The Wroxham & Coltishall Book - Aug/Sept 23

Tracey

Welcome… to the latest edition of THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK

Summer is in full swing - I hope you’re enjoying the fabulous weather!

At home, we often reflect on our good fortune growing up here in the Norfolk Broads - we really are lucky in that respect aren’t we?

Looking back to 2006, I was still on maternity leave when we decided to create a new community-based publication and THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK was launched. In September, our youngest son Jack turns 18 having finished Sixth Form and commenced work. We have no school-age children left at home now! That seems pretty scary to us - wherever does that amount of time go?

It certainly serves as a good reminder to make the most of life, appreciate the simple things, and do our best to ‘live in the here and now! ’

You’ll find a wide range of puzzles, quizzes and features inside this edition; including Dame Prue Leith as our featured celebrity.

Enjoy August & September

46 - Motoring; The Best Small EVS

47 - Wordsearch; Australia

50 - Local Reports (to page 55)

57

This magazine is one of 8,000 copies delivered to residents & businesses in: Wroxham, Hoveton, Horning, Badersfield, Coltishall, Horstead, Stalham, Stalham Green, Sutton, Tunstead, Frettenham, Scottow, Belaugh, Sco Ruston, Ashmanhaugh, Smallburgh, Sloley & Buxton.

WROXHAM BURE VALLEY ROTARY CLUB

the club in support of the local community and local charities.

In July we made our regular appearance at Coltishall School end of year summer fete, manning the barbecue, where we managed to serve 600 burgers and hot dogs. We also managed the car park at the annual St Bennett’s abbey service by the Bishop of Norwich, and we ended the month with our annual Charter Night dinner, celebrating the founding of the club 18 years ago.

At the end of June, we had an excellent handover meeting and garden party when outgoing president Robin Baines handed over the reins to new President Kelvin Dore. In addition, our Club members were delighted to be able to present Robin with a prestigious Paul Harris award for his excellent leadership of the club in both 2020/21 and 2022/23 and his unstinting work in developing new projects for

August is traditionally a quieter month, but we are already planning our Autumn activity, with the first major event our Classic car show at Wroxham Barns on Sunday 10th September. Open from midmorning to late afternoon, there will be lots of wonderful old cars to enjoy as well as a barbecue, 50/50 raffle, beer van and all the usual attractions of Wroxham Barns, so make a note of the date now!

If you fancy finding out more about us we have a range of fascinating

speakers over the coming weeks scheduled for our weekly meetings at Wroxham Barns – anyone is welcome to attend, but please let us know in advance if you are coming. You can also support us and the many local and international charities we donate to, through the Broadland Council Lottery Scheme – simply go on line at www.communityatheartlottery.com and sign up, selecting Wroxham Bure Valley Rotary Club as your chosen cause. You can also support us directly by visiting our page on the www.totalgiving.co.uk web site. Meantime remember, in the true Rotary spirit of “Service above Self” we have members ready and willing to help out in the local community wherever the need arises. If you fancy joining us for a vibrant, sociable, active, and fun club experience, please contact our president, Kelvin Dore, on 07798 786944.

Beccles based care provider Home Support Matters is hosting a social beach clean on Saturday the 16th of September at Pakefield beach as part of National World Clean Up Day.

Home Support Matters are inviting you to join them in clearing a section of our beautiful coastline covering a section of the Pakefield beach and green spaces to clear it of waste and litter.

After, you’re invited to pack a social bring your own picnic and enjoy the coastal air and hopefully warm weather together.

Doing your bit for the environment and joining in with the community for an enjoyable social day.

Waste removal and bin bags have kindly been provided by Radical Waste @ Ellough.

Meeting at All Saints Road Car Park for 11am there are a few free car parking spaces, additional are available at Pakefield St, Pakefield, Lowestoft NR33, UK pay and display. Accessible from public transport with bus links a short walk.

Please note there will be designated areas of this clean up accessible to all, but the beach does not have direct hard surfaces.

Please sign up for free using event bright or via the

events section on Home Support Matters Facebook page or email: sara.basey-fisher@homesupportmatters.org.uk to get involved.

Life has been rather turbulent for many of late, with the world of financial advice being no different. The rise in interest rates and spiralling cost of living are driving some interesting trends in our industry, particularly around retirement. Let’s take a look!

Trend 1: Annuities are making a comeback

Annuities used to be the most popular option when it came to drawing your pension. All that changed in 2015 with the pension freedom reforms when income drawdown became the dominant approach, offering greater flexibility and value for most retirees.

However, in a world with higher interest rates and higher bond yields, annuities have become a more attractive option again, with 2022 seeing annuity rates hit a 14year high.

To put some numbers behind that, at the end of January 2022 a £100,000 pension pot could have bought an annuity income of around £5,003 a year. In January 2023 the same amount could have bought an annuity of £6,892 a year – a significant increase!*

The right approach to retirement income is very much an individual decision. However, more advisers are now considering a blended approach, combining the potential for continual growth of the pot through flexible income drawdown with an annuity against part of the pot for the peace of mind of a guaranteed monthly income. The desire for this kind of financial stability has only been exacerbated by concerns over the rising cost of living.

Trend 2: Taking advice is even more valuable during uncertain times

Last year, the minimum pension

The Latest on Retirement Income

income needed to survive as a single pensioner increased by 18% (19% for retired couples) according to a study funded by the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA) at Loughborough University.

Whilst the new state pension rose to £10,600 a year in April 2023, that’s still a shortfall from the £12,800 a year quoted as the minimum amount required per year for a single pensioner, and a far cry from the £23,300 needed for a moderate standard of living in retirement.

Even if you have a pension pot to supplement that (and you jolly well should have!), the more living costs increase, the further your pot has to stretch.

Worrying, the PLSA research suggests that millions of people will not have enough money to cover their day-to-day living costs. In fact, only about 28% of the population are on track for that moderate income level or higher – and these figures pre-date last year’s big rise in inflation, so the reality could be even more shocking.

The best way to make sure you are on track for a decent retirement? Get some professional advice. To quote some figures from a study by the International Longevity Centre (ILC) and reported on Unbiased: “Brits who took professional financial advice between 2001 and 2006 enjoyed an average increase in their assets of nearly £48,000 after 10 years, compared to those who took no advice. The benefits of advice were particularly significant for those with less disposable income, and also for people who took advice more than once. The combined benefits of advice over the 10-year period work out as approximately 2,400% greater than the initial cost of the advice.”

As well as the very real financial

benefits of taking financial advice, the peace of mind alone can be worth a huge amount, especially during uncertain times.

Trend 3: Advised clients are more confident about their retirement than their advisers

It’s quite worrying to note that 46% of advisers** believe only a minority of their clients will have enough in their portfolio to meet their retirement expectations.

Interestingly though, 69% of advised investors and 61% of nonadvised investors are confident they will still be able to achieve their retirement goals. So, something doesn’t quite add up!

This false confidence amongst investors is not a new phenomenon, but with the extra challenges posed by the recent cost of living increases, the impact could be more significant than ever.

Aa advisers, we have the (sometimes tricky!) job of helping guide our clients through this and manage expectations of what retirement might really look like. We also have the opportunity to try and help improve the prospects for our clients by helping them identify how to bridge that gap.

If you have any concerns about reaching your retirement goals, speak to the team at Face to Face Finance to see how we can help you get on track.

*Source: https:// www.origenfs.co.uk/news/areannuities-making-a-comeback/ Figures based on married 65 year old, single life level annuity with 5year guarantee.

** Source: Embark Investor Confidence Barometer 5

Visit www.ftof-finance.co.uk or call 01603 625100.

THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK ~ At the heart of our community ~

THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK ~ At the heart of our community ~

Community Events & What’s On...

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Regular Events

NEATISHEAD COMMUNITY GYM - Friendly, relaxed, affordable, local gym open to all (12+), but especially catering for older age groups and those who are uncomfortable in a commercial gym. Excellent support from experienced instructor. If you want to improve your fitness or mobility, at whatever level, give us a try! Open Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays 8.30 to 12.30 at New Victory Hall, Neatishead. Ring or text Gary on our FREE TRIAL HOTLINE of 07387 876216, or email gym@victoryhall.info for other enquiries.

COLTISHALL & HORSTEAD PRE-SCHOOL - Monday to Wednesday 9.00am to 12pm and 12pm to 3pm, Thursday and Friday 9.00am to 12pm. For 2 years upwards. Held at Coltishall Community Centre, Rectory Road. OFSTED Graded ‘GOOD’. Welcoming all families to join our active playgroup including regular allotment and local primary school visits. Please phone our friendly team: 07539 928124 Charity number: 1164338.

COLTISHALL AND HORSTEAD WI meet on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at the Church Rooms, Rectory Road. Coltishall at 2.30pm. Details; please phone Rosie Howell on 01603 737762.

HAUTBOIS DISTRICT RANGERS meet alternative Wednesdays, 7-8:30pm. We're a small group of girls aged 14+ looking for more people to join us. We do a variety of different activities from camping, to shopping, kayaking to performing! If you're interested or want more information please call Gina 07775 520911.

HORNING ART CLASS is held on Thursday afternoons at 2 o’clock in the Village Hall Annexe. We have an excellent tutor on hand to give guidance or tuition in all media. We are a friendly group with a mixed range of abilities and styles. Interested in joining us ? Please ring Paula Kerrison on 07881 632436.

POKER - Every Sunday at the Diplomat in Badersfield (RAF Colt) we have a weekly league games for points that qualify you for 3 Regional finals & 3 National final competitions. £3.50 a week registers your points online at The Nuts Poker League. Play starts at 7.30pm see you there! New players welcome.

DANCE FOR FUN - is a fun dance club teaching children 6 and upwards Ballet, Tap, Disco & Gymnastic Dance. We meet Wednesday evening from 6 to 8pm in Smallburgh village hall. The club takes part in many community events through the year. If your child is interested in coming to see what we do please pop along any Wednesday evening.

KINGS HEAD QUIZ NIGHT Hoveton Thurs nights at 7.30pm. Still £1 per person admission inclusive of a FREE Quiznighter's Buffet. Max 6 in a team. Winner takes all & Picture Quiz winner leaves with a FREE bottle of wine!

NORTH WALSHAM PHOTOGRAPHIC GROUP meets 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month, 7.30pm at Salvation Army Hall, Hall Lane, North Walsham. Details from Secretary, Liz Fiddy, on 01692 582793 or email trevorandliz@talktalk.net

TIDDLERS BABY & TODDLER GROUP. Meeting at Horstead Tithe Barn, every Wednesday during term time, 10 - 11.30am. £2 per family. Lots of lovely toys for children, cuppa and a chat for you.

Email: tiddlerstoddlergroup@gmail.com for more info or just come along.

AYLSHAM CHESS CLUB Meets at Aylsham & District Ex-Service & Social Club on Monday evenings during the Sep - Jun season. Contact: David Owen (Club Secretary), Tel: 01263 731327, e-mail: davidowen364@btinternet.com

COMMUNITY CAFÉ AT THE HUB Come and join us for a cuppa, a slice of homemade cake & a chat! We meet every Thursday from 10.30-12pm at Wroxham & Hoveton United Reformed Church (The Hub), 114 Norwich Rd, Wroxham, NR12 8SA. We are open to all and there's no charge.

1st COLTISHALL GUIDES. We are a charitable organisation who deliver broad programmes of activities for the development of young girls and women. The Guide group caters for 10-14 year olds providing them with a safe environment in which they can develop both personally and socially. Email: firstcoltishallguides@gmail.com or contact Claire on 07826 444 046.

BUXTON PHOTOGRAPHIC CLUB.

We are a small friendly club catering for all levels and styles of photography, we meet the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, at 7.30pm in Buxton Village Hall, in Buxton. for further details contact: info@buxtonphotographicclub.co.uk or contact John on 07526777962. Full details of program can be found here: www.buxtonphotographicclub.co.uk

THE NEEDLES - At Broadland Youth & Community Centre Hoveton on Tuesday’s 10-4pm. If you stitch knit, crochet, patchwork, do dressmaking and would like help with zips, hems, casting on or can help others,? Come along and share your skills and tips or learn something new and let’s have some fun and chat. For more information contact Margaret on 01692 651333

Community Events & What’s On...

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STALHAM COMMUNITY GYM continues to provide a fabulous, friendly and affordable gym facility for the people of Stalham and surrounding areas. We still have the same moto “health and well-being for all”. The fully equipped, air-conditioned gym is based at The Poppy Centre, Recreation Road, Stalham, NR12 9BH. Our qualified Instructors can provide you with a programme designed for you individually whatever your needs and abilities. We support Yoga classes on Friday mornings and members are entitled to a discounted fee for these classes.

Our opening times are Monday 8am to midday (Box fit with Ric at 11am to 1130am). Wednesday 9am to midday. Thursday 8am to midday with Helen. (Circuit Class at 10 am). Friday 8am to midday and Sunday 9am to 11am.

We are also open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings between 6pm and 8pm with Instructor Paul.

Membership fees are £25 per month adult, £15 pm under 18’s. Concessions are available. Or, you can Pay As You Go at £5 per session.

Telephone Helen between 9am and 6pm on 07716 811696 for more information.

Alternatively, contact us on the gym mobile 07547 321874 during opening hours or email stalhamcommunitygym@gmail.com and we will get back to you. Find us on Facebook Stalham Community Gym, Next Door Stalham or www.stalhamcommunitygym.org.uk

We provide a safe, friendly, supportive environment for all members of the local community and surrounding areas and look forward to welcoming new and existing members.

222 (BROADLANDS) SQUADRON RAFAC - We are a youth organisation sponsored by the RAF. We meet on Monday and Friday evenings at Broadland High Ormiston Academy and get up to everything from flying and shooting, to sport and adventure activities. If you are at least 12 years-old and in Year 8 at school come along and find out for yourself if being an Air Cadet is for you. Get in touch via our website (www.222-atc.org.uk) to arrange a taster visit to Squadron.

HOVETON FARMERS & PRODUCERS MARKET

The Hoveton Farmers and Producers Market is held every 4th Saturday of each month at Hoveton Village Hall. A range of local produce is available including Meats, Bread, Cakes, Pies, Pastries, Cheese, Eggs, Preserves, Alcoholic Beverages, Garden Plants and Cut Flowers. There are also stalls selling Handcrafted Gifts. Hoveton Village Hall, Stalham Road, Hoveton, NR12 8DU.

TUNSTEAD MAHJONG GROUP is a small, friendly and informal group of ladies and men who meet to play Mahjong once a week, on a Friday morning from 10.00am until 1.00pm. At a members home in Tunstead. We are a mixed ability group who would welc ome both those who have played before and total beginners, the latter of whom we are happy to teach. Mahjong is a game played with tiles. The object of the game is to collect sets of particular tiles rather like the card game Rummy. If you enjoy games such as bridge, chess or playing cards, then you might like to join us. If you are interested to play or you would just like to come along and see the game in progress, please telephone Carol on 01603 929368 or email carol_hodgkiss@hotmail.com

STALHAM & DISTRICT BRANCH, ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - We are relaunching the branch and are seeking members, new and existing, to join us at our new monthly meetings on the third Thursday of each month from 7.00pm, at the Swan Public House, High Street, Stalham. Meetings will be of an informal, social nature, with the accent on a regular meet, greet and friendly chat for ex-service personnel, their families and friends, living in Stalham and surrounding villages. All are welcome, whether ex-Forces or otherwise. For further information please contact Robert Glenister email robert.glenister@yahoo.com or via our facebook page, www.facebook.com/ stalhamroyalbritishlegion

HORNING BRIDGE CLUB Further information can be found on our website: www.bridgewebs.com/ horning or telephone Ann Riley (chairman) – 01603 782009.

WROXHAM, HOVETON AND BELAUGH VOLUNTARY COMMUNITY CARS:

Transport to Medical Appointments Charity No. 1044332

We have a team of volunteer drivers who are prepared to take anyone in need of transport to a medical appointment e.g doctors, dentists, opticians, hospitals. The areas we cover are for people registered at Hoveton/Wroxham Medical Practice, e.g. Salhouse, Rackheath, Horning, Tunstead, so if you live in any of these surrounding villages, you will be able to use our service. We also take patients registered at The Coltishall Surgery who live in the Wroxham/Hoveton area. We do make a nominal charge, depending on the distance, to cover the drivers’ running costs. We do have wheelchairs available but you must have sufficient mobility to get in and out of the car as none of our vehicles are wheelchair accessible. For further details with regards to booking a car, please phone: 01603 784 455

Community Events & What’s On...

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Regular Events

WROXHAM FOLK DANCE CLUB meets on Friday evening 7.30pm in the Church Hall, Norwich Road, Wroxham, NR12 8SA. Not done this before? No problem instructions given. Cost £3 per session. All welcome. Contact Rod on 01603 897299.

HOVETON WROXHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB

Normally I would be advising members and possible visitors the dates of the next meeting but unfortunately this is my last notice. Due to lack of support over the past year or two and the cost of speakers we have decided to close the club. Our numbers were under a dozen a month, even less with holidays & illnesses etc. I think the club started during the early 1970’s at which time we were a very strong club with well over 100 members I would like to thank all past and present members for your support over the last 50 odd years, we have had some lovely outside trips and very interesting and varied speakers. The committee hopes you will still enjoy your gardening, perhaps with a little help, those lawns need cutting and the weeds will grow and we will look back to the friends we made and enjoyment we had from the evenings together. Best wishes. Pam Culley and committee.

July/Aug/Sept Events

WORSTEAD FESTIVAL The festival gates are open from 10am - 7pm Saturday 29th and from 10am to 6pm on Sunday 30th July. Save Time, Book On-line. For the first time, in the almost 60 years of the festival, tickets are available in advance. Click through to Eventbrite from worsteadfestival.org Ticket prices are £10 for adults or £15 for the whole weekend. Children under 12 go free. Car parking is also free.

WROXHAM FLOWER CLUB - Meetings are held at Rackheath Village Hall, Green Lane West, Rackheath, Norwich, NR13 6LT. Meetings are held at 7.30 with doors open at 7.00 pm. Plenty of parking at the hall.

As usual there is no August Meeting.

Wednesday, 13th September Rachael Borenkova is demonstrating arrangements called “My Life in Flowers”.

Refreshments of homemade cakes, tea and coffee are served at the end of the evening. Visitors are very welcome at £6.00 per person to the demonstration evenings. It would be lovely to see you. For further information please do not hesitate to give me, Rosie Howell a ring on 07539 764196.

STALHAM

& DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL

SOCIETY Lecture entitled – “Drought Tolerant Planting” by Rosemary Ward to be held in the Poppy Centre off Recreation Road in Stalham (NR12 9BH ) on Friday 18th August, 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start. Raffle refreshments.

Annual Autumn Show – to be held in the Poppy Centre off Recreation Road in Stalham (NR12 9BH) on Saturday 2nd September, open to the public from 2.00pm. Raffle, tombola and refreshments.

Lecture entitled – Moles, Friend or Foe”, to be held in the Poppy Centre off Recreation Road in Stalham (NR12 9BH) on Friday 15th September, 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start. Raffle and refreshments.

SWALLOWTAIL FINE ARTISTS - AUGUST FINE

ART LUDHAM SHOW WITH GUEST ARTISTS

Following a successful first year exhibiting together as Swallowtail Fine Artists, three Broads-based artists will be hosting their biggest exhibition to date over August Bank Holiday weekend. To be held at the beautiful St Catherine’s Church, Ludham from 26th to 28th August, the Fine Art show will feature works by Swallowtail Fine Artists Lorraine Auton, Tony Colledge and Amanda Springall-Rogers and, for the first time, will also showcase paintings, lino prints, cards and jewellery by Norfolk-based guest artists Tom Cringle, Kate Gabriel, Julie Hodgson, Ben Kendall, Ann Lamb, Ruth Mann, Bruce Rushin and Elaine Vincent.

All work featured will be for sale, offering visitors an opportunity to both support St Catherine’s Church and local artists. The exhibition will be open from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 26th, 11am to 5pm on Sunday 27th and 10am to 5pm on Monday 28th August 2023. Admission free. Refreshments available.

For further information, please contact Swallowtail Fine Artists via Facebook, by email at swallowtailfineartists@gmail.com or Tel: 07564 230774.

WROXHAM AND HOVETON LIONS CLUB

A lion died and went to heaven. When he got to the pearly gate Saint Peter told him that new rules were in effect due to the advances in education. In order to gain admittance a prospective heavenly soul must answer two questions:

1. Name two days of the week beginning with “T”.

2. How many seconds are there in a year?

The lion thought for a few minutes and answered

1. The two days of the week that begin with “T” are Today and Tomorrow.

2. There are twelve seconds in a year.

Saint Peter said, “OK, I’ll buy the Today and Tomorrow answer, even though it’s not the answer I expected. But how did you get twelve seconds in a year?” The lion replied, “Well, January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd, etc…” Saint Peter opened the gate without another word.

Hope you enjoyed the light hearted start to this report. As you can see we enjoy a laugh and although our club has a serious side, raising funds and supporting our local community, we do so in a friendly, fun and rewarding manner. We are always looking for new members or helpers, so if you’d like to join in the fun, we’ll be happy to see you at one of our Social meetings on 1st or 3rd of the month, or our Business meeting on 2nd or 4th Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm, in the Broadland Youth and Community Centre, Stalham Rd, Hoveton. For more information please visit our website and click on the contact us/learn more link

In this months issue of your local magazines you will hopefully see our Hoveton Lions Charity Village Fete poster. You will also see signs out and about in Hoveton and there's information on our Website. Come along and enjoy a great day out for all the family on

Sun 6th Aug from 10am until 4pm

If you want your good quality Bric a Brac or clean clothing sold to benefit worthy local charities and good causes, bring them along to the Lions shop in the precinct, or we can collect – just ring 01603 783737. This month our £100-00 shop draw goes to Hoveton St Peters Church nominated by RH from Hoveton. We are always on the lookout for volunteers to help in the shop, so if you would like more information, drop into the shop and talk to a member of staff.

Follow our exploits on Facebook or our website. We look forward to seeing or hearing from you.

Lion Mick Holden, President.

WHB TWINNING ASSOCIATION

We’re off to France this month for our Twinning visit to La Pommeraye and Montjean-sur-Loire, 915th August 2023, with our party of 46, a mixture of old and new members, our biggest group ever, I think. We are all looking forward to the excellent hospitality which we always receive, our visit to Monet’s Gardens en route and the varied excursions in our lovely Loire Twinned region including the Cointreau distillery in Angers, the Puy du Fou theme park, the chateau of Mongeofroy, local wine tasting and our Saturday of games, dinner and dancing of course.

At time of writing, we’re hoping for fine weather for our bring-a-plate social evening on Friday 28th July at Robert and Margaret’s in Wroxham, where we will also give out final details to our Twinning visit travellers. Unfortunately, we don’t think we have enough boat owning members now to host our annual flotilla and it is getting more difficult to find places to raft up.

Book Club is continuing with our 15 or so members, still on Zoom with our far-flung participants but we also had an afternoon tea on Wednesday, 19th July, for our local members at Hilary and Russell’s in Hoveton, which was greatly enjoyed by all, especially the delicious sandwiches, scones and cakes supplied by everyone. We had our evening Zoom meeting as well to discuss Hilary’s choice of “Project Hail Mary” by Andy Weir, a bit of Sci-fi to add to our repertoire. Pat can get copies of most of our books from Wroxham library, who are always very helpful, and can supply more information for now on 01603 782375 or

pat.barkergreen@btinternet.com. For any more information please contact us, via Peter, on 01603 782733 or

peter_c_milsted@talk21.com

Womack Herons is a friendly social group with a year-round programme of events in the Northern Broads and Norwich areas. We meet once or twice a month, usually mid-week. Our get-togethers could include a pleasant walk, quiz, talk or visit to a place of interest, but always with the opportunity to eat together -a picnic, BBQ, or a pub meal. All events are accessible by road; during the season, some are also riverside. We welcome visitors and new members; membership is £5pp/pa. For information and full details of events see www.womackherons.org.uk; to book contact Tricia at tricia@womackherons.org.uk or 07931 301606.

Our events in August and September are: Tues 1st August: Cruise or drive to Thurne for a riverside picnic lunch, 12.30pm. BYO lunch, drinks and chairs. Weds 23rd August: Cream Tea in the Garden, Horning; from 2.30pm. Book by Monday 14th August. Thurs 7th September: Cruise or drive to How Hill, Ludham for a lunchtime picnic from 12.30pm. BYO lunch, drinks, and chairs. Fri 22nd September: Cruise or drive to Upton for lunch at The White Horse, 12.30pm. Book, with menu choices, by 14th Sept

FREE GUIDED TOURS AT ST BENET’S ABBEY

June - September 2pm Wednesdays & Saturdays

(Weather Permitting)

Let the guides bring 1000 years of history and stories about this special place, to life for you. Turn up for 2pm at the tour start point near the gatehouse/mill & path to the river moorings or

To Prebook a private tour on other dates go to www.norfarchtrust.org.uk

(St Benet’s Abbey) or email info@norfarchtrust.org.uk

Free 24 hour Broads Authority moorings on the River Bure 30 minute walk from Ludham Bridge NR29 5NX Limited parking on site. Nearest postcode NR29 5NU

SERVICE PROVIDERS:

This is a friendly reminder that our ‘Pricelock’ promotional opportunity remains available until January 2024. What is it?...

Open to new & existing advertising clients, we have frozen our rates (shown inside the rear cover of this magazine & online at www.wacbook.co.uk) throughout 2023 until Dec/Jan 2024 meaning you can secure a fixed low rate to display your service on these glossy pages for the rest of the year!

Your message will be delivered to 8000 residential & businesses in EIGHTEEN local villages throughout postcode NR12 & part of NR10. You might be interested to know that over a rolling 12-month period, over 87% of our regular clients appear in consecutive editions. They do so because local advertising on these pages is proven to WORK! To give it a try (& secure best value rates!) call publisher Tracey on 01603 717681 or message tracey@wacbook.co.uk

WROXHAM LIBRARY

Below are some of the events and services we offer but see our Facebook page or call the library on 01603 782560.

· The Summer Reading Challenge 2023 continues. The theme this year is ‘Ready, Set, Read! ‘This year's Summer Reading Challenge aims to keep children's minds and bodies active over the summer break, empowering young people to forge new connections with others and unleash the power of play, sport and physical activity through reading. Along with their pack, children will have the opportunity to be involved in lots of fun, free activities taking place in the library and get to set their own reading challenge (we recommend six books over the six-week period.) They will collect stickers along the way, too! Children can sign up to the challenge at their local library and will need to be library members to join – please enquire with library staff for more details and look out for activities during the summer.

· Computer Buddy Volunteer Vacancy If you feel you could support people in developing their IT skills and help them in overcoming common computer problems contact the library for more information about applying.

· Autism Social Group Come to a friendly social group for a cuppa and a chat. No need to book, all welcome. First Monday of every month 1-3pm.

Coding Club Every Saturday 23pm, Ages 7 -11, limited to two spaces. To book a place please call us on 01603 782560 or email Wroxham.lib@libraries.norfolk.gov.uk

· Knit and Natter – not just for knitters! Bring your embroidery, textile, or crochet project along to our informal gathering. Thursday 3rd Aug, 2.00- 4.00pm and Thursday 17th Aug 2.00 –4.00pm.

· Crib Club (Cribbage card game) – new players welcomeThursday 10th Aug 2.00-4:00pm. Please bring your own board and cards if you have them.

· Scrabble Club Last Thursday of each month from 2.00-4.00pm. Thursday 31st Aug. All welcome. Thinking of starting up or growing your own business? As a local Business and IP Centre, we have free access to a wide range of business resources at Wroxham library. Find out more at: www.norfolk.gov.uk/bipcnorfolk

· Just a Cuppa, every Tuesday 10.00 – 12pm. Come along for a friendly chat over a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit.

· Our Bounce and Rhyme sessions take place on Wednesday at 10.30am. No need to book just drop in and sing along!

· Story Explorers, is a reading adventure for children aged 0 – 5. To sign up and find out more, simply visit the library and speak to a member of staff.

· Family History – Use our free access to Find My Past any time the library is open. Drop-in on Wednesday and Friday evenings between 4.00pm and 6.00pm to get advice from Diane, our family and local history expert.

· Book one 60 or 120 minute session per day on a computer Contact the library on 01603 782560.

· Return items through the drop box or self-service kiosks

· Download the FREE Spydus app to check out books on your smartphone

Download eBooks, audio books, newspapers and magazines by visiting www.norfolk.gov.uk/ libraries

Use our self-service Baby Weigh Scales on request.

Housebound Library Service

If you are unable to get out to the library to get your library books, we can bring them to you! Details from the library.

Our normal opening hours are below, though please check for updates on our Facebook and Webpages. We have further extended our opening hours with the Open Library service – contact the library for more information.

· Monday: Closed

· Tuesday: 10 - 7

· Wednesday: 10- 7

· Thursday: 10-7

· Friday: 10-7

· Saturday: 10- 4

Sunday: Closed

Visit our Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/ wroxhamlibraryofficial for updates on events and activities. www.norfolk.gov.uk/libraries

WROXHAM BURE VALLEY ROTARY CLUB

the club in support of the local community and local charities.

In July we made our regular appearance at Coltishall School end of year summer fete, manning the barbecue, where we managed to serve 600 burgers and hot dogs. We also managed the car park at the annual St Bennett’s abbey service by the Bishop of Norwich, and we ended the month with our annual Charter Night dinner, celebrating the founding of the club 18 years ago.

At the end of June, we had an excellent handover meeting and garden party when outgoing president Robin Baines handed over the reins to new President Kelvin Dore. In addition, our Club members were delighted to be able to present Robin with a prestigious Paul Harris award for his excellent leadership of the club in both 2020/21 and 2022/23 and his unstinting work in developing new projects for

August is traditionally a quieter month, but we are already planning our Autumn activity, with the first major event our Classic car show at Wroxham Barns on Sunday 10th September. Open from midmorning to late afternoon, there will be lots of wonderful old cars to enjoy as well as a barbecue, 50/50 raffle, beer van and all the usual attractions of Wroxham Barns, so make a note of the date now!

If you fancy finding out more about us we have a range of fascinating

speakers over the coming weeks scheduled for our weekly meetings at Wroxham Barns – anyone is welcome to attend, but please let us know in advance if you are coming. You can also support us and the many local and international charities we donate to, through the Broadland Council Lottery Scheme – simply go on line at www.communityatheartlottery.com and sign up, selecting Wroxham Bure Valley Rotary Club as your chosen cause. You can also support us directly by visiting our page on the www.totalgiving.co.uk web site. Meantime remember, in the true Rotary spirit of “Service above Self” we have members ready and willing to help out in the local community wherever the need arises. If you fancy joining us for a vibrant, sociable, active, and fun club experience, please contact our president, Kelvin Dore, on 07798 786944.

Beccles based care provider Home Support Matters is hosting a social beach clean on Saturday the 16th of September at Pakefield beach as part of National World Clean Up Day.

Home Support Matters are inviting you to join them in clearing a section of our beautiful coastline covering a section of the Pakefield beach and green spaces to clear it of waste and litter.

After, you’re invited to pack a social bring your own picnic and enjoy the coastal air and hopefully warm weather together.

Doing your bit for the environment and joining in with the community for an enjoyable social day.

Waste removal and bin bags have kindly been provided by Radical Waste @ Ellough.

Meeting at All Saints Road Car Park for 11am there are a few free car parking spaces, additional are available at Pakefield St, Pakefield, Lowestoft NR33, UK pay and display. Accessible from public transport with bus links a short walk.

Please note there will be designated areas of this clean up accessible to all, but the beach does not have direct hard surfaces.

Please sign up for free using event bright or via the

events section on Home Support Matters Facebook page or email: sara.basey-fisher@homesupportmatters.org.uk to get involved.

RACKHEATH VETS DOG SHOW

In June, Rackheath Vets hosted its first dog show at Stracey Park (opposite the practice), which will be an annual event.

Chris, Director and Vet, and Scott Vallance opened the dog show. During the classes, Chris and Scott chatted to owners about their furry contestants, whilst Natasha, our Head Nurse, had the difficult job of choosing a winner and the two runners-up.

Issy Hodgkiss, one of our veterinary nurses, and the Norfolk Dog Training Society put on an agility course for the dogs to try. Alison Burns from Wonderwoofsdogs and Birdie, the super sniffer, wowed the crowds with a scent work demo.

"The day was a great success. The hot weather did not put people off coming with their dogs. We can’t wait to do it all again next year,” a member of staff said.

“What a lovely afternoon. Guide Dog Maci met so many lovely people”, Norwich Guide Dog Fundraising said.

“Very enjoyable afternoon. It was a bit warm, but Willow coped with it. Well organised”, a member of the public said about the event.

Another member of the public said, “Brilliant event and Fabulous turn out! Lots of nice stalls. It was nice to met Guide Dogs UK and Greyhound Yarmouth Homefinders.”

You can register your pets by calling Rackheath Vets on 01603 955056 and speaking to our friendly reception team. We also offer same-day appointments.

Rackheath Vets is just off the NDR and is open Monday–Friday: 8:00 a.m.–6 p.m. and Saturday: 8.30 a.m.–12.30 p.m.

RackheathVets

DID YOU KNOW?

By Chris Weston

1. There was once a weather forecaster by the name of 'Harry Kane'!

2. London's new Elizabeth Line (Crossrail) is 96 kilometres long.

3. Sir Francis Drake's ship Pelcan (later renamed Golden Hind) was built at Aldeburgh, in Suffolk between 1575 & 1577.

4. The steeple of Smallburgh church fell down in 1677 after which the present bell cupola was built.

5. The Panxworth Iron Works, closed in 1889. Its building still stands today.

6. The Norwich flyover (over Magdalen Street) opened on 12th June, 1972.

Thank you Chris!

QUIZ ANSWERS

QUIZ - HEARTS

1. Exodus

2. The M4

3. Elizabeth Fry

4. The United Kingdom

5. Edmund

6. Saturday (after Saturn)

7. Aston Villa and Birmingham City

8. Ron Weasley

9. Paris

10. Thomas The Tank Engine

Hidden phrase: It is already tomorrow in Australia ~ Charles Schultz

PICTOGRAM

1. A Step in The Right Direction

2. Back in Two Ticks

3. Split Ends

WHERE’S THE ROYAL NORFOLK SHOW THIS YEAR? by

Chris Weston

The title above was once an annual and genuinely asked question, so please read on to discover why, and much more: -

For most of the current Norfolk population, the annual “pilgrimage” to this event takes them to the current Showground site at Costessey. But for those who can still remember, it could once have been in almost any part of the county and rarely if ever, in the same place twice! So how, when, or where, did it start?

By the early 19th century, many leading agriculturalists were promoting farming methods and forming organisations which eventually led to the idea of agricultural shows. In Norfolk this goes back to 1776 and the days of Thomas Coke, the First Earl of Leicester, when the famous annual sheepshearings were held at Holham Hall. They were three-day events and became quite a local meeting place for farmers from far and near. The event grew in size and importance until the last occasion in 1821, when some 7,000 guests attended and were entertained in and around the Hall. On the third day each year, Coke awarded prizes to contestants who could be shepherds, ploughmen or inventors of farming implements, or who had offered suggestions for improved farming methods in cropping, irrigation or soil enrichment. To some, such events became known as "Coke's Clippings " and on one occasion, a Holkham tenant claimed to have won over £800.

In 1837 the Royal Agricultural Association of England was founded, but another ten years passed before an equivalent organisation began in Norfolk. In 1847, the East Norfolk and West Norfolk Agricultural Associations joined forces to form the Norfolk Agricultural Association and during their first 15 years, held annual shows - usually

LOCAL HISTORY

in June or July - with alternating venues at Norwich and Swaffham. But changes came during the Agricultural Association's A.G.M. of 1861, when a proposal to offer the Show to a wider audience was adopted. It was agreed that East Dereham would host the Show and thereafter, the venue would change annually with shows being held all over the county. This depended on the co-operation and support of landowners who might offer acceptable facilities on parkland sites or on estates.

And so an “itinerant” life for the Norfolk Show began and a few examples of when and where it was held, included: -

1863 Gt. Yarmouth

1864 Kings Lynn

1865 Norwich (Chapelfield Gardens)

1867 Fakenham

1868 Downham Market

1869 Attleborough

1870 Harleston

1877 Diss

1878 North Walsham

1881 Wymondham

1886 Whitlingham

1887 Blickling Park

The 1866 Show was cancelled by the Government who refused per-

mission, due to an outbreak of Cattle Plague and it was only due to special permission being granted by the Privy Council, that cattle exhibits could be included the following year, but with certain restrictions.

The 1882 Show was held on the Norwich Showground - not the present one - but on a narrow tract of land between Newmarket Road and Ipswich Road. This land subsequently became the Norwich Cricket Ground and more recently, the Town Close School Playing Field. During more recent times when the Daniels Flower Nursery on Daniels Road was still there (now Notcutts), the Town Close Field spreading towards Newmarket Road housed an Observatory. This was supported and used by members of the Norwich Astronomical Society.

It was some time however before today's Show became established, and during the 1870's events were held not only in different parts of the county, but also at various times of the year. The Horticultural Show in May for example was followed in either June or July by the Summer Show (now the Royal Norfolk), ahead of the Fat Cattle Show in the autumn, usually during November.

Although called the Norfolk Show from outset, its name changed in

1866 (cattle plague); 1911, 1934 and 1957 (Royal Show held inno longer dominate the event, for Government departments, local

varying lengths of time. One year, a huge Scout Jamboree joined the

This magazine is one of 8,000 copies delivered to residents & businesses in:

EIGHTH PAGE £48 per edition or just £24 per month

SIXTH PAGE £74 per edition or just £37 per month

Great Value Advertising! For fees & sizes see inside rear cover or: www.wacbook.co.uk

Inclusion Deadline for Oct/Nov edition is

Tracey De-Abreu, The Wroxham & Coltishall Book, 1 Oakdale Road, Brundall, Norwich, NR13 5AF

Tele: 01603 717681

Welcome… to the latest edition of THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK

Summer is in full swing - I hope you’re enjoying the fabulous weather!

At home, we often reflect on our good fortune growing up here in the Norfolk Broads - we really are lucky in that respect aren’t we? Looking back to 2006, I was still on maternity leave when we decided to create a new community-based publication and THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK was launched. In September, our youngest son Jack turns 18 having finished Sixth Form and commenced work. We have no school-age children left at home now! That seems pretty scary to us - wherever does that amount of time go?

It certainly serves as a good reminder to make the most of life, appreciate the simple things, and do our best to ‘live in the here and now! ’

You’ll find a wide range of puzzles, quizzes and features inside this edition; including Dame Prue Leith as our featured celebrity.

Enjoy August & September

What’s Inside… Page:

4 - Home & Interiors; The Art Of Al Fresco Dining. 12 - Home Products; Pack Up

46 - Motoring; The Best Small EVS

47 - Wordsearch; Australia

48 - Community Events & What’s On

50 - Local Reports (to page 55)

57 - Did you Know?

57 - Quiz Answers

57 - Business Card Section

58 - History Of The Royal Norfolk Show - by Chris Weston

This magazine is one of 8,000 copies delivered to residents & businesses in: Wroxham, Hoveton, Horning, Badersfield, Coltishall, Horstead, Stalham, Stalham Green, Sutton, Tunstead, Frettenham, Scottow, Belaugh, Sco Ruston, Ashmanhaugh, Smallburgh, Sloley & Buxton.