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AUGUST 2017 2016 JANUARY
REPORTER AUGUST 2016
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Countywide project is set to wage war on hunger
2 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
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EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
THE county’s Food Poverty Network launched its first ‘Big Conversation Event’ at Springs Family Centre as part of a national campaign to End Hunger UK.
This will be the first of several events held between now and March 2017, focusing on tackling food poverty in the county.
Rachel McGrath, Grants Director at Northamptonshire Community Foundation and Chair of the Network said: “The main purpose behind #EndHungerUK national campaign is to build a groundswell of pressure on politicians and government so that they take the issue of hunger in the UK seriously. “According to data from the Food Foundation more than eight million people are struggling to put regular food on the table and food insecurity is massively on the rise.”
It will culminate in a national call for action in March 2017 and the End Hunger UK Campaign is supported by many national charities and organisations includ- nity to ask the panel questions and ing Child Poverty Action Group, to voice their opinions, feedback Fareshare, Food Ethics Council, and stories on what needs to be Fabian Commission on Food and done to end food poverty in Poverty, the Food Foundation, Northamptonshire. Nourish Scotland, Trussell Trust and the Independent Food Aid QUESTION AND ANSWER Network. Rutendo Nyatsine, Chair of A panel of representatives from Zimwomen Association voiced local food banks and charities her opinion during the question were also present at the event, (see and answer session with the panel. above), and all participants includ- She said of her experience: “The ing a local councillor and local #EndHungerUK conversation has residents were given the opportu- been an eye opener for us.
“I know that we think it is a problem out there but we didn’t realise how big it is.” Chief Executive of the Hope Centre, Robin Burgess spoke of the importance of the event; “Food poverty and hunger is central to this mission and it has been part of what we do for 40 years, so tackling food poverty is crucial. “The more we do it collectively the better and there is a vital need to work together to challenge assumptions and lack of
awareness of how extensive food poverty is.”
Charity Director of Restore Northampton, Anya Willis said ‘The effectiveness of joining together in a national campaign gives us a greater voice than what we would have as the Food Poverty Network in Northamptonshire.’ To get involved with Northamptonshire Food Poverty Network contact 01604 230033.
The Reporter is an independent publication, part of Rosetta Publishing Ltd. Published by © 2015 Rosetta Publishing Limited, 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest Bedford MK44 1SH. Tel: 07894 935952 or 07724 905406 Editorial: pat@rosettapublishing.com Advertising: advertising@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Mortons Print Limited. Newspaper House, Morton Way, Boston Road, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR.
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Superstore teams up with charity workers to help the lonely Thrapston
ASDA Foundation has generously donated £1,000 to local the charity SERVE. The money was used to provide a two-day Christmas Dinner event on December 20 and 21 for 30 people who would have been alone over the festive period. The money funded the food, drinks,
decorations, a local singer, presents for the beneficiaries and volunteers, minibus travel expenses and a few care support staff. General manager, Jessica Slater said: “This was fantastic news, our beneficiaries had a wonderful time celebrating Christmas at SERVE.”
SERVE provides a range of services which support vulnerable adults to live independently in their own homes. If you would like further information about the group contact the office on 01933 315555 or email info@serve.org.uk
Big Lottery handout to help out youngsters THE Big Lottery has recently awarded Aspirations Wellbeing £7,075 for a project to help people living with disabilities. The money will fund monthly discos and dance performances. The Trust already runs a YIP (Young Inclusive People) Club on a Tuesday evening during term time and a MAC (Multi
Activity Club) for older people with disabilities, on a Thursday morning. There is also a YIP Dance Club. All Clubs are based at the Pemberton Centre in Rushden. There is currently little provision for young people and adults with disabilities to attend a night out.
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Green fingered success for pupils
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Alarm offer from council
NEWS IN BRIEF POLICE have issued a warning to Raunds residents to keep their property safe during the festive season. Cllr Helen Howell, Mayor of Raunds said: "A number of shed break-ins have been reported across the region. “We know that at this time of year it's not just garden tools that people are keeping in their sheds but also those special Christmas gifts such as children's bikes. "The Town Council therefore wants to encourage everyone to be vigilant and keep their property secure. “So that we can also offer practical support the council has purchased a number of shed alarms to give away to local residents." The alarms are very simple to install and do not require electricity, if activated they emit a loud siren noise. To claim your free shed alarm please call at the Town Council offices between 9.30am and 2pm Monday-Friday, the alarms are being given away on a first come first served basis and are limited to one per household. –––––––––––––
RSPB meeting
THE next indoor meeting of the mid-Nene RSPB group will be on Thursday, January 19, at 7.30pm at the Saxon Hall in Raunds There will be an illustrated talk on Undiscovered Norfolk by Chris Ward The meeting is open to everyone admission £3. including tea or coffee. Children can enter free More details on this and other activities are available from Penny on 01933 350404. –––––––––––––
Dumped rubbish
COUNCIL workers for Kier picked up 180 sacks of rubbish from a section of the A14 during a winter operation. A spokesman for East Northamptonshire Council said: “The waste we collected consisted of 180 litter sacks which weighed in at 1,140kg, plus loose debris and tyres. “This was picked up from the East Northants section of the A14, junction 11 to 12, over a couple of evenings in November.”
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STUDENTS from Manor School Sports College were crowned champions in the regional final of the RHS Green Plan It Challenge. Back in September a team of four students from Years 8 and 9 attended the launch of the challenge at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, engaging them in a ten-week project based in school where they had to rethink the role of green space and develop solutions to a horticulture-related challenge. Supported by an industry mentor who visited the school, the students worked as a team to design a new green space using a range of materials and media to bring their ideas to life. Through the process they learnt about the importance of plants to people and places. The Green Plan It Challenge was student led, allowing them to explore the needs of their school community and had a broad curriculum relevance in
JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 5
subjects such as science, design and technology, PSHE and citizenship. The team, who called themselves #Change, competed against eleven other schools and presented their designs at a celebration event on Tuesday, December 6, at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The day concluded with an awards ceremony and a talk by Jamie Butterworth – plantsman, horticultural broadcaster and RHS Ambassador – highlighting the career opportunities within horticulture. The students faced tough competition but were awarded the top accolade of Best Overall Project: Midlands. Feedback from the assessors highlighted the quality and depth of research and knowledge of their report which was backed up through their confident presentation skills. As well as a trophy the team was awarded a certificate and a £100 garden centre voucher.
Volunteers brought cheer to veterans with festive food
6 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
NENE Valley Community Action were again in action before Christmas providing small hampers for veteran members of Rushden Royal British Legion and older local residents. The funds to fill the hampers came from a raffle held at the joint School of Life and a recent
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EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
Len and Betty celebrate their diamond anniversary
Rushden Academy tea dance together with donations from staff and pupils at the school. School of Life Project Officer, Melanie Johnson, from Nene Valley Community Action said “It’s great to see the community coming together to provide something extra at Christmas time.”
LEN and Betty Snelling, of Masefield Drive in Rushden is a real Diamond couple. The pair celebrate their anniversary this month with their family, including their children, 12 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Len, 86, who served in the Forces, and Betty, 80, a former nurse put their long marriage down to give and take and a good understanding of each other.
The sweet smell of success for confectionary shop
A CONFECTIONARY shop has enjoyed the sweet smell of success after being named the winner of this year’s Wellingborough’s Christmas Window Display Competition.
The Sweet Jar, located on Market Street, took first place for staging a bespoke wooden fireplace with Santa’s legs hanging from it in the shop front.
The rest of the display was adorned with festive decorations
and a snowman fashioned together with three large goldfish bowls. Shop owner Jayne Bedford said: “It was a proud moment when we found out we had won the competition. “We invested quite a lot of time and effort into the display and we’ve certainly had a lot of admirers. “Having a talking point has definitely helped promote us as a business and got more people through the door.”
Slim and fit members boost hall funds by £1,000 after series of charity activities and events
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MEMBERS of Slim & Fit, the respected local diet and fitness club run by Tracey Amis, has raised more than £1,000 for Glamis Hall in Wellingborough. This impressive total, raised throughout 2016, came from a number of activities including a Charity Aerobathon held at the hall. That event alone raised £557 and many local businesses generously donated prizes for the raffle. Tracey Amis said: "Many local people are familiar with the great
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work Glamis Hall does to support elderly residents. “I was overwhelmed by people's generosity and support. “I hope our fund-raising efforts over the past year will go some way towards helping them continue their work." "We thank all those who supported us by coming to the event or buying raffle tickets. “Also, thank you to Margot and Linda who did a brilliant job of leading Salsa and Zumba sessions."
JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 7
Heather Saunders, chairman of Glamis Hall, said: "We are absolutely delighted with Tracey's support. “She is one of a kind, providing regular motivation to her members and they've been brilliant in helping raise so much for the hall." Glamis Hall is a community centre on the Queensway Estate in Wellingborough. It consists of a large sports hall with kitchen and servery, community room, changing rooms and a wellbeing centre.
The centre and its day care services were saved by a group of friends, who came together in 2014, following Wellingborough Council's decision to cut funding and close the hall. The hall is now a registered charity and largely run by volunteers. Tracey runs classes in Wellingborough, Rushden, Irthlingborough, Higham Ferrers and Stanwick. For further details www. slimandfitclasses.com
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Reporter 01/17
Mayor opens fantastic new sports facility at the Manor School and urges community to join in 8 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
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EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
RAUNDS town mayor Cllr Helen Howell has officially opened new changing facilities at Manor School Sports College.
Ideally situated next to the school’s all-weather football pitch the block consists of two separate changing rooms which can also be adapted into classrooms. There is also a refreshments hut where spectators can purchase hot and cold drinks as well as have a seat during half time. The new facilities provide the perfect space for teams to prepare for matches whilst also providing an excellent viewing platform for families and friends to cheer on players.
COMMUNITY HIRE
In addition to the facilities being used by students during school hours there is also the opportunity for community clubs to hire both the changing rooms and football pitch. The school’s sports centre has already received positive feedback from visitors and has had a number of junior teams register their interest in hiring the new block. Cllr Helen Howell said: It is a delight to see young people enjoying the great sports opportunities that Manor School provides. “These new facilities are a wonderful addition for both the school and the local community.” Anyone interested can visit the school’s website for more information on hiring the all-weather pitch as well as other facilities by going to www.manorschool. northants.sch.uk
Switch, save and smile initiative – you could be hundreds of pounds better off under scheme 10 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
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EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
HOME owners and tenants have another offer the best deal. This takes place in February more than £1,000! “Switch Save Smile is a hassle-free way of chance to save money on their energy bills 2017. The cheapest tariff offered will win, and making sure you’re getting a good deal. All with a collective switching scheme everyone registered for the scheme will then be you need to do is register, which takes less than returning this week.
East Northamptonshire Council is once again teaming up with leading collective switching expert, iChoosr, to take part in the Big Community Switch in a bid to help you get a better deal on your gas and electricity. ENC’s free scheme, known as ‘Switch Save Smile,’ invites you to join forces and pay less for your energy. The more people who register, the greater the chance of getting a competitive energy deal. Energy suppliers are then invited to take part in the auction to bid against each other to
sent details of how much money they could save, together with a no-obligation offer to switch. There was an average saving of more than £350 per household last year! East Northamptonshire Council leader Steven North, said: “Lots of people haven’t got time to compare energy suppliers or find the whole process quite daunting. “This is why I’m pleased we’re taking part in the Big Community Switch for a second year. “Last year the majority of residents saved at least £100 and a few even pocketed
10 minutes, and then let iChoosr do all the hard work for you. “The more people that register, the greater the savings could be.” For more information and/or to register, you can visit the council’s website eastnorthamptonshire.gov.uk/smile or contact the council on 01832 742121. Editor’s Note: Have you tried switching energy suppliers? How much have you saved? Contact us at nick@rosettapublishing.com and share your experiences.
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Sad day as Rotarian passes away
RUSHDEN Rotarian Alan Matthias passed away on December 2 after bravely and determinedly fighting an aggressive illness. He was 80. Alan had held all the high offices in the club being President in 2003-4 and serving as a dynamic Chairman of the Foundation, Community and International Committees. He was the ‘Guardian’ of the family of Rotary for many years making sure that any sick Rotarian or family member was given support. He steered a tight ship. Nothing was left to chance – everything was planned, committed to paper, tested and executed with precision. Yet Alan was not a dry, pen pushing civil servant. He worked in the way that best served those he was serving. His meticulous organisation of accommodation, meals, trips out and about, including visits to other Rotary Clubs. He did not limit himself to Rotary service either. He was both learner and teacher in the local U3A, specialising in the Classical Studies and the Greek tragedies. He was a dedicated and faithful Churchman, singer in St. Mary’s choir (last year at the age of 79 he gained the Gold Award from the Royal School of Church Music. This was is the highest award in church choral music open to experienced choristers.members.
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Lisa’s sports therapy business is snowballing
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JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 11
LISA Boardman has seen her sport and injury therapy business flourish in the past few months. She said: “After graduating university in May 2015 and launching ‘Boardman Sport and Injury Therapy’ in the same month, the business has snow balled! “I have been working from EPT Gym, Rushden, treating clients of all ages, gender and conditions and is rapidly building a large client base. “In the last year I have been able to expand the businesses by treating clients over at the Oxford Street Therapy Centre, Wellingborough too. “ So what is Sports Therapy? It is a type of physical therapy that specifically focuses on preventing injury and on rehabilitation of the patient back to the best possible levels of function. This is done by personally tailored rehabilitation and strength and conditioning programmes along with sports massage, mobili-
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sation techniques and ultrasound therapy. Some think that sports therapy is solely for the sporting person but in fact it’s suitable for anyone suffering with pain, injury or postural flaws The business offers a variety of treatments which may help with long standing pain, sports, traumatic and occupational injuries or even just to relax., They are advanced sports massage, injury and pain assessment and treatment, strength and conditioning exercises, vertebral and peripheral mobilisations, hot stone massage, ultrasound therapy, Swedish massage and acupuncture A taster day will be held on Saturday, February 4, at EPT gym with half hour treatments at just £10. To book and appointment or if you would like more information contact 07969 210516 or visit w w w. l i s a b o a r d m a n s p o r t s therapy.com
Exciting job opportunities on offer at home and abroad as college holds open days for ambitious youngsters
12 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
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EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
EMPLOYERS offering work experience in outdoor adventure careers around the globe were at a Shuttleworth College event open to schools from across the county. Exciting jobs in sailing, climbing, skiing and more are won by those who sign up to Shuttleworth College at 16. Among the 20 employers were Camp America and closer to home, Center Parcs, Kempston Box End Water Park, Essex Outdoors and Bedfordshire Police. In addition five universities offering progression routes to Higher Education were there. Those visiting the event were current Shuttleworth students who live in areas like East Northamptonshire, like Rushden, Luton and Woburn and who were interested in careers in sailing, the military and going on to university for management studies. Daniel Playford, Outdoor Adventure Courses Manager, said: “Many of the exhibitors from adventure companies studied at Shuttleworth and we invited alumni and local schools to attend too. “It’s an increasingly popular event for an increasingly popular career choice. Most of our stu-
dents go straight into jobs from Shuttleworth.” From next year it is planned there will be an option for students to study a degree level course through a BTEC HNC/D in Sport (Leisure Management). They would complete two years of a degree at Shuttleworth with the third at university. He said: “This will give them the chance to join us at entry level age 16, carry on at Shuttleworth and then have the ‘going away to university’ experience for the third year of their degree. “This is more cost effective than going away for three years to university of course. “Alternatively students who complete two years at Shuttleworth are well qualified to apply to a wide range of universities across the UK offering outdoor/sport courses.” If you want to pursue a career in adventure, sports or military services then take a look at the Shuttleworth and Bedford College website www.bedford.ac.uk as a wide range are available across both campuses. Our picture shows Center Parcs seeking young talent at Shuttleworth College.
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Thrapston
DECEMBER 2016 REPORTER #2 — 13
A busy year ends with ‘Capability’ Brown dropping-in to hand over trees to good causes
14 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
TO END a busy year celebrating the 300th Anniversary of the birth of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, the Northamptonshire Gardens Trust was delighted to have gifted trees to all those groups from Wellingborough and East Northamptonshire who visited the wonderful Brownian landscape at Castle Ashby in July. These visits were part of an ambitious project aiming to encourage a wider, more diverse
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audience to visit, learn about and enjoy Brown’s landscapes as part of the Capability Brown 2016 Festival. This festival was managed by the Landscape Institute and funded with a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. On a beautiful sunny morning five trees were delivered to a variety of sites and in the very capable hands of ‘Capability’ Brown two Rowan trees were planted at Rowan Gate School and the Warwick Academy in
HUGELY APPRECIATED
To THE EDiToR: The directors and thank JJ Mac Ltd for their kind members of Cando Care wish to donation of £500 to pay for a Christmas outing for our elderly Client Users. L ET T E RS AND JJ Mac’s generosity paid for C O N T R I B UT I ON S them to have a two-course dinner, Letters to the Editor are welcomed. Christmas themed musical show However the Editor retains the and afternoon tea which they all absolute right to edit, omit as enjoyed so much. he/she sees fit, without reference to All at Cando feel that the the author. 'Community Spirit' shown by JJ Please email your contributions to: pat@rosettapublishing.com Mac Ltd should be set as an examwith Rushden/Higham Reporter ple to all companies and developin the subject line o.r Tweet us at: ers, this is something we all need #RosettaCom or Facebook at: to revive and encourage. RosettaPublishingLtd once again, a very BiG You can also find the Rushden THANK YoU! to JJ Mac Ltd. Reporter’s own Twitter feed @RushdenReporter or email (Groundworks Midland Road nick@rosettapublishing.com Raunds Development)
Little Alfie from Higham Ferrers, who has multiple health issues, relating to a condition called, Charge Syndrome. He is the youngest of four children and needs full time, constant care. His mother Jo, approached the Swivel Club for support, and help with the purchase of a specialised buggy, to meet his complex needs and the Swivel Club obliged.
EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
Wellingborough and a Hawthorn at Southwood House for adults with disabilities, also in Wellingborough. Owing to limitations of space, Rowan Gate School in Rushden and the SERVE Therapy Centre in Higham Ferrers received crab apple trees in pots to brighten their urban environments. Each tree was ceremoniously planted with the help of pupils, residents and of course, ‘Capability’ Brown
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JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 15
16 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
THRAPSTON
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Great Northamptonshire Bus Strike… By Roy York
Saturday, January 4th 1936
ALL 118 employees at the main depot in Finedon Road, Irthlingborough arriving for work were told to ‘stand off’. From early morning owners of cars, motor cycles and bikes were used as couriers between the different Company depots. The main strike HQ was set up at the Boot & Shoe Union office in Station Road (now Coral Bookmaker). In spite of total secrecy the employers had found out through a leak and brought in eight scab drivers from London. There was tremendous public support. One bus had left Northampton depot before the crew could be informed of the strike. The car taking the news to Northampton quickly caught it up and the crew informed. The passengers when told, were perfectly good humoured about it and left the bus immediately to continue their journeys on foot. The bus was left where it was. Another bus, in charge of a black-leg crew drew up in Kettering to pick up workers heading to Corby Steel Works. Although some of the strikers were there explaining matters, the bus left with a good load. The passengers, all steel workers, were evidently taking advantage of the black-leg bus because they had no opportunity to make alternative arrangements to get to work, but, as the conductor soon found out, they did not approve of black-legs. When the bus reached its destination the last man to leave it was a rather large Irishman and to express his disapproval of black-legging he thumped the conductor on the jaw and said, “That’s for bringing us.” He then added, “We want this bus here again at 12 o’clock – we know who you are and God help you if you don’t bring it!”
Day 2: Sunday
DRIVERS were brought in from Norwich and were shocked at being stoned by members of the public as they arrived.
Day 3: Monday
ALL the men were sacked but given until 2pm to apply for their jobs back. If they refused they
were threatened with never being taken on again. The public was assured that a full service would be run. Three buses did leave Finedon Road depot but they did not run far. Two double-deckers were so badly mauled that they were not fit for service and a saloon mysteriously broke down after two miles. The first bus out of Kettering depot had a very warm reception. One of the strikers, a big strong fellow charged at it and attempted to push it back from whence it came. He was not completely successful and had to be satisfied with smashing the windscreen and a window or two. Other men joined in and within a couple of minutes the bus was a very sorry spectacle indeed. Every bus-stop was picketed by strikers so no buses stopped – hence no passengers were carried. Irthlingborough was the hot-spot. One or two buses came through but not more than once. The entry into Finedon Road from the Cross was very narrow and an ideal place to attack the vehicles. Buses were stoned and petrol pipes wrenched off. Fifty more drivers from Norwich were brought in having been told local men were suffering from gastric flu. They were then threatened that their jobs were in danger if they did not stay here. Tempers were strained a bit that day and a regrettable incident occurred at Isham. The strikers had set a trap for one particular man who had remained at work hoping that promotion would follow. Unfortunately the bus stopped was being driven by a Norwich man. Normally the scab would have been let off with a talking to, but he lost his head and kicked one of the strikers in the stomach. That did it. He was roughly manhandled and then marched half a mile to the river where he was thrown, feet first, into the water. The Company tried to make a case for attempted murder, but it was pointed out that if you want to murder a man you don’t drop him feet first into just three feet of water! Along country lanes ditches provided excellent cover when waiting to ambush a bus. One conductor realised the potential of a spindle. It really came into its own as when thrown through one window, its velocity allowed it to
smash a second window and be retrieved for future use. There was tremendous public support with tea, cakes, bread and cheese, cigarettes and cases of bottled beer being donated with the shoe factories being particularly generous. That evening small mesh wire netting was seen being taken into the depots. It had been a good first day, apart from Isham. A few buses had been run and all had been attacked.
Day 4: Tuesday
ALL windscreens were protected with the wire netting. The strikers quickly assembled a stock of ball bearings and spark plugs. So much damage was done no more buses left Irthlingborough. When a bus slowed down in Northampton strikers leapt forward and daubed a mixture of straw and thick whitewash mixed with size onto the wire netting. It was realised that large groups of strikers were unworkable so they worked in pairs. Each pair waited at a bus stop and when the bus stopped they kicked off the air valves. Buses did not carry a spare wheel. Buses then started carrying lady passengers, each wearing a large hat, knitting, and looking inwards. By mid-afternoon the police undercover agents were identified by the stubble growing on their chins! That afternoon a scab driver ran off the beaten track and drove his bus to destruction down Irthlingborough High Street. He was hotly pursued by four car loads of strikers and two police cars. The show was enthusiastically cheered on by the local inhabitants. By evening Derngate Bus Station had been turned into accommodation in preparation for the arrival of more scabs.
Day 5: Wednesday
BUSES again set out with wire netting round the driver’s cab, barbed wire protecting the petrol pipe and aluminium plates across wheel valves. Scab crews were issued with coshes made of rubber piping loaded with metal and buses given a police car escort. But public support remained firm. Cafés would not serve scab crews. When the owner realised that the man enjoying his dinner in
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JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 17
dragged on until bosses backed down Jubilee Café in Wellingborough was a scab, his meal was removed and he was thrown out with, “Get out, we don’t feed scabs here!” Many more drivers were brought in from Manchester and things really began to get nasty especially as the scab crews were armed with coshes, iron bars and spanners.
Day 6: Thursday, 9th January, 1936
AT 1am drivers arrived from Devon followed later in the morning by some from Durham. Altogether some 500 had been imported but only about 70 accepted permanent employment, even at enhanced rates when they heard the true facts of the strike. By now public support so strong that work in the Committee Room at Irthlingborough had to be suspended due to officials having to deal with so much food and comforts which were being donated.
Day 7: Friday
A DAY of great concern as the public were getting restive so police were sent to danger points to prevent action against any scabs. The strikers sent a deputation to London to try to meet Mr Bevan at Transport House. His response to them was, “You naughty boys – you ought to be smacked.” That didn’t help matters one iota!! Friday was pay day. Collections were planned outside factories but most collectors were invited in. There was great generosity – girls earning three shillings a week gave two, and boxes contained stamps, postal orders (including one from a well known football pool, obviously someone’s winnings) a pound and a ten shilling note.
Day 8: Saturday again
THE men had stood shoulder to shoulder for a whole week and their solidarity was remarkable. Following Friday’s successful collections retailers, Kettering cinemas and market stall holders requested collecting tins. In Northampton jack knives were thrust into tyres as buses stopped at traffic lights. Early in the afternoon an open-air meeting
was held at Irthlingborough Cross. The steps were thronged with influential members of the community and a dense and enthusiastic crowd gathered. While the meeting was in progress a car containing officials of the Company arrived and they began to distribute leaflets “Fair play to United Counties” containing bunkum about the Company having the welfare of the men at heart. The crowd turned hostile and began to move towards the car. 40 police officers were rushed to the town. Following the meeting each striker was given 10/- as the collections had been so successful. By evening more scab drivers had been brought in from Darlington and Belfast.
Day 9: Sunday – the crunch day
ON Sunday the public took a hand in affairs with a vengeance. They walked abroad intent on mischief and destruction. A crowd of at least 2,000 people gathered at a spot half way up Higham Hill. Where they all came from was a mystery – no one seemed to know who was behind it all – it was certainly not the strikers. At the point where they gathered was a parked lorry. A bus appeared and slowly climbed the hill. Just as the bus was overtaking it the lorry started to move and pulled across the road, completely blocking it. The trap was sprung. Who owned the lorry was never revealed, it drove quietly away as soon as its job was done. As soon as the bus was stationary the scab driver made the biggest mistake of his young life when he jumped out of his cab brandishing a large spanner. With a roar the crowd rushed forward and disarmed him. He was buffeted away to the roadside where he would have been very badly dealt with had not four strikers rescued him and taken him in hand. He was taken into Irthlingborough, fed and returned to the company, a little worse for wear, but totally converted to the cause.
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Meanwhile the bus was being very roughly handled. All its windows were smashed and the bonnet sides were taken off to expose the engine which was pounded with paving stones. The radiator and lamps were also broken. One man removed the cap from the fuel tank and dropped in lighted matches – thankfully it contained diesel. He then suggested that the bus be overturned. One side of the vehicle was lifted shoulder high but they were beaten by the width of the wheelbase. As no more buses appeared the crowd dispersed rather disappointed.
Day 10: Monday
Everyone was shaken and uncertain following Sunday’s incidents. The Traffic Commissioner threatened to withdraw men’s licences. He implored both sides to make concessions and said he would not return to London until matters sorted. More men arrived from Belfast but the police advised they return home at once - but the Company refused to pay their fares. And the skirmishes continued. A bus with a policeman on board had been followed by strikers in a car. When the bus reached the village where the policeman lived he was dropped off to get his lunch and intended to pick up the bus on the return journey. There was no return journey, the strikers followed the bus, stopped it and put it out of action. They then took the scab driver and conductor by car and dropped them off in a wild spot in the countryside, over 10 miles from the depot. By Thursday everyone had had enough. A meeting between the Company and strikers took place. The mood was genial and management assured strikers that they wanted to bury the hatchet and there would be no recriminations. And so ended the Bus Strike in a victory for militant unionism in spite of the fact that it was unofficial.
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The problem with London… 18 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
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IN MY OPINION
By Andy Mercer
THERE is a housing crisis, with sky-high rents and insane house prices – in London. There is a serious shortage of homes for the growing population – in London. There are jobs galore, but too few workers – in London. Meanwhile, outside London, communities are being forced to accept vast new housing estates. Councils across middle England are struggling with the demands of these new estates. East Northamptonshire Council for example, is trying very hard to make Rushden East work, both for the town and for the 2,500 families who will live there.) However, it’s all solving the wrong problem, like trying to solve poverty by printing more money. The real problem is the concentration of jobs, (especially highly paid jobs), in London, so building millions of new homes elsewhere cannot solve it. The problem started years ago, when the Bank of England forced all banks to have a base in the Square-Mile.
The idea was that they could ‘clear’ payments by swapping bits of paper, (cheques and bank notes). They used to have vast sums trundling around the City in little trucks. That ended when electronic transactions took over, but most of the jobs stayed in the City. In theory, there is nothing to keep the banks in the Square Mile. Indeed, some are moving out, initially to Docklands. However, banks, (and business in general), are reluctant to relocate from London, if only because their staff commute from all directions. Government, by contrast, could leave London. In the past, efforts have been made to devolve parts of the public sector out of London, (the DVLA is in Swansea), but from the 80’s onwards, it went out of fashion. However, now’s a good time to revisit the concept. A rare opportunity to redistribute the public sector’s jobs will shortly appear. The Palace of Westminster is a venerable Old Lady, who has served the nation well for
many years, but is now overdue for an update. Soon, She will have to be renovated, costing £billions. At the same time, MPs and Lords are going to need to continue to work, while security is somehow maintained. Wouldn’t it be better to build a new hightech, high security Palace, on a greenfield site? The Palace of Westminster could be vacated, and renovated while empty. It could then be reserved for tourists! The government departments could follow the MPs and Lords, and take the pressure off London’s housing, and gradually rebalance the country. The new Palace should be near the middle, close to both HS2 and a major road nexus (where the M1, M6 and A14 meet for example). It should be between Britain’s two brightest high-tech zones (between Oxford and Cambridge). It should have ample land for growth, with plenty of green space, and a high quality of life. Ideally, it should be somewhere that parliament has met before. Amazingly, such a place exists - it is called Northamptonshire.
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JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 19
Police issue warnings after rise in domestic burglaries
DOMESTIC burglaries in this county have risen by 30 per cent in one year, according to Northamptonshire Police figures. In the last 12 months (2015-2016) there were 2947 burglaries at people’s homes in Northamptonshire, which is an increase on the 2259 seen in the preceding year (2014-2015). In 2016, July and August saw the most burglaries (604), closely followed by January and February (528). The joint Prevention and Community Protection department (Northamptonshire Police and Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service) would like to remind people that there are steps they can take to protect their homes against potential burglaries. Prevention Team Leader Paul Golley said: “In the run up to Christmas, many people bring valuable items into their
homes to give as gifts. It is always important to remind people at this time of year not to leave their presents on display, where they can easily be seen through a window or door. “Also, once Christmas is over, it is always good to remember to carefully fold any cardboard boxes that may give away the kind of valuable new items you may have in your house, when put out for recycling. “If people do know someone who is elderly or vulnerable, an extra show of Christmas kindness to them could be to offer some assistance in making sure they are secure and safe in their homes; are they locking their doors and keeping valuables safe, for example?” Police have advised householders to: 1) Keep doors and windows secure. Front and back doors should be kept locked at all times – even when you are home.
2) If you open windows for air, make sure they are closed before you go out or leave the room. 3) Keep keys and other valuables out of sight and reach of cat flaps, letterboxes and downstairs doors and windows. 4) Don’t forget garages, sheds and outbuildings. 5) Make sure your home is visible from the street by keeping bushes and fences low at the front. 6) Avoid sharing holiday plans on social media as this could tip off potential burglars about an empty property. 7) If going on holiday, remember to cancel deliveries such as milk or newspapers. 8) Make sure your home looks like someone is living in it. Use automatic timer-switches.
20 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
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EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
VOLLEYBALL
Raiders taught lessons as they lose to MK
IN Division One, The Raiders entertained MK City knowing that they had some new faces in the side. As it turned out only Mr MK City himself Layne Walker was the only familiar face in a small squad of six. As the game got underway it was apparent that the mobility and speed of defence from City was going to cause a problem. The City setter Giacomo Struzziero was putting up some sweet sets from bad balls and disguising his distribution when good balls came in. With the Raiders block spread Layne, Marius and Umberto were finding the floor
with the hits. Raiders were siding out but service errors cut short any chance of clawing back the deficit. Set Two saw the Raiders shuffle the pack as Jay Whittaker and Wojtek come on for the Raiders. The move saw some good pickups in back court from Rick Haycock for the Raiders but confusion reined at the front.
CONFUSION
In the confusion MK were picking the hitter and some big blocks came off. MK romped home in the set on the back of an eight point service run from Layne taking a 2-0 lead.
Last throw of the dice for the Raiders saw new face George replace Keith in setting position. What Raiders lost in hitting capability they more than made up with a bigger block. Playing with one recognized setter was a first for a few of the Raiders but it seemed to work. This set was a far tighter affair with points having to be won rather than being conceded by errors. With their noses in the lead at 22-20 it looked like the Raiders had found a way back into the match but some fine serves from Giacomo put an end to the resistance and MK took the set 25-22 and the game 3-0
For the Raiders this was a lesson on backcourt coverage and a masterclass in setting. Noted players were Wojtek Wosniak for the Raiders and Giacomo Struzziero for MK City.
In Divison Two, The Rebels travelled over to Kingsthorpe knowing that if last year’s encounters were anything to go by it was going to be in for a good game.
This is exactly what it turned out to be. Aidan Woolridge tried hard to bring the Rebels back in to the set but it was too little too late. Kings took the set 15-10 and the game 3-2.
RUGBY
Budding rugby star selected to represent Air Cadets
A BUDDING rugby star from 378 (Mannock) Squadron has recently been selected from amongst the best in the country to represent the Air Training Corps at their forthcoming clash against the other cadet forces’national teams.
Cadet Corporal Sean Lyddall, 16, was selected to join the Corps team after taking part in the interregion competition that saw Central and East Region Air Cadets raise the Corps rugby trophy earlier this month.
NATIONAL TEAM
Sean is looking forward to gaining his ‘Corps Blue’ badge, which is awarded for representing the organisation nationally, and the team is set to compete at RAF Cosford in Shropshire early next year. The Squadron’s Officer in Charge, Flying Officer Phil Warr, said: “It’s marvellous news that Sean has been selected.” For more about the group visit www.378aircadets.org
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JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 21
TENNIS
Dermot serves his way into world’s elite DERMOT BAILEY is the first beneficiary of The Mick and Sheila White Fund, a fund which has been set up by husband and wife Mick and Sheila and facilitated by Northamptonshire Community Foundation to support the county’s rising sporting talent. County wheelchair tennis player Bailey has a promising career ahead of him, if this year is anything to go by. He has managed to break into the world top 50, make it into the senior GB team and win the national singles title.
Last month Dermot was invited to Rio by the Paralympic Wheelchair Tennis team to observe, this was a great experience for the 22 year old from Kettering who is preparing himself for Tokyo in four years’ time. Mick and Sheila founded the successful company Dalepak, worldwide warehouse, distribution and packaging specialists. The fund plans to award grants from £500 up to a possible £2,500 to provide support for young people driven to excel in their sporting career.
SWIMMING
Swimmers make a splash and come back with haul of medals
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RUSHDEN Swimming Club were winners of the Top Visiting Club at the Northgate PB Buster 2016 held at Wolverhampton Central Baths. This was their third successive win of the award. This meet is always a favourite for the club as it is a stay away meet for all age groups, so it is a good social event plus a great opportunity to achieve some great personal bests and qualifying times for the Counties. Thirty-five RSC swimmers attended the meet over the two
days and medals were won spanning all age groups, with a total of 39 gold, 23 silver and 27 bronze achieved over all.
Overall awards for Top Male/Female in each age group were also presented and RSC were winners in four categories: Tamzin Rowthorn 10 years, Mollie Chapman 11 years, Amber Bales 14/15 years and Hannah Hawkins, 16 years.
For more information about the club contact Alison Bales at abales@talktalk.net
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22 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
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The Reporter series is delivered by our own loyal team of delivery agents every month into the following areas:
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JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 23
CHESS REPORT
Chess masters look to forge links with youngsters By Derrick Sims
MANY of you will have noticed that Rushden Chess Club (RCC) has been promoting junior chess in the area in recent years. This has involved competitive games organised between the club and a local school. Both students and club members have enthusiastically competed in these activities to the benefit of all. The positive elements of chess cannot be overstated as those who are familiar with the film ‘Knights of the South Bronx’ will be well aware. This film is based on the work undertaken by David MacEnulty among school students in a district of New York. The introduction of chess into the curriculum led to a significant improvement in the attitude of students and resulted in an improved outcome for many of the youngsters involved. RCC firmly believes that chess is a positive activity for young people and has lobbied Rushden Town Council to support a junior league involving schools and other organisations from the area.
The council has responded enthusiastically to this initiative and provided funding to ensure that this event takes place. We are now looking for organisations providing activities for children and juniors to step forward and apply to join the league. We will try to ensure that all interested parties are accommodated. Anyone interested in entering their school or local group can contact us via the phone number at the end of the article, alternatively a contact section is provided in the RCC website.
SKL Division I RUSHDEN A took on the steelmen from Corby for the first time this season. After a somewhat lacklustre start this year they were looking to improve on their previous results and perhaps even manage to achieve their first victory. The result as it happened must have exceeded the expectations James Gardner who has taken over the role of captain. RCC were victorious on all
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boards and will have been well pleased with the comprehensive crushing of their Corby opponents. This was the final match for long time member Alan Lewis and he will have been delighted to finish with a win!
SKL Division II RUSHDEN B were at home against the students from Oundle School. Despite their lack of years the school fielded a very strong team and out graded Rushden on every board. Richard Ellis and Bob Ellam could have had better starts and suffered from minor early errors leaving themselves having to chase the game against their younger opponents. Richard’s weakened pawn structure on board 1 was soon exploited by a player with a 52 point grade advantage. Meanwhile on board 3 Bob found his Knight pinned in front of the King by his opponent’s Bishop. James Wicks put up a spirited performance on board 5 against William Connellan but was unable to effectively counter his opponent’s
superior play. The match didn’t all end up with victories for Oundle; Keith Bristow and Jeff Owen played well on boards 2 and 4 to achieve well deserved draws.
Rushden C Meanwhile, Rushden C travelled to Northampton for their game against Chess Mates D. The game on board 2 between Northampton’s Tim Broad and Tom Murts was fiercely contested until Tom lost a crucial pawn in the endgame. Rushden’s James Wicks was outclassed by Nigel Turner who achieved a relatively easy victory. Sarah Collins fared no better against Mick Buswell on board 3. It was left to Nigel Wren and Eddie Francolini to restore some pride for Rushden. Rushden Chess Club loves welcoming new members, so do come along to a meeting. For more information contact the club secretary 01933 625767, You can also visit the club’s website http://rushdenchessclub.com. for further details about meetings.
24 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
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Fine for fly tipper
EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
The seasonal smell of mulled wine and delicious mince pies filled the air as youngsters from an Irthlingborough school held a very festive event. Pupils from Huxlow Science College attended St Peter's Church in the town to put on their annual Christmas carol service. The event took place on Wednesday, December 14 and a spokesman said: "All the local community was invited to join us for a simple service, followed by mulled wine and mince pies." Our picture shows a group of students from the school at the service.
A WoMAN from Rushden was fined over £1,100 this month for fly tipping in East Northamptonshire. East Northamptonshire Council (ENC) was called to investigate a fly tip at Rushden’s Goulsbra Road in November 2015. Miss Chloe Bee also failed to return a Section 108 questionnaire, which is a legal requirement, in relation to the waste found, which included household waste, paper, cans, bottles and general rubbish. Magistrates found Miss Bee guilty and ordered her to pay £1,126, a £660 fine, £400 costs and a £66 victim surcharge. Waste Services Manager at ENC, Charlotte Tompkins, said: “The Waste Management Team work tirelessly to deal with incidents of fly tipping in the district. if you receive a request for information regarding an investigation, the best course of action is to complete the form with as much information as possible.
Christmas competition winners announced
A BiG well done has been handed out to the the lucky winners of the annual Higham Ferrers Christmas competitions. Colemans was voted as the Best Dressed Shop window in the 'People's Choice Award, with the shop being presented with a winner’s trophy and a framed certificate at a presentation event held at the Christmas Market in the Market Square. The Higham Ferrers Gargoyle trail finalised with a draw - two local brothers Daniel Gwynne, aged nine, and Jamie, aged seven, correctly identified 18 of the 21 gargoyles which had been temporary residents in the festive shop window displays in the town. The boys were invited to the presentation event the Town’s Mayor, Councillor Pam Whiting presented them each with a certificate and their favourite pottery gargoyle to take home and keep. The gargoyles in the trail were hand crafted by Tamsin Edwards, (a local artist from Raunds,) and were loaned to the town council throughout the competition period.
their favourite festive display. This Award attracted 186 votes in total, Colemans received 40 votes which gained them first place, Little Steps Nursery came second with 32 votes and Cranberry Cottage came third with 28 votes. The Gargoyle trail was introduced as a fun way for children and their families to explore the town's businesses and the variety of offers available. Families have been encouraged to find hidden gargoyles and discover their names among the festive window displays throughout the town.
The Christmas competitions were launched alongside the annual Higham Ferrers Christmas Sparkle event. The aim of the competitions were to promote the town and offer opportunities for
local businesses, residents and visitors to participate in shared projects. The People's Choice Award was introduced this year to inspire businesses to encourage their own customers to take part and vote for
Both competitions have been supported by the following businesses in Higham Ferrers: Coffee Bean, Savour the Flavour, Little Steps Nursery, Mark Bird Flooring, John Lee Motorcycles, Momma V, Sidey Design Architecture, Stevenson Property Management, Wilson Browne Solicitors, Rebels Hairdressers, Mercy in Action, B.E White, Bobby & Son Butchers, BMW Windows, Cranberry Cottage, Buttons Barnets, Colemans, Higham News, The Ashgrove Clinic, Higham Ferrers Library, Alfa Playschool, Higham Ferrers Junior School.
26 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
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EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
JANUARY IN THE GARDEN – by Milton Ernest Garden Centre
HE often gloomy days in midwinter make any colour in our gardens very welcome. The main source in January is found amongst the evergreens some of which are also flowering and perfumed. The larger evergreens like Viburnum Tinus Variegata has cream and green variegated leaves and white pink scented flowers while Viburnum Eve Price and Gwenillian have green foliage covered by white pink perfumed flowers. Mahonia Charity and Bealei are also large backdrop shrubs with long yellow sweetly scented flowers. Viburnum Bodnantense Dawn produces bright pink flowers along their bare stems. Jasmine Nudiflorum, can be grown against a wall or fence and has bright yellow flowers also on bare stems throughout winter. Another wall plant flowering in January is Clematis Cirrhosa Freckles with pale yellow and maroon bell flowers. Smaller evergreens like Nandina Domestica has bronzy orange red leaves which darken as the weather gets colder, Loropetalum Firedance needs a sheltered place but produces an amazing rainbow of purple, red and bronze leaves.
T
Skimmia Rubella carries its red buds above bright green leaves all winter before the flowers open in March. Hebe Heartbreaker has cream pink and green leaves all year but becomes vivid pink in winter while Hebe Purple Shamrock leaves become deep purple. Sarcocca Humilis and Digyna are the most delightful small evergreen plants. if planted next to the front door you can enjoy the scent of the white flowers whenever you go home.
Another recommendation is Daphne Aureomarginata with variegated cream and green leaves and the most gorgeously perfumed pink flowers. Under plant this choice shrub with Cyclamen Coum whose marbled blue green foliage and bright pink
The colours of January in the garden
flowers are a lovely contrast. These small evergreens are all quite suitable to grow in tubs. Winter flowering heathers planted in groups of five or more give large splashes of colour during the overcast months. it is worth preparing the soil well by digging in lots of peat or compost and sharp sand before planting. Trim each plant after flowering in the spring. Heathers are low growing excellent ground cover especially around dwarf conifers but can also be successfully grown in tubs. The flowers vary in colour from red, white, purple to pink and some varieties have bright yellow foliage as well. They are a welcome source of pollen for any flying insects. Some good varieties are Ruby Glow, red, White Perfection, white, Nathalie, purple and Golden Starlet pink with golden leaves. My most favourite plants for winter colour are the Hellebores. So much work has been done by the nurserymen to produce some really stunning varieties. By micro propagation and continual reselection of
hundreds of thousands of seedlings we are enjoying some amazing varieties. Helleborus Nigra and orientalis are now producing strong healthy plants with lovely foliage and a paint box of colours in the flowers. The foliage is dense so great ground cover and the flower heads are held high above a feature which is absent in many of the traditional types. Hellebores are easy to grow, love shade, grow well in pots using Ji Compost No 2 and only need feeding with Fish Blood and Bone in September. i recommend you look out for the following varieties. Helleborus Winter Moonbeam pure glistening white turning pink and red, Angel Glow with pink buds opening to frothy pink flowers with blue green leaves and Cinnamon Snow with pink buds opening to creamy flowers with hints of rose and cinnamon, Spring Promise Lily a semi double flower with creamy pink and darker pink veining and Walbertons Rosemary with lots of rosy pink blooms.
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JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 27
out & about The weekend is here! Let the Soul begin! With the turkey all but a distant memory, Auld Lang Syne sung and The Christmas decorations consigned to the loft for another year we find ourselves in the midst of a very often grey January! i am sure it has more than 31 days in it? Anyway good times are ahead folks (hopefully) the nights are gradually getting shorter. Spring is in the air! ...and The Soul Weekender is near! February 10th 11th 12th is the date for this year’s ‘Soul Junction’ Soul Weekender at The Stanwick Hotel Northants NN9 6QY. The Soul Junction held the first one last year which was a huge success! So hopefully this will become a permanent fixture on the calendar now. There are a few tweaks to the format this year; however the ‘two
By Jem Brittin
room’ set up remains unchanged. The event kicks off on Friday Night with a special ‘Thank Funk it’s Friday’ with ‘The Groove on crew’ in the main room, which gets underway at 8pm and finishes at 2am. Many Soul Junction regulars will be no strangers to the regular T.F.i.F. Nights which feature Soul, Funk, Disco and Weekender anthems from the 70s, 80s & 90s. This one is a bit special! it features nationally famous DJ’s ‘Brother’ Louie Martin, Rob James and Max Rees along with supporting DJ’s. The second room is billed as ‘Freestyle Friday’ which caters for the lesser known but equally danceable Soul sounds from the 70s to today. if Northern & Rare Soul is your thing! Then Saturday is your day! The main room kicks off at 2pm and finishes at 2am: 12 hours of ‘wall to wall’ Classic Northern Soul! Featuring the regions finest DJ’s playing collectively nearly every Northern Soul record that ever filled
a dance floor! including legendary ‘Soul Men’ Glenn Bellamy, Len Dopson, Jem Brittin, Hammy, Geoff Ware, Al Leighton, Dave Vanner and many more! The second room features the ‘under the radar or rarer’ side of Soul from 60s cuts to today’s new discoveries! The event comes to a close on Sunday with a ‘Sunday Soul Sessions Special’ The Sunday Soul Session events were established at The Soul Junction during 2016 featuring renowned national Soul collector Brian Goucher along with local ‘Soul Hound’ Steve Scotney with guest DJ’s and have steadily grown in popularity! Normally held in room 2; The ‘Special’ moves up to the main room for The Weekender! Starting at 4pm and finishing around 11pm, expect to hear anything ‘Soulful’ from four decades of the scene! Ticket prices are; (in advance) Friday £7 Saturday £10 Sunday £5 or Weekend £20. They are available to purchase on line visit
www.grooveonpromotions.co.uk or collect and pay at The Hotel reception. Alternatively tickets can be purchased via cheque or cash and posted or delivered in person up to a five mile radius from the hotel please call 07905 028003 for this option. Some tickets (subject to availability) may be available to purchase on the door but please check before you travel. Rooms at the hotel are available with special discounted rates for the Weekender; please call the hotel direct on 01933 622233 for bookings. You can catch up on more information including a full list of DJ’s and specific timings plus some sneak previews of likely playlists etc. by visiting the ‘Soul Junction’ Facebook page. Look out during 2017 for more events at The Soul Junction including the annual ‘Castaways Reunion’ and live Soul acts to be confirmed!
28 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017
TEL: 07745 818071 or 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
New Year Crafts at Stanwick Lakes
Taking part in arts and crafts is good for you! Research shows that developing your creativity, spending time with like-minded people and making something, be it beautiful, useful (or both!) gives you an immense feeling of satisfaction. if your New Year resolution is to try a new craft, or rekindle a passion for an old one, then Stanwick Lakes may be the place for you in 2017. Drop into a Craft Café on the first Friday of the month: in the coming year crafts include bunting, crochet fungi, French knots and ceramic brooches. Craft Cafes cost less than a fiver and there is no need to book, but check exact dates as they sometimes change due to the school holidays. or why not join one of the monthly groups who meet in the visitor centre café to share their crafts, chat and eat cake? The Stanwick Stitchers meet on the third Friday of the month, the knitters and crocheters gather on the second Thursday of the month and the Quilters Guild meet for the first time on Friday 27th January to ‘Sit and Sew’. All of these groups are informal, friendly and welcome new members. if you want to take a bit more time to try a new craft or develop your crafting skills then a Craft Workshop is for you. Stanwick
Lakes has a friendly group of workshop leaders teaching painting, mixed media drawing, pottery, needle felting, crocheting and button art. The workshops are limited to small groups, are great value (usually costing between £15 and £20 for half a day) and pre-bookable directly with the workshop leaders. The Rockingham Forest Trust, who manage Stanwick Lakes, also offer unique traditional craft experiences through their Trading Places project. This popular programme of courses includes blacksmithing, wood carving and basket making and more information can be found at www.tradingplacescrafts.org.uk To find out more about all the arts and crafts at Stanwick Lakes visit www.stanwicklakes.org.uk, the Stanwick Lakes facebook page or join the ‘Stanwick Lakes Crafters’ facebook group. You can also pick up a Crafts leaflet from the visitor centre or call them on 01933 625522.
THE CHOIRS OF ST MARY’S PARISH CHURCH HIGHAM FERRERS
Do you enjoy singing? Would you like to be part of a vibrant music team? Tackle good music from over the centuries? Sing in St Mary’s Church and also cathedrals? St Mary’s has both a Senior Choir and also a Youth Choir.
This picture is the choir singing in Canterbury Cathedral as part of the Henry Chichelle celebrations.
This year we have embarked on a major campaign to re robe the choir in new robes in keeping with an RSCM Choir. We are recruiting singers in the alto, tenor and bass departments as well as more children into the Youth Choir. For the Youth Choir we are looking at children from the age of 7 up to 10 and for the adults 16 years upwards. If you would like to know about the choir visit www.stmaryhighamferrers.org, or contact Tony Edwards on 01933 276433 or email: TonyE1960@aol.com for an informal chat
TEL: 07745 818071 or 07724 905406
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Do you want to be part of
Raunds Town-wide Spring Clear-out?
Host your own sale at your home/garage/yard/drive
TOWN GARAGE SALE
St Peter’s Community Enterprise Centre is co-ordinating and publicising a
on Saturday 8th April 2017
For further details and application form (£5) contact Peter on 01933 460259 or Judy at mail@raundscommunitycentre.co.uk
Oundle Cinema
01832 274734
7.45pm Wednesday, 18th January 17
dOCs+, LO AND BEHOLD, REVERIES OF THE CONNECTED WORLD (PG)
Provocative conversations which reveal how the internet has transformed the way everything in the real world works FLETTON HOUSE, Fletton Way, Glapthorn Road, Oundle PE8 4JA Admission fee: £8/ or £25 for all five dOCs+ films –––––––––––––––– 7.45pm Sunday, 22nd January 17
SING STREET (12A) Sing Street will make you laugh, cry and leave you humming it’s songs for days. O.Richards, Empire Magazine STAHL THEATRE, West Street Oundle PE8 4EJ Admission fee: £5 / £3 under 18s –––––––––––––––– 6pm Sunday, 5th February 17
THE BFG (PG) Ten-year-old Sophie is in for the adventure of a lifetime when she meets the Big Friendly Giant. STAHL THEATRE, West Street Oundle PE8 4EJ Admission fee: £5 / £3 under 18s Oundle Festival, 4 West Street, Oundle, PE8 4ED Tel: 01832 274734 www.oundlefestival.org.uk information@oundlefestival.org.uk
Thrapston
JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 29
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30 — REPORTER #2 JANUARY 2017 RUSHDEN SALVATioN ARMY will have as their guests
Church Street, Rushden
on Saturday 21st January at 7.00pm
BELCANTO FEMALE VOICE CHOIR Admission £7 payable at the door. ––––––––––
FIRST SUNDAY CHURCH EVENT 6PM SUNDAY 5TH FEBRUARY our guest will be
JULIAN BRIGHT
renowned Cornet Soloist supported by our own Praise Chorus, commencing at 6.00pm and prior to this free event there will be complimentary refreshments in the Community Centre at 5.00pm.
–––––––––––––––––––– RUSHDEN ARMED FORCES DAY 2017
A date for you diary, in 2017 Rushden will be hosting its celebration of our armed forces during the weekend of 17th June 2017.
–––––––––––––––––––– RUSHDEN MISSION CHURCH
WELLiNGBoRoUGH RoAD NN10 9TA SUNDAYS 10.45am All Age Worship with the music group and children’s activities 5.30pm Traditional Evening Service MoNDAYS 2pm Pillow Talk Lace Making Group TUESDAYS 10am to 12.30pm Coffee Stop open for a drink, a snack and chat WEDNESDAYS 10am Art Group
–––––––––––––––––––– CRAFTIE L ADIES CRAFT CLUB
Meets 2nd Monday of the month. 7.30 – 9.30 pm. SALVATioN ARMY HALL, iRTHLiNGBoRoUGH. contact – Jean hilton on 01933 651563 long established, independent craft club. come along with your own project and join our friendly, chatty group and enjoy our many varied workshops
TEL: 07745 818071 or 07724 905406
WHiTEFRiARS CHURCH Whitefriars Church services at Whitefriars Junior School, Boughton Drive, Rushden NN10 9HX (all with activities for children and young people): Sunday 8th January Stepping out activities – see below Sunday 15th January, 10.15am Morning Worship Sunday 22nd January, 10.15am Morning Worship with Holy Communion Sunday 29th January, 10.15am Morning Worship
–––––––––––––––––––– FREE – friendly mixed ability jogging group Stanwick Lakes Visitor Centre April to october Waitrose in Rushden November to March BEGiNNERS Couch to 5k 10-12 weeks New groups - June and January Mondays 17.45 – 19.00 Email Heather Watts hwatts09@hotmail.co.uk
JOGGING GROUP
WOMENS COREFIT CIRCUIT CL ASS
Stanwick Lakes Visitor Centre April to october Rushden - November to March Mondays 19.30 – 20.15 Block of 8 sessions - £24 non refundable Limited spaces – to book for more info please contact Heather Watts hwatts09@hotmail.co.uk
–––––––––––––––––––– RUSHDEN & DiSTRiCT HiSToRY SoCiETY Friday 20th January 7.30pm at South End Junior School, Wymington Road, Rushden NN10 9JU David Fowler
‘The BBC and Glenn Miller’ Tel 01933 350038 for more information Members £1.50, non-members £2.50
–––––––––––––––––––– LUNCH AND CHAT
Fridays (except for Good Friday, Christmas Holidays and occassional weddings) in the Bede House, Higham Ferrers 12.30pm No need to book Cost of lunch £6, 2 courses – choose from 2 main hot courses or salads; cold and hot puddings; tea/coffee. Everyone Welcome Contact information: Chris 01933 317719
–––––––––––––––––––– Sat 28th Jan 10-12noon
BABY AND KIDS NEARLY NEW SALE
The Pemberton Centre, Rushden Lots of stalls to browse! Refreshments available. Entrance £1, kids free Lots of preloved items (Toys, Clothes, DVDs, Maternity clothes and equipment) at a fraction of the high street cost! To book a stall £10 please call 07577 701161 or email karen_aves@hotmail.co.uk
EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
THRAPSToN & DiSTRiCT U3A invites you to our January meeting
MY FAVOURITE THINGS
with Will Osborne. The Plaza, Cosy Nook Thrapston, NN144PS Friday 20th January 2017 10am - 12 noon. Visitors are always welcome. Further information from the Publicity Secretary, 0754 277 5603
–––––––––––––––––––– HIGHAM FERRERS FOOTPATH GROUP
9.20am Sunday 15th January Meet Saffron Road car park Higham Ferrers for car sharing Free Contact 01832 731998 6.3 mile walk from Titchmarsh 19.30 Wednesday 26th January AGM with photos from our walks Hensman Hall, Chichele Street, Higham Ferrers, NN10 9HT Admission Free Contact 01933 387991
9,20am Sunday 29th January Meet Saffron Road car park Higham Ferrers for car sharing Free Contact 01536 483687 5.5 mile walk from Pertenhall 9.30am Sunday 5th February Higham Ferrers Footpath Group Meet Saffron Road car park Higham Ferrers Free Contact 01933 663603 6 mile walk from Sharnbrook
–––––––––––––––––––– HiGHAM FERRERS W.i. next meeting will be on 2.15pm Monday 16, January The Adult School, Westfield Terrace, Higham Ferrers. The Speaker will be talking on a
Zulu Village
(sounds interesting) our competition on the day will be a Mask. Further details from Jill Waller telephone 01933 387073.
–––––––––––––––––––– HiGHAM FERRERS LiBRARY First Thursday on each month
KNIT AND KNATTER COFFEE MORNING
–––––––––––––––––––– Higham Ferrers Library 10.15-11.30
RUSHDEN & DiSTRiCT HiSToRY SoCiETY Friday 24th February 7.30pm South End Junior School, Wymington Road, Rushden NN10 9JU RoGER DRAGE
‘The story of Weetabix, Parades and Fairs’
Tel 01933 350038 for more information Members £1.50, non-members £2.50 All welcome.
RUSHDEN HALL PENSIONERS’ CLUB January 10th Bingo
January 17th Rector of St Marys Church Rev Steve Prior January 24th Whist
January 31 A retired headmaster, David Clark February 7th Bingo
–––––––––––––––––––– ST MARY’S CHURCH, RiNGSTEAD has regular events
COFFEE MORNINGS
First Saturday of the month 10-12am – a warm welcome to all, proceeds to church projects and charities. Call 01933 624262 for details; and Tea with Friends on the last Tuesday of the month between 2 and 4pm. A chance to catch up with old friends and to make new ones. All very welcome. All proceeds from donations go to church funds and charities.
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OUNDLE FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE The Great Hall, oundle School, New Street Box office: New Street, oundle
Tel: 01832 274734 www.oundlefestival.org.uk 7.45pm Thursday January 12
SIMON GUERRIER & DR MAREK KUKUL A: THE SCIENTIFIC SECRETS OF DR WHO £8 (£6)
7.45pm Saturday January 28
JANE HAWKING: FROM FACT TO FILM TO FICTION £8 (£6)
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TEL: 07745 818071 or 07724 905406
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JANUARY 2017 REPORTER #2 — 31
"ACCIDENTAL DEATH OF AN ANARCHIST" NENE VALLEY ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Lecture by Mike Frost, Astronomical Historian
Monday, 16 January 2017 at 8.00 pm Chelveston Village Hall, Caldecott Road Chelveston NN9 6AT (off B645 near Higham Ferrers)
On February 15th 1894, a young Frenchman called Martial Bourdin made his way to the Royal Observatory Greenwich (RGO), and detonated a home-made bomb. His story was headline news at the time, and subsequently inspired Joseph Conrad's novel "The Secret Agent", which has been filmed twice, and has itself been cited as a source for modern day terrorists. This talk weaves Bourdin's story into the history of the RGO. In its heyday, the Greenwich Observatory was a world class research observatory, and the location of the world's primemeridian. Why did it become the site of England's first ever international terrorist attack? Visitors and Members welcome. ÂŁ3 per person including tea/coffee and biscuits. Further information from Steve Williams on 01933 650331 or e-mail:chilternastro@yahoo.co.uk or Mrs Peta Jellis on 01933 356914 or email: pej@petaj26.me.uk
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