Swaffham Newsletter

SN
December 2020
Your free town newsletter published by Iceni Partnership
SWAFFHAM
newslet ter
NEWS EVENTS INFORMATION
Swaffham Christmas Care
Find out about Iceni's covid safe Christmas offering on p.4
Photos from Iceni Partnership, Dec 2019
Iceni Partnership would like to wish you all a
very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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 were subject
to a small increase beginning April 2020, in line
with production costs.
1
Contents
3 Swaffham Lionesses/Camera Club
5 Church News/RBL
6 School Speak
8 Norfolk County Council
9 Community Hospital LoFs
11 Spooky Swaffham
13 Age Concern/Swaffham History
14 Swaffham & Litcham Home Hospice
15 Swaffham Lions
16 Swaffham Rotary/Magpie Centre
17 Museum Matters/Climate Action
18 Rugby Club/SCALGA
21 Mayor's Parlour
22 Town Council
Swaffham Lionesses
The Pride of Swaffham
Swaffham Camera Club
The Club's October competition was held
The Clubs October competition was held under lockdown conditions via Dropbox and
In the last 2 months we have been keeping going in
under lockdown conditions via Dropbox
true Lioness spirit, albeit difficult whilst live adhering Zoom seesion to After an evening of adjudging themed images containing "Red" ou
and in a parallel live Zoom seesion After an evening
the restrictions caused by Covid. In October congratulations we were go The to Clubs Alan of adjudging
October Peggs, competition the themed winner, was held with images
under his image lockdown
containing of conditions a "Ruddy "Red"
via Dropbox Darter", our
and sho in
not able to have our traditional Harvest Supper at
live Zoom seesion After an evening of adjudging themed images containing "Red" our
congratulations go to Alan Peggs, the winner, with
congratulations go to Alan Peggs, the winner, with his image of a "Ruddy Darter", shown
our President Nicola’s home, so instead she delivered his image of a "Ruddy Darter", shown below.
goodie bags to our doors, filled with tasty harvest
treats of preserves, chutneys and Dutch Apple Cake,
all made from the produce of her allotment. All
these were delivered on the same evening as the
Lionesses Lantern Festival, which usually takes place
every October and is organised by the Pontefract
Lionesses. Sadly this year’s festival had to be “virtual”
so we showed our support by welcoming Nicola on
our doorsteps with our lanterns glowing !
The first meeting of November consisted of two presentations, one given by Allan Colem
members an insight of what and where, it is legal to take photographs without specific li
permission, The second presentation, given be David Spain, gave a comprehensive overv
technique of long exposures. This presentation was backed by the showing of multiple
The first meeting of November consisted of two
The first meeting of taken November over a period consisted of years, demonstrating of two presentations, the varied long one exposure given methods by Allan used Col for
subjects. presentations, one given by Allan Coleman giving
members an insight of what and where, it is legal to take photographs without specifi
members an insight of what and where, it is legal
permission, The second The November
to
presentation, competition
take photographs
given is again be in David two sections
without
Spain, the
specific
gave themed a comprehensive section being "Long Expo
licence or
ov
as normal there is an "Open" section. It is anticipated both sections will be hotly contest
technique of long exposures. permission, This presentation The second was presentation, backed by the showing given of be multip
further forward into December there will only be one club meeting, this will take the for
taken over a period socially of David years, distanced, demonstrating Spain, via "Zoom" gave , a Christmas comprehensive the varied social long with an exposure optional overview fish methods and on chip the supper. used Cf
subjects.
will resume after the festive season on the 20th January with a themed competition enti
technique of long exposures. This presentation was
Altered Reality" there will also be an open competition.
backed by the showing of multiple images, taken
The November competition The Club,
over
which is again
a period
meets in on two
of
the
years,
first sections and
demonstrating
third the Wednesday themed of
the
each section
varied
month being will
long
continue "Long hoE
as normal there is an regular "Open" meetings
exposure
section. the Zoom
methods
It is anticipated Platform for the
used a
both immediate
variety
sections future
of subjects.
will due to be the hotly Covid conte 19 si
The club assists and encourages photographers of all abilities, and looks forward to reco
In November we held our sponsored walk further around forward the into December The November there will competition only be one is club again meeting, two this sections will take the
its new venue as soon as possible.
town to raise funds in support of the socially Merle Boddy distanced, via "Zoom" the themed , Christmas section social being with "Long an optional Exposure" fish and and chip as supper
Centre. We couldn’t walk together as one group, For further information please contact us by e-mail at richardludlow@compuserve.com
will resume after the festive normal season there on is the an 20th "Open" January section. with a It themed is anticipated competition e
so we did it in small groups or in our own
Altered
time.
Reality"
We
there will both also sections be an open will competition. be hotly contested. Looking
covered a 6Km route around the town taking in
further forward into December there will only be
Shouldham Lane and Shoemakers Lane, The which Club, was which a meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month will continue
lovely walk and great exercise for us too.
one club meeting, this will take the form of a socially
regular meetings on the
Although this year there was no Remembrance
distanced,
Zoom Platform
via "Zoom"
for the immediate
, Christmas
future
social
due to
with
the
an
Covid 19
The club assists and encourages
parade or service, Nicola laid a wreath on our behalf optional fish photographers and chip supper. of all abilities, Club activities and looks forward to re
its new venue as soon
at the War Memorial on Remembrance Sunday will as possible. resume after the festive season on the 20th
morning. We will all keep calm and carry on.
January with a themed competition entitled
For further information please contact us by e-mail at richardludlow@compuserve.co
"Festive Altered Reality" there will also be an open
competition.
The Club, which meets on the first and third
Wednesday of each month will continue holding its
regular meetings on the Zoom Platform for the
immediate future due to the Covid 19 situation.
The club assists and encourages photographers of all
abilities, and looks forward to reconvening at its new
venue as soon as possible.
Wishing everyone a peaceful Christmas,
For further information please contact us by e-mail
Swaffham Lionesses. at richardludlow@compuserve.com
3

SWAFFHAM GOLF CLUB CENTENARY 1922 - 2022!
Interested in Art / Design?
Want a Winter project?
COMPETITION
• We would like to involve the local
community by inviting individuals from all
age groups to contribute to the centenary
by designing a new logo for Swaffham Golf
Club to celebrate this significant milestone.
• It is hoped that as well as adults, primary and secondary school children, members of youth organisations such as Scouts, Guides and Cadets etc will rise to the
challenge of designing a logo
• Prizes: As well as seeing your design used on centenary goods there will be two prizes: under 14 and 14 and over at the closing date for entries
• Closing date for entries: 31 March 2021
• Winners will be notified by 31 May 2021
What makes a good logo?
THE NEW LOGO MUST:
Name: include the name of the club (Swaffham Golf Club) along with the years 1922-
2022 and the figure 100.
Size: The logo will be seen on a wide variety of items including (but not limited to) club
letterhead, press releases, publicity material such as posters, club shirts, merchandise
etc. The design should, ideally, be scaleable from A3 to approx. button size but two
separate designs for different uses may be chosen.
Shape: No rules are set in respect of shape.
• Unique and distinctive
• Simple and easy to understand
• Conveys information about the Golf Club (location / town / environment / the sport)
• Easily recognisable
Materials: The design may be created in paint, crayon or other materials. Digital
designs are also welcomed.
Typeface: The typeface (if used) shall be relatively formal to reflect the prestige of the
centenary, although hand drawn logos will be eligible.
Send entries by email to manager@swaffhamgc.co.uk
By post or delivery to Rachel Clubb, Swaffham Golf Club, Cley
Road, Swaffham, PE37 8AE
On the back of your entry please put your:
Name, Age Category and Contact details
St Peter & St Paul’s Church
The December services in Swaffham parish church
will be as follows, and are still subject to the
pandemic restrictions: -
Sunday 6th
9.30am Parish Eucharist with choir & organ
Sunday 13th
9.30am Parish Eucharist with choir & organ
Sunday 20th
9.30am Parish Eucharist with choir & organ
6.00pm Carol Service with choir & organ
Thursday 24th CHRISTMAS EVE
11.30pm Midnight Mass with choir & organ
Friday 25th CHRISTMAS DAY
10.00am Parish Eucharist with choir & organ
Sunday 27th
9.30am Parish Eucharist with choir & organ
Updates on services, both in church and virtual
(streamed on Facebook), will be advertised each
week under ‘Services’ on the Swaffham Parish Church
website https://www.swaffhamparishchurch.
org/ and notified via the Swaffham Parish Church
Facebook site. Similarly, opening the church for
private prayer and for visitors will be announced
there. We would be glad to hear from anyone who
would be interested in assisting with stewarding
during visiting hours, as a number of regulars
are needing to avoid public duties during the
coronavirus outbreak – contact by email, by website,
or ring 622241 and leave a message. Thank you in
anticipation.
Christmas Greetings
The season of Christmas is, for most people, usually
a time of joy, friendship and family, and when
Christians celebrate the birth of the Christ-child
(hence the name Christmas). But it hardly needs
saying that this is never true for some people – and
it certainly isn’t true for very many people this year
in particular. This year has been – and continues to
be – a period in our history when nothing seems
‘normal’ anymore. So, in extending Christmas
greetings to all readers of the church notices, we at
the parish church pray that this season will remain
for all, one of hope and light, despite the everpresent
restrictions.
Mothers’ Union
The next meeting of the Swaffham Mother’s Union
will be held in the PARISH CHURCH on December
10th, at the later time of 11.00am. This will be their
Christmas meeting, with carols and readings, at
which the Christmas raffles will be drawn, followed
by a short time for fellowship. Enquiries to Julia on
01760 720041.
Swaffham Methodist Church
Subject to covid restrictions being lifted
December 6th 10.45am Morning Worship.
December 13th 10.45am Morning Worship.
December 20th 10.45am Morning Worship.
December 27th 10.45am Morning Worship.
Swaffham RBL
Due to the covid 19 restrictions, the
Swaffham Branch of the Royal British
Legion were unable to hold their
AGM in November. This means that
current officers will remain in post for
another year. Although Remembrance Sunday was
very different, wreaths were still laid during a longer
time frame at the War Memorial, whilst the majority
of people remembered at home. On Armistice Day
children from the Convent of the Sacred Heart School
placed their crosses at the Memorial and stayed for the
2 minute silence. Several members of the public were
also there to pay their respects. Social distancing was
observed.
The Poppy Appeal also was vastly different this year and
the Royal British Legion would like to thank everyone
who contributed towards it in any way whatsoever.
4
5

Sacred Heart School
Our half term break was used by our lovely teaching
assistant team to create a music room by converting
half of our library. We are so lucky at Sacred Heart
to have a huge range of instruments we can use and
learn on and it is wonderful to be able to have them
all in a dedicated room. Here we see Mr Smith’s Year
3 & 4 class displaying some of the resources in our
Music room - they were thrilled to be the first class
to try some of them out.
Heartwood CE VC Primary
In September, we became Heartwood
Primary, welcoming our first KS2 class.
It has been wonderful continuing the
pupils learning journey with us. The
pupils are having a wonderful time
Heartwood CE VC Primary and Nursery School
and are thriving. Read Mayla’s experience of Year 3
at Heartwood…
We were excited to open our doors to welcome back all our families on as
Year 3 at Heartwood by Mayla
'In Year
Heartwood
3 in the morning
CE VC
we
Primary
have toast
and
and
Nursery
on
School.
Mondays
We
we
have
have
missed
PE. It
our
is really
families
really
and
fun
children
at
dearly over the COVID-19 closure.
Heartwood
The children
Primary. I
have
love this
enjoyed
school
being
because
back
we
in school, seeing their friends and
have a Forest.
learning.
On Thursdays we have Forest School.
We are the first Year 3s in the school, my teachers
are very kind to me and my friends. We get to go
Starting school in
on scooters, At Heartwood there are we 8 scooters love outdoor in the learning. class. We have a wonderful forest school
2021?
The lessons where are our fun Forest for all School of us. We teacher do phonics plans exciting learning in. The children love
everyday. taking On Fridays, part in we their have weekly hot chocolate forest and school we session.
have Collective In Heartwood Worship. Forest At lunch school we have sessions, it in the our children will achieve and develop
classroom confidence because of and Covid-19. self-esteem I recommend through you’ll hands on learning experiences, trying
like this more school.' risky activities such as tree climbing, building fires, using real tools and
den building.
See our website for a virtual video tour of reception and Year 3
SWAFFHAM CHURCH OF ENGLAND
PRIMARY ACADEMY
Moving on to Year 3
in 2021?
Sacred Heart follows Norfolk Music Hub’s “Charanga”
Music scheme, which has been a big hit with children
and staff alike!
Please visit our website to find out more about our wonderful school
www.heartwood.norfolk.sch.uk
Be Respectful
Be Ready
Be Safe
COVID notwithstanding, Swaffham’s Sacred Heart
Catholic Primary School continues to be fully open
and welcomes new learners to join our happy,
friendly children and staff, providing them with
exciting opportunities in education in a vibrant and
stimulating setting. The children had their own
things to say about it. Eliza (Year 3) said, “I love this
school and I really love playing music!” Ellie (Year 3)
said, “I like the friendliness in the school and I love
doing my homework.” Aidan (Year 4) said, “Music is
the best!” while Keera (Year 4) summed up the views
of our newer pupils saying, “This school is amazing,
I’m so glad I joined!”
Swaffham Church of England Primary Academy offers the community a brand new Early
Years provision that opened in 2020, with an experienced and passionate Reception
teacher, where every child can begin their wonderful adventure of knowledge,
exploration and discovery.
We offer Year 3 children a thriving environment in a growing Primary school with
fantastic outdoor learning space, including 2 outdoor classrooms. At Swaffham C of E
Primary Academy, Year 3 children blossom into mature, Key Stage 2 learners ready for
their next step in education.
Our Head teacher Nicola Kaye and our attentive staff strive to facilitate every learner to;
Shine Learn Believe Belong
6
For more information, visit our website, follow us on Facebook and Instagram or call to find out more.

Norfolk Libraries Online
We're providing activities and groups you can join in
with online as part of our response to the coronavirus
outbreak. There are also lots of exciting, interesting
and stimulating online resources you can use to help
you stay happy and healthy at home. Discover more
at https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/libraries-localhistory-and-archives/libraries/whats-on
Bounce and Rhyme
Songs and rhymes are an excellent way of engaging
with your little one, no-one is too young. Watch
and join in with rhymes at home through our main
Norfolk Libraries Facebook page every Tuesday
morning at 10am.
Digital Health Hub Zoom sessions
During COVID19 it has been vitally important to
be able to navigate reliable health information
online. Sign yourself up, or someone you care for,
to learn how to navigate the NHS website and GP
online services. Sessions are free and will run on
Wednesdays at 12.30pm. Email libraries.iconnect@
norfolk.gov.uk to book your place.
Online Book Club
On Wednesday 30 December we will be discussing
'Little Women' by Louisa M Alcott. The classic story
of the March family, Little Women has been adored
for generations. The novel follows the lives of four
sisters as they come of age. To join the online
discussion, simply download or borrow a copy of the
book, and then email libraries.iconnect@norfolk.
gov.uk.
Virtually meet the author on Zoom
Zoe Somerville - 8pm Wednesday 20 January 2021.
Zoe’s first book Night of the Flood is a literary thriller
set in north Norfolk in the shadow of the Cold War,
in which a love triangle turns murderous. It’s also
available as an ebook and eAudio format. Tickets
are free but spaces are limited. To book a place
on an event, email the author's name to libraries.
iconnect@norfolk.gov.uk
£200,000 to ease hardship this Christmas
A £200,000 fund to ease Christmas hardship has
been announced by the county council. The council
is providing £200,000 to the Norfolk Community
Foundation, to support families and vulnerable people
facing hardship this Christmas.
County council leader Councillor Andrew Proctor said:
“We know this has been a tough year for many people
in Norfolk and we’ve been working with partners to
support the most vulnerable, especially as winter kicks
in and the furlough scheme ends. By working with the
Norfolk Community Foundation, we’re maximising the
impact of every pound, to help the people who need
it most.”
Claire Cullens, chief executive of Norfolk Community
Foundation, welcomed the announcement and said:
“This partnership with Norfolk County Council will
give families a helping hand to cope through the crisis
of a Covid Christmas. By working together, we will
maximise the impact of investment for Norfolk during
these challenging times. “It is widely recognised that
many people who have never needed help before now
need support, because Covid has pushed them from
struggling to make ends meet to being unable to cope.”
The money is coming from the county council’s
£1.015 million Government grant to support people
in Norfolk. Around half has been spent so far to help
people with food, fuel, exceptional household items
and other welfare support. Before the Christmas
scheme launches, applications for help can be made to
the Norfolk Assistance Scheme on the county council
website -
https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/care-support-andhealth/support-for-living-independently/money-andbenefits/norfolk-assistance-scheme
- or, for those who don’t have internet access, by calling
01603 223392 option 5.
Awards that can be made include:
• A three-day award for applicants who have made an
application for Universal Credit
• A seven-day award for people who are furloughed,
are self-employed or have been made redundant
and are awaiting verification of their Universal Credit
application
• Awards to applicants with no recourse to public funds
Swaffham Counselling and Psychotherapy
Due to Covid 19, Barbara O'Hanlon MA is now offering
telephone & Skype sessions
For more details or an initial consultation contact Barbara on:
07516 917171 / barbarann688@gmail.com
www.swaffhamtherapy.co.uk
Swaffham Community Hospital L Of F's
As we go through yet another month I am sure you
will all be feeling, as we are, that it is so difficult for
us all as the virus continues and we are in this further
period of lockdown. Our NHS colleagues, as ever, are
doing a wonderful job here in Swaffham. The pressure
remains as the hospital has expanded the number of
beds available for extra patients. From talking to senior
staff it is obvious that the ongoing pressures are having a
visible effect on staff's physical and mental wellbeing. It
is especially important that we do all we can to support
them and keep up morale. Following tradition we will be
supplying the staff with “Christmas Goodies” in the lead
up to Christmas Day.
Visiting restrictions still remain and masks must be worn.
I do feel for you who have friends/family in hospitals or
care homes. It is very frustrating for many families, but
as cases resurge in the wider population, precautions
are necessary. Let's all hope the promise of an effective
vaccine will ease the problem. My personal guess is that
NHS staff will be first in line followed by patients.
Thank you to those families who continue to think of the
Friends by giving memorial donations where their loved
ones have received care.
On the Social front we have paused our Fundraising
events. We had hoped to participate in the “Rotary”
Christmas fair but this has now been cancelled. We will
of course make sure that inpatients continue to receive
gifts at Christmas and hopefully we will be allowed to put
up Christmas decorations.
It has been very pleasing that we are getting a reasonable
response to the idea of saving and donating loose
change. The idea is to ask you all to consider whether
you would like to have a jam jar or tin at home in which
you might donate any spare change over the coming
weeks. It would be a small way of recognising the
fantastic service our NHS colleagues are giving over this
difficult period.. If you would like to do this the donations
could be left at Hospital Reception or if you ring me I can
arrange collection.
After recent contact with the NHS Trust, I am hopeful
that they may support a new capital scheme which
would look at enhancing the dining/kitchen area which
also serves as a Day room. If approved the work could
commence in 2021. The Friends would look to make a
substantial financial input to the scheme. I understand
that some improvement work is to be done in the patient
side rooms and again we would seek to support this.
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. We are really keen to attract new people to join our
small committee (especially after the loss of a member)
Do ring me for an informal chat on the number below.
This is my last article for 2020. I do hope as many of you
as possible can make the most of the Christmas period
despite any restrictions that may be in force. A massive
thank you to everyone who supports us. STAY WELL.
Colin Houghton (Chairman)
01760 336025
Learn to swim with
Tadpoles Swimming Club
JUNIOR SWIMMING LESSONS
VENUE: CHALK FARM LITCHAM
Small Group Lessons (JUNIOR)
Tuesday 5 th Jan – 9 th Feb 2021 (6 weeks)
4pm - 4.30pm Beginners
4.30pm - 5pm Beginners
5pm - 5.30pm Advanced Beginners (out of armbands)
5.30pm - 6pm Advanced Beginners (out of armbands)
Wednesday 6th Jan – 10 th Feb 2021 (6 weeks)
4pm - 4.30pm Beginners
4.30pm - 5pm Beginners
5pm - 5.30pm Advanced Beginners (out of armbands)
5.30pm - 6pm Beginners
£7.50 per session per child, fees payable on first week of
course.
Max number pupils is 5
Lessons run half an hour
Lessons run during school terms throughout the year.
For further details and bookings contact:
Kirsty Read on 07903 136 125 or email kread81@talktalk.net
8
9

Home / Away
Cancel
Help
Spooky Swaffham
Here are some of the entries from our 'Spooky
Swaffham' Halloween trail. Thanks to all of those
who made the effort to keep Halloween safe and
fun for all in these Covid times.
01553 616200
asklily.org.uk
Mr & Mrs Machin, Mayfly Road
Helping adults in west
Norfolk get involved
in their community
during the Coronavirus
pandemic
01760 336029
Telephone support line
Online directory
Help accessing online resources
Community locations*
* subject to Coronavirus restrictions
3 year old Phoebe Pavitt with her unicorn pumpkin
in association with
2053-70
www.stovesman.co.uk
Nayna Bass' display on Biffin Way, Redlands
Staying safe inside is just
as important as when we
venture out
Careline Community Service, providing
reassurance during these difficult times
Rest assured our installation service adheres to all
Government COVID-19 guidelines. If you prefer, a self
installation postal option is also available.
Nayna also organised a paper pumpkin hunt on
Redlands, which was widely praised by participants.
11
T: 01553 616200 W: careline-cs.org.uk
E: careline.operators@west-norfolk.gov.uk
2053-65

2:09/3:10
WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS – QUEEN
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
Age Concern Swaffham & District
It is difficult to believe that we are now into our fifth year
out of five for our National Lottery funded Swaffham
Support Services (SSS) project. Of course our activities
regarding our Befriending and Hospital Buddy services
have been somewhat curtailed with Covid 19 getting
in the way but we are hoping for better things soon
hopefully early in the New Year. It is our intention to
submit a fresh application for funding to apply as from
October next year when the present scheme comes
to an end. So far we have been fortunate to secure
funding for 10 years from the Lottery who have been
particularly sympathetic to our cause.
Also, our other activities for our members such as
talks , entertainment and trips out will start up again
just as soon as we are allowed. We are still keen to
welcome anyone who wishes to become a member of
Age Concern. Those interested in learning more about
Age Concern Swaffham should contact our Chairman,
Barbara Dean, or myself, James Dean, phone 01760
720756. The annual membership costs £5. For the
Befriending and Hospital Buddy services the contact is
our Manager, Brad, 07412 775574. Please note that we
are a separate charity from Age UK which covers the
whole country whilst our aim is just to help residents of
Swaffham and the villages nearby. Thank you.
Swaffham History Group
When one is interested in the local history of Swaffham,
every now and then a book comes out which reflects
the life and times of long ago. One such book, Rich
man, Poor man, Beggar man, Thief, etc; takes us back
to the aspects of life during the period of Georgian
Swaffham (1760-1820). This book, researched and
written by one of our members, Michael Medlar will
shortly be available for sale at Swaffham Heritage.
Michael touches on all of the headings of the title page
and has given a rare insight as to what the inhabitants
of Swaffham were up to in this given period of time.
Michael has written other books relating to Swaffham,
i.e. Six Women of Tudor Swaffham, Farmers, Fields and
Flocks, and also given talks on pre-Reformation wills of
Swaffham.
This image of the Musketry
practice is taken from the
'Soldier' chapter when the
Earl of Orford was Colonel of
the Norfolk Militia and typifies
the training and dress code of
the day. The Swaffham History
Group's portfolio of books is now quite extensive and
covers many aspects of life in Swaffham through the
ages of development and population growth. These
books are all available for sale at Swaffham Heritage.
For further details of the History Group please phone
01842 879140 or email jbaz@go-plus.net.
RESIDENTIAL CARE | DEMENTIA CARE | RESPITE CARE | SHORT BREAKS
The First Carbon Neutral Iron Bed Maker
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SERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
SINCE 1999
Wrought Iron and
Brass Bed Co.
Hand made in Norfolk. Guaranteed to last a lifetime.
A fi rst and second generation family
company. All our beds are lovingly hand
crafted to order, on the Sandringham Estate
and come with a guarantee to last a lifetime.
Winter Sale
01485 542516
view our full range at
www.wroughtironandbrassbed.co.uk
Swaffham showroom by appointment only
Office currently
closed to visitors,
please contact us
on 07393 981295
instead.
Telephone
befriending only
at present
Befrienders & Hospital Buddy Drivers Needed
In the current pandemic it is amazing how many people
have volunteered to help those that have had to shield
due to age or health. Hopefully, lots of you have found
this extremely rewarding and may like to continue as the
restrictions lighten. If you have enjoyed helping others
and have an hour or two to spare a week or enjoy driving,
we would love to hear from you. We need caring
compassionate people like yourselves to join our
fantastic team of volunteers to help elderly people to get
to medical appointments or just to stop an elderly person
from being lonely. Please call us for an informal chat to
see how you could help. Thank you.
We are here to improve the quality of older
people’s lives in Swaffham & the villages nearby
Tel: 07393 981 295
EMAIL: swaffhamsss16@outlook.com
www.swaffhamsupportservices.co.uk
The Community Centre, Campingland, Swaffham. PE37 7RB
SwaffhamNewsletter_HalfPage_Template.indd 1 05/11/2020 09:21
13

Carers Matter Norfolk
Are you helping or supporting someone who is
living with Parkinsons?
If so, contact Carers Matter Norfolk. Covid19 and the
lockdown has been particularly difficult for people
caring or supporting someone with a long term
health problem. You may not have been able to have
family support or support from groups and friends.
Norfolk County Council has commissioned new
enhanced care services from this September which
will hopefully offer more support to carers.
Rather than going through Adult Social Services
Carers assessments are now being carried out by
Carers Matter Norfolk. To get an assessment, you
need to contact the Carers Matter Advice line or
request this through the website or you can ask a
health or social care professional to refer you. The
assessment can offer you advice, information as well
as the help and support you need in your carer role.
If you need more support, you may be referred to a
local Carer Connector who can look in more detail
at what can assist you to continue caring and to
support your health and wellbeing. Unlike previously
the assessment is not a one off thing but an adviser
will contact you regularly to see how things are
going and you can ring as often as you want if your
needs change or you just need a listening ear. An
assessment can lead to you being offered practical
help in the form of a short break, a grant from the
health and wellbeing fund, counselling or help to
access education and training. A short break can
be someone staying with the person so you can
go shopping, a few days for you to recharge your
batteries or even help towards a joint holiday. The
grants can be for anything that may enhance your
health and wellbeing such as funding massage, an
electronic device or a spa day out. The definition of
a carer for this service is wide and you do not have
to be living with the person you support or caring
for them full time. Contact the advice line for more
information. Hopefully this new enhanced service
will give you as a carer some practical support at a
time you need it.
Call our advice line on 0800 083 1148 to have a chat
with our friendly advisers, it is open 7 days a week
Monday-Friday 9am-8pm and Saturday and Sunday
10am-2pm. You can also contact the service via the
website www.carersmatternorfolk.org.uk.
Lindsay Goward
14
Swaffham & Litcham Home Hospice
As I write this, we are entering the second national
lockdown. Therefore, I would like to start by saying
that as an organisation our heartfelt thoughts go out
to everyone at what continues to be a very difficult
and challenging time.
We were delighted recently to receive a donation
for the fantastic sum of £150 from Sarah Lee who
some of you may recognize from Boots. Sarah told us
that this amount was raised from family and friends
and also from the staff and customers at Boots in
celebration of her birthday this year. On behalf of all
the team at the Home Hospice, we sincerely thank
Sarah for her very kind and generous support and to
all those who contributed to this wonderful gift. We
are very grateful, particularly during such uncertain
times, and this money will continue to help us provide
the vital services that we do in the local community.
As a charity organisation we have continued
throughout to provide our services as much as
restrictions will allow and following government
guidelines, but we could not do this without the
continued support of the local community. We thank
everybody wholeheartedly who has remembered us
by way of kind donations. Our Fundraising Team has
faced its own challenges this year and are planning
new ways of raising vital funds for the Home Hospice,
which we will advertise locally for your information
nearer the time. In this current climate every penny
counts.
With December drawing nearer, we are now making
preparations for our Home Hospice Memory Tree
for those who would like to sponsor a dedication
to remember a lost loved one this Christmastime.
The dedications will be placed on the tree at our
premises throughout December. As with everything,
we have had to adapt
2pm).
how this event will run this
year, but if you would like details of how to sponsor
a dedication, please contact our office as soon as
possible on 01760 722937 for further information.
We send our best wishes to you all. Take care and
keep safe.
Who are Carers Matter Norfolk?
Carers Matter Norfolk’s service has gone through an exciting
refresh to provide additional support to unpaid carers in
Norfolk. This ensures they deliver a highly personalised service
that enables carers to improve their health and wellbeing and
support them in their caring role.
On behalf of Norfolk County Council, Carers Matter Norfolk
provide Carer’s Assessments, information, support and advice
for unpaid carers in Norfolk. They offer a 7 day a week advice
line, along with one on one community support.
You can learn more about their services by visiting their
website or calling their advice line on 0800 0831 148 (open
Monday to Friday 8am – 8pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am –
What do Carers Matter Norfolk offer?
Swaffham & District Lions
A team from Swaffham & District
Lions completed an eight-hour
static bike ride for the Lions/Brain
Research Charity. Over £700 was
raised, which included raffling a special cake donated
by Jennifer Stride of Frosted with the charity’s logo on
the top. This was the final part of a Lions fund-raising
for the charity and included selling surplus items on
the internet and a bucket collection in four local food
outlets during the Eat Out to Help Out campaign, a
total of over £1000 has been raised for the charity.
Swaffham Lions have expanded their Sunday
Foodbank collection to include glasses and hearing
aids. This week the Lions collected 61kg of food, 26
pair of glasses,1 hearing aid and £12. We have had
a very positive response to the Sunday collections
on social media, it also gives us the opportunity to
engage with the public albeit at a social distance.
This refreshed service further improves the health and wellbeing of
carers and their capacity to fulfill their caring roles by: –
• Carers assessments Sarah Leggett
• Carers breaks
• Health and wellbeing fund
With restrictions on laying wreaths on Remembrance
15
Sunday, Lion Maj (Retd.) Rod Goddard MBE who
served 34 years with the Royal Corps of Signals, laid
the wreath on behalf of Swaffham Lions in a simple
mark of respect.
Swaffham & District Lions were please to support
the new Men’s Shed in Swaffham with a donation of
£500 to kickstart their plans.
Following the success of the Lions Sunday food
collection the Iceland food store have asked if they can
join forces with the Lions in collecting food donated
by their customers. The food will be collected with
the Sunday Collection and transported to Dereham
by the Lions, where it will be sorted and made into
food boxes for families or individuals which are then
returned to Swaffham.

CELEBRATING
Swaffham 5
YEARS
President's Corner
Last month I said fingers
crossed our Christmas
Fayre would happen. Ah, should have crossed my
toes as well. The Fayre has joined the list of events
we have had to cancel in 2020. However, the Autumn
Draw, which would have been drawn at the Fayre,
will go ahead and we will contact prize winners as
soon as possible afterwards.
On a much happier
note, Stephen Ward
and Andrew Stephen,
completed their
Sponsored Walk
for the Children of
Yemen on the 11th of
November, despite the
most recent Lockdown
restrictions. The walk
of twenty miles began
at the Bailey Gate in
Castle Acre at 7am and
concluded, a little earlier than anticipated at 2.45pm
at the Gin Trap in Ringstead. It had been a long day
of blisters and aching limbs but the two members of
Swaffham Rotary Club felt triumphant.
Afterwards Stephen said, “We tried hard to think of
ways of raising money which wouldn’t contravene
any of the regulations necessarily imposed during
the Covid Pandemic. We thought we could combine
daily exercise with sponsorship and the rest was up
to our sponsors, who have been amazingly generous.
We have raised over £1,500 and we are very grateful
to all our generous donors and to all those who gave
us encouragement.”
The Just Giving Page, opened under the auspices
of ‘Save the Children’, will be open for a little while
longer if you would like to donate. The link is:
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/
steveandandyswalk.
By the time you read this lockdown should have
ended and we should all be able to resume our
preparations for Christmas. Of necessity it will be
different from previous years, especially when
families are spread far and wide. Wherever you are
and whatever you do I hope you have a happy and
enjoyable time.
What of 2021? No predictions from me, I’ve learnt
my lesson! But let’s hope promising reports of rapid
progress in the development of the various vaccines
prove accurate and we can begin to plan for a full
programme of Rotary events to invite you to support.
In the meantime, I wish you a safe and healthy New Year.
John Wallace
Magpie Centre News
Winter is upon us, along with a new lockdown, just
as the Magpie Centre, home of West Norfolk Riding
for the Disabled Association was resuming activities
after the last set of restrictions. With 12 horses and
ponies to maintain, and no donations from riders and
carriage drivers, the need for funds has never been
more urgent. The ponies live out, with field shelters,
but in winter they need hay to supplement the grass
in their paddocks, plus weatherproof rugs to help
them withstand the elements.
Colin Perriss, chairman of WNRDA has set up a Go Fund
Me campaign, with a target of £995 to help towards
these expenses. To donate, visit www.gofundme.com,
click on ‘SEARCH’ in top left corner, and then insert
Magpie Centre Winter Feed & Horse Essentials or visit
our website: www.rda-westnorfolk.org.uk.
As soon as Covid-19 regulations allow, we shall be
expanding our portfolio of activities to include riding
experiences for able-bodied riders as well as those
with disabilities.
These will include:
• First rides – aimed at able-bodied would-be riders
looking to ride a horse for the first time;
• Experience rides – for those returning to riding after
a break, or who want to regain confidence after a fall
or incident which has caused them a setback;
• Carriage driving – taking the reins through a course
of cones in a paddock environment, and
• Carriage driving on tracks - through the delightful
woodlands at Wallington Hall.
Surely this programme offers something for
everyone, and would make a wonderful Christmas
or birthday present for a friend or relative. To book,
call the Magpie Centre on 01553 810202, email
magpiecentrewnrda@hotmail.co.uk or visit our
website: www.rda-westnorfolk.org.uk.
And lastly, don’t forget to stock up on our Christmas
cards. Again, visit our website to order, or pop into
West Winch Post Office, on A10 or Shouldham
Antiques and Gifts, 1 Eastgate Street, PE33 0ED (open
Thu/Sun 11 am – 4 pm), where stocks are held.
Does anyone remember the Westacre miniature
furniture created by Ysabel Birkbeck in the 1920s? We
have just been donated
a few pieces and would
love to know more about
them – even add to our
tiny collection if possible.
A talented needlewoman,
artist and organiser
Ysabel was moved by the
plight of families during
the post World War I
depression and organised
local villagers to create
the furniture which was
then sold to raise money
for the Church Missionary Society. Perhaps someone
remembers their family making them?
Can anyone tell me anything about Petyguards
Military Camp in World War II and the firms of Burgess
and Hippersons which seem to have employed many
people from many different parts of the kingdom in
that area or North Pickenham about that time.
Swaffham Museum, Town Hall, London Street,
Swaffham PE37 7DQ. Tel: 01760 721230
Email: swaffhamheritage@gmail.com
To keep up to date join us on our website:
www.swaffhammuseum.co.uk
Friends Of Swaffham Heritage
With the Covid-19 restrictions still continuing, we
are not able to pursue activities we would normally
be looking forward to at this time of year. For the
Friends of Swaffham Heritage that would also
present an opportunity for fundraising. At the
moment we are entirely dependent on the income
from the 100 Club. Many of the 100 Club members
drop their subscriptions (currently £20 p.a.) in to the
museum, and we understand that is still possible,
as the post is still being collected regularly. If you
wish to join the 100 Club please drop us a line at
friendsofswaffhamheritage@yahoo.com. However,
we do have some winners for the end of October
draw, as follows: 1st prize £40 No. 4, 2nd for £20,
No.81 and 3rd, for £10, No.69.
16 17
Swaffham Climate Action
Fantastic news from the American
elections! – with Joe Biden now being
the President Elect for the next four
years, we can look forward to the USA
joining in with the rest of the countries
who support Climate Action. There is to be a major
conference on climate issues next November in
Glasgow so we can now expect the USA to be
represented. Much nearer home we were pleased
to hear that Breckland District Council (BDC) have
decided to appoint a Climate Control officer and I
understand that the post has already been advertised.
This initiative follows criticism about a lack of action
since BDC declared a “Climate Emergency” last year.
We look forward to a close liaison with the new
officer who should be in post early in the New Year.
For our “tip of the month” we are reminding everyone
that energy saving (and therefore costs) can be
reduced every day in the kitchen. The conventional
oven uses a lot of power whether it is gas or electric
and much can be done, especially in small families,
by using smaller cooking devices such as microwave
ovens, slow cookers and induction hobs. The latter
piece of kit does require special pans but there is no
wasted heat as magnetic contact between the pans
and the hob produces instant heat transference as
soon as it is switched on. Barbara & I recently bought
an air oven which cooks without fat, again very
efficiently. It just sits of a working top and looks a bit
like a football.
For the time being we are having to meet via Zoom
and we are arranging two meetings per month, one
at 10 am on the second Thursday in the month and
the other atc 7.30 pm the following Tuesday. Should
anyone wish to have more details and / or want
to join our group (there is no subscription) please
contact either our Chairman, Dr Colin Abbiss, jancol.
abbiss@gmail.com Tel: 01760 723118 or myself
James Dean as Secretary, jamesdean@uwclub.net.
Tel : 01760 720756, fo r mo re i nfo rmati o n . T h an k yo u .
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52 Filby Road, Swaffham, Norfolk PE37 7SX

Swaffham Rugby Club
Live competitive Rugby returned to North Pickenham
Road in October when Swaffham welcomed youth
teams from Crusaders following RFU ‘Return to Rugby’
guidance and Covid regulations. It was a great day
for Swaffham and it was clear from the start that we
would be stronger than Crusaders. Thanks go to the
coaches, parents and supporters from Crusaders and
Swaffham who made this such an enjoyable event,
and for creating a model for the future. Special thanks
to Rob Salter for arranging the fixture.
After a break of almost 9 months a dinner was
hosted at the Club to celebrate the final day of the
2020 Six Nations Championship. Careful planning and
attention to social distancing meant that 28 people
were able to attend, and for many, it was the first time
to appreciate the results of work which has gone on
during the summer to refurbish the entrance to the
Clubhouse and the toilets. The event was hosted by
our Chairman Richard Morrissey and even though
numbers were reduced, both the Raffle and ‘Heads
and Tails’ were as enjoyable as ever. Rob Salter and his
team served up a delicious four course meal, and Marie
and Ali did a great job in keeping everyone lubricated
during the event. Thanks to Eric, Rob, Marie and Ali
for making this a very enjoyable event for all. Special
thanks also go to France and Ireland for keeping the
English supporters on the edge of their seats right to
the end of their game, and producing a result which
allowed England to win the Championship!
We are pleased to announce that we have invited
Swaffham Men’s Shed to use an existing storage
shed in the grounds at North Pickenham Road for a
period of up to two years, to enable their project to
get off the ground. During this time, we understand
the “Shedders” will work with partners including us,
to establish the feasibility of building their own shed
in the Rugby Club grounds. Safeguards put into place
due to Covid have slowed progress, and continue to
do so, and plans to occupy the temporary shed in
November have now been delayed until after the
restrictions are relaxed.
Once the second lockdown is over, regular training
sessions for Minis and Juniors and Seniors will restart
on Sunday mornings and during the week but the sad
news from the RFU is that there will be no competitive
Senior Rugby this season. When we are allowed to
play proper rugby again is in the lap of the Gods!
SCALGA
Greetings from the Allotments
Unfortunately with the latest restrictions pertaining
to COVID19 we have very little to report.
After months of dry weather we have more than
made up for this with day after day of wet weather.
The plots resemble the Somme and progress has
been slow. At last the rotovating has been done and
any winter planting is progressing.
Our rescue chickens are thriving and one in particular
follows me around, pecking at my boots until she
is picked up. The baby Bantams have now been
released into the main run and the Bantam/Turkey
chick we are still not sure of, but the plumage is
remarkable. They have all vastly enjoyed eating the
Halloween pumpkins after this event.
Unusually our Goose has started laying again, 25
eggs to date. Normally they do not lay until late
February in our case we can only attribute it to the
mild weather and the seasons being a bit topsy
turvey. Soon they will have the whole allotment
area to roam. It is amazing that 2 birds can keep such
a large area of grass like a bowling green such is their
appetite.
The new members that took plots during the first
lockdown are going from strength to strength, sheds
and beds have been established and we look forward
to next spring when all their labours will bear fruit
Because of these depressing times we have no
“Doings” to report. We can only hope that in the
New Year things will improve. Our members remain
upbeat and are carrying on as best they can.
We are pleased to report that all the starter plots
have been taken but we are waiting for the Council
to possibly release another area to us.
We all sincerely hope that you have a happy Christmas
(as best you can). Enjoy your gardening.
SCALGA
Ashill & Holme Hale Garden Club
Website: ashillgardeningclub.wordpress.com/
Email: ashillholmehalegardenclub@gmail.com
Preparing the Garden for Winter
While the gardening club is currently
not able to hold monthly meetings
we are providing gardening
information via newsletters and our
website (address above) to keep
everyone active with gardening
tasks. Now that we have officially moved into winter
there are still some important jobs to prepare your
garden for the colder winter days and nights and get
a head start for next spring.
Even ironing!
Tracy: 01362 820 966
Caroline: 01953 882 154
Mobile: 07927 161 201
CARPET CLEANING
Viruses and bacteria
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To improve air quality in your home and to create
a safe environment for your family your carpet
should be cleaned professionally every year
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18

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The Town Council
Mayor – Cllr Jill Skinner
CllrSkinner.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com
Deputy Mayor – Cllr. Judy Anscombe
CllrAnscombe.SwaffhamTC@gmail.com
Cllr Keith Sandle
CllrSandle.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
21
Mayor's Parlour
As I speak we are in the 2nd lockdown,
I can only hope that by the time this
reaches you we have come out and can
look forward to a COVID Christmas,
whatever that may be. Kurt at the
White Hart has very generously come
on board again to deliver meals to those unable to get
out. I’ve spoken to him and he’s thinking, as well as the
immediate need there’s Christmas too, especially as
Iceni Partnership will not be able to do their Christmas
lunch. The Council are pleased to be able to help with
this if needed.
Our Clerk has sent the application off regarding the Barn,
we await with anticipation so that we can get going
on the work that is needed. Likewise, the GBC is still
in the pipeline, we must make a decision on the asset
swap very soon. I’m hoping our ideas will be put out to
you as a Consultation, I feel what we have to present is
very exciting and will benefit all in the community. I’m
hoping that by the time this reaches you our ideas will
have been published for you to comment and decide.
It was a great shame remembrance had to be cancelled,
we tried so hard to make it happen but were told
categorically, no way should we encourage or permit
any gatherings. Having said that it was a lovely day
and apparently people stood in groups to pay their
respects. This is the first Remembrance Sunday I have
not been able to attend in forty-four years in Swaffham,
we as councillors were told to stay away so as not to
present it as an event, hence crowds. However , I know
some councillors did go, makes a joke of rules and
disappointing for those that attend religiously every
Remembrance. I popped down early Sunday morning
to lay a wreath for the town, there was no one around
at 8am.
Our Christmas Market has been cancelled we were the
only market town going to do one, when lockdown was
announced it was felt ours had to be cancelled also.
We weren’t having our usual Christmas event anyway,
because of COVID restrictions. The lights will be on and
Swaffham will look its Christmassy self. At this point I’d
like to thank Andrew Francis for providing the cherry
picker to put the lights up, he’s done this for the last
three years saving us £1,500 every year.
The Stars and Stripes day at the market was fun, this
coincided with Halloween, it provided something
different especially appreciated by the youngsters who
loved the dressing up. Thank you to Cllr Lindsay Beech
for coming up with the idea and orchestrating it, much
appreciated, I do believe she’s hatching another event!
The weather at the moment is really good, always is
during lockdown as I remember, so, it’s putting the
garden to bed and as usual making the clearing up last
till we are released again!
As always, take care of yourselves,
Best wishes
Jill

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.
Covid Christmas Tree Competition
At the Council meeting in November it was agreed to
have a Covid Christmas Tree Competition…
Yule be sorry to miss out on Swaffham Town Council’s
tree-mendous Virtual Christmas Tree Competition
this December! We have six different categories for
you to enter: -
• Best traditional Tree
• Best Rainbow Tree (a tribute to our key workers)
• Best ‘Made in Swaffham Tree’ (everything on the
tree is handmade or sourced in Swaffham)
• Best patriotic Tree (a red, white or blue theme, or
all three colours together)
• Best glam Tree (glitz and glam, razzle and dazzle)
It doesn’t matter if your tree is real or fake, big or
small, it's your creativity that counts. Just send us
a picture of your tree in all its glory to Swaffham
Town Council at admin@swaffhamtowncouncil.gov.
uk Don’t forget to tell us your name, phone number
and e-mail address. The closing date is twelfth night,
Tuesday 5th January 2021. The prize winners will be
announced later in January and the best trees put up
on our Facebook page. Good luck, happy holidays
and thanks for your support!
Swaffham Scarecrow Scavenge
Time to start thinking about springtime in Swaffham!
Next February half-term, Swaffham Town Council
will be inviting households to get creative and enter
our Swaffham Scarecrow Scavenge. The theme
for 2021 will be COVID HEROES. You are invited to
make a scarecrow to represent and celebrate the key
workers who have supported Swaffham during the
pandemic. Your scarecrow could be anything from an
NHS worker to your local postman or woman.
We will be compiling a map detailing the locations
of all the scarecrows, so that families can follow the
trail over half-term and decide the best scarecrows.
More details of our Scarecrow Challenge in January's
Newsletter!
Heroes of Swaffham Awards “recognising those
who go the Extra Mile”
The Swaffham Heroes Awards are to honour the
achievements of remarkable people who make the
Swaffham Community a better place. These awards
will recognise people from all walks of life and ages,
that inspire with their determination and selflessness.
Categories will target contributions throughout the
community from the following and will honour both
Adult and Junior recipients:
• Charity Fundraiser of the year
• Neighbour of the year
• Carer of the year
• Sportsperson of the year
• Volunteer of the year
• Outstanding contribution to the Arts, Heritage & Culture
• Triumph over Adversity award of the year
Heroes Awards Criteria
Nominations are open to any resident in Swaffham,
OR who have committed a considerable proportion
of their time in Swaffham voluntarily and beyond
their work commitments.
Each category includes an award for both Adults and
Juniors; Junior age group 5-16 years. The nominee
must be proposed and seconded by two Swaffham
residents or those with an interest in the town i.e.
business or community group leader. Proposers
cannot be a relative of the nominee or a Town
Councillor. Nominations should be submitted by end
of February, using the application form and sent to
the Town Clerk. This award is not given posthumously.
The recipient(s) of the award will be decided by Full
Council. The Council will actively promote this award
each year to ensure a good number of nominations
are received. The awards will be presented annually
by the Town Mayor at a special ceremony in April.
The recipient(s) will receive a framed certificate.
Christmas Market - Cancelled
Another casualty to Covid-19 is the cancellation of
our Christmas Market, as we write this report in the
middle of our second lockdown period, due to come
out on 2nd December just a few days before the event
was due to take place on Sunday the 6th. It was too
close to call, as a late cancellation would have been
even more difficult to manage and if the lockdown
period were to be extended, it would have to be
cancelled in any case. The Christmas Lights will of
course be on throughout the Town, unfortunately no
Christmas Light Switch On and no Christmas Market
this year though... It makes us even more determined
to plan an extra special event for 2021 and the
return of everything we associate with Swaffham
at Christmastime. On health and safety grounds we
have had to look at things very differently during this
pandemic period, it becomes more important than
ever to support your local businesses in Swaffham to
help them through this difficult year. So, if you have
some Christmas cheer to share, make sure you buy
those Christmas presents locally this year, to make
sure when we plan for the return of our Light Switch
On event and Christmas Market in 2021, that as
many of our local businesses are still there to enjoy it
with us, next year.
Men’s Shed
The Men’s Shed have decided not to take up the offer
of the Town Council to occupy the recently vacated
area of the public toilet building following the
reduction of space allocated for the public toilets.
They have decided on an alternative location within
the Town and will give full details in due course. The
Town Council wish them well in their endeavours and
hope that the organisation flourishes in the future.
Public Toilets
The two newly refurbished Public Toilets are now
completed and are being well used. We are grateful
to the builders Fuscan Developments Ltd for their
attention to detail and standard of work.
Remembrance Day – Remember at Home
The Remembrance Sunday arrangements on 8th
November and on Remembrance Day 11th November
were cancelled due to Covid-19. The Town Council
followed the lead of the Royal British Legion who
encouraged everyone to observe the two minutes
silence at their doorstep and ‘remember from home’
on this occasion. Hopefully, normal service can be
resumed in 2021, as the Legion celebrates its 100th
anniversary next year. We have missed so much
this year, with VE and VJ Day events needing to be
cancelled, we have so many hopes in respect of next
year, but whatever the outcome ‘we will remember
them’.
Swaffham Market – Auction
Due to the second lockdown period we have
temporarily reverted to a food and essential goods
Market at the present time, with many stalls and our
Auction being unable to trade. The last full Market
took place on 31st October, with an American Themed
Market. These strange times continue as we wrestle
with trying to raise awareness in support of our
Saturday Market, which in turn is good for the local
economy, but at the same time not wanting too many
people to turn up to make the event unsafe. Social
distancing measures become much more difficult
to manage as the numbers attending the Market
increase, so it is all a question of common sense and
balance. We are hoping our traders and the auction
can return after the 2nd December when lockdown is
due to end. There is no certainty though as we move
forward, so please look out on our website and our
social media platforms, on Facebook, Twitter, and
Instagram. We will do our best to keep you updated,
but when it does return it is paramount that the
social distancing guidelines are strictly adhered to,
your co-operation as always would be appreciated,
stay safe everyone – thank you.
Bike Racks in the Town Centre
The Town Council look forward to bike racks being
installed before Christmas at the following locations.
• In between the entrance and exit of Theatre St Car Park
• Lynn Street, adjacent to Abbots Estate Agents
• Church Walk, behind the bollards
Swaffham Newsletter – Thank You!
It is around this time of year that we like to touch
base with our band of newsletter delivery volunteers,
one to say thank you and two to hear if they have
any problems or suggestions for how we can improve
the way that this is organised. It is safe to say, that in
December 2019 no-one saw Covid-19 in their crystal
ball for 2020. So, when we said goodbye to 2019 on
the 31st December, and all said ‘Happy New Year’
little did we know what was to come. First of all, we
need to say thank you to all at Iceni Partnership, who
collate, edit and produce the Swaffham Newsletter,
what a fantastic effort it is, to keep our newsletter at
such a high standard. Secondly, we need to say thank
you to David Strong and his team for sorting out all
the newsletter delivery rounds, bringing order when
it would be so easy to descend into chaos. Thirdly,
to Kerry Furnass at the Town Hall for keeping our list
of volunteers up to date and informed. Lastly, to all
our volunteers, who in all weathers make sure the
newsletter comes through your door. This year has
been different, with some editions going to digital
and others partly printed and partly digital. THANK
YOU – one and all…
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 – 1pm. 1.30pm – 4pm
Tuesday - Friday – 9.30am – 1pm
Town Council Committee
meeting dates
Virtual Zoom meetings
• Wed 9th - Full Town Council - 6.30pm
• Mon 7th - Finance - 6.30pm
• Wed 14th – Market, Events and Tourism - 6.30pm
• Tue 1st – Transport, Access & Environment – 4pm
• Tue 15th - Planning & Built Environment – 4pm
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.
22
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