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Warning issued after police
01933 429929
see an increase in drink and annual drug driving figures RUSHDEN, HIGHAM FERRERS & EAST NORTHANTS
POLICE carried more drink and drug roadside tests in their annual campaign, which led to a jump in arrest figures.
And officers have warned there will be no let-up in the push to focus on the fatal four offences – which are speeding, drink-driving, not wearing a seatbelt and using a mobile phone at the wheel – throughout the year. lives at risk, but those of innocent As part of Northamptonshire road users.” Police’s annual Christmas drink And he warned anyone thinkand drug drive campaign, officers ing of drink or drug driving now conducted 2,552 breath tests which is an increase of 66 per cent the Christmas and New Year period is over, to think again. on 2018, when 1,798 were carried He said: “ I would like to thank out. the vast majority of people who While the number of roadside drug wipe tests rose by 90 per cent did the right thing and only drove when sober. from 20 to 38 respectively. “I would urge everyone to conThe rise in the number of tinue to do so as just because the roadside checks is a direct result festive season is over, it doesn’t of the increased patrols and the various operations held across the mean we will stop reinforcing this message.” force throughout the festive As part of the campaign, all period to tackle drink and drug driving offending over the festive those charged with drink driving were publicly named on the period. Northamptonshire Police website During the campaign, police and its social media channels. revealed a total of 84 motorists The list of offenders included were caught behind the wheel two drivers caught on Christmas while under the influence of drink Day and a further eight caught on or drugs. New Year’s Day. Police said 67 were charged PC Dave Lee said: “Those with drink driving, and 17 were arrested for failing a roadside drug people caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs over test, pending the results of blood the festive period are starting 2020 tests. facing driving bans, hefty fines Officers said this was a small and in some cases, prison senincrease of 24 per cent and 30 per tences.” cent respectively from 2018. That year saw a total of 67 DEVASTATING EFFECTS drivers were arrested and charged with drink, (54), and drug, (13), He said he had seen the terrible driving related offences. consequences of people driving The chairman of the over the limit. Northamptonshire Safer Roads He said: “As a police officer Alliance, (NSRA), Chief Supt on the roads, I have seen the devMick Stamper, said: “As a county- astating effects drink and drug wide partnership, our main priordriving can have. ity is to improve road safety “It only takes one second to through education and enforcehave a collision which can not ment, which targeted campaigns only change your life but the life such as this enables us to do. of an innocent bystander and their “The increase number of family. breath tests and drug wipes carried “Just because the festive seaout throughout this campaign, is son is over, we will continue to testament to the hard-work of all focus on the fatal four offences – our officers, who are committed to which are speeding, drink-driving, improving road safety across the not wearing a seatbelt and using a county. mobile phone at the wheel – “Every year we warn people of throughout the year.” the dangers of driving under the He urged anyone who suspects influence of drink and drugs. people of drink driving or drug “Yet there are still some who driving to contact the Drivewatch selfishly and recklessly choose to Hotline on 0800 174615 or alterignore us. natively contact 101, in confi“Not only putting their own dence.
FEBRUARY 2020
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2 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER FEBRUARY 2020
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Enterprise centre reaches new heights A PIONEERING project, which will provide highquality business accommodation and support to small and micro enterprises, is attracting international interest. The Enterprise Centre, East Northants, in Warth Park, Raunds, will open its doors this spring. While construction is underway with the completion of the external fascia of the building, the centre has already received interest from more than 30 businesses, including one from France. East Northamptonshire Council, South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership, (SEMLEP), and ASHE construction are working in partnership to deliver the centre. It will provide small and micro enterprises with a space for their business to start and grow. Businesses will be offered support from a range of business support organisations, including, Enterprising East Northants, the council’s economic development arm, and the SEMLEP Growth Hub. Tenants will also be able to make meaningful connections with their neighbouring businesses
through a variety of network events and the provision of a number of informal meeting and collaboration spaces within the centre. Council leader Steven North said: “We are just a few months away from opening our flagship project - Enterprise Centre, East Northants. “And we are pleased we have already received interest from more than 30 businesses. “We will soon celebrate having an operator on board who will work with us to drive this project forward ready for its official opening this spring.” The council, which is delivering the £8m project, received £1.69m funding from SEMLEP’s Local Growth Fund towards the project and is working with industry specialists ASHE construction and Total Project Integration to deliver the centre as part of Enterprising East Northants, the council’s plan for economic growth and prosperity. To register interest in the project, or for more information on the development of the centre, you can contact 0808 1787 060, or visit www.eastnorthamptonshire.gov.uk
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FEBRUARY 2020 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 3
Life-changing new homes unveiled in town A NEW development of affordable homes in Irthlingborough has been described as ‘life-changing’ by people living there. Leading housing provider Longhurst Group has re-developed the previously derelict row of terraced housing in High Street into a selection of two and three-bedroom homes available on an affordable rent basis. The group’s director of development and sales Nick Worboys said: “We are really pleased to see the outcome of this project, which really has improved the area. “As outlined in our ‘Improving Lives 2025’ strategy, we have provided homes where they are needed and worked in partnership with a number of organisations to achieve what we have. “We did not set out on this project to generate profit, but rather to improve the lives of our customers and the communities.”
The project, partly funded by a £300,000 grant from Homes England, has improved the area, which was previously a hotspot for anti-social behaviour. Mr Worboys said: “This site has attracted anti-social behaviour in the past and we are very proud to have given the area a new lease of life by transforming it to provide muchneeded affordable family housing. Morgan Diggle was one of the first customers to move into her new home and said its fully-accessible design has made it much easier for her. She said: “The house is lovely. “My previous property wasn’t accessible, but this one is and it is life-changing. “My last home did not have widened door frames, there was a step out the front so I could not get my wheelchair out the front and it didn’t have a downstairs toilet. “This place has everything and
meets my needs. “The area is lovely and quiet and everyone keeps themselves to themselves. “There is no through traffic and there is no trouble at all. “I am absolutely, 100 per cent happy, to be living here.” Longhurst Group, which owns and manages more than 4,100 homes across Northamptonshire, worked alongside multiple partner organisations to deliver the development. They included East Northamptonshire Council and Snowdon Homes. Council leader Steven North: said: “We are dedicated to working with responsible housing associations to deliver high-quality affordable homes for our residents. “This development has provided Irthlingborough residents with much-needed affordable homes for those seeking housing in Irthlingborough.”
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New collection scheme gets off to an electrifying start ABOUT 13 tons of waste electrical and electronic equipment has been collected across East Northamptonshire in just six weeks since a new collection was launched. Following a successful pilot in Raunds, the waste team at East Northamptonshire Council rolled out a weekly ‘WEEE’ collection scheme in mid-December and have already seen a brilliant response. Council leader Steven North said: “As a council, we are committed to helping residents with their recycling in the district and are delighted there has been such a high uptake of the WEEE collection scheme in a short space of time. “But the work doesn’t stop here and we encourage residents
to carry on putting out their unwanted electrical items for collection, so we can maintain these high figures and avoid electrical products being sent for disposal unnecessarily.” Since December, electrical items including kettles, speakers, microwaves, printers and other small electrical items have all been collected from neighbourhoods across the district and will now be sent to a dedicated facility for sorting and recycling. Residents across East Northamptonshire who have unwanted small electrical items should place them out for recycling on their usual collection day in a carrier bag, next to recycling or refuse bins. For more details visit www.east-northamptonshire.gov.uk/WEEE
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
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Crackdown on illegal alcohol sales A CRACKDOWN has been launched on illegal alcohol sales. The licensing enforcement team from East Northamptonshire Council has been working with Northamptonshire Police licensing department to cut down on illegal alcohol age-restricted product sales the district by conducting test purchasing. A test purchase is when the police, local authority, or Trading Standards, employs a child aged 15 or 16 to visit a bar or shop and tries to purchase age-restricted goods, in this case alcohol, to check that the law is being complied with. Test purchases can happen at any time a premises is open and if a business fails a test purchase, it is likely it is receive another within three months. Between April 15 and October 30, last year, 28 test purchases were conducted across East Northamptonshire, with nine businesses failing.
All the sellers who failed were issued with a penalty notice, or disorder fine for £90. This operation has also resulted in three reviews of premises licences and one premises surrendering its licence prior to formal action being taken, meaning no alcohol sales can take place and conditions being added to the licence. Leader of East Northamptonshire Council Steven North said: “These figures show, sadly, how common illegal alcohol age-restricted sales are in East Northamptonshire and we will continue to work with Northamptonshire Police to keep residents and, in particular, young people, safe. “Unfortunately if a seller is found to have sold an age-restricted product to an underage customer, the individual is fined and may have to appear in court, rather than the business owner.” PC David Bryan, Northamptonshire Police
licensing officer, said: “We would always recommend ‘Challenge 21’ or ‘25’ is adopted by businesses - this means if the customer does not look 21 or 25, then the seller must ask for a valid form of identification to prove the person is over 18. “In addition it is always useful to have an identification policy, detailing which identification you and your employees are going to accept. “Typical identification accepted includes photo driving licences, passports, HM Forces identification cards and identification cards with the PASS hologram.” To find out more about licensing in East Northamptonshire and to report any illegal activity, please contact East Northamptonshire Council’s licensing enforcement officer, Rita Groves on 01832 742241 or at rgroves@eastnorthamptonshire.gov.uk
Mellow Yellow oil makers show green credentials
COUNTY-based Farrington Oils, producer of Britain’s original ‘seed to bottle’ Mellow Yellow cold pressed rapeseed oil, has appointed fellow family-run local business, Cawleys, as its recycling and waste partner. With all eyes on reducing global warming, carbon emissions and plastic pollution, companies are working hard to enhance their environmental credentials and Farrington’s are no different. Farrington Oil’s Mellow Yellow rapeseed oil is grown to LEAF Marque standards, a system designed to promote environmentally
responsible and sustainable farming. As such, it was extremely important Farrington’s appointed a sustainable waste partner which could maximise its recycling rates. Duncan Farrington said: “We were extremely impressed with Cawleys segregation, recycling and materials recovery facilities. “This, along with its close proximity to our farm meant our carbon footprint could be minimised much further than previously. “Furthermore, its status as a third generation family business means it can be truly transparent about their sustainable procedures and prac-
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tices at every stage.” Anna Cawley, director of customer service at Cawleys in Wellingbroough, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as Farrington’s waste and recycling partner. “Mellow Yellow is a fantastic brand which has been produced locally to the highest standards. “We have worked tirelessly to ensure our business model offers a truly sustainable waste management solution.” “We look forward to a long and happy relationship with Farrington Oils.”
Tuesday, 28 January 7pm TOWN COUNCIL MEETING Tuesday, 11 February 6.45pm PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Tuesday, 11 February 7.30pm POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE MEETING
FARMERS’ MARKET 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 Mayor Tel: 01933 411472 Cllr V.K. Paul Tel: 07850 723504 Cllr B.A. Prigmore Tel: 01933 386225
Cllr A.M.T. Reading Tel: 01933 411361 Cllr Mrs C. Reavey Deputy 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
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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* District Councillor – East Northamptonshire Council ** County Councillor - Northamptonshire County Council
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FEBRUARY 2020 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 5
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Young carers help to develop to forge Commonwealth links
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MEMBERS of Northamptonshire Young Carers participated via video link in the East Africa Young Carers Festival 2019. Healthwatch Northamptonshire’s chairman and Commonwealth Organisation for Social Work board member, Dr David N Jones, also took part in the event. About 50 young carers gathered in Nairobi last month for a festival of fun, reflection and campaigning organised by the Commonwealth Organisation for Social Work, (COSW), in partnership with the Kenya National Association of Social Workers and linked with associations in Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda and supported by the UK Children’s Society Young Carer Team and Nairobi County Council. Using social media and video, funded by the Commonwealth Secretariat, the young carers connected with carers in other Commonwealth countries such as Canada and United Kingdom, including young carers from Northamptonshire. They described the pressures of their daily lives such as caring for disabled or sick parents, ‘parenting’ siblings, doing small jobs to earn money to pay rent and buy food, doing school
work, forced to be ‘responsible’ while being denied respect by officials and communities. Improvements expressed by the young people included helping school teachers and public officials to understand their pressures instead of punishing them for shortcomings, (resulting from their caring responsibilities), arranging help with school fees, making it easier to get medical help when needed and spreading awareness in the community. Young Carers Service Manager for ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com Northamptonshire Carers Joanna Johnson said: “It was a really interesting conversation to be a part of and we appreciated the opportunity to connect with Young Carers, (via the magic of technology), in Africa. “Finding out that despite the geographical, economic and political differences in our countries that fundamentally Young Carers share similar worries was humbling. “We are all still striving for Young Carers to be recognised and better supported across the globe. “Connecting with others, no matter their differences in location or background, and having the opportunity to share experiences is a pow-
erful thing. “We would welcome similar opportunities in the future and hope to learn from each other and support where possible to get all children the support and help they need to have their own needs met.” Commonwealth Organisation for Social Work board member, Dr Jones, who participated in the event, said: “It was fantastic to see the transformation in young people through the weekend - getting to know each other, discovMARCH 2017 ering shared experiences and Rproblems, (including UK and Canadian young people), enjoying games and good food and struggling with serious conversations created a common bond and boosted confidence to speak out about their realities. “The social workers who organised the event did a great job and deserve the highest respect.” He said it was a great example of Commonwealth values in action to celebrate 70 years of the organisation and added that he hoped political leaders and communities would listen and respond to the imporvments which were needed.
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FEBRUARY 2020 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 7
How you too can make a big difference Benefits of marathons HOME Instead East Northants campaign #YouCanCare is running for the third year and is looking for more people to join the team who can give the best quality support to its clients.
Being a CAREGiver can be a very rewarding role which can make a huge difference to someone’s life. Speaking of the campaign, Rosina Darnell, co-owner of Home Instead East Northants, said: “The idea behind the ‘You Can Care’ campaign is to call out to people who may not have thought about a career in care. “Caring is a truly rewarding job, which offers excellent training and flexible hours. “The hashtag #YouCanCare will be used throughout the ‘You Can Care’ campaign as a celebration of professional CAREGivers and a show of solidarity with the hundreds of people working tirelessly in our local community to care for family members. The CAREGivers are fully trained to care for older people at home. This involves a range of services from helping with the shopping and around the house to companionship and personal care.
Here are some of the qualities it takes to be a CAREGiver to show that you too can care Attentiveness: Listening, noticing changes in routine or behaviour and taking action are all crucial to providing high quality care. Care is tailored to the client and their individual needs and so being attentive is key to this. It can be as simple as making sure Mary’s lunch is served on her favourite plate to making sure that Ted has his favourite puzzle when he is feeling down. Patience: Those who provide care to others need to be patient. Sometimes, things may not go as quickly as planned, and there may be a little hesitation at times on the part of the person receiving
care.Remaining calm and patient no matter how stressful the situation is a key skill. Flexibility: Each day can bring something new and so it’s important to be adaptable to any situation. Care is covered in a number of different areas, including throughout Rushden and Wellingborough, Kettering, Raunds and surrounding villages. Kindness and empathy: A little kindness goes such a long way. Ageing can be a daunting and difficult process for some older people who may find simple tasks much more challenging. Being able to understand these emotions and show empathy will really help you connect with your client. There are
many opportunities to practice kindness when caring for clients. Good communication and interpersonal skills: Care is a sociable career and each day you will be communicating with clients, listening to their stories and their life and engaging in conversation with them. Being a good listener is crucial and remembering those little details about your clients make you truly excel as a great CAREGiver. Dependability: Someone who is in need of care has lost some degree of independence and they have to be able to depend on the person or people providing care to them. A dependable CAREGiver is someone who arrives on-time and provides the highest level of care, every time. Integrity:Having a strong moral compass means that you do the right thing, not the easy thing. Being trustworthy, honest, and compassionate are key traits to have as a CAREGiver. If these sound like you, then why not get in touch to find out more about becoming a CAREGiver with Home Instead East Northants? Contact 01933 678775 for more information about the service.
TRAINING for and completing a marathon improves the health of a new runner's arteries, cutting about four years off their vascular age, a study from The Barts and University College, London has revealed. Over six months of training, their arteries regained some youthful elasticity, which should reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. And their blood pressure fell as much as if they had been pre-
scribed pills. Head of Health Promotion at Heart Research UK Dr Helen Flaherty said: “At Heart Research UK, we recommend and encourage everyone to incorporate more physical activity into their lives. “Training for and running a marathon clearly has a wealth of health benefits, and raises millions of pound for charity each year.” Find out more about events by contacting 01132347474 community@heartresearch.org.uk
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THE Higham and Rushden Singing for Fun Group raised £633.50 at its Christmas concert in aid of the Full Gospel Church food bank and shelter. ––––––––––––––
Make a date
THE next meeting of the RSPB Mid–Nene Local Group will be on Thursday, February 20, at 7.30pm at the Saxon Hall in Raunds. Wine and cheese will be on offer and tickets are £12 per person. There will also be an illustrated talk with guest speaker David Lindo on ‘how to be an urban birder’. For more details, contact Penny 01933 350404.
8 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER FEBRUARY 2020
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School proud of exam success New council latest focus is on finance and jobs
TWENTY-two current pupils from Oundle School have received offers to study at Oxford and Cambridge, with 13 receiving offers from Oxford and nine receiving offers from Cambridge. The offers reflect a wide range of subjects, including English, classics, history, maths, computer sciences and physics and are testi-
mony to the intellectual curiosity and self-motivation of ‘Oundelians,’ as well as the dedication of their teachers. Head, Sarah Kerr-Dineen said: “We are delighted by the success of so many of our current pupils, which rewards their own commitment as well as the inspiration provided by their teachers.”
COUNCILLORS progressing preparations for a North Northamptonshire unitary council have backed a plan of action to recruit senior managers that will head the new shadow authority. At their first meeting of 2020 in the Corby Cube, members of the North Northamptonshire Joint Committee also welcomed the robust and transparent financial process put in place for the Future Northants unitary programme, which is working to create two new unitary councils in the county by April 1, 2021. The committee supported proposals for appointing the chief officer roles required by law to be filled when the new North Shadow Authority is created in May this year. These arrangements include putting in place a series of ‘caretaker’ positions for a head of paid service, chief finance officer and monitoring officer from May, then appointing permanently to the posts later in the summer. Members also endorsed a report which set out the programme’s financial baseline position – the starting point of assumed costs for creating the new councils and potential savings that could be made.
The baseline figures estimate required investment of £43.5m, which includes £18m of business rates pilot funding, to transform and move across their services to form the two new authorities, which could achieve a possible yearly budget saving of £85.9m. Members heard these were being used as benchmark figures to monitor and report future financial progress and are therefore likely to change. The committee also received updates from the joint committee’s working groups which have been progressing key pieces of work on governance and other arrangements needed to set up a shadow authority for north Northamptonshire, which would deliver the new unitary council. Committee chairman Martin Griffiths said: “It’s clear from the reports and updates received by the Committee that work is really gathering pace towards the creation of a new unitary council.” The next meeting will be held on Monday, February 10, at 6.30pm in Thrapston. Agendas and papers will be available nearer the time at www.kettering.gov.uk/meetings/committee/52/north_ northamptonshire_joint_committee
Reading gift
TESCO Express in Rushden, has agreed to kindly donate newspapers daily to Rushden Library. They will located in the main entrance communal area for people to sit and read at their leisure.
Quiz night
THE next quiz night for AFC Rushden & Diamonds will be at the the Bowls Club in Northampton Road, on Thursday, February 13, from 7.30pm. Admission is £3 per person for up to six players a team and there will be a collection for Cransley Hospice. Contact Glenis Haynes at office@rogernorman. co.uk
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College strikes gold
FEBRUARY 2020 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 9
Make sure you stay warm this winter RESIDENTS across East Northamptonshire are urged to check if they are eligible for a helping hand to reduce their energy bills through the Warm Homes Fund. In 2019, East Northamptonshire Council, on behalf of the Northants Warm Homes partnership, secured nearly £4m to provide fully-funded central heating for homes across the district for the first time. The money awarded is matched by grants and contributions from landlords and local authorities to ensure that eligible homes are fully funded. Leader of East Northamptonshire Council Steven North, said: “As a council, we are always looking for ways to work with partner organisations to help residents across East Northants and this scheme is the latest example. “The Warm Homes Fund provides help to those in need, and with winter setting in, we urge everyone to check to see if they are
eligible and stay warm for years to come. “If you are not sure whether you can apply for the Warm Homes Fund do not hesitate to get in contact with a member of the Warm Homes Fund team on 0800 038 5737 who will be happy to advise and talk you through eligibility.” Households eligible for the Warm Homes Fund are those most in need of support and include low income earners that have high energy bills, and those individuals who are vulnerable to the cold because of health conditions. Home owners and private tenants can apply for the Warm Homes Fund, but tenants will need permission from their landlord. The scheme will run until 2021 and aims to fit efficient central heating in around 1,400 fuel-poor homes across the county. To find out more go to, www.northantswarmhomes.com or call freephone 0800 038 5737.
Councils to work together
of the Year of the Year at the sparkling Northamptonshire Business Awards. The Bedford College Group team took the All Things Business prize for its fantastic efforts in encouraging more people to sign up for 16-plus education in Northamptonshire, exceeding all targets. Leading the group to the stage was vice-principal Georgina Ager together with Sarah Baxter, alongside members of the Tresham team. Georgina said: “This is great news, on top of the recent announcement Ofsted has declared Tresham College, as part of The Bedford College Group, as ‘Good' under a rigorous new assessment process. "We hope people will of Northamptonshire recognise they variety of options once they leave school of further education offered on their doorsteps.”
Barrowden to successfully adopt the new Barrowden and Wakerley Neighbourhood Plan.
THE Carers Sitting Service provides support by giving a break to those who have a caring responsibility. Volunteers make a regular befriending visit to someone’s own home to provide them with some different company and a friendly face. Interested in joining - to find out more contact Emma Foster or Adam Wilson on 01933 677837 or email sittingservice@northamptonshire-carers.org.
Mayor awards
THE annual Raunds Mayor Citizens’ Awards need your nominations.Contact 01933 622087 for more details.
Funds boost
GRASSROOTS groups working in Northamptonshire will get much-needed grants of up to £10,000 to help support local women and girls facing a range of challenges. To learn more about funds visit www.ncf.uk.com/apply-fora-grant/grant-finder/tampon-taxcommunity-fund
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THE Bedford College Group has won a gold award for its work in engaging with employers and influencers in Northamptonshire (pictured, above). The FE First Awards saw the Group taking the prize in the College Marketing Network category for a stakeholder event at the Kettering campus which brought together key local influencers to find out more about what is on offer in terms of education and training by the group with an extra focus on Northamptonshire. Councillors, advisors and business people heard first hand about courses and campus developments which are preparing young people for the modern world of work, and how continuing professional development is available to those seeking promotion and advancement. The event was staged by the corporate communications and events team, which now helps promote the group across the region to potential students, their parents, employers and local authorities. Meanwhile, thanks to the modern marketing skills of The Bedford College Group, full-time students at Tresham have now increased thanks to the enrolment in 2019 of 2,543 - 15 per cent above the target set by the group. For this the group was highly commended in the Targeted Recruitment Campaign. Director of sales and marketing Sarah Baxter said: “We have been very grateful for the welcome we, The Bedford College Group, have received in Northamptonshire from everyone. “We hope that our forwardthinking approach to education and training will support the continued success of the county and help us in our quest to grow the talent of tomorrow across the South East Midlands region.” Earlier, Tresham College won an award for Marketing Campaign of the Year at the sparkling Northamptonshire Business Awards, held at the County Cricket Ground alongside hundreds of local businesses. Earlier, Tresham College won an award for Marketing Campaign
EAST Northamptonshire and Rutland Councils have worked with the parishes of Wakerley and
Volunteer plea
www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk Whilst stocks last
Tel: 01234 823033
MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH
C
10 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER FEBRUARY 2020
ADVERTISING: TheReporter@rosettapublishing.com
EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
out & about
––––––––––––––––––––––– THE PAVILION YOUTH CLUB
HIGHAM FERRERS For young people on Wednesdays evening 8-10yrs 6pm - 7.30pm 11- 16 yrs 7.30pm -9pm Entrance 50p The youth club is a safe space for the young people of Higham Ferrers to come, to make new friends, and join in the activities which include games, art & crafts, cooking, pool table, table tennis, help with homework and much more. We have a small tuck shop for crisps, sweets and drinks. We have young leaders, who help with the set up activities, which is an ideal opportunity to learn new skills and volunteering looks good on your CV. We are always looking for new leaders, so if you have some spare time and would like to work with young people why not get in contact All leaders have to have enhance DBS checks and training opportunities. For more information. Contact Nikki on 07507176719
––––––––––––––––––––––– RINGSTEAD SHARED CHURCH
10.30am
SERVICE FOR ALL
(Communion first Sunday each month) Mike Freeman 01933 01933389796 rbc-rsc@angeladavis.net
––––––––––––––––––––––– Thursday evening
YOGA CL ASS
suitable for beginners all abilities 7.15pm Whitefriars Infants School £5 a class Carole 07873743256 carole.wyatt@virginmedia.com
––––––––––––––––––––––– LUNCH & CHAT
Fridays (except for Good Friday, Christmas Holidays and occassional weddings) in the Hope Methodist Church, Linnetts Lane, Higham Ferrers 12.30pm – No need to book Lunch £6, Cchoose from 2 main hot courses or salads; cold and hot puddings; tea/coffee. Contact information: Chris 01933 317719
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PSYCHIC AND SPIRITUAL AWARENESS DEVELOPMENT GROUPS MIxED ABILITy Every alternate Wednesday 1.00pm – 3.00pm, 7.30pm – 9.30pm £7.00 per session For more info please contact: Tel: 07712 740495
RUSHDEN
––––––––––––––––––––––– WOMEN’S COREFIT CIRCUIT CLASS Stanwick Lakes Visitor Centre Rushden – November to March Mondays 19.30 – 20.15 Block of 8 sessions – £24 non refundable for more info please contact Heather Watts hwatts09@hotmail.co.uk
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RUSHDEN & DISTRICT HISTORy SOCIETy Friday 21st February at 7.30pm South End Junior School, Wymington Road, Rushden NN10 9JU
J-P Carr
––––––––––––––––––––––– Pork Pie Heaven, the History of Edward Parsons and sons YOGA CL ASS
Monday evening 7pm-8pm Masonic Hall, Rushden £5 a class suitable for beginners and all abilities contact Carole 07873743256 or carole.wyatt@virginmedia.com
––––––––––––––––––––––– YOGA
Wednesdays from 1pm-2.30pm The Masonic Hall Rushden Drop in available Please visit the website for further information and details of other classes in the Higham and Rushden area www.awakenwithyoga.co.uk or call Daisy on 01536 724113
––––––––––––––––––––––– YOGA CL ASS
Monday morning 8.30am-9.30am Masonic Hall Wellingborough Road Rushden £5 per class no block booking commitment perfect for beginners all ages/abilities carole.wyatt@virginmedia.com or 07873743256
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Tel 01933 358218 for more information Members £1.50, non-members £2.50
––––––––––––––––––––––– HALL FOR HIRE
A large modern club room in a Sports Pavilion available Mondays and Tuesdays for hire. Fully equipped kitchen, underfloor heating, well recommended. Contact maxwellteacher@yahoo.co.uk. 01933 353301
––––––––––––––––––––––– SAVE THE CHILDREN
QUINGO
Quiz with a twist £12 for a table of up to 4 people. February 20th, March 26th, April 16th, Mat 21st, September 17th, October 15th, November 19th. CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT December 8th/10th £10 a ticket Rushden Town Band Atmospheric Medieval Bede House, Pay Bar, Raffle, Mince Pies
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RUSHDEN & DISTRICT HISTORy SOCIETy Friday 20th March at 7.30pm South End Junior School, Wymington Road, Rushden NN10 9JU Rob Kendall
Life and Work of W J Bassett-Lowke.
Tel 01933 358218 for more information Members £1.50, non-members £2.50 All welcome.
––––––––––––––––––––––– QUIZ & PLOUGHMAN'S SUPPER EVENING
Saturday 22nd February 7.15pm for 7.30pm start St Mary's Church Hall, Rushden Admission by ticket £7.50 available from Mary Tel 01933 315383 In aid of The Children's Society
––––––––––––––––––––––– HIGHAM AND RUSHDEN U3A We meet at the Wesleyan Chapel in Rushden (Queen St. entrance) on 1.30pm Thursday 20th February A very humorous talk entitled
‘The Forgotten Art of The Picture Postcard’
by Dr James Taylor. This is followed by refreshments and socialising. There is also the opportunity to join any of our popular Interest Groups. With over 600 members you are sure to make new friends. We look forward to welcoming you. For more information please visit www.highamandrushdenu3a.org.uk or contact 01933 522934
––––––––––––––––––––––– NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
Do you have a Neighbourhood Watch scheme in your street? Go to www.northantsnhw.co.uk Enter your postcode and join your local scheme. Receive warnings, crime advice, police messages on local incidents FREE! No scheme but interested in starting one! christine.mackenzie@northants.pnn.police.uk
––––––––––––––––––––––– TRAUMA & PTSD SUPPORT GROUP
I run this support group for others who have been through a trauma of any kind, Its a safe place to come and meet people going through similar things. Monday evenings 7pm-8.30pm alternates between Wellingborough Mind & Higham Ferrers Hope church Tuesday 1.30pm-3pm The Bee Hive Kingsthorpe Thursday 2pm & 3.30pm Kettering Mind £3 a session which helps pay for the room hire and a drink please contact me for more information please contact Nikki 07507176719
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––––––––––––––––––––––– HIGHAM FERRERS FOOTPATH GROUP MEET SAFFRON ROAD CAR PARK HIGHAM FERRERS FOR CAR SHARING 9.40am Sunday 16th February Admission Free Contact 01933 624387 6 mile walk from Hargrave 9.20am Sunday 1st March Admission Free Contact 01933 387991 7.5 mile walk from Harrold Country Park 9.30am Sunday 15th March Admission Free Contact 01933 350038 6.75 mile walk from Yelden 9.35am Sunday 5th April Admission Free Contact 07879 577433 5.8 mile walk from Woodford
––––––––––––––––––––––– LADIES’ ARCHERY Pemberton Maid Marions EVERy WEDNESDAy MORNING THE PEMBERTON CENTRE H E BATES WAY RUSHDEN NN10 9YP For more information contact: Diane 01933 314032 or Nicki 01933 395913
––––––––––––––––––––––– THRAPSTON COUNTRY DANCERS
Country dancing not only helps you to keep fit but is very sociable. you make new friends in a pleasant atmosphere and also maintains one of our great traditions. We meet at the St John’s Ambulance Hall, off Cheyney Lane, Thrapson Monthly on the first and third Wednesdays 2.30pm Details from George on 01933 622827
––––––––––––––––––––––– HOPE’S TOTS Hope Methodist Church Linnetts Lane, Higham Ferrers For all parents & carers with children under 5. Thursdays 9.15am - 10.30am during term time only Coffee, tea, juice and biscuits are available. Each session. £1.50 per family Just come along and join in the fun. Everyone Welcome. Any enquiries to Chris 01933 317719
––––––––––––––––––––––– JOGGING GROUP
FREE – friendly mixed ability 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
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––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDS & NORTHANTS MS THERAPy CENTRE
Third Saturday of every month 10am - 12.00 noon Entrance 50p Adults FREE PARKING Clothing, Bric a Brac, Books, Linen, Toys and Games Refreshments available 155 Barkers Lane, Bedford MK41 9Rx Tel: 01234 325781 www.mscentrebedsandnorthants.com
MONTHLY SALE
––––––––––––––––––––––– RUSHDEN CL ASSICAL MUSIC SOCIETY Meets on Wednesdays at the Hope Methodist Church, Linnetts Lane, Higham Ferrers 7.30pm-9.30pm February 5 Michael Henderson February 19 Revd. Richard Coles March 4 Rose& Peter Seery March 18 AGM £2 members, £2.50 visitors For more information call: 01933 391283
––––––––––––––––––––––– ST MARY’S CHURCH
1st Saturday of the Month Coffee Morning at St Mary’s Church, Ringstead, 10 to 12 Noon. A warm welcome to all, proceeds to church projects and charities. Call 01933 624262 for details. Last Tuesday of the month Tea with Friends at St Mary’s Church Ringstead is held on the last Tuesday of every month between 2 and 4pm. A chance to catch up with old friends and to make new ones. All proceeds from donations go to church funds and charities.
RINGSTEAD
––––––––––––––––––––––– MOTHERS’ UNION HIGHAM BRANCH MU is open to men and women; married, single or divorced (we all do ‘Mothering’ in our lives) All denominations welcome Speakers & Socialising We are a worldwide charity supporting Families Meet first Thursday of month 2:00pm The Bede House, HF; or as advertised in our parish magazine Dora Paynton: 07792337837
––––––––––––––––––––––– THRAPSTON & DISTRICT TENNIS CLUB Doors are open at the Thrapston & District Tennis Club from 10am to 2pm for anyone interested in playing tennis and joining the club. Meadow Lane, NN14 4QL Fees and further details available at www.thrapstontennisclub.co.uk
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––––––––––––––––––––––– PENSIONERS’ CLUB MEN AND WOMEN WELCOME Meet every Tuesday 2-4pm at RUSHDEN HALL
BINGO/WHIST EVERY OTHER WEEK ALTERNATING WITH INTERESTING SPEAKERS For more information contact David Robinson 01933 313729
––––––––––––––––––––––– RUSHDEN INDEPENDENT WESLEYAN CHURCH (entrance Queen Street)
Sunday Worship at 10.45am, with Children’s Activities Communion 1st Sunday of the month,
Second Sunday in the month at 4pm something different for all ages. Wednesdays 9.30am Jelly Babes children’s Group, all welcome. New members welcome.
––––––––––––––––––––––– COFFEE MORNINGS Tuesdays and Thursdays 9am – 11am In The Memory Lane Tea Rooms, Serve, 19 Church Street, Rushden NN10 9YU.
––––––––––––––––––––––– HIGHAM L ADIES’ GROUP
Meet 2-4pm every 3rd Monday of the month Come along and make some new friends and have fun
Interesting Speakers Tea and biscuits provided
Adult School, Westfields Terrace, Higham Ferrers NN10 8BB
––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 WEDNESDAyS 10am Art Group
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FEBRUARY 2020 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 11
sport Nail biter as Raiders pull through RUSHDEN Raiders volleyball team kicked off the new year with a real nail-biter. The Raiders ladies launched 2020 with a home game against Northampton B and what a tense affair it was. What it lacked in incisive hitting power was more than compensated by some of the picking up and rallies. On this occasion it was the home side that were to come out on top three sets to two. It was Northampton who got off to the quicker start as Raiders sorted out their rotation. With both sides struggling to side out points
were being scored in clumps of two or three as in this set service errors were few and far between, (this could not to be said for the later sets). After 48 minutes of play it was one set all and it looked like it was going to be in for a long night. However set three saw a nine point run on Evee's serve which put the ladies into 18-7 lead before taking the set 25-12. Northampton were the beneficiaries of some horrendous Raiders serving in set four and grabbing three or four points at a time
quickly took the set 25-12. With time running short for set five, Raiders found their serving again and put the Northampton serve receive under pressure. With free balls coming over the Raiders were able to attack more effectively with Amy, Katie and Susanne all contributing. Once they had got Olga's serve out of the way they were able to close out the set 15-9 and the match 3-2 MVPs were Katie Bates and Olga Chambers.
Hub launched to help mental health sufferers get sporty
TO ADVERTISE YOUR NEXT EVENT EMAIL: TheReporter@rosettapublishing.com or call Christa on: 07827 015170
ACTIVITy Alliance has confirmed it will lead a new East Midlands Physical Activity and Mental Health Network. One of nine new regional hubs to help more people with mental health problems to engage in physical activity. Mental health charity Mind has set up a network of nine new regional hubs to support sport and physical activity organisations to be more inclusive of people with mental health problems. With support from Mind and Sport England, each network will work to improve levels of
mental health awareness and upskill local organisations. In its role as lead organisation for this new network Activity Alliance will work to increase the number of regional organisations which are equipped with the skills to engage more disabled people and people with mental health problems in physical activity. The network will offer training, toolkits and resources, and provide a platform for sharing better practice. The Regional Networks will receive support and funding from Mind until March 31, next
year. Lead organisations will have autonomy and responsibility for designing, delivering and implementing their regional networks. Each network will aim to engage at least 70 organisations and upskill 160 people such as coaches, volunteers and staff in mental health awareness. One project already happening in Northamptonshire to tackle mental health using physical activity is 'Get Set to Go' being coordinated by Rushden Mind. Visit rushdenmind.org.uk/get-set-to-go/ for details.
gardening Welcome wildlife to your garden by Maureen Catlin Milton Ernest Garden Centre RITISH wildlife is being threatened even more by the unseasonal weather patterns that we are experiencing. Whether this is due to climate change or the natural pattern that our planet has always experienced we do not know. They were skating and holding trade fayres on the Thames as recently as the sixteenth hundreds. It is however a fact that our wildlife is affected. The RSPB’s Big Garden Bird Watch has recently focused our attention on the need for us all to help with the conservation of our furry and feathered friends. We can start by taking steps to invite wildlife into our own gardens.
B
Nuthatches, Long Tailed Tits, Goldfinches and Buntings. Most insects and arachnids survive by hibernating or overwinter as pupae and find cracks and crevices to rest. Ladybirds like my bathroom window frames! It is important not to allow the surface of the garden pond to completely freeze over because the oxygen levels in the water quickly reduce and fish, newts and pond insects will suffer so float a ball on the surface which will move around and stop the water around it freezing. Some small mammals like
hedgehogs dormice and bats will hibernate which drops their body temperature to reduce their need for food so it is important to supply plenty of food for them in autumn. Leave garden debris and leaves in heaps to provide warm cover so don’t tidy up too much in the autumn. you can of course supplement with hedgehog houses, bat boxes, insect tenements and bird boxes which all need to put in place in the summer. I have a tit box with a camera and there are 16 blue tits all snuggled in it each night. Mice, squirrels, rats, badgers and foxes do not hibernate but put
on weight in the autumn and hunker down in warm dry places. Supplementing their food supply in winter is always welcome. Mice and rats will pick up scraps fallen from the bird table or throw some bird seed onto the lawn. Squirrels will happily feed from the peanut bird feeders. If you’re lucky enough to see badgers peanuts are also a favourite and foxes enjoy raw or cooked meat, tinned dog food and peanuts. A good bowl of drinking water is also welcome. Enjoy watching your garden visitors while helping them survive the coldest time of year.
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The easiest wildlife to encourage is the wild birds who all need to find food and water daily. February is often our coldest month when Blackbirds Thrushes and Robins struggle to find enough insects and worms. They will also eat fruit so any surplus apples or pears can be stored dry or frozen and then produced in late winter. Birds do not mind blemishes so keep these aside from the family supply. Dried mealworms are a convenient way to supplement the seed, fat and kitchen scraps we put on the bird table. Starlings also love mealworms and can be very entertaining in their antics trying to eat more than their fair share. Remember to position your bird table or feeders
away from a fence to stop the neighbour’s cat using it as a spring board to the bird table but near a shrub or tree for shelter if a predatory bird like a Red Kite or Kestral patrols. Blue, Great, Coal and Long Tailed Tits and of course Starlings all benefit from the suet and co-co-fat treats that can be bought or homemade both are high energy food sources. Other good choices are red millet, linseed, sunflower hearts and peanuts. Peanuts should always be put in feeders to prevent young birds taking a whole nut which could choke them. Woodpeckers, Siskins, Nuthatches and The Tits all will flock to Peanut Feeders. Goldfinches, always a welcome sight, will come to Niger Seed Feeders. Birds also need water to drink and clean their feathers especially when it’s freezing so add a little sugar to the bird bath which lowers the temperature and stops ice forming. The best way to help birds through the winter however is to furnish your garden with plants that provide nature’s own food supply here are a few to consider. Holly, Hawthorn, Cotoneaster, Pyracantha, Sorbus, Rosa Rugosa and Viburum Opulus all hold their berries well into winter and attract Fieldfares, Redwings, The Finches, Starlings and Blackbirds. Ivy flowers very late in the Autumn and attracts many insects which in turn feed Wrens and Robins while Teasels and Sunflowers if left to ripen produce seed that is great for Sparrows,
Tel: 01234 823033
MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH
12 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER FEBRUARY 2020
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sport
EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com
Novel way to serve up table tennis
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A NOVEL way to serve up the thrills and spills of table tennis has been launched. The chance to play table tennis on a casual basis in outdoor spaces and unused shops is on the increase, with Ping Pong Parlours in both Wellingborough and Northampton town centres as well as various outdoor tables in parks across the county. This has been helped through PING! - a more flexible approach to table tennis which is being promoted and funded by Table Tennis England. PING! Is built around the simple concept of taking ping pong to the places people already spend time, removing the barriers to
participation and making the game more visible, accessible, sociable and relevant than ever before. To appeal to those who did not know they wanted to play and people who are not normally active. In addition to the existing Ping provision, Kettering Borough Council has also recently been awarded funding to buy two portable tables through the programme to take PING into their sheltered housing and supported living schemes. The tables will be rotated around ten schemes where residents will be introduced to 'Bat and Chat' sessions led by a coach from
the council. Tim Webb from the council said: "PING will be great for increasing the activity levels amongst the residents and will enhance their socialising opportunities. “It will also allow us expand our existing offer to older people and will help to link in with more targeted activities such as walking sports, dance groups, strength and balance sessions.” The schemes how table tennis is unique in that it can be designed into everyday life and played by people of all ages and abilities. You can find out more about local tennis table groups at tabletennisingengland.co.uk
Cheer on your team
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CHEER on Rushden and Higham United football team as they get set for a busy schedule. The Lankies play Holwell Sports away on Saturday, February 1, before hosting Northampton Sileby Rangers Tuesday, February 4. The team then host Whittlesey Athletic on Saturday, February 8, before a big local derby against Raunds Town away on Saturday, February 15. They then play
Birstall United at home, on Saturday, February 22, before wrapping up the month away at Long Buckby on Saturday, February 29. In the Evo Stick League, AFC Rushden & Diamonds play Redditch on Saturday, February 1, Peterborough Sports on Tuesday, February 11, Tamwoth on Saturday, February 15, and then Rushall Olympic on Saturday, February 29.
Jog your way into shape
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NEW jogging groups have started throughout the area to help get people into shape. These groups are all aimed at beginners and are ideal for people who have never ran before. Four local groups are on offer for runners of all abilities and can be found at:
Running Mate in Wellingborough: Every Monday at 7.15pm and Thursdays at 6.30pm, meeting at Castle Street, opposite the entrance to Castle Fields. Contact Susan for more information at susan@runningmate.co.uk 07988 799182. Wollaston & Irchester Joggers: Meeting every Tuesday at 6.15pm at Wollaston Playing Field. The group cost £1 per week as a donation towards the flood lights. Contact leaders Kathy & Christine for more information at countryparks@northamptonshire.gov.uk Stanwick Lakers: Meeting
every Monday at 5.45pm outside Waitrose, Rushden. The group will move back to Stanwick Lakes. The beginners group will cost £10 one off charge and the improvers group is free. Contact at hwatts09@hotmail.co.uk or 07775 796183 for more details. Diamond Runners: Meeting every Tuesday and Thursday at 6.30pm, outside the Pemberton Leisure Centre, Rushden. The first session is free, £2 thereafter. You can contact Diamondrunners@outlook.com for more details. There are also running groups and opportunities to take part in at Moulton, Corby, Northampton and Towcester. For details of the other running groups throughout the county, visit www.northamptonshiresport.org, You can also contact the organisation on 01604 366976, or info@northamptonshiresport.org
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SHOWROOM: WASHBROOK RD · RUSHDEN · NN10 6UR FREE PARKING The 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: pat@rosettapublishing.com Advertising: martin@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Reach Printing Services, Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 0Sx.