Just Aylsham by JustRegional

Aylsham

October 14, 2023

END OF AN ERA

Jeremy bows out of his cricketing career after 35 years

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from the editor This stunning photograph of a swift taking food to its nest in an Aylsham roof was taken by local wildlife photographer David Grix. The Aylsham Swift Group has been watching the activities of these beautiful birds in the town and this edition carries a feature about their observations on page 6. Here you’ll also be able to see another wonderful photo captured by David.

Alasdair McGregor Editor news@justregional.co.uk

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There’s a deﬁnite sporting theme to this edition of Just Aylsham and our front page image shows Aylsham St Giles cricketing legend Jeremy Cocks in action during his ﬁnal game. Jeremy has served the club, on and off the pitch, with great distinction for 35 years and you can read the wonderful story of his career on page 13. I’m sure everyone will join me in wishing Jeremy good luck in his retirement. Meanwhile, talented young athlete Conrad Winter has won the national schools decathlon championship after an amazing comeback during the 10-discipline event. The full story of Conrad’s amazing win is on page 4.

Alasd��

I hope you enjoy this edition and we’ll see you next time.

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It’s a national title for comeback king Conrad Former Aylsham High School student Conrad Winter has been crowned national schools decathlon champion after launching a dramatic comeback to snatch the title by a narrow margin. Representing Easton College and Norfolk Schools in the ESAA senior boys event at Bedford, Conrad, 18, had a 178-point lead after day one of the 10 events and had set a new personal best in the long jump. However, a disastrous 110m hurdles race early on day two saw him plummet down the rankings and he feared he had blown his chances. Conrad, whose best time of 15.5sec in the event would have been worth 790 points, knocked the 10th hurdle over and could only clock 21.05 sec for 271 points. His overnight lead evaporated as he dropped to sixth place - 303 points behind the new leader. Despite this he was determined to dig deep to turn his fortunes around. “Even after the hurdles, I truly believed I could still win!” said Conrad. In the discus, Conrad had the longest throw of the competition, a safe opening throw of 38.15m. He remained in sixth place but had closed the gap to 87 points at the top. In the pole vault, Conrad cleared a new personal best of 3.90m on his third attempt and almost cleared four metres only to come down on to the bar. The event was won with 4.40m. As a result, he moved up to third place - 169 points behind the new leader. In the javelin, the new leader threw 46.87m – his personal best - on his last throw. Conrad had thrown 50.82m on his first throw, his second-longest throw ever, but based on that performance it would be too great a gap to close with just the 1,500m to follow. In the wet conditions he recorded an

WINNER: Conrad Winter is shown receiving his gold medal as well as taking part in the long jump and pole vault. amazing last personal best throw of 53.38m to move into to second place, 72 points behind the new leader. This meant Conrad had to run the 1,500m 12 seconds quicker than the new leader and after covering the first 400m in just 71 seconds, he finished in 4:42.55sec for a new personal best - 12.75sec ahead of his closest rival. The amazing comeback saw Conrad become the 2023 English Schools Champion by just five points, with a total of 6,323. In a super September, Conrad also won the East of England, Pentathlon Championships in Peterborough. Competing in the long jump, 200m, javelin, discus and 1,500m, He won all five events, with a new championship record score of 3,347 points - breaking the previous record set in 2004 by 403 points.

Enjoy a party filled with fun and lights Stunning light displays, a lantern parade and lots of fun and games will take place at Aylsham Parish Church. The church’s Light Party will take from 5-7pm on Tuesday, October 31 and there will also be refreshments. Rev Canon Julie Boyd said: “There will be lots of craft activities and games for all the family, hot food and treats. Absolutely no tricks involved! Come and join in the fun and be a part of the

lantern parade around the church.” There is a small charge of £2 per child to cover our costs for this event. Visitors should bring some extra change if they want to purchase a reusable light wand or they can bring their own. ATMOSPHERIC: The scene at a previous Aylsham Parish Church Light Party.

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Help us to make space for swifts across our town Members of the Aylsham Swift Group have been out and about watching the activities of these beautiful birds, writes TRACY BRIGHTEN Watching swifts dart under pantiles and eaves is a privilege, witnessing the instant these agile birds enter the small, dark urban spaces where they raise their families. In five to eight weeks, depending on food provided by parents, chicks develop from bald hatchlings into magnificent fledglings ready for their first flight to Africa. The last of our visiting swifts slipped away in mid-August, its flight noticeably different. Rather than the alternating wing beats and gliding seen all summer as they hunt for airborne insects and spiders, this lone swift flew over Aylsham Social Club at dusk and headed south-east to join four other swifts. Through binoculars, I saw the silhouettes disappear and wondered if their nesting places will still be here next spring. This summer, with nest protection in mind, Aylsham Swift Group and local supporters monitored ‘screaming parties’ and individual swifts to collect data on nest sites. From our observations, swifts nest under pantiles and eaves in several streets, including but not limited to Hungate Street, Penfold Street, Cawston Road, Pound Lane, Red Lion Street, White Hart Street, Town Lane, Sir Williams Lane and Millgate. But as roofs are repaired, bird/eaves combs installed or fascias and soffits replaced, property owners may unknowingly close off traditional nest sites used for generations. Swifts need your help If you are carrying out renovations or repairs to roofs or eaves on older properties, please contact Aylsham Swift Group to find out how you can preserve existing nest sites – a few feathers may be the only clue. While scaffolding is up, you might also consider installing external swift nest boxes or internal swift bricks to provide alternative nest sites. These could be a crucial lifeline for birds displaced from their usual nest sites and could also help colonies to expand by providing nests for first-time breeders. We can advise on nest boxes and swift bricks, both supply and installation, and how to adapt soffits to make space for

FLYING HIGH: These photos shows swifts bringing food to a nest under pantiles, carrying a feather for its nest and with a bolus of insects in its throat. Picture: DAVID GRIX swifts without allowing access to your loft. Swift bricks are ideal, requiring no maintenance and providing better protection from extreme weather, but all spaces for swifts are welcome. Swifts are unobtrusive and will not affect your property. In fact, swifts are wonderful guests! Jo Wright was surprised and delighted to learn that she shares her Hungate Street cottage with swifts in summer. “I put up a swift box on the gable end of the house a few years ago, which has never been used. I found out this year that they were nesting under the pantiles where the roof is above the road. I had just never looked for them on that side of the house!” Likewise, swifts returning in late spring is an annual highlight for Kate Mackenzie in Cawston Road. Kate used to love watching swifts nesting under her roof. “I waited for them every May. I thought about them as my lodgers and felt privileged to have them. In my front bedroom, you could sit

and watch them as they flew up and under the pantiles.” When Kate needed roofing work, she was concerned the roofers would block the gaps. “I asked them to leave gaps but got a rather patronising response.” Before work began, Kate put up two external swift boxes, but it can take time for swifts to recognise alternative nest spaces. Her experience shows why it matters to find roofers who are informed about wildlife. Living in Aylsham for 20 years, Kate has noticed the decline in swift numbers and is keen to see more people make space for swifts. “They are a threatened and unique bird, a very old species that spends their entire lives on the wing, only landing to lay eggs under our roofs and pantiles. How can we deny them a space to live?” Kate also sees the plight of swifts as an indicator of the wider decline in wildlife and the impact on us. “Without wildlife, we are lessened and we are poorer.”

SWIFT ACTION Since 1995, we have lost over half of the UK's swift population. With your help, Aylsham Swift Group aims to increase local populations and improve the long-term survival of swifts in the UK. For advice, contact aylshamswifts@gmail.com or follow ASG on Facebook at Aylsham Swift Group or X (Twitter) @AylshamSwifts. Thank you to local wildlife photographer David Grix for the super photographs of swifts in Aylsham.

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Friendships forged across the generations Residents of St Michael’s Court Care Home have been enjoying the company of some young visitors thanks to a Norfolkbased charity that promotes friendship across generations. Friend in Deed has been working with the Aylsham home since the start of August and the Little Visitor sessions have been taking place each week on Wednesday mornings. Little Visitor sessions are aimed at babies and children who are brought by their parents, grandparents, carers or childminders to play and interact with the residents. Project worker Jo Herrieven said: “The sessions are mutually beneficial; intergenerational friendships are known to boost well-being, mood and communication in older people, as well as support physical and social development in early years. “In our first sessions, we explored the beautiful garden at St Michael’s Court, sitting together in the lounge playing with toys, having cuddles, singing songs and going into residents’ rooms to say hello.” All the sessions are suitable for babies and children of all ages and continue through the school holidays and Friend in Deed is always looking for more Little Visitors to attend. All children under 18 must be

accompanied by an adult. The charity also works with schools and local groups to engage children of all ages in the projects they run. For more about the charity see their website at http://www. friendindeed. org.uk or find them on Facebook at- www. facebook.com/ friendindeed norwich

SPECIAL FRIENDS: Residents of St Michael’s enjoy spending time with young their young visitors.

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Aylsham

from the parish church Rev Canon JULIE BOYD brings you the latest news from the Aylsham & District Team Ministry

Changes to the Aylsham Team of Churches

Aylsham Parish Church is one in a team of 17 churches covering a large area from Sustead to Cawston, to Buxton and Badersfield and including many others. This year, our team is going through a number of changes which means that the number of full-time clergy in the team is reducing from three-and-a-half vicars to two vicars, Rev Andrew Whitehead and myself. We are also blessed to have a full-time curate in Rev Natalie Rees as well as licenced lay ministers, a wonderful church membership who support in so many ways and a number of retired vicars who help with our services. The reduction in clergy is significant, however, and will mean changes to the ways in which we organise ourselves and particularly the church services that we offer on Sundays across the team. In order to make this possible, the most significant change that will take place in Aylsham is moving the main Sunday morning service from 10.15am to 11am from November, which we hope people will be able to adapt to without too much trouble. There have also been some retirements announced in our team recently. The Rev Shawn Tomlinson, who is the vicar for Badersfield, will be retiring in February 2024 and the Rev Tony Lynn, who has been looking after Sustead, Aldborough, Little Barningham, Itteringham and Wickmere, retired on October 8. There was a farewell service for Tony and thanks were expressed for the wonderful ways in which he has ministered with such care and good humour over these past three years. We wish Tony FOND every blessing and FAREWELL: Rev much happiness in his Tony Lynn has retirement. retired.

COMING SOON

Sunday, October 29 (4pm) – All Souls Service in Church Tuesday, October 31 (5-7pm) – Light Party

ALL SOULS SERVICE

On Sunday, October 29, at 4pm, we will be welcoming people to Church for a service of Memorial and Thanksgiving. It is an opportunity to remember and give thanks for loved ones, acknowledging God’s unfailing love for each one of us. During these services the names will be read out, including those whose funerals were held in all of our churches in the team or by one of the clergy team at our local crematoria. There will be hymns, readings and prayers as well as the opportunity to light a candle in memory of a loved one and as a sign of God’s light. If you would like to come to this service, then please know that you would be made very welcome. If you would like to talk to someone about it, please contact Rev Julie on (01263) 731102 or Rev Natalie on 07530 099549.

WHAT’S ON

The church is open every day of the week for individual prayer from 9am to 5pm. Monday to Friday – 8am to 8:30am – Morning Prayer.

REGULAR EVENTS

Mondays 9am-noon – The Monday Sale is weekly. Come along, ﬁnd a bargain and enjoy a cup of coffee with friends. The last sale for this year will be held on October 30, returning on March 11, 2024. 9.30am-11.30am – Foodbank (including bank holidays). Second and fourth Mondays in the month, 2pm-4pm – Knit and Natter group in the Molly Long Room in the church. Tuesdays (during term time) 7pm-8pm – Find your Voice with Aylsham Parish Church Choir – free Thursdays (during term time) 9am-11am – First Steps Baby and Toddler Café, free. 3.15pm-4.15pm – Make and Take After School Club, free. Fridays 10am-11.30am – New Brew Café. 9.30am-10.15am – Chair Pilates with Jo Norton in the church.

SUNDAY SERVICES CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH

We are delighted to announce that we will be hosting a Christmas Day Lunch again this year, on the day itself, in the Town Hall. We welcome guests at 12 noon and the celebrations draw to a close at 4pm after the King’s Speech. The meal is offered free to all those who would otherwise be alone on the day and is a great opportunity to celebrate Christmas in the company of others. If you or someone you know would like to join us, then please do get in touch. See details on the poster above. If you need support with transport, we can help with that too. Sunday, November 5 – Shoebox Sunday when we receive the shoeboxes at the main service in church. Sunday, November 12 (2.30pm) – Remembrance Sunday Civic Service

8am - Holy Communion 10.15am – Holy Communion on ﬁrst, second, third and ﬁfth Sunday of every month. The main service is also livestreamed on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ Aylshamparishchurch From November, the main service will change to 11am. Fourth Sunday of the Month 10am – Breakfast Church @Ten 4pm – Choral Evensong

MIDWEEK SERVICES

10.30am - Holy Communion every Wednesday.

FROM THE REGISTERS Funeral October 13 – Hilary Tipple

WHO TO CONTACT

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE Please feel free to get in touch to talk about Christenings, weddings, funerals or any spiritual or church-related matter. www.aylshamparishchurch.org.uk Contact the church on 01263 704457 or email aylshamparishchurch@gmail.com www.aylshamparishchurch.org.uk #aylshamparishchurch Also find us on @AylshamChurch Aylsham Parish Church Aylsham

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Farewell to a man for all seasons Aylsham St Giles Cricket Club legend Jeremy Cocks has reluctantly bowed out after a marathon innings spanning 35 years and 931 matches. “At the start of the season I hoped I might play on for a year or two. But the knee pain, especially when bowling, was clearly a lot worse, so I had no option,” he said. The dedicated one-club man was given an emotional send-off in a Sunday game at home to Hardingham. “I just wanted to have a last match but our captain Sean Cannon told me I was opening the batting, then arranged a guard of honour from the players, which was a fantastic touch. After the match there was a presentation, and we had a club barbecue, so the whole day felt really special.” Jeremy’s decision to retire at the age of 60 marks the end of an era of exemplary service on and off the pitch. “I’ve been secretary for 32 years. Previously I was Saturday captain for six seasons, and Sunday captain for about 14 seasons. So that’s been a pretty full-on commitment. I’m just enjoying a break from being secretary, as with a growing club it seemed like a full-time job.” In the 931 matches played for the club’s Saturday, Sunday and midweek teams, Jeremy, best known as a medium-pace bowler until a shoulder injury saw him switch to spin around 2015, took 1,172 wickets. He also scored 11,423 runs – but a magical century eluded him. In his final game he took three wickets and scored 21 runs. “Achieving 10,000 runs and 1,000 wickets for a single club was a good landmark,” he reflected. “My biggest regret is never scoring a hundred. The nearest I got was scoring 98. That was in the days before electric scoreboards, so unless you got a tip-off from a team-mate, you didn’t know what score you were on. So I took a big heave at a ball, got bowled middle stump, then when I got back to the pavilion I was asked why I played that shot. “But I was always more of a bowler than a batsman, and taking my career-best eight for 33 and taking 96 wickets in 1991 were pretty special. That was when bowlers could bowl an unlimited number of overs in league matches, hence the state of my knees now! I particularly remember bowling

Aylsham

EMOTIONAL SEND-OFF: Jeremy Cocks is given a guard of honour at his last game and a team photo shows Jeremy third from the left in the front row.

38 overs in a weekend, which to a guy in his twenties was no problem.” Other highlights include the 1991 double title winning season. “We won our division in the Norfolk League on the last ball of the last match, with Frettenham failing to score the six they needed. Then, after a heavy night of celebration, we came back the next day to win our Sunday league division as well. This was despite our wicket-keeper Deryk Smith being knocked unconscious from a blow from the ball and taking no further part. “Winning the 2019 Norfolk League Division One title was also special for me, having played in every division in the league.” In 2022 the club won the Norfolk Junior Cup - first presented in the 19th century. The only previous time it had been won by an Aylsham-based side was when Aylsham Town won it in 1921 – over a century earlier. Although Jeremy bows out with the club at an all-time high, he has witnessed his share of lows. “As a club we’ve probably been promoted to, and relegated from, just about every division in the Norfolk League. There were probably several years where we came close to folding, due to lack of players. “The club we have now bears no relation to the club I joined originally. Back then we had a men’s Saturday side and Sunday side, maybe 25 players in total, and hardly any facilities other than use of the Recreation Ground.” The club was originally St Giles CC, playing in Norwich until the early 1980s. When Aylsham Town CC folded, St Giles moved to Aylsham, renaming themselves Aylsham St Giles. But for years afterwards the nucleus of the side continued to be drawn from solicitors and accountants based in Norwich. Now the club is a proper Aylsham community club offering cricket for all ages, starting with junior coaching from age five upwards, via the ECB Allstars and Dynamos schemes. “The junior coaching was started by Nash

Panday a few years ago, and has been taken on by Mike Graver – these guys are gold dust for any club, with their fantastic commitment,” said Jeremy. There are teams at under 9, 11 and 13 level and one of the first five-year-olds to join is now playing for Norfolk Under 11s. In 2021 a women’s side was set up, playing in the Norfolk softball league. “When they played their first match, none of the women had played any form of organised cricket before, but they absolutely love it. We now have around 150 members, including around 80 juniors and 30 women and girls, with the majority living in and around Aylsham.” In 2022 the first team was admitted to the Norfolk Alliance for the first time – meeting the strict requirements for facilities and junior teams at the club. Until 2018 the club had one men’s team playing Saturday league cricket but this year a third team was fielded for the first time. “We’ve had some pretty good players over the years, but I would say the current first team is the best quality side we have ever had. To name the best six players I’ve played with over those 35 years: Anthony Raywood, Simon Pegg, Gerard Cooper, Robert Bingham, Andrew Prescott and Jakir Hussain.” The club facilities at the Recreation Ground include a two-lane cricket net, electric scoreboard, covers, sightscreens, and grounds maintenance equipment. “In all we’ve had to raise nearly £80,000 over the last decade to buy it all. That includes a lot of grant applications, plus we held three fund-raising dinners pre-covid, with guest speakers such as Mark Ramprakash.” Although Jeremy’s name will be missing from the Aylsham team-sheets next summer, he won’t be leaving the sporting life behind completely. “I need to play more golf – my wife has been concentrating on this whilst I’ve been on the cricket pitch, so I need to catch her up! I might just pop along to Aylsham Recreation Ground occasionally as well, to see how the club is progressing in the Norfolk Alliance.”

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Destinee delivers charity boost at a special sale WELL DONE: Destinee Gluckstein, 10, at her charity sale and with a poster showing how much she raised. Also pictured is Bryan Gray with his grandson Levi.

What’s on... Sat, 14 Oct - 7:30pm AN EVENING WITH ALAN GRAY & ANNA PERROT£18 Alan Gray is a regular contributor to BBC Radio Norfolk’s ‘Garden Party’ helping listeners with their horticultural queries large or small. Together with friend, BBC Presenter and colleague, Anna Perrott, Alan will spend an evening chatting ‘off air’, sharing tips, tricks, knowledge and having fun. Come and support this interesting Fund Raising event.

Wed, 18 Oct - Sat, 21 Oct - 7:30pm BLITHE SPIRIT - £14 Kind-hearted Aylsham schoolgirl Destinee Gluckstein has raised £364 for the East Anglian Air Ambulance after organising a charity sale in her grandfather’s memory. The 10-year-old Bure Valley School pupil hosted the event at the former Hevingham home of Bryan Gray, who died last November after suffering a stroke. Bryan, who was a well-known window cleaner in Aylsham for many years, was an ardent supporter of the air ambulance. Destinee’s aunt Dani Gray said: “On the day of the sale she said ‘Today is going to be hard and emotional because I miss my grandad and want to make him proud’. But at the end of the day she came to realise not only had she made her

grandad proud but the whole family too.” Destinee, from Felmingham, had set a target of £100. However, with support from her cousin Levi Gray, who left Aylsham High School this year, she sold extra raffle tickets in the village to boost the overall total to £364.89. The garden event included a tombola, raffle, lucky dip bags and cake sale. “She was totally over the moon with that result. She had a picture of her grandad on the table with her all day to keep her spirits high,” added Dani.

THANK YOU FOR DONATIONS IN MEMORY OF RUSSELL The family of the late Russell Craske would like to thank all those who kindly gave

a donation to Aylsham and District Care Trust (ACT) in his memory.

They also thanked everyone who supported Russell during his time living alone.

Night of sparkling fun at fireworks display Tickets will be on sale soon for this year’s Aylsham Fireworks evening. The event will take place next to Woodgate Nursery on the evening of Friday, November 3. The event is being organised by Aylsham Scouts in partnership with Aylsham Community Fireworks. Gates will open at 5.30pm and close at 10pm. There will be a

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barbecue and refreshments along with lots of sparkling fireworks. Cash and cards will be accepted on the night. Family tickets will be available before the event at £15 (£20 on the night). Adult tickets will cost £5 (£6 on the night) and a child’s ticket will be priced at £4 (£5 on the night). A spokesperson for the organisers said tickets

would go on sale soon and be available from Coxfords Butchers and JB Postle in Aylsham Market Place. They will also be available over the phone by calling Aylsham Town Council on 01263 733354. More information will be available soon on the Aylsham Community Fireworks Facebook page.

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Fri, 27 Oct - Sat, 28 Oct 7:30pm A NIGHT AT THE MUSICGHOULS - £10 Take your seats for a spooky musical theatre concert this Halloween - Our fantastic Youth Theatre will be performing songs from all musicals that go bump in the night. Featuring songs from Little Shop of Horrors, The Addams Family, Sweeney Todd, Nightmare Before Christmas, Heathers, and more.

Wed, 1 Nov - 7:30pm THE 1953 FLOODS IN NORFOLK - £9 This year is the 70th Anniversary of the 1953 Floods. Join historian and author Neil Storey for an evening of evocative photographs and moving stories of the people and places that experienced the worst natural disaster to affect our coastline in living memory.

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Care trust to hold open morning The Aylsham Care Trust will showcase its local day services at an open morning next month. The event will take place at ACT’s base, in St Michael’s Avenue, on Wednesday, November 15 (10am-noon). Lynsey Constable, care manager at ACT, said: “Our day service is open to the elderly and those who may have a disability or dementia. “We want Aylsham and the surrounding area to know more about what we do and what we offer. Our activities cover many interests including music, card games, art, dominoes, and many others which ensure our members are both well looked after and enjoy stimulating activities.” The day will give visitors the chance to meet the team and enjoy tea, coffee and biscuits.

JOINING IN: Music is one of the activities on offer. There will also be a music session with Oscar. Philip Macdonald, CEO of ACT, added: “Our open day will showcase the service which provides both respite to carers and stimulating activities to our members. The team likes to include everyone in activities and those who attend can

join in or do their own thing depending on their needs. We hope to welcome those in the community who need us the most.” t People can just turn up on the day but, for more information, call Lynsey on 01263 733385 or email her at Lynsey@aylshamcaretrust.com

LETTER

Charity collection theft I have recently had a stall outside my house in Aylsham to raise money for the PSP (Progressive Supra Nuclear Palsy) Association. I was saddened that, on the first day, the takings were stolen and replaced by pebbles from my driveway. The following day, three items were stolen. If the person concerned had come to my door and said they couldn’t afford the £3, I would gladly have given the items to them for free. Coincidentally, my neighbour was raising money for the charity the previous week and had all his takings stolen. What is Aylsham coming to when we can’t trust people not to steal from a charity? Name and address supplied

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from the Town Council Aylsham Town Council’s regular newsletter about what’s going on in the town.

Getting ready to celebrate Christmas The nights are starting to draw in so we’re beginning to think about Christmas. The Christmas Lights Switch-On will take place on Friday November 24 at 6pm. There will be the usual variety of stalls, entertainment and food offerings. We hope to see you there. As part of the decorations this year we will be creating an area that will provide a backdrop for photographs outside the Town Hall. Although on the night this will be a busy area, it will be available throughout the lighting period so come along at

another time and take some family photos. We would love to see these so please send any to aylshamtc20@gmail.com We will look at these and place the best ones on the website. We will be running the letter to Santa again this year using the customised post box at the Town Hall ofﬁce door. This year Santa will be in the Town Hall in the Green Room (accessed via The Loke). Details of this will be coming out soon. The Aylsham Christmas Lights Committee is looking for volunteers to help put up this year’s lights. Please meet outside the Town Hall from 8am on Sunday, November 5.

Aylsham Cemetery and Churchyard The Town Council has a duty to ensure the safety of anyone visiting the churchyard or cemetery and part of that responsibility is to check the safety of gravestones. We will be ‘topple-testing’ the headstones in the week beginning October 16 – exact dates still to be agreed. The testing will be by hand pressure only; no machines will be used. Any headstones found loose will be banded and notices placed and we will also contact the grave owner. Any found in an extremely dangerous state will need to be laid ﬂat and again the owner contacted. If you own a headstone in the cemetery and wish to be present, please email townclerk@aylsham-tc.gov.uk with details of the plot number and contact details so we can advise you when you will need to be there to witness the test.

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FESTIVE: Scenes from last year’s Christmas lights switch-on event. Pictures: IAN GRAVENELL

CAROLE MATTHEWS Members of the Town Council were saddened at the news of Carole’s recent death. Apart from being one of the nicest people you could hope to meet, she was also a fount of knowledge for the archives, especially in identifying people. She will be missed and our sympathies go out to John and the rest of her family.

We have ﬁnally refurbished the red telephone box which is outside the Town Hall. Installed in there is a charging unit for mobile phones. So, if you ﬁnd yourself in town with a dying battery, you can use one of the lockers to recharge your phone. Parents – your teenagers now have no excuse for not answering you!

RECREATION GROUND The Recreation Ground is looking for a new member of staff to act as a warden. If you are interested in this post, look on the Town Council website (www.aylsham-tc.gov.uk) or ring the ofﬁce on 01263 733354.

CONTACTING THE TOWN COUNCIL Opening hours: Monday-Thursday 9.30am-3pm, Friday 9.30am-12.30pm (closed bank hols). Write to: Council ofﬁce, Aylsham Town Hall, Market Place, Aylsham, Norwich NR11 6EL. Telephone: 01263 733354. (answerphone outside normal opening hours). Email: Addresses vary depending on the nature of your enquiry, as follows: Sue Lake: Town Clerk, interments/memorials, and Recreation Ground. Email: townclerk@aylsham-tc.gov.uk Wendy Murphy: Finance and allotments. Email: ﬁnance@aylsham-tc.gov.uk Donna Butcher: Venue bookings, events, and general enquiries. Email: info@aylsham-tc.gov.uk Archive enquiries: Archivists are on duty in the council chamber on Wednesday mornings. For further information and to arrange a visit, please email info@aylsham-tc.gov.uk

For more information go to www.aylsham-tc.gov.uk 18

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Centre to host Roman Project exhibition The Heritage Centre is very pleased to welcome Aylsham Roman Project for the next couple of months before we close for the winter on November 24. We are always fascinated to hear the stories and updates from their annual excavations and endeavours and we are pleased to be able to offer the opportunity for locals and visitors to catch up with the story so far. You can learn more about Aylsham during the Roman occupation and see finds from the group’s regular digs at Woodgate. There will also be photographs and visitors will be able to play a game or two the Romans used to enjoy. Entry, as always, is free. t We are looking ahead to our new exhibition for 2024 which will be all about Red Lion Street. We collected lots of memories and information from people at the history day last month, but we are always happy to hear more - particularly about Red Lion Street!

DIGGING DEEP: Volunteers from the Aylsham Roman Project at one of their digs and one of their finds (above). Maybe you have a few photos in an album or the back of cupboard of the shops on the street. Maybe the shops are just hiding in the background, or maybe they are front and centre - we don’t mind! Pop in to see us or email us on aylshamheritage@gmail.com

t Our last events of the year are needle felting workshops – making a penguin (October 20) and making a Santa decoration (November 17). All workshops are suitable for all abilities and places can be booked via aylshahamheritage.com

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A big thumbs up for town’s second Green Day event The Aylsham Climate Emergency group has staged its second Green Day event, writes volunteer LILIE FERRARI Aylsham’s second annual Green Day proved yet again that residents have a hunger to find out more about climate change, and what we can all do to protect our warming planet. Organised by ACE (Aylsham Climate Emergency) and the Town Council’s Events, there were stalls and activities both inside and outside the Town Hall to suit every age and interest. The musical backdrop to the September 24 event was provided by local trio Threescore and Aylsham’s own Paul Towson, singing both traditional and contemporary folk songs and popular ballads. ACE’s five groups provided activities, games, and information. The Waste Group were busy offering ideas about how to dispose of household items, while the Energy Group once again attracted

CREATIVE: Lily Wood enjoys an activity at the Green Day.

GAME TIME: Visitors take part in an activity.

THUMBS UP: A girl gives her approval to Aylsham’s Green Day. interest demonstrating where we lose heat in our own bodies with ACE’s thermal imaging camera. They gave residents the opportunity to have their own houses surveyed with the camera to indicate where heat loss is occurring, thus allowing householders to insulate accordingly as winter approaches. The Transport Group was on hand to talk to visitors about the Town Council’s upcoming Traffic Plan for Aylsham and its implications, and a foraging walk was organised by the Food Group for people interested in finding their own food in woods and hedgerows. Alongside food stalls, there were ideas on how to ENTERTAINERS: Threescore perform at the Green Day.

regenerate clothes, artwork by local artist Jessica Perry, candles made from soya, a creative game for children using natural items from beach and woodland, and lots more. ACE’s Treasure Tree for children proved popular, offering prizes kindly donated by the Co-op. Anyone disappointed not to win the Treasure Tree’s main prize of a bee house could learn from ACE’s Nature Group about how to make their own bug house from natural materials. Cheryl Bould, Chair of ACE’s Communications Group, said ACE’s second Green Day event was “a truly wonderful day when the Aylsham community came together to celebrate our beautiful planet and think about what we can all do to reduce our carbon footprint and combat the effects of climate change.”

CLIMATE Q&A Jerome Mayhew, MP for Broadland, will be in Aylsham Town Hall on Friday, October 13 from 7pm to answer your questions on climate change. This is a public meeting and all are welcome. Please write your question down, add your name and hand it in when you arrive.

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LIKE TO KNOW MORE? If you would like to know more about Rotary, please call us on 01263 585020 or 01603 279701.

How music can help with healing Music has always held a special place in our hearts, and its therapeutic beneﬁts are well-documented. One remarkable organisation, "Sing Your Heart Out," is harnessing the power of music to promote healing and wellbeing in the most heartwarming way. This unique group expanded its reach in 2017 by establishing the Sheringham branch. Unlike traditional choirs, they do not focus on formal performances but instead come together to enjoy the simple pleasure of singing. Importantly, they create an environment where everyone is welcome, whether they are feeling unwell or just want to sing their heart out. The group is inclusive, respecting individuals' privacy without divulging personal information. The organisation is self-funded and relies on fundraising efforts to continue its invaluable work. That's where the Aylsham Rotary Club comes in. This communityminded club, which serves not just Aylsham but the broader region, proudly contributed

£500 to support 'Sing Your Heart Out'. Along the way, 'Sing Your Heart Out' has shone brightly, with performances, media coverage, and even royal interest. The University of East Anglia conducted rigorous academic research on the group, attracting attention from academics and musicians worldwide, from Tasmania to the US. Two of the founding members even journeyed to Japan to share their remarkable story. 'Sing Your Heart Out' stands as a testament to the healing power of music and the strength of community. They invite carers, family, friends, support workers, staff, and anyone over 18 interested in nurturing their mental well-being or simply enjoying the joy of song to join their free sessions. For more information about the Aylsham Rotary Club please visit www. aylshamrotary.org.uk. For further detail about Sing Your Heart Out, visit www.syho.org/venues/sheringham

SWEET SOUNDS: Members of the Sing Your Heart Out group.

ROTARY QUIZ NIGHT Get ready to ﬂex those brain muscles! The Aylsham Rotary Club’s legendary annual quiz night is back. Bring your own drinks and snacks; some snacks provided. Great rafﬂe prizes too! Join us on Saturday, October 14 at the Town Hall in Aylsham. Doors open at 7pm. Book now. It’s £6 per person for teams of up to six people. For more information and to book: email aylshamrotaryclub@gmail.com / visit www.aylshamrotary.org.uk or call John Lock on 07757 423926.

SALVATION ARMY

Harvest Festival celebrations Aylsham Salvation Army celebrated our Harvest Festival and included in our giving we had men's pants and socks. These will be going to the Pottergate Arc in Norwich which is a Salvation Army drop-in centre for rough sleepers, offering showers, food, clothing, access to specialist services including health

assessments, medical, drug and alcohol help. On Monday, October 30, from 9.30am till noon, we are having stalls selling crafts, cakes, books and jewellery at our coffee morning in Hungate Street. Why not come along and enjoy some refreshments and do some Christmas shopping. All welcome.

GENEROUS: A selection of donations made to the Salvation Army.

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New big book club is set to launch Aylsham’s Book Hive shop is buzzing with anticipation over the impending launch of its first town read event. To celebrate a fantastic first year on Red Lion Street, a get-together for readers is being hosted at Aylsham Friendship Hall, in Mill Road, on November 23 (6.30pm for a 7pm start). Shop manager Ben Miller hopes the event will be the first in a series of regular gatherings as the mission to turn Aylsham into one big book group develops. The first book selected for The Aylsham Town Read, which is being launched in partnership with the town library, is a Waterstones Paperback Of The Year and Radio 2 Book Club title, The Cat and The City by Nick Bradley. To get involved, buy or borrow a copy of The Cat and the City, read it and get ready to talk about it at the Friendship Hall. People can enquire at the Book Hive for further information. “We are delighted to say that Nick will be joining us on the night to discuss his book and take questions from everyone, as well as signing copies,” said Ben. Nick’s new book, Four Seasons in Japan, will also be available for buying and signing. Copies of The Cat and the City are available at Aylsham Book Hive at a reduced price of £8 or can be borrowed

UP FOR DISCUSSION: Book Hive shop manager Ben Miller with The Cat and the City, the first town read book. Also pictured (inset) is author Nick Bradley.

from Aylsham Library. “There’s no fee to join the book club and it’s open to everyone - so if you haven’t read this wonderful book, now’s your chance. And if you have - read it again and come along and chat about it with friends, neighbours and the author over a glass of wine - all in the great metropolis of Aylsham!” said Ben. The Cat and the City is set in Tokyo where a stray cat is wending her way through the back alleys. And, with each detour, she

brushes up against the seemingly disparate lives of the city-dwellers, connecting them in unexpected ways. But the city is changing. As it does, it pushes her to the margins where she chances upon a series of apparent strangers – from a homeless man squatting in an abandoned hotel, to a shut-in hermit afraid to leave his house, to a convenience store worker searching for love. The cat orbits Tokyo’s denizens, drawing them ever closer.

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Should I make my will with a solicitor? There have long been discussions as to why you might make a will with a solicitor rather than choosing the cheaper homemade option. The subject has hit the news again recently, with Aretha Franklin’s handwritten wishes being found in her sofa. As with the estate of the Queen of Soul, homemade wills can often result in issues and costly legal proceedings. Such important legal documents benefit from professional advice. When I prepare a will for a client, my primary aim is to ensure clarity. That may be clearly stating who will oversee the administration of your estate or how your assets shall be distributed. Homemade wills often lack such clarity, which can cause time-consuming and costly complications – or the document being invalid. A phrase I often hear when I discuss wills with clients is, “Oh, I never thought of

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and complications as to who is entitled to administer the estate. Issues can also arise relating to capacity to execute the document or, indeed, undue influence. This can often result in costly legal proceedings and significant delays. As legal professionals, we owe a duty to all our clients to ensure they have the requisite capacity to put a will in place, and that we are receiving their true wishes. As shown with Aretha Franklin, issues can also arise as to where a will might be kept. When we make a will, we store the document in our secure strongroom free of charge, ensuring it is not at risk of being lost down the back of the sofa. A will is one of the most important legal documents an individual can make. Such an important document warrants being prepared by an experienced professional who you can trust to ensure your wishes are carried out accurately and unequivocally.

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Would you be interested in becoming a school governor? Aylsham Learning Federation’s governing board is looking for people who would be interested in becoming a school governor - supporting their schools and the children and young people in our community. The Federation is is comprised of John of Gaunt Infant and Nursery School, Bure Valley School and Aylsham High School. A spokesperson said: “A governor’s role is valuable and varied. Although you wouldn’t be involved in the day-to-day running of the schools, you would have a more strategic role as a critical friend to the Federation, contributing to discussions at governing board meetings, considering data, visiting schools and possibly serving on governor panels. “The schools are very much at the heart

of Aylsham, providing inclusive learning experiences and leisure facilities not just for children, families and staff, but also for the community as a whole.” The Norfolk Governance Network says that school governors have three functions: • Overseeing the ﬁnancial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent • Holding the headteacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils • Ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction The spokesperson added: “You do not need to have any experience in education to take on the role of governor, you don’t even need to be a parent. School governors come from all walks of life; you

may be a good problem solver or good at planning or evaluating. “An interest in education is key, along with a desire to take an active role on the governing board in improving education for children in your local community. You will be supported in the role and there are lots of training opportunities available.” Duncan Spalding is the Executive Headteacher of Aylsham Learning Federation which is part of the Aylsham Cluster Trust, a co-operative Trust, with cooperative values such as self-responsibility, equality and solidarity. All three schools operate under one governing board with Jenny Youngs as the Chair of Governors. For further information, contact the Clerk to the Governors, Kathryn Arnold, at kathryn.arnold@norfolk.gov.uk for further information and an application form. All applicants must be over 18 years of age and will be subject to a DBS check.

Natural world inspires Jessica Blickling artist Jessica Perry has underlined her fascination with the living world by writing and illustrating a new book. Gone to Ground comes from an underground habitat somewhere near you, with Mole’s observations told in words and pictures. Drawn from the perspective of creatures of the soil, their ramblings, mutterings, and predictions take us through the year of emerging tussocks, blustering gussets, sunshine and drizzle. “Writing and illustrating this series of narrative poems and pictures has underlined my fascination and respect for the living world, right there under our feet. This book is a collection of work developed over the last two years, bringing together

my intensely-detailed miniature illustrations in pen and ink, with brief, sardonic ‘weather reports’ that reﬂect on the events and emotions of the day. “It is chieﬂy a book for adults, but the humour and attention to detail based on the natural world appeals to any age,” said Jessica, who has worked and exhibited widely across the region for 40 years. The book, which is available locally at the Book Hive in Aylsham, launched at the Heads & Tails exhibition in King’s Lynn, organised by Contemporary & Country (Paul Vater and Paul Barratt of Aylsham). The event, showcasing work by 10 artists from Norfolk and Suffolk, runs until Saturday, October 28 on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 4pm

ATTENTION TO DETAIL: Artist Jessica Perry. at The Fermoy Gallery and Shakespeare Barn, St George’s Guildhall, 29 King Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1HA.

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Could you help out NHS Trust?

Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust (NCHC) is looking for a volunteer to support its community nursing and therapy staff. Many staff who visit patients at home to carry out treatments and care need to use the health service’s pool vans, which are based at Aylsham Health Centre. The volunteer’s role would be to carry out regular checks on the vans for cleanliness, oil levels, etc, to take the vehicles out to top up with fuel or to the car wash, and to stock up on dressings and other items used by the staff on their visits. You need to be practical, able to carry out the simple tasks of vehicle maintenance and to have a clean driving licence. You can do the volunteering on a day and at a time to suit you within reason, so long as there is a member of staff on site for you to report to, and who will be able to help you with any queries or concerns. Support in the role will come from the NCHC staff who work nearby and the volunteer co-ordinators for North Norfolk. To find out more contact Wendy Bryant, volunteer coordinator, by email at wendy.bryant@nchc.nhs.uk.

A month of walking Get your walking boots on and fill your knapsack with snacks as October will be a month to go walking. Walk Norfolk is an access-friendly festival which runs throughout the month and will feature a wide range of guided walks – including a number of events taking place in the Aylsham area. The 31 daily self-guided walks will also include foraging walks, history and heritage walks, nature therapy walks, art walks, and family-friendly events such as minibeast walks. Covering a range of distances, there will also be special trails for people with visual impairments and those living with dementia

and their carers. The festival is being organised by Pathmakers, a Norfolk-based charity which is dedicated to improving access to the countryside for people of all abilities and backgrounds. Supported by Norfolk County Council, which provides the routes for the walks, it believes that improving countryside access will enable communities to get outdoors and connect with nature, which in turn will have a positive impact on their health and wellbeing. t For more information on the routes available, visit www.pathmakers.org.uk/ events

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AYLSHAM & DISTRICT U3A

Harvest Festival comes to our u3a I remember when I was young how, in September, we all brought something into school for the Harvest Festival, writes Tracy Newsome, Vice Chair of the Aylsham & District u3a. An array of all sorts of foods were brought in and at the end were given away to a local children’s home and a retirement home. We always had two sheafs of bread made by a local baker, which amazed me, not enough to try and bake them as I got older, but I can still vividly remember them. My mother always gave me two tins of peaches to take in and some Carnation milk, remember that? This year Kevin Ross, our Chair, thought why not replicate those memories and we could all bring in something for our food bank in Aylsham to help the local community. He decided to use our u3a week to promote this and of course none of

GENEROSITY: Aylsham & District u3A chair Kevin Mitchell with some of the Harvest Festival donations. Picture: DAVID MITCHELL us really knew if it would be successful or not. But our members came to our monthly Town Hall Meeting laden with carrier bags full of food to donate. Kevin said he was

overwhelmed by the generosity of our u3a and couldn’t thank members enough. As there was so much food, Colin Graham from the foodbank was helped by a couple of members using the Co-op trolleys to take it all back to the church ready to be distributed locally. Mr Graham thanked all our members for their kindness. A great success which I am sure will be repeating next year. At our October meeting on the 24th we will be hearing from an ex-Chief Constable of Norfolk. Why not come along, meet old friends and make some new ones. You will be sure to receive a warm welcome and enjoy a nice cuppa and biscuit. The monthly meetings take place at Aylsham Town Hall on the fourth Tuesday of the month (2pm). For more information, visit u3asites.org.uk/aylsham/welcome

Your chance to sing with choir A north Norfolk choir will host at ‘come and sing’ event as part of its 150th anniversary celebrations. Norfolk Camerata will stage the special day at St Nicholas Church, in North Walsham, on Saturday, November 4. A spokesperson said: “All those who love to sing are invited to join this friendly choir

for rehearsal workshops of the beautiful Faure’s Requiem followed by an informal concert in the evening. “Singers of all abilities and voice parts are welcome; an ability to read music would be an advantage but is not essential.” People are asked to arrive for 10am for a 10.30am start. The day will end with a

performance of the Requiem for friends and family at 5pm. Tickets for the day cost £10 and advance booking is essential. You can book via the choir website at www.norfolkcamerata. co.uk or phone Maggie Smyth on 01603 783841 or Rosemary Jackson on 01603 279541.

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in the know

Written by Sarb Gosal, Partner at Spire Solicitors LLP

How could a divorce affect my mortgage? Divorce is a challenging and emotionally taxing process, and one area where it can have a significant impact is your mortgage. When a couple decide to separate, they often need to address the financial aspects of their shared life, including the family home and any associated mortgage. In the UK, divorce and mortgages are intertwined in several ways, and understanding the legal implications is crucial. Joint mortgage liability In many cases, spouses purchase a home together and take out a joint mortgage. In the eyes of the mortgage lender, both parties are equally responsible for repaying the loan. Regardless of the divorce, both individuals remain financially liable unless steps are taken to alter this arrangement. Financial disclosure During divorce proceedings, both spouses are required to provide full financial disclosure. This includes details of all assets, debts, and financial commitments, including the mortgage. Accurate disclosure is crucial as it forms the basis for financial settlements, including the division of property and assets.

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Mortgage repayment Deciding what to do with the family home is a crucial part of divorce negotiations. There are several options: Sell the property: The simplest solution is to sell the property and use the proceeds to pay off the mortgage. Any remaining funds can be divided between the spouses as part of the financial settlement. Buyout: One spouse may choose to buy out the other's share of the property. This often involves refinancing the mortgage in one person's name, which requires meeting the lender's affordability criteria. Co-ownership: In some cases, divorcing spouses may choose to continue coowning the property and share mortgage responsibilities. This option can be complex and should be carefully considered. Consent orders To ensure that the financial agreement reached during divorce is legally binding, it’s advisable to obtain a consent order from the court. This document outlines the financial arrangements, including mortgage responsibilities, and provides legal protection for both parties.

Impact on credit ratings Failing to meet mortgage payments can have a severe impact on your credit rating. It’s essential to communicate with your lender and seek legal advice if you're facing financial difficulties after a divorce. Failure to address mortgage arrears can result in repossession of the property. Seek Legal Advice Navigating the complexities of divorce and its impact on your mortgage in the UK requires expert legal advice. Consulting with a family law solicitor who specialises in divorce can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, protect your financial interests, and ensure a fair resolution. Divorce can have a profound effect on your mortgage. Understanding your options, communicating with your exspouse, and seeking legal advice are crucial steps to navigate this challenging process successfully. If you are looking at beginning the process of divorce or dissolving a civil partnership, contact our friendly, highly regarded Family Law team on 01263 732123 or info@spiresolicitors.co.uk.

Praise for animal welfare Broadland District Council has had its work in animal welfare recognised with an award from the RSPCA for the fourth year. With Breckland, North Norfolk, Norwich City and South Norfolk councils also winning gold Paw Print awards for stray dog services, the county is flying the flag for animal welfare. Running since 2008, this flagship scheme is the only one of its kind, recognising local authorities and public bodies for going above and beyond to deliver world-class services. Broadland’s deputy leader Natasha Harpley said: “We are really proud to be one of only 14 councils across the whole of the UK to have achieved Gold status. “Our teams go above and beyond to protect local animals and support owners to make the right choices, so we are delighted to have been recognised for the fourth year in a row.” Over the past 15 years, more than 1,500 awards have been given out for services ranging from initiatives to get more stray dogs safely into kennels and schemes to safeguard pets whose owners have been taken into care, to housing policies that allow pets to stay with tenants living in rented homes.

SO PROUD: Mike Gardiner from Animal Warden Services and a furry friend with the Paw Print award. Lee Gingell, public affairs manager for local government at the RSPCA, said: “The Paw Prints awards are something the RSPCA is immensely proud of. “Local authorities, housing providers, contingency planners and others play a huge role in the delivery of animal welfare,

many of them doing incredible work in the face of steep challenges. “Often this pioneering work is done quietly behind the scenes and remains unsung, but they really deserve to be applauded for changing the lives of not only animals but local people, too.”

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Thanks for gift of life A poignant film has shown an emotional meeting between a donor’s family and a man who received their son’s heart. The film was produced by the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals to support Organ Donation Week 2023. Norfolk businessman Kitt Blake was 30 years old and able to help four people when he died in 2020. Tim Head, 64, from Northamptonshire, received Kitt’s heart and Kitt’s family were able to hear it beating in Tim’s chest. Tim was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy and was ill for five years including an eight-month hospital stay before the transplant in the spring of 2020. The event was captured on film as the two families wanted to share their experiences in their support of organ donation.

Even though organ donation is now an opt out system, it is still vital to have those conversations with family members, so they can support your decision should the unthinkable happen. Tim said: “It’s been a fantastic day that I’ll never forget. My first anniversary was their first anniversary and I just felt like I had to write to them to thank them. Even from day one, I had this feeling we’d meet up one day. I just knew it. “There were a lot of emotions leading up to today. We just want them to know that we do really appreciate it every single day. Jane listening to my heart was very emotional and I’m glad she listened. Everyone is at ease now.” Jane said: “It meant a lot to meet Tim today. He sent us a letter about a year after the organ donation and we were

MOVING MOMENT: Jane Blake listens to her son Kitt’s heart beating for Tim Head. Picture: KEIRON TOVELL. really happy to know that he was so well. He said it would be lovely to meet up when the time was right and I knew I wanted to. “To see that he’s happy, well and enjoying his life together with his family was marvellous and something that they may not otherwise have had. They’re a lovely family and deep down I think I knew they would be.” Jane added: “When Kitt was

in hospital and we were asked about organ donation, my heart sunk. I didn’t know what to say at first. However, Kitt was someone who always helped others, so we knew it was the right thing. We had to think quickly, but I’m glad we made the right decision.” Find out more about Organ Donation at: https://www. organdonation.nhs.uk/

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Joy for Cathy, 71, as Book now for day courses first novel published Proud pensioner Cathy Turner has fulfilled a long-held ambition by publishing her first novel at the age of 71. A former professional musician and yoga teacher, Cathy began writing a book over 30 years ago. But work and family commitments forced her to abandon the project. The lockdown of 2020 relit the creative spark and with time on her hands, the words began to flow again. Once she had started she could not stop. “In that time of enforced isolation, I decided to cheer myself up by writing something positive and uplifting,” said Cathy, who lives in Erpingham. The result is Counterpoint - a recentlypublished novel set in north Norfolk, especially Sheringham and Cromer. “Getting something published so late in life is fulfilling,” said Cathy. “Instead of putting my feet up and giving in to being ‘over the hill’ after retirement I feel as though I’m still going somewhere and have something to offer the world.” Cathy describes Counterpoint as a love story involving a well-known classical musical conductor and his mother’s carer, with elements of psychological drama. “Many relationships break down these days and I wanted to bring out the idea that some do succeed! The news was so bad in the lockdowns it helped me personally to dwell on something positive. “I chose to set Counterpoint locally because I love north Norfolk and it’s the area I know best. Parts of the book are also set in London where I attended college,” added Cathy, who uses the pen name Kate Wyburn. After leaving school, Cathy attended the Royal College of Music for two years and then played the oboe in theatre orchestras and a wind quintet. While raising her two children, she taught oboe for a few years. She taught yoga

MY WORD: Cathy Turner has published her ﬁrst novel.

The WEA Aylsham Branch will be holding two Saturday Day Schools in November. ‘A Jolly Good Murder’ with Kate Jewell will take place on Saturday, November 4 at The Friendship Hall in Mill Road. This course explores the explosion in popularity of crime as a form of entertainment during the 19th century. Why was murder such a popular subject for novels, theatre, songs and tourism - and why are we still fascinated by the subject today? The course will run from 10am to 3.30pm (registration and coffee from 9.30am) and will cost £25. The second day school will be Environmental Philosophy (Beginners and Improvers) with Jack Manzi on November 18 at Emmanuel Church, Cawston Road. This course explores some of the history of philosophical thought around the environment, humanity’s relationship to nature, and what our ethical obligations to the natural world are. It will examine some of the key ﬁgures from Aldo Leopold, credited as the founder of ecological sciences to the contemporary ideas of Rupert Read. The course will run from 10am to 4pm (registration and coffee from 9.30am) and cost £30. To book either course, visit wea.org.uk or call 0300 303 3464.

in Derbyshire and was a book-keeper before retiring, aged 66. “My ambition to write a book began in the early 1990s when I was about 40. I realised that writing essays for the yoga teaching qualiﬁcation (British Wheel of Yoga) was very enjoyable - I just felt ‘on my beam’ when I was writing and tended to lose track of time. “I am now writing a sequel to Counterpoint set in 2038, in which the children are teenagers, growing up in a very different world and challenging their parents’ old way of life.” Counterpoint, published by Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie Ltd, can be obtained by ordering through a bookshop or online from any major site dealing in books. It is available on Amazon (£8.08 paperback).

A choral society will close their 90th anniversary celebrations with a concert of glorious music by Mozart and Schubert. The concert by Sheringham and Cromer Choral Society will take place in St Peter’s Parish Church, Sheringham, on Saturday, November 18, at 7pm. Under the direction of David Ballard, the choir and orchestra will be joined by soloists Rosamund Walton (soprano), Laurence Blyth (alto), Richard Symons (tenor) and Julian Chou-Lambert (bass). Tickets priced at £18 (under18s free) can be bought by calling 01263 822347 or visiting www.sheringhamlittletheatre. com. Tickets are also available in person from the North Norfolk Visitor Centre, Louden Road, Cromer.

A fine finale

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Hi Sarah,