Welcome… to the latest edition of THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK…
It’s Jingle Bells time of the year againChristmas and New Year will soon be here!
Whatever you’re doing over the next few weeks, I hope you and your family thoroughly enjoy being together. This time of year, really is a good time to check in on friends and neighbours – the world always needs more kindness, doesn’t it?
At home, we anticipate a few family gatherings – including our recently-born granddaughter.
My partner Stuart will be cooking Christmas Lunch (we love his legendary roast potatoes!). Then into the New Year to implement something new we’ve been training for throughout 2024…
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.
HOLE IN THE WALL
by Chris Weston LOCAL
HISTORY
Given Norfolk’s once important inland waterways network was regularly used for trading and supply purposes, any present-day signage indicating a ‘Staithe’ connection might not seem too unusual.
Apart from ‘The Staithe’, you might also see Staitheway Lane; Staitheway Road; Staithe Road or occasionally a property named Staithe House. But in Barton Turf, one such - named property has an added piece of history which lasted for over a century during a now bygone era. Since built, it has been known by more than one name as between 1846 & 1966, it became very well-known by both aquatic and other types of visitors.
That’s because in addition to being a dwelling, Staithe House also once enjoyed an arrangement made with Lacon’s brewery in Gt. Yarmouth, (founded in 1640), to serve beer to customers, but not at the Bar. Neither was ‘consumption of such’ ever permitted on the premises!! Beer was served straight from the barrel to each customer through a hatch. To reach it, visitors needed to pass through the property’s back gates to be served. The beer stood in barrels above the ground in similar format to being stored on a cold floor and racks. This seemingly unusual arrangement was simply because what became known as the ‘Hole in the Wall’ was technically an off-licence, rather than a pub. Drinkers were invited to sit on a bench located outside the gate, to drink and enjoy their beer. The Hole in the Wall was also unique for another reason. After the first recorded “licensee” Edmund Postle - described as an agricultural labourer & beer shop keeperhad served the premises from 1846 to 1851, every successive licensee was a member of the Yaxley family.
During their ‘reign’, the property also became known as the Eel’s Foot and in its final year of 1966 before completely closing as one of the last beer-houses in the area, it was Emily Yaxley's Beer House. It wasn’t unusual for beer-house keepers to have other occupations. If not agriculturally - related, as might be expected in early 20th century Norfolk, others included boatman and marshman. Meanwhile ‘Hole in the Wall’ lives on as
an expression often describing cash dispensers in the walls of shops, banks, building societies and other establishments.
Nearby on the quayside at Barton Turf, is another property known locally as The Black Shed. Beside this two-storey former store-house, wherries once moored to load and unload their cargoes. Today, it’s mainly used for Parish Council meetings.
‘Black Shed’ is located behind the broads cruiser.
BELIEFS and FACTS!
E ver wondered about the distribution reach of publications in our local area?
Q: How many copies of THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK are distributed each edition?
A: 8000 produced. 7750 distributed directly to residents & businesses. 250 merchandised in strategic locations for free pick-up.
Q: How does this compare with other local magazines’ distribution?
A: Based on (last known) published figures:
There are very good reasons why service providers choose to advertise in
THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK:
· Reach TWO to FOUR times as many residential locations compared to other local magazines (8000 copies of your advert distributed to 18 Villages incl. Stalham)
· 64 pages of valuable, well-received content
· Digital Version Online - (FREE inclusion)
· Regular articles; Recipe’s | Beauty Tips | Home Interiors | Health | Motoring | Gardening | Community Events & What’s On | Puzzles & Quizzes
· Transparent, value-for-money fees
· Advert creation service (FREE when you book 3 insertions)
· FREE professional sales & marketing advice
Small, Medium or Large - we all make different choices, (however, more views of your advert = more potential customer enquiries!
...and have a friendly chat with Tracey or Stuart
Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and from the 1st - 19th January 2025
How often do you find yourself replaying a difficult conversation in your mind?
The kind where your child or teenager shares something with you, and before you know it, the exchange escalates into raised voices, tears, and words you both wish could be taken back. As a parent or carer, it's natural to react in the moment. But when you're feeling physically or emotionally drained, staying calm and composed can feel nearly impossible, especially when confronted with an unexpected "bombshell." In those tricky moments, instead of getting caught in a downward spiral, I’d like to suggest an alternative approach. The next time you sense a conversation heading in a negative direction, try one of these phrases: “Can you help me understand why [fill in the blank]?” or “I’m curious about [fill in the blank].” These questions not only diffuse tension but also open the door to deeper understanding and connection. By taking a deep breath and channeling your inner calm, you can transform a potentially explosive situation into an opportunity for meaningful dialogue. Remember, listening carefully to their response is key. Follow up with more questions to further enhance your understanding and keep the conversation constructive. If you’d like more guidance on supporting your child or teenager’s emotional wellbeing, visit my website at www.drawingcomfort.co.uk
DID YOU KNOW?
By Chris Weston
1. Traditionally, the Midnight Mass Communion was the only church service allowed to start after sunset, but before sunrise the next day. So now, it’s held around Midnight.
2. Carols were first sung in Europe thousands of years ago, at Winter Solstice celebrations, as people danced round stone circles. These were Pagan songs rather than Christmas Carols.
3. Candles were used to decorate Christmas trees, until safer electrical lights were invented.
4. Parts of Christmas trees can be eaten, the needles reputedly being a good source of Vitamin C. (Please Note: only spruce and fir trees are edible - if you have a yew tree, these are poisonous and should not be eaten).
5. Some astronomers now believe the Star of Bethlehem guiding the Wise Men to Jesus, might have been a comet, or the planet Uranus!
Thank You Chris!
Community Events & What’s On...
You can use this page to send your FREE message to 8,000 households and businesses!
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 07503 902963.
Community Events & What’s On...
You can use this page to send your FREE message to 8,000 households and businesses!
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 - Meet every third Thursday at 1230 in the Swan public house in Stalham High street We are currently looking for new committee members If you are interested in a position please come along to a meeting of contact Robert Glenister email robert.glenister@yahoo.com or via our Facebook page facebook.com/stalhamroyalbritishlegion You will receive a very friendly welcome!
HORNING BRIDGE CLUB at the Village Hall on Monday evenings 6.30-10 pm and at Hoveton Youth & Community Centre on Thursday afternoons. For further information telephone Sue Howes: 07799 777862
NEATISHEAD BRIDGE CLUB at Neatishead Village Hall every Friday Morning 10-1pm. For further information telephone Sue Howes: 07799 777862
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...
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.
HORNING & DISTRICT LADIES LUNCH CLUB
Horning Ladies Lunch Club are delighted to announce, that, we are returning in October, following our summer break. Already we have had several new enquiries. We still have spaces though, and, are always happy to welcome new members. We meet on the 4th Tuesday of each month ( between October and June ) at the Old Rectory Hotel in Crostwick. We enjoy a delicious 2 course meal, followed by Tea or Coffee, and, to complete the afternoon, we have a different guest speaker each month. You do NOT have to live in Horning, in order to join us. It is essential that lunch is booked in advance, to do this or, if you require any further information. Please contact Tricia Elson on 07931 301606 or, e mail her at, ladieslunchclub@btinternet.com
Our main event this month was our AGM on 21st November in Wroxham Church Hall, where we enjoyed a short business meeting, Joan’s excellent photograph show of the visit of our French friends from La Pommeraye and Montjean-sur-Loire this summer in August, Pimms, nibbles and wine from our Twinning villages and, of course, lots of chatting and catching up with our Twinning friends. We have a change of leadership with Liz taking over as chairperson and Joan as secretary with Russell staying as our very efficient treasurer. Our committee remains fairly unchanged, and we’ll be meeting shortly to start organising our visit to France next summer, probably in August. Hopefully we can hire a coach again to take us all, stay overnight somewhere and do a bit of sightseeing en route and enjoy the hospitality of our French hosts and explore their lovely Loire region.
Book Club discussed Pat’s choice of “Go as a River” by Shelley Read in November and are looking forward to “The Half Life of Valerie K” by Natasha Pulley in December, chosen by Gill. They are in the process of organising a Christmas lunch in December for our local book club members as an added get-together. Pat can supply more information and orders our books from Wroxham library: you can contact her on 01603 782375 or pat.barkergreen@btinternet.com
For any further information about WHB Twinning Association please contact Peter on 01693 782733 or peter_c_milsted@talk21.com
THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK
~ at the heart of our community ~
THEATRICAL SOCIETY (HATS)
Rehearsals are underway for the annual pantomime’ ‘The King’s Birthday’ by Scott Meacock. Inspired by Elvis Presley and his love for music. Follow the story of a young man who wants to be a singer and earn some money for himself and his sister. However, the evil Colonel has a plot to kill the king and take over the throne. But who will take the blame. Featuring songs from the one and only King of rock and roll - Elvis Presley - to help tell this tale. You might be a little shook up and crying like a hound dog, but I’m sure it will be fine. So long as you boo the bad and cheer the good.
Performance dates are Thursday 16th January 2025 (evening show at 7.30 pm), Friday 17th January 2025 (evening show at 7.30 pm), Saturday 18th January 2025 (evening show at 5.30 pm) and Sunday 19th January 2025 (matinee show at 2.30 pm) and will take place at the Village Hall in Horning, Norfolk NR12 8LF
Tickets are priced £7 for adults or £4 for children.
Seats may be booked by calling Christine on 07579 786223 or christinecharles170@gmail.com
Alternatively, in person at Tidings Newsagents in Horning or at Abbotts Countrywide Estate Agents in Hoveton.
WROXHAM AND HOVETON
LIONS CLUB
Firstly, in last month’s report, we inadvertently referred to our sponsors of the maintenance of our kiosk, as “Norwich Limited Carpenters and Joiners” This should have read “HD Norwich Ltd” Apologies to Dale and Andrew for the error and thank you to them once again for their support.
After a busy November, which included attending the memorial service to honour our fallen men and women of the two world wars and laying the wreath on behalf of the Lions Club, we are now preparing for a hectic December .
Our Sleigh has been serviced and is now ready for Santa to make his visits to the local villages and several schools in our area, as well as being outside Roy’s in Wroxham, Tesco’s Stalham and Lidl North Walsham on various dates (see below and on our Facebook page for details) He will also be at Bridgestone’s in Potter Heigham on four mornings for their “Breakfast With Santa “event.
The November Craft fair was a great success and planning is underway for the 2025 events.
Full details will be on our web page in due course.
On the social front, at the beginning of the month Club members and their wives/partners attended our annual Christmas lunch at Bridgestone’s. Many thanks to James and the staff for making it such and enjoyable occasion.
January is the start of the Club’s 50th year, as well as our being our Charity Shop’s 25th anniversary. We have calculated that from funds raised by your generous donations to the shop and support of our other fundraising activities over the years, we have raised at least £1.25 million for donations to deserving causes since the Club was formed.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us. During the 50 years.
Finally, on behalf of the Club, may I take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you and your families, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
You can follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com wroxhamandhovetonlions or our website https:// wroxhamandhovetonlions.org
Dec 1st - Lidl North Walsham
Dec 2nd - Salhouse
Dec 4th - Hoveton
Dec 5th - Horstead
Dec 6th - Tesco Stalham
Dec 8th - Tesco Stalham
Dec 9th - Hoveton
Dec 11th - Coltishall
Dec 12th - Tunstead School
Dec 14th - Roys
Dec 15th - Roys
Dec 17th - Rackheath
Dec 19th - Wroxham
Dec 20th - Roys
Dec 21st - Roys
Ron Hill, Lion President.
Below are some of the events and services we offer but see our Facebook page or call the library on 01603 782560.
Christmas Opening Hours. 24th December closing at midday. Closed 25th and 26th December. Friday 27th – Monday 30th December normal opening hours. Tuesday 31st December Closing at 4pm. Wednesday 1st January closed. Thursday 2nd January normal opening hours.
· Send Café Friendly and supportive sessions aimed at children with SEND. Meet up with other families, share ideas and have some fun! The cafes are free, on a drop-in basis, so no booking required, normally every other Tuesday 3.30 -4.30 (10th December).
N.B no session Christmas Eve.
· Toys We have a new selection of toys and games that can be played with in the library, from Duplo, and counting games, to jigsaws. Look in our folder to see what is available.
International Welcome Free advice and support for newly arrived communities, with issues such as housing, employment, and language, also library access. Drop-in sessions Thursday 10.3012.30pm, December 12th. Or email migrantsupport@norfolk.gov.uk
· Autism Social Group Come to a friendly social group for a cuppa and a chat. No need to book, all welcome. Change of day to first Wednesday of every month 1-3pm, but no January session.
· Crafting New time 2 -3pm on alternate Saturdays (staff dependent). Aimed at children aged 5 -11
(under 8s require supervision).
· Knit and Natter – not just for knitters! Bring your embroidery, textile, or crochet project along to our informal gathering. Thursday 5th December and Thursday 19th December 2.00 – 4.00pm.
· Crib Club (Cribbage card game) – new players welcomeThursday 12th December 2.004:00pm. Please bring your own board and cards if you have them.
· Scrabble Club Usually last Thursday of each month from 2.004.00pm but no session in December. Next session Thursday 30th January. 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
THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK
~ At the heart of our community ~
WOMACK HERONS
have had a great year! We’ve bowled, visited gardens, a glass-maker, marble hall and transport museum, enjoyed quizzes, talks, walks, cream teas, fish & chips and picnics, and sampled some excellent pub lunches on the way! We’re a friendly group of retirees sharing friendship and fun; Why not come and join us? Our 2025 programme will be on the website by midDecember, see www.womackherons.org.uk
if you are interested in finding out more about us and what we do.
www.broadlandmodelrailwayclub.co.uk
ROYS OF WROXHAM HOSTS DAVID BLAKE BOOK SIGNING
BELIEFS and FACTS!
To have the chance to meet David Blake for the signing event, visit Roy’s flagship Wroxham department store on Friday 29th of November between 12pm and 2pm. No booking required – free parking available.
WROXHAM BURE VALLEY ROTARY CLUB
E ver wondere ribution reach of public cal area?
Q: How many copies of THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK are distributed each edition?
To book or for enquiries contact Tricia@womackherons.org.uk
A: 8000 produced. 7750 distributed directly to residents & businesses. 250 merchandised in strategic locations for free pick-up.
Our December and January activities are:
Weds 4th December:
8000
Q: How does this compare with other local magazines’ distribution?
A: Based on (last known) published figures:
Winter Walk at How Hill at 10.30am then lunch at The Kings Arms, Ludham, 12.30pm. Book by 26th November.
January (tbc): Ten-pin bowling at Strikers, N Walsham, then lunch at The Goat Inn, Skeyton. Advance booking required. We wish you all a very happy and restful Christmas
1900
4000
BROADLAND MODEL
By the time you read this we will be all getting ready for Christmas. We will have helped the Hoveton precinct team and Hoveton Parish Council at the big switch-on for the new Christmas lights running from the library to the police station, and the Christmas tree on Granary Staithe. Our sleigh will be in Sprowston on 3rd, 4th and 10th December, in Wroxham on the 5th December, in Spixworth on 11th and 12th December, Horning on 18th and then at Tesco’s in Stalham on 21st, 22nd and 23rd.
There are very good reasons why service providers choose to advertise in
RAILWAY CLUB
THE WROXHAM & COLTISHALL BOOK:
· Reach TWO to FOUR times as many residential locations compared to other local magazines (8000 copies of your advert distributed to 18 Villages incl. Stalham)
· 64 pages of valuable, well-received content
· Digital Version Online - (FREE inclusion)
As Christmas approaches, Roys of Wroxham once again welcomes bestselling crime fiction author, David Blake into store to promote his latest novel ‘Stokesby Grave’. On Friday 29th of November between 12pm and 2pm, Blake will be at the flagship Roys department store, signing copies of his books and chatting to visitors. Blake’s latest crime thriller set in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, marks the twelfth book in the DCI Tanner series. Readers can expect a chilling adventure and further intrigue, as Tanner is faced with another mystery: “a murdered police officer, a convicted thief, and a priceless painting, lost forever, or hiding in plain sight”.
· Regular articles; Recipe’s | Beauty Tips | Home Interiors | Health | Motoring | Gardening | Community Events & What’s On | Puzzles & Quizzes
The Club is very pleased to report that our project with Stalham High School is progressing well and, after completing the baseboards for the new layout, track laying began this week. This is real progress and the students are to be congratulated on their progress.
· Transparent, value-for-money fees
· Advert creation service (FREE when you book 3 insertions)
· FREE professional sales & marketing advice
The Clubs next appearance in public will be at the Stalham Yuletide Market, December 1st 10:00 to 4:00 and you should be able to find us in the old Barclays Bank Building where we will have a small layout featuring a narrow gauge OO9 scale layout and our second-hand stall with previously used model railway items, books etc. Do please come along and find us. The Club continues to grow and we are always open to applications from new members, please contact the Club Secretary via our website
Our Christmas dinner takes place at Wroxham Barns on the 9th December, then our normal Monday evening meetings resume on January 6th. We have a great programme of interesting speakers already lined up for the new year. Guests are welcome at any of our meetings, but please let us know if you intend to join us. You can also support us and the many local and international charities we donate to, through the Broadland Council Lottery Scheme simply go online at www.communityatheartlottery.com and sign up, selecting Wroxham Bure Valley Rotary Club as your chosen cause. You can support us directly by visiting our page on the www.totalgiving.co.uk web site.
Small, Medium or Large - we all make different choices, (however, more views of your advert = more potential customer enquiries!
...and have a friendly chat with Tracey or Stuart
As a business deeply connected with the local area, Roys of Wroxham continues to grow its offering of local books, appealing to visitors and residents alike. Book buyer, Theo Keller remarks, “We are proud to spotlight suppliers and creatives who celebrate our local area. We are fortunate enough to be surrounded by a beautiful and ancient natural landscape, and it’s vital that we spotlight this unique heritage in store.” He went on to add that “Blake’s novels are always hugely popular with our readers, and form an important part of our offering of local books”.
Meantime, we hope everyone stays safe, happy, and healthy. 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.
Photo of David Blake courtesy of Roys (Wroxham)Ltd
NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR THE BROADLAND AND SOUTH NORFOLK BUSINESS AWARDS 2025
Nominations are open for Broadland District and South Norfolk Councils’ Business Awards sponsored by local law firm Birketts LLP.
Businesses based in the two districts are invited to nominate themselves in any of the ten categories to be in with a chance of winning a prestigious award.
Businesses are invited to nominate themselves in the following categories:
Business Growth, Business Innovation, Employer of the Year, Environmental Impact, Excellence in Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering, Excellence in Insurance, Financial and Professional Services, Food and Drink Producer of the Year, New Business, Small Business of the Year and Tourism Business of the Year.
Residents are also invited to vote for their favourite Retailer of the Year and Pub of the Year. By voting they will automatically be entered into a prize draw and be in with a chance of winning £100 of shopping and pub vouchers. There will be four lucky winners, two from each district.
Nominations close on Friday 13 December and winners will be announced on 19 March 2025 at an awards ceremony at Norwich City Football Club.
To nominate your business, or to vote for your favourite retailer and pub, visit www.southnorfolkandbroadland.go v.uk/businessawards
ACTRESS LIZA GODDARD AND NORWICH CITY
ICON ROB NEWMAN URGE ANIMAL LOVERS ACROSS NORFOLK TO DONATE TO HALLSWOOD ANIMAL SANCTUARY
On Saturday 12 October 2024, actress Liza Goddard and Norwich City football icon Rob Newman and his wife Jo visited Hallswood Animal Sanctuary in Stratton Strawless and met with some of the staff, volunteers and resident animals, to learn more about the organisation and its plans for the future.
During its 28-year history, Hallswood Animal Sanctuary has been dedicated to improving the lives of wildlife and domestic animals in Norfolk through rehabilitation, education and community outreach.
Speaking today, animal lover Liza Goddard said “I really enjoyed meeting everyone and learning about Hallswood Animal Sanctuary, which cares for a wide range of animals at its sanctuary and in short-term and long-term foster homes. There’s a lot of hard work ahead at Hallswood but the organisation has an exciting future and I am looking forward to being involved in its journey.”
Goddard added: “Hallswood Animal Sanctuary relies on the generosity of individuals and organisations to fund its work, and there are a number of ways in which we can help including making a financial donation; purchasing items from the Hallswood Animal Sanctuary Amazon Wish List; donating goods, services and our time; and by rehoming a Hallswood animal.”
Rob Newman explained: “Hallswood Animal Sanctuary currently has around 1000 animals in
its care and during our visit to the sanctuary we got to meet some of their dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, pigs, geese, ducks, and ornamental birds. My wife Jo and I have always had a love for domestic animals and wildlife, and we very much look forward to making regular visits to Hallswood in the future to help out and get our hands dirty, as well as getting involved with some of the great fundraising initiatives that Hallswood is planning in 2025.”
Newman added: “In the meantime, I’m asking all animal lovers across Norfolk to donate to Hallswood Animal Sanctuary today as the organisation and the animals in its care are depending on our support now more than ever before to help pay for feed, bedding, veterinary bills, routine medication, and fuel for the sanctuary generator this winter. Every donation really will help to make a difference! ”
For details on how to donate to and support Hallswood Animal Sanctuary please visit www.hallswood.co.uk
HOLE IN THE WALL
by Chris Weston LOCAL
Given Norfolk’s once important inland waterways network was regularly used for trading and supply purposes, any present-day signage indicating a ‘Staithe’ connection might not seem too unusual.
Apart from ‘The Staithe’, you might also see Staitheway Lane; Staitheway Road; Staithe Road or occasionally a property named Staithe House. But in Barton Turf, one such - named property has an added piece of history which lasted for over a century during a now bygone era. Since built, it has been known by more than one name as between 1846 & 1966, it became very well-known by both aquatic and other types of visitors.
That’s because in addition to being a dwelling, Staithe House also once enjoyed an arrangement made with Lacon’s brewery in Gt. Yarmouth, (founded in 1640), to serve beer to customers, but not at the Bar. Neither was ‘consumption of such’ ever permitted on the premises!! Beer was served straight from the barrel to each customer through a hatch. To reach it, visitors needed to pass through the property’s back gates to be served. The beer stood in barrels above the ground in similar format to being stored on a cold floor and racks. This seemingly unusual arrangement was simply because what became known as the ‘Hole in the Wall’ was technically an off-licence, rather than a pub. Drinkers were invited to sit on a bench located outside the gate, to drink and enjoy their beer.
The Hole in the Wall was also unique for another reason. After the first recorded “licensee” Edmund Postle - described as an agricultural labourer & beer shop keeperhad served the premises from 1846 to 1851, every successive licensee was a member of the Yaxley family.
During their ‘reign’, the property also became known as the Eel’s Foot and in its final year of 1966 before completely closing as one of the last beer-houses in the area, it was Emily Yaxley's Beer House. It wasn’t unusual for beer-house keepers to have other occupations. If not agriculturally - related, as might be expected in early 20th century Norfolk, others included boatman and marshman. Meanwhile ‘Hole in the Wall’ lives on as
an expression often describing cash dispensers in the walls of shops, banks, building societies and other establishments.
Nearby on the quayside at Barton Turf, is another property known locally as The Black Shed. Beside this two-storey former store-house, wherries once moored to load and unload their cargoes. Today, it’s mainly used for Parish Council meetings.
‘Black Shed’ is located behind the broads cruiser.
SUDOKU WORDSEARCH QUIZ ANSWERS
PICTOGRAM
1. In at the deep end
2. Fancy dress
3. A match made in heaven
QUIZ
1. Dog tongue missing
2. Handle on pot missing
3. Christmas tree bauble missing
4. Mashed potato changed to mashed swede/carrot
5. Christmas cracker missing
6. Grandad tie different colour
Hidden phrase: A canter is a cure for every evilBenjamin Disraeli
7. Mum jumper different colour
8. Turkey drumstick missing
9. Grandma glasses missing
10. Boy mouth different
WROXHAM FOOTBALL CLUB
It’s certainly been a period of two halves for your football club this past few weeks. On the pitch it has been tough. Despite The Yachtsmen playing some excellent football with their passing game, resulting in two especially fine goals against Haringey and Grays, a streak of two wins (one of those in the Norfolk Senior Cup), three draws and four defeats sees us planted firmly near the bottom of the table. However, it is hard not to believe that once we have all our players back and available that the victories will come and see us climb the table. We keep the faith with Manager Matt and the lads!
Off the pitch it has been a different matter! At the time of writing, we are waiting for the first of four episodes of a documentary based around the club called ‘Welcome to Wroxham ’. Some of you may be familiar with the TV series ‘Welcome to Wrexham ’ based around the purchase of Wrexham FC by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney first broadcast back in 2022. Only a vowel between us in one respect but many hundreds of thousands of pounds and dollars in another. To keep track of all the details around the broadcast dates, please see our social media details below.
In another unexpected twist, the club now also has its own rap song which the team run out to before home games! Written and produced by a New York City based rapper who goes by the name of ‘Swell’ , a member of The Metermaids, who can be found on iTunes and Spotify. How that all happened is a long story and whilst there may not be too many rap fans in Wroxham & Hoveton, the rap, just like the documentary offers fantastic exposure for the club.
Apart from all the fun involved in both film and song, there is a serious aim behind all this; and that is to attract attention and in turn more paying spectators and sponsors to support and invest in the club. It is extremely challenging for a small club like ours to operate and play at Step 4 for any length of time. But once again, the club continues to punch above it’s weight on and off the pitch so please, come and see us and if you or any business you know would like to benefit from the huge publicity between now and Christmas and beyond please reach out via the details below.
In the meantime it’s a Merry Christmas from everyone involved with Wroxham FC
james@wroxhamfc.club or Facebook at wroxhamfc.club, Instagram at officialwroxhamfc , online at www.wroxhamfc.club and on X (Twitter) at @The _yachtsmen
Below: Wroxham goals against Mildenhall and Heybridge along with (right) a couple of Hollywood stars outside the Wroxham Boardroom!
Next at The Ginger Pickle Arena at Trafford Park:
• Saturday 7th December KO
3pm Vs Cambridge City
• Saturday 21st December KO 3pm Vs Tilbury
• Thursday 26th December
KO 3pm Vs Newmarket Town
• Saturday 4th January KO 3pm Vs Ipswich Wanderers
• Saturday 11th January KO 3pm Vs Concord Rangers
Business Card Section
This *Business Card space can display Your Business Service during 2025 for just £24.00 p/m (£48 per bi-monthly edition)
* For other sizes see inside rear cover of this magazine at bottom of page...
It’s Jingle Bells time of the year againChristmas and New Year will soon be here!
Whatever you’re doing over the next few weeks, I hope you and your family thoroughly enjoy being together. This time of year, really is a good time to check in on friends and neighbours – the world always needs more kindness, doesn’t it?
At home, we anticipate a few family gatherings – including our recently-born granddaughter.
My partner Stuart will be cooking Christmas Lunch (we love his legendary roast potatoes!). Then into the New Year to implement something new we’ve been training for throughout 2024…
the Festive Break!...
- Five Tips for a Happy (Family) Christmas
- Last UK Posting Dates
- Recipé; Spiced Turkey Broth with Fragrant Dumplings
