East Northants Reporter December 2021

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RUSHDEN, HIGHAM FERRERS & EAST NORTHANTS

AWARDS FOR OUR CARING NHS HEROES

DECEMBER 2021

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THE compassionate, caring and innovative efforts of individuals and teams at Kettering and Northampton General Hospitals have been celebrated with virtual Excellence Awards ceremonies to mark the achievements of staff after a year of coping with the global pandemic.

Patients and carers joined hospital staff in nominating teams and individuals for the awards across a wide variety of categories.

University Hospitals of Northamptonshire Group chief executive Simon Weldon said: “After the most difficult year in the NHS’s history I was extremely proud to mark the achievements of our individuals, teams and volunteers who have served their local communities so well.

“The nominations we received demonstrate so many examples of the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and commitment that go into the care and support we provide.

“Picking winners was incredibly difficult and I would like to thank everyone who was nominated and shortlisted as well as the winners themselves who should be very proud of their achievements.”

Among Kettering General Hospital’s 11 winners were the A&E team, a lead nurse who supported scores of COVID patients and their families, and a midwife who supported an anxious mum during pregnancy, who had lost a son in an earlier pregnancy.

Kettering’s Hospital chief executive Deborah Needham said: “I am proud and humbled at the strength and depth of the amazing nominations that we received for this year’s awards.

“So many of our staff and volunteers have worked so hard and unsparingly to support their local communities, and each other. It was a very emotional awards night.”

Among Northampton General’s 12 winners were an audiology team member whose outstanding support may have saved a 16-year-old’s hearing, a doctor whose extra tests found and treated a cancer, and teams and individuals who have gone beyond the call of duty to support patients and colleagues during the pandemic.

Northampton Hospital chief executive Heidi Smoult said: “The last year has been extremely difficult for everyone, and I am very proud of the commitment and dedication of all our hospital teams throughout these challenges.

“Staff and volunteers have provided unrelenting support for patients and their families, and for each other, through a period of extremely challenging pressures, tragedy, and grief.

“Our awards cannot do full justice to all of those involved in our hospitals’ response but they can highlight some of the many great examples of those who have gone above and beyond in so many different ways.

“I am honoured to be the hospital CEO and to work alongside these exceptional colleagues.”

The winners will all receive trophies and their achievements will be celebrated across the two Trusts.

COVID AWARDS

The award categories and winners at Kettering General Hospital included, the Caring Through COVID Individual Award, which went to Sister Julie Danns, Lead Nurse for Home Oxygen for working long hours throughout the pandemic to support her patients – many of whom were suffering from COVID. Hard-working, caring and passionate she always puts others before herself and her patients were always at the forefront of her mind.

A colleague nomination read: “Her dedication to helping patients through this pandemic has been phenomenal, she is a thoroughly dedicated nurse who has made a difference to the lives of many patients and deserves recognition.”

Julie helped patients of all ages, including the dying, and supported their relatives.

The Caring Through COVID Team Award went to The Emergency Department, (A&E), for providing excellent care and support for patients and relatives during the pandemic.

Very busy, adapting to ever changing COVID guidance, incredible team work, coping with very significant demand pressure, and ensuring patients felt safe in their care. A fabulous team.

The Team of the Year award winners were The Staff Covid Testing Team – the swabbing team go above and beyond every day to ensure staff, their family members and patients are swabbed quickly, efficiently and with care.

The Patient Experience Award winner was midwife Michelle Paladino for the way she supported and reassured a mum during her pregnancy – a mum who had previously lost her son during an earlier pregnancy and hence was extremely anxious.

This included weekly visits and phone calls.

Her nominator said: “I wouldn’t have gotten through this pregnancy without Michelle. She has just been amazing.”

At Northampton General Hospital The Caring Through COVID Team Award went to the Hawthorn Ward for its work as a COVID ward during the intense pressures of both waves of the pandemic.

You can find the full, extensive list of winners at both hopsitals on our website at https://rosettapublishing.com/reporter/category/news/

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DECEMBER 2021 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER

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Appeal after teenager Convicted sex offender threatened with knife jailed for 21 months small build. He had short brown hair and a pale complexion, and was wearing a black balaclava, a blue puffer jacket with a black hood, and a black jacket.

The second boy wore a hat and black face mask.

Officers are now appealing for anyone who may have been driving down Moor Road, Washbrook Road or Oakley Road, between 3pm and 5pm, to check their dashcam footage to see if anything pertinent to the investigation was captured.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information about it, is asked to contact Northamptonshire Police on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. The incident number for the crime is 21000621193.

POLICE are re-appealing for witnesses after more information regarding the location in which a 13year-old boy was threatened with a knife during a robbery in Rushden, was provided.

At about 3.45pm on Monday, October 25, the boy was playing baseball with friends in Moor Road, Rushden, next to the derelict building in Oakley Road, when two older teenage boys approached them.

One of the pair took out a knife and asked the boy to hand over his baseball bat, before holding the knife to the victim's neck, taking the bat and running away.

The victim was left shocked but physically unharmed.

The suspect with the knife is described as a white boy aged 15 to 17, around 5ft 8in and of

A PAEDOPHILE from Rushden who performed a sexual act in the presence of a five-year-old girl in his care has been jailed for 21 months.

Nottingham Crown Court heard how Keith Wright,

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52, formerly of Pemberton Street, committed the offence in February 2020, just a few months after a five-year placement on the Sex Offenders’ Register had expired.

The order had initially been imposed for a previous 2014 offence of possessing more than 700 indecent images of children.

Wright will now be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for 10 years and be made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for the same period.

DC Mark Allbright, who led the investigation for Northamptonshire Police, said: “Wright wilfully subjected the victim and her family to a full trial as he maintained a not guilty plea throughout.

“The trial caused ongoing emotional harm to the victim and her family who remained incredibly strong throughout.

“The mother of the victim broke down in tears while delivering her victim personal statement to the court today.

“The family have told me that their over-riding feeling is of relief that Wright will now not have the opportunity to abuse other children.

“This case, like so many others of its type, shows how Northamptonshire Police take allegations of this nature very seriously and will investigate them at every turn.”

Man sentenced to 22 years for child sexual abuse

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A MAN who sexually abused a young child for four years has been jailed for two decades after his victim bravely spoke out.

Phillip Greenwood, 71, began to target the girl in 2007, when she was aged just six, and went on to abuse her until 2011, when she moved out of the county aged 10.

The girl kept what had happened to her a secret until November 2018, when she bravely disclosed the years of abuse she had suffered at Greenwood’s hands, which included him both molesting her and forcibly making her touch him.

An investigation was launched by Northamptonshire Police, and Greenwood went on to be charged with four counts of sexual abuse against a child under the age of 13.

Following a trial in August this year, Greenwood was convicted by a jury of one count of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of engaging in sexual activity with a child.

At Northampton Crown Court on Monday, November 1, Greenwood, formerly of Rushden, was given a total custodial sentence of 20 years, with a further two years to be served on licence.

He was also placed on the sex offenders’ register.

Speaking afterwards, investigating officer Det Con Nicky Webb, of the Force’s Child Protection Team, said: “To say I am thrilled at this sentence would be an understatement – to see Phillip Greenwood jailed for so long is a brilliant and fitting outcome to our investigation.

“The victim has shown incredible bravery throughout this case, including being present in court to see the man who caused her so much pain and harm rightly jailed for a very long time.

“Every child has a right to grow up free from fear and abuse and I hope this case demonstrates

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our dedication and determination to pursue justice for anyone who has suffered like this.

“Regardless of when it happened, please report it to us – we will believe you, we will support you, and we will do our utmost to ensure those responsible are brought to book for their crimes.”

Northamptonshire Police takes all reports of sexual assault or abuse very seriously, regardless of when it happened. Report via 101, online at www.northants.police.uk/RO or in an emergency, call 999.

Burglary appeal

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a residential burglary in Irchester Road, Rushden, between 6.10pm and 10.10pm on

Friday, November 5, when various items were stolen including jewellery, iPads, a PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.

The East Northants Reporter is an independent publication part of Rosetta Publishing Ltd. Published by ©2021 Rosetta Publishing Limited, 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest, Bedfordshire MK44 1SH. Tel: 07894 935952 Editorial: nick@rosettapublishing.com Advertising: TheReporter@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Iliffe Print Cambridge Ltd. Winship Road, Milton, Cambridge CB24 6PP Regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC IMPRESS. 16-18 New Bridge Street, London, EC4V 6AG T 020 3325 4288 E complaints@impress.org.uk w impress.press To view our complaints policy, please visit our website www.rosettapublishing.com

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EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER DECEMBER 2021

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Dash-cam footage snaps driver doing 64mph in residential street DASH-cam footage submitted to Northamptonshire Police’s Operation Snap has led to the successful conviction of nine motorists who were filmed driving dangerously on the county’s roads, including a BMW driver overtaking and driving in excessive speeds of 64mph in a residential area.

The snaps have led to the successful conviction of nine motorists who were filmed driving dangerously on the county’s roads.

Footage submitted via the online portal on the Force’s website captured examples of some of the more serious motoring offences witnesses on our roads, including dangerous driving and extreme levels of excessive speeding.

As a result of the evidence recorded by other members of the public, Northampton Magistrates’ Court has handed out a com-

bined total of seven-and-a-half years of driving bans and £2,334 of fines and costs.

Alongside unpaid work and community orders, five of the defendants were ordered to take extended driving tests, while one of the offences was deemed so serious, the driver received a 12-week suspended custodial sentence.

Details of the nine offences were: n A driver received a 12-week custodial sentence which was suspended for 12 months after being filmed tailgating and overtaking into oncoming traffic on the A509, near Great Harrowden. He was also disqualified from driving for 24-months, issued with a community order as well as ordered to take an extended driving test and pay £213 costs. n An overtaking manoeuvre on the A5, which forced an oncoming vehicle on to the grass verge, resulted in the HGV driver

being disqualified from driving for 24months. He was also ordered to take an extended driving test, carry out unpaid work and pay £175 costs. He also received a community order. n The driver of a BMW 3 Series, who was filmed undertaking, brake checking and tailgating another driver on the A14, near Kettering, was disqualified from driving for 12-months, ordered to take an extended driving test and pay £180 costs. n A driver received five points on his licence and ordered to pay £592 fines and costs after being filmed on the A45 at Wellingborough brake checking, swerving, and driving his Ford Focus excessively slowly to block another driver. n The driver of a Skoda Octavia was disqualified from driving for 56 days and ordered to pay £239 costs after he drove at 140mph on the A43 Corby by-pass, which

Tributes to ‘much-loved’ man following manslaughter conviction THE family of a Rushden man who died after being assaulted over a £10 debt have paid tribute to him after a man was convicted of his manslaughter.

Phillip Brown, 51, (pictured below), known as Podge, died on December 5, 2018, after being injured in an assault by Gurprit Singh Bains, 42, on November 12 that year.

After Bains was found guilty of causing Mr Brown’s death, his devastated family issued the following tribute via Northamptonshire Police: “Podge was a much-loved brother, uncle, father and grandfather and had many friends in the local community.

“Despite all of the difficulties and loss in his own life, he could always manage to have a laugh and make people smile.

“He is truly missed by all and his life was taken far too soon.

“Thankfully for us, justice has prevailed and we can at last start to grieve and heal with more positive memories of him.”

Bains, 42, (below right), was found guilty after a trial at Northampton Crown Court, which heard how he set about Mr Brown in the stairwell of a block of flats in a dispute over a minor drug debt.

After being left lying seriously injured on the stairs at Horrell Court by Bains, Mr Brown was rushed to hospital where he was found to have two fractured ribs, which became infected and led to him developing

meningitis, from which he sadly died on December 5, 2018.

Police were only told of the assault after Mr Brown died, and detectives soon uncovered Bains had been selling drugs to Mr Brown, who in the lead up to the assault had accrued a £30 debt.

The trial heard how despite Mr Brown repaying £20, Bains assaulted him over the remaining £10 debt as he walked with a friend towards the friend’s flat, shouting ‘Where is my money?’ as he attacked Mr Brown, causing two broken ribs.

The jury found him to be responsible for Mr Brown’s death after a little over three hours of deliberation.

Speaking after the hearing, senior investigating officer Det Insp Pete Long, of the Major Crime Team, said: “I am so pleased that the jury have concluded that Gurprit Singh Bains is responsible for the untimely death of Phillip Brown.

“I hope the verdict brings some comfort and closure to Mr Brown’s family, who have conducted themselves with dignity and composure throughout the whole process of securing justice for their loved one.”

Bains, who had also entered guilty pleas to three counts relating to the possession and supply of class A drugs and two charges relating to the possession of criminal property, was remanded in custody and will return to Northampton Crown Court for sentencing.

is a national, (70mph), speed limit road. n Overtaking and driving in excessive speeds of 64mph in a residential area, resulted in the driver of a BMW M2 being disqualified from driving for 15-months.

He was also ordered to take an extended driving test, carry out unpaid work, pay £180 costs and complete a community order n Cutting across lane 2 on to the off-slip road at junction 8 of the A14, near Kettering, earned the driver of a VW Golf five points on her driving licence and £248 in costs. n The driver of a BMW 530d, who was recorded overtaking a line of traffic on a bend, forcing an oncoming vehicle to swerve and make an emergency stop to avoid a collision, was disqualified from driving for 15 months. He was also ordered to take an extended driving test, carry out

unpaid work and pay £180 costs. He also received a community order. n Driving down the off-slip road at services to access the M1, resulted in the driver of an Audi A4 receiving four points on his driving licence and ordered to pay £327 in fines and costs.

Northamptonshire Police’s Safer Roads Operations manager Matthew O’Connell said: “Through the use of Operation Snap, we have thousands of additional pairs of eyes helping us to keep our roads safer and thanks to the public’s support we are able to take action.

“All of these cases highlighted some of the most serious motoring offences, which could have easily ended in tragic consequences, and it’s as a direct result of the dash-cam footage that we have been able to secure convictions and remove these dangerous drivers from our roads.”

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Crowdfunding appeal launch for vandal-hit county company AN online appeal to help a pioneering community interest company deliver essential help to young people and adults with neurodiverse conditions has been launched.

Northamptonshire neurodiversity expert Jannine Perryman is appealing for the public’s help to raise £16,000 to refurbish a building in Silver Street, Wellingborough.

It was recently targeted by vandals causing the delay to the opening of a ‘much-needed’ base for ADHD WISE UK to deliver training, coaching, counselling and occupational therapy for learners with additional needs.

Jannine said: “We’ve been providing support and services to people with neurodiverse conditions across the UK since September 2016 under the name ADHD WISE UK, and have long since had a dream to open a neurodiversity hub where those with conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, tics and Tourette’s can be provided with support from people who know what it is like to live with these challenges.”

Vandals smashed the glass door of the building earmarked for use by Jannine and her team, giving them no option but to have to pay for repairs.

She said: “We were forced to pay for repairs and have been given no option but to install CCTV. “When added to our original costs of refurbishing the building so that it is fit for use.

“It all mounts up and we need help to be able to deliver our services from a central base.

“Having a base will help us to deliver community projects and life skills for people with neurodiverse conditions, for example money workshops.

“There is so much we want to be able to do for our neuro-diverse community.

“We will be offering an array of services,

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events and courses that people can book onto.

“We receive no central funding and nationally there are only four local authorities that fund our services to support their constituents.

“Unfortunately, Northamptonshire is not currently one of them but we do hope to change that.

“We are here to earn a living not a killing.

“Our prices reflect this and options are available to help everyone who needs our support but first we need yours!”

Without access to specialist help, Jannine believes more children are at risk of being excluded from school.

She said: “A lack of Special Educational Needs and Disability, (SEND), training for new and experienced teachers, a limited professional experience of attendance difficulties and an ever changing, narrowing curriculum coupled with constraints on time and resources can mean that children do not receive the early interventions they need.

“When it comes to poor attendance schools and local authorities need to be looking beyond the absence for the reason behind it asking, ‘why are they refusing to attend school? Or

‘why are they unable to attend?’

“Schools have clear, high expectations for attendance so persistent absence is a clear cause for concern, not only for the school and Ofsted, but for the child’s educational outcomes.”

Government statistics show children with additional needs are less likely to attend school regularly. In fact, pupils with an SEN statement or education healthcare, (EHC), plan had a persistent absence rate of 24.6 per cent.

That is more than twice the rate of students with no identified SEN, (0.9 per cent).

ADHD WISE UK offers a range of expert services and support for children and adults all over the country with an extensive range of conditions including ADHD, autism, and dyslexia.

Skills training, coaching and counselling can be provided for individuals and families as well as screening for children and adults.

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Former acting coach jailed for sexually abusing young girls

A FORMER acting coach has been jailed for 16 years for sexually abusing young girls who attended his theatre group dreaming of becoming actresses.

Christopher Lynch, 38, (pictured), carried out a reign of abuse, including rape and sexual assault, against a number of girls between 2013 and 2017.

He was given the jail term as part of an extended sentence by a judge who branded him “dangerous and predatory.”

Northampton Crown Court was told Lynch, previously of St Stephens Road, Kettering, ran the amateur dramatics company in the town, but used it as an opportunity to target vulnerable young girls who had an interest in acting.

At his trial in September jurors were told he used his position to his advantage, sexually assaulting his victims during one-to-one auditions.

He would make sure chaperones were not present, ensuring he and each victim were alone in the room.

He held the auditions in private rooms in a church, a youth centre, and at his own home address.

On all occasions, his victims, who were aged between 15 and 19 at the time, were led to believe he would help them further their acting careers.

In one case, the court was told, he had visited the home of a victim to discuss a play and used this opportunity to sexually assault her.

At his trial his victims were forced to give evidence.

He was found guilty of one count of rape, three counts of sexual assault and four counts of sexual activity with a child.

He was also found guilty of two charges of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and one of facilitating and commissioning a child sex offence.

He was found not guilty of one

sexual assault.

Sentencing Lynch, Judge Rebecca Crane jailed him for 16 years, and told him he will serve at least two-thirds of his sentence.

Judge Crane defined Lynch as “a dangerous and predatory male who exploited his position and the theatrical ambitions of the young victims for his own personal gain.

“The significant effect of his actions continues to this day, impacting on their relationships, mental health and daily lives.”

Upon release from prison, Lynch will spend the remainder of his sentence on licence and will also be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, prohibiting him from having any unsupervised contact of any kind with any female under the age of 18, or undertaking or seeking to undertake any paid or voluntary position, role, appointment or office which would or is likely to cause him to have any unsupervised contact with any female person under the age of 18.

He will also be on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.

Outside court Det Con Laura Mannion, from the Force’s Child Protection Team, said: “I am pleased with this sentence which reflects the severity of the abuse Lynch carried out over a number of years.

“He deviously put himself into a position of trust to carry out his crimes, taking advantage of his victim’s aspirations to become actresses.

“He sexually abused them and then tried to cover his tracks and deny what he had done to all that knew him when the police investigation commenced.

“He continued to lie in court as he took the stand to try to convince the jury he was innocent. By doing this he subjected the victims to further trauma, making them give evidence and re-live what he had done to them years earlier.”

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Tapestry marking the life of town’s most historic figure Keep up-to-date go to: www.rosettapublishing.com/reporter

A TAPESTRY marking the life of Higham Ferrers’s most historical figure, Henry Chichele, went on display at the Heritage Family Fun Day at Rushden Lakes.

When the tapestry, which pays tribute to Henry Chichele, an Archbishop of Canterbury, is finished in a few weeks’ time, it will go on permanent display in the Bede House, next to St Mary’s Church in Higham Ferrers.

A group of Higham Ferrers craftswomen, “The Material Girls” have created the fabric and thread tapestry using applique and various embroidery techniques.

It is now going to be mounted for protection in special see-through boxes paid for by the Friends of St Mary’s and from profits from a local book, Higham Ferrers 1251-1914, by Brenda Lofthouse and Gwen Tobin.

Higham Ferrers mayor, Tina Reavy, got a preview of the tapestry when she visited the Heritage Family Fun Day – made possible by a grant from the Nene Valley Nenescape Fund.

The fun day was the culmination of a 10-day festival.

Higham Ferrers Tourism also displayed details of its Town Charter Project.

The project is carried out in partnership with the Town Council and funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER DECEMBER 2021

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DECEMBER 2021 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER

Appeal after theft of classic tractor

POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information after a classic tractor was stolen from a field outside Ashton, between 4pm on Monday, November 1, and 11.40am the next day. Contact 101 with any information.

Higham Ferrers Town Council

The Town Hall, Market Square Higham Ferrers NN10 8BT Tel/Fax: 01933 312075 info@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk www.highamferrers-tc.gov.uk

ForthCoMinG MEEtinGS

ALL MEETINGS WILL BE HELD AT THE TOWN HALL UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTIFIED

Tuesday 7th December, 6.30pm PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Tuesday 21st December, 7.30pm FULL COUNCIL MEETING Saturday 18th December, 9am–1pm

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Future-proof your career says local care boss

EAST Northants home care company boss declares that caring is a ‘job of the future’, urging people to come onboard as he pledges to build an army of caregivers to provide support in the local community.

Mark Darnell, of Home Instead East Northants, currently has 65 vacancies at his care company which has clients across Kettering, Wellingborough, Rushden and surrounding villages.

Mark said jobs in his sector are future proof, referring to the resilience of care work against a backdrop of sectors such as hospitality and travel that have been so badly impacted by the pandemic.

And now the Government’s furlough scheme has ended, people have sadly lost their jobs.

With an ageing population, home care, on the other hand, has seen a huge increase in demand, so much so that there is a national shortage of caregivers.

The UK has an ageing population with more than 14.28m baby boomers who are coming into older age over the next few years.

The millennial generation follows a close second at 14.22m people.

At the same time, we are living longer.

Mark said: “The need for outstanding home care support has never been greater and we really need more people with the desire to help others.

Lest we forget…

FARMERS’ MARKET

Wishing all of our residents a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year how to ContaCt your CounCillor Pam Whiting

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Sean Prosser

barryspencer@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk barryprigmore@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk chrisorourke@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk tonyreading@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk garysalmon@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk

petertomas@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk paulmccann@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk vijaypaul@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk jenniebone@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk nigelbrown@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk bertjackson@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk geraldkelly@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk seanprosser@highamferrers-tc.gov.uk * Higham Ferrers Unitary Councillor

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Town Clerk – Mrs Sandra Mitcham BA (Hons), FILCM Assistant Town Clerk – Alicia Schofield Administration/Communication/Finance Officer – Donna Anderson Administration/Communication Officer – Emily Arrow Parks and Open Spaces Warden – Chris Spring & Stephen Bridge Mayor’s Sergeant – Mr David Wicks

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

RUSHDEN and neighbouring towns and villages stood in silence on Sunday, November 14, to remember the service and sacrifice of all those who have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life.

Along with the rest of the UK, the district remembered the Armed Forces, and their families, from Britain and the Commonwealth and the vital role played by the emergency services and those who have lost their lives as a result of conflict or terrorism.

You can find out more about the Rushden Royal British Legion branch by visiting counties.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/rushden/news-events.

Our picture, above, shows: Elsie, left, and Macey, right, paying their respects in Rushden.

“Because we offer award winning training, anyone with the right personality can become a caregiver.

“We have had many people join our team during the pandemic who have reassessed their lives and wanted to change career paths.

“We offer flexible hours to suit people’s lifestyles as well, so our staff are able to achieve a great work life balance."

Caregiver Veronica Waters, (pictured with Mr Darnell), said: “Working in care is not like any ordinary job. Every day is different, and because you are helping people remain as independent as possible, it is very rewarding.

“At times the work can be challenging, but you receive first class training, and the team are always on hand for support and advice.

“There is nothing better than leaving a client happy and content, you really do make a difference to their lives.

“I wouldn’t change what I do for the world.”

It is estimated the adults social care sector in England has approximately 112,000 unfilled vacancies at any one time.

Home Instead is a national company with 10,000 caregiver vacancies to fill in the coming two years. For more information on the 65 vacancies in East Northants contact 01933 678775 or visit homeinstead.co.uk/east-northants

8 —

DECEMBER 2021 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER

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Charity receives cash boost from leading housebuilder A RUSHDEN-based charity has received a £1,000 donation from local homebuilder Barratt Homes to help towards its work providing support to elderly members of the community with a variety of different services.

SERVE specialises in offering a range of different services to help people remain independent in their own homes, such as community transport, minibus day trips and homecare services.

Barratt Homes’ donation will help to ensure SERVE can continue its Befriending Service.

The money will go towards the recruitment of volunteers who will be trained to spend time with lonely elderly people in the community.

Chief executive at SERVE Jess Slater said: “We were over the moon to hear about Barratt Homes’ donation, it’s wonderful to have the support of other local businesses.

“We have been very busy throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, for example getting service users to their vaccination appointments.

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Also, our Befriending Services has been recognised at statutory level and we have since been working closely with the NHS to provide this at a countywide level.

“The developer’s Community Fund Scheme is excellent - it shows dedication and support to the community at a local level.

“We are extremely grateful for Barratt Homes’ contribution towards combating loneliness and isolation amongst the older generation in the local community.

“The donation will go a long way to contributing towards the mission and vision of our charity.”

Managing director at Barratt Homes Northampton Amer Alkhalil said: “We are so pleased to be able to support SERVE and the amazing work it is doing.

“It is important to us a leading housebuilder to recognise and support local charities and organisations who help the communities near our developments.”

To find out more about SERVE and the work it is doing, visit https://serve.org.uk/

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Do you have any illegal weapons in your home?

POLICE are reminding the public that it is now an offence to possess dangerous items such as throwing stars, zombie knives and decorative swords.

Changes to the Offensive Weapons Act 2019, which were brought in on July 14, this year have extended the banning of all weapons in public to now include private settings, which means people can no longer keep them at home.

While other sections of the Offensive Weapons Act introduced included an updated definition of flick knives to reflect changes in weapon designs, and the banning of private possession of both flick and gravity knives.

The reminder has been issued as part of the Force’s knife crime campaign which aims to prevent and tackle this type of offending by raising awareness of common misconceptions around carrying knives.

Since the introduction of the new legislation, 18 people have been arrested for the possession of an offensive weapon after searches of private addresses as part of the investigation for unrelated matters.

Seven of the arrests were in Northampton, and there were two in Wellingborough, Corby, Kettering, East Northamptonshire, South Northamptonshire and one in the Daventry area.

Among the items seized were zombie and lock knives, telescopic truncheons, and knuckle dusters.

Supert Adam Ward, who is leading the Force’s campaign,

said: “The harm caused to families and communities through the tragic loss of life relating to knife crime is devastating which is why it is a matter of priority to us.

“These new measures will go some way in helping to take weapons off our streets and to make it more difficult for people to get hold of knives and other dangerous items in the first place.

“However, although the majority don’t carry knives in public, it is really important they are aware of these changes to the Offensive Weapons Act to ensure they are not unintentionally committing an offence.

“We are committed to both preventing people carrying knives in the first place as well as taking robust action against offenders, and some of the items mentioned in the legislation are advertised as decorative pieces when in reality they could be used to do a great deal of harm.”

The maximum penalty for an adult carrying a knife is four years in prison and an unlimited fine.

You will get a prison sentence if you’re convicted of carrying a knife more than once.

For more details about the knife crime campaign visit www.northants.police.uk/knifecrime Neighbourhood policing teams are holding amnesty events across the county, where you can hand in a knife or other weapons safely and without repercussions.

For more details check out the social media pages of Northamptonshire Police.

EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER DECEMBER 2021

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DECEMBER 2021 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER

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Celebrating the NHS colleagues who have made a difference COLLEAGUES from Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, (NHFT), are preparing for their annual awards ceremony, recognising the achievements of colleagues across the Trust over the last 12 months.

The NHFT Quality Awards are a chance to celebrate and share good practice, recognising those who deliver quality care and generate a sense of pride among team NHFT. There are 12 award categories, two of which, the Patient Choice and Engagement and Involvement Award, are open to patients, service users, carers and families to nominate individuals or teams who have made a difference for them.

Patient Choice – this award is an opportunity for our patients, service users, carers and families to vote for their choice for the staff member who leads and provides compassionate care.

It recognises and celebrates excellent care through the patient’s experience.

Last year’s winners were the Adult Community Inpatient Beds from Corby Community Hospital, nominated for Engagement and Involvement – new to this year’s award ceremony, this category is open to all service users, carers, governors, volunteers, clinical and non-clinical staff from all services and others who use the Trust’s services.

This award demonstrates successful initiatives which have been driven through the use of co-production, engagement and involvement with others, whilst always putting the patient and service user experience at the heart of everything they do.

Chief executive of NHFT Angela Hillery said: “The NHFT Quality Awards provides a unique chance to reflect on the achievements, milestones and challenges our colleagues, service

users and carers have had over the last 12 months.

“Our teams make a difference everyday, and I would encourage anyone who has received excellent care from our services to find out more about the awards today.”

The Trust has said a special thank you to Northamptonshire Health Charity for sponsoring the annual event.

Head of fundraising at NHC Alison McCulloch, said: “We are really thrilled that the charity is able to support the NHFT Quality Awards with funding again this year.

“Having attended the ceremonies in previous years, before the pandemic, we have seen for our ourselves first-hand just how much the recognition from these awards means to all those who are nominated as well as to the winners.

“Now, more than ever, it is really

important to continue to celebrate the fantastic achievements of our healthcare workers.

“We are proud to be able to continue to support this event.”

NHFT provides a wide-range of services across the county and beyond in the community at locations including St Mary’s Hospital, Kettering, Isebrook Hospital, Wellingborough, Corby Community Hospital and Berrywood Hospital, Northampton.

In other news from the Trust, Team NHFT’s Lead GP at Her Majesty Prison (HMP) Bedford, Dr Caroline Watson, has been elected as chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners Secure Environments Group from March 2022.

With more than ten years’ experience of working as a GP in prison healthcare, Dr Caroline Watson works at HMP Bedford to oversee the medical

care of prison residents.

In 2014, she established a multi-professional pain clinic in HMP Bedford the quality of which was recognised by Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Prisons, NHS England and Care Quality Commission.

In 2019, she went on to lead a safer prescribing project at HMP Bedford, working with clinicians, prison colleagues, the prison education department and patients.

This work was later presented at the RCGP Annual Conference 2019, recognising the success of the project and its contribution to reducing the risk to patients of drug-related death.

Her frontline service to patients to her national level contributions to prison healthcare, which have been recognised in the awarding of a Fellowship of the Royal College of General Practitioners.

Windmills of Northamptonshire

by Treovor Stainwright

Typical post mill.

T

Rushden’s post mill

HERE must be many who have wondered about the origins of the long established 'Windmill Club' in Glassbrook Road, Rushden. Contrary to popular belief it is the former club premises in 'Windmill Road' that marks the site of the windmill itself. First mentioned in a document of 1820, giving notice of the construction of a second Rushden windmill, on the Wymington Road, stated that Samuel Achurch and his son William, were, at that time, working the only mill in the area!

Achurch's mill, a post mill, was depicted standing alone opposite 'Washbrook' (Road) on A. Briants 'Actual

Survey' map of 1824-26. It featured again on the First Edition of the Ordnance Survey map of 1835. Three years later the post mill was trading under George. Judckins Achurch (The forth of Samuel's seven sons) who was also recorded as a baker.

The same year George was declared insolvent but after his Fathers death in 1839 the mill transferred to another family member.

By 1847 A. Achurch, either Alfred or Amos (the two younger sons) were managing the business.

Later trade directories fail to distinguish who worked where and millers for Rushden are many, leading to confusion (A trap I fell into when writing 'Wind-

mills of Northamptonshire' during the 1980s).

The Green family and others are now associated with the Wymington Road mill (To be discussed in part 2) but in 1874 it seems that Stephen Hall was the miller at the post mill.

By 1885 the mill had 'fallen into decay' and was soon demolished. A number of timbers were salvaged for the construction of No. 10 Church Street in Rushden (Which still exists) mainly for the staircase and the ornate porch. One of the misconceptions associated with the recycled timbers claims the post mill dated from the time of the 'Domesday Book' of 1086.

This, however is incorrect as wind

powered mills were unheard of in Britain at that time and the reference to a mill at "Riseden" possibly refers to an animal driven mill.

In May 1893 the mill site, including the old mill house and outbuildings, which comprised of seven acres, was put up for sale on behalf of the late landowner, Joseph Keep. Until then the mill house had served as a meeting place for a small group of drinking friends.

Between them they proposed the building a larger clubhouse and the 'Windmill Club' was born. In 1898 the new club was erected on the site of the old mill house and soon became a well supported attraction.

Thirty years later, in 1928, the clubs

popularity had grown to such an extent that a replacement was built in the adjacent Glassbrook Road. The new club boasted a dance floor and rooms for non-drinkers. During the celebrations marking the new 'Windmill Clubs' opening Mr F. Corby, Vice Chairman of the Urban Council, said in a closing speech "...they were fulfilling a service, as the old mill had served the community."

Sadly, like so many other county mills, no images of the post mill have survived, despite much research.

Thanks to Marion Darnell of the Rushden and District History Society. for her valued contribution.

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EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER DECEMBER 2021

— 11

Man killed in crash is named POINT TO PONDER

Truth behind Christmas celebrations never changes

By Canon George Burgon

A MAN killed in a road traffic collision in Twywell has been named as 45-year-old Simon Hemmings.

Simon was sadly killed on Tuesday, November 2, when his black Range Rover Sport was involved in a collision in Kettering Road.

Officers from the Force’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit are still appealing to anyone who may have been in the area at the time, and anyone who may have relevant dash-cam footage, to get in touch.

Anyone with information or anyone who witnessed this incident is asked to call the Drivewatch Hotline on 0800 174615 regarding incident 290 of November 2.

Police appeal after stabbing

A TEENAGER has been stabbed in Rushden.

The incident happened on Sunday, November 7, at about 6pm when a 15-year-old boy was stabbed in High Street.

Police said he sustained minor injuries and inquiries are progressing to identify the offenders and speak to witnesses.

To reassure the local community, neighbourhood policing officers were in High Street on Tuesday, November 8, with one of the Force’s beat buses.

Witnesses, or anyone with any information regarding the incident in High Street, should contact Northamptonshire Police officers on 101.

Officers said the incident number to quote for the crime is 21000649617.

Appeal over death of swans

POLICE are appealing for information following the death of four swans on the River Nene at The Embankment in Wellingborough.

The swans are suspected to have been killed sometime overnight between Monday, November 22, and Tuesday, November 23, and at this time, officers are treating the deaths as deliberate.

Neighbourhood Policing Sgt Gina O’Connor-Frisby, said: “I know there is concern in the local community regarding the death of these swans and we are working with our partners at the RSPCA and North Northants Council to ascertain how they were killed.

“In the meantime, members of the public are welcome to approach our neighbourhood officers in the local area if they have any concerns or information they wish to pass on.”

If people have any information which could assist officers with their inquiries, by contacting 101 and quoting incident number 21000683009.

THE Christmas Festival changes every year.

There will be differences in the number of folks with whom we celebrate and in the choice of gifts and catering arrangements.

However, the truth behind the Christmas celebrations never changes and it continues to haunt,encourage, and inspire us. That truth can be found in the story of the birth of Jesus, (Luke 2:1-11), and especially in the words, “for there was no room for them in the inn.”

That is the root of the problem we have as human beings and the way we treat one another. All too often there is no room in our hearts and lives for those outside the small group we call the circle of our family and

friends and even then, there can be unhappiness and pain.

No room in our thoughts for those who serve us and care for us in our local communities.

No room in our hearts for those who are victims of famine, war, and persecution. No room for those who are different.

Have we really progressed as a society with homelessness on our streets, food banks for the impoverished and violence as a way of life?

We often have no room in our attitudes towards one another because our view of God is too small.

We fail to see sometimes that there is always room in His heart for each one of us that is not earned but offered in unconditional

love. He has given to each one of us the capacity to share this kind of love towards our neighbour, the stranger in our midst and those who cry out to us for help, “If you love those who love you what credit is that to you?”

(Jesus, as recorded in Luke 6:32-36).

The truth that underlies Christmas is not a tit for tat arrangement in human relationships but a total transformation in the way we are to live with one another.

It is a dreadful indictment on humanity that room could not be found in Bethlehem for a mum and her new baby. That human nature as found in Bethlehem is also found in our town and cities today. Our God enters “a world such as this,” in Jesus to address and change this situation and transform us to make things better.

Victoria’s sweet taste of success RUSHDEN cake maker Victoria White, whose six-year-old business Victoria White Cake Design tasted the sweet taste of success by reaching the semifinal of a cake making contest, held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, hosted by Craig Revell Horward.

Victoria specialises in hyper realist cakes and has won several awards. In 2019 she created a life size replica of a suit for fashion designer Thom Browne for Paris fashion week.

The cake went on to be featured in Vogue magazine.

Rotary cash

ROTARIANS in Rushden have thanked everyone who helped raise £576 for the Waitose Trolley Dash.

Members will be at the foyer from Monday, December through to Sunday, December 12 on a daily basis, where they will be offering £1 a go tickets to win up to £400 of goods in a trolley dash around the newly refurbished store with additional prizes of John Lewis vouchers also up for grabs.

Folk fun

THIS year the Raunds Music Festival Committee will continue its tradition bringing the amazing John Kirkpatrick, one of the most prolific figures on the English folk scene, to town, at Ringstead Shared Church High St, on Friday December 20.

Doors open at 7.30pm and tickets are £10.

More details and tickets are available from the website at https://www.raundsfestival.com, or by phoning the Festival Ticket Hotline 07756 015615.

Law award

COUNTY law firm Blaser Mills Law has been shortlisted for a prestigious industry award.

The firm’s Commercial Recoveries and Insolvency team has been named a finalist in the ‘Law Firm of the Year’ category at the Credit Strategy Awards, the flagship awards for the credit and financial services industry.

Winners of the awards will be announced at a ceremony in London on Tuesday, December 21.

Jackie Ray, from Blaser Mills Law, said: “We are very pleased to be shortlisted for this award.

“To be named finalists is testament to the hard work of our team.”

News stories

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DECEMBER 2021 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER

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H.E. Bates’ portrait unveiled in town hall

…turn miles into smiles as a M Mini Mi Minib Minibu Minibus in Driver.

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the cast, including Bradley Walsh and Joanna Scanlon, as a Raffle prize.

This raised more than £70 which will be donated to the Cransley Hospice Appeal.

The Larkins is currently showing on ITV. Following the talk Richard Bates unveiled a photograph portrait of his father, now hanging in the hall, with the caption, ‘H.E.Bates’ CBE’ 1905 – 1974. This was presented by the H.E.Bates Discussion Group in appreciation of his putting Rushden firmly on the literary map’.

Richard spoke of the family’s earlier life in Rushden and of his well-remembered association with his present surroundings in Hall Park.

Town clerk Viv Prodger was at the ceremony to receive the portrait on behalf of the council.

THE H.E. Bates Discussion group has unveiled a portrait of the famous author.

The group, (pictured, below), met in Rushden Hall for its bi-annual meeting, which was the first occasion they had met since September 2019 due to the Covid lockdown.

More than 30 members had the pleasure of listening to a talk by Ian Addis, a well-known Bates aficionado, who, aided by H.E.’s son Richard and grand-daughter Victoria, gave various examples of the author’s life including the reading of several poems he had written.

The Bates family was also represented by Richard’s grandson Billy Bates.

Victoria, who has a part in the forthcoming ITV series The Larkins, a revamp of one of H.E’s best known books The Darling Buds of May, gave the group a copy of the book signed by all the members of

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ARMISTICE REMEMBRANCE AND BOROUGH INandBEDFORD War Memorial, Bedford EVENTSceremony march-past will be held at the down the

march A wreath laying November 14. A parade will in Harpur Square.

Embankment at 11am on Sunday, Street and St Paul’s Square, finishing Embankment, across the High place at the South African Campaign Memorial (outside Ceremonies will also take and in villages across the Borough. the Swan Hotel), at Elstow Abbey,

Northern ‘Good progress’ on hot spot Gateway congestion

right turn lane into Sainsbury’s. the ‘Northern Gateway’ unnecessary traffic using WORKS started on the around the This will reduce in June 2021 to ease congestionroundabout, Clapham Road roundabout. widening of Lane the Clapham Road/Manton A6 roundabout. Further works include and the instalwhich will also benefit the been widened Clapham Road roundabouthelp traffic to has to lation of traffic lights To date, Clapham Road Way roundduring rush between the Paula Radcliffe flow, and ease congestion with a new kerb about and Manton Lane hour. has started cyclist crossings and pavement, construction lane from Improved pedestrian and make it easier to on the dedicated left-turn Lane, and will also be installed, to TO THE EDITOR Clapham Road to Manton cross this busy junction. : It is hard to believe for northeast the apologise on “We said: that, in these days Charles Royden extensive road widening of increased in the Road roundabout Cllr congestion that has been seenconcern about climate corner of the Clapham the vital works. anyone could seriouslychange, is largely complete. area as we carry out these our contracthis month, building on the flood propose continue to work with plain in Once these works are completed Kempston. begin on the “We will deliver these Northern Gateway (October) works will then dual carriagetor to This development on schedule the would be on central reservation of works, and we are currently fields that were flooded Way and 2022.” way between Paula Radcliffe to complete these in Spring recently as December as a permanent you can see from the 2020. As Manton Lane, introducing attached

parking spaces, plus defences of the catastrophic there will be nowhere80 houses, flooding we suffered water to go. It is time else for that that mas. Why did you last Christbuilding on flood plains not was huge car park which mention the stopped to protect existing homes. water to run into the will cause river or Lorna Ogle Church Walk, Kempston express concerns for the new residents who will be at high risk of flooding and find difficulties TO THE EDITOR : I have enjoyed getting a doctor or Kempston Calling picture, which was for a place for their taken children at local schools? waters had gone down when the and am shocked by many years the blatant far enough propaganda in this for us to get down The fields are one the lane, there article. of the few remaining green spaces is still flood water Are you being sponsored in the for local by residents to enjoy the developers?

These fields are also field. and are rich in biodiversity. absorb the excess water, needed to This is the first time I have as that heard this scheme would This is the wrong PAID otherwise be channelled being PRICES the wrong place. I scheme in ‘Amazing’ by anyone called towards existing homes TOP CASH hope who is not a in both RY Etc to print the other side you intend member of Grace Church.

Kempston JEWELLE & and Great Denham. to this threat NOT FOR COINS ORare to the flood plain as I would call it ‘DisGraceful’ If they BROKEN concreted over to it is causing great distress to many that any church would provide WIND UP WATCHES: the Grace Church DEALERS consider with a HIGHAM dents who are in fear local resibuilding on a flood 700 seat auditorium FRIENDLY LOCAL plain with 300 for their homes. one of our few remainingthat is Y HOUSE Antiques) (Ex of: CRANBERR Elizabeth Jones, Kempston chat = No obligation for advice or

freeze has announced a further MAYOR Dave Hodgson council run car parks. been through on parking charges infor our residents who have already

WANTED!

successive He says: “This is great newsTAKE park charges for the fifth car HOME! – freezingME months, last 18 COPY in the so much FREE YOUR the council can provide support.” do so administration would year is one way in which derision by Conservative up.

‘START MOREE TROUBLE & W COULD CRUSH’ YOUR VEHICLE

with with Christmas coming This news has been met Their Deputy much more give three hours free car park“We would the Borough’s Conservatives.Rigby said: “A Sunday and we Group Leader, Cllr Roger mustard here, the ing every day and all day going forward the cut car parking prices freeze just does not cut free and cheaper would successful town centre is re-estabtown desperately needs more until a car parking. footfall in the lished. economic revival “In July 2018 there was “Bedford town centre’s squeezing the million, by July on the Mayor realising that anymore. town centre of over 1.282 NTS work recovery since the restsNORTHA 2021 despite some small motorists just won’t doesn’t to encourhalf at 688k.& EAST almost FERRERS is it lockdown He is creating a perfect backdrop end of , HIGHAMcurrent year the towns or on the RUSHDEN “Furthermore, in the age people to shop in other reduction of £1.279m Council is forecasting a includes the fewer people are internet.” also as income decision parking Mayor’s The in car which was hours free parking deal, coming to town. centre businesses two by him in 2013.

“Our struggling town Mayor. Indeed, a introduced As well as two hours free need much more from this on Saturdays in council town centre car parks, is Queen Street car park free for the first two hours every weekday as well.

Mayor Dave added that pro“This decision will also vide a major boost to Bedford town centre, attracting shoppers to our local businesses.

“I know that local people full centre town a want to see of life and the free parking deal really helps, especially in the run up to Christmas.

Providing affordable parkour ing options incentivises helpresidents to shop locally ing to reduce the carbon

you Have your say: What do of think? Will the freezing car parking charges in incentivise you to shop Bedford Town Centre?

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We won!

£25,000 raised and still counting

IN September’s edition wrote about Richard of Kempston Calling we Hart’s fundraising and St Thomas’s for Guys hospitals.

Richard was aiming We can report that to raise £20,000. he is fast approaching MID BEDS £25,000 mark!

EDITION the He recently took for which he receivedpart in the London Marathon Richard said: “The a great deal of sponsorship. marathon went really had a lot of fun, well, I it total has gone up was a great atmosphere and the to nearly £25.000, amazing. People which is have been so incredibly generous.” kind and He is raising money hopefully his daughter, for the hospital where Emily will receive transplant shortly. a kidney Richard added: Kidney transplant “We still have no date for a as she is so near for Emily but it can’t be far away the point where they will take action.”

Memorial 10.50am Service at the War Service at HIGHAM FERRERS s BRITISH LEGION: RUSHDEN ROYAL 10.50am, which any organisation to attend.

Rushden War Memorial, will be most welcome BRITISH LEGION: at the DISTRICT ROYAL assembles at 2.30pm RAUNDS AND parade in Raundsto the War Memorial Remembrance proceeds Saxon Hall and for 3pm. at St Peter’s Church day at be held on the services will also , at 10.45pm, Remembrance in STANWICK at There will be a church St Laurence Churchin HARGRAVE, at 9am, and 3pm. at service at Kempston All Hallows Church Church, in RINGSTEAD, WE all need a touch of Christmas magic Mary this year. That’s why Santa’s workshop East Methodist Church The Blessed Virgin British Legion: on Sunday, November open, and Santa and his elves are busy & FINEDON Royal10.45am is and at followed by a parade 14, at 2.30pm, writing, IRTHLINGBOROUGH 11am. sealing and posting letters that down to the War leave Finedon School starting atwill Memorial on Kempston put smiles on the faces of children The parade will the service High Street Cenotaph, with for a minutes silence everywhere! proceed to the of the unveiling and the laying of wreaths.

With a letter from the 100th anniversary Historical and the town’s magical tales from Santa, you’ll bring This year also marks the North Pole right on ugh War Memorial of Irthlingboro will mark it with an exhibition Chapel. to your doorstep. There are eight fantasSociety Methodist town’s tically the festive designs, from traditional 13, at Christmas to a North Pole Safari – so Saturday, November there

Get your order in to Santa for a Christmas letter

really is something for every child, or even the family pet!

Whichever letter you choose, each one is more personalised than ever this year.

You can add your child’s name, age, hobbies, what they want for Christmas and your very own P.S. message. Plus, it will be addressed and posted directly to your child via sleigh mail – so

g vehicle activity targetin received a month of planned drivers who FOLLOWING have warned riders and cause trouble, their they nuisance, police that the next timebe crushed. to be used even an official warning such as if it’s foundwe can and seized and could some circumstances, tax or insurance, anti-social vehicle will be or without

2021

NOVEMBER 2021

they’ll feel like they’re at the very top of Santa’s good list!

After sending a massive 170,000 letters year, we’re looking forward to reaching last even more children this year.

And with a donation to the NSPCC, you’ll help Childline be here for children who someone to listen. That’s the true spirit need of Christmas.

ESTATE AGENT IN BEDFORD

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REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

Sandy Town Council, the Royal British Legion Sandy & District Branch and St Swithun’s Parish Church are glad to be able to invite people across the come together again and participate in town to a communal act of Remembrance in a more traditional way this year.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

Don’t leave your engine running – warns council

in crime made tackling activity The Force has a matter of priority for will have it crushed.” from the month’s of traffic range Further results behaviour, (ASB), teams have focussed on dealing with a 2021/22 and policing from resident reports included officers vital intelligence about ASB to 63 e-scooter offences, gathering county. the top issues identified and giving advice areas across the an overall from residents, in eight hotspot

nuisance was alsoJudgement, riders. there – extra Preventing vehicle work does not stop victims of umbrella of Operation given out to And the Force’s given to repeat affected theme, under the is already being seized and 56 warnings 59 of the Police support of ASB, to make sure those most with three cars a real under Section all forms right time, to make riders and drivers right help at the are on a one- have the in improving their lives.

Reform Act 2002. vehicle owners This means theseif they are found to be using difference ALONE as or in DON’T SUFFER strike warning, focusing ely or carelessly, or distress Basham said: “We’re the their vehicle inconsiderat to cause alarm, have the Chief Inspector we understand forms because life, and it’s not officers a manner likely others again, on ASB in all its quality of people’s annoyance to to it. few impact harm it does and remove power to seize “At the start of right that the actions of an inconsiderate Basham said: all Chief Insp Pete it clear that we’d be using to ensure all can on the many. made are working hard either by September we to stop people who think they officers “Our effectively, comwith available powers way that is harmful to their and reports of ASB are dealt a partner agencies. suffer ride or drive in use of Section 59 warnings us or the relevant you, please don’t to help munity, and our seized shows we’re doing exactly we can “If ASB is affecting we will do all matter, you’ll three cars being – report it and should alone action, and if it’s not a police to deal with that. agency one of these warnings a and take with the right “Anyone given if we find them causing be put in touch that seized be doubt no will it have with that vehicle it back – and in the issue.” nuisance again get have to pay to and they will

Committee meeting blasted as ‘hypocri and irresponsible’ tical

COUNCILLOR Kay Burley (Labour, Central and East Ward) asked the BedfordKempston by John Council committee’s Guinn Borough 11 was convened chair why the meeting on October – Local Democracy as a face-to-face one chamber, and not virtually. in the council Reporter The committee chair personal belief that said the council was we need to have face-to-face by example’ – and ‘leading ings. meetadded that the government extended the period had not “In order to allowed to hold virtual where local authorities were committee has actually transact business properly, the to meet as meetings.

“As you are a member Councillor Coombes an in-person meeting.” of the local outboard, added he is aware will therefore be aware you members do not hold the that other of the recent increase same view, but that avirus infections,” in coron- from “up top” is needed guidance Councillor Burley said: “You’ll also be aware that this council “I do think it is the on the matter. is encouraging agile right thing [to meet for employees, and working face],” he said. “But face-toit has committed I have to say there to reducing cli- anything that mate change. has not been has come “Do you not think what we are doing’.” from the top that says, ‘this is irresponsible to have that it’s both hypocritical and Councillor whom have travelled 15 or so people here, many of answered, and Burley said that her question was not added that coming car, when everything some distance, presumably by not a good example into the chamber was to give to council employees, the same conclusions could have been discussed, and are asked to who come in only if it is reached, necessary.

The chair, councillor by meeting virtually?”

“I did Graeme Coombes ical and ask you whether you thought it was hypocrit(Conservative, Wilshamstead Ward) said: “Personally, answer irresponsible,” she said. “But it seems I have always felt you clearly don’t.” by your that we need to get back to business [as usual] as soon “I disagree, we’re as possible,” he said. not being hypocritical,” “And I have a Continued on page 3

10:50am Parade will march from Swan Lane to the War Memorial on Bedford Road 11:00am Act of Remembrance, two-minute silence and wreath laying at War Memorial.

ING

So, what are you waiting for?

Order your personalised letter from Santa by December 14, to make sure yours arrives before Christmas.

To order your letter please visit: nspcc.org.uk/santa Emma Motherwell Local Campaigns Manager NSPCC East of England

11:15am Parade will proceed along Bedford Road and to the Market Square, via the High Street and Cambridge Road.

11:30am Parade will be dismissed at the Market Square and the outdoor Service of Remembrance will begin.

Noon End of the Service of Remembrance.

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FINES could be handed out to inconsiderate motorists who leave their engine running when parked across Central Bedfordshire, affecting air quality.

Local authorities can adopt extra legal powers, enabling fixed by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter penalty notices to be given to drivers who let their vehicle idle which we won’t fulfil? will end and refuse to switch off.

“The council will get lots of issued.” up with a fine being “Engine idling isn’t enforced examples Conservative Leighton Buzzard

by Central Bedfordshire Council officers of engine idling where currently,” according to a report to thing. are unable to do some- South councillor Amanda Dodwell explained: “I’ve had a lot of comboth its executive and general pur“Most examples occur when plaints poses committee. from residents about this people go in “Doing so will enhance the in the car to shop and someone’s problem. listening to music, or in “Some work being done already to the summer air conditioning themselves,have tried to tackle it improve air quality and support the doesn’t so it’s good to see the work if the engine’s not on. council council’s sustainability plan,” said taking action.

“I’m not suggesting we should “When we’re doing patrols on the report. ignore it. Clearly something’s in engine idling the far greater probThe issuing of a fixed penalty place and we need to support lem is notice would be a last resort for national around parking on pavelegislation.” ments and obstruction near civil enforcement and safer neighHead of public protection Jo schools. bourhood officers, it added.

I would like you to tackle Borthwick Conservative Arlesey council- be some replied: “I agree there’ll both.” need to manage public Conservative Cranfield and lor Ian Dalgarno told the executive: expectation of what this might lead Marston Moretaine “This issue can have a detrimental to councillor Ken about impact on air quality and the result- notices. issuing fixed penalty Matthews said: “I don’t see this is going to be a serious problem. It’s ing effect on public health.

“The effort “This council has a commit- communicatingneeds to be put into important the publicity indicates the need to turn what could happen ment to help people make the right engines if people don’t choices and become greener,” he behaviouroff, improving driving comply.” and raising awareness Conservative Linslade councilsaid. of the problem. lor Gordon Perham suggested: “We “We’ve put £5,000 in the bud“There’s some fairly old but need get which will go towards signage useful plenty of signage around guidance that goes with the schools in areas where we know there are legislation, and where people generalwhich explains how we ly do this.” instances, such as outside schools.” should enforce it The general purposes commitAt CBC’s general purposes “By adopting this, we’ve got tee agreed to recommend to full committee, Independent Potton the opportunity to do that in a for- council councillor Adam Zerny asked: mal capacity, even though the sanc- scheme an amendment to the “While it’s a laudable objective, tions of delegation in the constiavailable are limited. tution to allow enforcement action are we potentially opening “Hopefully most drivers’ are to be taken, following the up something that will lead to already with us on this. Only the Department expectations from the public very for Transport guidfew who choose to ignore us ance.

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Now living in France and unable to attend the concert, Alan has since contacted NMVC to say that, having listened to the live recording of the choir’s performance, “considering recording a live performance with a live audience is not the easiest thing to do, I think it’s a triumph. Well done!”

After the concert, NMVC chairman Mark York, said “I know that I speak for all involved in NMVC when I say that finally getting out and performing in such a wonderful endeavour has lifted everyone’s spirits.”

The concert was held in support of Prostate Cancer UK.

THE Northampton Male Voice Choir, (NMVC), together with the world famous GUS Band and fabulous soprano soloist Emily Haig thoroughly entertained an enthusiastic, near capacity audience at Northampton’s Spinney Theatre with a Last Night of the Proms concert conducted and MC’d in his inimitable flamboyant style by musical director, Stephen Bell.

The choir performed a selection from the 15 new songs it had learned during the Covid lockdown, including ‘Irving; an original work by Alan Simmons, one of the most highly regarded choral leaders and composers in the UK.

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Concert hailed a triumph

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Awards Celebration – Kettering General Hospital stars

THE Bedford College Group Achievement Awards Celebration emerged more powerfully than ever before from the challenging Covid timeline of 2020/21.

Online, but with a wider reach than ever before, the ceremony on Thursday November, 18, marked the successes in adversity of students and staff. For the first time the Group gave awards highlighting the commitment of companies to training tomorrow’s employees.

Ian Pryce CBE, long standing CEO of the Group, which was voted the FE College of the Year in 2020, said: “At The Bedford College Group we have always seen our job as helping people develop into resilient citizens who are able to navigate their way in the world.

That journey is never easy, nothing worthwhile ever is.”

Allan Schofield, Chair of the Corporation added: “We are investing heavily and this year sees the Corporation agreeing an ambitious new strategic plan to take us towards 2030.”

Winners announced on the evening: Outstanding Student of the Year: Katie Moreland (pictured above) also celebrated being as Apprentice of the Year. Katie overcame dyslexia to achieve Distinctions as a Business Administrator Apprentice at Kettering General Hospital.

Joshua Crook was announced as FE Student of the Year. A performing arts students at Tresham College who not only excelled but supported his peers across the department.

Molly Kirton is the Higher Education Student of the Year, from among a wide range of degree-level learning candidates.

At the South Bank Arts Centre at Bedford College, Molly studied Graphic Design.

Jonathan Entwistle shared the Student Participation Award for his work with the Students’ Union and has been an active member of the Q Agenda.

Megan Winham jointly won the Student Participation Award for her work with the SU at Tresham College.

The first employer awards by the Group were won by: n Kettering General Hospital as Workplace Placement Provider of the Year

n Leibherr as Apprenticeship Provider n Anyvan UK for Employer Engagement. n The Elizabeth Nash Unsung Hero Employee Award went to Amy Cleary, Senior Customer Contact Manager whose team dealt with 1,000s of calls and inquiries from lockdown in March 2020 onwards.

The first Bedford College was established in 1882 and in 1976 the Bedford College of Higher Education was created through a merger of three colleges. In 1992 the ‘Mander’ site in Cauldwell Street achieved independent status from local authorities and was rebranded as Bedford College. in 2009 Shuttleworth College became part of Bedford College and in 2017 it merged with Tresham College in Northants to create The Bedford College Group.

out & about DIARY :

Rushden & District History Society:

Friday December 17, 7.30pm. JonPaul Carr. 'The Twelve Days of 'Rushden's' Christmas'.

Friday January 21, 2022 7.30pm.

Ron Whittaker. The Rise and Fall of Footwear Manufacturing.

Whitefriars Primary School, Boughton Drive, Rushden NN10 9HX. Members £1.50, non-members £2.50 Contact: 01536 238320 for more informationact:

Higham Ferrers Footpath Group:

Sunday 5th December. Meet 09.35 Saffron Road car park Higham Ferrers for car sharing. Admission Free Contact 07816 065112 5 mile walk from Ecton Sunday 19th December. Meet 09.35 Saffron Road car park Higham Ferrers for car sharing. Admission Free. Contact 07552 993777. 7 mile walk from Kimbolton

Christmas Concert. Melrose Quartet, Saxon Hall, December 4, 8pm (doors 7.30pm) Tickets: £15 and £5 for under 16s. www.raundsfestival.com, Contact: 07756 015615.

Raunds Music Festival:

EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER DECEMBER 2021

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film review

The Railway Children return ‘The Railway Children Return’ is a sequel to the 1970 film ‘The Railway Children’ based on E. Nesbit’s classic book of the same name.

The original 1970 feature portrays three children who, following their father’s forced disappearance, go to Yorkshire with their mother to investigate the cause for his abduction.

The sequel picks up over forty years after the events of the previous film,

following a fresh group of children who are evacuated to a Yorkshire hamlet during WWII. Jenny Agutter reprises her role as Roberta from the original ‘The Railway Children’. She is joined by BAFTA winner Sheridan Smith, best known for her work in ‘Cilla’ (2014), Oscar nominee and BAFTA winner Tom Courtenay, and John Bradley, best known for his role as Samwell Tarly in HBO’s fantasy TV series ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019).

Beau Gadsdon, who portrays young Princess Margaret in ‘The Crown’ (2016-2019), K.J. Aikens, Eden Hamilton, Austin Haynes, and Zac Cudby play the new

generation of Railway Children.

Morgan Matthews, a BAFTAwinning filmmaker who rose to prominence for ‘A Brilliant Young Mind’ (2014), directed the film.

The screenplay was based on a script by BAFTA-winning producer Jemma Rodgers and adapted by Danny Brocklehurst. Rodgers also served as the film’s producer for Studiocanal.

‘The Railway Children Return’ was filmed on locations in Yorkshire, including Haworth, The Bronte Parsonage, and Oakworth Station.

The well-known rails featured in the film are all part of the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway.

The film will be released theatrically on April 1, 2022.

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14 —

DECEMBER 2021 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER

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gardening

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

with Milton Ernest Garden Centre

Winter garden delights in December I

by Maureen Catlin

N the depths of winter there are still some treasures to be found to brighten the dull grey landscape in our gardens. The evergreen backcloth is vital to give structure and form but there are also some flower and berry delights.

Viburnum Lilla Rose is an evergreen that produces creamy pink buds in late autumn which open to fragrant cream white flowers from December to spring.

It is a valuable winter plant for

sun or shade and a useful source of nectar for pollinating insects.

It is easy to grow with low maintenance and is equally good in a tub, grown as a clipped hedge or associated with variegated Euonymus with crocus snowdrops or dwarf Narcissus planted underneath.

Cotoneaster Microphyllus is another ground covering evergreen with bright orange red berries from autumn throughout winter to spring. It is a great source of food in December and January for Blackbirds, Thrushes, Redstarts and Fieldfares.

The herring bone fan shaped branches are best displayed when it is grown against a wall or fence.

Grow in a sunny place with Lavender or Christmas Box planted at the base.

The variegated evergreens with their bright shiny leaves are really colourful additions.

Eleagnus Gilt Edge whose bright golden leaf margins will lighten any winter border makes a good grouping with Choisya Ternata, Physocarpus diabolo and Brachyglottis Silver Waves. It can also be grown in a tub and trained as a small standard tree. It is hardy and

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easy to grow with white flowers in summer and red berries in autumn.

Another shrub with brightly coloured leaves is Holly, Ilex Madame Briot or Ilex altaclerensis Lawsoniana are good examples.

Both varieties will produce pillar box red berries if pollinated by a male type and both also have bright yellow leaf margins.

They are versatile and can be grown as hedges or trained as a standard to grow in a tub. The foliage makes lovely Christmas decorations and the birds of course enjoy the berries.

Mahonia Winter Sun is a quick growing evergreen with gorgeous brilliant yellow upright flowers that are richly perfumed from November until March. An architectural plant for sun or dappled shade which makes a lovely grouping with Hellebores, evergreen Ferns and Brunnera, the variegated perennial Forget me not.

Hamamelis Arnold Promise, Witch Hazel is a fascinating plant that bears bright yellow orange spidery flowers on bear stems from December to April. It is a hardy plant and grows well in a

large pot in ericaceous compost.

Feed with a sequestered iron.

The autumn foliage colour is vibrant and looks dramatic if planted with white stemmed Birch and coloured bark Cornus under planted with Christmas Roses.

Winter flowering Clematis is one of the few climbing plants in flower at this time of year. They need a sheltered place probably

w

against a wall or fence with the support of wires or trellis. They can also be allowed to wander over other shrubs or even as ground cover. If grown in a large pot with an obelisk support this must be put in a sheltered place protected from severe weather.

They are a great source of winter nectar for bumble bees.

Clematis Winter Beauty is evergreen with small creamy nodding flowers from October to February, Clematis Balearica also has cream flowers with maroon markings on the inside of the petals followed by fluffy seed heads which are great when sprayed gold for Christmas decoration.

The Christmas Rose, Helleborus Christmas Carol, is a truly Christmas flowering plant. The glistening pure white waxy looking single flowers have lemon yellow stamens from December to

March. They gradually turn pinkish with age and are a welcome source of nectar for the pollinating insects.

It can be grown in a pot and brought indoors along with the Christmas Tree from mid December for the Christmas period but must be hardened off in a sheltered cool place before returning to the garden afterwards.

The Snow Rose is a cross between Helleborus Niger and H. Corsican. It is very hardy and produces lots of flowers from December to March. Some good varieties are H. Mahagon Snow, creamy pink, H. Ice and Snow pure white and the amazing H. Barola which is garnet red.

So here are some useful additions to the winter garden. These brave plants all put on a great show in spite of our grey cold winter days.

IT LOOKS A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

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Succulent roasted turkey crown with all the trimmings gravy and cranberry sauce, crispy roast potatoes, glistening carrots, parsnips, brussel sprouts, and Yorkshire pudding. Followed by traditional Christmas pudding and brandy butter or white chocolate and raspberry roulade and cream. Tea or coffee.

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EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER DECEMBER 2021

— 15

sport International kettleball contest powers its way into the county KETTLEBELL lifting athletes converged on Rushden for the annual English Kettlebell Association’s, (EKA), Pentathlon competition.

The competition was organised by Del Wilson and his team at Kettlebell Nation, Al Nisbet and Bill Toyer.

Del said: “It takes an awful lot of planning to organise a big national competition and with help from the EKA, in particular Graham Morris, who looked after scoring and lift times for all the athletes, we were able to run efficiently and successfully.”

The kettlebell pentathlon consisted of five different lifts of six minutes duration, each separated by a five minute rest.

Each athlete can choose up to five different kettlebell weights and use them as they choose for each exercise.

It is a true test of strength, endurance and strategic planning to ensure the correct use of the weights to maximise one’s potential score.

This was also the biggest pentathlon competition in terms of entrants ever seen, certainly in Europe at least.

INTERNATIONAL FEEL

As well as the UK, with entries from Scotland and Ireland as well as Norway, Switzerland and the USA, it had a real international feel.

The venue played a big part in the success of the event and was loved by all the entrants.

The Goods Shed, part of Rushden Historical Transport Society is a uniquely historic building which is run and managed by a board of trustees and volunteers.

It is an exceptional space and now hosts many different events throughout the year.

Also this type of event could not go ahead without its many sponsors.

The main event sponsor on this occasion was another local Rushden organisation owned by Emerson Patton, Bright Business Advice.

Kettlebell Nation has organised seven local events now in Rushden and also run classes for those looking to either keep themselves fit or who are considering the possibility of developing themselves to become the kettlebell competitors of tomorrow.

This sport is truly open to all ages as was shown with the entrants aged from nine to 62.

Exciting bike plans progress to next stage

PROPOSED plans for a new bike park facility in Northamptonshire have been approved to continue to the next stage.

If the project proceeds, the proposal is for Northamptonshire Spor) to manage its dayto-day operation through volunteers.

The proposed Hardingstone Bike Park will be on a disused patch of Delapre Golf Centre.

Northamptonshire Sport will work alongside partners; West Northamptonshire Council, Sport England and volunteer and off-road bike enthusiast, Tony Skirrow.

The project is incredibly exciting for Northamptonshire and one which will provide new ways for people living in the county to be more active.

Check www.northamptonshiresport.org for updates on the scheme.

It is no walk in the park lifting heavy kettlebells for long durations of time, but it is a sport where the lifting community is key to its popularity.

The amount of support, guidance and encouragement offered by athletes at all levels is amazing.

Del said: “There are truly no egos in this sport.

“We see entire families getting involved and you could quite literally be lifting right next to a World Champion.”

Del himself has won several World

Championships and currently holds many UK records within the sport and his team are also medallists at a European level.

If you would like to get involved, e-mail Del at del@kettlebellnation.com for further information.

16 —

DECEMBER 2021 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER

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TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Major national coaching award in safe hands with county coach

sport COUNTY football goalkeeping coach Lee Reade has been recognised for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic with a prestigious award at the annual UK Coaching Heroes Awards.

From more than 500 nominations, Lee was one of just 25 coaches from across the UK rewarded for the considerable difference they made to people's mental and

physical well-being during the pandemic, and had his award presented to him by Princess Anne, (pictured, right).

During the pandemic, Lee, a goalkeeper coach for the last 20 years, became a 'Cyber Coach,' organising online sessions including Jurassic Park themed adventures.

Lee also ensured his sessions had a

keen focus on mental health, recognising the impact the pandemic had on many peoples mental wellbeing, whilst also educating his students on other important topics including diet and healthy eating.

He said: “To be nominated by those I coach, to be accepted and recognised for The UK Coaching Award was an extremely proud moment.

“As in many grassroots sports, a coach is often a 'background figure' to any sporting success, so personal recognition was truly an honour.”

Lee also called the pandemic the “biggest challenge I have had in my coaching career,” recognising he ended up working more hours than he would do pre-COVID, but this was “totally justi-

fied” when he saw the skill levels of his goalkeepers on their return to coaching post lockdown.

Director of coaching Emma Atkins, said: “We applaud your efforts and the role you played in your communities boosting morale and lifting people's moods in what was a completely alienating time.”

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Diamonds launch festive football holiday camp

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IN partnership with Moulton College, AFC Rushden & Diamonds are delighted to launch the Diamonds’ Christmas Holiday Football Camp.

This follows the success of the inaugural holiday football camp in October.

The Club and College plan to hold holiday football camps throughout the 2021/22 academic year school holidays, at Moulton College, Moulton, Northamptonshire.

The holiday football camps are a safe, secure and fun way for boys and girls to develop as young footballers, keep fit and have fun with friends.

The Christmas Holiday Football Camp will take place from Monday, December 20, to Wednesday, December 22, again using the excellent Moulton College facilities and coaches, all of whom hold valid coaching

qualifications and DBS certificates.

This holiday football camp is open to boys and girls aged six, (Year 1), to 11-years-old, (Year 6).

The prices for one day, £20, (all additional siblings £16), for three days, £50, (all additional siblings £40).

Registration on each day will start at 9am and camp hours each day will be 9.30am to 3pm.

Visit:www.afcdiamondsshop. com/holidaycamp.asp for details.

Separate registration forms must be completed for applicants from different households.

Registration forms must also be completed by an applicant’s legal guardian.

Any further enquiries should be sent to the organising team at afcrdteambuilding@outlook.com

County group chosen as organiser for top event

IT has been announced that Northamptonshire Sport has been appointed as the race organiser for the National Sprint Aquathlon at Sywell Country Park next year.

As in previous years, the championships being contested will be sprint, standard and middle distance triathlon, aquathlon, standard distance duathlon and club relays, with events across England selected to host them.

Championship events provide Triathlon England core and ultimate members with the opportunity to compete to be crowned national champion in their age group, with the five individually raced championships being

divided into five-year categories and the club relays seeing teams of four allocated categories depending on their team’s make-up.

The first championship of the year is the Triathlon England Standard Distance Duathlon Championship on April 3, at the Yorkshire Duathlon.

Second is the aquathlon championships in Sywell, in June before the middle and sprint distance triathlon championships on backto-back weekends in mid-July.

The August bank holiday sees the penultimate championships of the year, before the Triathlon England Championships in September.