LETTER FROM THE EDITORS So, Twelfth Night has come and gone, and all the Christmas decorations have been taken down and stored away for another year. But on the positive side, the days are lengthening and it’s not always dark at 4 o’clock! The February edition of the Salings Magazine contains some important news about our Neighbourhood Plan see Peter Martin’s article on pages 12 and 13. This is an opportunity for residents in the Salings to influence how we wish to see our local community develop - subject of course to the normal funding constraints, and the requirement to be ‘in conformity with’ the plans from Braintree District Council. Confused by what that means? Well, join the club. But more seriously, why don’t you talk to your Neighbourhood Plan Committee at the Plant Sale in May or at the Fete in June, where they will be on hand to explain the all the issues. And please note that Great Saling Parish Council is still seeking an additional councillor - the deadline for applications has been extended to 11th February. Meanwhile the Village Hall Committee would like some input from you - see page 15 - and, if you want another May Day Celebration you may need to help organise it - see page 4! Andrea & Richard, the editors Please email contributions to the March edition by the 12th of February to: SalingsMagazine@gmail.com
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CHURCH SERVICES IN THE SALINGS FEBRUARY Sunday 5. Feb.
11.00 Morning Prayer
Great Saling
Sunday 12. Feb.
11.00 Morning Prayer
Little Saling
Sunday 19. Feb.
11.00 Holy Communion
Great Saling
Sunday 26. Feb.
9.30 Holy Communion
Little Saling
MARCH Ash Wednesday 1. March
19.30 Holy Communion
Great Saling
Sunday 5. March
11.00 Morning Prayer
Great Saling
Sunday 12. March
11.00 Morning Prayer
Little Saling
Sunday 19. March
11.00 Holy Communion
Great Saling
9.30 Holy Communion
Little Saling
Mothering Sunday 26. March
MOBILE LIBRARY SERVICE: every 2nd Thursday: Great Saling, Grove Villas (opposite Saling Hall) 12.00 - 12.15
USEFUL Numbers: Braintree District Council: 01376 552525; Non Emergency Police: 101 3
Great Saling Action Group E:charmaine.beckett@yahoo.co.uk A:19 Grove Villas Gt Saling Essex CM7 5DX T: 01371 853055 The village Christmas party was a great success with much fun had by all. Thanks to all who supported the event, we managed to raise £698.50. We will donate £500 to SERCLE (Stop the Erosion of Rural Communities in Local Essex has been created to stop the West of Braintree new settlement) and the remaining money will go towards community projects. Before we know it, spring will be upon us. In the past 2 years we have rejoiced in this vibrant season with the May Celebration. We'd very much like this event to continue but unless we get some more volunteers to lend a hand, this event will not be able to go ahead. There are various things we need help with: erecting and dismantling marquee and shelters; making decorations; food stall; tea room; bar. Thank you to those who have already put your names down but we could still do with a few more helpers. It's a great opportunity to get to know your fellow villagers.
The 2017
Woman’s World Day of Prayer will take place on Friday the 3rd of March at 2pm. This year it has been prepared by the woman of the Philippines. Please contact Lydia Roe (lydia.bucknell@btinternet.com) for details or check the noticeboard at the churches.
Village Coffee Morning: a warm welcome awaits all: Thursday 16th of Feb. at the Salings Millennium Hall: 10.30 - 12.00 4
A Notice from the Greville Theatre Club As some of you will be aware, Little Easton Manor and Estate is currently on the market and, of course, this includes the Barn Theatre which was 'home' for the Greville Theatre Club for over 50 years. So sadly we are 'homeless' and all our costumes, props and scenery has been put into temporary storage. The Committee has spent considerable time looking into various local venues but to date have been unsuccessful in finding a suitable one. However, we will continue to do what we can to keep the Greville name 'alive'. So we are unable to put on our usual productions in the immediate future. If and when this situation changes we will, of course, let you know. We thank you all for your support over the years and wish you a happy 2017.
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Dear Friends, By the time you read this, Donald Trump will have been inaugurated as President of the United States of America, and we will be a few weeks away from the triggering of Article 50, initiating the departure of the UK from the EU. No matter what your feelings for good or ill about these things, you have to admit that this year, 2017, will bring enormous changes to our country and to the world as a result of decisions made last year. And change is difficult. It is challenging, it forces us out of our comfort zone, even if we want the change to happen. Different people have different coping strategies for dealing with change, some work better than others. Personally I take great comfort (as someone whose work has change at the heart of it, you’d think I like change, but you’d be wrong!) from the stability in the pattern of the church’s year. No matter what crazy (or good) things are happening in the world, we can be sure that Christmas is followed by Epiphany (the 3 Wise Men), and then comes Lent, Pentecost (Whitsun in old money), Harvest, Remembrance and Advent. And then we start again. A year in the life of the church not only tells us the story of the good news of Jesus, from his birth to his death and resurrection to the coming of the Holy Spirit, it also provides us with an optimistic, hopeful platform on which to build our lives. The story of Jesus is just as powerful when we don’t have time to read it as when we do. So your picture of Lent Easter and Pentecost might only be half remembered, yet still in the discipline of Lenten observance (which is so much more than just giving up chocolate) can help you find shelter from the stormy blast, and our eternal home. The joy of Easter can fill you with hope even when the world seems hopeless, and the power of the Holy Spirit unleashed at Pentecost can ground your intellectual faith in spiritual experience. So come to church this year, and see what you can find. If you would like a lift please contact a member of the clergy. Thank you, and may God bless you. Tim
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THE SALING'S CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION FUND RAISER A very big thank you to the many friends and residents who joined in the Saling's Christmas Celebration at the village hall on Dec 10th. The party proved to be a great success, we couldn't have wished for a better turn out. It was encouraging to see so many new faces, young and old, joining in the festivities. Special thanks to the Saling's Action Group for organising the event, decorating the hall, and passing on their creative talents to those who sat and made their own festive wreaths and decorations. Whilst this was all happening we imbibed on home-made soup, local real ales (at Barries Bar) and a sumptious hog roast from our own local 'Kitchen Farm'. Thanks go to those who contributed to the many exceptionally fine raffle prizes. Music was provided by the talented 'Charmaine and Friends of the Salings'. Also, we were fortunate enough to be entertained by Hogshead who joined us on the last leg of their world wide pension top up tour: "Catch them whilst they're still standing!". All in all a special evening! A donation will be made to 'SERCLE' who are helping to fight the proposed development of the new town which would swamp our villages and could effectively put an end to these very special community events. We wish them well. Colin Davidson
Thank you to everyone who gave to the 2016 Poppy Appeal. The total raised was ÂŁ182.70 and the total for this district was ÂŁ3,865.66. Many thanks to all. John Anderson 7
Great Saling Parish Council Clerk to the Council: Mrs Cathryn Carlisle, Herkstead Green Bungalow, Cornish Hall End, Braintree Essex CM7 4HH T: 01440 731964 W: www.essexinfo.net/greatsalingpc E: gtsaling.pc@outlook.com Councillors Contact Details Mr Peter Martin 07801236461 Mrs Diane Greenwood (Chairman) 01371 851763 Mr Colin Bennett 01371 850320 Miss Jasmine Beckett jasminebeckett77@yahoo.co.uk Clerk Cathryn Carlisle 01440 731 964 Parish Council Meeting Dates in 2017: 8th Feb; 8th March; 12th April; 10th May; 14th June; 12th July; 9th August; 13th Sept; 11th Oct; 8th Nov; 13th Dec Meetings of the Parish Council are held on Wednesday, in the Village Hall and commence at 8:00 p.m. Please remember that everyone is welcome to attend. Agenda’s will be published on the notice board at least 3 clear days in advance of the meeting. A brief report of the meeting will be published in the following month’s parish magazine. Each meeting starts with the Public Forum - a short period of time where residents can ask questions or raise issues with Councillors. Message from Great Saling Parish Council In recent weeks there have been a number of reported break ins at properties in Stebbing and Radwinter; there has also been the usual seasonal attempts to steal heating oil. We would encourage residents and other premises in and around our area to be extra vigilant as to the safety and security of their property. It appears that these crimes are taking place during the day as well as the night; for example, properties are vulnerable when people are at work; also the school run is a time when properties may be empty and therefore at risk. It has also been reported that there have been a number of suspicious vehicles in the area at odd times and, sadly, it is possible that the occupiers of these vehicles may be up to no good. If you see a vehicle loitering nearby, especially at night, and it looks suspicious please report it to the police. If you can give a description of the vehicle and especially the registration number that would be helpful, but under no circumstances put yourself at risk to do so - stay safe! 8
Parish Council Vacancy There is still a Vacancy for a Parish Councillor here at Great Saling. As everyone was probably otherwise occupied over Christmas, we have extended the deadline for applications until 11 February. If you are interested in joining us then please contact the Parish Clerk, sending a short letter ( maximum A4 size) introducing yourself and expressing your interest - Cathy's details can be found on the previous page. Also, if you have any questions about the role then please get in touch. Christmas is finished - so why not make it a New Year with new interests. The best thing about a community is the people within it! Diane Greenwood
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SALINGS MILLENNIUM HALL A MODERN HALL WITH LARGE CAR PARK FOR PRIVATE & CORPORATE HIRE PICCOTS LANE, GREAT SALING CM7 5DW www.essexinfo.net/ thesalingshall Contact: Mrs. Jo Peake 01371 850 260; Mon-Sat 09:00 19:00 E-mail: jopeake@btinternet.com FEBRUARY EVENTS
Wednesday 1st, Felsted Decorative Society Committee Meeting 0930-1230 Monday 6TH, 13TH ,20TH,27TH Pilates 1115-1200 Monday 6TH, 13TH ,20TH, 27TH Pilates 1930-2030 Monday 6TH, 13TH, 20TH 27TH Badminton 1930-2100 Tuesday 7th,14th 21st,28th Art Group 1000-1500 Wednesday 1st, 8th,15th,22nd,29th Band Rehearsal 1930-2300 Thursday 9th FKS School Disco 1500-2000 Saturday 11th Children’s Party 1030-1300 Thursday 16th Village Coffee Morning 1030-1200 Wednesday 29th Felsted Decorative Society 1330-1630
THE SALINGS 100 CLUB All proceeds are for our lovely Village Hall so spare just £2 per month if you can. Collected from you in cash/cheque/standing order. If you would like to join the 100 CLUB please contact: Chris Maidman on: 01371 811018. Winners for Jan 2017
Winners for Dec 2016 1 - Nel Adams
1st- Annika Woodcock
2nd- Shirley Robinson
2nd- John King
3rd- Helen Pelly
3rd- Andrew Taylor (Eve)
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The Salings (Great Saling & Bardfield Saling)
NEIGHBOURHOODPLAN
“Your opportunity to influence change” Dear Resident of The Salings Under the government’s Localism Act, communities now have the opportunity to become directly involved and play a greater role in planning at the local level through the medium of the Neighbourhood Plan. To ensure that people living and working in the Salings area have the opportunity to participate, Great Saling Parish Council and The Bardfield Saling Meeting have put together a Steering Group of volunteers to manage development and progress of the plan for the future. They will formulate policies to be included within the plan from research and evidence gathered from you and selected bodies. What is a Neighbourhood Plan? A new way for people to participate in shaping the future development of their community including: Planning policies for the development and use of land The location of new housing and commercial development – where to build and where not to build Policies for improving the local infrastructure and community services Protection of the environment and essential character of The Salings After consultation with the wider community, the Neighbourhood Plan will be submitted for independent scrutiny to ensure compliance with the Local and National Planning Frameworks. There will also be a referendum on the Neighbourhood Plan and – if the majority of those who vote are in favour – then the plan will become a planning policy document within Braintree District Council’s Local Development Plan. So it is extremely important that every single persons views will be solicited and their views taken into account. Timeline. Survey Distributed March 2017
(NP Community Engagement) Plant Sale May 2017
Saling Fete June 2107
Referendum Late 2018
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Adoption 2019
Your Plan – Your Future The purpose of the Neighbourhood Plan is to reflect the opinions, concerns and wishes of the community. Those who live in the area, those who work in the area, local businesses, employers and employees. To be successful, the Neighbouhood Plan Steering Group needs help and support from all sections of the community- ideas, skills, knowledge and most importantly - enthusiasm to drive the plan forward. There are some constraints. A Neighbourhood Plan cannot prevent development but it can influence both the level and location of growth identified in Braintree District Councils emerging Local Development Plan and how this growth is to be met or exceeded. Nevertheless, the Neighbourhood Plan provides you with the unique opportunity to voice your opinions, make them count and to make a positive contribution to the future of The Salings for the decades and generations to come. In the ensuing weeks the Steering group will be working on a survey, which will be delivered to every household and business in the parish of `the Salings. So please look out for it coming through your door. Most importantly - fill it in and return it. If you think you can help in the distribution of this document and maybe the collection please contact the Steering Group with your details at :thesalings-neighbourhoodplan@outlook.com Best Regards, Peter Martin Chair of the Neighbourhood Planning Steering Group for the Salings
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YOUR VILLAGE HALL NEEDS TO HEAR FROM YOU! The Village Hall Committee and the Action Group are looking at a number of things concerning the Village Hall and we would like your opinions. Set below are a number of questions that we want to ask. Simply drop us an email to dianeg3415@aol.com, or drop us a note and send it to me or pop it through the Village Hall letterbox. We really need your input and would be really pleased to hear from you. Di Greenwood, Village Hall Committee 1. What kind of events would you like to see in the village? e.g. Christmas party, Harvest Festival, general social events 2.
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Would you be interested in environmental/nature projects?
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5.
6. 7.
Would you be interested in clubs or special interest groups? If so, what?
Children/teenagers - would you be interested in a youth club? Do you think it would be a good idea to have solar panels at the Village Hall to help reduce running costs? What do you think about the prices for hiring the hall? What would make you more inclined to hire the hall for private events? e.g. parties 15
A Bygone Age Ancient Essex industries which are now practically extinct include saffron culture, hop growing, cheese making, making candied eringo and straw plaiting. Straw plaiting was a one time flourishing cottage industry in the county of Essex. It was said to have been brought from France by Mary Queen of Scots in the 16th C and later introduced into England in about 1790 by George, first Marquis of Buckingham, and Elizabeth his wife at Gosfield, a village 3 miles from Halstead. The corn growing lands of Essex easily provided the raw material. Sickle cut wheat straw was clipped into lengths, bunched loosely together, damped well and then placed under a inverted container in which burned a small quantity of sulphur, and the fumes bleached it to a clear golden hue. A process which health and safety would prevent today. Splitting the straw was the next stage. A small implement called an “engine� was used, which had a spiked bone head surrounded by teeth and securely attached to a wooden handle. The spike went into the hollow stem and when drawn downwards divided the straw into strips. The first efforts were rather coarse and bungled, but the marquis and his wife good naturedly set the fashion by wearing these homemade products at church. The marchioness had hers trimmed gaily with ribbons, while her husband placed his hat during the service in a prominent position in full sight of the congregation. From Gosfield the straw plaiting industry spread to other villages from the Yeldhams, Bardfields, Braintree to Finchingfield. Patterns became varied and dyes were introduced . When lengths were completed they were flattened out , wound around a 18inch measuring board and taken to the village depots to be collected by hat manufacturers of Dunstable and Luton. In 1871 the census reported 2889 people were engaged in the strawplaiting industry in Essex. But by 1891 this had declined to 50. Struck down by cheap imports from Switzerland and Italy! Nothing changes. There are fine examples to be seen at the Cage and Cotton Museum Great Bardfield and lovely examples within the Little Saling Church. Panels worked by Miss Dobson and friends Circa 1800. (Resource Essex Countryside magazine)
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From Cllr. Mike Banthorpe The scheduled Council Meeting to discuss the Local Plan has been postponed until June following a peer review by Lord Kerslake. A panel led by one of the country’s leading housing experts has commended the scale of ambition and strength of co-operation between the councils in developing proposed North Essex Garden Communities. Lord Bob Kerslake, previously head of the Civil Service and former Chief Executive of the Homes and Community Agency, has been working with the four councils involved to undertake a review of the work to date, and provide strategic advice on how the projects should progress. A statement on behalf of BDC said: ‘’Lord Kerslake described the initiative as having “huge potential on a national scale” and praised the progress that has been made to date. The panel has shared their initial findings with council leaders and Chief Executives; the full report will be published in the New Year. A spokesman for the garden communities’ project board said: “We are very grateful to Lord Kerslake and his team for the time they have given to come in on a pro bono basis and review where we are with the project. “We were impressed with the strength of the team he assembled. It really demonstrates the importance of the project that a team with such a pedigree in advising at the very highest levels is willing to give advice to support our work. “Lord Kerslake has identified a number of helpful issues and confirmed our view that the early delivery of infrastructure and government support are essential to the project's success. “Key to the feedback he has given is the need to ensure we give ourselves enough time to assess and look at all of the options, including the evidence base which will form part of each Council’s Local Plan.” Cllr Graham Butland, Leader of Braintree District Council, said: “We want to further explore and explain clearly why each site is the right one, and why other sites would not be suitable. We are looking to give extra time to strengthen the evidence work already carried out and so the next stage for Braintree District Council will be to hold a special council meeting in June and further public consultation will start soon afterwards. I am pleased with the work Lord Kerslake and his team have done. They have identified a number of helpful issues and confirmed our view that the early delivery of infrastructure and Government support are essential to the project's success. 22
“It is important for residents and businesses of this part of North Essex that we get this right at this early stage. This is a view that all local Council Leaders share.” Uk Power sent me the following which they have asked to be passed on to residents, and could be very useful for the vulnerable in the unfortunate event that there is a prolonged power cut. If you are aware of anyone who would benefit from this service they may be grateful for assistance in completing the registration details below. ‘UK Power Networks delivers the electricity to homes and businesses across London the East and South East of England, and it’s our job to make sure that the lights stay on. Since 2010 we have reduced the frequency of power cuts by 42%, however we recognise that while power cuts are less frequent, when they do still occur they can be very worrying, especially to older people, people with chronic medical conditions or parents of very young children. That’s why we have set up a ‘Priority Services Register’ to enable us to identify vulnerable people quickly in the event of a power cut and get them the help they need. You can find more about our free Priority Service Register, including information about who is eligible to register at: ukpowernetworks.co.uk/internet/en/power-cuts/priority-services-during-a-powercut/ This winter we are keen to increase the number of people who are registered for help so we can provide the support they need quicker in case of a power cut. We are therefore asking for the help of local councillors to encourage constituents, who may be eligible for help, to join the Priority Services Register. Although power cuts don’t happen very often when they do they can be worrying. UK Power Networks is the electricity network and it provides a ‘Priority Services Register’ for people who might need extra help in a power cut. Older people, families with very young children, and people with specific medical conditions are among the many people who are eligible to register for free support. You can find more details and register by visiting ukpowernetworks.co.uk/prioritysupport or calling 0800 169 9970. Do you or someone you know need extra help if there’s a power cut? Join the Priority Services Register today ukpowernetworks.co.uk/ prioritysupport’
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1st FINCHINGFIELD SCOUT GROUP There are four sections that meet in the Scout Headquarters, Finchingfield. Beavers 6-8yrs held on Wednesday evenings 5.45 – 7.00pm Cubs 8-10 1/2 yrs on Tuesday evenings 6.30 – 8.00pm Scouts10 ½ -14yrs on Thursday evenings 7.30 – 9.00pm and Explorer Scouts 14–18yrs on Monday evenings 7.30 – 9.00pm All sections are available to girls and Boys We are currently recruiting Adult helpers for all sections
To find out more contact Mark Wells - Group Scout Leader Tel: 01371 810447 email: finchingfieldscouts@outlook.com 25
David Skeet Plumbing & Heating Over 30 years experience All plumbing & Heating work
Tel – 01371 810286 Mobile – 07891 943074 26
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IF YOU ARE AFFECTED BY THE NOISE FROM GAS GUNS USED AS BIRD SCARERS, PLEASE VISIT http://www.b-ooom.co.uk/ B-OOOM is named for the noise of gas guns and from the saying
Bang Out Of Order Mate!!! The group is working to encourage crop growers to use visual deterrents eliminate nuisance noise pollution build a better understanding between crop growers and people affected by noise in and around their homes and businesses Use this URL to report noise nuisance to Braintree Council or contact 01376 552525 to speak with a Environmental Health Officer: https:// www.braintree.gov.uk/forms/form/426/en/report_a_noise_nuisance On Facebook? Visit https://www.facebook.com/BoomBirdGasGuns Using Twitter? Look for @gasgunboom
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Millennium Pet Health Update on Microchipping In April last year it became law to microchip dogs. All dogs need to be microchipped by the time they are 8 weeks old, this means for puppies they need to be chipped while they are still housed at and registered under, the care of the breeder - even if the breeder knows where the puppies are to be homed. New owners (or ‘keepers’ as the microchip registration documents refer to) need to change the puppy’s details to their owner’s; as soon as they are in their new home. The breeder should help you do this by contacting the microchip database company and giving them your details – they will be issued with a transfer code so you can proceed with the change of details. This is also the case with rescued and/or adult dogs. To do this visit www.petlog.org.uk follow the instructions online. It is still a legal requirement that a dog must have a pet tag or equivalent on it collar whenever they are in a public place. Never put the dog’s own name on the tag – but include the following: your surname, first line of your address, postcode and relevant contact numbers. We also advise you put your vets telephone number on the tag and if your pet has any allergies or is on long term medication you can highlight this too, e.g. ‘I have epilepsy’ or ‘I am diabetic’. Keep your contact details up-to-date; don’t leave it to chance – these simple measures will save both you and your pet the pain and distress of being lost and help anyone finding them, reunite with your four-legged friend as quickly as possible. If you need any help with making sure your dog has the correct identification then please just ring us for further advice. Is your pet overweight? A recent study, which weighed over ½ million dogs, has revealed that on average 22% of the UK dog population is overweight. The heaviest average went to dogs living in the Swindon area, weighing on average 48% more than they should do; but dogs in Bridport (Dorset) and Atherton (Greater Manchester) bucked the trend and were shown to be slightly underweight. Those closest to their optimum weight were dogs in Consett (County Durham). But that doesn’t mean Essex is in the clear. Many people’s understanding of what is an underweight, optimum weight or overweight pet wrong – so if you want to check for yourself then take a quick trip to us, get them on the scales and we can body score them. There are many simple things that you can do to help your pet loose weight and we are here to help.
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In the meantime if you want to check the Pet Food Manufacturers Application ‘Pet Size-O-Meters’. We use these in practice to help illustrate how far off your pet’s optimum weight actually is – they are available for dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and birds. Visit www.pfma.org.uk/pet-size-o-meter. Update on Avian Flu – protecting your birds We are urging all backyard poultry keepers to protect their flocks from avian influenza by using practical biosecurity steps. A government-enforced avian influenza prevention zone has been extended across Great Britain until 28 February after confirmed cases of the H5N8 strain of avian influenza were reported in wild birds and backyard flocks in Carmarthenshire and Yorkshire, and a swannery in Dorset. The confirmation of avian influenza in a number of small flocks shows the very real risk the disease poses to backyard flocks and the importance of keeping them separate from wild birds. Infected wild birds from Europe have been migrating to Britain, so your birds must be kept away from any contact or indirect contact (in particular wild bird faeces) with wild birds. Not all backyard keepers will have buildings they can immediately house their flocks in, so the following advice from gives practicable advice on alternatives, including temporary structures. Tight biosecurity, such as maintaining high levels of cleanliness and hygiene and not allowing visitors to come close to your birds, is essential. Signs of avian flu can vary between species of bird and could range from very mild signs like seeming ‘off colour’ or reduced feed or water intakes through to the severity of death. If you are concerned about any of your birds or the flock, speak to your vet. We advise you not to bring your bird straight to the practice but to ring first and we will advise you what do. Follow the ‘how to keep your birds safe’ fact sheet from DEFRA (https:// www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/ file/581952/ai-birdflu-factsheet-170106.pdf) or visit our own website news pages for updates. The advice is extended to all poultry such as chicken, ducks, geese, turkeys and also free ranging birds such as peacocks. If all poultry and bird owners follow these guidelines then we can help reduce the spread of the disease and the prevention zone will be lifted when we are free of threat. All poultry gatherings such as shows and auctions are currently banned.
Happy New Year from everyone at Millennium Vets! Dot Creighton RVN, Registered Veterinary Nurse, Millennium Veterinary Practice, Millennium Way, Braintree t. 01376 325511 w. millenniumvets.co.uk 31
THE HUNDRED PARISHES SOCIETY This is a great time of year to walk off the Christmas excesses and enjoy our unique part of the country. With crisp, bright days, we can all enjoy the countryside in its winter clothes. Plan your route so that the sun follows you. This is good practice at any time of the year, but especially so in winter with the low sun. For a lengthy, circular walk, try to start near the southeast corner and head clockwise. The sun will follow you, keeping the glare from your eyes and giving you the best views. Most of the walks on the Hundred Parishes website follow this principle. Do check that your intended lunch stop will be open – phone numbers appear in the parish introductions on www.hundredparishes.org.uk. Finally, be sure to wrap up warm with double-thickness woolly hat and gloves, a scarf and layers of clothing . . . and enjoy ! The website www.hundredparishes.org.uk is the main channel through which the Society seeks to achieve its charitable objectives. The first of these aims is “to advance the education of the public in the character and history” of the Hundred Parishes. We hope that those with an enquiring mind will dip in from time to time and see what we have to say about a particular parish or a local ‘celebrity’. We like to challenge your local knowledge with the photo that appears at the top of each web page. The picture changes every couple of weeks and on the Home page we explain where the last one was taken. Sometimes the image is seasonal. For example, in November we showed the war graves in Saffron Walden cemetery (see picture above). In December there was a view of the Rib valley from Cold Christmas in the parish of Thundridge. Currently . . . sorry, I’m not allowed to tell you! But if you think you know please feed back a response. Many of the photos on the website will appear in a guidebook to the area which the Society plans to publish later this year. We will be sure to let you know when it is available. In the meantime, we encourage you to get out locally. You don’t have to travel far to discover another parish, an untried lane or footpath, a new listed church, or somewhere new for lunch or tea. Please check out the parish introduction on the website before you set off – it may help with ideas, phone numbers, etc. Ken McDonald, Secretary 32
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JANET C. DAVIES Dip.FD,MB IFD
BRAINTREE’S LADY FUNERAL DIRECTOR Bereavement can be a distressing and bewildering time, and Janet’s first duty is to offer professional a nd sympathetic guidance. Ja net is able to offer the ‘Gentle Touc h’ when arranging funerals e ither in the comfort of y our own home or in the pleasant s urroundings at Fern House 72 C oggeshall R oad, Braintree CM7 9BY or alternative ly by appointment at her Kelvedon Office please r ing
01376 339300 Ja net is dedicated to upholding the traditiona l values of respect and dignity, providing the very best care for the bereaved Pre Paid Funeral plans available, giving you peace of mind and security in an uncertain world……. Part of the Hunnaball Family Funeral Group
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DISCLAIMER: The magazine production team has the right to refuse, postpone or to edit any material received for publication and it is assumed that anyone submitting contributions has the copyright of that material. Any LOOSE-LEAF inserts are permitted only at the prior approval of the main distributer, Mr. Greg Coe, E: grgcoe@yahoo.co.uk and need to be paid for.
For any queries related to ADVERTISING in this magazine as well as donations towards the magazine cost please contact: Mr Julian Dyer, T: 07768 124418 , E: Juliandyer@live.com NOTE: all advertising and contributions need to be in PDF, Word or JPEG format - i.e. camera-ready in A5 or A6 size
CHURCH NOTICEBOARD Ministers: Revd. Tim Goodbody, The Vicarage, Ruffles Place, Stebbing CM6 3TJ, T: 01371 856080, E: the.goodbodies@btinternet.com Revd. Helen Pelly, Purples, Bardfield Saling, T: 01371 810369 E: Revhelenpelly@yahoo.com Assistant Curate: Revd Sue Hurley. The Rectory, Park Road, Little Easton, CM6 2JJ, T: 01371859158 E: sue@hurleyathome.com LITTLE SALING/BARDFIELD SALING Churchwardens: Mrs Helen Davies, Denbies, Bardfield Saling, Tel: 01371 850735, E-mail: helenr.davies@btinternet.com Mrs Deborah Reed, Bluegate Hall, Great Bardfield. Tel 01371810985. E-mail : home@theblueegg.co.uk PCC Secretary: Mrs Moira Grierson Rickford, Tel. 01371 850503 E-mail: mgr@felsted.org GREAT SALING Churchwardens: Mr Robert Bucknell, Onchors Farm, Tel: 07860521548, E-mail: robbucknell@me.com Mrs Lydia Roe, E-mail: lydia.bucknell@btinternet.com Treasurer: Mr Julian Dyer, Tel: 07768 124418, E-mail: Juliandyer@live.com PCC Secretary: Mr Richard Gleed, E-mail: rgleed@mac.com 35
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