North Weald Village Life March 2022

North Weald Village Life Strengthening the Community

FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine Issue: 187 MARCH 2022 Page

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Stormy Weather Storm Eunice hit with full power didn’t she? In just a few hours trees fell or were damaged, power lines were down, garden fences flattened and trampolines bounced out of gardens.

A red warning was issued and I am delighted to say many people listened to this in the local area. How do I know? Well, unfortunately I had a family funeral to go to in Hainault so we had to brave the storm. No other reason would have encouraged me to leave my safe warm home.

Epping was a ghost town as we drove through it, no-one was around, the roads were empty—it was like we were driving early on a Sunday morning. As we got closer to the edge of London, there was more traffic.

We left at 9.30am before the storm, but could tell the wind was getting stronger. Luckily we were on the way back at the very start when Storm Eunice started to make her strength felt. Trees were everywhere, debris from branches and gardens were in the middle of the road. We had no choice but to drive slowly through the forest, holding our breath and avoiding branches and trees that had fallen.

Amazingly we did see a few learner drivers on their lesson, talk about learning at the deep end. Even more surprisingly, was a few cyclists trying to struggling to cycle against the wind. These were prepared, wearing their Lycra cycling gear but I think they needed something else to help them combat the storm. There is no way I would have gone out on a bike, even if it was my only mode of transport.

I hope all your gardens survived. It was slightly amusing to see the objects people found in their garden the next day and sad to see appeals for things that had flown out of their garden including missing children’s play equipment.

We continued to have gusty weather for a few days after, one day resulted in me sitting on a slip road to get on the M25 to go through the Dartford tunnel for 7 hours because they closed the QEII Bridge. And to top it off - a lorry rolled back and hit my stationery car.

My fingers are crossed as I hope we soon head in warm weather and sunshine. I am so ready for this, as I am sure many are.

We have a few things to look forward to with RideLondon-Essex on 29th May and of course the Queen’s Jubilee Weekend—I really need your help with this as I want to make a special part of the June magazine for this. We also need to make sure we celebrate it and come together as a community.

On a positive note, we life in a lovely beautiful village, with so many lovely places to walk. We need to remember these and not take them for granted. So if the sun shines, enjoy it to the full.

Hope to see you walking.

Enjoy!

Kind regards

Contents March Issue Page No.

4. Brain Teaser 5. Travis Perkins Site Flats Oppossed 6. & 7. Events 8. Planning applications 10. St Clare Celebrates 11. Local Digital Strategy 15. Fatal Collision 16. Milo is canine winner 18. RideLondon—Essex 22. Air Ambulance adds hybrid vehicle 23. Storm Eunice 27. Closing disadvantage gap for pupils post Covid 19 29. March Gardening Hints 31. Photos of the month 33. Citizen Advice 39. Poem 40. Bobbin with the Robin 41. March bird column Editor June Peachey june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk 07814 863955 Write to: 49 York Road, North Weald, Epping, Essex CM16 6HU www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Subscription: If you would like to guarantee your personal copy or perhaps you have relatives or friends who would like to receive their own copy, you can subscribe for £25.00 for 12 issues.

Contributions & Editorial: If you would like to contribute editorial, poems, recipes, letters or anything else, we would be delighted to receive these. Please send them to us via letter or email.

Advertisers: Please email or telephone us for full advertising rates and sizes. Booking

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure any data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor it’s editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party, or loss or damage caused by errors or resulting from negligence, accident or any other concerns. North Weald Village Life does not officially endorse any advertisement material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reported, stored in retrieval systems or transmitted in any form electronically. Mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the permission of the publisher.

June Editor

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Cover photo: Thinking of Mother’s Day, this cute mum and puppy made me think of proud mums everywhere

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MARCH BRAIN TEASER • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Mum Flowers Love Card Meal Son Daughter Granny Gift Scent Fun Day Strong Need Share Always

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Thank you to G. Hill and well done for winning the February Year Brain Teaser.

Just search and find the words, ring them and then send your completed wordsearch to me by 20th March. Please send it to:March Brain Teaser, NWVL, 49 York Road, North Weald, CM16 6HU. This month’s prize is a bottle of wine.

Don’t forget to include your name, telephone no or email address and home address.

9.30am 9.30am on

18.30

SPECIAL OFFERS Each individual class is £7...BUT WAIT...if you bring a new friend to a class, then that introductory class will only be £5 EACH for the both of you!

Don’t forget though, after the introductory class is over, normal prices for you and your friend will resume. … UNLESS of course—you bring a new Friend!

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PLUS Pick any TWO classes a week for you to attend and you will only have to pay £10 for the TWO!!

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An exceptional day for the Service Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has said the recent Storm Eunice, which took place on Friday 18th February, was an ‘exceptional day’ for the Service.

Between 10am and 9pm, the control room and crews dealt with around 500 calls, with up to 100 calls an hour during the peak of Storm Eunice.

Area Manager Neil Fenwick said: “It was an exceptional day for our Service. On an average day we receive between 40 and 50 calls - yesterday we dealt with around 500. We were well prepared and our teams did an excellent job to keep our residents safe. I would like to say a huge thank you to all our firefighters and staff, our emergency service, local authority and utility company partners as well as the people of Essex, who listened to our advice and messages. It was a real team effort and shows once again how Essex unites when faced with challenges.”

Crews and control room staff dealt with a wide range of incidents including collapsed and damaged buildings, large fallen trees, damage to power cables and small fires.

Neil added: “We were well prepared. We had our resources and specialist equipment in the right place and our teams were ready to respond.”

Source: Essex County Fire & Rescue Service

Travis Perkins site flats opposed Proposals to build 20 flats and a retail unit on the former Travis Perkins site off Epping High Street are being opposed by Epping Town Council.

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While the planning and general purposes committee welcomes the redevelopment of the industrial site, it believes the proposals are an over-development.

A council spokesman said: "The development would sit much further forward than the existing buildings, create a tunnelling effect and have an overbearing and dominant effect on the street scene."

The town council adds that the development would also be out of keeping with the mix of properties on Hemnall Street.

The spokesman added: "Hemnall Street has a mixture of dwelling types which are characteristic of Epping and this particular development would be detrimental to the character of the surrounding area.

"There are two-storey and three-storey properties which border the site and the residential part of this proposal would cause direct loss of amenity including overlooking, loss of privacy and sunlight."

Concern has also been expressed over the amount of parking proposed with councillors fearing additional vehicles would put additional pressure on the surrounding roads.

"The increased traffic resulting from the additional flats would be detrimental to highway safety, given that Hemnall Street is a very narrow road and not wide enough for additional traffic."

The committee added Hemnall Street is already used as a cut through for traffic when the High Street gets congested.

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ANTI SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR MEETING Planned for Friday 27th March 2022 North Weald Village Hall 6.15pm To review, update and discuss anti social behaviour in North Weald parish.

In attendance will be representatives from Essex Police & Safer Communities Team.

This meeting will provide updates on the first meeting held last year and provide information on what help is available in the parish, listen to questions and concerns.

If anybody has any questions they would like me to raise at the meeting or have any questions concerning the meeting, please get in touch with me at June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk.

This is a resident led meeting for residents.

Ploughman’s Lunch Held in the North Weald Village Hall Every Second Saturday each month - This is organised for the the benefit of the Senior Citizens Society, a North Weald institution, get there early!!

Sign up now to take part in the St Clare 10k!

Entries are now open to push yourself to the limit, by striding around the stunning countryside surrounding St Clare Hospice.

The 10k takes place on Sunday 10th April 2022, with the race setting off at 10.30am. Advance entry is £15 (£13 for affiliated runners). Participants must be aged 15 years or above.

For more information, and to book your place, visit: https://stclarehospice.org.uk/event/st-clare-10k-april2022/

Copy Deadline for Event Details For the April Issue 15th April

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If you run a community event or charity event, don’t forget to let me know so I can share the details with readers—just email me June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

North Weald WI Meeting SPRING LUNCH Saturday 9th April 11am — 3.30pm Theydon Bois Village Hall

North Weald W.I.s next meeting is on 2nd March starting at 1.45pm at North Weald Village Hall. We have some interesting speakers , this months is entitled ‘Breatrix Potter unknown codebreaker’ by Andrew Wiltshire.

All welcome, why not come along visitors pay £3.00 on the door.

Stalls, light lunches & refreshments Organised by St Margaret’s League of Friends to raise funds for St Margaret’s Medical Rehab Unit

North Weald Allstars 1st Saturday of each month 12pm onwards

Memory Café 4U Every 3rd Wednesday of the Month 10am—12pm At St James’ Church Hall, Ongar Welcoming café especially for those with varying degrees of memory issues and those who love and care for them.

Enjoy activities, bingo and more.

Tickets available on the door—£12

West Essex Flower Club West Essex Flower Club’s March meeting is at Thornwood Village Hall on March 14th starting at 1.45pm.

This month our demonstrator Sandra Price is entertaining us with arrangements entitled ‘Flower Power’.

All welcome at this friendly club Visitors pay £6.00 on the door.

Don’t forget to visit our

website: .

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Or sign up to the Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/ Northwealdvillagelife Also on Instagram and Twitter

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Planning Applications North Weald Bassett TPO Application No: EPF/0266/22 Officer: Robin Hellier Applicant Name: National Highways Planning File No: 001808 Location: Land adjacent to east side of M11, north of the Rainbow And Dove PH, Hastingwood Road, Hastingwood Harlow CM17 9JX Proposal: TPO/EPF/10/10 (Ref: W1) T0126: Ash. T0127: Hornbeam, T0128 & T0129: 2 x Elm, T0130: Scots Pine & T0131: Willow - Fell.

Any representations on the above applications should be made in writing, by Monday 14th March 2022.

Epping Forest District Council www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk Comment online at www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/iPlan or by post to: The Director of Planning and Economic Development, Epping Forest District Council, Civic Offices, 323 High Street, Epping, Essex CM16 4BZ Any enquiries should be made to the Application Processing Team T: 01992 564436 or E: appcomment@eppingforestdc.gov.uk

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Please don’t forget to Mention to advertisers that you saw their advert in North Weald Village Life

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Essex Libraries partner with music and dementia charity Playlist for Life Libraries across Essex will shortly be offering people living with dementia and their families the chance to create personalised playlists and reconnect through music.

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Community, Equality, Partnerships and Performance said: “I am delighted that Essex Libraries are partnering with the music and dementia charity, Playlist for Life. This service will be able to help local people living with dementia connect with family, friends and carers through the power of music.”

From Saturday 19th February, Essex Libraries became official help points for the music and dementia charity, Playlist for Life helping to mark Love Your Library Day 2022.

Playlist for Life enables people living with dementia create a personalised music playlist and supports everyone who loves or cares for them to know how to use it.

Over two decades of scientific research has shown that listening to a personalised playlist can improve the lives of those living with dementia or who are struggling with mental health conditions, low mood and self-esteem.

Listening to music can take people back in time and remind them of their past, as well as having many psychological benefits. Personalised playlists can: • reduce anxiety

• • •

improve mood make difficult tasks more manageable evoke memories that can help families and carers connect

Customers visiting any Essex Library will be able to make use of Playlist for Life’s 100 Years Book, which includes the top UK songs from 1915-2015, a Get Started leaflet and other free materials, in order to build their own personalised playlist or help someone make theirs.

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Please don’t forget to tell Mention to advertisers that you saw their advert in North Weald Village Life

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St Clare celebrates 8th birthday of its Hospice at Home team St Clare Hospice’s Hospice at Home service launched in January 2014 and have cared for more than 4,000 patients and their families in the comfort of their own home.

Mobile: 07885 871508 www.nmonkplumbingandheating.co.uk The team of registered nurses and nursing assistants provide free, compassionate care for people at the end of their life in the comfort of their own home.

In 2020/21 the Hospice at Home team provided support for more than 780 patients. The team spent approximately 1,400 hours each month ensuring that patients, families and their carers received compassionate care, at the right time and in the right place.

The Hospice at Home team also deliver a night-sitting service. Last year they spent 730 nights caring for more than 200 end of life patients in their own home. The night-sitting Hospice at Home nursing assistants watch over end of life patients making sure they are comfortable in their own home. This means their usual carers are able to take a small break, get a little sleep and recharge.

“We work closely with local GPs, District Nurses, social and voluntary sector professionals. This makes sure our patients receive coordinated care,” explains Sonia Haigh, Hospice at Home service manager. “Our Hospice at Home care is helping to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions. We provide short-term care to get people out of hospital more quickly. And we are making sure people are able to spend the last weeks of their life in the comfort of their own home.

“Our service has never been more needed. Increasingly people are choosing to be cared for in their own home. Providing this support means that we’re honouring people’s choices and relieving pressure on the NHS. “Our kind and caring nurses and nursing assistants are helping to keep families together and making memories even right at the end of life. Home is special. Being able to provide our specialist palliative care to people in the comfort of their own home is a real honour for us in the Hospice at Home team.”

All health, social and voluntary care professionals can make a referral. This includes GPs, District Nurses, Clinical Nurse Specialists, social care or hospital teams. Patients, their family, or carer can also refer themselves directly. The team will then need to discuss the referral with the patient’s GP. For more information visit: stclarehospice.org.uk/hospice-home If you’re not sure if the person you are referring is eligible for Hospice at Home care, just call: 01279 773716 Hospice at Home team (8am-8pm) 01279 773774 First Contact Service 01279 773773 24 Hour Advice Line

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Local Digital Strategy The Epping Forest District Council says that society is going through a period of profound change. Smartphones, computers and digital devices have transformed lives. Almost anything can now be done online.

While big companies like Amazon and Google grab the headlines, the council says that the adoption of technology has also proceeded at pace in the public sector.

There are many different factors driving the change including faster and more efficient services delivered at lower cost to Council Tax payers.

Climate change has played a part as the council reduces traffic congestion and its carbon footprint.

There have been unforeseen benefits. The early adoption of the digital strategy allowed many staff to maintain services by home working throughout the Covid pandemic. There was no need to come to the office or meet in person.

The consultation of focusing on the first of the council’s key digital strategy themes – digital access to services. The full list is • Digital access to services – available online 24/7 for connected residents and visitors who use the internet every day.

• • •

Digital People - Giving our people the tools to do the job and develop digitally for the future.

Smart Data – Using the information we gather in ‘smart’ ways to create and maintain better services for you.

Secure and Modern Systems - Keeping you and your information safe and secure with automated systems designed to deliver services to you as quickly and efficiently as possible.

More information is contained within a Digital Strategy summary on the council website—www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk If you need help with getting online, the council is emphasising that traditional forms of contact are not being taken away.

It says staff are still available when residents need to talk - on the phone, face to face or through the post.

Not everyone has adopted or adapted to the new technology at the same speed. Any local resident who is struggling to use a digital device at home during the pandemic, can request a home visit and support from the Voluntary Action Epping Forest Community Responder team. Email - communityhub@vaef.org.uk or call: 01992 910 701.

Don’t forget to visit our website: www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Or sign up to the Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/ Northwealdvillagelife Page 11

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DevelopMe Hub If you’re not sure what you want the next step of your career to be, the Epping Forest District Council DevelopMe Hub can help.

To register for free visit the www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/community/ developme/

07926987207

DevelopMe can help with job searches, updating your CV; it has online courses to help develop your skills and knowledge and gives advice for interview techniques.

Based in North Weald. Essex CM16

Call for a free quotation

National Apprenticeship Week The beginning of the recent National Apprenticeship Week 2022 started on Monday 7th February 2022.

This week bought together businesses and apprentices across the country and focused on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses, and the wider economy.

Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) has over exceeded the national apprenticeship target for 3 years running; creating a skilled workforce to help improve council services and processes.

Ellie Stone, HR Support Officer, is studying for a Level 3 HR Support qualification. This apprenticeship looks at handling day-to-day queries and providing human resources advice on anything from recruitment to retirement. Ellie is also completing a maths qualification through this apprenticeship.

Ellie, she said: "It has taught me so much in terms of what actually goes on within the HR environment. I feel incredibly lucky to be working within the People Team; it has been such a great experience being surrounded by such a great team. I have been able to expand my skills so much in the past 6 months I’ve been here. I’m really enjoying it. It’s a new experience and experiences are always learning opportunities."

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Lowest Council Tax in Essex Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) councillors met and agreed a balanced district council budget for 2022 / 2023, before accepting the county council, police, fire, town and parish council precepts for collection in the next financial year.

Before the overall Council Tax was agreed, John Philip recommended the district council budget. Looking back, Councillor Philip considered the position in 2019 before the pandemic, asking who would have thought of the impact of COVID on car parking, leisure centres and all our other budget income.

Recognising the pressures of the cost of living crisis on local families, Councillor Whitbread welcomed the government funded Council Tax rebate of £150 for residents in Band A to D properties.

He reflected on the challenges for residents and the importance of a budget to protect frontline services for the coming year. In future years, he said that further tough choices would be necessary. The council would require further transformation and change – all the things the council has been good at over the last 20 years.

The Affinity Water Tower abseil is back!

If you are in need of an adrenaline rush maybe the Harlow Affinity Water Tower Abseil, organised by the Rotary Club of Harlow Tye, on 14 & 15 May 2022 is perfect for you.

National charity Dogs for Good is looking for people to sign up for this iconic event and raise much needed funds to help with our work. For over 30 years Dogs for Good has been supporting adults and children with various disabilities and autism lead a more independent life through the power of a specially trained dog. It takes around two years and £14,000 to train a puppy and match them with someone on our waiting list so your support is needed to help us continue our vital work in the community www.dogsforgood.org For details how to get involved please get in touch.

Lydia Martin, Regional Fundraiser, Dogs for Good 01295 759811 lydia.martin@dogsforgood.org

Following the approval of the district council budget, councillors moved on to approval of the overall Council Tax. The small increase of £5 a year (for an average Band D property) equivalent to 2 pence per day, to cover the EFDC budget was met with approval across the chamber.

Councillor Philip reminded fellow councillors that although the district council collects Council Tax, it has no control over the level of county council, police, fire, town and parish council precepts.

Stay safe while cooking This month, Essex County Fire & Rescue Services have been sharing cooking safety advice to help you all stay safe while cooking - especially busy parents and carers who are often juggling more than one job at once!

You may not be aware that each year, almost half of all accidental house fires are caused by cooking. These types of fires result in the most injuries and, in some cases, these can be fatal.

Cooking fires generally start when people are distracted or careless in the kitchen. They can be easily avoided by taking simple precautions. We know that having children at home can make cooking a busy task but please follow our safety advice to keep your family safe: Keep a close eye on your cooking and take pans off the heat or turn them down if you need to leave the kitchen • If a pan catches fire, don’t take any risks – Get Out, Stay Out, and Call 999 • Double check the hob is off when you’ve finished cooking and keep it clear in case it gets turned on accidentally • Avoid leaving children in the kitchen alone when cooking. Keep matches and saucepan handles out of their reach to keep them safe Source: Essex County Fire & Rescue Service •

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Fatal collision Recently, a young woman sadly died following a collision in Epping.

Essex Police Officers were called at around 10.30pm on Saturday 19th February, to reports of a collision in Houblons Hill, Epping involving a red Mini.

Paramedics and firefighters also attended the scene. Sadly a woman in her 20s died today, Sunday 20 February.

Following the collision, the road was closed throughout the night whilst we carried out investigation work and reopened just after 6.30am today.

A 32-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of death by dangerous driving, failing to stop, failing to report, driving whilst unfit, possession of Cannabis and perverting the course of justice.

Essex Police would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision or who saw the vehicle prior to the collision to contact us. Anyone who has any dash cam footage can email them via the Serious Collision Investigation Unit— CollisionAppeal@essex.pnn.police.uk Alternatively, If you have any information you can report it onlin at www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

Please quote incident 1397 of 19th February. You can also call us on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Source: Essex Police

Abridge Robbery Essex Police are appealing for information following a robbery in Abridge where various items were stolen.

It was reported by a resident of an address in Market Place, Abridge. They had answered the door around 9.40am on Tuesday 8th February to two men who claimed they were trying to deliver a package.

The men were joined by a third man and they forced entry to the property, assaulted a woman inside, and stole the items.

It is believed one of the people involved had tried attending the address on 3rd February between 12pm and 12.30pm also claiming to be trying to deliver a parcel.

We need anyone who saw anything or has any CCTV, dash cam, or doorbell footage to contact us.

If you have any information you can submit a report online at www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

Please quote the crime reference number 42/34068/22.

You can also call us on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Source: Essex Police

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Milo is crowned St Clare Hospice Cutest Canine Winner St Clare Hospice have announced the winner of their Cutest Canine Competition. This year, the canine champ that wins the crown is 7 year old Milo, a black Labrador from Saffron Walden. Milo was voted top dog out of a field of 14 lovely entrants, winning the social media competition with 126 out of the 492 votes cast.

The Cutest Canine competition is held each year as part of the local charity’s Winter Walkies 5k fundraising event. Milo won a doggy hamper and led the pack at the fundraising Winter Walkies Event which took place on 27th February.

Milo’s owner, Alison Saunders said “St Clare Hospice were there for us when we needed them. The Hospice at Home team cared for my Dad, Alan, in August 2020, and then helped my Mum, Marjorie with the Listening Ear bereavement support. Sadly, Mum then needed the care of St Clare herself and was admitted to their inpatient unit where she passed away in October last year. Mum and Dad had been married just shy of 64 years. It’s been a very tough time but Mum loved having Milo visit her at the hospice inpatient unit. He was ‘her boy’ .

To find out more about local St Clare Hospice and how you can support them visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk.

Apologies Last month I included editorial featuring the licencing application at the local Barbers in the village and the views of North Weald Bassett Parish Council concerning this application based on the serving of alcohol.

I have been asked to point out by a reader that this was not the view of all residents but only of the Parish Council.

I also received a request that the word ‘Turkish’ used in that editorial may have caused offence and of course I would not want this to be the case. Of course this was not the reason the licencing application was being turned down by the Parish Council.

I know residents and I am sure Parish Councillors also welcome all new enterprises regardless of ethnicity and free of any bias .

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Ongar Wildlife Society (OWLS)

We shall start our meeting once again in March when, hopefully, the weather will be improving with the days becoming longer and everyone enjoying spring once more.

Our speaker on Monday 21 March at 8pm will be professional nature photographer, Bob Johnson with a presentation entitled The Kingdom of the Ice Bear. The following month we welcome a local speaker, Martyn Lockwood who will entertain and enlighten us with a talk on The Yew Tree and its place in Mythology.

Other talks this year will focus upon the changing seasons, apples, African wildlife and much more.

You are invited to join OWLS this year. Visitors pay just £5 but you can become a member for an annual fee of only £25. To help you locate our venue, Toot Hill Village Hall, the post code is CM5 9LR. Keith Snow

Anti Social Behaviour plummets following campaign An area regarded as “no-go” for fearful residents has been reclaimed with road calming measures.

A petition from the Make High Beach Safe Campaign calling for action to combat noise, traffic and intimidating behaviour in the area attracted more than 7,000 signatures.

Residents reported problems around Paul’s Nursery Road, Queen’s Green, Manor Road and Pillow Mounds, with drug taking and dealing, loud car horns late at night, handbrake turns, smashed bottles on the road, fireworks being set off, high-speed car races, loud music, intimidation of other road users and litter.

It is thought the issues have been a cause for concern to residents for at least 15 years.

In response to the campaign, night-time road closures have been put in place.

The Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex (PFCC) contributed £9,910 to Epping Forest District Community Safety Partnership in the form of a crime and disorder reduction grant from the 2019-2020 Community Safety Development Fund to cover the cost of highway gates.

Now, the Epping Forest Environment Department City of London Corporation uses the gates to close Manor Road each evening – resulting in just two reports of antisocial behaviour since their installation in April 2021. By contrast, there were 38 reports between April 2020 and October 2020.

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex said: “Cracking down on anti-social behaviour is a priority which sits firmly at the heart of my Police and Crime Plan.

We achieve this by investing in initiatives through Community Safety Partnerships, who tackle local problems at a local level. Being able to fund these gates, and so bring down antisocial behaviour levels in Epping Forest is a great example of how this kind of partnership working can truly make a difference and help keep our county safe and our communities strong and resilient.”

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North Weald is part of the RideLondonEssex route

a partnership between RideLondon and Essex County Council. The partnership brings the RideLondon-Essex 100, 60 and 30 mass participation rides into the county on Sunday 29th May.

The partnership between RideLondon, organised by London Marathon Events, and Essex County Council means communities in Essex will soon be able to benefit from funding from The London Marathon Charitable Trust, working with Active Essex and other organisations.

In total there will be 65 miles of Essex roads included in the event routes, with cyclists passing through Epping, North Weald, Ongar, Great Dunmow, Felsted and the outskirts of Chelmsford on the same roads used by the Tour de France when it came to the county in 2014.

Essex will also host 2 stages of the RideLondon Classique, a 3day UCI Women’s WorldTour stage race for the best female riders in the world.

The Trust’s mission is to Inspire Activity and closely aligns with Essex’s new Fit for the Future strategy, which creates a strong foundation for collaborating in making physical activity a part of everyday life for everyone in Essex.

RideLondon-Essex 100 is the largest of the mass participation events and will feature thousands of riders, many of whom will Active Essex will lead on the activation of RideLondon to inspire everyone across Essex to cycle more and make physical activity be riding to raise crucial funds for charity. a regular part of their daily lives and is also pioneering the Essex For the 100 mile route, the cyclists will head out of London to Woodford New Road, through Buckhurst Hill and Epping New Pedal Power programme, with an ambition to level up cycling participation for more than 5,000 people in our most disadvan- Road. taged communities.

The route will then follow through Epping High Street onto The Plain before heading through North Weald turning right at the RideLondon is a legacy event from the London 2012 Olympic Talbot roundabout onto the A414 to Ongar, and will then left at Games. It could not be held in either 2020 or 2021 due to the the Four Wantz roundabout through Fyfield. pandemic, but returns in 2022 with a new format and new partnership with Essex County Council.

The cyclists will then head out towards Dunmow and ChelmsAs well as the RideLondon-Essex 100, RideLondon-Essex 60 and RideLondon 30 there will be the RideLondon FreeCycle, a free, family-friendly event held on 8 miles of traffic-free roads in central London.

ford, they will head back to the Four Wantz roundabout and turn left through Ongar High Street and Stanford Rivers to Passingford Bridge, they will then turn right into Stapleford Abbotts to Lambourne Road and Chigwell Road before cycling back into London for a finish on Tower Bridge.

The RideLondon Classique is the final event in the new format. RideLondon-Essex 60 follows the same route as the 100-mile The 3-day UCI Women’s WorldTour stage race takes place from event outlined above, but after it reaches Ongar it will then turn Friday 27th May to Sunday 29th May with the first 2 stages in back towards central London again.

Essex and the final stage in central London.

The RideLondon-Essex 30 route goes as far as Woodford beThe full route for the first RideLondon-Essex on Sunday 29th fore heading back to central London.

May has been revealed.

I remember the Tour de France cyclists coming through the vil• 25,000 cyclists to ride on Essex’s traffic-free roads on Sun- lage, it was wonderful weather and a real community day. day 29th May • RideLondon-Essex 100 takes riders on part of the 2014 Tour de France route Essex organisations will benefit from The London Marathon Charitable Trust funding to inspire activity in their communities.

Essex will welcome 25,000 cyclists on Sunday 29th May as RideLondon, the world’s greatest festival of cycling, comes to the county for the first time. Full details of the routes have been announced, along with the promise of new funding for Essex organisations to inspire activity in the local community.

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Can you help?

Recently on the morning of Friday 24th January, a man was approached by a woman who distracted him in Epping High Street. His watch was then missing.

Did you see anything? Essex Police would like to hear from you. There is an efit picture on their website— www.essex.police.uk She is in her 20s, slim with long brown hair and wearing glasses, she has an East European accent They obviously want to speak to her. If you saw anything or can identify her, please call 101 ref 42/21981/22.

Source: Essex Police

Tree planting commemorates Queen's Platinum Jubilee Epping Town Council has planted three oak trees on the Stonards Hill recreation ground to mark the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative to commemorate Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee.

The trees were planted in separate locations around the recreation ground - by Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Essex Hugh Pegrum, Town Mayor councillor Michael Wright and Freeman of Epping John Batchelor.

At each planting a speech was made.

"On behalf of the people of Epping, I plant this tree as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy to commemorate Her Majesty’s 70 years on the Throne.

"This tree will be marked on the commemorative map which will be sent to Buckingham Palace and a plaque will be placed to mark its planting.

"May this tree grow strong and healthy in her Majesty’s honour.”

Representatives from Ivy Chimneys Primary School helped plant the trees with the event also attended by local residents and representatives from the Rotary Club of Epping, St John’s Church, along with Epping town councillors and Epping Forest district councillors.

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Support for adults experiencing financial hardship Up to 3,900 of the county’s most vulnerable adults will be receiving letters in the coming days that include a £200 voucher from Essex County Council (ECC) to help with energy costs and food.

This is a new voucher scheme funded by ECC’s Household Support Fund (HSF), a fund set up with a one-off £9.4m grant from the Department for Work and Pensions in October 2021.

In November, the county council announced how this £9.4m would be allocated. This included allocations for free school meals during the holidays, support for rough sleepers and support for residents who need help with food and utility bills.

With the cost of living continuing to rise nationally, this new voucher scheme will allow those who may be struggling to use the vouchers to feed themselves and their families, and keep warm this winter.

The vouchers, which can be redeemed at any Post Office have been posted out recently to up to 3,900 adults in Essex, who have known care and support needs.

Information of what additional support is available can be found here: https://www.essex.gov.uk/money-debt-and-

County Council sets out its commitments to carers There are an estimated 150,000 unpaid carers in Essex who play a vital role in supporting people across the county to live independently within their own homes and communities.

Whilst rewarding, caring can also be demanding. Children, young people and adults can face many challenges. Maintaining school attendance, employment, social activities and friendships can be hard and that can impact carers’ own physical, emotional and financial wellbeing.

Essex County Council (ECC) has launched its proposed Essex Carers All Age Strategy 2022-26 Commitments. These commitments have been produced with carers themselves and the many voluntary and community sector organisations that support them They are now asking the many more carers across Essex their views about them.

Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, Cllr John Spence said: “Unpaid carers are heroes in our communities, often putting their lives on hold to support their loved ones. It can be a rewarding task but does not come without its challenges. We want to make sure we are there for these individuals and support them when they need it.”

ECC is reaching out directly to carers of all ages to engage on these commitments.

Communities in the county are also welcomed to have their say by taking part in the survey until 13th March 2022 at consultations.essex.gov.uk

Specialising in plastering, external rendering and K rend

If you require the survey in an alternative format, please contact essexcarers@essex.gov.uk.

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Essex & Herts Air Ambulance first in UK to add hybrid Volvo vehicles to its fleet As part of its commitment to make the very best choices for the environment and reduce its carbon impact, Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) has added two new plug-in hybrid vehicles to its fleet of rapid response vehicles (RRV).

The local life-saving charity is the first air ambulance in the UK to purchase the Volvo XC90 Recharge plug-in hybrid SUV for use as part of an emergency response fleet.

As well as providing pure electric driving producing zero tailpipe emissions, the new vehicles will give better results when measured against the traditional miles per gallon, thereby reducing fuel costs. The hybrids are powered by an electric motor and a combustion engine, which work together seamlessly to deliver optimal efficiency, reduced tailpipe emissions and a smooth, powerful drive. Overall performance is not affected in any way. Both RRVs are also fitted with a modern and innovative AI-powered telematics platform, which will further allow EHAAT to ensure optimum operational efficiency is maintained.

Wrapped with innovative and highly reflective branding, with the latest blue light system to enhance visibility and safety, the two new RRVs join the existing petrol Volvo XC90 response vehicles used by EHAAT, which were purchased in May 2018.

Scott McIlwaine, Head of Operations at EHAAT, has been leading on the acquisition process and said: “The rationale behind EHAAT’s decision to use Volvos follows the extensive market research and testing exercise we carried out in 2018 when we purchased the petrol XC90s. This ensured that the right vehicle was selected to meet the very specific demands needed for our fleet of emergency response vehicles.

“Volvo Car UK has a dedicated blue light team and continues to provide fantastic support and aftersales. This was certainly the case in recent months when they provided a spare car to assist with the transfer service during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The RRVs are crewed by a Pre-hospital Care Doctor and a Critical Care Paramedic and carry the same life-saving equipment as the helicopters. They are used before sunrise, after sunset or when the helicopter is unable to fly because of poor weather or maintenance. Overnight, the service is provided using an RRV based at EHAAT’s North Weald Airbase.

With quick and easy access to the new charging points that have been installed, the hybrid RRVs will now take up residence at their new homes. One will operate from EHAAT’s new airbase at North Weald, the other from Earls Colne, where they will serve the communities of Essex and Hertfordshire providing advanced life-saving prehospital care directly to the side of patients with a sudden life-threatening injury or medical emergency.

Over the coming year, EHAAT will be continuing to innovate when it intends to purchase two further SUVs, becoming the first air ambulance in the country running an RRV fleet that comprises entirely of Volvo plug-in hybrids.

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Storm Eunice Arrived On Friday 18th February, a red weather warning was issued for the Essex area. It was forecast to arrive between 12— 3pm. A red warning means a danger to life, falling debris, travel when necessary etc.

Many local people heeded the warning, the roads, village and towns were quiet of both traffic and pedestrians. Epping Forest District Council took the decision to close the car parks in Epping Forest.

Essex Police and Essex County Fire and Rescue Services were on hand.

The forecast was correct. Trees were destroyed and uprooted, garden fence panels were destroyed, gardens were destroyed.

In more serious cases, homes were damaged with falling trees damaging roofs and power supplies were lost.

Countrycare have spent time since the storm to evaluate their sites for damage.

Photos of larger trees that have been damaged in Roughtallys LNR. Source—Countrycare

Roughtalleys Wood Local Nature Reserve in North Weald has had some large trees come down or branches hanging up in other trees over some of the paths.

Until they can be cleared, they have had to block some paths through the woodland for visitors' safety.

They will aim to get these cleared as soon as they can be, but must ask visitors to be careful and not approach any of the areas we have blocked off with hazard tape.

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IMPORTANT Defibrillators Recently I understand defibrillators from both Thornwood and North Weald have been needed to help people who have become unwell whilst awaiting emergency services.

So to ensure all residents are aware of the location of our defibrillators, here are the details. Once you ring emergency services to inform them of someone needing emergency assistance, they will give you the code required to access the defibrillator looked in coded cabinets.

North Weald:- Outside the Methodist Church Hall.

Thornwood—Outside the Parish Hall.

Storm Eunice Continued Essex Police issued a reminder to residents to be aware of rogue traders!

Following Storm Eunice you may have roof tiles to fix or broken fence panels that need replacing and asked that residents be aware of anyone knocking on your door offering their services.

Their advice is to do your research before agreeing to anything and compare prices from different companies and to get written quotes with the company details on, rogue traders can be more expensive and sometimes increase the price after the work has been carried out.

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Don’t forget to visit the website www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Regular updates of news,

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Events etc.

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Nature Watch—Wildlife classroom at Lambourne End On our doorstep is a 54 acre site devoted to outdoor learning and development of young people – it is called the Lambourne End Outdoor Centre, and one of its many activities is to teach natural history to many who would otherwise not have the opportunity to study and appreciate wildlife. It is a practical, hands-on approach, giving people the opportunity to discover the natural world and learn about the animals and plants of the area.

Apart from classrooms and dormitory blocks to accommodate residential courses, the huge area is mainly undulating grassland dotted with bushes and many varieties of trees, including hornbeam, oak and ash. In spring and summer the site is a colourful display of wild flowers among which are red campion, willow herbs and cow parsley. There are also many animals on the site with rabbits, squirrels and small mammals in evidence throughout the year. On summer evenings as dusk approaches, several species of bats can be seen flying silently over the Centre.

There are two large ponds, one of which is specifically designed for ease of access for pond dipping. There is an abundance of aquatic fauna which include frogs, toads, newts (including great crested), fish and dragonflies and the familiar water boatmen and pond skaters. The variety of water plants includes reed mace, water plantain and yellow iris. Wildfowl, mainly coots, moorhen and mallard are frequent visitors to the ponds.

A small working farm is incorporated into the site with pigs, sheep, goats, chickens and ponies. These animals are often the centre of attention of young people who come to learn about animal husbandry as well as crop management, while other courses teach aspects of the natural environment and conservation. In addition to wildlife activities, programmes focus on personal development to build young people's confidence and sense of achievement through team building activities, outdoor pursuits and arts and crafts.

The work of the Centre aims to provide outdoor experiences for young people. These activities encourage young people to acquire new skills, build friendships and exchange views, so raising their self-esteem. In order to do this work the Centre relies on gifts, donations and the willing help of volunteers. Why not look them up at http://www.lambourne-end.org.uk/ From time to time the Centre opens its doors to the public. So you can see and experience for yourself the Centre’s facilities.

Why not introduce the children to archery, the ropes course, the underground tunnels and much more. The next Open Day is on Sunday 3rd April.

Keith Snow

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Closing the disadvantage gap for pupils in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic

possible, using and sharing innovation and best practice across the education system in Essex.

As part of this, it was announced in summer last year that Research undertaken by the Education Policy Institute highlights £1million would be invested into the Essex Year of Reading key areas of focus for Essex County Council, as progress contin- 2022, to help to reverse the effects of the pandemic and ensure ues to be made to close the disadvantage gap for pupils across that every child in Essex leaves school able to read at their age level or better. the county.

A new report has been published which tracks progress towards Being able to read well is key to children and young people – closing the disadvantage gap for Essex pupils whose education specifically those who are classed as more disadvantaged than has been negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. their peers – being able to unlock further educational opportunities, learn new skills and go onto thrive later in life.

The Essex Education Task Force (EETF) recently commissioned the Education Policy Institute (EPI) to look at trends ECC also recently launched its new Early Years and Childcare around the disadvantage gap across early years, Key Stage 2, strategy, which outlines the high aspirations and goals we have for every young child living in Essex and how we will ensure they Key Stage 4 and 16-19-year olds in Essex. get the best possible start in life.

They found that while attainment in Essex is broadly in line with the national average and there are in fact fewer disadvantaged Cllr Tony Ball, ECC Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, pupils in the county than nationally, the extent of disadvantage is Lifelong Learning and Employability, said: “We welcome the consistently wider across all areas, except early years. report and the chance to work with the Education Policy Institute to consider this important area in a new light. The evidence preThis is something ECC’s education service and the Essex Edu- sented demonstrates that the areas we are already addressing cation Task Force (EETF) are already addressing and EPI’s in Essex to reduce the disadvantage gap are the right ones. report follows an earlier publication: ‘Addressing Educational Disadvantage in schools and colleges: The Essex Way’. “We are making great progress but we also know there are areas where we can do things differently to improve how we support This outlines exactly what action is already being taken to re- children and young people. I look forward to continuing our work duce disadvantage and promote positive outcomes for all chil- and delivering on our commitment to ensure every child and dren and young people in Essex. young person can reach their full potential.”

The EETF was established last year to minimise the impact of The full EPI report is available here which includes the full rethe pandemic on all children and young people as quickly as sults, methodology and breakdown by area.

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Gardening Hints for March Well Marchiis finally here and spring is on its way. It’s a busy month in the gardening calender.

At the time of writing we have just endured three storms on the trot and the ground is extremely wet, don’t be tempted to try and dig or hoe as you can do damage by treading on it and ruining the structure of the soil. Hold off until the ground warms up and dries out a bit. Using cloches to warm up the soil is ideal at this time of year and will give a head start to early showings of vegetables.

March is the best month to prune roses back hard, cut back to 2 or 3 shoots from the ground preferably leaving outward facing shoots to avoid crisps crossing branches in the centre of the rose.

When the soil has dried a bit, get on your borders and cut back last years grown from all herbaceous perennials. This will allow light and air to the new shoots trying to push through, if in doubt call in the garden centre for help.

Top dress with well rotted manure all fruit brushes and trees or use chicken pellets with grow more or fish blood and bone.

Once the ground has dried a little and the soil is worked to a fine filth, you can sow lettuces, radishes, onions, leaks, early peas, spinach, broad beans, sprouts, cabbage and parsnips.

With crops like lettuce sow in small areas at 2 – 3 week intervals, this will give you a succession over a long period instead of all at once.

If you have any queries or you’re a beginner, please don’t hesitate to come into the garden centre and I will endeavour to help you, don’t forget we never stop learning even thn the most experienced gardeners still listen and pick up new tips and ideas.

It is very important to keep on top of the weeds as they begin to emerge this month. Get them young to protect them from seeding, it makes the rest of the years so much easier.

As always take time to enjoy your garden, sit back and relax with a drink of your choice and take in the sights and smells of spring emerging. Eventually it will warm up a bit and I will indulge in a nice beer. Cheers Nigel.

Source: Nigel, Art Garden Centre.

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PHOTO GALLERY This month we have a wonderful collection of local photos.

Please send in your photos to me at June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Photos: Jimmy Waters—sent in these two Cloudscapes

Photo: Terry Taylor—Amazing Flash the Robin

Photo: Wendy Nightingale—who was delighted at her garden visitors but her plants may suffer!

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The Queens Platinum Jubilee Weekend— I need your help.

We have a wonderful weekend ahead of us where hopefully we can do what we do best and get together as a community and celebrate.

I would love to have a celebration section of the June issue of North Weald Village Life. I would welcome any suggestions.

I am considering things such as:1.

Children’s competition—designing the front cover?

2.

Photos of past jubilee celebrations in the local area.

I would love to receive suggestions from you?

I also been asked my many readers if I know what is happening to celebrate locally. I wonder if it would be best to have a committee of local interested people to see what can be organised. I would be happy to lead and co-ordinate this.

If you have suggestions or comments, can you please let me have them by end of March initially and then we can work on them some more in time for the weekend.

After the last few years, come on lets work together and get our community back to celebrating and have something good to think off.

Citizens Advice: Help with Council Tax It is about this time of year that council tax bills arrive. They will be showing an increase over last year, like all the other increases in the cost of living. administered by Epping Forest District Council but that Council spends only about 10% of the money raised. The rest goes in what are called “precepts” to other authorities. The biggest chunk by far is for Essex County Council, and its biggest areas of spend are education and adult social care. Next comes the Police, Crime and Fire Commissioner, then the District Council.

They have all been hit by inflation and the County Council and the Police precepts are going up by between 4% and 5%. The parish council’s precept, which is the smallest, will go up by 3%.

monly, students. The discount will be 25% if there is only one adult counted as living in the property and 50% if everyone in the property is disregarded.

The first thing to consider is whether the house or flat might be exempt from council tax. This will typically be if it is unoccupied, because the resident is in hospital or a care home, or has gone to live elsewhere in order to be cared for, for instance by a daughter or son, or has died and the property is to be sold.

people who are struggling. You can apply to it online. Households on low incomes but not eligible for the £150 rebate may be able to get help from some extra funds that the government will be providing to councils.

There is a long list of exemptions and of disregarded occupants, some of them quite obscure.

If you are on a low income or benefits you may be entitled to local council tax support (sometimes called council tax reduction). If you are over pension age this can be a 100% reduction.

If you are below pension age you will always have to pay at least All houses and flats are in one of eight bands for council tax. 25% of the tax, no matter how low your income is. If you get Houses and flats in the lowest bands – A to D – will get a one-off housing benefit the Council will calculate this but if you are on rebate of £150 to bring their bill down.

Universal Credit you will have to apply for it.

Here are some other ideas for cutting the bill.

The District Council has an exceptional hardship fund to help

If a disabled person lives at the house or flat, and it needs to be bigger because of the person’s disability, the District Council can reduce your tax by putting the house or flat in the next council tax band down.

Then it is worth considering whether you are entitled to a discount. Council tax is based on the assumption that there are at least two adults living in the property as their sole or main residence. If there are fewer than two adults a discount will apply.

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You can always come to us at Citizens Advice if you want advice on how much council tax you should be paying or any other financial problems you may have. You can contact us on 0808 278 7855 between 9.30 and 2.30, Tuesday to Thursday. Calls are free.

We are also in person at the Hub at the Civic Offices in Epping every Thursday between 9.30 and 2.30 if you want to talk to someone face-to-face.

Source: Paul Stockton

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Popular St Clare Hospice 10k Race set to take place this April St Clare Hospice is once again staging its popular 10k road race, now in its 28th year, starting and finishing from the Hospice in Hastingwood, Harlow on Sunday 10th April.

The fundraising event for the local charity is open to all abilities. It is ideal for regular running club members looking to boost their training, as well as those who are new to running but looking for a challenge. Wheelchair racers are also welcome and have become an integral part of the event. The race is UK Athletics affiliated and chiptimed – so it offers the perfect opportunity to get a new PB for the 2022 race season. There are also trophies up for grabs in the following categories: male, female, seniors, juniors and wheelchair athletes and every participant will get a medal.

Last year, the St Clare 10k saw around 400 participants raise more than £11,000 for the Hospice – a target which St Clare is hoping to beat this year.

Event Organiser, St Clare Challenges and Events Fundraiser Dani De’ath said, “The atmosphere at this race is always great, and that’s because people know that every kilometre they cover, they are raising money for our nurses, doctors and care teams to put life into days of people living with a terminal illness. Entry is £13 for an affiliated racer and £15 for a nonaffiliated racer, and many people go that extra mile and raise sponsorship on top. Just £100 could pay for two patients to receive a 90 minute Hospice at Home visit from our nursing assistants.”

Sign up for the St Clare Hospice 10k here https://stclarehospice.org.uk/ event/st-clare-10k-april-2022/ and for more information please contact Challenges and Events Fundraiser Dani De’ath. Call on 01279 773738 or 07718257704 or email dani@stclarehospice.org.uk

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Darker Nights home security campaign Essex Police has launched a winter Darker Nights campaign giving advice on making your home more secure.

The Darker Nights campaign means you may see more police patrolling in your neighbourhood, particularly in the early evening.

Here are 5 suggested steps to make your home more secure:-

Be fraud smart Just because someone knows your personal information doesn’t mean they’re genuine.

Scammers are targeting people by pretending to be from your Bank, advising you that your account has been compromised. You are then told you need to transfer your money to a new account that has been set up whilst they investigate.

Don’t assume that a phone call, email or text is authentic. Ask yourself if it could be a scam.

It’s ok to say no and contact the organisation through a route you know to be genuine.

For more information and advice about fraud visit www.essex.police.uk/fraud

1. Lock all windows and doors Close and lock all windows and doors every time you leave the house or go to bed.

Make sure that the door is locked properly i.e. lift the handle, turn the key and then remove the key. Keep it somewhere safe and easy to access for you but out of sight from prying eyes.

2. Use your alarm If you have a burglar alarm switch it on even if just popping out for a moment, or zone off areas before going to bed.

3. Light it up Leave lights on timers or radios on in the rooms you use the most.

Try using external lighting which are activated by a dawn to dusk sensor. If burglars see your house has security lighting, they are less likely to approach for fear of being seen.

4. Secure your garden Secure your boundaries and ensure access to your back garden is not easily obtained and lock gates.

Keep sheds, your garage and other outbuildings locked securely, as they may contain valuable items or tools that may be used to break into your house.

5.Mark your property Use forensic marking or other property marking methods to identify your property and display any product signage / labels.

Keep a list of your property including serial numbers and photographs. This can be done in a paper version or on an online asset recording product. Make sure you include details such as identifying marks, value, and purchase date.

For more information, visit the Essex Police page—www.essex.police.uk/cp/crimePage 36

Tel: 07814 863955

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY AN EXCITING PROGRAMME FOR 2022 During March we shall be completing our essential maintenance activity and putting the finishing touches to our exciting operating programme for 2022, visit www.eorailway.co.uk for the latest details, including our Easter Egg Hunt and other children’s events.

We celebrate the 10th anniversary of the re-opening of our former London Underground line on 27 to 29th May. We expect this event to feature British Railways Standard 4 steam locomotive, 75069, making its first visit away from the Severn Valley Railway since 1994. Further visiting locomotives, including those from our home fleet will be announced in due course*.

BR Standard 4 locomotive courtesy of the Seven Valley Railway The event will also feature the launch of a new book ‘Epping Ongar Railway – The First Ten Years’, detailing the enormous amount of work carried out to establish the fully working heritage railway that we see today. In addition, the Penny Salon Gallery at Ongar Station will be displaying a photographic exhibition showcasing the Epping Ongar Railway entitled ‘10 Years of Progress’.

On 23 to 24th April, we will be featuring our regular Spring Diesel Gala. This will include our home fleet of 03170, 20001, 31438, 37029 and 47635, together with Class 117/121 Diesel Multiple Unit. Visiting locomotives will be announced as soon as possible*.

As usual we will be running a 3-train intensive service throughout the weekend with late running Real Ale Trains on the Saturday.

All trains will be running in conjunction with our fleet of heritage buses, which will operate between Ongar, North Weald, Epping Underground and Shenfield National Rail stations.

For those who would like to see the line from the unique vantage point of a loco cab, we will be offering our popular Cab rides; we also plan to offer Brake Van rides, an additional fare of £5 per trip applies to both activities. Cab rides and Brake Van trips will be offered on a first come first served basis. These can't be pre-booked, simply speak to the crew on the day to reserve your place.

Why not come along and volunteer on the Railway to help us operate these events? We have opportunities available in all departments, including permanent way, buildings and infrastructure maintenance, steam and diesel locomotive operation and maintenance, carriage & wagon restoration, together with numerous customer facing roles on operating days.

You can obtain further information by emailing: volunteering@eorailway.co.uk or if you are ready to join go to: www.eorailway.co.uk/membership/ where you will find the membership application form at the top of the page under ‘Join the Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society’.

If you would like to receive a complimentary copy of our quarterly magazine Mixed Traffic please send your postal address to: mixedtraffic@eorailway.co.uk *All locomotives subject to availability.

Robert Good Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

LETTER

Dear Editor,

I would like to alert residents to the enormous risk of shopping at Epping Tesco and parking your car there.

The risk I refer to is the company who own the car park and will send you a fine even if you have validated your parking ticket in the store.

Of course the machines are not always working but you don’t get to find that out until you leave the store.

I had a £70 fine for 25th January 2022. I had shopped 8 times at the store between 1st January—1st February. I validate my ticket every time, even if am only 30 minutes or less.

The fine is more than what I spent that day and I could not have gone over the allowed parking time to spend £57. Also I went early and only went to the Tesco store and left as soon as possible— nicer places to be.

As a pension, Tesco Epping has been useful to me but I will take my custom elsewhere now.

Shame on the parking company. I am insulted. If they are going to do this to a lot of people, it’s easy money for them.

There are a lot of complaints on Facebook.

Sincerely Mrs Jones

Man died in Harlow Essex Police are now in a position to release the identity of a man who recently died in Harlow.

They had been called to reports of a man injured inside an address in Ryecroft at around 2.20am on Saturday 12th February.

Editor’s comment: I have read reports of a few people who have experienced similar fines. I have also heard that even if you have not kept your car park ticket issued at the time of shopping, if you go to customer services with proof of purchase ie., shopping receipt or bank statement, then the fine has been dealt with but I cannot confirm if this has happened only in a minority of cases.

I use this store regularly too and as yet have not experienced such issue but thank Mrs Jones for the warning.

Sadly, despite the best efforts of paramedics he later died.

Essex Police is now in a position to name him as 57 year-old Paul Searing.

A 51 year-old woman has been charged with Paul’s murder.

Rebecca Searing, of Ryecroft, Harlow, is next due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on 8 April.

Source: Essex Police

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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Spring Season Well finally the days do seem to start getting longer, With that thirst for a long hot summer seems to be getting stronger.

To finally to get to put the chaos of the last two years behind us, Must surely be a good thing, although there will always be things to remind us.

Though to be able to create some kind of a normality, Would no doubt be so good, despite being in our now new reality.

Being able to look forward to a holiday ,whether in this country or beyond, Travelling with family or a group of friends, creating those memories that bond.

We as a species are naturally designed to socialise, So to have that taken away, causing so much depression and sadness was no surprise.

But that was then and this is now so its down to each one of us, To reach out to others and form new bonds of which we can all learn to trust.

Maybe the pandemic was a chance for us all to wipe the slate clean, A time to now pick ourselves up and to have the courage to aim for that dream.

Hopefully a dream in which all people learn to get along, no matter from where the came, Building a new and better future in a world that’s made up of friends playing together in life’s game.

I know that reality would sadly never be one that could exist, Due to human’s nature of greed, power and drive to be top of the list.

Still I can dream and hope that other dreamers like me will one day be the voice of reason, Though until then I feel happy and blessed to be able to wake up and enjoy the glory of a spring season.

Source: Andy—resident poet.

•

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•

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•

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•

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BIRD FEATURE - MARCH 2022 Here are some jottings regarding wildlife in our area for the month of March. Very strong winds and flooding represent a dangerous double act for wildlife and some early tree nesters (Rooks are an obvious example) will have been badly hit by falling trees and large branches. For many birds just flying around to find food can be nigh on impossible in gale force winds.

March is almost upon us and this is a month that can often bring us a spell of warmish, bright weather. The main breeding season is getting well under way and many species will be busy establishing territories and seeking mates, most obviously by singing and by some display flights. Most of our familiar species sing from exposed vantage points - birds such as Blackbirds, Robins, Dunnock and Song Thrush will belt out their tunes from atop bushes or trees. Starlings can be obvious as they perch on chimney pots, TV aerials etc and their song can be surprisingly intricate and musical. This species is in fact related to Myna birds so their ability to replicate all manner of sounds should not be a surprise. A male Starling in good breeding plumage can actually be a stunning bird, if seen well you can notice the heavy streaking and an obvious sheen. A familiar bird that we don't always give a second glance.

One bird that is always a welcome audio treat is of course the Skylark. Already on some settled late winter days I have seen & heard Skylarks performing their display flights and songs, rising up over fields and rough grass areas with much enthusiasm. Indeed on occasions they are easier to spot in duller skies than on sunnier spring days as they can be seen against the backdrop of clouds rather than lost in the glare of the sun. This is a species that has suffered a massive loss in numbers nationally, largely due to habitat loss, but that can be very much in evidence across broad swathes of our local countryside with some pairs located very close to residential areas. It would be a sad day indeed if we were ever to totally lose this bird from the North Weald area but thankfully there are signs that Skylarks are holding on in these parts.

There is still limited leaf cover on trees and bushes and as I say there will be many birds singing away from more obvious perches.

With the added demands of nest building we should be seeing many birds coming and going, focused on their primary instinct - breed, breed, breed. Of course there will be some birds that have survived previous winters into adulthood and they may well have raised chicks in previous years. But equally there will be birds that were born last year who will be raising their first ever broods this year - and there is no guarantee of success. Every year predation, poor weather, lack of food and even just plain accidents (birds fly into windows, get hit by cars, damage wings landing awkwardly etc) will take their toll on birds and any birds weakened by the stresses of winter will not be up to the task of negotiating the breeding season.

Although of course the adult birds will be severely challenged by the demands of successive breeding attempts and some individuals will be so badly weakened that they will not survive themselves. The reality of 'survival of the fittest' imposes a constant threat to the prospects of every individual bird, mammal, insect etc and we only ever get to see the absolutely tiniest percentage of these minute by minute struggles.

We still have winter thrushes frequenting the area. Since last autumn there have been days when a handful of Fieldfares & Redwings have been in evidence but then interspersed with days when there have been large flocks to be seen, either flying overhead or foraging in large fields or in clusters of berry laden bushes. On one or two occasions I have seen upwards of 200 winter thrushes but numbers will be diminishing rapidly. Their migration is another example of the aforementioned survival of the fittest - to get to their breeding grounds will involve a return flight over the North Sea. Once they set off from the east coast they are at the mercy of the weather and if the winds turn against them then many individual birds will be doomed, just not quite strong enough to complete the journey. Countless birds worldwide drop into the seas every year, their demise unseen by humans. But of course enough always make it through to keep the cycle of breeding and migration going. Just as enough Swallows, Swifts etc will be coming to us in the forthcoming weeks to spend the summer breeding in the UK. If you notice birds nesting in your garden or when you are out and about then the most important thing is not to disturb them.

Decades ago many a small boy went out looking for bird nests, sometimes to take an egg or two but often just to take a look. Of course any disturbance can cause the adult birds to abandon the nest, leaving eggs or nestlings to their fate. Alternatively human disturbance can give the presence of the nest away to predators - either by unwittingly exposing the nest or by the alarm calls of the parents alerting predators such as Magpies to the likely presence of eggs or chicks. Every nest should have a 'Do not disturb' sign erected close by. One of the joys of having an occupied nest box in your garden is that you can ultimately see the emergence of fledglings and what is not to like about watching baby Blue Tits or Great Tits flitting about your garden.

Occasionally fledglings will appear on lawns or under bushes. The expert advice is to leave such birds alone, normally the adult bird will be close by and the young birds will tend to instinctively seek shelter in undergrowth. But if a cat or other predator is seen to be going after the bird then it is hard not to intervene. Should you ever find yourself in a situation where you have to 'rescue' a baby bird (or indeed an injured adult bird) then probably the best thing to do is to go online for advice and contact details of any organisations that could potentially take the bird off your hands. But often the best course of action is to leave the bird, even birds that have flown into a window can recover in due course and fly away when ready.

Feeding the birds during the spring can help provide much needed additional nutrition for the adult birds. However depending on the species most nestlings will require insects, spiders, beetles and worms etc to fulfil their nutritional needs. Peanuts should be avoided at this time of year because if natural foods are scarce then adult birds may well feed their chicks food that they source from garden feeders - and peanuts can choke very young nestlings. Clean, fresh water is an essential requirement throughout the year and a reliable source in your garden can make things just that little bit easier for the adult birds.

So during March there really should be plenty to see out and about. You will not be able to miss the singing birds and there is the added bonus that during March we haven't quite reached the stage of the coo-coo of Collared Dove & Woodpigeon at half four in the morning. By the end of the month we should be noticing Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers plus the rich song of Blackcaps as these 3 Warbler species return to the UK from wintering grounds well south of here. A small number of Blackcaps and increasingly Chiffchaffs are overwintering in the UK but the vast majority of those we see will have migrated here from probably 2 or 3 thousand miles away. Very impressive for such tiny bundles of feathers - it is that 'survival of the fittest' again.

Page 41

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Advertiser Directory Aerials & Satellites T J Aerials & Satellites

Hairdressing 8

Beauty Nails Couture

24

29

Aran’s Barber

37

Garden Centre/Gardening

Café & Restaurants The Mess Hall Diner

Hair by Jasmine

34

Car MOT, Servicing & Tyres

Art Nursery Garden Centre

28

Ernest Doe

9

Glazing

APM Tyres

15

Home Glazing Repair

4

Kings Head Garage

15

Nu Trade

14

Matts Motorz

19

Kennels & Catteries

Carpets & Flooring

London & Essex Kents Farm

Little Carpet Co

2

LJK Flooring Services Ltd

19

5

Online Shopping Local Bodyshop —Sparkle & Shine

Cleaning

15

Painting & Decorating

Boss Cleaning Services

16

Maid in Essex

27

Jim’ll Paint It

11

Steve’s Window Cleaning

10

LVM Painting & Decorating

38

S I Painters & Decorators

13

Computer Services Andrews Computers

Plastering

17

G F Plastering

Council North Weald Bassett Parish Council

22, 35. 38

Electricians Turner & Sons

12

Estate & Letting Agents Montagues

21

Plumbing & Heating N Monk

10

Pikes Plumbing & Heating

16

Robert Rayment

24

Property Services

44

Events

Garolla Roller Shutter Doors

8

Mini Shooters

20, 26

KLF Property Services

36

Village Hall

32

Handy Andy

39

Bassett Building

17

Fitness J D Fitness

4

Residential Home

Yoga Swan

7

Abbeyfield Cunningham House

21

Home Instead

30

Funeral Services Daniel Robinson & Sons

11

Stuart Poulton Ltd

24

Furniture RSL Interiors—Kitchens & bedrooms

39

CJA Upholstery

33

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Tel: 07814 863955

Roofing R J S Roofing

12

Tree & Garden Maintenance GTF Tree Care Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

23 www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Essential Local Numbers The Alzheimer Society

01992 717676

North Weald Chemist

01992 523887

Cats Protection

0333 200 1484

North Weald Methodist Hall

01992 522143

Citizens Advice Bureau

0808 278 7855

North Weald Library

033301 32683

Crimestoppers

0800 555111

North Weald Village Hall Bookings

01992 523731 www.northwealdvillagehall.org/

Doctors High Street, Epping

01992 579270

North Weald Parish Council

07572 507591

Doctors The Limes, Epping (visits/emergencies)

01992 566500

Queens Community Hall Bookings

07522 473024

Doctors The Limes, Epping (appointments)

01992 573838

NHS Urgent help & advice

111

Doctors The Limes, North Weald 01992 524383

Essex Police

0300 333 4444

Epping Forest District Council

01992 564000

Police, Neighbourhood/local

101

Epping Town Council

01992 579444

Police, Emergency

999

EFDC & ECC Cllr Chris White-

01992 573557

Police Online reporting

www.essex.police.uk/doitonline

MP Alex Burghart

0207 2191613

RSPCA

01279 306058

Samaritans 24 Hours a day

116 123

Stuart Poulton

01992 522607

24 Hour

01992 572607

alex.burghart.mp@ parliament.uk

MP Mrs Eleanor Laing MP

020 8508 8608

MP For Thornwood

Eleanor.Laing.mp@parliament.uk

Hospital, St Margarets, Epping

01992 561666

Hospital, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow

01279 444455

St Andrews Church

01992 577168

London & Essex Boarding Kennels & Cattery (Kents Farm)

01992 522183

St Andrews Primary School

01992 522283

North Weald Airfield

01992 564200

Traveline

0870 6082608

LOCAL CLUB DIRECTORY 3rd North Weald Beavers

North Weald Bantham & Ongar Bowls

Queens Hall Charity

Tel: 01992 524672

01992 571535

Tel: 522910

British Legion, North Weald Branch

North Weald Cricket Club

Rapier Cycling Club

Tel: 01992 614415

Northweald.play-cricket.com

Tel: 524631

Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer

North Weald Scouts Group

Taoist Tai Chi Society

Tel: 01277 365200

01992 524672

Tel: 01992 523854/07803243625

Harlow Badger Group

North Weald Seniors Society for over 70’s

Theydon Jazz Club

Tel: 07941 185171 Friends Force Hertfordshire/Essex

Tel: 522196

Thornwood Seniors

Tel: 522464

Tel: 577872

Epping Forest Rotary Club

North Weald Wireless Station Bowls Club

Tel: 07855 911323

Tel: 522803

Forest Highlanders Pipes & Drum

North Weald Women’s Institute (Afternoon)

Tel: 01279 415563 www.3valleymvc.org.uk

Tel: 01708 250820

Tel: 522700

West Essex Flower Club

North Weald Angling Club

Queens Hall Bowls Club

Tel: 524631

Tel: 01992 522303

Tel: 523375 or 522052

Page 43 Tel: 07814 863955 www.nwdas.co,uk

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

01945 588325/davedyer24@gmail.com

Three Valleys Male Voice Choir

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Page 44

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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk