North Weald Village Life Strengthening the Community
FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine Issue: 171 November 2020 Page
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High Alert We are in November—aren't we? I must admit I seem to be constantly in a confused state. I never know the day, date or month at the moment. November seems to have appeared without any forewarning. Having said that, the leaves are falling everywhere, any leaves left on the tree are all the shades of Autumnal orange and yellow. The clocks have gone back so the evenings get dark earlier. I am still out and about without a coat on and not feeling cold although have got caught out in the rain sometimes. I will try not to be too gloom and doom but I have to admit our move to Tier 2—High has got me down, it kicked the stuffing out of me to be honest. I understand the reasoning behind it but I can’t say I support it. My justification is that the government must have strict guidelines justified by clinical statistics as to the level of cases per number of residents in order to justify the correct tier. However for some reason we seem to have decided that we (Essex) don’t want to be treated as the rest of the country and instead we want to volunteer to go into the next tier and put ourselves on extra alert when other areas of the country have more cases then us and they remain in the medium category. I have heard time and time again how bad Essex is that we are in Tier 2 and very little people understand that this was somewhat voluntary. I understand cases were increasing but I just feel we have to do so much more than other areas and they have more cases than us. Still moan other—there is nothing I can do and moaning wont help. I completely agree that we need to support our NHS and frontline staff though. Another moan, you can’t stop me now is the roadworks and lights in Epping. I know this can’t be helped but with the closure of Woodside too it is awful to get in and out of the village. On a different note and I can’t believe I am talking of Christmas already, but so many people are talking about putting up their Christmas decorations early—even now—just to bring a bit of happiness and sparkle into their every day life. Usually I am happy to put them up about the middle of December but I have even agreed to put our decorations up at the beginning of December. Please everybody take care. Look after yourselves. If you need any help, our volunteer group are still available to help. So I f you are isolating or vulnerable or need help in anyway please get in touch, you can find details in the magazine. Please stay safe. I promise I will be smiling if you see me around the village. JUNE Editor Page 3
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Cover photo: Chosen as it ga
Contents October Issue Page No.
4. Brain Teaser 5. Citizen of the Year 6. Planning applications 7. Events 11. Essex High Alert 13. North Weald Volunteers still here to help 16. Support rough sleepers. 16. & 17. Photos of the month 21. Remembrance Sunday 23. Letter to the Editor 24. Light up a life 27. Gardening column 29. Citizen advice 31. Poem 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 deadline is 5th of each month.
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.
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NOVEMBER BRAIN TEASER —Win a bottle of wine • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Fireworks Sparklers Bonfire Marshmallow Rockets Awsome Children Pets Darkness Illumination Coats Gloves Safety Garden Matches Distance
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Thank you to S. Smith who won last month’s brain teaser. Just search and find the words, ring them and then send your completed wordsearch to me by 15th November. Please send it to:- November 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 and address.
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Nomination your local hero for a Civic Awards 2021 Nominations for our Civic Awards 2021 will be a little different this year as we focus on local heroes in our community during the Covid-19 pandemic. Epping Forest District Council’s Covid-19 Recognition Civic Awards aim to acknowledge people who have made a significant contribution to the welfare of others during these exceptional times. This could be an NHS worker, friend, neighbour, local community group or even the business up the road. If you know someone who has gone the extra mile to offer support in their community since Covid Struck in March, please nominate them for Citizen of the Year or Volunteer Team of the Year. The only criteria is that they must be over 18 years of age and must live or have made a significant contribution to the district. If you want to nominate someone, you can do this at www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/community/citizen-of-the-year/ Closing date for entries is Friday 27th November.
Community Allotment Garden Clearance work on the Community Allotment Garden on 'Charlie's Garden' at Thornwood is underway with the parish council having received funding totaling £1,600 from the now defunct Thornwood Residents Association.
Support payment for workers required to self-isolate Workers on low incomes who are required to self-isolate can now claim a £500 Test and Trace support payment. If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive and told by NHS Test and Trace to self-isolate, you may be entitled to a one-off payment of £500 during your self-isolation period. If you do not self-isolate, there is a fine of £1,000, but this could increase to up to £10,000 for repeat offences and serious breaches, including if you prevent others from selfisolating. The Test and Trace Support Payment scheme runs until 31st January 2021.
Community initiatives for North Weald North Weald Bassett Parish Council has earmarked £500 to a fund to help launch community initiatives including regular community litter picks involving children and parents in the local community, including some from St Andrew's Primary School. The money will be available to be spent on items including litter pickers and hi-vis jackets. Councillor Carmela Coop-Rodia told councillors about other community initiatives that had been discussed including a Remembrance Sunday ‘Soldier; Pictures for Windows' idea and a Santa Dash walk around the parishes. Page 5
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Planning Applications Application No: EPF/2074/20 Officer: Caroline Brown Applicant Name: Mr Ray Walker Planning File No: 018151 Location: Upway, Harlow Common, Hastingwood Harlow CM17 9NE Proposal: Proposed first and second floor loft conversion with front and rear dormer windows. Application No: EPF/2148/20 Officer: Zara Seelig Applicant Name: Mr & Mrs D Sibley Planning File No: 030804 Location: 55 Beamish Close, North Weald Bassett, Epping CM16 6JW Proposal: Two storey rear extension. Any representations on applications should be made in writing, by Monday, 9th November 2020 Application No: EPF/2240/20 Officer: Alastair Prince Applicant Name: Mr & Mrs Phillips Phillips Planning File No: 030567 Location: 33 Princes Close, North Weald Bassett, Epping CM16 6EW Proposal: Two storey side extension, single storey front extension & loft conversion with rear dormer Application No: EPF/2250/20 Officer: Francis Saayeng Applicant Name: RGray Planning File No: 012628 Location: Orchard House, Hastingwood Road Hastingwood Harlow CM17 9JT Proposal: Reinstatement of previous farm vehicle access to access dwelling granted under EPF/0528/16 Any representations on applications should be made in writing, by Monday, 16h November 2020
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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 E: appcomment@eppingforestd c.gov.uk
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Remembrance Sunday 8th November 2020 Don’t forget to buy your poppy
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Mobile: 07885 871508 www.nmonkplumbingandheating.co.uk
Coronavirus vaccine research – do you want to take part? As many of us know a vaccine has been reported that it is a one of the most effective ways to prevent infections like coronavirus (COVID-19). Researchers need people to take part in their studies so they can find out which possible new vaccine works best. Would you like to be part of this research, if so you can sign upto ve part of this research by joining the COVID-19 vaccine registry.
You can sign up online. You will have to answer some questions about yourself, and then consent for researchers on the vaccine studies to contact you. If you sign up, your details will be kept secure. They'll only be shared with researchers who think you might be suitable for a study they're working on. The researchers will then contact you to tell you more about it, and answer any questions you have. If you sign up to be contacted, you do not have to take part in a study or talk to researchers. It's your choice. You can withdraw your permission at any time. You can find out more by visiting www.nhs.uk/sign-up-tobe-contacted-for-research. All volunteers are needed, young, old, male and female.
Wish somebody a happy birthday, or announce a birth, death, marriage, or special anniversary Just send these to me via email - June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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Essex moves to high COVID alert level The Government confirmed that Essex would be moved to the high COVID alert level at midnight on Friday 16 October, after being asked to do this by local Vouncil leaders. Cllr David Finch, Leader of Essex County Council saidd:‘We welcome the government’s announcement today regarding Essex moving to the high COVID alert level, which is clear recognition of the severity of the situation we find ourselves in as a county, and indeed across many parts of the country. We think the government has decided correctly and been guided by the science. The fact is that the number of cases in Essex is rising exponentially.
We understand that the move to the high COVID alert level may affect people’s lives and businesses and we understand the very strong feelings about this. However, we have a duty of care to the people of Essex, and we firmly believe that this is the best route to minimise disruptions, to save lives – not just for those with the virus, but for other patients as well – and to protect businesses.” Councillor Chris Whitbread, Leader of Epping Forest District Council said: “These are tough times for everyone. Now, as never before, we need to pull together and support each other as a community. Working through this together, we will get the virus back under control and get back on with our lives.” “The basic weapons in the war against Covid have not changed – follow the Hands, Face, Space advice. Wash your hands frequently, cover your face as much as you can, especially in public places, and try to maintain your distance.” “On top of that, try to minimise your travel. Work from home if you can. Try to walk or cycle where possible. Use public transport at less busy times when passengers can spread out. Continue to support our local high streets. Use our local shops but follow the precautions. If we all do this as well as the new ‘high’ level restrictions, we will protect each other, the growth of the virus will slow and ultimately less people will be admitted to our hospitals.” “It’s up to all of us, help each other, protect our loved-ones and defeat this virus.” This means that we must now follow these rules:-
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No household mixing indoors – this includes at home or in hospitality venues
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Different households can meet outdoors in public spaces but must stick to the ‘Rule of 6’
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10pm curfews will remain in place for all pubs and restaurants
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Remember hands, face and space
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Reduce travel where you can
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Epping Ongar Lights up the rails this Christmas The Epping Ongar Railway has taken a bold step of putting on a dazzling light show on the rails for this winter. The innovative show which blends lights and music and lineside displays and a couple of other surprises was created especially for the Railway by Andrew Pooley of AJP Creative. Dean Walton, General Manager said, “This year has been a truly awful one, with our Epping Ongar Light Fantastic we hope to bring some of the joy we have all missed. This exciting train will put North Weald on the map!”
Services will run on a number of evenings hauled by steam and diesel from 20th November. Tickets are priced at £20 a head sold in bundles of 2, 4 or 6. Sales of similar services have sold out elsewhere in the country. Dean Walton continued, “More than ever the Railway relies on the income from events like these to pay for the maintenance of the bridges, locomotives, carriages and stations in addition to the restoration work undertaken by the loyal team of volunteers. Coming to this event means you are directly supporting our band of hard-working volunteers.”
North Weald Volunteers—Still Here to help As many of you know, we set up a voluntary group right at the start of the pandemic, to help local people during COVID-19. Tom, Natalie, Kate, Will, Tracey, Rachel and myself coordinated the group with fantastic support from local volunteers and helped many local people and have continued to provide this support and will continue to do so. We are a group of local people who do not want anyone to feel alone, need help and not know where to turn, who may just need something simple or complicated. We will do our best and you can call us or email us. Everything is confidential. If we can’t help we will find someone who can. We don’t judge, there is nothing to judge. We are in unknown times all facing strange challenges – the very least we can do is care for each other. That’s what living in a village is all about, I know if I needed help I would not hesitate to ask and I hope you don’t. Just email us at hello@northwealdvillagelife.co.UK or call us on any of the numbers below:June 07814 863955 Natalie 07795 246488 Kate 07951 484805 Rev. Tom 07753 231723 Will 07581 746052 Tracey 07868 846097
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Local palliative care doctor opens up about working during Covid-19
those patients, explaining to people that we have to limit visitation, was so tough.
South Woodford resident, Dr Jonathan Riordan, 33, shares his experiences of delivering palliative care during a pandemic as part of Hospice Care Week.
“Seeing how skilful and compassionate the nurses can be in such sad and difficult circumstances was a real privilege and it made me very proud to be working here. We were all tired, stressed, anxious and frustrated - but seeing how people just got their heads down and delivered outstanding care was a real privilege to see.”
Palliative care consultant Dr Jonathan Riordan, from St Clare Hospice, has spoken and written about the impact the pandemic has had on delivering end of life care in Essex in a blog and vlog that was released as part of Hospice Care Week.
Dr Riordan is in his first year of working at the Hospice, in his first consultant role, and what a year it’s been! At the peak of the pandemic, Jonathan worked 24 days out of 26 days. “That was really tiring and felt relentless,” explained Jonathan. “I’d never experienced anything remotely like this in my working career And now that the case numbers are rising again, Dr Riordan is confident that we will all cope with difficulties that lie ahead. before. The pandemic has definitely taken its toll at times. “Throughout the pandemic, people have shown amazing acts of Dr Riordan explained what a challenge it had been delivering sacrifice and selflessness and I’m sure that will continue. It’s outstanding palliative care whilst wearing Personal Protective incredibly important to show how resilient as a community we Equipment (PPE), “PPE has been a much bigger barrier than I can be, and continue to take heart in being kind to each other. thought it would be; I didn’t realise how much a smile helps to “At St Clare Hospice, we know that it’s not going to be an easy put patients at ease. few months coming up. But one of the advantages of staying “All in all, it’s been a tough few months and a steep learning open as an Inpatient Unit is that we now have this wealth of curve for my first nine months as a consultant but I’ve taken a lot experience going forward. So for us, the second time around, of positives away from the situation as well. One of the high- the difference is that we have things in place already, rather lights for me has been that I spent so much time on the Inpatient than creating new ways of working and guidance for staff, whilst Unit that I got to see other people’s roles more closely. It gave delivering patient care. me a chance to witness up close some of the care that our patients were getting – for example we had a lot of young patients To read Dr Riordan’s full blog, visit: https:// at the time, with big families in some cases, and looking after stclarehospice.org.uk/news_posts/caring-through-covidpalliative-care-consultant/
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Airfield HGV Brexit checkpoint could be "disaster" for local roads
do they (the lorry drivers) know not to turn up if they are at the 53 number?
"If they get turned away at the gate where do they park? "We The proposed HGV customs checkpoint on North Weald airfield could have HGVs scattered all over the place. How do they concould spell disaster for local roads and the village, the parish trol this 53 number and the lorries don't run amok." council fears. The council will ask HMRC for its traffic impact survey and deOne councillor has predicted the round-the-clock inland border tails of the signage proposed. facility could be "a bit of a disaster for the local area - a 24-hour Lorries will travel to the site via the M11 and junction 7 and the truck fest". A414, or from the A12 at Chelmsford via the A414 (across the HMRC has revealed its full proposals for the facility which is set Four Wantz roundabout, Ongar) with vehicles entering the airto be able to handle a maximum of 53 lorries at any one time. field off Rayley Lane and leaving via Merlin Way. At a recent parish council meeting was told the checkpoint About 60 full-time staff, working in shifts, are expected to be on which could become operational on January 1st - will be checksite with parking and welfare facilities provided. The site will ing drivers' paperwork and the security of the vehicles which operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. could be entering or leaving the country, with each check taking A leaflet published by the HMRC, which has been delivered to about two hours. some 1,500 households in the area, states: "The legislation Councillors are especially concerned about how the number of specifies that the facilities will cease operation prior to DecemHGVs will be monitored, with the prospect of many vehicles ber 31, 2025, although based on current planning the North waiting on nearby roads before they access the site. Weald site is only expected to be needed for up to two Parish council chairman Alan Buckley said: "This will be a 24years." :Local people were invited to provide their comments hour operation and a maximum of 53 HGVs on the site at any before 29th October. one time. That could be a rolling number all the way through The parish council will also raise its concerns with Epping For(the 24 hours). est District Council leader Chris Whitbread. "You could have literally hundreds (of lorries) but they think 53 would be an optimum number.
"My main concern is because there is no overnight parking how
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Supporting rough sleepers in the district Epping Forest District Council have successfully bid for a share of Government funding to ensure rough sleepers, temporarily housed, are not left to return to the streets and have somewhere to move onto. The funding is also planned to be used to secure additional accommodation for anyone who finds themselves rough sleeping over the coming winter months. The Next Steps Accommodation Programme helps secure more permanent solutions and supports efforts to avoid them returning to sleeping rough.
Although we don’t have many sleeping rough, it is important that steps are taken to help anyone sleeping rough especially during winter and of course during the pandemic. This initiative also plans for longer term solutions. Holly Whitbread, has also confirmed that they will also be signposted to other agencies where support may be required for such things as substance misuse and/or physical/mental health issues.
North Weald Parish Garden Maintenance Funding Monthly maintenance work, including the cutting back of overgrown bushes, is being carried out on the parish council garden in front of the parade of shops in High Road, North Weald. North Weald Bassett Parish Council has agreed to spend £70 on initial work and an ongoing spend of approximately £50 a month. The council has attracted five or six local businesses who pay an annual sum to 'sponsor' the area helping to meet the maintenance cost and cost of new plants. The garden has been a focal point outside the shops for four years.
Violin for Sale Needs little work done Suitable for 10/11 year old.
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Would like £10 for it. 01992522803. North Weald
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North Weald Cricket Club End Season with Three Successive Sunday Victories North Weald travelled to Dunmow on 13th September in search of their first Sunday win of the season. The home side won the toss on a sunny afternoon and put North Weald in to bat. Vince Curren scored 71, anchoring the North Weald innings of 191/7. He was assisted by cameo innings from Chris Rawlings and Leigh Ginn who scored 26 and 28 respectively. Dunmow looked like they were going to make light work of the run chase, reaching 40 for no wicket in the 5th over, but their innings faltered, losing wickets at regular intervals before being bowled out for 113, handing North Weald a long awaited Sunday win. This was followed up by another away victory over local rivals Matching Green. After North Weald posted a below par 150/7 from 35 overs, Matching Green were well set in the run chase at 86/4 after 15 overs, but 3 wickets from Bob Wood helped reduce the home side to 105/9. A last wicket stand of 39 took Matching Green to the brink of victory, before Vince Curren held his nerve to hold a crucial final catch in the setting sun to secure a 6 run victory for North Weald. North Weald’s final match of the season was a visit to North Enfield on a chilly afternoon at the end of September. A watchful opening stand by Ross Haworth and Vince Curren on a tricky surface was followed by a quick-fire 31 from James Ward which helped North Weald score a reasonable 154/3 in 35 overs. This proved to be too much for North Enfield, finishing their innings 15 runs short as North Weald wrapped up a truncated season on a high note.
PHOTO GALLERY— Your photos This month we feature some wonderful photos of our wonderful area taken by local people. Please share your photos by emailing them to me June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk This photo was taken by Toby Anscombe. Do you recognise where this was taken? It is in fact the path that runs along the back of St Andrews Primary School.
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These photo was taken by Stewart Kirby after one of our recent rainfalls in October. It looks almost magical.
These fungi focused photos were taken locally by Debbie Bryan.
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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.
Council repeats opposition to Stonards Hill apartments plan Epping Town Council has repeated its opposition to plans for a block of seven apartments on the site of an existing house in Stonards Hill, Epping. A planning application has been submitted to Epping Forest District Council to demolish the house at 1 Stonards Hill and replace it with a building housing seven twobedroom apartments. Town council planning officer Geraldine Vallis told Tuesday's planning and general purposes committee the revised application included a reduction in the number of parking spaces from nine to seven. Councillor Barbara Scruton said: "We have, in the past, said we don't really want to lose family homes with blocks of flats." Councillor Mari-Louise Whitbread said: "It still looks very big. It's attractive but overbearing on the road." Committee chairman Nigel Avey highlighted concerns over the reduction in parking and the impact the development would have on the neighbouring property. Deputy Mayor Michael Wright said: "I don't think they have addressed any of our concerns (raised at the time of the previous application). It's in the wrong place. "They have reduced the parking from nine (spaces to seven). People will probably park in Stonards Hill. I think we should object very strongly." Page 19
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Time to think of a Brighter 2021 Thornwood Village Open Gardens Even though times are unusual and plans are constantly on the move, four local people have turned their thoughts to the Thornwood Village Open Gardens 2021. Last year they were able to send over £5000 to St Clare Hospice thanks to the support and generosity of Thornwood residents and their friends. So… If you, or any of your friends/ neighbours would like to be part of Thornwood Village Open Gardens 2021, they would be delighted to hear from you. At the moment, the plans are for Sunday July 11th 2021, 10am – 4pm. To date the organising team is Mary West – Weald Hall Lane Pierre Waddoups - Weald Hall Lane Karen Ellis-Andrews – Woodfield Terrace Pete Andrews– Woodfield Terrace
If you would like to help in some way with the running of this event, be our St Clare Link, or if you live in Thornwood even open your garden , please let us know. Their contact details are -by emsil thornwoodcommon@gmail.com Or phone Mary 01992 579408 or Karen 07719 863408 They are looking forward to hearing from you Mary, Pierre, Karen and Pete This event will only be run with full compliance of Covid regulations Another date for your diary is’ Epping Open Gardens and Classic Car show. Monday 31st May They had originally agreed with EOG to alternate years, but with this year’s EOG event having to be cancelled and the charities missing out, it has been decided that both events should run in 2021 as there is different catchment areas.
Epping Open Gardens will be supporting a local Dementia charity and St Clare. This event will only be run with full compliance of Covid regulations.
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Remembrance Sunday - 8th November Despite the pandemic, we will locally still be commemorating Remembrance Sunday locally. There are different ways in which you can get involved and then can be found below:Poppy Sales - there will be no House-to-House or Airfield Market collections. However, you will still be able to support the Royal British Legion Appeal as poppies will be available at many outlets in the villages. Some of these include the Post Office, Library, Art Garden Centre, North Weald Chemist, Petrol Garage at the Talbot roundabout. The message this year is: Don’t wait for a Poppy Appeal collector to call – they will be having a year off! Colour a picture —Also as part of commemoration plans for this years Remembrance Day, everybody in the Parish are invited to take part in a 'Colour a Picture' for Remembrance. Pictures should be created and coloured using one of the templates, and placed in the front window of your home. These can be downloaded from the North Weald Bassett Parish Council website. Lay a wreath—In view of the recent Government Guidance regarding Social Distancing, the Parish Council is unable to hold the Annual Wreath Laying Service this year. Although there will be no formal service, Parish Councillors will be paying their respects on Remembrance Sunday by laying wreaths on behalf of many organisations. Residents are encouraged to “Remember from Home” this year, although anyone would be welcome to lay their own wreath on the day, should they so wish. Church Service—There will be a ceremony at St Andrew’s Church at the War Memorial. See below. You can buy poppies online too at www.britishlegion.org.uk and I believe they are selling via Amazon too.
Make every poppy count.
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CHURCH CHAT New Informal Family Church Service for North Weald Sundays at 10am, St Andrew’s Church Hall There’s been a lot of unexpected twists and turns over the last few months. Most of us have probably been encouraged at times by the kindness and community-spirit shown by our fellow humans. And most of us have probably despaired at one another too (I’m thinking of the loo roll shortage, among other things)! I’ve enjoyed the extra conversations I’ve had with people about spirituality and faith. I’ve heard some amazing questions over the past few months, some from people whose faith in God and in humanity has been tested and some from those who have begun to think about faith for the first time in a long time. Some of those questions are hard to answer; Why does God allow things like coronavirus? If he really loved surely he’d just stop it? And some have been easier. But what has struck me the most is that more and more people are asking those questions at the moment, whether out loud or simply internally. We’ve started a new thing in North Weald where we hope we can talk about real issues and tackle some of those real questions head on. On Sunday mornings at 10am (for 45 minutes) we’ve started a new Sunday Morning Church for North Weald in the old Scribbles building (Thorogood House, next to St Andrew’s Church). This is a Christian church service - but not as you know it. It’s informal, relaxed, reflecting real-life and no question is off the table. We’ll try praying and make friends. Everyone is welcome – there’ll be things for kids to do (they can be as noisy as they like – church should be fun!) and the whole thing will follow government and church guidelines on places of worship to make sure we’re safe. If you haven’t tried church for a while (or ever) and want to try something more informal then swing by. It’ll be great to meet you.
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Kitchens and bedrooms supplied and fitted to your specification
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A complete service from design to finish
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Competitive prices guaranteed
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High levels of expertise by a locally recommended craftsmen
If you’d prefer something more peaceful and traditional, then the usual service at St Andrew’s Church has now moved to 3pm on Sundays and will usually be taken by Rev Lee Batson, my colleague in the Epping Team. I hope to see you soon. Rev Tom x tomwarmit@gmail.com n
In memory of Edwyn Gilmour For a free estimate contact:Roger Linsdall Telephone: 01992 523277 Or mobile: 07980 555147
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Last month we heard with sadness that Edwyn Gilmour has died after a short illness. Edwyn was the author of this column before me and a faithful friend to many in the village. Our prayers are with his wife, children and grandchildren. Editor’s Comment—Thank you Tom, I would also like to add my sincere sympathies to Edwyn’s family. Edwyn was very supportive of North Weald Village Life and I loved catching up with him and Mrs Gilmour as we always seemed to bump into each other. Many people will also now Edwyn from Ongar News in which he was involved in. Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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‘Light up a Life’ memorial services St Clare Hospice, is set to host a series of heartfelt and Covid-secure ‘Light up a Life’ memorial services this December; giving families the opportunity to celebrate the lives of lost loves ones this festive season. The charity is closely monitoring Government guidelines and will be following all current regulations on hosting these Covid-secure, outdoor services. The festive season can be a very emotional occasion, a special time for spending precious moments with friends and family, and for remembering those who are no longer with us. Their absence can be deeply felt, whether their death was recent, or if many years have passed. Hosted annually throughout December, this year, due to the Covid-19 outbreak, there will be a number of changes and additional safety measures in place. These include having five separate, ticketed events held outside in the Hospice grounds, recorded music, and a limited attendance at each event..
All of the Light up a Life events at the Hospice are ticketed, operating on a first-come first-served basis – tickets can be booked on the St Clare website. Unfortunately, due to changing Government guidelines, the usual series of events in other locations in our catchment area has had to be severely reduced – please check the website to see which events are going ahead. The pre Sarah Thompson, St Clare Hospice CEO, said: “Light up a Life is -recorded online service will be available to access in December. our annual celebration of everything that St Clare stands for – Visit stclarehospice.org.uk/light-up-a-life for details and bookjoining together with families from across our community in hon- ing. our of their loved ones at the festive season. It is an extension of our care, and this As always, St Clare will also be offering local year, more than ever, we know our local people the opportunity to make a personal communities need a special way to rememdedication to someone special in their Book of ber their loved ones. That is why we are Remembrance, which this year will be availadoing our very best to make sure our muchble on-line via the St Clare website. Names loved Light up a Life services can still take must be provided to the Hospice before Friday place safely. We will also be pre-recording a 20th November for inclusion. Supporters can service video so that those who will not be also request Light up a Life Stars to be posted able to join us in person are still able to parto them for a donation to the charity. Light up a ticipate and take some time out to rememLife Stars can be personalised with a special ber their loved ones this December with a message of remembrance and are then disheartfelt and uplifting service.” played in the Hospice throughout December. The Light up a Life services are free to attend and each event is open to everyone, whatever their faith – and are not only for the many families St Clare has helped, but all local people. The five services taking place at St Clare Hospice, Hastingwood, are: Tuesday 15th December – St Clare Hospice @ 6:30pm Wednesday 16th December – St Clare Hospice @ 6:30pm Thursday 17th December – St Clare Hospice @ 6:30pm Saturday 19th December – St Clare Hospice @ 4:30pm Saturday 19th December – St Clare Hospice @ 6:30pm
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Just like St Clare Hospice’s care, participation in Light up a Life is free of charge. However, if you would like to make a donation alongside your loved one’s dedication, it would be so appreciated by both the Hospice, and local people who benefit from their care. As an independent charity, St Clare has to raise more than £8,000 every single day to run their hospice services. Therefore, any donation is vital in ensuring their services can continue to run now, and in years to come. For information about the Light up a Life services, requesting a Star, or adding a name to the Book of Remembrance, visit stclarehospice.org.uk/light-up-a-life or get in touch directly with the Hospice team on 01279 773750 or light@stclarehospice.org.uk
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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LETTER
Dear Editor,
We are given to understand that our Parish Council fears that the proposed customs checkpoint on North Weald airfield could spell "disaster" for our local roads and village. I am strongly inclined to agree. Though the planning is for just 53 HGV's on site at any one time, with HGV's arriving from a multitude of directions and quite possibly using the B181 directly through North Weald and the B1393 through Epping/ Thornwood I am allied with Councillor concerns that it could seemingly spell a "nightmare". Also, sceptics aside, as residents in the vicinity have witnessed HGV chancers have never been deterred from attempting the challenge of negotiating the hazards of Church Lane itself. And of course the 24/7 operation can be reasonably expected to require continuous daytime and o/nite parking which leaves very little to the imagination. Picture the A414 as a minimum let alone visualize in and around the village itself. I am also minded to learn, hopefully without further need of prompting, what our silent representatives on the Epping Forest District Council have to say. May District Councillors Peter Bolton and Jaymey McIvor therefore provide their all too absent assessment for the benefit of their tax paying voters and readers of NWVL magazine. EFDC itself of course may be anticipated to display its usual disdain of any need to include North Weald Parish Council within the information loop as with the recent discussions on the Harlow/Epping/North Weald transport link. As a reader of previous magazines, possibly also Anthony Jackson our long standing representative on Essex County Council, may be positioned to offer another perspective should he feel it appropriate. His views have always proved interesting. One Parish councillor has described the project as a likely"24 hour truck fest" which appears aptly descriptive and far from alarmist. Clearly the comprehensive concerns expressed by the Parish Council are amply justified. In the end the question is, are we happy to stay silent and simply watch as mere spectators while a catastrophe is seemingly about to befall our village. Aligned with the Parish Council on this occasion I am bound to submit that the answer should be no and I would suggest that the Parish Council is fully deserving of our support. Regards Tony Miller
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Gardening Hints for November Hello one and all. We hope you are all still managing to stay safe and well as these difficult times continue. We have had so many new customers this year who are first time gardeners or first time fruit and veg growers which is fantastic as gardening can be very therapeutic, helping to take your mind off of the troubles and worries that many of us find ourselves in during these uncertain times. Gardening is also a great form of exercise, bending, stretching, lifting, digging etc all out in the fresh air, saving monthly subscriptions on the gym! Gardening and allotmenting during November really does slow down, and mostly depends on the weather. If its dry and warm the lawns will continue to grow, in which case they may need a final going over with the mower, ideally raise the blade up a notch when doing so. Use a rake to remove all thatch from lawns. On the allotment, all crops which have now finished producing, dig the plot over in large clumps and leave it for the frosts to break up. If you dig it over to finely you will find that the frosts will totally flatten the ground and come next spring it will be to hard to dig. Have a look at the farmers fields and see how their machinery turns the ground over, obviously you won’t be able to leave the ground as rough as the farmers machines does when you are digging with a spade but you’ll get the idea. You can also plant spring cabbage, broad beans, early peas, asparagus, garlic & rhubarb crowns at this time. In the flower garden, prune roses by 1/3 ensure you remove all leaves which may be affected by black spot and dispose of them, do not put them on the compost heap as the spores will remain and spread in future years. Now is the time to cover any tender plants such as banana palms, Zealand tree ferns, wrap them in fleece which will keep them a few degrees warmer but will also allow moisture to drain through preventing the plants from rotting. Lift begonia and dahlias and store in a cool dry and frost free place until next spring. Now is the time to get your winter plants in, we have a huge selection including pansies, violas, primroses, wall flowers, bulbs etc etc If you are lucky enough to have a green house you can now get that cleaned out and ready for the next growing season. Clean the entire greenhouse with a mild solution of Jeyes Fluid. also clean all tools with warm soapy water and dry them thoroughly. Once dry give them a spray with WD40, this will help prevent rust, and on tools such as loppers or secateurs will prevent them from ceasing up. At the nursery we are licenced to sell fireworks from 15th October up until 14th November 2020 this time scale includes the 1st day of Diwali. Please do not ask us to sell fireworks outside of these times as you will be refused. We take our licencing very seriously, as such if you are fortunate enough to look under 25 please bring I.D with you! You are welcome to come in and pre-order and pay for your fireworks before the 15th to ensure you get the ones you want, but please be aware that we will NOT release any fireworks including sparklers out side of the above dates. Our Christmas shop is now starting to take shape, with many bargains to be had so please pop along to have a look. I think that’s all for this month. Remember to stand back and have a look at your garden, take notes of what worked well and what may be didn’t do so good, by taking notes you will remember for next year. Cheers Nigel Art Nursery Garden Centre
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EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY RECEIVES LIFELINE GRANT FROM THE £1.57bn CULTURE RECOVERY FUND The Epping Ongar Railway is delighted to report that it has received a grant of £98,000 from the Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage. The fund is part of the £1.57 billion rescue package announced by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to safeguard cultural and heritage organisations across the UK from the economic impact of Covid-19. The Epping Ongar Railway is one of 445 heritage organisations across the country to receive a lifesaving financial boost to help them get through the coronavirus pandemic. Dean Walton, EOR General Manager said, ‘Everyone has faced a tough time over the past few months. The support from the fund will provide us with the cash we need to get us over the winter and plan for 2021. We aim to reopen in April 2021 with relevant modifications to ensure a safe and commercially viable future for our Railway.’ NEW FOR 2020 – Epping Ongar Light Fantastic. A truly wonderful experience of lights and music is coming to the Epping Ongar Railway this year, featuring a specially designed show to highlight our stations, rural setting and woodlands, that you can experience from the comfort of a railway carriage. Suitable for all the family, our Epping Ongar Light Fantastic services will run on selected dates between 20 November and 2 January. ALL NEW FOR 2020 – Santa Special Trains will operate a little differently this year. We have curated a special programme that still preserves the joy and wonder of seeing Santa himself at this special time of year. Whilst it will not be possible to meet Santa in the traditional way, there will be opportunities to see him and get those memorable photographs. In addition, all good children will receive a personal present from Santa. For up to date information and to book your place for both these events, please visit our website: www.eorailway.co.uk If you would like to join us and assist with our operational or maintenance programmes, please contact: membership@eorailway.co.uk Robert Good, Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society robertg@eorailway.co.uk
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Council holds surprise birthday celebration for Town Supervisor A surprise 70th birthday celebration was held by Epping Town Council for Town Supervisor Bill Towers. Mr Towers has worked for the town council for 34-and-a-half years. Town Mayor Grahame Scruton presented Mr Towers with a card and gift on behalf of the council while Town Clerk Beverley Rumsey presented him with a card and gift from council staff. The celebration was held at Julie's at Stonard’s Cafe
From Citizens Advice: A secure old age Are you past pension age? Or do you have close relatives past pension age? You may want to find out whether there is more you can do to for a secure old age. Changes over the past 20 years mean that no pensioner should have to live in poverty. Here are a few things to consider. First, there is pension guarantee credit. This is a top-up to the regular state pension. It is particularly valuable to you if you don’t have a full state pension, as is the case with many elderly women who weren’t in paid work for many years, looking after the home. It is also important for those who are disabled or who are caring for another. Only about 70% of those eligible are currently claiming this benefit. The Government wants to ensure that all eligible pensioners can claim and launched a campaign to raise awareness of pension credit in February this year, but of course this was overshadowed by Coronavirus. There are some misconceptions around pension credit: for instance, that you are not eligible if you have savings, or an occupational pension. In fact you may still be eligible, depending on amounts. Furthermore, even a small award of Pension Credit can provide access to a range of other benefits such as help with rent, council tax and heating costs, and for those aged 75 or over, a free television licence. Claiming is not difficult: you can do it by post, over the phone, or online. Secondly, there is Attendance Allowance. This is a regular payment to help you if you need extra care. It is not means-tested. You are assessed solely on the basis of your needs. It also means that the person looking after you may themselves be able to claim a weekly payment called Carer’s Allowance, or, if they receive a means-tested benefit, such as Universal Credit or pension credit, they may get an extra amount for being a carer. Quite often the carer is the husband or wife of the person entitled to Attendance Allowance, but that is no bar to receiving these benefits. And receipt of Attendance Allowance can also mean a reduction in council tax. Thirdly, don’t forget the Blue Badge parking scheme. You don’t have to be a driver yourself: you can nominate another driver. This is administered by Essex County Council. Finally, you might want to consider making arrangements for someone to manage your affairs long-term or permanently, perhaps because you may develop dementia. For this you need a lasting power of attorney. The whole purpose of a lasting power of attorney is to ensure that if you lose the mental capacity to look after your affairs there is someone you trust who is ready and willing to take over. You can appoint more than one person to be an attorney but they have to be able to work together. There are two types of lasting power of attorney: financial and property, and health and welfare. You can set up either or both. You can apply online via the Gov.UK website or download the forms. At Citizens Advice we are happy to advise you on all this. We have a telephone service available from 9.30 to 2.30, Tuesday to Thursday, but we can arrange phone appointments at other times. If we are busy you will be connected to a backup service elsewhere in the country and they will arrange for one of our advisers to phone you back. The number is 0300 330 2107. It costs no more than a local call. Page 29
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07926987207 Call for a free quotation Based in North Weald. Essex CM16
A blazing escape It’s that time of year once again, when explosions usually light up the sky, Although with the country full of uncertainty, I am not sure many will have the resources to try. Still so many need a distraction from all the troubles that we face, Causing many with worried family members, wanting another talking point to take place. Some may have simple fun, lighting a few rockets and sparklers in a garden, that’s low key and safe, While others may spend a fortune in an attempt to re-enact a spectacle, that on New Years eve will usually take place. It really doesn't matter for the reasons to most will be clear, Simply finding an escape from, what to the vast majority has been. a really bad year. I will try not to moan as so many might find this to be their way to escape, Giving so many others a chance to join them as we watch the Arial spectacle they make. All I hope is that all will be sensible, in whatever decisions they decide, Once again with everyone pulling together, filling us all with hope and pride. Then maybe we can enjoy something, that’s a temporary escape but truly amazing, Allowing us even just momentarily to forget, the other troubles that when all the rockets have ceased, will still sadly be blazing. Source: Andy—resident poet. Fireworks can be pretty and stunning but the noise can be alarming. It wouldn't be too bad if you everyone had one night with one hour letting fireworks off so that just for one hour we could calm out pets.
Race for Life 2020 – we still took part This year Race fir Life could not take place in the normal way. However people still took part to raise the vital funds needed by Cancer Research UK. This year people were encouraged to walk 5k in their own area. On the Sunday 27th September, myself, my daughter Be cry and her boyfriend Theo walked 5k in the Forest. We raised over £250. We took part in the memory of my mum who died from Bresst Cancer last year. 2020 has been different for us all, but we didn't let it stop us from helping to beat cancer. Everyone has been touched by cancer in some way and this continued support means more life-saving research can be done. Page 31
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07932 724730
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BIRD FEATURE - NOVEMBER 2020 Welcome to my jottings for the November edition of 2020. Details of recent sightings relate to the second half of September through to mid October. Hopefully there will also be some useful pointers as to some of birds and other wildlife to look out for during the next few weeks. Autumn is well under way and most of the birds that are our summer visitors have departed the UK to return to their wintering grounds. However into the second half of October we still have the occasional Swallow to be seen (I saw a pair as late as 16th Oct) and Chiffchaffs are still about, reminding us of the small warblers that spend the summer with us taking advantage of the glut of insects to be found in the UK at this time of year. In many respects we regard such migrants as Cuckoo, Swift and Willow Warbler as "British" birds but of course they spend less time here than they do in, say, Africa so strictly speaking they are "African" birds that happen to spend part of the year in the UK. Whilst they are here then of course they add their own special charm and interest to our local wildlife scene. And of course we are now getting migrants coming here to spend the winter months in the UK. The classic visitors are the "winter thrushes" namely Fieldfare and Redwing, and small numbers of these have been sighted around the North Weald area since the first week of October. Large numbers arrive here and spread out across Britain, some will loiter in eastern areas but many will push on to the west, especially if conditions become harsh. At some stage over the late autumn through winter one can expect to see mixed flocks of 100 or more of these species, and they will visit even small gardens if conditions deteriorate.
Less obvious as winter arrivals are the many millions of birds that come to the UK for milder conditions, birds such as Robins, Chaffinches and Blackbirds that add to the resident members of these species. A fair proportion of these species that you will see locally will not be "Essex" birds but will have come here from Germany and other parts of continental Europe. Once they identify a reliable source of food - often garden feeding stations - then they will take up winter territories and take advantage of the offerings available. The milder weather of parts of the UK makes it well worth the risk of crossing the North Sea or the Channel to get here, although of course countless birds will not make it, falling unseen into the sea. Others arrive exhausted and are quickly picked off by predatory birds. However many, many more do survive the journey and brighten our winter days with their presence. In addition to "proper" migration such as we see in spring and autumn there are various movements of birds that don't involve British birds actually leaving our shores. One such species that we see locally is the Meadow Pipit, a classic brown bird that sees a boost in numbers around here as individuals desert their more upland breeding areas and head for lowland farmland. I have already seen groups of half a dozen or so and most winters we get a few frequenting Weald Common and the disused golf course. They can be quite inconspicuous and are often only really noted when they are flushed and fly off with a weak flight and equally weak call. Locally perhaps the most obvious shift in numbers and spread of birds relates to the gulls. We do get a smaller number resident in our area during summer but as the autumn progresses there are more and more to be seen and last winter there were flocks of 200 - 300 which frequented the farmland and other open areas. The bulk of the gulls will be Black-headed Gulls (note - they lose most of their dark head markings in winter) with a few Lesser Black-backed Gulls and a handful of Common Gulls. As birds adapted to life out over the oceans these gulls will find our Essex winters quite easy to survive although even such hardy birds can be caught out in particularly harsh conditions. They will frequent more open gardens in search of food if they have to but unlike many gulls living in seaside towns they can be very wary and take a bit of time to pluck up the courage to actually land in a garden and snatch food put out for other birds. It can be a bit surreal to see a very big Lesser Black-backed Gull too fearful to swoop in for food whilst much smaller birds such as Starlings happily gobble it all up in front of them. By the time the gull finally overcomes its fear the food has gone. Especially as it would be quite happy to gobble up one of the Starlings given half a chance. Going back to summer visitors I was pleased to note a pair of Hobbies over Weald Common and vicinity on one afternoon in mid September. This dashing bird of prey spends the summer in the UK in limited numbers and I watched their classic behaviour as both individuals flew after and caught some dragonflies, eating them on the wing. It is the first time I have seen two of them together locally, I imagine they were on migration and they took advantage of a plentiful supply of prey as they passed through. A terrific few minutes of unexpected but classic bird behaviour. As insect numbers dwindle so the bounty provided by hedges, bushes and trees becomes increasingly of value to birds and other wildlife. All manner of seeds, nuts and berries provide a great source of nutrition and any supply will be targeted by a wide variety of birds and animals. Of course not all berries and nuts ripen at the same time so there is a steady flow of opportunities available. Ivy, for example, tends to be available much later in winter, long after the supply of rowan berries and blackberries etc has been exhausted. With much reduced insect availability many birds will have to be that bit more determined in their foraging activities, hunting out more concealed prey items such as spiders, grubs and beetles. Blackbirds will often give away their presence at the base of hedges and bushes as they scratch around in the leaf litter looking for hidden morsels. Robins know that passing humans or animals such as horses will disturb prey items and they will often perch low down looking to swoop on bugs that break cover when disturbed. You can often see a Robin perched by a quiet path or lane, they know that potential prey will cross that pathway, making themselves fully exposed before they can reach the safety and cover of the undergrowth on the other side. This relates to the natural behaviour of Robins which would follow large animals knowing that they could ambush prey disturbed by the hooves of the animal. This is replicated in the classic scenario of a Robin watching someone dig over the earth in a garden, again looking to ambush prey. Adaptability can be the key to a species flourishing within the new, ever changing challenges of the man-made world. Learning to accept the free handouts provided at garden feeding stations has enabled species such as Blue Tits and Great Tits to inhabit more urban areas with the added bonus of nestboxes which as well as providing a place to nest can also provide a safe roosting place in winter. Food and a year-round home - what is not to like about that for a small bird ??? If you do provide food for the birds do remember to keep any feeding station free from mould or accumulated bird droppings. These can introduce toxins that are dangerous for the birds themselves but also for humans. Keeping the feeding station clean and practicing good hygiene will help you and the birds. Moving the feeding station, be it a bird table or hanging feeder, can help prevent problems. Do not put out excess food as this is often the problem and of course can attract the unwelcome attention of rats etc. The provision of fresh water can be just as helpful. You may not realise that birds visiting your garden can be much greater in number than is first apparent. Studies have shown that birds, especially members of the tit family and some finches, roam through the area visiting a series of gardens and often retracing the route later in the day. What looks like half a dozen or so Blue Tits coming to your garden throughout the day can in fact be fifty or more individuals. So your feeding station can be helping to keep dozens of birds alive during winter. All the best, Paul Corbet Page 34
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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
03444 77 0808
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
01992 523825
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 Ken-
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 Preservation Society
Queens Hall Charity
Tel: 01992 524672
Tel: read 01992 522618/522630
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
Theydon Jazz Club
Tel: 07941 185171
North Weald Seniors Society for over 70’s
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 35 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 36
Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk