2025-06

The Ashlink June July 2025

We might be friendly but read the advice from Steve inside on page 16 about managing our meetings. Photo by Steve Swallow The Editor's Bit A densely packed Ashlink this month! Despite my best efforts as editor there was still a huge amount to fit into this issue. Of special interest is the piece about West Raynham which will be of use to any village veterans. I will also give an early plug for the event we are hosting in the Community Centre in September – a fascinating evening with a real historian, all about Ashill.

As I write, the swifts are hunting in the sky so summer is definitely here at last. Summer brings many joys but we all still remember the awful events of July 2022 and give thanks that no lives were lost. Let us all hope this summer is memorable for the right reasons.

Finally, apologies for the tiny print in places ‐the only way I could fit it all in!

Useful contacts Parish Clerk, Jean Sangster : 01760 440383 (only between 9:00am – 5:00pm Mon‐Fri) Chairman Alan Ketteringham: Mobile: 07733 420588

I shall be taking part in the race for life at Houghton Hall on th 24th June 2025. We will be raising money for Cancer Research.

Thanks to progress in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment, over a million lives have been saved from cancer in the UK since the mid 1980s.

If you would like to sponsor me just give me a call on 440 150 Thankyou Ann Bunn

A big thank you and goodbye.

By now news that the village school will have a new Head teacher this September will have been heard by many. It is with sadness but a huge amount of gratefulness that we as a community say a fond farewell to Mr Creasey. With nearly 10 years at the helm of our wonderful village school, Mr Creasey has steered it through local and national challenges. An unprecedented pandemic leading to rapid and creative ways of schooling, then supporting the many families affected by the fire of 2022, he has brought a hugely supportive mindset to our village. By adopting an approachable and personal attitude, the school has been able to thrive and continue to be popular with families including from outside of Ashill.

With a guiding and nurturing spirit, he has ensured the very best for the children, parents and staff, he will be greatly missed.

However, on behalf of past and present parents and their children, we send him our very best wishes for the future and know that Ashill school will continue to prosper with his legacy an integral part of the future.

Louise Fenwick and the Ashlink Team

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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.

Next Ashlink Deadline ‐ 10th July 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!

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What's on at The Call In Find out more: Contaact Chair person Dee Bolton 01760 441 622

Where is The Call In? The Green, Hale Road IP25 7AT Next to the duck pond

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

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Double Culture Shock Almost ten years ago to the day, I was sitting on a plane with 300 strangers ‐ all anxiously awaiting clearance from the control tower at Heathrow Airport. My fledgling musical career had somewhat stalled, and I was suddenly seeking new possibilities overseas. Destination: South Korea.

Why had I been so hesitant to go? Undoubtedly. In truth, I’ll have to say it was mainly self‐doubt. I genuinely didn’t know if I’d be able to ‘cut it’ abroad. Holidays are fine ‐ I’d loved to travel, and had already visited Asia many times. But, living somewhere for a year, or longer… another thing entirely.

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My twin brother had already taken the plunge three years earlier. Frank was generally braver ‐ or at least, better at concealing his worries ‐ than me. He’d reassured: the country was beautiful, the people welcoming, and that I’d settle in no problem. We landed in Seoul a little ahead of schedule, and I managed to navigate my way to the super fast KTX train, which would take me near to the south coast, where my new boss, and a totally different life, were waiting.

On Saturday evening, Korean time, I was greeted at Ulsan station, then promptly bundled into a Hyundai and driven at speed to my new home ‐ a studio apartment in the city. It’s worth noting at this point: Korean people do nothing slowly. “See you Sunday!”, the school principal smiled, and shut the ultra‐tech front door. Well, there I was. I headed out to a nearby convenience store, and obtained some basic groceries.

I’d tried to learn a little Korean before departure, and in fairness, the character system [known as ‘Hangeul’] is not overbearing, if you’re prepared to invest some time. You can make visual associations with many of the symbols ‐. But still, nothing quite prepares you, as a Brit, for arriving in a country where you hardly encounter any English, and most nationals seem reluctant to converse in your native tongue.

Sunday comprised a 30‐minute tour of the school: rooms, routine, text books and so on. Monday, at 14:00 hours, I was thrown in at the deep end.

Sink or swim, right?

Well, to cut it short, I did swim, but only after many weeks of treading water! Without even noticing, one year rolled seamlessly into eight. I made new friends, found a vocation I truly loved, rescued my musical career, and crucially ‐ as all of you who’ve lived overseas will know ‐ had the opportunity to experience both new ways of doing things; and to see our home nation from a different perspective. I learned to communicate, albeit poorly, in a new language. I grew fond of foods that had stunned my palate on arrival. I discovered aspects of myself formerly unknown to me: in essence, that I was much more adaptable and resilient than I’d pre‐ supposed.

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Korea, nothing like Ashill!

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It was in music that the biggest change presented itself. Whilst UK based, the truth is I’d completely run out of compositional ideas. Suddenly, thanks to Korea I found a fresh seam of inspiration to mine. And I couldn’t put the keyboard down. Looking back on my catalogue of works, undoubtedly some of the better efforts come from this period. And, finally, a deal with a record label came knocking ‐ something I’d been working towards for more than a decade.

I’ve titled this article ‘double culture shock’, because the ferocity of adjusting to a host nation ‐ where almost everything is done in reverse ‐ is more than matched by the homecoming shock that hits, when those tyres touch back down in West London. Three months in, I was still bowing to people in the supermarket and on the street ‐ force of habit. I now miss Korean, rather than British, foods. I keep up with their news, as I had with our own whilst abroad. And, as I missed so many family events from the UK, I am now sadly missing friends’ celebrations overseas. One foot in, one foot out, maybe?

My family is originally from London. My mum and her husband have lived in Ashill for many years, and I now find myself fortunately a part of your community. It’s wonderful, both to belong to such a friendly village; and also, to be able to converse easily in one’s own language, after years of struggling to get by.

As we would say in Korea: [Fighting!!]

William Haviland William can be contacted via his website or the Editor.

Among other things, he teaches piano!. https://www.whaviland.com/ William with some of his students.

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Ashill Community Gardens The AGM was held in the Call In on Wed 23 April 2025. One member of the public attended. The committee was re‐elected unopposed.

It was agreed that we would get together in May for the summer planting of the barrels so by the time you are reading this that should be sorted.

If you wish to volunteer to help with watering and feeding the plants through the summer please contact Sue Cloud on 07880 508930 Ruth Day

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/

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St Nicholas Church Incumbent ‐ Revd Patrick Morrow 01760 330258.

Churchwardens – Wendy Peckham 01760 440952 Margaret Barker 01760 751771 ST NCHOLAS CHURCH SERVICESS IN JUNE AND JULY 1st June 9.30 a.m. Morning Worship 8th June 9.30 a.m. Morning Worship 15th June 9.30 a,m, Morning Worship 22nd June 9.30 a.m. Holy Communion 29th June Benefice Service‐Time and venue to be confirmed 6th July 9 .30 a.m. Morning Worsip 13th July 9.30 Morning Morning Worship 20th July 9.30 a.m. Morning Worship 27th July 9.30 a.m. Holy Communion.

OPEN GARDENS JULY 6th 12 Noon until 5 p.m.

We have eight gardens promised to open but we could do with a couple more so if anyone would like to offer to open their garden please phone Wendy on 01760 440952. The entry fee will be £5 per person to cover all the gardens . Ticket and map will be available before the day, at the church on the day and at all participating gardens We will hold a meeting to finalise arrangements in mid June.

This was a great success when we did it in 2023 so hopefully it will be as good t this year, There will be Refreshments at the church All proceeds will go to the St Nicholas Church Roof Appeal.

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Sumer is icumen in, lhude sing cuccu!

Do you know the medieval round that begins thus? If you don’t, look it up now. It will put you in a summer‐loving mood. It says: “Summer has come in; loudly sing cuckoo”. I’m so pleased that God, or circumstance, or maybe both together, have placed me back in a rural setting, where the seasons really mean something, mean everything.

The truth is that there isn’t really a wholly natural way of dividing up the year. Other cultures regularly have 13 months, and yet others have five or more seasons. But we know what an English summer is (Norfolk really isn’t that different from my native Yorkshire, though it is less foggy).

I’ve long learned that to have expectations that summer will be consistently hot and sunny are wasted (after 1976). And that is fine. What summer is, is the time when we can really relish nature, and growth, and fertility, and colour.

At least that is what summer should be. One thing I noticed last summer was how few butterflies I saw. (I mean in Norfolk, where I then worked, and Suffolk, where I lived). As a child, I was surrounded by them in the summer months. And this isn’t nostalgia. I admit I was a bit of a geek. I did log how many Cabbage Whites, Red Admirals, Peacocks, etc, I had seen.

But I’d have struggled to trouble my pencil this last summer.

The reasons for this are doubtless complex and involved. I am not going to get on my – or any ‐ high horse. But something is amiss. And I need to learn from you what you have already thought about this.

That’s a serious discussion, but not one that stops us from rejoicing that sumer is icumen in!

Please note that there is a special Ashill Group service at St Peter’s, Merton, at 9.30, on 29 June, which is happily the Feast of St Peter. You are invited.

Patrick Morrow

Cooper, the footballing dog from Green Farm.

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THE CALL IN PHOTOGRAPHIC CLUB ASHILL (“CIPCA”) Did you know the village has a small but thriving photographic club? If you’ve got any interest in photography and want to meet fellow enthusiasts, why not come along and join in? We have members at all skill levels from beginner to advanced and with cameras ranging from vintage to modern. The emphasis, though, is on the pictures we make and on beginner to intermediate photographers.

CIPCA was founded in February 2024 by Ray Hucklesby. A keen amateur photographer who wanted to improve his own skills and also meet other hobbyists and learn with them, he reached out to local professional wildlife photographer / cameraman Josh Jaggard and fellow enthusiast Roy Simpson. They were all aware that camera clubs can be seen as daunting places where techie wizards with whiz‐bang kit and all the jargon rather dominate proceedings while those with more humble skills and equipment are left to feel like outsiders.

So the brief was: how do we create a local, friendly club with an emphasis on beginners and intermediates; with a focus on learning and improving skills; and make each meeting a sociable evening out? After visiting a couple of clubs in Norfolk to get an idea of their programme of events and how they were run, they started to plan a “camera club with a difference”: There would be a stronger emphasis on ‘meet and mingle’ than in other clubs that were more ‘business‐like.’

Meetings would be fortnightly with a break over summer and a shorter one at Christmas, times when people were more likely to be away.

Events would be a mix of practical learning, trips to local venues, competitions and outside speakers.

The venue would be The Call In, which fosters a more intimate and collegiate atmosphere.

As ideas were mooted for an initial programme, the next questions was: “How many people – if any ‐ would be interested in joining?” A post on the village Facebook page yielded an encouraging number of expressions of

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interest so the programme was firmed up and The Call In booked. Then, on February 7th, 2024 CIPCA held its first meeting. Since then, the club has thrived and we have had a variety of events: Seminars where our resident professional Josh or keen local photographer Mark Foscoe have talked about various photographic subjects from setting up your camera to the use of filters to choosing editing software to composition techniques.

Outside speakers on subjects from the history of photography to landscape photography to studio lighting and portraiture.

Practical sessions at The Call In where we’ve brought our cameras along to do macro, night, ghost and various other types of picture.

Evenings out with our cameras walking around the village and local area.

And of course some competitions … but with a difference.

Firstly, we give members a competition subject and ask them to take photos for the competition; they can dip into their own photo library if they prefer but the idea is to get each other out there making pictures.

Secondly, whilst we have had one external judge, our competitions are generally decided by popular vote from the members ‐ who are trusted not to vote for their own pictures! Then we invite the winners, and any other entrant who wants to, to talk about the photo: how and why and where it was taken.

The club in now well‐established and always happy to welcome new members. The costs are very modest: the first meeting is free, to see if you think it’s for you, and then there’s a £10 annual subscription and a £4 charge for each meeting you attend to cover hall hire, tea and biscuits and the cost of external speakers. If all this sounds like it’s something you’d enjoy, come along and give it a try. We meet fortnightly and are always keen to welcome fellow hobbyists. Alternatively, you can contact CIPCA organiser Ray on raydee100@googlemail.com or 07808‐922171 for more details.

Mark Foscoe

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Report from the Book Club: Fact or Fiction?

When asked what they thought a book club was like, people came up with a variety of comments, such as: ‘I don’t have time to read’ ‘I’ll be made to read books I don’t like’ ‘It will put me off reading because I know I’ll have to talk about it afterwards’ ‘I’m not clever enough to discuss themes or characters – what does ‘genre’ mean anyway?’

These people all had one thing in common – they have never been to the Ashill Book Club!

The fact is that Ashill Book Club exists to encourage people to enjoy reading. That is it. No hidden agenda. No qualifications needed. No condemnation if your opinion differs from others. The type of comments you are most likely to actually hear in a monthly meeting include: ‘I so loved that book. It made me laugh out loud. Pass the wine’ ‘I don’t have time. Can we use the next meeting to just sit and read? Coffee?

‘Couldn’t stand that book so gave up at page 3. Where are the chocolate eclairs?’

‘You mean I can read any book I like? Not a set book? Great.

Cheese and biscuits anyone?

If you would like to join in the fun, food and fits of laughter, we meet once a month at the Call‐In. Email for more information.

And you don’t even have to come to the meetings to join in. Here are some of our suggestions to get you reading along at home this month: The Second Sleep by Robert Harris is a Sunday Times Bestseller. It appears to be a 15th century account of a priest’s burial but turns out to be far more intriguing than first appears.

Whale Fall, a debut novel by Elizabeth O'Connor. Set on a small island off Wales in 1938. A whale is washed ashore and dies, attracts the interest of two anthropologists from the main land.

Or select your own books from authors Elizabeth Strout, Elizabeth Berg and Anne Tyler Let us know what you thought of these or if you would like to recommend other books to the village.

Email terryanneuk@gmail.com

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"He's Friendly!" – Why Good Intentions Aren't Always Enough in Our Village We're fortunate here in Ashill to have lovely green spaces and footpaths where we can enjoy the outdoors. Many of us share these spaces with our beloved canine companions, and seeing dogs enjoying a good run is often a cheerful sight.

However, many of us have also experienced this scenario: you're enjoying a quiet walk, perhaps with your own dog on a lead, or maybe with young children, or simply appreciating the peace, when suddenly an unfamiliar dog bounds towards you, its owner some distance behind, often calling out, "Don't worry, he's friendly!"

While the sentiment is usually well‐intentioned, this phrase often masks an underlying issue: a lack of reliable recall. And unfortunately, even the friendliest dog approaching uncontrolled can cause problems.

Why "Friendly" Isn't the Only Factor The issue isn't usually the approaching dog's temperament, but the lack of control. When a dog ignores its owner's calls and rushes up to others, it fails to respect their space and situation. Consider these points: Not Everyone Loves Dogs: Some people are genuinely fearful of dogs (cynophobia), perhaps due to past experiences. An off‐lead dog rushing towards them, however friendly, can be terrifying.

The Other Dog's Situation: The dog being approached might be nervous, reactive, elderly, unwell, in training, or recovering from surgery. Being unexpectedly bounced upon by even a friendly dog can cause stress, setbacks in training, or even physical injury. Owners keep their dogs on leads for many valid reasons.

Small Children or Frail Adults: An enthusiastic, bouncy dog can easily knock over a small child or someone less steady on their feet, even with no malice intended.

Training in Progress: Many owners are working hard on their own dog's training – perhaps teaching them not to jump up or to remain calm around other dogs. An uncontrolled approach can undo patient work in seconds.

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Safety Risks for the "Friendly" Dog: A dog with poor recall might run onto a road, towards unseen hazards, or approach a less‐than‐friendly dog, risking its own safety.

Recall is Key to Responsible Ownership Having a dog that comes back reliably when called is one of the cornerstones of responsible dog ownership. It's not just about obedience; it's about safety and respect for our community. A dog reliably under control, even if off‐lead where appropriate, is a dog whose owner can prevent unwanted interactions.

Saying "he's friendly" can sometimes feel like an excuse for not having put in the necessary training time to ensure the dog will return immediately when called, regardless of distractions.

Living Harmoniously in Ashill Most dog owners want to do the right thing. Ensuring our dogs don't invade the space of others – people or pets – unless invited is crucial for maintaining harmony in our shared village spaces.

Practice Recall: If your dog's recall isn't 100% reliable, keep practicing in safe areas. Use high‐value rewards!Use a Lead: In areas where you might encounter others unexpectedly, or if your recall isn't bombproof, using a lead (or a long training line) is the responsible choice. It keeps everyone safe and comfortable.

Be Aware: Look ahead, see who is around, and call your dog back before it gets too close to others.

Let's work together to ensure Ashill remains a place where everyone – dog lovers, those wary of dogs, families, and individuals – feels safe and comfortable enjoying our beautiful surroundings. It comes down to respect, control, and understanding that while our dog might be friendly, the situation might not welcome an uncontrolled approach.

Steve Swallow 17

The Ashill Night Sky I will this month go through all the types of object we see in the sky that are not either stars or planets.

Meteorites and Meteors Meteorites are small bits of matter that come into our atmosphere at very high speeds, Kilometres per Second usually. They burn up in the atmosphere leaving bright trails in the sky.

Showers of meteorites occur at particular times of the year, these are small particles that have been boiled off comets by the Sun as the comets orbit around it.

Meteors are larger lumps of stuff which enter the atmosphere and actually reach the ground. They can be small pieces of rock up to giant lumps like the one that wiped out the dinosaurs. Some big ones are probably asteroids that have been nudged out of their orbits by a planet (see below).

Comets Are icy bodies that release gases and small particles as they orbit and go close the Sun. this results in a coma (temporary atmosphere) around the comet. There are two trails that are produced as the comet nears the Sun: The ion tail, this tail always points away from the Sun as it consists of gas that is ionised and interacts with the solar wind.

The dust tail, this is dust particles which form a white band which points approximately away from the Sun but not exactly.

Short period comets originate in general from the Kuiper Belt, that is an area outside the orbit of Neptune that contains a lot of rocks and some dwarf planets.

Long period comets come from the Oort Cloud, a cloud of objects that surround the solar system from 0.03 to 3.2 light years from the Sun in a giant sphere. This is at the boundary between the Solar System and interstellar space.

Asteroids An asteroid is a naturally occurring, irregularly shaped object, much smaller than a planet or dwarf planet, that orbits the Sun. They orbit along or inside the orbit of Jupiter.

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Orion

Andromeda

Albert has access to a good telescope as these pictures demonstrate! Ed.

The Moon!

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An asteroid that had been gravitationally shifted out of its orbit is thought to have caused the dinosaurs to go extinct.

There about one million known asteroids, the vast majority orbit between Jupiter and Mars and have stayed there since the formation of the solar system.

Minor Planets When objects get to a certain size they can form roughly spherical form due to their own gravity, but can’t clear their own paths of other matter.

Pluto is such a dwarf planet, as is Ceres in the asteroid belt. One of the furthest dwarf planets is Gonggong which is in the Kuiper belt (see Comets above).

Albert Day

More on this topic from Albert next issue. Ed Strolling into Summer Leaving the spring months behind, we will mostly remember them for being dry ones, minimal rain leading to a less vibrant green then we usually see. The grass in places has struggled to maintain a lushness, instead there are yellow patches appearing as water reserves in the soil are depleted. So, we look forward to June and July with some apprehension as to whether our climate will continue to produce less water or the opposite will occur, a deluge of rain to interrupt the summer sports such as cricket, tennis and our long‐awaited BBQ’s.

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Regardless of the weather we have a variety of wonders in nature to look forward to, one being the lighter evenings. During the summer months our sunsets can create an ethereal display of sultry, warming colours. As we observe the summer solstice on June 21st (our longest day) deep rich colours fill the sky, an ombre of shades merging with the night sky. These moments remind us of the beauty our sun has and it’s this that many believe the solstice is important for, a time in our year when we see nature in abundance, and we seek nourishment and energy. Indeed, the extended daylight has several benefits for us including enhancing our moods and giving our energy levels a boost. Ancient beliefs celebrated the festival Litha during this time, recognising the life‐giving sun and giving thanks for the energy it poured over the earth, allowing the cycle of growth to accelerate.

After the solstice our connection with nature continues to deepen. The spring months had a busyness about them as the land around us was prepped and laid with crops, now the summer months are about patience.

Understanding our environment and waiting for the richness of food means we are rewarded with harvests which continue into the Autumn. These first summer months offer us a chance to embrace and envelop ourselves in the energising warmth and light, taking onboard the changes in our natural word.

We are offered the chance to note many special signs of summer in our village, from the show of leaves on the trees on our green to the fields around us presenting crops of varying foods. Some of the signs of summer we can look for include a kaleidoscope of flowers, in peoples’ gardens to our wildflowers too. Look out for poppies, daisies, foxgloves, geraniums, roses and the beautifully scented honeysuckle.

Animals are now making the most of the warmer weather and availability of food. These months brings a crash course in flying for fledgling birds.

They are testing their flying skills during the late spring and early summer months and it can prove to be a precarious time for many. The RSPB has advice on what to do if you find one on the ground. Swifts and Swallows should have arrived by May and so the summer is when they are raising their chicks. You may see Swifts flying high in the sky, as they search for small invertebrates to eat and to feed to their chicks. Swallows zoom

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around buildings at roof level, dipping under our eves to raise their brood.

Our village has the wonderful common with biodiversity on the doorstep.

Where you can see a variety of insects, butterflies, dragonflies, grasshoppers and ladybirds and many more as they become more active.

A critical ecosystem for the bird population and for us as we need the pollinators for our crops. June is the birthing season for bats, so in the warm summer months they’re busy hunting for insects to provide food for their family. A summer evening is a great time to spot bats as they dart and swoop through the air.

The next couple of summer months can be a time to savour the hard work of spring and take a moment to enjoy natures summer spectacle. Our village is a perfect place to enjoy this show. So, let us take a moment to sit back and appreciate natures beauty.

Louise Fenwick Ashill, Holme Hale & District Garden Club ENGLISH PEONIES At our April meeting Sarah Hammond gave an informative presentation on English Peonies based on her decades of experience commercially growing them in North Norfolk. Sarah’s grandmother first started growing English peonies at their flower farm near North Walsham some 50 years ago and the family still run a flourishing business growing and selling peonies today.

Sarah started her presentation with a little history on peonies, which got a first mention in medicinal texts of late medieval times. The first mention from a garden perspective was planting of peonies at Kew Gardens in the 1870’s. Sarah then moved onto the practical aspects of growing peonies.

They are best planted in the autumn and should not be planted too deep.

You can get early, mid and late flowering varieties of peonies. One branch of the peony family is tree peonies, which are very hardy and can live over a 100 years, with some great examples at Hatfield House. Another branch of the peony family are the intersectional peonies, also known as Itoh peonies, which are a hybrid created by crossing tree and herbaceous

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peonies. They combine the best features of both types, offering large fragrant flowers with up to 50 blooms that are long lasting and have a robust, bushy growth habit. However, the downside is that they are expensive to purchase.

Herbaceous peonies come in a vast range of colours and can be single or double blooms. Once the plant has flowered the heads should be taken off.

They need feeding before and during flowering, liquid seaweed being a good option. Additional fertiliser in spring and autumn will keep the plants in good health, although it is the potash in the fertiliser that is essential.

The tuber is the food storage for the plant, not the roots. The main diseases that peonies are susceptible to are Peony botrytis and mosaic leaf virus, the latter indicating a magnesium deficiency.

Sarah finished her presentation with a list of suppliers of quality peonies, which include Riverside bulbs, Kelways Plants and Claire Austin. An informative Q&A finished off a colourful afternoon.

Upcoming Events Our June meeting (26th) has weatherman Chris Bell talking about ‘Climate Change and its effects on our garden’. On Sunday June 29th the Club holds its Annual Flower Show, which is open to public from 2.00pm to 4.30pm, with refreshments available.

Swaffham U3A Gets a new Chair Press Release Jan Hayes‐Griffin was unanimously voted in as the new Chair on May 1st at the AGM of Swaffham & District u3a. Jan steps into the shoes of David Moncaster, the outgoing Chair, who was forced to retire due to ill health. Pam, Vice‐Chair, presented a beautiful bouquet to his wife, Sue, to wholehearted applause as a token of thanks and appreciation for his hard work.

Planning the Future Jan will bring her skills as a former Town Planner and strategist to the role.

“I am looking forward to promoting our vibrant u3a and continuing to expand our membership to the residents of Swaffham and surrounding

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villages,” Jan informed the membership. “It’s vital for people in their later years to keep their minds and bodies active”, she added. Jan also thanked Vice Chair Pam Rutty for her role as Acting Chair since January. Pam will continue to work as Vice Chair.

Going for Gold After the AGM, Adam Woolcott and Jon Smith who are multiple Gold Medal Chelsea Flower Show winners entertained us with their memories of entering and winning. Adam recounted their meetings with royalty and well‐known personalities in a very entertaining and humorous way putting a light‐hearted spin on all the hard work that went on behind the scenes.

Adam presented several inspiring pictures of the award‐winning gardens, which emphasised native planting and sustainability.

It's Showtime!

Swaffham & District u3a’s next monthly meeting on the 5th June, will showcase the achievements of a sample of the 30+ Interest Groups on offer. “This will be a great opportunity for our Groups to demonstrate their particular interest and offering to our members. As well as display stands, there will be a demonstration of Line Dancing, Poetry Reading, Music Appreciation and Script Reading. This will be open to anyone who may be interested in learning more about our u3a, so please think about coming along to Holme Hale Village Hall 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 and over 20 special interest groups. Further details on all the activities covered by Swaffham & District u3a are available on our website

www.swaffham.u3asite.uk There are no formal qualifications or exams to pass and there is no age limit to join U3A; the only criterion to join is that you are no longer in full­time employment or raising a family (you are in the third stage of your life) and have the time to take part in the activities and learning on offer.

What is the u3a?

The U3A Movement brings together people in their Third Age to continue

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their educational, social and creative interests in a friendly and informal environment.

Members of each U3A draw upon their knowledge and experience to teach and learn from each other (peer to peer learning).

There are no formal qualifications or exams to pass and there is no age limit to join U3A; the only criterion to join is that you are no longer in full‐ time employment or raising a family (you are in the third stage of your life) and have the time to take part in the activities and learning on offer.

Parish Council Meeting 25th MARCH 2025 in the Community Centre at 7.00pm.

In attendance: Mr A Ketteringham (AK) Chair, Mrs A Binns (AB), Mr A Howell (AH), Mr K.Kissiedu (KK), Mr J Leggett(JLg), Mrs J Lusher (JL), Mrs A Shepherd (AS), Mr A Thomas (AT), Clerk Jean Sangster, County/District Councillor, Mr F Eagle & 7 Members of Public.

No apologies for absence had been received.

Declaration of Interests – It was agreed to grant Mr A Howell a further six month Dispensation from 1st February 2025.

The Minutes of the Meeting held on 25.02.25 had been circulated and were passed as a correct record and signed.

OPEN TO PUBLIC – Potholes in Hale Road still not repaired.

REPORT FROM DISTRICT/ COUNTY COUNCILLOR FE arrived later due to other commitments.

MEETING CONTINUED Matters arising from last meeting Highways – Replies re reported problems but to inform that Hale Road still needs attention especially at Uphall entrance. Also to report pothole outside Fir Tree Cottage Watton Road.

Dog Waste Bin – Now awaiting to be moved. The Waste Bin in Ch.St has been repaired.

Play Equipment – Monthly check carried out. All equipment requires cleaning and this will be carried out in near future.It was reported that broken glass has been found on the MUGA and camera will be checked.

Quote received from HAGS for replacement Dome following damage to this. The quote of £1204‐00 was considered to be too high and JLg will see if possible to do straight swap with the chalk board.

ZIP‐WIRE – On checking with suppliers, Clerk found that they had lost our order submitted at end January but gave apologies and will do their best to supply within next 3 ‐4 weeks.

Moving of remembrance seats to further up field has been confirmed as ok. Clerk to now

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book Annual Inspection.

Playing Field – The damaged tree at top of field has been removed and AK to obtain quote for inspecting all trees.

Football Club–Clerk has checked with Insurance over the nets being left on goals and they have advised that this is responsibility of Shipdham Club.

Community Centre CCTV – The Members confirmed that AB remain as representative on Comm. Centre Committee. AGM to be held on 22nd April.

Footpaths – Notification of new sign now in place.

Police –Next SNAP meeting will be at Ashill on 8th April in Comm. Centre. Poster to be displayed re thefts from Allotments.

Speedwatch – No update this month.

Allotments – These are in a terrible state and one couple who took on a plot have already given this up. Inspect in Jun/July.

High Grove Solar Farm – The meeting held on 18th March was well attended and information given by Mr Mark Aitken was most helpful. From this it was proposed a group be formed as a working party for the Council. This was agreed by all and they will report back at each meeting..

Meeting with Terry Jermy MP – This has been confirmed for him to attend the Annual Parish Meeting on 15th April at 7.00pm.

LGR‐Devolution Consultation – Breckland has advised that their preference is for 3 Unitary Authorities under the reformed Government Strategy and members to reply to consultation with their views.

Parcel Collection Unit – Resident confirmed that this has now been resolved.

VE & VJ Day Events – The Church is holding a display in May and Archive Group have event in August Wayland Partnership Meeting‐ AS reported that all Parishes are concerned about the Solar proposals. The Men’s Shed and Memory Café are now very well supported.

The CAB are now going to use Wayland House once a week.

Request for usual donations from the Parishes and volunteers needed.

AS to request that our village events are publicised by them.

CORRESPONDENCE NorfolkALC and Healthwatch Norfolk ‐ Newsletters circulated.

NorfolkALC – Notification of Annual Subscription to be paid in new Financial Year.

Gallagher – Insurance Renewal Questionnaire to be completed.

Fir Park Resident – Information re 25 Fir Park. This is now a private residence and not a HMO. PLANNING APPLICATIONS

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PL/2025/0250/HOU – Glebe Cottage Church Street returned with no objections. (Listed Building).

FINANCE ‐ ACCOUNTS To be PAID Direct Debit 27 th MAR. SSE for Power supply – Dec.Jan.Feb £1303‐54.

The following accounts were passed for payment proposed by JL seconded by AT :‐ K & M Lighting Street Light maintenance Mar. £120‐50 Mrs J Pickard Play Field Warden Mar.) Jean Sangster Clerks Salary + 14hrs Undisclosed Expenses Mar. £117‐67 HMRC PAYE Jan.Feb.Mar. £1016‐59 M P Dennis & Sons Hedge Cutting in Parish £543‐00 Broke Brothers Farmers Grant Permissive Path £291‐34 The Current A/C and Business Savings A/C statements circulated and confirmed.

OPEN TO PUBLIC – Concerns re posters being displayed in bus shelters. AT to arrange for bus shelters and notice boards to be cleaned.

It was suggested that a membrane be put down on the un‐let allotment plots.

AT this point FE arrived and gave information about Devolution and LGR. NCC is going with the 1 tier but Breckland would prefer 3. He stated that it is too early to say what the right thing for residents will be. He has concerns that if we become part of K/L Unitary car parking fees will have to be imposed asthey already exist in K/L Borough Council.

He informed that potholes will be filled and hoped that these would be done properly in the first place to prevent future work. He is concerned about the link road from Nth Pickenham to A47 especially as more units are proposed on airfield. He asked that he be kept informed of any problems.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS The gate to Common is in need of replacing and still work to be done to Swift Tower. Both to be followed up by Trustees.

AK advised that there are problems with AW in Churchyard in that a disused pipe cannot be removed and burials cannot be carried out on much of the additional site. This is to be investigated further but PC should be aware that a further area of land may have to be purchased in the future AK had been asked if the newly formed Pickleball Club could mark out an area on the tennis court or MUGA. It was agreed that the tennis court should not be restricted as used most of the summer but they could look at marking out the MUGA but must realise that it cannot be booked.

THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – This is arranged for Tuesday 15th April 2025..

EXCLUSION OF PRESS & PUBLIC

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The following resolution was agreed and passed :‐ “That under Section 100(A) (4) of Local Government Act 1972, the Press & Public be excluded from the meeting for the following item of business on Grounds that it includes the likely disclosure of confidential information”.

To Discuss ‐ ALLOTMENTS. Meeting closed at 8.55pm The Annual Parish Meeting for the Parish of Ashill was held on Tuesday 15th APRIL 2025 Mr A Ketteringham was in the Chair with 8 members of the Council, the Clerk Jean Sangster, 41 members of the public & District/County Councillor Mr F Eagle in attendance Apologies for absence were received from Mr T Hinds & Mr K Collins. Before the meeting commenced the Chair requested that everyone stand in silence as a tribute to Mrs Marilyn Helsby who sadly passed away at the weekend. This meeting also attended by Mr Terry Jermy MP who took questions from the Public. These were mainly regarding the proposed Solar farm and Mr Jermy expressed his concern about the amount of land that this is going to be taken out of agriculture. Many concerns were raised by the group that has been formed called HOG. Mr Jermy informed that a meeting has been arranged with Mr George Freeman MP at Bradenham on the 26th April to which PC members will be invited as a Steering Group has been formed for his area. The next consultation period with RWE begins on 24th April to 12th June and the Community Centre has been booked by them for consultation on 10th May between 9.00am and 4.00pm. Other matters that were discussed were the Call‐for Sites

by Breckland Council which ends 28th April. Many felt that before development commences the infrastructure should be in place and Mr Jermy also felt that there should be better Social Care and would welcome views from residents for safeguards.

The minutes of the last Annual Parish Meeting held on 9 th April 2024 were taken as read, passed and signed as a correct record MATTERS ARISING HIGHWAYS – We have had better contact over the last year and most drains and gulleys have received attention. Installation of the gates at entrances to village has been carried out. The problem with overgrown hedges and trees on boundary of Woodlands has now been handed over to Highways and residents will receive letters informing them of their responsibilities. PLAY EQUIPMENT – Monthly Inspections are still carried out by Councillors and repairs done by volunteers from the Council and the whole site has been kept in an exceptional condition thanks to the Warden Mrs J Pickard. The problem with moles was overcome by Mr Wade who was thanked. The new Zip‐Wire is now in place. The Council have paid for this from reserves.

SPEEDWATCH SCHEME – Mr Street has continued as co‐ordinator and reported that he now has 10 members. The Chair thanked Mr Street and his team for all their hard work.

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COMMUNITY CENTRE – Vice‐Chair gave the report informing that the Centre is running well and the Committee has done well with fund raising throughout the year with a successful Fete and Dog Show last September. Also the Christmas Fair and Bingo had given a boost to funds. New replacements lights have been installed and a new sound system purchased.

With the help from Parish Council the Hall and playing field is covered by CCTV. She advised that continued fund raising is vital for the upkeep of the hall with the need for increased insulation above the Upton Room and small hall and several minor repairs. The AGM is to be held on 22nd April and she thanked the Committee for their support and assistance throughout the year.

RECYCLING BANKS AT COMMUNITY CENTRE – Income obtained from these for the year 2024‐2024 was £616‐95 It was requested that Parishioners continue to use these recycling banks rather than their own bins.

FOOTPATHS – Report from Warden that all in good condition and all waymarkers and signs are in place. Still awaiting the handrail across bridge at top of Community Centre path.

Thanks expressed to Mr Thomas.

ALLOTMENTS – This was presented later by Chair. ASHILL ESTATE – Also presented later.

ASHLINK – Mr Glen Franklin had taken over the running of this with a very supportive team.

They have now reintroduced some advertising of local businesses and have a fundraising evening in September to assist funds. He presented the accounts for the year . He requested that a deputy editor would be helpful. The Chair thanked Mr Franklin and his team.

SHIPDHAM FOOTBALL TEAM – It was reported that the Ashill Football team had moved away during the last year and that under15’s teams have been playing at Ashill. The Chairman, Mr Danny Baxter, was in attendance and advised that they hope to bring an under 16’s team to Ashill for next season and would be training on a Tuesday and Friday. He also hoped to have different sized pitches and additional goals which prompted the PC Chair to advise that a compound would be needed to keep them in as there had been problems already with the present goals. Mr Ketteringham said that there had been a lack of communication from the Club and it was felt that a meeting was necessary to iron out some things with the Community Centre, PC and themselves and this will be arranged.

GAS MAIN – Mrs Lusher reported that there is a high pressure main running through the village and that there are plans for the future for replacing this in the centre of road but this could be some time.

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT – Mr Ketteringham gave his report on behalf of the Council. He stated the Council has been working very hard for the residents and many things have been achieved in last year. Mr Jonathan Pearson decided to stand down from the Council and Alan thanked him for his valued input. Mr Kwadwo Kissiedu was co‐opted in his place.

Following the completion of the Emergency Plan, the Fire Service requested that a copy of

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this is kept in locked box at Community Centre to enable prompt access to contacts and this has been done. He said it was pleasing to see that Victory Housing is rebuilding the fire damaged houses in Edward Close. The Local Plan is in the process of being compiled following Government changes to the Planning Regulations and we welcomed a visit with Mr Simon Wood Head of Planning and Sam Chapman‐Allen, Breckland Chairman. They explained that the village would be expected to accommodate an increase in development and there is a Call for Sites at the present time for land owners to submit areas they would like to include for development. This closes at end of April . By far the biggest effect on the village will be the proposed Solar Farm which covers not only our Parish but a large area of other local towns and Parishes. Having had a voluntary consultation last Autumn we are now at the stage on Statutory Consultation. There is now a Working Party who are working along side the Council who are fact finding, connecting with other local groups and Parishes and attending meetings.

He went on to thank all those people who give their time to the village and help with clearing litter, repairs and come forward to help when needed. He wished to thank his fellow Councillors for their support and as always the Clerk who gives the village undivided attention at all times.

REPORT FROM DISTRICT/COUNTY COUNCILLOR – Mr Eagle gave details of the finances of Norfolk County Council and stated that Norfolk would be a priority area for Devolution under the new Government Reform which could result in a Unitary Authority across Norfolk.

Norfolk is set to receive the highest Highway maintenance allocation in the region and this will mean major investment in the year ahead. He said that Norfolk County Council had committed to keep people warm schemes through the Household Support Fund joining with AGE UK and Citizens Advice Bureau. He also reported that the Council is supporting Family Farms, upgrading street lighting and helping people with long‐term health issues to keep working. He was pleased to report that the additional cuts to dangerous junctions which had been funded previously for this division from his allocation, has now been adopted across the County. He feels very privileged to be dedicated to this area that he grew up in. (full report attached) The Chair thanked him for his attendance at our monthly meetings and the help that he has given the Parish.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH SCHEME Mr Hinds was unable to attend but had sent in brief report stating that there had been very little to display as information arrived too late and he felt the system has failed. However he will still post anything significant. Thanks expressed for his work.

TREE WARDEN Mr Roy Simpson has carried out regular inspections and all appear to be very healthy. Three trees on Woodlands had been brought down in storm in December and a further tree was removed as trunk split. All had TPO’s. The Chair thanked him for his help.

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TRUSTEES REPORT Mr Leighton as Chairperson of Trustees presented his report stating that they were pleased to welcome the Reverend Patrick Morrow who joins the trust as an ex officio member. The Common continues to be entered into a mid‐tier stewardship for grazing. However the money received gets less and less so new schemes will need to be looked into. He thanked Mr & Mrs Sherwood for monitoring the condition and keeping Trustees informed of any problems. The village green is now a safe area to enjoy following tree work and he thanked Mrs Peckham for keeping it clean and tidy. A new 21 year Lease has been drawn up and signed with AVA for the Call‐In. Some families had fallen on hard times but was pleased that the Trust was able to assist as this is main reason the Charity was set up to help the poor of the village. Finally he thanked his fellow Trustees for their continued support and special thanks to Mrs Seager the Clerk for all her dedicated work for the Charity.

THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE ASHILL WELFARE CHARITY TRUSTEES for year ending 31st March 2025 were then presented by Mrs Seager showing a balance of £35420‐66 noting that these are yet to be audited. These were adopted proposed by Mr J Leggett seconded by Mrs D Rix. THE ACCOUNTS FOR ASHILL PARISH COUNCIL for year ending 31st March 2025 were presented by the Clerk/Financial Officer Jean Sangster showing a balance of £356682‐17 noting that these accounts had not yet been audited. These Accounts were then adopted proposed by Rev Morrow seconded by Mrs S Whinnett. LGR & DEVOLUTION Breckland is in favour of a 2/3 tier split across Norfolk but NCC has submitted that they prefer a 1 tier across whole Norfolk.

SOLAR ACTION GROUP A fact sheet is being compiled and the next meeting of the Group is 1st May. Mrs Racher asked that people sign petition and also send letters to MP. RWE has booked Ashill Community Centre on 10th May between 9.00am and 4.00pm for consultation with public. The Group is hoping to take part in National Community Walk on 8th June and details will follow in Ashlink and Facebook.

ALLOTMENT SITE AND REPLACEMENT SITE Mr Ketteringham explained what had been happening and why the Council had held meetings in ‘camera’. At the present time NCC are not happy to sell the Parish Council the land known as Ashill Estate to south of Community Centre but there is the possibility of moving the small plots onto this site to secure tenancy of the land. There is also the possibility of another piece of land being offered but no details are available at present.

The School Piece site is included the Call for Sites at present but we are duty bound to provide allotments and burial ground.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS There were no further matters to discuss.

Full Parish Minutes can be found at: https://ashillparishcouncil.norfolkparishes.gov.uk/

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Ashill School Report Outdoor Learning In recent years, we’ve been embracing the opportunity to learn more outdoors, giving children greater opportunities to be creative, curious and even courageous at times. As you may have seen in Ashlink a few months ago, Louise Fenwick is our Forest School lead and she has been working with children every Friday since September for their forest school sessions and the children have loved it. From mud kitchens and cooking, to exploring nature and den building, it’s been a great experience for them.

In early May, we took our Year 3 and 4 children to Eaton Vale in Norwich, for a two‐day, overnight residential. This is the second year we have provided this for our 7‐9 year olds, giving many their first taste of sleeping overnight away from home but equally enjoying lots of outdoor activities.

A farewell This summer term will be my final term as headteacher here at Ashill Primary School. Having started as a Senior Teacher of Year 5/6 back in April 2013, I took on the headteacher role in September 2015 (coming up to ten years ago now), following in the footsteps of my predecessor Kelly Scott.

We’ve naturally built upon the legacy of Kelly, and previous headteachers, over the past ten years to ensure the school continues to provide the children of Ashill and surrounding villages with the quality of education they deserve. It’s been a pleasure and an honour to be part of the school’s journey and I will take away many incredibly happy memories of my time leading the school. I would naturally like to thank you all, as part of the Ashill community, for your part in working with us or supporting us over the last ten years and I will miss my catch‐up conversations at the school gate

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with many of you who pass in the mornings and afternoons.

The process of finding a new headteacher for the school is well under way and hopefully we’ll be able to share some news with you in the next Ashlink magazine.

With sincere gratitude and best wishes, Steve Creasey Headteacher A view from the Farm It’s a warm welcome to this months piece, and none more so than the weather! Spring has certainly taken up the baton fully now, with blossoms out on all the fruit trees and ducklings swarming the farm like a small invasion! We have the daily commute around the farm of the duck world, it seems like the majority of the village population have taken to using the pit next to the farm yard as a hotel for a peaceful nights sleep before waddling off into the village for the days adventures They’re lovely to see and we don’t even begrudge them eating the cattle feed as a buffet breakfast on their way out! Premier Inn have got nothing on us here at Green Farm.

The warm weather is nice, the sun is crucial for ripening crops, but one of the most crucial thing that we are seriously lacking now, is water. We are in desperate need of rain, and I know what you’re all thinking, typical farmer is never happy with the weather, and ordinarily I would agree with you, we do love to moan about the weather! But on this occasion it really is desperately needed, the barley crops are already out in ear, a sure sign they they have gone into ‘survival’ mode rather than pushing on, and that isn’t a good sign for a good harvest. That said, things are still growing, and hopefully we’ll get some moisture soon so they can take up the fertiliser and have another push before harvest, we’ve done all we can and it’s really up to nature now.

Farming as an industry is so reliant on outside factors, you can have all the technology in the world, drive by satellite to help with efficiency and develop the best seed treatments available, but ultimately it all comes down to 2” of topsoil and the weather.

The wild bird cover and flower mixes will be drilled soon, so that will hopefully be some more colour to brighten everywhere up, and it’s also a

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haven for the bees and those areas are always a hive of activity for nature of all sorts.

There are lots of things I could add in this month, but I appreciate I’m running out of space so will try to include them next time, for now I’m off to find my shorts and straw hat and will be trying to source some silage sheet to construct a makeshift swimming pool, and that will surely bring on rain won’t it??

Ashley Howell Green Farm SUNDAYS Coffee & Chat, 9:30am.

Church Service, 10am. Kids and Youth provision.

All welcome to come and worship with us.

Sunday Evenings: First Sunday of the month, CLOSER, 6pm, an uninterrupted hour of worship with FOL worship bands.

Second Sunday of the month, HIGHER, 6pm, an hour dedicated to praying for our world, nation, & community.

Fourth Sunday of the month, DEEPER, 4pm, a discussion around tables with video and talk.

TUESDAYS Open Home Group (Bible Study), 1:30pm.

THURSDAYS Noah’s Ark Baby & Toddler Group, 10am. All welcome, just turn up. (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.

JUNE SPECIAL EVENTS @The Well Saturday 28h FOL’s Big Birthday Bash, 2:30pm. BBQ, Ice Cream Van, DJ, activities for kids and youth, giant garden games, Rounders/field sports, Bingo. £3 a ticket – see website and socials for booking link.

JAZZ CONCERT AT OUR SWAFFHAM VENUE Sunday 29th Norfolk Gospel & Jazz Collective presents: “The Gospel According to Jazz”, 7pm.

A vibrant mix of Gospel, Jazz, Motown, Funk, and Soul—a fusion of faith and music that stirs the heart. Tickets £3. BOOKING LINK: https://fountainoflifechurch.churchsuite.com/events/ mf6chfp7 Location: The Barn, Sporle Road, Swaffham. PE37 7HL

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Ashill Community Centre Committee Chair Keith Collins Vice Chair Roger Bolton Treasurer Cath Ready Secretary Megan Colley Lettings Officer Anne Beckett Parish Representative Andrea Binns Pre Xmas Fair organiser Dee Bolton

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01760 441196

07739358180 075495 393619 07724 849225 07768 350968 07597631821.

07926 917409

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 01760 330254 ashillshop@gmail.com 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 Leanne Holmes – LH Equine Services 07920011628 Leanne@lheguineservices.co.uk 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 HG Services Grounds Maintenance 0749 3716801 henry.hgservices@gmail.com J.Walker Electrical Services 01760 441541 07928016562

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Ashill Community Centre Weekly Activities Badminton Club

Every Monday (contact Janet Oxborough 01760 441651) 4.30 ‐ 5.30pm 1st Ashill Brownies Every Monday (term time only) 6.30 ‐ 8.00pm St. John Ambulance Every Monday & Tuesday Badgers (contact Pat Grout Unit Manager 01362 692241 Cadets Denise Eaves Nursing Officer 01760 440186, Adults Jean Rockett‐Woods Youth Leader 07749 870485 or Jeanette Callaghan Unit Coordinator 01760 721420) 5.30 ‐9.30pm Badminton Club Every Tuesday (contact Gloria Canham 01760 440370) 1.00 ‐ 3.00pm Ashill Parish Council Committee Meetings ‐ Every 4th Tuesday of the month contact Jean Sangster Parish Clerk 01760 440383 7.00 ‐ 9.30pm Zumba Every Tuesday (contact Lou Dickson 07866 534087) 11.30 ‐ 12.30pm 1stAshill Beavers Every Wednesday (term time only) contact Carol Butters 01760 440995 or 07956 387308 5.00 ‐ 6.00pm 1st Ashill Cubs Every Wednesday (term time only) contact Carol Butters 6.30 ‐ 8.00pm Golden Link Club Thursdays, fortnightly Please contact Dee Bolton 01760 441622 or Sue Cloud 01760 441110 Ashill Harmony Every Thursday Choir (contact Terry Evans 01760 751537)7.00 ‐ 9.00pm Pilates Class Every Thursday (contact Linda Mellor 07759 886777) 10.30 ‐ 11.30am Pickleball.

Thursday Contact Vince Kelly 07786234568) to check spaces are available Coffee Mornings Second Friday every month ie. Dec' 13th , Jan 10th 10.00 ‐ 12 noon Mussel Bay Every Friday Adults only 7.30 ‐ 10.30pm Racing (contact Paul Edmunds 01485 540967 Slot Cars‐ or James Cliff 07867 515063)

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Next Meeting 11th June A big thank you to all who attended and contributed to our “ make time for a cuppa “ event at the call ‐in at the start of May . It was lovely to see so many people relaxing and chatting and of course eating lots of cake ! We had a lot . We raised quite a lot of money which will be divided between various charities as well helping to support our members of the memory cafe. Our next session is on 11 June . Thanks as always to our team of volunteers who continue to give their time to ensure we continue to provide this much needed service for our village . Gill