Swaffham Newsletter

b

SN

b b b

December 2019

Your free town newsletter published by Iceni Partnership

SWAFFHAM

newslet ter

NEWS EVENTS INFORMATION

Swaffham CE Junior Academy

end of year round up 2019

Read what pupils at the school have been up on p.8

REGULARS

b

Merle

Boddy

Centre

p.11

b

Swaffham

Lions

p.12

b b

Swaffham

b

Rotary

p.18

published by

Advertising Rate Card

Circulation of 5,500 to Swaffham and

surrounding villages. Rates per issue:

Full Page Colour: £229.68

½ Page Colour: £126.34

¼ Page Colour: £64.31

⅛ Page Colour: £41.32

⅟16 Page Colour: £27.25

All prices include VAT @ 20%

Registered charities are due a 50% discount

Pay for a six month run in advance and the

sixth issue advertisement is free of charge

In-house design of advertisements available

Your monthly magazine is published by:

Contact the editor:

01760 722 800

swaffhamnewsletter@gmail.com

Swaffham Newsletter

Iceni Partnership

Swaffham Community Centre

The Campingland

Swaffham

PE37 7RB

Registered in England Company Number 4257830 Charity Number 1101814 VAT Number UK800057775

Comments or queries welcomed.

Delivery issues should be addressed to Kerry at

Swaffham Town Council - details at rear of magazine.

Deadline for editorial and advertising is the

12th day of the previous month.

Contents

4 Upcoming Events / Regular Events

7 School Speak

8 Magpie Centre/Dementia Café

9 Church News

11 Merle Boddy Centre

12 Swaffham Lions

14 WI Clubs

16 Age Concern

18 Swaffham Rotary

19 SCALGA/Swaffham Camera Club

24 Museum Matters

25 Community Hospital LoFs

31 Ashill & Holme Hale Gardening Club

y

The Iceni Parnership

would like to

wish you all a

Merry Christmas &

a Happy New Year!

Please telephone Iceni Partnership on

01760 722 800 to discuss your requirements

or email swaffhamnewsletter@gmail.com

Advertisers - We operate an industry standard

pre-paid system of billing. We have not increased

our rates in 2019 and our 6 for the price of 5 offer

will be available to all.

32 History Group/Home Hospice

33 Jazz Club/Mayor's Parlour

34 Swaffham Town Council

Swaffham

Christmas Lunch

Christmas Gift Donations

As Christmas approaches, we are getting things in

order for our annual free lunch on 25th December

at the Assembly Rooms. We are very lucky to receive

lots of help with food from local businesses in the

town. However, we could also benefit from individual

donations of small gifts such as chocolates, toiletries

etc. for our raffle. If you have anything suitable to

donate, you can drop them off at the Iceni office.

25 th December,

Midday to 3pm, with food

served at 1pm

Swaffham Assembly Rooms

SWAFFHAM

#COMMUNITY FRIDGE

Iceni Partnership invite you to

join us for a free lunch and afternoon of

entertainment on Christmas Day.

If you would like to attend please

contact us on 01760 722800

833kg

1

Upcoming Events

Sacred Heart Barn Crafts Make your own Christmas tree decorations.

Monday 2nd December, 10.00am – 2.00pm. Cost £20. Use a wide range of

materials to create your own tree decorations with style & flair. All materials, tea

and coffee provided. Bring your own packed lunch. Please ring 01760 724577 or

email srfrancis8@hotmail.co.uk.

Christmas Festival of Nativity Tableaux from around the

world Free entry. Thursday 5th – Sunday 15th December 2.00pm – 5.15pm or

by appointment at Sacred Heart. Please ring 01760 724577 or email srfrancis8@

hotmail.co.uk. Christmas items and refreshments for sale. WANTED - unusual

cribs to borrow for our festival and volunteers to be present

Britain’s Bad Boys of Magic Friday 6th December, 2pm-3:30pm –

Necton Community Centre. Silver Social brings another exciting performance

to Breckland in December that is not to be missed! Britain’s Bad Boys of Magic,

Kane & Abel will be touring the rural community with their show Breaking the

Magicians’ Code. Tickets are just £5, tea and cake is included! Free Transport

can be arranged to any of our venues from residents' homes for those without

access to a car or public transport. Tickets can be paid on the door, however

people are advised to reserve their place in advance via www.thesilversocial.

com or by calling 01362 656870.

An Evening of Christmas Music & Entertainment Let the

Phoenix Singers get your celebrations off to a flying start. Join us for an evening

of Christmas music and amusing anecdotes from our talented guests. Enjoy

some traditional refreshments in the interval and try your luck in the raffle.

Concert starts at 6.30pm on Friday 6th December in the Methodist Church.

Tickets are available on the door and from Ceres Bookshop.

Christmas Family Crafts Saturday 7th December, 2-3.30pm. Bring along

the whole family to get crafty with the Library Friends and make Christmas

decorations the ‘old fashioned way’, including paper chains and Christmas

lanterns! Cost £1.50 per child. Booking essential. Swaffham Library, The Pightle,

Swaffham PE37 7DF. Tel 01760 721513.

Children's Christmas Party Sunday 8th December, 12-3pm, Holme

Hale Village Hall. Disco, games, party buffet & a gift from Santa himself. Tickets £5

per child or £12.50 for a family ticket (3 children). Tickets can be purchased from

9.30 - 11.30am at Swaffham Bakery or you can email info@holmehallvillage.

com.

Sacred Heart Barn Crafts Create a Christmas wreath and enjoy

mulled wine & minced pies. Monday 9th December, 6.00pm - 9.00pm. Cost

£38. Use traditional hand tied and wired methods to attach your greenery and

accessories to a rattan base hoop. A selection of foliage & accessories will be

provided. Please ring 01760 724577 or email srfrancis8@hotmail.co.uk.

Rewilding Project – Vision, participation and impact West

Acre Village Hall, 6pm, Wednesday 11th December You are invited to come

along to a meeting outlining the Rewilding Project soon to take place in and

around West Acre. The focus of the meeting will be to inform residents and

local businesses, and anyone who would like to learn more, on the scale, vision

and need for the project. It will be an opportunity to learn about the plans,

objectives and timescales of the project and also about local participation

possibilities.

BINGO Wednesday 11th December - Doors open from 7pm for 7.30pm start.

£6 a book. Pickenham Hub (formerly the Primary School), South Pickenham

Road, North Pickenham, PE37 8LG.

Munch & Mardle Thursday 12th December, 11am - 3pm at Great Dunham

Village Hall. Free entry to craft stalls & tombola. 2 course lunch for £5. served

between 12 & 1.30pm. Proceeds in aid of Swaffham & Litcham Home Hospice

and Great Dunham Ameneties Committee.

Films from Christmases Past Friday 13th December, 7.15-8.30pm.

Join the Library Friends for an evening of films from the East Anglian Film

Archive with a Christmas theme. Free event, but booking is essential as places

are limited. Refreshments available. Swaffham Library, The Pightle, Swaffham

PE37 7DF. Tel 01760 721513.

The Hub Quiz Friday 20th December 2019, 7 pm at the NP Community Hub

(formerly the Primary School opposite Brecklands Green), South Pickenham

Road, North Pickenham. Teams of up to six people, £7.00 per head including

a ploughman’s supper. Bar available. Plenty of parking space. To book, please

telephone Melanie Cousins on 01760 440456.

Free Christmas Lunch Wednesday 25th December, midday to 3pm at

Swaffham Assembly Rooms. Open to all, please feel free to join us for a full

dinner with all the trimmings, followed by festive entertainment. If you require

transport please contact Iceni Partnership on 01760 722800.

Westacre Theatre www.westacretheatre.com 01760 755800

THIS IS WHERE WE CAME IN by Alan Ayckbourn. A perfect entertainment for

the Festive Season written by one of the UK’s greatest living playwrights.

Sat 14 Dec at 3pm; Mon 16 Dec at 7pm; Tue 17 Dec at 7pm; Wed 18 Dec at 7pm;

Thu 19 Dec at 7pm. Tickets for these 5 performances are £12 for adults and £8

for under 21s.

Fri 20 Dec at 7pm; Sat 21 Dec at 3pm; Sun 22 Dec at 3pm; Mon 23 Dec at 3pm.

Tickets for these 4 performances are £15 for adults and £8 for under 21s.

ART EXHIBITION IN THE FOYER GALLERY – An Annual Miscellany by students at

our local Nar Valley Schools. Free to View at all performances and at a Special

Open Evening on Friday 6 December from 3:30pm to 6:30pm.

Regular Meetings & Events

MONDAY

1st Swaffham Scouts 7-9 at Cockley Cley, Iceni Village, Scout Hut.

For ages 10 1/2 -14. New recruits welcome. Boys or girls. Contact Scout Leader

Adrian Searle on 07771 603409 or group Secretary Ali Plomer on 01760 441175

Art Class at The Old Art Room 93 Market Place. Techniques, tutoring

and tips, Inspiration in a modern equipped Art Studio. 10am until 12.15 £10

Tel.01760 337181 je.clark176@btinternet.com

Carpet Bowls - Pickenham Hub (formerly the primary school), South

Pickenham Road, North Pickenham, PE37 8LG Mondays 2.30pm – 4.30pm £10

joining fee, then £3.00 per session. Contact Keith Saunders 07771 936 686

Central Norfolk Dog Training Club Hilborough Village Hall, Westgate

Street, Hilborough, Norfolk IP26 5BN. 4 classes available, from puppies to

intermediate. Every Monday from 6.30pm. Tel: Chris 07745 892417

Crochet Lessons Courses for complete beginners to include all materials to

get you started. Each course consists of 3 x 2 hour sessions starting 7th October

2019. Monday mornings in Swaffham. For prices and all relevant information

contact Caroline Partridge on 07880 742657 or email caroline@thepartridges.net.

Free Meal Monday Every 3rd Monday of the month, 11am - 1pm,

Swaffham Assembly Rooms. Join us for a free 2 course vegetarian meal. Find

dates in Newsletter ad.

Hi-5 Allsports 5.30pm - 6.30pm Hi-5 Allsports kids club (5-14 years old) ALL

different types of sports at Swaffham Rugby Club.

5.30pm - 6.30pm RABBLE for adults all different types of sports at Swaffham

Rugby Club.

Kickboxing Club Juniors 5+ 5pm – 6pm, Inters 6-7pm, Adults 7pm – 8.30pm

Plowright Place. Call Trevor on 07585707196

Phoenix Singers Meets every Monday at 7pm in the Methodist Church

school room.

Playdayz – Parent/toddler group Sacred Heart School 9.30-11.30am

term time only. £1 per session/per family (includes a snack)Contact: Tor Howman

07854 736 920

Rotary Club of Swaffham Meets at The George Hotel - 1st Monday of the

month, 12:45 for 1pm, other Mondays 7 for 7:30pm. Tel Claire Dunne 722504

Seniors Keep Fit 6.15pm at Stanley’s, Lynn Road Tel Gemma on 07702

197994/07425 607667

Swaffham 1894 Squadron Air Training Corps 7.00 - 9.30pm.

TA Centre, Sporle Road, Swaffham. Ages 13 to 18 years. Tel: 01760724617

Swaffham History Group 2nd Monday, 2 – 4pm, Swaffham Museum.

New members always welcome – no charge. 01760 724470. jbaz@go-plus.net.

Swaffham Lions Meet on the 2nd Monday of the month at Swaffham

Assembly Rooms,7:30pm. All welcome. Contact Peter Young 01760 724120

Swaffham Players every Monday and Wednesday, 7:30pm Baptist Church,

Swaffham. If you are interested in joining a fabulous team please contact John

or Nicky on 01760 721568 or email swaffhamplayers@gmail.com

Swaffham Voluntary Stroke Group meet on the 3rd Monday of the

month at The Maltings on Cley Road, 10:30am until 12:30pm. Call Sarah Neall

on 7507 494103 for further details.

Junior Snooker & Billiards 4-7pm @ The Norfolk Snooker Academy, West

Acre 01760 755337 for details and to book, 9 -16 years

TOSH community drama group meets 7pm - 8.30pm at Great Cressingham

Village Hall. More details Fiona 07768211087

Youthie 5.30 - 7pm, 8 -11 yrs. Swaffham Community Centre. Contact 01760

722800 for more info. Holiday times announced on Facebook.

TUESDAY

1st Swaffham Cubs Meet Tuesday 6:30 to 8:00pm at the Scout Hut at

Cockley Cley. For boys and girls aged 8 to 10 1/2. New members welcome. For

more information contact Group Scout Leader, Carolyn Cooper 07816 208687

gsl1stswaffham@gmail.com

Alcoholics Anonymous Swaffham Weekly 7pm - 8pm at Swaffham

Community Ctr. The Campingland, PE37 7RB. Fully wheelchair accessible.

Swaffham Army Cadets TA Centre, Sporle Rd 7.30-9.30pm. Ages 12 – 18.

www.norfolkacf.org 2907pea@armymail.mod.uk 07899 189 973 The Art

Studio Modern Art Evening Classes By Peter Henry PGCE, BA. Tuesdays

7-9pm. Refreshments. Adults/all abilities Email: salsum06@aol.com/01760

720540

Bounce and Rhyme Time 10-10.30am at Swaffham Library. Fun with

songs and rhymes for pre-school children and their parents/carers. Stay and chat

afterwards. Contact 01760 721513 for more info. Breckland Customer Services,

10am-1pm at Swaffham Library. IT Support, 10am-12noon at Swaffham Library.

Help with getting online with our IT Support volunteer. Contact 01760 721513

for more info and booking.

Breckland Customer Services 10 -5pm at Swaffham Library.

Swaffham Bridge Club The Church Rooms, Church of Our Lady of Pity

31, Station Street. Swaffham PE37 7HP 6.30pm for 6.45pm. Sue 01328 701545

Carpet Bowls - Pickenham Hub (formerly the primary school), South

Pickenham Road, North Pickenham, PE37 8LG Tuesdays 7.00pm – 9.00pm £10

joining fee, then £3.00 per session. Contact Keith Saunders 07771 936 686

Child Health Clinic at Swaffham Children Centre. 01760 721101 1st Tuesday

monthly 1.15 - 2.45pm run by local Health Visiting Team

Civil Service Retirement Fellowship Coffee Morning, third Tuesday at

10:15am. Methodist Hall, London Street. Tel: David Moore 01760 723740

CAMEO Coffee 10am-noon. ‘Come And Meet Each Other’. Free tea, coffee

& hot chocolate in a relaxed cafe style setting. Discovery Hour: 10am - 11am.

Looking at and discussing a small bible passage. Oasis Centre 01760 723175

Crafts, Textiles and Dressmaking at The Old Art Room

93 Market Place. Techniques, Tips, Inspiration in a modern equipped Art

&Textile Studio. 10am until 12.15 and 12.30 until 2.45 £10 Tel.01760 337181

Holme Hale Whist Club Meets at Tony Evans Centre of Holme Hale Village

Hall on the First and Third Tuesdays @ 1.30pm. Contact Mrs Sue Ludlow on

01760 441660 for more details.

Jump, Jive & Swing Swaffham Community Centre, 7.45pm. Classes 8pm

until 9.45pm with social dancing until 10.30pm. www.jumpjiveswing.com

Karate Club Every Tuesday in Swaffham Assembly Rooms 6pm-7pm, this is

open to everyone aged 6+, first session is free! Contact details are as follows,

Mob: 07767 721558 Email: officetskr@gmail.com

Knitting, Crochet And Sewing Group - Pickenham Hub (formerly the

primary school), South Pickenham Road, North Pickenham, PE37 8LG. Tuesdays

2pm – 4pm. £3 a session. Contact Treasure Kipping 01760 441150

The Meeting Place 10am - 12 noon, Swaffham Methodist Church.

Pickenhams’ WI 2nd Tuesday 2pm St Andrew’s Church (not August)

PROBUS Club of Swaffham Meet second Tues of the month for lunch at

the George Hotel, 12.30 for 1pm. Rod Goddard 01760 722 834 rodgoddard@

hotmail.com

Royal British Legion, Swaffham & District Branch 8pm, 3rd Tuesday

Swaffham Conservative Club. Tel: Jo Scott 01760 721277.

Royal British Legion (Women’s Section) We meet the 2nd Tuesday of

the month at Valentine Barker Court, Swaffham, from 2-30pm – 4-30pm. All

welcome, you do not have to be ex- service personal or have connection with

the Armed Forces. Please Contact Frances on 01760 724445 or Iris on 01760

721430,

The Royal Elizabethan Lodge Meets alternate Tuesdays, 8pm in the

Conservative Club. Tel: W Rogers 01760 720632 or S Trattle 01760 721760

Swaffham Rugby Football Club Tuesday Seniors Training 7:30 - 9

Seniors Keep Fit 3pm See Monday’s Senior’s Keep Fit

Stitch, Mardle and Mend A group of keen crafters covering Patchwork,

Knitting, Crochet, Cross Stitch etc 7-9pm, £1.

Tel Adrienne 01760 336268

Slimming World 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm at Stanley's. Use

Asda's carpark. Edyta 07428 516814

SNAP (Safer Neighbourhood Action Partnership) Meetings held

quarterly 3rd Tuesday at Town Hall, 7pm. Next meeting in 2019 15th October.

Sporle WI 3rd Tuesday, 1.45pm ready for our speaker at 2pm. For any further

information please ring Celia on 01362 687316

Swaffham St John Ambulance Cadets 7.15pm until 8.45pm,10 to 17

year olds. Natalie Rudd on 07771620634/natalie.rudd@btinternet.com

Taekwondo 6:30 - 7:30pm Swaffham Community Centre 01760336044

Tai Chi beginners welcome East Dereham at 11am 01760723102

Swaffham Wellbeing Group Are you feeling low, or recovering from

ill health? Just want to meet other people? Make new friends at Community

Centre, every Tuesday 10.30 – 1.00. Contact Family Action. Tel: 01760 725801

Tom’s Kickboxing Academy 6pm - 7pm Juniors, 7pm - 8.15pm Seniors

(16+) , Holme Hale Village Hall IP25 7DP

West Acre Carpet Bowls Club West Acre Village Hall, 2 - 4pm. £2 per

session. Equipment and refreshments provided – all welcome. Tel: Belinda

01760 755184 or Betty 01760 755235 Email: Belinda_Bush@hotmail.com

Weight Watchers 5:30-6.30pm Swaffham Community Centre.

Nikki 07970316054

Yoga at Great Dunham Village Hall 10.30am till 12.00pm, £8 per

session, please contact Jayne on 07544974342

Yoga at Necton Community Centre

2pm till 3.30pm, £8 per session, please contact Jayne on 07544974342

Zumba With Becks Swaffham Assembly Rooms 7-8pm bectuff@hotmail.

co.uk £5

WEDNESDAY

1st Swaffham Rainbows Term time only, 17:00-18:00 Swaffham Infant

School. Girls aged 5 to 7 yrs. Tracey Clements 07770236689

2nd Swaffham Brownies Term time only, 18:00-19:30. Meeting at

Swaffham First School. Girls aged 7 to 10 yrs invited to join. Contact Clare Smith

07917468057 or Chrissie Brown 07970104771.

Conservative Party, Swaffham Branch meets every 3rd Wednesday

every other month. The only consecutive months are Jan, Feb and August,

Spet. Meet in Salisbury Room in Shirley House, London St. 10am for 10.30am

start. Coffee served. Entry £3. All welcome.

Swaffham 1894 Squadron Air Training Corps 7:00-9:30pm.

TA Centre, Sporle Road, Swaffham. Ages 12 (yr8) to 18 years. Tel: 01760724617

Dementia Café first Weds of month, 10am-12noon. Swaffham Assembly

Rooms. Support, information and social activity. Refreshments provided. 01603

763556

Arts Lounge beginners/refreshers art classes Weds, Thurs & Friday

10-1pm or 1.30-4.30pm, £25 per session Call 01760 723624

Bingo First Wednesday of every month, Holme Hale Pavilion. Eyes down

7:30pm. Cash prizes. Tel: June Hewing 01760 441327

Bingo Swaffham Conservative Club 7:00 – 9:00pm (eyes down for 7:30). Nonmembers

30p entry.

Swaffham Camera Club 1st and 3rd Weds of every month, 7 for 7:30pm

at Lydney House, Norwich Road. All abilities welcome! lynibbitson@gmail.com

Creative Textile Certificate 10 Week Course at The Old Art Room, 93

Market Place Swaffham. Tel Jane 01760 337181

Dementia Café Free cafe offering support, information for those living with

dementia and their families/carers. Assembly Rooms. Call Celia 01362 687316.

Swaffham WI Methodist Church on first Wednesday at 2pm during winter

months. Telephone Fiona Walker on 01760 722879.

Healing Rooms The Oasis Centre, Cley Road 11am - 12noon. Book a session

to experience the healing power of Jesus. Tel: 01760 723175

Henchmans Wednesday 7pm-11pm – Tabletop and Roleplaying Games.

Refreshments available. 01760 788427. Henchmans, 13 Station Street,

Swaffham PE37 7LL.

The Swaffham and District Branch of the Labour Party

meets in the Community Centre at 7.30 pm, last Weds of the month.

Stitch, Mardle and Mend A group of keen crafters covering Patchwork,

Knitting, Crochet etc. From 10am at Market Cross Inn, Swaffham

Oasis Wednesday Worship: 10am - 11am. Worship and prayer

Acrylic/Oil painting workshops Arts Lounge Gallery Studio, 15 Market

Place Swaffham are on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Two sessions each

day, 0930-1230 or 1pm-4pm, £30 per session includes all equipment, materials

and refreshments. Call 01760 723624 to book.

Baby Signing Classes -Sing and Sign Swaffham Community Centre

(Dickens Room). Help your baby to communicate before speech with our

award winning music classes. 10am Stage 2 14mths - 2yrs. 11am Stage 1 6mths

- 14mths. Term time only. Booking is essential as places are limited. Contact

Andrea 07905 061336 or Email kingslynn@singandsign.co.uk

Swaffham Players every Monday and Wednesday, 7:30pm Baptist Church,

Swaffham. If you are interested in joining a fabulous team please contact John

or Nicky on 01760 721568 or email swaffhamplayers@gmail.com

Swaffham Veterans Snooker Group (60+) 10am-1pm at West Acre Village

Hall, PE32 1TQ. £3 per player. Call Phillip on 01760 755337

St. John Ambulance - Swaffham (Adults) Every Wednesday 7.30pm -

9.30pm First Aid training 18 years upwards. 07900927233

Swaffham VIPs A social club suitable for those with failing sight and

degenerative medical conditions. Swaffham Community Centre 4th Wed

(except August) 1.30-3.30pm £4. 01760 722800.

Tai Chi beginners class 11.30am Swaffham Community Centre 01760 723102

or barbara.smith58@yahoo.co.uk

http://www.academytaichi.co.uk

Tom’s Kickboxing Academy 6pm - 7pm Jnrs, 7pm - 8.15pm Seniors (16+)

,Holme Hale Village Hall IP25 7DP

TOSH community drama group meets from 7pm to 9pm at the Methodist

Rooms in Swaffham More details Fiona 07768211087

Whist Drive Bradenham Village Hall, 7:30pm. All welcome. 01760 440038. £3

Youth Club - Pickenham Hub (formerly the primary school), South Pickenham

Road, North Pickenham, PE37 8LG. For ages 11 – 18 years old. Every Wednesday

6pm – 7.30pm. Tuck shop. Come and chill. Contact Cherry Cook 01760 440 544

THURSDAY

1st Swaffham Beavers Meet Thursday 6 to 7:15 at the Scout Hut at

Cockley Cley. For boys and girls aged 6 to 8. New members welcome. For

more information contact Group Scout Leader, Carolyn Cooper 07816 208687

gsl1stswaffham@gmail.com


Place Swaffham are on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Two sessions each

day, 0930-1230 or 1pm-4pm, £30 per session includes all equipment, materials

and refreshments. Call 01760 723624

Beachamwell WI 1st Thursday 7.30pm. New members or visitors always

welcome. Contact Maggie 01366 327023 or Helen 01366 328589

Swaffham Bridge Club See Tues for details. 6.30pm for 6.45pm start

except for the first Thursday in the month 2pm to 6pm

Café at The Pickenham Hub Every Thursday, 9.30am - 4pm, with hot

food 10am - 3pm. In the former primary school, South Pickenham Rd, North

Pickenham PE37 8LG.

Swaffham Countrysiders Every second Thursday of the month. 7 -

8.30pm. Part of the Young Farmers for 10 - 16 years old. At Pickenham Hub

(formerly the primary school), South Pickenham Road, North Pickenham, PE37

8LG. https://norfolkyfc.co.uk/countrysiders.php for more information and

programme of events.

Crafts, Textiles and Dressmaking at The Old Art Room

93 Market Place. Techniques, Tips, Inspiration in a modern equipped Art

&Textile Studio. 10am until 12.15 and 12.30 until 2.45 £10 Tel.01760 337181

Games and Colouring Afternoon 2-4pm at Swaffham Library. Join us for

a friendly chat and a cuppa with board games and colouring materials available.

Contact 01760 721513

IT Support 10am-12noon at Swaffham Library. Help with getting online with

our IT Support volunteer. Contact 01760 721513 for more info and booking.

Great Massingham Film Night Great films every third Thursday of the

month. 7 for 7.30 at the Village Hall, Station Road. £4 with refreshments.

Email:massinghamfilmnight@gmail.com or phone 01485 520628.

4

5

Happidojo Marham Judo Club Sandringham Centre PE33 9NP Contact

Colin McCallum on 07905 278857 or www.happidojomarhamjudoclub.btckco.

uk for details.

Henchmans Thursday 7pm – 11pm. Board games and card games for over 18s.

Refreshments available. 01760 788427. Henchmans, 13 Station Street, Swaffham

PE37 7LL.

Holme Hale Carpet Bowls Every Thursday 7-9pm, Holme Hale Community

Hall. No experience or equipment needed. £2

Iceni Stitchers Ladies group meeting on 3rd Thursday of the month at

Swaffham Community Centre, 1.30 - 4.30pm. Kate Davies 01760 622254

Just a Cuppa Every Thursday 2-4pm. Come along for a friendly chat and a

cuppa every Thursday at Swaffham Library. Colouring materials and a selection of

games and puzzles are also available

Kickboxing Club Juniors 5+ 5pm – 6pm, Inters 6-7pm, Adults 7pm – 8.30pm

Plowright Place. Call Trevor on 07585707196

Kirtan for Health Relax and enjoy the meditative benefits whilst singing/

chanting beautiful songs and ancient mantras. Sessions every other Thursday.

£6 including refreshments. For details contact Chris on 07957 405823 or

chrissywillis57@yahoo.co.uk

The Meeting Place 10am - 12 noon, Swaffham Methodist Church.

RAF Marham Food and Craft Market 1st Thursday 12am to 5pm.

Sandringham Centre Upper Marham PE33 9NP (Behind Spar) 07766 078123

Mothers’ Union The Swaffham branch of the Mothers’ Union – the largest

organisation within the Church of England – usually meets on the 2nd Thursday

of the month. Enquiries to Julia 720041

Move it or Lose it Club Exercise classes for the over 60s. Thursdays from

11am till 12.30pm in the Regency Room at event. Swaffham Assembly Rooms. Starting

Thursday 5th September. You can book your place, or just turn up. Contact Jo on

07941 086603 or Sam on 07925 602862 for more information.

Swaffham Lioness Club First Thurs of every month, 7.30pm in Our Lady of

Pity Catholic Church rooms, Station St., Swaffham. Enjoy friendship whilst serving

the community. All ladies welcome. Tel: 01760 723377

Pilates 3 – 4pm, Swaffham Community Centre. Call Di Graham – 01328 851970

– before your first session.

Slimming World 5.30pm & 7.30pm at Necton Village Hall.

Swaffham Rugby Football Club Seniors 17+ training 7:30-9,

Swaffham Sparklers Swaffham branch of the Red Hat Society meets 2nd

Thurs of the month, 7 pm: Jill Neale 01760 723466

RockaVoX Every Thursday, 7pm - 9pm, Swaffham Community Centre. Contact

Tiggy on jdtmusic@hotmail.co.uk for more information.

Tom’s Kickboxing Academy 6pm - 7pm Juniors, 7pm - 8.15pm Seniors

(16+) , Shipdham Pavillion IP25 7LU

U3A The Wissey U3A 1st Thursday of the month at Holme Hale Pavilion, 09.45

- 12 noon. Annual Memb. £10. Contact 01760 721247.

Weight Watchers 10-11am Swaffham Community Centre.

Cheryl 07941 319 742

Youthie Plus 5:30 – 7pm, 11 - 13 yrs, Swaffham Community Centre. Free entry.

Contact 01760 722800 for more info. Holiday times announced on Facebook.

Youthie Hub 7.30 - 9pm, 14-18 yrs, Swaffham Community Centre. Contact

01760 722800 for more info. Holiday times announced on Facebook.

West Acre Carpet Bowls Club West Acre Village Hall, 2 - 4pm. £2 per

session. Equipment and refreshments provided – all welcome. Tel: Belinda 01760

755184 or Betty 01760 755235

Email: Belinda_Bush@hotmail.com

TNHA NEWS

FRIDAY

2nd Swaffham Guides Term time only, 18:30 - 20:30. Methodist Church

Rooms. Girls aged 10 - 16yrs invited to join. Contact 07769294414

Acoholics Anonymous Every Friday at 1pm in Parish Rooms at St Dominic’s

RC Church,Howdale Rd, Downham Market

Adult Ballet For Beginners 6:15pm See Monday’s Senior’s Keep Fit

Age Concern - Swaffham Support Services at Community Centre

Volunteer recruitment 10.30am - 12.00 noon 1st Friday of the month

Adult Tap 7:15pm See Monday’s Senior’s Keep Fit


Place Swaffham are on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Two sessions each day,

0930-1230 or 1pm-4pm, £30 per session includes all equipment, materials and

refreshments. Call 01760 723624 to book.

Art, Printing and Paper Craft Session at The Old Art Room

93 Market Place. Techniques, Tips, Inspiration and printing presses in a modern

equipped Art &Textile Studio. 10am until 12.30 £10 Tel.01760 337181

Bingo at Narborough Community day-2019 Centre Doors 7pm, eyes-down

7.45pm Contact Brenda 01760 337916

Swaffham Bellringers Practice St. Peter & St. Paul Church, 7:30pm on the

Friday preceding the 2nd Sunday of the month. Beginners welcome. Tel: 01760

724944/lindaringer0447@gmail.com

Swaffham Carpet Bowls Community Centre. 2 hours from 6.30pm for £3.

Tea & biscuits inc. Call Alan on 01760 723 910

Coffee Morning At Ashill Community Centre 2nd Friday every month,

10am until noon. 01760 441 651

Games Evening & Social 2nd Friday/month Swaffham Baptists Church Hall

- 7:30. All welcome

'Get Online' Free drop in sessions for anyone requiring help with emails,

online job searches, form filling etc. 11am - 12pm, Swaffham Community Centre.

Swaffham’s Green Gym Friday 8.30am Recreation Ground, Haspalls Rd

Henchmans Friday 7pm – 11pm. Friday Night Magic & other trading card /

collectible card games. Refreshments available. 01760 788427. Henchmans, 13

Station Street, Swaffham PE37 7LL.

Hi-5 Allsports 5 - 6pm Hi-5 Allsports kids club (5-14 years old) ALL different types of

sports at Swaffham Rugby Club. 5 - 6pm RABBLE for adults.

Iceni Lunch Club Swaffham Community Centre, £6.50 for two courses and

tea/coffee every Friday 12.30pm. 01760 722 800

Indoor Market Swaffham Assembly Rooms 9am-2pm, free entry.

Refreshments, various stalls… bookings contact Haydn 07957 862 239

Judo Sacred Heart School 6-7:30pm £2.50 5 years+ Tel. 07920440235

Oasis Messy Church 6pm every 3rd Friday Fun event for all ages. £1. www.

facebook.com/oasiscentreswaffham

Rise and shine Baby & Toddler Group: 10am - 12noon. Large play area.

£1.50 per adult/chld. 50p any extra persons. Incl drink & a biscuit.

Screen Printing Session 10am-2pm. The Old Art Room Swaffham. Learn

how to design, make and print your own screen on many different surfaces.

£20 the session additional cost for materials. Tel 01760 337181 or email jane on

je.clark176@btinternet.com

Senior Snooker (60 years +) @ The Norfolk Snooker Academy, West Acre £4

per session Facebook - Norfolk Snooker Academy 01760 755337

Sporle Art Group Meets every Friday at 1pm-3pm. in the community hall.

No tuition given, bring your own materials. Free intro then £2 per week. 01760

724615

Swaffham Senior Section Term time only. 19:30- 21:00. For young women

aged 14 to 25yrs. Contact Tracey Clements 07770236689 or Chrissie Brown

07970105771

Tai Chi for Health 10am. Swaffham Community Centre. Tel: 01760 723102 or

barbara.smith58@yahoo.co.uk http://www.academytaichi.co.uk

Yoga at Dunham Village Hall 10.30am till 12.00pm, £8 per session, please

contact Jayne on 07544974342

SATURDAY

Swaffham Bingo Club Community Centre last Sat in month, 7pm for 7:30pm

start. £2.50 annual membership, 50p for visitors.

Paul Darby 01760 622725

Buzzbox A hive of activity for young families, 10am to noon. On the 3rd Saturday

of each month, in the parish church. Each session has a themed ‘Sharing Circle’;

illustrated and acted stories from the Bible; children’s discussions; songs; prayers;

and birthday celebrations. All are welcome. Children’s Art Club 1st Saturday

of the Month. 10am until 12.15 £10 All Equipment, Snack and Drink provided Tel.

01760 337181

Childrens Sewing and Textile 2nd Saturday Monthly for over 7-14 yrs 10-

1.15pm at The Old Art Room Swaffham. £15 a session addtional cost for materials

01760 337181 or email Jane on je.clark176@btinternet.com

Code Club 2-3pm at Swaffham Library. Have fun learning to code, for 8-12 yr

olds. Contact 01760 721513 for more info and booking.

Henchmans Saturday 10am – 5pm. Warhammer Day. £5.00 for the whole day.

Call or message us to pre-book a time slot to play (essential during busy periods).

We provide all scenery and terrain. Refreshments available. 01760 788427.

Henchmans, 13 Station Street, Swaffham PE37 7LL.

Over 14's Textiles The Old Art Room Swaffham. 10am-2pm £15 a session

addtional cost for materials 01760 337181 or email Jane on je.clark176@

btinternet.com

Parkrun Every Saturday at 9am on the filed adjacent to the Nicholas Hamond

Academy, Brandon Rd, Swaffham. For further details contact David Wickerson:

davidwickerson@btinternet.com

Pentney Country Music Club www.pentneycowlsclub.co.uk weekly 01760

337 392 karenpentneycountryclub12@yahoo.co.uk

Pilates Class 9-10.15am All Saints Centre, Church Lane, Boughton. Beginners

welcome. £8 per session. 07515834729

Pokemon; Yu-Gi-Oh! Magic: The Gathering for beginners alternate Sat.

www.henchmans.com. Children welcome. 10.30am – 2pm

Swaffham Market Traditional market, now 800 years old! Every Saturday

6am until 3pm. Swaffham Market Place. Details 01760 722 922

Swaffham Rugby Football Club SwaffhamRUFC@outlook.com

West Norfolk Crafters & Needleworkers Stitchers, crafters and knitters

who meet at Leziate Village Hall on the 2nd Sat. 01553 765870

Henchmans Sunday 12 – 4pm. Yu-Gi-Oh. A mixture of casual and competitive

play for beginners and experienced players. Play fee £3.50 for the day + OTS

tournament entry £1. OTS pack awarded to all players as well as OTS packs for

the top finishers. Refreshments available. 01760 788427. Henchmans, 13 Station

Street, Swaffham PE37 7LL.

Kuk Sool Won Narborough Com. Centre 5.30 - 6.30pm. 07541261713

Pentney Indoor Bowls Club bowls coaching for beginners and improvers

Sundays 10am - 12noon. G Freezer 01760 722262

Star Wars @ Henchmans 12-4pm www.henchmans.com

Swaffham Rugby Football Club Minis 10:30-12. Games see Saturday

Snooker @ The Norfolk Snooker Academy West Acre

3 hours play £9. Facebook - Norfolk Snooker Academy 01760-755337

Spiritual Awareness Group Most Sundays 5:15pm to 6:30pm for Healing

The Nicholas Hamond Academy

A ‘sports theme’ starts our news with the P.E.

Department hosting football competitions

for students in KS3 with over 100 students

taking part in the event. The games were competitive

with a focus on TNHA teamwork NEWS and sportsmanship. TNHA

Sports Leaders from KS4 refereed the event. We also

welcomed 500 students from 6 different primary

schools to a Cross County event.

Meanwhile, the wet weather did not deter our sports

Continuing the ‘fun theme’ but with a serious message

- staff joined in ‘odd/silly sock day’ at the academy

marking the start of anti-bullying week.

The event, organised by the anti-bullying alliance, is

an opportunity for people to express themselves and

celebrate their individuality and what makes us all

unique! The message for this year is ‘Change Starts

Here’ as by making small, simple changes, the cycle of

bullying can be broken and a safe environment created

for everyone - starting with a conversation and working

together encouraging collective responsibility. https://

www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/anti-bullying-week/

odd-socks-day/odd-socks-day-2019

On a more sombre note our students remembered ‘the

fallen’. Students were proud to be part of the town’s

parade marching to the war memorial and on to the

church to lay a wreath.

starting with a conversation and workin

collective responsibility. https://www.anti

day-2019

On Armistice Day students wore their service uniforms

which included Army and Air Cadets, Brownies, Scouts

& St. Johns Ambulance. The whole academy fell silent

for two minutes at 11am along with the rest of the

country as a mark of respect. In the English corridor the

walls were papered with pieces of students’ descriptive

writing creating a wonderful memorial wall.

On a more sombre note our students rememb

m

A ‘sports theme’ starts our news with the P.E. Department hosting football A students ‘sports competitions

who, theme’ amidst

for starts the

students

mud, our went news in

mountain

KS3 with with

biking the P.E. Department hosting football competitions for O

over 100 students taking part in the event. The

at High Lodge, as part of their Cambridge Nationals

over

Sports

100

Studies

students

Course.

taking part in the event. The

A

games were competitive with a focus on teamwork

games were competitive with a focus on teamwork

w

and sportsmanship. TNHA Sports Leaders from KS4

and sportsmanship. TNHA Sports Leaders from KS4

o

refereed the event. We also welcomed 500 students

refereed the event. We also welcomed 500 students

w

from 6 different primary schools to a Cross County

from 6 different primary schools to a Cross County

w

event.

Halloween saw a team of ‘mad scientists’ taking

Meanwhile, the wet weather did not deter our sports students who, amidst over the the mud, TNHA went Science mountain Department biking with at a High day of

Meanwhile, ‘themed’ lessons. the Amongst wet weather which, bats did were not spotted deter our sports students Finally, who, amidst as Christmas the draws mud, near,

Lodge, as part of their Cambridge Nationals Sports Studies Course.

went m

flying in some of the labs as students investigated

we eagerly await the results of

Lodge, as part of their Cambridge Nationals Sports Studies Course.

different species along with their wing spans, exploring

the academy Christmas Card

Finally, as Christmas

aerodynamics to see whose specimen could fly the

Competition

draws

and

near,

our students

we eagerly

are

farthest. Proof that learning certainly can be fun!

contemplating which charities they

Halloween saw a team of ‘mad scientists’ taking Card Competition and our students are contem

will support over this period. We

over the TNHA Science Department with a day of this

will keep

period.

you posted...

We will Halloween keep you saw posted... a team of ‘m

‘themed’ lessons. Amongst which, bats were Our students and staff wish over everyone the TNHA in our community Science Depa

a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

spotted flying in some of the labs as students Our students and staff ‘themed’ wish everyone lessons. Amongs in our co

investigated different species along with their New Year! spotted flying in some of

wing spans, exploring aerodynamics to see whose

investigated different spec

specimen could fly the farthest. Proof that learning certainly can be fun!

wing spans, exploring aerod

specimen could fly the farthest. Proof that learning certainly can be fun!

Continuing the ‘fun theme’ but with a serious message - staff joined

in ‘odd/silly sock day’ at the academy marking the start of antibullying

week. The event, organised by the anti-bullying alliance, is an in ‘odd/silly sock day’ at the academy marking the start of anti-

Continuing the ‘fun theme’ but with a serious message - staff joined

reg no: 277789

The Charity is currently inviting applications from

opportunity for people to express themselves and celebrate their bullying week. The event, organised by the anti-bullying individuals alliance, under the is age an of 21, living in the

individuality and what makes us all unique! The message for this year opportunity for people to express themselves Breckland celebrate District Council their area, seeking financial

is ‘Change Starts Here’ as by making small, simple changes, the cycle of

individuality and what makes us all unique! The message

assistance in

for

cases

this

of

year

need for such items as

bullying can be broken and a safe environment created for everyone -

books, tools, equipment, instruments, outfits plus

is ‘Change Starts Here’ as by making small, simple

educational

changes,

trips;

the

including

cycle of

assistance for those

starting with a conversation and working together encouraging

bullying can be broken and a safe environment leaving created school, for in everyone preparation - for taking up further

collective responsibility. SUNDAY https://www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/anti-bullying-week/odd-socks-day/odd-socks-

starting with a conversation and working together education encouraging or apprenticeships.

collective responsibility. https://www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/anti-bullying-week/oddday-2019

The Trustees will review and consider all

applications received. Application forms can be

found on our website:

www.hamondeducationalcharity.org.uk.

On a more sombre note our students remembered ‘the fallen’. Students were proud to be part of the town’s parade

marching to the war memorial and on to the church to lay a wreath.

On a more sombre note our students remembered

If further

‘the fallen’.

information

Students

is required

were

please

proud

contact

to be par

the Clerk via email at:

On Armistice Day students wore their service uniforms which included marching to the war memorial and on to the chu

and 6:30pm to 8:30pm Service at Swaffham Community Centre

contact@hamondeducationalcharity.org.uk

Army and Air Cadets, Brownies, Scouts & St. Johns Ambulance. The

6

whole academy fell silent for two minutes at 11am along with the rest

On 7 Armistice Day students wore their service uni

Swaffham CE Junior Academy

Swaffham CE Junior Academy School held a “Love

Your Lorry” event on Thursday 26th September 2019.

Jack Richards & Son Ltd parked one of their lorries

on the school playground. The children were very

excited and each class was able to come and see it up

close. Did you know…the drivers deliver 3,500 boxes

of cereal to Kellogg’s. The lorry is as high as an adult

giraffe and the trailer would hold 7 bull elephants, a

massive 28 tonnes!

The main aim of the exercise was to show and explain

what dangers and blind spots the drivers face. The

children were amazed at how many of them can be

lined up in front of the cab before the driver can see

that person. Some questions asked by the children

were “how long is the trailer?”, “why do the wheels

lift up?”, “what does the suspension do?”, “where is

the microwave?”.

Staff and Pupils of Swaffham CE Junior Academy

School attended their Harvest Service on Tuesday

8th October 2019 at St Peter and St Paul Church in

Swaffham. The Church was full as Parents and Carers

enjoyed singing special harvest hymns. Donations

of tinned and dried items of food were taken to the

Church and to be given to the local food bank. Year

6 talked about harvest during the war and Year 4

showed their harvest art work. Prayers were led by

some children and closed by the Reverend Janet Allan,

Vicar of Swaffham and Sporle.

Royal British Legion

Swaffham Royal British Legion held its annual

Festival of Remembrance on 7th November in the

Parish Church. In spite of quite a fraught time in the

planning, the evening proved to be a great success.

Hundreds of people gathered at the War Memorial on

Remembrance Sunday. A large Parade, led by Fakenham

Band, marched from Whitecross Road, and included

Royal British Legion, representatives from Royal Navy,

RAF, Army Cadets, RAF Air Cadets, Scouts, Guides,

Brownies, Beavers, SSAFA, Riders Branch RBL, St John

Ambulance, Norfolk Police, Fire Service, and others.

Station Commander Beck and his family from RAF

Marham attended, also a Royal Navy Warrant Officer

laid the wreath on behalf of the Navy. The Mayor, Cllr

Jill Skinner laid the wreath on behalf of the Town.

Our thanks go to the Sacred Heart School children,

Dereham Band, (sponsored this year by Kevin Williams),

and Swaffham Players with Richard Winch. Over £400

was raised for the Poppy Appeal. Our thanks go too, to

Rev Janet Allen for allowing the use of the Church. Our

thanks go to all who help in this annual event. The final

total for last year's Appeal was £25,691.57, which is an

amazing total.

As Poppy Appeal Organiser people often ask why I

haven't asked them to help this year. The answer to

that is, I ring round so many people in order to man

the three Supermarkets, also the Street Collection and

there is just not enough time to keep ringing back if they

aren't in, therefore whoever I speak to first will get the

choice of slots. Also, we have some new collectors, who

we need to use, as we're all getting older. So please

don't be offended if you haven't been asked this year.

Enjoy the break as I'll be after you next year!

Anne Thorp, Swaffham RBL

Poppy Appeal Organiser

30 th November – 7 th December

St. Peter & St. Paul Church, Swaffham

The countdown is on for our eighth

Christmas Tree Festival starting

on Saturday 30 th November until

Saturday 7 th December

Refreshments will be served every day

With 29 trees decorated by

local charities and schools

Please come along to visit our wonderful

church and see all the lovely trees.

Open every day from 10am to 4pm

Sunday 11am to 4pm

Admission FREE

Everyone very welcome,

including dogs

For details contact Gill Creed on

01760 724559 / 721237

Swaffham Methodist Church

Sun 1st Dec 10.45am Parade Service led by Rev

Jacqui Horton. Swaffham Guides, Brownies and

Scouts will be joining us. All welcome. Refreshments

served.

Tues 3rd Dec 10am-12noon The Meeting Place drop

in. Free refreshments and a warm welcome to all.

Thurs 5th Dec 10am- 12noon The Meeting Place

drop in. Free refreshments and a warm welcome to

all.

Fri 6th Dec 9.30am. The Power of Prayer. 7.30pm.

Phoenix Singers Christmas Concert. Tickets £7.

Sat 7th Dec 9.30am-12noon. Coffee Morning in aid

of Church funds.

Sun 8th Dec 10.45am Morning Worship followed by

refreshments.

Tues 10th Dec 10am- 12noon The Meeting Place

drop in.

Thurs 12th Dec 10am- 12noon The Meeting

Place drop in with Christmas Craft activities. 2.30

pm. Thursday Group Advent Service followed by

refreshments. All welcome.

Fri Dec 13th 9.30 am. Power of Prayer.

Sat Dec 14th 9.30am-12noon. Coffee Morning in aid

of Church funds.

Sun 15th Dec 10.45 am. Morning Worship followed

by refreshments.

Tues 17th Dec 10am- 12noon. The Meeting Place

drop in.

Thurs 19th Dec 10am- 12noon. The Meeting Place

drop in.

Fri 20th Dec 9.30am. Power of Prayer.

SAT 21ST DEC NO COFFEE MORNING.

Sat 21st Dec 6pm. Christmas film night. All welcome.

Sun 22nd 10.45am. Christmas Carol Service followed

by refreshments. All welcome.

Tues 24th Dec 10am- 12noon. The Meeting Place

drop in with mince pies.

CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE 10AM WITH REV. JACQUI

HORTON.

BOXING DAY. CHURCH CLOSED.

SAT 28TH DEC. CHURCH CLOSED.

Sun 29th Dec 10.45 am. Morning Worship followed

by refreshments.

8

9

The Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul

The December Services in Swaffham parish church

will be as follows:-

Sunday 1st ADVENT SUNDAY

8.00am Holy Communion

9.30am Sung Eucharist

6.00pm Advent Carol Service

Wednesday 4th

10.00am Holy Communion BCP

Sunday 8th



Wednesday 11th


Sunday 15th


9.30am United Benefice Sung Eucharist

Wednesday 18th


Sunday 22nd



6.00pm Carol Service

Tuesday 24th CHRISTMAS EVE

4.00pm Christingle Service

11.30pm Midnight Mass

Wednesday 25th CHRISTMAS DAY


Sunday 29th



NB

Sunday 5th Jan THE EPIPHANY



3.30pm Evensong

Please note: the 10am Wednesday Holy Communion

services will restart on 8th January.

Christmas Tree Festival

The week-long CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL (our

ninth) begins in the Parish Church on Saturday 30th

November. There will be 29 trees decorated by local

charities and refreshments will be available every day.

Open from 10.00am to 4.00pm (11.00am to 4.00pm

on Sunday 1st). Please come along, admission is free,

and everyone will be very welcome (including dogs)

10

Mothers’ Union

The next meeting of the Swaffham Mother’s Union will

be held at the Baptist Church Rooms on December 12th,

at the later time of 11.00am. This will be our Christmas

meeting, with carols and readings, followed by a shared

lunch. Enquiries to Julia on 01760 720041

Handel’s “Messiah”

This year is the 250th anniversary of the death of

George Frideric Handel, and one of his greatest works

“Messiah” has become a fixture of the Christmas

season. It is therefore appropriate that the Mid Norfolk

Singers will be presenting this wonderful and moving

oratorio on Saturday 14th December at 7.00pm in the

parish church. Tickets are £12 (under 18's £5) and are

available from Ceres Bookshop, or at the door on the

night.

The Town Festival Of Carols

Churches Together in Swaffham and District invite

everyone to the Town Festival of Carols in St Peter

and St Paul’s Parish Church at 7:00pm on Thursday

12th December. We chose the date before a General

Election was announced, but we are sure that a good

sing and a re-telling of the Christmas Story will cheer

everyone up! Once again, the Dereham Salvation Army

Band will be playing and seasonal refreshments will be

served after the Festival. The collection this year will

be divided between The Merle Body Centre and EACH

Children’s Hospice. Come and join us to celebrate the

true meaning of Christmas.

Operation Christmas Child – Shoe Box Appeal. Thank You.

On behalf of St Peter & St Paul Church, Swaffham I thank

those who contributed to the 65 very prettily and neatly

wrapped filled shoe boxes which I received. These are

part of consignments to be delivered to children in real

need around the world. In the new year I hope to be

able to inform you which country received these boxes.

I am sure they will bring much joy to children who

otherwise have very little happiness in their lives.

Linda (coordinator for the OCC shoe box appeal on

behalf of the parish church).

Churches Together `Knitted Angels`

After months of knitting, hundreds of angels have been

beautifully knitted by many ladies in Swaffham and the

surrounding area. Within

the next few weeks they

will be delivered to various

locations in and around

Swaffham.

Churches Together

(Anglican, Baptist, Catholic

and Methodist Churches)

THANK VERY SINCERELY

the ladies who gave their

time to lovingly and

thoughtfully knit the angels for this project. We hope

they will bring a smile to the faces of their recipients

this Christmas time

Merle Boddy Centre

We have been in full swing with making

Christmas decorations. Many of these

will be for our Christmas tree that will be

displayed in the church along with many

other charities. Please come and enjoy some time

in this lovely church and admire the rich and varied

array of beautiful decorated trees. Of course a few

pennies in the pots would be great too!

Off to the races, well in our case they came to us. Jo

A created Fakenham races right here in the centre.

It had handicaps, weight restrictions, colourful silks

and a bit of a make believe flutter just for interest.

This game will be used many times.

In the picture below you can get a glimpse of our new

heating system. Combined with this we have had the

loft insulated to a higher standard making us warm

and cosy, so it's a very tropical hello and a very merry

Christmas and a healthy, happy new year from us all.

Well Halloween came and

went in a flash, although

we aren't big on this event

we made pictures, table

decorations and got in the

swing with a Halloween

quiz and games.

Many people at our

centre talk about their

war time experiences,

11

some are sad, some funny and of course there are

always some that make us think of how lucky we

were that we didn't have to go through those times.

I never tire of listening to the clients stories, all this

information stored in a place we can never go to, but

is so vivid in their memories. We have done our own

poppy wreath which is displayed outside the centre,

just wanted to give you a look at our way of showing

respect for our heroes.

I have just spent lunch time speaking to one of our

clients, I can't tell you what is was about, but he

smiled a lot and I must have been putting my replies in

the right places as he was happy with my responses.

We laughed at times, then had a serious moment, we

held hands and we mardled some more. In between

he ate his lunch which took a little longer than usual.

So what, it's only a bit of time, but so well spent. When

we finally finished the conversation he held my hand,

smiled again and thanked me. This man was thanking

me for doing the job I love, he will never know how

much it meant to me to be able to listen to him and

spend time one to one. To the families whose loved

ones we look after, all of us would like to thank you.

Looking to the future

Sadly but inevitably, we have clients depart from our

service, for a variety of reasons. This means that,

presently, we have spaces on two days. If you are a

carer of a person living with dementia, please come

and talk to us or ring on 01760 724527 for a chat.

We offer a very 'family friendly' service for your loved

ones, in a warm and caring environment. All the staff

are local girls with a wealth of knowledge, so if you or

someone you know are seeking to have some respite,

then please do contact us, without hesitation. We

will help you.

Swaffham & District Lions

Swaffham Lions invited Clare Peak

from Family Action to give a talk on

an internet help programme named

Lily.

Lily provides a comprehensive range

of support in West Norfolk to combat loneliness and

social isolation in adults of all ages. The Lily online

directory lists organisations, services and activities that

help people to live healthy, active and independent

lives.

Following the talk, which gave the Lions a greater

understanding of the programme but also the need for

such a programme that can combat loneliness in our

community, Lion President, John Collins, thanked Clare

for such an informative talk.

Swaffham Lions joined forces with the Iceni Youth

Group to celebrate Halloween. With twenty pumpkins,

supplied by Tesco, the young people soon started to

carve the pumpkins to their own design, under the

watchful eye of the leaders. Judge, Pam Tallon from the

Lions, had the very difficult task of choosing the winners.

The winners from the younger group were Willow and

Shae and the older group Tempy and Demi. Pam said

that at the end of the day they were all winners and was

glad to see how much they had enjoyed the evening.

Swaffham Lions were only too pleased when asked

by the Royal British Legion to do two days collecting

for the Poppy Appeal at Tesco. As usual the people of

Swaffham were very generous with their donations,

with the favourite being the Poppy lapel pin.

Swaffham Lions have launched a Fire Door Hanger to

be hung on your hotel room door, aimed at people who

have hearing problems and may not hear a fire alarm.

The hotel staff will ensure that your room is checked for

occupancy if the alarm is sounded. It can also be used

for people who have mobility problems. You can obtain

your free door hanger from Age Concern at Swaffham

Community Centre.

EAST ANGLIA’S PREMIER GROUNDS CARE EQUIPMENT RETAILER

Following a visit to Meadow House to see a

demonstration on sensory equipment that could aid the

mobility and mental health of the residents, Swaffham

Lions decided to put on a fund-raising quiz. With a

packed Assembly Rooms the Halloween quiz tested

the participants to the full. The narrow winners were

Willow Wonders by one point from the Billabongs. The

evening raised £700 for a very worthy cause.

A great range of fireworks on sale from 15th October!

Visit our showroom for

an excellent selection of

garden tools including

chainsaws, blowers,

hedge trimmers

and shredders

CARPET CLEANING

Viruses and bacteria

live in your carpet

To improve air quality in your home and to create

a safe environment for your family your carpet

should be cleaned professionally every year

12

Dereham Road, Beeston (nr Dereham) PE32 2LE

01328 701347 | www.benburgess.co.uk

Your local country hardware & garden store

Open 8am - 5:30pm Monday - Friday & 8am - 12pm Saturday

Call us today for a FREE QUOTE

and to find out more on 01760 337762

Covering the whole of East Anglia | www.xtraclean.co.uk

Sporle Afternoon WI

Never believe the old sayings – “Hubble

Bubble, Toil & Trouble” etc is a good

one to dismiss – our Halloween event, a

lunch with a choice of soups and desserts aplenty was

a lovely occasion. All the members dressed up – some

more than others –and it all added to the ambience of

our October meeting. The poems also reflected the fun

of the lunch.

There seemed a lot of WI business this month as lots of

the WI’s are extra busy at this time of the year. It was

all dealt with quite well as fortunately most members

had their diaries with them and were able to plan their

forthcoming events

November our next meeting, is the AGM with

committee members to vote for and after the business

we have a chance to make a Christmas table decoration.

We will be using fresh greenery as it will keep until the

“big day” and maybe silk or paper flowers or even well

conditioned fresh flowers whichever our members

choose.

NO meeting in December as members and their guests

will be sharing a Christmas lunch together at a local

venue. The first meeting of the New Year will be the

3rd TUESDAY of January 2020 – 1.45pm – 4pm Sporle

Community Centre

On behalf of Sporle WI members - we wish everyone a

very Happy Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year.

The Pickenhams WI

Our Annual Meeting started with

a minute's silence and singing the

National Anthem. We then had our

Financial Statement and Annual Report for 2019. We

were amazed at all the activities and community events

that we have taken part in this year! Carolyn read her

President's Address, starting with the making of our WI

banner for the Federation Centenary Service in Norwich

Cathedral in April. Some of our members made the

banner with the help of Sally McMurdie. The banner

now hangs in St Andrew's Church, North Pickenham.

Future Plans -

• The Christmas Fayre at the Hub on Sat 23rd November,

10am- 4pm, with a WI cake stall and a church tombola

+many craft and gift stalls.

• WI Christmas Carol Service at St Andrew's Church on

Tues 26th November at 2.00pm, + the Village Green

Ukulele Society playing!

• Carols & Puddings, St Andrew's Church on Fri 6th

December at 6.30pm (£7).

• Christmas Party Bring&Share at the Hub on Tues 10th

December, 12-2pm.

• Our New Year meeting will be at Broom Hall and

followed by lunch on Tues 14th January; meet at 11am.

Enquiries welcome - Carolyn Vincent - 01760 755089

Melanie Cousins - 01760 440456

Beachamwell WI

The November meeting always includes

our Annual Meeting, but before we got

down to business, we enjoyed a “Craft

Show and Tell”. Members brought along a number

of hand crafted items and spoke about them. Some

had sentimental value, others were special projects,

lovingly made. But what was most astonishing was

the sheer variety: needle felted animals, fabric boxes,

a Victoran doll, quilts, embroidery and homemade

clothes. What an array of talent! Chosen items were

put forward to compete for the annual Ruth Rix prize,

which was won by Cathy for an exquisite piece with

an agapanthus theme which showcased a number of

different techniques.

Our next meeting is a Christmas Party. Visitors and /or

prospective new members are very welcome to join us

but need to be ready for party games, festive food and

a bit of fizz!

In January, we will have our usual Resolutions meeting,

when we discuss proposals put forward by WI members

nationally. These are always interesting evenings.

Sadly after December, we are saying goodbye to Leah

and Carole who have both moved out of the village,

but we hope to welcome some brand new members

in January. We have a varied programme planned

for the coming year, with speakers on East Anglian

gardens, making musical instruments and travels in

China to name but a few. Visitors are always welcome

to join us for a charge of £3.50, but prospective new

members can come for no charge to look us over. We

pride ourselves on being a friendly and informal group.

For further information, call Helen on 01366 328589 or

Maggie 01366 327023.

Maggie Mackenzie

Swaffham WI

It was our annual general meeting

in November. Meg Dorling was our

federation advisor. Seven of our

committee members were re-elected

and three new nominated. Jo Trick was presented with

flowers, having been our president for the past six

years. Pauline Senton was elected as new president

and will 'hold the helm' for the coming year.

A new committee meeting will re-allocate all the

committee duties. The finances have been audited

and speakers booked for the coming months.

It was decided we would continue to hold our meetings

in the Methodist Church, but only in the afternoons

for the coming year.

The first meeting in 2020 will be held on Wednesday

8th January at 2pm.

Visitors are always welcome. For more information

phone 01760 336049.

Swaffham Lionesses

Following our recent successful coffee morning, we

gave a cheque for £500 to Macmillan Cancer Support.

By the time you read this, we will have held our

Children in Need Bingo night at the Conservative

Club. All the prizes, and the use of the room are

donated , not to mention the services of our Bingo

caller Ian, to whom we are extremely grateful. This

means that every penny we take goes to Children

in Need. On November 10th our President Nicola

Claxton laid our wreath at the Remembrance Service

at the War Memorial.

In December we will have a Christmas tree in the

Church Festival, and be running a tombola stall at the

Rotary Christmas Fayre in the Assembly Rooms.

We will also be helping our Lions Club with the

Pensioners Christmas Party, which we do every

December, not to mention going out for our own

Christmas celebrations. We wish you all a roaring

good Christmas!

Swaffham Lionesses

Swaffham Spiritual Awareness Group

Meets in the Community Centre,

Beech Close, Campingland, Swaffham

at 6.30pm.

8 December, Penny Francis, Saham Hills

We offer healing from 5.30pm prior to our Sunday services

Our trained healers can help with various types of pain and tension from

stress. This service is free although donations are gratefully received.

Swaffham Arts

We don’t normally invite the Press to our events,

but we felt that it would be good for us and for the

fledgling Ensemble East if they came to the concert

in the church in October. And so it was. The concert

was a great success, enjoyed by an appreciative

audience, and we had a very positive write - up in

the Lynn News. Our events are meant to appeal to

a wide audience, and are definitely not exclusive, so

it is great when new faces come along and enjoy a

good afternoon’s entertainment.

Our early December event will be held at Community

Centre on Sunday December 8th at 3 pm. Mark

Cocker, the writer and naturalist, will be talking

about his latest book, Our Place, on the fate of British

nature in the twentieth century. Mark has been

writing about Norfolk for over 30 years as a country

diarist in the Guardian newspaper; highly regarded

and widely read, over the years he has persuaded

lots of us to brave the cold and watch the rooks go

to their roost, and observe the wonderful flights of

starlings in the winter skies.

Tickets for this event, priced at £9 members and £12

non-members, are available from Ceres Bookshop

01760 722504 and The Green Parrot 01760 724704,

and on the door. Under 18’s are free.

There will be our fun children’s event at the

Community Centre again on January 12th at 3 pm:

“Eggs on Legs” with Garlic Puppet Theatre; more

details next month.

We shall be taking part in the lovely Christmas Tree

Festival in the church again, so Happy Christmas all,

and Good Wishes for 2020!

14

Age Concern Swaffham & District

At the end of October, we held an in-house event for our members in the Assembly Rooms, when

we heard a most interesting talk on the History of Education in East Anglia given by Rosemary

Steer. These in-house meetings are held on the last Tuesday each month, starting at 2pm, in the

Assembly Rooms, to hear a speaker or have some other form of entertainment. Just turn up; there

is no charge although we do pass round collecting boxes for voluntary donations. Sometimes an

outing is planned instead (see below). You can join our Group, a registered charity, by contacting

Membership Secretary Vicky, see details below. The annual subscription is £5. Outings are arranged

by John Clarke. Upcoming events are:

www.stovesman.co.uk

• December 10th (note date) Evening outing to the Thursford Spectacular Christmas Show (all seats are sold but it may

be worthwhile contacting John Clarke to see if there any cancellations).

• January 28th 2020 (in house) Annual New Year Party with Barry Tone, who puts on a very good Elvis tribute show.

• February 25th (Shrove Tuesday) Talk - Georgie Bell who will tell us all about the wonderful Merle Boddy Day Care

Centre.

For outings our contact is John Clarke, 720140. Chairman is Barbara White, 720756, Deputy Chair, Barbara Clarke,

720140, Treasurer, Keith Nash, 724801; Membership Secretary, Vicky Slater, 627031. Secretary, James Dean 720756

We continue continues to operate Swaffham Support Services, the details and contact for which are given in our

advert below. We are now into our fourth year of a five-year project funded by the National Lottery’s Community Fund.

Do y

Befrienders & Hospital

Buddy Drivers Needed

Do you have 1-2 hours free a week?

Do you enjoy driving, or maybe just visiting a lonely

elderly person near to you?

Are you caring, compassionate and a good listener?

If YES, we NEED you to join our team of fantastic

Volunteers…

We are here to improve the quality of older

people’s lives in Swaffham & the villages nearby

Offering a wide variety of affordable transport to get you on the move.

SWAFFHAM FLYER

A regular, fully accessible,

service for the Swaffham area.

DIAL-A-BUS

A fully accessible, door to door

service for the rural communities.

GO TO TOWN

A regular, local bus service,

operating in multiple locations.

VOLUNTEERS

A door to door service provided

by our volunteer drivers. Covering all kinds of

transport from GP, Hospital and Dental

appointments to social trips.

16

EMAIL: swaffhamsss16@outlook.com

www.swaffhamsupportservices.co.uk

The Community Centre, Campingland, Swaffham. PE37 7RB

The @LITTLE_BIG_BUS service you can trust

Please call 01760 720906,

email enquiries@wnct.co.uk

or visit www.wnct.co.uk

for all your transport needs!

17

Registered Charity Number: 1069180

CELEBRATING

President’s Corner

Swaffham 5

Swaffham Rotary has had a very enjoyable and

rewarding month with it annual Visual Arts Festival.

It all started with a tremendous sold out evening

with Emma Biggs who gave a fascinating talk on

mosaic. It was very kindly hosted by Sir Samuel

Roberts at Cockley Cley Hall.

YEARS

After that success it was followed by practical

demonstrations given by Cora Mullenger and Bob

Spray on separate occasions at Bechamwell Village

Hall.

The month was triumphed by the 24th Annual Arts

Exhibition held at the Assembly Rooms. There was

a steady footfall throughout the weekend after a

fabulous Preview Evening. The teas were again much

sought after and the raffle was ably supported by

everyone who came in. Unfortunately, the weather

on the Saturday did not help, being wet and windy,

but overall the exhibition of over 300 works of art

was a pleasure to view. The final result of all the

events financially is expected to be around £4500,

all of which will go to deserving causes locally and

supporting such internationally causes such as End

Polio Now.

Amongst all the success, it was sad to announce that

it was also the last year of the generous sponsorship

support given by Abel Homes to the month long

event. Tony & Maggie Abel have been constant

supporters for the last 9 years and the Club took

the opportunity to award them both as well as their

Company Paul Harris Awards of Appreciation for

their work with Rotary

HAPPY CHRISTMAS

and all good wishes for

the New Year from the

Rotary Club of Swaffham

SCALGA

Greetings from the Allotments.

Well we certainly had our fair share of rain in November,

long, dull, wet days with the occasional gift of a bright

sunny day. The chickens were soggy and spent most

of the days perched in the dry in their day coop. Of

course the geese didn’t let it bother them at all and

are still cheerfully keeping the grass well clipped on all

three plots. I thought I had had my young female goose

stolen. I looked up and down the plots and had just

given up when I spied a flash of white. They really are

dim in some ways; she had flown into a neighbouring

plot but didn’t have the wit to fly back. Luckily they are

very docile and with the help of a long cane to guide

her she walked back home. We now have the joy of

catching the birds and clipping the flight feathers. Last

time we did it the gander sulked then waited till my

back was turned and nipped me on the leg!

Last time I reported that we had starter plots available. I

am pleased to say that two of these have now gone but

we still have some on Tumbler Hill and 1 on Shouldham

Lane. The pricing is as follows:-

1st plot £2 per month, Second plot £1.00 per month

and if you require a 3rd it is free, so for £3.00 per month

you can grow a good amount of veg. Not bad value?

I can happily report that other than some malicious

smashing of pumpkins we have not had any thefts etc.

reported.

Because the weather is usually poor we decided not to

have a Halloween get together, instead we are having a

Christmas party for our members (Details below).

Hazel nut spread

Coming up to Christmas it is the time for thinking about

little extra treats. If you have been lucky enough to get

some Hazelnuts the following recipe is wonderful.

• Roast the Nuts on an oiled tray, medium heat for

about 10 minutes, or you can fry them.

• Grind the nuts, roughly or smooth and add salt,

softened butter and melted dark chocolate. Mix to a

paste. Yummy!

As the allotments have pretty much been “put to bed”

there is very little need for much work to be done other

than essential repairs and dealing with winter crops so

this will be our last SCALGA report until the spring.

'Be like the sun and meadow,

Which are not in the least concerned,

About the coming winter.'

George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)

Perhaps we should all feel the same to get us through

the dull and dreary days? Particularly, if you can enjoy

warming soups with the harvest from your garden.

HAVE A HAPPY AND HEALTHY CHRISTMAS AND NEW

YEAR FROM S.C.A.L.G.A

Forthcoming events

Christmas Get Together, 14th December 7.30pm at the

Methodist Church School room.

If you are interested in taking a plot or a starter plot,

please call Graham or Jennifer Edwards on 07919 888

870.

Swaffham Camera Club

The Club recently enjoyed an evening’s training by

David Taylor on computer driven image manipulation

software. A bit of a mouthful, but essentially digital

photos can be improved on very easily. In the past

this was achievable for pictures taken on film cameras

by using laborious darkroom techniques, but it is so

much easier these days! We also learnt how to turn

photos into fine art representations.

We had some lovely entries of Swaffham for our

recent competition. The clear winner was of The

Buttercross, by Derek Pinner.

Stuart Flint was in second place (again) with another

evening scene, of the Old Art Room.

Ian Myers’ cracking slow motion shot of West

Burton Falls was as

worthy a winner of

the Open Competition.

Considering there were

some high spirited

teenagers splashing

around in the water he

did very well to capture

what appeared to be

an idyllic scene. His

patience paid off and he

took a beautiful photo

that anyone would be

proud of.

Tied in second place were Trevor Vincent, and Jan

Sanders with her Short-tailed Weasel, taken in

Canada during a recent holiday.

We are tinkering with our website at the moment,

so if any readers are interested in joining the Club,

please email lynibbitson@gmail.com

18

19

Scribe

Tuition

Catherine Riedlinger

POPPI INTERIORS

FABRIC : CURTAINS : ALL BLIND TYPES : POLES : UPHOLSTERY

Give your home the finish it deserves

One to One tutoring for 3-7 year olds

• One to One tuition in Maths, English and all

KS1 Subjects.

• One to One tuition to be school ready for

Nursery and Reception pupils.

• Flexible after school session times to fit a

busy schedule.

• Pupil Specific Lessons Plans.

• Tutoring base in Swaffham.

• 23 Years Primary Teaching Experience.

• Full DBS Checked.

• Flexible Payment Plans.

• Sessions available from £20 per hour.

11 Stratton Close, Swaffham, PE37 7TJ.

(01760) 751091 info@scribetuition.com

www.scribetuition.com

Book your free, no obligation

Induction Session

19 Market Place Swaffham T: 01760 722541

(Opp Royal Mail)

JOIN THE MOVE IT OR LOSE IT CLUB

Exercise Classes For The Over 60s

with Jo & Sam

All Exercises Can Be Done Seated or Standing

Regency Room in Swaffham Assembly Rooms

First Class Starts On Thu 5 th Sept, From 11am - 12pm

Then Every Thursday 11am - 12pm

£4.50 per class or 5 classes for £20

(price includes tea & biscuits after class)

You can book your place or just turn up on the day

For more information call:

Jo: 07941 086603 or Sam: 07925 602862

Tai Chi for health

Tai Chi has been found to be beneficial for:

• Helping relieve arthritis

• Improving balance & posture

• Toning muscles

• Improving mobility

• Promoting good health

• Physical & mental wellbeing

Our classes are relaxed, friendly, fun,

& a good way of meeting new friends.

01760 723102 or 07587 567406

e:academytaichi@yahoo.co.uk

East Dereham

Tuesday 11am

Swaffham

Wednesday 10am

Friday 10am

www.academytaichi.co.uk

FUNERAL SERVICES

INDEPENDENT FAMILY

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

CHAPMANS &

THORNALLEY

FUNERAL SERVICES

Lynn Road, Swaffham, Norfolk PE37 7AY

24 Hour Caring Personal Service

Pre-Paid Funeral Plans

Private Chapels of Rest

Memorials

01760 721305

www.tfs.co.uk

OWNED &

MANAGED BY THE

THORNALLEY FAMILY

We are the

champions

21st Dec

11.00am — Closed

27th Dec

28th Dec

12.00am—3.00pm

6.00pm—12.00pm

11.00am—Closed

At The Paddocks Care Home, we

believe in a healthy, active lifestyle

– one in which our residents can

feel like winners. That’s why we

personalise each day to meet the

individual activity needs of our

residents and their families.

22nd Dec

12.00am — 3.00pm

7.00pm—11.00pm

29th Dec

12.00am—3.00pm

7.00pm—11.00pm

And hearing their laughter

is music to our ears.

23rd Dec

24th Dec

25th Dec

12.00am—3.00pm

7.00pm—11.00pm

12.00am—Closed

11.00am—1.00pm

30th Dec

31st Dec

12.00am—3.00pm

7.00pm—11.00pm

12.00pm—4.00pm

6.00pm—Closed

2:09/3:10

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS – QUEEN

The Paddocks

45 CLEY ROAD, SWAFFHAM, PE37 7NP

CALL 01760 722920 TO ARRANGE YOUR VISIT

26th Dec

12.00am—3.00pm

1st Jan

Closed

www.castlemeadowcare.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL CARE | DEMENTIA CARE | RESPITE CARE | SHORT BREAKS

Swaffham

Branch

01760

725801

http://www.family-action.org.uk

building better families

LOCAL HANDYMEN SERVICE

RELIABLE AND PROFESSIONAL HANDYMEN

FOR ALL THOSE TIME CONSUMING JOBS AROUND

THE HOME & GARDEN. NO JOB TOO SMALL

Painting, Decorating, General Property Repairs, House Cleaning,

Oven Cleaning, Plumbing, Bathroom, Emergency Plumber 24hr

Callout, Electrical, Roofing, Tiling, Shelves, Flooring ETC.

ALL WORK GUARANTEED

CALL TO REGISTER FOR 24HRS PLUMBING SERVICE

CALL us for a FREE quote on

01760 336200 or 07429 640832

OR CALL IN AT 4 PLOWRIGHT PLACE

MOST CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

Welcome to Swaffham

Community Centre

Feel free to pop in and admire our

gallery of work by local artists

and then treat yourself to tea and

home made cake in Patisserie Iceni.

GALLERY

ICENI

OPEN WEEKDAYS 9AM - 5PM

www.icenipartnership.info www.iceni.info 01760 01760 722800

The Campingland, Swaffham PE37 7RB

With the weather

turning cooler, please

consider making a

donation of ingredients

to the fridge to give

someone a hot meal.

Calling all

budding artists

Gallery Iceni

needs you!

At the Iceni Partnership, we are always looking

for new art groups, or individuals who would

like to showcase their work in our

gallery in the community centre.

If you or someone you know would be

interested, then please call us on

01760 722 800 or pop into the office and speak

to our gallery co-ordinator Jelena

Swaffham Heritage closes o

21 December to 17 Februar

What has this image

with Swaffham in 202

Visit the

e For Museum stocking Shop fillers,

all gifts and local books

Visit the

The Museum Shop

Museum Shop

For stocking fillers,

small gifts and local books

Visit the

2019 Sea

He

Swaffham

The Museum Shop

Celebrated BBC Producer related to Swaffham

Plowrights.

Earlier this year, the Swaffham Newsletter published an article

about The Plowright Story, a new book which traces the

progress of the Plowright metal-working family over several

centuries. Through friends of Plowrights.

friends, a copy of the book

eventually reached London-based and former BBC radio

between

21 December

10am and

to 17

3pm

February.

and Saturdays

between 10am and 1pm from 3 January 2020,

Swaffham Heritage 2019 Season

Swaffham

The

Heritage

shop Swaffham and Heritage TIC will Heritage

closes be open over Winter on Fridays from 21 st

Talks, walks December and to school 17th February. visits still available.

2019 between Season 10am

The shop 2019 and

and TIC Season 3pm and Saturdays

will be open on Fridays between


Swaffham Heritage closes Swaffham over 10am Winter Heritage and from 3pm closes and Saturdays over Winter between from 10am and


21 December to 17 February. 1pm from 3 January 2020. Talks, walks and school


21 December to 17 February.


Talks, visits walks still and available. school visits still available.

small The shop and TIC will be open on Fridays

Visit

gifts

the

and local books

between 10am and 3pm The and shop Saturdays and TIC will be open on Fridays

The Museum Visit

For stocking Shop the

fillers, between 10am and 1pm between from 3 January 10am 2020, and 3pm and Saturdays

small The Museum gifts and local Shop books

between What 10am has this and image 1pm from got 3 to January do with 2020, Swaffham in

Talks, walks and school visits still available.

Visit the

2022? Sorry – no prizes for the winner!



fillers,

stocking For

between 10am and 3pm an

op be will TIC and shop The

The Museum Shop

the Visit

between 10am and 1pm fro

Talks, walks and school visi

C Producer related to Swaffham

Plowrights.

What has this image got to do

with Swaffham in 2022? Sorry –

no prizes for the winner!


no with prizes Swaffham for in the 2022? winner! Sorry –



fillers,

stocking For

Swaffham Heritage

2019 Season

FoSH (Friends of Swaffham Heritage)

We support the Museum financially.

Our Membership Scheme is a one off Life Membership

payment of just £10 for an individual and £15 for a

family. This gives you free access to all the museum

galleries for life.

For more information please contact Secretary James

Dean 01760 720756 or jamesdean@uwclub.net

Swaffham Heritage closes over FoSH Winter 100 from Club

21 December to 17 February. Run by the Friends - open to ALL

A yearly subscription of £20 could win a prize of

£40, £20 or £10 each month with special extra

The shop and TIC will be open on Fridays

prize of £100 in May and November. For more

between 10am and 3pm and Saturdays

information contact Barbara White Tel: 01760

720756 or jamesdean@uwclub.net





November draw - £40 No.9 / £20 No.97 / £10

No.73.

November £100 prize to be drawn later this month.

Why not join for a just £20 per annum and you

could be the lucky winner.

Celebrated BBC Producer related to Swaffham

Swaffham Celebrated Newsletter BBC Producer published related an article

BC Producer Swaffham related Plowrights. to Swaffham

t Story, a new book which traces the

producer, broadcaster and book reviewer Mr Piers Plowright


town.

arlier Earlier this year, this year, the Swaffham the Swaffham Newsletter Newsletter published published an article

wright Plowrights.

bout who recognised an The article

metal-working Plowright from about it that he The Story, had a Plowright direct family a new connection Story, book over

a which several

new book traces the


rogress

to the Plowrights Swaffham.

friends which of traces the of Plowright friends, the progress metal-working a copy of the of Plowright family the book over metalworking

Through family

several

e During the Summer he visited Swaffham with his family to find


enturies.

Swaffham Newsletter

friends over several of friends,

published

centuries. a copy

an

Through of

article

the book

local London-based links his ancestral home. and Together former with Dr BBC Sue radio

ght ventually Gattuso,

friends Story, Manager reached of a friends,

of Swaffham new London-based a copy book Heritage

of

and which the and Graham

book former traces eventually BBC the radio

WANTED – Volunteer Stewards

er roducer, and

Ferguson, reached author broadcaster book

of London-based reviewer

the Book The and Plowright book Mr and Story, reviewer Piers former Piers and Mr Plowright BBC Piers radio Plowright

For ‘front of house’ – to welcome visitors, explain

lowright metal-working family over several

ho his it family recognised that producer, looked he round had broadcaster from Plowright a it that direct Place and he which had family book at one a direct reviewer time connection

had family Mr connection Piers

Museum, work in shop and TIC. Steward sessions are

o been h the friends the Plowrights family’s main who of of industrial recognised friends, Swaffham. base for from a blacksmithing copy that he and of had the a direct Standing book outside the former workshops

3 hours – 10am-1pm, and 1-4pm

wheelwright

waffham.

and foundry work, began to unravel the built 150 years ago by Henry Plowright

d uring London-based family the Summer connection he to visited the and Plowrights Swaffham former of with Swaffham. BBC his family Contact Steve Gregory – Volunteer Co-ordinator –

are radio Piers

to

Plowright

find

and his wife Poh Sim,

he character During and work the environment Summer of he his forebears visited in Swaffham ocal

visited

links to

Swaffham

his ancestral

with

home.

his

Together

family to with

find

flanked his Dr by their Sue son Matthew and

on (01760) 721230 or 755596

ster and King’s Lynn.

family and to book find local reviewer links to Mr his Piers ancestral Plowright home. daughter Francesca.

ncestral attuso, Manager home. of Together Swaffham Heritage with Dr and Sue Graham

om The Together book, The Plowright with Dr Story, Sue Gattuso, is available Manager from Ceres

erguson, it that author he of had the a Book direct The Plowright family of connection

Swaffham

Photograph by kind permission of

Bookshop of Heritage Swaffham and and Graham Heritage, Heritage and Ferguson, also from and author WH Smith of Graham

Story, Piers and

the Francesca Book Plowright

f is Museum Opening

in Swaffham.

King’s family Lynn. looked round Plowright Place which one time had

the elebrated The Plowright BBC Story, Piers Producer and his family related looked

een the Book family’s The main Plowright industrial Story, base for Piers blacksmithing and to and Swaffham Standing outside the former workshops

Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm, a small admission charge

r he round visited Plowright Swaffham Place with at one his time family had to been find

built 150 years ago by Henry Plowright

applies. Sat 10am-1pm.

nd heelwright Plowright and Place foundry which work, and

the family’s main industrial Plowrights.

at one began time to unravel had the

base for blacksmithing

are Piers Plowright and his wife Poh Sim,

For 2019 we are offering FREE entry to the Museum

haracter ancestral and work home. environment Together of his forebears with Dr in Swaffham Sue

ain and industrial wheelwright base and for foundry blacksmithing work, and began and to Standing Standing flanked outside by outside their the son former the Matthew former workshops and workshops built 150 on Saturdays (10am - 1pm).

nd King’s Lynn.

unravel the character and work environment of his

daughter Francesca.

undry

r of

r this year, work,

Swaffham

the and Swaffham began

Heritage

to Newsletter unravel

and Graham

the

years

published

built ago

an

150 by Henry

article

years Plowright ago by are Henry Piers Plowright

and Museum will close at 1pm on Dec 21 and reopen at

of he the book, forebears Book The in The Swaffham Plowright Plowright and Story, King’s is Story, Lynn. available Piers from and Ceres his wife are 10am on Monday Feb 17 2020.

Photograph Piers Poh Sim, Plowright flanked by

by kind permission and their his son

of wife Matthew Poh Sim, and

t nvironment

ookshop The book, and Plowright Swaffham The of his Plowright forebears

Heritage, Story, Story, and a is in

also new available Swaffham

from book WH from Smith which daughter traces Francesca. the

Francesca Plowright

Museum shop will close at 1pm on Dec 21 and

ound

n Ceres

Plowright

Bookshop

Place

and Swaffham

which

Heritage,

at one

and

time

also

had flanked by their son Matthew and

ess

King’s

of

Lynn.

Photograph by kind permission of Francesca

the Plowright metal-working family over several

reopen each Friday (10-3) and Saturdays (10-1) from

main from industrial WH Smith in base King’s for Lynn. blacksmithing and Plowright

daughter Francesca.

Standing outside the former workshops January 3.

foundry wright ries. Through Story, work, is and available friends

began

of from to

friends,

unravel Ceres a

the

copy of the book

24 Photograph

built 150

by

years

kind

ago

permission

by Henry

of

Plowright

25

built 150 years ago

th outside Standing

flanked by their son

Plowright

Piers are

daughter Francesca

Bookshop and Swaffham Heritage, and also from WH Smith

Ceres

from available is Story, Plowright The book, The

Francesca Plowrigh

kind by Photograph

King’s Lynn.

Celebrated BBC Producer related to S

in

Swaffham Community Hospital LOFs

Sometimes when patients are admitted to hospital,

they do not arrive with all their basic essentials for

the stay, this is were the "friends” can help and we

provide some funding to help cover the cost of any

such needed basic essentials.

On Saturday 23d November we held another of our

coffee mornings in the Methodist Church. These

are well attended and thanks to those who helped,

those who provided the food and of course those of

you who supported the morning.

On Saturday 30th November we participated in

the Charity Fair, organised by Rotary, held in the

Assembly rooms. This has proved to be a useful day

as it enables us to publicise more of what we do in

support of our local hospital.

We have recently undertaken some substantial

trimming of large hedges and trees. Thanks again to

those on our committee who spend significant time

keeping the garden looking so great. Bulb planting

has also taken place.

We await confirmation of the delivery of the first of

our new electric bedside chairs. Once we have them

I can tell you more about their benefits to patients.

Christmas looms ahead and as in past years we will

be active in making sure staff and patients are looked

after. Amongst other things we provide funding to

ensure all patients in over Christmas receive gifts on

Christmas Morning. We will be working with hospital

staff to organise some entertainment in the build

up to Christmas. We are just about to decorate and

erect trees. We have just put up the Chrismas tree in

the parish church as part of their festival. Please visit

and support us.

If you have any spare artificial Christmas flowers or

decorations, these would be welcome. they can be

collected or left at reception.

Each year we sell Christmas Cards on behalf of our

charity, these are available at our events and also

can be purchased at the hospital reception.

I hope you enjoy the build up to the Christmas

celebrations and of course the big day itself. Spare a

thought for those who may not be able to have such

a good break.

As ever if you are interested in joining our small

committee, do ring me for an informal chat.

Colin Houghton (Chairman)

01760 336025

no prizes for the winn

Visit the

The Museum Shop

Plowrights.

Producer related to Swaffham

BBC Celebrated

about The Plowright Story, a new book which traces the

article an published Newsletter Swaffham the year, this Earlier

centuries. Through friends of friends, a copy of the book

several

over family metal-working Plowright the of progress

producer, broadcaster and book reviewer Mr Piers Plowright

radio BBC former and London-based reached eventually

to the Plowrights of Swaffham.

had a direct family connection

he that it from recognised who

local links to his ancestral home. Together with Dr Sue

find to family his with Swaffham visited he Summer the During

Ferguson, author of the Book The Plowright Story, Piers and

Graham

and Heritage Swaffham of Manager Gattuso,

been the family’s main industrial base for blacksmithing and

had time one at which Place Plowright round looked family his

character and work environment of his forebears in Swaffham

the

unravel to began and work, foundry and wheelwright

and King’s Lynn.

Plowrights.




about The Plowright Story, a new book wh

publ

Newsletter Swaffham the year, this Earlier

centuries. Through friends of friends, a cop

famil

metal-working Plowright the of progress

Friends Annual Mulled Wine Party

Join us on Sunday,

1st December in the

Community Centre at 12

noon. £8 each, pay on

the door. After the party,

celebrate the Christmas

Lights switch on in the

LOCAL HANDYMAN SERVICES

Local, reliable & professional handyman for all those

time consuming jobs around the home & garden.

• painting • laminate flooring

• kitchen fitting

• shelves & blinds • flat pack furniture

• grass cutting • strimming

• hedge trimming

• decking • planting • patios

• fencing • turfing • power washing

• chainsaw work & much more!

Call nick for a free quote

01760 720123 07396 500020

or 07376 111190

email: swaffhamhandymanservices@hotmail.com

swaffham handyman services

I would like to thank all my past &

present customers and wish you

a very good Christmas and a healthy

and properous New Year

Thank You.

Advert for Swaffham Newsletter.

Size : 1/16 Page

01760 336029

Graham Ferguson

Work with

us

Love caring for people?

• Open the door to a new

career

• Varied development

opportunities

• Great benefits package

• Minimum one hour calls

Join our charity now

and make a difference

Call our people team to

find out more about our

care worker vacancies

0345 241 0954

jobs@caringtogether.org

caringtogether.org

LET’S ALL SAY ……….

‘PANTS TO POVERTY!’

Can You Help?

Swaffham Rotary Club is collecting for Smalls for All® - a ‘pantastic’

charity that collects and distributes underwear to women and children

in Africa and the UK who need our help.

Underwear is a luxury some people can’t afford. Giving pants and bras

may seem like a small thing, but it can make a huge difference. For

example, not having underwear can mean young girls miss days off

school each month.

If you want to show us your support, pop to the shop and pick up some

new pants – or raid your bra drawer.

Here’s what we need:

New ladies’ pants sizes 8-14 (black)

New children’s pants age 3-15 (boys too!)

New or ‘gently worn’ bras

DONATE HERE:

Swaffham: Town Hall, Ceres Bookshop or Cape Amethyst

Beauty Salon

Barton Bendish 01366 347 549

Oxborough Village Hall 07810002383

www.smallsforall.org

www.swaffhamrotary.org.uk

Registered Charity no. SC041689 Registered charity no. 1061027

87 Market Place, Swaffham, Norfolk. PE37 7AQ Tel:01760721022

EAT

Have a warm relaxing and restful

sleep in one of our newly completely

refitted and refurbished rooms

choice of Doubles, Twins or Family.

Come and go as you please.

DRINK

come and enjoy our fresh homemade

food using local produce also

see our specials boards for more

choice. Please book for evening

meals with our delicious menus

SLEEP

Enjoy a refreshing cool drink with a

great choice of draught beers and

lagers also try our real ales and a

large choice of spirits and mixers.

www.redlionswaffham.co.uk E-Mail: redlionswaffham@gmail.com

Hard to choose a

present?

Give them The

Plowright Story.

A key part of

Swaffham’s

history.

“Well researched.”

• Ceres Bookshop

• Swaffham

Heritage/Museum

Even ironing!

Tracy: 01362 820 966

Caroline: 01953 882 154

Mobile: 07927 161 201

W J CLARK & SON

Painters and Decorators Est. 1970

Call us today for a free quote and experience the difference.

We offer competitive quotes on all interior and exterior jobs

TEL: 01760 - 722511

MOBILE: 07902 013785 or 07789 906854

PLEASE SEE OUR SPECIAL VOUCHER SOMEWHERE IN THIS EDITION

52 Filby Road, Swaffham, Norfolk PE37 7SX

Iceni Youth Clubs

Youthie:

8 years to 11 years Mondays 5:30pm – 7:00pm .

Youthie +:

11yrs to 13yrs Thursdays 5.30pm – 7:00pm

Youthie Hub:

14yrs to 18yrs Thursdays - 7:30pm – 9:00pm

1-2-1 support and referrals can be arranged for young

people aged 11yrs - 19yrs. Staff are happy to give

information, guidance and advice.

Call us for further details on: 01760 722800

or email iceniyouth@gmail.com.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/iceniyoungpeople

FREE drink at The Red Lion with

any main meal

when you show this voucher!

87 Market Place, Swaffham PE37 7AQ 01760 721022


EAT

come and enjoy our fresh homemade

food using local produce also

Swaffham Counselling

see our specials

and

boards

Psychotherapy

for more



Barbara O'Hanlon MA is now working from her private

practice in Swaffham. For more information or an initial

Have a warm relaxing and restful

consultation contact Barbara

SLEEP


on:

refitted and refurbished rooms

07516 choice of Doubles, 917171 Twins or Family. / barbarann688@gmail.com


www.swaffhamtherapy.co.uk

DRINK

made food using local produce also

home-

fresh our enjoy and come


more for boards specials our see


a with drink cool refreshing a Enjoy


a and ales real our try also lagers


restful and relaxing warm a Have

choice of Doubles, Twins or Family.

rooms

refurbished and refitted

Enjoy a refreshing cool drink with a


lagers also try our real ales and a



EAT


SLEEP


DRINK

www.capellacountryservices.com

• Garden maintenance & jet washing

• Splitting, chipping & fire wood deliveries

• All types of fencing undertaken

• £2m public liability

• Fully qualified • Free estimates

• 24/7 emergency call out

Get in touch to discuss your needs

t:01842 879864 m:07874 607395

e: capellatrees@gmail.com





Downham Grange

State of the art, loving care in Downham Market

Welcome to Downham Grange Care Home, a striking new

purpose-built development in Downham Market.

We provide meaningful person-centred exceptional care for those in

need of residential, respite, nursing or dementia care.

Boasting 62 en-suite bedrooms, the home has

been finished to the most luxurious standards,

with extra-wide corridors, a variety of large

spacious and comfortable lounges and dining

rooms with kitchenette areas that help to promote

independence and social inclusion.

The home has been designed to meet the needs

of people who require nursing and dementia

care. This exciting new development meets our

Kingsley care ethos, responding to individual

needs and providing the highest standards of care.

Like all Kingsley Healthcare Homes, our care is

focused around each person’s individual needs and

wishes. We value and respect how each person

chooses to spend their day.

Our strong ethos of person-centred care runs

through everything we do. Our staff are all highly

experienced and receive on-going training to make

sure that we deliver only the very best quality care.

We really want to make a difference

to the lives of the people we care for.

With this in mind we have built the

home to the highest specifications,

giving particular consideration

to making the design and layout

suitable for people living with a

dementia.

This new home will enable us to

continue to provide high-quality

surroundings and environment. It

will ensure our staff deliver quality

of service and improve the quality of

life of our residents every day.

The staff at Downham Grange go

that extra mile to make the home

feel comfortable and relaxed. We

like Downham Grange to feel like

a ‘home from home’. We encourage

people to take part in the daily living

activities as well as other ongoing

activities that take place throughout

the day.

“It took me just a few

days to feel at home

because the staff are

so welcoming and

caring”

Downham Grange Care Home

Clackclose Road, Downham Market,

Norfolk PE38 9PA

Tel 01366 387054 Fax 01366 385861

downham.manager@kingsleyhealthcare.co.uk

www.kingsleyhealthcare.co.uk

A different sort of accountant

• Sole trader accounts

• Company accounts

• Management accounts

• Buy to let returns

• VAT returns

• Tax returns

• Payroll and wages

• Business plans

• CIS returns for building trade

• Business consultancy and recovery

Come and see us for a free chat and advice session -‐ no obligation

www.gybea.co.uk

Here for you

every hour

of every day

51 Market Place, Swaffham

01760 768442

www.eastofengland.coop/funerals

email info@gybea.co.uk

7a Corn Exchange, Market Place

Next to War Memorial

01760 723830

Expert legal help and advice from

Swaffham’s most recommended solicitors

star-hal

Talk face to face with your local lawyers, at our

London Street office, who are here to help by

giving you clear and practical legal advice.

01760 721992

wardgethinarcher.co.uk

Divorce and Separation • Employment Issues • Wills, Trusts and Probate

Moving Home • Settling a Dispute • Personal Injury Claims • Commercial Services

Chatteris • Dereham • Downham Market • Ely • Heacham • King’s Lynn • Swaffham • Watton

Ashill & Holme Hale Garden Club

Website: ashillgardeningclub.wordpress.com/

Email: ashillholmehalegardenclub@gmail.com

The Making of an Exotic Garden - Presented by

Andrew Brogan

Ashill & Holme Hale Garden Club members were

treated to a tropical delight at its meeting on

October 24th. Andrew Brogan of Henstead Exotic

Garden in Suffolk gave a highly engaging talk on

how he established his stunning jungle garden

in East Anglia. The garden is some two acres in

size and although planting only started just over

decade ago it is now a mature exotic garden

which can be visited by the public. The garden has

featured on TV in 'Britain’s Best Back Garden', with

presenter Alan Titchmarsh stating that he was

“blown away to find a beautiful tropical rainforest

garden, not in Belize, but in Suffolk”! The garden

has also featured in the Daily Telegraph, Homes

and Gardens, filmed on Channel 5 and on the

BBC’s Gardener’s World.

Andrew talked of how he grew up in London

without a garden, has no formal training in the

horticulture, in fact was an insurance broker until

a decade ago, but decided to follow his dream of

developing an Jungle garden in East Anglia when

he moved to the Suffolk coast some 12 years ago.

His garden is planted with palms, banana plants,

tree ferns, bamboos and other exotic plants to

produce this “jaw-droppingly impressive garden”,

as described recently in the gardening press. What

is amazing is that starting with bare earth he has

managed to produce such a wonderful rainforest

garden in little more than a decade. Some 70

tons of rock have been brought into the garden to

produce dry stone walls that ferns grow from and

pathways taking you to fish filled ponds.

He was adamant that these jungle plants can thrive

in the East Anglian environment and that amateur

gardeners can grow these varieties in their own

garden. He stressed the importance of choosing

the hardier tropical plants, as the temperature

(and rainfall) is lower in the UK compared to

their natural environment. Andrew brought along

a large range of hardy tropical plants from his

nursery, which members quickly snapped up to

start their own Norfolk exotic garden.

The Club Christmas party is on the Thursday

December 12th, 2pm. Our January monthly

meeting is on Thursday January 23rd, 2.30pm

at Holme Hale Pavilion, when our speaker Tony

Goode will talk about “Growing Alpines for the

Time Challenged”. New members are always

welcome so please come and join us.

31

Swaffham & Litcham Home Hospice

Our Christmas draw will take place on the 7th

December. Tickets will be on sale at our office at

17-19 Brocks Road, during normal office hours,

(9am -5pm), at Tesco between the 27th and 30th

November and also at the Rotary Christmas Fayre

also on the 30th November.

On the 13th November, we were the beneficiary from

a fundraiser held at the Assembly Rooms, Swaffham

organised by Sarah and her team from Artichoke

in Swaffham. The day started with a Fashion Show

which was followed by lunch and concluded with a

guest speaker. At the time of writing this report, we

cannot say exactly what profit was made from the

event although it is likely to be in excess of £2000.

Our grateful thanks to Sarah, her team and to all

those who supported the event.

We have a couple of fundraisers planned for the early

part of 2020. For several years now we have held a

Quiz, and will be doing so again probably towards

the end of March. In addition we are talking to local

group, Pot of Gold in connection with a concert,

early in February. More details of both events will

follow in due course.

Adrian Adcock, Treasurer

Swaffham & Litcham Home Hospice Support

Swaffham Players

The lights have faded and the

set of “Up the Beanstalk Again”

has been dismantled. The show

had two very successful, and

packed, performances in the

Conservative Club in the middle

of October. Audiences, seeing

a play for the first time, often

see different aspects from the

people who have been living

with it for many weeks. The show was rather different

from the more traditional Swaffham Players’ offering,

and it was interesting to notice the different reactions.

The Friday audience enjoyed the comic aspects to the

full, while the Saturday audience picked up on the

tragedy and final despair of the leading characters.

Moving onwards, we have recently performed two mini

concerts as part of the Remembrance Commemorations

in the Parish Church and at the Conservative Club. We

will soon begin rehearsals for another change of pace,

“The Hollow Crown”, to be performed at Tutenkhamun’s

opposite the Buttercross on February 1st.

Meanwhile, our busy social schedule continues with a

soirée party, and a quiz in December.

A Merry Christmas to you all from Swaffham Players!

New friends and members are always welcome: contact

our Secretary, Nicky, on 01760 721568 for more details.

Swaffham History Group

For our October meeting the group went somewhat

outside our normal scope of interest when we invited

Richard Coates to give us a talk on Stoke Ferry.

Picture courtesy Peter Coombes

Richard was born in Stoke Ferry where his father was

the headmaster of the local school and of course it is

where Robert spent his formative years.

The talk centred around three aspects of the town:

visiting Royalty and Gentry; in Victorian times and

lastly Richard's recently published book: "A Farthing

for the Ferryman."

With a navigable river running through the town

and a small port, Stoke Ferry was once a thriving

place with various associated industries sited within

the town. When the railways came the port traffic

dwindled, and then with the demise of the railways,

the town became something of a backwater. Many

important buildings still stand, although some now

derelict with no known future. There are no shops,

pubs, banks or Post Office. However the quietness

has attracted new residents into the modern

properties being built and there is now a thriving

marina for leisure time sailors.

Please note there will be no meeting of the Group in

December but we will be meeting again as

normal in January. We send season's greetings to all

Newsletter readers.

Swaffham Jazz Club

The Art of the Trio

Guy Fawkes Night was celebrated at the club with

the return of The Art of the Trio - Phil Brookes, guitar

- Simon Brown, piano and Ivars Galenieks, double

bass. Simon was brought up in Solihull. His Dad

used to play a lot of Beethoven on their gramophone

and at the age of three, Simon was able to pick up

Beethoven’s tunes by ear and play them on the piano.

A few years on, a near neighbour - who had studied

at the Royal College of Music - heard Simon whistling

these tunes and was so impressed that he offered to

give him piano lessons. As he grew up he expanded

his repertoire listening to Radio 2 and learned many

of the 80s pop songs. He developed an interest in

jazz at his uncle’s house listening to his collection of

jazz records. When Simon was in the Sixth Form he

formed a band which specialised in playing the hits

of such artists as The Smiths, Morissey and Wham.

On leaving school he came to UEA and liked Norwich

so much that he never went back to Solihull and now

lives in the Golden Triangle. His favourite pianists are

Nat King Cole, Oscar Peterson and Bill Evans.

To me, the highlight of the first half was Dave

Brubeck’s Take Five. The second half was mainly

requests, which included an up-tempo version of

Work Song followed by a laid back rendition of Body

and Soul which ended with a beautiful solo from

Phil, with a distinctly Spanish feel. Then we had the

well known Bill Evans number Waltz for Debbie with

some terrific piano playing from Simon. We finished

the evening with Cherokee played at what must have

been the fastest tempo ever heard at the club, during

which Ivars even managed a bowed improvisation

on bass. As well as enjoying some of the best jazz

we have ever heard we also were treated to ‘After

Eights’ brought round by a young lady sharing her

raffle prize with the rest of us. She said she would be

back and bringing friends with her - so perhaps more

chocolate next time!

Next up - Tuesday 10th December at 7.30 The

Colin Mason Quartet with Eileanora on vocals and

keyboard. No meeting in January. First date in 2020

is 11th February. Entry £8

More info from Geoff 01366 328 730 or Norman

01760 722 384.

Mayor's Parlour

Dear All

Where is the time going? I can

remember in my youth thinking

how everything went so slowly, now

it’s just too fast. I put it down to the

pace of life generally and the dreaded

technology! It’s been a busy month in council, we are

getting ready for the budget on 2nd December and

trust we spend the people’s contribution wisely.

We had a meeting with Breckland recently with regard

to exchanging The Green Britain Centre with the town's

Days Field. We have to be very careful with our Due

diligence process, weighing up all the pros and cons and

making sure there is enough funds to fulfil the badly

needed facilities in the town and not just be left with a

building that in the past has not been viable. Breckland

have said they would put the Sports and Leisure in the

building, if it didn’t go here it would be back at the school

which for me would be unacceptable. They explained

these days people like individual sports now, with some

sports not being so popular. I can hardly believe this

and personally think there should be games facilities as

well and a proper Sports Hall on site. Anyway, all is to be

considered at great length before we come to you, the

people for a consultation. This will not happen at least

until the new year.

Another mission of ours at the moment is bidding for

Heritage money for the Town, this will be in conjunction

with Breckland who have been very grateful to Judy

Anscombe, Kate Gordon and Sue Gattuso for providing

them with necessary information, they make quite a

formidable team, thank you very much.

On a lighter note I spent a very enjoyable evening

seeing Swaffham Players perform at the Conservative

Club, a most enjoyable evening.

The Remembrance concert was lovely, very moving and

the Church full as usual, Brownies, Guides and cadets

of all forces, such a pleasure to see them all. Thanks to

the children at the Convent, they never fail to put on a

wonderful performance, thanks to all their hard work

and parents for bringing them along. Swaffham Players

brought back happy memories with their singing and

Richard Winch performing to the delight of everyone.

I love the Dereham Band they really were excellent.

Lastly on that I’d like to thank Barry and Anne Thorpe

for their organisation of this event plus of course all

the foot warriors that have been collecting in dreadful

weather. I had the privilege of laying the wreath on

Remembrance Sunday.

I believe Christmas is around the corner, when I write

next time, we will have had the light switch on, look

forward to seeing those who can make it.

Best wishes

Jill

32

33

In Touch With Your Town

'In Touch with your Town' is put

together by the Town Clerk Richard

Bishop or occasionally by the

Deputy Town Clerk Claire Smith. It

deals with some of the most topical items of the

day and the odd item where the Council want to

share information with the Town.

Green Britain Centre – full press release

“District and town council deal could bring Green

Britain Centre back into community use”

Breckland Council and Swaffham Town Council are

working on a deal which could bring the Green

Britain Centre back into use by local people.

The proposed deal, which is yet to be finalised, is

effectively an ‘asset swap’ and would see the town

council take ownership of the Green Britain Centre

site in exchange for handing over to the district

council the five-acre former allotment area called

Day’s Field.

The Green Britain Centre site, which is also five

acres, is on Turbine Way in Swaffham and owned

by Breckland Council. It has remained vacant since

January 2019, when the previous tenant officially

moved out.

Breckland Council has since been marketing the

building for rent or sale and received a number of

enquiries over the summer. Having evaluated the

interest received, the council has now confirmed

that its preferred bid has been submitted by

Swaffham Town Council.

While the deal is yet to be finalised, if it were

concluded successfully Swaffham Town Council

would seek to use the building as a hub for a range

of local services in the future.

Swaffham Town Mayor Cllr Jill Skinner commented:

“We’re delighted to be frontrunner to take over

this building and we have a vision of making it a

one stop shop for a variety of local services. We’ve

begun preliminary discussions with a number of

our potential partners who may be interested in

offering services from the site in the future and

we hope that it will be open to the public again in

2020. The people of Swaffham should be assured,

that before any deal is concluded, that we will

hold extensive public consultation to detail what

we have in mind, and nothing will be signed until

we are absolutely sure that we can deliver a viable

project that will meet the needs of our growing

town.”

As part of the deal, the iconic turbine next to the

Green Britain Centre would reopen to the public.

More details will be available in the new year when

it is hoped to arrange an ‘Open Day’ consultation

event from the Green Britain Centre concluding

with a public meeting.

While Breckland Council is still considering options

for Day’s Field, one option could be to promote it

for housing growth, as the site already has planning

permission for 51 homes. Another- possibility

would be to progress housing development on the

site, which would generate income for the council

while helping to meet housing demand.

Cllr Paul Hewett, Executive Member for Contracts

and Assets at Breckland Council, added:

“This deal is a very exciting prospect as it would

make the Green Britain Centre a useful resource

to the public once again, restore the turbine as a

visitor attraction, and release currently unused

land in Swaffham for potential future development.

Everybody is working hard to make this work and

if it does there will be benefits for the community

of Swaffham as well as the wider District as we

continue our ambition to help residents and

business thrive.”

Both the district and town councils are currently

undertaking due diligence processes to ensure that

the project is deliverable. It is expected that this will

take until the early spring of 2020 at which point

the outcome of the proposal will be confirmed.

Christmas Light Switch-On – Sunday 1st December

12noon – 6pm

This is just a last-minute reminder to those of

you reading your newsletter before the end of

November, that it is this Sunday 1st December.

Unfortunately, some of you may be reading this

note a little too late, so maybe next year. If you are

able to join us on Sunday 1st, then of course we will

be pleased to see you. There are full details on our

Website www.swaffhamtowncouncil.gov.uk and

of course our Facebook page and various Twitter

feeds.

Town Hall – Christmas Opening Hours

Swaffham Town Council offices at the Town Hall will

close down at 1pm on Friday 20th December and

re-open at 9.30am on Thursday 2nd January 2020.

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy

New-Year.

January Full Council

Please note our January Full Council meeting

has also been pushed back a week to 6.30pm on

Wednesday 15th January 2020, to allow time for

items to be put forward for the agenda.

Newsletter Volunteers – Thank You

A heartfelt thank you to all of our newsletter

volunteers who deliver door to door around the

Town, what a fantastic effort from you all, we really

appreciated what you do for the Town. A special

thank you to David Strong and his team of newsletter

sorters, who gather together monthly on the last

Thursday in each month to sort the thousands

of newsletters into rounds for the volunteers to

collect. A final thank you to Iceni Partnership for

the wonderful job they do in co-ordinating all of

the editorial and editing the newsletter to keep up

such a high standard for us all to read every month.

As always, we send out a plea for more volunteers

to come forward, as we would like to share out the

heavy loads for our volunteer deliverers, or provide

holiday and sickness relief, for when they can’t get

the newsletters delivered in any particular month.

If you are interested in giving a helping hand, please

let Kerry know at the Town Hall. Kerry keeps track

of all of our volunteer team (thanks Kerry!).

Mayor – Cllr Jill Skinner

The Town Council

CllrSkinner.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Deputy Mayor – Cllr Keith Sandle

CllrSandle.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Judy Anscombe

CllrAnscombe.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Lindsay Beech

CllrBeech.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Stewart Bell,

CllrBell.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Wendy Bensley

CllrBensley.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Paul Darby

CllrDarby.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Graham Edwards

CllrEdwards.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Brendan Holmes

CllrHolmes.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Colin Houghton

CllrHoughton.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Shirley Matthews

CllrMatthews.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Ian Pilcher

CllrPilcher.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Cllr. Les Scott

CllrScott.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com

Officers:

Richard Bishop – Town Clerk

townclerk@swaffhamtowncouncil.gov.uk,

@SwaffhamClerk

Claire Smith – Deputy Town Clerk

deputyclerk@swaffhamtowncouncil.gov.uk

Hannah Duggan – Office Administrator

administrator@swaffhamtowncouncil.gov.uk

Swaffham Town Council

Tel: 01760 722 922

www.swaffhamtowncouncil.gov.uk

Town Hall opening times:

Monday 9.30am – 1.00pm. 1.30pm – 4.00pm

Tuesday - Friday – 9.30a.m – 1.00pm.

Town Council Committee meeting dates

• Mon 2nd – Finance – 6.30pm - 9pm

• Tue 3rd - Transport, Access & Environment – 4pm-

5.30pm

• Wed 11th - Full Town Council - 6.30 p.m. - 9.00 p.m.

(streaming live on Facebook – @SwaffhamTownCouncil)

• Mon 16th - Market, Events & Tourism - 6.30 pm - 8pm.

• Tue 17th - Planning & Built Environment - 4pm –

5.30pm

Your Breckland District Councillors:

Cllr. David Wickerson

01760 725 741

david.wickerson@breckland.gov.uk

Cllr. Ian Sherwood

07795 236 878

ian.sherwood@breckland.gov.uk

Cllr Ed Colman - also your Norfolk County Councillor

07940 406 356

ed.colman@breckland.gov.uk / ed.colman.cllr@norfolk.gov.uk

Breckland District Council

www.breckland.gov.uk

01362 656 870. For all enquiries regarding: Planning,

Refuse Bins, Housing, Recycling, Licensing & Benefits.

Highway issues

Norfolk County Council – www.norfolk.gov.uk

– 0344 800 8020

For Highway issues & faulty street lights:

- Highways - please give the location of the issue and

a telephone number where further information can

be obtained.

- Faulty streetlights – please give the precise location

of the light and the number on the column.

Alternatively visit the website and search for

Highways or Street Lights to report your concerns.

34

35

Make more of

your visit and enjoy

delicious home-made

delights in our superb

Downham Market

Homestore Café

From gifts to toys, furniture to finishing touches, you’ll find

everything you and your home needs at Reeds.

reedshomestore.co.uk | find us on facebook

Reeds Furniture, Bed Centre & Homestore | Bridge Street, Downham Market PE38 9DS | 01366 382213

Reeds Furniture, Flooring & Bed Centre | Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely CB6 3NX | 01353 669754

Reeds Toy Store | Unit 7 Wales Court, Downham Market PE38 9JZ | 01366 383429

Swaffham Newsletter

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?