North Weald Village Life December issue by North Weald Village Life

North Weald Village Life Strengthening the Community

FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine Circulation: Monthly

Issue: 148

December 2018

www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

How lucky have we been with the weather? It is only now that we are experiencing, rain, wind and cold!! We have usually had this for weeks by now.

I know Christmas is nearly here, but it appears to be acceptable to put Christmas decorations up in November!!! It would drive me mad having to live with Christmas decorations for that long. I know it sort of makes sense as it makes all the hard work worth it as they last for longer and many people, and not just kids, love Christmas, but still—November!! You will never convert me— decorations at the earliest in the Peachey household anytime after the 8th December usually—that is early enough. I hope the weather is good on Friday 7th December for the Epping Christmas market. I do like this event, not only do I have a stall but just love the atmosphere especially after dark. I think this starts my Christmas. I hope to see you all there. I do like Christmas but not for the shopping, or the presents but for whole family thing. I love seeing families around the village and I know things change as children grow up and move away but when children come back from university or when children and their families visit for Christmas. I think I am watching too many cheesy Christmas films– my guilty pleasure. I am happy when I am sitting in front of a simple Christmas film either painting or sewing. Oh my—I sound so boring and old!!! To change the subject, remember the questionnaire the North Weald Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group sent out a few months ago asking for everybody’s views on the village, development etc and I nagged everybody to complete this, we had a fantastic response with lots of replies. So these have now been input and there are a number of events arranged in the next few weeks to share the results with you. It would be great if you popped in, it may be of interest to see what local people said about the village— did they agree with your thoughts? To say thank you, there are free refreshments. You can see the details in the magazine, but hope to see you there. Please be careful, the horrible seasonal increase of burglaries is looking to happen again, please take steps where you can to make things difficult and not easy for these to take place. I have heard of holes being burnt in PVC doors and a hook being passed through to get keys that have not been left in the door but close by. Make sure your keys are out of sight and not next to the door. And don’t forget if you bought something on black Friday or Cyber Monday, don’t leave the packaging in full sight for recycling—that brand new tv or laptop packaging is just an incentive. Now to finish on a good note—I would like to wish everybody, no matter who they are or where they live, a very happy Christmas, I hope you get to celebrate with friends and family. Merry Christmas June Editor

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Christmas Brain Teaser •

Tinsel

•

Pudding

•

Bauble

•

Holly

•

Cracker

•

Carol

•

Santa

•

Stocking

•

Turkey

•

Noel

•

Presents

•

Wrapping paper

•

Card

•

Star

Congratulations to Mr M. Ringer who won last months brain teaser and will be celebrating with a bottle of wine. This month the lucky winner will celebrate with a box of chocolates. To enter this month’s brain teaser, please send your completed entry to Christmas Brain Teaser, NWVL, 49 York Road, North Weald, Essex CM16 6HU. Entries should be received by 12th December. Good luck.

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Revamp for Gymnastic Centre The Council owned Gymnastic Centre in North Weald is in need of investment and refurbishment. When it was built in 1986, it was seen as a centre of excellence, and for many years generated international level gymnasts and operated an intensive beginners programme. Gymnastics continues to have a high profile within the district with a demand for good quality training facilities and the Council is committed to investing in leisure for residents. £240,000 will be spent to bring the centre back to its former glory. Plans boast brand new equipment and apparatus, as well as essential building works and repairs.

The current lease for the facility is up for renewal at the end of December. I know of many children who have attended this centre and they have thoroughly enjoyed the gymnastics, the centre and the staff so I hope it is opened again in the village soon.

Improvements to Council car parks Following the decision to change parking tariffs in September, Councillors have now agreed to reinvest some of the extra income into the improvement of 20 car parks across the district. The plans to improve CCTV systems and upgrade to LED lighting were supported by Cabinet members. A study will also be commissioned to look into the viability of installing electricity charging points in council car parks.

Free parking in December Councillor Sam Kane announced the Councils plan to relax parking fees in Council owned car parks on weekends throughout December 2018 ‘to help local traders’ and support our high streets this Christmas. Parking will be free on Saturdays and Sundays throughout December in all of the Council owned car parks.

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Second Wednesday of each month

North Weald & Ongar Branch Royal Air Forces Association

12 Noon

The Squadron Bar, North Weald Airfield. Informal meetings. Occasional speakers, social outings. Phone Heather 07745620758

Monday 3rd December

West Essex Flower Club

12.15pm

Thornwood Village Hall. Finger Fayre/ Ticket only. All welcome at 1.45pm for National Demonstrator Michael Bowyer’s arrangements entitled ‘A Classic Visitors pay £6.00 on the door.

Friday 7th December

Epping Christmas Market

12—8pm

Epping High Street. Stalls, entertainment.

Saturday 8th December

Christmas Fayre

Thursday 13th December

W I Carol Service

2pm

North Weald Methodist Church. Everybody welcome. Please join us singing popular carols followed by tea and mince pies.

Thursday 13th December

Come along, find out what you said in the questionnaire, Free refreshments and kids activity

5.30— 8.30pm

Thornwood Parish Hall.

Friday 14th December

Come along, find out what you said in the questionnaire, Free refreshments and kids activity

4.30pm— 8.30pm

North weald Methodist Hall.

Sunday 16th December

Come along, find out what you said in the questionnaire, Free refreshments and kids activity

12.30pm —3pm

Hastingwood Village Hall

St Andrews Primary School, North Weald

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

PLANNING APPLICATIONS

Any representations on applications should be made in writing by Monday 17th December 2018. 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

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

North Weald turn out for Remembrance Sunday This year’s remembrance Sunday event took place on Sunday 11th November. Despite heavy rain before and in the early hours, the sun came out and the skies brightened for the event. In attendance with the usual professional bodies and organisations laying wreath, this year’s event was made extra special with the attendance of Commander Thomas ’Ginger’ Neil who also laid a wreath . It was lovely to see the school children from St Andrews Primary School and of course the North Weald Scouts.

Laying on behalf of the community were worthy individuals who had been chosen including Mitchell Tassie and Doreen Lodge. Many people came to watch the wreath laying,.

Photos: Courtesy of David Bland

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Reaping the rewards of recycling A scheme that rewards local residents for recycling, and boosts local charities has been operating in Epping Forest for over a year. This week money raised through the scheme was shared out between Epping Forest Community Transport, Chigwell Riding trust, Epping Forest Food Bank, Safer Places. Epping Forest Recycling Rewards focuses on blocks of flats in the district where contamination in recycling has been high. The scheme helps to incentivise residents to sort their recycling and cut down on contamination. Around 100 blocks have been taking part with almost a third of residents earning ‘Green Points’. Each month the six residents who’ve collected the most points receive a £25 voucher to spend at M&S, iTunes, Love2shop, and Local leisure centres or to donate to one of the charities supported by the scheme. Between July 2017 and July 2018 contamination rates across the blocks taking part dropped dramatically over the life of the project.

‘’We knew recycling rates in flats were below where they should be so this scheme is a wonderful opportunity for residents involved, to improve their recycling rates and get rewarded for doing so,’’ said Cllr Nigel Avey, portfolio holder for the environment. “We monitor the quality of recycling being produced by flats in Epping Forest and reward residents for recycling more of the right things. The blocks earn ‘Green Points’ depending on how they are performing and can also earn extra points for things like reporting fly-tipping and using recycling centres for household waste.” Local businesses have signed up to the scheme to offer discounts to participating residents.

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Winter Walkies— 13th annual charity dog walk Puppy love is in the air at St Clare Hospice as registration officially opens for the charity’s annual Winter Walkies event. The 5k pooch parade will be taking place at the Hastingwoodbased hospice on Sunday 24th February 2019 and more than 200 walkers and their furry friends are expected to support the fundraiser. St Clare Hospice’s Events Fundraiser, Emma Broadbent, is organising the event and said: “This year marks the 13th time the Hospice has hosted the event and it is as popular as ever! The 2018 walk saw 250 walkers and their dogs take part, and we are hoping even more people register for 2019.” As part of the event’s launch the hospice is once again hosting their ever-popular ‘Cutest Canine Competition’ – and the charity is calling on local pet-owners to enter their favourite photograph of their pet to win a hamper of doggy goodies and the chance to officially start the Winter Walkies event. Voting for the St Clare ‘Cutest Canine Competition’ will run from Monday 21st to Friday 25th January 2019 on the charity’s Facebook page. All entries are due by 12noon on Friday 18th January and entrants must have registered for Winter Walkies 2019 in order to be eligible for the competition. Registration costs £10 for adults and £5 for children, which includes a free soup, dog rosette and certificates for children. Walkers can also sign up on the day. Please be aware that the route is not suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. This year’s event is kindly sponsored by Epping-based vets, Forest Veterinary Centre. For more information and to register, call Emma Broadbent on 01279 773754, email emma.broadbent@stclarehospice.org.uk or see https:// stclarehospice.org.uk/event/winter-walkies/

Don’t forget to mention to advertisers That you saw their Information In North Weald Village Life magazine

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

North Weald Library to close Earlier this month, Essex County Council announced Chigwell, Buckhurst Hill, Debden and North Weald libraries may shut, other local libraries also likely to have their hours significantly cut and kept open only with volunteer support. Essex County Council are now asking for people’s views and if you value our library, you must make your view known. According to Essex Council Council they recognise library services play a unique and valued role in our society but they feel that in the last five years use has slumped: loans have almost halved and fewer than one in five Essex residents use libraries This feedback has come as a result when earlier this year they asked for people’s views on library services and have come up with a set of proposals which are set out in a draft strategy. Their five-year plan in that draft strategy is for a service that: • • • •

Keeps books and reading at the heart of our library service offer Embraces digital technology and e-library services Has a smaller number of libraries which better meet community needs Works in partnership with communities to run library services.

Their proposals therefore include some significant changes to the current service. We want to get your views on these proposals. You can find more information about the proposals and complete the survey at www.essex.gov.uk/libraries-consultation. You can complete the survey as an individual or on behalf of an organisation. If you need help to complete the survey, would like it in large print, or would like a printed copy of the EasyRead versions, please ask at your local library or call 0345 603 7639.

During the consultation, Essex County Council have said they will also be holding information drop-ins at every library providing a further opportunity to ask questions, complete the consultation and find out more, hopefully we will receive more information on this.

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Crime not to Care The Council has been promoting the Essexwide fly-tipping campaign, ‘Crime not to Care’. Designed to educate residents about their duty of care when disposing of their waste, the campaign informs residents that they can be fined and prosecuted if their waste is fly-tipped by rogue traders. In his report, Councillor Nigel Avey, Environment Portfolio Holder, informed members of the most recent prosecution.

LETTER

Dear Friends,

According to local news sources, Essex County Council are about to launch a ’consultation’ regarding our libraries, with a view to closing some. I would miss my visits too the library. The opportunity to look up the catalogue and order books. To pick up local information etc.

The case of Loughton resident, Mr Tjoluskins, was heard by Magistrates on 13 September. He handed his waste to a scammer who fly-tipped in a bin store in Oakley Court in Loughton. The resident was fined £600 and ordered to pay the Councils prosecution costs of £900. The campaigns message is simple – before handing over your waste to somebody else, always check, consider and record to protect yourself and reduce fly-tipping by rogue traders.

Please support our library and help us to keep it. Anon Editor’s comment. I personally feel it would be awful if we lost our library. I am often in there, and it is great to see young children and their parents, the knitters, people on the computer etc. With development plans for many new homes for our parish shouldn't this put an increased priority on keeping our library? You can see details of the consultation on page 12. Please make your views known. There will be no room to complain if you don’t take a view minutes to take part in the consultation.

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Local Council Tax Support Consultation Local council tax support for 2019/20 is being reviewed so we are seeking the views of local residents on a new scheme to replace the current one and consultation is open now, until 21 December. The scheme helps local people in financial need to pay their Council Tax. All local councils must have a scheme that they administer themselves and reviewed annually to see whether any changes should be made. Epping Forest District Council gets a grant from the Government for its scheme, but that grant is reducing each year and there is now less funding from the grant than the annual cost of the scheme. “It is important therefore that we have the views of local residents – whether they receive Local Council Tax Support or not – as it could affect the amount of Council Tax they have to pay, or it could mean that we have to cut service to meet the costs of the 2019/20 scheme,” said Cllr Gagan Mohindra, Portfolio Holder for Finance.

People of pension age have been protected by the Government and they have their own scheme for Local Council Tax Support. However, for people of working age, the Council has had to design a scheme that is less generous than the scheme for pensioners. Epping Forest District Council is not proposing any changes for the scheme in 2019/20 but has to undertake the consultation process.. Consultation is via an on-line questionnaire available until 21 December 2018. Please let us have your views on whether you agree with this or whether you think changes should be made, before we decide on the scheme for next year. The brief questionnaire is available at www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk. If you would like to make a detailed reply or comment, you can email benefits@eppingforestdc.gov.uk and enter ‘consultation’ in the subject heading. If you do not have access to a computer, you can request a paper copy from the Benefits Division at the Civic Offices. Unfortunately, we will not be able to respond individually to each response. The results of the consultation will be presented to Councillors in February 2019. Details of the Local Council Tax Support scheme for 2018/19 are available on the Council Tax Support section of our website: www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk 14

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

New Guide to help parents talk about death St Clare Hospice has released a new, free resource to support adults to talk to their children about death and dying.

The Hastingwood-based charity’s free Guide, ‘How to talk to children about death’, has been launched to coincide with Children in Need appeal week. St Clare’s dedicated service for children and young people is funded by a major grant from BBC Children in Need, and the Hospice aims to support parents on a wider scale through the release of their free resource for parents. Joanne Feld, St Clare’s Children, Young People and Family Therapist, said: “This Children in Need week, we’d like to encourage parents and guardians to talk more openly about life, death and dying with their children and families. We know that sometimes, adults may hesitate to bring children into conversations about death and dying. They may be trying to protect them, but in fact, we cannot always protect our children from death. They encounter it all the time – whether it be a dead insect in the garden or a mouse the cat brought in, or something very personal like the fact that their grandparent is going to die soon.” Joanne continued: “Children deserve honest answers to their questions about death, but we as adults can sometimes feel worried about saying the wrong things. That's why St Clare has created a new Guide, ‘How to talk to kids about death’. Our aim is to offer support to adults to feel more comfortable to approach the subject of death and dying, and to engage in meaningful conversations with their children and family. As a Hospice, we believe that by talking to children about death and dying, we can help to demystify death, thereby alleviating fear and anxiety around it for future generations. When we are able to talk about death more openly, and see it as a natural part of life, we can then feel more empowered to live our life to the fullest!” To download the free guide on ‘How to talk to children about death and dying’ visit: stclarehospice.org.uk/care/informationsupport/talking-to-kids To promote the new resource, St Clare has produced a film with members of the Hospice’s staff team talking to their own children about death. The film can be viewed on their YouTube channel at: youtube.com/stclarehospice https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=x35eErtWLlg&feature=youtu.be For more information about St Clare Hospice’s children’s bereavement support service please contact the Patient and Family Support Team on 01279 773762 or visit: stclarehospice.org.uk/care/support-families

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Don your favourite jolly jumper St Clare Hospice, is inviting everyone in their local community to don a jolly jumper for their annual Christmas Jumper Day on Thursday 13th December 2018. St Clare is encouraging groups of all ages to support the festive fundraiser, including local businesses, schools and organisations, by wearing their favourite Nordic knitwear and making a donation to the hospice charity. Whether you encourage your child’s nursery, playschool or primary school to take part, or organise a dress down day in your office, shop or workplace, it is one of the simplest and cosiest ways to support St Clare at this special time of year. Last year, the event raised almost £2,000 in vital funding for St Clare Hospice, which is enough to pay for over two weeks’ worth of physiotherapy for patients either at the hospice or in their own homes.

St Clare Hospice’s Community Fundraising Lead, Dani De’ath, said: “St Clare’s Christmas Jumper Day is the perfect way to bring people together at school or in an organisation to start feeling warm and festive during the yuletide season. This super-fun event is a really jolly way to start celebrating Christmas and take part in something that makes a difference within your local community.” St Clare suggests that participants make a donation of £1 to the hospice in return for wearing their favourite Christmas jumper. For more information, please visit the St Clare Hospice website at: stclarehospice.org.uk/event/christmasjumper-day , telephone the St Clare Community Fundraising team on 01279 773738 or email dani@stclarehospice.org.uk

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

RedT 0208 989 E redbridge@bluebirdcare.co.uk

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

New trees for the village Local person, Emma was delighted to be informed recently that she had won a competition that she entered a few months ago and won 5 trees. The competition was part of the landmark documentary, The Queen's Green Plane which was screened earlier this year and this competition was in partnership between the Woodland Trust, Sainsburys and ITV. In total Fifty thousand trees will be winging their way across the UK as part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy (QCC), a network of global forest conservation initiatives to mark Her Majesty's lifetime of service to the Commonwealth. Emma, who is known locally for running Babyformusic classes, said this was the first time she had won anything, she was delighted to win:2 Silver Birch Trees 2 Rowan Trees 1 Hazel Trees Emma has donated the 2 Rowan Trees to St.Andrew’s primary school together with donating 1 Silver Birch Tree to the Village which is going to be planted soon and is looking forward to watching these grow. Well done Emma and thank you for sharing your prize with the village.

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www.cjaupholstery.co.uk 20

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Road traffic collision Just after 1pm on 27th October, fire crews were called to the M11, southbound between junction 7 and junction 6 near Epping, after reports of a multi-vehicle road traffic collision. Fire crews from Harlow, Ongar and Loughton attended. On arrival firefighters reported that six vehicles were involved and one man was trapped in his car Firefighters removed the roof of the car to free the casualty and left him in the care of the Ambulance Service. News courtesy of Essex County & Fire Rescue Service.

Wishing everybody a very merry Christmas. June North Weald Village Life

Telephone: 07814 863955â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.ukâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; www.woodendreams.co.uk

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Some lunchtime dates still available The Squadron Christmas Menu

Telephone: 07814 863955â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.ukâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; www.woodendreams.co.uk

Look in the bag GPs and pharmacists from across west Essex and Hertfordshire are working together to encourage people to consider the cost and health implications of not taking medicines as they are prescribed, or ordering medicines which are no longer needed. Research with patients and carers across the area suggests that prescription medicines are sometimes over-ordered ‘just in case’ they run out – leading to very expensive and potentially dangerous stockpiles of medicines in the home that have a limited life. Some patients are also reluctant to tell their GP surgery that they have stopped taking medicines that have been prescribed for them, which could lead to serious health problems. Patients are returning unused medicines to their pharmacy, but most don’t realise they cannot be re-used and must be destroyed – at a cost to the NHS. If a medicine is handed back to a pharmacist straight away, before the patient leaves the pharmacy, it can be recycled for another patient but once it has been taken outside the building it has to be destroyed. Medicines should never be thrown in the bin or flushed away. When you order a repeat prescription please: •

check exactly what you have in your medicine cupboard before ordering repeat items

•

check whether you already have more than one month’s supply of anything that you need to take regularly .

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Did you know we still have a driving range? North Weald Golf Club closed its doors for business for the last time on New Year’s Eve 2016 and has been closed ever since. As we know the owners are keen to gain planning permission for 690 houses with associated facilities in a site they’ve named North Weald Park. The course closure initially caused a big problem for the golf range business that still operates on the site. Golf Professional Paul Sullivan has worked as a golf coach at the range since 2010, he subsequently leased the golf range from the present owners from August 2016. Prior to that Paul had run the golf range on Merlin Way from 2003-2009.

When the golf club closed it had a massive impact on revenue, with far less golfers passing the door. Paul says “our owners reduced our rent which helped, however our biggest problem was convincing people that we were still trading. The times we’ve had to correct people and let them know we are still here even though the course had closed”. The entrance to the golf range has also changed it’s now 300 yards past the original golf club entrance on Rayley Lane on the left hand side coming from the A414 roundabout. The golf range is open 7 days a week, Monday to Friday from 9am-9pm and weekends from 8am-5pm, which changed to 8am7pm when the clocks go forward. North Weald Golf Range is an excellent practice facility for golfers of all standards. It boasts 22 undercover bays with extra lighting in the bays for increased visibility for the evening. Each bay has a 6’x4’ mirror and the field is floodlit. The golf range uses a good standard golf range ball which is important to any golf range user. There’s also a short game area where customers can practice their chipping, putting and bunker shots. Paul has been a PGA Professional since 1993, he is an Essex County Coach for the boys Under 16 squad also an Under 12 regional coach for the West Essex Region. He leads the county boys under 16 winter coaching programme too. Both the Under 12’s and the winter sessions are based at the golf range. He provides expert individual tuition for customers as well as his county coaching roles. Paul has PGA Professional Sam Willis working with him at the golf range. Sam was a junior at North Weald Golf Club and has worked at the golf range since 2012, in which time he has built up a good reputation for his coaching skills. Sam runs various junior coaching groups throughout the week, as well as mixed adult groups too. He coach’s TriGolf in a number of local schools’, which helps to introduce the next generation of golfers to the game. Lessons are available 7 days a week. Contact Paul Sullivan on 07768 698699 or Sam Willis on 07429 023323 alternatively email us at info@northwealdgolfrange.co.uk For for more information on group or individual tuition please visit our website www.northwealdgolfrange.co.uk

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Christmas Message “This Christmas we remember all those families who, 100 years ago, were enjoying that first Christmas that followed the end of the Great War. Some rejoicing in reunion, some grieving for their loss. Every parish has a war memorial remembering those who did not come home from this and other conflicts. Every parish has its story to tell. The message of Christmas is of hope, peace and family. In this centenary year, the services and festivities give us an opportunity to reflect on how fortunate we are to live in an era of relative peace - and to be thankful to those who gave their tomorrow for our today. I hope you have a chance to spend time with those whom you love and I wish you all a very happy Christmas. Alex Burghart MP, Brentwood and Ongar www.alexburghart.org.uk”

Ideal Christmas tickets Local people entered a prize draw to enjoy Christmas at the Food and drink show and ideal home Christmas Show held at Olympia, London. North Weald Village Life was given 20 tickets and I hold a prize drawn on the North Weald Village Life Facebook group. 8 families were selected from the entrants and

Photo: Acknowledgement—L. Harman 27

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Help to get active Active Epping Forest Capacity Grants of up to £500 are available to individuals, clubs and small business to encourage local residents to reduce inactivity – particularly those doing less than 30 minutes physical activity a week. The cash can be used to pump-prime new projects, which should then be sustainable through volunteer support or alternative approaches. Funding can also be used to expand existing projects if applicants can demonstrate it will bring added value. Projects must target over 18s and demonstrate how they will reduce physical inactivity and achieve a 70% participation rate of participants considered to be inactive. “So many people find it difficult to commit to regular exercise to improve their health and wellbeing,” said Cllr Helen Kane, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Community Services. “Anything that encourages us to become more active is a positive step towards improving our physical and mental health.” Health and Wellbeing Assessment will be made on how well the proposed project or initiative meets the priorities of tackling physical inactivity, and consideration will be given to how longer term sustainability will be achieved. All health and wellbeing proposals will be reviewed by a panel of EFDC Officers. Apply now For application forms and for further information please email Louis Walton, Community Grants Officer at lwalton@eppingforestdc.gov.uk.

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Airport Bosses talk to Council Stansted is the UK’s fastest growing airport. A £600 million expansion programme to build a brand new terminal building, more efficient aircraft and plans to increase passenger numbers from around 28 million to 43 million per year were discussed with councillors at the Overview and Scrutiny meeting of Epping Forest District Council on Monday 29 October. Around 12,000 people work at Stansted, making it the region’s largest employer. There are many career opportunities with 377 current vacancies. The airport has links with local schools and colleges. Senior managers for Manchester Airport Group Alistair Andrew (Planning Manager), Marcella M’Raberty (Corporate Social Responsibility Manager) and Jonathan Oates (Director of Corporate Affairs) sought to reassure councillors about the impact of extra passengers on the local environment including noise levels, air pollution and traffic congestion. The number of aircraft movements is expected to stay about the same. More passengers per plane and better engines (the next generation of engines are significantly more fuel efficient and cleaner than current engines) are expected to reduce emissions. After a temporary noise increase, lower average noise levels are expected to drop as older aircraft are replaced by new models, although the Stansted executives did confirm that older cargo planes with longer lease arrangements do contribute to higher noise pollution levels. Around half of all passengers travelling to Stansted arrive by public transport, reducing stress and congestion on the local road network. However, car access is also important. Stansted supports the development of the M11 Junction 8 with plans to increase car parking and bus stations. ,

Frustration with the speed and performance of Border Force is not confined to Stansted. Long delays are a feature of many UK entry points. Stansted bosses confirmed they are in regular discussions with Border Force but are not able to insist on improvements. Baggage handling problems over the summer were also acknowledged as well as delays due to staff shortages at the National Air Traffic Control Centre and highly publicised difficulties for people with disabilities.

North Weald Bantham & Ongar Bowls Club (Behind the Talbot)

Meets every Tuesday At 5.30pm or 7.30pm Saturday 8.30am Call Mandy on 07778117128

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

24 arrested after drug raid action across district Five suspected drug dealing gangs have been shut down by Essex Police with the arrest of 24 people during a day of action in Epping Forest District. Acting on information from the community, Essex Police launched an investigation in May this year targeting so-called ‘county line’ drug dealing gangs in the Debden, Loughton, Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell, Limes Farm and Hainault areas of the district. The gangs are believed to be involved in the supply of Class A drugs and thought to make roughly in the region of £3,000 per day from the sale of illegal substances. Supported by Epping Forest District Council, who also provided £5,000 towards the cost of the policing operation, Essex Police began investigating the gangs and building a picture on key members. The six-month probe culminated on Tuesday 13th November. with the execution of 19 warrants across the district. In total 24 people have been arrested on suspicion of offences ranging from possession of drugs, to possession with intent to supply and being concerned in the supply of drugs. The operation was jointly led by Essex Police’s West local policing teams and Operation Raptor. Chief Insp Lewis Basford, District Commander for Brentwood and Epping Forest District, said: “Essex Police has continued to take the fight to the gangs and individuals attempting to sell drugs on our streets. “555 111. As long as people continue to attempt to sell drugs in our county we will continue to hunt them down and bring them to justice and, if that takes days or, as in this case, an operation that runs for months, we will leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of them. He continued: “I would like to reassure the residents of Epping Forest District that where we receive information that criminals, gangs or drug dealers are active in their area we will, as today shows, act on that.

“I would also like to send a clear message to drug dealers and criminals that they are not welcome on the streets of Epping Forest District or Essex.” Epping Forest District Council supported Essex Police during the six month operation. Essex Police set up Operation Raptor teams in the North, South and West of the county to tackle drug and gangrelated crime. 18 of those arrested people appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court onWednesday November 14, to face the charges. A further six people, also arrested, have been released under investigation. If you have information about drug or gang-related crime in your community contact Essex Police on 101 or Crimesto ppers anonymously. 30

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

December Gardening Hints Hello all, another year is almost over, time really does fly by the older we get. Our gardens are now starting to recover after the amazing temperatures we had over the summer months and although we’ve had a few frosts some of the summer bedding plants like fuchsias are starting to burst into bloom again. Ideally now is the time to get your w inter baskets out, so they can start to grow roots and toughen up before it turns to cold, the stronger the root system the healthier the plant on top will be. When we have a nice day or two then get out and rake up any fallen leaves or fruit and add these to the compost heap. Prune roses making sure you remove any decayed leaves, the same goes for perennials. Compost heaps will rot down quicker if you turn them, but don’t turn if they’re open and there’s a frost on the top. If you haven’t already then dig up dahlia tubers and store them in a cool dry shed over winter.

If you’re planning on having a bonfire, don’t build it until you’re ready to light it or move your stack just before lighting as hedgehogs maybe taking shelter underneath the heap. If you have rhubarb growing that’s over 5 years old then it’s a good idea to split the plant, just take a spade to the plant and make a nice clean cut through the sides and plant those pieces. Leave them to grow next year without being tempted to pick any for the first ye ar! Next autumn leave the leaves on and allow them to rot back into the ground and you’ll have a nice strong healthy plant for the following summer. Real Christmas trees are due into the nursery during the second week of November. We suggest you come in early to pick your t ree to avoid disappointment. You can buy your tree and either take it home there and then or leave it with us for you to collect nearer to Christmas. If you’re having a real tree, leave it in the net and saw a couple of inches off the bottom, then stand the tree in the garden in a buc ket of water for as long as possible, a week or two would be great but if not then even a couple of hours will make a huge difference. The more moisture the tree can soak up the longer it will last you. Once taken inside you will need to keep the stand topped up with water to help prevent the needles from dropping. Also don’t stand your tree in front of a radiator as this will dry it out to quickly and by the time Christmas comes y ou’ll have nothing left other than bald branches! Our Christmas shop is now open, with new items being added daily, why not pop in and take a look. As well as ornaments and decorations we have a new range of Christmas cards which are proving popular. As always we are stocking winter fuels, logs, coal and Calor g as. Rock salt should be in very soon. Our Facebook page is proving popular, Lisa keeps it regularly updated with news and photos of new stock, although I have no i dea how to use Facebook I do appreciate that it works, so keep an eye on that for special offers and upcoming deals! Apparently you just put in the Facebook search bar; Art Nursery Garden Centre (@ArtNGC) so give us a like to keep up to date with us. Well folks that’s all from me for now, enjoy your gardens with a tipple of your choice mine at this time of year is a nice sloe gin. Cheers. Nigel (Art Nursery Garden Centre)

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Views for first Fire and Rescue Plan People who live or work in Essex are being asked for their views on the proposed priorities in the county’s first ever Fire and Rescue Plan. Roger Hirst, the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, is developing a Fire and Rescue Plan that sets out his vision and priorities for the delivery of fire and rescue services in Essex. The plan will run from 2019 to 2024 and will be the basis on which Mr Hirst holds Essex County Fire and Rescue Service to account for its performance. The document mirrors the Police and Crime Plan which sets the priorities for policing in Essex. People can fill in the survey online via this link http://www.essex.pfcc.police.uk/fire-rescue-plan-2019-2024-public-survey/ Hard copies are also available on request. Please contact the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner on 01245 291600 if you would like a copy or email pfcc@essex.pnn.police.uk You can also write to PFCC for Essex, Kelvedon Park, London Road, Rivenhall, Witham, Essex, CM8 3HB. The survey will close at midnight on January 15, 2019.

North Weald and Ongar Branch Royal Air Forces Association 12 noon. Second Wednesday of each month

The Squadron Bar, North Weald Airfield. Informal meetings, occasional speakers, social outings. Phone Heather 07745620758

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Have a crime-free Christmas. Over the next few weeks we will be busy doing our Christmas shopping. It is not enough that we are trying not to overspend, trying to buy the perfect gift and are absolutely shattered but on top of that we have to be careful and avoid being an easy target for criminals. Here are some tips and advice for when you are out shopping:•

Make sure your purchase and phone are safe by staying alert, keeping your bag closed and not leaving things sticking out of pockets.

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Try not to keep all your valuables in one place.

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Only carry the cash and cards that you need.

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When using your card, shield your pin no.

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Be careful where you park your car. Try and choose a well lit car park if you will be returning later in the day.

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Avoid going back to your car to leave your shopping although this is often difficult as shopping can be heavy or cumbersome. If you do leave your shopping in your car, try and keep them out of site and make sure the boot is locked. A great idea is to keep the receipts with you.

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Make sure your children know what to do if they get separated from you. Tell them to go to the nearest shop counter assistant and never leave a shop without you.

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Never leave your bag unattended in a trolley.

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When driving, keep your car doors locked.

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Don’t withdraw too much money at a cashpoint and make sure you put your money and card away before walking away from the cashpoint.

Overall keep safe and don’t spend too much!

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Help the homeless this Christmas A local lady works hard to support the homeless and works with the Hands On Hand out charity which provides London’s homeless with food, drink, clothing and toiletries. As we all know it is cold now and especially on the streets of London. At Christmas time, it is even harder for people to be on their own and in the cold. Now local residents can help by filling a shoe box with essential items listed below. You can drop these off at the Kings Head Garage and these will then be collected and distributed to the homeless. The campaign is ‘Fill a shoe box with love’.

If you feel a shoe box and wrap it in Christmas paper and put a tag or sticker on saying whether it is for male or female. The items that are needed in the shoe box can be any of the following:-

Wet wipes

Socks

Puzzle book/pen

Note pad/pen

Chocolate

Sweets

Toothbrush

Toothpaste

Torch

Travel size toiletries

Hand sanitizers

Waterproof poncho

Lip seal

Biscuits

Deodorant

If you drop off your shoe box to the Kings Head Garage any week day, these can be dispensed to the homeless people. Christmas is a time for giving, this is a great way we can help people less fortunate then ourselves and lonely and maybe put a smile on their face or at least show them someone is thinking of them this Christmas.

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Say no to Gateway Drugs A three month advertising campaign on the back of local buses has been helping to raise awareness of Epping Forest Youth Council’s anti-drugs messages. ‘Say no to Gateway Drugs’ was the theme of the advertisement – urging young people not to start down a road that could lead to a hard drug habit. The decision to champion the anti-drugs message came after a clean up of car parks across the district revealed over 500 ‘laughing gas’ cannisters. Cllr Helen Kane, Portfolio Holder for Leisure & Community Services said: “It is important young people understand the serious health risks the substance can pose. Nitrous oxide can be very dangerous when misused.” The design of the bus poster was created by Youth Councillor Annabelle Yaman called ‘Don’t Open the Gate to Gateway Drugs’. The campaign ran from August to the end of October on Arriva buses across the Epping Forest district.

Youth Councillor ‘Stanimir Bakalov’ said: “The amount of canisters we found whilst out and about is worrying and it shows ‘laughing gas’ is a real issue for young people today. Through our drug awareness project we hope to highlight the risks and make young people aware of the damage they are doing.”

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Christmas for pets Christmas can be very exciting for pets, lots of different things to smell and investigate. Here are some simple hints to make sure you don’t end up in the vets this Christmas:•

Many Christmas foods including chocolate, grapes, Christmas pudding, mine pies and some nuts are toxic

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Christmas Plants such as poinsettia, mistletoe and holly can cause upset stomachs

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Wrapping paper is not toxic but can cause complications

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Christmas tree - A mild stomach upset can be caused if dogs eat pine needles, but the sharp tips can cause more damage internally.

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Be careful of the Silica gel comes in small sachets and is often found in the packaging of new shoes, handbags, cameras or electrical equipment which we unwrap over Christmas. Although it is labelled “Do not Eat” it is considered to be of low toxicity.

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Although candles, even scented ones, are considered to be of low toxicity, ingestion could potentially block the intestine or cause choking.

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Decorations made of plastic, paper or foil are of low toxicity although may obstruct the stomach.

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Glass decorations could pose a risk if chewed or swallowed.

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Alcohol can have a similar effect in dogs as it does in their owners when drunk in excess. They can become wobbly and drowsy and in severe cases, there is a risk of low body temperature, low blood sugar and coma. Dogs may help themselves to any unattended alcohol left lying around over Christmas, so ensure it's always out of their reach.

It can be very exciting for pets just to spend time with the family and enjoy the atmosphere and fun.

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Choices All the days that have gone past, Will give you your memories that last. Whether they are good or maybe bad, Are all down to the choices you had.

We all start in life with a blank sheet, It’s the people we meet and the choices you make that decide whether it’ll remain neat. I know many are born with afflictions that they can do nothing about, Though its usually those brave people that never scream or shout. Unfortunately many get drawn down a sad and lonely lane, That leads to nothing but sadness, sorrow and pain. Still we all have the same choices as life pulls you along, Although its always down to you to decide what is right or wrong. So don’t moan about life should things go bad, Stand up for yourself and think about all the good memories you’ve had. We none of us have long on this planet we call home, So if something is not working for you then just leave it alone.

Your life is simply what you make it and we all have a voice, So if you don’t like what you’ve been dealt, just do something about it, as it is always been your choice. Source: Andy—resident poet. Welcome back.

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

NORTH WEALD BASSETT PARISH COUNCIL Parish Office, North Weald Library, 138 High Road, North Weald, Essex CM16 6BZ Tel: 01992 523825 Fax: 01992 524756 email: clerk@northweald-pc.gov.uk www.northweald-pc.gov.uk Clerk to the Council: Mrs Susan De Luca The Parish Office is located in North Weald Library and is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday - 9.15am to 1.15pm. Details of Parish Council and Planning Committee Meetings can be found on the Parish Council’s website SERVICES AVAILABLE:CEMETERY: ALLOTMENTS: PARISH HALL FOR HIRE:

Purchase of plots for Burials, Cremated Remains, Garden of Remembrance A limited number of plots are available to rent in North Weald, and Hastingwood The Parish Hall is located in Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood Common. Please contact Mrs Janet Abbott on 01992 571128 for further details. PARISH MAINTENANCE: Play areas; open spaces; check street furniture, bus stops, bins; street lighting and much, much more ...... DID YOU KNOW WE RUN THE LIBRARY 3 DAYS A WEEK? Services include: Taking out/bringing back books; Photocopying/Fax Machine available; Internet – Please remember to bring your Library Card to use the facilities COUNCILLOR DETAILS: Hastingwood Ward:

Brian Bartram – 01992 614415 Thornwood Common Ward: Baden Clegg – 01992 575636 Brian Eldridge – 01279 428622 Richard Spearman – 01992 575387 Mark Stroud (contact via Parish Office)

North Weald (Village) Ward: Nigel Bedford (contact via Parish Office) Elaine Godwin-Brown – 01992 570316 Terry Blanks – 01992 522216 Anne Grigg – annegrigg@live.co.uk Alan Buckley 01992 522158 Sheila Jackman, MBE 01277 363740

George Mulliner – 01992 523535 Dave Stallan – 01992 523859 Andrew Tyler – 07935 224573

*************** The Parish Office will close at 1.15pm on Wednesday, 19th December and will reopen on Wednesday, 2nd January 2019 at 9.15am The Clerk’s contact number in case of emergencies or Cemetery/Funeral purposes only is: 07572 507591 MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL FROM THE CHAIRMAN, COUNCILLORS AND STAFF

Council funds Debt Advisors For three years, the Council has funded two Epping Forest Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) Debt Advisors to assist residents in the district with their personal budgeting. Last night, Councillors decided to keep funding these advisors for a further year. Councillor Syd Stavrou, Housing Portfolio Holder spoke passionately about how important the Epping Forest CAB is to residents of the district and to the Council itself – in keeping rent arrears low and preventing homelessness.

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

Universal Credit comes to North Weald: Citizens Advice outlines what this means Universal Credit will be available to North Weald residents from 5 December. What is Universal Credit? UC (as it’s commonly known) will replace a number of social security benefits and tax credits: child tax credits, working tax credits, housing benefit, income support, income-based job seeker’s allowance and income-related employment and support allowance. These are known as “legacy benefits”. Other benefits such as child benefit, personal independence payment and disability living allowance are not affected, nor are the various ways you can get your council tax reduced. UC is run by the department for Work and Pensions so the role of HMRC in tax credits and the District Council in housing benefit is being phased out. Who will now have to apply for UC? At the moment only two groups of people: first, those who are making a new claim for income-related benefits. You will have to claim UC from 5 December, though there are some exceptions. Secondly, those who are on one of the legacy benefits, and have a change of circumstances. You will have to switch to UC. Or, to put it another way, if you are on one of the legacy benefits now and your circumstances haven’t changed you stay on the legacy benefits, at least for the moment. Are pensioners affected? Mostly not. UC is a benefit for working age people, but there may be some impact if you are getting pension guarantee credit. State retirement pensions and attendance allowance are not affected. Are there problems with UC? There have been a lot of problems and the Government is still making changes to the new system to deal with court challenges and criticisms from the press, MPs and charities. One of the biggest issues has been delays in making the first payments to new claimants. As a result many UC claimants start off in debt and in rent arrears, or having to resort to foodbanks.

What will happen in the future? The Government is planning to move everyone on legacy benefits over to UC in the next few years. We don’t as yet know the exact timetable or the process which will be followed. Will people be better-off or worse-off under UC? The general levels of benefits are much the same but the effect on particular individuals and families depends on your circumstances. Part-time workers may well be better-off whereas disabled jobseekers may well be worse-off than they would have been had they stayed on a legacy benefit. Will people need help to handle UC? UC is different in the way it is administered and paid. The DWP want people to handle their claim online, though there are provisions for people who can’t. UC is paid monthly and can fluctuate widely from month to month, especially for people with variable earnings. People may therefore need help with budgeting and debt management. And with a new system like this there is a risk that DWP staff will inadvertently give wrong advice. Citizens Advice is here to help. Contacting us for advice The nearest branch to North Weald is at 50A Hemnall Street in Epping. We are open for drop-in from 10.00 to 2.00 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. Elsewhere, the branch in Loughton Library is open between 9.30 and 1.00, Monday to Thursday and the branch in Waltham Abbey Town Hall is open between 9.30 and 1.00 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.. You can also get advice over the phone on 03444 770 808, and we’re on the Web and social media: www.citizensadviceefd.org.uk, www.facebook.com/CitizensAdviceEppingForest and www.twitter.com/CAEppingForest. Source: P. Stockton

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

CHURCH CHAT St Andrew Church

Sadly due to economic reasons, we will no longer be selling fuel at the end of 2018. All other services will remain as usual. We apologise for any inconvenience this will cause our customers.

It is really quite remarkable how different church organists can get such different sounds out of the same instrument. On November 4th we had a visiting organist who had not played for four years. She played with such verve and such rich quality we could have been in a cathedral. The service was led by Fr Bushau from Woodford and there were more people attending than we have seen for a long time. As she was leaving one lady said to me “That was lovely. I really feel I have been to church”. Our next big event, at which we would like to see every resident of North Weald, Thornwood and Hastingwood present, is our Patronal Festival which takes place on Friday November 30th which is St Andrew’s Day starting at 8pm. Leading the service will be Bishop Norman Banks whose title is The Bishop of Richborough and who is what we correctly refer to as our ‘Episcopal Visitor’. One of our churchwardens, Donald, is a very gifted artist and he has produced an eye-catching poster which will be distributed and displayed round the village. I mention it because it is different and shows the bright and colourful interior of our Parish Church. Quite a number of our friends from St Mary Magdalen’s church in Potter Street have said they will be coming. After the service there will be food and drinks available a few steps from the church in Thorowgood House. Please accept this as an invitation to readers of North Weald Village Life to attend. See you in church? Church Cottage looks a bit dilapidated at the moment but the new owner, who has purchased it, is putting as much spare time as possible and ultimately intends to move in when everything has been completed. I don’t envy him with the DIY and here I speak with experience. Many years ago I purchased a former verger’s cottage from the diocese for £1250 which had been written off as unfit for human habitation. For two years I ate and slept among the debris but once completed and after it was sold it became a listed building. You’re probably thinking that I made a mint of money when I sold it, but it was the person who bought if off me who did that. For those who find getting up on a Sunday morning for a 9.15am church service a somewhat challenging task I have some good news. From January the service will start at 9.30am. Admittedly that’s hardly a sweeping change, but you have to admit that it does sound better! On November 11th we had the new Area Dean, Rev Lee Batson as our celebrant. He slotted into the order of service so well that you would have thought it was his fiftieth visit and not his first. His name is now added to the list of priests who between them take care of the Mass week by week. An unexpected visitor in November who appeared one weekday was Alex Burghart MP. For details of our Christmas services please look out for our posters which will be round the village during December Best Wishes for Christmass and the New Year. Edwyn Gilmour

Telephone: 07814 863955— Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk— www.woodendreams.co.uk

BIRD FEATURE - DECEMBER 2018 Welcome to the report covering the last month of 2018. It has been a relatively quiet year in terms of the variety of species but obviously the weather has had an enormous impact on wildlife and it will be interesting to see what the conclusions will be once various natural history organisations have assessed their surveys and research for 2018. December is the start of what is now commonly referred to as meteorological winter although November has continued the largely mild theme of autumn and it is hard thus fart o picture frosty mornings with birds queueing up at seed and nut feeders. What has been happening during autumn ? Well there has been a smattering of the winter thrushes, Fieldfares and Redwings. Thus far there have not been sufficiently harsh conditions to drive them into larger flocks. There was one day in the first week of November when some 50 or so of them were about our area but they must have just been passing through as I have only seen a handful since then. We occasionally get Lapwings in our vicinity and there was one reasonable flock that was briefly in fields adjacent to the A414 as you exit the village towards the Harlow M11 roundabout. I have also noted a half dozen or so fly over Weald Common. This is one of those species that is very easy to recognise - it has handsome black and white looking plumage and has a distinctive 'lapping' style flight. Unfortunately numbers of this iconic farmland bird continue to fall. Any sightings around our area are welcome and winter is the most likely time to see them. A few Meadow Pipits have been around, mostly at Weald Common and at the disused golf course. A somewhat nondescript brownish looking bird with a weak call but again a welcome site and most likely to be in lowland areas in the colder months of the year. They are not there every day but are pretty frequent and we have previously had a small flock 'in residence' for most of the winter. Jays were very conspicuous over autumn, flying to and fro seeking supplies of acorns. Apparently this species has done very well in some parts of the UK and indeed were a very common sight in some suburban areas. There were plenty of days when I saw and definitely heard - Jays about the village but as the weeks go by they will be much less obvious. The lucky ones will be able to thrive as they find the acorns they have cached in wooded areas. Of course many of these acorns will either be lost as the Jay couldn't find where he/she had hidden them or squirrels will have them away. Jays are members of the crow family and studies have shown them to be intelligent birds, usually well capable of remembering where they have stored literally scores and scores of food items. Although they are resident in our area you don't always get to see or hear owls around the village but having not noted any for some months I heard a Tawny Owl one night and then a couple of nights later saw a Little Owl, both near to Weald Common. It is almost a decade since I last saw a Barn Owl at Weald Common and there would have to be desperate conditions to get one here again. I have had a few walks which have been quite productive in terms of sightings of species that aren't always in evidence hereabouts. There have been Moorhens, Coots, Mute Swans and Cormorants, all species that frequent watery habitats. Smaller birds such as Siskins, Goldcrests and Redpolls have been about along with good sized flocks of Goldfinches and Linnets which go after weed seeds and will target scruffy habitats with thistles and other plants that gardeners would view as being unwanted. Most years see a total of around 70 - 75 different species in North Weald. I will total them up for 2018 but I expect it to be slightly lower. Three species seen in 2017 that have been absent this year are Kingfisher, Stonechat and Yellow Wagtail. Of course this is only those birds that I see, I'm sure there are other people in the area who log what birds they see so obviously there could be a higher total overall. As I say every winter the one bird I really want to turn up locally is the Waxwing which is a truly beautiful bird and pictures don't really do it justice. They can migrate to the UK in considerable numbers in some years so here's hoping that December 2018 sees such an influx. Thoughts now turn to increasing the frequency and quality of feeding the birds in our gardens. At some stage we will get a cold snap or even something as harsh as last winter and the seeds and other items we provide can literally be life savers for birds. Bad weather can drive unusual species into our gardens, I nearly always get Marsh Tits on the feeders when it's icy but never at other times and Fieldfares and Redwings only turn up when it is very chilly.

Fresh, clean water is just as important as food when it is icy. Sometimes even ponds can freeze over so the only viable source of water for garden birds at such times is the stuff we provide in birdbaths. When you are out and about - whether it be locally or further afield - it is always worth keeping an eye (and ears) open as you just never quite know what you might see or hear. Anyway, as it is December I will wish you all best wishes for the forthcoming festive season and let's look forward to the nature of 2019. Paul Corbet. 42

Telephone: 07814 863955â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Email: June@northwealdvillagelife.co.ukâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; www.woodendreams.co.uk