Swaffham Newsletter

SN

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.


drop in. All welcome.

Thurs 16th April 10am-12noon. The Meeting Place


Fri 17th April 9.30am. Power of Prayer.

Sat 18th April 9.30am-12noon. Coffee Morning in

aid of JMA.


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.


by refreshments. All welcome.



Thurs 30th April 10am-12noon. The Meeting Place


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

Sung Eucharist


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

CARPET CLEANING

Viruses and bacteria

live in your carpet

To improve air quality in your home and to create

a safe environment for your family your carpet

should be cleaned professionally every year

Call us today for a FREE QUOTE

and to find out more on 01760 337762

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

A different sort of accountant

• Sole trader accounts

• Company accounts

• Management accounts

• Buy to let returns

• VAT returns

• Tax returns

• Payroll and wages

• Business plans

• CIS returns for building trade

• Business consultancy and recovery

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

www.gybea.co.uk

email info@gybea.co.uk

7a Corn Exchange, Market Place

Next to War Memorial

01760 723830

Swaffham

Branch

01760

725801

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

building better families

Piano & Saxophone Tuition

All styles taught from

modern pop and rock to classical

All ages welcome

Taught in a fun & friendly atmosphere

Call Roger James on

01362 687598 or 07555 373588

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

EAST ANGLIA’S PREMIER GROUNDS CARE EQUIPMENT RETAILER

A premium model,

exceptionally comfortable,

impressive performance

with a clear LED

digital display

Excellent deals on John Deere ride-on & walk behind lawnmowers available now!

Visit our showroom for an

excellent selection of garden tools

including chainsaws, strimmers,

blowers, hedge trimmers & shredders

Expert legal help and advice from

Swaffham’s most recommended solicitors

star-hal

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

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

01760 721992

wardgethinarcher.co.uk

Experience the X350R

Battery powered

products from

£95

Dereham Road, Beeston (nr Dereham) PE32 2LE

01328 701347 | www.benburgess.co.uk

Open 8am - 6pm Monday - Friday & 8am - 12pm Saturday

THE SOLICITORS THAT CARE

Talk face to face with your local lawyers, at our

London Street office, who are here to help by

giving you clear and practical legal advice.

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

19 MARKET PLACE SWAFFHAM PE377LA

CURTAINS: BLINDS :UPHOLSTERY :LAMPSHADES :GIFTS :PAINT

WE OFFER A FULL MEASURE &

FITTING SERVICE ON ALL OUR

CURTAINS & BLINDS

ALTERATIONS WELCOME

T 01760 722541

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



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

FREE drink at The Red Lion with

any main meal

when you show this voucher!

87 Market Place, Swaffham PE37 7AQ 01760 721022


EAT

come and enjoy our fresh homemade

food using local produce also

Swaffham Counselling and Psychotherapy


Barbara O'Hanlon MA is now meals with working our delicious menus from her private

practice in Swaffham. For more information or an initial


consultation contact Barbara SLEEP on:



see our specials boards for more

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


www.swaffhamtherapy.co.uk

DRINK

made food using local produce also

home-

fresh our enjoy and come


more for boards specials our see


a with drink cool refreshing a Enjoy


a and ales real our try also lagers


Family. or Twins Doubles, of choice

Enjoy a refreshing cool drink with a


lagers also try our real ales and a



EAT

meals with our delicious menus

SLEEP


DRINK





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

26

31

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

28

29

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

31

WE WON’T BE

BEATEN ON PRICE

*

A FANTASTIC

RANGE OF

DESIGNS FROM

CONTEMPORARY

TO CLASSIC

A WORLD OF CHOICE AT REEDS

SOFAS | CHAIRS | FURNITURE | BEDS | MATTRESSES | FLOORING | CURTAINS | BLINDS

reedshomestore.co.uk | find us on facebook

REEDS Furniture, Bed Centre & Homestore, Bridge Street, Downham Market PE38 9DS T: 01366 382213

REEDS Furniture, Flooring & Bed Centre, Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely CB6 3NX T: 01353 669754

* Reeds will beat any competitor’s price within a 50 mile radius. Internet sales excluded.

Swaffham Newsletter

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?