The Stratton & Tasburgh Book - Oct/Nov 22

THE STRATTON & TASBURGH BOOK

So, it’s Autumn; School Half Term, the end of British Summer Time (Sunday 30th October), Halloween (Monday 31st October) and Guy Fawkes Night (Saturday 5th November), Remembrance Sunday (10th November) all await us.

Should it be time to get a few things fixed around the home, please consider the benefits of sourcing locally, when you call the flourishing business services you find inside this magazine, you’re directly contributing to our local economy.

publishers of this handy local magazine, we are members of The Federation of Small Business, and we keenly support the ‘Keep Trade Local’ message. Our advertising clients and readers know we relate, because we are a small local business ourselves!

plus point when you use local tradespeople is the increased level of accountability; you’re more likely to know who you’re dealing with and where to find them, something many find comforting.

Falafel

Harissa

Used Hybrids

Garden Tasks &

Events

Quiz,

THE BRITISH MONACHY

by Tracey De Abreu, Publisher of The Stratton & Tasburgh Book

shown for the last 70 years is an example to us all.

At a time of considerable turmoil in the world, it is no wonder that there is such sadness at the loss of Her Majesty’s constancy. Thank you Ma’am.

What next?

Looking ahead, King Charles III is well set to lead. The seamless transition process (and I’m writing this prior to Her Majesty’s funeral) appears to have been incredibly efficient.

A personal experience...

es Trust. We had a 9 month old baby and life seemed 100mph most days, so this event was a very welcome diary date in our lives.

What an amazing day; we drove down to London, I lost my hair fascinator as I jumped on the Tube and got a bit flustered as we arrived at the Royal gate where tourists were watching. It seemed a bit surreal to present our invitation and be welcomed through. We walked across to the Palace and quickly found ourselves guided through the magnificent building to the rear garden.

By the time you read this, it would be safe to say that millions of words have been written and spoken about Her Majesty’s life. Every news outlet will have published obituaries and tributes. It is not necessary for me to further recount the facts, but I would like to share my personal thoughts.

Like every community magazine publisher in the UK, I’ve never known any other Head of State. Every stamp and coin I’ve ever used featured Her Majesty’s profile; every post box I’ve dropped my cards into is embossed with the ‘EIIR’ cypher and every state opening of Parliament during my lifetime (except 2022) was attended by the Queen.

Then the thousands of personal appearances. From opening buildings and bridges, diplomatic meetings at home and overseas, awarding honours and of course her own Jubilee celebrations, the Queen's presence was filmed, photographed and documented. This omnipresence made her part of everybody’s lives.

Throughout it all, Her Majesty conducted herself with a particularly British dignity. She may have had strong opinions, but they were never publicly expressed. There were no emotional outbursts, and she never gave a personal interview. The tolerance and patience

Back in 2006, just before we launched our first publication, my partner Stuart and I were invited to a Buckingham Palace Garden Party following his work as a volunteer Business Mentor for The Princes Trust. Stuart and his coaching client had won The Shell Livewire Award for Norfolk and we received an amazingly thick invitation card to request our attendance at the Palace to meet HRH Charles, Prince of Wales & Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall (as they were titled then).

Timing-wise, we were right in the midst of launching our magazine business in fact this publication was created buoyed by the success Stuart enjoyed with the Princ-

A strict ‘no photos’ policy was made clear, so we only have our personal memories...

Marquees, military precision staff, excellent food and fabulous entertainment awaited.

We listened to Charles’ speech congratulating attendees on their community achievements, then mingled to find ourselves amongst celebs that included Sir David Frost, Sir Rod Stewart & wife Penny, the Spice Girls and many more. Allowed to ramble around the entire royal gardens (the ladies toilets were amazing!), we soaked up our surroundings.

Thank you, and Long Live the King!

Nor folk Volunteer P assport

Are you new to volunteering, or looking to gain more skills? Join the Norfolk Volunteer Passport scheme.

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, build confidence and provides a sense of purpose.

The passport, provides you with free training to allow you to move between voluntary organisations, filling short term roles.

For more information please contact Helen: volunteercentre@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

Phone scams are nothing new but since we were all forced to stay at home during the pandemic, they have been on the rise. However, these days it doesn’t really matter if you are at home or out and about, if you have a mobile in your pocket, you could become a victim of a scam at any time.

In 2019 over £130 billion was taken from individuals and businesses by scammers (2019 The Financial Cost of Fraud Report).

Common phone scams

There are so many phone scams circulating that it’s impossible to list them all. From claiming fraudulent activity on your account to bogus pension and investment calls, scammers will use any tactic to fool their victim.

They are not above pretending to be from some of the biggest companies to get to your cash, either. Some of the most common companies who are imitated are: HMRC

DVLA Banks Amazon TV Licencing Royal Mail Apple/Microsoft

Unfortunately, scammers were also using the Coronavirus pandemic to cash in, too. These scams have evolved as the situation changes, but they are always looking to make money from vulnerable people.

How do scammers get your number?

You may be wondering how scammers manage to get their hands on your information. When data breaches happen, personal details surface online and can be sold to criminals. They then take this data and use it to convince you that they are a reputable company, who you

The rise of the Phone Scams

have willingly given your information to.

Software viruses or previously answering a spam call are other common ways scammers could have acquired your phone number. What to look out for:

Texts

A phone call isn’t always a scammer’s communication of choice. They may send texts instead encouraging you to click on a link which takes you through to the scammer’s website. They can then see all the data you put in.

Being asked to install things to your phone

Be wary of people who ask you to install an app onto your mobile phone. These could contain malware which can steal your personal information. Some apps are even designed to look the same as a reputable app, but they will take your money by encouraging you to make in-app purchases.

Requests for personal information

Scammers often use a sense of urgency or scare tactics to make you do something you wouldn’t usually do. Reputable companies will never ask you to give personal information, such as log-in details over the phone. Nor will they ask you to move money into a ‘safe place’ to prevent fraud.

‘Spoofing’ calls

These are becoming increasingly more common. A spoofing call means a scam phone number has been disguised as the genuine number from a reputable business. If you are ever suspicious of a call you have answered that shows the correct number for a company, but you’re not sure whether it is a legitimate call or not hang up and call them back yourself. Ideally using a different phone, or after waiting for 15 minutes to make sure the line is clear.

How to protect yourself against phone scams

Whilst there is no way that you can stop phone scams from happening there are some things you can do to help reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

Register your phone number(s) to the TPS (Telephone Preference Service). This helps to block nuisance calls.

Avoid calling back a missed call from an unrecognised number. If you do you could be charged huge amounts of money.

Never give out personal information including passwords or PIN numbers.

Do not transfer any money to a person or account you do not recognise. Especially if the person asking you to do so is pressuring you or giving a time limit.

Make sure the operating system on your mobile is kept up to date. This will ensure your phone is as secure as possible.

Consider installing anti virus software on your mobile phone. Choose one from a trustworthy company, like McAfee.

There is a lot more information out there about scams and keeping yourself safe. If you ever think you are being scammed, take the time to think about whether the call is genuine and never rush in to making any hasty decisions. It can also be helpful to look online to see if anyone else has reported a similar scam.

If you are sure that you are being scammed by phone, text or email you can report them to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) to help prevent others being scammed too.

Finally, if you have been unlucky enough to fall for a scam, speak to Victim Support.

Community Events & What’s On...

3rd LONG STRATTON BROWNIE PACK meets every Thursday 6pm 7.30pm term time at the Methodist church, Manor Road, Long Stratton. If your daughter is aged between 7 and 10 years and would like to join Brownies please call Brown Owl (Gill) on 01508 530378 or e mail gillworrell@btinternet.com for further information or to arrange a visit to see what we do.

LONG STRATTON GYMNASTIC CLUB every Thursday evening and Saturday afternoon caters for girls aged 5 to 18 years. The club runs a disability session on a Saturday which is open to boys and girls at Long Stratton Leisure Centre, first session free. For more information contact Tina on 01379 740948.

LONG STRATTON TODDLER GROUP every Monday and Wednesday morning 9.15 11.15am (term time only). Held at the Methodist church on Manor Road. First session free, £2.00 thereafter. www.longstrattontoddlers.co.uk

TAS WELL JUNIORS The last Saturday of every month 6 8pm at the Tas Well Social Club for children of all ages. Games, activities & lots of fun. More info: Mel on 01508 532146 or mel.large@btinternet.com

COFFEE MEETING meet some old friends, make some new friends, have a chat, a cup of tea & a piece of cake at the Coffee Pot, every Wednesday 2.003.30pm in the Tasburgh Church Room.

CASUALTIES UNION NORWICH BRANCH Meets at the Vauxhall Centre, Johnson Place, Norwich, NR2 2SA 7:30pm 9:30pm Weds new members welcome for details contact 01508 494492 www.casualtiesunion.org.uk

KIDDY COOK Cookery workshops for 4 11 year old chefs held in Tasburgh. Held once a month on Saturday mornings and during school holidays. www.kiddycook.co.uk or call Fran on 07973 724870 for the latest schedule.

HEMPNALL MILL CENTRE- Bookings Sarah Batchelor info@hempnallmillcentre.co.uk 07504 699534 www.hempnallmillcentre.co.uk

NEED SOMEWHERE TO HOLD A FUNCTION? Anniversary celebration, children’s party, christening, birthday party, family and friends get together? The Mill Centre in Hempnall is available for hire please call Sarah Batchelor 07504 699534 or email info@hempnallmillcentre.co.uk

THARSTON HISTORY SOCIETY regularly meets on the last Wednesday of alternate months. Everyone is welcome admission is free but there is a retiring collect to help with Society expenses. For further information please see our website www.tharston history society.com or email web@tharston-historysociety.com.

DID YOU KNOW you can now find information on THE HEMPNALL TRUST & how to book the Mill Centre in Hempnall on The Hempnall Trust Website www.hempnalltrust.org

FITNESS CLASSES - Long Stratton High School on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening. Choose from circuits, HIIT or cardio blast. First session FREE. To book your FREE session or for more details please email: hello@timcourridge.co.uk

HEMPNALL MILL CENTRE - LUNCHEON CLUB Thursday from £6. Morning tea or coffee served on arrival from 11am with a two course lunch served at 12 noon. For more information contact (Margaret Sparham ( Wed and Thursday on 499766 or 499579 at other times)

GT. MOULTON CHAPEL COFFEE MORNING Wednesdays 10.30 to 11.45. Come and have a mardle at this fun, friendly venue. We have home made cakes and even soup, together with a selection of hot and cold drinks. Open to everyone, we'd be pleased to see you. Contact Steven: 01379 674341

SAXLINGHAM NETHERGATE BOWLS CLUB Come along and have a go at Bowls at our Green in a picturesque setting on the Playing Field. The club is running taster session and coaching for beginners on Monday mornings at 11.00am. Experienced Bowlers are welcome too. Contact: Chris Lacey on 01508 499700

NEWTON FLOTMAN PRE SCHOOL We are a well established, community pre school at the Village Centre offering a fun and educational environment for children, aged from 2 years to school age. The preschool, an outstanding early years provider (OFSTED 2015 2016) is open Monday to Friday, with ample space for parking. Fees start from £4.50 per hour. We also accept funding from Norfolk County Council for 2, and 3-4 year olds, if applicable and we are able to offer tax free childcare too! For more information please contact us at manager@newtonflotmanpreschool.co.uk or 01508 470680, or alternatively please visit www.newtonflotmanpreschool.co.uk

TASBURGH UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB Our FA Charter Standard club won Norfolk FA’s Grassroots club of the year for 2019. We have FA qualified coaches who train boys and girls from age 5 to 15, and we have various teams playing in the Norfolk Youth Combined League. New players and volunteers welcome! For more info you can find us on Facebook, at www.tasburghunited.com or call Dan Edwards on 07813 045764.

MARTIAL ARTS All Oriental Self Defence & Physical Fitness Techniques in One Art. Kuk Sool Won Martial Arts Club in Long Stratton and Tasburgh. TWO FREE SESSIONS. Ages 4-7 years; Lil Dragons Tasburgh Village Hall Monday 4.30pm. Ages 7 to Adult; Tasburgh Village Hall Monday 5.30 6.30pm. Classes also in Long Stratton see web www.kuksoolwon gillingwater.org for locations, times and more information or call/text 07775 890359.

Community Events & What’s On...

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LA JOLIE RONDE FRENCH LESSONS For children from the age of 3 to 11 years old. Lessons are fun, with lots of games, songs and role play. Once a week during term time. Classes available at Manorfield Infant and Nursery School 12.30 1pm on a Tuesday, open to children attending the school. Classes also available at St. Mary's Junior School on a Wednesday 12.15-12.45pm and 12.45-1.15pm, open to children attending the school. If your child attends Jack in the Box Daycare there are sessions available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. Ask about free taster sessions. Email: djc1@ntlworld.com / text 07887 513757.

SAXLINGHAM NETHERGATE BOWLS CLUB Come along and have a go at Bowls at our Green in a picturesque setting on the Playing Field. The club is running taster session and coaching for beginners on Monday mornings at 11.00am. Experienced Bowlers are welcome too. Contact: Chris Lacey on 01508 499700

SAXLINGHAM PLAYERS we are a lively drama group performing 2 plays/panto each year (except 2020!) We have just celebrated our 70th year! If you are at all interested please come and join us, acting or back stage or front of house. Please see our website or contact Neil Smith on 01508 499667.

SINGING: IF YOU CAN SPEAK, YOU CAN SING!

Creative Singing Studios Community Singing Group Meets Every Tuesday Evening 7:00 8:30pm at Wacton Village Hall, £5.00 per person, pay as you go. This group is regularly invited to sing throughout the region and has raised more than £1000 within the past 12 months for local charities such as Shelter & Break! For more information go to www.creativesingingstudios.co.uk.Contact Louise Barton via email on: louise@louisebarton.com

TAS VALLEY PRE-SCHOOL and PLAYGROUP Our small, dedicated team of staff provides a safe, caring and stimulating environment for children aged 2 years to school age, to play and learn. During term time, we offer weekday morning sessions 9am 12pm, and Tuesday afternoon sessions 12pm - 3pm. We also offer Monday afternoon sessions, 12pm 3pm, for pre school year children only (the year before children go to school). Fees are £14 per session, age dependent. All 3 5 year olds and some 2 year olds are entitled to funding from Norfolk County Council. Please visit www.tasvalleyplaygroup.org.uk or e-mail enquiries.tvplaygroup@gmail.com

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