NOVEMBER 20
YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY MAGAZINE ISSUE
178
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Countdown To Christm
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gone back, the nights With the clocks having and the countdown to Page 7 - New Thetford Bookshop Opens ker dar are most definitely normally a bit of a grinch Page 9 - Remembrance Arrangements Christmas has begun. I’m as easingly early Christm Page 10 & 11 - Leaping Hare and don’t like the incr om this glo and m doo the all Page 13 - Christmas Is Coming bandwagon but with come the distraction. Page 15 - Charity Funding Available year I feel we would all wel provided Page 18 - Work To Support Eels vice ser as istm Chr her The letters to Fat r Page 20 - Public Space Protection Order nts is always very popula by Chilterns Estate Age can you Page 23 - Listen Out: Look Up! so , ber em Nov h and launches on the 16t s, with Page 24 - Postcard Collection Saved Plu ts! sen pre ut abo k officially start to thin , Page 31 - Queen’s Honour For Lesley il launching this month the Christmas Tree Tra it. Page 32 - A Mayor Unlike No Other spir as istm Chr t tha into we can all start to get have Bonfire Night and Page 37 - Project Offers New Chances Before then of course we nts, both of which are Page 41 - Thetford Past & Present Remembrance Day eve Page 43 - Maharajah’s Anniversary r - further details inside. inevitably altered this yea Page 45 - Feltwell Golf Course you a feature article on Page 46 - Keeping Warm In Training We’re pleased to bring first black Mayor in the Allan Glaisyer Minns, the Remembrance photo above by Kyle Bell 1904-06. This is part of in d UK - Mayor of Thetfor of s ect asp hlight different our ongoing efforts to hig About Thetford e. itag her g azin am d’s Thetfor magazine is ut Thetford magazine proudly printed Terry Jermy, Editor, Abo
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E-mail 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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IF YOU CAN CATCH A COLD YOU CAN CATCH CORONAVIRUS The viruses that cause colds and flu are spread in the same way as coronavirus. This means that the things that protect us from one virus can protect us from other viruses too.
Are you doing everything that you can to protect yourself and others? Wash your hands regularly Wear a face covering in enclosed spaces Keep your distance
PROTECT OURSELVES. PROTECT OTHERS. PROTECT NORFOLK. Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 4
Residents Asked To Show Respect & Stay Safe On Bonfire Night Residents across Norfolk are being reminded to take additional care this Bonfire Night and not to replace professionally organised displays with unsafe options in their back gardens. With many organised events cancelled due to current restrictions on gatherings and events, Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service and Norfolk County Council’s Trading Standards Team is urging people to stay safe this bonfire and fireworks season. Fireworks are now on sale and should only be bought from authorised sellers to ensure that they comply with safety standards and are only sold to adults. The use of fireworks can also be a nuisance to neighbours and cause distress for vulnerable people and for our pets. Residents are also reminded that they need to stick to current Government guidance around the rule of six for any gatherings and not exceed that if planning to mark Bonfire Night at home.
cover it with cling film or a clean plastic bag. Call 999 if necessary. Always seek medical advice for a baby or child that has been burned. Fireworks can frighten people and animals. The elderly and children are frequently scared and intimidated by firework noise. After all, fireworks are explosives. Tell your neighbours if you’re planning on letting off fireworks and avoid purchasing really noisy ones. Please be considerate and make sure the noise is over by 11pm.
Please stay safe and follow the Firework Code: Further fire safety information is available here: Plan your firework display to make it safe and www.norfolk.gov.uk/safety/norfolk-fire-andenjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm. rescue-service/safety-advice-and-guidance/ Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark, keep home-safety-advice/fireworks them in a closed box and use them one at a time Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary. Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back. Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks. Never return to a firework once it has been lit. Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them. Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators. Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire. Make sure that the fire is out and the surroundings are made safe before leaving. You can prevent Injuries by following the Firework code but if you do suffer a burn, ensure Best Beds Direct are a family run business offering Earcool Irrigation 1/8 Ad.qxp_Layout 1 24/01/2020 you the burn under cold running water for at09:11 Pa quality and affordable beds and mattresses. With us you get: least ten minutes. After the burn has been cooled,
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New Bookshop For Thetford Opens A dream has come true for local businesswoman and literary fan Jane James with the launch of ‘Not Just Books’, Thetford’s brand new independent bookshop. Officially opened by the Mayor, Cllr Mark Robinson on Bookshop Day at the beginning of October, the new shop has enjoyed a busy few weeks. “We’ve had a steady stream of customers who have been buying classics through to the latest releases. There’s an enthusiasm for true crimes, young adult books, something that’s not so mainstream like Manga as there’s nowhere else locally stocking it. People have been telling me that they want to shop local, I’m looking forward to celebrating books, the authors and illustrators and bringing something new to Thetford.” Jane said. The brand new shop is a real family affair with Jane’s daughter Millie designing the logo, son Alfie advising on Dungeons and Dragons and husband Mark decorating the shop. Jane’s siblings have also all been involved too, Emma and George can be found helping in the shop and Ed worked on the set up. Jane has a long standing love of books; she says the person she has on her bookshelf the most is Terry Pratchett but undertaking an OU degree in English Literature introduced her to a wide range of authors. “I haven’t zoned the books because some of the best books I’ve read is by happy accident. I’ve gone for new releases, old favourites and if someone has a new release, I’ve looked at their back catalogue to create a wide offer in the shop.”
Mark James, Jane James and Emma Kelly at the launch of Not Just Books on Riverside Walk
Jane is currently developing a ‘lovely and local’ section for the shop featuring books by local authors or covering local interest. Not Just Books will become more than a bookshop eventually, “We have an amazing space upstairs that we could use for D and D and other game playing, book clubs, author talks and even manga style drawing lessons” Jane explained. Speaking at the opening the Mayor said, “I’m absolutely delighted to see Not Just Books open, knowing Jane’s passion for books. It’s a great addition to the retail offer in Thetford and I wish Jane every success for the future.”
Many local parents have taken advantage of Not Just Books personal service and sought advice on books that are appropriate for their children, Not Just Books are happy to offer suggestions and to make sure the books people are buying are accessible for the reader. Jane is working with Barrington Stoke Publishers who specialise in The Mulberry REV Advert 4.qxp_Layout 1 21/09/2020 15:27 Page 1 adjusted reading books and are keen to support independent bookshops.
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Deliveries Tuesday and Wednesday. Open for reservations only Thursday to Saturday from 6pm. We ask for pre orders in line with government guidelines. 11 Raymond Street Thetford IP24 2EA
Tel: 01842 824122
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Changes To Remembrance Sunday Commemorations
Peace Comes to Thetford – The Forgotten Soldiers
It is with considerable sadness that this year’s Remembrance Sunday Parade and wreath laying at the War Memorial, Market Place, Thetford has had to be cancelled due to Covid19 restrictions.
You may have seen our group out and about recently at Thetford cemetery. We have been busy plotting the locations of the graves of our forgotten soldiers of WWI. This has proven very difficult for some as there are no markings at all. We are grateful to Thetford Town Council’s cemetery committee and officers for their assistance in our endeavours. We are also very grateful to Neil James Media who used drone photography to help us make our locations map as accurate as possible. It was fascinating to watch Neil at work and also interesting to see the cemetery chapel at a completely different angle.
The Thetford community always shows such outstanding support to honour and remember the fallen service personnel. However, you can still show your support by joining in the two-minute doorstep silence that will show our collective support. There will be a private ceremony being conducted at a temporary memorial at 11am by specially selected personnel from the Services and community groups including the Mayor of Thetford, this event will be livestreamed from 10:55am on Sunday 8th November 2020. Please go to: https://bit.ly/ttceventsyoutube and click on the Remembrance Sunday video to watch. On behalf of the Royal British Legion (Thetford Branch) can I also draw your attention to the fact that they will be selling Poppies up until the 7th November 2020 at the Royal British Legion, Market Place, Thetford so please show your support and wear your Poppy with pride – ‘Lest We Forget’. Thetford Town Council
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TGS 1907 Football Team Alan Noel Minns, second from right front row
The information panel that will form part of the memorial garden area will also highlight some of the stories of the forgotten soldiers. Allan Noel Minns (son of Allan Glaisyer and Emily Minns) won a Junior Science Scholarship at Thetford Grammar School. Like his father, he went on to qualify as a doctor in 1914 and served for six years in the Royal Army Medical Corps, gaining the Military Cross for his bravery at Gallipoli in 1916. The official citation refers to: His gallantry and devotion when attending to the wounded under heavy shrapnel fire. Another officer who was assisting him was killed. Lieutenant Minns later returned to the dressing station, took out 12 stretcher squads and bought in 24 wounded men. Allan went on to win the Distinguished Service Order later in the same year. Although Allan returned home safely, he was involved in a dreadful car accident and tragically died of his injuries. Due to Covid restrictions we will be marking the project with a private socially distanced ceremony on 11th November. A special cry has been written by Mike Wabe who is also one of the volunteers working on the project. This project is supported by the Heritage Fund.
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MAS
RIST THETFORD MAKES CH
ron Fisher a K
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Thetford and the Brecks inspire many of our makers. Watercolour artist Kevin Robinson has been painting the changing town for more than 20 years and his designs feature on a
oper Co
Thetford and the surrounding area is home to a talented group of makers, producing unique, thoughtful presents that also support our economy. At the Everything Thetford shop on King Street, you’ll find a range of crafted products.
e Lamden nn
For many of us, this Christmas season will be simpler and more meaningful. Thankfully, our community offers reassuringly familiar traditions and one-of-a-kind, locally produced and sourced gifts.
range of giftware. Karon Fisher loves nothing more than painting cards and gift tags with watercolour. Dan Morgan’s relief prints echo Breckland’s patterns and textures and are available as cards, prints and paintings. Yvonne Lamden Cooper uses pastels, pencils and charcoal to
capture the wildlife of the Brecks, and we stock her cards and prints. Meanwhile, trees, nature and local history prompted The Woodland Haberdasher, Fay Jones to create her beautiful hand-carved spoons, spatulas and butter-knives. Other makers excel in fabrics and needlecraft. Christine Sanderson creates beautiful felted mice, bunnies and bees, as well as vintage sewing kits. Alli Jones, aka Bunnywiffler, upcycles vintage fabrics to produce
one-off bags and purses, while Lynn Ready’s Silana Crafts turns locally sourced linens and cottons into cosmetic bags and Covid-19 masks inspired by animals and nature. Christmas gift bags have just arrived. Tasty treats make perfect stocking-fillers: Marika Sigley’s honey is made only 200 yards from our shop, while Heather Dent’s hand-cooked, kettle-popped (gluten free, vegan) Kettle Corn brings an American tradition to Thetford. Janice Fossey’s handmoulded “Artstones” feature hand-painted
shampoo bars that the whole family can use combine luxury ingredients with a green ethos.
mandalas and dotting” inspired by Aboriginal art. She also makes baubles! Janet Smith Gibbons’s Etheldreda Jewellery is inspired by unusual, local items she can upcycle – copper is a favourite. Caroline King’s vegan soaps, bath bombs and
And let’s not forget Leaping Hare – we make our own gift wrap, and can produce bespoke designs on 100% cotton tea towels, cards, badges, key rings and fridge magnets. If you can’t get to us in King Street, you can buy online at www.leapinghare.org/ shop/ and we now offer click and collect for a time to suit.
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Christmas Is Coming! Thetford Town Council and Chilterns are bringing back their ‘Letters to Santa’ campaign, launching Monday 16th November. We think you would all agree that it is time for some positivity and what better way, than by spreading some Christmas cheer. This year the ‘Letters to Santa’ campaign will be run a little differently, due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, but your youngsters and little ones can still write to Santa and receive their personalised letter back. From Monday 16th November, Santa’s post boxes will be available in Chilterns: 14 Bridge Street Thetford, 36 High Street Brandon and the Carnegie at Cage Lane, Thetford.
Either pop in to collect a letter template, email thetford@chilterns.co and we’ll send one to you, or the kids can write their own. Drop your letters off at any of the post boxes and Santa will personally write back, leave your email address and you will receive a video from the man himself! The Deadline to drop off your Letters to Santa is Friday 18th December. So many events and activities have been cancelled this year but we‘ve created a covid secure activity with some Christmas cheer! Look out for the 2020 Christmas Trail, launching Friday 4th December. Take your kids on a festive walk through the town to complete the trail, more details coming shortly. Complete and submit your trail sheets to the Carnegie and receive a little treat from Santa.
Santa is busy waiting for your letters again this year! Pop your letter into Santa’s postbox in either Chilterns branches in Thetford and Brandon and he’ll send you a reply in time for Christmas!
If you are looking for a great way to help someone this festive season, during December the staff from Chilterns will be participating in a Reverse Advent Calendar. In association with the Thetford Food Bank, every day we will be adding a Christmas treat, such as mince pies, chocolate or a Christmas pudding and donating to the Thetford Food Bank. If you would like to donate, please do so by dropping off any items at either Chilterns’ offices in Thetford or Brandon. Focus on Christmas treats but check their website for any specific items they are wanting: www.thetford.foodbank.org.uk/ give-help/donate-food
Christmas Sale In Aid of CRUK
On Saturday 28th November from 9.45am there will be a covid-secure Christmas Sale, tombola and Wendy’s knitted chocolate orange Christmas covers, outside Thetford Methodist Church, Tanner Street. Please wear face coverings and help us to observe social distancing.
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FAMILYSunday CHRISTMAS TREE TRAIL 1 November - Tuesday 15 December Thetford’s well-loved family Christmas tree trail is back! Have fun, explore the town and you might win a Christmas hamper. This Christmas, it’s more important than ever to support our community, shopping locally where we can and backing Thetford’s economy. Following the annual Christmas tree trail – proudly supported by About Thetford magazine – is a great way to join in Thetford’s festive fun. It’s free, and it’s a great family activity, getting people out and about in our town centre, checking out local businesses and even getting a bit of exercise! All you have to do is locate 16 small wooden Christmas trees – you’ll find
them in town centre windows. We’ve also put together a map with some clues as to where they might be. Each tree has a number and a letter. If you collect all 16 letters, you’ll see that they form a two-word phrase. Correct answers will go into a draw, and the winner will receive a Christmas hamper full of local goodies. It’s easy to enter: complete the grid below with your two words, drop your entry in to 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! The answer to the Christmas Tree Trail competition is . . . FIRST WORD
i The Bell
ar
p ap
R
ay W
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
SECOND WORD
12 13 14 15 16
The Christmas tree trail is organised by Leaping Hare, Thetford Methodist Church, Ancient House Museum and supported by About Thetford magazine.
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16:41
Calling Local Good Causes Funding Available, Apply Now! The late Cynthia Della Hoy died on the 10th of June 2005. Though she did not actually live in Thetford at that time she had many connections with the area and owned several properties locally. In her will she left White Lion Cottages in Croxton for charitable purposes centered on the village of Croxton. In 2012 a limited company with charitable status was set up and registered as Cynthia Della Hoy’s Croxton Charity Ltd. Reg no. 8107202. The Directors of this company receive no remuneration, but must ensure that there is a sound business plan for the letting and maintenance of the properties. They may then use surplus funds for charitable giving. In the initial years much of our income has been used to improve the five properties and there is still work to do, though when this is completed more and more of our funds will be made available for worthy causes. The Trustees are able to apply this surplus income for charitable purposes within the village of Croxton, the villages Kilverstone and East Wretham and the town of Thetford and surrounding area. We are proud to be contributors towards Thetford Foodbank, Thetford and District Dementia Support Group (TADDS), several Keystone and local church projects, Thetford Voices and any number of smaller but none the less vital good causes. If you are part of a charity, community group or other similar organization within the area outlined above and wish to seek assistance from this charity (for themselves or behalf of another), please request a grant application form from the charity by email: cdhcc2012@gmail.com
Thetford Voices seen here performing at Laburnum Grove last Christmas with support from the Cynthia Della Hoy Croxton Charity
Thetford Library News National poetry day ambassador Simon Mole is coming to help your imaginations take flight! Build skills and confidence through games and activities before being supported to write your own poem! Workshop includes Simon’s performance of his debut picture book KITES: a moving poetic story about friendship and belonging. Suitable for children aged 4-8 years with parent/ carer support. Book your child’s place by e mailing libraries.iconnect@norfolk.gov.uk with the header KITES. The workshop is funded by Arts Council England.
CYNTHIA DELLA HOY’S CROXTON CHARITY CHARITY NUMBER 1148374
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES The Trustees are able to make grants from their retained funds to charities and other organisations benefitting the communities of Thetford, the villages of Croxton, Kilverstone and East Wretham.
Charities, community groups and other Chairman – Ivor Andrew 1 11/0 Made to Measure 1/8th Advert 2020.qxp_Layout organizations within the area outlined Secretary – Nick Manderfield who wish to seek assistance from this charity for themselves or on behalf of another, may request a grant application form from the charity’s secretary.
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Garden Tasks As Winter Approaches November already – and now the clocks have gone back the nights draw in so early. It is a month to focus on making preparations for winter, winds, frosts and rain. I wonder what’s in store… The birds have already eaten the easily obtained seeds and fruits so you might want to invest in a sack of bird food. If you don’t have a feeder or bird bath, why not get one now as watching their antics is most entertaining - and we need all the entertainment we can get this year! If you have small plants or cuttings in pots in a tray, check that it is one with holes in so that rain water can drain away. Most plants will ‘drown’ if they are water-logged – you have only to take a walk at Knettishall to see where trees have died in the area the conservationists have chosen to flood. Any pots or tubs on slabs would be happier raised up to help their drainage, you can use fancy ‘feet’ or shards of clay pots for this. Aerating the lawn, particularly where traffic has compacted the soil, will also help the grass over the winter. There are aerating tools but plunging a fork into the soil and rocking it back and forth also does the job. Have a look at your roses and be prepared to prune them back to prevent wind-rock. You can take a third to a half of the top growth away – the one sure thing about established roses is that they will grow vigorously after pruning.
hanging basket, somewhere out of the rain and wind that might bring the whole lot crashing down! If you plan to make a holly wreath for your door for Christmas, keep an eye on your holly bush. The birds seem to develop an appetite for the berries and suddenly strip the bush; fortunately, now that the weather is cooler, you can take some sprigs and keep them in water in a cool place till you are ready to tackle the job early next month. If you have maintained an amaryllis from last winter, stop watering it now and let the leaves die back. Once it has shrivelled down, you can choose when to re-pot it and watch the spectacular growth and flowering. It can be for Christmas but perhaps January or February would be a better time when the jollity and decorations are a thing of the past and a bit of flamboyant colour will be very welcome.
While you have secateurs in your hands, you could sort out your apple and pear trees, but On the veg patch crack on with digging when you leave plums for attention in the summer. Now is get the chance. Once an area is clear you can the time to attach grease bands to fruit trees to spread manure and leave it for the winter weather prevent winter moth damage. It’s also time to get to work it into the soil. Frost is likely now and, orders in for bare-rooted fruit trees and bushes as well as wiping out annual weeds, the chill will which can be a lot cheaper than the containerised transform the flavour of parsnips, turning starch versions. As summer flowering annuals are to sugar and making roast parsnips one of the cleared you may have room for some winter real pleasures of winter. Try to avoid walking on bedding and this can be a real treat, especially sodden ground as the soil becomes compacted. No Job to Small 1-8 Advert REV2.qxp_Layout 1 11/09/20 if it can be seen from the house on a rainy day; Happy gardening – Sue Pilgrim you may also have a sheltered spot for a winter
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Thetford River Group Work to Support Eels European Eels (Anguilla Anguilla) are a protected species and we now have to do all we can to help them migrate back to the Sargasso Sea to breed. Tagging studies have shown that eels swim more than 3,000 miles to reach their breeding grounds. Eels with their distinctive snake like bodies have been a feature of Thetford’s rivers for centuries. As River Wardens we reported the broken eel bristle box on the Abbey Heath weir and are so thrilled it has been repaired. This time of year, is when eels start to migrate, leaving European rivers (including ours in Thetford) to travel across the Atlantic Ocean. There they breed, for one single time, before dying. In 2010 the Eels (England and Wales) Regulations 2009 Statutory Instrument (SI) came into force, requiring all member states to develop Eel Managements Plans for each river basin district. The objective is that at least 40% of the adult biomass should be able to reach the sea to migrate. The fish passage now installed to bypass the Coffee Mill in Thetford is a fish and eel pass. Our river, Little Ouse has two crump weirs, and both have bristle boxes to help the eels navigate the staunches. Thetford number 1 weir also has a fish ladder as well. Tufts of bristles of various materials have been used to create substrates for eel passes for many years. Early references record the use of brushes in an eel pass on the Elbe as early as 1964. These early installations often arranged broom-heads in a suitable pattern. Now, brush mats are made specifically for eel passes and come in a range of materials, dimensions and bristle spacing to suit the site and size of eels. Bristle substrate with nylon bristles fixed to a polypropylene sheet Bristle mats are typically 1m by 40 cm. They are made from polypropylene with clumps of bristles about 7cm in length.
Thetford No 1 sluice looking downstream Image by D Smith
It is widely accepted that gauging weirs, like we have on our river, may make it more difficult for eels to migrate upstream. The smooth nature of the weir surface prevents the juvenile eels continuing their journey and are often just washed downstream. In addition, the fast flowing nature of gauging weirs means the water flow is often beyond the capabilities of the juvenile eels. To facilitate the eel migration, it is essential that bristle boxes are installed and maintained. For further reading about eels please visit: www.bbc.co.uk/news/science -environment-37563100
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Dogs Trust Appeals For Foster Carers Dogs Trust Freedom Project, a fostering scheme run by the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, has launched an appeal to animal lovers in East Anglia to temporarily care for the dogs of survivors of domestic abuse, enabling their owners to flee to safety. Dogs Trust launched its Freedom Project in 2004, offering a lifeline for dog owners who are escaping from domestic abuse. Freedom Project provides foster homes for dogs and enables survivors to access safe accommodation without the fear of what may happen to their dog if they cannot take them with them. Sadly, there is a strong link between domestic abuse and abuse to pets, with research showing that pets will often be used by a perpetrator as a tool to threaten or coerce. Dogs Trust research showed that almost half (49%) of professionals working in the sector are aware of domestic abuse cases where the pet has been killed. To date, the Freedom Project has helped over 1,400 people fleeing domestic abuse by fostering over 1,600 dogs. Dogs Trust is currently expanding the project into East Anglia and urgently needs foster carers to support this vital service. The East Anglia service is set to run across Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, alongside already operating in Essex, this will mean that Dogs Trust can offer full coverage of the Freedom Project in the East. Sarah Rowe, Freedom Project Coordinator for East Anglia at Dogs Trust said: “It has become clear that a dedicated pet fostering service is needed in East Anglia to support people and their pets fleeing domestic abuse. By establishing a specialist pet fostering service in this area, we can help dog owners in East Anglia find refuge away from their abusive perpetrator, without worrying Bettswill of Brandon 1/8their AD.qxp_Layout 09/04/2019 what happen to beloved pet.1To do this we urgently need the animal loving public of East
Anglia to come forward to volunteer as foster carers. As lockdown restrictions began to lift, we saw demand for our services increase and in August we fostered a record number of dogs on the project. It is more important than ever that we can continue to provide our services and we urgently need volunteers to help us support people and their pets when they need it most.” The Dogs Trust Freedom Project is looking for volunteers who are at home during the day, possibly people who are retired or work from home. They must have some experience of caring for dogs, have their own garden or access to a communal garden, and be able to commit to fostering a dog for at least 6 months. Involvement in fostering through the project is always kept completely confidential to protect both the dogs and the foster carers. Dogs are not fostered within the area that the owner is from and the foster carer will not know who the owner is or where they live. Additional measures have also been put in place during the current pandemic to ensure the safety of volunteers, staff, and dogs. If you think you can help or would like more information, you can visit the Dogs Trust website: www.dogstrustfreedomproject.org.uk, or call 16:38196 6240, or you can apply via our website 0808 via: www.moretodogstrust.org.uk/volunteer
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Consultation Launched On PSPO A public consultation has been launched by Breckland Council on proposals to renew the existing Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). PSPOs seek to tackle anti-social behaviour by prohibiting activities in a defined area, such as the consumption of alcohol, urinating in the street, and the use of bicycles, skateboards or scooters in pedestrian zones. In 2017 Breckland Council introduced PSPOs in all of its five market towns across the district. Now, following requests from local town councils and community groups, and with the support of local policing teams, Breckland is seeking views on proposals to renew the orders in Thetford for a further three years. The Thetford consultation is open in the form of a short questionnaire until 11 November. Residents, local business owners, and other interested parties are invited to share their views. Following the consultation, responses will be considered before a report is submitted to Councillors in December. If implemented, the PSPO's will run for three years and be reviewed on a regular basis.
Councillor Susan Dowling in Thetford at the river, included within the PSPO social behaviour occurs in Thetford. This includes along the river corridor. I believe it is important that the Police and the Council have as many tools as possible to stop and deter anti-social behviour. The PSPOs are an important tool that is available. I urge people to take part in the consultation”.
For more information and to take part in the consultation, go to the PSPO consultation website. Hard copies of the survey are available by calling Breckland Council's Customer Contact Breckland Councillor Susan Dowling1 19/02/2020 said: Centre on Page 013621656870. Website: The Forge HP Advert 02.20.qxp_Layout 12:37 “Sadly we know that street drinking and antiwww.breckland.gov.uk/pspo-consultation
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Breckland Cats Protection Its a sad fact that at this time of year and with the Covid 19 pandemic, elderly people pass away. Some of them have companion cats and we have been contacted several times, and asked to take cats in where the owner has died and where the family members are not able to rehouse the cat. If the house where the owner lived is rented, the rental company may only give the family members a week to empty the house. One case in particular springs to mind. The cat, having lost his owner, also began to notice that the house was being emptied. His favourite chair had gone, and he was left alone in the house feeling very lonely. Family members came in once or twice a day to feed him, but he was still very unhappy. Fortunately when we were contacted, we happened to have a space with a fosterer who has no other animals and fosters indoors, so the cat went to her. He eats well and uses the litter tray, but she can tell that he is very sad. His world has changed and he doesn’t understand why. The cat, called Boy, approaches her for a fuss and enjoys sitting on her lap, but the fosterer can still tell that he is sad.
If elderly owners of cats were to sign up to our Cat Guardian scheme, they would be reassured that their cat will be taken care of if they are no longer there. It means that your cat would automatically be taken into our care, and if our branch was full, they would go to one of our rehoming centres at Dereham or Downham Market. If you were to sign up with us, we would take details of your cat’s specific details, likes and dislikes and what kind of homes they would be best suited to.
Too busy?
If the house of the person who has died is owned, then the family members have a little more time to empty the house until it is sold. But it still means that the cat which is left behind spends a lot of time on his own. One such cat only had the conservatory to live in and could come and go through a cat flap. He could spend longer and longer time away from home, and maybe he won’t come back at all, because there is no one there. On this occasion Bond, as he is called, came into our care. But we don’t always have an indoor foster space, so this large black cat is in one of our outside pens, in a fosterer’s garden. He is also confused and cannot understand why his world has changed. It was fortunate for these 2 black cats, both in their golden years, that we had space to take them in.
Too busy?Too
It’s free to join, you just complete our registration form and return it to us by freepost. You will be sent a Cat Guardians Welcome pack so you can let your friends and family know you are part of the service. The welcome pack contains a registration certificate to be kept with all of your other personal documents and a wallet card to be kept on your person. You will receive a key fob and a window sticker that will alert people to the fact that you are a cat owner. You can apply online at www. cats.org.uk/catguardians, or call our help line on 01825 741 291. In the meantime, we have two black cats looking for a new home. They are both male and around 9-10 years of age, so if you are looking for a companion cat, one of these two boys could be the cat for you.
For advice, or if you need assistance with the cost Maid2Clean 1/8 AD.qxp_Layout 1 18/04/2019 of neutering, please call us on 01842 810018. 11:24 Pa Rita Thompson
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Listen Out: Look Up! The shortening days and deteriorating weather can make autumn an unpopular time of year. For many birdwatchers, however, it’s the most exciting season! It doesn’t take long for recently-fledged birds to disperse, and this starts as early as July for a lot of species. From then right through until late autumn, migratory birds of all shapes and sizes are on the move. Late September through to early November is the peak time for birds pouring into the UK. Some come to spend the winter in our (relatively) mild climate, whilst others use Britain as a staging post on route to more southerly locations. A few, usually inexperienced birds that hatched earlier the same year, end up here because they misjudged the conditions and were displaced by bad weather, or due to a faulty SatNav! Whilst coastal locations receive the lion’s share of the rare vagrants, and are usually the best place to see large movements of wildfowl and wading birds, you can witness migration in the Brecks, too. October and November are the best months to experience this phenomenon locally. On clear, calm mornings, listen out for the chirruping calls of Skylarks or the chack-chack-chack of groups of Fieldfares as they pass overhead. The latter are Blackbird-sized thrushes with their contrasting black and white underwings, so if you hear their distinctive sound, look up and there’s a good chance you will see them, even without some binoculars. If you spot any, you’ll have witnessed visible migration – or ‘vismig’, as birders call it. Migration doesn’t stop when it gets dark, in fact, most birds that rely on actual flapping (rather than soaring/gliding) flight prefer to travel at night because the air is cooler and there is a lower risk of being spotted by airborne predators such as Peregrines or Sparrowhawks. For birdwatchers in our part of the world, one of the most evocative sounds of autumn nights is the thin, high-pitched
A Fieldfare pauses its migration to refuel on hawthorn berries. Photo by Liz Cutting / BTO ‘tseeep’ calls of Redwings. Like Fieldfares, the hundreds of thousands of these thrushes arrive from Scandinavia and western Russia to spend the winter in the UK. Flocks can often be found raiding hawthorns and other berry-bearing trees by day but many more pass straight over, heading for the south and west of the UK, and even onwards into Iberia. And as we mentioned in the last issue, late October and early November is also the best time to see an often underrated migration spectacle, the large scale movement of Woodpigeons! Look out for flocks of tens or even hundreds of these familiar birds steadily making their way across our skies on cool, clear conditions with light winds. Nick Moran, BTO
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Postcard Collection Saved For Town The Ancient House, Museum of Thetford Life has purchased an important collection of historic Thetford postcards The Museum has purchased the David Osborne Thetford postcard collection for the town with grant aid from generous supporters. The collection of over a thousand postcards was put together over 40 years by the late David Osborne, much-missed local historian of Thetford, who died last year. Museum Curator Oliver Bone said “The postcard collection was David’s pride and joy and I am delighted that we have been able to secure it for public ownership at Ancient House. This must be the largest and most comprehensive collection of Thetford Postcards in the world. It will be invaluable for sharing the history of the town with our audiences.” David began collecting picture postcards of the Norfolk town of Thetford in 1979, when he first started taking a close interest and researching Thetford’s history. Looking for illustrations of the town from earlier periods, he soon became aware of picture postcards published in the early years of the 20th century, illustrating many of the town’s historic places of interest and scenes of the old town centre that had changed considerably during the intervening years. Moreover, there were early postcards depicting interesting facets of One of the postcards from David’s collection: Norwich Road School c1915
social history and important local events such as Coronation celebrations, local football and cricket teams, groups of boy scouts, girl guides, children at school and people at the workplace. The David Osborne collection numbers 1,155 cards and includes postcards published from the late 19th century to the so-called ‘modern’ cards of the late 20th and early 21st century. The earliest postcard in the collection, is a litho-printed postcard with an invitation to the opening dinner for the Bury St Edmunds and Thetford Railway in 1876. Most of the cards in the collection were published between 1902 and 1914, the so-called ‘Golden Era’ of the picture postcard. Each album contains cards from different areas or streets of the town or different themes, such as local publishers, Great War and military, football, Burrell traction engines etc. The collection includes postcards from the very early years of the 20th century before the divided back picture postcard was introduced in 1902. On early picture postcards the address of the recipient was written on one side and the other side was the picture or view with a small space for a written message. The introduction in 1902 of divided back picture postcards, permitted a picture or view to completely take the space on one side of the card and a message and address to be written on the other, divided by a vertical line; this type of card is produced today. The collection also includes a small number of postcards that have been collected for the interesting messages of historical or social interest that they contain. The museum will draw upon the collection in a number of ways including temporary display (there are plans for a Thetford Riverside Heritage exhibition, for example, which will include display of cards). There will also be a permanent display to include an information board about David Osborne and
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the collection and a screen to show a selection of images. Museum staff also plan to scan the cards and enhance the museum’s photographic image library for a multiplicity of uses to tell the town’s story. Other uses include projects with school groups, and work with the after-school History Club and Teenage History Club. Staff also plan to use the photographs on the museum’s social media to encourage interest in the town’s fascinating history. The photographs will be scanned and uploaded to the Norfolk Museums publicly accessible on-line ‘Norfolk Collections’ website for all to see. The images will form an excellent reminiscence resource for helping to combat rural isolation and loneliness, a particular problem in rural districts. The purchase of the collection was made possible by generous grant aid from the V&A Purchase Grant Fund, Breckland Council, the Lady Hind Trust, Friends of Thetford Museum and Thetford Town Council. A photograph from the David Osborne collection is featured as usual in our ‘Past And Present’ article, this month on page 41.
Local historian, David Osborne at home signing one of his many local history books in 2018.
Fans of our Past and Present page will already be aware that we worked with David for many years on the We are delighted that David’s collection MCP HPoriginal Advertpages. 11.18.qxp_Layout 1 19/11/2018 09:41 Page 1is staying in the town and by working with Ancient House Museum we can continue the Past and Present page in David’s memory.
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“The New Normal” As I write this article we are all coming to terms with adapting to our new ways of working, shopping and spending our leisure time. The phrase we are hearing all too often is “This is the new norm!” I don’t know about you but I’m already tiring of hearing this phrase. In August we were given permission from the Government to start performing all our usual treatments, albeit with adjustments to make them safer in the current climate. Lots of businesses are finding it more difficult to survive and so now more than ever it is important for the public to support their local businesses as best they can, or risk losing these individual gems which make our towns special and unique. Obviously, our type of business relies totally on clients, physically coming into our salon. We give bespoke, hands on therapies. We are selling an experience, not something which can be bottled and put in the post! After 35 years in the skincare industry and 30 years as a Director of Halcyon Days Skincare, nothing comes close to the long-term knock-on effects the Covid19 virus has had on our industry. Being closed for several months, we used the time to do online training, upgrade our computer booking system to make it easy for clients to book appointments online. We updated our website as well as improvements made throughout the salon. We had to write up new policies and procedures and were constantly emailing our web designer with updates to keep our clients informed on how we would be operating to keep them safe. We are most grateful to our staff for being adaptable and resourceful during these unprecedented times but most of all our gratitude goes to our clients for their loyalty and willingness to return and support our salon. Thank you seems a small thing to say but we mean it most sincerely.
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Feeling Stressed? Stress is a common feeling that everyone is likely to have experienced at least once, but what exactly does stress mean for those in education, or taking their first steps into the working world? In instances where there is a lot to think about or situations where you have a lack of control, stress can start to show itself, and so student life can often be fraught with stress and anxiety. It is therefore important that you learn to recognise and manage stressful situations, as it can have serious effects on your mental health. A study was carried out by the this year on 5,400 young adults, of those aged 18-24, 63% reported symptoms of anxiety or a depressive disorder. So, how do you know that you’re stressed? Among other emotional symptoms, stress can cause you to feel irritable, overburdened, anxious, depressed or even neglected, and you might begin to dread attending school, or be finding it much harder to enjoy yourself outside of work or study. Additionally, there are physical signs of stress such as shallow breathing, muscle tension, tiredness, headaches and feeling faint. When you are stressed you might also find it difficult to sleep or eat well, and your behaviour is also likely to be affected. It’s common for you to develop habits such as indecisiveness, constant worrying, avoidance, nail biting, inability to concentrate, over/under eating and restlessness if you are feeling particularly burdened or overwhelmed. It is important to recognise that each individual experiences stress differently, but there are some common and general causes of anxiety. Particularly in terms of student life, those who are under pressure to perform well and have the responsibility to meet multiple deadlines can experience anxiety. Emotional stress can also occur in everyday situations such as paying bills or socialising, or in some instances ‘happy’ events such as moving house or parenthood. Other factors during the pandemic such as fear of illness and unemployment have also increased emotional and mental strain. In terms of education, the normal stress-inducers of assignment deadlines and examination revision have been increased by the current pandemic. Returning to school after months of online learning has increased anxiety about being in the classroom, and concerns over content and how much you can actively recall. For those approaching Higher Education, organising student finance and preparing University Applications is a daunting process, particularly now with so many uncertainties surrounding attending University and the 2021 exam season.
Identifying triggers can help you manage your stress, whilst time management can assist you to feel in control and able to handle pressure. Taking breaks, making to do lists, setting small goals and varying your activities all work. Additionally, making different lifestyle choices can reduce the pressures you feel by finding balance, being more relaxed, developing interests and hobbies and finding time to enjoy life. Learning to become more open and making time for those in your life can also help to reduce stress, it may help to build a support network of family, friends, peers and even your GP or professional organisations if you’re becoming overwhelmed. It’s also important to look after your physical health, by sleeping well, being active, eating healthy and not over-working. Mindfulness is also helpful in managing your stress. However, if you are feeling extremely overwhelmed and are struggling to manage your stress by yourself, you should consult a GP or a professional mental health organisation. But what if someone you know is stressed? It can be difficult for us to know how best to help a friend or loved one, but there are ways that you can help, including simply being there for them. Actively listening to the way someone is feeling and aiming to reassure them can benefit them greatly, but you can also help them to identify their stress triggers and practice relaxation techniques. And, if you notice someone is struggling to unwind, then it can be helpful offer to help by unwinding with them. However, it is also fundamental to respect people’s boundaries and not overload them. To better learn and understand stress and how to manage it, you can visit NHS or Mind online, or speak to your GP. Suggested websites for further support: www.mind.org.uk/ and www.samaritans.org/ Article by Sophie Watkins
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Thetford U3A We recently were delighted to have our former Chair Lynn Ready give us a talk on her travels to India titled ‘The Marigold Experience’. This was our first meeting held in the Carnegie since February, and due to Covid 19 restrictions we had to limit the numbers and for the first time in over five years, we had to book seats on a first come first served basis. We had over seventy members wanting to attend and to avoid any disappointment, Lynn agreed to speak again in October which again was completely booked. Everyone arriving had their temperatures taken, names and time they arrived and then departed. The committee had decided we would buy new microphones to make things easier for the staff at the Carnegie and any following speakers. Before the talk commenced Lynn was presented with a certificate for life membership with thanks for everything and everyone she has helped over the years not forgetting she was the one who started the Thetford U3A. The talk Lynn gave was so interesting that many questions were asked and at the end she had brought various things from India which the audience were invited to look at. It was so lovely to have our meeting once again and see some ww
familiar faces. The October meeting will be the last one of this year and hopefully we can resume again on January 28th 2021 with Bryan Thurlow telling us about the music hall. We have seen Bryan before and on the day he came it was a boiling hot day which kept many people away so fingers crossed for a full house in January. Lesley Braund (01842 824074)
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Fantastic Frontliners Military Support In Times Of Crisis As this month sees Remembrance Sunday in its diary we thought it would be fitting to bring you a Fabulous Frontliner from RAF Honington. Flight Lieutenant Steve Browning has enjoyed a 15 year career within the RAF Regiment so far. Originally from the Clacton area, Steve was brought up on Air Shows and Aircraft and always knew that soldiering and the military were for him. At the time Steve wanted to join you had to be 18 to join so he took A levels and joined as early as he could. Then as now, the selection process and initial training for recruits took place at RAF Honington and 22 weeks later he was off to RAF Lossiemouth for his first official posting. He stayed with 51 Squadron for 6 years and even met his now wife, Amy whilst stationed there through mutual friends. He was offered an opportunity to return to Honington in 2011 and was pleased to be back where it all started as part of the CBRN team (the team that search for chemical, radioactive, nuclear and biological weapons and are part of the counter terrorism team that can respond rapidly to any event that may involve chemical weapons). His time at Honington has seen him take a commissioned post and move into recruitment. “I feel I have come full circle, remembering how I felt as an interested young lad, the selection days and weeks of training, and now here I am helping to see others through the process and selecting the next men and women to wear the uniform”.
Flight Lieutenant Steve Browning from RAF Honington who has used his expertise during the Covid-19 pandemic
Asked what his stand out moment has been in his career, he told us that it was something very recent, being asked to be part of the advisory group to the NHS Covid Response Crisis Management team. “The NHS are used to dealing with a short immediate crisis like a traffic accident or terror attack but they needed a group who were used to planning a much more sustained crisis. That’s where we could help. And of course the Nightingale hospitals, planning them, pulling them together in such short time and teaching the NHS how to go from standby to fully functional in hours in these hospitals was also something we could assist with. As was the roll-out of testing. Being able to use my skills and knowledge to be of service is why I am in the RAF”. Steve has no plans to leave the RAF, it’s a part of his family in a way and the RAF envelopes his and other military families too. The support on offer in so many aspects of life, including personal support after active service is second to none he told us. The RAF Regiment pay as much attention to the physical health of their families as to their mental health without judgement or stigma.
During his service Flight Lieutenant Browning You don’t have to be 18 as Steve was to join up, has also been deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq and seen active service. “There really is no the RAF take on men and women of various ages typical year, month, week or day in the military. for the individual strengths they bring to the table. “If anyone is looking for life experiences, unlimited We respond to events good or bad at the drop of training, opportunities to travel, a great level of a hat, and we and our families are prepared for self-confidence, then the RAF is for them. My that” he explained “The other sides of my working military career has far exceeded my wildest life involve attending sporting events, careers dreams and expectations and I feel privileged to fairs and talks about recruitment, taking part in wake up every work day morning excited for the wonderful events such as Honington getting the Freedom of Thetford last year and of course day ahead and what it may bring. With family by my side and my RAF career I am one lucky man” Remembrance Day parades” . Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 29
Graduation Of TG Course 1 - 20 Congratulations go to the 33 members of TG 1-20 Salalah Flight, the newest members of the RAF Regiment to have graduated at RAF Honington. The trainee gunner graduations continue to take place behind closed doors due to the Coronavirus. ACOS Training, Air Commodore Simon Harper OBE MA RAF, took up the role as Reviewing Officer for the Ceremony whilst he visited the Station in his capacity as the Phase 2 Training Delivery Authority. The Graduation was livestreamed via Panopto, a video streaming and lecture capture software designed as a knowledge sharing platform and newly introduced and used by Training Wing. This proves invaluable to the families unable to attend the graduation in person. Over the last few months, RAF Honington has gone to great lengths to ensure that their directed training activity, which is deemed essential to the maintenance of RAF operational capability, can be delivered as safely as reasonably possible. This approach includes adherence to Government guidelines, including social distancing.
WO Ramsey Physical Development Cup: LAC Dixon. This prize is awarded to the Trainee Gunner who achieves the greatest improvement during the physical development course.
SAC Luders Champion Shot Trophy: LAC Curran This prize is awarded to the Trainee Gunner who has shot consistently well throughout the course. He would also be the student who has shown consistent military awareness, on battle and field-firing exercises, in the selection of his shooting positions and use of cover. He would also be one who has demonstrated consistently a high standard of weapon handling and safety Home Flame QP Ad.qxp_Layout 1 10/10/2018 13:33 Pa awareness throughout the course.
On graduating from this course, the Leading Aircraftmen are posted to either 1 Sqn RAF Regt at RAF Honington, 2 Sqn RAF Regt (RAF Brize Norton), 51 Sqn RAF Regt (RAF Lossiemouth), or 63 Sqn RAF Regt (RAF Northolt), whereby they will be trained to such a level that they can immediately commence Mission Specific Training for contingency operations. Further congratulations go to the Prize Winners which included; Frank Sylvester Trophy: LAC Turner To commemorate her late husband’s dedication to the Corps and in particular to the training of young Gunners, his widow presented the Frank Silvester Trophy for award to the best all-round Trainee Gunner of each course.
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Queen’s Honour For Lesley Thetford woman, Lesley Utting is celebrating after it was announced that she was on the belated Queen’s Birthday Honours List and had been awarded a British Empire Medal. Otherwise known as Staff Sergeant Instructor (SSI) Lesley Utting, Lesley is an Instructor at Suffolk Army Cadet Force. Her award is for Meritorious Service to Suffolk Army Cadet Force and to the youth of Suffolk. SSI Utting, who is also the County Sports Officer, was the Ixworth Detachment Commander from 2014 to 2019. In that role she was responsible for recruiting, teaching and developing army cadets between 12 and 18 years. She has produced 3 Lord Lieutenant’s Cadets, two of which reached the final ten out of 30,000 for the Duke of Westminster Award, one of which took part in Lord Dannett’s Round Britain Challenge. In all she has completed over 18 years voluntary service with the Army Cadet Force, enabled by much personal sacrifice, long hours and much weekend work. Her husband is also a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer. Lesley says her motivation for her long service is that she enjoys being part of the ACF and all the great opportunities it has to offer both CFAVs and Cadets alike, “I also like to see the cadets achieve, progress and grow from young teenagers in to confident young adults and to also give something back to the youth of Suffolk. I am so proud to receive this award, it is such a big honour, something I would never have dreamt of receiving. I am also immensely proud to have run a successful detachment (Ixworth) with a great team of adult instructors and such inspirational cadets who achieved so much.” Lesley is a mum and grandmother who originally got involved with Cadets after her eldest daughter joined as a cadet in 2001. “I started off joining as a CA in October 2001 after been told they were at
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A Mayor Unlike No Other Did you know that Thetford was not only home to the first Sikh in Britain, but also to the first black Mayor? Dr Allan Glaisyer Minns was born in the mid 19th century on Inagua Island in the Bahamas, the grandson of John Minns a slave owner who emigrated to New Providence Island at the turn of the 19th century. His grandmother Rosette was freed by John Minns along with their children between 1808 and 1809. The family continued to be a successful part of the Bahamas slave economy. Their son John was born after his mother’s manumission and worked as a shopkeeper. He had no links to the slave trade.John and his wife Ophelia raised nine children, three of whom ended up living in Thetford.
cases of scarlet fever. Dr Minns also donated the Mechanics Institute with a selection of medical textbooks and gave well attended lectures on medical subjects. By the end of the 19th century Minns had expanded his links across the town becoming involved with local politics, the Oddfellows, the Musical Society and Thetford Grammar School where his children would attend in later years. As Medical Officer for Thetford Workhouse he asked that rations of tobacco and alcohol were increased for inmates on health grounds, something we would not class as healthy today. As a health advocate he published ‘Fresh Air and Common Sense’ making the case for the banning of spitting in public and improved rail travel from Thetford to seaside towns including Cromer, Great Yarmouth and Hunstanton.
Dr Allan Glaisyer Minns was educated at Nassau Grammar School before following his brother, Pembroke to London to study medicine at St Guys Hospital. In 1884 he registered with the British Medical Association and the following year joined his brother at his practice in Thetford. His sister Ophelia later joined her brothers in Thetford. Allan undoubtably benefitted from the connections his brother Pembroke had made in the town. Pembroke had established himself at the heart of Thetford Society, developing his medical practice to become Medical Officer for Thetford Workhouse, doctor for the Local Court of the Oddfellows and doctor to the Post Office and cultivating connections with both the Duke of Grafton and Maharajah Duleep Singh.
He was a very active member of the Working Men’s Conservative Association which enabled him to become a councillor in 1903 and then Mayor in 1904 – 5 and 1905 – 6. By becoming a councillor, he became the first person from the Caribbean too assume a role on Thetford Town Council. Once he became Mayor he became the first black Mayor to be elected in Great Britain. Many historians believed that John Archer elected Mayor of Battersea in 1914 held this title however the American Negro Yearbook in 1914 documented Minns as the first black Mayor. Recently Wandsworth Council were planning to erect a statue to Archer claiming he was the first black mayor before The Times broke the news it was Minns and not Archer. In total Minns served 9 years as a councillor in Thetford
In 1888 Dr Minns established his own practice at Alexandra House on White Hart Street (now number 10) before moving to Bridge Street. That year he also married and became Medical Officer to Thetford Workhouse. Dr Minns was hugely successful in his work, receiving praise for his supervision of a case of typhoid and two
During Dr Minns’ time as Mayor of Thetford he addressed issues that ranged from horticulture to capital punishment and improvements in the town’s services. A new pavilion at the recreation ground was built, the fire brigade was expanded, sanitation was improved, and a surveyor’s committee established.
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Dr Minns was a popular mayor and worked hard to fulfil his ceremonial duties. It was said he did so with ‘charm and wit’ often recorded as having received loud applause and laughter. In 1905 he founded the Thetford Horticultural Society and counted Prince Frederick Duleep Singh as a member. The two men shared several passions in the town and would have been invited to the same events such as prize giving ceremonies at Thetford Grammar School and other social events. It was Dr Minns who saved the two busts of Roman emperors Otto and Tiberius from the parapet of the old theatre in White Hart Street, and subsequently donated them to Ancient House Museum when it opened in 1924.
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Dr Minns (C) with staff and inmates at Thetford Workhouse It has been noted that during Dr Minns time his racial background seems to have had no impact upon his or his family’s place in the local community. Indeed, as a family they fitted into middle-class life in Norfolk with ease at a time when in Norfolk colour alone was not indicative of character or status. However, this does not mean that negative racial attitudes did not exist as in 1906 the annual Christmas entertainment at Thetford Grammar School, where Dr Minns children were educated, included acts which can only be described as parodies of Afro Caribbean culture and a black and white minstrel troop also existed in the town. It appears that the Minns family were not seen as Black but as members of the middle-class. This could be the reason why the status of Dr Minns as Britain’s first black mayor has almost been forgotten, indeed Dr Minns himself never made mention of it. Allan Glaisyer Minns lived in Thetford until 1924 when he retired to Dorking, Surrey and dies aged 71 in 1930. He is now listed on the New College For Humanities ‘40 Black Britons You Should Know’ list. Images: Ancient House Museum of Thetford Life
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SET Ixworth Catch Up Programme SET Ixworth School has introduced increased support for its students with a new catch-up programme, particularly aimed at those who feel they missed out on schooling during lockdown; this includes 1 to 1 tutor support for English, Maths and Science, as well as online tutoring for our Year 11 students prior to them embarking on their GCSE mock exams. SET Ixworth have also been able to reinstate their enrichment programme, so that their students do not miss out on this valuable addition to their curriculum. Enrichment is running in year group bubbles to support Covid-safety. Activities have ranged from Rocket building to British Sign Language, Individual online courses, Drama, Design Technology, the Olympics and additional sporting opportunities such as Rugby. They are pleased that students have been participating in these and they intend to extend this towards the full range of activities as the academic year continues. SET Ixworth has strived to find the balance between Covid safety and providing students with a broad education and the opportunities open to them at the School.
Science catch-up programme on Jeans For Genes Day (Photo by Seckford Education Trust)
If you are interested in a place at SET Ixworth School for your child, please visit: www.ixworthschool.org.uk/ virtual-open-events On the website you will be able to view the latest videos and, for more information, arrange a call with a senior member of staff to find out more. Seckford Education Trust is part of the Seckford Foundation, which promotes and supports the education and care of the young and the elderly in and around the town of Woodbridge and the county of Suffolk.
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Thetford And District Dementia Support (TADDS) I can hardly believe that the year is almost drawing to a close; and was reflecting on what we were doing this time last year, with preparations underway for our Christmas lunch, and sorting out activities which would take us through the last couple of months. This year, we still have Christmas preparations going on behind the scenes and we are very pleased to have had the support of Mel Sturman in raising funds for us, and our Christmas Hampers; and our thanks also go to Mark Robinson for choosing us as one of his Mayoral Charities during his term in office. How different this year has been. TADDS volunteers have kept connection with many from the group, with regular phone calls, and virtual groups, but we are mindful that there are people still not on our radar, who perhaps have not had the opportunity to join our group prior to lockdown, or don’t know we are here to help and support them. This is where we need YOUR help. We are asking our local readers and followers to mention our group to members of their family, to friends or neighbours… If you know someone who is living with a dementia, or looking after someone (even more so at this time with Coronavirus), please tell them about us; if they are unable to get in contact with us, you can get in contact on their behalf (with their permission) and leave their details and we can then make contact with them. We can advise on benefits they may be entitled to, as well as give further information about different aspects of dementia. We can help to get local social service support and help support carer and cared for access the services they need. Now more than ever, do we need to be even more aware of people who are living with little input from the outside world, many groups like ours have
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had to stop and services that were available have ceased. Significant numbers of Carers and Cared for have been isolated for the last 7 months and I have seen a marked decline in the health of many of my group members and find this troubling. For people able to access the internet there is a wealth of resources available to keep loved ones active and connected. My House Of Memories - which uses an app downloadable to iPhone or Android - allows you to explore objects from the past and share memories together. Here is a link to their webpage: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/ house-of-memories/my-house-of-memoriesapp You could also visit the BBC Reminiscence Archive: https://remarc.bbcrewind.co.uk. Or the British Film Institute (BFI) Archive: https:// player.bfi.org.uk/free/collections For more information on our group email us at taddsgroup@hotmail.com, or you can access our webpage at: www.thetford-dementia-support-group.org Besides TADDS (as a local support), people can also contact Dementia UK helpline: 0800 888 6678, or the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Connect helpline: 0333 150 3456
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Project Offers New Opportunities Are you out of work or have recently been made redundant due to the Covid-19 pandemic? The relaunched Full Steam Ahead project is just the place for you. Previously the project successfully worked with over 96 people to help them to return to employment. Building on that legacy, the new Full Steam Ahead project has funding for the next 12 months. Managed by Jake Shannon, the project has a target to get a minimum of 40 people back into the workplace. Jake is also keen to work with participants who want to return to employment after a long period away. “We can help with CV writing, applications, work based training, work experience opportunities and access to suitable clothing for interviews” Jake added. Previously work experience placements were pivotal for participants and Jake is now looking to work with local businesses who are willing to offer a placement. “Work experience is important for people looking to move into a new sector, it goes hand in hand with courses and skill building. Previous participants looking to work in the hospitality sector were able to gain experience in the Engine Room alongside gaining their basic food hygiene certificates so that when jobs appeared they were strong candidates.”
Jake Shannon, the new Full Steam Ahead project Manager is looking forward to helping local people back into the workplace from November
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Jake is also looking for good quality clean workwear clothing, male and female in all sizes, especially suits, blouses, shirts and ties. Donations can be dropped off at the Charles Burrell Centre Reception. The project will work in partnership with the Department of Work and Pensions, West Suffolk College and tenants at the CBC along with other local businesses. Participants will be supported in their volunteering roles to make sure they are getting the most out of their experience. Full Steam Ahead is part funded by the European Social Fund and a grant from the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership. “I’m excited to work with the local people of Thetford to help them onto their next steps. We’ve got some great opportunities to help you get to the right place and moving on with your life, despite everything that is currently going on with the covid-19 situation.” Jake can be contacted Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm at jake@charlesburrellcentre.org.uk or by phone on 01842 779867
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Brandon Photographic Club The Club is open again, albeit in a different format due to the continuing Covid restrictions.
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In the meantime we hope this editorial finds you all well. Take care and stay safe. Don’t forget you can follow us on Facebook and keep up to date with what’s going on. Check out our website: www.brandonphotographicclub.co.uk
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Clearing ‘The Office’ Sometimes, as a Museum Manager, you get to do something that is far more exciting than you ever imagined it would be... like the job I had to do recently for instance. Ever since I have been at the Charles Burrell Museum, first as a volunteer and now as the Manager, I have heard talk about ‘the office’. Situated in Kings House, this room has been out of use for many years and has almost been forgotten – so much so that no one seemed to know exactly what was in it! Very few people have had access to ‘the office’ and it has, therefore, become almost a thing of legend. The first time I ventured into Kings House to view the contents of this room I wasn’t sure quite what to expect, but I was to be far from disappointed. I was led up the stairs to the first floor and then to a door, behind which can only be described as something out of a period drama! Narrow and winding stairs leading up to what I imagine must have been servant’s quarters at some point in the building's history. We climbed the stairs, crossed the landing and then, at last, I entered ‘the office’. My first thought.... WOW.... how was it possible for a relatively small room to hold so much? Desks, cupboards, filing cabinets, and shelves filled the room. And then I started looking and from the files, folders and boxes the history of ‘Charles Burrell and Sons’ looked back at me! Documents, books, records, photographs, artifacts it was all there and much more besides. It seemed to me that ‘the office’ was in fact a cross between Downton Abbey and Aladdin's Cave! I had already made the decision to use our period of enforced closure to revamp the Museum’s display boards and now I knew exactly where I could find the material to do so. The next thing to do of course was to get everything out of ‘the office’ and with the help of some willing volunteers, that’s what happened.
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The task of sorting through this vast array of items is now underway and already has yielded a couple of surprises which hopefully I’ll be able to include in my next article! Huge thanks must go to the Town Council who have stored these archive's safely for us for many years and allowed me to have access when I needed it. For more updates & info about the museum please visit; www.charlesburrellmuseum.org.uk Pure Flow Advert.qxp_Layout 1 04/06/2020 12:14 Pag Helen Whitton-Rogers Charles Burrell Museum Manager
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Accessible Advice Service From Citizens Advice We have made some changes to our services in the last six months. From delivering almost all our services face to face, we have moved towards almost 100% access by phone and email. Although we know that some people still need our face to face services, the majority of our clients will need to access our services remotely. We’ve taken on new volunteer advisers and we now have even more volunteers than ever! We’ve found new ways of training and supporting them working from home. Together we‘ve increased the number of clients we are helping and recruited new paid staff too. Volunteering is a great way to learn new skills and keep existing skills and knowledge up to date. We welcome applications from people who like helping others. We can offer full training. There hasn’t been a dull moment in the last few months, but we’ve been able to help people by phone or e-mail and reassure them about their problems, their work circumstances, their rights and their access to food and medicines. Judith has been volunteering with Diss Citizens Advice for 3 years and volunteers 4 days per week. “I believe that we should all spend our time
constructively, volunteering enabled me to do that. I had some spare time. I have visual loss, which has presented a few challenges but volunteering with Citizens Advice has given me a purpose, a goal, a reason to get up in the morning”. Anyone interested in joining us can contact our Learning & Development Lead, Becky Chapman on 07487 225709 or 01379 644912, or email: becky.chapman@cadat.org.uk For our clients, our Adviceline number has changed to a Freephone number, so you now won’t need to pay if you call us for advice. The new number is 0800 144 8848.
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Past & Present
The postcard above shows Castle Street around 1905. The main change is the mini-roundabout built to accommodate the junction with Rampart Way. This means the loss of the cycle shop at the left foreground. There is also new build to the right. Now, of course there are lots of cars and modern street lamps. Postcard: David Osborne Collection/Ancient House Museum Photo: Keith Robinson Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 41
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Speaking about the event Jagdev said, “Due to the covid situation we’re not able to mark the anniversary in the magnitude that we would, I feel honoured to represent the Anglo Punjab Heritage Foundation who work rigorously to maintain the unique history of East Anglia and the Punjab.” The Mayor said he was honoured to take part and “It is right and proper that we celebrate the life of the Maharajah and his family who have made a significant contribution not just to Thetford but also the surrounding area and whose impact can still be seen today.” Photo above by Neil Garrod. Speaking about the event Leaping Hare’s Corinne Fulford said, “We were very proud to have assisted Peter Bance and the Anglo Punjab Heritage Foundation in marking the anniversary of the death of the Maharajah. This has been marked at Elveden churchyard for many years and is a significant date in the local and Sikh calendar. We are also grateful to Mr and Mrs Flack from St Andrew and St Patrick Church for their warm welcome and help.” The film from the event and highlighting the links between Elveden church and the Duleep Singh Family is via: www.youtube.comLeapingHare
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First Class Fitting Service Anglia Kitchen Fitting Services Ltd are a locally based company who specialise in fitting kitchens. Alan and David have worked together for the past 3 years and have installed kitchens from national High Street companies to high end independent retailers. With an incredible 69 years of experience between them, Alan and David have worked on every kitchen trend since the mid 1980s when our home interiors began to become a national pastime. Anglia Kitchen Fitting Services can build your kitchen from scratch or adapt kitchen cupboards to fit making the most of those awkward spaces. “We offer a complete service, we do all the associated building works and offer a personal service. Our aim is to exceed your expectations, we can help you save some money on your kitchen whilst providing a bespoke service at the same time.” Both Alan and David are DRB checked, fully insured and pride themselves on being trustworthy and honest. “We’re not here to undercut everyone and we’re not the cheapest but we provide a quality job and proper service. We’re happy to provide testimonials. We’ve developed great relationships with our customers because we go out of our way to make sure we achieve what they want. We get a buzz out of seeing kitchens beautifully fitted and looking perfect for our customers.”
With decades of experience, David (l) and Alan will make having a new kitchen fitted easy
solving and providing a high quality finish that gives him so much job satisfaction. With such wide experience working with different manufacturers, they’re able to tackle any problems easily. Covering an area including Thetford, Brandon, Lakenheath, Newmarket, Bury St Edmunds and surrounding villages you can be sure of a great job from Anglia Kitchen Fitting Services Ltd. To get a no obligation quote please visit: www.angliankitchenfittingservices.co.uk
Virtual Santa Dash
This year we are unable to do our group Santa Dash due to Covid19. As part of our Christmas Hamper appeal we are encouraging you to complete a Santa run or walk, your choice of distance between the 13th and 20th December. Upload your photo and evidence to our social media pages or email in return for a medal. No age limit and suitable for all abilities.
People are often surprised to find that it is more cost effective to book independent kitchens fitters than to book through the retailer. Alan and David have their own team of selected tradesmen that they work with, ensuring everything flows smoothly during each fitting. David said for him it’s always nice when you finish a job and see the smile on the customer’s face and how excited they are about their kitchen. Alan has always enjoyed AKFS Advert.qxp_Layout 14/10/2020 17:03 Page 1 making things so for him it’s1the creativity, problem
Visit the website for more information: www.marafunevents.co.uk
Anglian Kitchen Fitting Services We are a Thetford based company that installs every style of kitchen, our friendly knowledgeable team are there to guide you through the process from start to finish.
Services we offer: l Complete refit or renovations l Bespoke joinery l Certificated gas & electrical works l Plumbing
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01842 380123 AFKServices.ltd@gmail.com angliankitchenfittingservices.co.uk Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 44
Feltwell Golf Course Driving Range: We are pleased with the progress we are making on improving our Driving Range and will continue to update you all on this through these editorials and on Facebook/Twitter as it grows. You don’t have to be a member of the club to use the Driving Range, simply roll up and buy yourself some tokens or you can take out a Driving Range Membership for as little as £50 a year and get discounted rates. Buy your tokens from the Pro Shop or office for £3 (28 balls) or £5 (56 balls) or if you are a member of the Club or the Driving Range for as little as £2 and £4 respectively.
Banner as well as continuing to run the Junior groups on Saturday afternoons. Friday morning sessions are followed up with coffee, biscuits and a natter in the clubhouse (social distancing being observed at all times). For more information about lessons call Jo on 07855 821116. Robert’s at Feltwell Golf Club: The Clubhouse is now open, albeit with some changes, in line with the latest Covid 19 guidelines. You will need to pre-book your table by phoning Robert on 07376 182419 and numbers are restricted to allow the required distance between tables. There will be table service only for both drinks and food. Robert will still be continuing to run his Home Delivery Service as we do know this is a life line for some locals who still can’t get out during this time. Check on Robert’s Facebook Page for the ‘Menu of the Day’ - to order your meal phone 07376 182419.
Juniors and Ladies: Golf can be for the whole Hopefully this finds you all safe and well and we family, why not join our community and see what we have to offer, we are Safe Golf accredited, look forward to seeing as many of you as possible up at Feltwell Golf Club now we are able to play offering a safe environment for the whole family. golf again. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook We have opportunities for all ages and abilities to be sure to keep up to date with what’s going on learn the game of golf at Feltwell. Jo Bates, our at Feltwell Golf Club. Visit the website for more Pro, has started a ladies beginners and improvers Simon Long HP Advert 2018.qxp_Layout 1 13/09/2018 10:01 Page 1 group on Friday morning under the Get into Golf information about what’s on: www.feltwellgolfclub.co.uk
‘‘Let us take the worry out of your move’’ Free estimates and advice Local and long distance removals Export packing and shipping Domestic and commercial Furniture deliveries nationwide Est 1993, family owned and run Competitive rates Long or short term storage Packing materials supplied
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email: movers@simonlongremovals.co.uk • www.simonlongremovals.co.uk Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 45
Keeping A Warm Temperature After Training Have you done it yet? Made the executive decision to flick the switch and start warming your home? It is getting much cooler out there now isn’t it and I for one am reaching for my tracksuit bottoms rather than my shorts when I’m heading to work! Luckily, I have that choice, I love nothing more than to feel comfortable, that includes being warm, especially in clothes that I will be in all day. Being warm is something we can often forget about when we train. Not only when we arrive to our fitness facility are we going to be colder but it will take us longer to warm up and maintain that
heat, that’s why it’s so much more important to get an adequate warm up and mobility flow before training. A simple way to measure this is when warming up, think about how your body is feeling and take note of whether you need to remove the hoody or coat you’re wearing. . Cooling down and stretching is so important after training, it’s great to see a difference in how much better your body is, whether you feel pumped, looser or more mobile. The warm up and cool down to your session is basically your body calibrating and recalibrating, it’s spending some time getting to know you! Don’t just run through your cool down and walk out of the session with no protective clothing on, your body will cool down faster because of the temperature outside and as we’ve just weakened the body, it’ll be a little more prone to catching infections, especially as the infections like the cooler temperature – Covid19 loves 4 degrees. Wrap up warm as we head into the colder months, stay safe, keep applying the basics and keep virus and infection free! Richard Taylor richard@tigerfitnessclub.co.uk
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For immediate and personal 24 hour service call 01842 761333 DAY OR NIGHT 15/15A Old Market Street • Thetford • IP24 2EQ
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01842 755422
2 Bridge Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 3BL E. sales@lawsonsestateagents.co.uk
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