Local Lynx No. 150 - June/July 2023

ISSUE 150
June - July
2023
with special centre pages
and archive articles
throughout
©AndrewMoncur
ADS DIRECTORY now on back page and at
www.locallynx.co.uk
1

WHAT’S ON
VH = village hall
JUNE
1 st Thu. Sharrington Noble Rotters VH 7pm
1 st - 3 rd Stiffkey Sophia Williams Artist Studio, North
Norfolk Open Studios, 10am-5pm
2 nd - 4 th Bale Victoria Kurrein Artist Studio, North Norfolk
Open Studios, 10am-5pm
2 nd - 4 th Binham Katrina Wheeler Artist Studio, North
Norfolk Open Studios, 10am-5pm
2 nd Fri. Sharrington Craft Group VH 10.30am-12.30pm
2 nd Fri. Sharrington Pub Evening VH 7pm
3rd Sat. Langham churchyard tidy up 9.30am
3 rd Sat. Sharrington Concert, Carrie Martin VH 7.30pm
4 th Sun. Stiffkey Stiffkey Pirates Cricket Team playing
Thornham, Playing Field 12:30pm
9 th Fri. Bale Fish and Chips, VH 7pm
9 th Fri. Field Dalling Bingo, VH 7.30pm
10 th Sat. Binham Priory Concerts, Serendipity, BPC
6pm
10 th Sat. Morston NT Meet the Ranger, Morston Quay,
10:30am – 12:30pm
14 th Wed. Sharrington Gardeners, Members Outing,
Fiddian’s Follies 2pm
13 th Thu. Binham & Hindringham Open Circle, Visit to
Upwood Farm, TBA
23 rd Fri. Bale Bale Oak Bar, VH 6.30-9.30pm
24 th Sat. Gunthorpe 50:50 Club Coffee Morning, VI
10.30am
24 th Sat. Morston Impromptu Shakespeare, Church
Farm House, 6:30pm
24 th Sat. Stiffkey Stiffkey Pirates Cricket Team playing
Granchester, Playing Field 12:30pm
JULY
2 nd Sun. Binham Priory Concerts, Celestial Voices, BPC
5.30pm
5 th Wed.Sharrington Gardeners, Members Outing, Salle
Park, 2pm
6 th Thu. Sharrington Noble Rotters VH 7pm
7 th Fri. Sharrington Craft Group VH 10.30am-12.30pm
7 th Fri. Sharrington Pub Evening VH 7pm
8 th Sat. Morston FMC AGM, Village Hall, 6:30pm
8 th Sat. Stiffkey Stiffkey Pirates Cricket Team playing
Oxford Bodleian, Playing Field, 12:30pm
14 th Fri. Bale Fish and Chips, VH 7pm
14 th Fri. Field Dalling, Bingo, VH 7.30pm
15 th Sat. Bale Bale Book Group, VH 4pm
15 th Sat. Binham FOBP, Picnic 2 Jazz, BPC 5pm - 8pm
16 th Sun. or 17 th Mon. Langham (date tbc) “discover
your palette” cheese, wine and art evening VH details
nearer the date
20 th Thu. Binham & Hindringham Open Circle, Talk on
Paracise by Alexandra Watson, HVH 7.15pm
22 nd Sat. Binham Priory Concerts, Norwich Baroque -
Fantasticus, BPC 6pm
22 nd Sat. Gunthorpe 50:50 Club Coffee Morning, VI
10.30am
23 rd Sun. Stiffkey Stiffkey Pirates Cricket Team playing
Norwich Hockey, Playing Field, 12:30pm
28 th Fri. Bale Bale Oak Bar, VH 6.30-9.30pm
30 th Sun Gunthorpe. Village Music and Craft Fair St
Mary’s Church, 2-4pm
30 th Sun. Binham Yard Sale, TBA
REGULARS
Sundays Stiffkey, Rescue Wooden Boats Charity, The
Greenway, Open 11am-4pm
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Mondays Bale Painting Group, VH, 1-4pm (to 24 th July)
Mondays Sharrington, Yoga class, VH 11.30am-
12.30pm (Not Bank Holidays)
Tuesdays - Binham Art Group MH 9.30am - 12.30pm
Wednesdays - Binham Youth Group, MH 6pm - 8pm
(during term time)
Wednesdays Langham Mobile Post Office VH 8.50-
9.20am
1 st Wed of the month Field Dalling Coffee Morning,
VH 10.30am
2 nd Wed of month - Binham Norfolk Farmers’ Market,
MH 9am - 3pm
3 rd Wed of month - Binham Cosy Club, MH, 2pm - 4pm
3 rd Wed of the month Field Dalling U3A Psychology,
VH 10am
4 th Wed of the month Field Dalling U3A Military History,
VH 10am
Thursdays Field Dalling Carpet Bowls, VH 1.30pm
Thursdays Field Dalling Yoga, VH 6.30pm
3 rd Thu of month - Binham Binham & Hindringham
Open Circle, HVH, 7.15pm
Last Thu of month - Binham Social Evening, BMH,
7pm
4 th Fri of the month Field Dalling U23A Family History,
VH 10am
1 st & 3 rd Saturdays in month Langham Coffee Mornings,
VH 10am -12noon
POST OFFICE & LIBRARIES
Wednesdays, Field Dalling, Post Office, VH, 8-8.40am
Friday 2 nd June Sharrington Library Bus VH 3.10pm
CLASH DIARY
If you are arranging a big event, contact your village rep
to add it to our clash diary, then check the diary to see
what else is going on.
2023
August
12 th Sat. Field Dalling Summer Fete
13 th Sun. Binham Summer Fete
September
10 th Sun. Binham Village Show
December
9 th Sat. Field Dalling Christmas Fair
2024
August
24 th Sat. Langham Street Fayre - all day event
Newsletter and Website Advertising
For enquiries about advertising in Local Lynx, contact
Sally Metcalfe: sallymetcalfe@btinternet.com
Rates for advertising (pre-paid) are:
One column x 62 mm (1/8 page): £72 for six issues.
Small Ads Panel on the back page:
Available for individuals and businesses
providing local services. Cost: £36 for six issues.

Church Services for Bale and Stiffkey Benefice for June and July 2023
HC=Holy Communion. CFS=Church Family Service. MP=Morning Prayer. BCP=Book of Common Prayer CW- Common Worship
Parish 4 th June 11 th June 18 th June 25 th June
Bale 9.30am HC 9.30am HC
Field Dalling 11.00am CFS At Saxlingham 11.00am MP BCP
Saxlingham At Field Dalling 11.00am HC At Field Dalling
Gunthorpe
11.00am MP BCP
Sharrington 9.30am MP BCP 9.30am HC 9.30am MP CW 9.30am MP
Binham 11.00am HC 11.00am MP 11.00am MP 9.30am HC
Morston 9.30am HC BCP 9.30am MP BCP
Langham At Stiffkey 9.30am MP BCP At Stiffkey 9.30am MP BCP
Stiffkey 9.30am MP BCP At Langham 9.30am HC BCP At Langham
Parish 2 nd July 9 th July 16 th July 23 rd July 30 th July
Bale 9.30am HC
9.30am HC
At Sharrington
Group Service
Field Dalling At Bale 11.00am CFS At Saxlingham 11.00am MP BCP At Sharrington
Saxlingham At Bale At Field Dalling 11.00am HC At Field Dalling At Sharrington
Gunthorpe At Bale 11.00am MP BCP At Sharrington
Sharrington At Bale 9.30am HC 9.30am MP CW 9.30am HC 10.30am HC
Group Service
Binham At Bale 11.00am MP 9.30am HC At Sharrington
Morston At Bale 9.30am MP BCP At Sharrington
Langham At Bale 9.30am MP BCP At Stiffkey 9.30am MP BCP At Sharrington
Stiffkey At Bale At Langham 9.30am HC BCP At Langham At Sharrington
Additional Services
Zoom services on 4 th June and 2 nd July at 5.00pm. For further details please contact Ian Newton on 01328 830947 or
email iannewton46@gmail.com.
ST. PETER’S CATHOLIC CHURCH
Back Lane, Blakeney NR25 7NP
Mass Sunday - 11am
Wednesday - 9.30am
Holyday of Obligation 9.30am
www.catholicparishofwalsingham.org
BLAKENEY METHODIST CHURCH
Service times:
1 st Sunday -10am Traditional Methodist Worship
2 nd Sunday – Café Church10am
Mid - week prayer time:
Thursdays 9.30am
For more details see Glaven Valley Newsletter or
ring Samantha Parfitt on 07591 509653.
HOLT & REPPS DEANERY NEWS
16 July - Deanery Evensong Blakeney
DUNCAN BAKER M.P.
N. Norfolk Conservative Assoc: 01692 557140
London Parliamentary Office 0207 2194841
www.duncanbaker.org.uk
JEROME MAYHEW M.P.
Broadland Conservative Assoc: 01603 865763
www.broadlandconservatives.org.uk
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RECTOR’S LETTER
Dear Friends and Parishioners,
At long last we’ve reached some weeks of warmth.
Despite some lovely days, I don’t really like six months of
cold. But Easter comes at garden time and we live in the
light and warmth of that. Nationally and inter-nationally we
and the realms beyond the seas, and the other
Commonwealth countries have a new Sovereign and Head.
A constitutional monarchy has served us well for centuries:
a Head of State beyond politics; a real person to whom so
many, including myself, have sworn allegiance; and the
sheer historical fun of it all – looks so much better than say,
living in grey east Germany for forty years.
The Coronation was marked by the dignity of The
Crown, and the informed, individualistic personality of the
King.
There is no lack of Kingship in the Kingdom of Heaven.
God reigns and rules, supreme, omnipotent, omnipresent;
and made human to us in the Lord Jesus Christ, a carpenter,
nailed to a wooden cross, by which and His glorious
resurrection, He saved the world. It is stark, and absolute;
but full of love and ultimate care. I don’t like cold grey. I
like warm gold; and a human face to the Deity. We are all
free to differ, but for this vision of glory I give my all.
May Almighty God keep you and bless you unto the
ages of ages.
Yours truly,
Ian Whittle
The Rectory, Langham
01328 830246
Wait
These are
the good old days.
Just wait
and see.
Steve Turner 20 th century

LOOKING AFTER LOCAL LYNX
Local Lynx is a not-for-profit community paper
covering the villages of Bale, Binham, Cockthorpe,
Field Dalling, Gunthorpe, Langham, Morston,
Saxlingham, Sharrington and Stiffkey.
Published every other month, it contains community
news as well as news and articles from each of the
villages together with details of church services and
news from the local school in Langham.
Currently distributed to over 1,100 households it has
an estimated readership of over 2,000 as well as over
800 readers on-line at www.locallynx.co.uk.
The paper is produced entirely by volunteers with
the editor supported by village reps who collate the
stories, distributors who pop the paper through each
letterbox, proof readers who try to catch the typos, a
designer who can add style and of course those that
write the interesting articles and news.
Financially the paper is supported by the parish
councils and parochial church councils of the villages
concerned and by the wonderful local businesses who
place their adverts with us. We also have great support
from our readers. If you like what you read and would
like to make a contribution to the running costs of the
paper then these can be made by contacting the editor at
lynxeditor@pobox.com or by direct bank transfer to:
Local Paper a/c 65004288 sort code 09-01-54.
Lynx Internet Banking and Standing Orders
Account Name: Local Paper
Account number: 6500 4288 Sort code: 09-01-54
COMMUNITY nEWS
LOCAL ELECTIONS 4 MAY 2023
For all North Norfolk election results go to https://
www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/tasks/electoral-services/viewelection-results/.
LOCAL LEGEND, GREAT
PERSONALITY, SEEKS SIMILAR FOR
GOOD TIMES
Hot on the heels of The Morston Anchor’s much
anticipated reopening, another local legend is set to follow
suit. The Langham Blue Bell, having sadly called time last
autumn, is reopening its doors just in time for summer -
thanks to the team behind The Harper hotel.
A quick glance around the ‘new’ Morston Anchor
reveals it is all about carefully preserving the old – nothing
has been messed with, just revived, with a fresh lick of
(Stiffkey Blue) paint and a beautifully simple menu (think
fish and chips, local seafood, and homemade sauces –
takeaway also available!). Expect a similar story at The
Langham Blue Bell, except with pies, puddings (homemade,
naturally) and weekend roasts to accompany your pint
(s).For more details, visit thelanghambluebell. co.uk.
Full of character, with easy charm and a love of all
things local. In other words, all the ingredients for a classic
village pub – except one. You.
The Harper is Hiring!
The Harper team would like to meet you if you, like
us, love all things Norfolk, have a twinkle in your eye
and – even better - you know your Woodforde’s Wherry
from your Woodford Reserve. Front of house and
kitchen team roles are available at The Anchor and The
Blue Bell (and The Harper itself), so if you feel you’re
the perfect match, or know someone who is, drop a line
to work@theharper. co.uk.
NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME
Wells-next-the-Sea Group Opening
Sunday 18 June 11am – 5pm
A group of five gardens, two of them new this year, will
be open under the auspices of the National Garden Scheme
which raises funds for charities including MacMillan
Nurses. Easily accessible, all five are in a line running from
Market Lane, along Burnt Street through to Church Street.
The Wells gardens will illustrate a rich variety of garden
styles from small cottage to larger, longer and more
spacious layouts.
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Refreshments will be available at The Old Rectory,
Church Street. Nearest car parking is in Market Lane and
opposite St. Nicholas Church in Church Street.
Admission to all five gardens is £6 payable at any of the
gardens. Contact Barbara Oliver: 01328 713066, mob:
07771 926866 or poachercottage2@gmail.com.
BALE
Contact: Maggie Thomas
maggie2403@icloud.com
BALE FETE
We look forward to seeing you at the annual Bale Fete
on Saturday 3 rd June in the garden of Manor Farm, opening
at 2pm. This has always been a popular local occasion, with
visitors coming from quite a distance to enjoy the
atmosphere and snap up a bargain. There will be the usual
array of stalls, sideshows and refreshments and the Cromer
and Sheringham Band is booked and set to entertain.
Contributions for sale, particularly of cakes, preserves and
plants, will be welcome on the day as will volunteers.
Contact Walter Hammond on 07778 620015 if you can
spare some time to assist with set-up, clear-up or help on a
stall.
PM
WILD BALE
The Cuckoo
I hear thee and rejoice …
To seek thee did I often rove
Through woods and on the green
And thou wert still a hope, a love,
Still longed for never seen.
And I can listen to thee yet
Can lie upon the plain
And listen, till I do beget
That golden time again.
from ‘To the Cuckoo’ by William Wordsworth
The cuckoo is a fascinating bird, with its hawk-like
features and resounding summer goo-ko. The herald of
warm spring days, for many the cuckoo is a bird of their
childhood countryside.
A medium-sized land bird the adult cuckoo will travel
5,000 miles from its wintering grounds in the African
Congo covering the 2,000 miles of desert in one flight and
then resting and feeding in Spain or Italy before the final
part of the journey to the UK. On reaching the UK in early
April, and possibly finding the weather inhospitable, it will
return to warmer temperatures in Europe, feed for a few
days and then return to the UK to breed.
Its main food is insects and their larvae and in particular
hairy caterpillars, often dismissed by other birds. It is one of
the few birds that will tackle Cinnabar Moth caterpillars that
feed on ragwort. They have learnt to bite off the head of the
caterpillar, discarding the poisonous ragwort in the jaws of
the caterpillar, enabling it to eat the remaining body safely.
Cuckoos are birds of open country and woodland edges
where the females can find the nests of dunnocks, reed
warblers and meadow pipits in which to lay their eggs. They
are brood parasites, using others to raise their young. The
female lays an egg in the chosen host nest. The fact that the
cuckoo resembles an hawk allows it to do this with
impunity. Although larger than the host egg, the cuckoo’s
egg will look very similar in colour. The egg hatches after
eleven to thirteen days at which point the cuckoo hatchling
will eject the hosts’ eggs or chicks, rather unceremoniously,
out of the nest.
A single female cuckoo can lay one egg in 50 hosts nests
in one season which means the loss of something in the
region of 150 to 200 eggs or chicks of a species such as the
Reed Warbler. The young cuckoo in the nest begs for food
from the adoptive parents and makes enough noise for it to
seem as if there are four young to be fed. This continues for
about twenty days.
The cuckoo leaves the UK in July and August bound for
central Africa. As they live for between five and seven years
they may well travel over 50,000 miles in their lifetime.
When you next hear the goo-ko think of its journey here
and of William Wordsworth listening to its ancestors in the
1700s. Paul Laurie
BALE VILLAGE HALL NEWS
Our monthly fish and chips and Bale Oak Bar evenings
continue to be an excellent way of ‘catching up’ with
friends and neighbours. Although the village hall
committee successfully looks after these events, a recent
review of all the tasks that need to be covered in order
to make any gathering go smoothly made us realise that
there are many ways in which extra help would be
welcome. If you would be able to lend a hand, please
talk to a committee member the next time you are enjoying
an evening at the hall.
Upcoming fish & chips dates are 9 th June and 14 th July at
7pm. Get your orders in by 6pm on the day to 01328
878355 or Bale Village WhatsApp. The Bale Oak Bar
opens for business on 23 rd June and 28 th July, 6.30-9.30pm.
Please look out for, and respond to, a short questionnaire
which will be sent out shortly (with paper copies in the
village hall), asking your opinion on whether to extend the
5

ar opening to other events. We have traditionally had a
‘bring your own’ policy for such things as fish and chips,
harvest supper, barbecue, etc., and would like to know if the
opportunity to buy a beer or glass of wine on the evening
would be welcomed.
Looking ahead to August, this year’s barbecue will be on
Sunday 27 th August, rather than the usual Saturday. We
hope to have the usual sell-out crowd, despite the change of
day. Tickets will go on sale at the beginning of August.
Look out for posters nearer the time for more details. PM
BALE BOOK GROUP
The Comfort of Strangers by Ian McEwan
The story goes like this: an unmarried
English couple, Colin and Mary,
holidaying in an unnamed foreign city that
bears a strong resemblance to Venice, fall
in with an older couple, Robert and
Caroline. The latter begin to dominate the
lives of the English couple. It is hard to
tell this story without giving away the
ending but from the beginning I felt
uneasy with a growing sense of dread.
Colin and Mary inhabit their bedroom, swim in the sea, and
walk a few late-night streets, but scarcely engage with the
richness of the past that surrounds them. They seem to be
bored with themselves and with each other.
They leave their hotel after 9pm one night, in search of
something to eat and lose their way. Their city is a place
where every shop and restaurant is already closed by this
hour. It is here that they come upon Robert who wears a
golden razor blade around his neck and who insists he
knows somewhere where they might find something. He
takes them to a bar that happens to be his own. There is no
food but for one breadstick and they get very drunk. As the
story progresses there are similar unexpected encounters
with Robert and everything becomes a lot more sinister with
a series of events that leads to obsession and violence.
This wasn’t one of the most loved books we have read as
a group but it did generate more than an hour’s discussion,
mostly critical! I was certainly drawn in from the start and
wanted to know what happened next. This is an early book
of the author and like The Cement Garden it explores
humanity’s capacity for evil. It is a very short book, around
170 pages, and had me in its stranglehold from the first page
to the last.
Sandy Chapman
100 CLUB RESULTS
If you would like to join the 100 Club, please pay the
annual subscription of £12 into account 20510658, sort code
82-11-07, using 100 and your surname as the reference. If
you are renewing your subscription, please note that the
account details have changed. The draw is held on the
second Friday of each month at Fish and Chips in Bale
village hall.
March 2023
1st Andrea Turnbull £25, 2nd Julia Bridge £10, 3rd Alastair
Macorkindale £5, 4th Rita Gibbs £5
April 2023
1st Rita Gibbs £25, 2nd Angus Jones £10, 3rd Adam
Chapman £5, 4th Dick Broughton £5
ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH
The Easter Day service was well attended and a
reminder of how uplifting it can be to join together and
enjoy singing hymns and the traditional, very generous gifts
of Easter eggs (thanks to Eileen, as always). The church
looked beautiful with artistic flower arrangements and that
great symbol of spring, the daffodil, adding a touch of
sunshine to the display. We are so lucky to have such a
talented group on the flower rota but there is always room
for more volunteers, if you would like to exhibit your skills.
As usual, we will be holding services of Holy
Communion at 9.30am on 4 th and 18 th June and 2 nd and 16 th
July.
PM
BALE PAINTING GROUP
Do you find yourself looking at images around you, on
TV or elsewhere, and wondering how they were done?
Before the invention of photography, images were produced
using many different methods. Cave art, created using
straws to blow pigments made of earth and water to outline
figures, may have been the very beginning of accurate
depictions. Today anything goes and all styles and media
are good.
The ability to create is in everyone. Bravery and
application are all that are required, perhaps with some
encouragement. There’s no pressure to create in a particular
way: just the time and space to get started and see where it
takes you. The opportunity to do so is at Bale village hall
most Monday afternoons.
We have been approached by our neighbours in
Gunthorpe village to participate in the July Art and Craft
Fair being held in the church there on 30 th July from 2pm.
Come along and meet group members. You may purchase
the items on view.
The painting sessions at Bale are held every Monday
from 1pm to 4pm in the village hall and run until the 24 th
July, restarting on 4 th September after the summer recess.
Email TheBalePaintingGroup@outlook.com or just
pitch up at a Monday session.
Peter Jones
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SURVEYOR’S ALLOTMENT
An Update
The Felbeck Trust is forging ahead with its work on
the Surveyor’s allotment on Folly Hill, Bale, and an
access gate has now been fitted. In the Trust’s newsletter,
one of the volunteers, Sean, humorously describes his
part in the production of the gate:
“In the preparation of the access gate at Bale, Trevor
asked me to head over to our timber store, find two 4.8m
rails, saw them in half and deliver them to Bale. Packing
my tape measure to ensure complete accuracy, I headed
to the store, jumped out and searched for the 4.8m rails,
lengthy beasts which aren't inconspicuous by their nature.
Despite my best efforts, the longest I could find fell well
short of the 4.8m mark (3.86m to be precise) so out came
the saw and in a jiffy I was armed with four planks which
I hoped would do the job. Upon arrival at Bale, I was
reassured by Trevor that all was in order. It was a relief to
hear Stu being delegated the highly technical task of
assembling the gate.
My task, much more
suitable for an Irishman, was
to help Ian and Trevor to dig a
couple of very deep holes.
During the course of the
morning my greatest asset
proved to be my prodigiously
long arms. Despite the use of the excellent soil borer, a
tool akin to an enormous corkscrew, digging was
hindered by numerous large flints which could only be
extracted by lying prone, face in the dirt, while using
one's digits to scrabble around in the base of the hole. By
midday, holes were dug, posts were installed, the gate
was hung, the Felbeck Trust sign was erected, and we
even had time to engage with several friendly dog
walkers who were interested in our project.”
BINHAM
Contact: Paul Bailey 07401 315714
paulbailey04@aol.com
BINHAM PARISH COUNCIL
Since the Local Lynx was launched in 1998,
Binham PC has contributed to it regularly, with the
aim of keeping Binham and Cockthorpe homeowners
informed of local activities, consultations on local
and district projects, mainly housing in its various
forms, from Broadland’s mixed development of 27
new properties, through to renovations of houses and
finally traffic passing through the villages.
providing a substantial data base to monitor vehicle
speeds and the effectiveness of more recently positioned
road restrictions. These include village entry gates on
the Hindringham, Wells and Langham Roads (2018/19),
which have recently been enhanced by 30 mph roundels
(2023). The village’s defibrillator, positioned by The
Chequers pub (2018), provides welcome reassurance
that, with the aid of instructions from a call handler,
lifesaving CPR can be started prior to the emergency
medical services arriving on scene. During the Covid
pandemic, the PC was also able to provide a valuable
resource, by assisting Binham and Cockthorpe residents
to negotiate the various rules, restrictions and
lockdowns. As well as providing information on the
need to get one’s Covid vaccinations. Residents took
comfort from knowing that they could seek help or
advice at any time. As an aside, Issue 137 included “a
sighting of aliens” one February evening in 2021. Well
not really, it proved to be just a smart new sugar beet
harvester, festooned with very bright spotlights.
By the time this 150 th edition of the Lynx is delivered,
their Majesties King Charles and Queen Camilla will have
been crowned at Westminster Abbey, supported, and
celebrated not only by our own nation, but also by those
nations further afield. We do hope that readers were able to
participate in the activities arranged throughout the benefice.
The list of chosen activities for May 7 th , which had been
tried and tested over previous royal celebrations, not least
HM Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden and Platinum Jubilees,
included tug of war, all comer’s-cricket and a special flower
display in the Priory Church (2002). So, here’s hoping that
we will have celebrated the Coronation in best Binham and
Cockthorpe fashion.
March’s PC meeting was unfortunately cancelled due to
a number of unforeseen apologies, resulting in a nonquorate
council. Since then, the district and parish elections
have taken place, with the election of councillors for
Binham PC being uncontested. The next meeting of the PC
will be on Monday 22 nd May at 7.30pm in Binham
Memorial Hall.
It has been relatively quiet since the last meeting in
January, probably not the most prudent thing to say,
especially as the district council emphasis may change,
depending on the results of the district elections. On this
note, District Councillor Richard Kershaw, who has
previously so ably supported Binham and Cockthorpe PC,
has decided not to stand for re-election. We shall miss his
professionalism, sensibility and willingness to assist the PC
Out of curiosity, I randomly selected several
previous Lynx editions, only to find that the topics
covered in recent issues, are no different to those
covered over the previous 25 years. Namely, dog
fouling, overgrown hedges, the state of our roads
(1998), repairs to the telephone box and the bus
shelter (2003), and traffic flow and speeding
(2014/15). The latter issue, is now being monitored
by the SAM that was purchased in 2015 and serves to
remind drivers of the local speed limit, as well as
7

when called upon, especially in relation to planning
applications. Thank you Councillor Kershaw.
Elizabeth S Brady, Chair Binham Council
BINHAM MEMORIAL HALL
www.binhamvillagehall.co.uk
Thank you to everyone who has been coming along to
our social evenings at 7pm on the last Thursday of each
month. They have been such a lot of fun and we have been
amazed by the carpet bowls skills that many of you have
demonstrated. The slight dip in the floor means that some
extra spin and wriggly throws have been brilliantly
executed. Dominoes have become a special part of my life
now and I’m looking forward to learning cribbage and
shove ha-penny at the next one. By the time this issue is
released, we will have trialled our jacket potato baking
machine, with fillings from £5, so fingers crossed they have
been enjoyed by many. Thank you also to those who were
instrumental in setting up the social evenings - you know
who you are.
The Norfolk farmers’ markets are now fully up and
running and will be with us for the foreseeable future on the
second Wednesday of every month. They are on Facebook
and also have a website www.norfolkfarmersmarket.
co.uk..
There will be another Binham yard sale on Sunday, 30 th
July. More information will be posted up around the village.
The Summer fete will be on Sunday 13 th August. Further
information will be given in the next edition. In the
meantime, if you have anything suitable for the tombola,
bric-a-brac, book stall, or pre-loved clothes stall, please
hang on to them for the time being. If you’re doing a clear
out and want to get shot of clothes or books, then we are
looking to organise a couple of times when you can drop
them in to the hall. So for books and bric-a-brac call Anne
Hooper on 07855 379719 and for pre-loved clothes call
Wendy Keesom on 01328 805001 and leave a message if
need be. It should be a perfect day.
We had the AGM on 25 th April , when Andy Marsh was
elected as chair for another year, as were the rest of the
committee, apart from Mary Hunt, who has sadly stepped
down as a trustee. Until such time as we can find a willing
replacement, Mary will very kindly continue to oversee the
Facebook page and website, as well as writing this column
for the Lynx.
The Parish meeting took place immediately afterwards,
when we heard from the Parish Council, the PCC, the
Youth Group and various other local groups. The village
seems to be in fine fettle after the pandemic, which is
wonderful to see.
The Village Show is on Sunday, 10 th September and
now is the time to start thinking about what you might like
to grow as an exhibit. Watch out for all the info nearer the
time.
Mary Hunt
PICNIC 2 JAZZ 2023
Binham Priory Ruins
Saturday, 15 th July
5.00pm - 8.00pm
The Friends of Binham Priory are delighted to announce
the continued return of Picnic 2 Jazz, for 2023. We hope
that once again you and your families and friends will come
and enjoy your picnic in the wonderful ruins of Binham
Priory. There will be the usual, easy-listening jazz and we
have managed once more to secure DixieMix to provide
their wonderful musical entertainment for us.
You may bring whatever picnic items you like (except
barbecues please). And all your own drinks. Children under
16 have free entry. There is plenty of parking at the venue.
This is a fantastic event and a great opportunity for
families and friends to enjoy the wonderful, historic,
countryside setting of Binham Priory.
This event has always proved very popular over the
years and attendance numbers do have to be restricted, so
early booking is advised, for which we offer a discount.
Tickets are £15 per adult, paid in advance by close of
business on Friday, 14 th July, or £18 if bought on Saturday,
including on the gate.
Box Office - The Chequers Inn, Front Street, Binham,
NR21 0AL, or tel: 01328 830297 (payment by cash or
cheque, by telephone, or in person). For latest details please
check the FOBP website friendsofbinhampriory.
weebly.com.
Clive Brady
8

BINHAM PRIORY CONCERTS
10 th June at 6pm
Serendipity - Anna Hopkins - flute, Karen Verrachia -
clarinet, Sylvia Newton - bassoon. The programme includes
music by Mozart, Cambini, Ibert, Hugenin, Tomasi and
Bernstein. Based in north Norfolk, this woodwind trio have
delighted audiences with their mixture of classical and more
light hearted music. The members are all principal players
in The Norfolk Symphony Orchestra. Tickets £10 (children
free) available at the door.
2 nd July at 5.30pm
Celestial Voices - Directed by Janet Kelsey. “Lux Aeterna”
is a programme of choral masterpieces, including music by
Purcell, Handel, Mozart, Fauré, Elgar, Duruflé, Vaughan
Williams, Stanford, Britten, Whitacre and Althouse.
Celestial Voices is a group of singers who meet up on a
chateau singing holiday in Poitiers, France during May.
They bring their “Lux Aeterna” concert to Binham Priory,
so that a local audience can enjoy the fruits of their
endeavours. The concert is ticketless with a retiring
collection.
Geoff Scott
PRIORY SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Tickets cost £20 per concert and are now available
from Maureen Frost on 01328 830362, or from
davidfrost226@ btinternet.com. Please be aware of
starting times for each concert.
22 nd July, 6pm - Norwich Baroque, directed by Jim
O'Toole, “Fantasticus”. An all-time favourite with Binham
audiences, Norwich Baroque returns to start our new
season. This year’s programme is all about the “Fantasticus”
style of music from 17 th century Italy and Austria. You will
hear violins, baroque harp, theorbo, and viola da gamba,
which combined, produce a rich and almost tactile musical
texture, full of depth and excitement. Composers will
include Marini and Castello from Italy, Biber and
Schmeizer from Austria, and Lawes and Purcell from
England.
For details of the following concerts please consult the
website www.binhampriory.org.
18 th August, 6pm Fontanella (recorder ensemble).
25 th August, 6pm Xuefei Yang (classical guitar).
9 th September, 7.30pm Tāla Tarang (Eleanor Turner,
harp, Mendi Singh, tabla).
Geoff Scott
BINHAM ART GROUP
As part of the art group’s programme of demonstrations,
we recently invited Walsingham based artist Tracey Ross to
share her techniques and tips with the group. Tracey gave a
wonderfully energetic and inspirational demonstration of
some of her painting techniques. Her approach to art is
based on Tracey Emin’s quote of “Art is a leap of faith”.
One of her early influencers was our very own Lionel
Wilde, to whom she dedicated her demonstration, following
Lionel’s untimely passing in January.
Tracey describes herself as a mixed media artist, using
water based paints. Her principle inspiration comes from the
north Norfolk landscape and the big skies, and she is often
out on the marshes with her sketchbook. In her words she
explores the horizon and relates it to heaven and earth.
She demonstrated her techniques on a large canvas semi
abstract landscape painting that was in development and in
the eyes of our members, abusing the painting by vigorously
applying paint and scrubbing it in with rags and brushes.
Her main tools were pallet knives, brushes and wedges, rags
9
and tissues. She introduced the group to the art of tonking, a
technique using tissue paper, to lift paint off the canvas, then
later layering strips of painted tissue, to add tonal values.
She uses a filbert brush for rolling over the canvas to create
clouds, which looked very effective. Thank you Tracey for
being so generous with your time and knowledge.
Other exciting group demonstrations and workshops are
being planned through the summer and will be announced
shortly. The group are also busy planning for our annual
exhibition in the memorial village hall on the weekend of
19 th and 20 th . August. This year marks our 25 th anniversary,
so we are celebrating and introducing some new elements,
like crafts and sculptures to our displays.
Congratulations to Jo Winter on winning our picture of
the month competition for April, with her pastel painting
“Low Tide”. A real accomplishment, as Jo has only just
taken up pastels. The picture now hangs in the gallery @
The Chequers.
As always if you’re interested in joining the group,
please use the contact us page on our website
www.binhamartgroup.weebly.com Robin Townend
BINHAM & HINDRINGHAM
OPEN CIRCLE
On Thursday 13 th June, we will meet for our annual
garden visit. This year we are visiting Upwood Farm, also
known as Fiddian's Follies, in North Barningham, south east
of Holt. The garden has been described as quirky, full of
surprises and generally very different to the style favoured
by many gardeners. There are several follies, lovingly
created with brick and stone elements, in and around what
was once an old quarry, set in three acres and boasting
wonderful unspoilt views.
Less relaxing than the garden visit, on Thursday, 20 th
July, Alexandra Watson will be putting us through some

paracise routines. Paracise is low impact, gentle and
effective exercise, all done to music and can improve
posture, core strength, increase flexibility and mobility, as
well as reducing the risk of injury or pain. Alex currently
holds classes in Hindringham on Wednesday mornings and
those of us who attend, can vouch for its effectiveness and
just as important, the laughs that we have as a group.
If you have any questions, please give our secretary Sue
Elkins a call on 01328 878487. New members are always
welcome. We usually meet at Hindringham village hall at
7.15pm.
Sue Elkins
BINHAM MEMORIAL HALL
100+ CLUB WINNERS
March: Diane Tilley £25, Julie Wright £10, Jane Grange
£10, Graham Mallett £5,Kevin Howard £5, Joan Yen £5
April: Gail Jolly £25, Maurice Matthews £10, Sue Beer
£10, Brenda Cooper £5, Helena Marsh £5, Kevin Howard
£5.
May’s draw will have been made on Thursday, 25 th
May, during the village hall’s social night.
Anyone wishing to join the 100+ Club, or wishing to
renew their subscriptions, should email paulbailey04
@aol.com or call 07401 315714.
Paul Bailey
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
15 th June Binham & Hindringham Open Circle
Visit to Upwood Farm
20 th July Binham & Hindringham Open Circle
Talk on paracise by Alexandra Watson
30 th July Binham Memorial Hall Binham yard sale
13 th Aug Binham Memorial Hall summer fete
19 th /20 th Aug Binham Art Group annual exhibition
10 th Sept Binham Memorial Hall village show
COCKTHORPE
Contact: Maurice Matthews 01328 830350
maurice.matthews@peppard.net
TEXTILE ART EXHIBITION
Our local Artist
Cherry Vernon, who has had a house at Cockthorpe for
over 30 years, will be exhibiting with seven other textile
artists at Salthouse Church from 22 nd June to 9 th July. This
exhibition is free and will open daily from 10am – 5pm.
Sundays from 11am-5pm. (See page 4.)
Well worth a visit.
UNOFFICIAL TEST MATCH
AT LANGHAM
Lynx 54 June/July 2007
The following is yet another story about the Royal Air
Force at Langham, provided by Pat Newman.
I can remember the late Kenny (Dar) Brown telling me
about an unofficial test match having been played at
Langham [in May/June 1944] and I was sceptical but on
reading the book Strike and Strike Again, which is about
455 squadron based at Langham, I came across this, and I
quote:
“Four squadron members played in an unofficial test
match between Australian services XI and The Rest. There
had been plenty of talent at the match. Included in The Rest
team were Len Hutton, Wally Hammond, Bill Edrich and
Denis Compton. The Australian XI had from 455 squadron
flying officer Carmody [captain], flight sergeant Bill Roach
[killed on 8th June 1944], pilot officer Bob Crisofani and
flight lieutenant Roper, all Australian test cricketers. Guests
at the match were the Australian prime minister John Curtin
and Australia’s commander-in-chief General Thomas
Blamey.”
Dar told me that the match was played at the back of
‘double plantation’ adjacent to Burma Road. For the
unknowing, down the Morston road behind the first wood.
Unfortunately I do not know the result.
Ann Massingham, Cockthorpe Rep
CARMEL
Lynx 13 July/August 2000 p5
On Cockthorpe Road in Langham, just around the bend
from the Binham Road, is the large old(ish) house which
has had a number of names, but most recently was
Langham Lodge. For the last 18 years though, the sign out
front has said “Carmel of Our Lady of Walsingham”. Some
of you may have seen it or have been here for one reason or
another.
We thought you might like to know a bit about us since,
in the normal course of events, you wouldn’t see much of us
and might wonder what on earth can be going on behind all
those trees!
We are an Order if contemplative nuns belonging to the
Roman Catholic tradition. That means our most important
work is prayer - for our world and all its needs. For that
purpose, if you are nearby and listening, you will hear our
chapel bell calling us to prayer seven times a day. In
addition to that, we each pray privately for two one-hour
periods every day. We would just like to say that you are
10

certainly welcome to join us for any of our times of prayer -
the chapel is open from 6am to 6pm.
You don’t need to be a Catholic or, for that matter,
anything. If you just wish a place of quiet to sit and ponder,
you are very welcome.
Like everyone else of course, we must work. So that
much of the rest of the day is spent making our living by
baking communion wafer. This income feeds us and keeps
up the house and property as best we can. We live pretty
simply in spite of the big property and we try to do as much
of the work as we can to keep down expenses.
Those of you who have lived in Langham for many
years will have noticed changes made to the property - the
addition of the Chapel in 1986 being the most obvious. It is
a listed property so, on the whole, it has not otherwise
changed all that much. We love the countryside around us
and are grateful for it.
There are eleven of us here. We have three sisters who
come originally from Lancashire, one from Yorkshire, one
from Sussex, one from Gloucestershire, one from Liverpool,
two from the United States, one from Canada and one from
Ireland. So you can see we are a real mixture, though, alas,
no one from Norfolk. Someday, perhaps.
FIELD DALLING
Contact: Julie Wiltshire
julie_wilson75@hotmail.com
ST ANDREW’S CHURCH
Animal Blessing Service
Sunday 13 th August 11am
Save the date for our popular blessing of the animals
service. They all behave amazingly well and seem to
know to be nice to each other, despite the fact they are
all on leads.
VILLAGERS’ HALL
We are actively seeking new committee members for
the Villagers' Hall. After nine years on the committee,
the chairman and treasurer, Steve and Susie Collins,
have tendered their resignations and will be stepping
down in October. The Villagers' Hall is in great shape; a
lot of work has been done to bring it into the 21st
century. It is a very worthwhile cause and asset to our
villages please support it.
200 CLUB WINNERS
April:
May:
£50 Stephen Allen £50 John Ridley
£25 Jenny Allison £25 Carol Wood
£15 Claire Pugh £15 Sarah Emmett
GUNTHORPE
Contact: Jane Paton 07989 534145
jacarwardine@googlemail.com
FOGPC
50/50 Club Draw Results
March
April
Ed Sinclair £20 Chris Starkings £20
Lin Dufour £15 Emily Lemberger £15
Pocket Sinclair £10 Victoria L-B £10
Valerie King £5 Fred Worsley £5
Karen Burton £5 Pippa Bunting £5
Elaine Francis £5 Roland Bohn £5
Sophie Walder £5 Callum Dryden £5
The last event in May, as usual, included additional
cash prizes to ensure that we balance the prize money so
that at least 50% of the value of subscriptions comes
back to members. Details will be in the next Lynx
magazine including the final total that the club has
contributed to the Friends.
During May we will have e-mailed or called all
current members of the Friends, along with villagers,
asking for the subs from those who wish to join or
renew for the next “Friends” year i.e., from Jun ‘23 to
May ‘24. As a reminder, subs for the Friends are £5 per
head (although additional donations are aways
welcomed) and for the 50:50 Club it is just £12 for the
year. All the subs for a family can be combined for a
single BACS payment, cheque (made out to Friends of
Gunthorpe Parish Church please) or even cash. BACS
payments should, please, be made to sort code 53-50-73
and account number 25727532 using your name and
“subs” as the reference. Please pay by 10 th June 2023 to
ensure that you are in the first draw, and if you pay by
BACS please e-mail me on jbconsult@btinternet.com
with the date and amount as I do not see the bank
statements. All payments by BACS that are notified to
me will be acknowledged by e-mail.
Thank you, and as always, we would welcome more
11

members - so if you are new to the village or have been
here for a while and not yet joined would you consider
joining us? If you would like more information on the
50:50 Club, please contact either Myfi Everett on 01263
860035 or John Blakeley on 01263 861008. J. Blakeley
ST MARY’S CHURCH NEWS
All continues to go well with the now well
established pattern of a service once a month on the
second Sunday of the month. The full church on Easter
Sunday was most gratifying, with children, dogs, and
many from the village and further afield – and
wonderful church decorations.
We are all excited at the prospect of the summer fair
at the church and the enthusiasm and energy of those
who are organising it. We know it will be a huge
success, whatever the weather.
The church bell was rung resoundingly on
Coronation Day to record the support of the village and
the church for our new Monarch and his Queen; albeit
the wind was from the south and it may have been
appreciated more in Bale than Gunthorpe itself.
FRIENDS OF GUNTHORPE PC
Gunthorpe Village Music and Craft Fair
The Friends and Village Institute will be putting on a
‘Mini Fete’ - with some games, cake & plant stalls, arts
& crafts & music – on Sunday 30 July from 2 to 4 pm in
the church and churchyard.
Thanks to those who have already volunteered to
help. We can always do with more hands so please get
in touch if you would like to be involved.
The fair will be on a much smaller scale than the
usual fete held in the Hall gardens with more limited
space. Please walk to the event if you can as parking
will be more limited at the church.
We could not get volunteers to run the ‘historic’ fete
in the Hall gardens. Jane Carwardine very kindly
offered to organize this smaller fair off the back of the
very successful music, art & craft fair she organized at
the church last year. We hope this will keep villagemomentum
going and off the back of this that folks will
come forward to organize the larger fete next year.
If you can help please contact Jane Carwardine on
07989534145 or jacarwardine@googlemail.com.
We hope to see many of you there. It will be great
fun and your support of the village will be most
appreciated. Happy summer. Marie Denholm,
Friends Chairman
ITEMS FOR DONATION FOR THE
GUNTHORPE VILLAGE MUSIC AND
CRAFT FAIR
Calling Gunthorpe villagers to start looking out items
they would be happy to donate for the Gunthorpe village
music and craft fair being held on Sunday 30 th July, 2-4 pm.
We welcome nearly new clothes, and other good
condition items to sell. Also, vintage articles, good condition
toys, along with books, jigsaws, DVD's and CD's. We also
need exciting prizes for the tombola and cakes to buy and
eat on the day. Posies, cut flowers, vegetable produce as
well as plants would be very welcome for the plant stall.
Further information will follow by village email as to
when and where to drop items off.
Thank you in anticipation.
Jane Carwardine
SMALLER GUNTHORPE FETE
We are all delighted that, as set out by Marie above,
there is to be a smaller Gunthorpe Fête with some music and
crafts, and of course stalls and games, in the church and
churchyard on the afternoon of Sunday the 30 th July.
The annual fête at the hall was always a high point for
12

the village, as well as for many others, so sorely missed over
these last pandemic years. We cannot hope to replicate it but
are confident that with huge goodwill in the village and
further afield we can make this smaller event a heartwarming
and thoroughly cheerful occasion.
The organisers will have to work out what stalls and
games will be possible. We will be careful to respect the
areas by the graves; fortunately, there is much space
beyond, though we will have to ensure that it is nettle free.
Please all be thinking how we can make the day a
resounding success - and all gardeners be bringing on
anything you may be able to offer for the plant stall.
MERLIN’S BIRD!
If you have ever heard a singing bird and not been able
to identify it, then look no further.
There is a wonderful free App created by Cornell Lab of
Ornithology which can identify by sound and photo any
bird you might come across.
Look for Merlin in either the Apple App Store or Google
Play and download. From the menu, click on Bird Packs
and select the country you require. The Benefice seems to
be covered by the pack - Europe: Britain and Ireland.
It has been a revelation to discover the identity of some
of our avian visitors to the garden. Happy listening.
FRED MORLEY
Lynx 36 June/July 2004 p13
Fred Morley celebrated his 80th birthday this year. He
has lived in the village all his life and I decided to pop down
and have a chat with him about Gunthorpe during the war,
with the 60th Anniversary of D-Day this year.
Fred served in the Home Guard and is the only surviving
member of the Home Guard in the village. They wouldn’t
take him in the army as he had one leg shorter than the
other. Drills up at the Institute took place twice a week for a
couple of hours and every couple of months Gunthorpe and
neighbouring villages assembled for morning drill at Melton
Park under the command of Lord Hastings. Each man in the
Home Guard had his own rifle, but only five rounds of
ammunitioin, so practice was a little limited. There was also
a machine gun and a mortar weapon which fired tank shells
and, if not anchored properly, proceeded to ‘dance’ around
all over the place. A concrete base was positioned
approximately 30 yards down from Bale crossroads onto
which the mortar would be positioned in order to ward off
any attack from that direction. An ammunition shelter was
handily placed by Nigel Ford’s house whilst a pill box was
to be found up at the other end of the village by the Gate
House.
During July and August, neighbouring villages would
join forces to carry out night patrols in case incendiary
bombs were dropped, which would burn the crops before
they harvested. No direct hits on the village but a couple of
land mines down Sharrington Road; one exploded, blowing
all the windows out of the council houses; the other had to
be dismantled by the bomb disposal squad. No one was
seriously injured. One small bomb landed in the field by the
church taking a few windows out. But again, no injuries.
In my short conversation with Fred, he obviously has
many other interesting stories to tell - to be disclosed later -
watch this space! And many thanks to Fred. Pauline Clarke
LANGHAM
Contact: Debi McIntosh 01328 830767
debimcintosh0@gmail.com
200 CLUB
Winners
February 2023: 1st £30 Mrs K Walker, 2nd £20 Mr
Plummer, 3rd £10 Mr W Jenkins
March 2023: 1st £30 (93) R Gibbs, 2nd £20 (102) J
Bennet, 3rd £10 (40) S Hughes
April 2023: 1st £30 (114) A Westfield, 2nd £20 (85) J
Dickenson, 3rd £10 (126) W & J Moreton
CHILDREN’S EASTER PARTY
The weather was kind to us on the day and it was
lovely to see so many children (and mums before the
event started) running around the playing field looking
for bunny clues and those elusive bunny boosters!
Stevie Spud kept the children beautifully entertained
whilst the parents enjoyed a little something from the
bar and the party food was soon demolished by the
children.
Many thanks to all those who attended. As an event
we didn’t make any money for the FOL funds but we
hope that as it was such an enjoyable couple of hours,
word will get around that we host a good party and will
therefore see many more at future events.
FOL committee
BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 29 TH MAY
Bring & Buy Coffee Morning 10am-12noon
Back to our traditional date this year. This event will
be held in the churchyard if the weather is fine or we
could be inside the church or in the village hall, so keep
a look out for posters. There will be the usual coffee
morning stalls and refreshments. If anyone would like to
bake a cake or bring along books, gifts, small bric-abrac
(no furniture) or a raffle prize, all will be gratefully
received. If you would like to help on a stall, do get in
touch. Proceeds are for Langham Church General Fund.
We look forward to seeing you.
Ann Sherriff 01328 830605 / Edward Allen 830276
13

PETER BARLOW
Thank you
After 18 years of volunteering to deliver the Lynx
magazine to residents on Hollow Lane and Field
Dalling Road, Peter Barlow has decided to step down
and allow someone else to take the reins. On behalf of
Langham residents, a massive THANK YOU to Peter
who, we estimate, has kindly delivered more than 3,750
copies over the past few years, regardless of the
weather.
Peter, we wish you well and thank you once again
for all your kind and generous support over the years.
May we also take this opportunity to thank our other
deliverers, Edwina, Maureen, John and Michael (and
not forgetting Maurice Matthews who kindly delivers a
few copies on his way back to Cockthorpe) for their
continued support getting the Lynx successfully
delivered around the village - what a great team! Thank
you.
LOOKING FOR LYNX DELIVERY
VOLUNTEERS
We are currently looking for two additional
volunteers to deliver Lynx magazines six times per year,
covering the following areas of Langham:-
1. Hollow Lane and Field Dalling Road (approx 35
copies to be delivered).
2. East side of Holt Road (from junction of Hollow
Lane out towards Holt) (approx. 20 copies to be
delivered).
If you could be a willing helper and would like to get
involved, please contact Sarah via email at:
kiteflying@hotmail.co.uk or please contact your
Langham rep.
FILM NIGHTS
Village hall
The FOL committee have started hosting, what we
hope will be monthly, film nights in the village hall.
The first showing was held in April and was well
attended, although unfortunately we did’t break even
financially. We will be showing another film in May
and it will be the one voted for by you! Please support
us if you can and if you’re new to the village and don’t
know many people, it really is a great way to make new
friends.
FOL committee
DID YOU KNOW?
There is a very nice new bench in the churchyard. It
has been donated by a very kind person for all those
visiting to have a place to sit and rest .Maybe some time
to spend with thoughts and reflection. You will find it
near the vicarage wall.
EARLY LANGHAM MEMORIES
By David Craske
I was born on the 6 th December 1950 and my birth
certificate shows my place of birth as Hut 8, Site 12,
Langham. These were Nissan huts that had been used
by the RAF as there was an airbase in the village. Today
the area is known as Swans Close. Our family later
moved to a council house in Hollow Lane and then back
to Swans Close, very close to where my birth place had
been.
My grandparents, Isaac and Violet Craske, lived in
Holt Road in one of the three cottages in front of the
barns. They had a double seated outside toilet and I
have often wondered what people would talk about
when they were sitting side by side! As a child I often
used to have a bath, in a tin bath which used to hang in
the scullery, in front of the fire at their house. No
showers for us back in the 1950’s. Back in those days
Nora Shucksmith lived next door with her parents on
the other side of my grandparents.
Back in those days Home Close occupied the land on
which St Marys now stands and the buildings were
prefabs. The field between Home Close and North
Street was used by the local children and adults as a
football pitch. It was not unusual for there to be up to 30
people playing on a Sunday.
There was a ‘dump’ called Bilsey Pit on the Wiveton
Road and I used to spend hours there with others
collecting old bikes and making one out of three or four
broken ones. Health and safety would not allow such
visits these days. We also used to search for old pram
wheels so that we could make ‘dilly carts’ to ride about
on in the village. I used to pick primroses, cowslips,
buttercups and daisies to take home as a posy for mum
whilst looking for birds’ nests down the back lane, on
the common or Sealey’s Meadow. Dad used to make
pop guns out of pieces of elder and we would ‘shoot’
acorns in them. Taking a jam jar on a piece of string to
catch minnows and sticklebacks in the river was great
fun too. These and other things made us very happy
even though in material terms we all had very little. We
used to go to watch Dad harvesting and sit with him
while he had his break. I only too well remember a
14

corona bottle wrapped in a sock which, late in the day,
contained cold tea!
No double glazing with the old metal framed
windows meant that during the winter there was ice on
the inside and a trip up to the loft in the mornings with a
kettle of water to break the ice on the water tank! I used
to collect wood from down the back lane meaning that I
was kept warm three times – collecting it, chopping it
and sitting in front of the fire.
We lived next to Mr. and Mrs. Coe and I used to go
with him to ‘help’ at Crafer’s Farm where he was the
cowman. Watching him milking the cows, helping to
clear up the mess and looking whilst he churned the
milk to make butter was really exciting for a primary
school child. I went to Langham primary school as did
my father before me and have many memories of other
children there.
I have so much more to say about those days and
hopefully will be able to share a few more memories in
the next issue. If you would like to contact me about
those days my email address is craskyboy@me.com.
LANGHAM ACTION COMMITTEE
A committee has been formed – the Langham Action
Committee – in response to a planning proposal, published
last February, to build 35 houses on land at the northwestern
corner of Binham Road and North Street. At a
public meeting in the village hall on 28th April, attended by
more than 50 people, the overwhelming sentiment was
against this proposal. A less ambitious proposal for the same
site was turned down in 2019 by the District Council, so we
feel this one will fare no better.
However, in planning disputes residents are often at a
disadvantage. They may lack unity, or technical knowledge,
or an understanding of the planning process, and we intend
to furnish Langham with all three in order to resist this
unsuitable development and others of its kind.
To keep everyone informed we have set up a blog.
https://LanghamActionCommittee.blogspot.com.
Readers can contact us through it or leave comments for
others to read and comment upon in turn. Some
developments in Langham have been and will be
sympathetic, and the blog provides a public platform for
those for and against new proposals – we do not expect the
village to be preserved in aspic, and neither should it be.
We intend also to run occasional features about the
many interesting and sometimes quirky buildings that give
Langham its own special, unique, and precious character
and make it such a super place in which to live and work.
CORONATION CELEBRATIONS
Well, wasn’t the
weather kind to us on
Sunday 7th May? The
Langham Coronation
Big Lunch kicked off
at 3pm on the playing
field and the committee
members were very soon joined by a good number of
villagers (and even some from as far away as Barney,
Blakeney, Cockthorpe and Hindringham) The BBQ’s were
busy from the get go until about 6pm, “Coopers Bar” kept
going until the very end and the games on the field were
well used by children and adults alike.
Many thanks to those of you who supported us and, if
you had a good time, tell your neighbours and we’ll put
something similar on towards the end of summer
for you to drag them along to.
FOL committee
CHURCHYARD TIDY UP
A bakers dozen helped on 15th April armed with tractor
and trailer, strimmers, shears and hedge cutters. Wonderful
progress was made for which we offer many thanks. If you
are up to it, we will repeat the exercise on 3rd June starting
at 9.30am. So please come along and enjoy a couple of
hours in the fresh air, followed by coffee and cake at the
village hall.
Langham PCC
POP UP STREET FOOD
The FOL committee are currently investigating street
food stalls to possibly visit the village on a monthly
basis. If you have any ideas, or know of anyone who has
a stall, can you ask them to contact us? They would
have to be self sufficient in terms of power etc as it will
be on the playing field.
FOL committee
Langham news continued on page 18
15

L108 June/July 2016
Binham Youth Group celebrates the 90th birthday of Queen
Elizabeth II, 10-12 June.
L100 Feb/March 2015 p.6
“Did you know…”Langham Primary students celebrated the 100th
edition of Local Lynx adding their own great events of 1998. (Can
you spot the world cup!!)
L110 Oct/Nov 20016
Local Lynx resident cartoonist
Andrew Moncur
16
150 LYNX IN THE CHAIN
The collective noun for lynx is a chain. Remarkably,
with the publication of this issue, the chain of Local Lynx
now numbers 150. From its first appearance in July 1998, to
its 150 th , twenty-five years later, Local Lynx has provided
news, information and a bi-monthly connection to and
between our north Norfolk villages.
Langham resident Adrian Hill first produced a bulletin
for his village titled Our News, under the aegis of Langham
School Friends, and thought that it could be expanded into a
more general community newspaper of benefit to a wider
area. Nine villages were initially targeted by Local Lynx
no.1, being the 10 still covered today, minus Sharrington,
which only joined the circulation list with issue no.5 in
March 1999.
It is no coincidence that these villages make up the
Benefice of Stiffkey and Bale, the local parishes that share a
rector. (Brinton, outside the benefice, also joined the
circulation list with issue 8 in September 1999, but this
attempt at expansion only lasted for one issue). The
incumbent at launch and for a number of years afterwards
was Rev’d John Penny who provided much of the energy
and enthusiasm needed to get the Lynx established and
supported. Those beginnings are reflected in the association
with the church which continues in the Lynx today.
Apart from church news, some of the other initial
content ideas failed to take off. The ‘trust old bangers’
motoring page mooted in issue no.1 never appeared. But
village news and the what’s on guide quickly became
permanently established parts of the publication. One
suggestion, also raised in Lynx no.1, was to cover
“controversial issues” on a regular basis, with a “public
exchange of opinions on subjects debated at large”
proposed. Fox hunting was earmarked as the topic for issue
no.2, but like the old bangers, it failed to appear and the
Lynx has largely stayed clear of controversy, maintaining a
reasonably strict editorial neutrality.
From the start the Lynx aspired to be a community
venture, with an appeal for volunteers to get involved, and it
has stayed that way ever since. Run on a not-for-profit basis,
it is, apart from the high-quality commercial printing,
produced entirely on a voluntary basis, with its costs now
covered by advertising as well as donations from parish
councils, PCCs and individuals. Back in 1999 however, the
future looked less secure. By Christmas, and after the
publication of nine issues, it was clear that producing the
Lynx was too much for one individual, especially as it was
failing to cover its costs and required subsidising. A support
group was formed on the advice of John Penny and set up
under the guidance of Bob and Helen Brandt to determine
the Lynx’s future.
An appeal saw the village PCCs offer funds to guarantee
publication for at least the year ahead and the support group
recruited representatives from each village to promote and
contribute stories to the Lynx. This is largely the structure
that persists to this day, with local reps gathering news as
part of the support group that delivers all of the other
functions needed to keep the Lynx alive (for example,

editing, advertising sales, distribution, proof reading, and ad
design).
So when in issue no.10 in January 2000 the Lynx
reported a positive response to its appeal, noting that
“clearly the paper is valued, and with the help, both
financial and in kind, that has been forthcoming, has a good
future”, it was correct. After that early wobble, the Lynx has
been on firm financial footing ever since.
As well as countless volunteer hours, much of that has to
do with the steadfast support of its advertisers. An advert in
the Lynx makes clear business sense, reaching all the
households in the benefice and an ever-increasing number
of readers online. Lynx advertisers are undoubtedly loyal
but none more so than reflexologist Philippa Stancomb
whose ad first appeared in issue no.3, November 1998, and
whose last, on her retirement, was in October 2022, 24 years
and 143 issues later.
The distinctive look and feel of the Lynx, its mixture of
advertising and editorial, general news and village-specific
content, was established under the artistic eye of Bob Brandt
and from issue no.13 (July 2000) onwards is very much
recognisable as the same title today. Production methods
have definitely moved on from the scissors and paste days
of cutting up and laying out pages, but, with minor
modifications, the ‘Lynx look’ remains.
By the 50th issue in 2006 the Lynx was facing new
challenges, though practical rather than financial and largely
brought on by its success. To produce the paper regularly to
the high standards it had set became increasingly time
consuming and mention was made of “the long-term
problem of sharing the editorship… so that it is no longer
dependent in the final stages of preparation on the activities
of a very few people”.
An open meeting was held in Langham in January 2007
for anyone with an interest in the Lynx, with the intention of
creating a second editorial team to produce the title on an
alternate basis, thus relieving the pressure all round. A
development committee led by Anthony Smith was formed,
and by the end of the year the production team had been
widened to the extent that Bob was able to report “that no
one individual now faces up to three weeks of unremitting
toil every two months” to get an issue produced.
Two years later, what colloquially became know as the
Morston team was formed (alongside the Langham team) to
produce alternate issues under the editorship of Roberta
Hamond supported by Susie Harrison. The intention was
that this should appear seamless to readers who should see
no production differences between issues, a goal achieved
after a few teething problems!
Having ensured the future of the Local Lynx was in safe
hands, Bob and Helen were able to retire from active
involvement in 2013, in the knowledge that without their
unstinting efforts the paper would almost certainly not have
survived.
But survive it does, notching up first 100 editions in
February 2015 and now 150, eight years later. All of these
are available online and provide an entertaining read to dip
into at random, but are probably even more valuable as a
significant genealogical and local history resource for our 10
villages.
The Local Lynx remains wholly dependent on the
goodwill of its volunteers, advertisers and readers which
should never, of course, be taken for granted. But there
seems every likelihood it will endure for at least the next 50,
100 or even 150 issues. RM
The Langham Primary School Christmas cover for L105 Dec/
Jan 2015-16. See more drawings at www.locallynx.co.uk.
L129 Dec/Jan 2019-20
Bob Brandt’s Spot the Difference for the young at heart at
Christmas.
17

continued from page 15
A MESSAGE FROM THE SECOND
LYNX EDITOR
Bob Brandt
It's amazing, and a real tribute to all those who have been
involved over the years, that the Local Lynx has not only
continued but has thrived as a form of communication
between our villages.
Frankly, I did not in the least want to become involved in
trying to save the original paper because my wife, Helen,
and I had spent many years helping to publish a similar
community newspaper in the Bristol suburb of
Shirehampton where we were living while our family was
growing up.
But Helen was a keen writer and editor and we were
cornered by the then rector, John Penny, until we had agreed
to take it over. He assured us that he would persuade the
villages involved to pledge sufficient sums to make sure that
we did not find ourselves in debt as a result of
‘volunteering'.
In those early days, the content for each issue (the 'copy')
was hand-typed by Helen then passed to a local resident
who produced duplicated copies for stapling together. When
that task became too much of a burden, we were lucky
enough to find Century Printing in Stalham, who took over
the printing for a modest charge, and the rest, as they say, is
history.
My lingering contribution to the paper - having now
retired from producing Christmas crosswords - lives on in
the small, decorative 'spacers' which appear in each issue,
and the occasional appearance of the lynx whose image
hides in some issues to encourage younger readers. The
name Local Lynx, by the way, was coined by a daughter of
the original editor.
We live through changing times, when the nature of our
villages has changed greatly since the paper's early days.
Fewer 'local characters' can afford to buy houses here now
and have been replaced by holiday-makers and a few homeworkers
who have been driven into 'the country' by Covid
and the chance to enjoy our lovely bit of North Norfolk. All
are welcome, but it is relatively rare now to hear locals
speak in their original tongue and tell of the days when
farming was the main source of employment.
But if we can continue to keep in touch with each other
and welcome new friends, our communities will survive. In
its small way, the Lynx encourages that possibility.
Thanks again to all those involved with it.
Bob
CORONATION
1937
May 6th 2023 we witnessed the Coronation of King
Charles III and the various celebrations around it. The
following photos were taken from a book that was written
by John
Butcher and
is now in the
possession of
Edward
Allen, that
chronicles
the events
that took
place in
Langham on
the 12th May
1937 for the
Coronation
of King
George IV
and Queen
Elizabeth.
The programme of events started at 8am with a church
service, a carnival at 1.45pm followed by an afternoon of
sports and in the evening a “Social”. I will transcribe the
activities that took place for the evening social though I’m
not too sure we will be recreating them.
The Social - The room for the social was crowded.
Every available bench, chair, and window was filled. Very
many egg-boxes, stools etc were brought in. There was a
very varied programme with nice prizes for competitions.
An evening
of songs,
choruses,
round games,
cock-fighting
and all kinds
of
competitions
was much
enjoyed from
7pm to 12pm.
At 9pm all,
who wished
for it, had a
bottle of beer.
There were
refreshments
and lemonade
throughout the evening and all there said it was one of the
nicest socials they had ever had.
THANK YOU ERIC
The PCC are very grateful to Eric on Holt Road who
has kindly donated a St. Georges flag to fly on the
church tower on special occasions.
It is very much appreciated as the current one you
might have seen has a football sized hole in it.
18

MORSTON
Contact: Martin Cardoe 07973 885665
mcardoe@msn.com
SAD SAGA OF OUR RECTOR IN 1796
Lynx 76 Feb/Mar 2011
A strange and peculiar tragedy ended the public
careers of two of the sons of the 1st Marquess
Townshend of Raynham (who died in 1807): (the 3rd
son) the 29-year-old Reverend Lord Frederick
Townshend (1767-1836) in his fourth year as Rector of
Stiffkey with Morston (1792-1836) and (the 4th son)
Lord Charles Townshend, MP for Yarmouth. One day in
May 1796 the two brothers set out from Raynham for
London via Yarmouth. When their coach reached
Oxford Street, it was discovered that Lord Charles was
fatally wounded, apparently having been shot on the
journey by his brother. Lord Frederick was found to be
insane and was committed to the care of a doctor.
According to Palmer’s Perlustration of Yarmouth what
had happened was this.
“…The sitting member (for Yarmouth), Mr Charles
Townshend, having been promised a peerage, which was
soon after conferred upon him, retired in favour of his
relative, Lord Charles Townshend, 4th son of George 1st
Marquess Townshend. In 1796 this young man was duly
elected; and on the following evening he and his brother,
Lord Frederick, posted to London in a carriage and four,
travelling all night. At six o’clock in the morning the
postillions pulled up in Oxford Street to enquire where
the Bishop of Bristol lived, to whose house they had
orders to drive. Lord Frederick, Morston & Stiffkey’s
vicar, jumped out of the carriage, struck one of the post
boys, and offered to fight with the persons attracted to
the spot; but being unable to provoke a contest he
walked away towards Hanover Square.
Upon looking into the carriage, the lifeless body of
the newly elected member was found shot through the
head. Lord Frederick was immediately pursued and
taken into custody. From the evidence of the postillions
it was proved that when within about seven miles of
London they heard a report, and Lord Frederick was
seen to throw a pistol out of the window. Lord Frederick
declared that this brother had shot himself and that he
had endeavoured to do the same but failed. A second
pistol which appeared to have been recently discharged,
was found in the carriage. It appears that the conduct of
these young men at Yarmouth had been so extraordinary
that Sir Edmund Lacon followed them to town, fearing
some accident would happen. Nothing further could be
elicited, and the coroner’s jury found “that the deceased
had been killed by a pistol-ball but from whose hand
unknown”.
This tragic event explains the rumour passed down at
Morston, that Lord Frederick Townshend – who died
without issue – never preached a sermon at Morston.
The Rev Lord Frederick was a great grandson of Charles
(“Turnip”) Townshend, the 2nd Viscount Townshend.
(With thanks to Joc Wingfield.)
MORSTON PARISH COUNCIL
Election Results
Following local elections held on Thursday May 4th
2023 the undermentioned candidates were elected to
become Parish Councillors for Morston: Carole Bean,
Roberta Hamond, Matthew Harrison, Richard
Reynolds, James (Jim) Temple, Jill Tibbetts, Charles
(Charlie) Ward.
FRIENDS OF MORSTON CHURCH
AGM
The Friends of Morston Church Annual General
Meeting will be held on Saturday 8th July at Morston
village hall, Quay Lane, starting at 6:30pm. We look
forward to greeting our members there.
MERSTONA
(quiz answers on p.30)
1. Norwich City Football club’s song is the oldest
football chant still being sung in the UK today. What is
it called? (a) ‘Give Us a Goal’ (b) ‘On the Ball City’ (c)
‘Why Why Why, Delia’
2. The Theatre Pavilion on Cromer Pier, hosts the
world’s last what?
3. What is the North Norfolk Railway Heritage Line,
which runs from Sheringham to Holt, also fondly
known as? (a) The Bluebell Line (b) The Samphire Line
(c) The Poppy Line.
4. One of Norfolk’s many seaside towns has the
unique distinction of being the only east coast resort
that actually faces west. Which is it?
5. The Norfolk Broads is not a natural phenomenon,
but the result of what? (a) Roman canal building (b)
Flooded peat workings (c) Victorian sewage channels
6. In 1989, which famous 3-piece American band
19

performed at Norwich Arts Centre? (a) Nirvana (b) ZZ
Top (c) Green Day
7. In Norfolk slang, this sentence means what? (a)
Looks good in a suit (b) Dances really well (c) Talks
nonsense
8. Stiffkey’s ‘The Singing Postman’ had a hit in
1967 with ‘Hev Yew Gotta Loight Boy?’ Which other
novelty hit song, references this title? (a) Ernie, The
Fastest Milkman in the West (b) The Laughing Gnome
(c) Grandad
9. Morston was called ‘Merstuna’ in the Domesday
Book of 1086. This Old English name means what? (a)
Marsh Town (b) Marsh Homestead (c) Farmstead by the
Marsh.
10. Britain’s largest what is called the Swallowtail
and found in the county of Norfolk?
IMPROMPTU SHAKESPEARE
‘The Bard Returns’
On Saturday 24th June, Friends of Morston Church
(FMC), in association with ‘Morston Tales & Ales’ are
welcoming back the ‘Impromptu Shakespeare Theatre
Company’ to the beautiful walled garden of Church
Farm House, Morston for an evening of Elizabethan
musical and theatrical entertainment.
With story and verse improvised in the moment, the
troupe promise a riotous new Shakespearean themed
play every time – performed by their whip smart cast.
Packed with priceless wit, lyrical smarts, romance, and
a dash of double-crossing, this leading ensemble do the
Bard proud with a brand new hit every time, inspired by
audience suggestions.
Tickets are £20 for adults, including a ‘pie and a
pint’, and £5 for under 16s. Doors open at 6:30pm.
Contact Sandra Morris 0794 123 8618 for tickets with
further updates on our ‘Tales and Ales’ social media
@morstontales. Proceeds from the event will go to the
FMC.
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL
All Saints Church, Morston
At the Annual Meeting of Parishioners and Annual
Parochial Church Meeting of All Saints, Morston held
on 12th April 2023 the following were elected as
Churchwardens, Mrs Gillian Kay and Mr Philip Athill.
Sir Robert ffolkes was elected as a Lay Member of the
Deanery Synod and the following as Lay Members of
the Parochial Church Council: Mr David Carnwath, Mrs
Alice Carnwath, Mr Philip Athill, Mrs Gillian Kay, Mrs
Sara Wingfield, Mr Joc Wingfield, Sir Robert ffolkes,
Mrs Anne Rolfe, Mrs Sally Metcalfe, Mr Alex Scott,
Mrs Sally Scott, Mrs Milly Cardoe and Mr Martin
Cardoe.
NED HAMOND
30 January 1940 – 8 March 2023
The Hamonds would like to thank the wonderful
friends and family who took part in Ned’s funeral at
Morston Church on 1 st April.
It was a truly joyous service
with moving remembrances
shared by nephew James
Athill, godson Joe Harrod,
goddaughter Mo Penrose,
son Nick Hamond and
daughter Richenda McCalla,
with Rev’d Ian Whittle
providing a summary of all
the contributions Ned had
made to the church over
many decades.
Wild flowers and moss,
Ned on his 82nd birthday, 2022
beautifully arranged for Mally Bullard’s memorial
service just days before, were perfect for our service.
We were so very grateful to be able to share them. And
special thanks to Sara Wingfield and Vivienne Wilson
for creating a golden forsythia and cottage flower centre
piece for Ned’s coffin.
Thank you too, to Guy Stratton at Sutton Funeral
Directors for his care and attention to our very personal
service and for enabling family in America, Australia
and the Virgin Islands to join us online.
Ned was born in West Runton and grew up in
Morston. He struggled at school but his training as a
motor mechanic at Mann Egerton’s in Norwich stood
20

him in very good stead for looking after Long Bay
Hotel in Tortola in the late 60s. Ned and Roberta were
married in St. Thomas before returning to England in
1971. They then spent 13 years as publicans for
Whitbread Brewery in London, Suffolk and
Hertfordshire before moving back to Morston when
Ned’s mother died in 1984. Ned and his son built a new
workshop in 2002 after he took a refresher course on
carpentry at City College, which ultimately led to the
creation of the four stunning candelabras and many
copper sconces in Morston church that are now a part of
his lasting legacy.
Roberta Hamond
Lynx 94 Feb/Mar 2014 Front Cover
Walking along the Morston to Blakeney coastal path at high
tide on Friday morning 6 December 2013.
NATIONAL TRUST
Local Update
The weather is finally warming up and nature is
bringing joyous sounds and colour across the
landscapes. It’s good to see visitors exploring our
National Trust sites across the Norfolk Coast and
there’s plenty for them to enjoy over the coming
months.
At Blakeney National Nature Reserve, there’s an Eel
Talk on Saturday 27th May from 10am to 12pm.
Participants will get the chance to discover more about
the mysterious eels that live in and around the Blakeney
Freshes from our ranger team. They will also help to
monitor these fish by live catching young eels to
measure, record, and then releasing them further
upstream. Also, we have our Summer Waders Walk
taking place on Saturday 24th June from 10am to 12pm,
where our ranger will take visitors on a leisurely stroll
along Blakeney Harbour, taking in Norfolk’s vast
landscape with far-reaching views along the coast path
beside pristine salt and fresh water marshes. During the
journey, the ranger team will be on hand to help identify
the wildfowl and waders that visit our shores every
summer. Spaces are limited for these events, so if you’d
like to take part, visit https://www.
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/norfolk/blakeney-nationalnature-reserve/events
to book a place.
Over at Morston Quay, there’ll be regular Meet the
Ranger events where visitors will be given the
opportunity to meet one of our rangers and find out
more about the conservation work we carry out across
the Norfolk coast and how we work to conserve the
landscape and wildlife in our care. The next Meet the
Ranger session will be on Saturday 10th June from
10.30am to 12.30pm. These are free events and there’s
no need to book. To find our more, visit https://
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/norfolk/morstonquay/events.
MORSTON ANCHOR REOPENS
On 12th April, Morston locals delighted at being
able to return to their much-loved local pub, The
Anchor. Now under the management of The Harper in
Langham, the recently refurbished pub opened its doors
again, following a busy winter reviving this venerable
old inn, to welcome guests and show off its brand-new
look. While still retaining its charm the pub, which has
been licensed since 1836, is a place of connection and
community and has a collection of cosy corners spilling
out into a leafy garden. Fittingly for a village of
seafarers, the pub positions itself as a ‘Fish and Chip
Pub’ where you can expect the day’s catch on the menu
– think line-caught cod, skate ribs, squid, a pint of
prawns and dressed crab, served with homemade mayo
or seaweed hot sauce. And of course, a top-notch
selection of local ales, small batch craft spirits, and crisp
white wines. We’re absolutely delighted it’s back.
RING FOR THE KING
Overcast weather didn’t dampen 15 enthusiastic
bellringers who seized the opportunity to celebrate the
Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla on
Coronation Day by ringing the church bell at All Saint’s
under the watchful guidance of Gill Kay and David
Carnwath. For all their efforts they were rewarded with
delicious Coronation cups cakes generously baked by
Sally Metcalfe.
21

DELIGHT, HONOUR AND RELIEF
Ousted Parish Council Chairman takes stock
I clearly remember the delight and honour I felt, in
May 1999, at being elected to serve on Morston Parish
Council and work on behalf of everyone in our great
little village.
After 24 years, with 11 of those as chairman, I have
new challenges and priorities to deal with and am now
delighted and relieved to have been replaced at this
May's election.
I thank everyone I have worked with for their
forbearance and support, everyone who voted in the
outstanding 75% turnout and our seven elected
councillors for their commitment to carry on the good
work. Very best wishes to everyone in Morston.
John Burdell
S.W.A.M.P UPDATE
Sustainable Work at Morston Pond
Morston residents gathered at the village pond on
Coronation bank holiday Monday afternoon for a
community celebration picnic and conservation working
party.
A dead hedge and log pile were constructed along
one side of the site to encourage wildlife. Hopefully this
will be another step toward making the pond and its
surroundings an increasingly biodiverse area to be
enjoyed by all villagers and visitors.
After the hard work came the reward of a
community picnic and a toast to the new monarch,
courtesy of the Parish Council.
This event follows regular working parties which
have been clearing the invasive crassula from the banks
of the pond. Many more will be needed to keep this
species in check.
The S.W.A.M.P. committee is currently creating a
five-year plan for the pond and surrounding area which
will be published on our updated website soon.
If you would like to be kept informed of up-coming
working parties, or the progress of S.W.A.M.P. via a
WhatsApp or email group, please email Sandra Morris
(morstonpondproject@gmail.com) or contact the group
via one of our social media accounts:
Twitter: @MorstonPond
Instagram: instagram.com/morstonpondproject
Website: morstonpondproject.wixsite.com/morstonpond-project
SAXLINGHAM
Contact: John Pridham 01328 831851
jcwpridham@gmail.com
ST MARGARET’S CHURCH
‘On a Wing and a Prayer’ 2023
Love them or hate
them, it is good to
learn more about bats
and at Saxlingham we
have one of the
largest maternity
roosts of Natterer’s
bats in Norfolk.
At the launch of
the art installation
‘On a Wing and a Prayer’ on 25 th April we had a most
entertaining evening with talks from Phil Parker
environmental consultant and Diana Spencer from Bats
in Churches.
This is a new touring artwork celebrating bats in
churches and may well be visiting a church near you in
the future. The destinations on its journey may be found
via: batsinchurches.org.uk.
This is a short extract from our late much loved and
respected Lynx Rep John Rayner’s column being a
fascinating piece by Simon Dixon dated 6 th August
2009.
SCHOOL HOUSE, SAXLINGHAM
Lynx 71 April/May 2010 p22-23
The school was first occupied as a National School
in 1855. National Schools were founded by the National
Society for Promoting Religious Education which itself
was founded in 1811 and by 1851 there were 17,000
National Schools. “The Rules and Precepts” of Brooke
and Kirstead National school in Norfolk dated 1839
gave some idea of the type of establishment that would
have been run in Saxlingham. These state that parents
should pay two pence per week for the education of one
child, and a further penny per week for any additional
children. Children must come with their hands and faces
well washed and their hair clean and neat, and never to
be without pocket handkerchiefs.
Saxlingham seems not to have been able to sustain
its own school for long. In 1876 the parish was united
with Field Dalling as a school board district and the
children then attended the school in the neighbouring
village.
22

SHARRINGTON
Contact: Claire Dubbins 01263 862261
cdubbins@btinternet.com
www.sharrington.org.uk
SHARRINGTON AND DISTRICT
GARDENING GROUP
Our programme of evening events (see
sharringtongardening.org.uk) got underway in March.
We had a fabulous turnout for the Bob Coutts talk
‘Gardening for Spring’ which followed our AGM. Bob
had been for many years head gardener at Somerleyton
Hall. He arrived armed with pots, twigs, branches,
compost soil etc. and not only explained in lay-men’s
terms how preparations for spring should be done, but
demonstrated too. Bob is a natural communicator,
humorous too and I am sure the sight of him rolling his
seeds in talcum powder and holding up his freshly
potted young plants by the leaves will fix those valuable
tips in our minds for ever. All in all it was a wonderful
evening.
In April we enjoyed a talk by master bee keeper John
Everett of Appletree Orchard Apiary, Rockland Farm.
We learnt that in Britain we have around 270 species of
bee, 24 of which are species of bumblebee, one
recognised species of honey bee and the remainder
come under the category of solitary bees.
John emphasised the importance of encouraging bees
as pollinators, not only in and for the benefit of our own
gardens but in the wider environment. 75% of crop
plants require some degree of animal pollination,
including many fruit and vegetables, and of all the
different animals and insects that serve as pollinators,
the most important are bees. He encouraged us to be on
the lookout for the solitary bee, which does not live in
large communities with worker bees, and is often
mistaken for a wasp and therefore suffers the same
unfortunate fate. John also brought honey from his
apiary, which proved very popular with our members.
BW
FOODBANK NEWS
There was a great response to our appeal for a
bumper food bank collection to mark the Coronation.
Our 17.6kg donation included both treats and staples,
and of course lots of tea, coffee and biscuits to enjoy in
front of the television. As we know from the press
reports and also from the
dramatic figures Roger Bland
included in his sermon at the
group service in April,
legitimate demand for food
banks is increasing and so as
we move forward to the
summer we are looking to
provide as many items as
possible for children, to help
families having to provide
extra meals during the school
holidays. In the past many of
us have found our grandchildren an excellent source of
ideas for what would be welcome, though a diet
consisting solely of chocolate biscuits would probably
not be recommended by dieticians.
AS
NOBLE ROTTERS WINE CLUB
The last tasting of season eight back in mid-March
featured the wines of Languedoc and Rousillon. 11
wines were perhaps, a bit of a challenge but the two
regions cover a large area around the Mediterranean
coast from Montpelier in the east to Collioure south of
Perpignan in the south-west. Languedoc is
quintessentially French in character but Roussillon
shows clear influences of Spanish and Catalan culture.
The five white wines tasted included a sparkling
Blanquette de Limoux, an increasingly popular Picpoul
de Pinet, a Cotes du Roussillon Blanc and a Limoux
Blanc featuring the chardonnay grape which is widely
grown in the region.
The reds featured a Fitou, a Saint-Chinian, a Pic
Saint-Loup, a Minervois La Lavinière and a Faugères,
23

all based on the Syrah, Grenache or Mourvèdre grape
varieties.
The final sip of the evening was an entry level
Rivesaltes, a dessert wine not too dissimilar from a
Madeira.
During the ‘closed season’ members have renewed
their subscriptions and agreed a programme for our
ninth season of tastings which will just about have got
under way at the time of publication with the Eurovision
Wine Contest.
Chief Rotter
Sharrington Hall is very much in the news at the
moment as it is for sale at 4.75 million!
CD
SHARRINGTON VILLAGE
Lynx 48 June/July 2006 p20
One of our most distinguished, talented and
esteemed residents - Peter Coke of Sharrington Hall -
had a very good April.
The month started with A Breath of Spring being
shown to packed houses at the Sheringham Little
Theatre. This is one of the many successful plays that
Peter has written. Packed houses, outside the holiday
season, are virtually unheard of and pay tribute to the
excellence of one of his many talents.
Later in the month, the new Shell Art Gallery was
opened in Sheringham by himself, the mayor and
entourage. Peter is the leading shell artist in the world.
His creations are exquisite. Among the art world he is
deemed the ‘Faberge’ of shells.
It is the only art collection in the world by one man -
each exhibit unique, original and different. It is worth
many, many thousands of pounds and he has most
generously given it to the gallery in perpetuity. The
shells he collected from all over the world -Thailand,
New Zealand, Philipines, France, Germany, Norway,
West and South America and many other countries.
The most common reaction of the many visitors
entering the gallery is, “Wow!”. The visitors’ book is
filled with such opinions as, “exquisite”, “magnificent”,
“took my breath away”, “unforgettable”, “a privilege to
see” etc.
We are indeed privileged to have Peter residing in
Sharrington. He continues to work every day, whilst
dealing with his 93 years on this earth in his humorous,
cheerful, critical way. 100 years from now, his creations
will still be treasured and sought after. The like will
never be seen again. He retains a smaller but equally
enchanting exhibition at Sharrington Hall.
Finally, our celebrity is enjoying a comeback in his
legendary role as Paul Temple. The eight episodes,
which were obligatory listening in the 50s and 60s are
now widely available on CD and continue to be equally
compelling.
With sincere congratulations to you, Peter, coupled
with our gratitude and wishes for the future. Keep the
doctors at bay.
Peter Garwood
VILLAGE HALL
Whilst preparing this piece I glanced back through
the diary at recent events and realised what a busy
month April had been. No less than three events on
consecutive weekends at the hall. Stage Direct
performed ‘Deck Chairs’, a series of five two handed
sketches to a very appreciative audience, which was the
first stage production at the hall for 30 years.
Incidentally Stage Direct plan to use the village hall for
rehearsals for their next production, so there may be
more to come from them later in the year.
We were then treated to an evening with Mike
Dilger, the wild man of the One Show. This was closely
followed by Terence Blacker, more of that later from
our live music man, Gary below.
May was somewhat dominated by a certain king
being crowned, but it was a good excuse to get out the
bunting and the fizz and get together to celebrate, just as
we did for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
By comparison June and July look to be quieter
months for our village hall aside from music events and
regular yoga sessions with the odd spot of wine tasting
thrown in for good measure. For more info visit
www.sharrington.org.uk David Webb, Chairman
24

SHARRINGTON LIVE MUSIC
We recently had a visit from the excellent singer and
songwriter Terence Blacker who entertained those
present and all left with a smile on their face. He in turn
thanked us via an email a day later to say what a great
time he had and commented on our welcoming audience
and hall.
Next up is acclaimed singer, songwriter and guitarist
Carrie Martin who returns to Sharrington on Saturday
3 rd June with a new album, Evergreen. The CD was
released in March 2023 and she will be joined on the
night by a special guest.
On returning to a music career that she had put on
hold for over two decades while raising a family, Hull
native Carrie was originally inspired by a meeting with
legendary guitarist Gordon Giltrap, an encounter which
led to a lasting friendship, with Gordon becoming
something of a mentor for her return to the stage. Since
that time she has gone from strength to strength, with
this latest release following on the heels of the
Seductive Sky and Entity albums, both of which
received widespread critical praise.
Tickets are £15 available from www.eventbrite.
co.uk/e/an-evening-with-carrie-martin. Gary Bishop
CRAFT GROUP
Having just returned from our May get together with
Craft Workshop, where we made crowns and paper
flower table decorations for our Sharrington Coronation
Big Lunch, I can honestly say that we have a really
talented and creative group that help each other and
come up with the most fantastic designs. It’s an
amazing couple of hours spent with fellow crafters and
friends. If you haven’t given our monthly workshops a
try, please do. We would love to meet you.
Our June workshop will take place on Friday 2 nd
June, 10.30am-12.30pm where we will be revisiting
monoprinting. Last year’s workshop was a big hit so I
could not ignore the cries for an encore. We will be
using fresh foliage so if you are coming and you have
interesting shapes and patterns from your garden, please
bring them along. Advance booking is essential for this
workshop due to its popularity.
July’s meet will be on Friday 7 th July with the same
timings for an ‘anything goes’ session. Come along and
have a rummage in our craft boxes. Perhaps you will be
inspired to make a card or a collage?
To book places please email: sharringtonvh@
gmail.com.
SB
CHURCH NEWS
We held a very successful coffee morning in April
and would like to thank everyone who contributed,
helping to raise much needed funds to keep our lovely
church in good order.
All are welcome to join us for our regular 9.30am
Sunday services, with coffee and cake served afterwards
on the second Sunday of the month.
Remember the church is open daily for private
prayer or quiet contemplation and if this summer proves
to be as hot as last it is a cool refuge from the heat. TP
CORONATION CELEBRATIONS
During the week before King Charles III’s
Coronation on Saturday 6th May signs of celebration in
the village of Sharrington were seen with flags and
bunting appearing in gardens and at the front of houses
and the village hall. Bunting decorated the church gate
and inside the church, flower arrangements were
25

assembled with red white and blue flowers on the altar,
window sills and in front of the font.
Most people were watching the Coronation on TV
on Saturday but on Sunday the village came together to
celebrate as a community.
Special prayers were said at the church service and
coffee and cake were served afterwards. Then the action
moved to the village
hall. The village hall
committee had done a
splendid job in
decorating the hall
and the craft group
had made beautiful
table decorations at
their Friday meeting.
By 1pm nearly 40
people arrived with
picnics ready to sit down and enjoy lunch together.
Sandwiches, salads, pies and quiches appeared from
baskets and bags, and when these were finished
everyone was invited to choose a dessert which the
village hall committee had kindly provided. The choice
of home made puddings proved irresistible and very
popular. When there was a pause, the village hall
committee served glasses of prosecco and David Webb
the village hall chairman proposed a toast to King
Charles and the Queen Consort Camilla. The National
Anthem was sung and accompanied by Rowan Bell on
her trombone. Coffee, tea and more chat followed
before people left for home after a wonderful afternoon.
Huge thanks are due to the village hall committee
who worked so hard to provide such a welcoming and
enjoyable time for everyone in the village on this truly
historic occasion.
CD
STIFFKEY
Contact: Sophia Williams 07800 590262
stiffkeylynx@gmail.com
GENERAL NEWS
We will have all voted in the local elections at the
beginning of May. For Stiffkey, this means we will have
had the opportunity to vote for our district and our
parish councils. Voting took place on the 4 th May, in the
village hall.
A warm welcome to the new permanent residents in
the village, Andrew and Deborah Douds, Polly
Carmichael and her son.
For our 150 th anniversary edition, I’ve pulled out two
articles that resonated with the community spirit that
I’ve encountered since moving to Stiffkey. Unifying
with common goals that are good-for-all is something
that I feel we can do in Stiffkey again. We achieved it
last year, with the picnic for the Queen’s Jubilee and we
achieved it in the creation of the Muckledyke path in
2012. The formation of the Rescue Wooden Boats
charity in 2011 is testament to what can be achieved if
we support causes that capture our personal sense of
community. In the coming weeks, and months I invite
you to do something, even the simple act of picking up
a piece of litter, that’s for the common good.
This Month’s Seasonal Recipe
Strawberry, Feta & Red Onion Salad
Serves 4-6 as a starter of side
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 unwaxed lemon, zest and juice
1tsp black pepper
200g goat and sheeps milk feta cheese
½ red onion, thinly sliced
1tsp Dijon mustard
600g Sharrington’s strawberries, stalks removed and
halved lengthways
10g mint leaves finely chopped
25g parsley leaves finely chopped
In a bowl, mix together 1 tbsp olive oil, the lemon
zest, ½ the lemon juice and the black pepper. Add the
feta and stir to coat the feta in the mixture.
Rinse and then drain the red onion. Mix the
remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil and remaining lemon juice
together in a bowl with the mustard. Then season. Put
the strawberries, red onion, parsley and mint in a bowl
and stir through the dressing. Place on a plate and
scatter over the marinated feta, gently giving it a mix,
trying not to break up the cheese. Spoon over any
remaining marinade and serve immediately.
Sophia’s sommelier recommendation is to try this
dish with the delightful Flint Vineyard, Charmat
sparkling rose, which is like strawberries and cream in a
glass.
Sophia
26

TALES FROM THE RIVERBANK
Firstly, a trout update. On 12th March, my first
sighting this year, and all the sweeter for being in
cloudy water and earlier that morning having seen two
cormorants feeding in the river. Over the following days
the water cleared, and more sightings ensued, but
noticeably less fish than last year, and at the time of
writing in late April very little insect feeding by fish at
the surface. Based on trout eggs spawning in February
there should be more young around and visible, so I am
worried. I haven’t seen any large trout either.
Populations do ebb and flow so hopefully there are
enough around to sustain our river. I did see a little
shoal of four tiny fish feeding at the water’s edge. It is
difficult to identify what species these fry are when they
are by nature, so small.
Later in March I spotted an elver swimming
upstream, about 25cm long. I am always fascinated by
the life cycle of the eel and thinking about the huge
journey already undertaken by this little creature is
breath-taking. It will have started its journey 6500km
away in the Sargasso Sea, where it travelled across the
Atlantic as a larvae, grown into a little glass eel then
become an elver as it enters our river system. This is a
good sign for river health, although there are some algae
clumps about which is indicative of high nutrient levels.
Only a test would uncover if this assumption is true and
I’m making enquiries in that regard with help from the
relevant agencies.
Lots of creatures are pairing up in their various
ways. The hares around Damson Lane have been
particularly busy, with a group of twelve sighted one
morning all chasing each other about. A male wren has
been building a nest in the base of the Alder tree across
the river, one of several he will build, with the best
selected by his mate. He sings from a high branch to
attract her to his work, an incredibly loud call for such a
small bird.
I saw my first house martin on 11th April, quickly
followed by some swallows. They, like so many of our
wildlife visitors, have undertaken huge journeys to get
here. They will nest and breed in the village over the
coming weeks, and they particularly like feeding on the
insect blooms over the river valley. Summer is
definitely on its way when their aerial acrobatics start.
A couple of the female Mallards have had their first
ducklings and I witnessed a Mrs Duck very firmly
reprimanding Mr Duck for getting too close to them.
The ducklings are very vulnerable of course, and
unfortunately many don’t make it to adulthood. I’m
amazed how quick they are across the water and its
surprising anything can catch them, but lots disappear
despite Mum’s efforts. They have been using our bank
as a sanctuary which is lovely to see and probably our
cutest visitors of the year. Keeping the grass long at the
water’s edge, together with some other plants coming
through, is giving them and a few other species (e.g.
water voles) a bit more welcome cover.
Martin Williams
NORTH NORFOLK BOOK WORMS
Stiffkey Book Worms March and April Reviews
The books reviewed by the Stiffkey Bookworms are
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd (1926) by Agatha
Christie and Lessons in Chemistry (2022) by Bonnie
Garmus.
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd has previously been
voted by the British Crime Writers Association as the
best crime novel ever. It features the famous Belgian
detective Hercule Poirot and mainly
because of the ending, it stands out
as one of her most extraordinary.
Christie’s writing leaves the reader
guessing until the very end as to the
killer’s identity. When it is revealed,
you find yourself rereading passages
to discover the answer was in front
of you all along. The narrator is Dr
Sheppard who meets his friend
Roger Ackroyd for supper then later
that evening Ackroyd is found murdered. The plot
contains blackmail, forced marriages and the usual array
of suspects that Christie crafts within a small English
village. The novel is a masterclass in detective writing
and Poirot excels as the eccentric, genius detective.
There is more humour in this book than in later novels
and we found the passage when Dr Sheppard discusses
with his sister that Poirot must be a dapper London
hairdresser.
Several in our group had never read an Agatha
Christie before and felt they enjoyed it more because of
that fact. We were all appreciative of the skill involved
in crafting deceptively simple plots, which are in fact
complex and full of red herrings. The characters are of
their time – plain, simple souls as the parlour maid or
the bumbling retired colonel. A couple of members
found it hard to differentiate between characters or that
the characterisation was not full enough to be satisfying.
Bookworm score 4/5.
Lessons in Chemistry is Bonnie Garmus’s debut
27

novel set in California in the early
1960s. Elizabeth Zott the lead
character, is a research chemist
trying to succeed in a male
dominated field. Elizabeth is an
extraordinary, quirky, and
intelligent feminist who meets her
soul mate. They become an
unconventional couple until events
collide. We then jump forward to
Elizabeth as a single mother,
forced to host a cookery show “Supper at Six” after
being driven out of her research job. Elizabeth is not
just teaching women how to cook supper, she is daring
them to change the status quo.
Elizabeth’s character is unwaveringly blunt and
honest who will not conform to the conventions of the
day. She is brave and a survivor who determined to
raise her child to enquire, question and not accept the
ordinary.
As a group we all absolutely loved the book. It is a
fresh sparkling, stylish novel which is witty, comic and
yet heart wrenching. Gamus has created a fabulous
heroine in Elizabeth but also all the other characters are
equally unique. Anyone who reads this book will never
forget Six Thirty, a dog with a vocabulary of over 600
words! Never has a canine character been so enjoyable.
The book feels like a celebration for all the
pioneering, unsung women who had to battle to prove
themselves in male led careers or who just didn’t
conform to society’s norm. Elizabeth Zott is changing
the world in thirty-minute lessons at a time. Bookworm
score 5/5.
Jane Hiscocks
CHURCH NEWS
We held an additional service at St John’s on Easter
Sunday, which was well-attended, as was the Easter
Egg hunt on the sunny afternoon. Thanks to those who
participated, and to the kind donators of the eggs and
finally to the creators of the lovely Easter display in the
corner by the knoll.
Work on the Bishop of Norwich's church buildings
commission is currently consisting of collating the huge
amount of information it has received from those who
contributed to the survey. It is on track to publish the
outcomes later this summer. A well written guide on the
churches commission is provided on the entry page on
this link: https://www.dioceseofnorwich.org/
churches/buildings/the-church-buildingscommission/church-buildings-commission-faqs/.
We held our parochial church council annual general
meeting recently, where we elected new members to
extend our committee and decided to hold more regular
meetings to plan events, fundraising and maintenance of
the church and grounds. We would like to remind
readers that Stiffkey’s church, St John’s, needs your
help, financial or otherwise. We need support to run
activities that enable us to preserve our splendid
building and grounds. We want it to remain a pleasant
place for us all and our visitors. We are considering
running a regular Saturday morning stall on the knoll,
selling locally produced items. If you think you would
be able to help by contributing and/or occasionally
running the stall or have other ideas to support us,
please contact me on apduff@outlook.com Alan Duff
COASTAL MARSH ARTISTS
When you are reading this our nine-day north
norfolk open studio trail beginning on the 27th May will
have kicked off and is ending on the 4th June 2023.
The open studio days are a unique opportunity to
gain insight into the artists’ working practices, and to
see work that is only available for the nine-day event.
The Coastal Marsh Artists’ studios are scattered
along the coast road (A149), from Burnham-Overy-
Town through to Salthouse as well as meandering
through the Glaven Valley to Binham, Wiveton, Bale,
Hindringham and Glandford. The range of the artist
disciplines is uniquely wide – printmaking, landscape
paintings, sculpture, abstract expressionism, still-life
paintings and ceramics.
This year in addition to opening our studio doors
we’ve also got a small piece group exhibition at Guy
28

Allen’s studios in Glandford, which is a wonderful
space to visit. There is also an additional group
exhibition at Little Leaf studios on the same complex in
Glandford, where four of our artists are also exhibiting
their work.
To see who is exhibiting and when across North
Norfolk please look at www.northnorfolkstudios.
co.uk. More locally, I have listed in the what’s on guide
at the front of the Lynx, the dates that members of the
coastal marsh artists group are opening their studios in
Bale, Binham and Stiffkey.
The coastal marsh artists are planning group
exhibitions this year and some unique events too. For
more information about these and more, please view our
website: https://coastalmarshartist.wixsite.com/north
norfolk.
Sophia Williams
STIFFKEY PIRATES
We are the only village cricket club in the area and
are looking for new players of any age and ability. We
only have one cricket team and consist of players of all
ages from teenagers to retirees. We play on Sundays at
home in Stiffkey (our hidden gem of a ground) and
away at various other village locations.
Whether you've played before or never held a cricket
bat please come to join us for fun cricket, cake at tea or
a pint after a game.
Even if you don't want to play, but would like to get
involved, cheer (laugh), score, umpire or whatever you
will be more than welcome. Please look at the what’s on
guide at the beginning of the Lynx magazine to see
when we’re playing at home in June and July. We
would love to see your lovely faces supporting us at our
home matches. We kindly ask that you arrive no later
than 12:30pm for our 1pm kick off.
If you are interested in playing with us please get in
touch with Chris Bateman at chris.bateman78@
gmail.com.
Jeremy Bevan
decided this project needed revisiting and were more than
ready for the challenge. A working party was formed and
what seemed like an almost impossible task commenced.
Trees and brambles were cleared manually by a tireless
team of volunteers all wanting to be involved for the good
of their village.
Work on this project was, at times, very difficult but
slowly the obstacles in the way began to fall. Peter
Wordingham assisted proceedings in a most generous way
with the very kind offer of providing a digger to be operated
by his best driver and slowly but surely the path quickly
began to take shape.
The villagers turned out one Saturday morning armed
with shovels and an enthusiasm to see the project through to
completion regardless of the 50 tonnes of road planings that
stood in their way and had to be moved. Support in the form
of Steve White from Norfolk highways was also a welcome
sight. The result of this hard work was that by 6pm that
same evening the path was almost complete and all for the
cost of just under £2,000. (This money was given by some
very generous donors from within the village.)
The hard work and determination by a few people all
working for the same goal shows what can be achieved
despite often frustrating and pointless inefficiencies so often
demonstrated within local government policy seemingly
created to hinder such worthwhile community projects.
Jamie Lawrence, Chairman Stiffkey Parish Council
STIFFKEY VILLAGE PARTY
Lynx 84 June/July 2012 p24
There will be a village party on the playing fields on
Monday 4th July (Jubilee) at 1pm. Our village musicians
will entertain. Denis Lotis will sing to us from 3pm to 4pm
STIFFKEY COMES TOGETHER
Lynx 82 February/March 2012 p25
Many years ago NNDC had a plan of creating a path
alongside the very dangerous stretch of road between The
Red Lion and Greenway. The cost of this at the time was
estimated at somewhere in the region of £250,000. For this,
and many other reasons around archaic systems within local
government leading to immense frustration, the project
failed to come to light.
In May this year, the newly formed parish council
29

and the early evening will be sweetened by the Mark
Fawcett and George Crawley Band. In between, the cricket
club will organise a ‘soft’ cricket game that everyone can
join. There will be a bar, a BBQ, a tea tent and entry is free.
For more information contact Jamie on 01328 831806.
Janey Sugden
This would be Denis Lotis’ last public performance before
his death in 2022.
SW
RESCUE WOODEN BOATS
Our season started in April this year and we hope
that you may have already visited our maritime heritage
centre in Stiffkey. If you haven’t visited us yet, please
do. We are housed in the former officers’ mess at the
former military training campsite which was built in
1938. At our heritage centre we have on display
photographs, films, and artefacts which tell the stories
of our local 20th century fishing communities who built
and used wooden boats to earn their living. You might
also have been taken across to the nearby boatbuilding
workshop to see world class craftsmanship restoring
various wooden crab boats. A visitor said, “it’s like
going through a portal into another world”.
We will be hosting again the Maritime Heritage
Festival and flotilla linked to Wells Carnival. This will
be on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th July. Heritage
local wooden fishing boats will be on display on both
days and the spectacular flotilla will take place on
Saturday afternoon. There will be stalls and
entertainment and more as before so a great family day
out.
At our heritage centre we now have sweatshirts, t-
shirts, books, mugs, prints of Lucy Lavers and more for
sale. We are open Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays
from 11am- 4pm, Stiffkey, NR23 1QF.
If you’d like to join our volunteer team do call or
email for a chat. An hour or two from time to time is all
that’s needed. Drop me a line at: wwp@wendy
pritchard.co.uk or 07796 951414. Wendy Pritchard
MERSTONA ANSWERS
(quiz questions on page 19)
1. (b) On the Ball City 2. Last end-of-the-pier
theatre! 3. (c) The Poppy Line (referring to the unspoilt
coastal area around Sheringham where poppies grow in
abundance) 4. Hunstanton 5. (b) Flooded peat
workings 6. (a) Nirvana 7. (c) Talks nonsense 8. (b)
The Laughing Gnome 9. (c) Farmstead by the Marsh
10. Butterfly
and how it all began…
RESCUE WOODEN BOATS
Lynx 88 Feb/March 2013
Our aim is to conserve aspects of our maritime
heritage by restoring back to use on the water a selected
number of wooden working boats and lifeboats, all of
local interest, and engage schools and the public with
them and their stories. We will also capture on film and
conserve the crafts involved in restoring these boats.
Once back on the water, the idea is that they earn
their winter maintenance keep by being used afloat,
giving trips or being hired out.
We are telling their stories by filming the people
who crewed them and creating an oral history of an age
which has now changed completely. Of course, these
fishermen were also the lifeboat men so the boats are
linked by the men and their stories. Many of these men
are in their late 80s, so they and their wooden fishing
boats, regarded as family members, are rapidly
disappearing.
Our latest news...
We are delighted to have been awarded a Heritage
Lottery Grant for 67% of our project costs to restore
Dunkirk veteran, and locally serving lifeboat, Lucy
Lavers and tell her story. We have now started work on
her at the Stiffkey boatyard, and are filming her
progress. Once restored, she will give trips afloat from
Wells.
We are starting to plan Lucy Lavers’ return visit to
Dunkirk in 2015 for the 75th anniversary, calling in on
the way for schools and the public to see her.
We are very pleased to have just been given crab
boat Pegasus by the Thain family. She started life in
West Runton owned by Geoff Fox and has been earning
her living in Scotland. She will come home to us in
March 2013 and be giving trips afloat in the summer of
2013, alongside whelker Harvester, generously donated
to us recently by Graeme Peart. These boats join Bessie,
Black Beauty and Star, which all need restoration.
We are now planning the Vistor Centre at the Old
Military Camp in Stiffkey, which we will rent from the
Harrisons, who are generously restoring it. Here we will
have films, photographs, fishing and lifeboat gear and
more on display. There will be activities for school
groups and we hope talks and master classes for the
general public in due course.
30

LANGHAM VILLAGE SCHOOL NEWS
It is now the Summer term and we have lots to look
forward to. We have
enjoyed a visit from Circus
Ferrell this week with
circus skills workshops and
performances. It was very
exciting to arrive in school
and find a big top on the
field! We have had several
trips out; Quartz Class went to Norwich Castle to learn
about the Romans. Amber Class really enjoyed their trip
to Gressenhall to learn about life in the 1950’s. Coral
Class were excited to see the new life boat at Wells-next
-the-sea.
This half term Jet Class are learning
about South America They are
learning about the countries’ culture
and geography. They are studying
the climate, geographical features,
industries and the people. They will
gain an insight into how life is
different to here in the UK.
Quartz Class are studying deserts.
They are learning what a desert is,
where the major deserts are and will
explore the physical and human geography of the desert
biome.
Amber Class are studying animals around the world.
They are exploring the coastal habitats of different
animals and identifying the seven continents by placing
animals on their native continent.
They will begin to identify a
location's temperature based on its
distance from the equator and place
animals in their preferred climates.
They will discover how animals'
appearance and behaviour change
with seasonal changes and
investigate the national animals of
the UK and around the world.
The Eco Council have been
involved in litter picks and had an
amazing beach clean at Holkham with ‘Surfers Against
Sewage.’ The Council are in charge of ensuring that we
are recycling all our rubbish correctly and they are
making sure that we do not use single use plastic in
school.
We raised £224 for Red Nose Day by wearing
something that made us
smile or laugh. There were
some great outfit ideas;
two little girls came
dressed as their dads.
To celebrate the
Coronation we had a
picnic lunch in the circus
31
tent and learnt a special
Coronation song. We sang
the National Anthem and
produced some super
pictures of King Charles.
(shown throughout the
article.)
Langham Village School:
‘A place for fun, creativity, friendship, ambition and
discovery.’
Polly Kossowicz - Head teacher
For further information please visit our website
www.langham.norfolk.co.uk or follow us on twitter
@langhamvill.
LYNX REP ROLL OF HONOUR
Bale
Binham
Cockthorpe
Field Dalling
Gunthorpe
Langham
Morston
Saxlingham
Sharrington
Stiffkey
Sue Berry
Jane Wheeler
Maggie Thomas
Carolyn Wright
Joanna King
Liz Brady
Paul Bailey
Ann Massingham
Maurice Matthews
Margaret Smith
Anthony Smith
Julie Wiltshire
Martin Swindells
Pauline Clarke
Di Cutterham
John Blakeley
Jane Paton
Ann Sherriff
Amanda Deacon
Christina Cooper
Debi McIntosh
Pat Reynolds
Joc Wingfield
Martin Cardoe
Bridget Watson
John Rayner
Caroline Robson
John Pridham
John Brown
Dr. Peter Greenwood
Dr. John Clarke
Claire Dubbins
John Adnitt
Keith McDougall
Steven Bashforth
Geraldine Green
Dr. Sally Vanson
Sophia Williams

Art/Interiors/Furniture/Textiles
page
Darren Graveling, bespoke joinery front cover
Nick Hamond Furniture: cabinet-maker 5
Phillippa Kirby Soft Furnishings 10
Shirehall Antiques 29
Sophia Williams: Stiffkey Artist 14
Advice & Care Services
Hindringham Toddler Group 6
Gardening
Beechwood Landscapes & Maintenance 24
BLS Landscaping 30
DB Garden Services
front cover
Finlay Newton Garden Services 27
J.P.S. Gardening 26
Hair/Health
Alison Courtney Acupuncture 20
Claire Dye: Physiotherapist
front cover
Foot Perfect 11
Gunthorpe Osteopaths 24
Marianne Atherton Homeopathy 15
Pilates at Binham Memorial Hall 22
Tudor Barber Shop, Walsingham 6
Hall Rentals
Binham Memorial Hall 9
Sharrington Village Hall 19
Warham Reading Room 28
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SEE FURTHER SERVICES LISTED BELOW DIRECTORY
Leisure
On Yer Bike 8
The Parlour Café & Tea Room 23
Salthouse Textile Exhibition 4
Sharrington Gardening Group 11
Wiveton Wander Open Garden 5
Services and Suppliers
Boon-bespoke décor 25
Burnham Motors 18
Butcher Andrews Solicitors 8
Chris Wells Construction, Ltd 29
Clearview Pest Control 27
Darren Betts Building and Maintenance 30
David Thompson Chimney Sweep 7
Gresham Gravel 12
Keeble Roofing Contractor 21
Kelly Saddington Dog Walking & Pet Care 13
Morston Boat Yard 21
Norfolk Woodburners Stoves 28
Paul Hennessey 26
P J Electrics 20
Stephenson Smart Accountants 23
Stuart’s Taxi 14
The WillMaker Group: Garry Scutter 15
Vantastic Movers 12
Advertising space in this publication is sold in good faith and the editor/publication team can take no
responsibility for the quality of goods or services offered.
CLEANING AND HOME CARE SERVICES
Regular cleans, linen changes, ironing and errands
Contact Laura Bailey on 01328 711329 or 07917 031163
E: laurabailey@homemail.com
GARY WALLER
Painter, Decorator & Carpet Cleaner
20 Years Experience No job too small
01263 860705 Mob: 07990 993406
OUR MAN IN NORFOLK
A complete second home service
www.ourmaninnorfolk.co.uk
Contact: Nigel Tompkins M: 07860 206565
E:nigel@ourmaninnorfolk.co.uk
CHIMNEY SWEEP
David Thompson
01328 851081
SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED & HEDGE CUTTING
Contact Alison Lee
07749 951898
HAMLYN PEST CONTROL
County Council Accredited - NPTA Member
Control of Rats Mice Wasps etc
01263 860112
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Jackie Finch 07776 292 211
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