East Northants Reporter June 2020 by Rosetta Publishing

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WORKING TOGETHER IN BATTLE AGAINST VIRUS RUSHDEN, HIGHAM FERRERS & EAST NORTHANTS

JUNE 2020

THE community has pulled together to battle the horror of the Covid-19 pandemic and the national lockdown. And East Northamptonshire Council leader Steven North has thanked everyone who has stayed at home and continued to follow the latest Government guidance during these challenging times.

He said the council had been working with local community groups and volunteers to provide support to communities throughout the Coronavirus pandemic. Officers have been working with local businesses to ensure they are aware of the help available to them during this time. The council received Government funding to issue to small business grants, and has garnted more £14.2m to 1,277 businesses in the district. Alongside this the council has supported with the countywide community resilience hub to work with volunteers to provide vital services to residents who are unable to leave their homes. More than 200 people across East Northamptonshire have registered their interest to volunteer and help support more than 300 local people who reached out for help in their areas. Serve, based in Rushden, is helping 110 people with things ranging from weekly shopping, prescription collections, or just a visit by a friendly face. Councillor North said: “As a district, we have come together to respond to this pandemic to support our communities by volunteering to assist with food shopping, collecting prescriptions, or just knocking our neighbours doors to check how they are. “We will continue to work with national and local organisations to provide vital support for

our residents and businesses and ensure we recover from this emergency. “I would like to thank everyone who has stayed at home during this time and continues to follow the latest Government guidance during these challenging times. “East Northamptonshire was the first council in North Northamptonshire to hold its first virtual meeting, enabling us to continue to uphold of our democratic duty. “The council has since held its annual council meeting online and continues to deliver committee meetings, alongside responding to Covid-19.” The county’s Community Foundation has also worked with groups across the district to help during the crisis.

It has funded 35 projects to the amount of £123,238 in order help provide a support network to keep people’s emotional and mental wellbeing on track as well as providing a safety net for vulnerable residents. Deputy CEO Rachel McGrath said: “During Mental Health Awareness Week, we highlight ed the urgent need being addressed by local community groups and charities funded through our Coronavirus Response and Recovery Fund to help people stay well during this difficult and

FUNDING BOOST

stressful time. “We have funded several community groups to provide advice, befriending and counselling support, activities and self-care packages to help reduce anxiety, stress and manage well-being. “We know many people’s lives have changed beyond recognition during this public health crisis. “We also know there will be an ongoing demand and need for such services beyond this pandemic as people adapt to life after lockdown.” The projects have been funded through the foundation’s Coronavirus Response and Recovery Fund, which was established to support vital community projects as they respond to exceptional challenges during the pandemic. The foundation has provided crisis response and larger strategic grant awards to help local communities build resilience to the pandemic and its impact on local residents. Projects being funded to help people stay safe and well include Relate, which was awarded £3,000 to provide telephone counselling sessions to people across the county especially for those who are struggling with poor mental health. You can read more about the foundation’s work on page 4 of this month’s Reporter and online at rosettapublishing.com/reporter

New centre to celebrate key milestone REPRESENTATIVES from East Northamptonshire Council will mark a significant milestone over the coming weeks in the delivery of its multi-million pound flagship Enterprise Centre East Northants project, as the council receives the keys and the building is officially transferred over. Council leader Steven North, and chairman of the working party, Cllr Glenvil GreenwoodSmith, will mark the occasion with the transfer of a large key and the official transfer of the completed buildings. ASHE Construction, specialists in its field, have been working closely with project managers, to ensure work continues on the enterprise centre during the current pandemic, which has seen many parts of the economy temporarily close. The centre is anticipated to open its door to businesses across East Northamptonshire in July and will offer high-quality offices and

workshops and first-rate business support, and will be operated by BizSpace, which the council appointed early this spring. Cllr Steven North said: “The enterprise centre is one of the most pioneering projects we will deliver as a council, and I am delighted we will soon be opening the doors to businesses and budding entrepreneurs across the district.

“The centre will not only offer fantastic facilities, but support will be on hand from a range of industry experts, BizSpace and the council’s economic initiative, Enterprising East Northants. “ASHE has worked incredibly hard to ensure the project is high-quality, and under the current exceptional circumstances, has ensured the safety of their staff has been put first while delivering the project in a timely manner. “We look forward to working with local enterprises over the coming years to not only succeed in their fields, but to also lead and drive economic recovery across our district.” Meanwhile, industry expert Fiona Wells has been appointed as the new manager for the centre and will make good use of her 14 years experience in managing business centres. You can read more about the centre on our website at www.rosettapublishing.com/reporter

Christina zooms in as the new Mayor

CHRISTINA Reavey started her Mayoral year in unique circumstances as the first one to be inaugurated through a Zoom video call. The global pandemic meant the town council was unable to hold the traditional Mayor Making ceremony in the Council Chamber, so councillors gathered together via the online portal to witness Cllr Reavey take her oath and be declared the Mayor of Higham Ferrers for 2020-21. Cllr Barry Prigmore was elected as her deputy. At the end of the meeting the councillors all raised a glass to toast the new Mayor. Cllr Reavey told her fellow councillors it was an honour to be Mayor and she is committed to supporting and promoting the town. She is looking forward to representing Higham Ferrers at many events in the surrounding towns.

Cllr Reavey has been a resident of Northamptonshire for 35 years and about 25 of them have been in Higham Ferrers. She is retired but formerly taught for 23 years in a nearby primary school and she considers the education and wellbeing of young people to be very important. Her consort, Anthony Reavey, is her husband of 49 years and they have three children, two of whom live and work locally and one in the city. They have four grandchildren, two of who attend Ferrers School, with one more at Higham Infants School and the youngest at pre-school. She enjoys meeting and talking with local residents and their families and looks forward to representing the town during her Mayoral year. Turn to the back page to read more about the other recent civic appointments in our district.

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2 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER JUNE 2020

Police step up efforts to tackle speeding drivers POLICE tackling speeding on Northamptonshire’s roads are asking motorists – “is it worth it?” As part of the National Police Chiefs’ Council speed enforcement operation, officers have been out in force to make sure anyone speeding is caught and brought to justice. At the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown, despite the significantly reduced number of vehicles on the roads, the police Safer Roads Team was detecting similar levels of offending to that of normal traffic conditions as many people were using the empty roads as a race track. In some cases, vehicles were travelling at more than double the speed limit. The aims of the new campaign starting next week is to: Keep all road users safe. Reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on our roads. Tackle irresponsible and dangerous drivers committing speeding offences. Educate drivers of the risks,

both to themselves and to other road users associated with inappropriate speed. Encourage drivers to drive at speeds safe for the road environment and to obey speed limits at all times. Support new road users, in particular pedal cyclists, to keep safe on the roads. Safer roads operations manager Matt O’Connell said: “Speeding kills – it is as simple as that. And it leaves families and loved ones devastated. “It amazes me how much contempt there often is for our speed vans when they exist solely to keep our road users safe. “We will never make any apologies for them being out there as they do a really important job. “The COVID-19 lockdown measures have recently been relaxed and so we are seeing greater traffic levels as a result. “Whenever you get the temptation to press a little bit harder on that accelerator, please ask yourself – is it really worth it?”

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Happy birthday to our first English-born Chequered Skipper butterfly LAST month, the first English-born Chequered Skipper was spotted in Rockingham Forest – the first in more than 40 years – following the reintroduction of this previously extinct species in 2018 from Belgian populations. This year the organisations involved in bringing this important native species back to England, wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation, the Lottery Heritage Fund and the Back from the Brink project,celebrated with a special birthday competition. Project officer for Rockingham Forest for the Back from the Brink project, Susannah

O’Riordan said: “This project is an example of great conservation at work in Rockingham Forest. “We want to celebrate the first tbirthday of this beautiful butterfly, native to our area, and raise awareness that it is possible to make good, positive change to our environment when we nurture and look after it. “This year, recorders are just about to resume looking for this butterfly and hope to be documenting some sightings very soon.” The group asked butterfly fans to either make a birthday card or bake a cake inspired by

the Chequered Skipper butterfly. Winners in each category, (card and cake),will receive a beautiful framed photographic print of the first English Chequered Skipper spotted in Rockingham Forest and a Back from the Brink pin badge. You can find out more about the history of the Chequered Skipper, at the Roots of Rockingham blogs pages. Keep an eye on our website at www. rosettapublishing.com/reporter/ once the winners are of the competition are announced by project leaders.

THE county’s Special Constabulary has lost the services of 19 members of its team in just one day, taking a combined total of 93 years’ policing experience with them. Under normal circumstances this would have been a disaster, but in this case, the Specials’ loss is Northamptonshire Police’s gain with all the volunteers transferring to the Force as regulars. The former Specials started their initial training at Force Headquarters in April, and will spend the next two years as student officers working across the two local policing areas. Northamptonshire Special Constabulary chief officer Mike Maywood said: “I am always immensely proud of all of our Specials who collectively volunteer thousands of hours

policing services to the people of Northamptonshire each year. “However, to provide such high calibre of officers to the Force is a great testament and achievement to all of our volunteers who make up Northamptonshire Special Constabulary. “Each and every one of those who have joined the Force will bring a unique journey and life experience to the regulars, with some having served as a Special for more than 19 years before taking the plunge to go full time.” Specials and Volunteers Team Sergeant Sue Torrance has supported and mentored all of the officers through the application process alongside colleagues from the Force’s HR and Recruitment Team.

Sgt Torrance said: “The bespoke intake of new recruits is the culmination of many months of hard work by the HR and Recruitment Team, which has involved assessment centres, reviews of service and the usual level of background checks and references. “I am very proud of them all. “I have watched them grow and mature within the Special Constabulary, and they will all make mighty fine officers and colleagues. “They are joining the Force at an exciting time and I wish them a long and fulfilling career.” If you think you have got what it takes to become a Special Constable or would like more information about a career with the Force, visit www.northants.police.uk/careers

Special Constabulary loss is Northamptonshire Police’s gain

Residents across the district are on the move

RESIDENTS across East Northamptonshire are improving their physical activity levels, with more than 70 per cent doing the recommended 150 minutes of activity a week, the second highest increase of any local authority area in the country up 12 per cent from last year’s figures. Sport England has published the latest version of its Active Lives Adult report which provides a comprehensive overview of adult engagement in sport and physical activity in England. The latest round of data is from November 2018 to November 2019. The data highlights 80 per cent of residents across East Northamptonshire achieve more

than 30 minutes of activity every week, with more than 70 per cent achieving 150 minutes or more of physical activity each week. Leader of East Northamptonshire Steven North said: “We are proud to be one of only 19 local authorities in England to see a significant increase in levels of residents classed as active. “Thank you and well done to everyone across the district for getting out and getting active. These results are a testament to the hardwork of residents, and our officers and partners, “Freedom Leisure, which delivers a wide-range of activities and initiatives to support residents in their journey to leading more active lifestyles.”

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Shadow authorities set to meet for the first time

THE two new Northamptonshire shadow authorities will hold their first meetings early this month as preparations progress to create the North and West Northamptonshire unitary councils on April 1, next year. Members of the West Northamptonshire Shadow Authority will meet for the first time on Tuesday, June 2, at 7pm and the North Northamptonshire Shadow Authority will hold its first meeting on Thursday, June 4, at 7pm. The meetings will be held virtually via video-conferencing in the light of the ongoing coronavirus social distancing measures, with all members of the North and West Shadows – 152 and 132 members – invited to take part. The North Shadow Authority is made up of the existing Members of Corby, East Northamptonshire, Kettering and Wellingborough councils and County Councillors representing electoral divisions in these areas, with the West Shadow Authority comprising Members of Daventry, Northampton and South Northamptonshire councils and county councillors covering these geographical areas. At the two meetings, the shadow authorities will adopt their constitutions and appoint their interim statutory officers (interim head of paid service, monitoring officer and chief finance officer). The agenda for the West

Northants Shadow Authority meeting is available to view at https://cmis.northamptonshire.go v.uk/cmis5live/WestNorthamptonshireShadowAuthority.aspx The North Northants Shadow Authority meeting agenda will be available to view from 27 May at https://cmis.northamptonshire.go v.uk/cmis5live/NorthNorthamptonshireShadowAuthority.aspx The first meetings of the Shadow Executives, (executive committees), for each authority will convene next month. Further details and agendas will be available nearer the date. The composition of the Shadow Executive is set out in legislation recently passed by Government. Councillor Russell Roberts will be the leader for the Shadow North Authority, with councillor Martin Griffiths as deputy leader whilst councillor Ian McCord will be the leader for the Shadow West Northamptonshire Authority with councillor Jonathan Nunn as deputy leader. All members of the Shadow Authorities and Shadow Executives will be clear that, when they are debating and making decisions in these bodies, they are representing the new Shadow Authorities and not any other Northamptonshire Council of which they remain a member. It is important for the work of both the existing sovereign councils and the new shadows there is this distinction of roles.

A ‘virtual’ Tourism Week DESTINATION Nene Valley once again raised its profile of tourism along the River Nene for English Tourism Week last month. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, activities took place online and concentrate on encouraging visitors, residents and business to celebrate the Nene Valley while remaining safe and following Government guidance. Through the week, the team at DNV worked with tourism providers across the area to deliver the following activities: A social media campaign to raise the profile of the Nene Valley and support tourism businesses by sharing videos, websites and photographs, included:

l A photographic competition with the title of ‘life in lockdown’. l A webinar for tourism partners. l Sharing inspirational stories from our communities in the Nene Valley on nenevalley.net l A Nene Valley Quiz with prizes. l And delivering the first annual award to find the first Nene Valley hero!

East Northamptonshire Council board member for the DNV project, councillor Sarah Peacock said: “English Tourism Week is a staple in the DNV calendar and this year is no exception. “Obviously, this year was different and we had to adapt accordingly with activity focused online. “But ultimately, we wanted to

raise the profile and awareness of tourism along the Nene Valley, by working with partner organisations, and support all of our tourism partners and businesses during what is a challenging time.” All of the events have been organised through the Destination Nene Valley project, which aims to promote the Nene Valley as a competitive, sustainable destination offering wildlife and heritage to a mixture of local, national and international audiences. English Tourism Week is an annual celebration, and this year the campaign focused on engagement with Central Government, MPs and other stakeholders to support the recovery of English tourism in the aftermath of the pandemic, whilst raising awareness of the importance, quality and value of the sector to the UK economy. Visit England is proud to lead the annual English Tourism Week campaign celebrating our diverse, exciting and vibrant sector, and showcasing the quality, range and value of English tourism to stakeholders. The week provided an essential opportunity to raise awareness and the sector's profile to key stakeholders, with Visit England working to support English destinations with political engagement nationally, regionally and locally. For more information and to get involved with the Nene Valley, visit nenevalley.net, @_nenevalley on Twitter or search for Nene Valley on Facebook.

Rotary appeals for lockdown tales

OUNDLE Rotary Club has appealed for stories and photographers from residents who are helping to support the NHS during the Covid19 crisis and lockdown. For more information on the project, or for more on the club itself, email members at oundlerotary@gmail.com

JUNE 2020 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 3

KEEP OUR DISTRICT CLEAN AND TIDY

That is the message from East Northamptonshire Council, which carried out a major clean-up of one the area’s busiest roads. Following successful clean-ups along the A14 and A45 during January and February, the council’s waste team litter-picked a major section of the A45 from Chown’s Mill to Rushden Lakes roundabout. A team of four people worked along the stretch across two weekends and collected bags of waste totalling more than two tons while the A45 was closed for planned roadworks during February, as part of the Chown’s Mill roundabout redevelopment, before the Covid19 pandemic struck. Council leader Steven North said: “Unfortunately, the majority of the litter collected was wrappers, packets, bottles and cans, rather than items falling from lorries, so could have been dropped. “Of course, we cannot track where the rubbish collected along

the A45 has come from, but wanted to take this opportunity to remind everyone, residents of the district and visitors alike, that this type of litter-picking costs everyone and we would rather that this money and time was spent on something which contributed to the wider community.” The mass clean-up followed a scheme in nearby Irthlingborough, when residents were invited, following the success of last year’s waste amnesty day, to dispose of any unwanted bulk items. The council partnered with Irthlingborough Town Council, Longhurst Group, Northants Police, Orbit, Grand Union Housing Group and The CoOperative Central England to encourage residents to clear out their houses and gardens of general waste, white goods and scrap metal. Councillor North said: “We are always trying to find ways to help residents to clear out those unwanted items. For more details visit eastnorthamptonshire.gov.uk/waste.

THE Government announcement that more shops are to be re-opening during June and other services soon after, is hopeful news for town centres like Wellingborough. The 1,000 staff and students who will be joining the newly refurbished Wellingborough campus of Tresham College in September will be more important than ever in boosting the local economy. Ian Pryce Principal and Chief Executive The Bedford College Group, which has undertaken the £10 Million project to modernise the tower block and ground level site, says: “We cannot wait to welcome in our students. Despite all the challenges of the lockdown our estates team and their contractors have kept the refurbishment on schedule for September opening. “The world has changed beyond measure since we started the building work but our mission remains the same and is more important than ever before. “We are here to offer World Class training and educational opportunities to young people seeking their first jobs and their

friends and family who new skills in the wake of the Covid crisis. “Online Open Days are going to be held this month and people can already take a virtual tour of the new look campus via our website.” Wellingborough campus is part of Tresham College which merged with Bedford College to form The Bedford College Group in 2017. The Group was awarded £7.5million from the SEMLEP Local Growth Fund skills capital investment programme for the Wellingborough project. Amid changes to local Government roles, Cllr Martin Griffiths, a SEMLEP Board member, has been behind the Wellingborough project from the start. He said: “This is one of the most significant developments to take place in Wellingborough for many years. “Councillors and officers have been working closely with colleagues at Tresham College, and SEMLEP which has provided funding of £7.5million through the Local Growth Fund, to deliver this ambitious project and I would like to thank everyone involved.

4 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER JUNE 2020

Charity needs your help ONE of the UK’s largest charity providers of services for disabled people has launched a recruitment drive to ensure it has enough staff during the coming months of the coronavirus crisis. Leonard Cheshire operates residential care services across the country, including Agate House, which is home to 36 disabled adults in Ampthill. Across the UK about 2,700 disabled adults with different levels of need have a home through Leonard Cheshire. Frontline social care staff in these services have been designated as key workers by the Government as the fight against the spread of COVID-19 continues and the country adjusts to lockdown. Social care providers are help-

ing to ease pressure on the NHS, with Leonard Cheshire supporting and caring for people who could be more vulnerable to the virus. Executive director of people at Leonard Cheshire David Jessop said: “We are looking for people who want to make a difference during these uncertain times. “We have some great permanent and temporary roles right now. “If you are caring, compassionate and interested in supporting disabled people – we want to hear from you. “Our staff and volunteers at our services have been incredible. But we are experiencing staffing pressures in some locations.” To find out more about the vacancies you can visit the site at leonardcheshire.org/urgentvacancies

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 are currently Via Zoom

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Tuesday 16th June – 6.45pm. POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE Tuesday 16th June – 7.30pm TOWN COUNCIL MEETING Tuesday 30th June – 7.30pm

FARMERS’ MARKET Saturday 27th June, 9am–1pm how to ContaCt your CounCillor Cllr Mrs A. Gardner Email: Redley.ang4@gmail.com Cllr N. Brown Tel: 01933 384875 Cllr R.D. Hamblin Tel: 01933 413268 Cllr H.L. Jackson* Tel; 01933 314963 Cllr D.C. Lawson MBE Tel: 01933 397760 Cllr Mrs S.A. Mantle Tel: 01933 356838 Cllr C. O’Rourke Tel: 01933 411472 Cllr V.K. Paul Tel: 07850 723504 Cllr B.A. Prigmore Deputy Mayor Tel: 01933 386225

Cllr A.M.T. Reading Tel: 01933 411361 Cllr Mrs C. Reavey Mayor Tel 01933 413173 Cllr Mrs A.M. Sauntson Tel: 01933 357212 Cllr J. Smithers** Mayor 2018/19 Tel: 07779 137081 Cllr B. Spencer Tel: 07976 570865 Cllr P. Tomas* Tel: 01933 359688 Cllr Mrs P.H. Whiting Tel: 01933 356717

* District Councillor – East Northamptonshire Council ** County Councillor - Northamptonshire County Council

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 Wardens – Chris Spring & Chris Butcher Mayor’s Sergeant – Mr David Wicks

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Warning issued after conmen phoning people pretending to be police officers DETECTIVES from Northamptonshire Police’s Fraud Team are warning local residents of a scam in which people are pretending to be police officers in order to steal money and personal details. In April, the force received 12 reports of fraudsters posing as police officers in an attempt to commit courier fraud. Those targeted were aged between 70 and 89, and their total financial losses were £7,100. Courier fraud involves fraudsters telephoning a potential victim, claiming to be from their bank, the police or another law enforcement authority, and tricking them into revealing their PIN number, bank card and personal details. They often do this by claiming that they need help with an ongoing fraud investigation, or that they have arrested someone who has cloned the victim’s bank cards. These fraudsters commonly target the elderly and will sometimes even turn up in person to collect cash from their victims. Det Sgt Tim Craven, said: “Criminals are

experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. “They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment. “Stop and think. It could protect you and your money. “We are encouraging everyone to help us spread the word about this kind of scam to prevent any more people in our county being taken in by it. “Please tell your friends and relatives, especially the elderly ones, that if they receive a telephone call of this kind, they should never give out any information or agree to assist the caller, however plausible they may seem. “A police officer will never ever ask for money under any circumstances. “They will also not mind you wanting to ring 101 to verify their details. “Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.” If you are approached unexpectedly remember to:

Stop: Taking a moment to think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you. Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam and report it to Action Fraud.

The police, or your bank, will never ask you to withdraw money or transfer it to a different account. They will also never ask you to reveal your full banking password or PIN. Confirm requests are genuine by using a known number to contact organisations directly. The police non-emergency number is 101. For your bank, use the number printed on your bank statement or bank card. Use a different phone to make this call whenever possible as fraudsters can keep phone lines open.

Cash boost for essential services A CASH boost has gone out to essential services in the county. The Northamptonshire Lord Lieutenancy Emergency Fund was established to raise money for our NHS, local foodbanks and essential services helping hospitals and patients at this time of national crisis. To date, the fund has awarded £12,500 over two rounds to help support such services that have seen a major increase in demand since the outbreak of the coronavirus. The fund, facilitated by Northamptonshire Community Foundation, has made its second round of funding awards to several food projects and essential services across the county including Northampton Hope Centre, Kettering Community Unit, St Johns Ambulance and Food 4 Heroes. The Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, said James Saunders Watson DL, said: “I am delighted that the Emergency Fund is able to continue to support our foodbanks across the county, helping the most vulnerable families and individuals manage their way through this crisis.” Northamptonshire Community Foundation recently ran a Vegetable Patch Photo Competition in order to raise money for the Fund. Gardeners, allotment holders and anyone else with an interest in gardening were invited to take part and enter a photo of their vegetable patch alongside a suggested donation of £10.

The competition raised £8,000 from 137 donations. First place was claimed by Sue and Mark Jackson-Stops, (pictured below), with the remaining prize winners being Nina and Ottilie Murdoch, Flora Wellesley Wesley, Judith Luthman, Jeanie Hirsch and Tony Travis. CEO of Northamptonshire Community Foundation Victoria Miles said: “During this extraordinary time we have seen outpourings from generosity from all corners of our communities.

Art show postponed

AN eagerly-awaited art exhibition has been put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. Organisers said it was with regret and great disappointment that artists Marlene Snee, Tamsin Edwards and Michaela Cordes had no choice but to announce the postponement of their long planned for joint art exhibition until next year. These three creative ladies were hoping to fling wide the

doors of historical Chichele College in Higham Ferrers and welcome guests over the last weekend of June. But with the current pandemic restrictions, it has been put back. Despite a year where all artists will struggle to publicly display their work, their desire to create is undiminished. Though very disappointed the artists plan to showcase their work to the public in the not too distant future.

“I’m delighted that the Lord Lieutenant Emergency Fund has been able to support a number of food banks and other essential charities who are able to respond to the most vulnerable in our society at this time. “We thank all those who have donated both their time and funds.” Northamptonshire Community Foundation is a grant giving charity and provides much needed and often life changing grants to some of the county’s most vulnerable and in need people. Log on to www.ncf.uk.com for more.

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‘Normal’ was the problem in the first place

POINT TO PONDER by Canon George Burgon

“THERE can be no return to normal because normal was the problem in the first place,” (Hong Kong Graffiti). There is a tragic truth in these words as we continue to endure the current pandemic of the coronavirus or indeed any disruption which is a threat to our existence. There seems to be a built-in flaw in the heart of nature and ourselves which will always deny us ‘normality’. We do not need a well-known car insurance advert to remind us that “we never know what lies around the corner.” Humanity has done much in its history to tame some of the forces which threaten our existence but not all of them. We should not be surprised when the unpredictable happens because that is normal. At every level in society we should be more proactive in protecting ourselves from dangers. We should not sneer at health and safety regulations and we should take risk assessments as

an everyday part of life. We must also challenge those in public life who believe that value for money is more important than the value of human life. We must ensure public health is always a priority for it is but our personal well-being writ large. We should respect and reward those who serve and care in our communities. We should value and treasure those who endeavour to make life better for everyone. Just think for a moment about the things we have been denied these last few months and the folks we may never see again. In the circle of our family and friends we should not take one another for granted but treasure every kiss and hug and meeting. Sadly, for some, these personal encounters are no more. The experiences of living and dying with this disease has changed our perceptions of what it is to be alive. Self-centred gains and narrowminded interests are to be avoided like the plague. In the last few months, we

have recovered something of our community spirit and pride. We have also discovered our confidence in realising that that which sustains us in adversity is the same which guides us through changethe power of love. As Jesus himself reminded us, “for where your treasure is there your heart will be also,” (Matthew 6:21). We have been denied many of our treasures during this lockdown. Our heart tells us so in the sorrows of this current pandemic. The spiritual aches we endure are unavoidable where there is love. That is one of the treasures we have taken for granted. Some of the others could be the lively noise and bustle of a coffee shop or the freedom to hop on a bus and say thank you to the driver or enjoy the friendly banter in seeing one’s beloved friends and neighbours. When this pandemic is over shall we acknowledge one another more and more and create a better understanding as to what is normal in our daily lives?

Outgoing Mayor raises thousands THE outgoing Higham Ferrers Mayor Cllr Chris O'Rourke finished his term of office last month and raised £7,500 for his Charities and Good Causes Fund. This will be shared to all the local groups in the town which applied, and will help support many groups in the community with craft materials, training, drama classes, sports equipment as well as tourism, St Mary's Church Bedehouse, the food bank, and the charity the Encephalitis Society. The former Mayor and Mayoress Kathleen Meredith, (pictured, right), thanked everyone who supported them at the many fund raisers they organised, and for their donations and raffle prizes. He said: “It has been a great pleasure and honour for us to serve the people of Higham Ferrers, at the many town events as well as other town events - and one we have totally embraced and enjoyed. “However, it was unfortunate that we could not fulfill the full year of engagements and events, but we do realise that peoples’ safety is of the utmost importance.” The council said full details of the presentations of the cheques will follow later.

Jobs boost

DOZENS of jobs will be created when a new petrol station, store and drive-thru coffee shop is built in Rushden. The national multi-sector property developer Godwin Developments has completed the sale of the roadside site. The deal, finalised last month, includes a Euro Garages Limited petrol station and drive-thru coffee operator. The 1.7-acre site was secured by Godwin Developments in late 2018, and the business then moved quickly to gain planning permission in just under 14 months. The company said upon completion, the roadside convenience development will deliver much needed amenities to nearby Rushden residents, a local industrial estate and traffic along the busy A6. - the main arterial road connecting Kettering, Wellingborough and Bedford,. The site is set to create several full-time new job opportunities when fully operational in addition to about 50 temporary roles while the project is being constructed.

JUNE 2020 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 5

Hitting all the right notes

TEENAGER Ebony-mae from Rushden, proudly shows off her singing trophy after she hit all the right notes. The youngster, who has autistic spectrum disorder, ADHD and anxiety, last month won the international singing contest, Viralstar.live on You Tube. Her mum Lesley Palliser said: “Ebony-mae struggled at school and was always quiet in front of

others, except for immediate family. The first time she sang in front of the family was when she was about13 and sang ‘Let It Go’ in a corner of her grandparents’ house. From there she started watching You Tube tube videos of people singing songs from musicals. Thank you to everyone who voted for her.” You can read her amazing story at rosettapublishing.com/reporter

6 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER JUNE 2020

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Keeping spirits high during lockdown

DURING these times of lockdown, Home Instead East Northants has continued looking after clients providing one to one care. CAREGivers have been manning the fort keeping life as normal as possible and being there for our client’s needs, giving reassurance to families safe in the knowledge their loved ones are protected and cared for, even helping them to stay in touch with family and friends by supporting them using technology so they can still enjoy going to virtual social activities that

they would have attended before lockdown such as ‘Dementia Sings Out’ choir online. Spirits have been kept high during lockdown with CAREGivers thinking of a variety of activities and ideas to help make the time seem that little bit more fun. CAREGiver Veronica went out on a walk with Gillian, (pictured below, left). While out on the walk Gillian noticed the rainbows in the windows and asked why there were so many.

So, Veronica explained what the rainbow was signifying explaining it was for the NHS and carers. When she got home, she decided that she wanted to draw her own rainbow and put it in the window. CAREGiver Emma, while food shopping for her own family, thought of her client Janet who loved gardening and while sorting out her own family needs, she still thought of Janet and bought her some plants to plant in her garden, (below,).

And CAREGivers Gemma and Becky noticed one of the clients they were visiting was going to have a birthday and he was sad he would have no cake this year with his family. So his CAREGivers surprised him with a cake and sang happy birthday and he was so happy he told them it had made him feel very emotional, (below, right). These are just some of the wonderful things CAREGivers have done for clients to keep their spirits up during lockdown.

If you have loved ones that you are concerned about and feel they need some help, we are here to help, fully trained, DBS checked and PPE correctly worn by our CAREGivers. Contact one of the care managers Sheri, Sam or Jackie who will be more than happy to answer any of your questions or to book a service call to arrange care. There is capacity for new clients. You can also contact them by phone on 01933 678775.

Curtain up for Josh

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TRESHAM College performing arts students Joshua Crooke has won a place at the National Youth Theatre. Josh, 17, has been rehearsing for this big step at the Kettering campus of Tresham College. This success is a valuable stepping stone in his career path in the theatre. Due to the lock-down the week-long activity will take place on-line in August with him accessing guidance and tuition from a variety of industry experts. Later there may be opportunities to take part in live on stage productions. Josh said: “I am surprised and excited about this awesome opportunity and I can’t wait - thank you everyone at college for the support, it means so much. “I have taken part in a number

of acting opportunities within the college and outside including a production of the play Wolfie, which won various awards when first released.” After completing his second year in 2020-21 Josh hopes to go on to study acting and theatre at a

degree level. Lecturer Kathryne Perry, who has guided Josh as part of his fulltime acting studies, said: “This is incredible. “Josh is a fantastic student who works hard in all areas of the course. “He will be joining the National Youth Theatre in the summer virtually, but we hope to see him live on a professional stage at some point in the future.” Tresham College is part of The Bedford College Group and has a great track record in preparing young people for life in the theatre, television and even films. If you want to pursue a creative career on stage, in front or behind the camera, or using technology to share entertainment digitally, then visit www.tresham.ac.uk or www.bedford.ac.uk

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JUNE 2020 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 7

gardening with Milton Ernest Garden Centre A

Achieving another dimension in your garden VERY important thing to consider is the structure in our gardens. We build our house define the boundaries lay the patio and buy a shed. To blend these all together we need plants. However plants themselves provide structure. Trees provide an interesting skyline and screen the neighbours. Larger trees like Acer Kelly’s Gold and Sorbus Hupehensis have wide canopies and lovely coloured foliage but lose their leaves in winter time. The conifers like Chaemacyparis Lawsoniana are evergreen with green blue or golden leaves give all year interest and provide nesting cover for birds. Narrow upright trees like Betula Snow Queen with gorgeous white bark, Prunus Amanagawa and Malus Red Sentinal both flower in spring and are suitable trees where space is a premium. Hedges can be planted to mark the boundary of your property and are more interesting than fences providing nesting places for birds and squirrels and a safe haven for a plethora of insects and butterflies. Leylandii gives a quick screen but must be maintained regularly to stop it becoming unmanageable and a bone of contention with the neighbours. Thuya Plicata is slower growing but a lovely colour green with aromatic foliage. Photinia Red Robin, Taxus Baccata (Yew) and Viburnum Tinus are all good evergreen alternatives to Conifer hedges. If you need an immediate taller screen approximately 3 to 4 metres plant Carpinus (Hornbeam) or Tilia (Lime) trained as espaliers with yew planted below. It is expensive but is a stunning structure in any garden. Large shrubs can be planted in borders in front of fences and walls to give interest and need little maintenance. Photinia Red Robin with bright red young leaves, Viburnum Tinus and Mahonia Charity (winter

flowering) and Ceanothus and Choisya Tenata (spring flowering) are all evergreen while Forsythia, Cotinus, Philadelphus, Berberis, Sambucus Ivory Tower and Viburnum Opulus lose their leaves in winter but are quick growing and provide extra seasonal interest. Feature plants used successfully provide points of interest in borders. Taxus Baccata Fastigiata Aurea, Juniperus Virginiana Blue Spire, Berberis Helmann’s Pillar, Miscanthus Karl Forster or Miscanthus Zebrinus, Phormiums or Buxus trained as pyramids are all excellent feature plants giving focal points and structure in mixed borders. Small top grafted trees which only grow to about 1.5metres do the same. Some examples are Cotoneaster Juliette, Salix Nisiki Variegata, Holly and Euonymus. These can also all be grown in tubs on the patio and can be moved around to change the scene. Standard

roses can also be planted in rose beds for height and definition. Something special is Wisteria and Canary Bird Rose trained as standards. Both are breath taking when in flower but interesting shapes for the rest of the year. Bamboo is another superb structure plant. It is evergreen and can be used to accent or screen. Paths and walkways look more inviting when planted with low hedges. Lavender and Buxus are ideal plants for this but Thyme, Catmint and Heucheras are also recommended. Low walls and rockeries are garden structures that need decorating with plants. The alpines are brilliant plants for these situations because they grow tumbling over rocks in the natural environment. Aubretia, Alyssum Saxatile, Saxifrage, Thyme, Saponaria, Alpine Phlox, Helianthemum and Campanula

Carpatica between them give displays throughout the year. We can also introduce permanent features to give interest. Archways, Pergolas, Sitting Nooks, Rope Walks and Obelisks however ornate need plants. Arches that cover paths and Sitting Nooks need plants with soft stems and perfume that will train easily. You don’t want to be grabbed by rose thorns when you attempt to walk to the garage or sit sipping your Chardonnay! Plant these structures with different varieties of Honeysuckle to make a feature all year. Lonicera Belgica (early flowering), Lonicera Serotina (late), Lonicera Princess Kate (highly scented), Lonicera Hall’s Prolific and Mint Crisp (evergreen) make the arch a year round interesting feature. Pergolas being larger will accommodate Wisteria, Clematis Montana, Jasmines and Climbing Roses. Rope Walks are good for Rambling Roses because the rampant growth quickly drapes the posts and ropes. The new varieties like Rose Albright (pink) and Malvern Hills (yellow) are exciting because they repeat flowering throughout the summer. Obelisks, the Victorians and Tudors loved them and painted them bright colours. I like to use them to decorate herbaceous borders and to give height in tubs. Planted with perennial sweet peas, hybrid clematis and as in the cottage gardens with runner beans you can achieve another dimension in garden structure. Finally some structures like the shed can be an eyesore. Cover them up with plants like Polygonum Baldschuanicum, Clematis Montana, Virginia Creeper and Variegated Ivy. The best structure of all of course is the lawn. It sets off the rest of the garden and keeps the Man in the House amused for hours each week.-

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New leaders and mayors take up their posts 8 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER JUNE 2020

A HOST of civic appointments have been made in recent weeks. Despite the coronavirus pandemic, councils have managed to appoint leaders and mayors for the 2020/21 year. Steven North, (pictured left), was re-elected unopposed as leader of East Northamptonshire Council’s at its first virtual meeting last month. The appointment means Cllr North will now lead ENC for the 10th consecutive year and until it ceases to exist next year and the new North Northamptonshire Council is formed. Cllr North is also Leader of the ruling Conservative group and represents the council in the Rushden Sartoris Ward. He said: “It’s a great privilege to lead the council for a 10th year, especially as we enter

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this final year as East Northamptonshire Council. “This was always going to be an unusual occasion, however I never expected to be doing the last annual meeting virtually. “Knowing the new North Northamptonshire Council will come into existence on April 1, 2021, over the past year, we have continued to work on our legacy projects, and more recently alongside the current situation – these remain our focus. “One of our key projects is Enterprise Centre, East Northants in Raunds and I am pleased to announce it is nearly complete and will be a valuable support for businesses old and new as our economy recovers from the coronavirus pandemic. David Jenney was re-elected as deputy leader and pledged his support to Cllr North, to the council and to the district.

Meanwhile, East Northamptonshire Council welcomed a new chairman for its last civic year via the first virtual full council meeting. Cllr Howell has served on the council for five years and was vice-chairman for the past two years, she will be supported by her consort, Cllr Lee Wilkes. She will now be chairman of the council, until it ceases to exist on March 31 next year. In Raunds, Sylvia Hughes, (pictured left), was elected Town Mayor for the 2020/2021 civic year. Cllr’s Hughes consort for her Mayoral year will be Dudley Hughes. Cllr Lee Wilkes was elected as Deputy Mayor and his consort will be Cllr Helen Howell. You can keep up-to-date with the appointments at rosettapublishing.com/reporter/

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Health and well-being of young people under the spotlight

YOUNG Healthwatch Northamptonshire is conducting a survey asking 11 to 19-year-old about their physical health, lifestyle and emotional health in East Northamptonshire. The survey includes questions on how young people engage with leisure activities locally. The survey asks young people about their health and habits and what they think about some health and emotional issues that affect young people. It gives young people a chance to let us know what works for them and what they would like to see changed. The information collected from

the survey will help inform wellbeing services in East Northamptonshire and help local NHS and children’s services in the planning of health and care for young people. It also wants to hear about how young people access leisure activities locally. A report will be published later this year. Schools and students in the district will be asked to take part in the anonymous and confidential survey, which includes contact information for support if they feel that themselves or someone they know is or may be affected. You can find the report at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/ r/YHWEastnorthants

Wildlife explorers recruited to help feathered friends

PUPILS were given a bespoke booklet aimed at teaching little ones about their feathered friends in light of the Big Schools’ Birdwatch hosted earlier this year by the RSPB. Different people live in homes of all styles, shapes and sizes and it’s the same for birds, so, children were asked to match the common birds to their perfect homes. Head at Priors Hall ALC, Chris Woolhouse, said: “All of the pupils had a wonderful time at the Barratt Homes development, Lake View at Priors Hall Park, learning about the different species of bird. “It was a fantastic opportunity for the children to learn more about the nature and animals around them. “We would like to thank Barratt Homes for the kind opportunity to get involved in such a fun activity.” Sales director at Barratt Homes Northampton Alison Raine said: “We were delighted to invite pupils of Priors Hall ALC to our development, Lake View at Priors Hall Park, help find birds a home. “We have been working with the RSPB since 2014 and we are passionate about nature and the environment which surrounds the communities in which we build so

it’s great that we can get the next generation involved in learning about their surroundings.” Rebecca Munro, from the RSPB, said: “With nearly half a million people now regularly taking part the popularity of Big Garden Birdwatch shows just how passionate people are about their wildlife. “Everyone has a role to play in saving nature and protecting our wildlife. “This event is an enjoyable, easy, inclusive activity that anyone can do and a great opportunity to connect with nature at a time of year when our birds are looking to gardens to get the food they need.” The event asks people to watch the birds for an hour, whether in a garden or park, count the ones which land in the area and submit their results online at rspb.org.uk/birdwatch. There are many ways residents can help the birds in their garden, such as providing a regular supply of clean water by using a bird bath, providing nest boxes for the birds you spot during the Birdwatch and putting the right bird seed out. This includes flaked maize, sunflower seeds and peanut granules but do avoid split peas, beans and dried rice or lentils.

Ofsted delight at school

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MANOR School Sports College in Raunds has been rated as a ‘good’ school following its recent Section 8 Ofsted Inspection. The inspectors conducted a wide range of observations during their two days on site in Raunds, as well as meeting with staff and students and carrying out what Ofsted call ‘Deep Dives’, into three subject areas – maths, English and geography. The inspectors were pleased with what they saw and heard from the school’s curriculum leaders, teachers and, most importantly, students. The school is particularly pleased the inspectors recognised their inclusivity and acknowledged the school has a “well-thought-out and ambitious academic and vocational curriculum for all” which offers students a broad and balanced

range of subjects at all Key Stages. The report states the school is “generally a calm and orderly community” where “relationships between pupils and staff are positive”. It also recognises the strength of teachers’ subject knowledge and that “subject leaders think carefully about what pupils should learn and when”. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, with inspectors identifying the high profile of safeguarding amongst staff and leaders. Principal Jay Davenport said: “We are delighted with the comments written by the lead inspector who recognised the huge amount of work staff and students have put in since the last inspection. You can read the full report at www.manor.school.

The East Northants Reporter is an independent publication part of Rosetta Publishing Ltd. Published by ©2020 Rosetta Publishing Limited 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest Bedford MK44 1SH Tel: 07894 935952 Editorial: nick@rosettapublishing.com Advertising: TheReporter@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Reach Printing Services Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 0SX