North Weald Village Life Strengthening the Community
FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine Issue: 179 JULY 2021 Page
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July is here We are now in July, over half way through 2021. I would usually be saying time flies and it does but I feel like I am living in limbo, never sure what is safe, what the rules are, should I visit family, can I travel etc. I sometimes start to relax a little and think we can be safe and enjoy life a little and then you find that someone you saw yesterday knows someone who has tested positive. What does that mean to me - should I isolate, am I putting loved ones in danger or is it ok because I am double jabbed! With the new ‘freedom” day happening hopefully later this month, maybe things will get easier. I must admit I often don’t recognise people I know when they are wearing a mask so I am sorry if I have ignored someone in the village when out and about. I am going to have a moan and I am sorry if I upset readers but I hate it when people cross the High Road in North Weald and don’t use the zebra crossing, they dart out just a few feet from it. I remember how long it was that people wanted a crossing there, with at least one lady and it may be two, that lost their life by trying to cross the road. Please use this crossing, that is what it is for. It is great to see more events are taking place in person, I know so many local people relied on these.
It has been a sporty few months with the tennis at Queens, the Euros 2020 tournament, Wimbledon and the Olympics are just around the corner. Ideal for anybody who loves to watch sports on TV. I guess we should acknowledge that these can now take place, that must be a positive step forward. For people like me, who doesn’t really watch sports on tv, it is a nightmare – I never know when the soaps are on. And now of course Love Island is on so I know what will be taking over at 9pm in our house. About 11pm I get to choose what I want to watch. I was very lucky to have had a few nights with the family in the Cotswolds a few weeks ago. It was arranged by my daughters as a treat for my birthday. All 5 of us and our 3 dogs spent a few nights in a lovely AIRBNB cottage. I have never been to the Cotswolds before but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It as such a pretty area and would be very happy to visit some of the other areas in the future. We were so lucky as we had lovely weather and we could have easily been abroad but with our wonderful English countryside. It was strange to wake up to the sound of sheep. We haven’t been away as a family for many years but it was a lovely break, I just want to go away more now! JUNE Editor Page 3
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Cover photo: Chosen as I hope that many of us will get the opportunity to join friends and family for a picnic
Contents June Issue Page No.
4. Brain Teaser 5. Major M11 Bridge 7. Events 8. Planning applications 14. Love our lottery—St Clare Hospice 15. Danger of setting fires 17. Letter 21. EOR Update 22. Introducing a new local business 24. Photo of the month 25. Church Chat 28. Gardening hints 25. Happy 101st Birthday Doris 29. Poem 30. Citizen Advice 31. The Tip we live in 32. Bobbin with the Robbin 33. Birds. Editor June Peachey june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk 07814 863955 Write to: 49 York Road, North Weald, Epping, Essex CM16 6HU www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Subscription: If you would like to guarantee your personal copy or perhaps you have relatives or friends who would like to receive their own copy, you can subscribe for £25.00 for 12 issues. Contributions & Editorial: If you would like to contribute editorial, poems, recipes, letters or anything else, we would be delighted to receive these. Please send them to us via letter or email. Advertisers: Please email or telephone us for full advertising rates and sizes. Booking
Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure any data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor it’s editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party, or loss or damage caused by errors or resulting from negligence, accident or any other concerns. North Weald Village Life does not officially endorse any advertisement material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reported, stored in retrieval systems or transmitted in any form electronically. Mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the permission of the publisher.
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JULY BRAIN TEASER —Win a bottle of wine • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Sunset Beach Sand Warmth Sea Towels Sun cream Sunglasses Shorts Swimsuits Sandals Tan Laughter Kids Breaks Vacation
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Thank you to T. Baxter 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 July. Please send it to:July 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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Major M11 milestone reached after bridge installation The M11 in Essex now boasts a new bridge after crews worked night shifts recently to install a 500 tonne construction over the motorway as part of the ongoing Junction 7A scheme. A section of the motorway was closed overnight while a 600-tonne crawler crane lifted the five 45m braced beams, each weighing up to 100 tonnes, into place as part of the ongoing M11 Junction 7A scheme. Welcoming the milestone, Councillor Kevin Bentley, Leader of Essex County Council, said: “The M11 Junction 7A scheme is the largest infrastructure project in the county for a number of years. Once complete it will have a transformational impact on Harlow’s road network, helping create a new east-west link through the town, reducing congestion, creating new public transport links and, in the future, supporting the new Princess Alexandra Hospital. The M11 Junction 7A scheme is due to be completed and operational by 2022.
Have you heard about the new E10 petrol? Fuel pumps up and down the country will look different this summer with the introduction of E10 petrol, a greener fuel. The new fuel is petrol blended with up to 10% renewable ethanol, making it greener than existing petrol – motorists are being asked to check their vehicle is compatible with the fuel. The introduction of E10 will be across all UK petrol stations in Great Britain from September, with the aim of potentially cutting transport CO2 emissions by 750,000 tonnes a year – equivalent to the annual uptake of a forest the size of the Isle of Wight. The introduction of E10 will see renewable ethanol in petrol double from the current petrol blend E5, which contains no more than 5% ethanol, further reducing emissions from millions of cars in line with our climate change targets. A small number of older vehicles, including classic cars and some from the early 2000s, will continue to need E5 fuel, which is why supplies of E5 petrol will be maintained in the super petrol grade. We are advising motorists to use the new https://www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-e10-petrol.
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You can also support this event by advertising in the match day programme to email nightingaletransport@outlook.com for details Page 6
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If you run a community event or charity event, don’t forget to let me know so I can share the details with readers—just email me June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
WE’RE BACK— North Weald W.I. will hold their Annual Meeting on Wednesday 7th July in the Village Hall starting at 1.45pm. Hopefully this will be the beginning of our monthly meetings to be held in the village hall at the above time on the first Wednesday of each month.
Wild World Heroes, Summer Reading Challenge .
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The Wild World Heroes are coming to a library near you this summer! They are teaming up with World Wildlife Fund for a very special nature-themed challenge that will inspire your children to stand up for the planet! The challenge runs from Saturday 10 July to Saturday 21 August in all Essex libraries and mobile libraries. Tel: 07814 863955
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Planning Applications Application No: EPF/0975/21 Officer: Sukhvinder Dhadwar Applicant Name: Mr Darren Goodey Planning File No: 000200 Location: North Weald Airfield, The Gate House Security Building, Merlin Way, North Weald Bassett Epping CM16 6HR Proposal: Tarmac taxiway for use from Hangar 2 apron. Application No: EPF/1492/21 Officer: Alastair Prince Applicant Name: Mr & Mrs Thompson Planning File No: 016370 Location: 30 School Green Lane, North Weald Bassett, Epping, CM16 6EJ Proposal: Partially demolish existing rear extension/ erection of a single storey rear extension.
Any representations on applications should be made in writing, by Monday, 12th July 2021 Application No: EPF/1518/21 Officer: Kie Farrell Applicant Name: Mr Luke Dale Planning File No: 003609 Location: 7 Higham View, North Weald Bassett Epping CM16 6DD Proposal: Demolition of existing rear extension. New single story, side and rear wrap around Any representations on applications should be made in writing, by Monday, 19th July, 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
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Online driving licence renewals for over 70s increase DVLA has released new figures showing over 60% of our customers over the age of 70 are choosing to renew their driving licence online. New figures released on the 22nd June by DVLA show that around 6 out of 10 over 70 year olds who renewed their driving licence last year did so online. The figures also show that in 2016, just 43% of those renewing their driving licence at the age of 70 or older used DVLA’s online service, compared to over 60% in 2020 – the first year over half of people aged 70 or over preferred to do this online. Driving licence holders aged 70 and over have renewed their licences online almost 5 million times in the last 5 years. There has been a 27% rise in the overall number of licence holders in their 80s completing their renewal online between 2016 to 2020, while the number in their 90s jumped by 41%. Driving licence holders are legally required to renew their licence at 70 and then at most every 3 years after this. It is free to renew a driving licence at 70 or over. More information about renewing your driving licence at age 70 is on GOV.UK at https://www.gov.uk/renew-driving-licence-at70
Local NHS Chief urges people to get their vital second vaccination As the largest ever NHS vaccination programme enters its last lap, Dr Jane Halpin, Chief Executive of the Hertfordshire and West Essex Clinical Commissioning Groups, has encouraged local residents to come forward for their first jab and remember to get their second dose, which she called “vital and lifesaving”. The plea comes as people aged 40 and over are now able to book in their second vaccinationon from eight weeks after their first dose. With everyone over the age of 18 now able to book in for the lifesaving vaccine, eligible people are being urged to get their first or second jab as soon as possible. Research this week showed how important the second jab is at protecting people against the Delta/Indian variant. Studies have found the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to be 96% effective against hospitalisation after two doses, while the Oxford-AztraZenaca is 92% effective. The last push comes as the NHS in England passed the milestone of having delivered 60 million doses across England in just six months. Across Hertfordshire and west Essex, over 1.6 million doses of the vaccine have been given so far. Almost 74% of eligible adults have had their first dose and over 680,000 people have had their second – meaning 54% of the eligible adult population is fully vaccinated. It’s vital that the remaining people complete their course to ensure they get full protection as soon as possible.
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Residents invited to share their views on public safety A new survey to gain insight into public safety launched on Monday 28th June. The online survey, which aims to explore how residents in the county feel about public safety, also asks about attitudes towards women in society. The survey, which has been developed by ECC’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG) alongside key partners, aims to inform decision and encourage change in Essex. Led by Essex County Council (ECC) Deputy Leader Cllr Louise McKinlay, the SAG was launched following the murder of Sarah Everard earlier this year and aims to encourage meaningful engagement with residents, spark a countywide conversation about the issues and fears faced, and most importantly, bring about positive change. Essex is a safe county in which to live, work and visit, however the County Council is keen to not only ensure the county remains safe, but that residents feel safe too. To do this, the views of Essex residents are needed. The online survey will be initially sent to over 1000 residents who are part of ECC’s Residents Panel. The panel gives anyone living in Essex the opportunity to tell ECC about the services and issues that matter most to them. The survey will run for four weeks and key findings will be released in due course. Residents not on the panel will also be able to share their views and answer questions from the survey at www.facebook.com/ essexcountycouncill throughout July.
Epping Playground Association competition winners Prizes have been awarded to children who won A drawing competition arranged by Epping Playground Association. More than 100 children submitted drawings of their dream playground with three entries from each category - KS1, KS2, KS3/ KS4 and additional needs - selected as the winners. Epping Town Mayor councillor Michael Wright presented the prizes at the Lower Swaines recreation ground in Epping on Friday. The children were from a mixture of local schools including Epping Primary, Ivy Chimneys Primary, Coopersale Hall School and St Nicholas School, Old Harlow.
Each winner received prizes donated by local businesses including Tesco, Jojo Maman Bebe, Piccola, Croft's Dental, Slice, Haywards restaurant and cafes including Starbucks, Fred and Dougs and Dada's.
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ONGAR NATURE WATCH Big Butterfly Count
We all take pleasure in seeing attractive butterflies in our gardens in the summertime, but which ones do you see and how common are they?
event began eleven years ago. Even so, over 1.4 million butterflies were counted across the UK. The fall in butterfly numbers last summer may be due to an unusually warm spring which meant that many species emerged earlier than usual. So only the tail-end of the adult butterfly season was recorded. They are valuable indicators of the health of our environment as many butterfly species are under threat as a result of climate change, habitat loss and farming practices.
To help answer the second question, you are invited to take part in the world's largest citizen science survey – the annual Big Butterfly Count. This year it will take place between Friday 16 July and Sunday 8 August and should take you no more As well as being beautiful creatures for us to appreciate, than an hour or two to take part. butterflies play a key role as food in the life of birds, mamThe Big Butterfly Count is a UK-wide mals, invertebrates, and are important pollinators. survey aimed at helping the organisa- What you have to do. tion Butterfly Conservation assess the Find a sunny spot and spend 15 health of our environment based on minutes counting the butterflies the abundance and variety of butter- that you see and then either flies and day-flying moths across the submit your sightings online nation. at www.bigbutterflycount.org or The data gathered will be used by scientists to assess where via the Big Butterfly Count app. conservation efforts should be targeted in the future. The data There is also a free downloadable butterfly chart for you to use are also crucial to butterfly specialists wanting to learn more to help in identification. about the populations and habits of various butterflies. Remember that most butterflies fly only on sunny, calm days, or Last year over a hundred thousand people submitting when it is warm and overcast and that places with flowers and counts. It seems that, in a challenging year, the opportunity long grass are favourite haunts. Always move slowly, as butterfor connecting with nature and assisting with a national flies have keen eyesight, and try to prevent your shadow disturbing them. Don’t leave it too late in the day as sightings tail study was welcomed. off in the late afternoon, even on warm, sunny days. Either carIt is of concern that, despite the increased number of parry the identification chart or a field guide to help you identify the ticipants, last year’s count saw a reduction of 34% of the species you see or take a photograph so that you can confirm number of butterflies logged in comparison with 2019 and the sighting at your leisure. the lowest average number of butterflies logged since the Keith Snow
EVENTS
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Council priorities At a recent Epping Forest District Council overview & scrutiny meeting, council Leader Chris Whitbread said: The world has changed so much in the past year and the Council has adapted its ways of working to encompass that. This is further demonstrated by the newly refurbished Civic Office in Epping scheduled to open soon. The Local Plan is a top priority for 2021/22 and he highlighted the risks that not having a definitive plan will pose. He also flagged up the Council’s housebuilding programme, saying it is something to be proud of and that the mix of tenancies is particularly important to support younger people in the district.
Regeneration of town centres Regeneration of town centres was on the 8th June agenda of the Epping Forest District Council overview & scrutiny meeting, with a series of independent reports aimed at re-invigorating the district’s High Streets in the wake of Covid-19. Members scrutinised the comprehensive reports prepared for Epping, Buckhurst Hill and Loughton High Street and Broadway. The reports advocate a partnerships approach involving town teams, made up of businesses, local people and parish/town councils to lead on big issues.
Flexible rail season tickets
New national flexible rail tickets, matching modern working habits and saving passengers hundreds of pounds, are now available to commuters across England. The launch of flexible season tickets is the first step in the reform of the railways, as part of the recently launched Williams-Shapps Plan for Rail. The paperless tickets will allow travel on any 8 days in a 28-day period, with passengers able to tap smartcards or scan mobiles at the station with no need to select the days of travel in advance. To encourage more passengers to travel by rail, for the rest of this year (until 31 December 2021), train companies will also offer a book with confidence guarantee, allowing people to rebook journeys or receive rail vouchers without an admin fee if their plans change.
Collect your copy of the magazine from Tesco I am pleased to confirm that local people will be able to pick up their copy of the magazine from the Tesco store in Epping which is fantastic news. More people can pick up their copy, local businesses who advertise in the magazine will reach more readers.
Hopefully the magazine will attract new readers in Epping too. Page 13
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‘Love our Lottery, Care for St Clare’ says local Hospice
It costs £1 per entry to play St Clare Hospice’s Lottery, which is drawn weekly. Over the course of one month, it costs £4.34 when you subscribe to play once a week with a monthly direct debit – the price of a few cups of coffee.
From People’s Postcode to Local Lotto – community lotteries are on the rise, providing a chance to be lucky whilst also raising Recent St Clare Hospice Lottery winner, Kate Munson from essential funds. Loughton, won £1,000 and said:
One example of this is the the popular St Clare Hospice Lottery, “I came to know St Clare through the Hospice at Home care first launched more than 20 years ago to support income gener- they provided for my mother back in 2010. My father, my sister ation for the Hastingwood-based charity. Emma, and myself looked after my mother at her home in Loughton, with the help from Hospice at Home in her final days. As of spring 2021, St Clare’s Lottery boasted more than 15,000 It was my mother’s wish to not die in hospital, if at all possible, weekly entries, which last year helped to raise over £456,000 for and St Clare’s made this wish possible. We could not have got the West Essex and East Herts Hospice. The income generated through this time without Hospice at Home’s practical and emoby people playing the St Clare Hospice Lottery pays for the care tional support. All of St Clare’s team were truly amazing, and we of around 1 in 9 of the Hospice charity’s patients. can never thank them enough.” Paula Fogg, Lottery Manager at St Clare Hospice. “With new “Signing up to play the St Clare Lottery was a way for us to conplans for St Clare Hospice to reach more local people than ever tinue to support the Hospice and repay the help they have proover the next few years, there’s even more need to raise as vided to our family. I felt truly grateful when I found out I had much as possible to help bring these plans into fruition. We won £1,000 from the Lottery’s weekly draw.” know that our growing Lottery community can help to make that happen! If you would like to find out more about playing the St Clare Hospice Lottery, or sign up yourself, please visit their website Paula explains, “Playing the St Clare Lottery is a really fun way at: stclarehospice.org.uk/play-lottery. Alternatively, please to support the Hospice, and it means that you’re in with a contact St Clare Hospice Lottery Manager Paula Fogg on 01279 chance of winning one of 24 prizes every single week! We dish 773755 or email lottery@stclarehospice.org.uk out more than £1,300 in prizes each week, and that’s not to mention our Rollover, which can get up to £10,000 with £200 Lottery players must be 16 years or older. Terms and conditions being added to the ‘pot’ every week. So, whilst you support your apply. Visit stclarehospice.org.uk/play-lottery/faqs-tcs for more local Hospice in a really powerful way, you’re also in with a information. The St Clare Hospice Lottery is licensed by the chance of winning the jackpot!” Gambling Commission – gamblingcommission.gov.uk Page 14
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Talk to tour children about dangers of setting fires Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is urging parents and guardians to talk to their children about the dangers of setting fires to help prevent deliberate outdoor fires this summer. Last year, the fire service was called to 4,390 outdoor fires, 1,247 of these fires were started deliberately, and a further 849 fires were recorded as being possibly started deliberately.
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Arson Prevention Lead Officer, Andre Turner from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “Many children and young people have a fascination with fire, but for some this fascination can take a dangerous turn and lead to fire setting. This is where our Juvenile Fire Setters Scheme can help. The free scheme is run by our trained advisors who can offer help and support which help deters children from future fire-setting behaviours.
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Wheelers Farm Community Donations The community gardeners at Wheelers Farm Allotment would like to say thank you to fellow growers on the allotment who have shared some of their fantastic produce with the group to help them fill their beds. Growers of all ages have been learning so much in the early days of this fantastic project organised by the Community, Culture & Wellbeing Team at Epping Forest District Council. This month, a local resident was generous enough to donate an old TV unit to be upcycled into a mud kitchen for the young ones to enjoy. If you are interested in joining this local community gardening project or think you have a similarly fun upcycling idea then you can get in touch with Victoria
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Blue benches installed in Parish Two blue benches have been installed by North Weald Bassett Parish Council which has completed its COVID-19 Reflection Bench Project. The benches are made from recycled materials and have been installed within the Parish after the parish council received £500 grant funding from the Essex Association of Local Councils towards this project.
One bench has been installed in North Weald Village near the village flagpole on the corner of Wheelers Farm Gardens. The other is near the play area at Thornwood Common.
Both benches feature a brass plaque which reads:
Rainbow stones have been placed around the North Weald bench.
NORTH WEALD BASSETT PARISH COUNCIL REFLECTION BENCH 2020 WHY NOT SIT HERE REST A WHILE AND CONTEMPLATE “TOMORROW WILL BE A GOOD DAY” Words spoken by: Captain Sir Tom Moore
The project was initially put forward by parish councillor Andy Tyler who felt the project would be a good memorial for the year 2020.
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Based in North Weald. Essex CM16 Page 16
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Letter
Dear Editor,
North Weald Village Hall Car Park I am writing as a trustee of the Village Hall Charity regarding the condition of the road leading to and through the Village Hall car park. I must first apologise to the hirers of the hall for the condition of the road. During 2019 the Village Hall paid out nearly £6,000 for road repairs in the car park, money that we could ill afford and for which we now understand may not have beenwholly our responsibility. In January this year we requested from the Parish Council, funds to assist with further road repairs. The Parish Council have taken legal advice and advise us that they have no responsibility for the roadway and it is also now our understanding that the Village Hall also may not have total responsibility for the costs. We are advised that the responsibility for repairing the road may be that of all users of the roadway.
Essex Police warn of increase in thefts from doorsteps Thefts from a doorstep are when a parcel that has been delivered to your home or business address is stolen from where it was left by the delivery driver.
The owners of the road are the Peer Group. Investigations are being made of the legal position and it is hoped that this matter may be resolved as soon as possible.
I would again remind car park users that this is a private car park for use by hirers of the Village Hall, apart from those spaces allocated to the Parish Council and that no responsibility is accepted for any damage caused. Roger Smith, Trustee, North Weald Village Hall Charity.
This is a growing trend across the country, as thieves take advantage of the opportunity to steal unattended parcels. Essex Police advise that one way to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of doorstep theft is by installing a video doorbell; this can be connected to your mobile so you are notified immediately of any delivery, and is easier to install than a full CCTV system. For more advice on steps you can take to help secure your belongings, protect yourself and prevent becoming a victim of crime visit www.essex.police.uk/cp #SecureProtectPrevent
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YOUR LOCAL PRESERVATION SOCIETY Like so many other groups and societies, North Weald Bassett Preservation Society is struggling to find enough interested people to help run the Society and secure its future. Over the years many people have served on the committee and have ‘done their bit’. We are very grateful for their hard work and are now hoping that others will come and join us to take the Preservation Society forward. The Society came into being 48 years ago when David Lodge was approached by the Epping Society to form a similar society in North Weald. He got an interested group together and a public meeting was called. A leaflet was sent round the village and part of it read: ‘It is hoped that the meeting will result in bringing together those who are interested in caring for the rural and historical nature of the neighbourhood.’ Since its formation, the society has helped to save and get many buildings listed for their special architectural or historic interest; has ensured Rights of Way have been protected and helped to create new ones. Trees have been planted and others protected with T.P.O’s (Tree Preservation Orders). We have responded to numerous planning applications and when necessary, have worked closely with the Parish Council and the West Essex Ramblers. Our members have enjoyed illustrated talks and country rambles. We also organise Litter Picking events. If you think you could help to continue this work and wish to know more with a view of becoming a member and perhaps joining the committee, please come along and have a chat at our special drop-in session on Monday evening 19th July from 8 to 9pm at the Methodist Church Hall. If you are interested but cannot make this date you are welcome to e-mail our secretary christinem.deacon1@ntlworld.com for more details. Footnote. If you have ever gone out with your Map or GPS to find a new walk and instead have found a broken bridge; no waymarkers or a way through a field of corn and are driven to report the problems or, you find a well defined walk and it gives you pleasure, then you are the person we are looking for to assist our long standing R.o.W. representative who is gradually having to hang up her walking boots!
Specialising in plastering, external rendering and K rend
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EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY UPDATE Thanks to the tremendous efforts of our volunteers and small number of paid staff, we have been able to reintroduce both steam and diesel services slightly earlier than expected. During July we expect to see Peppa Pig and Dinosaurs, in August PAW Patrol pay us a visit. Steam and Diesel Galas are scheduled for September. A full list of what we have available in the coming months can be found at www.eorailway.co.uk I thought you might be interested in a recent report from our volunteer Permanent Way Team: At last summer is here! The Permanent Way team are getting back on the track and the warmer weather is welcome. The track gauge, used to measure track levels, sent us to various parts of the track to do some jacking and packing. This was started outside North Weald on No 1 and No 2 roads. We hired in some mechanical Robel hand-tampers which speeded up the packing enormously and saved a lot of hard work and time. We commenced with raising and packing the roads from the North Weald crossing to the points. We then proceeded to the end of No 1 platform and jacked and packed to near Kiln Road bridge. This improved the track to a satisfactory level and we tested it using a 100-ton diesel! The next job was the recommencement of fishplate greasing from Blake Hall station towards Ongar. Some days the group were managing 400 metres, and one day we greased 600 metres. That completes 5.6 km of track from North Weald to Ongar. Now begins the problem of cleaning our hi-vis clothing, the colour currently shows Using the Robel hand-tampers more black than orange! We wonder how long it will be before we begin greasing to the Epping boundary.
Fishplate greasing Photos: John Wilsdon
The drainage channels that were dug out in March to improve the flow of water were inspected. At long last, after a dry April, we had enough rain in May to assess the work. The hard work of digging has paid off and water is flowing freely along the channels and emptying to the ponds as it should and not going on the track bed. Just before we opened in May, a track patrol was carried out along the whole line to ascertain any future work after a long shutdown and wet winter. After the patrols, we then set about correcting some of the defects found. The Railway took delivery of 300 new sleepers which are gradually being introduced into the track. Sleeper changing will now continue on various sections of the line where required. If you are interested in joining this lively team, please contact membership@eorailway.co.uk Adult membership costs just £20 per year and that includes four copies of our 44-page magazine, Mixed Traffic. If you would like to receive a complimentary copy of Mixed Traffic to learn more about the Railway, please send an email to me at mixedtraffic@eorailway.co.uk containing your postal address and please mention North Weald Village Life. Robert Good Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society
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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.
Outdoor civil wedding and partnership registrations to be legalised Outdoor civil wedding and partnership ceremonies in England and Wales are set to be legalised for the first time – offering greater choice to couples in a boost to the wedding sector. Under current laws for approved premises such as a hotel, the legal wedding or civil partnership ceremony must take place in an approved room or permanent structure. It will now be possible for a couple to have the whole ceremony outside at such a venue. This change will give more options to couples and the sector in terms of how they celebrate and host the big day by allowing all aspects of weddings to take place outdoors – providing greater flexibility especially during the pandemic when there are important public health considerations to take into account. On 30th June, a statutory instrument (SI) was laid to amend the regulations with the change taking effect on 1 July. This follows a commitment made in 2019 to legalise outdoor ceremonies. The change will benefit almost 75% of all weddings in England and Wales that are non-religious and which take place on approved premises, along with civil partnerships. Page 21
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peak travel, and I know how it can feel. So to have something local available like this just opens up the options for flexible workWelcome Sukh, I understand you are launching a new local busi- ing. ness, can you tell us more about this? Hi! I’m starting up a coworking space, the first of its kind of office My readers love to know a bit about the people behind local for Epping! Coworking is a great flexible option to use a hot desk businesses, can you tell me a bit about yourself? in an office environment, without the worry of a long contract or I’m a tennis lover. What I mean is I love to watch it, my actual commitment. game leaves a fair bit to be desired! I’m always out for walks across the fields and cycling in the forest. We’re so fortunate to It’s perfect for those who want to change it up from working from have such wonderful open space and greenery around us. When home, those who want to avoid the commute into the City, and you’re on the train into Epping, you literally see the skies open up for professionals who want to be amongst others. and that’s a great feeling. We also have a range of meeting rooms for different purposes, I’m a family person through and through, and love how friendly from a small meeting room perfect for those counselling or and community focused North Weald and Epping are. I’m fortucoaching sessions, to larger rooms for team meetings, and solo nate to have made some good local friends and I love that we workspaces for people to do confidential work. have the airfield!
Introduction to a new local business
But, I think what people will really care about is that we’re pet friendly so we want members to bring their doggos and furries to our space! We have a great bean to cup coffee machine, and a really great chill out space when you need a breather from your busy day. Why do you think now is a good time to launch a business such as this? There isn’t anything like this in the Epping area. I’ve been thinking about it for years, so it’s not just related to the pandemic. Working patterns have been steadily changing for years now, and with more businesses giving their staff flexibility in where they can work from, coworking spaces become a great option to choose. Also, for independent workers, working out of the coffee shop doesn’t always give you the privacy or focus that you’d like to have.
How do you think this new business will help local businesses? Because it’s a local space and located on the High Street, members will have the shops and local community on their doorstep. That will obviously help the local economy by encouraging people to buy local, and to support the range of community events the council holds as well as supporting local charities. Where is your business located? We’re just above the Artisan Fine Art Gallery, next to the BHF store. What is your opening date? We’re aiming for opening on 5 July! How do people contact you if they would like to find out more information? We’d love for people to book a tour to come and visit us to get a really good sense of the space and meet the team before deciding on what package might suit them.
Do you live locally? Is this why you have chosen Epping to launch your business? I do! I’m over in North Weald, and lived here for 11 years. My kids have been to Epping Primary School, and we’re regulars up and down the High Street! They can do that here https:// theeppingconnection.spaces.nexudus.com/tour Moreso, I’ve been on the platform at Epping Station when it’s
North Post office is open as usual It has been bought to my attention that some residents aren’t aware that many residents think that North Weald no longer has a post office. This is not the situation at all, Sue Stallan left the post office and the very next day it was reopened under new ownership. The opening hours have remained the same and the new owners have made some changes. In next month’s issue there will be an interview with the new owners introducing them to readers of the magazine. Page 22
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North Weald Cricket Club league team wins 3 in 4; juniors start the season unbeaten After a difficult start to the season with two defeats in their first two league matches, North Weald have risen to mid-table in the Premier Division of the Herts and Essex Border League after a good run of results. On 15th May, North Weald visited Potter Street, where a solid bowling performance restricted the home side to 162. As rain closed in around the ground in the second innings, North Weald raced against time to get the chase over the line, with 50 from Mike De Conti in a partnership of 74 with Leigh Ginn the highlight. Under the darkening skies, Zoro Atwal and Vince Curren steered North Weald home with three balls to spare. A week later struggling Little Hallingbury travelled to the Memorial Playing Field. The game was reduced to 35 overs per side in an effort to get a result with showers threatening; North Weald batted first and posted 167/7. Little Hallingbury never recovered from a dismal start, slipping to 18/5 thanks to 3 wickets for Ben Payne and 2 run outs from Liam Thrift. These two wins were followed by a heavy defeat at table-topping Nazeing Common, but North Weald bounced back in resilient style in their next game at home to Bishop’s Stortford. Having fallen to 67/7, brothers Leigh Ginn and Carl Ginn steadied the ship with a partnership of 68, seeing North Weald post a below par 148. While this should not have been enough for victory, an exceptional bowling and fielding performance saw Bishop’s Stortford collapse to 98 all out, Liam Thrift taking 5/19. Meanwhile the juniors have started the season with 3 wins on the bounce. The Under 11 side beat Stansted Hall and Elsenham by 14 runs, the highlight a hat trick for Nathan Ward, and this was followed with a win by 1 run over Little Hallingbury where Ben Tucker hit the final ball for 4 to win. The Under 10 side started the season with a win at home to High Roding, including another hat trick, this time for Oscar De Conti.
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PHOTO GALLERY
I am often told how much people like seeing the photos sent in by readers. Please send in your photos to me at June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Photo: This photo was of a cute rabbit was sent in John Moore
Photos These three photos were taken in by Kevin Champion, local photographer who has kindly greed to share his photos taken locally with readers of the magazine.
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CHURCH CHAT DIVERSE LOVE Love is the most important thing any of us have or do. I don’t mean romantic love, necessarily; I know a lot of what we watch or read might make us think that “happily ever after” requires a blissful romance. But the truth is that life is more diverse and complicated and beautiful than all that. We love our pets. We love our friends. We love sunshine, we love our family, we love talking, we love being quiet, we love singing, we love our neighbours, we love in all kinds of ways and all kinds of people. Often, when people find out they don’t have long to live, they want to spend time with the ones they love. They don’t really care about reputation, grades, achievements or their job, or what phone they have or car they drive, or even what they look like. All of these things that seem to matter endlessly, in the end, do not matter. What does matter is love.“No matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love.” That’s what the Bible says. We aren’t rich - no matter how much money or success we have - if we don’t have love. And again, love doesn’t just mean romantic love. It’s wherever you find joy and wholeness. Wherever you feel like there’s “something more” at work behind the scenes. Wherever you feel the touch of God. The Good News is that we are all loved. Even if we don’t know it, YOU ARE WELCOME: SUNDAYS: Sunday Morning Church: or don’t feel like we deserve it. We all mess up, but in the end, 10am, St Andrew’s Church Hall. Informal & all-age. St An- whatever we are going through is simply another stumbling block drew’s: St Andrew’s Church, 3pm. Traditional Eucharist. along the journey we’re all taking, back to the heart of everything WEDNESDAYS: Rosary Group/Contemplative Prayer: A back to God. God is love. And you are loved. quiet space to say the rosary together. Every first Wednesday of the month, beginning July 7th, at 12 in Thorowgood Last month was Pride month. The Church has a lot to say sorry for - especially to LGBT+ people, so I’d like to say that now. On behalf House (St Andrew’s Church Hall) of the church, I am really, really sorry for all the times you were made to feel like your love was worth less or that you were shameful. You’re not. You’re amazing. God loves you and loves the way that you love - whoever you love! God’s love is bigger and more varied and more beautiful than we give it credit for. Love pours forth from the One God into the many • Kitchens and bedrooms supplied and fitted - into so many shapes and places and colours that we cannot even begin to imagine them all. God rejoices with interabled, interracial, to your specification and LGBT+ love. God loves all your loves. The Bible says, “Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, • A complete service from design to finish they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where • Competitive prices guaranteed there is knowledge, it will pass away. ... And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” • High levels of expertise by a locally recom- This means that faith is really important. Hope is vital. But love is the greatest. mended craftsmen Love finds a way; it pushes up in the cracks of the heart and society and tears down our assumptions. We are not saved by what we For a free estimate contact:profess to believe. We are saved because we are drawn closer to the love of God, who pulls us ever inwards. If your faith ever leads Roger Linsdall you to act unlovingly, it isn’t faith. It’s fear. It’s a progression, a Telephone: 01992 523277 journey onwards; but it’s also a returning; a returning home. To where we began; where everything began; in the one-ness and Or mobile: 07980 555147 the love of God. God is love. And love never dies. God says to each of us, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.” Jeremiah 31:3. “Held” - Limited series. Quiet time of healing connectedness with God, nature Page 25 Tel: 07814 863955 Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk & each other. Those who are struggling with loss, anxiety, or want after the lockdowns, are especially welcome. St Andrew’s Church ‘re-connection’
Relocation of Police helicopter base opposed A letter has been sent to the Metropolitan Police Commissioner Leader by Epping Forest District. Cllr Chris Whitbread and chief executive Georgina Blakemore by appealing for her to reconsider the decision to locate helicopters at Lippitts Hill. They sent the joint letter on behalf of the residents of the Epping Forest. The letter says: Dear Commissioner Dick We are writing on behalf of the residents of Epping Forest District. We wish to draw your attention to our serious concerns regarding the proposed relocation of air-support helicopters from your current base with the National Police Air Service – NPAS – at North Weald Airfield. Plans have emerged for the Metropolitan Police to sever its ties with NPAS and return to a stand-alone facility in the heart of Epping Forest at Lippitts Hill, High Beach. We strongly oppose the proposed relocation and appeal to you to reconsider the decision. Epping Forest District lies on the borders of London in the County of Essex. Today, the district is served by the Essex Police Service, but parts of the district have long historic ties with the Metropolitan Police. At one time the Met served areas of our district including Chigwell, Loughton and Buckhurst Hill. There are a number of historic legacies associated with our connection, including the former helicopter base at Lippitts Hill. Lippitts Hill lies within the heart of Epping Forest. The Forest is a sensitive and delicate natural environment. It is a Special Area of Conservation of global significance, being one of the few remaining areas of original deciduous woodland left in the UK. The delicate eco-system of Epping Forest including special and rare species, plants and fungi is particularly vulnerable to air pollution. The Forest is a source of great pride and concern to our local residents. Statutory regulations and strict oversight by the Corporation of London are designed to protect and preserve it, not only for the people of Essex. It is a place of peace and wellbeing enjoyed equally by our close neighbours in London. However, the environmental pressures on the Forest are severe. Pollution levels are too high. The District Council, working in conjunction with local residents, the Corporation of London and other stakeholders is doing all we can to protect and preserve our Forest for future generations. The environmental impact of helicopter operations speaks for itself. The current NPAS base at North Weald is at a long-established airfield shared with other notable aviation operators including the Herts and Essex Air-Ambulance. The airfield is owned by Epping Forest District Council and we have worked in partnership with NPAS to support the construction of a brand new helicopter facility. While our major concerns are not financial in this case, NPAS has a long lease with the Council and will continue to provide air support for other police forces. It cannot be good value for the tax Page 26
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paying residents of either London or Essex, for the Metropolitan Police to leave such a recently delivered new facility. Our other main concern is for those residents living near Lippitts Hill within Epping Forest, High Beach and Waltham Abbey. It is one thing to buy a new house or home next to an existing airfield – you know what you are getting with aircraft coming and going before you purchase. However, many of the residents in and around Lippitts Hill have had no such choice. Many will have bought their homes in good faith and the understanding that helicopter operations had ceased with no reason to expect a return. The consequential noise, pollution and general disturbance associated with these helicopters at Lippitts Hill would be very hard to justify. If the historic legacy did not exist, it is almost inconceivable that anyone would consider Epping Forest to be a suitable location. If planning permission was required, the District Council, supported by the Corporation of London, environmental groups, other stakeholders and local residents would almost certainly turn any application down. As such the Metropolitan Police has an ethical and moral duty as well as a legal ability to consider in taking this decision. We do not presume to advise you on the operational requirements of the Metropolitan Police Service. As a district council we have a strong and active partnership with the Essex Police Service. We actively fund additional police officers and provide accommodation along with day to day support. We fully support the difficult and sometimes dangerous role the police perform in maintaining our safety, rights and freedoms. However, if the operational requirements of the Metropolitan Police require a better alternative to North Weald, we respectfully say that Lippitts Hill is not the answer. There are many other potential aviation locations both in and around London that would serve the Metropolitan Police Service just as well if not better than Lippitts Hill. If you are determined to find an alternative, please take a closer look at some of the other alternatives and help us to protect and preserve Epping Forest now and for the future. Yours sincerely Councillor Chris Whitbread Leader of Council and Georgina
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Gardening Hints for July June has been a real mixed bag! The beginning was sunshine, then hot and sticky days and nights, where plants struggled to cope with the heat and so did we!! Followed by heavy downpours and cold days and nights towards the end of the month. Hopefully July will be more settled and we will be able to get back out into our gardens and enjoy warm sunny days again. In the garden roses are now in bloom and have benefited from the cooler temperatures. Spray your roses with Rose Clear to reduce the chance of black spot once a month should be ample. Water your baskets, pots, tubs and borders on a regular basis, early morning or when the sun has gone down in the evening. Feed them on a weekly basis and remember to dead head your plants where necessary, so your plants continue to flower and look fresh. Early potatoes should be ready to lift now, keep the main crop earthed up to avoid the tubes going green in the sunlight. Runner beans, peas, strawberries etc should be coming along nicely. Keep on top of the weeding, with the sunshine in early June followed by the heavy rain the weeds are thriving, so remove them before they start seeding. You can message us on our Facebook page or pop into the nursery if you have any questions and I will try to assist. Most importantly enjoy your garden, hopefully with warm summer evenings on the way, you can sit back, relax with a tipple of your choice—mine as always is a nice cold beer. Cheers Source: Nigel, Art Garden Centre
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‘Normality’ Are we finally heading for the date And all the constricting rules are lifted. A time to enjoy the sudden freedom That we will all be gifted? Then what would add to all our natural urge To let our hairs down and have fun, Would be for the skies to clear and the temperatures to rise Signalling happy times have begun. For this glorious combination Of our new freedom and sun, Would be the almost perfect tonic to ease the damage The last sixteen months has done. ‘Normality’ is a word we use to try and pigeon hole Us all in every way, But to be honest there is no ‘normal’ As something changes for us all each and every day. So with that monumental date Fast coming into sight, Surely nothing now can stop its occurrence But with so many new cases possibly that might. Then what would happen as already so many Have practically reached the end of their tether, While as if it already knew what we’re experiencing now Isn't really summer weather. So with bated breath and fingers crossed I look forward though cant help but hold back, As for letting us all build up our hopes Only to have them dashed this prime minister has a knack. Maybe I am being far too cynical Though more likely I am just getting old, For I seem to know never to believe or trust A single word a politician has told. With that in mind and the skies still grey, Isn’t this just simply yet another ‘normal’ day.
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Citizens Advice: Are you at risk of eviction from your home? Since the pandemic started there have been a number of restrictions on landlords’ ability to evict tenants from their homes. These are being gradually removed and from 1 June it became possible to evict tenants even if they are not at fault. If you or someone you know could be in this situation, this is a very basic guide to the process for eviction from private or housing association rentals. It does not cover council housing or owner-occupiers. Housing law is complicated and we strongly advise anyone facing the possibility of losing their home to get advice. We’ll mention some sources of advice at the end of the article. Eviction from private or housing association rental is basically a three-stage process. First, the landlord has to give you notice. The landlord can choose between a no-fault process – known as a section 21 procedure – or one where the landlord alleges fault, such as rent arrears, known as a section 8 procedure. For the section 21 procedure the landlord must give you 4 months notice. For the other procedure the notice period depends on the reason. Whichever notice procedure is used, when the notice period expires the landlord must seek a possession order from the county court in order to force you to leave. In a section 21 case the judge has very little discretion as to whether to make the possession order, because the tenant does not need to be at fault. In practice the only circumstance in which a possession order will be refused is if the landlord has failed to follow proper procedures. These procedures can be complicated which is why early expert advice is vital. For a section 8 case the judge has more discretion. When a possession order is made it will specify the date by which the tenant must leave. If you don’t leave by that date the landlord can apply to the court for a warrant of possession. You will then get a notice from the county court bailiff telling you when you will be evicted. The eviction is carried out by the bailiff but they can ask the police to attend in order to prevent a breach of the peace. It is possible to ask the court to suspend the warrant, that is, to postpone it indefinitely, but you would have to have some good argument for the court to do that. It is important to know that the landlord cannot short-circuit this three-stage process. If, for instance, you find that the landlord has changed the locks so that you can’t get into your home, before a warrant has been executed, that is a serious criminal offence and you should contact the police immediately. Where should you get advice if faced with the risk of eviction? We are of course happy to help but the best place to start is with the housing charity Shelter. You may find the answer on their website – https:// england.shelter.org.uk/get_help. The website has a phone number but you should only use that if your situation is urgent. If you are at risk of becoming homeless you should contact the homelessness service at Epping forest District Council: homelessness@eppingforestdc.gov.uk or on 01992 564165 in office hours or 01992 564000 in an emergency out of hours. Contacting Epping Forest Citizens Advice Call us on our free phone 0808 278 7855. The service is available from 9.30 to 2.30, Tuesday to Thursday.` Among our services we offer free advice sessions with an expert housing law solicitor. Page 30
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Here’s a good one:
Spot the Difference.
Last time I gave reasons why roads are cleaned at different frequencies and how litter and rubbish in a locality is graded to warrant a clean up. To make you aware of where your road stands in the cleaning league table, I was going to give a list of the Parish roads and their zone values and to advise that EFDC will not clean private roads. But now, thanks to Cllr. Holly Whitbread and George McCreight from EFDC Waste Management, I have the complete list and to save boring you to tears reading through it all, I’ll just say that apart from - Wellington Road junction to the Talbot roundabout and possibly (as there is a discrepancy and not sufficient detail) the entire length of the Epping Road (B.181) to the Parish boundary at the Plain – is classed as zone M. Everywhere else is in the Low zone - L.
The above photo was taken on 21st October 2020 in Rye Hill Road, Thornwood Common, which is classed as an L zone, so should receive a clean at least every fortnight.
This includes roads such as London Road, Latton leading into High Road, Thornwood Common that is directly in the line of fire from the likes of McDonald’s and the petrol stations that sell take-away hot drinks and cans of pop and booze. Personally, I feel the whole zone thing needs looking at. Especially as District Planning has allowed the proliferation of fast-food outlets and places like the petrol stations to sell hot and caned drinks and we all know what happens to the empties?
Can you spot the difference? This photo taken on 31st May this year shows the same bags of rubbish still in the same location after 222 days!!!!
I have heard of a deposit scheme in the pipeline to put a value on this sort of waste. This is surely for the better? I can remember as a kid scouring the local streets for a discarded R. Whites lemonade bottle to take back to the local sweet shop to gain the 6d. deposit. Not easy, as glass bottles had a high value back then.
I was naively checking on Rye Hill Road to do a litter pick for the Great British Spring Clean but found the piles of rubbish there overwhelming!
Now I may be wrong but something tells me we have a problem here.
Jimmy Waters (North Weald Bassett Citizen of the Year 2016)
Deadline for submitting news, features, letters, photos etc is 15th July
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BIRD FEATURE Welcome to my jottings for the month of July. There are a few notes on some of the sightings that I have had up to roughly the mid June period, with a few pointers regarding birds and other creatures to look out for in the forthcoming weeks. After a dry April we had a very wet May, it stayed damp for virtually the whole month. This type of weather presents challenges for many nesting species of bird because these are conditions that can limit the availability of insects, grubs, caterpillars etc. June has seen some very hot days but by mid month we are back to a cool and wet spell. One species that does not appear to have been adversely affected is the Starling. I have seen plenty of juvenile birds - they are browner than adult Starlings - and also many adult birds fetching and carrying food items, presumably for a second brood of nestlings. They will target pasture, rough grass, lawns etc and have a particular penchant for grubs which they prise from the ground. Starlings naturally use tree cavities as nesting sites but have adapted to opportunities presented by human settlements and will readily use gaps in roof spaces, behind guttering etc as places to build a nest. Starlings are a species that are a familiar part of the urban environment but also thrive in rural areas. Others such as House Sparrow, Woodpigeon, Blue Tit and Robin are also very easy to see in residential areas. All over the world there are birds that have been winners because they can tolerate human disturbance and can take advantage of the feeding opportunities presented by our activities. But of course there are many other species that are totally unable to adapt to human presence and are retreating to ever smaller pockets of suitable habitat. Deliberate introductions of what prove to be invasive species can add further pressure for some birds and animals. Going back to the Starling, this species was introduced to the USA in the 1800s, since that time it has thrived and out competes some native species for food and nesting holes. Its success has made it an agricultural pest on a continent where it shouldn't naturally be present. Summer visitors such as Blackcap, Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler have been in evidence but gradually the 'dawn chorus' type singing will wane and with the full foliage adorning trees, bushes and hedges it will be hard to spot these birds which normally give away their presence with their singing. One bird that can be elusive is the Whitethroat which is most often sighted in areas of bramble and nettles. Its scratchy call is often heard but they can be hard to spot in the thick cover of blackberry bushes. However patience can be rewarded as they will occasionally appear in full view and the smart plumage makes it a lovely sight with the pale throat an obvious feature. Red Kite continues to be a regular sighting over the village, they drift over looking for carrion. They look quite large birds but have a bouyant flight and don't actually present a direct threat to other birds and small animals. Whereas a Kestrel will actively hunt mice and voles or a Sparrowhawk will go after small birds, the Red Kite is not an active predator and will look for an easy meal. I have also seen more frequent views of Little Egret than I would normally expect at this time of year, there is one that is regularly about the area and has probably thrived with some of the damp conditions that have been prevalent, they will hunt in ditches and damp fields just as readily as by a stream or lake. Sometimes in July the bird activity drops away, especially if breeding is complete. Some birds will carry on and look to raise a third brood. But as July goes on many adult birds will skulk away in thicker vegetation as they avoid the hotter parts of the day and also try to restore their vigour after the energy sapping weeks of the breeding season. With the long hours of daylight, birds can afford to feed up in the morning then loaf about during the day and feed again in the evening. Of course there is that much more overall life to be seen in the summer. Namely insects. There are any number of flies, wasps, hoverflies, bees etc. There are about 27,000 types of insects in the UK and most of us can only recognise a mere handful of these different species. Probably the most easily noticed are butterflies. There are not that many species that we see around our area, the one I see most often at this time of year is the small (Cabbage) White and also quite a few Meadow Browns. An occasional Common Blue has drifted through my field of view but that has been about it. But over the next few weeks there should be plenty more to be seen. Just about the most distinctive fly is the St Marks fly which was to be seen in large numbers but will start to become scarcer as the weeks go by. On some damp but warm days I have seen veritable swarms of small, midge like insects but I can't pinpoint the actual species. The Cuckoos that have been about will be far less obvious and will not be heard long before the summer is over. But of course some young Cuckoos will have been raised by 'host' species and these young birds will be about for a short time before they undertake their first migrations to wintering grounds in Africa. If you feed the birds in your garden then it is fine to carry on doing so during summer but don't forget to only put out an amount of seeds, nuts etc that will be being eaten - left over amounts will become mouldy or attract vermin. You must exercise good hygiene standards to both protect yourself and the birds themselves from any diseases. Mouldy food and / or bird droppings are not a good combination. Of course clean, fresh water can be just as valuable as food for birds. When you get the opportunity, take a walk around our area and keep a look out for wildlife, there is plenty to be seen. Being aware of familiar birds can be rewarding but also try to make a note of some of the insects that you see on your travels, identifying species can be a challenge but rewarding when you get to know what you have seen. Enjoy the summer and expect the unexpected when it comes to nature. Paul Corbet.
Page 33
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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Advertiser Directory
Furniture
New directory of advertisers with page numbers so you can their details easily.
RSL Interiors—Kitchens & bedrooms 25
9
Business The Epping Connection
21
Car MOT & Servicing
Art Nursery Garden Centre
27
Ernest Doe
8
GMS Gardening Services
14
Glazing Home Glazing Repair
14
Kings Head Garage
29
Kennels & Catteries
Matts Motorz
15
London & Essex Kents Farm
5
Online Shopping
Carpets & Flooring Little Carpet Co
2
Cleaning
Local Bodyshop consultant—Sparkle 23 & Shine
Painting & Decorating
Maid in Essex
4
Jim’ll Paint It
11
Champion Car Wash & Valet
19
S I Painters & Decorators
9
Steve’s Window Cleaning
21
Computer Services Andrews Computers
22
Council
Pest Control Abaddon Pest Control
16
G J B Pest Control
5
Photography
North Weald Bassett Parish Council
26
Day Nurseries & Pre Schools
Charlotte Green Photography
13
Plastering
Ashbourne Day Nursery
10
G F Plastering
North Weald Village Pre School
20
Plumbing & Heating
St Andrews Pre School
18
N Monk
15
The Red School
23
Pikes Plumbing & Heating
23
Robert Rayment
29
Electrical Services A&P Electrical Services
28
Estate & Letting Agents Montagues
36
Fitness J D Fitness
12
Flowers
19
Property Services Care & Repair
16
KLF Property Services
30
Handy Andy
25
Bassett Building
13
Residential Home Abbeyfield Cunningham House
House of Flowers
29
Funeral Services 17
Daniel Robinson & Sons
31
Tel: 07814 863955
28
Roofing R J S Roofing
Stuart Poulton Ltd
Page 34
find
11
Garden Centre/Gardening
Aerials & Satellites T J Aerials & Satellites
CJA Upholstery
16
Safecracker Safe-cracker Locksmith Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
17 www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Essential Local Numbers The Alzheimer Society
01992 717676
North Weald Chemist
01992 523887
Cats Protection
0333 200 1484
North Weald Methodist Hall
01992 522143
Citizens Advice Bureau
0808 278 7855
North Weald Library
033301 32683
Crimestoppers
0800 555111
North Weald Village Hall Bookings
01992 523731 www.northwealdvillagehall.org/
Doctors High Street, Epping
01992 579270
North Weald Parish Council
01992 523825
Doctors The Limes, Epping
01992 566500
Queens Community Hall Book-
07522 473024
Doctors The Limes, Epping
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 Whitebread
01992 573557
Police Online reporting
www.essex.police.uk/doitonline
MP Alex Burghart
0207 2191613
RSPCA
01279 306058
(MP for North Weald)
alex.burghart.mp@ parliament.uk
MP Mrs Eleanor Laing MP
020 8508 8608
Samaritans 24 Hours a day
116 123
MP For Thornwood
Eleanor.Laing.mp@parliament.uk
Hospital, St Margarets, Epping
01992 561666
Stuart Poulton
01992 522607
24 Hour
01992 572607
Hospital, Princess Alexandra
01279 444455
St Andrews Church
01992 577168
London & Essex Boarding Kennels & Cattery (Kents Farm)
01992 522183
St Andrews Primary School
01992 522283
North Weald Airfield
01992 564200
Traveline
0870 6082608
LOCAL CLUB DIRECTORY 3rd North Weald Beavers
North Weald 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
