North Weald Village Life Strengthening the Community
FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine Circulation: Monthly
Issue: 150
February 2019
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Redbridge T 0208 989 8444 E redbridge@bluebirdcare.co.uk
Welcome to the new layout of this page, what do you think? You will notice I am making improvements in some of the areas of the magazine over the next few months. If you have any ideas of areas you would like improved, suggestions for new items that you would like to see in the magazine or even removed from the magazine please let me know. The magazine is published for you to read so if there any changes you would like to see I would be delighted to receive them. We are already a few weeks into 2019, Christmas is definitely a distant memory. I wonder if the Beast from the East 2 weather front will hit us as they have said with rumours of lots of snow going into February.
Contents February 2019
Cover photo: Not the Editor’s dog but I could not resist this puppy wrapped up warm in the snow. Chosen as snow is forecast for February
5. Street lights in North Weald 12. Help for social isolation. 14. Citizen of the year
I am not looking forward to snow, especially driving in the snow, I have a new challenge ahead of me. I am now driving an automatic car which I have now got used to after driving manual cars for many many years. But this all changes I understand in the snow and ice. I have to rethink and drive using the gears manually. How confusing!! Mind you it doesn't take much.
15. End of an era 17. New Structure for Epping Forest District Council 18.-19. Save our Library Campaign 22. Become a superhero for St Clare 20. Concern for the homeless
I have been invited to have a life interview on BBC Radio Essex on 24th January, as they regularly focus on different areas of Essex and on this particular show they are focusing on North Weald. I am going to visit them in Chelmsford and the show will start at 7pm. I have no idea what I am going to be asked but I know I can talk about North Weald for as long as they want me—hope I am not too boring. I am slightly terrified about it but I didn't want to miss the opportunity to share all that is great about our village. Don’t forget the North Weald Bassett Parish Council want nominations for citizen of the year. We have so many wonderful people who do a lot for local groups, organisations and fundraising and those that without them our village wouldn't be the same without them,. I can’t mention any names as I know they read the magazine, but I will certainly be making some nominations. See you around, maybe in the snow!
Kind regards
25. Local club licence under review 27. Gardening Hints 32. Wing Commander Tom Neil DFC and Bar, AFC, AE, 35. Ideas for Valentine’s day 37. CAB advice—save money on gas and energy 38. Beware—is that Badger really dead?
Editor June Peachey june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk 07814 863955 Write to: 49 York Road, North Weald, Epping, Essex CM16 6HU www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Subscription: If you would like to guarantee your personal copy or perhaps you have relatives or friends who would like to receive their own copy, you can subscribe for £25.00 for 12 issues. Contributions & Editorial: If you would like to contribute editorial, poems, recipes, letters or anything else, we would be delighted to receive these. Please send them to us via letter or email. Advertisers: Please email or telephone us for full advertising rates and sizes. Booking deadline is 5th of each month.
June Editor 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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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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FEBRUARY BRAIN TEASER —Win a bottle of wine • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Snow Winter Gloves Blizzard Cold Weather Hot chocolate Scarf Boots Freezing Ice Central heating Sledge White Slippery Slush
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Congratulations this month Mrs Smith who won last months prize and will be celebrating with a bottle of wine. This month the lucky winner can also celebrate with a bottle of wine. To enter this month, please send your completed entry to New Year Brain Teaser, NWVL, 49 York Road, North Weald, Essex CM16 6HU. Entries need to be received by 10th February 2019. Please ensure you put your name, address and telephone number on your entry so that I can telephone you if you are the lucky winner. Good Luck.
THE EPPING TREE COMPANY TOTAL TREE MANAGEMENT Your local Tree Surgeons Approved by the Local Authority & established for over 25 years You can be assured of personal attention Fully Insured
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Tel: 01206 384262 Mobile: 07850 390079 .Proprietor:
S. Dinsdale
www.eppingtreecompany.co.uk Email: info@eppingtreecompany.co.uk Page 4
Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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Builder fined for unauthorised work to Epping café Mr, Halil Kanteper of Stoke Newington Road London has been fined £1,200 for carrying out unauthorised building works to the listed building at 309 High Street Epping known as Poppy’s Café and the first floor of that building. He pleaded guilty at Chelmsford Magistrates court on 15th November 2018 when a prosecution was brought by Epping Forest District Council. He was also ordered to pay the prosecution costs of £500 and a Victim Surcharge of £120. Consent for an extension and conversion of the first floor into 2 flats and for a replacement shop front at the property was granted in 2016 and 2017. On 15th August 2017 the Council received reports that work being carried out to the listed building may be more extensive than agreed. Council officers visited the property the same day and it was immediately clear that substantial unauthorised work had been carried out, including walls being stripped of their historic lath and plaster, ceilings floors and joists removed in their entirety and stud walls being removed. Mr Kanteper, the builder for the property admitted carrying out the work without the knowledge of the owners. He told the Council he believed the work was required due to a leak in the roof causing substantial damage to the building. No evidence of this was supplied to the Council and the Council’s Senior Conservation officer had not seen any evidence of this when visiting the Works are being carried out now in line with new planning approvals and it is hoped the café will be able to reopen in the near future.
Parish council votes against paying for all-night street lights North Weald Bassett Parish Council has voted unanimously not to pay Essex County Council £10,243.05 to keep the county council-managed street lights on all night for a year.
M. P. Warren Painting & Decorating
The money would mean the county council's lights which are currently turned off between 1am and 5am would be turned back on throughout the night.
Established for over 30 years Local, Trusted and Professional Service
Interior and Exterior
The 110 street lights which are the responsibility of the parish council are not affected by the proposed funding arrangement. These have always remained lit throughout the night.
All Aspects of Decorating Undertaken Reliable and Tidy
Telephone
0772 2343564
Councillor Nigel Bedford told Monday's council meeting: "We shouldn't spend £10,000. I travel into the village late at night when the lights are off and I don't see what difference it will make to safety and security (if they are turned back on).
"That £10,000 would be better spent on other projects." Councillor Anne Grigg said she was not aware of any "strong representation" that residents want the lights back on.
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Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
LOCAL EVENTS Every Monday
Ballroom and Latin American Dancing Classes
8.15pm & 9.15pm
North Weald Village Hall. Beginners at 8.15 and intermediate at 9.15. Contact Debbie on 07872 427946.
Every Monday
Taoist Tai Chi
10.30am— 12.30
Epping Hall, St Johns Road, Epping. Tel: 01992 523854.
Every Tuesday
Taoist Tai Chi
7.30pm— 9pm
Queens Hall, School Green Lane. Tel 01992 523854 for more information
Every 1st Tuesday
Ongar Flower Club
7.30pm
Zinc Arts Centre, High Road, Ongar. A floral art demonstration given by a qualified and experienced demonstrator. guests/visitors £4.50 members free.
Every Tuesday
Baby & Toddler Group
1.15pm— 2.45pm
Queens Hall, School Green Lane. Term time only. £2 per family.
Every Thursday
Baby & Toddler Rhyme Time— starts again on Thursday 13th September
10.30am— 11am
North Weald Library. For under 5’s and their parents/carers (term time only) Songs, rhymes and stories. Free to attend
Every Thursday
Bingo
7pm— 9.30m
Wheelers Farm Gardens, £4 for book of 8 pages (2 games per page) Option Flyer £1. 50p for small raffle and cup of tea/coffee. Over 18 only
Every Friday
Reiki Healing/Hands on Healing
1pm—3pm
North Weald Village Hall. The healing is free with donation.
Every Friday
Medium doing Clairvoyance
3.15— 4.15pm
North Weald Village Hall. £3 per entrance. With free raffle ticket.
Every Saturday and Sunday
North Weald Airfield Museum
12 noon— 5pm
North Weald Airfield Museum, Hurricane Way
Every second Saturday of the month
Ploughmans Lunch
12noon
North Weald Village Hall. In aid of NWSS. All welcome
Every second and Fourth Wednesday
Theydon & Abridge Jazz
8pm
Abridge village hall. Enquires davedyer24@gmail.com or phone 07903 879209
Every Tuesday
Board Games Session
2.30— 4.30pm
North Weald Library. Learn new games. Share your knowledge and enthusiasm. All ages welcome Free drop-in session
25th January
TRAF Association Talk by Mark Smith
7pm
Budworth Hall, Ongar. Tickets cost £6.00. available from Bill/Heahter 07526 650917. All profit to RAF Associaiton Wings Appeal”. Mark Smith appears on BBC1 Antiques Roadshow and who was curator of
Wednesday 6th February
North Weald WI
1.45pm
Monday 11th February
West Essex Flower Club
1.45pm
North Weald Village Hall. Mr Ian Kirby with his talk ‘Angels, Villains and Dictators” is the speaker. Come along and join us. £3.00 on the door. Thornwood Village Hall. Demonstrator Carrisa Harris with arrangements entitled “The Difficult made Easier;. All welcome. Visitors pay £5.00 on the door.
If you know of a local event, please let me know and I will include this in the events calendar on www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk. There is also a Facebook Group— North Weald village Life events—events are posted by myself and members that are taking place throughout Essex, London and Hertfordshire.
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Planning Applications Planning File No: 014274 Application No: EPF/3171/18 Applicant Name: Mr Michael O'Shea Officer: Steve Andrews Location: Forest Bungalow, Woodside, North Weald Bassett, Epping CM16 6LE
Proposal: First floor extension to form a x2 no. bedroom house.
Planning File No: 007726 Application No: EPF/3196/18 Applicant Name: The Chisenhale-Marsh Estates Company Officer: Sukhvinder Dhadwar
Location: Land behind 1-3 Coopersale Common, Coopersale, Epping CM16 7QS Proposal: Erection of x 3 no. dwellings with associated works including landscaping & access
Any representations on applications should be made in writing, by Monday, 4 February, 2019 Comment online at www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/iPlan or by post to: The Director of Planning and Economic Development, Epping Forest District Council, Civic Offices, 323 High Street, Epping, Essex CM16 4BZ Any enquiries should be made to the Application Processing Team T: 01992 564436 E: appcomment@eppingforestdc.gov.uk
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Plans for former Gates Showroom Plans to turn the former Gates car showroom in High Street, Epping, into an "upmarket a la carte steak and grill" restaurant have met with no objections from the town council.
Tuesday's planning and general purposes committee heard that 20 parking spaces - 16 for customers and four for staff - were proposed, along with a front terrace. Committee chairman Nigel Avey said: "It's good news that a restaurant in Epping is going to have car parking." Councillor Barbara Scruton asked: "Do we need another restaurant in Epping."
Want help getting active? A programme of help and support to get active is on offer from Epping Forest District Council to residents across the district.
Councillor Avey added: "I really don't think there are any planning grounds (to object)."
Active Living is delivering day and evening sessions with 1-2-1 advice, group exercise and long term support in Loughton, Buckhurst Hill, Epping, Waltham Abbey and Ongar.
No o Not only are participants feeling more energised and doing more activity but they have achieved lower blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels and say: “Feeling younger and more alert” “Learning about myself – not just my limits but my capabilities” “Active Living helps to build structure into my day” “I don’t feel on my own” All the support you need Getting active can be difficult, so the Active Living programme provides support every step of the way. Our professional and friendly staff work with participants to set a personal plan of action that will make it simple to find ways to fit physical activity into daily life. Free advice and support is on hand to help people stay on plan and realise their goals. If you are interested in becoming more active and:
• • •
currently do less than 30 minutes of physical activity per week are over 16 live in the district of Epping Forest
To book your first appointment on 01992 564561 or email: csreception@eppingforestdc.gov.uk Page 9
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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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Increase in precept North Weald Bassett Parish Council has voted to increase its share of council tax bills for 2019-20 - with the total rising by roughly £13 a year for a Band D property. Councillors on Monday agreed the precept figure for 2019-20 of £219,256. Additional items for the next financial year include: £15,000 - for a contingency fund for the future provision of North Weald Library and the Parish Council offices for a period of 1 year. £5,000 - into a rolling programme fund (currently standing at £5,000) to replace older street lights when necessary £2,500 - for a parish council-run handyman scheme which would be match-funded by the Essex Association of Local Councils' Local Services Fund £2,000 - to fund two Special Constables for the Parish (these are not expected to be in place for 12 months pending recruitment and training) £1,500 - for a 'buffer' barrier around the ends of, and on, the low wall outside the parade of shops in High Road, North Weald £805 - for a speed gun for use throughout the parish council's area by Community Speedwatch volunteers, with the possibility of hiring the camera to other parish councils
No objection to car showroom restaurant plan Plans to turn the former Gates car showroom in High Street, Epping, into an "upmarket a la carte steak and grill" restaurant have met with no objections from the town council. Tuesday's planning and general purposes committee heard that 20 parking spaces - 16 for customers and four for staff were proposed, along with a front terrace. Committee chairman Nigel Avey said: "It's good news that a restaurant in Epping is going to have car parking." Councillor Barbara Scruton asked: "Do we need another restaurant in Epping." Councillor Avey added: "I really don't think there are any planning grounds (to object)." Page 10
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HAYDEN LANDSCAPES LTD DRIVEWAY AND PATIO SPECIALISTS DRIVEWAYS ARTIFICAL GRASS PATIOS BESPOKE OUTBUILDINGS FENCING TREE SURGERY DECKING SHED BASES BRICKWORK TURFING GATES GARDEN DESIGN AND MUCH MORE
Call: 07877496903
or 01277412522
For a free no obligation quotation Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
St Clare celebrates 5th birthday of Hospice at Home team St Clare Hospice is celebrating the fifth birthday of its Hospice at Home service which was launched in January 2014. The team of registered nurses and nursing assistants provide free, short-term, compassionate care for people with life-limiting illnesses in the comfort of their own home, across West Essex, and have cared for more than 2,000 patients and their families over the past 5 years. In 2017/18 the Hospice at Home team provided support for 770 families, ensuring that patients, families and their carers received compassionate care, at the right time and in the right place. Commenting on the care that he and his wife, Helen, received from the Hospice at Home team, Martin Dale (from Saffron Walden) said:“The Hospice at Home team were able to step in and help us when Helen and I needed them – and they were so friendly and were there for you, if you just wanted to talk. I would have really struggled on my own, without Hospice at Home. The team became part of the family – they were really great. It is never easy, especially when you are caring for your wife, but they made it easier. When the Hospice at Home night sitter came on the scene, it really was a God send.” On celebrating the team’s fifth birthday, Hospice at Home Manager, Sonia Haigh, said: “Our team has worked so hard over the past 5 years and we are delighted to have been able to support so many hundreds of patients and their families. Home is special, and being able to provide support to people in the comfort of their own home, if that is where they want to be, is a real honour for St Clare.” Calling on local medical, social and voluntary professionals to make even more referrals to the Hospice at Home service, Sonia Haigh said: “The Hospice at Home team is available to work closely with local GPs, District Nurses, social and voluntary sector professionals to make sure patients receive co-ordinated care. Hospice at Home care can help to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions, provide short-term care for rapid discharge from hospital while awaiting a care package, and provide hands-on compassionate care in the last weeks of a person’s life in the comfort of their own home.” Referrals can be made by all health, social and voluntary care professionals, including GPs, District Nurses, Clinical Nurse Specialists, social care or hospital teams. Also, patients, their family, or carer can refer themselves directly. The team will then need to discuss the referral with the patient’s GP. For more information visit: stclarehospice.org.uk/ hospice-home St Clare Hospice at Home team leaders work from 8am to 8pm and aim to respond to any telephone, faxed or electronic referral on the same day. Please note Night Service referrals are assessed and allocated on a daily basis by team leaders. If you’re not sure if the person you are referring is eligible for Hospice at Home care, just call. 01279 773716 Hospice at Home team (8am-8pm) Page 11
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There is help for social isolation St Clare Hospice, in Hastingwood, is calling on local people to help them improve the lives of others through its growing community-led social connection programme, Compassionate Neighbours.
St Clare Hospice is using the Compassionate Neighbours project to tackle social isolation and loneliness for those living with a life-limiting illness. However, this relies on the support of local people to give an hour a week towards helping others in the community. These generous volunteers regularly offer their time, companionship and a listening ear to their matched Community Members. The project has successfully recruited 47 Compassionate Neighbours and is currently on-track to reach its ambitious target of recruiting 64 volunteers by the end of March 2019. St Clare Hospice is calling on caring members of the public from the Uttlesford District, Bishop’s Stortford, Sawbridgeworth, Harlow and Epping Forest areas, to come forward and join the ranks of its volunteers. Harry Weldon (from Harlow) has already benefited from the project. He meets weekly with his Compassionate Neighbour, Dave Austin (from North Weald), during which time the pair enjoy spending time together at Harry’s home or out in local community. Harry first encountered the compassionate, supportive environment at St Clare Hospice when he was attending a Day Therapy group. The following year he was told about the Compassionate Neighbours project at and asked if he’d like to try it. “I will try anything!” said Harry. “So I said ‘yes’ and it’s been good! I have enjoyed having Dave as a partner; he’s a really nice bloke. I think we have a similar sense of humour and we like similar things. Before I had a Compassionate Neighbour, I wasn’t getting out at all, but Dave has given me confidence and shown me that I can try different things now.” Harry continued: “Compassionate Neighbours has also helped me to get back to doing the things that I love. I love fishing, and it is something that has always been a part of my life. But I stopped when I couldn’t get out of the house easily. It had been a few years since I had fished when Dave suggested that we should try going together. He drove us to a local fishing lake and we parked up. It was lovely in the sun. We were there for hours.” New volunteers will be provided with a full training programme, free of charge. The training courses are informal, fun and inspirational, giving volunteers the opportunity to explore how they can use their compassion to help others and give them the confidence to support people in their community. Please note that you must be over 18 to volunteer for this service. St Clare Hospice will carry out a relevant DBS check and you must be willing to give up your time on a regular basis. To find out more about becoming a Compassionate Neighbours project contact the Compassionate Neighbours Project Manager, Stacey Towler, on 01279 773729 or visit stclarehospice.org.uk/care/ compassionate-neighbours/ Page 12
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Fire at pub in Ongar
George Fairall
In the early hours of 10th January, two fire crews were called to attend the Two Brewers Public House, Greensted Road in Ongar . Firefighters were called to reports of a fire at just after 4am and on arrival crews were advised that the ground floor of the building was heavily smoke logged.
Epping
07714 264 312 01992 522950
Www.ratedpeople.com/profile/gf-plastering
One person, believed to be the landlord, was led to safety by the firefighters from the rear of the property and was taken to hospital. An investigation into the fire is being carried out. News reports have suggested that the cause of the fire was arson.
If you want to include an announcement for a birth, death, marriage, anniversary or birthday of a local person
Information source: Essex County Fire & Rescue Service
—please send these to me via email and I will include it in a future issue
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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Nominate your Citizen of the Year North Weald Bassett Parish Council is seeking nominations for individuals and groups for its Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year awards. The nomination may be for a single act of outstanding courage or bravery, or might encompass work carried out within the Parish, goodneighbourliness, commitment to a sporting or educational goal or to improve community facilities to name a few. The individual/group may be nominated by anyone who lives or works within the Parish of North Weald Bassett.
Nominees must live or work within the Parish of North Weald Bassett – this includes the villages of North Weald, Thornwood Common and Hastingwood. Nomination forms are available from North Weald Library or via the parish council’s website www.northweald-pc.gov.uk Nominees for the Young Citizen award must be aged 18 and under.
Completed forms must be returned to the Parish Office by no later than Monday, March 4. The awards cover service during 2018. North Weald Bassett Parish Council Officers and councillors are disqualified from being nominated while those involved with service in political organisations are also excluded. Service to religious bodies is applicable only if it involves substantial contribution to the wider community.
HOME GLAZING REPAIR SERVICE LTD The Local Company You Can Really Trust!
For more details, contact the Parish Office on 01992 523825 or email clerk@northweald-pc.gov.uk.
We specialise in the repairs to all makes of windows and doors
The awards will be presented at the Annual Parish Assembly on Monday, March 25.
Broken Down/Misted Sealed Units Replaced Locks/Hinges Renewed Conservatories Cleaned/Repaired Cat & Dog Flaps Fitted Front Door Panels Renewed Handles Replaced Letter Plates Replaced
Don’t forget to visit the website:
Guttering Replaced/Cleaned
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Full Maintenance of UPVC & Aluminium
To find out details of the latest events
A Complete Service To All Windows & Doors
Or sign up to the Facebook Group
FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE
www.facebook.com/groups/Northwealdvillagelife
CALL FREEPHONE 0800 917 2794 Or VISIT US AT
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End Of an era at Kings Head Garage At the beginning of this year, the last few drops of fuel were served at the King’s Head Garage. It was not viable to continue selling fuel for the garage, they could not compete with local garages and supermarkets with the price for fuel. They continued for as long as they could not wanting to let down customers, as they know that many including the older and disabled residents relied on the attended service to help them put fuel in their vehicles. The garage will continue with all other aspects including MOTs, servicing, puncture repairs, etc and generally helping out customers with their cars. For over 40 years the Kings Head Garage have served local families and generations after generations have come to the garage for their car servicing etc and they hope this will continue.
So it is not goodbye just the end of fuel being available and have asked me to pass on thank you to everybody who has purchased their fuel from them over the years, and look forward to seeing customers for MOTs and car servicing etc.
Reducing plastic At the Epping Forest District Councill full Council meeting held on 20th December, Environment Portfolio Holder Nigel Avey welcomed the recent government announcements on reuse and recycling. He emphasised the strategy for reducing plastic and the diversion of food waste – the main producer of methane gas – away from landfill. Councillor Avey responded to concerns about the difficulty of recycling black plastic commonly used in food packaging. In other environmental news, Special Project Portfolio Holder Alan Lion is to work on the delivery of charging points for electric cars across the District. Page
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People Strategy Update at Scrutiny It was announced at a recent Review and Scrutiny Meeting held on 18th December. the District Council is moving away from the traditional local government operating models based on service structures. Instead a new structure – the Common Operating Model – is being introduced which builds council services around the customer. New Customer Services and Business Support areas have already been introduced. Specialist and technical services are being grouped separately. The senior management structure is largely in place. Georgina Blakemore was recruited as the Council’s Strategic Director earlier in the year and was instrumental in the appointment of new Service Directors. The new approach sees only four layers of management geared towards improved efficiency and effectiveness with front-line staff empowered to make decisions as close to service delivery as possible:
• • • •
Level 4 – the Chief Executive and Strategic Director Level 3 – the Service Directors (also known as the managers of managers) Level 2 – 17 new Service Managers currently being recruited and due to be in position by the end of January Level 1 – Team Managers along with several specialist and technical roles due to be in place by the end of June.
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Other strands to the people Strategy include the use of modern technology to encourage home and agile working. A review of staff pay and benefits is underway. Georgina Blakemore emphasised the aims of the People Strategy, focusing on leadership, staff skills, capacity and resources including the ability to attract and retain good people with competitive pay and benefits. A reduction in senior management has achieved more than £600,000 in savings during 2018/19. The Council needs to find a further £1.5m in 2019/20 from savings and additional income. It has a policy of doing all it can to avoid compulsory redundancies and is aiming to complete the implementation of the People Strategy within 18 months.
Councillors also considered reports looking at the future arrangements for Overview and Scrutiny, a review of polling districts, polling places and polling stations, the forward plan of key decisions, the Corporate Plan and the committee’s own work programme for 2018/19.
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Tel: 07814 863955
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Save North Weald Library A ;Save Your Library’ campaign has been launched by North Weald Bassett Parish Council. North Weald Library is one of four libraries in the district earmarked for closure under Essex County Council proposals which are out for public consultation until 20th February. The High Road library also accommodates the parish council office. Parish council chairman Alan Buckley told Monday's parish council meeting: "We aim to bring everyone’s attention to the dilemma we could be facing. "We have produced an action plan and are trying to get everything out via the media, posters and banners."
The parish council is also compiling a database of local residents who would be interested in volunteering should the library continue as a community-run facility. Notices highlighting the campaign are to go up on the parish council noticeboards and banners will be put up across the Parish with residents encouraged to complete the public consultation document which is available online at www.essex.gov.uk/librariesconsultation. A link is also available via the parish council’s website www.northweald-pc.gov.uk.
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The council will also consider holding a meeting and could invite the three MPs which cover the Parish as well as county councillor Susan Barker, the county council cabinet member with responsibility for libraries and who is overseeing the shake-up proposals. Mr Buckley added: "It's imperative we get the message across to as many people as possible." Councillors are also raising awareness of the council's campaign and the threat facing North Weald Library with St Andrew's Primary School, The Ongar Academy, the local scouts, and with representatives of local churches and public halls. * Large print and Easy Read information and surveys are available via www.essex.gov.uk/libraries-consultation or by ringing 0345 603 7639 to request. You can also complete the survey over the phone using thie same number. To register interest with the parish council in becoming a community library volunteer, ring the Parish Office on 01992 523825 or email clerk@northweald-pc.gov.uk If you value the library in the village, it is important you act and have your say in the consultation. If you don’t and only low numbers respond to the consultation, Essex County Council will continue with the plans to close the Library and there will be no second chance.
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Concerns about homeless people A letter signed by every Essex council leader highlighting concerns about families being re-housed from London into the county has been sent to senior politicians in the capital. Agreed by the Essex Leaders and Chief Executives Group, the letter raises 11 issues which have been highlighted by housing officers across the county. Issues include a lack of communication between London authorities and Essex councils informing them of people being moved into the area, families being placed in inadequate housing, and the impact on local services. It also warns of cases where families have been moved far away from support networks such as friends, family and jobs, meaning their situation can actually worsen. The Essex Leaders and Chief Executives Group includes all 12 district and borough councils, Essex County Council, Southend and Thurrock unitary authorities and the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner. he letter, which has been sent to the Mayor of London and the leaders and directly elected mayors of each of the London Boroughs, also details some positive steps to resolve the concerns raised and also invites politicians on both sides of the county divide to work together to lobby government on related national issues. Neil Stock OBE, Leader of Tendring District Council and chairman of the Essex Leaders and Chief Executives Group, said the actions of some of the London Boroughs had been despicable. He said: “We understand why people want to come to Essex, which is a fantastic place in which to live, work and visit, and we don’t want to stop people moving to the county. “However, this needs to be in the right way and because people want to move here, not because they are being forced to or financially encouraged to by their London council as a way of removing a problem. “So far efforts by individual Essex councils to draw this to the attention of London Boroughs and the Mayor of London have largely been ignored, which is why as a group of leaders we have taken the decision to send this letter. “We now hope that those in power in London will sit up and take notice, and work constructively with us to resolve these issues.” Cllr Syd Stavrou, Portfolio holder for Housing at Epping Forest District Council said: “Sending homeless people to Essex might solve the immediate problem for the London Boroughs but it is not the best answer. Apart from the disruption it causes for councils managing their own homeless families in Essex, it is far better for people from London to stay in London as close as possible to their support networks of schools, work, family and friends. “We would like to see the London Boroughs addressing the situation within their own area to avoid impacting Essex Councils in this way.” Page 20
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Furry Tail Ending for Local Dog Lovers’ Fundraising Local dog holiday specialists Barking Mad Enfield and Harlow are in (puppy) love after sponsoring a second Dogs for Good assistance dog puppy named Wendy. The money raised through events such as coffee mornings and dog walks will support gorgeous Wendy, a yellow Labrador x retriever, throughout her important first year with puppy socialiser Michael.
Dogs for Good, formerly known as Dogs for the Disabled, trains dogs to help children and adults with all sorts of challenges, including autism, physical disabilities, special educational needs and dementia. Every penny donated to this innovative charity helps with exploring ways dogs can enrich and improve lives and communities. Barking Mad have worked with the charity since October 2017 and also sponsor a 10 month old Labrador called Prince, who has recently represented the charity at several Dogs for Good fundraising talks. Barking Mad was allocated a second puppy from a litter whose names had to begin with W due to a naming system which ensures that every puppy’s name is unique. Barking Mad felt that it was only fitting to christen their puppy with the name Wendy, which alludes to the company’s origins in the small Cumbrian town of Kirkby Lonsdale, which has links with the fairy tale of Peter Pan. Author J.M. Barrie was a regular visitor to the market town and is said to have based the characters on the vicar’s children. Mandy Joy of Barking Mad Enfield and Harlow said “We are delighted that Barking Mad’s fundraising efforts have been rewarded with the opportunity to support and train another puppy. As our home from home dog sitting service goes from strength to strength in the Enfield and Harlow area, we are honoured to be able to help contribute to the amazing work which this inspirational charity undertakes.” Cathryn Simpson, Corporate Partnerships Manager for Dogs for Good said ‘We’re absolutely delighted to be working with Barking Mad. There’s obvious synergy between the two organisations in respect of the dogs but more importantly the ethos of both organisations is closely matched and this is important to ensure a successful partnership. Thank you to everyone for getting involved!"
Barking Mad will be continuing to raise money for Dogs for Good to train more desperately needed assistance dogs throughout 2019, by holding local events and via their online fundraising page, http:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ BarkingMadEnfieldandHarlow Barking Mad is part of the Franchise Brands plc group of companies and is the UK’s favourite dog holiday company, as verified by TrustPilot. Contact Barking Mad at www.barkingmad.uk.com to find your
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Challenge yourself & become a Superhero Those looking for a new adventure in 2019 can find out how to make their year thrilling, and at the same time raise money for a local charity, at St Clare Hospice’s first ever Challenge Information Evening. An industry expert will explain the range of challenges to choose from at the event, which takes place on Thursday 7th February 2019, 6:30-8:00pm, at St Clare Hospice, Hastingwood in Essex. Attendees will also be able to ask questions, share ideas and start planning their next adventure or trip of a lifetime. Adrenaline junkies can find out about the range of challenges they can take on, from jumping out of a plane to cycling the length of the country; whilst those with wanderlust will enjoy hearing about trekking in Cambodia or walking the Great Wall of China to raise money for their local Hospice. Emma Broadbent, Challenge Events Fundraiser at St Clare Hospice, said: “If you’re looking for the experience of a lifetime, and to raise money for your local Hospice, then come to our first ever Challenge Information Evening and we can help you find the perfect event for you. Emma added: “We’re so lucky to have so many dedicated supporters who will literally run miles and fall out of planes to raise money for us; we call them our St Clare superheroes!”
A number of St Clare Hospice’s supporters take on numerous challenges throughout the course of the year to make substantial donations to St Clare Hospice. One such St Clare Superhero is Ray Cogan, from Stansted Mountfitchet, who took on a ‘marathon’ running challenge to complete 12 races in 12 months, to raise money for the St Clare in memory of his friend Dave Ramm who received care from the Hospice in 2015. As the year progressed, the father of two decided to up his goal to a staggering 16 races – which saw him cover a total of 64 miles swimming, 1,200 miles cycling and 828 miles running (including his training miles). Ray completed his final challenge on Sunday 2nd
December, participating in the St Clare Hospice Santa Run, a 5k fancy-dress fundraising race held in Debden. This marked Ray’s 16th major race of the year and took his fundraising total to nearly £4,500. Another St Clare superhero is Kim Bird, from Bishop’s Stortford, who raised almost £7,000 over the course of the year (Sept 2017-18) in memory of a dear friend who was cared for at St Clare.
In 2018, local St Clare supporters raised a record-breaking £80,000 in vital funding for the West Essex and East Herts hospice, from taking on sponsored challenges in aid of the charity alone. This year, the organisation hopes to top that by encouraging more people than ever to get active and help support their local hospice. For more information about taking on a challenge in aid of St Clare Hospice, visit their website at: stclarehospice.org.uk/get involved/challenges
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Majority of UK workers do not get paid overtime Did you know:•
The majority of UK workers do not get paid overtime
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60% of UK employees check their phone or email for work purposes at least once a day whilst on holiday
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38 % of the UK admit to suffering from work related stress
More than half of UK workers (51%) who work additional hours outside their contract do not get paid overtime by their employer, according to the latest research by Jobrapido – the world’s leading job search engine with 55 million monthly visits and more than 80 million registered users in 58 countries. 80% of the UK workers that do not get paid overtime admitted “it is just part of my job”, or “I could jeopardise my chances of a promotion if I ask for overtime” or “I am too scared to rock the boat by asking for additional money”. The remaining 20% stated that despite not being paid they are given extra holiday instead. The research also revealed that more than half (52.7%) of the working population are regularly working more than a 40-hour week, with nearly 6% working between 51-55 hours a week and a further 2% working 56 hours or more. The research was carried out between November-December 2018 amongst 1,500 employees across the UK working in more than 50 different sectors including education, healthcare, finance, construction and retail. Other highlights of the research include: * Six in ten employees admitted that even on holiday they check their mobile phone or emails at least once a day for work, with half of these respondents admitting they check multiple times a day.
* 67% admitted if they did not check their emails/phone during their holiday this would change the relationship they have with their line manager or boss * 61% have had to miss an important event (including a family birthday, an important school activity of their child, a wedding or a funeral) because of work * 38 % say they have suffered from workrelated stress Rob Brouwer, CEO of Jobrapido comments: “With the majority of the UK regularly working more than the traditional 40hour week, it is essential they are rewarded in some way for their investment. Whilst some are recognised with time in lieu, it should not be the case that so many in the workforce are just accepting this to be par for the course or fearful they could lose their job or risk a promotion by asking for some type of remuneration.” “With nearly four in ten UK workers suffering from work-related stress, it is essential that employers and senior management look at new ways to manage employees’ work-loads. Holiday or time outside the workplace should be recognised as a time when employees can re-charge and truly rest so they are in position to give their very best when they return to work and crucially mitigate against the risk of workrelated stress.” Page 23
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Damaged verges by Epping war memorial causes concern Another attempt is to be made by Epping Town Council to find a solution to the continued damage being caused by heavy lorries to the Town Green by Epping war memorial.
Mr Berwin called on the council to take steps to resolve the issue "in memory of all the heroes" and urged the council: "Please come up with a workable solution before an accident happens."
Royal British Legion member and veteran Derek Berwin has called on the council to take action to ensure such damage cannot happen in the future.
Councillor Hugh Pegrum said: "Clearly the road isn't going to get closed. That's the situation and it's unlikely to change.
Speaking at Tuesday's town council meeting he suggested closing the road - an option which has not been supported by the City of London Corporation - a higher than normal kerb with deep-seated posts or a knee-high metal barrier on each corner. Mr Berwin described the damaged being caused to the verges near the war memorial by heavy lorries turning off Lindsey Street to get to the High Street as "unfortunate" and "unbelievable".
"I think we've tried bollards there in the past. If enough money was spent perhaps something could be done to stop lorries going over it, but we need the Corporation to pay for it." Town clerk Beverley Rumsey said she would raise the matter again with the City of London Corporation, and suggest bollards as a potential solution, and also mention the possibility of the council passing the cost of restoring the grassed area on on to the Corporation.
He said: "When people go to visit the war memorial they are walking through mud. You have to step into it or over it. I think something has got to be done about it. "You have to consider the amount of elderly people who go there, and on Remembrance Sunday. One day there will be an accident." He added the town council could also repair the damage, as it currently does, and send the bill to the City of London Corpora-
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Epping Club 195 licence suspended Club 195 in Epping had its licence suspended on Friday 4th January 2019 following concerns by police about incidents of violence at or in the vicinity of the premises. Essex Police applied for a review of the licence for Club 195 following a number of incidents across 2018. These incidents continued into the early hours of 2019, with a stabbing inside the club and an attack outside the club in early hours of New Years Day. Epping Forest District Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee suspended the licence on the same day the application was received. A council spokesperson said: "The decision was taken by Licensing Sub-Committee Councillors to temporarily suspend the licence with immediate effect. Licensable activities are not permitted to take place in the interim period between 4th January and the full hearing - unless an interim hearing is applied for by the licence holder.” The spokesperson continued: "A final decision will be reached at the full hearing. Councillors will assess the evidence brought by Essex Police and make the decision to either amend the licence or its conditions, allow it to remain in place or revoke the licence completely." The applicant, Essex Police Chief Inspector Lewis Basford said: "A full hearing to review Club 195’s licence will take place in due course at which Essex Police will ask for the licence to be revoked."
Notification of Local Bus Consultation 2019 Essex County Council (ECC) is reviewing the way it supports local bus services which operate on evenings and Sundays and is carrying out a public consultation. The consultation also includes proposals regarding delivering ECC services differently and devolving ECC funded local bus services to communities. The consultation will open on 19 December and will run until March 22nd 2019. The questionnaire will be available from ECC libraries (from January onwards), or online: https:// surveys.essexinsight.org.uk/Eveningandsundaybusservices or by phoning: 03457 430430. District and Parish councils, plus other stakeholders will be contacted directly when the consultation goes live and posters will be made available ‘on bus’ and at Essex libraries, please see attached copy of the consultation . A press statement has been prepared. If you have any further queries, please contact passenger.transport@essex.gov.uk.
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February Gardening Hints We hope you all had an enjoyable Christmas and new year celebrations. It’s a quiet time at the nursery so feel free to pop in for a chat if you would like any gardening advice and Lisa or myself will assist you all we can. The coffee shop is open Wed-Sun so you can always warm up in there with a hot drink and maybe a bite to eat. With spring just around the corner it’s a good time to start planning for the year ahead, maybe move shrubs/perennials that have either out grown their space or didn’t do to well in the position they were in last year.
I believe we are forecast some snow so make sure any tender plants are covered with fleece. Fleece is an ideal material to use as it allows water through and also allows air to circulate whilst keeping your plants a couple of degrees warmer. Seed potatoes can be purchased now and will be ready to start chitting. To chit potatoes simply stand them in a container such as an egg box. Keep them in a cool, light, frost free area but out of direct sunlight. An ideal temperature is around 50 degrees F. Once they have started chitting and the shoots are just over an inch long remove all but 3 or 4 of the strongest shoots. When the temperature warms up to about 45 degrees F. They can then be planted out, keep them earthed up by covering all leaf growth with soil until the risk of frost has passed (usually by the end of May beginning of June) Now is a good time to cut back autumn fruiting raspberries. And spray fruit trees with a winter wash to protect against aphids and diseases. Don’t forget to continue to feed the birds and keep bird baths topped up with clean water. As it gets colder the birds find it harder to source food for themselves. If your flower garden is looking a bit bare, we have plenty of winter flowering plants available at the nursery which will give you a splash of colour lasting right up until the summer bedding is safe to go out at the end of May. If you would like your hanging baskets & containers planted up for you, you can now bring them into the nursery ready for us to fill for you. (Please ensure you empty all the contents before bringing them into us) these will be ready for collection at the end of May.
Please keep an eye on our Facebook page, Lisa keeps it updated regularly with what’s going on at Art with photos of new stock etc. Dry January was almost dry for me! I wonder how June got on? The weather is so cold as I write this, so I’m warming up with a nice cup of hot, strong tea! Cheers Nigel (Art Nursery Garden Centre) Source: Nigel Art Garden Centre. Editor’s comment—sorry I failed Dry January (well I didn’t actually try). Maybe Dry February—at least there is only 28 days in that month!!
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The church was warm and well-lit and reasonably well attended for our first Mass of Christmas which started at 11pm with the blessing of the Crib. At one time the installation of the crib was a job that almost needed a fork-lift truck because of its size and weight, not to mention the removal of some of the other furniture to make room for it. Nowadays it is all much more simple and fits neatly between the sanctuary and Lady Chapel with a votive stand in front of it into which are placed hand candles carried by the congregation in procession. The organist on this occasion was our friend Richard Overill whom we persuaded to come out of retirement for this joyful festival which the diary notes calmly as ‘The Nativity of The Lord’.
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Let me tell you about a brief but lovely moment that we all experienced and enjoyed in St Andrew’s on the last Sunday of Advent and just one day before the Christmas season properly started. There at front of the church very prominently was the traditional ring of Advent Candles on a display stand. Our visiting priest that day was Fr Gary Neave who is well known to us and his opening words as he approached the candles at the start of the service with a smile were “Now I wonder who could light these candles for us ?”. And there running down the aisle was three year-old Miley Dyer saying clearly as she ran, “ It’s me. I can!”. Fr Gary and I agreed it wasn’t just a magic moment but biblical. (Blow the dust of your bible and read Isaiah chapter 6, verses 8 and 9.)
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It was very unfortunate and also sad that despite an enormous effort we were unable to locate either a priest or an organist who was free on Christmas Day morning and very reluctantly we had to cancel that service. At the same time it has to be said that the starting time of 9.15am has not been popular and as the saying goes ‘the people have voted with their feet against it’. It will all be different when we have our own priest again. Sincere apologies to anyone who made the effort and found the church closed. Our Parish Mass on Sundays now starts at 9.30am. I find it nothing short of extraordinary that there are well-known personalities and presenters unable to agree between themselves when twelfth night is at the end of the twelve days of Christmas. How can there be confusion if December 25th is the first day then January 5th is the last.? And speaking of confusion I was recently asked to explain how the bible says it was that the wise men, or magi, who ‘saw the star in the east’ then travelled towards the west. Let’s say that it’s just a case not of what you say but how you say it. Correctly of course, the wording should be ‘We in the east, saw the star’. My last comment this month is regarding a number of people in our community for whom I have a particular concern. I refer not to thieves, vandals and lawbreakers who have no knowledge or comprehension of God but those who have been at one time part of a worshipping community, be it ours or any other, and then fall away. What possible defence can they have on their day of judgement? Pray for them! Source: Edwyn Gilmour
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Wing Commander Tom Neil DFC and Bar, AFC, AE, Wing Commander Tom Neil, who died on 10th July 2018, first came to RAF North Weald in September 1940; as a 20 year old RAF Pilot Officer at the height of the Battle of Britain. Although going on to fly more than 140 missions and shoot down 14 enemy planes during World War Two, he is rightly best remembered as one of "The Few" the pilots who fought for our freedom in the epic summer of 1940.
Returning many times over the next 78 years to the still very active airfield, where today a replica of the Hawker Hurricane he flew greets all who enter the airfield. Representing ‘the Spirit of North Weald and its community past and present’, a community that owes him and his comrades a debt that can never be repaid. With two of his fellow veterans at the Airfield Museum in 2010
The blighters have bombed our airfield! During the Remembrance Day Wreath laying service at the Airfield Memorial/Debt of Honour; a wreath was laid on behalf of Toms Family, friends and members of 249 Squadron Association, in memory of him and his beloved wife Eileen.
Tea at the Squadron in 2015
Source: Arthur Moreton
Editor’s comment:- I am very sorry for any confusion conveyed in the editorial covering the Remembrance Day Wreath Laying Service held in November in North Weald. The wreath was laid in memory of Wing Commander Tom Neil. Page 32
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Storing cars on the Airfield meets no objection A change of use planning application to allow the storage of 150 cars on North Weald Airfield has met with no objection from North Weald Bassett Parish Council. Monday's parish council planning committee meeting heard that Trans City Autos wants to store the vehicles on land near Merlin Way and Rayley Lane before they are moved to company premises to be sold. Councillor George Mulliner said: "They (the cars) are visible but they are not an eyesore."
A Guilty Moment Have you ever just been walking along down the street, When right there coming towards you, is the very last person you want to accidentally meet. It would be so much easier if you didn't actually like this person, as you’d just walk on past, As you know you’ll be stuck for ages, for talking is an activity they can make last. So what do you do? Walk into a shop and wait until they’ve gone by? Or do you put your head down and give walking very fast a try. Though now it’s too late, as you’ve stupidly caught their stare, So now you have no option, but to acknowledge that they’re there Now you’re thinking about all the excuses you could use, to get you on your way, When suddenly your face to face and they look quite happy for a stay The conversation starts with the usual pleasantries as you don’t want to be rude, Despite the fact you’re not listening to a word as you’re still thinking how to move. You nod now and then as they start to get into full flow, But then like a miracle, their phone rings so this is your chance as you mime ‘see you later’ and quickly go. Although now you feel guilty and against all your inner feelings you turn back to take a look, even though every fibre says ‘No’ but luckily they are still on the phone as you give each other a wave. While you keep on walking simply thanking all you believe in for that lucky save.
Later that night you think about your friend and wonder if walking away was the right thing to do, Still as your brain starts to struggle with your conscience another miracle happens as sleep totally engulfs you. Source: Andy—resident poet. I have no idea who he is referring to and I have never felt like this … honest!! Page 33
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Canine capers as St Clare prepares for 13th annual charity dog walk More than 200 walkers with their furry friends are expected to support the St Clare Hospice Winter Walkies event being held on Sunday 24th February – but there’s still time to register! St Clare Hospice Events Fundraiser, Emma Broadbent, is organising the 5k event and said: “The 2018 walk saw 250 walkers and their dogs take part, and we are hoping even more people register for 2019. Anyone is welcome to join us on this rural route across the beautiful Essex countryside – whether you are a dog owner or not. Just remember your wellies as it is likely there will be plenty of muddy feet and paws. Registration costs £10 for adults and £5 for children, which includes a free soup, dog rosette and certificates for children. Although preregistration is advised 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/
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Keep the tradition alive on Valentine’s Day We all know that 14th February is Valentine’s Day. This day is obviously synonymous around the world for celebrating love and romance. It’s a day that stands out in the calendar to show the person that you love most, just how much they mean to you. Perhaps the most traditional way of expressing your feelings on Valentine’s Day is penning your partner a note? The earliest record of a love letter dates back to over 5,000 years ago within an ancient Hindu scripture, written in Sanskrit. Through the ages, there have been many a letter written between lovers. Napoleon Bonaparte to Josephine, Oscar Wilde to Lord Alfred Douglas and Richard Burton to Elizabeth Taylor. With modern technology at the forefront of contemporary life, penning a letter is something that we can often overlook, opting for the ease of a quick text or email. But keeping traditions alive is crucial and taking the time to pen a message of love is a beautiful gesture to show someone just how much they mean to you. If you find yourself growing tired of buying the same gifts year after year, why not write one instead? So to keep the tradition alive and not break the bank there are some simple ideas that could be make someone feel special. If the love of your life is a keen writer themselves, be it an aspiring novelist or an organised list maker, a thoughtful way to treat them is with a notebook. Let them write to their heart’s content and why not include a personal message on the inside leaf, so that you’ll never be far from their thoughts? Thoughtful and practical! Why not write a letter. By putting pen to paper, writing a love letter couldn’t be more romantic. Could this be a declaration of long-term affection or are you hoping to remain anonymous to a new love interest? However you choose to present your memo, say it with ink this Valentine’s Day. Sometimes it’s the little things that matter the most. Keep your words simple and straight to the point—why not use post it notes! A sweet and charming way to remind them just how much you adore them. Leave love notes dotted around the house and let your beloved find the clues to your heart. Remember it isn't how much you spend, it is often the effort and thoughtfulness that means so much more.
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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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Citizens Advice says: Save money on your gas and electricity You could save money on your gas or electricity by changing your energy tariff or supplier. Energy suppliers do not reward you for loyalty: on the contrary, if you have been with the same company for years you will almost always find you are paying more than you need to. At the end of a fixed-term, check which tariffs and suppliers can offer you a better deal. Your supplier is supposed to recommend the best alternative of their tariffs for your needs but a different company may offer a better deal. If you don’t do anything, your current supplier will probably move you to their ‘standard tariff’ - this is usually more expensive than other available tariffs. You can use our price comparison service to compare energy prices from all the UK energy suppliers. Go to our website at citizensadvice.org.uk and type “price comparison” into the search box. To get the best results you’ll need to know roughly how much energy you use, which will be on your bill, and what sort of meter you have eg prepayment, Economy 7. The service also gives customer service ratings for many suppliers. This is useful to know. Cheap tariffs can mean poor service if something goes wrong. You can usually still switch suppliers to save money if you have a prepayment meter. The exception is if you owe more than £500 for gas or £500 for electricity. You might be eligible for certain grants and benefits if you’re elderly, disabled, on a low income or are struggling to afford your energy bills. If you’re eligible you should get the annual Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payments automatically. In addition you might be able to get £140 off your electricity bill under the Warm Home Discount Scheme if you’re either getting the guarantee credit part of Pension Credit or on a low income Check with your supplier to see if they offer the Warm Home Discount. And if you’re thinking of switching our price comparison service will tell you which suppliers are part of the scheme.
If you’re in debt to your energy supplier, you might be able to get a grant from a charitable trust to help pay it off. When you apply, you'll have to provide detailed information about your financial situation. It could take a while to complete, and it might be worth getting help applying. Charitable trusts like you to show that you have received debt advice before you apply. Debt advice can help you manage your debts and increase your chances of making a successful application. We can offer this service or put you in touch with other agencies that can help. If you're a pensioner, disabled or sick, or if your energy network considers you 'vulnerable' you can sign up to Priority Services Register. They would be able to help you with things like reading your energy meter, moving your energy meter free of charge or getting your bills sent or copied to someone else, eg a carer 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 .You can also get advice over the phone on 03444 770 808, although this service is very busy at the moment and you may have to hang on for a while before an adviser is able to answer Source: Paul Stockton Page 37
Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Never assume a badger seen lying by the road is dead Have you ever seen a badger lying the road? What did you do—did you try to avoid it? Did it ever occur to you that it may still be alive and need help? After being hit by a car and left for dead, this Badger spent all night and the following morning on its back by the roadside. It was only by chance a local lady whilst driving by spotted it, noticed some movement and phoned me for help. When I arrived at 1:20pm the badger, an adult sow, was still on its back, stretched out, front legs in the air; the only movement was from her head as she turned towards me as I approached and gave me a short growl. She watched me in silence unload my rescue cage and thick blanket and kneel down alongside her. She had some cuts on both back legs and a blooded nose from head impact. With my thick gloves on for added protection, just in case, I covered her with the blanket and tucked it under her body. I then gently lifted her into the cage, she did give a groan of discomfort on the initial lift probably due to some internal injuries, she made no attempt to struggle at anytime. I headed to Bishop’s Stortford Veterinary Hospital. During examination at the vets, she found comfort resting her head on my hand with her front legs wrapped tightly round my glove. Sadly no amount of prodding around the lower body and pinching the skin between the back claws to see if the badger would react by pulling her legs away, produced a response, she just laid there paralysed from the waist down watching. She must have been hit with such force for her to have landed on top of the verge, she could not have crawled that far with such injuries. Unfortunately nothing could be done for her. On the advice of the vet, the decision was agreed on welfare grounds to put her to sleep. She was given an injection to sedate her. Whilst still cradling my glove; I laid her back on the blanket in the cage for the sedation to take affect. This was followed up with the final injection that would see her drift away. Very sad outcome for this beautiful badger I prepared this article to make the point, never assume a badger is dead because someone reporting it in says so! *If you find a badger by the roadside that appears dead, but on closer inspection, is still alive, either in pain or unconscious, please take extreme care, it will be frightened and bite, they have powerful jaws and can inflict deep wounds: If you have a blanket/large towel available, cover the badger to keep it calm and warm until help arrives… If you find a badger that is dead, if you can remove it to the side of the road then please do, but make sure you are safe whilst doing this. Please do not hide it in undergrowth as we need to find out. Please report it to me no matter if it is clearly dead or if you are unsure. It is important that it is reported to me, I need to establish if the badger was accidentally killed by a vehicle or was it killed illegally ie., shot, baited or poisoned. I also need to know where it was found so that if it is a suckling cow, I will need to try and locate her cubs who will be in distress and will starve to death if not found. For those of our rescuers wanting to respond quickly to an injured badger and get it to the nearest wildlife hospital or vet for treatment, it’s vital that a (verbal) contact is made by phone by the person, giving the exact location along with any helpful landmarks; delays caused by reporting in by emails/text, risks further injuries or death of the badger by other vehicles coming in contact with it! Badgerland website has a list that will help you find your local badger group around the country: Link: http://www.badgerland.co.uk/badgergroups/badgergroups.html. The period 1st December – 31st June being the breeding season for badgers is always a worrying time for all badger groups, as the injured or dead badger may well be a suckling sow, in which case we need to locate her sett and monitor it to see if her cubs surface in distress; if the latter, a decision on their welfare needs will be made to either support feed the cubs at their natal sett or remove them to a wildlife Centre. The badger pictured, was rescued by me Derek Barry chairman of the Harlow Badger & Uttlesford Badger Groups; M: 07941 185171 - (24/7) call out for RTA's of badgers covering Uttlesford - Harlow and Epping Forest Districts… For all other areas of Essex: Badger Hotline: 07751 572175… For injured badger in the counties of Herts and Middlesex: Badgerline 07860 210414 Rescue volunteer: 07872 902710… Please note that these numbers do not go to a 24 hour call centre, but go to volunteers who may not be available. If unsuccessful, please contact your local RSPCA https://www.rspca.org.uk/ whatwedo/yourlocal Source: Derek Barry, Chairman of the Harlow Badger & Uttlesford Badger Groups. Page 38
Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Essential Local Numbers The Alzheimer Society
01992 717676
North Weald Chemist
01992 523887
Cats Protection
0333 200 1484
North Weald Methodist Hall
01992 522143
Citizens Advice Bureau
03444 77 0808
North Weald Library
033301 32683
Crimestoppers
0800 555111
North Weald Village Hall Bookings
01992 523731 www.northwealdvillagehall.org/
Doctors High Street, Epping
01992 579270
North Weald Parish Council
01992 523825
Doctors The Limes, Epping (visits/emergencies)
01992 566500
Queens Community Hall Bookings
07522 473024
Doctors The Limes, Epping (appointments)
01992 573838
NHS Direct
0845 4647
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
alex.burghart.mp@ parliament.uk
MP Mrs Eleanor Laing MP
020 8508 8608
Stuart Poulton
01992 522607
MP For Thornwood
Eleanor.Laing.mp@parliament.uk
24 Hour
01992 572607
Hospital, St Margarets, Epping
01992 561666
St Andrews Church
01279 451065
Hospital, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow
01279 444455
St Andrews Primary School
01992 522283
London & Essex Boarding Kennels & Cattery (Kents Farm)
01992 522183
Traveline
0870 6082608
North Weald Airfield
01992 564200
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
North Weald Seniors Society for over 70’s
Theydon Jazz Club
Tel: 07941 185171 Friends Force Hertfordshire/Essex
Tel: 522196
Thornwood Seniors
Tel: 522464
Tel: 577872
Epping Forest Rotary Club
North Weald Wireless Station Bowls Club
Tel: 07855 911323
Tel: 522803
Forest Highlanders Pipes & Drum
North Weald Women’s Institute (Afternoon)
Tel: 01279 415563 www.3valleymvc.org.uk
Tel: 01708 250820
Tel: 522700
West Essex Flower Club
North Weald Angling Club
Queens Hall Bowls Club
Tel: 524631
Tel: 01992 524071
Tel: 523375 or 522052
01945 588325/davedyer24@gmail.com
Three Valleys Male Voice Choir
