SEPTEMBER 2021 About Thetford magazine by About Thetford magazine

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e This Autumn

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e had an enjoyable and We trust our readers hav relaxing Summer? e feel to the magazine There’s a distinctly heritag for the return of Heritage this month as we gear up short. Thetford is always for Open Days - or HODS d DS which is an Englan a keen participant in HO e. itag her l loca of t the bes wide festival celebrating more your thing, you’ll If sport and exercise is t Thetford Parkrun has no doubt be pleased tha news from Thetford e hav resumed. We also . rth Bowls Club this month Hockey Club and Stanifo e a number of excellent Thetford is fortunate to hav l nner of services for loca groups providing all ma the er und s goe n ofte ch people. One that very mu to Project. Turn to page 24 radar is Thetford Music sic mu ble rda provided affo find out how TMP has l children for more than loca of ds dre hun for lessons k! 20 years, amazing wor Terry Jermy gazine Editor, About Thetford Ma

Inside this month...

Page 5 - Dippy On Tour Trail Page 7 - Heritage Open Days 2021 Page 8 & 9 - Rail Station Wildlife Gardens Page 10 & 11 - Leaping Hare Page 13 - FEPOW Memorial Service Page 17 - Garden And Allotment Club Page 18 - Fly Tipper Lands £600 Fine Page 21 - The Changing Of The Guard Page 24 & 25 - Thetford Music Project Page 27 - Thetford U3A News Page 29 - CAN Connect Service Page 31 - How To Contact Thetford Police Page 33 - Ancient House Museum News Page 37 - Not Just Books Page 38 - School Celebrates Exams Page 41 - Business Funding Available Page 44 - Thetford Parkrun Returns Page 45 - Thetford Hockey Club About Thetford Magazine is printed on carbon balanced Ovenclean AD.qxp_Layout 1 22/01/2021 08:41 Page 1 paper in Norfolk CBP007812

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The email address for all articles, adverts etc: aboutthetfordmagazine@gmail.com Contact us: 075404 63662 Office Address: C/o Charles Burrell Centre, Staniforth Road, IP24 3LH Publisher; In And About Thetford Ltd, C/o Charles Burrell Centre, Staniforth Road, Thetford IP24 3LH Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of information contained within this magazine, the publishers take no responsibility for the accuracy of statements made by its contributors, in any advertisements or for any loss arising from non-publication of any advertisement. Reproduction of any part of this publication without permission of the publishers is strictly forbidden. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher

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All The Fun Of The Fair Returns Larry Gray & Sons Funfair has been visiting Thetford twice yearly for decades. Today the 4th generation of the same family is at the helm, providing entertainment for the people of Thetford and wider community. Over the years some of the rides may have changed, but firm favourites such as the waltzer and dodgems remain along with the warm welcome that visitors receive when the fair comes to town. All Larry Gray & Sons rides are fully tested and the family pride themselves on their safety record. The rides and amusements are also fully cleaned to provide a covid secure environment during opening hours. Speaking about the effect the covid pandemic has had on the fair Larry said, “It’s been a difficult 18 months for us, we were only able to bring one fair to Thetford last year, it’s the first time in over 70 years that we haven’t visited the town twice. We are delighted to be coming back again this autumn and have some fantastic new rides to unveil on our return.”

Three generations of the Gray family in front of one of their rides. Larry Gray (L) with his father Larry Snr, brother Renny and Renny Jnr who continue to bring the thrill of the fair to Thetford each year

The Gray family also provide the annual town firework event, the only free display in East Anglia. “We’ll be back on November 7th with all the fun of the fair, stage performers, our DJ, Bubbleman and of course fantastic fireworks,” Larry continued, Larry says that although the event is outdoors “We’re really looking forward to returning to they would welcome facemask wearing, “It is up to Thetford as it’s a town we are incredibly fond of as a family.” For more information, including fun fair visitors to make that choice but we do recommend HP Funfare Advert 08.21.qxp_Layout 1 16/08/2021 16:19for Page 1 dates the September visit to Thetford, go to; people wear facemasks so that we can protect ‘L Gray & Sons FunFair’ page on Facebook each other in this difficult time.”

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Dippy on Tour Adventure Trail Friday 10 September - Thursday 28 October

What do you call a dinosaur with one eye?

Find Dippy’s friends and you could win a dinosaur-themed prize Enjoy our free family trail in Thetford to celebrate the Natural History Museum’s much loved Dippy, who is on Tour at Norwich Cathedral.

dinosaur themed prize. Complete the grid below with your word and drop your entry through the letterbox of the Everything Thetford shop at 20 King Street or email your answer to info@leapinghare.org. Remember to include your name and contact details. Good luck!

Dippy’s friends have arrived in Thetford, find them all, solve the clue and you could win a dinosaur-themed prize. There are 17 numbered dinosaurs to find around Thetford town centre in certain shop windows. Track them down, collect their letters and complete the grid below.

The Dippy on Tour trail is organised by Leaping Hare and supported About Thetford magazine.

Send us your answer, and the correct ones will be entered into a draw for a roar-tastic

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HODs 2021 Highlights:

Heritage Open Days Return

Former Atomic Weapons Bunker Tours Gorse Industrial Estate Friday 10th - Sunday 19th September From 10:30am. Booking essential

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of heritage and culture. Every September across the country organisations and volunteers organise events to celebrate our fantastic history and culture that you can access for free! It’s also an opportunity to see hidden places or try new experiences. The theme this year is Edible England, so you can expect food related events and activities alongside tours and open days. The festival is now in its 26th year and has grown from 701 events nationwide to over 5,500 today.

Mrs Sanderson Talks WVS Leaping Hare Saturday 11th September - 11am - 2pm Drop-in Thetford Folk - Children’s Heritage Theatre Thetford Town Council Saturday 11th September - 3pm Booking essential HODs Special Sunday Opening - costumed characters and family friendly activities Ancient House Museum of Thetford Life Sunday 12th September - 10am - 4:30pm Booking essential Sikh Heritage Events Thetford Town Council Sunday 12th September - 10am - 3pm Drop in Edible Britain - A conversation with Richard Mabey, Thetford Town Council Thursday 16th September - 7:30pm Booking essential

Young visitors enjoying one of the HODs events happening across Thetford this month

Thetford has taken part in Heritage Open Days for many years, reflecting the rich and diverse Medieval Coin Striking cultural heritage we have as a town. This year you Leaping Hare. Saturday 18th September, can discover how the Women’s Voluntary Service 11am - 2pm, Drop in (WVS) supported the town during WW2. Christine Sanderson, pictured on our front cover this month, is a costumned interpreter and can be found giving a talk on 11th September at Leaping Hare. Also featured are our links to the Sikh community, food 01842 400321 - 07847 732 883 l Laptop Repair - Virus Removal and drink history, foraging tips, www.heritageopendays.org.uk industrial heritage l Collect and Return Service and our@heritageopenday local links to atomic weapons. @heritageopendays /heritageopendays #HODs There are specific family friendly events hosted by Charles Burrell Museum, Leaping Hare and Thetford Town Council including a children’s theatre performance. Some of the activities require pre-booking, whilst others are drop-in, to find out more or to book tickets please visit: www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting

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Rail Station Wildlife Gardens Receive Stamp of Approval From Norfolk Wildlife Trust Community efforts to boost nature at rail stations are to be rewarded with an official accreditation from Norfolk Wildlife Trust for station volunteers’ efforts to improve biodiversity at rail stations. Greater Anglia has partnered with Norfolk Wildlife Trust to formally recognise the achievements of its team of volunteer ‘station adopters’ to create wildlife havens at stations across its network through the new ‘Greater Anglia Wildlife Friendly Stations Accreditation Scheme’. Norfolk Wildlife Trust is leading the accreditation scheme, which will later be rolled out to include Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire Trusts to cover the whole of Greater Anglia’s network. Norfolk Wildlife Trust has just completed the pilot phase of the project, surveying four stations in Norfolk – Thetford, Brundall Gardens, Cantley and West Runton – and assessing them for how well they support local flora and fauna. Chief Executive (interim) of Norfolk Wildlife Trust, Kevin Hart said: “The alarming decline in the abundance of wildlife and the plight of species under threat means that just protecting the nature we have left is not enough; we need to put nature into recovery, and to do so at scale and with urgency. We are working to create a nature recovery network across Norfolk – and with fellow wildlife trusts across the UK – to create more space for wildlife. This project with Greater Anglia is a fantastic example of how people can transform nature-poor areas into new nature-rich places – and change the way we think about land, seizing opportunities to help nature outside traditional nature reserves.” Of Thetford, the ecologist, Rebecca Evans, said, “This is a fantastic site for wildlife because it transitions through a range of habitats, from

The station garden has been pledged WildEast along with Greater Anglia’s other 55 station gardens to help them in their mission to return 20% of East Anglia to nature by 2050.

WildEast founder, Oliver Birbeck, with Greater Anglia’s Customer and Community Engagement Manager, Alan Neville and Thetford station adopters. All images: © Greater Anglia

diverse planted borders of shrubs and flowers nearest the station itself, moving through areas of grassland, getting increasingly 'wilder' until it becomes quite dense scrub and treeline at the end. It is well cared for by a group who have considered wildlife while they maintain the platform, with a compost heap, bird boxes in the more mature trees, feeders and even bird baths that give a constant supply of water.” Each assessment also offers tips and advice for how to make the stations more wildlife friendly and the reports can also be used as examples of best practice to help spread good ideas around all Greater Anglia’s stations. Greater Anglia’s Customer and Community Engagement Manager, Alan Neville, said, “We’re delighted to partner with the region’s wildlife trusts to formally recognise the valuable work of our station adopter volunteers in supporting wildlife and improving their local environment. This is all helping the railway in East Anglia to lead the green recovery from the pandemic by being a much greener way to travel - and our new fleet of trains will contribute even more thanks to their more environmentally friendly features which reduce CO2 and particulate emissions in the region further still and offer a convenient, comfortable alternative to the car.” Rail stations in East Anglia are increasingly becoming havens for local wildlife thanks to the efforts of volunteers who have transformed land the equivalent of five Olympic-sized swimming pools into thriving wildlife gardens. Greater Anglia’s team of station adopters who help to look after their rail stations for the benefit of their communities – increased the total area of station

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garden across the network by 14% last year and devoted much of it to creating wildlife friendly areas.The gardens, some of which have been developed over many years, are becoming havens for local wildlife populations – with the railway increasingly being recognised by ecologists as a ‘green corridor’ which provides a sanctuary for many different kinds of flora and fauna.

in which train operators can meet this commitment in support of global goals of decarbonisation, reducing waste and supporting local plant and animal life. The document will also be used by train companies when agreeing future contracts. With rail accounting for just 1.4% of transport emissions despite representing 10% of all journeys, rail companies want to go further, faster, to get the UK on track to meet its net-zero commitment.

In a recent survey, Greater Anglia station adopters reported a wide range of creatures visiting their stations including many different types of butterflies as well as bees, slow worms, bats, foxes, deer and many varieties of birds, recording Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s vision for a Nature Recovery more than 200 different species. Greater Anglia Network envisages a landscape in which nature has joined the rest of the rail industry in pledging reserves are connected by corridors of habitat, to make stations across Britain more sustainable. through which wild species and their genes Action to reduce waste, support local wildlife and flow freely. Crucially, people are also personally cut the carbon footprint of railway stations will The Mulberry REV Advert 7.qxp_Layout 1 12/05/2021 16:50 Page 1 be informed by the industry’s new Sustainable connected to wildlife and wild landscape, for their own wellbeing and for the benefit of nature. Stations: Best Practice Guide, which details ways

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Photo credit: Carl Harding-Palmer

A taste of history This year’s Heritage Open Days (HODS) celebration takes place from 10-19 September. HODS celebrates England’s architecture and culture, either through one-off events or by giving visitors free access to places that normally charge an entrance fee.

Thetford for a special Strolling through Time event exploring our town’s food and drink history. During The Food of the Past walk, we’ll share stories about topics from water biscuits to Thomas Paine. (And you can purchase tea and scones at the end, if you like! – booking essential)

This year’s theme is “Edible England”, and we’re staging two special events on Saturday 11 September focusing on the food of the past. At 11am outside our King Street shop, listen to Mrs Sanderson talks WVS – it’s 1942 and the Women’s Voluntary Service stalwart will be sharing her expertise on making the most of your rations and talking about the WVS’s work in Thetford.

to the money in your pocket today.

Following on from Mrs Sanderson’s talk at 2pm, come and walk with us around

Get your FREE HODS brochure from our shop.

On Saturday 18 September (11am-2pm), we’d love you to join us on King Street to see our medieval coin-striker in action. Thetford once had its own mint, and you can see how money used to be

Dippy on tour

To coincide with Dippy the Dinosaur’s residency at Norwich Cathedral, you’ll find Thetford’s very own, free, Dippy trail around the town from Friday 10 September-Thursday 28 October. Our local knitters have been hard at work creating woolly dinosaurs that you can spot in shop windows – find the trail map this issue.

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Let’s get this straight The latest addition to our team of talented makers is Brett Straight of Toobeez Pottery: a true Thetfordian and an extremely skilled ceramicist. Brett combines his love of poetry, painting and pottery to create truly unique pieces. Colourful and fun, his work makes people smile. The much acclaimed Dad’s Army Radio Show is returning to Walmington-on-Sea on Thursday 14 October at 7.30pm. Two actors, two microphones, more than twentyfive characters and lots of sound effects! The Dad’s Army Museum is open 5pm 7pm and a pre-show 2 course meal is on offer at the Mulberry Restaurant.

It’s your last chance this year to visit the beautiful Euston Hall and gardens and see their amazing art collection. Saturday 18-Friday 24 September. TICKETS ONL Y

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Debt Advice Column If you’ve fallen behind on bills and the debts are building up, help is available. At Citizens Advice, we know it can be daunting to deal with debt. A first big step is asking for help, as you don’t need to face this alone. Four steps you can take to get started: 1. Work out how much you owe - Make a list of whom you owe money to and add up how much you need to pay each month. If you don’t have your most recent statements, contact your creditor to find out what you owe. Some creditors will have special arrangements for people with Covid related arrears. 2. Prioritise your debts - Your rent or mortgage, energy and council tax are called priority debts as there can be serious consequences if you don’t pay them. Separate these and work out how much you owe. Again, you can ask the companies or your local council what support might be available during the pandemic. 3. Work out how much you can pay - Create a budget by adding up your essential living costs, such as food and housing, and taking these away from your income.

Any money you have spare can be put towards your debts, starting with the priority debts first. If you have any money left after paying priority debts, but not enough to make your usual payments on other debts, consider getting advice on the best way for you to start getting on top of them. Or contact your creditors and offer them what you can afford to pay. 4. If you can’t pay your debts - If you’ve got little or no money spare to pay your priority debts seek advice straight away. If you’re struggling to pay for basics like food, seek help immediately. If you can’t pay off other debts, such as credit cards and loans, get in touch. Citizens Advice Thetford offers free, impartial and confidential advice. You can contact us via email through our website www.cadat.org.uk or you can contact our advice line on 0800 144 8848.

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VJ Day 2021 The Annual Service commemorating the 76th Anniversary of Victory Over Japan (VJ Day) was held on Sunday 15th August 2021 at the FEPOW tree, Nun’s Bridges. The service was as usual attended by families of former members of the Thetford & Brandon Branch of the Far East Prisoners of War Association. The service was led by the Revd Dr Peter Herbert, Honorary Chaplain of Thetford Branch Royal British Legion. Wreaths were laid by Cllr Roy Brame, Chairman of Breckland Council, Cllr Mike Brindle, Mayor of Thetford and Mrs Joy Crick on behalf of the FEPOW Association. The exhortation was given by Robert Kybird, Honorary President of Thetford Branch RBL, and the Kohima by Roger Smith, Chairman of the branch. In attendance were (pictured) Thetford standard bearers Keith Albon and John Waine, plus Brandon standard bearer Gary Brocklehurst and Bugler Malcolm Merryweather. While Britain was celebrating VE Day in May of 1945, thousands of miles away, British and Commonwealth Armed Forces were still fighting in the Far East, in places such as Burma, Singapore and Thailand. The British and Commonwealth campaign in the Far East was the longest campaign of the war. Continuous fighting raged for three full years. The British Forces there, unlike their comrades fighting in Europe, had no leave during which they could go home. They were there for the duration; their only hope of seeing England was in victory. For this, and for other reasons, they are sometimes described as ‘the forgotten army’. Life was extremely hard for the allied Far East Prisoner of War (FEPOW), those whom this tree

Thetford and Brandon standard bearers at the FEPOW service by Nun’s Bridges at the FEPOW memorial tree (left)

commemorates. The prison camps became infamous for the harsh treatment administered to the in-mates. Despite their weakened state these prisioners were put to work as forced labour. The construction of the 258 mile Thailand-Burma railway, also known as the Death Railway, was the most notorious. Around 16,000 allied POWs died from overwork and malnutrition. Around 300,000 soldiers in the Far East became POWs; only 200,000 would survive to see victory over Japan. This year marks the 100th Anniversary of the formation of the Thetford Branch of the Royal British Legion. The Branch are keen to attract new members and meet at the Royal British Legion Club, Market Place, Thetford. Robert Kybird Honorary President of Thetford Branch of the Royal British Legion

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Graduation Of TG Course 6 - 20 Congratulations go to the 40 members of TG 6-20, Meiktila Flight; the newest members of the RAF Regiment to have graduated at RAF Honington. Accompanied by the Central Band of the Royal Air Force, graduates marched proudly on parade in front of family and friends on Friday 13th August. Graduate LAC Tatam (21) of Cornwall said: “I am thrilled to be graduating today. Thanks to the instructors and the course as a whole; we have supported each other throughout. I can’t wait to join my Squadron and continue to excel and enjoy my new job.” Following the parade Graduates were able to meet with reps from their new Squadrons and find out more about the job that lies ahead. Meiktila Flight is part of a new generation of Trainee Gunners who have successfully completed their Phase 1 training at RAF Halton prior to arriving at the RAF Regiment Training Wing here at RAF Honington for a further 20 weeks of Phase 2 training. The Trainee Gunners are taught basic combat tactics in the Air/Ground Environment, the fundamentals of Air Force Protection and advanced fieldcraft skills, further live-fire ranges are also conducted. The progressive Physical Training programme continues to build up strength and fitness from Phase 1 training in order to prepare the recruits for the demanding final exercises. The latter part of the course is both physically and mentally demanding and leaves the successful student with a justifiable sense of pride in what they have achieved. They have earned the right to wear the RAF Regiment Corps ‘Flash’, known informally as ‘mudguards’, and join the ranks of a unique Corps.

have therefore elected to serve this country. You have chosen to put others before yourself, be it your colleagues, those you will one day command or the vulnerable around the world who need your help and protection. I urge you to seize the vast array of opportunities this unique career will offer you and wish you the best of luck. In this endeavour I think Emerson said it best ‘Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail’. You have faced challenges to be on this parade square today, and you will undoubtably face more in the future, but in enabling RAF operations in all its varied guises, be the vanguard into those unknowns and leave a path for the RAF to follow safe in the knowledge you have secured and assured it for others to follow. May you continue to rise to the challenges of the future with the motto of the RAF Regiment at the forefront of your mind, a motto and attitude that has brought you here today – “Per Ardua” – Through Adversity.”

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Thetford Garden And Allotment Club Garden Notes For September 2021

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It’s a good idea to net ponds before the leaves start to fall, it is a much easier job to clear leaves from the netting than allowing them to land and clog up the pond. While the soil is still warm herbaceous perennials can be split. Any spare plants can be planted in other areas of the garden or passed on to friends and neighbours. Herbaceous Salvias are easy to propagate from cuttings, this increases stock but also acts as insurance against Winter losses. Select nonflowering shoots about 5-8cm (2-3”) long, remove all but the top pair of leaves and plant in a gritty, peat free compost. Water and cover the pot with a plastic bag to conserve moisture. Keep out of direct sunlight for 3-4 weeks until rooted. Enjoy your gardening! Maggie Baldwin

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Fly-Tipper Who 'Forgot To Put Out The Bins' Given £600 Fine A Thetford resident who fly-tipped twice in the same scenic area of Breckland has been fined £600 and warned a further incident could result in a court appearance. As part of an investigation by Breckland Council, the fly-tipper said he had forgotten to put out his household bins, therefore decided to fly-tip the household waste in scenic woodland on the Kilverstone Estate in Thetford. However, the council's Enforcement Team tracked down the culprit, who later admitted to not only dumping the household waste but also to later returning to fly-tip laminate flooring from DIY renovations. The resident was issued a £600 fixed penalty notice fine by Breckland Council, which could increase to £800 if not paid promptly. The money will be used to fund future investigations and enforcement action. In addition, the culprit has agreed to write a letter of apology to the landowner and agreed to clear up the waste.

conducted a quick investigation and, with the support of the landowners, modern technology and the public, the culprit has been identified and received a sizeable fine. We have a zero tolerance approach to fly-tipping in Breckland and I hope this experience will make this resident and others, seriously think twice about fly-tipping in our community."

Councillor Gordon Bambridge, Executive Member If you spot a fly-tip or can provide any information for Waste andHP Environment at Breckland Council, Simon Long Advert 2018.qxp_Layout 1 13/09/2018 10:01 1 Council’s website via: about one, Page visit the commented: "Our Enforcement Team has again www.breckland.gov.uk/reportit

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Appeal For Cat Fosterers We are appealing again for fosterers for our cats and kittens as sadly some of our current fosterers have had to stop fostering for us. Therefore we are very short of space, as we don't have a central cattery, but foster in our homes. Some fosterers have a pen in their garden which can be used for adult cats. If you are interested in helping us, you would need to have a dedicated room in your house, with a washable floor, so that it can be disinfected between foster cats. Also our cats are not meant to meet any cat you already have, as a precaution, in case our cat is carrying any sort of disease. Usually our cats are vet checked, blood tested for feline aids and feline leukaemia and had flea and worm treatment before being given over to a fosterer. But must still be kept separate from your own cat or dog as they may not be used to being with other animals and may become stressed if they come face to face with your pets.

Some of our adopters use a conservatory for our cats, which means adopters can see them through the windows. And if you have a pen in your garden, then the cat can be easily seen. We can provide a pen, and pay for hard standing for it and also we would install an electricity supply so that there is lighting and heating in the winter.

If you are interested in fostering for us, please call Everything you need to look after a cat on our the number below. If you need any help or advice behalf is provided so that you are not left out of or assistance with the cost of neutering, our pocket. It is only your time we ask for. If you need number is 01842 810018. to buy food or cat litter, then you are reimbursed once a month. It would be helpful if a new fosterer Rita Thompson, Breckland Cats Protection was able to drive, in case the cat needed to go to the vet. Mileage is also paid for any travelling done on our behalf. It can be a very rewarding experience and it is lovely when a cat is found a new home and goes off happily to an adopter. We have a waiting list for cats that need to come into our care, which means you won't be without a foster cat for very long. Finding homes for our cats is done by our rehoming officer, and it won't be your responsibility. But potential adopters may want to come and meet the new cat, which means people coming into your house. It has been difficult the past with 1the16/08/2021 coronovirus, but we Cat JoyinAD.qxp_Layout 16:49 Page 1 have managed to home cats safely.

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The Changing Of The Guard As the nights are starting to draw in and the sun’s warmth is beginning to dwindle, the chaos of the breeding season is settling into a calm. As we move into September, sunrise which was once filled with the dawn chorus, is now quiet and birds are turning their attention to winter, abandoning their nesting grounds in search of food, or readying themselves for migration.

But whilst the changing of the guard sees our summer visitors leave, autumn migration has birds arriving that bring excitement & anticipation! Waders from the arctic are dropping in for a stopover enroute to destinations further south, with Green Sandpipers, Common Sandpipers and Greenshank all having been spotted at The Nunnery Lakes in recent weeks. Berries that have been ripening in abundance will soon be swooped upon by the first thrushes from Scandinavia who are arriving for their winter holidays. And what would winter be without the arrival of tens of thousands of geese, filling the air with honks and cackles. With so much to see (and hear!), from summer warblers to winter thrushes and much more in-between, it’s no wonder Thetford is considered an international travel hub for migrant birds. It has become a great place to not only watch birds, but also learn more about the migratory patterns of many species.

Photo: Philip Croft / BTO

By recording the birds that we see, using tools such as the BTO’s BirdTrack app, we can have a big impact on our understanding of the movement patterns of different species, but also the value of the sites we see them in, helping us to protect and conserve the nature that we love. To learn more about BirdTrack, visit: www.bto.org/our-science/projects/birdtrack Thetford Raj QP August 21.qxp_Layout 1 05/08/2021 1 Emily Cuff, BTO

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Whilst it seems like only yesterday scores of summer visitors were arriving in Thetford to breed, many birds are already starting to pack their bags in preparation for migration to their winter grounds. Our skies will soon be empty of the screeching cries of Swifts, Swallows and Martins as they begin their journey back to warmer climes. You may have already seen Swallows beginning to look restless and gathering together on telegraph wires. Cuckoos are long gone and are now south of the Sahara (www.bto.org/our-science/ projects/cuckoo-tracking-project).

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September’s Community Litter Picks As usual, there are a number of community litter picks taking place across Thetford in September. If you are interested in helping to keep Thetford clean and tidy then please pop along to one of these sessions. All equipment is provided, but if you have your own then you are encouraged to take it along.

Kevin and Matt who supported the Burrell Ward litter pick in August

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Saturday 18th September 10am - 12pm Meet at Meet Up Cafe, Canon’s Walk Free lunch provided afterwards Organised by Burrell Ward Breckland Councillors Friday 17th & Saturday 18th September, 10.30am. Meet at Cloverfield Church Car Park Organised by Cloverfield And The Willows Residents Association (CAWRA). If you are organising a community litter pick, or are passionate about litter picking locally - please get in touch with About Thetford magazine via: aboutthetfordmagazine@googlemail.com

News From Thetford Flower Club Thetford Flower Club is delighted to announce that the club will be re-opening on Thursday 16th September. Members and friends are welcome to join us at the Church On The Way, Churchill Road, Thetford IP24 2JW. The speaker for our first meeting will be Brenda Tubb NAFAS, with 'More Blooming Flowers'. Covid precautions will be in place. For more information or details on how to join please contact Lynda Moore on 01842 762919.

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There is still time to apply for a Green Grant with Breckland Council - a new £100k pot, with grants from £500 to £10,000. The Council's Green Grants scheme has been launched as part of its commitment to drive environmental-friendly changes in the district. To enable a really diverse mix of projects to be supported the criteria is broad, however projects which are most likely to receive a grant include those which find solutions to environmental problems, reduce litter and waste, save water and energy, promote green travel options, protect natural habitats, and educate people on ways they could make small changes in their lifestyles which are good for the planet.

The council hopes to award up to 80 small grants of £500 and between 6-12 large grants of between £5,000 - £10,000, Friendly and professional IT service for depending on the applications Mac or Windows, call Joe Richards on submitted. Applications can Telephone: 01953 718421 be submitted by Breckland Mobile: 07928 326008 community groups, schools Email: help@bailiwickit.com as well as businesses, town & Van and a Man AD REV 06.19.qxp_Layout 1 10/06/2019 Website: www.bailiwickit.com parish councils, and charities.

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opportunity to make a difference locally. I would urge any group, school, business or organisation that has an idea or plans to help reduce our impact on our natural environment to send in a funding application and help make a difference to the planet.” Green Grant scheme applications must be submitted by Sunday, 12th September. Funding awards will be made in early October.

Visit the Breckland Council website for further information: www.breckland.gov.uk/climate-change/ green-community-grants

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September Vacancies For All Young Players! After-school activity Thetford Music Project (TMP) is pleased to be offering vacancies this September. Offering young musicians (6 – 17 years) the opportunity to learn an instrument or sing and perform with others. Affordable lessons take place every Monday during term time. See the website: www.thetfordmusicproject.co.uk for full details of instruments and teachers.

Our belated 20th anniversary showcase celebration (starring every club member) takes place on Sunday 12th December at the Carnegie Thetford and tickets are just £3 (under 15s go free). Tickets can be bought from Leaping Hare. Thetford Music Project is a registered charity that runs an after-school music club during term time. Led by our current Director, Ann Smith who in turn manages her expert team of specialist instrumental tutors and ensures every TMP member has a chance to learn one of 14 instruments (often from scratch, but going up to Grade 8), as well as the opportunity to play and develop musicianship alongside their peers, in groups and ensembles. Instruments are loaned out; all music and other equipment is provided free of charge. The project was set up over 21 years ago as a response to a decline (even then) in instrumental teaching in state schools. There were literally hundreds of unused instruments across every Primary and Secondary School in Thetford, and no County teaching in any of them. John Weeks, who became Vice-Chair of TMP, suggested a local partnership group to do something about grassroots musical instrumental teaching. The late David O’Neale, MBE (who became our first Director) set up a small team of Music Service and freelance instrumental tutors and teachers at Queensway School (now Diamond Academy). Since local management of school budgets, academisation, the withdrawal of County Music Services and a number of other political changes

TMP members and teachers performing together at Thetford Academy

since, the picture has become if anything more fragmented across England: yet in Thetford, over the past 21 years, sometimes more than a hundred young people a week have benefited from lessons and ensembles, affordably, and with increasingly high musical standards. Thanks to John, David, a loyal band of willing helpers, our sponsors, fundraisers and many others, TMP has consistently delivered a total of some 30,000 hours of instrumental teaching, as well as bands, groups, concerts, charity events and other activities enabling talented and keen young Thetfordians and others a locally accessible chance to learn to play and love music. In 2002, Juliet Rickard took over as Director and developed things on significantly, in scale and musical audacity; who present would ever forget her massed voices and instrumental version of songs from the Lion King at the Carnegie! Between 2005 and 2011, Sue Taylor, then Polly Fenn, took the helm. Polly innovated us towards a website and among many other things, a 60 player charity play-in in aid of the Haitian Earthquake appeal in February 2010. Ann, our present, indefatigable, longest-serving, stalwart Director took over at a time of some upheaval, as further political changes meant we had to sadly leave Diamond. We moved to Bishop’s School and then Ann oversaw the long planned move from Bishop’s to Thetford Academy – where we remain to this day. TMP are warmly hosted by Principal Dan Carter, and Assistant Principal in charge of Performing Arts, Helen Thomas-Jones. As the only state Secondary in Thetford, 1,300 young people a year stand to benefit from the specialist music tutoring of TMP. Classes now take place every Monday afternoon, as an ideal complement to the developing music curriculum of the Academy. Our committee meets voluntarily – once in November, for our AGM, and once in the summer

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Get involved, learn a new skill, or simply support by joining the Hundred Club - thankyou. Robert Rickard Chair, Thetford Music Project (2000 - present)

TMP members include young people from across schools in the town and of all ages. the project gives them an opportunity to learn an instrument and to experience playing together as an emsemble

term to ratify our work, and this is a chance for all local school music departments and coordinators to have their say in the running and development of TMP and also for our loyal Town Council, Parent and Staff representatives to contribute to our day to day affairs. Fundraising continues to be a major essential to our work. Our four Trustees give their time completely voluntarily and free of charge; out of the modest club fees, alongside grants, and any other charitable fundraising, we aim to raise £1015k a year, to ensure that no child misses out. Our late, great President, Colin Armes, set up the TMP Hundred Club, which provides an important regular source of income, and an opportunity (through a tiny monthly contribution) to win up to £100 a month. We work alongside Norfolk Music Hub who offer us an annual Arts Council funded grant to support the affordable development of young musicians in Thetford as well as over 20 other schools in South Norfolk, and even into North Suffolk. Many organsiations have generously lent us their support over the years: Thetford Rotary Club, Thetford Grammar School,Thetford Garden Centre – and, for most of the past 10 years, Shadwell Stud which endowed our ‘Shadwell Scholarships’.

For More Information:

To join the TMP Hundred Club, contact Corinne: info@leapinghare.org or 01842 751975 To find out more about Thetford Music Project, and to enrol your child, contact: annsmithbrass@aol.com

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TADDS Memorial Service To Commemorate Past Members What a busy August we have had, it’s been fabulous to see people coming back to the group and welcoming new people as well. This month sees our focus go towards the TADDS memorial service which will be held in October. At the start of this year, a tree was donated to TADDS, which was planted by one of our Trustees (Colin) in the memorial garden on Admirals Way. We intend to hold a small dedication ceremony in the memory of all the TADDS friends we lost not just in 2020 but also since we started 7 years ago. Many of our loved friends have been featured every year at the Christmas Tree service in the Methodist Church, but last year was probably the worst year for loss in the group’s history, and this fact makes a memorial garden all the more special. A place for us to remember our friends, and reflect. We encourage any previous carers who would like to attend, to get in touch with us so we can send them an invite to the day. If you are currently going through a diagnosis or needing more help, please come along to our group on a Friday between 10am and 12 noon.

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Plans Afoot For U3A Social

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A fortnight ago a few of our members attended the funeral of Tony Dobbin. Tony will be greatly missed by the U3A, he was there at the very beginning of starting the Thetford branch, always willing to help in many ways, especially editing and collecting snippets of news and information for our magazine.

I need to remind everyone we are again open to all, thank goodness we do not have to limit our Www.mjfeetandhealthpractice.co.uk numbers as we were obliged to with the Covid Email: Editorial:TEMPLATE mjfeethealthpractice@gmail.com12/09/2013 08:13 Page 1 MCP restrictions. We only had to limit numbers when we first started up again.

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The next date for your diaries is September 23rd when we are holding our AGM. We will be rather short of committee members as there are four vacancies. To carry on with our commitments for the coming years and continue with our U3A we desperately need people who can volunteer to help us. After the AGM I have asked Jo from Phoenix Owls to visit us once again. They were so popular and in view of the many requests that I received to book her once again I do hope you will come along and support them. For further information about Thetford U3A, please visit our website: www.u3asites.org.uk/thetford/home

with Jo Daffin

E: lesleybraund@hotmail.com T: 01842 824074 u3asites.org.uk/thetford/

Dates to remind you of - 9th September from 1pm to 4.30pm, we are having a get together social. The idea for this was there are still many members who have not managed to meet for a long time and it was thought by just having a lovely relaxed afternoon catching up with old friends would be ideal time before Autumn sets in. There will be a short walk in the forest for those who wish to, a little fun quiz, plus refreshments will be available. We are also hoping that some group leaders will attend to talk about their group activities and interests. The social will be held in the Scout Hut on Mundford Road. Please ring or email me if you need transport.

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Lesley Braund 01824 842074 Or by e-mail: lesleybraund@hotmail.com

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Engine Room Cafe Set To Reopen The team at the Charles Burrell Centre is very delighted to have the Engine Room Café open again from September 5th. Manager Tracy and Assistant Jon have been busy behind the scenes over the last few months working on a refurb of the café kitchen and a brand new training facility - ‘the Burrell Kitchen’. Tracy said we should all keep our eyes open for social media newsflashes about the new menu and the opening times for the café and the classes that will be running in the Burrell Kitchen. The menu will have some old favourites such as a hearty jacket potato and fillings as well as other new options too. There has been experimenting going on with cakes and biscuits so expect to see some delicious treats to go with your coffee or mochaccino! Working with West Suffolk College and other providers Tracy will be heading up a great selection of cookery classes starting with the very basics and working up from there. She says there will be courses for everyone from the totally inexperienced cook to the person looking for speciality classes. The seating for the Engine Room will be undergoing some transformations over the coming weeks too making it more cosy and inviting than ever. The seating area will of course still offer its community groups such as

Engine Room Manager, Tracy Terry

Meet Up Monday and Community Bingo a space to gather together. With plans afoot to increase the number of community groups and clubs accessing the café it will definitely get back to being the vibrant hub of the CBC it was before lockdown. For any further information on the Café, opening times, menus or details of the Burrell Kitchen please do get in touch with Tracy, via email: tracy@engineroomthetford.co.uk

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Lydia is available in our office to answer any questions - please drop in !

15 Old Market Street | Thetford | IP24 2EQ Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 28

CAN Connect Service The CAN Connect service is led by Community Action Norfolk and is in partnership with Future projects. We are part of a range of services across Norfolk aimed at reducing loneliness and isolation. The service can help individuals over the age of 18 to connect with people and activities in their community as well as providing a range of support to help them achieve their goals. The service can also provide support for the community itself. Helping organizations and people make the places we live, stronger, friendlier, and more resilient. We can help individuals to identify and achieve their goals, provide support with advice and coaching, help find the right support if specialist help is needed and find and support individuals to get involved with activities within their community. We achieve this by assigning a client to a life connector or for a longer-term solution we would then match them to a volunteer to work on a 1-1 basis offering support with information from websites for local groups and clubs, plus telephone befriending and/or regular visit calls to offer the support on a long-term basis. It is estimated that there between 35,000 and 40,000 lonely people in Norfolk.

Loneliness is defined as ‘an individual’s personal, subjective sense of lacking desired affection, closeness and social interaction with others.’ And why is it a bad thing? Well it’s bad for your health – research has suggested feeling lonely, living alone and poor social connections are as bad for your health as smoking fifteen cigarettes a day. It’s worse than obesity. And lonely people are more likely to suffer from dementia, heart disease and depression. For further information or to apply to be a volunteer for the service, you can contact 01326 698216 or, visit the website: www.canconnect.org.uk/

Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 29

Probus Is Back Members of the Probus Club of Thetford were pleased to meet up again at the Church on the Way for their first meeting since lockdown started in March 2020. We enjoyed exchanging news and hope that this will be the first of a return to our regular meetings. It was with delight that our past Vice Chairman Gerald Bass, handed the chain of office over to our new Chairman, David Childerhouse. The new Vice Chairman is Bill De Bass. We observed a minute’s silence, followed by a tribute from Gerald Bass, for our former chairman, Tony Dobbin, who passed away recently. He will be much missed for the cheerful and good-natured support he has given to the Club and its members over many years. We also remembered Colin Armes, Jack Kramer and John Bullock who have also passed away since our last meeting. One of our members, Chas Fox, gave us a very entertaining talk about aspects of his service in Germany with the RAF, liaising with the local population. The exchange of alcoholic products from our respective countries can on occasion be an important tool in establishing and maintaining amicable and productive international relations!

Gerald Bass and David Childerhouse

The Club was founded nearly 50 years ago as a social organisation for retired professional and business people, providing opportunities to get to know a wide range of people from many different backgrounds. We hold meetings on the first Tuesday of each month at the Church on the Way in Churchill Road where we have a guest speaker, and we go out to lunch at different venues on the third Tuesday of each month. We are happy to welcome new members, and anyone who is interested can get in touch with our Secretary, John MacPherson - john.bet@btinternet.com

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How To Contact Thetford Police In this ever-changing world of digital media and technology I am often asked what is the best method to contact the police, what should be reported on the emergency 999 number and what can be reported by other means. There are a number of ways in which you can get in touch with Norfolk Constabulary depending on the urgency and type of request. You can call 101 to report a crime that has already happened, seek crime prevention advice or make us aware of any policing issues in your local area. We experience a very high number of calls between 4pm – 8pm and many queries do not concern the police. For details of non-related police calls and the agency that should be approached please take a look at our webpage: www.norfolk.police.uk If you do not need immediate help please consider reporting your concern through our website using our online reporting forms. We also provide a range of alternative non-emergency contact numbers to assist those with other accessibility requirements which include a Mini-com number for the hard of hearing 01953 424 200 and a Text phone facility via 018001 101. A text to email service is available for the public on 07786200777. You can contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team officers by email at: SNTThetford@norfolk.pnn.police.uk Remember, in an emergency situation you should always call 999. Emergency situations can include if you or someone else is in immediate danger or if a crime is in progress, if you need police help immediately for example due to a danger to life, serious damage is being or could be caused to a property, a potential criminal has been disturbed or stopped, a road traffic accident where someone is hurt or in danger.

Inspector Rob Button, Local Policing Commander

You can follow Breckland Police on Twitter using @BrecklandPolice or on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/BrecksPolice For lots more advice and information including crime prevention advice, details of your local officers and the latest news and appeals from Norfolk Constabulary please visit our website. PC Paula Gilluley

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Past & Present

Thetford Station opened in 1845 as part of the Norfolk Railway, later incorporated into the Great Eastern Railway. The railway tavern for travellers was built at the same time as the main station building to the south at the entrance to the station yard. Today little has changed in the immediate area, however the maltings have long gone and housing now surounds the south side of the station. Past Image: David Osborne Collection NMS, Present Photo: About Thetford Magazine Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 32

Heritage Open Days At Ancient House Museum of Thetford Life Many people have already visited the Thetford Treasure, here on loan from the British Museum. If you haven’t, we are proud to be able to offer you the chance to see it for free at two exciting events we are holding for Heritage Open Days this month! On Sunday September 12th, enjoy our pop-up Maharajah Duleep Singh exhibition. Discover the extraordinary life of the last Sikh ruler of the Punjab including his life at Elveden Hall. Meet a costumed character who will help you to explore the life of Prince Frederick, one of Maharajah’s sons, who not only served in the Great War but who also saved the Ancient House building from destruction and founded the museum! See real objects from his own Victorian collection, generously donated to the museum. Free entry, 10am - 4.30pm. The museum along with both the Maharajah Duleep Singh and Thetford Treasure exhibitions is also free to explore on Saturday 18 September, along with a make and take craft station.

We are also pleased to be able to warmly welcome our craft groups back! Knitters can come and Knatter on Tuesday 7th and Thursday 16th September. We look forward to seeing existing and new members; you bring your projects, we’ll provide the refreshments! £2 or £1 for Friends. Please note that booking is now essential, please call us on 01842 752599 or email on ancienthouse@norfolk.gov.uk. Don’t miss our visiting expert Steve Smith talk about The Norfolk Regiment on the Western Front 1914-1918 on 5th October at 2.30pm. Steve is a battlefield guide and author whose latest book looks at the five Battalions of the Norfolk Regiment who served on the Western Front during WWI. Steve’s talk will also provide you with advice about how to research and visit sites in France. To book tickets to the above events please go to: https://norfolk-museums.arttickets.org.uk

Free Film Event Aid Matters in Thetford and Ancient House Museum are hosting a film screening of the Kite Runner on Friday 17th September, in the main hall of the Charles Burrell Centre. Doors will open from 6.30pm, for a 7pm start. Tickets are free! Refreshments will be provided. The Kite Runner tells the story of two friends, set against the backdrop of an tumultuous and unstable Afghanistan. It’s a story of friendship, forgiveness, and redemption. Now more than ever, it’s important to share and listen to these stories. Our own diverse community here in Thetford is built from people living and working together, each with a story to share that adds to our community in wonderful ways. This event will highlight the importance of listening to these stories, and celebrating diversity, inclusion and solidarity. The event will also touch upon the interconnected topics of refugees, the climate crisis, sustainable development and the global crises of poverty and inequality. Local groups involved in creating change in these areas will also be at the event to share their work. We’d love for you to come along to enjoy the film, join the conversation, and learn more about the brilliant work being done here in Thetford to make our world a greener, fairer, safer place for all.

To book tickets please visit: https://bit.ly/filmscreeningTheKiteRunner Please send any questions to: aidmattersthetford@gmail.com Measures such as social distancing and mask-wearing until seated will be in place during the event.

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This particular client, pictured above, came to me with dry skin and broken capillaries and after 3 treatments of skin rejuvenation and a new cleaning regime it was looking so much improved, even softening the lines around the eyes and forehead she said she no longer felt the need for makeup or concealer. I also use this treatment on clients to remove uneven, blotchy pigmentation, help with acne and scar tissue, treat rosacea and to soften lines and wrinkles around the mouth, eyes and forehead. Many clients come to the salon to ask me advice about one condition and then discover actually I need some skin tag removal or I’m not sure which cleanser would be best for my skin. Everyone has different needs and that’s what makes my work so interesting. I can be carrying out hair removal one minute and then tattooing eyeliner or eyebrows followed by some thread vein removal. The other therapists in the salon carry out more of the ‘pampering ‘ treatments such as nails and feet, facials and massage and my work is more of the heavy duty specialised variety!

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Picture Perfect At Nearly Ninety!

Brandon Photographic Club

Sylvia Mary Smith (known as Mary) has been an inspiration to young and old in our community during these unsettling times. This month she will be turning ninety years old and has lived in Thetford for almost 70 years. Up-rooting her life as a young lady and moving from Wincanton to Thetford for love and then devoting her life to raise a family. Mary married a born and bred Thetfordian, Hubert Smith, her beloved husband who was a builder and a well-known figure locally.

To celebrate the beginning of a new season of face-to-face meetings, the Brandon and District Photographic Club are presenting an exhibition of framed photographs during September. Turner Funerals in Brandon are kindly hosting this event, 10am – 4pm, Monday – Friday, at 2a Thetford Road, Brandon, IP17 0BS. We hope you may be inspired to come along and share your interest in photography with us. We meet fortnightly at the Baptist Church Hall, 39 High Street, Brandon, IP27 0AQ, at 7:30pm from Wednesday 8th September. Covid precautions and Government Guidelines will be observed at all times. For further details, please contact: www.brandonphotograhicclub.co.uk info@brandoncameraclub.co.uk Denise Whiting

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Nonagenarian Mary Smith with her grandaughter Kirsty enjoying her garden

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Mary has four children, seven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. She is a self-proclaimed chatter box and loves a good natter, sharing many stories from years’ past. Her positive outlook on life often has her saying, you are never too old to try something new, having recently experienced flying in a helicopter and a little less daring, tasting a fresh mango for the first time! Her garden is her pride and joy and is what keeps her going, spending many hours pottering in her garden, and Please wear a facemask when you come for your appointment it shows! It looks a pretty picture and she will often Ear Irrigation 1/8 Ad.qxp_Layout 1 24/01/2020 09:11 Pa get compliments, to which she replies, ‘not bad for nearly ninety!’

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NOVA Training Are you 16-19? Do you want to gain qualifications that will enhance your employment opportunities or provide a route into further study? Here at Nova training we can offer you all of the above in a welcoming and friendly environment situated in the centre of Thetford and conveniently located close to the railway and bus transport routes. We offer Maths and English Functional Skills qualifications, as well as GCSE re-sits and Employability levels 1 and 2. Also embedded within the courses we offer training in British values, personal development and behaviours and attitudes. We also have a dedicated work placement officer who works closely with all our students to identify work experience opportunities and place students enabling them to gain valuable on-the-job experience in their chosen field. Take control of your future by contacting Nova on 01842 761400 or email info@novatraining. co.uk. Alternatively drop in to the centre at The Maltings, Raymond Street, Thetford. Nova was established as a Private Training Provider in September 1992 and celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2017. We are part of the recruitment agency Staff Select Ltd.

Staff and learners at Nova Training Thetford Photo by Joss Welburn

Nova has operated a number of youth and adult training programmes and also delivered a number of employer led programmes and qualifications such as NVQ’s and Apprenticeships. Our Head Office has always remained in Willenhall Town Centre. In 2001 we opened our first centre outside the Black Country, setting up a motor vehicle workshop in Telford. In recent years the company has spread its wings further. Our focus has remained on supporting young people aged 14-24. At the present day Nova now operates provision from 22 locations across the local authorities including Cambridgeshire and Norfolk.

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Digital Sales Assistant EACH, Lime Kiln Lane, Thetford Permanent, full time, 35 hours (Mon to Fri) - £8.91 per hour We are looking for an enthusiastic and energetic person to help support the running of our eBay shop. The successful applicant will help value, photograph and list donated items. You will need to be self-motivated, highly organised and able to undertake the sorting, moving, storage and postage of a high volume of goods. A large proportion of the role will be order fulfilment. Previous experience of online selling (particularly eBay) is desirable. Applications will be reviewed as and when received, so we encourage candidates to apply early to avoid disappointment.

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Not Just Books September is here and thoughts turn to back to school, back to college and university or even starting those adult education classes. Wherever and whatever you may be studying, here at Not Just Books we have access to hundreds of thousands of book titles with our publishers and wholesaler so although we may be small, providing it’s in print, we can order pretty much anything for you. Our Reynard Reads Book Club is going from strength to strength, and we have chosen the next three month’s titles for discussion. Our next meet up is 22nd September where we will be discussing Samanta Schweblin’s Little Eyes, followed by Precious Gems on 20th October by Thetford’s very own Sue Brady. Our November discussion title sticks with the local theme with the latest Elly Griffith’s novel set on the North Norfolk Coast: The Night Hawks. We haven’t read it yet but any novel that references the legend of Black Shuck is worth a read as far as we are concerned! We’ve also expanded our team here at Not Just Books: Tim is looking forward to getting our D&D and other RPG groups up and running. We’re looking at scheduling these on alternate Thursday evenings upstairs in The Den and possibly also Saturday daytimes should interest dictate. Please do get in contact with us to register your interest. The September Indie Book of the Month is The Cat Who Saved Books by Sosuke Natsukawa, a heart- warming story about finding courage,

NotJustBooks Independent Bookshop 23 Riverside Walk Thetford. IP24 2BB 01842 753660 Follow us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram

caring for others - and the tremendous power of books. Sosuke Natsukawa’s international bestseller, translated from Japanese by Louise Heal Kawai, is a story for those for whom books are so much more than words on paper. September’s Children’s Book of the Month title is Julia and the Shark by Kiran Millwood Hargrave, which is illustrated by Tom De Freston. Look out for our window display! It’s a captivating, powerful and luminous story from a bestselling, award winning author about a mother, a daughter, and the great Greenland shark. With mesmerising black and yellow illustrations and presented as a deluxe hardback with tracing paper inserts, this is a perfect gift for 9+ fans of Philip Pullman, David Almond and Frances Hardinge. Next month sees our first birthday and Bookshop Day: look out for our column next month where we will let you Ad.qxp_Layout know what we have planned! 14:47 Pag Norwich Road 1 21/04/2021 Happy Reading!

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We're a thriving community school in the heart of Thetford Apply to join us in September 2022

School Celebrates Exam Success Congratulations to all of the students at Thetford Academy who have achieved another year of fantastic results, both at GCSE and A Level. Thetford Academy is a fully inclusive school and sixth form with the aim of delivering good-quality, relevant courses that meet the needs of all our students, allowing them to continue on to their dream destinations. Thetford’s strong set of both GCSE and A-level results has shown the support and quality of the courses they have provided to their students, as well as their students’ capabilities and resilience.

Apply Now Students receive their exam grades at Thetford Academy, the school celebrated record breaking A level results this year

Principal, Dan Carter said: “The Classes of 2021 have worked very hard and made excellent progress during their time at Thetford Academy and their grades are fully deserved, particularly considering the challenging conditions of the last 18 months. They have been a fantastic year group and we wish them every success in their future endeavours. We look forward to welcoming many of them back into our sixth form in September.”

Find out more www.thethetfordacademy.org

“Year 13 got record breaking GCSE results in 2019 and they have done the same at A-Level in 2021. The class of 2021 have proved again what young people from Thetford are capable of and these grades are fully deserved. I’m proud of our students’; hard work and resilience, especially considering the challenging circumstances they have faced in the last 18 months. I offer my sincere best wishes to the class of 2021, they will be very fondly remembered at Thetford Academy.”

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Author Delights Book Club The first Reynards Reads book club at Not Just Books was a huge success with members enjoying a glass of fizz and the opportunity to meet and discuss The Stranding with local author Kate Sawyer. After 20 years of living in London, Kate returned to her roots in Bury St Edmunds and with a baby on the way decided to return to her first love of writing. Part of her application for the MA Creative Writing at UEA included writing 10,000 words. Those initial 10,000 words have changed Kate’s life dramatically – now she’s a published author currently writing a 2nd book with interest in the film rights of her first, The Stranding.

Kate Sawyer (kneeling) with members of the Reynards Reads group

was written as an every woman, there are no real details to her” she explained to the group, “the dystopia element was deliberately left unspecific, Book club members were intrigued to discover just radiation of some kind. The point was not to the whale first appeared when Kate took part in be so specific, it allows people to think different the 28 Plays Later writing challenge in February things, to question what it could be and where 2018 and became the starting point when she they sit within that, could they be more ecologically wrote ‘The Stranding’. The team at the UEA were aware, more politically aware or just not at all?” so impressed with Kate’s initial draft that they The group enjoyed exploring their thoughts on the encouraged Kate to continue with her manuscript. characters, storyline and individual interpretations She finished her 1st draft whilst heavily pregnant, of the story with Kate, who also shared some gained an agent and publishing deal – and never surprising details relating to her research. All made it to the UEA! Kate said she has included a agreed the book would make a fantastic film, lot of her life experience in the book, but friends Redcastle Family School Advert HP.qxp_Layout 15:25 1 especially as Kate Page is negotiating to be a co-writer. who think they’ve recognised real life people in1 26/05/2021 Hopefully it won’t be long before it hits the screen! her characters have always been wrong. “Ruth

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Launch Of ‘Tricky Friends’ Film ‘Tricky Friends’ is a short, animated film that has been developed to help people understand the differences between good friendships and apparent friendships that might actually be harmful. Commissioned by Norfolk Safeguarding Adults Board (NSAB), the film was premièred recently, with customers from Independence Matters, at their Community Hub. Newly appointed Chair of Norfolk Safeguarding Adults Board, Heather Roach, said: “Over the last few years, Norfolk SAB have had discussions with groups and organisations in Norfolk who support people with learning disabilities and autism, about how to raise awareness of issues like exploitation, County Lines and cuckooing. It is important that people with learning disabilities and autism, those who have cognitive difficulties, and also children and young adults, have positive opportunities to make and maintain friendships. We want to help them to do this, to reduce the risk of harm and exploitation in groups who may be less able to recognise the intentions of others.”

people to have a voice and for those who are most vulnerable to know when to speak out. I recommend that anyone who knows an autistic person watches this fantastic video. There is so much to learn and be aware of, this video has the potential to bring about some real good.” NSAB hope this animation will be used to help people to think about issues, start conversations with their genuine friends, and to keep them safer while enjoying friendships. ‘Tricky Friends’ is just over three minutes long and can be used with or by anyone - carers, family, organisations, schools or groups.

The video will be available via NSAB’s website: Ryan Hardy, member of the Norfolk All-age Autism www.norfolksafeguardingadultsboard.info/ MCP HP Advert 1 19/11/2018 1 Partnership said:11.18.qxp_Layout “I believe this video is a great 09:41 Pageabout-us/current-campaigns/ step in the right direction of enabling autistic tricky-friends-animation/

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Businesses Set To Benefit From New Funding Initiative Businesses in Norfolk and Suffolk are being encouraged to take advantage of a new capital grant opportunity of up to £30,000. DRIVE, the Delivering Rural Investment for Vital Employment programme, wants to hear from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to grow the region’s rural economy. Launched in February 2021, the new £3m scheme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund. The programme supports local businesses to invest in new projects that benefit their growth and create new employment. Applications can be made for up to 40% of total project costs, with a minimum grant of £5,000 and a maximum of £30,000. Before an application is made, a business will benefit from up to 12 hours of mentoring from a DRIVE Business Mentor, who will provide support to create a project plan and a full business plan. Hence, the business will have the best chance of preparing a successful grant application. Councillor Graham Plant, the County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “I’m delighted that the first projects to be awarded funding are already seeing improvements to their businesses. Norfolk and Suffolk are perfect locations for these projects to thrive and we wish them every success using their new funding.” Lee Hunton, Director of Machined Precision Components (MPC) Ltd, based in Watton applied for a grant and received funding towards a new computer numerical control (CNC) turning machine. As an outcome he will employ an additional part-time machinist at MPC Ltd.

Machined Precision Components in Watton benefitted from a DRIVE grant recently

application process was straightforward. We have already noticed the benefits of DRIVE with extra production capabilities, a reduction in lead times and the elimination of bottlenecks”. Hannah Springham, Managing Director of Farmyard Frozen Ltd, based in Easton (Norfolk Showground) submitted a DRIVE application to support their new start-up that occurred as a result of adapting their businesses. They were awarded funding to put towards a frozen food truck and kitchen equipment; they intend to add two new full-time and one part-time employees to their team. Hannah said: “We’re so proud of the business plan we’ve achieved with DRIVE. Our Mentor was extremely helpful. DRIVE has allowed us to fast track through our first year, enabling us to provide frozen deliveries nationally” SME business owners in Norfolk or Suffolk can find out more at: www.driveforbusiness.co.uk Alternatively, they can contact the DRIVE Team via driveteam@norfolk.gov.uk or 01603 222643. The DRIVE programme is available until the end of August 2022.

Lee said: “The Mentor interaction was very useful because it allowed us to think about the details needed for the application beforehand, so the

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Onwards And Upwards! The past couple of months have been incredibly hectic at the Charles Burrell Museum! We had picked the 25th of July to reopen our Museum after a 20-month closure and luckily the announcement that restrictions would be lifted on the 19th meant this would be able to go ahead, so it was all systems go!!! My amazing team of volunteers didn’t let me down, cleaning, tidying and organising the Museum and our Steamer’s Cafe, often late into the evening, plus getting our Showmans engine Queen Mary ready for her boiler test. We were quietly confident that, although Queen Mary had failed her last hydraulic test, this time she would pass. However, our Mary can be quite contrary at times so it was nerve wracking to say the least. The 19th saw her pass the hydraulic test then on the 20th of July Queen Mary got steamed up for the first time in two years and passed her steam test! It was a truly wonderful sight and one that I’m not ashamed to say had me in tears. The morning of Sunday the 25th of July dawned bright and clear. Heavy rain was forecast that day but luckily didn’t appear until the evening. Queen Mary, wearing her brand new tyres which were fitted by our volunteers during our closure, rolled out of the museum to take her place in Wilko car park alongside two other full sized engines and several models. At 10am our friends from the Dad’s Army Museum platoon stood to attention while Senior Volunteer Derek Antrobus cut the ribbon, which was held across the doorway by Thetford Mayor Mike Brindle and Roy Brame, the Chairman of Breckland Council. We were open!

Street and through the bollards to Minstergate and the museum. The day went very quickly and incredibly well and I’d like to thank all those that took the time to visit us. Having the museum buzzing with people again was just wonderful to see and proved to me that I’d kept my promise to keep it safe and get it open again. Along with my really wonderful CBM volunteer family of course. We are now open Saturdays from 10am to 3pm and Tuesdays from 10am to 2pm and more info can be found on our website: www.charlesburrellmuseum.org.uk Helen Whitton-Rogers CBM Manager

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Thetford Parkrun On the 24th July we were pleased to see the return of parkrun to Thetford and to the majority of the UK following our pause due to the pandemic. We were unsure what turn out we were going to see on the day and were thrilled to welcome 197 runners and walkers! On the day the buzz in the atmosphere was amazing, we had laughter, smiles and even some happy tears! Since then we have had a further three events and have been able to welcome over 200 people per event! Returning to parkrun has taken a lot of planning and preparation in order to ensure that we are a COVID secure event. The health and safety of our participants is of paramount importance and as such we made some small alterations to enable us to restart. Since restarting we have welcomed over 100 first timers to our parkrun community. We are here for all of our community, no matter who you are. We would love to welcome more and more participants, if you have never run or walked a 5km event before, it doesn’t matter – this is your chance to start and to be part of a fun and welcoming community group. If you aren’t wanting to run/walk but would like to be involved in this amazing event we are always in need of marshals to volunteer with us.

Nicholas Jones, far right, with other Thetford Parkrun volunteers

Thetford Parkrun Event Director Nicholas Jones said: “The return of Thetford Parkrun has been brilliant! Myself and the run directors are so pleased that the event is back and to see so many people joining us. It is clear to us that a lot of our community has missed parkrun and have needed it back, post lockdowns and restrictions. I would like to also acknowledge my sincere thanks to our amazing volunteers, without them we wouldn’t be able to put on these events”. For more information on Thetford Parkrun you can find us on Facebook. Nicholas Jones Thetford Parkrun – Event Director

An exciting opportunity to join the Retail team at East Anglia's Children's Hospices

Driver/Warehouse Assistant

EACH Retail Distribution Centre, Thetford Part-time, 28 hours a week (4 days) - £8.91 per hour We are looking for an enthusiastic and energetic person to join our Retail team. The successful applicant will collect and deliver donated goods throughout our network of retail outlets, assist in the storage, organisation and distribution of goods at our distribution centre, and support other areas of the charity in transporting goods and equipment. The successful candidate will be required to work occasional Saturdays and must hold a full UK driving licence. Previous commercial driving experience is desirable, and experience of manual handling and ability to lift is essential. Benefits include generous annual leave and pension package. Applications will be reviewed as and when received, so we encourage candidates to apply early to avoid disappointment.

For full information and to apply, visit www.each.org.uk/jobs EACH Registered Charity No. 1069284 Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 44

Tournament Success For Bowls Club

Thetford Town Hockey Club

G W Staniforth Bowls Club recently won the group one league. On Sunday 15th August, at Thorpe Recreation Bowls Club, they also won the league promotion playoffs, The Baker Cup, beating Caister Bowls Club in the semi-final and Gissing Bowls Club in a close final to earn promotion to the Premier League next season.

Hockey is a team sport that helps build confidence, increases your fitness and helps you connect with people. And on the back of the successful Olympics campaign, we hope you have an interest in this sport. It is a fantastically fun way to try something new.

Members of G W Staniforth Bowls Club

Over recent years, we have focused on helping young people aged between five and 13 flourish and learn hockey skills and play games with other youths. After 13 years of age, young people are able to play for league matches. Ladies and men’s teams play in Norfolk leagues during the season, which is due to start in September and finishes in Spring 2022. The men’s team has spots to fill on its team, so is very keen to see new players. We play and train at the Breckland Sports Centre, Croxton Road on the MUGA (astro pitch to the rear). Training is on Wednesday evenings 7:30 - 9:00pm for people aged 13 to – hey who’s counting? Younger players meet on Sundays for training between 10.30 - 12.

G W Staniforth Bowls Club is based in King’s House Gardens in Thetford. For more information and to enquire about membership, please contact Powerclean QP01842 Portrait Advertor10.20.qxp_Layout 1 16/10/2020 14:24 Page 1 John Wright on 636056 email; johnwright596@btinternet.com

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Thetford Ladies team 2018 -19

We are starting by following England Hockey’s ‘Vitality Back to Hockey’ – which is social and informal. Sessions are aimed at men and women of all ages and abilities. Aimed to make new and returning players feel at ease, our coaches are encouraging and will gently guide participants through a series of fun and interactive sessions, all in a super-friendly and relaxed environment. We are very much looking forward to seeing you on Wednesday! If you have any questions, you can contact us at www.thetfordtownhockeyclub.simplesite.com/ or ‘Thetford Hockey Club’ on Facebook. Karen Hodgkinson Thetford Hockey Club

Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 45

Formula 3 Comes To Snetterton Bart Horsten is an Australian-Irish driver, who has raced in British F4 and BRDC British F3, with his aim for 2021 being to climb the ranks into FIA F3 and onwards, working towards his ultimate goal of F1. In 2021 Bart will return for his second season in BRDC British F3 and compete with Hitech GP, one of the most respected teams outside F1, with a proven track record of success. Briston Watches branding will be a prominent feature on Bart’s race suit, helmet and Hitech GP British F3 car. The partnership will see the brand supporting Bart during the next step of his racing career. At the beginning of August, the BRDC British F3 Championship rounds 13/14/15 took place at Snetterton Racetrack. About Thetford magazine was able to ask Bart about his racing experience at Snetterton; Bart said, “It was a tough weekend for us as we had a failure in qualifying meaning, I started last for every one of the races at a track where passing is difficult. Some rain and wind created a few more opportunities for me to make up ground but the high-speed corners are hard to follow through. It is a lot of fun to drive though.” The wind has a big effect on the cars and Bart says it’s always prevalent around the racetrack area, “that’s a big challenge when you drive at Snetterton. It also has a big variation in corner types with some more standard hairpins and high speed corners along with some unique sections where camber and bumps play a big part. The last sector of the track is unlike anything you’ll drive anywhere in the world with an extremely challenging and enjoyable set of corners that encourage you to attack them and take risks.” When we asked Bart how Snetterton differs to other racetracks in the country he said that the wind is effective, “I’d say the same about Silverstone. So, I think the main difference is the mix of different types of corners

British F3 racing driver Bart Horsten who raced at Snetterton with the Hitech GP team

that make it difficult to do a great lap as they all require different techniques whereas as most UK tracks have a similar feel to them. This also makes it hard to setup the car at Snetterton as you usually have to compromise for parts of the track.” It’s been an extremely challenging season so far for Bart and Hitech GP, Bart says he feels like he’s learnt a huge amount across the season and was looking forward to Silverstone the following weekend. The HitechGP team finished round 18 in second place for the championship. Away from the track Bart has been working with watch distributor Time and More UK and Briston watches. “It’s been great to attend photo shoots, have their branding on the car, my suit and I get to wear my beautiful Briston Clubmaster Traveller 1 Worldtime Abbey Garage AD.qxp_Layout 17/07/2017and 14:36 Pag Clubmaster Sport on and off the track.”

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SEPTEMBER 2021 About Thetford magazine

Articles inside

Thetford Hockey Club

Thetford Parkrun Returns

Business Funding Available

Not Just Books

The Changing Of The Guard

Fly Tipper Lands £600 Fine

9 - Rail Station Wildlife Gardens

How To Contact Thetford Police

Heritage Open Days 2021

CAN Connect Service

25 - Thetford Music Project