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April 2020
Your free town newsletter published by Iceni Partnership
SWAFFHAM
newslet ter
NEWS EVENTS INFORMATION
Easter activities spring up
across Swaffham this April
From Merle Boddy Centre to Swaffham Lions & more...
The club meetings during February saw a full evenings presentation by one of the experts
from Permajet explaining how to "Print with Confidence". Printing is of course the final link
of the chain in the camera to photo album process. Many of our members embark on this
process at home, sometimes with unpredictable results. It is perhaps the most complicated
activity because of the number of variables that can, if not properly accounted for, make or
break the photograph.
After this presentation, which included opportunities to both ask questions and receive
answers, members left feeling many of the mysteries of the subject had been resolved. The
speaker will return later this year to further elaborate on the subject, and practically
demonstrate the effect of using different paper finishes. He will during his presentation be
using image files provided by club members. .
Photos from April 2019
Our second meeting of the month saw 36 recent printed images covering a diverse range of
subjects set before an external judge who by his expert scoring assisted the club in
producing its entry for April's Interclub competition with Lakenheath Camera Club. As we
will keep the images under wraps until the competition we regret none can be reproduced
in this article.
REGULARS
Nicholas
Hamond
Academy
p.6
Swaffham
Camera
Club
p.22
The first meeting in March allowed
members to show off and explain some of
their favourite images.
Trevor Vincent's "Half Full" as shown
apparently took 400 attempts, and saw
him sternly banished from the kitchen.
Regrettably due to Corona Virus
precautions the Club's trip to the
Photography Show at the NEC has had to
be postponed,
Wissey
U3A
p.26
published by
1
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.
Advertisers - We operate an industry standard
pre-paid system of billing. The rates on the right
were subject to a small increase beginning April
2020, in line with production costs.
Contents
4 Upcoming Events / Regular Events
6 School Speak
7 WI Groups/Magpie Centre
8 Church News
10 Merle Boddy Centre
11 Swaffham Lions
13 Gardening Club/SCALGA
17 Rotary President's Corner
18 Swaffham Town Bowls Club /Jazz Club
20 Swaffham WEA/Hospital LOFs
22 Swaffham Camera Club
23 FOSM/Swaffham Climate Action
24 VE Day Celebration
26 U3A/Home Hospice
28 Silver Social/W.Norfolk Aviation Society
29 History Group /Swaffham Arts/ Mayor's Parlour
30 Town Council
The Cold War In The Brecks
The Cold War in the Brecks (1949 - 1991) is a project run
by the Breckland Society, with a grant from the Heritage
Lottery Fund. The project is researching the role the
Brecks and its people played through the Cold War. We
are looking for the human stories of an important and
fascinating period of our recent history. The research
will form the basis for an illustrated colour report which
will be available free to members of the public.
We are looking for people who remember the period
to spend a little time with one of our interviewers
talking about their experience of the Cold War. We
are interested in memories of service personnel and
civilian employees of the various airbases and military
installations in the area. We are also particularly
interested in people who protested against nuclear
weapons, members of the CND or other peace
organisations, or people involved with peace camps.
If you can help please contact us at:
secretary.brecsoc@gmail.com
Operation No Cold Shoulder
Do you (or someone you know) sometimes feel lonely
or socially isolated?
As social interactions in
communities decline,
people’s feelings of
loneliness can skyrocket.
Eden Project’s loneliness
survey found that almost
7 out of 10 adults in the
UK often feel lonely. While 10% of people over 65 feel
lonely all the time according to the Campaign to End
Loneliness. Feelings of loneliness and social isolation
can impact negatively on people’s health and overall
wellbeing.
Operation No Cold Shoulder is a year-long project
funded by the National Lottery Community Fund
that aims to tackle loneliness and social isolation.
The project is being run by a partnership of Norfolk
charitable organisations including Age UK Norfolk,
Community Action Norfolk (CAN), Creative Arts East,
Future Projects and West Norfolk Befriending.
The project is running in Swaffham and Litcham from
April 2020 until March 2021 and offers free support
to people who are feeling lonely or socially isolated
including:
Free Arts Workshops for people aged 18+ - call Lea on
01953 713398 or email lea@creativeartseast.co.uk
Free Telephone befriending for people aged 60+ - call
01603 785 223 or email:
befriending@ageuknorfolk.org.uk
Operation No Cold Shoulder also offers help for
communities to set up ongoing support schemes called
Good Neighbour Schemes if they want to.
Good Neighbour Schemes run in various towns and
villages in Norfolk. They are run by local people and aim
to help those most in need in their community through
practical help with things such as lifts to appointments
or to go shopping, simple DIY tasks, dog walking or just
having a cuppa and a chat.
A 2019 report ‘Closing the Distance Between Us’ which
was commissioned by The Big Lunch found that:
• More than half of the UK feel distant from their
neighbours
• 1 in 5 people in the UK have never spoken to their
neighbours
• A fifth have no-one in their neighbourhoods outside
their immediate family they could call on if they needed
help or support
• 76% believe that people were closer to their
neighbours 20 years ago than they are today
• Three quarters believe it would be better for our
communities if we were closer to our neighbours, but
the same proportion feel there are barriers to doing so
Good Neighbour Schemes are a way to bring back
neighbourliness! Call Tracey on 01362 698216 or email
tracey.allan@communityactionnorfolk.org.uk
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 07745 714249 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 courses for Beginners and Intermediate level 10.30am –
12.30pm at The Tea Room ,Ceres Book Shop. Booking essential. Contact Caroline
Partridge on 07880 742657 or email caroline@thepartridges.net
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
Knit it. Hook it. Stitch it- a new group for knitters, crocheters and stitchers
who would like to meet on the 2nd and 4th Monday of the month from 7pm -
9pm. April days will differ due to Easter, so join us on April 6th and 27th. £3 per
session to cover room hire at The Church Room, Church of Our Lady of Pity, 31
Station Rd, Swaffham PE37 7HP. Contact Caroline Partridge on 07880 742657.
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. Call 01842 879140 or email 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
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 6pm - 7pm 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
Arts & Crafts, Textiles and Dressmaking at The Old Art Room
93 Market Place. Techniques, Tips, Inspiration in a modern equipped Art &
Textile Studio. 9.30am until 11.45am, and, 12.30pm until 2.45pm. £10. 01760
337181
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, North Pickenham, PE37 8LG Tuesdays 7 –
9pm £10 joining fee, then £3 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
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
Health Walks and Wildlife Rambles - Every Thursday 10:30am to
noon at The Grange in Great Cressingham. Everyone welcome but sorry no
dogs. Contact Chris on coordinator@thegrangenorfolk.org.uk or 01760756029
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.
The Meeting Place 10am - 12 noon, Swaffham Methodist Church.
Royal British Legion, Swaffham & District Branch 8pm, 3rd Tuesday
Swaffham Conservative Club. Tel: Jo Scott 01760 721277.
4
The Royal Elizabethan Lodge Meets alternate Tuesdays, 8pm in the
Conservative Club. Contacts for further information are: W Rogers Tel: 01760
720632 or D Winner Tel: 07787 927691
Swaffham Rugby Football Club Tuesday Seniors Training 7:30 - 9
Slimming World 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm at Stanley's. Use
Asda's carpark. Edyta 07428 516814
Swaffham St John Ambulance Cadets 7.15pm until 8.45pm,10 to 17
year olds. Natalie Rudd on 07771620634/natalie.rudd@btinternet.com
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
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
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.
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
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.
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
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
Arts & Crafts, Textiles and Dressmaking at The Old Art Room
93 Market Place. Techniques, Tips, Inspiration in a modern equipped Art &
Textile Studio. 10am until 12.15pm, and, 12.45pm until 3pm. £10. 01760
337181
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.
Happidojo Marham Judo Club Sandringham Centre PE33 9NP Contact
Colin McCallum on 07905 278857 or www.happidojomarhamjudoclub.btckco.
uk for details.
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
Move it or Lose it Club Exercise classes for the over 60s. Thursdays from
11am till 12.30pm in the Ball Room at 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
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
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.
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
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
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
Coffee Morning At Ashill Community Centre 2nd Friday every
month, 10am until noon. 01760 441 651
Embroidery with Brenda Sortwell at The Old Art Room. 93 Market
Place, Swaffham. Techniques, tips, and inspiration. 10am until 2pm. £18. 01760 337181.
Swaffham’s Green Gym Friday 8.30am Recreation Ground, Haspalls Rd
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.
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
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
SATURDAY
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
Comedy Club every 2nd and last saturday of the month 4/5 acts for an
evening of laughter at The Red Lion, Swaffham. In aid of prostate UK. For more
info call 01760 721022.
Karaoke every 2nd and last saturday of the month after comedy club at The
Red Lion, Swaffham. For more info call 01760 721022.
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
Swaffham Market Traditional market, now 800 years old! Every Saturday
6am until 3pm. Swaffham Market Place. Details 01760 722 922
SUNDAY
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
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
and 6:30pm to 8:30pm Service at Swaffham Community Centre
*Please be aware that these listings were known to be correct at the time
of press, but may be subject to change due to the corona virus outbreak.
5
Swaffham Emergency Action Group
We are a group set up to help the people of
Swaffham through the Covid 19 crisis we are all
facing. We are here to help those in isolation to
get things they need or just to be there for a chat.
We are made up of Swaffham and surrounding area
residents.
We understand what is ahead and want to do our
bit for the community. We have a Facebook page
and many helping hands there to aid in all different
ways, be it as a friendly chat to calm or advise you
or collecting your shopping or prescriptions. We
are here as helpers and will be throughout this
crisis, maybe even longer.
We are a strong group of like minded people. We
are open to all, so come see what we have to offer
or just join in to help. Even if you are stuck at home,
we need you. You never know what you can do until
you try. Please, if you have any needs and are not
a social media user we have phone contact as well.
We are hoping to set up a 24/7 contact system. You
can all Mark Grady on 01760 336773.
Shoe Box Collection
'The response of the local community today
has been nothing less than amazing, it has been
likened by some to a revival of a British war time
spirit. With so many offers of help we would like to
open an appeal for the community to start putting
together donated show boxes full of items you feel
might be useful to isolated people. These boxes can
be filled with anything that you think will help from
biscuits to games and toilet rolls to sanitary items.
These can be dropped off at the White Hart pub at
your convenience and we will use the fantastic list
of volunteers to help get these to people in need.'
The Nicholas Hamond Academy
“The room was warm and clean, the
curtains drawn …” The classic short tale
of ‘The Lamb to the Slaughter’ unfolded
lesson by lesson throughout the day as students
took part in shared reading. As part of World Book
Day our readers in Year 7 to 9 enjoyed this ‘story
with a twist’ from the celebrated author, Roald
Dahl, learning of a very usual murder weapon and
an ingenious method of disposal!
On a rather more charitable note our students were
keen to raise funds for Sports Relief by ‘paying’ to
dress in non-uniform. The ‘chinking of change’ and
‘shaking of money buckets’
full of £1 coins greeted
everyone who entered the
Academy whether it be staff
or students. Keen to raise
even more money, the rather
more ‘sporty’ students joined the Fun Run on the
main field.
Still thinking of charity our students in Year 10 plan
to raise money to buy Easter Eggs for the children
in the Local Hospice to be
delivered by the East Anglian
Off-Roaders Club. We will keep
you posted on their efforts.
Meanwhile, frying pans at the
ready, our intrepid team of pancake flippers entered
the annual pancake race in the town organised by
the Swaffham and District Lions Club. As the sun
shone they followed the age old tradition competing
for the highly sought after winners ‘engraved frying
pan’. Just pipped at the post in the final heat, we
are eagerly looking forward to trying our skills at
next year’s event!
Also demonstrating great skill, one of our students
found that he had quite a talent when on a recent
trip out of school beating a professional gymnast
at ‘planking’. Year 10 students from TNHA visited
the Norfolk Skills & Careers Festival in Norwich
where they were able to discover the vast range
of opportunities available to them. With over 100
exhibitors from a wide range of industries, the
event was designed to inspire students to turn their
favourite subjects into the qualifications they may
need to either apply for apprenticeships, jobs or to
study a degree.
Finally, despite admitting to being “total novices”,
the Bond-Green family, who have two children
studying with us, have had amazing success at Crufts
no less! Their gorgeous home bred puppy, a French
bulldog classed as a utility breed, appeared in the
minor puppy class for those aged 6 to 9 months.
She emerged the winner and certainly as far as we
are concerned - the absolute ‘Star of the Show.’
What an amazing experience for the family and of
course the wonderful ‘Pale Tulip’ herself. We look
forward to hearing more about her undoubtedly
very bright future.
Swaffham Primary Academy
Swaffham Mayor Turns Storyteller As She Visits
School To View Progress On New Early Years Centre
Swaffham Mayor Jill Skinner turned storyteller when
she visited a town primary school on World Book
Day. Mrs Skinner attended a special assembly at
Swaffham Primary Academy where she presented
prizes for the best book-related costumes – and then
held the rapt attention of the school’s Year 3 as she
read them ‘Stick Man’, written by former Children's
Laureate Julia Donaldson.
The Mayor was visiting the school to check up on
progress on the new Early Years Centre, which will
open in September when the school welcomes
its first Reception class. The transformation and
extension of an existing building at the school will see
the creation of a state-of-the-art facility with large
classrooms, outdoor spaces and break-out areas.
Mrs Skinner toured the building with chair of
governors Mike Dwyer and head teacher Nicola
Kaye. The creation of the new centre is being
funded by Norfolk County Council and the Diocese
of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT).
The interior fit-out will start later this month and the
centre will be officially handed over in August.
“We were delighted to welcome the Mayor into our
school and show her the progress we are making as
we transform ourselves into a full primary school,”
said Mrs Kaye. “It was a lovely surprise when she
brought several books with her and then read one to
our Year 3 group to mark World Book Day.”
Beachamwell WI
The March meeting of Beachamwell
WI saw a number of visitors attending,
along with our members to hear a
very interesting talk and presentation about the many
wonderful gardens open to visitors in East Anglia by
Simon White of Peter Beale’s in Attleborough. The
avid gardeners amongst us had many questions on
gardening ranging from how best to deal with slugs to
how to stop Muntjac grazing on our garden borders! Mr
White was up to the challenge and gave us lots of good
tips. We came away from the meeting enlightened and
determined to become better gardeners.
Due to local elections, our April meeting has been
moved to Tuesday 31st March, same time, same place.
Our speaker will be Brenda Packman of the Associated
Country Women of the World talking about how the
organisation supports urban and rural communities
around the world. New members are always welcome
but even if you are not thinking of joining the WI but
are interested in one of our talks them please come
along on the first Thurs
day of each month at Beachamwell Village Hall starting
at 7.30pm. There is a small charge of £3.50 per visitor
(refreshments are included). Any enquires, please
contact Maggie on 01366 327023 or Helen on 01366
328589.
Swaffham WI
Our last meeting was held at Swaffham
Methodist Church on Wednesday
4th March at 2pm as usual. We were
given a talk and photo presentation on the history of
the Norfolk Broads by Pete Goodrum. This was very
interesting and we learnt a great deal about the history
and development that makes you definitely want to
visit the broads again. A great number of members
attended plus some more visitors.
Details were given on future events including a service
on 6th March at the Methodist Church to celebrate
International Women's Day. Also dates given for those
interested in knit & natter, 10 pin bowling or card making
plus an organised evening visit to Hotters shoe shop
and details of V.E. Day celebrations in Swaffham on 8th
May. There was also a lovely collection of W.I. knitted
Teddies all made for forwarding to needy children or
those about to go into hospital for company. Plus a very
pretty competition of small flower arrangements.
Our next meeting will be on Wednesday 1st April at
2pm in the Methodist Church. The speakers will be Jo
and Sam about an exercise class they hold in Swaffham
& other venues for the over 60s entitled 'Move it or Lose
it' which should prove very interesting. Do come and
join us even if just for a visit, you are always welcome.
For more information phone 01760 336049.
6
7
Pickenhams' WI
Our afternoon began with our
speaker Georgie Bell with her talk
'Merle Boddy Centre, Past and
Present'. Georgie is an inspirational speaker and
she gave us all an insight into caring for people
with dementia. Georgie outlined the importance of
training for staff and helpers, with the use of games
to draw out reminiscences often long forgotten. "Be
kind" is Georgie's mantra - it was a fascinating and
often entertaining talk. Georgie also judged our
competition for 'A photo of you in the 1970s' - the
winner was Kay with her wedding photo.
Then it was time for our meeting including a birthday
posy for Treasure. Our President, Carolyn ran through
some of our activities over recent weeks. We had
enjoyed our 'Coffee & Chat' at the Iceni Cafe and
the WI had almost had a team at the Quiz at the
Pickenham Hub; in fact it was the winning team! We
will be holding our litter pick of the village on Sat
18th April, meeting at the Hub at 9.00am to collect
litter pickers and high vis jackets and then returning
for a Brunch! Iris had brought some wartime recipes
along for members to try making in preparation for
our WI birthday tea, celebrating 70 years of our WI.
Other outings are planned - 'Coffee & Chat' at the
White Hart on 31st March and the Artist's Garden
on 15th April. We then closed our meeting by saying
together the Alberta Creed.
Future Plans - (correct at time of press, but could be
subject to change due to the coronavirus outbreak)
• The Artist's Garden - Wed 15th April - Campingland
Community Room.
• Women Walk the World 2020 - Sat 2nd May; meet
at 2pm at the church for a walk to St Mary's Houghton
on the Hill and back; £2 each for charity + a raffle and
tea & biscuits back at the church.
• WI Birthday Tea - Thurs 14th May in Iris's garden at
2.30pm.
Enquiries welcome - Carolyn Vincent - 01760 755089
- Melanie Cousins - 01760 440456
St Peter & St Paul’s Swaffham Parish Church present...
A Concert of Sea Shanties and Folk Songs
performed by
Pot of Gold Swaffham Shanty Crew
Saturday 25 th April, 7.30pm in the church
Tickets £8 incl. refreshments
Tickets available from:
• Ceres Bookshop, London Rd, Swaffham
• Just Hair, Station St, Swaffham
• Normal Revill, 07530 898833
Proceeds for church funds. Registered charity no. 1134160
8
Swaffham Methodist Church
Wed 1st April 6pm-7pm. Sing a New Song for Lent.
Thurs 2nd April 10am-12noon. The Meeting Place
drop in. Open to all who fancy a cuppa and a chat.
Thurs 2nd April 7pm. Churches Together Lent talk.
Fri 3rd April 9.30am. Power of Prayer followed at
10.15am by Lent Bible Study.
Sat 4th April 9.30 - 12noon. Coffee Morning in aid
of Church funds.
Sun 5th April 10.45am. Morning Worship followed
by refreshments.
Mon 6th April 9.30am. Meditation for Lent.
Tues 7th April 10am-12noon. The Meeting Place
drop in with Traidcraft stall. Pause for Thought at
11am.
Wed 8th April 6pm-7pm. Sing a New Song for Lent.
Thurs 9th April 10am-12noon, The Meeting Place
drop in. All welcome. 2.30pm-4pm, Thursday Group.
"Roger's Collectables " with Roger Newstead.
Thurs 9th April 7pm. Churches Together Lent Talk.
Fri 10th April Good Friday walk of witness, 10am
parish church, then to Buttercross, followed by
tragedy to triumph and hot x buns at Methodist
Church.
Sat 11th April 9.30am-12noon. Coffee Morning
organised by the Swaffham Players.
Sun 12th April Easter Sunday. 10.45am, the cross is
transformed from one of tragedy to one of triumph.
Christ is risen. Refreshments served.
Tues 14th April 10am-12noon. The Meeting Place
drop in. All welcome.
Thurs 16th April 10am-12noon. The Meeting Place
drop in. All welcome.
Fri 17th April 9.30am. Power of Prayer.
Sat 18th April 9.30am-12noon. Coffee Morning in
aid of JMA.
Sun 19th April 10.45am. Morning Worship followed
by refreshments.
Tues 21st April 10am-12noon. The Meeting Place
drop in.
Thurs 23rd April 2.30pm-4pm. Thursday Group with
guest speaker Mrs. Frances Barker talking about
Valentine Barker Court.
Fri 24th April 9.30am. Power of Prayer.
Sat 25th April 9.30am-12noon. Coffee Morning in
aid of Church funds.
Sun 26th April 10.45am. Morning Worship followed
by refreshments. All welcome.
Tues 28th April 10am-12noon. The Meeting Place
drop in. All welcome.
Thurs 30th April 10am-12noon. The Meeting Place
drop in. All welcome.
The Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul
The April services in Swaffham parish church should
be as follows, however in view of the coronavirus
pandemic please check the Swaffham Parish Church
website, or information in church, for the latest
situation, as changes are inevitable:-
Wednesday 1st
10.00am Holy Communion (BCP)
Palm Sunday 5th
8.00am Holy Communion
9.30am Sung Eucharist (with palm crosses)
6.00pm Evensong (BCP)
Wednesday 8th
10.00am Holy Communion (BCP)
Maundy Thursday 9th
8.00pm Eucharist of the Last Supper
then Watch till midnight
Good Friday 10th
10.00am The Churches Together Act
of Witness beginning in the Parish Church then
processing to the Methodist Church.
Holy Saturday 11th
8.00pm
Easter Sunday 12th
8.00am
9.30am
Wednesday 15th
10.00am
Sunday 19th
8.00am
9.30am
11.15am
Wednesday 22nd
10.00am
Sunday 26th
8.00am
9.30am
Wednesday 29th
10.00am
NB
Sunday 3rd May
8.00am
9.30am
6.00pm
Easter Vigil and
first Eucharist of Easter
Holy Communion
Sung Eucharist – All Age Eucharist
Holy Communion (BCP)
Holy Communion
Sung Eucharist
Family Service
Holy Communion (BCP)
Holy Communion
Sung Eucharist
Holy Communion (BCP)
Holy Communion
Sung Eucharist
Evensong (BCP)
Easter Flowers In The Parish Church - Reminder
The church flower group will be arranging the Easter
flowers again this year. If you would like to contribute
to the cost of these flowers, perhaps in memory of a
loved one, please give your donation and the name of
the person being remembered to one of the Church
Wardens: - Sheila Fowler or Mike Stenning.
The Mothers’ Union
The Swaffham branch of the MU usually meets on the
2nd Thursday of the month in the Baptist Rooms –
however on government and diocesan advise all future
meetings have been suspended for the foreseeable
future. Enquiries to Julia on 720041
Buzzbox
Those interested in our Buzzbox activities (activities
for young families) are invited to our Family Service
at 11.15am on the third Sunday of each month (not
9
August or December) which will incorporate some of
these. Further Buzzbox sessions to be arranged in due
course.
Coffee Morning
in aid of the fund to provide the working capital for
this year’s summer Flower Festival. St George’s Day –
Thursday 23rd April 2020 in the Parish Church, 10.00am
– 12 noon £3.00pp (Coffee/Tea and cake). There will
also be a Raffle and a Tombola.
The Parish Church – Concert
The Parochial Church Council – PCC - is delighted that
the Swaffham Shanty Crew “Pot of Gold” will again be
performing a concert in the Parish Church on Saturday
25th April as part of the parish church’s fund-raising
efforts (see the advert elsewhere in this Newsletter).
Tickets cost £8 (including refreshments) and are
currently available through Ceres Bookshop in London
Road, Just Hair in Station Street and also Norman Revill
from whom further details may be obtained Tel 07530
898833. Please support this concert.
Advance Notice: Afternoon Tea
MAY DAY, Friday 1st May 2020 in the Parish Church,
2.00pm – 4.00pm. £4.00 pp. ‘Bring and Buy’ stall and
a raffle.
Churches Together Lent Meetings
Lent is the period of 40 days beginning on Ash
Wednesday, which comes before Easter in the
Christian calendar and is a season of reflection and
preparation before the celebrations of Easter, during
which Christians recall Jesus Christ's sacrifice and
withdrawal into the desert for 40 days. During this
period members of the congregations of the churches
that are involved in Churches Together in Swaffham
and District, as a demonstration of Christian unity, hold
evening meetings together every year, and the date of
the remaining evening meeting is on April 2nd in the
Methodist Chapel at 7.00pm. Everyone and anyone are
invited to the meeting.
Good Friday
At the Churches Together Meeting on the 11th March
we finalised plans for the Act of Witness on Good
Friday. We shall begin the service at the Parish Church
at 10:00am and then process to the Methodist Church
for the final part of the service. Everyone is welcome
to join us to mark this important day in the Christian
calendar. Please check with the church noticeboards for
possible changes to these arrangements
Annual General Meeting
At our May AGM on the 6th May our speaker will be
Michael Upton from the Samaritans. Again, all are
welcome to come along to hear him speak. The AGM
will be held in the Catholic Church Rooms at 7:00pm.
Food Bank
Just a reminder that the Foodbank may well have
increased demand for food and toiletries during the
present coronavirus pandemic. Tinned soup, tinned
fruits, tinned rice pudding, biscuits and toiletries are
really needed, however there is no need for any more
donations of baked beans, thank you!
Merle Boddy Centre
To celebrate St David's day we made
dragons and the Welsh flag fluttered
over a day of all things Welsh. As
a romantic note love spoons were
created and displayed, we found out these spoons
are handed down through the generations ours may
not be but they were fun to create and make.
Swaffham & District Lions
Alistair Cairns, from the Pedlars
Hall Café in Swaffham, generously
started a raffle in aid of Swaffham
Lions. Following a trial period which
raised over £100 for the Lions, Alistair is running the
draw, with a meal for four as the prize monthly. Lion
David Elsom thanked the café for their support and
said that the donations will go a long way to help
Lions' local good causes.
Swaffham Lions were attending a charity walk in aid
of a youngster battling with cancer. A total of £1000
was raised for Esme Lambert through a glow walk.
The Swaffham Lions mascot turned up for the walk
and was arrested by the police in a light-hearted
moment.
Here at the centre we had 3 days of pancakes for a
sweet so everyone could enjoy this treat served with
lemon and sugar, ice cream and maple syrup and
the third day was apple and toffee sauce. Pancakes
galore and much enjoyed by all. We had our own
version of tossing the pancake which promoted
many giggles.
I was invited to talk to Age Concern, I had a lovely
afternoon talking about the Merle Boddy Centre
and the things we do. Thank you to everyone who
attended and made me feel so welcome.
I have been doing this wonderful job for 31 years
now and I am lucky that I still believe there is more
positive than negative in the world. For example,
every month we have a young man who donates a
large amount of our treats, such as biscuits and cake,
along with Swaffham Baptist Church who donate
their Harvest Festival goodies. We also have people
who bring us craft materials, most of which we would
never be able to afford. Of course we are in the food
share project which really helps with producing our
meals and being able to give all the extras we give
throughout the day. We also rely on the generosity
of money donations. Without all these wonderful
donations our provisions would be a little more basic,
so it's always nice to give a little bit extra to all our
clients. They may not always realise what they have,
but my staff and myself do and we will always strive
to give 100% so thank you to all our supporters. You
are truly well thought of and, of course, you all hold
a special place in our hearts .
Thank you to the customers and staff of The Gift
Gallery Swaffham for your kind donation of £55, it is
very much appreciated.
The Magpie Centre
Tea With A Pony Sessions Start At Magpie Centre
Following a successful pilot session last November, the
first Tea with a Pony event is scheduled to take place
at the Magpie Centre, home of West Norfolk Riding
for the Disabled Association, at Wallington Hall, South
Runcton, PE33 0AP on April 22. These sessions are
planned to take place every month during the summer.
Designed for people living with dementia, and their
carers, the session will include tea and cakes, plus the
chance for participants to meet and greet some of the
ponies and view the wheelchair-friendly carriages which
are used in carriage driving lessons. There will also be
a ‘sensory table’ with items of tack and grooming kit
for participants to handle and to provide a stimulus
for conversation. The cost is £10 per participant and
carer, so if you or anyone you know would like to attend
please call the Centre on 01553 810202 to register your
interest. Volunteers are also needed to make and serve
tea and cakes, so if you can help with these tasks your
assistance will be warmly welcomed.
Swaffham Lions held their annual Pancake Races
outside the Swaffham Assembly Rooms with sixteen
teams from Scared Heart, Nicolas Hamond and the
Church of England Primary School together with
teams from Ward Gethin Archer the atmosphere was
electric. The teams of two were drawn from a hat
for the competition, over four rounds, with the final
being contested by teams
from the Scared Heart
and Nicolas Hamond.
The eventual winners,
after a very close three
race final, were Matilda
Ahrenfelt and Rosabel
Pickard from the Sacred
Heart School. This is the
third time the school has
won the engraved frying
pan trophy, which was
presented by Lion David
Elsom. One spectator said that it's about keeping
traditions going and creating memories for years to
come, the day I ran in the Swaffham Pancake Race.
Swaffham Lions welcomed two guests to their regular
monthly meeting including Peter Wood the President
of Newbury Lions, who gave the club an insight into
the workings of their
club. Nicola Claxton
the President of
Swaffham Lionesses
talked about the
challenges the
Lioness faced and
the future of the
Lionesses in Swaffham. Both Lions clubs exchanged
their banners as a sign of friendship.
Due to the Coronavirus, and in line with many
other organisations, Swaffham Lions have cancelled
fund raising and social events until the end of
June, including the World Quiz for the Kings Lynn
Samaritans. The club will reassess the programme at
the end of June.
One important activity not cancelled is taking food
collected in Swaffham to the Dereham distribution
centre and returning with made up boxes for families.
Last week the Lions brought back 50 boxes of food to
be distributed from the Baptist Church in Swaffham.
10
11
2:09/3:10
WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS – QUEEN
RESIDENTIAL CARE | DEMENTIA CARE | RESPITE CARE | SHORT BREAKS
* Non refundable deposit of £25 required.
Silver Bangle Workshop
with C laire Howard
followed by a buffet lunch
Sunday 21 st June
11am - 2pm
Swaffham Assembly Rooms
Using a variety of stamps and hammers you will create
a stunning cuff style bangle.
At the end of the session, you will take away a beautiful cuff
gift wrapped in a little pillow box- the perfect gift for you or
for someone special!
All materials and tools included, along with lots of help and
guidance for a perfect piece of handmade unique jewellery!
Tickets £55 each (or two for £100)
Limited spaces, so book now to avoid dissapointment
Call Iceni Partnership on 01760 722800
We are the
champions
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.
And hearing their laughter
is music to our ears.
The Paddocks
45 CLEY ROAD, SWAFFHAM, PE37 7NP
CALL 01760 722920 TO ARRANGE YOUR VISIT
www.castlemeadowcare.co.uk
Ashill & Holme Hale Garden Club
Website: ashillgardeningclub.wordpress.com/
Email: ashillholmehalegardenclub@gmail.com
The Art of Willow Weaving - demonstrated by
Jonathan Carrie
The 63 garden club members who attended our
February meeting were treated to a fascinating display
of craftsmanship by master basket weaver Jonathon
Carrie. Jonathon who hails from Norfolk and runs
Norfolk Hedge Baskets demonstrated how to make a
willow basket. Jonathon started by explaining the tools
he uses, which have not really changed for centuries,
including a bodkin, pruning knife, ruler and secateurs.
He explained the difference between the two types
of willow used. Brown willow, which is dried naturally
after cutting with its bark still on and soaked for about a
week before using and buff willow, which is boiled after
harvesting and the bark stripped off so it is easier to use
and only needs soaking for an hour before use. Jonathon
then proceeded to firstly weave the base for the basket
from 5 pieces of willow, the number of pieces used
dictating the diameter of the basket base. He then used
19 pieces of brown willow to weave the sides of basket,
the odd number required so the weave alternates as
the wall of the basket is constructed. The handle of the
basket is made using a thick piece of buff willow around
which is wrapped 6 thinner pieces of brown willow,
3 coming from either end of the handle. Jonathon
completed weaving a lovely willow basket from start to
finish in around 50 minutes. While also explaining each
step in construction and answering questions from
an engrossed and appreciative audience. For novices
you can also learn this skill as Jonathon runs day-long
courses at Norfolk Hedge Baskets.
The art of basket weaving used to be a common trade
across East Anglia in yesteryear, when weavers would
serve a 5 year apprenticeship to learn their trade.
Baskets were used widely in the fishing ports of Norfolk
and Suffolk, as a basket was used as legal measure
for the sale for fish. Jonathon is now one of very few
professional basket weavers left in Norfolk
Our next monthly meeting is on March 26th at 2.30pm
at Holme Hale Pavilion when our speaker Chris Deakin
will demonstrate “Garden Design”. Our April meeting is
on Thursday April 23rd when Lady Mole Catcher, Louise
Chapman demonstrates how to catch this menace to
our lawns. New members are always welcome so come
along and join us.
13
SCALGA
Greetings from the Allotments.
As I have to get this report in a month ahead
unfortunately our news is slightly old. At the beginning
of March we had more wind, more rain, more damage
but later things seemed to be drying up and the sun
came out for a while. This gave us all hope to get
busy rotovating, planting potatoes, broad beans etc.
I have chanced sowing some tomato seeds as after
Swaffham Glass kindly replaced 9 panes of glass in our
old greenhouse, despite being frantically busy repairing
other damage. They did not need a crystal ball to know
why I was phoning. I am afraid we won’t be replacing
our large poly tunnel, you tend to get the idea that the
elements have beaten us after two disasters.
A good friend kindly gave me a large bag of dried peas
so that I could make Mushy Peas. Unfortunately my
attempt was not very successful so I experimented by
planting a few in pots. 10 days later I had wonderful,
strong, pea shoots.
I’m not sure whether a
different pea is used for
drying? I am certainly
going to have a go. Waste
not want not.
We have not had any
get togethers so far this
year. Our first committee
meeting of 2020 was held
on the 4th of March. It was nice to catch up with others
and we were able to discover what had been happening
in our various sites over the winter. It was decided to
hold our SCALGA AGM on the 20th May.
The Council have resumed their monthly walk round of
the plots. Our representative attends with Kerry from
the Council. This is a good combination as there may be
a plot that seems untended but SCALGA may know that
the plot holder is ill, or on the other hand the Council
may have information that we do not. This avoids poor
information due to lack of communication.
Spring Planting
You can plant trees, shrubs and perennials at any time of
the year except when the soil is frozen or waterlogged,
as long as they are container grown. This is because
most plants we buy from the garden centre or nurseries
have been grown in containers and spent all their life in
pots of varying sizes, so their roots are completely selfcontained.
Plants that have just been dug out of the
ground whilst in active growth are less likely to survive.
NEVER PLANT A DRY PLANT.
We still have 2 starter plots available on Shouldham
Lane. The pricing is as follows:-
1st plot £2 per month, Second plot £1 per month and if
you require a 3rd it is free, so for £3 per month you can
grow a good amount of veg. Not bad value? If you are
interested in taking a plot or a starter plot, please call
Graham or Jennifer Edwards on 07919 888870.
Forthcoming events for your calendar
SCALGA AGM 20th May, 7pm in the Regency Room at
Swaffham Assembly Rooms.
Get help applying
for Universal Credit
We can help with the early stages
of a Universal Credit claim, from the
may 9 TH
SHOW US YOUR
KNICKERS AT SWAFFHAM
MARKET
We’re having another collection for Smalls for All – a pantastic charity
that collects and distributes underwear to women and children in Africa
and the UK who need our support.
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 eg. not having underwear can mean girls
miss days off school each month.
Call us for free:
0800 144 8 444
Advisers are available 8am to 6pm,
Monday to Friday.
Visit us
Swaffham Community Centre
Tuesdays 9am-12pm
For online advice visit:
citizensadvice.org.uk/helptoclaim
Help to Claim is a dedicated service from Citizens Advice.
01760 336029
If you want to show us your support, pop to the shop and pick up some new pants – or raid
• NEW ladies’ pants size 8-14
• NEW children’s pants age 3-15
• NEW or ‘gently worn’ bras
your bra drawer. Here’s what we need:
If you can’t make it on MAY 9 th please contact Liz Stephen
(lizstephen487@gmail.com) at SWAFFHAM ROTARY CLUB and we
www.smallsforall.org
Registered charity no. SC041689
www.swaffhamrotary.org.uk
Registered charity no. 1061027
will arrange a pick up.
Do y
87 Market Place, Swaffham, Norfolk. PE37 7AQ Tel:01760721022
EAT
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
Even ironing!
Tracy: 01362 820 966
Caroline: 01953 882 154
Mobile: 07927 161 201
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?
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
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.
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
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
www.redlionswaffham.co.uk E-Mail: redlionswaffham@gmail.com
PLEASE SEE OUR SPECIAL VOUCHER SOMEWHERE IN THIS EDITION
52 Filby Road, Swaffham, Norfolk PE37 7SX
EMAIL: swaffhamsss16@outlook.com
www.swaffhamsupportservices.co.uk
The Community Centre, Campingland, Swaffham. PE37 7RB
www.stovesman.co.uk
CELEBRATING
Swaffham 5
YEARS
President's Corner
Spring and the warmer
weather will soon be with
us, so it is pleasing to report The Club’s ongoing
support of improving the environment in and around
Town. The Club made a commitment to plant 50
trees at the end of the 2019 and I am glad to say we
went a little bit further than that.
As we started to investigate where you get 50 trees
from and the logistics, and where to plant them with
the greatest effect, the Club engaged with the Town
Council’s Events & Projects Support Officer and with
the Woodland Trust.
After much discussion it was decided, instead of
planting individual trees, to plant as many hedging
plants as possible. The reasons were many: these
native plantings will provide better protection against
wind, reduce noise, help in a small way in carbon
capture, create and extend the wildlife habitat,
increase species diversity in our neighbourhood, as
well as beautifying the areas and screen unsightly
elements.
So, with the Woodland Trust advising us on the right
species, the Town Council and the Club’s Community
Service team selected to complete the hedging
around the Recreation Ground and on the Oaklands
playing area.
and fruit bearing shrubs in a form of a hedge against
the panel. This hedge will provide food and shelter
especially for birds, insects and small mammals. The
range of plants will provide a feature with a changing
character over time and visual interest throughout
the year. Some of the trees supplied this year are to
be held back and are planned to replace any trees
that have had to be felled due to disease etc.
As with all the planting, the Rotary Club engage
experts to help with the planting and as part of
scheme it also incorporated pre-planting preparation
to hold back the weeds to allow the plant to grow
in the spring and summer. The Rotary Club have
also ensured there will be ongoing “support and
maintenance” for the hedging during the first year.
A truly great project that, with use of the funds
generously given by you all during our fund-raising
activities such as the Golf Day and Visual Art Festival,
will enhance our community for generations to come.
Rory Hart, of WildLife Works, followed up after giving
the Club his time and expertise with the planting to
give the Club an excellent talk on the Heathlands of
East Anglia.
The next activity on the Club’s agenda are the Easter
Egg Hamer Draw and The Golf Day. Don’t hesitate to
visit our website (www.swaffhamrotary.org.uk) for
information about Rotary and our coming events.
The Recreation run has already been planted and is
approximately 170m long and planted as a double,
staggered row of plants at the rate of 4 plants per
metre giving a total of 680 items. The Woodland
Trust supplied with 360 plants of appropriate species
to form a dense hedge attractive to look at and for
wildlife to live with. A further 300 hawthorn and
25 field maple plants were included to achieve the
density of hedging required.
At the Oaklands it was decided to plant a ‘belt’ of trees
17
Swaffham Town Bowls Club
The club, open to both men and women located
at Myers Playing Field off Shoemakers Lane in Cley
Road, opens for the new season on Sunday 19th April.
Weather and the corona virus situation permitting,
there will be a 'drive' starting at 2.30pm and all
bowlers, whether members or not, are invited to sign
in for the game. New members are always welcome
and if you're looking for a less active sport, then why
not come along at 2pm to meet the members and
have a chat with the acting secretary or chairman,
who will be happy to explain how the club operates
and answer any questions you may have. Coaching
for newcomers to the game can be arranged (not
on opening day) through a qualified coach who has
bowls available for use at each session.
Organised roll-ups are held every Tuesday and
Thursday afternoon with play commencing at 2.30pm
following earlier registration. There is a break part
way through the game when players can socialise
and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and a biscuit.
If you are looking for competitive bowling, then look
no further. Swaffham Town Bowls Club has entered
sides in no less than eight leagues this year, two
specifically for ladies, four mixed and two principally
for men. In addition, there are also club county and
national competitions and friendly matches. There's
plenty to get involved in.
If you are not yet a member, but think you would like
to join, then why not contact the acting secretary,
Ann Chambers (telephone 01760 622928) or club
chairman, Hamish Cameron (telephone 01760
722545) who would be pleased to take your details
and arrange for the necessary application form to be
sent to you.
Wayland Show - Covid 19
In keeping with Government advice, issued on 16
March 2020, to cease non-essential contacts, to
restrict unnecessary travel and avoid large gatherings.
The Chairman and Directors of the Wayland Show
have decided to cancel this year’s event. We
appreciate that this will be a huge disappointment to
you and to some this will have financial implications.
Where payments have been made refunds will follow
as quickly and fully as possible.
The President, Directors, Chairman and all Committee
members would like to thank you
for your tremendous support
and hope you understand this
sad course of action. Looking
forward we hope to revive the
show in 2021."
Swaffham Jazz Club
For our March session we welcomed, for their first
visit to the club, the Ella McCready Trio - Ella vocals,
Ivan McCready (Ella’s Dad) cello, and Ian MacGregor
piano.
The range of music they performed was impressive,
stretching from Bob Dylan to Einaudi, taking in rock,
pop, musicals and jazz on the way.
All their numbers are arranged by Ian and are crafted
to bring out the very best qualities of the cello and
Ella’s voice, leaving plenty of interest for himself on
the piano as well.
Ella has an astonishingly powerful voice for such a
slender figure and can also sing with the pianissimo
worthy of a trained opera singer, all with perfect
intonation. Her most emotional song was Someone
to Watch Over Me - which she sang as a tribute to
her namesake, Ella Fitzgerald. The most jazzy was
Fever, sung to the accompaniment of solo cello,
played pizzicato.
Ivan took several solos including My Funny Valentine
which demonstrated the wonderfully rich sound a
cello can produce, and Summertime that made great
use of harmonics, where the finger rests so lightly on
the string as to produce an eerily high, pure sound.
As well as being an excellent arranger, Ian is a gifted
pianist as he ably demonstrated in his depiction of
falling leaves in Autumn Leaves.
The audience listened spellbound throughout the
evening, from beginning to end. We look forward to
their return visit next year.
All future Swaffham Jazz Club events will be cancelled
until further notice.
Little City is coming to Swaffham!
Does your toddler love role play? Little City, the
original and award winning mobile role play
experience for toddlers, is launching a Norfolk
franchise and will be joining us at Swaffham
Community Centre for their first visit on Wednesday
22nd of April.
Designed for confident walkers no older than 5,
the purpose built street includes a supermarket,
hairdressers, garage, police station, vets, doctors
and more. With uniforms, dress up and ride ons
too, there is something for everyone and it's perfect
for parents and carers to get involved!
Booking is essential and tickets will be available
via the Bookwhen link on the Little City Norfolk
Facebook and Instagram pages. If you miss out
on booking for April, the city will be returning to
Swaffham in May half term week. Email Anna for
more information - Anna@littlecityuk.com
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
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01760
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18
Swaffham WEA
How much do you know about
the WEA? Just what do those
letters stand for? Founded in 1903 the Workers'
Educational Association is a charity and the UK’s
largest voluntary sector provider of adult education.
Although originally aimed at workers, as the name
suggests, nowadays all are welcome. Courses are
informal and friendly. There are no tests or exams and
you don’t need previous knowledge of the subject, so
there’s no pressure to achieve a particular standard
– just the pleasure of increasing your knowledge
and experience, and the opportunity to meet new
people. The annual meeting of the Swaffham Branch
of WEA takes place on Friday 3rd April at Swaffham
Community Centre at 10am. Entry is free and open
to all. Refreshments provided. Come along and find
out more about your local WEA branch.
The meeting also includes an illustrated talk by Jeremy
Stacey on Making Modern Architecture. Jeremy is
an award winning architect, based locally and who
has a particular interest in low energy buildings and
making new buildings in historic settings. Modern
architecture can provoke strong views and his talk
is bound to be of interest. More information: 01760
723558
Our next 8-week course starts on 1st May 2020 with
Women Painters of the Norwich School. Fiona Savage
looks at the work of eight women artists working
in Norfolk in the 19th century who, although now
overlooked in favour of the more famous Norwich
School male artists, nevertheless were successful at
both local and national level in their day. Full course
details are available at wea.org.uk where you can
also enroll. Enrolment is also possible by phone Tel:
0300 303 3464.
Newsletter Delivery Volunteers
We are currently looking for new volunteer
Newsletter deliverers in your area. Would you
consider doing a smaller
round, maybe just a
street or two? Do you
have between 1 and
2 hours to spare once
a month? Do you like
walking and keeping
yourself active? If this
is something you may
be interested in, please
contact the team at
Swaffham Town Council
on 01760 722922.
Swaffham Community Hospital LOFs
The NHS Trust has recently set up what is called a
“Patient Environment Group” which is designed
to bring together representatives of charities like
ours with appropriate staff of the Trust to look at all
matters linked to the support and practical facilities
and environment for patients across all the individual
health care sites that it owns. We have now been
to two of its meetings to put forward issues that we
consider important in Swaffham.
As recently mentioned this group has agreed to look
at the feasibility and cost of a major extension to the
existing dining room/day area at Swaffham. It might
include looking at the space of the existing rear
conservatory, as many of us consider it is currently
under utilised. No more definite news on this yet.
The 4 new electric bedside chairs are proving useful.
Once we have had a little experience of these, we
will consider supporting more. We are also chasing
up the “toilet walking aids” that we wish to purchase.
These provide extra security for the patients and
help the staff.
We have booked in a further date for a coffee
morning at the Methodist Church. It is Saturday 19th
September. Thank you to all those who helped and
came to support us in March.
We are holding another “Garden Party” in the
summer on Sunday 28th June, 2pm to 4.30 pm in
the hospital garden. There will be music, strawberry
teas, raffle etc. Please come and support this event.
We do seek to involve the patients who are with us
then.
We are always open to ideas that the public might
have for improvements that we could help with at
the hospital. Do contact us to share any thoughts
you might have.
I am pleased to say that we have attracted a new
member to join our small committee. There is
room for more, so do ring me for an informal chat. I
promise it's not too onerous . Why not give us a try
by attending one of our committee meetings ?
Colin Houghton (Chairman)
01760 336025
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20
Swaffham Camera Club
The club meetings during February saw
a full evenings presentation by one of
the experts from Permajet explaining
how to "Print with Confidence". Printing is of course
the final link of the chain in the camera to photo album
expanded Norfolk County
The process. clubs Many new of programme our members of embark events on this and process meetings was launched with a Council well service.
received at home, evening sometimes of stunning with unpredictable photographs results. of It African is wildlife, presented by The Tricky Period service was
perhaps the most complicated activity because of the
Steve DeRoeck The shots left many members, who are well versed in set up in 2017 and was the
number of variables that can, if not properly accounted
photographing for, make or break British the photograph. wildlife, glad that animals in the UK do not generally first of its kind in Norfolk. It
was quickly rolled out to all
have The After club the this meetings teeth presentation, or during demeanour February which saw included and a full evenings built opportunities in presentation ability to by plan one of to the kill experts you. We soon
47 libraries and six mobile
realised from to both Permajet a ask camera explaining questions lens how and to does receive "Print not with answers, offer Confidence". much members Printing protection is of course from the final a determined
link
libraries run by Norfolk
of left the feeling chain in many the camera of the to photo mysteries album of process. the subject Many of had our members embark on this
subject.
Library and Information Service. 25 new collection
process been resolved. at home, sometimes The speaker with unpredictable will return later results. this It is year perhaps the most complicated
points which have now been set up in museums,
activity to further because elaborate of the number on the of variables subject, that and can, practically
if not properly accounted for, make or
break demonstrate the photograph.
youth centres and other council properties across the
the effect of using different paper finishes.
He will, during his presentation, be using image files
county.
After this presentation, which included opportunities to both ask questions
provided by club members.
Free and sanitary receive items are available in library toilets and
answers, members left feeling many of the mysteries of the subject had been
Our second meeting of the month saw 36 recent printed
customers resolved. can The ask for bigger amounts, no questions
speaker will return later this year to further elaborate on the subject, and
images covering a diverse range of subjects set before asked,
practically
from library staff. Norfolk County Council
demonstrate the effect of using different paper finishes. He will during his presentation be
an external judge who by his expert scoring assisted has funded one-off orders of supplies for each new
using image files provided by club members. .
the club in producing its entry for April's Interclub location, but the service is set up so that it can run
Our Competition second meeting with of Lakenheath the month saw Camera 36 recent Club. printed As we images will covering entirely a diverse off range donations of made by members of the public.
subjects keep the set images before an under external wraps judge until who the by his competition expert scoring we assisted the Norfolk club in County Councillor Ed Colman for Swaffham
producing regret none its entry can for be April's reproduced Interclub in competition this article. with Lakenheath Camera said: Club. “The As we success of Tricky Period and the amazing
will The keep first the meeting images under in March wraps allowed until the competition members to we show regret none can feedback be reproduced we’ve received shows how valued it is, which
in off this and article. explain some of their favourite images. Trevor is why we’ve now set up even more collection points to
Vincent's "Half Full" as give a helping hand to women and girls in need. “71%
The first meeting in March allowed
shown apparently took of girls in the UK admit they have felt embarrassed
members to show off and explain some of
400 attempts, and saw
The next meeting was our yearly photography their favourite images.
buying sanitary products, so we made sure our Tricky
competition with the
him sternly banished Period service is easy and discreet. But we also want
Lakenheath club, displaying from talents the kitchen. in Trevor both Vincent's projected "Half Full" it
and
to as be shown printed
another
images.
step in reducing the stigma around
.Lakenheath triumphed by Regrettably a small overall apparently due margin took 400 at attempts, the sanitary end and products of saw the evening.. by showing to all visitors that this is
The series is now scored as Corona one Virus all,
him
with precautions sternly
both
banished
clubs
from
looking an
the
important
kitchen.
forward and everyday to next reality that women face.”*
the Club's trip to the
year's event.
Regrettably due to Corona Since Virus April 2018, nearly 1,500 individual sanitary
Photography Show at
precautions the Club's trip items to the and 967 packs were accessed through the
May meeting Highlights were
the
an
NEC
evening
has had
of
to
Tips
be
Photography Show and at the Tricky Hints NEC has Period followed had to service. by On a quiz average around 130 packs of
postponed. The final
and "Prints of Norfolk Wild meeting Life" the of theme be postponed,
the month, of the externally sanitary products judged are given out each month.
Schools are also able to request supplies from
competition.
which is post editorial date for this article is the
locations where there is extra stock.
Club's AGM which will herald the new club years full
The final meeting of the month, which is post editorial date for this article the Club's
Our programme First June of planned meeting photographic will be an activities. illustrated talk by Chris Bell on "Storm
AGM. which will herald the new club years full programme of planned photographic
Chasing", For further at information which members and potential of other membership clubs are of
activities.
cordially invited to join us.
the club, which welcomes photographers of all abilities
For For please further email information richardludlow@compuserve.com
and potential on the membership club's activities, of the club, which or membership welcomes enquires please
visit
photographers
the clubs
of
website
all abilities
www.swaffhamcameraclub.com
please email richardludlow@compuserve.com
Swaffham Spiritual Awareness Group
Meets in the Community Centre,
Beech Close, Campingland, Swaffham
at 6.30pm.
2 April, Easter, No Meeting
26 April, Greg Pettit, Mepal
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.
The Tricky Period
Roll out of new free sanitary product collection points
announced by County Council. Vulnerable women
and girls can now access free sanitary products at 79
different locations across Norfolk thanks to a newly
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
Museum Opening
The Museum will reopen on Monday Feb 17. Our
opening times will be: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. Sat 10am-
1pm. Last admission 30 mins before closing. A small
admission charge applies.
FoSH 100 Club
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 prize of £100
in May and November. For more information contact
Barbara White Tel: 01760 720756 or jamesdean@
uwclub.net
Prize winners: March draw - £40 No.84 / £20 No.31
/ £10 No.26.
WANTED – Volunteer Stewards
For ‘front of house’ – to welcome visitors, explain
Museum, work in shop and TIC. Steward sessions are
3 hours – 10am-1pm, and 1-4pm
Contact Steve Gregory – Volunteer Co-ordinator – on
(01760) 721230 or 755596
More Volunteer Roles Available
The Friends of Swaffham Heritage would like to recruit
a new Minute Secretary and also Committee members,
to help with fund-raising schemes, ideally by the end
of May. Our meetings are held about once every six
weeks. Please also see our advert in this edition
Friends Events
• Tea Party and Croquet, Sunday 5th July, Community
Centre
• Barbecue, Sunday 29th August, Community Centre
• Thursford Beating the Retreat and Concert –
September 8th
• Mulled Wine Party, Sunday, 29th November
For further information, contact Secretary James
Dean 01760 720756 or jamesdean@uwclub.net
Swaffham Climate Action
We set out below our second “Tip of
the Month” to help save the planet
and reduce your costs as well, but first
a brief extract from the UK Government’s
Guidance Notes on Climate Change: “There is clear
evidence that the average temperature of the
earth’s surface has risen by about 1 degree C since
the pre-industrial period.” This may not seem very
much but it is accompanied by:
• warming of the oceans,
• melting of polar ice and glaciers,
• rising sea levels and more extreme weather
events. Here in Norfolk rising sea levels are of
particular concern.
These climate changes, arising from increasing
emissions of carbon dioxide, produce a “greenhouse
effect” trapping the sun’s energy and causing the
earth and particularly the oceans to warm. Carbon
dioxide levels have increased by about 45% since
the industrial revolution, due mainly to the:
• burning of fossil fuels for energy
• agriculture and deforestation and
• manufacture of cement, chemicals and metals
The UK government say they are:
• working to secure global emissions reductions
• reducing UK emissions
• adapting to climate change in the UK
but does not say how these changes are to be
achieved. The most effective way to secure a
reduction in UK emissions is probably for the
government to offer financial incentives for
businesses and householders to improve insulation
and harness alternative energy such as Air Source
Heating instead of burning fossil fuels. SCA intends
to lobby our MPs on this issue.
Tip of the Month
All on electrical savings:
• Install LED lighting which whilst relatively
expensive in initial cost compared with traditional
lamp bulbs, will last a long time and save a
considerable amount of energy
• Do not leave electrical appliances on stand-by
• Do not overfill kettles
• Consider having roof (PV) panels installed which
generate electricity
SCA Contacts: Dr Colin Abbiss (Chairman), 01760
723118, jancol.abbiss@gmail.com and James Dean
(Secretary), 01760 720756 jamesdean@uwclub.net.
We welcome new members to join our group.
22
23
sleep in one of our newly completely
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Swaffham is ready to celebrate VE75!
As readers will know from previous Newsletters, Friday
8th May marks the 75th anniversary of Victory in
Europe day, and has been declared a Public Holiday in
Britain. The Swaffham community have been working
together and are ready to celebrate this milestone with
a full afternoon of entertainment in the Market Square.
We encourage all community clubs and associations to
get involved – anyone not yet involved who would like
to please get in touch with Sue Dent via the Town Hall
or wattonswaffhamevents@gmail.com.
Below is some of what we have planned so far.
• STOP PRESS - Our application to the RAF Battle of
Britain Memorial Flight has been successful. We are
to be honoured with a LANCASTER BOMBER fly past
during our event. More details in next issue.
• The town centre will be decked out with bunting
and red white and blue planters – local traders are
encouraged to decorate their windows or shopfronts in
a 1940’s style.
• In 1945, there was a football match between a Town
Team and a team from the Royal Engineers – we are
planning a match between Swaffham Football Club and
a team from The Nicholas Hamond Academy .
• VE75 celebrations will be preceded by a parade
from the Buttercross to St Peter and Paul Church, for a
Civic Service to which everyone is welcome, especially
Veterans their families and descendants.
• The opening VE75 events start at 2:55pm to coordinate
with National celebrations - a bugler playing
‘The Last Post’ followed by a lone piper playing
the laments ‘Battle’s ‘oer’ and ‘VE 75 Years’. These
commemorative tributes will be followed by a reading
of Churchill’s Words and a toast to the Nation.
• From 15:15pm onwards, we have a varied programme
of musical entertainment at the Buttercross - some
from the 1940’s, some more modern.
• Throughout the afternoon around the Market Square,
there will be a display of vintage vehicles and childrens
funfair rides from the period. Many businesses are
staging special VE75 themed events and fare. We
expect to have a hog roast, burgers, donuts, candy floss
toffee apples and spam fritters!
• In the Assembly rooms, we plan to have vintage 1940’s
hair styling and makeup, along with a demonstration of
40’s Jive and Lindy Hop dancing, with the opportunity to
join in! Visitors are encouraged to dress in 1940’s style!
• The full programme officially ends with further
Nationwide initiatives that feature the Nation’s Cry for
Peace and, as across the Country, the Church Bells will
be ‘Ringing Out for Peace’, at 7.00pm .
Veterans, residents, families and friends are all welcome
to come along and make this a day to remember. We
are particularly keen to welcome those residents who
may have been at the celebrations in 1945, and have
reached out to Care Homes to support us in this.
We encourage businesses outside the town centre to
get involved in VE75 celebrations too. Supporting the
event is an ideal way for promoting your business to
the local community. We intend to prominently display
banners and signage detailing the local businesses that
have kindly supported us with donations.
*details correct at time of press, but may be subject to change due to corona virus
Iceni Youth Clubs
Youtie:
8 years to 12 years Mondays 5:30pm – 7:00pm .
Mind-Full:
13 to 18yrs Thursdays 5pm – 6:30pm
Youthie Hub:
13 to 18yrs Thursdays - 6:30pm – 8:30pm
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
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Swaffham Town Council invites you to come and
celebrate the 75th Anniversary of VE Day
Everyone is welcome to join the parade from the Buttercross to St Peter & St Paul
Church for a Service of Commemoration at 1.45pm.
Bring a picnic, dress in 40s style, or just come along to enjoy the music, dance and
family entertainment in the Market Place.
24
Wissey U3A
The Wissey U3A is part of a national
organisation whose aim is to
encourage people in the ‘third age’ of life, that is, no
longer in full time employment and thus mainly those
now enjoying retirement, to meet and share their
knowledge. We are a friendly group of people who like
to have a laugh as we learn and to live life to the full.
We would love to welcome new members.
Our monthly meeting takes place on the first Thursday
of each month in The Pavilion at Holme Hale. We have
excellent speakers on a very wide range of topics. Last
month we enjoyed a fascinating talk by Neil Storey on
‘The Lost Coast of Norfolk’ with an amazing presentation
of old photographs. On Thursday 2nd April we will be
entertained by Mark Walsh, as the ‘Ukelele Sensation’.
Why not attend as a visitor and ‘test the water’? Please
make yourself known at the Welcome Desk. (Doors
open from 9.45am for refreshments and socialising.)
However, the monthly meeting is only part of our
activities. We also have many Activity Groups who
meet to share their expertise on all manner of subjects.
The idea is that we learn from each other and everyone
is treated as an equal. No lecturing and no testing!
If you would like to know more, please contact our
Chairman, David Moncaster by emailing him at:
d.moncaster@btinternet.com or telephone him on
01760 724755.
Swaffham & Litcham Home
Hospice Support Ltd
What are you doing on Sunday May 10th?
Why not visit Holme Hale Hall where the gardens
will be open between 11am and 4pm as a fundraiser
for our organisation by kind permission of Mr &
Mrs Simon Broke. Admission is £6 per head with
children free. Light refreshments will be available
in the tea room. The walled kitchen garden was
designed by Anne Maynard in 2000 and replanted
in 2016/17. It contains a soft palette of herbaceous
plants including some unusual varieties, topiaries,
vegetable parterres, trained fruits and roses. On
the front of the Hall is a wonderful Wisteria which
is approximately 140 years old. There is a wild flow
meadow plus historic buildings including dovecote,
coachhouse and barns. Wheelchair access is available
to the gardens and tearoom. The gardens are also
open under the National Garden Scheme on the 31st
May and the 2nd August
On the 30th May we will be holding our annual street
collection in Swaffham between 8.30am and 1pm.
If you would like to learn more about what we do,
then take the opportunity to talk to our collectors or
alternatively come along to our Gazebo which will be
situated on the western side of the Market Place just
down from Revells Estate Agents
On Saturday 20th June a group of supporters of
the Home Hospice are holding A Summer Supper
as a fundraiser for us. The event will take place at
Heygate Farms, Snailspit Farm, Cley Road, Swaffham.
Tickets are £25 per person –further information and
ticket requests to Mervyn Gribbon on 01366 328682.
Wissey U3A’s Friday Table Tennis Group enjoying a social BBQ last summer
SWAFFHAM
#COMMUNITY FRIDGE
The Phoenix Singers
On the 9th March, the Phoenix Singers presented
a cheque to Swaffham’s Methodist Church being
the proceeds of their Christmas Concert held at
the Church on 6th December 2019.
March 2020
960kg
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The Silver Social
The Silver Social Project is pleased to announce that
Breckland Council has taken the decision to fund the
project for a further three years! The project has
come such a long way since its inception three years
ago and we are excited to take it forward into phase
two, continuing to bring high quality arts events to
rural Breckland Communities for the wellbeing of
older residents.
For our first event of the new programme, we will
see the much loved Foundry Group return from April
20th-24th, to tour our community venues (Ashill,
Harling, Attleborough, Shipdham and Necton) with
their show “Whadd’ya Know – We’re In Love”, an
‘irresistible’ (FringeReview) new musical comedy by
songwriter Jerry Rulf and playwright Brian Mitchell.
All aboard! Full steam ahead on SS Freedonia for
the craziest show on the seas. Four musicians with
a secret, a girl in a green velvet gown, stowaways, a
Mediterranean monarch, and glorious, unforgettable
swing era style songs make this mad-cap tribute to
the Marx Brothers, Bob Hope and Bing Crosby. “It's
a very charming show, with strong music and some
incredibly funny moments. Top banana!”, “What a
wonderful performance. Engaging, humorous and
charming. I absolutely loved it.” Come join us for a
lovely afternoon of entertainment. Free transport
available if you need a lift, get in touch with the
details below to book transport.
The Silver Social is an exciting daytime touring
arts programme, aimed at older people in rural
communities in Breckland. The project brings
something a little different to daily life in towns and
villages across Breckland, Norfolk. Whether you want
to meet new people over a cuppa, take part in new
social pursuits, or you know a neighbour or family
member who might like to join a new group, we aim
to bring high quality accessible arts in a friendly,
familiar space. See below for more information.
To book visit our website www.thesilversocial.
com; phone 01362656870 or email community@
breckland.gov.uk
The West Norfolk Aviation Society.
The presentation by our own manager, David, at the
February meeting got off to a poor and late start due
to technical problems with the projection equipment.
To avoid the 101 minutes long film taking over the
whole meeting, refreshments were served while a
couple of technically competent members set about
fault finding and making settings changes on the
laptop. Their efforts paid off and the very tolerant
and good humoured audience settled down half
an hour late to hear about the speaker’s favourite
aviation author, the
American, Ernest
Kellogg Gann. One of
his books in particular,
Fate is the Hunter,
written more than
sixty years ago, along
with its subsequent
transfer to the cinema,
was the focus of the
evening. Gann stresses
that early aviators
were victims of fate
and that their survival,
or death, depended
on combinations of circumstances and events
completely beyond their control, their ability to
predict and their understanding. The film version,
watched with several sections omitted to make up for
lost time, was felt to be somewhat implausible. But,
the technical details of the mock-up of the doomed
airliner and the story line, particularly the frequent
rush over the years to try to blame dead pilots for
crashes that appear to be otherwise inexplicable,
were considered to merit praise. Especially so as a
coffee-spill in the cockpit of the fictitious aircraft that
produced several electrical malfunctions which lead
to the fatal crash, has very recently been repeated
on two flight decks of modern Airbus airliners
carrying hundreds of passengers and crew. But those
incidents, thankfully, had happier outcomes. On that
note David’s presentation ended just after ten o’clock
and the Chairman gave a vote of thanks to him and
the techies plus an apology to the always flexible
Bowls Club staff, Val and Len, for their accepting their
fate and staying on late.
Our next meeting is on Tuesday, March 4th at the
Mundford Bowls Club. For details of the evening’s
topic please go to:
http://www.westnorfolkaviationsociety.org.uk/
Visitors and new members will be made very
welcome.
D Allen
Swaffham History Group
Now on sale in the Heritage museum shop, a new
publication specially produced by a member of the
history group giving an insight into the town during
WWII. "A guide to Swaffham's World War II defences"
tells the story of the plans for dealing with enemy
attack and the various mechanisms put into place by
the military. The cover map shows the sites where pill
boxes (of various types)
and the bases for guns,
mainly spigot mortars, were
located.
Evidence of some of these
still exist and the author,
Richard Strange, visited
as many as he was able
(mostly on private land) and
took photographs where
possible. The booklet also
contains technical details
of the construction of pill
boxes and what still remains of them, as well as antitank
precautions. A must for any history buff interested
in WWII. For further details of the history group please
phone 01842 879140 or email jbaz@go-plus.net
Swaffham Arts
We usually know well in advance the event we are
bringing to Swaffham and when and where it will take
place; but the coronavirus has reared its ugly head
round the world, and we have to take it seriously. At
the time of writing we are waiting to hear whether
the recommendation is to avoid not only large groups
but even small gatherings of people, so the concert I
am writing about may have to be postponed for the
time being. In the miraculous chance that we can go
ahead, the group Tale Dolce Musica will be making a
return visit to Swaffham on Sunday April 26th at 3pm
in Swaffham Assembly Rooms, bringing music for
soprano, flute, oboe, bassoon and harpsichord. They
were much enjoyed when they came before in 2018
and we are delighted that they are returning with a
new programme of music for various combinations of
the instruments.
Without fail the musicians who come to play in the
Assembly Rooms praise the acoustics of the building
and say how much they enjoy the experience here. If
the concert goes ahead tickets at the usual prices of
£9 members and £12 non-members will be available
from Ceres Bookshop and The Green Parrot, and on
the door. But the chances are we may have to postpone
this concert until less anxious times!
Thank you for your continuing support for the Arts
in Swaffham. The concerts are very friendly and
everyone is always welcome.
Mayor's Parlour
As I write this, it’s a Saturday morning
and for once in many weeks it looks
as though the market is going to get
the chance of a reasonable day - I
shall be there.
Lots going on, in the council, but I
must confess, mostly to do with the
Green Britain site. Great consideration is being given
to what the possibilities are to develop it into an asset
for the town without it being a liability for the council
taxpayer. There’s a lot of work to be done but I think
we are making progress. We are in close contact with
Breckland who have given us an extension to get the
work done. Personally, I would like it to succeed as I
feel it’s a golden opportunity for future generations
and also to start building on facilities for us all to enjoy,
old and young. At this point I’d like to apologise to
our Breckland Councillor David Wickerson. In my last
letter I included David’s name in a list of councillors
being supportive of this project. David is supportive
but only if the maths work out. I wanted to clarify that
and reassure you that we all feel the same way - that’s
why so much work is going into this. Many of you
will remember fourteen years ago when allotment
holders had to give up the land at the Days Field site
for development with the promise of millions in the
bank. That did not happen, land prices slumped, and
we are where we are. I have to say I believe this is
a much better opportunity for the town to maximise
the potential of its assets. As you can see, I am
enthusiastic about this one but cautious at the same
time. Our investigations will hopefully come back with
positive opportunities but if not, it will be back to the
drawing board.
Last Friday morning was spent at what was Swaffham
Middle School, now Swaffham Primary. It was a
delightful morning celebrating world book day - lots
of fun dressing up as characters and a chance for all
of us, including me, to share the books we love. It
was so good to be with bright young people full of life
and enthusiasm, it really made my day. Talking about
ages, I do get tired of some comments that this is a
town of old people. There is some truth in it but there
are lots of young people too. I’d like to call it a healthy
mix, after all doesn’t the saying go, “we are all young
at heart”!
This leads me on to our Family VE Day on May 8th
which is taking shape nicely. The celebrations start
with my Civic service. We will parade from the
Buttercross into the church for a short service and
this will be followed at 3pm by the main celebrations.
This Newsletter contains many more details of the
afternoon’s activities. I do hope many of you will come
and enjoy this wonderful family event. Dressing up is
encourage but by no means essential. I can’t mention
this event without thanking the Rotary club and the
Lionesses who are the main body of Volunteers.
Of course, there’ll be others which I’ll thank in due
course.
In the meantime, we have to cope with the anticipation
of this Coronavirus (COVID-19) which could arrive. If
you are reading this and you are not well, my wish to
you is a speedy recovery.
All the very best, Jill
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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.
Coronavirus – (Covid-19) - Communication
From a Town Council perspective, we are already
into unchartered territory as this Pandemic has been
declared by the World Health Organisation. The Town
Council are monitoring the practicalities of ensuring
the events and our weekly Market are held in a safe
environment for the general public, ensuring that our
services are continued for as long as possible. We are
also in the hands of government, as their guidance
and legislation will determine how things evolve in the
UK. Swaffham Town Council will be operating partly
from the Town Hall and partly remotely from home, in
accordance with government advice.
We need to look after the well-being of our Council
staff and our Councillors, so we have contingency
plans for all eventualities, particularly for selfisolation,
in terms of business continuity, for meetings
and essential services. It is likely that there could be
disruption, closures, postponements or cancellations.
We will keep the public informed via the Council’s
website www.swaffhamtowncouncil.gov.uk and social
media through our Facebook and Twitter feeds and
through the local press.
There are far too many if’s, but’s and maybes to give
you in this brief message, as things are evolving on a
daily basis. If you are feeling unwell, please use the
NHS 111 helpline. There is also a good initiative shown
locally with a ‘Swaffham Emergency Action Group’
set up on Facebook and it would be good if all who
have access to Facebook could join this group #BeKind
#StaySafe
Green Britain Centre/Days Field
At the 11th March Town Council meeting the following
resolution was agreed unanimously: -
‘To authorise the nominated working group to
continue Consultation and Negotiation, with an
intent to make the proposed Asset Swap a viable
and affordable proposition for the community of
Swaffham. The Green Britain Centre will require to
be offered for any such Transfer in a ‘Fit for Purpose’
condition, suitable for a commercial client/s to take
a Lease for occupation, without additional financial
obligation on Swaffham Town Council.’
The nominated working group consists of five
Councillors, the Mayor Cllr Jill Skinner, Cllr Les Scott,
Cllr Judy Anscombe, Cllr Ian Pilcher, Cllr Paul Darby,
working with the Town Clerk Richard Bishop and
Deputy Clerk Claire Smith.
There is still a lot of work going on, but please be
assured that when the time is right the Town Council
will consult on the options open to them, with the
townsfolk of Swaffham.
Christmas Light Switch-On
The ‘Christmas Light Switch On and Christmas Market’
is scheduled for Sunday 6th December later this year,
so please put the date in your Diary and we will bring
you up to date with further details nearer the time.
If any volunteers want to put themselves forward to
help out on the day, please do get in touch. It is a great
event to be a part of and the more volunteers we
have the better. Just drop a line to us at the Town Hall,
reception@swaffhamtowncouncil.gov.uk
Annual Town Assembly
The Annual Town Assembly is scheduled to take
place on Wednesday 29th April 2020 at 6.30pm in
the Council Chamber at the Town Hall. It is likely that
this date may change as the Town Council will have
considered emergency measures by the time this
newsletter is circulated. The new arrangements will be
circulated in due course. There will be written annual
reports available from various community groups as
well as your Town Council at the end of their first year
since the local council elections last May. Look out for
the agenda and revised details which will be available
on our website www.swaffhamtowncouncil.gov.uk on
our Facebook Page and Twitter feeds, also there will
be a press release.
Allotment Vacancies & The Benefit Of Having An Allotment
In view of the events happening worldwide, it seems
appropriate to repeat the article from last month.
Why do we have allotments? It is generally accepted
that connecting people to their environment will
also improve their health and well-being. There is a
growing awareness of the role that gardening plays
in both preventing and alleviating mental ill-health.
Many allotment gardeners will tell you that a spell
on the plot nurturing plants and contemplating
nature makes them feel calmer and more hopeful.
There have been recent studies that have measured
this benefit. Working a plot year-round means that
allotment holders experience the seasons, the fresh
air, witnessing the behaviour of birds, insects and
other animals and gain an understanding of the ecosystem.
Plot-holders are also part of a community of
like-minded people, many of whom are eager to share
their knowledge and spare produce. In Swaffham we
also have our local allotment association in the name of
SCALGA, so if anyone wishes to join, do ask for contact
details at the Town Hall, also please note that we have
some allotment vacancies at our Shouldham Lane site.
Any enquiries please to Kerry at the Town Hall 01760
722922 or e-mail reception@swaffhamtowncouncil.
gov.uk All allotment holders have been given the
news that Allotment Rents have been frozen for the
forthcoming year 2020-21.
Swaffham Town Council invites
you to come and celebrate the
75th Anniversary of VE Day
Everyone is welcome to join the parade from the Buttercross
to St Peter & St Paul Church for a Service of
Commemoration at 1.45pm.
Bring a picnic, dress in 40s style, or just come along to
enjoy the music, dance and family entertainment in the
Market Place.
The Town Council
Mayor – Cllr Jill Skinner
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 – 9.30am – 1.00pm.
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.
30
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