North Weald Village Life Strengthening the Community
FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine Circulation: Monthly
Issue: 137
JANUARY 2018
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
NORTH WEALD VILLAGE LIFE About North Weald Village Life North Weald Village Life is an independent magazine and website, owned and published by a local resident who is dedicated to strengthening the local community, improving communication and promoting local businesses and suppliers to local residents.
Circulation The magazine is available free of charge monthly and is distributed from 20th of each month.
We had snow, my puppy loved it. After writing in last month’s issue that he had never seen it, he has now seen it and played for hours in it. He loved chasing snow balls!! So one very happy puppy and family enjoyed the snow and a snowy walk in the forest. The village did come to a standstill for a few days because of the snow and ice, but we, as a family, had left our Christmas decorating until Sunday 10th and to do this with snow everywhere outside did make it even it more festive.
Copies can be collected from:
I cannot believe we are heading a fast rate into 2018! Where has 2017 gone? I know I write this in every January issue.
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For me personally, it has been a difficult year and one that I will look back on with mixed feelings. There has been a lot of illness, pain and uncertainty, and very worrying and stressful. I am hoping that 2018 will be better for everyone.
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News Shop, High Road Kings Head Garage, High Road North Weald Library Art Nursery, Vicarage Lane Newsagents, Coopersale Party Package Thornwood Happy Grow Nursery, Thornwood Davis Estate Agents, High Road North Weald Chemist
As for new year resolutions, no not this year for me. Well maybe just one … to have more fun and laughs. Sounds deep and probably is, but I hope I can achieve this along with friends and family.
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 £18.00 for 12 issues. Please email me, download a copy of the form from the website or write to me at the address below.
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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 at the address below or via email.
Contact Details
Even my daughter said she could not remember me having a cold let alone being wrapped in blankets and shaking furiously, it really has struck me very hard this time. I haven't been able to see my mum as I don’t want to share this with her and her low immune system, and as for Andy and the girls I really hope I have manged to keep them free from catching the germs too. Still to end on a note of positivity, I know that many people will have a fantastic 2018, with lots of luck, fun, love and smiles. I know that the future of the village is changing but it’s the people that make our village and I would like to wish each and everyone and anybody else who is reading this magazine—a happy and healthy 2018.
Telephone: 07814 863955 Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Address: 49 York Road, North Weald, Essex CM16 6HU
If you haven't seen me around the village, I have a good reason, well I wouldn’t call it good, I am trying to recover from a nasty bought of flu. I am really not a good patient. I cannot give in to it as I need to, as I have so much too do, so I have carried on with a dreaded temperature, shakes and chills every day for 10 days now and I am so fed up with it all now and kind of wishing I had taken the opportunity of having the flu injection.
Epping,
June Editor
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk 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
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
NEW YEAR BAIN TEASER —Win a box of biscuits • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
New Start Year Future Happiness Health Prosperity Celebrate Family Friends Party Midnight Beginning January Fun
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Congratulations this month to A. Hill who won last months prize and will be celebrating with a box of biscuits. This month the lucky winner can also celebrate with a box of biscuits. To enter this month, please send your completed entry to Christmas Brain Teaser, NWVL, 49 York Road, North Weald, Essex CM16 6HU. Entries need to be received by 10th December 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.
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www.eppingtreecompany.co.uk Email: info@eppingtreecompany.co.uk Page 4
Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Police appeal over stolen car collision A number of people were injured when their car was in collision with a stolen car in North Weald. The driver of the stolen vehicle ran off following the crash. Police have told Everything Epping Forest that a blue Ford Focus failed to stop in the village shortly before 10pm last Thursday when requested to by officers. A spokesman said the Focus had been stolen and was not being pursued by police at the time of the incident. The Focus then collided with a grey Mercedes C-Class car in Epping Road. The Focus driver ran off in the direction of Station Road and was last seen in Tempest Mead. The occupants of the Mercedes were treated for minor injuries at the scene. Police are yet to confirm how many people were in the Mercedes, and were injured, or from where the Focus was stolen. Witnesses or anyone with information about the incident is asked to ring Chigwell Roads Policing Unit on 101, quoting incident 1163 of November 23, or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Source: EEF999LIVE Could your perfect pooch be St Clare’s Cutest Canine? Is your pooch positively perfect? Is your dog dazzling? Is your cuddly companion the cutest? Is your furry friend the fairest of them all? Then why not enter them into St Clare Hospice’s Cutest Canine Competition. The Hastingwood-based charity is searching for a handsome hound or pretty pup to officially launch its annual 5km Winter Walkies countryside walk taking place on Sunday 25th February 2018. The winner will also receive a hamper of doggy goodies and the coveted title of St Clare’s Cutest Canine! All you need to do to enter the competition is: 1.
Register for the Winter Walkies event at www.stclarehospice.org.uk/event/winter-walkies
2. Email a picture of your marvelous mutt and a brief description of your pet (including name, breed and age) to fund@stclarehospice.org.uk by 12noon on Friday 19th January 2018 to go forward to the public vote. 3. Encourage your friends and family to vote for your pet when the gallery of all the competition entrants is published on the St Clare Facebook page on Monday 22nd January 2018. The dog that receives the most ‘Likes’ when voting closes at 12noon on Friday 26th January 2018 will be named the winner. All entrants to the Cutest Canine Competition must have registered for Winter Walkies 2018 in order to be eligible to enter. Registration costs £10 for adults and £5 for children, which includes a free soup, dog rosette and certificates for children. This year’s event is kindly sponsored by Eppingbased vets, Forest Veterinary Centre. For more information and to register, call Emma Broadbent on 01279 773754, email emma.broadbent@stclarehospice.org.uk or see www.stclarehospice.org.uk/event/winter-walkies Page 5
Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
07432 843128 Page 6
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
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 third Saturday in the month
The Jack Free Show
Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday in the month
Theydon Jazz Club
8pm— 10.30pm
Thornwood Village Hall
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 Jazz
8pm
Abridge village hall. Enquires davedyer24@gmail.com or phone 07903 879209
First Tuesday of the month
Ongar Flower Club
7.30pm
Zinc Arts Centre, Ongar High Road. friendly group who enjoy a varied programme of flower demonstrations, in a social atmosphere. Tea, coffee and all the floral designs raffled at the end of the evening! Visitors always welcome, £4.50. 01277.365441
Monday
25th December
Monday
1st January
Wednesday 10th January
North Weald WI
North Weald Village Hall
MERRY CHRISTMAS HAPPY NEW YEAR & WELCOME TO 2018 1.45pm
North Weald Village Hall. Soil, Sweat and Tears is the title of our speaker this month. Come along and join us. We would be pleased to see you.
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 new 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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Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Planning Applications Planning File No: Application No: Officer Name: Application Name: Location: 6DY Proposal:
024189 EPF//2285//17. Alastair Prince Dr A Khan 35 Tempest Mead North Weald Bassett Epping Essex CM16
Planning File No: Application No: Officer Name: Application Name: Location: 9LA Proposal:
010360 EPF//3258/17 Graham Courtney Mr Roger Richards Glovers Farm Barn Glovers Lane Hastingwood Essex CM17
Single storey side extension and rear orangery.
New vehicular access off Hastingwood Road.
Planning File No: 012780 Application No: EPF/3289/17 Officer No: James Rogers Application Name: Mr Clinton Lewin Location: Canes Farm Canes Lane Hastingwood Harlow CM17 9LD Proposal: Application for variation of condition 2 'plan numbers' on planning application EPF/2639/16 (Demolition of two barns and creation of 1 pair of semi detached houses and one detached house with a detached double garage. (amendment to an existing planning permission reference EPF/1246/16 - Minor amendments to houses but same footprint size, reduction of length of gardens and amendment to line of the new drive and location of turning for fire appliances.)
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Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Any representations on applications should be made in writing by Monday 8th January 2018. Epping Forest District www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk
Council
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
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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Results of the Policing in Essex Precept Survey Essex residents are willing to invest more in policing – that’s the message from members of the public who took part in a recent survey carried out by Roger Hirst, the Police, Fire and Crime C o m m i s s i o n e r f o r E s s e x . More
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• Lifting the cap on the policing element of the Council Tax – 65 percent of respondents said that if the Government agreed to it, they would be prepared to see the cap lifted so that more Council Tax could be raised and made available for policing in Essex.
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• 75 per cent of those who gave a view said they were prepared to contribute an additional £10 or more per annum to invest in policing. Another 16 per cent were prepared to pay £5 a year more. Roger Hirst said: “It is clear from the results of this survey that people want to see more investment in local policing and that investment should be focussed on local neighbourhood policing, tackling anti-social behaviour, gangs and dealing with serious and organised crime. This echoes what I hear at the regular public meetings that I hold in each district across Essex.”
JOB VACANCIES
HANDY MAN WANTED one day per week CLEANER (office and tea room) one day per week Both jobs are based at local warehouse in North Weald
He added: “I will be using these results while I look at how we move forward on investing in policing across the country. “We should hear from the Government in mid-December what the police funding settlement will be which will give us a clearer picture about the future financial situation. I am the national lead for finance for Police and Crime Commissioners and have been lobbying the Government for a fairer financial settlement for police forces across the country, as well as for the freedom to raise the police precept. These results will be an important piece of my argument while I continue these discussions. “I would like to thank everybody who took the time to complete the survey. Your views on policing are greatly appreciated.”
For further information please contact email: john@prestopets.co.uk
The full report is available here: http://www.essex.pfcc.police.uk/ news/paying-policing-results-policing-essex-precept-survey/
(Payment P.A.Y.E.)
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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
St Clare calls on supporters to tick ‘Yes’ for their local hospice
West Essex and East Herts charity, St Clare Hospice, has launched a new campaign encouraging supporters to tick ‘Yes’ for their local hospice. The tick ‘Yes’ campaign has been launched in advance of wide-reaching changes to data protection legislation which will come into force in May 2018. St Clare Hospice’s Supporter Development Manager, Jamie Hooper, is leading the tick ‘Yes’ campaign and explains: “You may have heard in the news about the changes that are happening in data protection law, and how they will impact charities up and down the country – including St Clare. This is a huge change in the law that will affect all areas of our care. St Clare Hospice needs the continued support of our local community, now more than ever. With a simple tick, you can make a huge difference to our care.” “We are required by law to make sure that the personal data we hold about our supporters is accurate and up-to-date, and having the correct information also helps ensure that our communications are the right ones, to the right person, at the right time. Of course, we only want you to receive updates from us in the way that is best for you. We understand how irritating it can be to receive unsolicited and unwelcome post, emails and calls – so it is important we get this right for all our supporters. Ticking ‘Yes’ is so easy to do!” “A simple tick for St Clare means that we can continue to keep you, our supporters, updated about the difference your support makes to local families, and inform you about the many new and exciting ways that you can help support the hospice. Things like remembering your loved one with a personalised Memory Tree leaf, taking part in one of our events like Light Up A Life at Christmas-time, joining up to play our weekly Lottery, or hearing about how your support makes a difference through our newsletter.” “Many supporters have chosen St Clare as their favourite charity of choice, knowing that we serve their local community day after day, year after year. Whatever your motivation, we need your tick today.” St Clare Hospice’s tick ‘Yes’ campaign is being backed by their loyal supporter, and regular television presenter, Jeff Brazier. In St Clare Hospice’s new campaign video, Jeff Brazier addresses the importance of ticking ‘Yes’ for your local hospice. In the video, Jeff Brazier says: “No one ever expects to need somewhere like St Clare. You don’t plan for a life-limiting illness. But if you need our care, you will know just how critical our nurses and medical teams are. They are there for local families when they need it most. Helping them navigate life’s most difficult journeys, understanding, listening and caring. It’s the stories of patients and families we help day after day, year after year, that prove the difference your support makes.” “Put simply, your support is priceless. Without you, we can’t care for families in your local community. And today, you can do something else truly vital. Under new data protection rules, all supporters must tell us if and how they wish to hear from us. This is a huge move that will impact all areas of our care. You can decide how you would like us to keep in touch, but the most important thing is that you allow us reach to out to you for help. St Clare Hospice needs you now more than ever. Your support matters so much to us, and to local families. Tick ‘Yes’ for your local hospice.” To show your support for St Clare Hospice, you can let them know your contact preferences in two easy ways: 1.
Open 7 days a week Monday—Saturday 9-5, Sundays 10-3
Online: simply visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk/tick-yes
2. Phone: call their Supporter Care Line on 01279 773750 Page 10
Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Dog’s Mess We have probably all trodden in dog excrement at some time, and cursed the dog, but more especially the owner, as we spent ages trying to remove it from the bottom of our shoes! Apart from the nuisance factor, there are significant health risks from dog fouling, especially to children, from the obvious bacteria carried, and potentially from some unpleasant parasites. With very few exceptions, it is an offence to allow a dog to foul on any land to which the public have access. Anyone responsible for the dog must clear up any excrement and dispose of the bagged waste carefully. Failure to do so could result in legal action being taken. The Environment and Neighbourhoods team at Epping Forest District Council will investigate complaints made about dog fouling and may issue a Fixed Penalty Notice (£100) or prosecution proceedings, now with unlimited fines and a claim for any legal costs. Incidents can be reported by telephoning 01992 564608 or email erefuse@eppingforestdc.gov.uk
Female Firefighters? Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is taking positive action to encourage females to come and try out a new career. They want their workforce to be as diverse as the communities they serve and to do this they particularly need to recruit more women, who are not only under-represented but who they know make great firefighters. No two days are the same when you’re a firefighter. Our role has developed and so has our place in the community. Firefighting isn’t just about fighting fires. As well as the varied incidents you could attend, such as road traffic collisions and floods, you are just as likely to be carrying out a home safety visit, talking to the community about fire safety or working with our partners to support a campaign. If you’re a female looking for a long-term career with flexibility, prospects for progression firefighting is an ideal career. Many of our current female firefighters have families and come from all backgrounds and a range of ages. They are holding two female-only taster sessions for women to come along to find out more about the role and try out some of the physical tests you’d need to perform during recruitment and training. Their firefighters and fitness advisors will all be on hand to offer advice and support. Their taster sessions will take place on Saturday 20 and 27 January at Witham Fire Station between 1pm - 3pm. Please email fire.professionals@essex-fire.gov.uk to book your place. Please ensure you wear sportswear on the day. Page 11
Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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Gritters spread nearly 2,000 tonnes of salt in 48 hrs Recently before and during the snowfall on Sunday, Essex County Council confirmed that gritter crews went out five times in 24 hours across the 2,000 miles of main roads in Essex In total, crews helped to spread nearly 2,000 tonnes of salt in 48 hours over the weekend. Salt is most effective when it is spread before ice forms or snow lays, so we were out ahead of time, only for rain in some areas to wash the salt away meaning Did you know that when salt mixes with water the mixture only freezes at a lower temperature, which helps to prevent ice or frost forming on the road as it would normally around 0 degrees centigrade. The higher the concentration of salt, the lower the temperature at which freezing will occur, until about -100 when salt ceases to be effective. However, without traffic to crush and spread the salt, even if it is pre-mixed with water as brine, there may be many areas of road where ice will still form, so there is still a risk of some ice. Salt is more effective if it is spread and then driven over before ice begins to form. Many people have asked why roads were not gritted, according to Essex County Council many roads are gritted in the early hours so people may not see them being gritted. They also confirm that pre-salting areas before snow falls will not stop the snow from settling, but it will create a layer of moisture that will freeze at a lower temperature than the snow settling above it. This layer will reduce the risk of the snow bonding with the pavement, making it easier to remove
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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
LETTER
Dear Editor,
I would just like to thank the North Weald Horticultural for once again lighting up the tree in the Methodist Church in the High Road for the village this Christmas.
Margaret Mulliner Editor’s Comment: I agree with this, it is nice to have some Christmas lights in the village.
LETTER
Dear Editor,
I am reading with astonishment the bitter criticism of the Village Hall etc, in this month’s ‘Village Life’, the letter from your correspondent Mr/Ms J.Ross. What encouraged this person to state that the Horticultural Society is now ‘finished’? So far as I recall no J. Ross has ever been a member of the Society in the fifteen years that I have been treasurer, handling all membership subscriptions. The Society still exists, it is only the Annual Show that has finished, due to the lack of people willing to assist in organising the Show. Perhaps J. Ross would like to come forward, join the Horticultural Society, and take on the job of Show Secretary. This would be most welcome. Regarding the Village Hall Car Park, once again J. Ross appears to know little about the situation. This is a private car park, owned and maintained by the Village Hall Charity, for users of the Village Hall. The Parish Council has eight spaces allotted, which are available for visitors to North Weald Common and the children’s playground. The only times when the car park is coned off are three times each month, once for the Saturday Jazz, once for the Ploughman’s lunch and again, on a Sunday afternoon, for the ‘Sunday Salsa’. At all other times the car park is free to use. I would mention that there is not one single public car park space in the village. Perhaps J. Ross would like to take this problem to Epping Forest Council for their comments. Lastly, I wonder if J. Ross could advise which clubs have moved elsewhere, since, as treasurer of the Village Hall Charity, I have only seen a large increase in the number of clubs and associations using the Hall in the last several years. It has never been busier. The Village Hall is, as Mr/Ms. J. Ross has stated, the hub of the community and all newcomers to the Village are most welcome to come along and see how many interesting clubs and associations are available to them. Perhaps Mr/Ms J. Ross would even find something of interest. Roger Smith
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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Epping Forest District Local Plan Update Councillors will be asked to approve formal publication of the ‘Epping Forest District Local Plan Submission Version 2017’. Residents will be invited to make representations on the legality and soundness of the Plan during a six week period between 18th December and 29th January. Representations will then be submitted with the Local Plan for examination by a government-appointed planning inspector. Consideration of the Local Plan has been brought forward following Communities and Local Government Secretary Sajid Javid’s announcement that councils failing to submit a Local Plan for examination before 31 March 2018 could see housing allocations significantly increased. If Epping Forest District’s Plan is not submitted in time, the 11,400 new housing requirement allocated for the District could increase to 20,000 over the Local Plan period up to 2033. The Plan and all supporting documents will be published to its website from 18 December with a special form for residents, developers and any other interested stakeholders to complete. The Council hopes people will use the online form specially created for the purpose. Planning Portfolio Holder, Councillor John Philip said: “We held extensive consultation on the Local Plan last year. The next stage in the process restricts representations to legal compliance and soundness of the Plan. The online form is designed to help everyone follow the guidelines and submit comments in the right format for the planning inspector who will ultimately hold the public examination and approve or reject the Plan. Using the form will give you the best chance of ensuring the inspector takes your views into account.” However, Councillor Philip added: “We know online forms are not for everyone. We will also provide a printable version if you prefer paper as well as accepting email submissions on behalf of the inspector.”
The Local Plan contains policies for development within Epping Forest District up to 2033. It includes the designation of areas for housing, employment and the Metropolitan Green Belt. Councillors agreed the Plan and the invitation of submissions on legality, soundness and the duty to co-operate with neighbouring councils for a six week period commencing 18th December. The Plan and a special form designed to assist residents make submissions will be available to complete from 12pm Monday 18th December on the Epping Forest District Council website. A printable pdf version of the form will also be available to download. Reference copies of the Local Plan and associated documents will also be available to view at the following locations together with other areas in Loughton, Chigwell and Buckhurst Hill.: Epping Forest District Council, Civic Offices, Epping Forest District Council, 25 Hemnall Street, Epping Epping Sports Centre Ongar Leisure Centre Epping Library North Weald Library Final representations must be received no later than 5pm on Monday 29th January 2018.
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Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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Changes to bus services As some of you may know there have been changes to the bus services that serve North Weald and Thornwood. With thanks to Francis Messenger, local resident, he has put together a list of the new changes and dates which can be found below. Monday 11th December: 9 (Arriva KT) (Harlow Bus Stn & Potter Street, M-S) Extended (still Mon-Sat x20mins) from Potter Street via Thornwood to Epping Station. The loop via the Clock Tower and London Road at Potter Street is withdrawn. The 9A variation, which diverts via Maddox Road instead of Second Avenue on Mon-Sat daytime offpeak is withdrawn. All buses will then run via Second Avenue as 9. Wednesday 20th December: 13 (EOS)(Waltham Cross & Epping St Margaret’s Hospital, M-S) On Mon-Fri withdrawn via Epping Station and Ivy Chimneys and rerouted direct via High Road. Still via Epping Station on Saturdays but as a double-run from High Road (not serving Ivy Chimneys). On Mon-Fri one morning peak journey diverts at The Green Man to loop round Shernbroke Road and diverts in Epping via St John’s School; one afternoon journey returns via the same diversions. 66 (EOS)(Waltham Cross & Loughton/ Debden, M-S) The deviation as a loop via Upshire Shops and Winters Way is withdrawn, with buses reverting to operating at ‘The Green Man’ direct from Farm Hill Road to Honey Lane. On Mon-Fri frequency is reduced again from x20 to x30mins but retained on Sats at x30mins and x60mins on all evenings. 66A (EOS) Worth a mention is that this Sunday service is unchanged and remains hourly and retains the Upshire Shops/ Winters Way deviation. 86 (EOS)(Harlow & Waltham Cross/ Upshire, M-S) No route change but generally reduced from x60 to x90mins. 87 (EOS)(Harlow & Epping Station, M-S) Revised timetable. The main service runs from Epping via Staple Tye to Harlow Bus Station on MonSat and then on Mon-Fri (not Sat) runs additionally between Harlow Bus Station to and from Sumners and Katherines. Wednesday 27th December: 418 (Trustybus) (Loughton & Epping St Margaret’s Hospital, garage journeys to Harlow, M-S) Minor timing adjustments. No change to evening 418B. 419 (Trustybus) (Epping & Harlow via North Weald, M-F and Suns) Withdrawn, last day should be Sunday 24th December. This was the only main service along Tillwicks Road in Harlow. 420 (Trustybus) (Ongar & Harlow via Epping, M-S) Revised timetable although the Saturday service is reduced from x30mins to hourly. Continues to operate via Tumbler Road. 420A (Trustybus) New route, Daily: North Weald, Talbot via North Weald, Epping Station, Thornwood, Potter Street, Tracyes Road, Tumbler Road, Tendring Road, Tripton Road to Harlow Bus Station. Frequency is more-or-less half-hourly on all days, including Sundays, combining (on M-S) between North Weald and Harlow with the 420 to make four buses per hour M-F, three on Sat, two on Sun. Note that a Saturday service on all the above should apply on 27/28/29 as well as 30 December. Tuesday 2nd January 40 (Trustybus) New route, Mon-Fri only every 20mins Harlow Bus Station and Church Langley via Second Avenue. It projects from the Bus Station to Town Station in M-F peaks.
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Very nearly a white Christmas in North Weald On Sunday 10th December, the village woke up to a blanket of snow providing a very seasonal traditional Christmas setting. Roads were awful and locals were told not to drive unless absolutely necessary. The Forest was lovely. Thank you to everybody who sent in photos, here are a selection of them. Local primary schools were closed on Monday and Tuesday, Ongar Academy was also closed and Epping St Johns opened for a few hours on Monday but closed all day Tuesday. Ice was the problem on Tuesday where temperatures fell to below freezing and pavements and roads became dangerous. I was pleased to read how some local businesses, namely Art Garden Centre and a few residents offered to help elderly or people who could not get out of their home with deliveries of food or medicine.
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Thank you Doreen Clery for sending in the lovely photos above showing just how lovely our village looked in the snow.
Why buy new furniture when we can re-upholster your existing piece? With more than 35 years' experience, CJA Upholstery is a small, friendly business who provide a comprehensive range of upholstery services to clients in Essex and Hertfordshire.
Contact Us 01992 893 964 / 07904 359 333 Northam, 45 North Street, Nazeing, Essex EN9 2NH
www.cjaupholstery.co.uk Tel: 07814 63955
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No borders If you live or work in the Epping Forest District or Borough of Broxbourne and are of ethnic minority; we want you to share stories from your childhood, home or work-life and become part of our oral history collection. Funded by Arts Council England, No Borders is in partnership with Epping Forest District, Lowewood and Chelmsford Museums and is part of the Arts Council’s England Resilient Museums Project. The project will take place from January to March 2018. A suitable time will be arranged to interview you. There will be the opportunity to take part in film and audio interviews, all interviews will become a part of either museum’s collection and be used in future exhibitions and events, promoting diversity and the changing demographics of the district. Leisure and Community Services Portfolio Holder Councillor Helen Kane said: “This Project ‘No Borders’ is an exciting opportunity for our community, to learn from one another and be more inclusive. If you would be interested in sharing your experiences past or present I encourage you to get in contact with the museum, and be part of the ‘No Borders’ project.” If you are interested please get in touch before 15th December 2017. Please contact Sabrina Ishfaq, if are you interested in being part of the ‘No Borders’ project. You can telephone 01992 716882 or email museum@eppingforestdc.gov.uk
Don’t forget to visit the website: www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk To find out details of the latest events Or sign up to the Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/
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The Squadron North Weald Airfield 07392606263 thenaafi@gmail.com Wishes you all a merry Christmas & Happy New Year Daily
8am – 3pm
th
8am – 2pm
th
closed
th
26 Dec
closed
27th Dec – 30th Dec 31st Dec
8-3pm
24 Dec 25 Dec
1st Jan nd
2 Jan
8-2pm closed 8am – 3pm
Future Events for the Airfield 27th January The Late Late New Years Eve Party—ticket limited 1st April 2018 RAF Vintage Afternoon Tea and Hanger Dance with the Glen Miller Wield Orchestra Tickets available now from the Squadron June 24th and June 25th 2018 Wings & Wheels Model Spectacular for 2 days modellers flying 30th June—1st July 2018 Air Britain Fly In Returns for 2 days of great flying
The Squadron Bar, Cafe & Events 07392606263 thenaafi@gmal.com Open 8am - 3pm daily fully licensed Breakfasts, Lunches, Events, Vintage afternoon tea Fresh organic locally sourced food, freshly cooked Steaks, fresh fish, Premium coffee and hot chocolate Sunday Carvery 11.30—2pm Great nostalgic buildings, perfect views of the runway Flying school and taster flights available Tel: 07814 63955
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North Weald Bantham and Ongar Bowls Club
(Behind the Talbot) Meets every Tuesday at 5.30pm or 7.30pm Phone Cara: 0779 2778225
Don’t forget to visit the website:
Thornwood Group Moving to North Weald
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Phone for details
To find out details of the latest events
Saturday—8.30am
Or sign up to the Facebook Group
www.facebook.com/groups/ Northwealdvillagelife
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Tel: 07814 863955
Call Mandy on 07778117128 for more details
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
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Hospice launches workshop for young people to remember lost loved ones Hastingwood-based charity, St Clare Hospice, has launched a new group therapy workshop for children, young people and their families entitled ‘Sharing Stories’. The new group is being offered as part of their Children and Young People’s Support Service, which launched in May 2017 after a major grant was received from BBC Children in Need. The ‘Sharing Stories’ workshop offers a safe place for children, young people and their family members, to come together with other local families to share favourite moments and memories of their loved ones who have been cared for by St Clare. St Clare Children, Young People and Family Therapist, Catherine Kiff, outlined the Sharing Stories group: “When someone close to us dies, there can be a worry that special memories may be forgotten – those happy, funny and unique stories may never be shared between members of a family. Sharing Stories offers a safe place to be able to talk about those hidden and precious memories of a loved one, which are a part of a family’s history. Our workshops aim to be positive and uplifting for participants, supporting children and young people to come to terms with what has happened within the grieving process. Part of the workshop also includes a group facilitator writing up shared stories, for participants to take home their own stories as a keepsake after the course concludes.” Sharing Stories will be led by Child, Young Person and Family Therapist, Catherine Kiff, at the Hospice Centre in Hastingwood. The service is open to any child or young person who has experienced bereavement at St Clare Hospice. Sessions will occur on a weekly basis with attendees encouraged to participate in the full programme lasting a total of four weeks. The first Sharing Stories sessions will begin in February 2018, and is open to children and young people aged 8+ years who have had a loved one cared for by St Clare Hospice in the last 3 years. The Hospice is encouraging people to get in touch with their team if they would like to attend with their children. The dates of the first Sharing Stories group are as follows: 10am – 12pm, Saturday 3 February 2018, 10am – 12pm, Saturday 10 February 2018, 10am – 12pm, Saturday 17 February 2018, and 10am – 12pm, Saturday 24 February 2018. Places are limited and participants will be selected on a first-come-first-served basis. To find out more, and to book your place on Sharing Stories, please contact Catherine Kiff on 01279 773723 or email catherine.kiff@stclarehospice.org.uk.
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Wishing everybody A happy & healthy 2018 HAPPY NEW YEAR
Need help with your housing repairs? Do you need a housing repair, energy efficiency works or disabled adaptations? Got an empty home? Financial assistance for homeowners and private tenants is available. Under the Housing Assistance Policy there are several types of financial assistance available to home owner and private sector tenants. Mandatory Disabled Facilities Grants are available to provide adaptations for disabled home owners and private tenants. Subject to qualifying criteria the mandatory grant will be for the full cost of the work up to a maximum of £30,000. The Council also gives 3 main types of discretionary assistance; Decent Homes Repayable Assistance, Empty Homes Repayable Assistance and Small Works Repayable Assistance. Decent Homes Repayable Assistance is financial assistance available to owner occupiers and long leaseholders to bring private homes up to the ‘Decent Homes Standard’. Subject to qualifying criteria the Assistance will be for the full cost of the work up to a maximum of £10,000. Small Works Repayable Assistance is financial assistance available to owner occupiers and long leaseholders to remove hazards or repair defects that are likely to damage the fabric of a property. Subject to qualifying criteria the Assistance will be for the full cost of the work up to a maximum of £3,000. Empty Homes Repayable Assistance is financial assistance available to persons intending to bring empty properties back into use and live in them as their home. Assistance is to a maximum of £10,000. Leader of the Council Councillor Chris Whitbread said: “Needing adaptations or repairs to your home can really put a strain on your finances, we want to give people a fair opportunity to carry out the works they need.” “Under our new Housing Assistance Policy there are now more financial options available to home owners and private sector tenants. So don’t put it off, get in touch today to see if you are eligible.” More information For more details on eligibility criteria and how to apply please contact The Private Sector Grants Team 01992 56 4092 pshgrantsandcare@eppingforestdc.gov.uk Page 23
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W . J. CRUMP Crash Repairs Established local company High quality car repairs Body Repairs Approved Insurance Repairer
Telephone: 01992 522351 Tylers Green, 284 High Road, North Weald CM16 6EG
CHURCH CHATSt Andrews Church Messy Church is back for the New Year! Do come along and join the fun on Saturday 27th January at St Andrew’s School: 10am to 1pm, including lunch before we finish. It’s a great way to enjoy some craft activities and games, and learn a little about some of the great stories in the Bible (especially those that Jesus told). We include a short time of very informal prayer and song: the morning is especially suitable for families to enjoy together (and we do ask that all children bring an adult with them to join in the fun!). My thanks to Mrs Lorkins for kindly letting us have use of the school hall again. And the day after that, Sunday 28th January, we’ll have a Family Communion service at St Andrew’s Church to celebrate Candlemas (9.15am start). If you’ve never heard of Candlemas, it’s the time when we remember the infant Jesus being taken to the Temple in Jerusalem to be blessed: you can read about it in the Bible (Luke 2:22-38). We’ll process round the church with candles as we think about Jesus being the “light of the world” and, for those who’ve not been to one of our Family Communion services before, you’ll maybe find it a bit less formal than our worship is at other times. The service will end by 10.15, so plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the day! In fact, Candlemas is properly celebrated on 2nd February (in the Church of England we move it to the previous Sunday if we wish). Now the mathematically minded of our readers may notice that 2nd February is 40 days after Christmas- and yes, the timing of Candlemas is deliberate! I suspect that by the start of February, Christmas will be a distant memory for many of us, but Christians keep a sort of super-Christmas of 40 days (not just the 12 days of the famous song!) – in the Bible “40 days” is symbolic for a long period of time, often a time when God is doing something special (like the time Moses spends up Mount Sinai receiving the Commandments, and time Jesus spends in the wilderness). The Good News of Christmas – God coming to be with us in the person of Jesus – this is, for Christians, good news for the whole year round, even when the tree and the lights have been packed away, the turkey finally finished and maybe even the odd dodgy present returned to the shop (dare I say that?!). There was a pop song from back in the early 70s which went “I Wish It Could be Christmas Every Day!” – and I’m old enough to remember this song when it was new! But for Christians, we really can celebrate what Christmas is about every day of the year. After Candlemas we turn attention quite quickly to Lent, which begins on February 14th , and of course we then have the build-up then to Easter. But more about that next month! With best wishes to you all, Fr James (jwerodley@yahoo.co.uk or 01279 451065)
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The most common cyber scams and how to protect yourself In the lead upto Christmas and into the New Year, Cyber scams increase. Colin on behalf of Neighbourhood Watch has shared some facts and advice. Most cases (65%) related to fraud on online auction sites, such as eBay. On average, these victims lost around £727. The most frequently reported fraudulent sales included items such as mobile phones, clothing and accessories, footwear, watches and jewellery. Pop-icon items such as Yeezy trainers, Kylie Jenner make-up, hair dryers, drones and Fitbit watches have also become a “trending” fraudulent sale item according to Action Fraud. The City of London Police’s commander Dave Clark, the national co-ordinator for economic crime, comments: “Christmas is a busy time of year when we are required to make several quick decisions, especially when it comes to present buying. Our fraud awareness campaign is highlighting that it is very much ‘the thought that counts’ especially when it comes to avoiding fraudsters. Fraudsters see the Christmas rush as an ideal opportunity to take advantage of people’s generosity without a single care about the consequences this may cause for the victim. “With a sharp rise in fraud reporting at Christmas time it is more important than ever that people do everything they can to protect themselves from fraudsters stopping them from enjoying the holiday season at the expense of others.” 10 tips to beef up your cyber security. Action Fraud has some key tips for protecting yourself from becoming the victim of shopping fraud this Christmas:
Think before you buy: If something seems too much of a bargain, it’s probably poor quality, fake or doesn’t exist. Never click on unsolicited emails or text
messages. Criminals can use the technology to make emails or texts look like they come from a legitimate business or organisation. If you’re buying tickets, always buy from official sources and never pay by direct transfer. If you’re buying a holiday online, research it thoroughly to ensure that is a genuine offer and check to make sure it is registered with ABTA and ATOL.
Think when you're buying: Use methods
such as PayPal when buying on auction sites; never transfer money to someone you don’t know. Secure Wi-Fi is vital for your privacy. Check that the network you’re using is secure before you make any financial transactions. Keep your purchases secure: Always ensure that you keep your anti-virus software, operating systems and other security measures are up-to-date on your electronic devices. Take a Tech Free 15 minute break to protect your devices. Create strong passwords that are unique for each account you have. A good way to create a strong and memorable password is to use three random words. For more information and tips on how to protect yourself online, visit the Moneywise hub in partnership with Cyber Aware – Stay secure online: How to be Cyber Aware - and see Cyberaware.gov.uk. If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact your financial provider immediately, and notify Action Fraud via its website or by calling 0300 123 2040
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A couple of updates from Citizens Advice NEW Fresh hot Coffee Available now
Universal Credit In last month’s North Weald Village Life I gave an outline of Universal Credit, the new system which is replacing tax credits and most means -tested benefits. Well, no sooner had North Weald Village Life been published than the Government announced a number of changes, though these two facts are probably not connected! For North Weald residents there are three main changes: first, the start-date for North Weald to come within the new system has been pushed back from September 2018 to December 2018. Secondly, up to now single people with no children, no rent or mortgage responsibilities, and no disabilities had to claim Universal Credit. From 1 January that will change and they will have to claim one of the “old” benefits or tax credits, like everyone else. Thirdly, all the Department of Work and Pensions customer service lines (not just the Universal Credit lines) should be free to use by 1 January. A few facts and figures
Most of what we do at Citizens Advice Epping Forest is to help people sort out problems of all kinds. It’s not always about money, but we do keep track of the financial impact of our work. In the last financial year we helped to get nearly £2 million of local residents’ debt written off through bankruptcies and debt relief orders. This was almost three times as much as in the previous year. We also helped clients secure almost £2 million in social security benefits, mainly for disabled people. This was almost twice as much as in the previous year. The benefits figures show just how important it is for family finances, and for the local economy, that people claim benefits to which they are entitled, and are able to challenge wrong decisions successfully. The latest estimate from the Department of Work and Pensions suggests that over £12 billion of means-tested benefits per year are unclaimed. Volunteers welcome! We depend almost entirely on volunteers to provide our service, though we do have some paid staff. We have just welcomed our new chief executive, Nnenna Anyanwu. She has taken over from Rachel Poulter, who has left for family reasons New volunteers are always welcome, especially if you are interested in becoming an adviser or a trustee, or in working on research and campaigns. Drop in to any of our offices and let us know you’re interested. Or you can apply via our website: www.citizensadviceefd.org.uk. Contacting Citizens Advice If you need our assistance or 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. We are also now piloting a drop-in session in Ongar Library. It is between 10.00 and 12.00 on the third Tuesday each month, so the next three sessions are 16 January, 20 February and 20 March. We will be closed over the Christmas and New Year period, reopening on Tuesday 2 January. You can always get information from our national website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk. Or you can ring the Essex Adviceline on 03444 770 808. This service depends on volunteers so it may be limited over the holiday period. If you have a housing issue you should check Shelter’s website http:// england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice or ring their helpline -0808 800 4444. This operates 365 days a year – 8am to 8pm on weekdays, and 9 to 5 on weekends.. Source: Paul Stockton Page 29
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Christmas comes to Epping The annual Christmas market set the scene on 1st December in Epping. Many people braved the cold and enjoyed some Christmas shopping from many local traders. Hot food and mulled wine was very welcome by visitors, festive music and carol singing put everybody in the festive mood. A Town Cryer welcomed everybody during the afternoon and evening.
Many children were overjoyed to see that Peppa Pig had also visited the market. A very festive event enjoyed by many.
Lonely this Christmas As part of its annual Spread the Warmth campaign, Age UK is urging people to make a difference this Christmas and spread a little cheer by making an effort to visit older relatives and neighbours they know during the festive period. Living in isolation and loneliness is a stark reality for many older people all year round, not just at Christmas time, with nearly one million over 65-year-olds only seeing close friends or family once a month or less. Age UK's Spread the Warmth campaign aims to provide information, advice and practical services to help older people keep warm and well in the colder winter months, and prevent many thousands from being left isolated and alone. Everyone can get involved in the Spread the Warmth campaign this winter. If you know of an older people person feeling lonely, call our advice line for free on 0800 169 65 65 to see how we can help. You can also help lonely older people by volunteering at your local Age UK to help provide a range of vital services from befriending to lunch clubs and day centre activities Helena Herklots, Services Director at Age UK, commented: 'Christmas is a time for giving and sharing love and friendship. By popping in to check on an older neighbour we know and by making time for older relatives we can all help to make sure that everyone has a happy and warm Christmas. 'No one should be lonely at Christmas.’ Page 30
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Blinkered from life It’s a troubled world in which we reside in, As it gets harder and harder, just who you can actually confide in. With everybody just itching to put any kind of story on the net, Trying to remember just who you can trust is getting so easy to forget. The modern age of teckno devices, though so clever takes away the old personal touch, While kids grow up texting people not even 3 feet away, as to actually go over and talk to them would now seem to be far too much. In a world that’s changing so fast with a population hell bent on keeping up with what’s new, It’s so sad that we loose all the old values that so many people strive to uphold, only to see them undo. Christmas is a time of year that should keep all the old customs alive and true, For without that solid foundation in which we should all understand and believe in what would people all do? We’d have no morals or conscience to guide us through life’s path, While should anyone stand up and try to rebuild our roots most people would laugh.
So for those reasons and many many more, please just stop and just think about what Christmas should really mean, Then maybe it won’t be too late to rekindle some of life’s true joy that lately I’ve found hard to be seen. When friends can get together and families too, Without a phone or tablet being needed to tell them what to do. I know it’s gone to far now to ever believe that life could go back to how it once used to be, When families used to gather together and hand out presents from around a tree.
Then just maybe we’ll all start talking again and share all our thoughts we all have, while relieving so much strife. All coiled and pent up inside us, all due to so many gadgets sadly causing us all to be blinkered from life. Source: Andy—resident poet. Hmmm not sure what inspired Andy to write this apart from looking around one evening and seeing everybody on their phones—but that does include Andy.
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Could your perfect pooch be Good reasons to have a Dry January? St Clare’s Cutest Canine? After maybe partying too hard or enjoying a few more drinks then usual, why not Is your pooch positively perfect? Is your dog dazzling? Is your cuddly companion the cutest? Is your furry friend the fairest of them all? Then why not enter them into St Clare Hospice’s Cutest Canine Competition. The Hastingwood-based charity is searching for a handsome hound or pretty pup to officially launch its annual 5km Winter Walkies countryside walk taking place on Sunday 25th February 2018. The winner will also receive a hamper of doggy goodies and the coveted title of St Clare’s Cutest Canine! St Clare Events Fundraiser, Emma Broadbent, said: “We have been running the doggy photo competition as part of our Winter Walkies event for the past 4 years and have had an overwhelming response. Last year’s contest really captured the imagination of our animalloving supporters, who cast hundreds of votes to make Poppy, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier from Church Langley, the overall winner.”
enjoy a Dry January and raise some money for worthwhile causes. There are loads of reasons for taking part in Dry January, Here are just a few: • • • • •
Reset your relationship with alcohol - realise you don't need it New year, new you - do Dry January and feel healthier and happier your skin improves and you could lose weight More money in your pocket Amazing sense of achievement!
The aim is to offer the help, advice and encouragement to let you get these benefits yourself, all for free. People who sign up are more likely to stay dry for the whole month. You can get access to a free app, which helps you keep track of your month with features like a calorie calculator, unit tracker and tool to show how much you’ve saved and receive regular support emails with tips, tricks and information from experts in alcohol to make your month easier and more fun.
Sign up by visiting—www.alcoholconcern.org.uk
Emma continued: “We know how much people love their pets, so this year we hope the competition will be just as successful and we can’t wait to see which top dog will be voted St Clare’s Cutest Canine.” All you need to do to enter the competition is: 1. Register for the Winter Walkies event at www.stclarehospice.org.uk/event/winter-walkies. All dogs must be registered for this event. 2. Email a picture of your marvelous mutt and a brief description of your pet (including name, breed and age) to fund@stclarehospice.org.uk by 12noon on Friday 19th January 2018 to go forward to the public vote. 3. Encourage your friends and family to vote for your pet when the gallery of all the competition entrants is published on the St Clare Facebook page on Monday 22nd January 2018. The dog that receives the most ‘Likes’ when voting closes at 12noon on Friday 26th January 2018 will be named the winner. The winning dog and their owner will be invited to officially launch the Winter Walkies event on Sunday 25th February 2018 at 11am, and will also receive a hamper of doggy goodies. The event is taking place at St Clare Hospice, Hastingwood Road, Hastingwood, Essex, CM17 9JX. For more information and to register, call Emma Broadbent on 01279 773754, email emma.broadbent@stclarehospice.org.uk or see www.stclarehospice.org.uk/event/winter-walkies
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LETTER Dear Editor, As some of you may be aware a great Italian chef, Antonio Carluccio sadly died on 08 November 2017, it was only the other day before I cooked a pasta dish inspired from my visit to his restaurant. He was regularly on TV cooking Italian dishes, mostly on BBC show called 'Two Greedy Italians' with Gennaro Contaldo. He owned restaurants called 'Carluccio'. He wrote many cook books too. I was very upset to hear this. Antonio inspired and sparked my passion for Italian food and the method of sticking with tradition and using just a few ingredients can make a great meal. He is one of my favourite chefs and will continue to inspire me and many others from one of his many cook books!!! A local resident.
Photo of the month—Editor’s Choice This month I feature two of my dogs looking unusually cute and thought I would share with you, as I often get questions about how my dogs are!
Bantham & Ongar Bowls Club For outdoor and short mat bowling Bowling Membership £66 per annum
During the winter months, Bantham & Ongar Bowls Club holds a social night every Monday evening starting at 6pm playing short mat bowls indoors. There is also an afternoon session on Wednesdays starting at 2pm. If you would like to try your hand please come along. The club is fully accessible for those with disabilities and everyone will be welcome. Other activities on offer at the club are listed below. Membership is not required but sessional charges apply. Short Mat Bowls – Monday – 6.00pm - 8.30pm and Wednesday 2pm-4.30pm Bridge –Wednesday – 10.00am - 1.00pm Tai Chi – Wednesday – 7.30pm - 8.30pm (experienced instructor, www.bandotaichi.net) Cribbage – Thursday – 9.15am - 12noon Table Tennis – Thursday – 7.00pm - 9.00pm (qualified coach) Whist Drive – Saturday – 7.30pm every other week We can be found behind The Talbot public house in Wealdbridge Road, Tylers Green, North Weald, CM16 6GP. If you would like any further information please contact Steve Carpenter – 01992 525531 or at s.carpenter49@hotmail.co.uk
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Tel: 07814 863955
Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk
Bird Feature Welcome to the bird report for the first edition of 2018. I am typing this in the wake of the snowfall that we had on the second Sunday of December. With a fourth day of lying snow and ongoing icy conditions the local wildlife are facing real challenges in finding enough food and I have noted greater numbers of birds coming into my garden to take advantage of the seed (sunflower hearts) that I have put out. 2017 was an interesting year in terms of local bird sightings. The total number of species that I saw around the village was just under 80 which is slightly higher than the normal total of 70 or so. And that increase was down to seeing a small number of species that I had not previously seen around North Weald, the most notable being Yellow Wagtail (a summer visitor to the UK with a pair seen at the disused golf course), Stonechat (a single bird at Weald Common) and above all the increasingly rare Turtle Dove (another summer visitor and again a single bird which briefly frequented the Weald Common vicinity). Of course several of the sightings were of species that are noted annually but only on a very limited number of occasions, such as Cuckoo, Red Kite and Hobby. One species that I only see when conditions are bad is the Snipe and sure enough a single bird was at Weald Common on the snowy Sunday and again a couple of days later. One bird that I thought we would see in increasing numbers is the Ring-necked Parakeet which from a few escaped birds has colonised several locations around the London area. There is a big roost in the Leyton area and it seemed likely that it would use the green corridor of Epping Forest to spread towards this area but I only saw one during 2017 and there doesn't seem to be any sign of them heading our way in any numbers. This may not be a bad thing as they can out compete other birds at feeding stations and also take over suitable nesting sites (holes in trees) to the detriment of some native species. They are noisy and bold and more of a curiosity than a bird that you would want to have around in any numbers. Talking of feeding stations, there have been good numbers of Great Tits, Blue Tits and Long-tailed Tits visiting my garden. A fourth species you may spot is the Coal Tit which is buffish with an olive grey back and has a black head with white cheeks and a white nape (patch on the neck) and is actually the smallest of the UK tits. It is usually dominated by other members of the tit family but will often get by as it will take seeds etc and rather then eat them at the feeding station it will cache the food item somewhere nearby. On occasion you will see it flying back and forth from the feeding station rather than hang off the feeder and eat the seed whilst clinging on. A lovely little bird to see in your garden.
Another lovely species is the Siskin which is a small member of the Finch family with green plumage and yellow and black on the wings. The male has a black cap whilst the female is somewhat greyer in appearance, lacking the yellow and with a paler appearance to the underparts. This bird will visit garden feeding stations. It is smaller and slimmer than the Greenfinch and I have seen a small number during the late autumn and early winter so you might get to spot some. There have been a few Lapwings around in the last few days. When seen from a distance they look black and white and when flying they have a distinct flapping motion. They often frequent the farmland or even the airfield during the winter and I have seen flocks approaching the 100 mark. They have always been one of my favourite species and it is always good to spot a flock against a grey, wintry sky. On other occasions you can see them stood in fields and I have to say several times I have noticed good numbers in some of the fields adjacent to the A414, especially towards Hastingwood. They can be seen near to flocks of gulls as they will all be drawn to the most promising feeding sites. If you are feeding the birds during the winter remember to keep the feeding station clean and don't allow uneaten food to go build up and go mouldy as this can spread disease to the birds and always practice good hygiene. Supplying fresh, clean water is invaluable in icy weather. Never use any chemicals to melt iced up water in birdbaths etc as this can kill the birds. Well, 2018 is upon us and it will be good to start recording what is out and about during this new year. As I noted earlier there were some new species for the list in 2017 so it would be good to turn up some other new birds in 2018. Enjoy the festive season and Happy New Year to you all. Paul Corbet Page 34
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
01992 522896
Crimestoppers
0800 555111
North Weald Village Hall Bookings
01992 523731 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
EFDC Will Breare-Hall
01992 575843
RSPCA
01279 306058
MP Mrs Eleanor Laing MP
020 8508 8608
Stuart Poulton
01992 522607
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
Epping Forest Badger Group
North Weald Seniors Society for over 70’s
Theydon Jazz Club
Tel: 576038 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: 523731
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