East Northants Reporter

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RUSHDEN, HIGHAM FERRERS & EAST NORTHANTS

ENOUGH is enough – that is the message from the county’s chief constable.

Nick Adderley was speaking as it was revealed the county’s police will be the first force in the country to arm all of its front-line officers with Tasers.

The move will give 300 extra officers the option to be trained and equipped with Tasers.

Training will cost the force about £600 per officer and while the cost is not insignificant, when compared to the level of injury and days lost due to sickness, it pales into insignificance.

Chief Constable Adderley said it would take 18 months for all frontline officers in the county to have access to a Taser when on duty.

The decision comes after figures showed a near 50 per cent increase in attacks on police officers in the past two years in Northamptonshire.

And a recent Police Federation survey found 94 per cent of officers said Tasers should be issued to more front-line officers.

Chief Constable Adderley said: “Enough is enough.

“Every week, I am made aware of more and more sickening attacks on my officers – they are spat at, assaulted on a daily basis and are being exposed to increasing levels of violence when they are deployed to incidents.

“No one comes to work to be assaulted and I want to make it crystal clear my officers certainly don’t.

“It’s time to give all front-line officers the ability to defend themselves and defend members of the public, which involves equipping them with more than a baton, handcuffs and a can of pepper spray.

“This isn’t a decision I have taken lightly, but there comes a time when we have to accept that risks to front-line officers have changed dramatically in the past 10 years and I have responsibility as Chief Constable to respond accordingly.

“This decision, which is fully backed by Northamptonshire’s Police, Fire and Crime Commis-

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

sioner, will send a clear message to those who have no respect for law and order and think attacking police officers is acceptable – we will not tolerate it anymore.”

If an officer draws, aims and places a Taser red dot on the suspect, the weapon is ‘used’, but not discharged.

This red dot is often enough to quell the threat, meaning the officer rarely has to discharge the weapon.

Chief Constable Adderley said: “My officers in Northamptonshire have a right to feel safe, supported and adequately equipped when they are deployed to incidents and I wouldn’t be doing my job if I sat here and didn’t take the steps necessary to give them the equipment that could save their lives and the lives of the public we serve.”

Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Stephen Mold, said: “I support the Chief Constable in his plan to equip front-line officers with Taser if they want to carry it.

“We were already extending the use of Taser more widely across the Force and I will provide the funding to support the Chief’s new proposals.

“I know that this is not a quick fix, however I totally agree with the Chief Constable that police officers can best protect the public if they are also able to protect themselves.

“Robust enforcement of the law is one of the central themes of my police and crime plan and equipping officers with Taser will give them a real and visible deterrent in situations where someone is intent on causing harm, as well as the reassurance thatthey are able to keep themselves and the public safe.”

Home Office figures show Tasers were used in 17,100 incidents across the country in the year to March 2018, up from 11,300 the year before.

SAVING LIVES

SEPTEMBER 2019

Local Private Hire Company Local/Long Runs

Campaigners save library CAMPAIGNERS from Raunds Community Library Trust has revealed Northamptonshire County Council has accepted its business plan to save the town’s library.

The move means the group can now assume full responsibility for running Raunds Library.

A team of volunteers is currently staffing the library all day on Wednesdays and during late night opening to 7pm on Thursdays.

The library is also open on the first Saturday of each month.

Opening the library on a Saturday was an experiment to link with the Raunds Town Council’s Saturday Market.

The trial will continue and the library will be opening between 10am and 2pm throughout the autumn.

The group is also planning for craft activities for children to be available on Saturdays and details will be revealed soon.

The management team is now organising its volunteers to open the library across the whole week and it is hoped they will be fully operating it from the autumn.

Volunteers are needed and have been urged to get in touch at raundslibrary@gmail.com for details.

An application for charity status is also currently being lodged with the Charity Commission.

2 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

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EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com

Students hit the high note with university success

PuPILS from a leading independent school in Bedfordshire are celebrating A-Level success as they take up a wide range of courses at leading universities in September.

This year, in particular, has seen great success for boys at the school in the field of Music.

Talented chorister and musician, Silas Sanders achieved an A* in Music, A* in English Literature and an A in Latin, and has been awarded a Choral Scholarship to Trinity College, Cambridge, following his offer to read music.

Silas, who is a member of the National Youth Choir and the National Youth Chamber Choir, said: “I am absolutely thrilled with my A-Level results and that they allow me to further my education at Trinity College. Choral music is my passion and I am immensely looking forward to the next chapter in my music career.”

Felix Asare also joins Silas at Cambridge following an unconditional offer to study music at Christ’s College, Cambridge.

Boys are also taking up offers to read music at the Royal Northern College of Music and Durham, and Music Technology at Coventry and Nottingham Trent.

Joss Sanders, Director of Music, Joss Sanders, said: “I am absolutely delighted for the boys.

They have all been fully committed to musical life at Bedford School and deserve these exciting new opportunities for the future.

“During their time at Bedford

L-R: Music boys Olly Walker, Alex Watson, Silas Sanders and Jonathan Blake celebrate success.

School, they have been wonderful role models, and to have six boys going on to study music at university this autumn shows the strength and depth of music-making at the school at the moment.”

The boys, along with a total of 135 Sixth Formers from Bedford School, celebrated their A-Level and IB Diploma results, of which almost three-quarters of papers were marked at A*-B grade.

Head Master James Hodgson said: “Well done to the leavers of 2019 on some fine results across all disciplines – we are proud of

them all.

“Academically, they have made their mark, and they have had copious success on the sports field and have excelled in the creative arts.

“They leave with wonderful memories and a great foundation for the future; and we wish them all well as they set out on their various paths.”

To find out more about Bedford School, join them for their Open Morning on Saturday, October 5th.

Visit https://www.bedfordschool. org.uk/admissions/visits-openmornings/

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SEPTEMBER 2019 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 3

‘Beat the Street’ scheme hailed a great success as people get moving THE Beat the Street initiative in East Northamptonshire is being hailed as a success after a new report showed the challenge has helped get people walking and cycling across the area.

More than 8,000 walked, ran and cycled 73,000 miles together for Beat the Street from March to May. The initiative saw special sensors called Beat Boxes placed on lampposts around East Northamptonshire which could be tapped with cards while walking or cycling in return for points towards your school or workplace.

Funded by East Northamptonshire Council in partnership with Freedom Leisure and The National Lottery through Sport England, the initiative aimed to encourage families to ditch the car and

become more physically active by exploring their local community.

A new report produced by Intelligent Health – who delivered the initiative – has shown that players became more physically active as a result of taking part, helping improve the health of people across East Northamptonshire.

Participants were surveyed at the beginning and immediately after Beat the Street to see if they had made any changes in behaviour.

Key results from the report include: l Before Beat the Street, 21 per cent of adult players were completely inactive, (doing less than 30 minutes of exercise per week). After the game this dropped to just 12per cent of players.

l The proportion of children who were inactive decreased from 22 per cent before the game to 11 per cent immediately afterwards. l using NICE’s Return on Investment Calculator, it is estimated Beat the Street will lead to health care savings of £504,802 over the next five years.

Additionally, many players reported Beat the Street had helped encourage them to walk or cycle more often, visit new places and spend more time with their friends and family.

Comments included: “It helped me to walk to school and encouraged me to take the longer route to get more points.

“I joined the gym which I have never done before and kick-started us all as a family into a healthier lifestyle.”

“It enabled my son and I to exercise before and after school. We used our walks to have a good chat together.

“We both felt good about earnings points for his school. We met new people along the way.

“I saved a lot of petrol by walking.

“It’s encouraged me to go swimming as an alternative way of exercising.”

In addition to getting residents more active, Beat the Street has also helped support the work of the local Children’s Air Ambulance.

Players were able to support a local charity while playing and the charity that received the most points over the course of the game would receive £500.

Players travelled more than 589 miles for Children’s Air Ambulance and they

received a donation from Beat the Street presented by councillor Helen Howell.

Speaking about the success of the initiative, leader of East Northamptonshire Council Steven North said: “We’re really encouraged by these results from Beat the Street.

“The council is committed to getting its residents more healthy and we hope to help improve the health and well-being for those in East Northamptonshire. In the coming months, Beat the Street will continue to engage with local residents and make sure that these changes continue long after the game’s finish.”

Turn to page 8 to read how money is being spent on improving physical activity countywide.

Welcome signs West End beckons for Jordan TRESHAM College student Jordan Skeels has won a coveted place with the National Youth Theatre, (NYT), a world leader in youth arts.

Jordan, 18, (pictured), beat thousands of other young actors, at two-day auditions held around the country, to be selected to join the NYT this summer in London.

Many famous faces began their careers at the NYT including Oscar winner Helen Mirren and their courses are highly regarded in the industry.

He said: “I was shocked when I found out I’d won a place.

“The audition was over two days, taking part in various workshops and it was difficult to tell if you were doing well, so I just threw myself into it!

“This will be a fantastic opportunity for me to develop my performance skills and work with professionals from the West End.” Jordan chose to study performing Arts at Tresham College with a Level 3 Acting course so he could focus full-time on his passion for theatre.

The theatre and television facilities at Tresham College

THE Mayor of Raunds Richard Levell was delighted to unveil the new Welcome to Raunds signs.

About 30 people attended the unveiling of the sign opposite Asda, Raunds, including representatives from Hachenburg who happened to be visiting the uK that weekend as part of a visit arranged by the Higham Ferrers/Raunds and Hachenburg Twinning Association.

The Mayor said: “It’s wonderful that we were able to unveil the signs during the twinning visit from our Hachenburg friends.

“It was a great opportunity to underpin the spirit of friendship between our two towns.”

Councillor Lee Wilkes, who is chairman of the Environment

Leisure and Recreation Committee on the council, said: “We have been planning to upgrade the ‘Welcome to Raunds Signs’ for some time as we wanted our major gateways into the town to really reflect what a great place Raunds is to live, work and visit.

“The signs were designed and made by Leander Architectural, which also designed the Bootmakers plaque displayed on the Millennium Gate so we know that these signs would be of great quality and workmanship.

A spokesman for the Town Council added that the existing Welcome to Raunds signs were going to be re-installed in the near future at the minor entrances to the town.

To advertise email: TheReporter@rosettapublishing.com or call 07827 015170

combined with the industry insight of the staff have all been credited by Jordan and other past students who have gone on to university and won places at acclaimed Drama Schools since studying there.

The Tresham College Performing Arts Course leader Emma Boulton Roe praised Jordan’s success.

She said:”This is a fantastic achievement.

“Thousands apply for the few places available at NYT. “ Jordan is a great actor and a hard working student, he thoroughly deserves his place.”

Tresham College offers a wide range of courses in Music and Performing Arts, based at its Kettering Campus.

Students work with a 165seater theatre, dance studio, plus a music and TV Suite with stateof-the-art equipment.

Tresham is a College of Further and Higher Education with campuses in Corby, Kettering and Wellingborough in Northamptonshire and also operates the National College for Motorsport.

For more details visit tresham.ac.uk

4 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

Police operation targets rural crime THE county’s police force joined two neighbouring forces in a large-scale operation designed to take action against rural crime, including illegal sheep butchery and theft.

About 30 special constables and regular officers from Northamptonshire Police joined colleagues from Warwickshire Police and Leicestershire Police for the operation, which ran last month.

Focusing on the A5 corridor, the A14, M1 and smaller rural roads, double-crewed marked and unmarked police cars and ANPR units were on the lookout for potentially illegal or suspicious activity, vehicles which could be linked to crime, including illegal sheep butchery offences, and unsafe vehicles.

Representatives from partners, including the DVSA, NFu and a stolen vehicle tracking specialist were also on hand so vehicles, caravans, trailers and rural plant and machinery could be expertly examined.

Thanks to the operation, two vehicles were seized for having no insurance, and two taken off the road for safety reasons by the DVSA, and numerous vehicles were stopped and checked to ensure they were being driven legitimately and legally.

Overall, more than 268 police checks were carried out as a result of the operation, which in Northamptonshire was part of Operation Stock, the Northamptonshire Police investigation into reports of illegal sheep butchery and theft.

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EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com

Popular lakes venue receives huge boost

TWO organisations - including the popular Stanwick Lakes venue – have recently benefited from the £1million Cecil Pettit Legacy Fund.

The fund, managed and facilitated by Northamptonshire Community Foundation, aims to support disabled people across the county.

Northamptonshire Association for the Blind was awarded £2,600 to develop their iEducation programme, working with a number of primary schools to increase awareness of eye health, reduce incidences of avoidable sight loss and improve understanding of those living with a visual impairment.

Rockingham Forest Trust received £6,625 to fund adapted, inclusive play equipment suitable for all children, but particularly safe for those with disabilities.

Director of Rockingham Forest Trust Alyson Allfree said: “We are delighted to receive this grant for installing a piece of play equipment at Stanwick Lakes that is particularly safe and suitable for use by disabled children.

“It enables them to interact with other children, who also love using the new nest swing, so they can all have fun together.

Rockingham Forest Trust is most grateful to the Cecil Pettit Trust and Northamptonshire Community Foundation for their generous support.”

Cecil Pettit was one of the founding members of Ability Northants, a charity dedicated to enriching the lives of people living with disabilities.

Following his passing in 2000 at the age of 79, his Northamptonshire property was put into trust with Howes Percival Solicitors.

Now sold, the property was match funded with 50 per cent from the Constance Travis Endowment Match Challenge through Northamptonshire Community Foundation, creating a fund of just under £1m.

The Foundation also recently celebrated the life and philanthropy of Cecil Pettit with a unique Generosity Heritage Trail in July,

in partnership with Looking Glass Community Theatre.

Speaking of the Cecil Pettit Legacy Fund, Victoria Miles, who is CEO of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, said: “We are so delighted that Mr. Pettit’s generous legacy for people with disabilities will live on here in our county.

“This will now continue in perpetuity in the form of a substantial named fund that the Community Foundation is so honoured to deliver on his behalf.”

Northamptonshire Community Foundation is the leading independent grant-making charity in the county, working with a range of fund-holders and donors to ensure projects make a sustainable impact on local need.

To learn more about the work

of Northamptonshire Community Foundation visit ncf.uk.com, or contact 01604 230033.

It provides much needed and often life changing grants to some of the county’s most vulnerable and in need people.

Stanwick Lakes itself is a unique 750-acre countryside attraction and nature reserve located in the heart of Northamptonshire’s Nene Valley.

There are extensive and imaginative play areas, open spaces and paths that families, walkers, cyclists and nature lovers can explore at leisure. The visitor centre, with café, shop and function space, hosts events, family celebrations, business meetings.

You can read more about the work of the Foundation on pages 7 and 8.

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SEPTEMBER 2019 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 5

Fun-packed event to return

PEOPLE from across the district, and further afield, are invited to celebrate the rich heritage, wildlife and culture of the Nene Valley as the annual Nene Valley Festival returns this month.

The festival which is now in its sixth year will take place from Saturday, September 14, to Sunday, September 22.

As with previous years, the festival will offer a variety of activities for the whole family and with funding from Heritage Lottery, via Nenescape, this year’s Nene Valley Festival will be bigger and better than ever.

Featuring more than 100 events at key locations across the Nene Valley from Northampton to Peterborough, the festival will include a wide range of activities for all ages and will kick off with an official launch event at Peterborough Cathedral on September 14 to coincide with the national annual Heritage Lottery Days.

East Northamptonshire councillor and board member for the Destination Nene Valley project, Sarah Peacock said: “We are delighted to be celebrating the wonderful Nene Valley once again. Each year, we aim to better the previous year and hope the 2019 festival will be no exception.

“This year’s events will offer a wide range of events which will highlight all the brilliant attractions, wildlife and heritage along the Nene Valley.”

Festival highlights include a variety of walks, from heritage through to heath across the Valley

alongside theatre and wildlife activities.

Also, the festival will culminate with a finale event on September 22, at Stanwick Lakes.

From 10.30am to 4pm, visitors are invited to ‘Come and Meet the Settlers’, join in with the settlers’ trails, as well as archery and axe throwing.

The annual festival is being organised through the Destination Nene Valley project, which works with local tourism partners, and the Nenescape Landscape partnership, to promote the Nene Valley as a competitive, sustainable destination offering wildlife and heritage to local, national and international audiences.

Nenescape project manager, Amanda Johnson said: “The Nene Valley Festival is the highlight of the year, and all the Nenescape partners are proud to support it and celebrate all the valley has to offer.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, the festival is one of the ways Nenescape has been able to help celebrate and sustain the heritage and wildlife along the River Nene.

“This year’s festival promises to be packed full of events across the Nene Valley and will give people the chance to experience a range of activities, from Peterborough through to Northampton.”

To coincide with the festival, a brand new website has been launched which includes all the events on throughout the festival with new events being continuously added.

Council urges people to think before they buy a new puppy

Don’T: Meet anywhere that is not the pup’s home Buy a pup from anyone who can supply various breeds on demand Buy a pup that looks too young, small or underweight Feel pressured to buy a puppy Buy a pup which you suspect has been illegally imported.

There is further support for buyers as from April 2020, those wishing to add a four-legged friend to their home can do so with greater confidence thanks to a new law.

Lucy’s Law will mean that commercial pet shops and breeders will only be able to sell dogs, (and cats), if they have bred them and would-be owners will have to deal directly with breeders.

The new law is named after Lucy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

She was rescued from a puppy farm having suffered horrific injuries.

She had been kept in a cage most of her life and had a curved spine, fused hips, bald patches and epilepsy.

Lucy was re-homed and went onto lead a happy but short life and her story has lead to the new law.

If you have any concerns about where a dog was purchased from, or would like further information, contact council officers on 01832 742042 for further information and advice.

EAST Northamptonshire Council has warned people to think with their heads, rather than hearts when buying a new puppy following a rise in illegal puppy farms and smuggling across the region.

Steven North, leader of East Northamptonshire Council,said: “Buyers often think with their hearts when purchasing a new puppy and it can be an emotional time.

“We urge anyone who is concerned to put emotions to one side, come forward and talk to us before buying a puppy.

“We work with animal welfare partners, like the Dogs Trust, and are committed to helping people who think they might be purchasing from a puppy farm.

“Following recent activity in the local area, we would like to take this opportunity to remind people to follow official guidance from the Dogs Trust and to not be lead by emotions.”

If you are thinking of buying a puppy, the Dogs Trust urges you to consider the following before making any decisions: Do: Ask to see mum and pup together Visit your new pup more than once Get all your pup’s paperwork before going home including vaccinations and ensuring your puppy is microchipped Walk away if you are at all unsure Report suspicious sellers or breeders Take your puppy to your own vet for a health check

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6 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

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POINT TO PONDER

Populism is back in vogue

by Canon George Burgon

DID you know Higham Ferrers has its own town green? Located off Stanwick Road, just over the footbridge on the far side of the A6, the land has been underused in recent years as it was split when the A6 was constructed. It can be used for leisure, dog-walking and recreation.

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

EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com

POPuLISM is in vogue. This is an old-fashioned point of view that if most people believe something is true then it is.

Populism thrives when easy answers are sought in difficult times.

We can all be swayed by public opinion but are we better human beings for it It is easy to go with the flow of things and not swim against the tide.

Where is true peace of mind to be found?

One of my heroes in the Bible is the Prophet Elijah who stood up to the ruling powers of his day because they had allowed themselves to be swayed into worshipping false gods and to practice unworthy standards of behaviour.

His resistance wore him out until he was made aware by God of his integrity. We can read about this in 1 Kings 19:11-18.

This passage in the Bible inspired the American poet John Whittier to write one of our favourite hymns, ‘Dear Lord and Father of

mankind, forgive our foolish ways.’

There are some very apt words in that poem especially ‘earthquake, wind and fire,’ which fuel ‘the heats of our desires’ when applied to the ongoing debates about political leadership, personal integrity and shared values!

Where do we find that ‘still small voice of calm?’

We must take a radical, (back to basics), look as to what life is all about and return to the roots of our civilisation and God’s expectations of us as human beings.

We need more people with steely convictions to encourage the pursuit of peaceful endeavours and selflessness.

There are no easy answers to life’s dilemmas.

There are always going to be tensions between outward conformities and inward convictions because the latter are often more intuitive, if not God centred, at the end of the day. Our humanity cannot be bubble wrapped to protect us against the reality of being alive.

Our God does not despise us, nor does he expect us to despise one another as we strive to resolve our differences.

As Whittier’s hymn puts it – ‘Re-clothe us in our rightful mind, in purer lives thy service find, in deeper reverence praise.’

That is what we should be striving for in our existence.

Elijah knew the value of real faith in his life. He is one of the many inspirations who help us explore the spiritual side of our human nature.

He was held in high regard also by Jesus who had to contend with the false populisms of his day - especially from those who thought that discipleship was an easy option until they realised that they had to pray for God’s kingdom and not their own!

As Jesus puts it ‘it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle that for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God. ‘ (Mark 10:25) Many of the problems we face today come from the poverty of our own spiritual nature.

Dancers take part in gruelling event to raise funds

ForthCoMinG MEEtinGS

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Tuesday 10th September, 6.45pm ENVIRONMENT AND RECREATION COMMITTEE Tuesday 10th September, 7.30pm FULL COUNCIL Tuesday 24th September, 7.30pm FARMERS’ MARKET Saturday 28th September, 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 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 413713 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

YOuNG street dancers took part in a gruelling 12-hour ‘danceathon’ recently to raise money for their world championship teams.

From tots to teenagers, the youngsters from Dancevybz Dance Academy, were sponsored to keep dancing from 9am to 9pm in total they raised an amazing £4,615.

Dancevybz director Sarah Massey said: “It was a very hot and humid day so they all did brilliantly to keep going.

“The money they have raised will be used to support our teams which are competing at

the World Street Dance Championships in August.”

Dancevybz Dance Academy holds classes for students of all ages in Bedford, Rushden and Olney.

This year seven of their award-winning teams – Execute, Alpha, DVK, Frenzy, Switch, Lilvybz and Auriga – will be competing at uDO Street Dance Championships in Blackpool. uDO is the world’s largest international street dance organisation and Dancevybz stu-

dents will be competing against teams from across the globe.

If you are interested in joining Dancevybz and find out how they got on visit www.dancevybz.co.uk for details.

Classes in Rushden take place at The Park Road Baptist Church, Fair Hall, Park Road.

Classes are for under-14’s on Wednesdays from 7pm to 8pm and are £5 per session.

There is no need to pre-book – you can just just turn up and register on the night for the classes.

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SEPTEMBER 2019 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 7

Boost for hospital services

THE Child Development Centre at Northampton General Hospital has received £2,755.72 in funding support from Northamptonshire Community Foundation through the Mick and Sheila White Fund.

Mick & Sheila White are long-standing fund holders with the Community Foundation, traditionally donating to support individuals and groups that excel in sport.

However, the centre is something they have both identified as a much needed service in the town.

Mick White said: “We initially heard about the need for updated, specialised toys through some friends Jonathan and Louise Martin who visited the department with their son Michael.

“We were only too glad to help; we are not the people who do the hard work.

“Seeing the centre at work first hand has really opened our eyes to the fantastic work they carry out with the children.

“In fact, it gave us both the ‘wow’ factor.”

The funding has enabled the centre to purchase a variety of sensory equipment to benefit children aged nought to four who are in the assessment process for a range of developmental difficulties.

The equipment, which includes bubble tubes, ‘light up’ toys and a wooden activity centre, will enable children to engage, learn and develop through play.

Lead nurse at the centre Bridget Mold said:

“The staff of the Child Development Centre are incredibly grateful to Northamptonshire Community Foundation and the Mick and Sheila White Fund for this grant.

“It has enabled us to revitalise equipment and enhance the assessment process for children with a range of developmental difficulties.

“Many of these items are already in use and proving very popular with the children who visit us.”

Northamptonshire Community Foundation is the leading independent grant-making charity in the county, working with fund holders and donors to ensure projects make a sustainable impact on local need.

A walk in the park to fund MS research

BUCKLE, lace up or ‘Velcro’ your flats and join in on Sunday, September 8, in Wicksteed Park, to raise life-changing funds for multiple sclerosis, (MS), research Following the success of the annual ‘MS Walk’, the MS Society has launched the new ‘My MS Walk’ – an accessible and inclusive option which allows anyone, anywhere to fundraise with a walk, roll or stroll in their local community.

MS affects more than 100,000 people in the UK, with a further one in four likely to know someone affected.

Registration and fundraising details can be found by contacting northamptonshire@mssociety.org.uk or by contacting 01526 216135.

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Events for your diaries

THERE are a host of events for your diaries over the next few weeks.

On Thursday, September 26, Rushden Flower Arrangement Club is holding a charity evening to raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease, at The Full Gospel Church Hall, in High Street South, from 7pm, Admission is £6.

The club will welcome John Chennel, who will be showing visitors how he does his stunning ‘Seasonal Splendour’ arrangements, which will be raffled off at the end of the evening.

Contact 01933 410280 for details.

AFC Rushden and Diamonds is holding its quiz night on Thursday, September 12, at Rushden Bowls Club, in Northampton Road, from 7.30pm.

The cost is £3 per person.

There will also be a raffle and retiring bucket collection for Cransley Hospice.

To book a table contact 07870 332606.

Meanwhile Boobs and Brass will present its annual concert on Saturday, October 26, from 7pm.

One of the organisers and secretary Glenis Haynes said: “People may have thought Boobs and Brass had finished, but due to much pressure from the 700-plus women who we can call on to do concerts around the country, they were unanimous in persuading Margaret Betts and her backroom team carry on.

“We normally raise funds just

for Breast Cancer Now, (we have raised more than £250,000 in 12 years doing about three events a year), but this concert is being shared with the Magpas Air Ambulance which helped in saving the life of Margaret’s, (who is one of the founder members of Boobs and Brass), great nephew.

The event will take place at Thrapston Plaza and tickets can be obtained from 07833 663448, or 01832 720401.

Over in Oundle, the town’s Rotary Club, together with Diversity Boutique Oundle will be hosting a Fashion Show at the Queen Victoria Hall, on Monday, October 7.

This is Oundle Rotary’s first fundraising event of the year.

The funds will be distributed between this year’s chosen charities - Prostate Cancer, Oundle Volunteer Action, Medical Detection Dogs and Cransley Hospice.

Anyone who would like to be a model or help on the day can contact oundlerotary@gmail.com.

Tickets for the show will be £10 each from Diversity Boutique, Oundle in Stitches, or by email to oundlerotary@gmail.com.

Also in Oundle, The Oundle Pop-up Shop, will take place in the Queen Victoria Hall on Saturday, September 7.

The group is currently building up the number of suppliers whichwill be on show at the event and is already planning a second shop for Saturday, November 16.

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Thousands of pounds awarded to boost activities across the county

EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com

Fab Four help net funds THE Fab Four have helped raise funds for a popular charity group.

The Swivel Club charity held an event at Rushden Town Bowls Club, with The Beatles Experience Band being the main attraction.

After the show supporters comments were very complimentary on how much they had enjoyed the evening.

In the audience was a young local fan, Jake Newitt, who is so fanatical about The Beatles he emulates their hairstyle, courtesy of The Barbers Shop at Higham Ferrers.

The boys from the band were

more than happy to have photos taken with him, (below), and other supporters.

Money raised from this and previous events, will go towards buying a bespoke wheelchair costing £10,000.

The recipient is a local person with multi disabilities with complex needs.

This wheelchair is not available through the NHS, so the Swivel Club is happy to fund the full cost.

The club is a charity which raises funds to help local individuals and good causes, by holding entertainment events.

Residents to go to the polls

THE London Marathon Charitable Trust has awarded £112,500 to inspire physical activity across the region.

Facilitated and managed by the Northamptonshire Community Foundation working in partnership with Heart of Bucks Community Foundation, Northamptonshire Sport, LEAP and other local partners, the fund provides grants to organisations across South Northamptonshire and Aylesbury Vale District Council areas, focusing on projects that deliver the greatest possible impact for children, young people and those who are less likely to be active.

Mahuya Kanjilal, community development advisor at Heart of Bucks Community Foundation, said: “The London Marathon Trust Fund was an excellent opportunity

for us to work with Northamptonshire Community Foundation.

“Each Community Foundation across the uK works within their own geographical boundary so it was great to be able to share our knowledge and expertise on Aylesbury Vale and support groups from this area to access funding.

“Credit goes to the team at Northampton for their clear communication and support. We look forward to working with them again in the future.”

Funding has been awarded to a range of projects, including exercise therapy for people with multiple sclerosis, tennis for people with disabilities, the development of a girls football team, gardening sessions for disadvantaged people and a sport street outreach programme to encourage young

people to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Northamptonshire Community Foundation is the leading independent grant-making charity in the county, working with fund holders and donors to ensure projects make a sustainable impact on local need.

Victoria Miles, the CEO of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, said: “Working in partnership with the London Marathon Charitable Trust to distribute their funds to much needed sports projects.”

Applications for the next round of funding for the London Marathon Charitable Trust Fund will re-open in 2020.

To find out more about the fantastic work of NCF visit www.ncf.uk.com or call 01604 230033.

Picture shows Jenny Meadows training young runners funded by the marathon trust.

THE Borough Council of Wellingborough has a vacancy for a borough councillor to represent Finedon Ward, following the personal resignation of Cllr Bailey,

who is relocating to be nearer her family. The local by-election will take place on Thursday, September 12. Residents should have received their poll cards.

Time for reflection

ST Mary’s Church in Higham Ferrers has recently created a Remembrance Garden – making a place of quiet reflection and respect for those lost in World War

One. Money came from the East Northamptonshire Council, The War Memorial Trust, fundraisers, The Royal British Legion and The Swivel Club.

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SEPTEMBER 2019 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 9

Homes firm supports young apprentices

tinue their next level of training at the Corby Campus to specialise in electrics and plumbing.

“Prestige Homeseeker is a key employer in the area and has actively supported apprentices, interns and other young people to make factory construction a career choice, working with an employer of choice in an amazing small family culture environment.”

The company began as a very small business and has grown organically and through acquisition over the last 20 years to become one of the uK’s largest manufacturers of park homes and leisure lodges.

Prestige Homeseeker produce 15 homes a week, employs more than 420 staff and runs production operations in Kettering and Rushden.

Tresham College head of business development Julie Hoult visited Prestige Homeseeker to congratulate the apprentices. She said: “Our aim is to work alongside local businesses such as Prestige Homeseeker and provide training which meets their industry needs. Apprenticeships such as this are an investment in people and offer progression for young people in a successful local company.”

Pictured are nine of the apprentices with Jo Morgans, (front left), and Julie Hoult (front right).

YOuNG apprentices at Rushden company Prestige Homeseeker have successfully completed their training with Tresham College and are seeking employment at the thriving local business.

Prestige Homeseeker was looking to expand its workforce with home-grown talent and sought the help of Tresham College to give their new employees key skills to help in the production of their luxury park homes and leisure lodges.

Tresham College was able to offer a specially tailored and designed two-year maintenance operations course, to provide all round skills in plumbing, painting and decorating, electrical work, carpentry and joinery.

The apprenticeship scheme proved so successful it was shortlisted in the Made In Central and East England Manufacturing Awards. This followed two of the young apprentices, Loren Cooper and Will Vanner being awarded Construction Apprentice of the year at the Tresham College Achievements Ceremony.

Head of people at Prestige Homeseeker Jo Morgans said: “This has been a very successful partnership with Tresham College. “ Our apprentices have learned valuable skills, essential in the production of our luxury homes.

“We are delighted five of the apprentices are planning to con-

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If you go down to the woods today...

10 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

FInESHADE Wood has become the setting for a fantastic new summer activity.

Visitors to the popular northamptonshire woodland are being treated to a series of stunning and thought-provoking images of the planet as part of Earth Photo, a photography exhibition developed by Forestry England and the Royal Geographic Society, (with IBG), to better understand the world around us.

Set along a forest trail in Fineshade Wood, each of the 22 images tells a story of a

people and nature in a changing world. In one image, a woman picks rubbish at night in a village atop an Indonesian landfill – she is the only midwife for the 18,000 villagers living inside and all around the dumpsite.

Another showcases the spectacular beauty of an Antarctic iceberg, a labyrinth of turquoise ice framed by a slate grey sky.

Depicting a scene closer to home, another panel displays a sanctuary of long-forgotten boundary hedge growing free of the barbed wire that once held it in place.

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The exhibition provides a great opportunity for people in the area to see these breathtaking images from around the world among the beautiful backdrop of Fineshade Wood.

The ancient woodland is part of the former royal hunting forest of Rockingham Forest.

Fineshade Wood is located just of the A43 near Corby.

There are brown tourist signs leading up to the site from both directions.

EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com

Council urges caution after taxi plate theft EAST Northamptonshire Council has issued a warning to residents in the district after the taxi plate ‘PHV/3’ was stolen from a vehicle.

All taxis which are registered with the local council must display a licence plate.

In East Northamptonshire this must be displayed on the rear of the vehicle and has a unique number. There is a concern the stolen plate could be fitted to other vehicles that may be used to commit a crime.

The leader of East Northamptonshire Council Steven North said: “The theft has been reported to the police and the plate numbers have been decommissioned, but sadly a stolen licence plate can have an impact on the wider community and those using taxis should be extra vigilant.

“Wherever possible, pre-book a taxi and ask the driver for the name of the booking before you get in.

“A top tip is to always keep the number of a reliable company with you so you don’t get caught out.”

When travelling by taxi, it is important the following

advice is followed: Plan how you’re going to get home from your night out.

Arrange a lift or book a taxi in your name and leave the taxi booking details with a friend.

Always keep the number of a reliable taxi firm with you.

Avoid taxis that tout for business and are unlicensed.

When the taxi arrives, check it is the one you booked by asking for the name in which it was booked.

If in doubt, don’t get in.

If travelling alone, always sit behind the driver in the back seat.

If you feel uneasy, ask to be let out.

Stick with your friends and choose a meeting point for if you get separated. never accept a lift from a stranger.

If you spot the plate ‘PHV/3’ being used, please report as much detail as possible to the police on 101.

For more information about licensing and the laws surrounding taxis, visit www.northantslicensing.gov.uk.

Leaders’ lunch date confirmed PICTURES show, left: The Landfill Midwife, Elisabetta Zavoli. Mak Muji, 56-years-old, is a rubbish picker and the only midwife for the 18,000 villagers living inside and all around the main waste heap in Bantar Gebang, Jakarta’s landfill.

Right: 2 Big Blue Berg, by Sue Flood.

She calls The Antarctic “The most spectacular place on the planet.”

Rather than just focus on the foreboding of climate change, she wanted to capture the grandeur and drama of the stunning iceberg.

You can find out more about the exhibition and other events this summer and into autumn at Fineshade Woods by visiting www.forestryengland.uk/fineshade-wood. You can also contact 0300 067 4340, or e-mail Foresty England at sherwood.fdo@forestryengland.uk

THE next East Northants Community Leaders’ Lunch will be taking place on Wednesday, October 2, from 11am, at The Frontier Centre, off Addington Road, in Irthlingborough.

The lunch will follow three

short talks and an update from East Northants Community Services on its current projects serving vulnerable people and plans to develop its services.

Contact Andrew Presland on 01933 316927 for details.

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SEPTEMBER 2019 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 11

Charity gets ready to Farewell to the beach for another year celebrate its 21st year Keeping warm

HuNDREDS of fuel poor households in Wellingborough and across the county are set to receive support to warm their homes this winter thanks to the Warm Homes Fund.

All support through the Warm Homes Fund scheme is subject to the eligibility criteria.

To find out more visit northantswarmhomes.com or call freephone 0800 029 4542.

Flower power

THERE will be a flower festival and art exhibition at St Peter’s Church, Raunds on Saturday, September 28, from 10am to 5pm and Sunday 29, from 1pm to 5pm.

A concert performed by Raunds Community Choir and organist Paul Harris will be held on the Saturday at 7.30pm.

New councillor

EAST Northamptonshire Council has a new elected member representing the Irthlingborough Waterloo Ward.

Councillor Lee Wilkes of the Conservative party was elected with a majority of 64 votes and the by-election was triggered by the resignation of former ward member Cllr Marika Hillson.

Bird group

THE RSPB Mid Nene Local Group’s next indoor meeting will be on Thursday, September 19, at 7.30pm at the Saxon Hall in Raunds.

There will be an illustrated talk on Hope Farm - Its Successes History and Research by Ian Dillon.

The meeting is open to everyone and admission is £3.

The next coach trip will be on Sunday, September 29, to Cley, Norfolk. For more information contact 01933 460644.

Energy savings

THROuGH the Switch Save Smile scheme, residents in East Northamptonshire have collectively saved an impressive £253,089 on their energy bills, new figures have revealed.

Back in 2015, East Northamptonshire Council teamed up with the leading collective switching expert, iChoosr, to take part in the Big Community Switch in a bid to help residents in East Northants get a better deal on gas and electricity Switch Save Smile is a free to register scheme and initial registration takes less than 10 minutes, for more information, visit www.eastnorthamptonshire.gov.uk/sss.

Call to carers

ARE you a carer who is providing support for a relative or friend who has a disability, long-term illness or other additional needs?

Do you live in Higham Ferrers or Rushden? Do you feel that you could benefit from a few hours break on a regular basis? Might the person you are caring for benefit from some different company? If so the Carers Sitting Service may be of interest to you.

To find out more contact Adam Wilson on 01933 677837.

ACQuIRED brain injury support charity, Headway East Northant, (HEN), is delighted to celebrate its 21st year in Irthlingborough.

HEN’ began as a small support group, organised by the loved one of an ABI survivor wanting to connect with other families experiencing similar challenges.

It moved into the ground floor of 61, High Street, Irthlingborough, in April, 1998.

The centre was formally opened by the 1998 Northamptonshire London Marathon team.

Based in the ground floor of Irthlingborough Library, it supports adults with acquired brain injury, incurred via many causes, including stroke, aneurysm, haemorrhage, accident or assault.

It has been are privileged to have helped many families during its existence, but knows there are many more who may benefit from the specialist support and services it offers to ABI survivors living in East Northamptonshire and the surrounding area.

The centre, open Monday to Friday, from 10am to 4pm, offers a wealth of stimulating, purposeful activities, including cookery, gardening, art, music, woodwork, upholstery, puzzles, quizzes reminiscence and peer support groups.

It helps ABI survivors regain lost skills, (and learn new ones), and aims to focus on what can be done, rather than what cannot.

Supported by a team of 14 volunteers, staff offer a friendly and non-judgmental environment where ABI survivors can come together for specialist support and friendship.

We are also proud to support family members/carers of ABI survivors, not only helping them to understand and process the effects of ABI and offer advice and counselling, but also to signpost them to further services likely to be of benefit.

It has a phenomenal group of seemingly tireless supporters and fundraisers too.

If you would like to get involved, give the group a call.

For more details, visit its website at www.headwayeastnorthants.org.uk.

People can also follow its own its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/headway-eastnorthants, on its Twitter page at @EastHeadway and Instagram at headwayeastnorthants.

If anyone would like to call in to see the centre in action, contact 01933 652311 or email info@headwayeastnorthants.org. uk.

Children give a warm welcome

AS part of a ‘Welcome Home’ campaign, David Wilson Homes reached out to the school nearby to its development The Nurseries on Market Road in Thrapston, for the help of the pupils in designing greeting cards to be handed out to new homebuyers.

Megan Webb and Lara Colson were the winners of the competition and will see their cards printed and delivered to new residents, in addition to claiming a £20 book token each.

Ashley Tarr, Year 6 teacher at Thrapston Primary School, said: “The children thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to show off their artistic skills and take part in this exciting community project.

“The volume and quality of

the entries across the school was fantastic! Well done to all that entered.”

The scheme aims to provide a warm welcome to those making a fresh start with David Wilson Homes, whilst also highlighting key information about the local area.

The theme of the county-wide competition for schools is all things home related and the children are encouraged to be as creative as possible, adding in pictures and details about the suburb they live in.

Sales director at David Wilson Homes Jason Hearn said: “It’s important to make new residents feel welcome as they join our new communities.”

RESIDENTS have been able to enjoy the free pop up beach event in Wellingborough Market Square this summer with this year’s event one of the biggest and best yet.

Wellingborough Council worked with its partners Wellingborough Norse to deliver the beach event. Wellingborough Library, Northamptonshire Sport and local businesses provided activities and fun throughout the event and contributed to its success. Activities included a programme of games hosted by Northamptonshire Sport and rhyme time sessions provided by the staff at Wellingborough Library.

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Your ticket includes return escorted coach travel, and your seat for the matinee show.

Further details on dining options at the Royal Albert Hall prior to the concert are available upon request

12 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

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Home Instead shortlisted for top award HOME Instead East Northants has announced it has been shortlisted for the finals of the Community Business of the Year in Northamptonshire and nationally in the Business of the Year, with more than 50 employees.

A spokesman said: “We are over the moon to have a reached the finals.

“Marie and Lucy are so proud of how their companionship cafes, exercise class, dementia, scam and nutrition talks have helped provide information and support in the community and to help prevent social isolation, falls, (exercise helps to improve balance), to create an awareness of suspicious phone calls and callers at home.

“We are thrilled to attend the awards and look forward to the evening in September and the national finals in December. “ Home Instead’s new community events are a 50’s friendship group at the

Castello Lounge, Wellingborough, on Monday, September 2, from noon to 2pm, a companionship café, at Marks and Spencer’s, Rushden Lakes, on Wednesday, September 4, from 2.30pm to 4.30pm, a get up and go exercise class, at Waitrose Rushden Community Room, on Tuesday, September 10, from 10.30am to 11.30am, and a dementia awareness day, at Waitrose, on Tuesday, September 17, from 10am to 3pm.

Home Instead East Northants will also be running a number of community engagement workshops at its office in Wellingborough starting with, ‘How to support a loved one living with Dementia,’ on Thursday, September 12, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm and an ‘Are You Interested in Becoming a CAREGiver in your area’, on Saturday, September 21, from 9.30am to 11.30am. Contact Marie Franks or Lucy Darnell on 01933 678775 for further details.

EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com

Council agrees climate change working group

BOROuGH councillors from Wellingborough have agreed to establish a cross-party working group which will be tasked with refreshing the climate change strategy of the council.

A motion had been put to the meeting about the climate emergency which was considered by members, and while supportive of this proposal, members thought there was little time in which to make an impact before it moved to unitary council. An amendment to the motion was proposed and agreed as follows: “This council notes that parliament has declared a climate emergency.

“Although this council has limited time, powers and resources, we nevertheless commit to playing our proper part in delivering on the national com-

mitments as far as we can, within the constraints under which we must operate.

“We will consider the climate impact of our activities especially through the process of transition to unitary and support appropriate council projects that effectively reduce carbon emissions or improve air quality.

“In addition we will establish a cross party working group to refresh our climate change strategy.”

Council leader Martin Griffiths, said: “We are committed to working together to limit the impact of climate change in our borough.

“This working group will take a look at our current climate change strategy and recommend any updates to it.”

Help for the homeless

WELLINGBOROuGH Council is working with Greatwell Homes to provide accommodation for residents facing a housing crisis or who have become homeless.

The partnership will see Greatwell Homes provide homes to be used as temporary accommodation for residents, while the council work with households to assess their needs and find a permanent housing solution.

Previously the council has used emergency hotel accommodation, which does not provide a comfortable housing solution for residents during a difficult time and incurs high costs.

As part of the council’s 201823 housing plan, the council set out to source alternative solutions and the partnership with Greatwell Homes, which launched in April, has made this happen.

Greatwell Homes will work with households to provide benefit advice, financial management skills and signpost to opportunities for training and employment.

The council will work with residents to provide holistic support throughout the process by establishing tailor made housing

plans and establishing a permanent housing solution.

Council leader Martin Griffiths, said: “We are committed to providing residents with a safe and warm place to call home and the partnership with Greatwell Homes will provide households with comfortable accommodation while our housing team work with them to find a permanent housing solution.”

Chief executive of Greatwell Homes Jo Savage said: “We’re delighted to be working with the Borough Council of Wellingborough to support those who are, or will soon, become homeless in the local area.

“Our skilled staff will also ensure the best benefit advice and financial training is given to these individuals to support them as best as we can”.

For more information on the housing assistance and support that the council can provide, contact the housing options team on 01933 229777.

For more information about Greatwell Homes, visit www.greatwellhomes.org.uk or contact the group on 01933 234450.

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SEPTEMBER 2019 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 13

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‘Keeping your cat safe and relaxed in your own home’ Call Carol 07446 329704

Save our planet – plant trees

by Maureen Catlin Milton Ernest Garden Centre

HE message on the block is ‘Plant Trees’. We must now all be aware that rising carbon dioxide levels in our atmosphere are the main drivers for climate change and so we need to reduce this drastically. There are approximately three trillion trees on earth. If we plant a lot more trees, and I mean a lot more, like 1.2 trillion, we could slow down the greenhouse effect because more carbon would be stored as these trees grow. Most of us cannot even visualise numbers this large. It would need to be on a massive world wide scale. Not impossible to organise if governments, the private sector, communities, organisations and individuals all worked together.

It is after all for everyone’s benefit. If we planted trees on this scale, in areas where trees naturally grow, on degraded land which has been abandoned because of over farming or deforestation, not arable land or deserts, we could have a huge impact on lowering carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere and even as Scientists believe revert to the levels

T

experienced 100 years ago.

Planting trees could be our saviour. The young actively growing tree absorbs carbon dioxide from the air at a fast rate and with water converts this by photosynthesis into a food source of sugar for the plant and a by- product oxygen to sustain animal and human life.

In the uK 4.6 million hectares of suitable land have been identified for planting 1.5 billion trees.

That is five trees per person living on our islands. This is not an unrealistic figure to achieve either by giving to environmental charities, your local community, encouraging more Tree Planting with new developments, at our schools or places of work or in our own gardens.

Globally once all these trees are established there could be a 210 giga tonnes reduction per year of carbon dioxide in the air which would be 10 times greater than that estimated if we all changed to driving electric cars.

Aesthetically trees are vitally important to our well-being. They give height and structure to the landscape, a haven to wildlife, shade and a green relief to concrete jungles.

These are all very compelling arguments for planting lots of trees.

When planting trees you must consider the aspect, soil type and location. For large scale forest type planting a mix of indigenous varieties like Oak, Ash and Beech will all grow to large stately trees with under and edge planting of holly, yew, dogwood and buckthorn.

Hedgerows are generally in open farmland so Blackthorn, Crab Apple, Wild Cherry and Hawthorn establish quickly and are cover and habitat for many bird species.

Trees for Street and New Development Community planting can be more decorative within the species than forest and hedgerow planting. So instead of Silver Birch, Betula Pendula, plant Betula utilis Jacquemontia or Snow Queen which are both narrow and upright with bright

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Tel: 01933 318327 white bark and light foliage or instead of The Rowan, Sorbus Aucuparia, choose Sorbus Apricot Queen with fantastic leaf colour and apricot berries in autumn or S. Eastern Promise with dark pink berries. Other good trees for planting in communal areas are Hornbeam, Cotoneaster and Prunus Pissardii Nigra with deep red foliage or P. Kursar neat and compact covered in pink flowers.

In our own gardens we can be much more adventurous. Deciduous trees remove about 50% more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than evergreen trees. With this in mind chose the tree according to the space available. Generally it is recommended not to plant trees within 3 metres of your house. If your garden is small and you can only plant one tree chose a variety that has several features through the year like Sorbus Scalaris with bright green young foliage then white flowers followed by scarlet shining berries and rich autumn leaf colour or Prunus Amanagawa which is narrow and upright with masses of pink flowers in spring green leaves all summer and rich autumn foliage. Malus White Star with coppery young leaves pure white flowers and bright yellow crab apples that stay all winter on the tree. In the larger garden there may be room for several trees or certainly larger trees. Acer Crimson King is magnificent and stately with deep red foliage and

rich autumn colour. Prunus Fragrant Cloud has copper red new leaves, is covered in white glistening flowers in spring and vibrant autumn leaf colour. Fruit Trees are very beneficial. Not only do they take in the carbon dioxide but also

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So this autumn find a spot in your garden, place of work, school or local community to plant a tree to rescue out environment. We are pleased to advise you which variety of tree to choose and have a celebratory Save Our Planet Planting.

So this autumn find a spot in your garden place of work School or local community. We are pleased to advise you which variety to chose best suirted tothesite ands haver a celebratotry Save Our Planet Planting.

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14 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

ADVERTISING: TheReporter@rosettapublishing.com

EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com

out & about The Dame Shirley Bassey Story Bedford Corn Exchange Friday September 13

“Surely Bassey is the BEST tribute to the Welsh singer!” THE SUn “She blew them away with the power and quality of her voice!” DAILY MAIL “Absolutely amazing!” BBC

“The best at being Bassey and she has the gestures to a tee!” THE STAGE

Surely Bassey (Joanne Copeman) has been performing globally as Dame Shirley Bassey since 2002 and during the last two decades, she has maintained her recognised status, as the most respected and sought after Shirley Bassey tribute act in the business. She has an incompa-

rable, wealth of experience impersonating Dame Shirley worldwide and this has seen her perform her unrivalled Shirley Bassey tribute show in over 25 countries so far. Her longevity in this field, speaks absolute volumes and she is always first choice for major, international event management companies, across the globe.

This sensational tribute show

captures the power, theatre and glamour of Dame Shirley in her prime. See the gowns, the drama and pure sophistication of this authentic Shirley Bassey tribute show. Surely Bassey incorporates audience participation into this highly acclaimed tribute to the “Diamond Dame” and her cheeky sense of humour/stage persona is a definite crowd pleaser!

She has performed her outstanding Shirley Bassey tribute show, at high profile corporate events and private celebrity parties, across the united Kingdom, Europe, the united Arab Emirates and America. There have simply been too many glamorous events to list! Be it a private yacht in the bay of Naples, a casino in Prague, a glitzy James Bond event in Monte Carlo or a prestigious corporate event in Detroit, the Surely Bassey experience always goes down an absolute storm with audiences of all nationalities.

Surely Bassey is a world renowned, Shirley Bassey impersonator, who has also performed at events endorsed by Dame Shirley, including the fabulous

auction of her gowns at London’s “Cafe De Paris” Surely Bassey had the honour of portraying the “Tigress from Tiger Bay” whilst singing “Big Spender” wearing one of Dame Shirley’s original gowns – now that is indeed an accolade! Please take a brief look around this website and see testimonials from professional event organisers in the entertainment industry, along with delighted ‘celebrity’ Shirley Bassey fans.

Surely Bassey – the NuMBER ONE Dame Shirley Bassey tribute artiste for 17 years (and counting!)

Joanne also performs as Dame Shirley in her touring theatre show ‘The Girl from Tiger Bay – The Dame Shirley Bassey Story’

To advertise your next event email: TheReporter@rosettapublishing.com or call Christa on: 07827 015170

ADVERTISING: TheReporter@rosettapublishing.com or call 07827 015170

SEPTEMBER 2019 EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER — 15

–––––––––––––––––––––– ARE YoU A FoRMER MEMBER oF WYMInGTon WI?

It is our 50th anniversary this year and would like to invite former members to an anniversary party on Thursday 8th August at 7pm at Wymington Memorial Hall.

If you would like to come please contact Anne Brown ( 07939444347 or annebrown23@btinternet.com ).

––––––––––––––––––––––

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

–––––––––––––––––––––– YOGA CLASS

Tuesday afternoon 1.30-2.30pm Masonic Hall rushden starts 9th July.

Great for beginners.

All abilities £5 a class carole.wyatt@virginmedia.com carole 07873743256

–––––––––––––––––––––– 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

–––––––––––––––––––––– RINGSTEAD SHARED CHuRCH

10.30am

SERVICE FOR ALL

(Communion first Sunday each month) Mike Freeman 01933 01933389796 rbc-rsc@angeladavis.net

–––––––––––––––––––––– RuSHDEN & DISTRICT HISTORY SOCIETY Friday 20th September at 7.30pm

South End Junior School, Wymington Road, Rushden NN10 9Ju

Douglas Goddard – The History of Abington Park Tel 01933 358218 for more information Members £1.50, non-members £2.50 All welcome.

–––––––––––––––––––––– 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 CL ASS

Wednesday evening yoga class suit beginners at 7pm Pemberton Centre Studio 2 MASONIC HALL RuSHDEN

£5 a class please contact 07873743256 or carole.wyatt@virginmedia.com

THE H. E. BATES DISCUSSION GROUP

–––––––––––––––––––––– YOGA CL ASS Monday morning 8.30am-9.30am

Masonic Hall Wellingborough Road Rushden

£5 per class no block booking commitment

Admission £3 which includes a Raffle and Quiz VISITORS WELCOME –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Eric Fowell on 01933 353292

Every 1st Thursday of the month

The Athletic Club, Newton Road NN10 0HF Any enquires to Emma Connor 0745 800 2967

–––––––––––––––––––––– 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

–––––––––––––––––––––– THE PAVILION YOUTH CLUB HIGHAM FERRERS

Wednesday evenings 6pm - 9pm for youths 10 - 16 year old, where it gives them somewhere safe to go, with lots of activities to do.

We are looking for new volunteers to join our leaders & young leaders. for more information please contact nikki 07507176719

–––––––––––––––––––––– L ADIES’ 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

PSYCHIC AND SPIRITUAL AWARENESS DEVELOPMENT GROUPS RUSHDEN

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.

––––––––––––––––––––––

“H.E. Bate’s connections with the artworld”

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

COFFEE MORNING

perfect for beginners all ages/abilities carole.wyatt@virginmedia.com or 07873743256

2-4pm Wednesday September 11, 2019 at Rushden Town Bowls Club, Northampton Road, Rushden Speaker Victoria Wilks (H.E.’s granddaughter)

––––––––––––––––––––––

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

–––––––––––––––––––––– WOMEN’S COREFIT CIRCUIT CLA SS 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

––––––––––––––––––––––

–––––––––––––––––––––– THRAPSTON COUNTRY DANCERS

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

––––––––––––––––––––––

–––––––––––––––––––––– RUSHDEN CL ASSICAL MUSIC SOCIETY Meets on Wednesdays at the Hope Methodist Church, Linnetts Lane, Higham Ferrers 7.30pm-9.30pm SEPTEMBER 4 JoAn GREEn SEPTEMBER 18 SAnDY ELLInA £2 members, £2.50 visitors For more information call: 01933 391283

–––––––––––––––––––––– HIGHAM AND RUSHDEN U3A

We meet at the Pemberton Centre every 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1.30p.m, for an interesting presentation on a variety of subjects and 45 different interest groups to choose from!

Come along and see if you like it.

We are a VERY FRIENDLY GROuP of over 600 members

–––––––––––––––––––––– 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

IN THE AFTERNOON

–––––––––––––––––––––– ST MARY’S CHURCH RINGSTEAD

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 very welcome. All proceeds from donations go to church funds and charities.

–––––––––––––––––––––– PEMBERTON MAID MARIONS Welcome new and experienced archers every Wednesday morning at The Pemberton Centre Rushden nn10 9YP For more information contact Diane 01933 314032 or Glenda 01933 2250577

–––––––––––––––––––––– WELCOME TO

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

MOTHERS’ UNION

–––––––––––––––––––––– COFFEE MORNINGS Tuesdays And Thursdays 9am – 11am In The Memory Lane Tea Rooms, Serve, 19 Church Street, Rushden nn10 9YU. Drop In For Coffee And Chat.

––––––––––––––––––––––

–––––––––––––––––––––– THE WINGS APPEAL BAND CONCERT SWING’S THE THING Park Road Baptist Church, Rushden Thursday 12th September

–––––––––––––––––––––– 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 Cost of lunch £6, 2 courses – choose from 2 main hot courses or salads; cold and hot puddings; tea/coffee.

Everyone Welcome Contact information: Chris 01933 317719

––––––––––––––––––––––

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

–––––––––––––––––––––– 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

––––––––––––––––––––––

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.

–––––––––––––––––––––– HIGHAM FERRERS FOOTPATH GROUP

MEET SAFFRON ROAD CAR PARK HIGHAM FERRERS FOR CAR SHARING 9.35am Sunday 1st September Contact 01933 622895

6 mile walk from Melchbourne

9.30am Sunday 15th September Contact 07462 422097

6 mile walk from Twywell Hills and Dales 9.00am Sunday 6th october Contact 01933 386839

6 mile linear walk, ring the leader by Saturday if you are walking.

–––––––––––––––––––––– 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

–––––––––––––––––––––– 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

JULY 30: WHIST oR BInGo

–––––––––––––––––––––– WAY-ON RUSHDEN GROUP

A social group for single widowed men and women aged 50 - 70.

We are an informal friendly group of widowed people who meet twice a month in the Rushden area to arrange visits to social events eg music events, meals out etc.

If you would like to join us or would like further information please contact Anne 07717482252 after 7 pm or Sandy on 07923109840, after 7 pm

––––––––––––––––––––––

16 — EAST NORTHANTS REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

ADVERTISING: TheReporter@rosettapublishing.com

sport

EDITORIAL: nick@rosettapublishing.com

Players can take positives despite first match ending in disappointment

RuSHDEN & Higham Ladies first game was always going to be special and it fell to Towcester Roses to be their first opposition, a team which is a couple of years further on in their development and have already secured league promotion.

The game was billed as a rugby-10s pre-season friendly although it was a match both teams wanted to win.

As Rushden Ladies walked out, resplendent in their new yellow shirts, the atmosphere from both the suporters and the teams was a mix of excitement and nerves.

Rushden kicked off and the game was on, for the first seven minutes both teams tested each other’s defences, with both teams throwing in tackle after tackle, whoever said that ladies were the

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so-called ‘gentle sex’ had never met these ladies.

As the nerves settled it was Towcester that finally managed to break through Rushden’s lines and score the first try with the Towcester number 10 crossing the line with Rushden’s number 10 hanging off her.

This try had obviously wetted Towcester’s appetite as they tried to break through Rushden’s lines again only for some spirited defending from the Rushden players to deny Towcester the opportunity to ground the ball. Towcester kept up the pressure scoring another two tries although going through the centre was becoming more difficult as Rushden tightened up their central defensive line although this opened up some gaps on the wing that Towcester’s number 15 welcomed for their fourth try.

While the wind might have been knocked out of Rushden’s sails they never gave up and continued probing Towcester’s line for weaknesses only to be denied with the try line in sight and for Towcester to mount a counterattack down the wing to score

again. unfortunately for Rushden the same thing happened to Towcester’s next two tries. At half-time Towcester had scored seven tries.

As the second half started as the first half finished with attacks

by Rushden being converted into Towcester tries, three in almost as many minutes.

For the next 10 minutes Rushden seemed to find that magic of silencing Towcester’s wings while protecting their centre and cutting down on the handling errors.

While this stopped Towcester scoring, Rushden were unable to find a way through Towcester’s lines to score themselves. unfortunately, this state was not to last with Towcester’s scoring two more tries near the end, resulting in five tries for the second half and 12 for the match.

Officially the match ended Rushden and Higham Ladies 0 Towcester Roses 12, although this hides the fact Rushden was made only to lose the ball within sight of Towcester’s try lines – in truth every player won especially those who were playing their first match.

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Teams set for busy month THE two senior football teams in Rushden are set for a busy month of fixtures.

Rushden & Diamonds Football Club face Royston at Hayden Road on Saturday, September 5, while Rushden and Higham Football Club have home clashes with Rothwell Corinthians on Tuesday, September 3, and local rivals Raunds Town on Saturday, September 21.

They also have away fixtures this month with Melton Town on Saturday, September 7, Harrowby United on Saturday, September 14, and Aylestone Park on Saturday, September 28.

Meanwhile, Rushden & Dia-

monds under-18s play Irchester United at Hayden Road on Saturday, September 14, (evening kick-off), and Bugbrooke St Michael’s on Thursday, September 26, also at 7.45pm.

To catch-up with all the latest news, fixtures and match reports for the teams at Diamonds visit www.afcdiamonds.com You can also view the club’s membership news and benefits.

For Rushden and Higham United’s first team, you can find out more about the club at the club’s Twitter feed at @RandHUFC, where details of fixtures and match reports are regularly updated for followers of the team.

The Reporter is an independent publication, part of Rosetta Publishing Ltd. Published by ©2019 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.