Village Tribune Issue 147

YOUR FAVOURITE, AWARD-WINNING, VILLAGE PUBLICATION

issue 147

July / August 2024

Farewell to the PAST Fostering Positive Outcomes

The Amblers

in Tribland

tribunediary

Volunteer Diaries Citizens Advice

Social Services Care or Chaos?

ENVIRONMENT • HERITAGE • FARMING DIARY • VILLAGE VIEWS

OVER 10,000 READERS IN OUR NORTH PETERBOROUGH VILLAGES

WELCOME | VILLAGE TRIBUNE

From the Editor What a slow start to the summer (weather-wise), hopefully by the time you receive this issue, the sun will have decided to show her face!

A huge welcome to readers in Marholm who will now receive a regular copy of the Village Tribune, thank you Paul Burgess for arranging this.

Thank you to all the Triblanders who took time out to complete our reader survey, you provided important feedback to help shape the future direction of the magazine. In the short-term we will be launching a weekly e-newsletter later in the year to keep you up to date with news, diary dates, reader offers and competition – plus, ALL subscribers will be entered into a monthly prize draw to win £50.

September should see the launch of our new website – which will be a great addition to our hard copy magazine. Watch this space (and in our Facebook Group) for more news on that and other exciting developments planned later in the year.

Finally, a huge ‘well done’ to Glinton Parish Council for pulling together a splendid event at the beginning of June. GlintonFest 24 pulled out all the stops with its free afternoon program and ticketed evening show. Helpstonbury is due to happen as the magazine is on its way to the printers – fingers crossed that the weather is kind!

Tony

www.villagetribune.org.uk

GET IN TOUCH  Contributions: t: 07590 750128 e: villagetribuneeditor@me.com  Social media:  /groups/villagetribune  Website: www.villagetribune.org.uk

 Advertising: Alison Henthorn 07702 640361 e: alisonhenthorn@btinternet.com

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, VILLAGE

N

issue 147

PUBLICATIO

D-WINNING

CONTENTS | VILLAGE TRIBUNE

URITE, AWAR

YOUR FAVO

July / August

Farewell toT the PAS tering

Fos s Outcome Positive

rs The Amble Tribland

in

iaries Volunteer D ns Advice

On the cover: The Amblers (see pages 9-11)

Citize

vices Social Ser or Chaos?

Care

y tribunediar

 Reverend Keir Dow, The Nine Bridges Benefice The Rectory, 11 Lincoln Road, Glinton PE6 7JR

t: 01733 669 810 m: 07980 412 345 e: vicar@9bridges.church

Distribution

 ASHTON Hilary Smith Thatched Cottage, Ashton E: hilly.smith@virgin.net  BARNACK Mike Mills Holly Cottage, Wittering Road, Barnack PE9 3EY T: 07523 312387 E: mills.mh@gmail.com  ETTON Anne Curwen The Coach House, Rectory Lane, Etton T: 01733 253357 E: acurwen@hotmail.com  GLINTON Shirley Hodgkinson 30 Websters Close, Glinton T: 01733 252351 E: hodgkinsons@talktalk.net  HELPSTON Clive Marsh Clive Marsh, 34 Maxey Road, Helpston clive.marsh815@btinternet.com M: 07511 011662  MARHOLM Saqib Farooq 10 Peterborough Road, Castor, PE5 7AX  MAXEY Cllr Peter Hiller E: Peter.Hiller@peterborough.gov.uk  NEWBOROUGH John Fox Church Close, Newborough E: john.fox@peterborough.gov.uk  NORTHBOROUGH Polly Beasley 15 Claypole Drive, Northborough T: 01778 380849 E: polly.beasley@btinternet.com  PEAKIRK Trish Roberts 9 St Pegas Road  PILSGATE Sally Hullock 3 Hillside Close, Ufford sally@sallyhullocktraining.co.uk T: 07795 565658  SOUTHORPE Daphne Williams The Old Dairy Barn, Main St. T: 01780 740511  UFFORD Sally Hullock 3 Hillside Close, Ufford sally@sallyhullocktraining.co.uk T: 07795 565658

0 READ OVER 10,00

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t: 07503 975 588 e: gary.aldersonwrites@gmail.com

GE VIEWS • VILLA DIARY GES FARMING AGE • OUGH VILLA NT • HERIT PETERBOR NORTH ENVIRONME ERS IN OUR

Deadline for next issue: 14 August

 Editor - Tony Henthorn 35 Maxey Road, Helpston PE6 7DP T: 07590 750128 E: villagetribuneeditor@me.com  Advertising Sales - Alison Henthorn T 07702 640361 E: alisonhenthorn@btinternet.com  Rector Gary Alderson, Rector of Barnack with Ufford, Bainton, Helpston and Wittering

2024

Jul/Aug 2024

3

From the Editor

5

Advertising / Deadlines and Contact Details

6

Safe Local Trades

8, 59-61 Write Away 9-13 14-15

Closer to Nature Parish Council Contact Details

16-31

Village Views

32-33 37-38 39 40-46 47-50 51 53-57 58-59

Volunteer Diaries Farm Focus People Matter, Not Politics Young Tribune Heritage Taste Buds Tribune Diary Environment

63-67 68-69 70-71

Inspire Pitch Perfect Tribune Directory

Advertisers Warranty and Indemnity The Advertiser warrants: (a) that the advertisement is legal, decent, honest and truthful and that it complies with the British Codes of Advertising and Sales Promotion, with any relevant codes of practice and with all requirements of current legislation; (b) that nothing in the advertisement is defamatory or constitutes a malicious falsehood; (c) that the publication of the advertisement will not infringe copyright or any other rights vested in a third party; and (d) that the Advertiser has secured all necessary authorities and consents in respect of the use in the advertisement of any pictorial representations or other representations of (or purporting to be of) living persons and of references to any words attributed to living persons. (ii) The Advertiser will indemnify the The Village Tribune Ltd in respect of all costs, damages or other charges arising as a result of the publication of their advertisement or incurred in connection with any actions or claims brought against the Company arising from a breach by the Advertiser of the warranties in this paragraph 1 or otherwise from the publication of the advertisement.

The views expressed within this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor. All copy is believed correct at time of print but no responsibility can be taken for errors and/or omissions. No part of this publication and/or website may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without prior written permission of the Publisher. Permission is only deemed valid if approval is in writing. The Village Tribune own all rights to contributions, text and images, unless previously agreed to in writing.

PUBLICATION DESIGN & LAYOUTS WEB DEVELOPMENT | IT SUPPORT CORPORATE BRANDING & MORE 01733 772095 | www.dimension6000.com

5,400 copies of the Tribune are distributed free of charge in Ailsworth, Ashton, Bainton, Barnack, Castor, Deeping Gate, Etton, Glinton, Helpston, Marholm, Maxey, Newborough, Northborough, Peakirk, Pilsgate, Southorpe & Ufford.

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SAFE LOCAL TRADES | SCAM CALLS TO THE ELDERLY

Imagine being fearful or anxious of answering the phone in case you are confronted by a scammer on the other end. Sadly, this is a real problem, with Age UK’s latest research discovering that almost a fifth of over 50s - equivalent to 4.9 million people - are scared of picking up the phone due to scams.

Five million over 50s fear answering the phone It also suggests that for some older people the fear of being scammed is restricting their lives, preventing them from using smartphones (eight per cent) or the internet (seven per cent).

This can also increase withdrawal from society, by putting them off going outside (six per cent).

It’s awful to know anxiety around scams is affecting the day-to-day lives of people.

Fraud is easily the most common crime affecting people in England and Wales, accounting for 40 per cent of crime, according to estimates by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) – with data suggesting that, on average, four people over 50 are scammed every minute.

Though fraudsters unfortunately take aim at

everyone, older people are more vulnerable to certain types of scams.

According to National Trading Standards, around nine in 10 victims of doorstep scams, such as a rogue trader or fake charity worker, are aged 65 and over. The average age of a postal scam victim is 75.

Phone scams also feature heavily in reports to Which? from older members of the public, often related to investment fraud or scammers impersonating banks, telecoms providers and tech support specialists.

Criminals may misuse 'number spoofing' technology so that they appear to be calling from genuine phone numbers, or trick victims into downloading screen-sharing tools to hijack their computers over the internet.

Age UK shared the following top five tips to help you avoid being scammed:

Stop: never do anything

1 2C 3A 4M 5S

you don’t want to or make any decisions on the spot.

heck: always check their credentials.

sk: always ask someone you trust for a second opinion. ine: do not give away personal information.

.

hare: share your experience with others to lower their risk of being scammed.

A major campaign to transform the fight against fraudsters launched on the 12 February 2024. Stop!

Think Fraud is backed by leading counter fraud experts who are uniting under one voice to provide consistent, clear and robust antifraud advice to the public.

Would you know if someone was trying to defraud you?

One of the best weapons against fraud is knowledge. Once you know the tactics fraudsters commonly use and the signs to look out for, you have more chance of avoiding them.

Go to https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk/ for all the information you need.

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Eileen Le Voi, Safe Local Trades

ing

hed p! ding e ovide nti-

WRITE AWAY | READERS' LETTERS TO THE TRIBUNE COMMUNITY & SOCIAL MEDIA ROUND-UP

SOCIAL MEDIA

write away

Frank Samet Heron over Brook drain this morning

Helping Our Ukrainian Friends Morning from Camp! We’re seeing such a difference in the well-being of many of the children already. Bittersweet emotions, when you think they shouldn’t be here at all.

YOUR LETTERS

write away A new horizon for the Peterborough Choral Society Bradley Smith, acclaimed international tenor and choral director becomes the new Music Director, taking forward the Choir’s record of performing music of all styles.

He says’ I’m excited to be working with an excellent

group of talented singers and embarking on a new journey together’.

Bradley is committed to developing music making in local communities and currently works with a number of local groups, promoting the health and wellbeing benefits of music making, and developing new network bringing his wealth of experience, drawn

from a career of performance worldwide.

Margaret Wilson, Chairman of the choir said ‘we are delighted that Bradley will be working with us. We are already enjoying stimulating and exciting rehearsals and looking forward to our first concert together on 7 July in Thorney Abbey’. Details will be on the Choral Society website shortly. continued on page 59 >>

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THE AMBLERS IN TRIBLAND | CLOSER TO NATURE

The Amblers

in Tribland

It’s summer – and what better way to celebrate the warmer days and longer daylight hours than by wandering in our beautiful Trib’land countryside!

continued overleaf >>

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CLOSER TO NATURE | THE AMBLERS IN TRIBLAND

>> continued from previous page

…O Winding roads that I know so well, Every twist and turn, every hollow and hill!

They are set in my heart to a pulsing tune Gay as a honey-bee humming in June… (from Roads by Amy Lowell) Many of you will find Amy Lowell’s words resonating with your own feelings about our local area – places you know well enough to revisit in your imagination, and probably cannot wait to get back to

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when time allows. But, if you have not yet explored, now is the time to get out there and begin familiarising yourself with the landscape. It’s an excellent, exhilarating experience of endless exploration!

The Amblers have been enjoying connecting with wildlife in numerous locations over the last two months: Castor Hanglands, to listen for nightingales singing…tick; Swaddywell nature reserve,

THE AMBLERS IN TRIBLAND | CLOSER TO NATURE

meadows were glowing, and there was hardly anyone to be seen. It was like stepping back in time to a country idyll, with a warm breeze soughing in the oak leaves, a horse and rider appearing around a bend, and Belted Galloways grazing with their calves in the sunshine. It was a truly pastoral scene.

to look for orchids including man orchids (the green-brown one in the photo, whose flowers resemble tiny humans wearing cycle helmets) and bee orchids (the dark purple and lilac one)…tick; Holme Fen, to find the wild foxgloves… tick; Penfield nature reserve, Langtoft, to hear a bittern ‘booming’…tick; and Deeping Lakes, where we heard a cuckoo and warblers, saw Great-crested grebes sitting on nests on the lake, plus a huge variety of other waterfowl including a lovely Canada Goose family with five tottering goslings.

Colour has returned to nature, and we are seeing plenty of

the smaller creatures too, making the most of the verdant wildflowers. They often go unnoticed (unless they fly in our faces or land on a bare arm or leg) as we speed along, chatting with our companions, keeping an eye on the children or dogs, or appreciating the wider landscape. I am frequently surprised to find, on closer inspection, that photos I have taken of attractive flower heads show them being feasted on by an insect I hadn’t noticed at the time.

Recently we took a stroll from Ufford to Ashton on one of the greenest, lushest, walks so far this year: the cereal crops looked amazing, the buttercup

As I write, we are expecting to stroll by the River Welland, Deeping Gate in the next few days – if it doesn’t get rained off – towards Low Locks. It is a very pretty route which has provided lots of interest in the past, both in and out of the water. Herons and Little egrets search for food, while swans and mallard families are often to be seen just bobbing along in the current or sunning themselves on the banks. It is a tranquil place where you feel your cares float away with the passing ripples. As we weave along the mown grass track in warm weather, it is delightful to see all the butterflies, damselflies and insects busily feasting on the nectar, or basking on the abundant plant life surrounding us, and to watch birds of prey circling overhead.

In the next issue, I hope to report on our exploration of some newto-us routes, thanks to a couple of Amblers who have provided booklets, newspaper cuttings, and even walks from the Village Tribune back catalogue! Until then, enjoy the summer, and happy ambling.

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CLOSER TO NATURE | GREAT NEWS FOR WILDLIFE IN THE TRIBLAND AREA

Great news for wildlife in the Tribland area A community group run entirely by volunteers has just bought its ninth nature reserve in the Tribland area.

By David Rowell Langdyke Countryside Trust is drawing up detailed management plans - having bought Christ's College Nature Reserve for £45,000 after a year-long fund-raising campaign.

The reserve is made up of 22 acres of restored gravel pits, surrounded by new planting of native trees and shrubs.

Langdyke chair Richard Astle said: 'This is a magnificent addition to the Langdyke portfolio of reserves and great news for wildlife in the area.

'We are particularly grateful for the grants and generous 12 vil agetribune

donations which have helped us raise the money to buy the reserve.'

It lies on the boundary of Helpston and Maxey alongside the Maxey Cut. Helpston is half a mile to the south, a short walk or bike ride along the road; while Maxey can be reached through footpaths along the Cut and then up Woodgate Lane. Etton is also a short walk away along the banks of the Cut. Prior to gravel extraction in the early 2000s the land was arable and would have been farmed as such for many years. Historically, however,

it was part of the much larger Westings Meadow, an area of damp meadows and marshland that was a vital source of grazing for the adjacent villages and would have been rich in biodiversity.

The Helpston-born poet John Clare would have known the area well and it is probably areas such as this that he would have been describing in such poems as 'The Mores' and ‘The snipe'.

As a result of the gravel extraction and subsequent restoration the land now comprises two large separate water areas - named by the

ea

GREAT NEWS FOR WILDLIFE IN THE TRIBLAND AREA | CLOSER TO NATURE

Trust as College Pit and John Clare Pit - with attendant water margins, which in some areas are reasonably bare, providing feeding habitat for ducks and wading birds.

The surrounding land has been planted with native species, including wayfaring tree, ash, willow and guelder rose. Although the planting is extensive there are also open areas of grassland with populations of wildflowers.

Three large, ancient oaks sit along the southern boundary.

There is a small area of woodland on the northern boundary with the Cut and the shelter belt along the western boundary.

The Trust is run entirely by volunteers and has other reserves including Swaddywell Pit near Helpston and Etton Maxey Pits. This means it now controls nature on a large swathe of land between the villages of Etton, Maxey and Helpston.

A detailed management plan is being drawn up but initial walks over the site have suggested the following ...

• Creation of three viewing points to allow the general public to view the pits and enjoy its key natural features

• Development of small open areas of grassland along the

boundary with the Maxey Cut specifically designed to support the expansion on to the site of the existing colonies of four spotted moth and glow-worm

• Creation of a further point for supplementary feeding of turtle dove, near the eastern boundary of the site

• Controlling the spread of the invasive species crassula, so that margins are retained around the pits to provide food-sources for ducks and wading birds

• Creation of new seasonal water scrapes within the grassland areas to provide habitat for amphibians and aquatic insects

• Installation of tern rafts on both pits • Installation of owl and bat boxes • Installation of a sand martin nest box viewable from the public viewing points

• Creation of an artificial bank suitable for kingfishers

Langdyke Countryside Trust Everyone is welcome to join by contacting membership@langdyke. org.uk. The annual membership fee works out at less than 70 pence a week. It also welcomes volunteers. More information about Langdyke can be found at www.langdyke.org.uk

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VILLAGE VIEWS | PARISH COUNCIL CONTACT DETAILS

CONTACT DETAILS

Your Parish Council DEEPING GATE PARISH COUNCIL Clerk - Elinor Beesley ................ 07713 194173 clerk@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk; Cllr Philip Thompson (Chair) philip.thompson@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk Cllr Jane Hill (Vice-Chair) jane.hill@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk Cllr Martin Trude martin.trude@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk Cllr Sandra Hudspeth sandra.hudspeth@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk Cllr Geoff Purllant geoff.purllant@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk Cllr Nicola Kerr nicola.kerr@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk

GLINTON PARISH COUNCIL Cllr Gerry Kirt - Chairman .................................. 01733 252839 Cllr RW Randall, Vice Chairman .................................. 01733 253276 Cllr Helen Aylesbury Cllr DJ Batty............. 01733 252749 Cllr CB Bysshe ......... 01733 253164 Cllr Steve Jackson ... 01733 252409 Cllr David Lane ........ 01733 252593 Cllr Andy Staines ..... 07412 158885 Cllr Sukhvinder Singh Cllr Liezl Rossouw Mr J Haste - Clerk ... 07591 834163 Cllr Rita Joshi-Boparai rita.joshi-boparai@glinton-pc.gov.uk clerk@glinton-pc.gov.uk

07591 834163 www.glinton-pc.gov.uk

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PARISH COUNCIL CONTACT DETAILS | VILLAGE VIEWS

NORTHBOROUGH COUNCIL Cllr John Dadge (Chair) – john.dadge@northborough-pc.gov.uk Cllr Malcolm Spinks – malcolm.spinks@northborough-pc.gov.uk Cllr Steve Parker-Brown – stephen.parker-brown@northborough-pc.gov.uk Cllr Graham Fowkes – graham.fowkes@northborough-pc.gov.uk Cllr Tracy Thomas – tracy.thomas@northborough-pc.gov.uk Cllr Robert Chiva – robert.chiva@northborough-pc.gov.uk Cllr Mark Malcolm – mark.malcolm@northborough-pc.gov.uk Cllr Patricia Pearce – patricia.pearce@northborough-pc.gov.uk Elinor Beesley ............................. 07713 194173 Clerk to Northborough Parish Council clerk@northborough-pc.gov.uk

PEAKIRK PARISH COUNCIL Chairman: Henry Clark...................01733 253203 Sally Jackson...................................01733 253483 Emma Crowson..............................01733252200 David Fovargue..............................01733 254227 Anne Tuley ......................................01733 254114 Sarah Smith.....................................07588055553 Kamal Sisodia .................................07958053439 Clerk: Angela Hankins....................01733 253397

Visit: www.peakirkvillage.co.uk Email: cleark@peakirk-pc.gov.uk

BAINTON & ASHTON PARISH COUNCIL Chairman: Susie Lucas ...................01780 740 159 susie.hall34@gmail.com Responsible for: Staffing/HR, Community, Allotments Association, PCC Liaison and Good Neighbours Scheme.

Councillor: Cliff Stanton .................01780 749 123 cliffstanton@btinternet.com Responsible for Nature Recovery Plan project, village assets, maintenance and website.

Councillor: Michael Perkins ...........07587 240 607 hawthornfarm@hotmail.com Responsible for internal finances checker.

Councillor: Irene Walsh ..................07753 203 844 walshirene@yahoo.co.uk Responsible for: Planning, staffing/HR and community liaison and road safety.

Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer: Jenny Rice .....................................07889 669 550 bainton.ashton.clerk@live.co.uk Vacancy: Please see website/notice board for info.

HELPSTON PARISH COUNCIL www.helpstonparishcouncil.org Parish Council Clerk - Syd Smith helpstonpc@hotmail.co.uk Current Chairman – Ali Peat alastair@alfrescolandscaping.co.uk .........................................................07399 532266 Current Vice-Chair – Andy Ratnett andy@ratnett.co.uk ........................07798 651872 Councillor - Alastair Bradley alastairbradley@hotmail.com ........07941 570653 Councillor – Joe Dobson councilmessages@btinternet.com lee@choicewindows.info ...............01733 252192 Councillor – Lee Kaminski .........................................................07725 970070 Councillor – Prem Gyani – premgyani@gmail.com ................07770 833999 Councillor – Arthur Cross arthurcross@vivaldi.net .................01733 252291 Councillor – Rosemary Morton g.morton526@btinternet.com ......01733 252243

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VILLAGE VIEWS | NORTHBOROUGH

COUNCIL CORNER

NORTHBOROUGH Northborough Playing Field Ecology and Play Equipment John Dadge, Chairman Northborough Parish Council

NPC is considering creating additional new wildflower areas and shrub planting to enrich biodiversity on land adjacent to the boundary to the fields.

If any local residents, particularly those that live next to the field would like to be involved please do let the Clerk or any Northborough Parish Councillor know. (contact details later in this edition).

As a result of requests from local residents plans are also in hand for the erection of a new accessible basket swing on the playing field. If possible, this will be in situ early in the school summer holidays.

Family run business with 37 years’ experience of offering clients unique and practical designs to complement your lifestyle Helpston based

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GLINTON | VILLAGE VIEWS

Glinton Horticultural Society

Your friendly gardening club

The plant sale held on the 4 May was once more a great success with the usual queue waiting to get in and a busy two hours selling a wide variety of bedding, perennials and vegetable plants. The society thanks all those who donated plants and helped out setting up and selling on the day.

We also had a stall selling plants as part of the very well attended Glintonfest D-Day celebration on 1 June.

The monies raised from the plant sales and the talks held throughout the year all contribute to the cost of holding the Show in Arthur Mellows Village College in September.

(Approximately £2000) The first show was held in 1943 in association with the Red Cross as part of the war effort and up until 2019 a show was held every year except 1976 when the drought stopped everything from growing. Over the years the show grew in the range and number of entries to become the largest show in the area, attracting entries from all over a wide area around

Peterborough. With over a 1000 entries from more than 100 exhibitors we were fortunate that we were able to hire Arthur Mellows College in the village giving us a great venue for the show. Unfortunately the Covid pandemic meant that we were unable to hold the show in 2020 and 2021. The return of the Show in September 2022 had been eagerly anticipated by both exhibitors and the society.

Once again it proved to be a great success and was followed by another successful Show last year with over 800 entries from 72 exhibitors, from all around the Peterborough area. These filled the large hall and the main corridor of the College as shown in the attached pictures.

The society is thankful for the sponsorship of all the advertisers

in the schedule with particular thanks to The Barn by Cherry Lane who sponsor all the prizes for the children’s classes and the Top Tray and Top Vase. And also to Black Cab Studio for the vouchers for art-work. The show could not take place without the support from volunteers setting up on the Friday, at the show itself and the closing down after the show on the Saturday.

The society is always grateful for any help at this event, so If you would like to help, we would be delighted to welcome you. Please contact Penelope Hopkins on 01780 767309 or email. penelope.hopkins@ gmail.com. All are welcome to come to the show, so put the 21 September in your diary and come and see the varied and outstanding exhibits.

79th Open Show This year on 21 September we will be holding our 79th OPEN SHOW again in Arthur Mellows Village College. The show has something for everyone with many classes for the average person and children as well as those for the exhibition growers, so help us to get back to the pre Covid level of 1000 entries by getting a schedule and entering. If you would like to enter please contact Lynne Best by phone on 01778 342115 or email lynne.best89@yahoo.co.uk for a schedule. The schedule and details of how to enter are also all on the society website www.glintonhorticulturalsociety.org.uk

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VILLAGE VIEWS | GLINTON

Glinton FriendshipClub Pam Kounougakis Hello, Tribune fans and followers of the Friendship Club.

Summer’s well and truly arrived… you can find it somewhere between the showers and the downpours.

We’ve had some truly super entertainment recently especially from a musical duo, of Sophie Lagan and Kelvin Watson, pictured, (who happens to be

our oldest member's grandson) who sang old favourites and played guitar for us.

Also, Claire, a valued helper, who gave a brilliant talk and slide show on her recent trip to Japan. Truly fascinating.

We’ve had talks by The Deepings Men’s group on helping with disability aids, and enigmatic puzzles and games from Brain Training Brian!

Coming up is our trip to Frieston War museum, a talk by Pam on her life in Greece, a flowerarranging demo, a new clothes sale, and our final session before our August fortnight break will

be a dress-to-impress fashion show. Get out your gladrags ladies, the catwalk awaits!

If you are interested in joining or helping, please pop along to the Village hall any Monday after 10am.

Glinton Great Garage Sale takes place on Sunday 15 September. Beginning at 10:30AM this is an ideal opportunity to sell stuff you no longer need from your garage or a table in your drive. £5 will buy you a place on the map which will be sold on the day for £1 from the village hall where refreshments will be sold. On the reverse will be a treasure map for the children with a special prize for the winner. This is an ideal opportunity to stroll around the village, meet people and pick up a superb bargain.

GPC

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VILLAGE VIEWS VIEWS GLINTON || VILLAGE Cllr Gerry Kirt - Chair Glinton Parish Council HELPSTON

COUNCIL CORNER

GLINTON GlintonFest 24 with D-Day commemoration on 1 June was an outstanding success. From the late morning when the Peterborough Highland Pipe Band struck up and marched round the church until Cosmic Rodney closed the event just after 11pm, the capacity crowd was thoroughly entertained by a wide range of displays, WW2 vehicles, demonstrations, refreshments and acts. A special mention of thanks must go the the Stamford Air Cadets and the many volunteers who gave up their time to make the event so successful. The Glinton Social Events team has already begun work on GlintonFest 25, which may include the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. On Thursday 6 June Glinton, along with over 800 other villages and towns throughout the kingdom, commemorated the 80th anniversary of D-Day. 100 residents heard the church bells ring out before listening to how Glinton lad, Donald Crowson landed on the D-Day beaches and fought across Europe before dying on 5 Oct 1944 in the Netherlands.

Following beacon lighting the crowds were entertained with patriotic songs sung by the Benefice choir.

On Friday 10 May in a packed village hall, Glinton and Peakirk residents expressed their total opposition to the Gladman outline planning application for a 250 house development on land off Peakirk Road, Glinton. 95 attendees listened to presentations by the Chair and Vice Chair of Glinton Parish Council who, after receiving a 100% vote of support, confirmed they intend to mount a robust opposition to the application on behalf of the village.

Subsequently, an impressive number of objections to the application, including the Parish Council, were submitted and we now must wait until the Planning Department makes a judgement before deciding how to proceed.

In recent weeks there has been a spate of antisocial behaviour in the village including attempted break-ins, kicking of front doors, stealing child’s scooter, aggressive behaviour, discharging an air

rifle outside the primary school, drug driving, fly tipping and a cannabis farm. Our local police officer and the chief constable are now aware and we are awaiting feedback to our requests for a greater police presence. I would like to suggest that if residents witness or are subject to any antisocial behaviour please report it to the police and obtain a crime number. Only by this means will the police consider increasing patrols in the village.

We are continuing to pursue Anglian Water at the highest levels to obtain recognition that Glinton’s waste water systems are woefully inadequate and no longer fit for purpose.

However, they continue to claim they are adequate and have enough spare capacity to absorb additional volumes of waste should major housing developments take place around our village! Our resolve is undiminished.

We have submitted a grant application to refit the Ashburn Play Park and create a Glinton Community Orchard on a small part of the recreation ground.

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VILLAGE VIEWS | HELPSTON

Helpston Local History Group Members of Helpston Local History Group, enjoyed a very informative evening on the 16 May when they met at St Botolph’s church to listen to a talk given by past Churchwarden Chris Topper.

The talk entitled 'St Botolph and You will notice that a variety of archive relating to the old school Helpston church, walk and talk' articles are now appearing on from the Northampton Records started inside the church when the website that are Woodgate Office and have access to old Chris gave us some interesting related. We must thank residents newspaper articles. Do you have facts about the Saint before his for sharing their archives to make a story to tell about going to knowledge of the fabric of the this possible. school? We are hoping to gather building was explained. Following enough material to create a Of course, you may get directly a thoroughly miserable wet day, display sometime spring/summer involved, just ‘Contribute’ your the evening weather treated 2025. Please email articles on the website.

Website us fairly. We walked around the helpstonhistory@gmail.com or Editors will review the content exterior of the building, moving watch out for an informal meeting and publish it on your behalf. from south to east and north to date when you can come along west before re-entering to be told Following our very successful and speak to us personally. of features quite often unnoticed. community project in 2023, We agreed at the end of the Our July meeting open to we are announcing the title meeting, that upon next visiting non-members, titled ‘The Art of our next chosen subject the church we would look at it of Thatching’ will be held in ‘Schooldays in Helpston’. Do with a very different pair of eyes.

Helpston Village Hall on Thursday you have any memorabilia about 18 July, with refreshments served A new article has been published your schooldays in Helpston from 7 pm. Admission for nonon our website, No 8 Woodgate, (photographs, school reports, visit www.helpstonhistory.org.uk etc.) We have obtained some members is £3.

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www.helpstonparishcouncil.org

COUNCIL CORNER

HELPSTON Your new Parish Council The local elections at the beginning of May elected your new Parish Council team for the next 4 years. Once again we say a big thank you to David Dykes, Gill Jolly and Eric Sieker, who have stepped down, for their support and commitment to the village over recent years.

New Councillors Lee Kaminski and Prem Gyani have duly been elected and are keen to listen and engage with the parish as a whole.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Joe Dobson for his tenure as Chairman for the last 13 years.

He has stepped down from this role but remains very active on

HELPSTON HELPSTON || VILLAGE VILLAGE VIEWS VIEWS

Summertime in John Clare Country is a sight to behold and an honour to be a part of. the council, continuing to drive the issues to do with the Local Plan and the developments within the village.

Ali Peat has been elected to the Chairman’s position with Andy Ratnett as Vice Chairman.

A thank you to the Helcats You may have noticed that the benches in the village are getting a makeover. A big 'thank you' to the Helcats for making this their village project this year. The Parish Council are responsible for the benches and very much appreciate this diligent work which ultimately allows your precept budgets to be invested elsewhere in the village. If you feel there is potential for other bench

locations, please make a councillor aware to bring it to a meeting.

Enjoying the Countryside around the village Within our beautiful parish are many footpaths and bridal ways enjoyed by walkers and horses alike. At this time of year it is so important that we stick to these pathways, whether signposted or the permissive ones identified by the farmers, to ensure that the areas protected for wildlife are maintained.

We will publish the map of footpaths online and make it available on the notice board and downloadable so that we can all support the farmers and local wildlife. The set aside continued overleaf >>

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VILLAGE VIEWS | HELPSTON

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>> continued from previous page in fields is done to encourage biodiversity and habitats for the many species of insects and animals we have locally. Please take a look at this map when it is available and support the environment by sticking to the paths.

Planning Decisions The decision on the 20 houses on West Street is still “Awaiting a Decision”. Your Parish Council continues to put pressure upon the City Council to uphold the specific policy item that relates to the masterplan. We will keep you informed of this.

Taking action on the Flooding within the villages We have joined with the other Parishes in the Ward on the Multi Agency group that is seeking to facilitate effective collaboration in managing flooding within

the villages. These incidents are becoming more regular and with it affecting both rainwater and sewerage, a wider solution is needed for it to be effective, particularly with the additional development planned. Helpston Parish Council want to ensure we are at the centre of this so that infrastructure discussions accommodate the needs of our community now and in the future.

Footpath Concerns By the time of publishing, we will have met with the City Highways Representative to do a walk of the village to identify all the areas of concern on the village’s pavement network. We are seeing great support from this department with respect to the widening of the path to Glinton and hope this will extend to dealing with those areas that need attention elsewhere.

Helpston Helcats Ann Bell I hope that by the time you’ve read this article that you’ve noticed that three of the Helpston benches have had a makeover by the Helcats. I hope you can appreciate the hard work and bad backs that went into this! We are looking forward to seeing people

using all three benches a lot more. They are on Kings Street, West Street and Glinton Road.

The next phase is to place plaques on the benches to remember past residents. We will be seeking nominations in the next Village Tribune.

HELPSTONBURY 2024 22 June We would like to thank the organising committee for putting on this incredible community celebration. The Parish Council are proud to be able to offer significant support in facilitating this event that raises the much needed funds for our village charities, as well as the spirits of all who attend.

Grant funding We are grateful to the voluntary organisations around the village that do such great work in giving opportunities for sport, for our children and the community to come together. We continue to accept requests for grants to undertake the great work within our Parish.

If your organization would benefit from grant funding then please make contact with the Parish Council Clerk to enquire if your grant can go into the October submission and budget review.

Your Parish Council works hard behind the scenes to represent the community as has been seen with the above actions and initiatives. Monthly meetings are open to all village residents and we welcome input so we can continue to keep Helpston the community we all wish to live in.

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PEAKIRK | VILLAGE VIEWS

COUNCIL CORNER

Henry Clark, Chairman

Peakirk For this edition of the Tribune, as a diversion from all the preelection coverage, I’m going to summarise the activities and learnings of the Peakirk Climate Emergency Group.

Climate Emergency The climate emergency hasn’t gone away. The change in weather patterns that we can all see reinforces the need to act now.

Peakirk Parish Council declared a climate emergency in 2019 and set up the Peakirk Climate Emergency Group (PCEG). The group is made up of councillors and residents, with only six regular members.

What have PCEG done?

• We encourage biodiversity by managing the Millennium Corner at the junction of Thorney and St Pega’s Roads, and the Millennium Copse along the Rectory Lane track.

• The Parish Council took out a lease on the allotments in 2021 following the death of David Dearman, who had managed them for many years.

a grant from PECT to construct a 4000 litre (800 gallon) water harvester for use by plot holders.

• In 2023 we planted a hawthorn hedge along the western edge of the allotments using some whips that were provided by PECT. Unfortunately, only 20 out of the 100 survived.

• We experimented with changing the grass cutting regime to encourage biodiversity.

This meant removing the grass cuttings to reduce soil fertility to encourage wildflowers and cutting some areas less frequently. This was unsuccessful in two ways. Firstly there was little increase in wildflower diversity and secondly, people didn’t like the untidy appearance.

• We tried to establish a wildflower area at the end of the Village Hall car park.

Unfortunately, it didn’t work owing to shading from the trees and competition from nettles.

can’t do everything. We need volunteers to help.

• We can make a visible difference with biodiversity but reducing carbon emissions is more difficult.

What next?

• We’d like to plant more hedges. The footpath from Rectory Lane towards Glinton and Mile Drove both have sections with no hedge. You need the landowner’s permission, whips, tree stakes and guards and labour. You also need to provide for maintenance to keep the hedge in good condition.

• We’d like to encourage people to reduce carbon emissions. This could be with less use of internal combustion engine cars, more use of public transport or cycling, better insulation of houses, and use of heat pumps or solar panels.

What have we learnt?

• It’s not easy. Despite being keen to do something, we lacked expertise, money and resources.

• We cleared an overgrown plot and created a community orchard by planting four apple and two greengage trees. We built a beetle bank at one end and dead hedges down two sides.

• Ongoing maintenance. It’s all very well starting something but ongoing maintenance is required.

Grass needs cutting, hedges need trimming and things need repairing. A rota is required showing what needs doing, when and by whom.

• As there was no mains water supply, in 2022 we a secured

• Five well-intentioned people, many of whom are retired,

FEEDBACK

We need ideas from residents. What is important? What should we do? What shouldn’t we do?

What would you like to do to help? Please contact Sally-Ann Jackson on sajackson186@gmail.com or 01733 253483 if you’d like to be involved.

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THE DEEPINGS | VILLAGE VIEWS

COUNCIL CORNER

Deeping Gate New Councillor We are pleased to welcome Louisa Griffiths as a new Councillor. Louisa has already made a positive contribution and we wish her well for the future.

Deeping Rivers Action Group At our meeting on 14 May 2024, Andrew Bowell chairman of The Deeping Rivers Action Trust introduced the Group to DGPC and spoke about its aims and work with interested parties including Local Parish Councils.

Deepings River Action Group is managed and funded by Keep Britain Tidy and Anglian Water and the stretch of the Welland that the group covers runs from Molecey Mill to just past Deeping Lakes. Tasks that the Group is involved in includes litter picking, tree and flower planting, water quality monitoring, nature conservation, re-engineering the river, removing and controlling invasive species, improving access to river, improving the river infrastructure, pollution monitoring and rescuing, education and communication.

Footpaths - 'not maintaining clear access is a matter of concern...'

Deeping Gate Parish Council agreed to support the aims of the Group, and by the time that this edition of Village Tribune arrives on your door mat the first litter pick will have taken place on 29 June 2024. For more information see the Deepings River Action Group Facebook page.

Footpaths We have again contacted Peterborough City Council about the reason for not cutting all the verges in Deeping Gate, and particularly not maintaining clear access to the footpath beside Lincoln Road which is a matter of concern and inconvenience to users. This matter has been raised previously with Peterborough City Council but to no avail. Residents have also reported the issue of suspected Hogweed or Giant Hogweed obstructing the Lincoln Road

footpath via Fix My Street, but again with no positive response.

The unevenness of the footpath beside Deeping St James Road has also been raised. The unevenness causes some children and persons with pushchairs and mobility scooters to venture onto the road but our requests for positive action appear to fall on deaf ears as they have for a number of years.

Volunteers for delivery of Village Tribune Thank you to those who responded to our request for volunteers to help deliver copies of Village Tribune. We have now been able to fill the gaps in our deliveries to ensure that every household in Deeping Gate receives its copy of this valuable magazine. If, however, you are aware of any properties in Deeping Gate that have not received a copy, please let us know so that we may adjust or rounds.

Harvest supper Finally, a further reminder should any be necessary, to support the Community Charity Harvest Supper in support of the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice to be held at Willow Brook Farm on 14 September.

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VILLAGE VIEWS | THE DEEPINGS

The Deepings Practice Patient Participation Group Time has flown since the last PPG update and on the day of writing; the sun is shining which makes a great difference to the ‘feel good factor’. from the Dementia talk. On both occasions, there was a ‘Tombola Square’ and the prize was a hamper kindly donated

by Tesco.

driver please contact one of the coordinators.

If you have any ideas or suggestions that will enhance our plans, please contact: HaveYourSay@thedeepingspracticePPG.org

Thank you to all the volunteers who give their time to the PPG.

The PPG haven’t stood still. We have supported The Deeping Lions on two occasions. Both were on consecutive Saturday afternoons in May. Dr. Wade gave a presentation about Bowel Cancer on May 11th and his talk was followed by an account from a visitor from Norfolk who had been diagnosed with the disease and was now in remission. It was a reminder of how life can change overnight as it did for him The following week was in a similar format but was centered on Dementia. It was well attended and very interesting.

The first photograph is taken

The telephone contact for this is:07858373912. A message can be left and someone will get We attended the Langtoft Parish back to you.

Evening and also the Market Students from Deeping School Deeping Parish meeting. The and Bourne Grammar attended fund raising square was again our meeting with the Practice in in use and the first prize drawn May. Deeping School students event was drawn at the PPG presented the results of their meeting at the Practice on recent survey to the meeting. the second Tuesday in May. The results showed that we The second photo shows it need to reinforce some the being drawn. Proceeds from services that are available to this fundraising event will go young people so that they can towards the Voluntary Drivers’ make considered choices for evening in July. If you would their wellbeing. like to become a volunteer

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ETTON | VILLAGE VIEWS

Apologies that no special event was organised in Etton to commemorate the D-Day landings. Personal circumstances prevented this happening. However, huge thanks to Graham Smitheringale who proudly displayed “Ike” in a field at Howe farm. It was a delight to see this wonderfully restored vehicle on an important anniversary.

We now have four volunteers working to keep the churchyard and other areas of the village neat and tidy.

What a great job they are doing on our behalf. A huge thankyou to you all and to the other volunteers who are opening and closing the church daily.

Interestingly, an initiative to enhance the village green has caused quite a stir! A helpful resident offered to plant some shrubs on the green.

The Parish Council received both positive and negative comments.

Consequently, after consultation a solution has been proposed. Firstly, an application for some grant money to fund two planters for either side of the village bench and a new smaller water butt has been lodged. Also, a flower bed is to be created in the autumn to accommodate the suitable shrubs. The sunflowers have been moved to the wall by the church. It was encouraging and helpful to have input from residents and hopefully the above way forward will satisfy the majority.

Across the road at the allotments, three ponds have been constructed. Although still fledgling, they already contain signs of life with waterboatman, dragonflies and very small fish? You are welcome to take a look and report what you see…

Our annual clean up will take place on Sunday 11 August followed by lunch.

Meet at the church at 10.30am. All welcome, as there are a variety of jobs that always need doing from clearing and sorting the books in the telephone box, cleaning the brass and silver and general tidying of the churchyard.

Another date for your diary is the Cambridgeshire Historic Churches Trust Ride and Stride event on Saturday 14 September. Our church will be open and refreshments available.

Finally, Reverend Keir is attempting to get as much of the annual wider Benefice Parish share of £65,000 and the other cost of upkeep, covered by regular donations through Parish giving. If you think you could sign up to even £5 per month, please visit www.parishgiving.org.uk and The Langdyke Trust has also been busy type in Etton St Stephen in the space for Parish name. Any donations large or small around Etton, the planned viewing will be gratefully received. platform at Vergette wood meadow is well underway and will provide the perfect place to witness the murmurations and wildlife activity on the pond. We might even see or hear the booming Bittern!

Your church in Et ton will be 800 years old next year in 20 25. We hope to celebrate this Octocentenay (!) with a special event, but in th meantime, we e need to work to keep it open!

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VILLAGE VIEWS | NEWBOROUGH

Newborough Village Hall Annex The trustees would like to announce that the new annex to the Newborough Village Hall has now been completed.

Our thanks and appreciation go to all of the Village Hall clients who have been supportive, patient and understanding during the building works.

The planning of the annex goes back to 2022. The trustees discussed the need for additional space for hire during the day time. Safeguarding regulations imposed on Playgroup dictated that the hall was not able to be used by other groups during their hours of operation. In addition small groups who did meet at other times found that the hall was too big and the Foresters Room was too small. Plans were drawn up and a design for the annex was agreed. This went to planning and permission was granted in February 2023.

After a period of time when the building work went out for tender and the tenders were analysed we were pleased to offer the building work to a local company; Princebuild. It was a good choice as the company have been excellent partners to work with and the quality of work is high quality.

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The building work started on 8th January 2024 with a completion date of May 2024.

Working with Princebuild we agreed that the trustees would lift the slabs outside the front of the hall and store them for use again when the hall was finished. Huge thanks to Robert and William Cave for the use of some of their equipment in taking the slabs away and returning them for the builders to finish the project. These slabs weigh 30kg each.

January, as were the following months, were very wet with an above average rainfall.

Regardless, the foundations were dug and the piling company moved in to do the piling. It was estimated that the piles would go down 6m, eventually the hit hard standing at 7m. Due to the softness of the ground the foundation specifications were modified.

Thank goodness a ground survey was done prior the tender documents going out or there could have been a large increase in cost.

By Paul Cooper

One of the negative aspects of the build was how much space was needed to be fenced off for safety reasons. This had a temporary restriction to the number of car parking spaces.

It took a while to get the message across to the users of the hall not to park on the footpath on Guntons Road.

The message did get through to the majority but there were still a few who did not do as we asked. At this point we, as trustees, have to applaud the local residents for their patience and understanding during the difficult parking times. We thank you most sincerely. However, on a positive note many of the children from playgroup enjoyed looking through the glass doors and watching the builders at work.

It is around this time that the issues regarding the post office connection was resolved and the post office started up again.

I did call in one Thursday to see if everything was all right.

It was the day that the builders decided to break away the brickwork that covered the old

NEWBOROUGH | VILLAGE VIEWS

drain pipes. With half of the roof missing, the almost unbearable noise from the jack-hammers.

In addition, a big hole in the outside wall where the new internal room door was going; I have to say the post lady showed enormous resilience in keeping the post office open.

Many would have done an exit stage right.

The piling now done the ground workers moved in to complete the ring beam foundation. I did go to the site during this phase to take some pictures.

The poor guys were knee deep in mud and water as the water table was so high. “All in a day’s work for us” they said. Fair play to them and well done for getting the concreting done under such difficult conditions.

It has to be said that when you get a price for building work, approximately 35% of the cost you will never see as it is below ground. The Village Hall annex was no different. The amount of essential technical work now buried is amazing and apart from the building being on secure foundations for decades to come you would never know how much work is not seen.

To qualify as an annex the new facility had to have its own entrance and toilet facilities. To facilitate this, the building work required the disabled toilet to be remodelled. This included new drains and the diverting of the rainwater drainage. More muddy work, but the result is a new entrance to the toilet and a remodelled layout. With the building out of the ground the construction work could continue with more visual results.

By the end of February the floor beams, blocks and grout had been installed along with the lock and brickwork to bring the whole foundation up to floor level. The process of erecting the brick and block walls can begin. This element of the build was probably the most visual process to date. The team of bricklayers soon got the brickwork up to roof level.

The gaps for the windows and the covered porch area could be clearly defined. What was becoming clear was the size of the front window. We knew from the plans that it was going to be a good size, but actually seeing the gap made you appreciate how big it is actually going to

be. Natural light in the annex was not going to be an issue.

Once the walls to close to being at roof height, the scaffolding was erected. It was described as a “bird cage” If like me you had no idea what a bird cage is I can now inform you that it is basically a platform which acts as a second floor, high enough for the brick and block work to be finished inside and out and complete the gable end wall.

With the birdcage in place it was difficult to appreciate the progress being made apart from seeing the gable end being built. Soon after the roof trusses were fixed into place, closely followed by the roofing felt and roof tiles. The whole annex was now water tight. This was a great relief as many of us trustees had some sleepless nights with much of the Foresters room exposed to the elements over the Easter weekend. Fortunately there was sufficient covering to prevent most of the rain getting through and an army of buckets to catch most of what did penetrate the outer defences.

Things were starting to move on quickly from this point with the continued on page 31 >>

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VILLAGE VIEWS | NEWBOROUGH

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NEWBOROUGH | VILLAGE VIEWS

VILLAGE VIEWS | NEWBOROUGH

>> continued from page 29

I have to say that Princebuild have been a pleasure to work with. Anthony and Andrew kept in regular touch with us and organised fortnightly meetings to discuss progress and issues.

Not only were these two a pleasure to work with but it was fun working with them.

Thank you. electrics, plumbing, dry lining and plastering being done. The windows and doors were fitted over the next couple of weeks and the annex was starting to look like the building we had planned for. The final sections to be completed were the ground works outside including the kerb stones and paving.

With the final touches done week commencing 20th May the building work was finally complete. Princebuild handed the building over to the trustees on Friday 24 May. I have to say that Princebuild have been a pleasure to work with. Anthony and Andrew kept in regular touch with us and organised fortnightly meetings to discuss progress and issues.

Not only were these two a pleasure to work with but it was fun working with them.

Thank you.

We have fulfilled our vision to provide addition space at the village hall and to allow independent and safeguarded multiple use of the hall. A legacy that we hope will ensure sustainability of the hall for community use for decades to come. Importantly all of this has been done without incurring debt or loans for future generations of trustees. The whole annex has been paid for by the trustees. The money has come from a variety of sources.

Some of the money came from reserves that have been built up through prudent management of the hall for the past eight years. There were some grants which the work qualified for and lastly some money from the S106 money allocated to the village. It has to be acknowledged at this point the grateful thanks to Newborough

and Borough Fen Parish Council for their support during this community project.

I’m sure many of you are aware that the present hall is not the original one. The first hall dates back to 1906. It was demolished in 2006 after the building of the present hall was completed in the same year. Do I feel an article coming on for future editions?

What the trustees will do in the near future is arrange a coffee morning where you are invited to join us for a drink and a look around the new annex. Please look out for the date. A time lapse camera was used and many still photographs were taken to capture the building work and be a resource for historical research in many years to come. All of these will be on display at the coffee morning.

The Outreach Post Office comes to Newborough Village Hall Every Thursday morning 10am - 1pm in the Forester's Room. Full access via the side door adjacent to the doctors surgery. Please use the Post Office. Additional days and times for the Post Office to visit the Village Hall will be applied for if our residents can show a neeed for the service.

Margaret Cave, Treasurer of the Village Hall 07549185914

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VOLUNTEER DIARIES | CITIZENS ADVICE

Volunteer Diaries Citizens Advice: Solving Problems for 85 Years!

by Clair Wordsworth

The countdown has started to celebrations for the 85th birthday of Citizens Advice. Set up in September 1939, just after the start of the Second World War, its teams of dedicated volunteers have offered reliable advice to citizens in need ever since.

In early September 1939, temporary offices were set up in cafes, church halls, private homes and air-raid shelters. In some bombed areas of London, a converted horse box was even used as a mobile office to help ensure people could still access vital information in their hour of need. Back then, the service dealt with issues solely related to the conflict: evacuations, lost ration books, advice on pensions and other allowances, plus tracing missing service personnel and Prisoners of War.

freely because they feel the job is worth doing and brings its own reward”. And it’s the same story for volunteers in 2024, although demand for the service has seriously increased over the decades!

Peterborough got its first branch in 1939 too – one of 200 branches across England and Wales. By 1942, there were 1,074. In the 1940s, Tribland residents would have been among 100 clients-a-week seeking advice at the city centre office. And, according to a report in the city’s Standard newspaper from the time, “volunteers give themselves

New volunteers are always welcome and desperately needed. So, if you have an hour or two to spare each week, please get in touch with Citizens Advice Peterborough. A range of roles can be matched to your skills and availability. A role as an Adviser requires the most training, but there are other tasks, which would greatly assist the charity’s

32 vil agetribune

Due to the pandemic, Citizens Advice Peterborough no longer has an expensive office in the city centre with most enquiries now being handled online or over the phone. The service currently receives around 15002000 calls per month.

workload. It’s even possible to volunteer from home, without leaving your Tribland idyl. For instance, I’ve just started as a Communications Assistant, on a voluntary basis, hence this article. I’m currently looking into the organisation’s history, ahead of the service’s 85th anniversary this September.

One heart-warming story, I’ve found in the Citizens Advice archives, dates back to the 1970s. An adorable black labrador puppy was abandoned at the CAB office in Peterborough city centre. The Police were too busy chasing criminals and instructed CAB volunteers to simply, “take it to the pound.” Given the likely outcome, should no one claim the dog, the animal lovers decided to adopt him instead as the service’s mascot and, rather appropriately, gave him the name Cabby. Cabby the labrador lived out his days at

CITIZENS ADVICE | VOLUNTEER DIARIES

the CAB office and spent his evenings at the home with Daphne Faux, one of the charity’s dedicated volunteers.

While delving into the archives, I also noticed Peter Clarke’s name cropping up on old documents relating to the

things done today will outlive us and continue to impact future residents, whom we’ll never meet. The Alms Houses in Helpston exist solely because of the generosity of James Bradford, a local boy who did well on the railways and subsequently opted to

Hepston Alms Houses built by James Bradford

Mrs Daphne Faux with Cabby charity in the 1960s and 70s.

Peter Clarke, who was well known in Helpston, where he and his wife Betty lived, was Clerk of the City Council for decades. This little discovery got me thinking…

Each of us, if we so choose, can have a lasting impact on the areas and communities in which we reside. Many

put something back to help others, who followed him. My husband’s grandfather (Albert Quincey) was a resident of the Alms Houses in the 1990s.

Today, newcomers are influencing our area in other ways perhaps, by being a councillor, litter picking, mending benches, weeding the churchyard diligently for decades, raising money for a new village hall, or running a local group… Look around and it’s immediately clear, we’re lucky to live in Tribland!

Others, as news reports regularly confirm, are not so fortunate. So many people in 2024 rely heavily on the work of organisations like Citizens Advice.

Modern life is undoubtedly more complex and, some might say, hardship is even greater today than when the organisation was first set up. Although, Peterborough residents are unlikely to be bombed out of their homes today, common themes remain in place across the decades. For example, a leaflet from the 1970s points to a vast increase in electricity and gas supply disconnections: “As fuel systems grow more complex and pre-paid meters are replaced by quarterly accounts many more families find difficulty with their budgeting and are increasingly falling into debt.”

Today’s complex energy market is also a daily advice topic for the service’s volunteers on the charity’s 21st century front line.

Citizens Advice Peterborough urgently needs an army of new volunteers to help it deal with the ever-increasing demand for its services. Can you help make a difference? www.citapeterborough.org.uk/volunteer-with-us If you’re a volunteer for a local organisation or charity, why not tell our Village Tribue readers about it in 500 words? We’d love to hear your story.

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ROSEMARY'S FARMING DIARY | FARM FOCUS

Rosemarys’

FARMING DIARY As I continue with the farming diary notes, we start another month (Saturday 1 June, flaming June as the saying goes), although the temperatures are reasonably high the sun hasn’t really come through today, in fact it has been quite a gloomy, dreary day and very windy at times, let’s hope the weather improves and we see a little bit of summer before the longest day in three weeks’ time.

Life in the farming world goes on at an alarming pace dodging the unpredictable weather we have been getting, generally farmers have managed to complete most tasks to the best of what weather, crops and time allows. Our first cut of silage was cut and baled 12th/13th May and the second fields will be cut first week in June weather permitting. The sugar beet is romping ahead with the warm and wet weather, really suits it. The oil seed rape is now ‘podding’ up after flowering and all cereal crops are in ear or shortly will be, generally crops apart from the bare patches where the wet weather rotted the seed are looking to produce a reasonable harvest, the next 6-8 weeks will be critical.

Most of the cattle are now enjoying being out in the grass fields, never been so late turning them out, so unless an open Autumn and the weather is kind it will be a short grazing period this year. All the corn has been sold and the grain stores have been cleaned out and fumigated ready for harvest and the new crop.

This time of year (Summer) people like to get out into the countryside for walks and see what’s going on with nature etc, who can blame them, there is nothing better than to be able to see all different species of birds, farm animals, hedgerows and trees in full leaf with different shades shining on a lovely Summers evening or

early morning with a heavy dew.

When out in the countryside it is very easy to wander off the permissive footpaths (these are only made possible by farmers and landowners) and designated definitive paths which are now being much better sign posted (although there is still more work needed), but to stay safe it is quite easy to get a copy of the countryside code which will I am sure be helpful. Also, each Parish Council has a map showing all footpaths and bridleways so please ask them. As I have said many times before the countryside is a living and working environment - that’s what makes it so interesting and the reason people like to visit our villages and see nature at its continued overleaf >>

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FARM FOCUS | ROSEMARY'S DIARY

>> continued from previous page very best. However, when out in the countryside keep safe by not wandering off the definitive and permissive footpaths, bridleways and cycle ways.

Also, of course visitors and parishioners like to bring their dogs for walks along with them - to keep them safe as well as livestock and wildlife dogs need to be kept on leads at all times; it has been very noticeable where dogs have been running into growing crops, disturbing hedgerows with nesting birds and fledgings hatching off and growing for all to see as they grow.

I read a snippet from a farming journal recently which resonated with me, it reads…“the government has no money yet forestry England is

outbidding farmers to buy farm land to plant trees – is this back door renationalisation in their book?

Forestry England has purchased good farmland to plant a ‘coronation wood’ without considering the impact of inviting the public to visit along twisty lanes with no passing places.

The extra traffic will be a disaster, where will they park? Visiting dogs worrying livestock? Will people light fires that will burn down the coronation wood? The whole plan to plant state owned trees on millions of acres of good productive farmland at tax payers expense needs to be knocked on the head now”, so

the writer says. A lot of which we see in our parishes today and I agree with, it is called the infrastructure that is needed not only in this project but all villages need to be able to cope with the sudden influx of walkers, cyclists, horse riders, cars, motorbikes etc. I apologise if I appear to be overstating a health and safety issue. Our country roads weren’t built for this modern traffic.

As I finish these notes the weather, although unpleasant at times seems to be suiting gardens which are blooming with the different annuals and shrubs as they reach their peak which is most welcoming and makes a pleasant escape from all the trouble we see in the media which is relentless.

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OUR SOCIAL SERVICES - CARE OR CHAOS? PEOPLE MATTER, NOT POLITICS

Our Social Services – Care or Chaos?

Cllr’s Peter Hiller and Neil Boyce – Glinton and Castor Ward

PEOPLE MATTER, NOT POLITICS!

According to findings from the British Social Attitudes survey recently published by the much-respected Nuffield Trust and King’s Fund charities, public satisfaction with social care (SC) services has dropped to new depths, the lowest ever recorded.

Almost as an update to the many comments Neil and I received from my piece in the last issue of the Tribune, this survey by the National Centre for Social Research is widely seen amongst professionals as a gold standard measure of public attitudes in Britain. It found that the proportion of people positive about social care is at a historically low level, with 57% of respondents either quite dissatisfied or very dissatisfied.

Reasons included inadequate pay, working conditions and training for social care workers; people not getting the social care they need and there not being enough support for unpaid carers. The dissatisfaction levels were markedly higher among those who had either used or had contact with SC services (for either themselves or someone else) in the past 12 months, and among those over 65.

who support them and the staff who work in the sector” Our local councillors’ body the Local Government Association stated ‘these stark results are very worrying for councils, care providers and most importantly people who rely on care and support. We need to resolve this and see urgent investment from a future government into social care and a boost to the workforce, to ensure the best possible care for those who need it’ Both Neil and I are committed lobbyists for improving social care services provision for the residents within our Glinton and Castor ward’s village communities who might need it at times in their lives, particularly the elderly. This is a basic right in a civilised society. If a fraction of the colossal amount wasted in the government’s Covid-era Personal Protection Equipment scandals were spent on Social Care we’d be in a much better place!

It’s also been reported on LBC national radio that Age UK has found that more than 28,000 older people in England have died waiting for social care.

The charity said its analysis of figures from 2022/23 suggests long waits have become an unacceptably common experience.

Simon Bottery, Senior Fellow in Social Care at the King’s Fund, said: “These are awful survey results, but sadly unsurprising.

For many years the government has taken too little action on social care and this is now seriously affecting those who draw on services, the families

Greens Garage Ltd

The end of an era

After over 60 years of our family business which Ron (Dad) set up, we have decided to close the doors for the final time on Friday 28 June 2024.

Dad started the business with a view to help local people, businesses and farmers to keep their vehicles running. Steve and I took over the running of the business more than 6 years ago and we have strived to continue to offer the same reliable, friendly service that Dad was known for.

Margaret & Steve

We would like to thank you for your continued business over the years, we can’t express how much that has meant to us.

We would also like to thank our customers for the emails, cards and gifts that you have kindly sent to us, wishing us well for the future.

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JOHN CLARE PRIMARY HELPSTON SCHOOL | YOUNG | VILLAGE TRIBUNE VIEWS

Exciting times for John Clare Primary School This has been an incredibly exciting time for our children in school. They have taken part in many activities, both within school and outside, and have embraced the learning opportunities that these have created.

In March, the whole school shared an Animal Encounters experience. The children learnt all about different animals and were able to hold and interact with a Burmese Python, tarantula, meerkat, chameleon and little owl. This was a real ‘awe and wonder’ day, which was made possible thanks to a very kind donation made to The Friends of John Clare School in memory of a loved one - we are very grateful.

Also in March, our Key Stage 2 choir took part in the Oundle Music Festival, held at the spectacular Great Hall venue.

The children sang beautifully and their performance was very moving - we were all super proud of them. The children were awarded a ‘Distinction’ for their performance and placed third, which is absolutely wonderful. More importantly, the children had a fantastic time and got to listen and watch some super performances. They were also commended for their exemplary behaviour We also had a fantastic Ground Force Day in school. Lots of volunteers came along to help us refresh our school grounds. It was fantastic to see all members

of our community working together to help with gardening, painting, weeding and other necessary jobs.

Our Annual Easter Technology Day is a firm favourite with the children. We have a range of activities throughout the day and every child takes part in every activity including: making cakes; toasting marshmallows over an open fire: making houses for our superhero Super Chick (using spaghetti and playdough) and making Easter cards. This has been a John Clare tradition for many years. continued overleaf >>

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YOUNG TRIBUNE | JOHN CLARE PRIMARY SCHOOL

>> continued from previous page Sports Day was a fantastic success with Rosetti Team being awarded the trophy for overall winners. Every child took part, and the new schedule meant that an action packed day was enjoyed by children, staff, parents, grandparents and carers. So many families joined us for the picnic lunch on the field and it was lovely to see so many people. Our Year 6 House Captains and Bronze Ambassadors did a great job of leading the school parade onto the field, with our team banners held with pride.

In Torpel Class (year 6), the children have had a great start to the year enjoying all the activities that are part of a busy Year 6 life.

World Book Day saw a fantastic array of colourful costumes, both individual and groups. The

sporting opportunities have been tremendous as our children became Sports Ambassadors, House Captains and helped the younger children to develop their skills. The children will now be turning their attention to their end of year, and end of primary school, performance of ‘Oliver the Musical’, which they will be sharing with parents, carers and families in July. Also in July, Year 6 will be heading off on their residential trip to Hilltop, in Sheringham, where they challenge themselves, learn new skills and enjoy their time together.

poured over and the children are dreaming of the destinations they would love to visit! As part of their learning, they are going to be visiting Ferry Meadows later this term, along with friends in Broadwheel Class, where they will take part in orienteering and map-reading activities.

Their English text is also linked to travels and adventure: they are reading 'The London Eye Mystery' by Siobhan Dowd. It is an exciting mystery story told from the viewpoint of a young, neurodivergent boy and is inspiring them to write their own short mystery stories!

In Swaddywell Class (years 4 and 5) children are enjoying learning about the 7 continents and their capital cities as part of their Geography study this term. The world atlases are being

In Broadwheel Class (year 3 and 4) children have been travelling around the world learning all about countries and continents.

They have created an interactive display showing all the places in

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JOHN CLARE PRIMARY SCHOOL | YOUNG TRIBUNE

the world that they have a special connection with. Their English work has involved creating poetry, inspired by The Singing Ringing Tree. These poems have used imaginative and magical language. The children have also become authors, typing up their work and making their own books, based on a character they have created. These books have been added to the book corner for others to read. In science, Broadwheel have been learning all about how animals are classified and created their own keys; they have also been out searching the school grounds for different animal habitats. The children have been busy germinating tomato seeds that have now grown into small plants that have been added to the containers outside the classrooms. This term, Broadwheel are starting their history topic on the Normans; they will be finding out what impact they had on the country and local area.



Woodgate class (year 1 and 2) have had an enjoyable year, learning to make healthy pizzas, after being inspired by a visit from ‘Amo La Pizza’. They have also further developed their

Design Technology skills by designing and sewing puppets.

In science, Woodgate have been learning all about animals and food chains after visiting Ferry Meadows in the autumn term the children's favourite part was pond dipping! All the children have worked hard to improve their handwriting and have shown huge progress in reading this year, we are very proud of them!

What a half term Buttercross (reception and year 1) has had.

At the start of the term the children became nature explorers by searching our local area for fantastic mini beasts. They found so many different types to record, investigate and learn how to care for these wonderful creatures in our environment.

Buttercross welcomed a very special delivery of tiny caterpillars into their classroom, where they kept a close look out for any changes that happened over the next few weeks and used this information to record in their caterpillar diaries. The children were so excited to watch the process of them starting as caterpillars to then evolving into five beautiful butterflies. Once they were ready to be released,

the children sang their caterpillar song to see them on their way and watched them fly away.

What a wonderful experience it was! As the term went on, the children moved from nature explorers to chefs, where Buttercross identified, explored textures and flavours of, and prepared a variety of fruits and vegetables. They used all of this information to plan and design their own fruit salads, which they thoroughly enjoyed eating at the end. Delicious!

It has certainly been a term filled with lots of learning, through class based activities, but also supported by additional experiences that develop a deeper learning and understanding of all subjects and the world around us.

At John Clare we pride ourselves on providing an excellent learning experience for all our children. We have spaces available in our Reception Class for September, and a few limited spaces available throughout school.

Please do contact us if you would like to visit - we would be very proud to show you around our wonderful school.

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YOUNG TRIBUNE | NEXUS FOSTERING

Nexus Fostering - creating positive outcomes for children and younge people Nexus Fostering calls upon residents to open their hearts and homes to children and young people who urgently need to find a foster family.

Foster Carers Bobbie and Daniel's inspiring fostering journey explains how they have advocated for their child at the highest possible level.

Bobbie believes 'a foster carer should be a keen advocate, who can keep calm in stressful situations, always puts their child first, and keeps a good working relationship with all the professional bodies involved'.

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'a foster carer should be a keen advocate, who can keep calm in stressful situations, always puts their child first, and keeps a good working relationship with all the professional bodies involved'.

Having fostered with Nexus Fostering for five years, the couple continues to provide positive outcomes for children and young people.

Bobbie had worked in childcare for over twenty years as a Registered nanny and childminder. As her birth sons, 21 and 32, had become adults and one went to University,

mes

NEXUS FOSTERING | YOUNG TRIBUNE

Pictured left: Foster Carers Bobbie and Daniel

To help create positive outcomes for children and young people, contact Nexus Fostering for an informal chat by visiting www.nexusfostering.co.uk or calling 01223 903 503.

Bobbie explained, 'We had talked as a family and made a combined decision that this could work for us. We felt it was a golden opportunity to foster'.

'Remember that you are integral to a child's life journey, which changes constantly.'.

After speaking to a few fostering agencies, Bobbie and Daniel felt Nexus Fostering was the right agency for them. They explained, 'It had more of a family feel to it. I felt we could be part of that process.'

challenges, but these are approached with love and care'.

Bobbie explains the highs and lows of their journey so far.

'The highs are the children's achievements - being able

'We still have challenges, but these are approached with love and care'. to advocate successfully and giving them the best possible opportunities. Our foster child loves the family and has performed amazingly in education. We still have

The couple share 'make everything as transparent as possible; trust with a foster child is key. Managing expectations is important - your foster child isn't necessarily going to respond to the same parenting techniques that you had with your birth children. Nexus Fostering therapeutic support has been vital for us, another reason we chose them.

Bobbie has a wealth of knowledge and gives the following advice to anyone who is considering becoming a foster carer; 'Make sure you are proactive; ask if you need clarification

if you need to. It's important to advocate for your foster children; questioning actions is part of your responsibility.

Remember, don't take things personally; fostering can be challenging, but it is never about you, and it is also great to have a good sense of humour along the way.

Remember that you are integral to a child's life journey, which changes constantly. Fostering can be for many children in a household or just one, but know that you will change a life positively forever.

Children from 0-18 are looking for foster homes and would need an adult around to support them day to day. Nexus Fostering welcomes individuals of all ages, genders, religions, and ethnicities to apply. We value diversity and are looking for people who genuinely want to make a difference in a child's life.

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FAREWELL TO THE PAST | HERITAGE

Professor Carenza Lewis with Greg Prior, April 2012

Danger! Archaeologists at Work!

A test pit over the curve of Car Dyke

Farewell to the PAST Dr Avril Lumley Prior

Alas! After eleven years, we have decided to call time on Peakirk Archaeology Survey Team or PAST for short. Sadly, two of our key members are no longer with us, a third is carving out a successful career as an author, whilst others have family commitments, have moved away or are simply pursuing new interests. Thus, this Trib. feature is intended as our swan song, our trip down Memory Lane of PAST’s achievements and legacies.

Ghosts of Peakirk’s PAST It all began during the summer of 2011, when Greg popped his head over the garden wall to introduce himself to his new neighbour, Gareth Williams, and realised that they shared a passion for archaeology. Greg mentioned that the remains of a Romano-British wall ran beneath his pond and possibly continued into the garden of 8a St Pega’s Road. Gareth immediately began digging with unbridled enthusiasm and unearthed a jumble of pottery sherds dating back to the Neolithic period, together with an Anglo-Saxon well and part of a twelfth-century brewhouse.

We deduced that when the site for Peakirk church was cleared in 1014/15, the spoil was dumped in what was to

become Gareth’s garden. Then, it became a magnet for AngloSaxon fly-tippers until the land was developed for peasants’ hovels shortly after the Norman Conquest.

A chance meeting with former Time Team presenter Carenza Lewis led to a community ‘dig’ in April 2012. The atrocious weather did not dampen householders’ spirits and Carenza was so impressed with the results that she invited herself back that July with 32 secondary-school students for a two-day Access Cambridge Archaeology ‘dig’. More finds were revealed from the Romano-British period onwards as Peakirk turned out to be an archaeological hotbed!

There was still much work to be done if we wanted to learn even

more about Peakirk’s past. How was the village laid out? Where did the people live? What did they eat? How many of them succumbed to the Black Death which ravaged Europe in the fourteenth century?

Pots, Plague and the Poll Tax In November 2015, Greg, Gareth, Bob Randall, Jon Clynch and I met up at a heritage event at Peakirk Village Hall and PAST was formed. Our strategy was to conduct a geological survey led

by Bob on the village green, in the heart of the old settlement.

The objective was to plot the route of an artificial watercourse, the Car Dyke, excavated by the Romans c.60AD shortly after the rebellion by Queen Boudicca and her Iceni tribe. Much to our surprise, we found that, continued overleaf >>

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HERITAGE | FAREWELL TO THE PAST

>> continued from previous page

14th-century house from Boarhunt, Hampshire, reconstructed in Weald & Downland Museum instead of running in a northsouth direction as described on Ordnance Survey [OS] Maps, the Dyke veered to the northwest to link up with another section in the field to the north of Chestnut Close. You can read all about it on the Interpretation Board (sponsored by Peakirk Parish Council) on the green.

Chestnut Close cottages, demolished c.1925 optimum population, when even the marginal lands were put to the plough and houses encroached upon village greens.

They were usually wattle-anddaub structures, thatched with reed, materials readily available in the area. (Stone was reserved for churches, castles and high-status manor houses.)

We sank a metre-square test pit over Car Dyke’s course and one thing led to another. We concluded, with the help of the Inclosure Map of 1819, that the Dyke also formed the rear property boundary to a row of cottages which had completely disappeared before the 1887 OS Map was surveyed. This called for a second geophysical survey.

By then David Dearman, Gregg Duggan and David Hankins had joined the Team, adding the muscle to dig five more test pits. Sifting through the layers of soil, we exposed rusty nails, animal bones and teeth, roof tiles, burnt brick, a quarry tile – and, crucially, dateable pottery sherds, suggesting that the site had supported not one but two phases of domestic occupancy.

The decline in use of pottery, indeed, coincided with the 1348/9 visitation of the Black Death. By comparing the Northamptonshire Survey (1301/3) when there were roughly 183 villagers with the Poll Tax (1377) when there were only about 83, we deduced that there was a decrease of 55%.

(The national average has been estimated at 50%). Of course, not all may have died from plague.

Some deaths may be attributed to the series of harsh winters and excessively wet summers, resulting in failed harvests, cattle disease and famine during the early decades of the 1300s; whilst some tenants may have moved to more attractive holdings vacated by plague victims, in Glinton, where the population increased by 10%, or Helpston, 30%, or Bainton, a whopping 104%!

The pottery finds indicate that the first dwellings were built in the late-thirteen century during a period of high-farming and

The dearth of post-Plague pottery finds implies that the plot remained vacant until the late-18th/early-19th century when

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a row of cottages and a forge were built from brick or stone and roofed with Collyweston slate or pantiles. The cottages may well have matched the row opposite, which were demolished c.1925 when the churchyard was extended.

We know that the blacksmith, John Tye, died in 1865 and Census Returns reveal that the village-green dwellings were unoccupied in 1871. Their fate probably was sealed in October 1880, when the Thorney and Deeping Roads and Chestnut Close were severely flooded.

Crofts, tofts and a ‘Roman villa’ Next, we turned our attentions to Bull Lane paddock (behind the old Ivy House Farm). Our aim was to determine if this stretch of St Pega’s Road was part of a planned Norman settlement comprising crofts (houses) in 220-yard-long tofts or allotments, where peasants could grow vegetables for their own consumption and keep hens, a cow or a pig.

Pottery finds were consistent with this theory. We also discovered that, after the medieval period until the advent of refuse collection in the 1930s, manure was separated from broken pots, pans, bedsteads and bits of bicycle etc. The former was still spread on the land as fertiliser, the latter being buried.

Moreover, a rumour (beloved of metal detectorists) that there was a Roman villa on the site was dispelled. The area that showed up as a rectangular anomaly on Google Earth was merely a concrete stack-yard for hay, laid as recently as the 1940s!

FAREWELL TO THE PAST | HERITAGE

The two Greg[g]s sieving for finds

Gregg, Gareth & Greg excavating the site of the forge

Checking for metallic finds Tree planting on Rectory Lane, Greg & Gregg back filling Greg, Gregg & the two Davids & tamping down

Open House to visiting groups

Greg auguring to locate water table

Maintaining the crab apple, Thorney Road

Greg & David with the hairy helpers of Bull Lane

From Test Pits to Tree Pits

PAST’s Legacy to Peakirk

PAST was deeply committed to the environment. When, in 2019, Peakirk Parish Council invited Greg (who had a career in arboriculture) to devise a scheme for planting native trees along the B1443 and the Peakirk-Glinton Footway, he jumped at the opportunity. The ‘archaeology boys’ from PAST volunteered with the planting and vital aftercare, including watering and weeding, a service that Gregg Duggan and David Hankins have valiantly continued. Lime, hollies and yew were chosen to add splash of colour to the landscape and, fortunately, the project was completed before Lockdown.

Apart from the trees (98% of which survived the drought of 2022), we have kept detailed reports of all the test pits that PAST has excavated. In addition, Greg and I have compiled Peakirk Heritage Records: profiles of buildings, landscape features and significant finds that are not recorded in the official Historic Environment Records. We have also amassed a vast collection of postcards, photographs, newspaper articles and the oral histories of elderly residents.

All these will eventually be lodged with Peterborough Archives.

Selection of Peakirk finds (3rd to 19th centuries) Meanwhile, the plan is to collate all this data in a book about Peakirk’s story. So, perhaps, it is a case of “Au revoir” or “Auf weidersehen” rather than “Farewell”. After all, the Past has a strange habit of coming back to haunt us . . .

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HERITAGE | ROYAL AIR FORCE BOMB DISPOSAL MEMORIAL

In 1939, at Sullom Voe in the Shetland Islands, the first unexploded bomb of the Second World War was dealt with by the Royal Air Force. The brave Armourers involved in the task were paving the way for what would become the Royal Air Force Bomb Disposal capability

Royal Air Force Bomb Disposal Memorial Michael Haygarth Royal Air Force Bomb Disposal personnel played a huge part in World War II, from the Battle of Britain to D-Day and beyond and it continued to do so on operations all over the world, as well as providing 24/7 cover at home providing Military Aid to the Civil Authority making safe hundreds of items every year.

In most recent times they have played key roles in the Cold War, The Falkland Islands, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan.

During the time that the Royal Air Force Bomb Disposal capability was in existence, many personnel lost their lives in the line of duty and numerous medals and honours were awarded.

Sadly, The Royal Air Force Bomb Disposal capability was disbanded in 2020 and all responsibility for Bomb Disposal was passed to the Royal Navy and the Army.

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Shortly after it was announced that Royal Air Force Bomb Disposal would cease in 2020, I started to research the possibility of getting a memorial installed at The National Memorial Arboretum near Alrewas in Staffordshire.

It soon became obvious that it was no easy task as we needed formal approval from the Arboretum committee, we needed funding and then we needed a design and somebody to manufacture it and install it. From the moment we came up with the idea to the dedication event on 21 Feb 24 the whole process had taken well over 2 years. Money was raised through Just Giving, the design was done by me and a colleague and the fabrication work was done by Roll and Scroll in Grantham.

The Memorial was installed on 11 December 2023 and was officially opened at a dedication

ceremony on 21 February 2024.

The ceremony was conducted by me and a former colleague with the spiritual element carried out by Padre Shaw who has a close connection with the Royal Air Force Bomb Disposal community from his time as Padre at Royal Air Force Wittering during the drawdown period for 5131(Bomb Disposal) Squadron.

The event was attended by around 200 Royal Air Force Bomb Disposal Veterans and serving personnel and their families and friends.

For those who have never been to the National Memorial Arboretum it is well worth a visit. Pick a nice day and you can spend hours walking the grounds looking at the hundreds of memorials.

Entrance is free with a small charge made for parking (£6 on the day or £4 if pre-booked)

SALADE GRECQUE CHEZ PIERRE | TASTE BUDS

Ingredients

from the kitchen of

For 4/6 guests FOR THE PICKLED RED ONION: ½ medium red onion, halved and thinly sliced; ¼ cup red wine vinegar; ¼ cup cold water FOR THE DRESSING: ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; ¾ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon honey;

Salade grecque Chez Pierre ‘allo all you good Triblanders in the villages north of the City. This listing I am pleased to offer you is traditional through the summer months here at CP, from years ago when it was first used.

Many years ago one notable guest who became a regular at the Ascot restaurant of my grand-père was the famous actor Anthony Quinn. He first visited in 1965 with his co-star Alan Bates, during the UK promotion of their hugely successful film Zorba The Greek. They were staying at the Sunningdale home of actor Donald Pleasence, who was also a regular

guest. Whilst Mexican by birth, Mr Quinn was apparently a big fan of Greek food and spent much time in that lovely country when he wasn’t working. To welcome him to our family restaurant chef created our version of a classic Greek salad, which he absolutely loved; normally with a steak and bottle of our then House Red.

• Make the pickled onions: Place the red onions in a small bowl. Cover with the vinegar and water; let sit for 15 minutes while you prepare the rest of the salad.

to combine, then taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary.

• Make the dressing: In a bowl large enough to hold the salad, whisk together the vinegar, salt, pepper, honey, garlic, and oregano. Whisking vigorously, slowly pour in the olive oil to form an emulsion. Assemble the salad: • To the dressing, add the cucumber, peppers, tomatoes, olives, and dill.

Drain the red onions and add them to the salad along with the feta. Toss

• Serve or refrigerate for up to 3 hours. Let the salad sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

This is a great accompaniment to most BBQ foods like chicken, pork and steaks and will benefit from the addition of a robust red like our House Malbec, or alternatively a lightly chilled Sauvignon Blanc.

We here at CP hope you all have a lovely summer and stay healthy and eat well good dishes, non?

1 clove garlic, minced; ¾ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil FOR THE SALAD: 1 medium cucumber, seeded, cut into ¾-inch chunks; 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), cut into ¾-inch chunks; 1 good handful cherry tomatoes, halved; ¾ cup mixed black and green olives; 3 tablespoons fresh chopped dill; 8 oz feta cheese, diced.

To Mrs H at Helpston – Thank you for your kind words about my recipes. We also create our own vegetable soups here at CP and will most likely be featuring one of ours in the autumn issue or the magazine.

askchezpierre@gmail.com Bonne chance, Pierre x

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TRIBUNE DIARY

NEIGHB

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tribunediary al Peterboro

NEWBOROUGH FRIENDSHIP TEAS A chance for local residents to get together for a chat and a cuppa!

Thursday 18 July 2024 Thursday 29 August 2024 Thursday 26 September 2024 Thursday 24 October 2024 Thursday 21 November 2024 Christmas Party!

Thursday 12 December 2024 2 - 4pm | Village Hall If you require transport call Wendy on 07507635617

Castor, Ailsworth and District Gardeners' Society 6 July St Kyneburgha 900th Festival - Plant Stall and Children's Bug Hotel making.

Please deliver your plants for the stall to Kate Trundle, 107 Peterborough Road, Ailsworth. All materials for the Bug Hotels will be supplied just come along and enjoy making hotels for your friendly bugs.

10 August Castor, Ailsworth and District Village Show.

St Kyneburgha Church 2-5pm Refreshments available in Cedar Centre.

Show schedule now available from St Kyneburgha Church, Andrea Connor Hair, 5 Station Road, Ailsworth or e: CADGS Secretary Richard Pearce at richpea10@hotmail.com for a copy.

Completed entry forms to be submitted to Ann and Peter Huckle, Cobnut Cottage, 45, Peterborough Road, Castor by 7pm on Wednesday 7 August.

Thursday 17 October The Houseplant Doctor at the Cedar Centre Joe Bagley

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TRIBUNE DIARY

St Pega's Skip-a-long Donations or sponsored skipping welcome

FAMILY FUN SKIPPING SESSIONS

Saturdays 6, 13 & 20 July At Peakirk Village Hall - drop in between 2.30 and 4.30pm Skipping and games for all ages. Collect certificates 6 July Prize for best decorated hat. Bronze certificates.

13 July Price for the best fancy dress costume.

Silver and bronze certificates.

Help to 20 July Awards for the greatest number of skips in reach our each age group, collected from 23 May target of (5 and under, 6 - 11, 12 -17, 18 - 64, over 65) ONE MILLION Award for skipping in the most unusueal location skips. (verified by photo). Gold certificates.

AND THE FINAL TOTAL OF SKIPS!

On the Edge – The WI Held on the second Friday of every month.

Our WI ladies meet at the Northborough Village Hall each month at 7:30 pm. Our aim is to provide something of interest for everyone with our varied activities and speakers. In addition, we run walking and craft groups, a lunch club and a book club for the likeminded.

54 vil agetribune

We currently have spaces for new members so, if you’re looking to make friends and try new things, come and join us!

Email: ontheedgewi@gmail.com

TRIBUNE DIARY

The John Clare Festival 12 and 13 July This year, we are having a two-day Festival, starting on Friday 12 July with the traditional laying of the Midsummer Cushions on John Clare’s grave, from 1pm.

The entire John Clare Primary School will be going to St. Botolph’s Church in class groups and everyone is invited to attend – parents, grandparents, carers, friends, siblings, anyone else living locally, and visitors. It is always a happy occasion.

The Cushions’ ceremony will be followed by the awarding of prizes in the annual Poetry Competition, in the church. All of the entries will be available to view inside the church over the weekend and for several days afterwards.

To end the day there will be a Choral Evensong in St. Botolph’s Church at 5pm and then a lively evening at the John Clare Cottage with local folk musicians from 7.30pm.

Please come along, everyone is welcome.

On Saturday 13 July, John Clare’s birthday, the John Clare Society’s AGM will take place in St. Botolph’s Church from 10am for about an hour (the boring bit for non-members, but as a registered charity an essential event in our year).

This will be followed at 11am by a fascinating talk by the Rector, Gary Alderson, on Rev. Charles Mossop. In the afternoon there will be lunches

available in the village hall and at the John Clare Cottage, which will be also be open on that day for tours of the house and garden (entrance charges apply). There will be many things to do and see in the afternoon, and to end the day a concert by The Black Smock Band who are coming all the way from Brighton to provide this year’s entertainment. This will have an early start of 5pm so that anyone attending can travel on to their home, accommodation, or go out for an evening meal afterwards.

The whole weekend is free to attend and is open to members and non-members of the Society. Tickets for the Concert will be £8 each, two adults for £15, family tickets £13 (1 adult and up to three children) or £20 (two adults and up to three children).

We would love to have more open gardens, this year and next, so please contact us if you would like to be included.

It does not have to be a pristine show garden worthy of Chelsea, just interesting! There is no need to provide anything but you can have your own stall if you want to sell things (such as plants or crafts) on the day.

The provisional timetable is as follows: Friday 12 July 1-3pm Midsummer Cushions and Poetry Prize Giving at the Church 5pm Choral Evensong at St. Botolph’s Church 7.30pm Folk Evening at the John Clare Cottage. Bar Open.

Saturday 13 July 10am AGM 11am-12pm Talk by Gary Alderson on Rev. Mossop in the Church 11.30am John Clare Cottage open 12-2pm Lunches in the Village hall and Cottage 12-1pm Children’s activities at the Cottage 1.15-2.45pm Poetry Reading in the Church – bring your favourite poem 2-4pm Open Gardens in the village 3-4.15 Walk organised by the Langdyke Trust 3-5pm Teas in the village hall 5pm Concert in St. Botolph’s Church Ann Marshall, The John Clare Society E-mail annmarshall2@btinternet.com or phone 07815 640033

For more information and tickets please get in touch. Concert tickets are available from 1 June. Numbers are limited so please apply early.

If any are remaining, entry will be £8 each on the door.

vil agetribune 55

TRIBUNE DIARY

Together with Vivacity, Newborough and Borough Fen Parish Council are pleased to announce the annual

FREE

16 August 10am - 2pm

Glinton Horticultural Society 78th Open Show Saturday 21 September

SPORTING EVENTS, ACTIVITIES AND FUN! BOUNCY CASTLE FRANKS ICES GAMES PIZZA At Coronation Field, St Martin's Road, Newborough PE6 7QR The Parish Council wish to offer thanks to the trustees for free use of Coronation field and pavilion to its residents.

Fruit, Flowers, Vegetables, Preserves, Baking, Photos, Beverages, Handicrafts & Children’s classes.

2pm – 5pm Arthur Mellows Village College (see also page 17)

Time to take a break?

Visit Norfolk Traditional Norfolk Cottage South Creake Set in lovely village, a two-minute walk to the pub, 20 mins from Brancaster & 10 mins from Burnham Market. Sleeps six.Two double beds.

One children’s bunk bedroom. Newly-fitted kitchen & utility. Stylish separate sitting room & dining room with woodburners. Large, enclosed garden with furniture & BBQ. One medium sized dog accepted. Off-road parking.

Three nights low season from £450. Seven nights low season from £575 For further inforomation email tammy.tushingham@btinternet.com Exclusive TRIB' READER DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE

Visit West Mersea Island 4-bedroom house (sleeps up to 8). Picturesque and tranquil summer breaks. Only footsteps from the spacious beaches, and a short stroll to the village pubs & restaurants.

Enjoy enchanting sunsets and beautiful scenery. Environmentally unique and full of wildlife. Child friendly. Dogs also welcome at the house, most of the pubs and on the beaches.

For further information email mel@dimension6000.com

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ENVIRONMENT | WHY CPRE IS SAYING 'NO' TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF LAND BETWEEN PEAKIRK AND GLINTON

Why CPRE is saying 'No' to the development of land between Peakirk and Glinton Sally-Ann Jackson, Peakirk Parish Councillor and CPRE member.

The Peterborough Local Plan is currently under review and an application has been submitted in the ‘Call for Sites’ part of the process to develop an area of open countryside between the villages of Glinton and Peakirk. This would result in over 200 houses and the associated infrastructure in this area of open countryside.

CPRE (Campaign to protect Rural England) Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is united with the villages of Glinton and Peakirk in their opposition to this speculative scheme.

Peakirk

There are many reasons to oppose this development, not least because it would not conform to policies in either the adopted Peakirk Neighbourhood Plan 2017–2030, or the adopted Glinton Neighbourhood Plan 2016-2036, now part of Peterborough City Council's (PCC) Local Development Framework. Peterborough City Council’s Local Plan 20162036 also rejects this size of development. More details about the policies this proposed development contravenes can be found on our website – (link).

Other important objections to this application include:

Agricultural land and food production The loss of productive arable land when the city’s population is growing by thousands every year is morally unacceptable.

The soil we have in this area is some of the most productive in the country. The reclassification of this land which will be needed to allow the scheme to go ahead will allow developers 58 vil agetribune

easier access to agricultural land and turn it into house building developments. The Council’s own local plan states: “planning permission will not be granted where development would lead to the loss of agricultural

land…except where there is overriding need and there is no other suitable site for the specific development”.

There are many brown site areas around Peterborough which would be more suitable.

WHY CPRE IS SAYING 'NO' TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF LAND BETWEEN PEAKIRK AND GLINTON | ENVIRONMENT

Losing large swathes of fertile agricultural land is likely to result in even higher food prices when farmers are already experiencing difficulties with climate and adverse weather conditions.

Threat to Wildlife This development threatens this area’s diverse ecosystem. Barn Owls have been seen collecting food from this area. Hedgerows and trees used as habitation will be destroyed and will disrupt insect and animal populations.

Flooding We are concerned about the drainage of land that will no longer be maintained by

Peakirk farmers. The heavy rains we are experiencing with climate change will only increase flooding risk in the area.

Surface water and run off will be increased leading to an even greater risk.

This development would also have a detrimental impact on

employment, with the loss of farming and its supporting industries; increased traffic will damage local roads, disrupt quality of life and increase pollution and noise; and extra strain will be put on local schools, doctors’ surgeries and other services.

CPRE is one of the longest established and most respected environmental groups in England. Your local CPRE was set up over 90 years ago – and we have been speaking up for our countryside ever since. Find out more at www.cprecambs.org.uk

>> continued from page 8

SOCIAL MEDIA ROUNDUP | WRITE AWAY

SOCIAL MEDIA

write away

Bill Currie - Any suggestions as to where I report this please? It’s by the stone bridge on the north cut at Glinton.

The Red Lion, West Deeping - Little bit of redecorating at the pub this morning! After 70 years of contstant quarrying in our parish, Breedon are applying for yet more farmland to destroy. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. Please come down to the public exhibition today in the village hall. Join our fight, protect our businesses and Protect West Deeping! continued overleaf >>

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WRITE AWAY | SOCIAL MEDIA ROUND-UP

>> continued from previous page

SOCIAL MEDIA

write away

Anne Lees Still red in the sky at 22:35!

Ludovic Greenhow - Best bloom ever, not sure of its name but smells of Pineapples.

Jo Leonard - Cytisus battandieri (pineapple broom).

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David Hankins - Nearly 5 years ago we planted many trees in Peakirk. Sadly our friends David Dearman and Greg Prior are no longer with us but in tribute to their memory me and Gregg Duggan have spent today clearing the weeds from around those trees to encourage growth for the pleasure of future generations.

SOCIAL MEDIA ROUND-UP | WRITE AWAY

Park Farm - Thorney A massive thank you to everyone who makes this event possible. We have had another wonderful Open Farm and Vintage Weekend. We welcomed a total of 12,237 people over the weekend, which included a record-breaking Saturday. We also saw our 100,000th visitor since we started hosting Open Farm Sunday in 2006!

Glinton Parish Council We honoured those who gave the ultimate sacrifice!

The church bells rang and the Beacon was lit in Glinton to commemorate D Day. The Benefice choir sang some patriotic songs and Bob Randall gave an address recognising individuals who took part in the landings. He also mentioned local man Donald Crowson who died on the 5 Oct, 1944 in the Netherlands.

Gerry Kirt then closed the proceedings which had around 100 people in attendance.

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WRITE AWAY | READERS' LETTERS TO THE TRIBUNE COMMUNITY

YOUR LETTERS

write away Thank you from Cllr Neil Boyce Glinton and Castor ward councillor.

Many, many thanks to everyone in our Glinton and Castor ward’s nine villages who took the time to vote on 2 May. That’s everyone, not just the convincing majority of residents who placed their trust in me to join long-standing Cllr Peter Hiller as your Peterborough First (PF) City Council representative.

I spoke to many residents during the campaign, who made it clear they were fed-up with the main political Parties’ infighting and who care more about keeping

themselves in office than doing what residents want them to do to care about the taxpayers who elected them! We at PF agree.

We are the now the 2nd largest group on Peterborough City Council and we are Independent of all political pressure, mantras and dogma. We firmly put People, not Politics as one of our founding principles because

we have the same values as most of our rural neighbours.

Peter and I love where we live and will always work to protect the quality of life in our rural communities.

A big thank you to the residents of Peakirk, Deeping Gate, Glinton, Northborough, Etton, Maxey, Ailsworth, Marholm and Castor. We won’t let you down.

We need a new village hall! Barbara Holdich I’m not normally one to put pen to paper, but after reading the latest Tribune, I feel the time is right for me to do so.

We have a great need for a new Village Hall in Glinton.

Our current one has outgrown itself, in an endeavour to fulfil the needs of a fast expanding village. We have our Friendship Club meeting on Mondays, with hardly any room for expansion when all the tables and chairs are put out, and a kitchen that cannot be enlarged to suit our needs, to provide a cooked lunch for our elderly and vulnerable clientele, most of whom live on their own.

Several of our members now use mobility scooters, which have to be parked down the narrow passageway.

As well as this, there is no parking provision, meaning you have a trek from behind the 62 vil agetribune

church (if you can find a space) to carry bags, boxes, and all the food etc into the hall. If you have a blue badge, you can park outside on the road, but this causes congestion in the High Street.

Our present hall is needing a lot of money spending on it now, but surely this money would be better used being put towards the cost of a new hall!

The most serious issue I would raise, is the fire risk involved.

It’s all very well having the fire regulations, but in reality it would be a logistic nightmare to get all our elderly people out quickly and safely. We did have a fire in the kitchen a few months ago, which fortunately was on a Sunday, when there weren’t so many people in it, and the hall was easily cleared.

I believe the Village Plan did not give us a proper option to put

your views on this. We have a useable area on the playing field, which is accessible, but not close enough to our neighbours to cause annoyance, or take up too much space in the field.

At the moment, plans are going ahead at pace to upgrade our present hall, but at the end of the day, it would still be inadequate!

This is a last ditch attempt to allow people time to think this through and let your feelings be known before it is too late.

I feel so strongly that Glinton deserves better."

Please email me at jbholdich@aol.com

CHURCH SERVICES | INSPIRE

CHURCH

7 July

12 July

14 July

SERVICES

SUNDAY/ FEAST

ST MARY'S BAINTON

ST JOHN'S BARNACK

ST BOTOLPH'S HELPSTON

ALL SAINTS, WITTERING

Trinity 6

16:30 Evening Praise (Bainton and Ashton Fete – at Bainton House)

09:30 Communion

10:45 Communion

10:30 Morning Praise

Friday of the John Clare Festival

Trinity 7

18:00 Evensong for the John Clare Festival

09:00 Communion

09:30 Communion

10:45 Communion

10:30 Communion

15:30 Messy Church Barbecue – at Holly Cottage, Wittering Road

20 July

Saturday

21 July

Trinity 8

16:30 Pet Service

09:30 Morning Praise

10:45 Morning Praise

10:30 Communion

28 July

Trinity 9

09:00 Communion

09:30 Communion 16:30 Pet Service

10:45 Morning Praise

10:30 Pet Service

4 August

Trinity 10

16:30 Taizé

09:30 Communion

10:45 Communion

10:30 Communion

11 August

Trinity 11

09:00 Communion

09:30 Communion

10:45 Communion

10:30 Communion

18 August

Trinity 12

16:30 Communion – St Mary’s Day Patronal Festival

09:30 Communion 15:00 Messy Church

10:45 Communion

10:30 Morning Praise

25 August

Trinity 13

09:00 Communion

09:30 Morning Praise

10:45 Morning Praise

10:30 Morning Praise

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INSPIRE | SPECIAL EVENTS

inspire Special Events The church’s calendar has traditional been full of special events. The calendar for my churches for the next two months includes three pet services, a John Clare Evensong, and St Mary’s Day.

I’ll be honest, pet blessing ceremonies don’t actually feature in the Bible narrative.

There is one donkey that is a prophet (look it up!) But otherwise the only time animals feature in religious ceremonies in the Bible is either to carry

things, or to end up on the menu. But the Bible is full of praise for God from the whole of creation. Psalm 148 starts with angels and the heavens praising God, and moves on to the whole creation:

Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths, lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding, you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars, wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying birds, kings of the earth and all nations, you princes and all rulers on earth, young men and women, old men and children.

The whole earth is God’s, and every part of creation sings God’s praise – so we thank God for the natural world around us, and the colours and life tell us of God’s beauty.

But if everything is special, then while we mark out special events to mark times of the year, actually every Sunday, every day, every moment is special – a unique instant in the history of the Universe, to be noticed for what it is. You can put this magazine down, go outside, see a leaf or a bird or the sky – realise how beautiful it is.

64 vil agetribune

Rest in the moment. And then, obviously, come back and carry on reading the Tribune. Tony puts a lot of work into it!

On 18 August we have a special afternoon service at St Mary’s, Bainton, to celebrate what’s called the “Patronal Festival”.

This particular St Mary’s Day (there are lots of them through the year) marks what Catholics call the “Assumption” of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Orthodox call the “Dormition” (falling asleep) and the Church of England just skirts over the matter of why. Catholics believe

that Mary was raised directly and bodily up to heaven, like Elijah. Orthodox churches believe Mary feel asleep, that is, died, but her soul went straight to heaven. Whatever your view on the matter, it marks the significance to the Christian faith of this very ordinary woman, who said “Yes” to the most important thing that ever happened – God coming to this world in Jesus.

So we’d love to see you in special events. But every moment is special: take your time, take note, and enjoy it.

Revd Gary Alderson

NEWS FROM ST PEGA'S | INSPIRE

News from St Pega’s Peakirk The church is for all the local community and is open seven days a week between 10.00am and 4.00pm.

Everyone is welcome to ‘drop in’ for a moment of peace, to offer a prayer or just to admire the wonderful architecture and wall paintings.

A Tribute to Miss Freda D’Arcy Neaverson 1 April 1924 – 7 April 2024 Miss Freda, her life, which began on the 1st April 1924 but she was no April fool. What she was, was the most peaceful, generous and loving person that this village has probably ever known. Anybody, who had the pleasure of visiting her, when she was well, at 4 Rectory Lane would come away smiling, because of the way that she made you feel welcome, giving you tea and probably a piece of cake, which she had usually baked at midnight!

Freda involved herself in all village projects, helping save the village Green, raising funds for the new village hall and everything to do with the Church. She was Church Warden from 1966 -2004, the church played a very important part in her life, and she must have used gallons of Brasso, during that period. You name it and she was a participant, and in the process making lifelong friends with everybody involved. One of her favourite jobs was raking up the leaves in the Church Yard and having a bonfire under the Yew Trees right next to her house – smoking the village out for days!

She also befriended the Nuns of the Precious Blood, who used to live in the Hermitage. She loved to be with them, and they also enjoyed her company.

Freda was committed to the Red Cross, earning countless medals and she even had tea at Buckingham Palace with the Queen. In days gone by every show or outdoor event would have the Red Cross present and Freda would be there, stretcher and bandages to hand!

Freda would be present on the Neaverson stand at shows, greeting guests and serving tea and cakes, always pleased to see you.

She drove countless miles for the hospital car service ferrying people back and forth, well into her 80s.

With her devoted friend Mrs Mitchell, she travelled extensively round Europe. With her cousin Ida, Scotland, the Lakes, and most of the UK were visited and the very mention of Flower Festival and they were off!

In her younger days Freda attended numerous Hunt Balls and social events and right up

to the end she loved a good party.

At the celebration of her 100th birthday, even though she was quite confused to know whose birthday it was, she joined in as best she could, along with 25 or so friends. Freda spent a long time studying the card from Charles and Camilla but had a very pleasant time with bubbles and chocolate cake, you could see by the smile on her face that she was enjoying it. It was very sad that she went into decline a few days later and passed away aged 100 years and 6 days.

Miss Freda was one of the key stones of the village and will be sorely missed by all those who knew her.

Ann and Nick Harris continued overleaf >>

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NEWS FROM ST PEGA'S | INSPIRE

>> continued from previous page

Spring is in the Air This was a very successful event, raising almost £1,000 for church funds.

Thanks to everyone who A big thank you to “The Six” (Simon, David, Marie, Matt, Adam contributed to the success of the evening. and Derek) who were amazing

...

a and Home ontrol

asiest or e hilst

an lar

ide

TH ERS

and made it a truly wonderful evening by entertaining a full church with a varied programme of popular show tunes and classical pieces.

The Family Fun and Fundraising Skip-a-long This was launched in Peakirk Village Hall on Thursday, 23 May. Skipping events are planned on the first three Saturdays in July – 6, 13 and 20, from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. It is open to all ages from toddlers upwards with certificates for all and prizes for our fun activities.

Can we reach a combined total of 1,000,000 skips? It’s a HUGE total and lots of help is needed!

If you would like to sign up but were unable to get to the village hall, you can get a free information leaflet, skipping rope and sponsorship details from : blever@btinternet.com or janeaharris0@gmail.com

Students from America visit St Pega's

The students (27 of them) were from South Carolina university which is based in Columbia, the capital, more than 3500 miles away. I found out they were studying infectious diseases and were interested in the plague.

I was told by one of them that our wall painting featured in a National Geographic magazine and presumably they or the magazine connected the painting to the plague because it was painted about 1350, a couple of years after the peak of the plague, and hence their mega journey.

My brief was to focus on the wall paintings and to fill an hour!

St Pega's 100 Club The first draw of the St Pega’s 100Club took place on 2nd June with the lucky winners being : 21 Rev Keir, 9 Chris, 13 Connie

Unfortunately as far as I know there is no evidence of the plague in Peakirk, although it wouldn't have been spared, but the morality story of the living and dead is really all about the inevitability of death whatever one's station in life.

So I had nothing to tell them about infectious diseases and had to extend my brief at my whim!

They left having had a introduction to a typical glorious village with its green and medieval church on a sunny day. A chance to ring the bells was a bonus for some.

And what better than finish with a bite to eat in a village pub?

Academically perhaps not too productive but as a life experience, treasured memories.

David Hankins Congratulations to our winners. £145.80 was given out in prizes.

If you would like to join the Quarterly draw, there are a few numbers still available.

Each number costs £24 a year.

Contact janeaharris0@gmail com to join.

vil agetribune 67

PITCH PERFECT | VILLAGE TRIBUNE CLASSIFED SECTION

pitchperfect

YOUR AT-A-GLANCE GUIDE TO LOCAL BUSINESSES

We are thrilled to introduce a fresh addition to our magazine – Pitch Perfect, our Classified Section! As we continue our journey of connecting communities across the picturesque landscapes of north Peterborough, we're excited to offer you a platform to showcase your lineage, businesses, services, and events.

By featuring your lineage adverts for 12 months, spanning six issues, we will get your details in front of over 10,000 village residents But wait, there's more! As a bonus, advertisers in our Classified Section will also gain access to our vibrant online community. With over 4,000 active members on our Facebook group, you'll have the opportunity to share promotional messages with a wider audience on the last Friday of every month for an entire year.

ARCHITECTURAL

DATING

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BABY & TODDLER

Tumber Electrical T: 07546912269 E: tumberelectrical@hotmail.com tumberelectrical.co.uk

Little Owletts Baby, toddler and pre-school multi-sensory sessions M: 07834 837017 E:info@littleowletts.co.uk www.littleowletts.co.uk

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ELECTRICIANS

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Excellent customer service.Open to the public.

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Amo La Pizza T: 07514 771388 E info@amolapizza.uk  woodfiredpizzauk

The 1:1 Diet with Georgette T: 07764 444235 E: dietwithadifference@gmail.com www.one2onediet.com/GeorgetteL The Cove Aesthetics 07872893326 @thecoveaesthetics_  @Thecoveaesthetics E: thecoveaesthetics@icloud.com www.thecoveaesthetics.com Concept Therapies (Counselling and Hypnotherapy Services) T: 07369 249876 E: concepttherapies@gmail.com www.concepttherapies.co.uk

PUBS, RESTAURANTS & MOBILE FOOD

Ruddy Duck at Peakirk T: 01733 252426 E nigelcook502@gmail.com www.ruddyduckpeakirk.co.uk The Pack Horse, Northborough T: 01733 913155 E: mail@northboroughpub.co.uk www.the-packhorse.co.uk

TREE SURGEONS Paul Sharpe Tree Surgeon All Aspects of tree work undertaken & seasoned hardwood logs for sale. M 07432 308225 E paulsharpe6610@gmail.com

Heel The Sole Foot Healthcare T: 07889 798370 E: Suewillcox01@gmail.com www.heelthesole.uk Leanne King Aesthetics T: 07872 893326 E: leannekingaesthetics@yahoo.com  leannekingaesthetics Meta Physiotherapy T: 07946 067439 E: daniela@metaphysiotherapy.net www.metaphysiotherapy.net Truly Confident Aesthetics 1c West Street T: 07951 484752 E: trulyconfidentaesthetocs@gmail.com www.trulyconfidentaesthetics.net

PHARMACY Newborough Pharmacy T: 01733 811917 www.newboroughpharmacy.co.uk

PLASTERING King Plastering T 07817 737277 E kingplasteringltd@icloud.com

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TRIBUNE DIRECTORY

tribunedirectory  Ailsworth Parish CounciL Anne Perkins (Chairman) ..........................01733 380541 Joan Pickett (VICE Chairman) ..................01733 380457 Jenny Rice .................................................07889 669550  Bainton Church Reverend Gary Alderson ..........................07503 975588  Bainton & Ashton Parish Council Clerk Jenny Rice................bainton.ashton.clerk@live.co.uk  Barnack Church (St John the Baptist) Gary Alderson, Rector ..............................07503 975588  Barnack Coffee Stop Carol Pickering .........................................01780 740438  Barnack Community Association Sally Hullock ..............................................07795 565658  Barnack Cricket Club William Armitage, Chairman ....................01780 740749  Barnack Home from Home Club Niamh Holman................................hfhbarnack@gmail.com  Barnack Men’s Breakfast Mike Mills...................................................01780 740285  Barnack Messy Church Julie Stanton ............................................01780 749123  Bowls Clubs John Broadbelt..........................................01780 740133 Glinton Bowls: Jeff Bell .............................01733 252395 Helpston Carpet Bowls Les Cunnington .07857 835955  Botolph’s Barn Kate Hinchliff ............................................07745 116621  British Legion Max Sawyer ..............................................01780 765507  Bus & Train Services Delaine Bus Services ................................01778 422866 Stagecoach ...............................................01733 207860 Train Services ............................................0845 7484950  Castor & Ailsworth Cricket Club Secretary - Josh Weaver ..........................07712 707353 j_weaver@live.co.uk  Castor, Ailsworth and District Gardeners' Society Chair - Ann Huckle ....................................01733 3780745 ann.huckle@cobnut-cottage.co.uk Secretary - Richard Pearce - cadgsociety@gmail.com  Cubs, Brownies, Guides, Scouts & Rainbows General Guiding Queries Helpston Brownies, Morag Sweeney ......07801 357701 Helpston Guides, Lindsay Roberts...........07399 589333 ....................................................................07778 707952 Helpston Rainbows, Lindsay Roberts ......07399 589333 General Scouting Queries Martin Hall .................................................07778 707952 70 vil agetribune

Helpston Beavers, Alison Cook................07437 909735 Helpston Cubs, James Metheram ...........07399 252033 Helpston Scouts, Mark Crookes...............07808 633018  Deeping Gate Parish Council Clerk...............................clerk@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk  Doctors Deeping Practice (Main line) ...................01778 579000 Deeping Practice (Appnts.) ......................01778 579001 Glinton Surgery ........................................01733 252246  Etton Church (St Stephen’s) Churchwarden: Anne Curwen .................01733 253357  Etton Parish Council Clerk: Elinor Beesley..................................07713 194173 clerk@etton-pc.gov.uk  Fenland Clarion Cycling Club www.fenlandclarion.co.uk  Glinton Friendship Club Pam Kounougakis .....................................01733 252018  Glinton Church (St Benedict’s) Churchwarden: Veronica Smith ................01733 252019  Glinton Parish Council Mr J Haste - Clerk .....................................07591 834163  Helpston Church (St Botolph’s) Rector: Gary Alderson ..............................07503 975588  Helpston Helcats Phil Roberts................................................07925 720195  Helpston Parish Council Clerk: Sydney Smith .................................01733 252903  Horticultural Societies John Best - Glinton ...................................01778 342115 Debbie Martin - Barnack Show ................01780 740048 Kirsty Scott - Peakirk .................................01733 253952  Hospital Peterborough City Hospital .....................01733 678000  Langdyke Countryside Trust Richard Astle .............................................01733 252376  Maxey Church (St Peter’s) Churchwarden: Mandy Loveder ..............01778 343100  Neighbourhood Watch Maxey Neighbourhood Watch Dick Wilkins ...............................................01778 348368 Bainton & Ashton Cliff Stanton ...............01780 749123  Newborough Parish Council Bryan Cole - Chair .....................................07554 210824  Newborough Good Neighbours Cate ...........................................................07735 810139  Newborough Pre-school Playgroup Debbie ......................................................07423 519890

TRIBUNE DIRECTORY

 Newborough Indoor Carpet Bowls – Brenda Vessey ..........................................07941 308148  Northborough Church (St Andrew’s) Clare Strak, PCC Secretary Jane Knott, Church warden......................01778 345101 Polly Beasley, Church warden ..................01778 380849  Northborough Parish Council Elinor Beesley............... .............................07713 194173  Peakirk Church (St Pegas) Churchwarden: Sheila Lever .....................01733 252416 Churchwarden: Pauline Cooke.................01733 253116  Peakirk Parish Council Clerk: Angela Hankins ..............................01733 253397  Peterborough City Council Peterborough City Council ......................01733 747474  Police and Emergencies Police - emergency calls ..........................999 Less urgent crimes ...................................101 Power Failure ............................................0800 7838838 Samaritans ................................... Freephone 116 123  Pre-School & After-School Clubs Helpston Playhouse pre-school Lucy Garwood ...........................................01733 253243 Helpston Before & After School Club Roz Sowinski ..............................................01733 253243 Peakirk Tots Emma Thornton ........................................07876 822173 Little Lambs Toddler Group, Barnack Julie Stanton..............................................01780 749123 Sunflower Seed Pre-School, Northborough Kirsty Wislawski .........................................01733 253685 The Owls’ Nest, Amy Quarizzo ................01733 252361  Schools & Education Arthur Mellows Village College ..............01733 252235 John Clare Primary ...................................01733 252332

Barnack C of E Primary .........................01780 740265 Peakirk-cum-Glinton Primary School ... 01733 252361 Northborough Primary...........................01733 252204 Peterborough Adult Learning ..............01733 761361  Tennis Clubs Helpston Tennis Club ............................07714 780573  Ufford Church Enquiries Peter and Sally Hudson ........................01780 740475  Village Halls Barnack Village Hall Bookings Sally Hullock ...........................................07795 565658 Glinton Village Hall Bookings Sue Lane .................................................07923 475966 Glinton Whist, Joyce Heathcote ...........01733 253790 Helpston Village Hall, Caryn Thompson ...................................07801 260240 Maxey Village Hall, Jacqui Barnard .....07902 536476 Northborough Village Hall: www.northboroughvillagehall.co.uk Peakirk Village Hall (Bookings) .............07938 386226 Ufford Village Hall Fiona Spire (Bookings) ...........................07795 111319  Village Tribune Editor, Tony Henthorn ...........................07590 750128  Ward Councillors Barnack David Over ..............................07920 160053 Glinton & Castor Peter Hiller ................07920 160487  Women’s Institute (WI) Northborough WI Tracy Thomas (Secretary) ......................07720 327145  Youth Clubs Barnack Youth Club, Colin Morgan ......07850 366528 Maxey Youth Club: Tina Lapinskis.........01778 347280

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