other Benefice churches, (Saham, Ovington and
Merton) for our Mothering Sunday Service. Posies of flowers will be distributed and we hope to be joined by the Ashill School children. EVERYONE WELCOME.
EASTER SATURDAY AFTERNOON 2 p.m. till 4 p.m.
Come and enjoy a cup of tea and slice of cake and see the lovely easter flowers in the church.
MAY 10th and 11th 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF V.E. DAY
St Nicholas Church will be holding a display of memorabilia relating to the 80th Anniversary of VE day. The church will be open from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m. on the Saturday and following the Morning Service on Sunday 11 a.m. till 4 p.m. Everyone welcome.
SUNDAYSCoffee & Chat, 9:30am. Worship Service, 10am. Kids Church and Youth provision.
TUESDAYSOpen Home Group (Bible Study), 1:30pm
THURSDAYSNoah’s Ark Baby & Toddler Group, 10am. (Closed during school holidays)
FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH Kidz Klub, 10am – 12 noon, For junior school age children.
SECOND SUNDAY OF THE MONTH Good Companions, 2:30pm, Afternoon tea & entertainment for our more senior citizens.
APRIL EASTER EVENTS @The Well
Sunday 13th Palm Sunday, 10am. With giving out of palm crosses.
Wednesday 16th Lectio Communion, 7pm Contemplative communion service with simple liturgy & quiet moments to reflect & pray.
Friday 18th Waiting at the Cross, 12‐3pm. Interactive journey through Jesus’ 3 hours on the cross with moments to explore what the cross means for us Come for the full 3 hours or drop in at any time for as long as you can. Hot drinks and hot cross buns.
Saturday 19th April Easter Singing at The Buttercross, Swaffham 1pm.
Sunday 20th April Easter Sunday:
Sunrise Walk and Service, 6:15am. Sunrise walk to St Mary’s Church, Houghton on the Hill for a short service outside in the garden. Followed by breakfast back at The Well (Fountain of Life Church, Ashill). We’ll be walking from The Well carpark in Ashill at 06:15am and the short service will start at 7am. Some parking is available at St Mary’s for those who want to drive. Wrap up warm! Dogs welcome. Sign up lists for the free breakfast in the foyer at Ashill.
Easter Celebration Service with communion, 10am. (Coffee and chat at 9:30am)
Swing into Spring
The spring season is in full swing for April and May and we can relish in the re‐growth it offers. With a taste of the sun’s warmth earlier in March we should now be seeing the full effects of this invigorating season around us.
Having had the spring equinox on the 20thMarch, or Ostara as named in ancient folklore, we see the days growing longer than the nights. This season brings a sense of fertility and growth, we can celebrate the land warming and watch as it springs to life. It is a time we often embrace the need for balance and undertaking an annual “spring clean”. It is often a good time to look forward to trying something new and being creative at home.
Easter reflections during April are part of the spring ‐time community celebrations, continuing into May. Sharing the food associated with re‐birth such as eggs, hot cross buns, asparagus, and bread from ancient grains, with friends and family will bring a deeper connection to the season.
In nature some things to be on the lookout for as we head into April are the last remnants of crocus and snowdrops as they make way for the striking daffodils, tulips, primrose and hyacinths.
The hawthorn and cherry trees are putting on a show of delicate blossom, attracting the bees and butterflies as they surface from their winter hideouts. These early flowers are vital to support the insect kingdom in sourcing enough energy to thrive and having a bountiful insect population creates an essential supply for our garden birds and their young
Through April the sky will be full of birdsong as they busy about creating nests and swooning over mates. A fever of feeding erupts into May and we can support this fragile ecosystem by offering extra food in our gardens. At this time of year our birds need high protein food alongside energy meals such as mealworms, suet balls and sunflower seeds, avoiding peanuts unless in a mesh feeder as large chunks can choke chicks.
The village springs to life as the trees around us uncurl even more leaves. Such as on our village green looking towards the silver birch as their wispy ,willow like branches with small triangular leaves create dappled shade as you walk under them The majestic oak trees stand proud and we look forward to the green’s young trees and wildflower meadow area putting on a colourful display. A bit further afield a short drive through Watton towards the A11 gives you Wayland
Woods, with a small car park off a busy road, you will find an ancient woodland. With stunning carpets of bluebells in May and wonderful dawn chorus, a circular walk lets us revel in the spring delights.
It can be a busy time of the year in the garden as we rush around to get seeds sown, plants dug in, lawns mowed. Even with spring showers, nature is worth slowing down for and admiring. For the remaining months of spring let’s take time to sit and enjoy moments of this joyful season in our village.
Louise Fenwick
Ashill Archive Group
Bringing the Past to Life
If you are interested in researching and archiving the village history or if you have some photographs and documents related to Ashill over the years please do get in touch or come along as we always welcome new members, young or old. Two hours is all it takes and you get to find out interesting facts about our village. For more information contact;
Julie Long on 01760 622721 or Enid Turner on 01760 440419
We also have a facebook page @avaarchivegroup.
1ST ASHILL BROWNIES 100 CLUB
Many congratulations and well done, to the following winners:-
February 2025
March 2025
1st Number 83 E Colsell £25.00 2nd Number 45 K Elmer £10.00 3rd Number 37 M Knights £10.00
1st Number 7 R Leighton £25.00 2nd Number 15 D Eagling £10.00 3rd Number 16 A Oxborough £5.00
Good Luck in next month‛s draw!
If your daughter is aged between 7 and 10 years and would like to join the waiting list at 1st Ashill Brownies, please call Brown Owl, Joanne Oxborough on (01760) 441046, or register them on the Girlguiding website, .
Parish Council Meetings. Full minutes are at www https:// ashillparishcouncil.norfolkparishes.gov.uk/
7thJANUARY 2025 Present: Mr A Ketteringham (AK) Chair, Mr R Leighton (RL) Vice‐Chair, Mrs A Binns (AB), Mr A Howell (AH), Mr K Kissiedu (KK) Mr J Leggett(JLg), Mrs J Lusher (JL), Mr A Thomas (AT) the Clerk Jean Sangster & County/District Councillor Mr F Eagle
Mr Eagle DISTRICT/ COUNTY COUNCILLOR: Council Tax will increase due to costs and increase in NI contributions and Government cuts.
Norfolk County Council will be discussing the Local Government Reform and vote on the proposal to cancel NCC local Elections in May. Government are proposing to form a Unitary Authority with a Mayor, covering Norfolk and Suffolk. and this would mean that Breckland and NCC would cease to exist. He asked that people express their opinions on the new Ward changes that are proposed as Ashill will join Holme Hale and Bradenham.
Highways – Looking into request to move 30mph sign in Watton Road. Potholes at Horns Corner, andfrom Fairholme to Granary Fields will be reported. Dog Waste Bin –to be installed.
Playing Field – All looking fine and moles under control Quotes accepted from Groundscape to maintain Playing Field, Acacia, Limes and Church Yard.
Football Club– Agreement to hire Playing Field and Community Centre changing rooms by Shipdham United. Looking into whether the field can accommodate 3 pitches in the future.
Community Centre CCTV –. has been installed and now been handed over from Parish Council to Community Centre.
Allotment Rents – The Members felt that the rules need to be discussed further and Clerk to send copy of present rules to each Member. AT to oversee allocation of plots.
Website/face‐book – Mr Long has updated the PC website and is happy to continue with this Can Organisations please inform Grant Long of any changes to their circumstances.It was pointed out that Ashill village Facebook is nothing to do with the Parish Council.
CADENT GAS – Cadent are looking into putting a new main in the road near Reeves Farm.
High Grove Solar Farm – Action Group has held a meeting and are continuing to communicate with local Parishes
PLANNING APPLICATIONS
4 Applications submitted for OLD HALL Cress. Rd. Agreed
PL/2024/0918/FMIN – New entrance drive/parking & garage at 13 Low Common. Agreed.
PL/2024/1171/FMIN ‐ Residential development of 5 new dwellings to replace barns at Green Gate Farm Cressingham Road, which is being reviewed by Council. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
JL expressed concern regarding the Postal Deliveriesas this is affecting whole village.
Clerk to write letter of complaint.
28thJANUARY 2925
Mr Eagle reported that Breckland has a grant available for new businesses. He spoke about the Government proposals for devolution and the changes that could mean Norfolk and Suffolk joining together with an elected Mayor.
Concerns about the old BT boxes in Church Streetand although they have been secured it was felt they should be removed and Clerk to deal with this.
Highways –Potholes in Hale Road to be inspected Letters to be sent to the residents on Woodlands shortly. Potholesto be reported – entrance to Woodlands, o/s building site in Hale Rd, Horns Corner, o/s Womack House.
Information from NCC that part of Caudle Hill on boundary of Parishis to become a Roadside Nature Reserve.
Play Equipment – This will be checked in next few days. Information regarding Inspections from Sovereign Playgrounds to be checked out. All work to PE has been carried out by JLg.
Playing Field – Money to be used from capital fund to buy the ZipWire and will be ordered with ActionPlay&Leisure; new quote confirmed at £14965.56.
Football Club– It was reported that some of their nets have been damaged and a compound for goals will be considered next season but in the meantime Teams are requested to remove nets in between matches as a requirement from Insurance Co.
Community Centre CCTV – Installation complete. A possible further camera at back of CC may be considered at some time.
Speedwatch – Figures for 2024 from Norfolk Constabulary Speedwatch database seem to indicate that speeding through Ashill is increasing.There are now 10 speedwatch volunteers.
Allotments – Problems with unused plots being very untidy, discussion about
arranging clearance
High Grove Solar Farm – See notice in Ashlink magazine.
Wayland Partnership – New Link facility open at Breckland Business Centre providing access to services in one building. Men’s Shed and Watton Food Hub both well supported.
Correspondence
Local Councils have agreed to back a Campaign for safety of Lithium‐ion Batteries in e‐bikes and scooters.
Norfolk Strategic Flood Alliance – The Chair felt that a ‘Trash Screen’ should be placed in ditch by Old Allotment Close to prevent debris blocking the drain and causing flooding; details and costs to be investigated.
PLANNING APPLICATIONS
PL/2024/1171/FMIN ‐ Residential development of 5 new dwellings to replace barns at Green Gate Farm had been returned with comments of concern from some Members.
PL2025/0028/CLOPUD –48 Acacia Avenue for extension to rear of property; Agreed.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Break in at Green Farm reported and people advised to be vigilant. Concern about overgrown pavement from Acacia to Green; will be reported to Highways.
25thFEBRUARY 2025
REPORT FROM DISTRICT/ COUNTY COUNCILLOR
FE has secured money for the additional grasscuts of the road junctions for the next season.
Also funding for small grants for the High Street businesses and a 2ndyear of Rural Communities Business Awards sponsored by local businesses. Breckland Council has paused the introduction of Car Parking chargesfor 18 months.
PUBLIC – Resident requested that thanks be recorded to the AVA who organise the Breakfast Club on a Saturday morning which has proved to be most successful.
Consultation on Devolution is due on 21stMarch and there is an online briefing arranged by Breckland on 3rd March to give the public more information. The Government has allocated further funding for the repair of potholes. Further dates for recycling hazardous waste can be booked at some recycling centres.
Matters Arising
Highways – All potholes now being investigated.
Dog Waste Bin – This had been installed but unfortunately was not where Highways had agreed so will be moved. The Waste Bin in Ch.St. will be repaired. Request for an additional bin on Acacia discussed ‐ no bin ordered.
Play Equipment – Monthly check carried. Arrangements made to cut hedge at entrance to Comm Centre The Annual Inspection will continue with the same company.
ZIP‐WIREhas been ordered and installation is to be arranged.
Playing Field – The field is in very good condition; Groundscape has already checked ready for new season and the moles have been eradicated.
Football Club– Nets have remained on goal posts although Club had been requested to remove It was agreed that Clerk should check with Insurance over this matter.
Community Centre CCTV – Comm. Centre now have the alarm system connected to the CCTV. The warning signs are all in place.
Footpaths – Awaiting rail and replacement sign that were requested.
Police –Next SNAP meeting will be at Ashill on 8thApril in Comm. Centre.
Allotments – All plots now allocated leaving just one half plot.
High Grove Solar Farm – The Solar Action Group has requested that a meeting with other local Parishes that will be affected by this proposal be called at Ashill and Clerk has booked the Hall for 18thMarch at 7.00pm. Please could every household send in their objections, rather than just sign a petition, this may be more effective
Terry Jermy MP (local MP) – will attend the Annual Parish Meeting on 15thApril at 7.00pm.
Any Other Matters – Complaint re collections from Parcel Collection Box at shop again being carried out in night. Clerk to contact company again.
Correspondence
Campaign for Protection of Rural England – confirmation that PC are now Members.
Breckland – Request for Emergency Rest Centres for their list. This is to be passed to Community Centre for response.
Breckland ‐ VE & VJ Days – Grants. Village plans so far for these events. Exhibition at Call‐In for VJ Day 16th& 17thAug and Church holding event for VE Day The possibility of lighting Beacon will be discussed at next meeting.
Keep Britain Tidy ‐ Thanks are expressed to all volunteers for the fantastic job they do keeping the village so tidy.
PLANNING APPLICATIONS
PL/2024/0997/FMIN The Old Hall Cressingham Rd. All applications REFUSED ANY OTHER BUSINESS
URGENT APPEAL TO ALL ASHILL RESIDENTS
IF YOU FEEL THAT THE PROPOSED SOLAR FARM IN OUR VILLAGE SOULD BE OPPOSED THE PARISH COUNCIL REQUEST THAT YOU WRITE/EMAIL TO THE GOVERNMENT WITH STONG OBJECTIONS.
Points you might raise in your letter
THESE ARE NEEDED FROM EVERY HOUSEHOLD WHO HAS CONCERNS ABOUT THE FUTURE OF OUR VILLAGE AND THE EFFECTS THIS COULD HAVE ON OUR COMMUNITY, NOT JUST NOW BUT FOR MANY YEARS TO COME, DETERING PEOPLE FROM WANTING TO LIVE HERE AND CONSEQUENTLY ASHILL BECOMING A ‘DYING VILLAGE’.
Ashill Parish Council
The street light in Dunnetts Close o/s 15 is still not working. The trees on The Limes to be inspected. AK will check remaining hedge on allotments will be cut. THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING is arranged for Tuesday 15th April 2025.
FROM THE PARISH COUNCIL
Solar Panel Blight in Norfolk
The Parish Council feel that every household in Ashill should be aware of the intention of the government to cover thousands of acres of agricultural land in Norfolk with solar panels A considerable number of these will be sited in Ashill and the surrounding villages
If you are already aware we hope you have already written to Mr. Milliband and your MP. To all those who were not aware and have not yet registered your dismay at the project we urge you to write as soon as possible. To have any chance of succeeding in getting the plans halted they need bombarding with objections not by just one or two of you but by every household.
The building of this solar factory may cause issues with the property market,no one likes uncertainty.
The argument that they are being made in China, shipped halfway round the world and then constructed by a German company can be highlighted. Noise from huge battery stations, transport to the sites, flooding are all potential issues The impact on important environmental areas such as Ashill Common, ruining agricultural land for years, even after they have ceased being used can be added. You could suggest that they would be far better sited on factories, car parks, all new builds or places like Thetford Forest where the land is too poor for agriculture.
The electricity they produce is required in the London area and the people of Norfolk will receive no benefit for the loss of amenity and the blighting of a huge area of our beautiful countryside and first class farmland and this is why, we feel, that every householder in the Parish should write to their MP and Ed Milliband objecting to the imposition of these panels.
We feel that you should all compose your letters so that each one reads differently. They will then have to read them all rather than a pro forma you could all sign but they would only have to look at one. So, get writing, encourage your neighbours to write too. This could give us a chance to stop this dreadful despoiling of our iconic countryside.
Letters to Terry Jermy MP House of Commons
London SW1A 0AA
Email terry.jermy.mp@parliament.uk
A Green Future?
It would appear that that the government has overlooked a strategic nationally owned asset that could easily be repurposed to both assist with the energy security issue and also allay the concerns regarding food security that form two opposing views to the solar factories that threaten to become a blight in our beautiful rural county of Norfolk.
Thetford forest comprises 47,000 acres of government owned land which was created in the 1920’s to prevent an energy shortage as it was to make sure the United Kingdom was self‐sufficient for the timber required for pit props after there were shortages due to World War One.
The forest was created on what was at the time deemed to be low value Breckland heath ( which we now know is a very rare and important habitat and which we lost 86% of since the First World War ) only used for sheep farming , wild rabbits and sporting habitat for the local estate owners.
The coal mines this forest was created for have now gone and we have 35 square miles of a 100‐year‐old human created monoculture. We acknowledge that where possible, The Forestry Commission have begun to promote biodiversity with designations of Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA) particularly for its nesting nightjar and woodlark populations. However, we are now seeing considerate solar installations where these species can be further supported and would suggest that the relatively poor sandy Breckland soil would make an ideal home for a sustainable solar solution.
We do not agree with this current solar panel blight being created across huge swathes of productive farmland, but the government does have the opportunity to stop being a solar hypocrite, when they could turn around 10% of the forest into a solar park, enabling the Forestry Commission to diversify, after all they are already used to a multi‐purpose management approach when meeting the needs of wildlife, people, archaeology and timber production. It feels logical to add energy production to the portfolio of the Public Forest Estate.
There is already a power station within the forest connected into the National Grid infrastructure and this could hopefully ensure that the energy generated in Norfolk can be used for the benefit of Norfolk and would certainly assist with Thetford’s economic growth. We know that power continues to be a challenge in the area, and this would help meet the need of our schools, homes and businesses.
There would also be huge biodiversity and nature restoration as the land beneath the panels would once again become heathland to be grazed by sheep or rabbits, with the added advantage of providing a secure area for iconic ground nesting birds such those previously mentioned and the Stone Curlew. It would also allow the increase of the 120 nationally important plant species native to The Brecks area along with the invertebrates. This supports the Forestry Commission’s own Biodiversity Plan, enhancing habitat availability and quantity and meeting the overall objective of their Open Habitat Plan as we have seen in other, well managed and considered installations such as that on the Euston Estate.
This is probably the only area in the whole of the UK where the creation of a solar park would have so many other benefits both for nature and the local economy, yet ironically it is an area the government has so much control over yet chooses not to.
Over a century ago, the Breckland landscape was radically changed to meet the needs of the country. Today, we have another call to arms to ensure both energy and food security whilst being mindful of the legacy our actions have on our environment to halt the decline in biodiversity in the UK and particularly in the beautiful, fragile landscape of the Brecks. Which leads us to ask the question if the solar panels are so needed and so good for the countries benefit, why are not the government doing this on their own land, where the crop is now redundant to our nation’s need?
Cllrs Fabian Eagle and Jane James
Norfolk County Councillors for the Brecks and Thetford East
Ashill, Holme Hale & District Garden Club
Website:ashillgardeningclub.wordpress.com/
Email: ashillholmehalegardenclub@gmail.com
LAWN CARE ‐ The Do’S & Dont’s
At our February meeting our speaker, Martyn Davey, presented a comprehensive guide to how to care for your lawn across the seasons. Marytn is former senior lecturer at Easton & Otley Horticultural College and currently head gardener at Nurtured for Norfolk.
Martyn structured his talk to take us through what we should be doing with our lawns each month of the year. Starting in January / February with keeping off the grass as much as possible, clearing leaf debris from the lawn to reduce fungal disease and dead patches and if any puddles are
forming use a fork to improve drainage in the area. By March you can begin mowing on a high setting, but only on dry days. Also a light roll to flatten the surface can be useful. Going into April it is a good time to control weeds by applying weed and moss killer, being careful not to get any on flower beds, particularly the roses. This is also a good time to sow grass seed to bare patches, choice of seed will depend on what lawn appearance you are trying to achieve.
By May / June you can reduce the height of your cut when mowing to get to a more bowling green appearance. You can also spike the lawn to improve moisture getting to the grass roots. By July / August the grass is growing at peak rate and you should mow regularly, which unless very dry should be weekly depending on how high you want your grass or, if growing a wildflower area, do not mow. By September you should be raising the height of your cut and thinking about scarifying and aerating your lawn to remove moss and thatch. This is also a good time to top dress your lawn (6 parts sand 1 part potting compost). By October reduce your frequency of mowing and by November only mow if you really have to. Try to keep off frosty lawns and clear autumn leaf debris. The meeting finished with a lively Q&A and members left with the knowledge to produce their own healthy lawn.
Upcoming Events
Our April meeting (April 24th) has Sarah Hammond talking about English Peonies. All meetings are held at Holme Hale Pavilion and start at 2.30pm. New members from anywhere in the district are always welcome, socome along and improve your gardening knowledge and enjoy a welcoming environment with like minded colleagues.
Useful contacts
Parish Clerk, Jean Sangster : 01760 440383 (only between 9:00am – 5:00pm Mon‐Fri)
Chairman Alan Ketteringham: Mobile: 07733 420588
A view from Green Farm
The time has come for another insight into all things agriculture, and as we have left some of the miserable weather behind things have started to pick up work wise on the farm. Having livestock means that even in the bleakest winter weather there is always work to be done, but the arable side takes a back step, that is until the weather turns and we get a modicum of warmth and a little more than a 10 minute window of warm sun!
Since the last piece I did for Ashlink, a fair bit has happened and wheels Have started moving. David Ketteringham’s sheep arrived in February and have done a fantastic job of clearing the stubble turnips, the benefits of grazing like this benefit a number of parties, the sheep have a free buffet available at all times and from the arable point of view it clears the land and is in some ways the first cultivation for the next crop. Both Cooper and Rex, the farm dogs, also have a few hundred extra friends to see every day as well, so it’s a win win all round!
The winter drilled crops all look good, and with the sun and warmer days in recent weeks they have started to think about growing again, so the nitrogen and sulphur fertiliser has been applied to the fields to give them a welcome boost, and they should now get going with a bit more vigour.
As I write the finishing touches to this, the spring drilling has also been completed, and Jake has been out over the weekend and rolled all the fields to maximise moisture retention and ensure there shouldn’t be too many boulders finding there way into the combine at harvest time!
We also have some of Fabian’s cattle here and a few have calved already, so it’s all coming along nicely, and the thing about springtime on the farm is that it’s a time of new life, the start of crops pushing on and the nights pulling out. It’s about hope, and trusting the process in the hope that all the hours, sweat and tears will once again be worth it in 4 or 5 months time.
One thing I’ve never understood with this job though, is the uncanny ability to get hurt while doing it, even the simplest of tasks like undoing a gate seem to result in a trapped finger, and only the other evening just as darkness fell I managed to make a terribly solid contact with an object so sturdy that the only substance in the world that’s harder is dried weetabix, in fact a wise man once said to me the only reason God gave us shins is so we can find the trailer drawbar in the dark, and I think he might well have been right!
Ashley Howell
Stop Press
At the point of going to press, DEFRA dropped the bombshell news that that are pulling the plug on SFI (the Sustainable Farming Incentive) effective immediately. They did this while giving the NFU just 30 minutes notice. What this effectively means is that no new applications to the SFI schemes will be processed, and any farms that haven’t entered into a scheme yet are now left in limbo of having to try and produce some of the highest quality produce in the world with some of the strictest regulations, but with no assistance to cover the cost of artificially cheap food, leaving some of them hardly viable going forward.
Farms already entered into a scheme will have the scheme honoured but it leaves uncertainty going forward after this. This is undoubtedly one of the most perilous times in the history of British agriculture, an industry that is being targeted from all angles at the moment.
British agriculture needs your support now more than it ever has, and I would urge everybody to contact their local MP to show their support for an industry that is vital to the country as a whole and especially in such a rural area as ours.
No farmers. No food. No future.
Yeah, this sheepdogging is a piece of cake
Ashill Community Centre Committee
Chair Keith Collins 01760 441196
Vice Chair Jean Sangster 01760 440383
Treasurer Cath Ready 075495 393619
Secretary Megan Colley 07724 849225
Lettings Officer
Anne Beckett 07768 350968
Parish Representative Andrea Binns 07597631821.
Village Services
Breckland Dog Training 07795 466007
Breckland Gundog training 07795 466007
Abbey Boilers Chris Field 01760 440364, 07469 762435
Ashill food and Wine Village store on Hale Road, open 7am to 8pm
White Hart Excellent hostelry, https://ashillwhitehart co uk/ 01760 622190
Angela O Sullivan Spruced up Stuff; Upcycling 07808 857763
Anna Yeomans Beauty treatments 07824 882 049 www.treatmentsbyanna.co.uk
Ashill Fruit Farm Fruit in season, apple juices, farm produce 01760 440 050Open Tuesday to Friday 9am to 4pm
Saturday 10am to 2pm Closed Sunday Monday
John Leggett Garden Services 01760 440733
Norfolk Arborist Tree Surgery 01760 724270, 07917 207781
J Dack Electrics Electrician ‐ 07739514060
Fitness Pilates Thursday mornings 10:30 ‐ 11:30am
Ashill Community Centre Linda on ‐ 07759 886777
Elizabeth Grace Jewellery. Sterling silver jewellery . Online store www.elizabethgracejewellery.store www.facebook.com Elizabethgracejewellery
Infinite Aesthetics non‐surgical aesthetic procedures to make you the best version of you! 0774 1270359 infiniteaesthetics@icloud.com
Peddars View Turkeys and Lamb. Whole or halves supplied to order . Prepared ready for the freezer Fresh from the farm in Ashill A Ketteringham Telephone 01953 885603. Mobile 0773 3420588
Farleigh Electrical Services. Fully qualified electrician based in Ashill. Fully insured and NICEIC registered. Contact Brian Dorton on 07944 161725.
Tanks Uk Limited 01953 889231 Supplier of water tanks , oil tanks, fuel tanks, bunded tanks Water bowsers
