North Weald Village Life magazine March 2021 issue

North Weald Village Life Strengthening the Community

FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine Issue: 175 March 2021 Page

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Spring is here So Spring is here, we are on our way out of lockdown, many people are vaccinated, the sun is shining and the snowdrops are blooming, what more could we want!

There are many things of course that we can’t have, the last 12 months to have been different, no-one suffering or dying from Covid plus of course a cure for Cancer, everyone to have their dream job – I could go on and on but I will accept the good things mentioned above as a start.

Before we put winter behind us, we experienced a few days of snow in February, which did bring a bit of change to lockdown. Many families made the most of it, pets had fun and our village saw snowmen (and women) popping up every where. I had some fantastic photos shared with me and it was hard to choose but you will see a ‘Snow Special’ in the magazine.

It seems surreal that I have so many wonderful snowy pictures in this month’s magazine and I am now writing about spring.

Whilst walking in the forest the other day, I was again reminded of all that we have on our doorstep including birds singing and talking to each other, squirrels dashing from tree to tree and I even caught sight of a baby deer before it tried to hide in the undergrowth. All on our doorstep – how lucky are we.

Also I noticed recently we had 8 bees on the front of our house, very slow but alive and very large. After posting a photo on the North Weald Billage Life Facebook group, I was kindly informed by Paul Chapman that these were Queen Bees and they were waking up and warming their wings in the sunshine prior to flying off to look for a new home. So our wall is the place to be(e) for a spring wakeup.

The sunshine does put a smile on your face doesn’t it, the feel of a little warmth and the glimpse of s blue sky really does make you want the nice weather to come as soon as possible. I remember 12 months ago, when the first lockdown started and the horror of the months ahead started, the warm weather and our gardens and walks helped many of us get through it.

To top it all, it’s Mothering Sunday this month – you know the day where we stay in bed and do nothing all day!!! Not really, it’s where people should make their mums feel special.

I am delighted that our Post Office is remaining open. I will miss Sue, Dave and their team but I know it is now Sue’s time to look at doing something different. We will also be losing the Pet Shop and I wish Emma luck in her future.

Happy Mother’s Day to every mum, grandmother, stepmum, mummy figure – enjoy the day. Take some time out and enjoy a cup of coffee or glass of wine in the sunshine, Enjoy the sun, smile and stay safe.

JUNE Page 3

Editor Tel: 07814 863955

Cover photo: Chosen because I love the colours—reminds me of Spring and thinking of all mums on Mother’s Day this month.

Contents March Issue Page No.

4. Brain Teaser 44. Residents encouraged to register for postal voting 6. Planning applications 7. Events (virtual) 8. Essex & Herts Air Ambulance New Base 10. Census 21 14. Walk-in to get tested for Covid 16. Epping Weather Station 17. End of an era 19. Tree planting remembering Vice-Chairman 19. Parish Council aware of HGV issue 21 & 22. Snowy Special 23. Outcome of Extraordinary Council Meeting 24. Church Chat 27. Gardening Hints 28. Citizen Advice 30. 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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MARCH BRAIN TEASER —Win a bottle of wine • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Mother Warmth Love Solid Spring Buds Bloom Knowledge Cards Flowers Strength Sun Kids Walks Nature Family

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Thank you to Mrs 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 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 and address.

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Town council agrees to blue plaque for Brambly Hedge author Epping Town Council has agreed unanimously to a suggestion for a blue plaque to be put up on the boundary of one of the former Epping homes of the late author Jill Barklem.

Jill is best known for her series Brambly Hedge books which have been translated into over 13 languages with more than seven million copies having been sold.

She lived in Theydon Grove and later on Church Hill, where the plaque is proposed, subject to the permission of the homeowners.

Councillor John Duffell said Mrs Barklem was "just the sort of person" who should be recognised through the blue plaque scheme.

He added: "Her father was one of the best known shopkeepers in the town (as the owner of the one-time Pynes department store, now Wildwood)."

Councillor Christine Burgess said: "I think it's a really good idea."

Councillor Mari-Louise Whitbread said a blue plaque was "much deserved" adding: "My children grew up with Brambly Hedge".

Residents urged to register for postal votes ahead of May elections On Thursday 6 May 2021, residents in Essex will go to the polls to have their say on who represents them, with elections for all 75 seats on Essex County Council taking place.

These elections are an opportunity to have a say on who represents residents on issues that directly affect day-to-day life in the county.

Ahead of the elections, Essex County Council is asking residents to ‘Vote safe’ by registering for postal voting in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Even though there are a number of ways to vote, including in a polling station, the safest way to vote as the situation stands, is by staying at home and voting by post.

Registering for a postal vote is quick and easy and can be done here: Apply for a postal vote - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

If you haven’t done so already, you will also need to register to vote here: https://www.gov.uk/register-tovote Joanna Boaler, Head of Democracy at Essex County Council, said: “The Government is working hard to ensure that however you choose to cast your vote in May, you can do so safely.

“If you’re thinking about voting by post, you can apply now. This will make sure your application is processed early and your postal vote can be sent to you more quickly.

“Remember that you need to be registered to be able to vote - don’t miss your opportunity to have your say.”

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Planning Applications Application No: EPF/0152/21 Officer: Caroline Brown Applicant Name: Mr Robbie Harley Planning File No: 002317 Location: 11 Woodfield Terrace, High Road, Epping CM16 6LL Proposal: Application to determine if Prior Approval is required for a proposed change of use from shops (Class A1) to dwellinghouses (Class C3).

Application No: EPF/0156/21 Officer: Zara Seelig Applicant Name: Mr John Payne Planning File No: 030433 Location: 63 Queens Road, North Weald Bassett EppingCM16 6JF Proposal: Single storey side extension.

Any representations on applications should bemade in writing, by Monday, 8th March, 2021 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@eppingforestdc.gov.uk Reading Friends volunteer role Can you help us tackle loneliness by bringing people together to read, chat and share stories? Would you love the chance to share the joy you get from reading with others?

If the answer’s yes, you could be one of the first batch of Reading Friends Volunteers. Reading Friends is new to Essex but has been piloted in other parts of the country over the last few years and has been highly effective in making both participants and volunteers feel more connected to other people. You would be chatting to people by phone or virtually to begin with, but in-person groups in libraries are planned when restrictions lift.

To find out more or to register your interest please visit https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/volunteering-with-libraries/

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EVENTS All EFDC classes are bookable via our website: https://eppingforestdc.bookinglive.com/ - The format of these sessions may change with government guidance. The following classes will be advertised as Zoom classes or face to face sessions dependent on local restrictions regarding COVID-19.

Active Living - Monday 09:30 – 10:00 and Wednesday 13:30 – 14:00—Free for the first six weeks Active Living is a gentle introduction to exercise and physical activity with a social focus with most exercises being chair based or at a beginner level.

Get Active—Tuesdays 19:00-19:30 and Fridays 10:00-10:30—£2 per class A class of bodyweight exercises including aerobic, strength and balance practise. Put some music on and get moving! Suitable for all abilities and levels as there will be different options for each exercise.

Pilates—Thursdays 13:45-14:45-£5 per class Suitable for all abilities, whether this is your first Pilates class, or you have been training for many years. The class will go through the basic principles of Pilates and the foundations of the exercises and we will work on posture, core stability, mobility and flexibility throughout the session.

Revive—Tuesdays and Fridays 13:00-13:30—£2 per class.

A session including Pilates, Stretching and Mindfulness to get you moving in the middle of the day.

Social Active Strong - Get in touch for exact dates and times - Free 12 Week Programme Build your strength and improve your mobility with Social. Active. Strong. Sign up for a new 12-week exercise programme you can do in small groups face to face with an instructor or at home.

The program is to help maintain your strength and balance, help you become more active and improve your general wellbeing.

If you or someone you know is interested, please contact: csreception@eppingforestdc.gov.uk

Epping Forest Inclusion Project See https://eppingforestdc.bookinglive.com/ for up to date dates and times The Epping Forest Inclusion Project runs a variety of sports and leisure activities for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Under current restrictions they are available as online sessions on Zoom.

The term time activity programme includes trampolining, football, tennis, yoga and more! But it doesn’t stop there, there’s also jam-packed sessions in the school holidays including whole day activities where siblings are welcome to join in too.

Highlights of the holiday programme include forest fun days, outdoor adventures, camping and multi-sport camps.

If parents or carers want to help shape the service on offer, then they can get involved in the Parent Forum and have their say.

Keep up to date with the latest Epping Forest Inclusion Project news here: www.facebook.com/EppingForestDisabilityForum.

To find out more please contact Olivia Worsfold - oworsfold@eppingforestdc.gov.uk Page 7

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Essex & Herts Air Ambulance gets keys to new airbase Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) has taken possession of parking for staff who wish to cycle to work and as much waste its brand-new purpose-built airbase at North Weald Airfield fol- as possible will be recycled. The building has been well insulated in order to retain heat and reduce noise pollution and it will lowing its completion by Barnes Construction. make as much use as possible of natural light in order to save Work on the facility began in February 2020 after planning per- on electricity. mission was granted by Epping Forest District Council. This Project has been delivered on time despite the challenges of the Work has now begun on the internal fit out phase, and it is COVID-19 pandemic. scheduled to become operational by June of this year.

EVENTS

In a socially distanced handover, EHAAT CEO Jane Gurney Visit ehaat.org/north-weald-airbase/ to see a time-lapse of the and Cliff Gale, EHAAT’s Operations Director took possession of complete external build. the building from Mark Hart, Joint Divisional Managing Director of Barnes Construction. This was carried out via a video link in order to comply with the current lockdown restrictions on nonessential travel.

Jane Gurney said: “The handing over of this building today by Barnes Construction marks yet another milestone in what is a very important project for the Charity. The opportunity to design and build our own Airbase has allowed us to include elements such as dedicated areas for training which will benefit not only our crews but also the local pre-hospital care community along with an interactive visitor centre for our supporters, who we look forward to welcoming to this incredible new building when such visits become possible again.

On behalf of the Trustees and the Executive Team I would like to thank Barnes Construction, associated partners and suppliers for all their hard work and support in seeing this project through to completion in such a professional manner especially with the added pressures the pandemic presented.

I would also like to thank our amazing fundraisers and donors for helping us secure the future operation of the charity at North Weald for many years to come by supporting us and making this possible”.

In addition to housing one of EHAAT’s two helicopters and two of its rapid response vehicles, the new building has areas for training, mentoring, patient liaison and fundraising. There is space for cross training with other emergency services, which will benefit both EHAAT and the local pre-hospital care community. Part of the new airbase will be a dedicated interactive visitor centre which will allow the charity to welcome and engage with the local community.

The new building, which includes a hangar which is capable of housing two helicopters when necessary (for example, to permit aircraft maintenance) has underground heating beneath the helipad to keep it free of snow and ice during the winter months.

The building has been designed with `green’ issues very much to the fore. It includes charging points for electric cars and photovoltaic panels on the roof which will generate electricity. Any excess will be supplied to the National Grid. There is bicycle Page 8

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Essex households to take part in Census 2021 As mentioned in the magazine earlier this year, households in Essex will soon receive details on how they can take part in Census 2021, a once-in-a-decade survey that gives the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England.

The census, run by the Office for National Statistics and Wales, has been carried out every ten years since 1801, with the exception of 1941.

This year, census day takes place on Sunday 21st March, but households will soon receive letters that include online codes and information explaining how to take part.

The survey, which this year will be predominantly online, is quick and easy do and includes questions about residents’ sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. And, for the first time, there will be a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Leader of Essex County Council, Cllr David Finch said: “Understanding our population and the needs of our communities really does help to inform our planning and funding of public services at a local level.

“Nationally, census outputs inform where millions of pounds of public funding is spent on services like transport, education and health.

Village Hall Car Park

“I would urge residents to take a look at the letters when they receive them and please take part.”

Once again the Village Hall Charity has been targeted by people who feel that it is their right to illegally use our private car park.

Today, Monday, the owner of the Pre School was aggressively abused by two women who removed cones placed by the Preschool for the safety of the children and parents, before walking off. This occurred at the time when the children were being collected.

The Trustees continually remind the public that the car park is private apart from the eight places for those visiting the playground and Common and that we have no responsibility for any damage to vehicles parked.

It is generally noted that for safety and Covid reasons the area must be coned off at times. These aggressive actions by individuals may necessarily lead to the Trustees taking steps of closing the car park completely.

Don’t forget to visit the website Www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

As well as informing funding of public services, information from the census is also important in helping lots of other people and organisations do their work.

Charities and voluntary organisations often use this information as evidence to receive funding. It helps businesses to understand their customers and, for example, decide where to open new shops. Plus, those doing research, like university students and people looking into their family history, use census data.

It also provides important information on population diversity, allowing organisations to know whether they are meeting their responsibilities and triggering action where necessary.

Iain Bell, Deputy National Statistician at the Office for National Statistics, said: “The census provides a unique snapshot of our communities. It benefits everyone. Based on the information you give, it ensures millions of pounds are invested in emergency services, mental health care, school places, hospital beds, houses, roads, GPs and dentist services.

“No-one should miss out. Everyone can complete one online with a new search-as-you-type ability and paper forms for those who need them.”

Results of the Census will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations.

For more information and advice on how to answer the questions, visit census.gov.uk.

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RAF Airfield Cinema 1963 Programme Thank you to Graham Keys who shared these photos of a Programme for the RAF Airfield Cinema in 1963.

Graham shared he used to cycle there and watch some of the films in glorious Cinemascope, and sit in real cinema seats. A bus from Beamish Close for RAF personnel that lived there used to leave at 7.55om to take them to the Cinema.

What is nice to see is an advert for the Kings Head Garage which is still open and run by the Peachey family.

Do you need support with food?

The Queens Hall Charity in partnership with North Weald Parish Council are looking to offer support to those who may be in need since the free food serviced ended in north weald.

If you or anyone you know is in need please email the queens.hallcc@gmail.com and we will ensure you are supported where possible - this will be in confidence so please if you are needing some support then let us know.

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Please don’t forget to tell Advertisers where you saw their advert

A need for review of employment status Following the recent ruling by the Supreme Court that Uber drivers should be classed as ‘workers’ and not independent contractors, Tania Bowers, Legal Counsel for The Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo) said: “While the position on employment rights for workers is now clearer, in that the ruling states drivers are entitled to be paid at least the National Minimum Wage for the time they are available for work and not just when they are driving passengers, there is still the anomaly of a different employment status for tax purposes and there is no definition of a worker status for tax. One’s status is either employed or self-employed leading to the artificial construct of ‘deemed employee’. We have long argued that that an overhaul of employment status would remove the current differentiation in law between employment status for rights and taxation, and despite today’s judgement an overhaul of employment status is long overdue.”

Epping market reopened Epping Monday Market will re-opened on Monday 15th February with essential traders only, Government guidelines are being followed, and Epping Town Council ask that visitors adhere to social distancing to safeguard themselves and our traders.

Please come and support your essential traders who can offer you safe outside shopping.

They are expecting our traders selling fruit and vegetables, bread, household goods, dried fruit and nuts, hardware, cheese, eggs, plants and oils and vinegars.

Deadline for the next issue is 15th March

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Hospice’s bereavement support project celebrates two year milestone St Clare Hospice, is celebrating the second anniversary since the launce of their supportive Bereavement Cafés.

St Clare Hospice’s Bereavement Cafés launched in February 2019 in order to connect people from across its local communities who have experienced grief and loss – bringing them together to support one another. The project originally started in the form of physical cafés, and has continued ‘virtually’ throughout the COVID pandemic.

The project has continue d to grow and adapt to local need and restrictions; it celebrated its anniversary this on 25th February with the launch of a new Bereavement Café, which will take place every Thursday evening, 7-8pm, via Zoom.

There are now five Bereavement Cafés running ‘virtually’ each week, along with six Bereavement Café Facebook groups, meaning that around 200 people are currently accessing St Clare Hospice’s Bereavement Support groups each week.

Sushma Dhami, Manager of the Hospice’s Patient and Family Support Services, said: “Bereavement is never easy but during the pandemic navigating grief and loss has become all the more difficult. We know that COVID has increased suffering and grief within our community; people are finding that they cannot rely on their usual routines and that the face-to-face comfort and support of family and friends is disrupted due to social distancing. This is why we are striving to provide ever more advice and support around death and dying, and diversifying our services to help people connect with others and share their experiences of grief and loss.

“We speak about all sorts of things – often everyday things which demonstrate how their life has changed. Sometimes they just need to talk to someone different – not their family – and I think it helps knowing that other people in the group have lost people dear to them.”

“We always have a laugh, and always try to end on a high. People have told us that they joined feeling down but were leaving on a high. We try to still make it a café experience, even though Sushma adds: “During the last two years we’ve brought togethwe’re not together.” er, and offered support to, hundreds of local bereaved people – and we could not have done it without our incredible team of “It’s very rewarding,” comments June, “just knowing that this Bereavement Volunteers.” hour makes a huge difference, especially as everyone is now so isolated.”

June Merralls, from Loughton, is one of the Hospice’s first Bereavement Café volunteers. She has volunteered in a number of roles at the Hospice before becoming a Bereavement Volun- There are five Bereavement Cafés running throughout the teer: “I started volunteering because I lost my sister in the Hos- week: pice. I needed to find something to keep me occupied. Every· Every Tuesday - 10.30am - 11.30am thing I’ve done is a two-way thing; it helps me and it helps other · Every Wednesday - 7pm - 8pm people. I’m passionate about the Hospice.” · Every Thursday - 11am - 12 noon June helped to set up the Hastingwood Bereavement Café and · Every Thursday - 7pm - 8pm then a year later the COVID pandemic hit: “We had really great · Last Sunday of the month (Youth Bereavement Cauptake for the Cafés, right from the start, but once Lockdown fé) – 7pm – 8pm came into force we had to close them. So we had to think of new ways we could support people. I was paired with another bereavement volunteer, Gill, and we started to run a Bereavement Café via Zoom in order to carry on connecting the people Find out about how to attend a Bereavement Café here: stclarehospice.org.uk/your-community/bereavement-cafe/ who had come to the physical Cafés but also to reach more people who might have been more recently bereaved.”

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Walk-in and get tested for Covid-19 People living and working in Essex, without Covid-19 symptoms, are now being offered walk-in appointments for a rapid test at their local test centre. With 13 test centres now in full operation, capacity for testing has increased, meaning people now have another option available to them.

Residents and those working in Essex had previously been invited to book their test appointment in advance, online or by phone. The new option brings more flexibility, especially for those who are unable to work from home and want to get tested for peace of mind and reassurance.

Around a third of people with Covid-19 have no symptoms and could be spreading the virus unknowingly. Although case numbers are declining, there is still a worrying number of people with Covid-19 in Essex. Health officials in the county advise figures could go down even quicker if together we break the chain of transmission by getting tested regularly.

Councillor John Spence, Cabinet Member for Health & Adult Social Care says: “The number of cases in Essex is continuing to reduce, and that’s down to the great efforts of the people of Essex. This is also because of the upscaling of testing of those without symptoms. It’s important to get tested regularly to stop the spread, and now we are accepting walk-ins, it’s easier than ever.”

St Clare Hospice 10k Following the publication of the Government’s roadmap out of Lockdown 3.0 (on 22 February) and in accordance with scheduled plans for the lifting of COVID lockdown measures, St Clare Hospice is going ahead with plans to hold its annual 10k race on Sunday, 11th April 2021.

The popular annual outdoor charity sporting event, which is a regular fixture in local running club calendars, is now in its 27th year and is a vital source of fundraising for the charity.

This year’s event will have additional safety measures in place due to COVID to ensure the fundraiser can go ahead safely, including: social distancing measures in the registration area, a rolling start, and disposable chip timers. The event will be run according to the Run Britain COVID road race guidelines which are updated in accordance with government guidelines.

Advanced registration costs £14 (£12 for affiliated runners). Due to COVID . there will be no on the day sign-ups this year. You need to have registered via the Hospice website by 12 noon on Thursday 8th April to take part. The registration desk (for pre-registered participants) will be open at 9:00am on the day, with the race starting at 10:30am. The event is open to people aged 15 and above.

Rapid Covid-19 tests are available at 13 test centres across Essex, all easily accessible and Covid-secure: Basildon - Towngate Theatre, and The Place Leisure Centre, Pitsea Braintree - Witham Town Football Club Brentwood - The Nightingale Centre Castle Point - Waterside Farm Leisure Centre Chelmsford - Central Baptist Church Colchester - Colchester Leisure Centre Epping Forest - Theydon Bois Village Hall Harlow - Civic Centre, The Water Gardens Maldon - West Maldon Community Centre Rochford - The MegaCentre Tendring - Long Meadows Community Centre Uttlesford - Saffron Walden ECL

Walk-in or book an appointment online at www.essex.gov.uk/getting-tested or by calling 0333 772 6144.

The race starts and finishes at St Clare Hospice.

For more information, or to register, visit stclarehospice.org.uk/stclare10k2021 Alternatively, please contact Emma Broadbent on 01279 773754 or emma.broadbent@stclarehospice.org.uk Page 14

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LETTER Dear Readers, In her 18th year Summer Miller is in training to run the October London Marathon for the charity Mind UK. In company with a good many entrants she is without prior running experience though with determination and training she is up for the challenge and commitment perhaps demonstrated by the need of her daily commute to Westcliff just for schooling.

In the process Summer is seeking to raise funds in support of the important work of this mental health charity.

She has a fairly stretching monetary target so any donations for Mind UK, no matter the amount, are most welcome.

For more details of Summers personal involvement and donations readers are invited to visit: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SummerMiller Thank you from yet one more proud grandfather.

Tony Miller

Books borrowed from North Weald Library Following Government guidelines, North Weald library is temporarily closed at the moment.

All items due on or from the 31st January 2021 will be extended until 31st March.

Please do not leave borrowed items in library book drops, letterboxes or outside the building.

Please check our website for updates: libraries.essex.gov.uk

Don’t forget to visit the website: www.northwealdvillagelife.co. uk To find out news updates, initiatives or Coronavirus updates Or sign up to the Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/ Northwealdvillagelife Also on Instagram and Twitter

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Parish council opposes petrol station take-away plans A planning application to create a 'take-away' at Thornwood Filling Station, High Road, Thornwood, is being opposed by North Weald Bassett Parish Council.

The application with Epping Forest District Council details proposals for 'Rock's Cafe to Go' - which would see a redundant office at the rear of the premises converted into a small commercial kitchen.

Mobile: 07885 871508 www.nmonkplumbingandheating.co.uk

Epping Weather Station shows influence of Global Warming in 2020 Epping’s own automatic weather station, run by Epping Town Council, has completed its first year of operation, and already is showing that global warming is affecting Epping.

As there was a weather station in Epping from 1979 until 2013, there is now 35 years of data for comparison, and 2020 emerges as the warmest yet, with a mean annual temperature of 11.5°C, approximately 1.1°C above the average.

A number of new records were registered through last year.

January and May were the warmest of those months in our records.

We had the third warmest April and November, the fourth warmest February and June, and recorded our hottest July day (36.0°C) and our hottest September day (31.2°C).

We also had our wettest October on record, and probably our wettest August, except that the storms on the afternoon of August 16 flooded the Stonards Hill base and knocked out the power supply so we missed data for three very wet days.

It was our sixth wettest year overall, and this despite a very dry April and May. Epping Weather Station's data is streamed live to the website’s front page at www.eppingweather.org.uk, so if you want to know the current temperature, wind, rain, air pressure and more, it is just a click away on your computer or smartphone.

There is also the past seven days, month-to-date and last month data online. The full analysis of 2020’s weather is available on the website where we monthly reviews of weather data are published as ‘weather news’.

The committee agreed unanimously to object to the application for various reasons - highways safety, the potential increase in traffic, litter, smells and pollution, while councillors also questioned the need for such an additional outlet in the area.

The committee is to request that if planning approval is given by the district council that there should be a condition that litter patrols are carried out.

Town council receives skatepark request Epping town councillors are to visit local skateparks after receiving a request from two skateboarders for work to be undertaken on the Stonards Hill skatepark.

Councillors agreed to visit facilities in Waltham Abbey and Harlow, and discuss the matter at a council working group.

Thursday's town council meeting received a presentation from local skateboards who highlighted the poor condition of the current flooring on the Stonards Hill recreation ground, and suggested potential sources of funding for a revamp and possible extension to the skateboard park.

All data can be provided to anyone who needs it; schools are particularly welcome to use the data and to help write monthly weather summaries or provide photographs.

Cat Rescued from Balcony On the evening of 18 th February, Firefighters had a purfect job rescuing a cat in Harlow after it had been stuck on a balcony for almost 18 hours.

Crews from Harlow were called to rescue the curious cat that had ventured onto the balcony and could not get back down. Using a ladder, firefighters were able to reach the cat, called Tiddles, and bring it back to safety.

Source: Essex County Fire & Rescue Service Page 16

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An end of an era On Thursday 25th February, Terri North and I presented Sue Stallan at the Post Office along with her team with some flowers, gifts and best wishes on behalf of the community.

Sue is leaving to do a worthwhile job she has wanted to do for a while and is putting the long hours and early mornings behind her.

The day was even more poignant as it was Pat’s last day as she was finally taking the retirement she had been looking forward to after working for 12 years at the shop.

Jackie was looking forward to enjoying some more time relaxing after having worked there for 3 years after taking retirement from her job previously.

Amy will be returning to her job in Epping when shops reopen.

Dave will hopefully focus on his health and recovery.

Fortunately, as I know Sue did not want to leave the village without a post office, the post office has been taken over by a lovely couple and they will be taking over the shop too.

A few weeks ago I wanted to do something to pass on our thanks to Sue for all her work keeping the post office open despite having difficult personal circumstances and throughout the pandemic.

So after asking Terri North and Lisa Harmen for their assistance we spread the word quietly and arranged a collection.

We presented Sue with some lovely flowers, an engraved candle holder, and over £100 in cash and a card with many best wishes from local residents, Pat, Amy & Jackie were presented with flowers and Dave was given an engraved gift,, we didn't forget Jamie—he was given a personalised bar of chocolate..

I am sure you will wish them all good luck in their new adventures and lie-ins.

Christmas Market set for Saturday date Epping Town Council has voted to hold this year's Christmas market on a Saturday instead of a Friday.

Traditionally the market has been held on a Friday from noon until into the evening.

This year the High Street market will be on Saturday 4th December , provisionally between 10am and 4pm and subject to more detailed planning.

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Parish council freezes allotment fees North Weald Bassett Parish Council has agreed to freeze its fees for allotments for the 2022-23 financial year.

Any changes to allotment fees have to be made with 12 months notice.

The parish council's environmental committee has also agreed to postpone its annual meeting with allotment holders until September.

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Based in North Weald

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Parish council aware of issues regarding HGV parking and signage since Inland Border Facility opened Issues regarding HGV parking have arisen since the HMRC Inland Border Facility opened on North Weald Airfield on 1st January, North Weald Bassett Parish Council has said.

At a recent parish council meeting council chairman Alan Buckley and clerk Sue DeLuca confirmed they would be meeting with Epping Forest District Council to discuss issues relating to parking and signage which had arisen since the facility had opened.

The parish council is to ask for fortnightly rather than monthly meetings with the district council over the checkpoint after being advised by residents that severe damage had been caused to the church car park opposite St Andrew's Church.

Councillor Buckley said the car park had been "completely trashed" with 10ins to 12ins ruts left in the surface.

Since then residents and businesses in Vicarage Lane have received parking tickets after measures were put in to stop lorries parking in this road.

Tree planting scheme named to remember Parish council vice-chairman Three locations have been identified by North Weald Bassett Parish Council to plant 200 trees oak, field apple and crab apple which the council has received from the Woodland Trust.

Two areas at Weald Common, behind North Weald Village Hall one featuring some 90 trees in an 'orchard-style fashion' - have been decided on by the council's environmental committee along with an area near the Debt of Honour off Hurricane Way. A plaque will be placed at Weald Common to recognise the council's tree planting scheme with the area named after former parish council vice-chairman and Hastingwood councillor Brian Eldridge who died last year.

Butterfly census report Two Nature Reserves in the Epping Forest district are at the centre of a Butterfly Census carried out by our Epping Forest Countrycare team over several years.

The Bobbingworth Nature Reserve and Church Lane Local Nature Reserve found of the 59 species of butterflies present in the UK, 27 have been identified across our two sites. Of these, 1 is listed as likely to be threatened in the near future: Church Lane flood meadow was created in 1989 as part of the North Weald Flood Alleviation Scheme while Bobbingworth Nature Reserve is a former Landfill site, which in 1989/90 was capped with clean clay.

Since 2015 Countrycare has been conducting the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme (UKBMS) at these 2 sites between April and September when butterflies are more likely to be active.

Year-on-year, Church Lane records a greater population of butterflies – 2017 being its best year with a total count of 1,756. In comparison. 2018 was the most successful year for Bobbingworth with a total of 927.

The Meadow Brown is the most abundant species on each both sites while Church Lane has recorded the Large Skipper every year since the survey began. There are healthy positive trends evident in the White family, with both sites showing increases in population.

Please ensure you raise any issues that are experienced as a result of the Inland Border Facility so these can be addressed.

Butterflies have become extremely valuable members of the ecosystem. Butterflies and moths within a habitat shows it is healthy and indicates presence of a wider range of invertebrates. This in turn provides a range of environmental benefits including natural pest control, pollination and contributions to the food chain.

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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.

CABIN FEVER CHOIR The aim of the choir is to combat signs of cabin fever experienced by increasing numbers of people during the pandemic. Targeted to Essex residents with the aim to bring people together to form a virtual community and feel they are connected to the region again.

A new choir featuring free weekly online singing sessions is being launched on 1st March. The aim of the choir is to combat signs of cabin fever experienced by increasing numbers of people during the pandemic. This is an Essex based community choir.

The Choir is being launched by Emma, a choir leader for The Sound Collective Chorus. Due to COVID-19 they had to move theirrehearsals onto ZOOM and are still together singing so she has a lot of experience running singing sessions online.

On winning a council 'service of recognition' award for 'Creativity' and bringing people together in Lockdown, she decided to develop the idea further and launched this venture to get Essex united.

CABIN FEVER CHOIR Keep Singing, Stay Safe, Stay Sane!

FREE FUN & EASY TO JOIN Those joining will learn a great song each week to sing together with a sprinkling of harmonies and backing vocals as optional and leave uplifted.

Due to time delays everyone except the choir leader has to be muted but you will still gain so much seeing others on screen singing with you, waving and smiling and knowing that there is still life outside your four walls!- An online free virtual choir uniting people across Essex with great songs to boost our moods and raise our voices!

If you are interested please visit www.cabinfeverchoir.com This initiative also connects people who might otherwise not feel able to join a group if it was face to face.

The MOTTO for Cabin Fever Choir is "Worry Less, Sing More"! And ‘Keep Singing, Stay Safe, Stay Sane!”

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PHOTO GALLERY—Snowy Special

Photo: Doreen Clery taken near Fiddlers Hamlet.

Photo: Graham Keys

Photo: Jennifer R. Elson Photo: Ken Care

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Photo: Bryony Brown

Photo: Emma Rayner

Photo: Annie Hummerstone Photo: Nigel Bedford

Photo: Terri North

Photo: David Rix Page 22

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Outcome of Extraordinary Council meeting Cross-party portfolio holder advisory group to oversee Air Pollution Mitigation Strategy outcome.

At the extraordinary meeting of Epping Forest District Council on 8th February mentioned in last months magazine as a result of requests from residents in Epping Forest District In relation to concerns of proposed clean air zone issues, councillors resolved to form a cross party portfolio holder advisory group to assist the administration in the implementation of air pollution mitigation measures. Councillor Nigel Bedford, Cabinet Portfolio Holder responsible for Planning put forward the proposal as an amendment to the original motion proposed by Councillor Chris Pond.

The motion (as amended) read: The Council hereby declares that • it will determine planning applications only on the basis of the law, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and other National Planning Guidance, the 1998 Local Plan, and the latest iteration of the new Local Plan; • the Cabinet Member for Planning and Sustainability will form a cross party Portfolio Holder Advisory Group in no more than 1 month from the date of this resolution; and the Group is formed to support the Portfolio Holder in the delivery of the Interim Air Pollution Mitigation Strategy and provide oversight of the Work of the Technical Stakeholder Group. This could include working with officers to identify where further initiatives not identified in the APMS could be brought forward to advance Air Quality Improvements with the objective of removing the need to introduce a Clean Air Zone (CAZ). Alongside the acceleration and enhancement of mitigation measures the Portfolio Holder Advisory Group will provide democratic oversight of the development of any CAZ scheme prior to its consideration through the Council’s formal decision-making processes and public consultation on it in the event that future air quality monitoring and modelling continues to demonstrate that, even after the acceleration and enhancement mitigation measures, a CAZ is required.

Nominate a Young Townsperson of the Year Epping Town Council is seeking nominations for its new Young Townsperson of the Year award.

Nominations can be made for a young person up to the age of 25, as long as they live or work in Epping and have made a real difference to the community life of the town.

This could be because of the contribution they have made to a local club or organisation, work they have done for charity or for a long-standing commitment they have made to the interests of the town and its people.

Nominations should be submitted before 1st April and nominees will be asked to present their achievements to a group of councillors.

Nomination forms are available by ringing Epping Town Council on 01992 579444 or by e-mailing info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Completed forms should be returned by email to info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk or sent to Epping Town Council, Epping Hall, St Johns Road, Epping, Essex, CM165JU.

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CHURCH CHAT Watching Paint Dry Whenever I write these articles I’ve no idea what sort of restrictions we’ll be living under by the time you get to read them. It’s been too often the case that I’ve been overly optimistic, only to discover that in the weeks it takes to collate and print the magazine, the situation is worse than any of us had feared. I’m hoping that as we edge towards Spring, things will change and we’ll find brighter days; both in terms of the weather but I’m also hoping we’ll begin to emerge from lockdown in one form or another soon.

As I write, we’re in the midst of lockdown 3 (or 4 – I’ve lost count) and like so many others I’m finding I have OK days and some wobbly ones. To keep myself distracted from the lure of the fridge in the evening, I have been ‘up-cycling’ some old battered shelves.

The initial stages of preparing these shelves took quite a while, I dismantled them, cleaned them sanded them and primed them. By the time I was ready to paint them I was a bit bored of the whole idea. I was very tempted to rush it and just whack a couple of coats of paint on. But then I remembered a friend of mine who told me how when he was decorating he applied a second coat of paint when the first wasn’t properly dry. The result was that the new paint cracked and it looked worse than before he’d started.

This made me think that all too often we treat ourselves like my old shelves. We’re all a bit battered and bruised – we carry cracks from past experiences and usually we’re able to busy ourselves with stuff or work or activities and pretend they’re not too much of a problem. The fragility of life in lockdown has, for many of us, exposed the cracks of our past and given us a choice… do we carry on ignoring them or do we rush to paint over them in the hope of changing something about our present?

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There is, of course, another way. God never gives up on us, he wont chuck us away, and he doesn’t rush to paint over our past. He offers to walk with each of us through every part of life and his promise is to lovingly and painstakingly repair and restore our past hurts so that we have the hope of a brighter future.

Through his love I’ve found the strength to deal with the hurt at the centre of my past brokenness (I’m still doing it, it’s always a work in progress), and over the years, I’ve found God’s love to be a love that cannot help but transform and restore.

It’s not easy, and it’s usually not a quick process. For me, it started with a simple ‘yes’; someone once invited me to open my heart to God and that invitation remains for each of us.

The new North Weald Sunday Morning Church is currently meeting on zoom at 10am on Sundays. The details can be found at facebook.com/northwealdchurch and we’ll post details there (and in this magazine) of when we’re able to meet in person again. But don’t wait to join us before you allow your heart to whisper the ‘yes’ to God’s invitation for you.

You’re in my prayers, Rev Tom.

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EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY – MILK TRAFFIC FROM ONGAR As the Railway remains closed, we thought readers may be interested in a recent article written by Rodger Green, one of our volunteers: The coming of the Railway to Ongar in 1865 provided a stimulus to the local farming economy as London was now within easy reach and milk traffic flourished, increasing 50 per cent between 1894 and 1899. Initially the Great Eastern Railway (GER) carried the milk to London in vans attached to passenger trains but, as traffic increased, from 1911 there were special dedicated milk trains running each weekday.

The morning milk train left Ongar at 8.30am, picking up churns at Blake Hall, North Weald, Epping and Theydon Bois. Some churns were offloaded at Buckhurst Hill and intermediate stations to A milk train leaving Blake Hall in 1912 Stratford, the destination for most of the traffic.

Reproduced courtesy of G.M.Shoults On its return journey, the milk train carried the empty churns from Manchester Locomotive Society the previous day’s afternoon milk train which had left Ongar about 7pm the previous evening, returning with the morning milk empties. In 1916 a Sunday milk train was added to the timetable.

At the end of WW1, some 5,000 churns (85,000 gallons) of milk were supplied to London each week. Ongar supplied 1,300 churns, most of which were delivered to the goods yard by horse drawn carts travelling from up to eight miles away. The milk traffic enabled local farmers to obtain higher London prices for their milk.

During the General Strike in 1926, the London Haulage Committee, chaired by Sir Henry Maybury, Director General of Roads in the Ministry of Transport, arranged for the milk from the Home Counties to be carried by lorry to a distribution point in Hyde Park. This demonstrated the viability of road haulage of milk for short to medium distances and hastened the loss of this traffic from the railway.

It was also in 1926 that the 10 gallon straight sided churn was introduced. These enabled more milk to be carried in a given area compared to the 17 gallon conical churns in general use, and were relatively easy for one man to handle (a 17 gallon churn weighed over two hundredweight). Both these factors worked to the advantage of road transport, and the stout wooden platforms from which the churns were collected soon became a familiar sight at farm entrances around the country. The traffic was progressively lost to roads during the 1930s, and the Ongar milk trains were discontinued.

Rodger Green, Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society Our appeal to restore our Brake Composite Corridor Coach (BCK) continues. If you feel able to support this project by making a monetary contribution you can do this direct to the Society’s account: ‘Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society’ Sort Code: 60-03-23 Account Number 76521184 Reference ‘BCK (and your name)’. You can also send a cheque, made payable to ‘Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society’, please write ‘BCK Restoration Fund’ on the back and post to The EORVS Treasurer, Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar Station, Station Approach, Ongar, CM5 9BN. We will be grateful for whatever you can afford.

We look forward to welcoming you back to the Railway again later in 2021.

Robert Good, Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society

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Gardening Hints for March March is a busy month in the gardening calendar, with longer days and hopefully warmer weather to come.

The plant world beings to awaken from its winter slumber and hopefully we will be doing the same .

If we get a few drying days, March is a good time to work the soil in preparation for sowing and planting. You can use cloches to warm the soil a little before sowing as this gives the seeds a better start.

The chief crops for sowing outdoors as the soil warms up is:- lettuce, radish, onions, leeks, early peas, spinach, sprouts and cabbage and its still not too late to grow parsnips and broad beans. With salad crops ie., lettuce, radishes etc sow small batches 2/3 weeks apart throughout the summer. This will give you a succession of crops instead of all at once.

If you are lucky enough to have a greenhouse, you can start sowing:- celery, courgettes, cucumbers, marrows, melons, peppers, tomatoes and aubergines.

March is a good month to plant container grown fruit trees/bushes and shrubs. If you have existing fruit trees/bushes now is a good time to feed and much with well rotted manure, chicken pellets, growmore or fish blood and bone.

As weeds start to appear, as they will, attack them while they are young using a hoe.

It’s a good time to tidy the shrub and perennial borders. Cut back any dead material to allow new growth to flourish. If your lawn looks patchy, March can be a good month to re-turf or re-seed patches. This depends on the weather. Do not attempt to do this if the weather is cold or very wet.

If you haven’t already pruned your roses then March is, for me, the best month to prune bush roses. Cut back to 2 or 3 shoots from the ground, preferably leaving outward facing shoots to keep the middle of the rose from criss-crossing growth.

Now is the time to bring into the Nursery your empty summer baskets, ready for replanting for collection in May. As always take time out, sit back with a drink of your choice. Mine hasn't changed its still a cold beer! Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of your garden and dream of hot summer days.

Cheers.

Nigel (Art Nursery Garden Centre)

Dog Theft As mentioned in last month’s issue, during the pandemic, the demand for dogs has increased. Many families deciding now would be the great time as they are at home, it is exciting and gives a new focus for families and nothing can be as loyal as a dog’s love.

However the bad news is that this has resulted in the price of dogs increasing, puppies are being sold from £500 to £2,000 and this has led to the increase nationwide of dog theft.

Essex Police have stated not to be alarmed as pet thefts have decreased in Essex, but with so many reports nationwide of people being assaulted and their dogs being stolen including a dog walker’s van being stolen with the dogs in it, this could happen anywhere.

As a dog owner myself, I cannot think of anything more heart-breaking than having any of my dogs stolen. Apparently the fact that are chipped is not a deterrent as thieves have a way around this.

In February, Home Secretary Priti Patel has promised to look at implementing tougher measures because of the recent rise in pet thefts. Currently the maximum sentence is 7 years in prison. Former Conservative Leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith is also calling for strict penalties.

Here is some advice to help keep your dog safe• Keep your dog safe—even in your garden. Consider setting an alarm or security in your garden and don’t leave your dog unattended for any length of time.

• Your dog must be microchipped and these details need to be kept up to date. Your dog should always wear an ID tag with your name/number clearly displayed, don’t put the dog’s name on this.

• Vary your walking routes so it is isn’t predictable. Only let your dog of the lead if recall is good and they stay close to you.

• Always be aware of your surroundings, never walk using your phone so you can react quickly.

• Be aware of who is around whilst walking. Stay away from groups or suspicious people who may take an interest in your dog. Never give them details about your dog.

• Think about carrying equipment with you that may help to distract, disarm or help attract attention. A walking stick, a torch, a loud rape alarm or deterrent may be a good idea.

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Citizens Advice: Some Ways to deal with energy costs The energy regulator, Ofgem, recently announced that it is raising the energy price cap from April. The cap restricts the amount an energy company can charge customers who either have a prepayment meter or are on a 'default tariff' - this is a tariff you didn't choose to sign up to, usually because a fixed-term tariff has expired. The cap doesn’t limit your overall bill. It just limits the price per unit. Over half of households are potentially affected. Can you do anything about it if your supplier puts its price up? Yes you can – you can switch to a different tariff or a different supplier.

In fact in general you can switch suppliers at any time, though you may have to pay off any arrears before you switch. The only major exception is for tenants who pay their landlord for fuel. Then it’s up to the landlord whether to switch suppliers.

If you’re on a default tariff you will almost certainly save money by switching. Which tariff is best for you depends on a lot of factors, including how much gas and electricity you use and what sort of meter you have. But you can find the right tariff for you by using online price comparison tools. There’s one on the Citizens Advice website: https://energycompare.citizensadvice.org.uk/ If you’re in arrears or struggling to pay your bill or top-up your prepaid meter there are a number of things you can do. The key thing, apart from looking for a cheaper tariff, is to talk to your supplier. They have to discuss different ways for you to repay debt and they have to offer you a payment plan. This could involve paying off your debt in instalments or through a prepayment meter. Or, if you are on benefits, you could arrange to have your payments automatically taken from your benefits.

When your supplier talks to you about these options, they also have to advise you on how to use less energy.

The supplier might tell you they’re going to move you to prepayment. This may or may not suit you but they can’t make you move to prepayment if it wouldn’t be safe or practical. This means you can refuse to move to prepayment if an illness or disability means you’d be harmed if your gas or electricity was cut off. You can also refuse if you wouldn't be able to get to or use your meter. There are other rules set by Ofgem which the supplier has to follow if they want to install a prepayment meter.

There are also various funds and schemes which can help you if you are on a low income and have arrears or are struggling. Some of them are available online but you may find it useful to contact us at Epping Forest Citizens Advice as we should have a more complete picture of what is available locally, and can advise on what should be best for you. We can also take a look at whether you are maximising your income through the benefits system, and whether it would be possible to write-off debts. In our experience, if you are struggling with fuel bills you may well be struggling with rent, council tax and other debts. The number to ring is 0300 330 2107, 9.30am to 2.30pm, Tuesday to Thursday.

For more general help on energy supply, or if you are unhappy with your supplier, you can phone the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Source: Paul Stockton

Event to mark 100th anniversary of town's war memorial Epping Town Council has given its support to a proposed commemoration event to mark the 100th anniversary of the Epping war memorial.

A wreath laying ceremony involving the town council, Royal British Legion and St John's Church is proposed as part of a rededication of the war memorial.

There could also be an exhibition and celebration, possibly including some of the VE Day commemoration activities that had been planned for last May, depending on COVID-19 restrictions at the time.

The war memorial was unveiled on May 8, 1921.

Epping Town Council has received the necessary permission to clean the memorial with the work scheduled for May/June.

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Spring Spring has sprung, or that’s what they say, A beautiful time that’s attributed to March, April and May. With the first sight of snowdrops popping up and resting their heads, To seeing many queen bees looking for a good place to nest.

The days getting longer and the sun gaining in strength, All the birds signing loudly, a noise to which I could listen to at length.

New life borne into a world that’s suddenly so new, With natures first time parents instinctively knowing what to do.

Yes this is a time I love, with everything seeming so new and so fresh, Its just a wonderful time to be alive , I guess.

People walking around with, for once a smile on their face, Which is so fantastic after what has been, such a tough time that has taken place.

For we all can start to look again to the future, as the world starts to open it’s eyes, As nature once again feels us all with such wonder, beauty and surprise.

It’s just like we get a ‘do-over’ as nature seems to forget many of our sins, A time we can build upon, when the sheer beauty all around always wins.

So simply take stock and join in, with natures wonderous fresh beginning, Smile and be happy, for after so much darkness and pain, we’re all finally winning.

Source: Andy—resident poet. Focusing on the weather and the warmer months ahead—giving us all some hope.

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Compassionate Neighbours celebrates three years of friendship St Clare Hospice, is celebrating the third anniversary since the launch of Compassionate Neighbours which I have mentioned over the years in the magazine and I have heard how this helped many local people.

Compassionate Neighbours is an award -winning project which aims to help tackle loneliness within local communities. Since the project started at St Clare Hospice, in 2018, it has trained 166 volunteers to become Compassionate Neighbours, who each give an hour a week to offer social and emotional support to others who are isolated.

The Compassionate Neighbours are ‘matched’ based on common interests, lifestyles and experiences and both parties benefit from a mutual, supportive relationship as friends.

The Compassionate Neighbours project has become a vital scheme during the pandemic, when instances of isolation and loneliness have increased with lockdown and the restrictions, especially in relation to those who are clinically vulnerable.

The project is actively recruiting volunteers who are able to spare time to bring friendship to the lives of people who are lonely and socially isolated. Regular training sessions are being run, currently via online meeting platform zoom and volunteers are DBS checked prior to becoming Compassionate Neighbours.

Volunteering as a Compassionate Neighbour is a rewarding role where people can build genuine friendships by calling or meeting a local, socially isolated person every week.

For more information on how people can access support, through friendship, and to find out more about becoming a Compassionate Neighbour visit: https://stclarehospice.org.uk/ wellbeing-hub/compassionateneighbours/

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School receives a Dementia Friendly Schools Award Coopersale & Theydon Garnon C.E. Primary School is the first school in the district to receive a Dementia Friendly Schools Award from Epping Forest Dementia Action Alliance.

The school has been incorporating dementia awareness into the curriculum for most of their subjects and developing links with their local care home, Ashlar House Care Home (part of Barchester Healthcare) in Epping.

Epping Forest Dementia Action Alliance (EFDAA) became aware of the intergenerational project the school and care home were doing via EFDAA’s steering group and recognised it as an excellent example of how dementia awareness can be implemented into education.

Visits to Ashlar House started in 2019, when pupils from year 3 and 4 interviewed the residents and their families about their lives as part of a project called ‘I love where I live’ which the pupils turned into handmade biographies for the residents as Christmas gifts.

Prior to their visits each year group took part in sessions about dementia to help them understand certain behaviours and encourage sympathy and empathy.

The school continued correspondence throughout the Covid19 pandemic. They held weekly virtual sessions with the care home, once every half term, to present some of their work and read to the residents or get read to. They were also able to chat with the residents after each session, asking them questions about their lives and giving them the opportunity to reminisce.

Epping Forest Dementia Action Alliance (EFDDA) was launched in 2016. It brings together organisations and individuals across the district who are committed to further developing a dementia friendly community.

EFDAA continues to grow throughout the pandemic, at a time when those affected by dementia need our care and support more than ever.

Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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County Council welcomes Prime Minister’s latest announcement but urges caution Essex County Council has welcomed today’s announcement by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who unveiled the Government’s roadmap for cautiously easing lockdown restrictions in England, including welcoming back all students to schools from 8th March.

will be allowed including in private gardens.

• Outdoor sports facilities such as tennis or basketball courts will reopen and organised adult and children's sport, such as grassroots football, will also return.

•

The stay at home order ends however people are encouraged to stay local wherever they can.

People should work from home wherever possible.

Cllr David Finch said: “While today’s announcement is welcome news and certainly a step in the right direction, I must ask everyone to please remain cautious. We are not out of the However, with case rates in Essex still around 100 cases per woods yet, and we must not undo all the sacrifices everyone 100,000 people, the Leader of Essex County Council, Cllr David has made over the past year.

Finch is urging residents not to drop their guard.

“Our case rates are still around 100 cases per 100,000 people, Today’s announcement makes it clear that any decisions, made and we still have some work to do at getting these figures down. while determining the roadmap for leaving lockdown, have been “I am sure many parents and carers are breathing a sigh of remade with a view to balance health, economic and social faclief today with the announcement that all children will now be tors with the very latest epidemiological data and advice. able to attend school, however there will be many who are anxDue to the current, relatively uniform spread of the virus across ious or worried. the country, restrictions will be eased step-by-step across the “I would like to reassure parents and carers that our schools will whole of England at the same time. continue to work exceptionally hard to create Covid-19 secure environments by following the Public Health England and Department for Education advice and guidance in preparation for From Monday 8th March; the full return in two weeks time.

• All schools and colleges in England will welcome back all students.

“We would also ask parents and carers to also play their part.

• School clubs can resume.

Please adhere to your school’s policies, including isolating at home should your child have any symptoms and of course • Secondary school and further education students must please adhere to social distancing guidelines while on the wear masks in class as well as communal areas. school run.

• Recreation in a public space - such as a park - will be allowed between two people, meaning it is not just limited to exer- “We understand how hard this past year has been for everyone, however today’s announcement shows us that there is light at cise. the end of the tunnel. I am hopeful that by following the Govern• New rules will also allow each care home resident in Eng- ment’s roadmap, and by working together to adhere to the land to have one regular visitor. guidelines, we begin to see a return to a more normal way of life The stay at home order will remain in place, meaning that peo- in the very near future.” ple must stay in their local area.

From Monday 29th March: • Outdoor gatherings of either six people or two households

DEADLINES Please send News, Events, features, letters articles to me via post or email (see below) to reach me on or before the deadline Deadline for next issue: - 10th March 2021 Deadline for May issue: - 10th April 2021

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Based in North Weald. Essex CM16 Page 32

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BIRD FEATURE - MARCH 2021 Welcome to some jottings regarding local birdlife and general natural history , as always these notes are compiled up to the start of the second half of the preceding month and I will give some details of what I have seen around our area together with a few suggestions regarding what to look out for during the forthcoming weeks.

We had a true cold snap as we came into mid February with some lying snow for a week or so. The effect on the birds was immediate. More birds visited garden feeders as they offered easier pickings than could be found out in the wider countryside. I noticed several more Blue Tits and Great Tits in my garden at varying times with 3 Robins visiting as opposed to the more usual single bird.

Roving Fieldfare and Redwing flocks were seen with up to 200 or so birds in some gatherings, desperately seeking the last sources of berries and also targeting areas of exposed mud where they might have a chance of finding prey items (largely worms). Where us humans walk through can provide those more exposed areas of earth as our boots churn up the frozen ground and disturb lying leaves and other vegetation. Even after snowy conditions some scrubby areas will provide a micro habitat with the cover of thick brambles keeping some leaf litter exposed, enabling the winter thrushes, Robins, Dunnocks, Blackbirds and other species to forage for prey. I saw one small patch of brambles being targeted by a couple of dozen such species, all striving to be able to turn over some dead vegetation and find a grub or worm underneath. The tiny Wren is another bird that will search through tangled undergrowth and being so small the loss of body heat in proportion to their size is that much greater than for larger species, making the search for food truly a matter of life or death.

A sure sign of the harsh conditions throughout the area was the presence of some rarely seen species. I saw several flocks of Lapwings, one of 50+ individuals, and generally they were just flying over, seeking a feeding ground. But one group of 20 or so birds settled on a golf course trying to forage for food, a sure sign of how tough conditions were.

The wintry weather also brought a new species for me, half a dozen Dunlin, a small wading bird that visits the UK in large numbers during the winter.

They are normally more coastal in distribution but there they were, a small group forced to try their luck in our area and it may well be that they were only present for a short period of time, as I have said before it can often be just by chance that you get to see something unusual or interesting.

Had I come by that location half an hour later they may well have already flown on and I would have been none the wiser.

I also saw 4 Snipe, another wading bird that we only really get to see in cold weather.

Within a week of the cold snap we have much milder weather and indeed as we get to the end of the third week of February the sun is shining and the signs of spring are all around us. One week after seeing wading birds desperately foraging through snow covered grassy areas I find myself watching Dunnocks, Great Tits, Song Thrushes, Chaffinches and other small birds as they show clear evidence of breeding behaviour, some singing to claim territories, some pair bonding, some already checking out suitable nest sites. Any of you with a nestbox in your garden may be seeing a Blue Tit investigating it as a potential 'home' for the breeding season. Crows and pigeons are already nest building, often repairing old nests that were used last year. Indeed some nests will just be repaired and built up over the course of several years with the same birds returning to try and repeat their breeding success at that location. And some of the bigger birds can take over a nest, using it as foundations upon which to build their own structure. Squirrels too can take on the ownership of an old nest and construct a new drey. Of course as spring develops a lot of nests that are exposed during winter will be covered by thickening vegetation and end up hidden from view.

If you walk around our village area there are plenty of small patches of 'derelict' habitat, bits and pieces of land between buildings, adjacent to roads, next to fences, by flood water drainage channels etc, often overgrown with weeds, shrubs, brambles etc. Quite often they don't look anything like countryside, or a 'natural' site, yet these pockets of thick, often undisturbed cover can provide great habitat for some birds. Dunnocks and Robins will often take possession of these micro habitats, places that look less than promising as a wildlife site but which in fact can provide enough cover for a safe nest site and have the potential for food around and about. The other day I saw a Dunnock singing from the top of a bramble at one such site and at first viewing it didn't seem a very favourable location to set up a nest. But when I thought about it there was some virtually impenetrable cover (safety from any predators), thick undergrowth (grubs / spiders / worms etc in the micro climate) and some ideal branches etc (singing to claim and keep a territory). Even people walking by had little impact on the site itself. In many respects, Dunnock heaven.

Certainly keep your ears open during the next few weeks, there will be so many birds proclaiming their presence through song, either to attract a mate or to establish a territory. Singing tells potential mates that "I am here and alive and well" and tells potential rivals "I am here and this is my plot" and a welcome aspect of all this sounding off is that we humans can enjoy the soundtrack of our local birdlife in the spring, eventually building to the intense dawn chorus in a couple of months time. Often it is only hearing a bird that draws you to its presence, long before you get to actually glimpse it.

It is too early to get the summer migrants arriving, that will be late March at the earliest and I will cover that in the April article. In the meantime the winter thrushes will still be around for a short period of time although in gradually reduced numbers as they head off north & east to their own breeding grounds far, far away. Many Robins and other small birds also came here for the winter so they too will fly off to spend the summer elsewhere. Of course for some of these birds they will arrive 'home' that bit later than some others of their species which will put them at a disadvantage for the breeding season. However if there is an unexpected late cold snap in their breeding grounds then they might profit by getting back that bit later, the earlier arrivals perish in the cold and they turn up when conditions improve to find fewer rivals. It is all swings and roundabouts in the natural world.

Anyway, there have still been some sightings of Red Kites in our area and this species is becoming more and more frequent in East Anglia. When they fly low overhead they make a bit of a spectacle with their size, shape and the beautiful plumage, all topped off by their graceful flight and all round visual impact. Occasionally it is possible to see four birds of prey - Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Buzzard and Red Kite - within minutes of each other and spring can be the most likely time for this to happen.

Gull numbers remained good but the cold snap has now been and gone and most of the birds will slowly depart our area as they head back to established breeding colonies at various locations in the country. There are always a few gulls to be seen but it is only a handful of Lesser Black backed Gulls that are usually seen in our area as the spring and summer progresses.

You do not have to stalk birds in bushes, scan constantly with binoculars or spend hours out and about in fields and woods - you can see and hear plenty as you go along and any walk is enhanced by seeing the natural world.

Source: Paul Corbet Page 33 Tel: 07814 863955 Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Advertiser Directory New directory of advertisers with page numbers so you can find their details easily.

Glazing

Car, MOT & Servicing Kings Head Garage

30

Home Glazing Repair

Matts Motorz

8

Kennels & Catteries London & Essex Kents Farm

Carpets & Flooring Little Carpet Co

10

2

Online Shopping Local Bodyshop consultant—Sparkle & Shine

Cleaning Maid in Essex

11

Andrews Computers

12

North Weald Bassett Parish Council

31

Ashbourne Day Nursery

9

Electrical Services A&P Electrical Services

30

Estate & Letting Agents Montagues

36

Financial Planning & Advice Continuum

18

Flowers House of Flowers

25

Funeral Services Stuart Poulton Ltd

23

Plastering G F Plastering

Day Nurseries & Pre Schools

19

Plumbing & Heating Robert Rayment

6

Pikes Plumbing & Heating

15

N Monk

16

Property Services Care & Repair

17

KLF Property Services

20

Handy Andy

24

Bassett Building

12

Safecracker 15

Furniture

Safe-cracker Locksmith

23

Residential Home

RSL Interiors—Kitchens & bedrooms

24

Abbeyfield Cunningham House

CJA Upholstery

7

Roofing R J S Roofing

Garden Centre/Gardening 26

Window Cleaning

Ernest Doe

4

Steve’s Window Cleaning

GMS Gardening Services

13

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28

32

Art Nursery Garden Centre

Page 34

14

Pest Control G J B Pest Control

Council

25

Painting & Decorating S I Painters & Decorators

Computer Services

5

5

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

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

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01945 588325/davedyer24@gmail.com

Three Valleys Male Voice Choir

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