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Help Yourself
No. 164 The Final Edition - Thank you to all our readers, contributors and advertisers December 2010

Ashill VC Primary School pupils Alysha Barnes (left) and Heidi Mason try on masks worn at carnivals in
Brazil during the school‟s “Ashill Go Global” week. Story on page 2.

You can help by letting potential

The end of the line
Dear reader, it is with a heavy heart that
I have to inform you that because of the
losses incurred by the paper this year, I
have taken the decision to stop
publishing the Mid Norfolk Times. The
only alternative was to raise advertising
rates significantly and in the present very
tough economic situation I do not
believe this is an option.
I know that the paper will be sorely
missed by the community it supports and
I am considering whether I can continue
by returning to the Wayland News and
staying within the Wayland area, one
that I know supports and loves the paper
and its advertisers.
I am attempting to gauge the support
from advertisers, for the paper‘s
continuance and so far the response has
been very good and I am hopeful that we
can gain sufficient new support to
continue but at this time I cannot say for
certain what will happen. There are two
possible outcomes; it may be that this is the
last ever issue or it may be that the Wayland
News returns in February or March.
advertisers know you want the paper to
return and/or by letting me know in
writing how much you value the paper. If
I have a strong enough case to put to
businesses that advertising in The
Wayland News will be worth the money,
especially in these very difficult business
conditions, that may just swing the
decision and make all the difference.
If, on the other hand, this is the last
paper then please accept my thanks
for being so supportive of it and let me
also publicly thank all those who have
advertised, contributed or helped with
the paper since its inception in 1996.
Julian Horn.
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 2
Ashill pupils go global
The week of 18th October was our
‗Ashill Go Global‘ week. The aim of
the week was to give pupils the
opportunity to learn about other
countries, cultures and beliefs and
explore similarities and differences to
their own life. The event was planned
with support from NEAD (Norfolk
Education for Action Development)
who organised ‗World Voices‘ for each
class so pupils could become immersed
in the country they were studying.
All pupils were involved with the event
and started their week with an
introduction to their country followed
The Hare &
Barrel Hotel
Originally an old manor house dating back
to 1806, we offer 16 en-suite bedrooms,
10 of which have been converted from
the old Coach House Stables
‘Noted for Good Food’ dance called the Polka and
Extensive Bar & Restaurant Menu
bookings advisable at all times
A relaxing Conservatory ~ Beer Garden
Patio ~ Bar ~ Restaurant
Games Room ~ Car Park ~ Courtyard
Try our Traditional
Sunday Lunch
Discounts for large bookings always negotiable
Children Always Welcome
80 Brandon Road, Watton. highlights being learning to
Tel: 01953 882752
by a number of activities culminating in
a celebration event on 22nd October
where all classes shared their work
from the week.
Class 1 worked with Larisa to find out
all about Russia. They found her accent
and phrases used fascinating. She
showed the ―childrens‖ lots of Russian
things but they were most interested in
the stamps. Larisa taught them a
Russian folk dance about a lost goose,
which they loved (the music is now one
of our tidy up tunes). She showed them
how to make golden plates and a
Kokoshnik to wear when they danced.
They also enjoyed her Prjaniki
(gingerbread) especially being
asked to mix it with a potato
masher!
Class 2 worked with Airena to
find out all about Lithuania.
They found out general
information on Monday and on
Tuesday learnt a very tricky
dressed up in traditional
Lithuanian costumes. On
Wednesday they made a cake
called ‗lazy cake‘ and took the
recipe home and on Thursday
made a castle with salt dough.
Class 3 worked with Paula
who lived in Brazil until
about 6 years ago. They
enjoyed four fun and
interesting days learning
about Brazil with the
dance the Samba and making
Brazilian instruments from tin
cans filling them with stones
to make shakers. The children
particularly liked making
‗brigadeiro‘, sticky chocolate
sweets.
Class 4 worked with May who
originated from Thailand. On
Monday they made a Thai
Green Curry which ‗was very
nice‘. On Wednesday, they
made fans by weaving and also
learnt some Thai words and
how to count. Everyone had a
great week culminating in their
performances on Friday
afternoon at the Fountain of
Life (thanks to them for the
loan of their facilities).
Art
Exhibition
Success
Watton Art Group held another
successful exhibition at the
Watton Christian Community
Centre in November. The
preview evening was opened
by Deputy Mayor, Barbara
Anderson. A raffle that
evening and the proceeds of
selling teas and cakes raised
over £100 to the local charity,
Watton Thursday Club. A total
of 18 paintings were sold and
the standard and diversity of art
brought favourable comments
from visitors. Once again the
event was kindly sponsored by
Alison and Stewart Dickson of
The Village Florist Ltd.
Anyone interested in finding
out more about the classes,
which take place on Mondays,
should contact Sheila Wood
on 01362 652706.
Remembrance
Since 1995 a small group comprising
RAFA and British Legion members
and members of the local community,
have attended the annual
Remembrance Service in the Chapel at
Wayland prison where plaques in
memory of the Royal Air Force and
the United States Air Force are placed.
Sadly this year additional security
measures at the prison meant that they
could not attend. However the group
met at the prison as usual and attended
a short service, in bright sunshine, at
Caston Parishioners
Remember the Fallen
At 11.00 am on the eleventh
day of the eleventh month,
in common with many
cities, towns and villages
throughout Britain and
elsewhere, many of the
villagers of Caston
remembered the fallen in
battle.
Because of very windy and
wet weather the short
service was held in the
Church of the Holy Cross,
Caston, and was presided
over by the Rev. Father Bob
Nichols. Representatives of
Caston Parish Council,
Caston Parish Church and
Caston Primary School laid
wreaths below the book of
remembrance at the church.
Pupils of Caston Primary
School were also in attendance. The
Last Post and Reveille were played by
Ruth Trowne and the British Legion
Poppy Appeal 2010
We are pleased to announce that the
total for the Watton and District Poppy
Appeal to date is £11368.50 with more
money to come in. This is a great
achievement and we thank everyone
who supported this year's effort
especially in view of the present
economic climate and hard times.
Thanks are due to all the collectors in
particular Mr Doug Wickwar aged 90
who collected on Saturday 6l
November. He has been collecting for
the Poppy Appeal for over 60 years.
Unfortunately, it was discovered that
the Legion's public liability and
personal indemnity insurance only
covers collectors and others on Legion
duty up to the age of 85. This causes
problems as in addition to Poppy
Appeal collectors Legion Standard
the granite memorial to the 3rd
Strategic Air Depot in the prison
grounds, led by Revd. Mary Cousins.
This was followed by readings and
prayers and the laying of wreaths at
the memorial, also to the 3rd SAD, at
Griston Church and finally at the RAF
and 25th Bomb Group Memorials at
the entrance to Blenheim Grange.
Following these acts of Remembrance
the group retired to the Willow House
for a warming cup of coffee.
Standard was born by Mr. Bob
Steggles who was carrying it for the
last time after many years of service.
Bearers are affected especially as
many across the country are elderly.
We can only hope for younger people
to come forward in future.
The Watton branch had its Annual
General Meeting on 16 November and
the following were elected for office in
year 2010/2011. President- Mr Keith
Spaul; Chairman;- Mr Keith Clarke;
Vice-Chairman - Mr Alan Chilvers;
Secretary - Capt. Glyn Bellamy;
Treasurer - Mr David Sell; Standard
Bearer - Mr Alan Chilvers; Poppy
Appeal Organiser; - Mrs Jean Sell
Next Branch Meeting is at The Hare
and Barrel on Tuesday, January 18th
2011 starting at 7.00pm. Anyone
interested in joining the Royal British
Legion is welcome to attend. Contact
telephone number 01953 882089.
News
Watton &
District Royal
British Legion
The week started on a wet and
blustery Thursday 11 November;
luckily the rain ceased before the
Two Minute Silence at the Thetford
Road car part Memorial which again
was well attended. The Standards of
the Royal British Legion and the
Royal Air Force Association were in
attendance although they nearly
departed in a gust of wind at the end
of the ceremony. Many thanks to Mr
Julian Horn for arranging Last Post
and Reveille.
The week continued with the
ceremony at the War Graves at St
Mary‘s Church at 12:00hrs on
Saturday 13 November with the
attendance of 864 Sqn ATC plus the
Sqn Standard. Members of the public
also attended and crosses were laid
on all the War Graves and Sgt
Nichols ATC played the Last Post
and Reveille. Many thanks to Mr and
Mrs Anthony Hubbard for the
immaculate condition of the War
Graves.
On Sunday 14 November the Watton
& District RBL Standard carried by
Mr Alan Chilvers and accompanied
by Mr David Sell and Mr Glyn
Bellamy attended Merton Church for
the Memorial Service at which Mr
Sell laid the Legion Wreath. The
Legion Standard party then moved to
the Tottington War Memorial where
Mr David Sell laid the Legion
Wreath, a tradition that is being
carried on after the late Mr Don
Sutton and Mr Billy Hancock .
The parade formed up at the Thetford
Road car park ably marshalled by Mr
Pat Murphy and marched on to
parade for a short Memorial Service
and laying of wreaths by all the local
volunteer organisations plus the
Watton Town Mayor and
representatives from RAF
Honnington and USAF RAF
Lakenheath. After the short service
the parade, led for the first time by
the Band of 864 Sqn ATC, marched
past the Salute being taken by
officers of RAF Honnington and
USAF Lakenheath.
A service then followed at St Mary‘s
Church Watton which was very well
attended and all seats were taken.
Overall all events were well attended
which is thanks mainly to the general
public of Watton and District who
have once again shown their support
not only for the War dead of wars
gone by but also for our service men
and women who are putting their
lives on the line in the on-going
conflicts.
News
Letters
to the
Editor
Watton's Youth Facilities
Those of us who walk or drive past "The
Surge" surely cannot fail to be impressed
at the progress made by those running this
venture. The work done at the front of the
building with its grassed frontage and
new signboard are but outward evidence
of a dynamic approach by all concerned
to achieve a centre of which they should
be proud. Let us hope that the use and
appreciation of the Centre will spread to
an increasing number of the youth of
Watton.
Let us remember that it was inspiration
by just a few who sowed the seeds of
this now healthy sapling and we should
not forget too that at least one of the
originators was rudely and unjustly
criticised by an unnamed councillor for
the initiatives that were being taken to
try to find some way to fill the void that
then existed in the town by way of
youth facilities.
If you travel the short distance to Harvey
Street, you will see by the forlorn
appearance of "the Youth Centre" just
who got it right! Signs there indicate only
"Watton Town Council", although I
believe that the Council run the site as
Trustees of the Charlotte Harvey Trust.
Do I recall correctly that any action here
has been put into limbo until next May`s
Council Elections? I fail to see any logic
in this but if it is so then can we expect
quite soon to learn what if any public
discussions are intended and whether
candidates will campaign at least in part
on their proposals as Trustees for this late
benefactor`s intentions for the benefit of
the youth of the town and with the
assurance that they will act in those
Trusts? Keith Taylor, Watton.
A London Bus?
I was amused to see this week that there
have been rumblings about possibility of
getting the Watton to London coach
service reinstated in the future!
Sadly I fear this is a pipe dream, the
actual excuse given By National Express
when it cancelled the service was, the
coaches got held up at Watton, when
everyone knew that the reason was they
simply wanted to cut the mileage and still
serve Dereham at the same time!
In reality the only holdup then, and now,
is in Dereham, the traffic lights around
the station area and of course the
infamous market place which is
everybody‘s nightmare, always causes
holdups! Dereham does always seem to
have a regular handful of passengers, and
it should also be remembered that they
have a service that almost gives you a
daily return. This is a good incentive to
many for shopping or family reasons, not
being able to do this cuts the market
markedly, as the Watton to London bus
showed when the day return was
concluded!
Really now, it is not a case of getting to
the A11 and catching a coach, but
actually traveling to Norwich, where
there is proper shelter and facilities,
important prior and after a long coach
ride. This is also more attractive for those
over 60, as this part of their trip is
presently free with their National Bus
Passes!
Bringing a London service back to
Watton is a wonderful idea but possibly a
pipe dream. I would welcome it, but in
reality, we must adapt to the present
situation of using Norwich as a long haul
departure point.
Five feathered friends
at Caston CE VA School
The picture shows children from Caston
Primary School with their latest new
intake - five feathered friends!
Thanks to funding from the Wayland
Show Committee the children have been
able to purchase a new chicken shed and
have built an enclosure for the Pekin
Bantams who are enjoying great affection
from the children.
This is part of their Environmental
Education Programme and they are
learning the skills of small scale poultry
Christmas
Past
By Edith Pleasance
Most seniors would agree that Christmas
these days is very different to those we
remember. For one thing our parents
weren‘t assailed by the adverts for magical
gifts to buy for their offspring. Come to
think of it, the most magical presents then
were Hornby train sets and Meccano.
Some girls were lucky enough to receive
baby dolls, hopefully dressed in knitted
jackets, bonnets and leggings, crafted in
delicate shades by a loving grandparent or
auntie. If your father was in full-time
employment, you might even cop for a
pram to carry your new doll to swank
around.
Although I had a preference for a jigsaw or
board game, such as Ludo or snakes and
ladders, one year our parents saw fit to buy
dolls for my sister and me. Thereby hangs a
memorable tale.
We, that is my sister, two years my junior,
and I decided we would seek out the gifts
that we guessed Mum and Dad had bought
for us. Father Christmas was well out of
the frame by then. So we picked on a time
that they were both out – a rare occasion.
After hunting through the various
Attleborough
W.I.
The speaker for October was Mrs Charlotte
Philcox on ―Hedgerow Harvest.‖ Plants
were first brought in from abroad during
Tudor times. Our ancestors were dependent
on many plants for numerous uses; e. g
nettles, wild garlic, horsetail, comfrey etc.,
made good fertiliser. String could be made
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 3
Bradenham Bowls Club
CHRISTMAS BINGO
Bradenham Village Hall
Thursday 2nd December 2010
Grand Prizes
Cash 50/50 Cash Flyer
Eyes down 7.00 for 7.30 pm
keeping which includes feeding, cleaning
and welfare of the chickens. In previous
years the children have hatched chicks in
school as part of the Primary School
programme which is offered by Easton
College. The college provides the loan of
an incubator and brooder in the
springtime.
They are now hoping that they can
breed their own bantams with the
help of local poultry enthusiast and
past pupil Brendan Hall
cupboards in the living room, we finally
located some mysterious carrier-bags in the
walk-in larder in the scullery. We
discovered bags of oranges, nuts and dates
and. Eureka! Two baby dolls, naked as the
day they were made. One was white and
one brown.
I well remember the rush of excitement,
followed by the usual argument over who
should be the owner of which doll. The
upshot of that quarrel was my sister
storming out of the larder and slamming the
door on me. I was trapped!!
The door had a catch that could only be
opened from the outside. As the elder it
was obvious who would take the blame for
our escapade. I knew it was pointless to
appeal so did the only thing that came to
my seven-year-old mind. I SHOUTED!!
―Help, help. I‘m locked in – somebody
help me! After what seemed like hours, but
was probably only minutes, a gruff voice
called out.
―What‘s going on? Who is making all that
noise?‖
―I‘m locked in the larder, can you let me
out please?‖
I had never liked ‗Old man Braund‘, our
next door neighbour but, boy, was I glad to
see his grizzly mug at that moment.
I don‘t think he bothered to mention it to
my parents and we certainly didn‘t let on.
Do you know, I can‘t remember who got
which doll but then, I never really liked
those girlie things anyway.
Edith Pleasance © 10.11.10
from brambles & holly was used to clean
chimneys. The roots of bluebells were used
to make starch & like sampher, elderflowers
etc., had medicinal properties. Landowners
used hawthorn to enclose pastures that was
meant for all to use. As well as being useful
to people, hedgerows were important for
supplying wildlife with food & shelter.
The winner of the competition for a picture
made from autumn leaves was
1) Betty Stacey 2) Janet Sparke & Betty
Jenness.. Next month is our AGM & the
competition is a face painted on an egg.
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 4 Advertising
News Mid-Norfolk Times Page 5

Council congratulated on gate’s refurbishment Coffee at the Queens Hall

and Table Top Sale
Farmers Market Day-
Saturday 4th December 9.30 to 11.30
Inner Wheel Charity Stall

At a small ceremony to mark the end of the
refurbishment of the Walsingham Gates,
improvements to the St Mary‘s church
Railings and the clearing of the churchyard
of excessive undergrowth, The Rev. Geoff
Garrett congratulated and thanked the
council for their work saying ―The
environment of the churchyard and its
surrounds has been greatly enhanced by the
work carried out by the Town Council on
the trees, gates and railings. The whole
aspect of the churchyard has been opened
out and the approach to the church is much
more pleasant and welcoming.‖
Chairman of the Council, Roy Ivory, said
that many people had remarked how much
better the gates looked along with the area
in general.
Mr Ivory continued ―I am delighted that the
hard work of so many people working with
the Council has made such a difference and
it is encouraging to hear that effort has
been appreciated by the town‘s residents.‖
The gates, which were first installed in
1902 at each end of Church Walk, were
refurbished by the town handyman, Keith
Bell by chipping off multiple coats of the
old paint over six months and then
repainting them with paint that was paid for
by Pride in Breckland.
The church railings were installed by CFS
Fabricoat of Norwich Road Industrial
Estate and the churchyard was cleared over
a number of months by volunteers
coordinated and led by Councillor Alan
Osborn and his wife Sandra who are both
active volunteers in the community. Mr
Osborn paid tribute to a number of
volunteers, in particular, Mr Terry Cooke,
who has sadly since died, for their work in
helping to clear the churchyard of
excessive growth. Will Smith of TTSR, the
company that looks after the town‘s planter
and displays, undertook the heavy labour of
removing a number of trees that had
obscured and damage both graves and the
church wall.
Clerk to the Council Mrs Jacqui Seal,
stressed how much had been done for so
little money; ―The council doesn‘t always
get the recognition it deserves‖ she said
―but we have had so many thank you‘s for
the work done, it is very pleasing.‖

Diabetes UK Hackers,
Our November meeting was our AGM.
Hingham
The Chair, Secretary and Treasurer
gave their reports and various items
were discussed, and ideas for speakers
Tackers Veterans
next year were spoken about. One of
our committee members is taking
some time of because of health issues,
and Badminton
but the remainder of the committee
remains unchanged.
After the meeting, we had a light
Stuffers Club
At our meeting on 26th October some Now that autumn is with us and
hearted quiz arranged by two of our
made Christmas pockets demonstrated outdoor pursuits are curtailed do not
members, Shirley & Pat, and we also
by a fellow member. These are easy to let that fitness level decline. If you
said goodbye to another of our
make and lovely to hang small gifts on a have played badminton in the past
members, Gloria, who is moving to
Christmas Tree. The previous day we why not give it another go.
Kent. She will be very much missed.
had a very successful whole day If you have recently retired and moved
It was good to see John after his recent
workshop making Linus quilts. Another in to the Breckland area you might not
operation. Rumour has it that the
such event is planned for 22nd realise that there is a thriving Veterans
surgeon tried to find his brain, failed,
November. badminton club in the area.
so decided to opt for his hip instead!!
On 23rd November we have Jenny Huish We play at the Hingham Sports and
Rod was there as usual - enough said!!
talking to us about Long Arm Quilting. Leisure Complex on the Watton Road
Our next meeting is on December
Our Christmas Lunch will be on the 6th on the outskirts of Hingham where 3
13th, at 10.15am, at the Pentecostal
December. courts are available so you can keep
Church, (whom we thank for the use
Plans are underway for exciting new going throughout the 3pm-5pm
of their facilities), and will be our
projects in 2011 including Quilts 4 our session every Tuesday throughout the
Christmas Party. No speaker, just chat
annual exhibition which will be earlier year (Bank holidays excluded).
and refreshments on a Christmassy
than usual running from 30th April to 7th It is a pay as you play club with a £3
theme.
May including the Bank Holiday Monday. fee per session with the occasional £1
For details of this or any of our
We meet at the Watton Christian for shuttles. The accent is on having
meetings, please phone Helen 01953
Community Centre on the 2nd and 4th fun and you will find us a friendly
884713, leave a message and I will get
Tuesday of each month apart from August bunch so why not come along and
back to you as soon as I can.
and for this year there will be no meeting recapture your youth.
On behalf of the Committee and
on 28th December. If you have any queries please ring
members of the group, I would like to
For further details of our activities look on 01953 600019 or we will see you at
wish all readers a Happy Christmas
our Blog at http://htsqgroup blogspot.com the hall ready for action!
and a Healthy & Happy New Year.
or contact me, Sue Hart on 01362 822536
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 6 Advertising
News Mid-Norfolk Times Page 7

Ashill Community Mitchell - Morley

Centre decorated thanks
to Pride in Breckland

The wedding of Mr Aran Mitchell, son of Paul

Ashill Community Centre entrance hall and toilets. Mitchell of Stokes Avenue, Watton and Miss
Management Committee, had a get Not all the team were able to make Fiona Morley, the daughter of Nigel Morley of
together on Thursday 11th it, but a very big thank you goes to Dereham Road, Watton took place at Dunstan
November at the Centre to thank you all for doing a grand job well Hall, Norwich in September. The Bride was
Richard and his team of workers done from the Management given away by her Father and was attended by
from Pride in Breckland for Committee and all the users of her sister Claire with Kerris and Isaac.
decorating the community Centre Ashill Community Centre. The Best Man was Edward Crabtree.

Merry Christmas from Watton

SSAFA Forces Help Relief In
I am writing this as the echoes of Armistice
Day and Remembrance Sunday fade away.
Those were just two days to remember
many things and to thank many people who
served and still serve their country in the
cause of freedom and peace. The Army, the
Royal Navy and The Royal Air Force of
course, the Merchant Navy, the Land Girls,
the WRVS, the National Servicemen and
hundreds of others.
Some, many of them lost their lives at the
time of conflict doing what they
passionately believed in and some remain to
this day, with their memories and their
wounds and proud of what they achieved to
keep our country free. SSAFA FH is very
proud of them and revels in the opportunity
to help them in their hour of need.
2010 has been a remarkable year for
SSAFA FH. The type of cases has ranged
from marriage breakdowns to financial
difficulties, homelessness, new cookers and
beds and working with BLESMA to
provide support for amputees – and it all
costs money.
In Breckland Region, SSAFA has been very
busy raising funds – and our profile – all
Your prescription for easy
over the region. National Collection Day
raised over £250 in Watton, Watton
Carnival, Weeting Steam Rally and
Wayland Show raised over £1100 and a
collection at Morrison‘s in East Dereham
also raised over £1100. The Big Brew Up at
the Dad‘s Army Museum in Thetford in
October raised over £300 and added several
inches to many waistlines with delicious
cakes!
Thank you.
All of this money goes towards helping
serving servicemen, ex-servicemen and their
families in Norfolk to carry living with the
pride and the dignity for which they worked
so hard.
Thank you, too, to all our wonderful
volunteers. They gave up so much of their
time to be there, they worked very hard,
they shared the SSAFA message with you
and they laughed as they did it.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to
you all!
If you need assistance please contact us –
one days service is all it takes – or if you
would like to be a volunteer
Tel: 01 603 403322
Need
Charity
The Trustees of this Charity will be
meeting on the 8th December to
consider applications from residents of
Watton for financial support this
Christmas. It is hoped, therefore, that
applicants will contact the Clerk to the
Trustees prior to that date so that the
Trustees can fulfil their duties.
The Charity is an amalgamation of
Charities set up many years ago to
support those in need. The Trustees have
a duty to distribute the income of the
Charity to relieve, either generally or
individually, persons resident in the
town of Watton who are in conditions of
need, hardship or distress by making
grants of money or providing or paying
for items, services or facilities calculated
to reduce the need, hardship or distress
of such persons. Institutions or
organisations which provide or
undertake in return to provide items,
services or facilities for such persons
may also benefit.
In the past few years, grants have, in the
main, consisted of support for the

Christmas shopping elderly to help with the extra costs of

With Christmas fast approaching, we all
need a little inspiration when it comes to
finding that special gift for friends and
family.
Venture just a few minutes‘ walk from
the High Street in Watton and find
inspiration with Total Health Pharmacy.
Situated opposite the Watton Medical
Practice, the pharmacy has a wide range
of gifts and present ideas for Christmas
and all year round.
Choose from bags, scarves and jewellery
and luxurious gift sets for a real treat.
Flannels that look good enough to eat
and gorgeous glass baubles. Beautiful
glass and fragrant candles and diffusers
make a gift with a difference and capture
your favourite photographs in some bold
and unusual frames. Or choose from
cheeky mugs, jigsaws and a host of
stocking fillers as well as some very bold
Christmas decorations – just watch out
for the moose!
There is so much to choose from but if
you can‘t decide what to buy, gift
vouchers are available and can be
redeemed at Total Health Pharmacy and
also Total Health Therapy.
For something a little special that you
won‘t find on the High Street and at
prices you will love, Total Health
Pharmacy is well worth a visit this
Christmas.
Total Health Pharmacy is open 7 days a
week from 8am until late.
Christmas and/or heating costs.
However, the Trustees are most willing
to consider applications from other age
groups provided they are residents of
Watton and they are in conditions of
need, hardship or distress.
No preference is given to any section of
the community but there will be times
when applicants will be required to give
full personal financial details and
provide whatever information the
Trustees require before decisions can be
made. Any information given will be
treated in the strictest confidence.
Applications for assistance should be
addressed to:- Derek I Smith. Clerk to
the Trustees - Watton Relief In Need
Charity, 39 Dereham Road, Watton IP25
6ER. Tel: 01953 884044 Email:
derek@frenzymail.co.uk
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 8 News

Thetford Voices Carolling

and Christmas Workshop
For the third year running, young singers from 6-16 are invited to
take part in a Carol Workshop in Thetford at the beginning of the
school holidays - on Tuesday 21st December (1.30 - 4.30) &
Wednesday 22nd December (1.45 - 6.30).
The group will meet in Thetford Grammar School on Tuesday to learn
and practise repertoire and give its first performance. Then on
Aulas de PORTUGUÊS em Watton
Wednesday, we shall be supported by Coach Services whose buses Portuguese classes in Watton for children to help them remember their roots
will take us to several Residential Homes in the town. After tea we
are off to the Elveden Estate, having been invited to sing from 5.30 -
6.30 at their Late Night Shopping Event.
Over the two days we shall be collecting for EACH, the East Anglian Children‘s
Hospices.
The Workshop has proved an enjoyable and worthwhile activity in the past which
to celebrate the season. We look forward to meeting returning and many new
singers in December.
To book a workshop place, email johnweeks@madasafish.com or telephone
01842 820060 by 12th December.

`E importante falar duas linguas, porem
mais importante ainda `e que as nossas
crianças não percam o valor das nossas
origens e a cultura do nosso país.
Emigrando e deixando na terra natal
muitas vezes a familia, como os avόs,
parentes e amigos.
`E com agrado que reconhecemos o
esforço para que os nossos filhos
continuem ainda mais ligados a
Portugal, frequentando as aulas de
Português dadas pela Professora Ana
Sofia na Watton Junior School. Se
ainda não teve oportunidade aproveite
desde já, dirigindo-se na prόxima Terça
-Feira, a partir das 3.30 da tarde á
escola e inscreva o seu filho.

Receita de Natal / Christmas recipe

Lombo de Porco no forno
Roasted Pork Loin
1.5 Kg Lombo Porco / Pork Loin
Meia cabeça de alho / half garlic head
Mostarda para barrar / Mustard to
cover
1 (150 ml) copo de Vinho Tinto /
glass of Red Wine
Preparacao: Faca uns golpes com a
faca, ponha os alhos descascados no
orifio. Barre o lombo com a mustarda .
Com rolo de papel prata , aplique duas
folhas, disponha o lombo no centro,
regue com o vinho tinto e feche a
prata . Deixe repousar durante 3 a 4
horas e depois vai ao forno cerca de 90
minutos a 180 ° a Assar, sem
desembrulhar . Bom Apetite inside of each one a piece of garlic. the foil. Leaved for 3 to 4 hours
Preparation: With a knife, puncture Spread all over the loin with mustard. before you put in the oven to roast for
several times, different places and put Put the loin in the centre of a square about 90 minutes at 180° without
paper foil, add the red wine and close removing the foil. Bon Appetite!

Attleborough Town Twinning Association

Plans for the visit to Attleborough‘s
twinned community of Nueil-Les-
Aubiers, in France in June 2011 are
well advanced.
Speaking after the recent Annual
General Meeting of the Association the
Secretary, Mary Ridgway, said ―we
have received plenty of interest from
members who would like to join the
visit to France next year. As on a
previous visit, we plan to travel by
Eurostar and TGV. Travelling by train
is an excellent idea, especially as we
have such easy access to St Pancras
from Attleborough.‖
Nueil-les-Aubiers is in the Department
of Deux-Sèvres, 80 miles east of La
Rochelle and 50 miles south of Angers,
bordering the beautiful Loire Valley.
Nueil has a population of
approximately 5,000 and is very
similar to Attleborough in its
commerce and industry.
The AGM was held at Attleborough
Fire Station on Thursday 21 October
and President, Denny Barber, was re-
elected together with other officers and
committee members. If readers would
like more information about the
Association, our twinned community
of Nueil-Les-Aubiers, or the visit in
20111, please contact the Secretary on
01953 455995.
Attleborough and Nueil-les-Aubiers in
France became twin communities
following ceremonies in France and
England in 1996 and 1997. The
Attleborough Town Twinning
Association was set up to promote
international friendship between the
twinned communities. They make
biennial visits to Nueil-les-Aubiers and
host return visits in alternate years.
Details on membership of the
Association and visiting Nueil-Les-
Aubiers in 2010 are available from the
Hon. Secretary on the number above.
News
Village Life – the
story of Bridgham
Once in a while a book comes along
that manages to touch the heart and
create a sense of something we
cherish. Village Life – the story of
Bridgham, a tiny village in the
countryside of Breckland Norfolk,
could do exactly that.
Written by David O‘Neale (right) &
Tony Dobbin (left), it is about the life
and history of a community, which
remained relatively unchanged for
centuries and until only 60 or so years
ago did not have an electricity nor
running water in every home.
It could well be the story of any
number of similar villages that make
rural England what it is. The
characters, the events, the occasional
scandal, of youngsters at play, the
derring-do and the tragedies that
came with two world wars. It‘s all
here, helping to shape people‘s lives
and the way we live now. The book is
supported by the National Lottery
Fund through the Heritage Lottery
Fund.
Kevin Crossley-Holland, poet, award
-winning children‘s author and
Norfolk resident has written of this
impressive publication:
‗The overriding strength of these
pages is that they so mix fact,
description, specific instance, story,
anecdote and a wide range of
illustration as to give a wonderful
sense of life – of individual lives, of
work, hard work, fleeting happiness.
‗Of course it‘s absolutely fascinating
to read that the inventor of the
How to have fun in
Wayland Scouts
This month our report has been
written by one of our Scouts who
has written this as part of an
Activity Badge.
I am writing this article for my
Writers and Librarian badges. At
our Scout Meetings we work on
our badges and then play some fun
games. I have two badges at the
moment; the Meteorologist Badge
and the Ten Night‘s Away Badge.
For the Meteorologist Badge I had
to keep a record of the weather for
two weeks and study the different
types of weather and rain clouds.
For my Ten Night‘s Away
Badge, I have been on camping
trips with the Scouts. I have been
to Two Mile Bottom and
Sheringham. At Two Mile
Bottom I have done lots of
exciting activities. These include
abseiling, rock climbing, archery
and laser shooting. There is also
a river there where I have been
canoeing and kayaking. Recently
they have acquired a water roller
which is an inflatable cylinder on
water. Two people get in and
then they roll it over the water. It
is great fun! At Sheringham I
have helped direct vintage car
drivers into the correct parking
spaces at Holt railway station.
This was for the 1940s weekend.
We travelled on the steam
railway, had fish and chips by the
sea and bought war items from
the stalls. Lots of people dressed
planetarium, John Theophilus
Desaguliers, was appointed rector of
Bridgham in 1717, and that Nelson‘s
chaplain Stephen George Comyn
followed him in 1802 – let alone the
scandalous rumours linking Nelson
himself with a Bridgham girl – and to
learn that Van Gogh praised the
‗faithfulness and truth‘ of the
etchings of Edwin Edwards, who
lived at Bridgham Hall Farm.
‗Here is the little Breckland village of
Bridgham talking, talking to itself
(and sometimes laughing at itself) but
also speaking to, and for, so many of
us living in similar villages. And by
looking back with such scrupulous
research, and pointing to continuity
and change, the book sustains and
nourishes the life of the village today.
‗How very fortunate is the
community, I find myself thinking,
that boasts a Millennium Group and
editors willing to give time, careful
thought, and skill to such an
undertaking. And how very
enviable!‘
The book‘s 380 pages not only trace
over 1,000 years of colourful history
in words, but with nearly the same
number of pictures, most in colour, it
adds up to a hugely entertaining and
enjoyable read.
Until Christmas, Village Life is
available at just £20 a special
introductory offer saving £5 off the
normal price.
From 29 November, the book is
available from East Harling butchers
up. It was really interesting.
After we had we then walked
along the seafront. Then we went
back to the Sheringham Seas
Scout campsite to watch a film
and have hot chocolate.
In our Scout Meetings we play
games such as Dodgeball.
Another game is ‗The Keys
Under the Chair‘ game, where
you have to try and get the keys
out from under the chair of the
person who is blind folded. My
favourite game is The Wally
Chair‘, where you have to
concentrate on who you are
talking to.
Apart from Scout Meetings and
camping we also do exciting
activities. For example in the
summer we had a cricket day at
our Scout Hut. On that day we
cooked a huge dinner for our
parents in the morning and then
served it to them in the afternoon
when they arrived. It was a really
hot day and after dinner we all
played a game of cricket. Then
we had a flag ceremony. Lots of
parents made delicious cakes and
there were loads of strawberries.
I love Scouts because I get to meet
lots of different friends outside of
school and do a lots of interesting
and unusual things. I think our
leaders; Big Chief, Baloo, Akela,
James and Harrison are incredible
because of all the opportunities
they give us. Matthew Lewins
F L Edge & Son. Copies can also be
bought direct from David O‘Neale,
Mill House, The Street, Bridgham,
NR16 2RS. 01953 718266; email:
david.oneale@btinternet.com. For
Watton Country Market
wishes all its Customers a Happy
Christmas and Prosperous New Year
All the Watton Country Market
producers join in thanking you for
your custom through the past year
and wish you all the very best for
Christmas and New Year 2011.
We shall be running a Christmas
raffle again this year. Every
customer who comes to the market
on the first two Wednesdays of
December (1st and 8th) will get a
ticket in the free draw. The winner
will be drawn on the third
Wednesday (15th). The prize is a
Watton U3A News
At a recent committee meeting it
was agreed that the membership
should be restricted to a total of
120. This decision was taken due to
the capacity of the hall for monthly
meetings where recently attendance
has increased significantly. It was
also felt that we should retain the
existing friendly atmosphere of a
smaller group. A waiting list is
now active.
The recent Film Evening presented
by member Brian Salmons was a
resounding success being attended
by some 35 members. Brian is
being persuaded to give another
presentation in the near future.
The Christmas Lunch is at
12.45pm on the 10th December at
copies that have to be mailed, there is
an additional £6 to cover UK postage
and packing, and an additional £2 for
each further copy. Cheques to
Bridgham Millennium Group.
voucher to spend on any product or
combination of products sold in the
market. You will find us in the
Watton Christian Community Centre
between 8.30 and 11.30 a.m. every
Wednesday.
We shall close at 11 a.m. on
Wednesday 22nd December and
reopen for business on Wednesday,
2nd February, 2011. We only close
early on this last market day before
Christmas!
the Richmond Park Golf Club.
Members participation in the
various activity groups remains
high especially the Pub Luncheon
Group where record numbers are
attending. Two places are available
in the History Group that meets pm
on the second Tuesday of each
month (contact Margaret on
01953889951).
The Christmas meeting is on
Thursday 16th December and will
include musical entertainment by
Patsy Rose followed by tea and
mince pies.
The Membership Secretary can be
contacted on 01953885358.
For further information on the
National U3A go to www.u3a.org
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 9
Saham Hills
Methodist Church
December 11th
Christmas Sale/Coffee Morning
10 am till 12 noon
Gifts, Plants, Christmas Goodies,
Bric-a-brac, Cake stall
December 19th
Carol Service @ 6.30pm
Saham hand bell ringers will be
joining us. Refreshments to finish
Massage Treatments
Swedish Massage and
Hot Stone Massage
Appointments available at
BROOM HALL
Country Hotel
Saham Toney
Your Local Three Star Hotel
Telephone: 01953 882125
www.broomhallhotel.co.uk
DY-FIT FOR LIFE
EXERCISE TO MUSIC CLASSES
Watton Sports Centre, Dereham Road.
All the sessions are designed to promote stamina,
strength and flexibility whilst taking into account
the fitness level and ability of participants.
General Aerobics Mondays 7pm
An hour long, as energetic as you wish!**
Nifty Fifties Fridays 11am
A challenging workout for
"recycled teenagers"**
Gentle Option Fridays 10am
40 minutes duration, no floorwork.
Problems such as arthritis and joint replacement
are taken into account.
Please Note the term ends on Friday 17th
Dec. and the new term starts Mon 10th Jan
Happy Christmas and New Year!
** Please bring a mat for floorwork
For further details, please contact
Diane Cuthbert
01953 850275
RSA/YMCA Qualified Teacher
COUGHTREY BDK
Unit 2, Coughtrey Industrial Estate
Ltd.
Church Road, Griston. IP25 6QB
Fitted Kitchens
Bathrooms
Internal Doors
www.coughterybdk.co.uk
Free Quotations &
Full Planning Service
01953 881243
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 10
In your garden with Lotta Potts
Well, here we are at the end of the
year. I‘m sure 2010 didn‘t give us the
full twelve months‘ worth. It‘s only
five minutes since the garden was in
full bloom and the veg was coming
along nicely. Still, the shorter days
and decreasing temperatures tell me
we‘re here again in winter. I just
checked last year‘s article and saw
that the Decembrrrrr attempt at
humour came distressingly true. The
snow arrived in earnest around the
middle of the month and stayed for
weeks. That put paid to any tasks that
didn‘t involve a shovel on paths. I
have been assured that this year will
be different with a ‗green‘ winter. On
the other hand I read an article by a
beekeeper in Derbyshire who has
been astonished at the levels of wax
plugs the bees have arranged in her
hives. The bees do this to protect
themselves from cold and wet so her
parting suggestion was to stock up on
food and warm clothes: ―you have
been warned‖ she said. I guess all we
can do is hope her bees are over-
reacting.
If the weather is reasonably open you
can still plant, prune or move
deciduous shrubs and trees. It‘s worth
considering scent. If that sounds silly
think of shrubs such as Daphnes,
Hammamelis (Witch Hazel),
Sarcocca (Christmas Box),
Chimonomanthus praecox
(wintersweet), Viburnums, Lonicera
x purpusii (winter honeysuckle). All
of these have various varieties and
produce small, highly scented flowers
from November to March. A word of
warning, however, don‘t plant all of
them close together as the idea of a
sweet winter perfume might turn into
a toxic smell. Another fact is that
some of them take a long time from
planting to production. A personal
experience here as I planted a
Chimonomanthus ‗bargain‘ small
plant two years ago with dreams of a
scented winter last year. So far it‘s
made three stems about two feet high
and I have just learned they can take
up to seven years to flower. A better
tip is to find one you like in flower
and use it as a container plant near a
door for the winter then plant it up in
spring.
If scent isn‘t your thing then winter
heathers, Skimmias and hardy
cyclamen (some of which are
delicately scented) make a pretty
arrangement either in a container or
in the ground . To add to their display
some snowdrops and/or hellebores
and perhaps some red dogwood stems
would make a lovely splash of colour
in these dark days.
Apart from choosing seeds for the
veg plot there‘s not a lot to do other
than planting onions as soon as
possible after the shortest day. It‘s a
popular occupation on Boxing Day
but I suspect it‘s also a good way to
avoid washing up or the relations. For
the really keen or behind there‘s
always the winter digging, assuming
the ground isn‗t frozen or
waterlogged. Good for the waistline
and the feelgood thought that come
spring you are well ahead for
planting. Weeding also should be
kept up. It‘s amazing that even after
killer frosts and deep snow the only
reliable survivors are weeds. Up will
pop the hairy bittercress and given a
couple of days above freezing it will
flower and throw its seeds far and
wide. The dandelion, too, will throw
up the odd flower stalk. Infuriating. If
you operate a no-dig garden then it
pays to fork gently over the surface
and add some compost or manure to
mulch.
If you are lucky or provident enough
to have fruit and veg in store in the
shed or garage it pays to check them
over frequently for signs of rot or
rodents. Other checks are for slugs
and snails snoozing under pots or
piles of leaves or other debris that
accumulates over autumn. Leaves
seem to appear out of the blue even if
you‘ve diligently swept up to the
point of boredom. It still pays to
gather them into bags for leafmould.
Last year I had seven bin bags full to
the brim of leaves. This autumn I had
seven bags about a quarter full of wet
leafmould which was almost
adequate to cover a metre square
raised bed but not to the
recommended depth of three to four
inches. That stuff shrinks faster that a
woolly jumper on hot cycle.
If you have a frost-free greenhouse
keep an eye on plants overwintering.
Check for moisture levels and
remove dead leaves. It is possible to
frost-proof the greenhouse with a
lining of bubble wrap. Never having
tried this I rely on a friend‘s
reassurance that it works. In a large
greenhouse same friend uses bubble
wrap ‗curtains‘ for extra protection
for part of the house.
The best ‗job‘ of all in December is
buying the Christmas tree. If you know
a reliable nursery and can stretch the
money a bit the best trees are those pot-
grown from seedlings. The ones that
have been dug up and put into pots for
the festive sales as ‗pot grown‘ will
have had so much root destroyed they
are unlikely to last very long. Some do
survive. Most won‘t. The properly pot
grown ones will have younger and
softer needles than the cut or the dug up
ones and they will repay you by lasting
a few years with good treatment. Pot
them on as necessary and put outside
once the weather has improved a bit.
Water frequently with rainwater - keep
a small can full indoors for the purpose
so they don‘t get a drench of icy water.
Treat as a pot plant generally. The cut
ones should be put into a purpose made
holder that will keep them steady with a
‗vase‘ in it and keep topped up with
water. They will keep their needles a
lot longer than those left to dry out.
You could really splash the cash on a
Nordmann fir as these suffer very little
drop. In any case, all trees should be
kept away from radiators and fires to be
fresh longer. There‘s a spray on the
market that is supposed to virtually
glue the needles on. Hopefully this is
not flammable!
If we have a similar winter to last
year‘s then just go for a walk or take
photographs of architectural plants
and get the planner going. Merry
Christmas and Happy New Year,
whatever the weather.
Gardening
Attleborough
& District
Horticultural
Society
At the October meeting of the society
Robin McDonald gave an excellent
presentation on the subject of
―Orchids‖. Aided by a very colourful
slideshow she described how the
known history of orchids goes back to
China some 5,000 years ago, when
they were probably used in medicine,
and that today 250,000 species of
orchids have been identified, growing
anywhere between the Arctic Circle
and the Equator. Also that two
hundred years ago it was possible to
pay the equivalent of 10,000 guineas
for a single plant, which would then
be used to propagate from.
In the table competition John
Phoenix was in form and came first
for his three stems of flowers, three
cooking apples and his vase of
perennials. Ron Brewer took
honours for his three stems of
shrubs, whilst Sally Westrup was
successful with her five shallots.
A reminder to all members that in
December we shall be holding a
seasonal Social Evening in place of
our usual meeting and we very
much look forward to as many
members as possible coming along
to enjoy a relaxing and pleasant
evening. This takes place at the
usual venue (Attleborough Junior
School) on Wednesday 8th
December, starting at 7pm.
Gardening
Tomato-Tomayto
Gardening in Navasota, Texas with Helen Quinn
Another year almost gone and still very
few of the 2010 New Year‘s Resolutions
accomplished. This is the time of year
when I dash outside and start trying to
accomplish all these things, and ending up
with an aching back and legs, and the
beginnings of a ―don‘t care‖ attitude! But
of course I care, and January 2011 I‘ll start
all over again! Maybe the secret is to have
a shorter list, and a 3-monthly progress
review.
Installation instructions for the new
greenhouse have been located deep in the
heart of the box, and studied enough to
brave the lumber yard and purchase the
makings of the base (pictured). With a
little bit of luck and a lot of help from
friends, it should be up in a few days. This
is cutting it a bit fine because outlying
areas have already had their first frost of
the season.
Some folks have had rain, but there have
been only a few drops at my house and
I‘m still watering. I am, however, still
picking tomatoes, both red and green,
paste type, cherry type and regular round
types. Jalapeño and bell peppers have
slowed almost to a halt since we had a few
cool days and nights, but the cabbages,
collards, and beetroots are thriving, along
with a nice thick planting of cilantro
seedlings. The basil is fading too, but I
have used a huge amount of leaves to
Great
Hockham
Gardening
Club
On WEDNESDAY 10th OCTOBER
we were privileged to have Graeme
Simmonds come to give us a talk
entitled, ‗History Beneath Our Feet‘.
Several members brought along ‗finds‘
from their gardens which he dated and
explained and was even very envious
of! From fine flints to hand held axes
and bottles to clay pipes, buckles and
keys, he was able to tell us their
fascinating history and we were left
imagining who had last held the axe
6,000 years ago when it was lost. We
all thoroughly enjoyed listening to such
a terrific speaker and I have never had
so many people contact me to say how
good the evening was, we will all be
much more careful when digging in the
garden from now on!
It was a very good turnout with 38
members and 1 guest attending; we had
2 new members join and 2 more by post
this week. The raffle was well
supported and raised £49 which went a
long way towards the expenses for the
evening.
The Flower competition was judged by
Graeme and was won yet again by
Claudine Garrod, 2nd Cath Buckledee,
3rd Lois Gill. The Vegetable
competition was won by Chris Halford,
2nd Stuart Cullum and 3rd Hazel Dunn.
The quality of entries was again very
high. Well done everyone who took
part.
Our next Club meeting is on
WEDNESDAY 8th DECEMBER at
7.45pm in the Village Hall and should
prove interesting as Ed is doing another
of his ‗QUIZ NIGHTS‘, last time it was
very funny and enjoyable, so come
make Basil Jelly. Herb jellies are
becoming very popular at the market, and
so far I have made Parsley, Basil, Mint,
and Rosemary. The few people here who
eat lamb prefer it with Mint-Apple Jelly
rather than Mint Sauce.
Wildlife in the garden is changing as the
weather changes. There is an abundance of
Red Bellied Woodpeckers, some of which
are becoming of a nuisance by wanting to
eat the wood on my porch. Scare tactics
are in place, and the neighbourhood cats
are on patrol! A couple of Downy
Woodpeckers have visited this year and
they don‘t seem to be as aggressive as their
Red Bellied cousins.
Life in the pond is
slowing down. There
are still a few
tadpoles but the
nightly serenade of
amorous frogs has
ceased. No further
invasions by Red
Eared Slider turtles
have occurred, and
the goldfish keeps on
swimming. He is the
sole survivor from a
batch of twelve
purchased several
years ago which, for
some unknown
Breckland Flower and
Garden Club
Travelling from Bedford Lisa Howard
demonstrated her 'Enchanted Christmas' to
a packed hall at the November meeting.
Starting with an advent ring which
included deep burgundy
minigerberas and carnations she followed
roses,
with a long table arrangement set with
orange and bronze candles together with
lilies, gerberas, carnations and roses. An
alternative Christmas tree came next - a
moss covered cone studded with pink roses
and coloured balls. An angel was her next
offering - complete with wings and halo -
dressed in pink lilies, astilbe, gerberas and
carnations .No Christmas is complete
without a snow scene and Lisa's green and
white design included six different white
flowers of varying texture with palm and
aspidistra leaves all set in a white sleigh.
The final design was a kissing bower with
deep purple liatris, lisianthus, white roses
and canna lilies woven through.
The competition - New Hands was won by
Susan Thurlo and Janet Skidmore second,
and Old Hands was won jointly by Shirley
Penfold and Ursula Jackson, second
along and take part. It is our XMAS
SOCIAL so please bring along food to
share.
Drinks will be provided. Everyone
welcome!
Free to members £2.50 visitors. There
will be a Xmas raffle. Bring your
competition entries as usual.
There will also be an opportunity to
order seeds at 30% discount.
At the December meeting we will be
taking bookings for our Annual Dinner
in January, on Sunday 30th Jan 2011,
1pm at the Royal Garden Chinese
Restaurant in Attleborough. Cost £15
including wine on tables.
We are a very active, friendly club,
always keen to increase our membership
and now is a great time to join.
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 11
reason, I named for the twelve tribes of
Israel. I have no idea which one survived,
but since he has grown so large I should
probably call him Goliath! Once again I
forgot to place the leaf net over the pond,
Norfolk Wildlife Trust
To ask a question about the Norfolk’s Wildlife please call the Norfolk
Wildlife Information Service. Wildline 01603 598333 9am to 5pm Mon - Fri.
E-mail wild@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
so there will be another major clean out in Website http://www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/naturalconnections
the Spring. At least the net will be free to Further details and Membership enquiries 01953 498467
cover the strawberries once they start Tuesday 21st December 7.45pm - 9.30pm Changes in the Norfolk
fruiting! Countryside A presentation by Peter and Rosemary Salt at this meeting
Seed catalogues will soon be arriving in where we celebrate 30 years of the Breckland Local Group of the Norfolk
the mail, and gardeners all over the world Wildlife Trust. Seasonal refreshments and raffle. Venue: Watton CCC
will be plotting and planning for the New Cost: Donations for NWT
Year, but first comes Christmas, with all
kinds of gardening gifts and books to give
and (hopefully) receive. At our Master
Gardener Christmas Party we exchange
ornaments of a gardening nature – hard to
find with a limit of $5!
Here‘s wishing all readers a very Happy
Christmas, and ―may all your Christmases
be bright‖.
Norma Howes; the trophy for Best Use of
Garden Plant Material was awarded to
Ursula Jackson.
The table show - was won by Sally
Westrup, second Melllissa Sheldrake, third
Sylvia Briggs
December meeting on Thursday 9th at Old
Buckenham Village Hall will commence at
1.30p.m. for the workshop (a list
requirements can be obtained from Pat or
Sally). Please bring a plate of nibbles for
afternoon tea. There will also be a
Christmas stall but please do not wrap
gifts.
The Competition will be a Christmas Table
Arrangement with a candle on a cake stand
SALEC TRAVEL LTD
and the table show three stems of seasonal
foliage.
January meeting at Old Buckenham
Village Hall January 13th 2 p.m. when Thursday 2nd December Fakenham Xmas Trees 9.30am & 1.30pm Return
there will be an illustrated talk Adult & Child £5
The Competition to incorporate a photo Saturday 4th December Ipswich 9am & 4pm Return Adult £9 Child £6
frame and dried and/or preserved material Sun 5th December Rochester Festival 8am & 5pm Return Adult £19 Child £15
and the table show is for three stems to Wednesday 8th December Thursford Evening Show Adult & Child £37.50
show winter colour. Saturday 11th December Christmas Seaside Special Show at Cromer Adult £22
Sunday 12th December Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park Adult £15 Child £10
Sunday 19th December Christmas Lunch at The Burrage Gorleston Adult £20
If anyone would like a lift to meetings Monday 20th December Wisbech Christmas Market 9am & 4pm Return
please give me a call. Adult £10 Child £5.50
We would like to wish everyone a very Wednesday 29th December Christmas Circus 10am Price: TBA
happy Christmas and all the very best for Saturday 8th January Lakeside Sales 8am & 5pm Return Adult £15 Child £10
the New Year. Sat 22nd January Bury St Edmunds 9.30am & 3pm Return Adult & Child £5
Jane Dalton (Secretary) 01953 498694 Thursday 17th February Fakenham 9.30am & 1.30pm Return Adult & Child £5
Wednesday 23rd February Whisky Distillery & Bury St Edmunds
Times: TBA Price: TBA
Carols by Candlelight (PLEASE NOTE SOME OF THE DATES ABOVE HAVE BEEN CHANGED)
Caston Church HOLIDAYS 2011 (ITINERARIES AVAUBLE ON REQUEST)
Country & Western at Mundsley - Friday 11th - Monday 14th March
Sunday 19th December Derbyshire - Monday 25th - Saturday 30th July
at 6.30 pm Torquay - Saturday 6th - Saturday 13th August
Mystery Weekend - Dates TBA
Followed by Mince Pies and
2011 BROCHURE OUT NOW! For more details please phone:
Mulled Wine. Please do come
along to this magical service to
celebrate the birth of Christ. 01953 881159
Parking at Church Farm. PRIVATE COACH & MINIBUS HIRE ALSO AVAILIBLE
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 12 News

Need small home improvements?

Keith Huish
Skilled & Experienced Carpenter
Doors, windows, locks . . . no job too small.
Free no obligation estimate.
K R H Carpentry Services
01953 (Watton) 882484 – Mobile 07746 114285
HJC Ltd Motor Engineers
Servicing & MOT preparation to all makes of
modern cars & light commercials
Tyres, Exhausts, & Batteries supplied and fitted
Courtesy cars available
Ask for Steve at: 5 Linmore Court Threxton Rd
Industrial Estate Watton
Tel: 01953 889924
LANDSCAPE GARDENING
Tim Luxton Established 1973
Patios ~ Paths ~ Fencing ~ Shingle Drives
Seeding ~ Turfing Etc.
Low Maintenance Gardens
Designed & Built
Photos and References always available
For a Quality Job & Free Quote
Phone Tim Luxton on 01603 880184
www.timluxtonlandscaping.co.uk
Tha Ovington
Crower by Sid
How yew gittin on tergither, didja bun
orl ya ole rubbish agin this bonfire nite,
we wos gunna hev a grat ole bonfire
alonga tha lotmints, we‘d hed orl tha ole
hidjes cut an a few trees lopped, so we
hed plenty o firewood tew git rid. We
hed a gret ole pile an orl tha blooks ware
a clecktin sump oil so as she‘d bun, an
tha mawthas tunned owt orl thar chip
pans to git tha confergrashun orf tew a
gud start.
Corse I towld yew sum time agoo thet
Horry dunt mess arownd wi his clocks,
wot I fergit ter tell yew wos he dunt
reckon on calendars eether, he reckun he
no wot day tis from lookin
owta tha winder. Darft ole fule.
Howsumever on tha Satdi afore bonfire
nite young Billa cum bangin on my dor a
hollerin
―Dew yew cum hare Sid‖ he say ―Tha ole
fires orl alite‖ I got me hat an coot, cos
thet ware hooly cowld, an hossed orf up
tha rood arta boy Billa. Waal I cud see
the flearms long afore I got up Chuch
rood, blarst war I suffin raw, I rekkuned
tha ole boys from Sarhm hed thort tew
hev a game alonga us an hed set har
agooin on parpus. Tha fust thing I sor
wos Horry leenin on his ole muck fork
watchin orl ower haard wuk gooin up in
flearms. ―Hullo Sid‖ he say ―Thort
nowun wos a cummin‖
―Wos a gooin on Horry, who set har
alite?‖
I say. He giv me a rare luk an he say ―Me
o corse‖ I say to him I say ―Woffor‖ he
gi me anotha o his luks an he say ―Cos
thas bonfire nite, yer daft begga, coont
mek owt ware orl tha foolk hed gotew,
thort Ide hefta rownd har up meself‖ I
dint no wot ter say fer a minit or tew. ―
Yor tha daft ole begga‖ I say ―Thet ent
bonfire nite till next week‖ ―No‖ he say.
―Thas cowld n thas araernin an tha winds
a blowing the smook orl oova tha
cownsil howses, so thet must be bonfire
nite‖ See, I towld yew he hed a diffrunt
lukowt on daerts. I say tew him I say.
―Horry thet ent bonfire night, jest hev a
luk et tha date on terdays pearpa, we ent
even in Novemba yit yew darft ole fule.
Yorl hevta put tha fire owt else yorl hev
tha hool willage arta yor guts.(Ken I say
―guts‖ in yor pearpa Mista edita. Tha
larst thing I want is ter git rong alonga
yor reedas ole partna).
Horry tuk a bit o vincin an he swor suffin
wickit so I hed tew cova yung Billas ears.
Wayland
Happy
Circle
He got his ole muck We had a very enjoyable meal at the
croom owt,(crarfti ole so n so hed hid it Hare and Barrel on November 2nd
in tha hidje so I reckun he thort suffin plus a very good free raffle with lots
warnt rite,) an he set tew an pulled tha of excellent prizes.
ole fire apart, thet ware suffin hot an his
ole cap ware a smookin afore he ware
For our Christmas meeting on
December 7th we will have a simple
dun. Mind yew tha muck on thet cap o affair with a mince pie and a cuppa
his is 70 year thick so thet wood hev got NO PRESENTS this year but a
tha ole fire a gooin on it‘s own. I niva Christmas Card if you so wish.
offared tew giv him a hand eetha so he David Skipper will give us a talk on
wukked up a tidy ole swet afore he ware the manufacture of apple juice and a
dun. I say ter him I say. ―Waal Horry‖ I promise of a drink of non-alcoholic
say ― I rekun yew hev a fare bit o wuk mulled juice afterwards.
ter dew ter git this reddy for next week, For our January meeting we hope to
cos iffen the foolk inna tha willge hent welcome Mr David Hatherley, from
gotta propa fire yor life ent gunna be the Wayland Radio, his subject will
wuth livin‖ Blarst dint he sware agin, tha be "How does radio broadcasting
boy Billas ears musta bin evasowarm cos really work?" Seasons greetings to
my hands ware oova them moost of tha you all.
nite.
Give tha ole fule his doo, he got a whool
lotta pallets from boy Tony up tha rood
an we did hev a pretty gud dew on
bonfire nite arta orl. Wayland
House
Biggest larf wos wen Horry put one o his
grate ole teartas in tha hot ashes an thet
tuk till Sundi tea time afore thet ware
cooked right thru, sarve him rite.
Cos tha next nite wos anutha of tha suppa
evenins, waal I cud run on abowt thet orl
Learning
week but yew‘ll ony git upset cos yew
missed tha best grub arownd hare, tha ole and
Training
mawthas no tha best way tew a mans hart
thas fer sure.
I rekun tha ole boy from tha fish n no
The current session of classes in
chip shop alonga tha rood must be gitten
English for speakers of other
suffin riled cos orl his treard is cumming
languages is coming to an end within
tew tha willage horl tew eat. Waal yew
the next two weeks. It is hoped that
carnt blearm ‗em can yew?
new funding may be found to allow
Sune be cummin up ter Chrismus, hoop
for a new groups to begin after
yew hev ordared yar Turkey oreddy cos I
hear thars gooin ta be a shortage tha year.
Christmas.
In the meantime the Beginners IT
Since boy Bernard retired tha ent noo
course has finished this week
wun ter hatch owt orl tha eggs wot he
(November 15th). On January 10th a
yewst ter set on.
In Ovinton we hev gotta luk forward tew
new course will begin which will be
based on the BBC‘s First Click
ower Chrismus Bazaar, I‘ve bin towld ter
programme. Several people have
advertise it else my tea‘l be gitten cold.
already signed up for this course but
Dasnt argew.
So kip yarself free on December tha forth
there are still a few spaces so if you
are one of the many people who feel
an pop along to tha Willage Horl at
frustrated when the Newsreader says
midday, ware yew‘ll git a warm welcome
an a grate ole pleart of gud hot grub, plus
‗you will find more information on
www.bbc.co.uk‘ or the chef says
a chance ter win orl sorts of things tha
‗You will find this recipe on our
mawthas hev got tergitha.
website‘ then maybe it is time to find
Thas orl fer this time, iffen I doont see
out what all this means and join the
yew afore, I‘ll see yew learta. Woteva
yew dew, dew yew keep a troshin.
world of websites and email and
Broadband. Contact Jan on 01953
Happy Chrismus. Boy Sid
880202 for more information.

Christmas Art Exhibition

(Mixed Media)
On your PVCu Replacement 13 Talented local & regional artists,
Saturday 4th – Saturday 11th December
Windows, Doors and
The Dragonfly Gallery
Sunlounges. Wayland House, High St, Watton IP25 6AR
Plus!We have no pushy sales
reps, all appointments are Opening Times 10am – 4pm weekdays
undertaken by 10am – 1pm Weekends
Ray Harman(Proprietor) Preview Evening Friday 3rd
December 7.00 – 8.30pm
Work on display can be purchased,
Christmas cards and gifts also available
Unit B, Yaxham Rd, The Preview evening is very popular, and
Dereham recommended if you are looking to buy.
(behind Halfords)
Light Seasonal refreshments.
Contact Susan Hollingworth
01953 880205 for further information
News Mid-Norfolk Times Page 13

Shipdham News from Watton Junior SANCTUARY COUNSELLING

and District
Book Group
The book discussed at the meeting
on 16th November was
Marshmallows for Breakfast by
Dorothy Koomson. The main
character Kendra Tamale returns
from Australia to her old job. She
rents a small apartment from Kyle,
the separated father of twins. She
becomes closely involved with the
children, their father and alcoholic
mother. Meanwhile she carries the
burden of a terrible secret
experience of her own which is
finally revealed at the end of the
book.
This was a lively and interesting
meeting. Apart from one person
most enjoyed the book although we
thought there were weak points. It
did have suggestions of ‗chick lit‘
and the author seemed more
interested in describing the colour
of the characters‘ eyes, oddly most
were navy or turquoise, than more
interesting aspects of their
personalities. Some members want
to read more by this author whilst
others felt one was enough. The
discovery that she has studied and
School News Club
Watton Junior School has had a brilliant
term and have done so many exciting
things. We have also been on some
amazing trips and lots of different events
have happened. Here are some of the
things that we have been up to.
In September we welcomed our new Year
3 children from Westfield School. They
settled in very well and it feels as if they
SERVICE WATTON
It’s good to talk! Counselling can help
if you’re struggling to cope with:
Relationship difficulties Bullying/Abuse
Bereavement Addictions
Stress Depression
Sanctuary offers a confidential low-cost counselling service with
professionally trained counsellors, who work on a short-term or long-term
basis. Call us on 01953 880922 to arrange an appointment.
Appointments are available 6 – 9pm Tuesdays and 9.30am – 1pm Wednesdays.
Sanctuary Counselling Service is part of River Ministries (Norfolk), registered charity number 1054419
theme (see picture) and brought in a
pound to pay for the privilege. Money
raised was for Leukaemia Lymphoma
Research. By the time you read this we
will have had another non-school-uniform
day to raise money for Children In Need.
In November red poppies were sold to
mark Remembrance Day, and in school
assembly on the 11th November we held a cv

possibly practised psychology
helped to explain the fact that parts
of the plot read something like case
studies. It was a fairly light read
have been here for ever!
Back in October Year 6 pupils went on a
residential visit to Hilltop activity centre,
based on the North Norfolk coast near
James Ball
minute of silence to remember the people
that fought in the war. Our Year 6 are
currently learning all about World War
Two and have written some moving and SHOWROOM: 49 High Street, Watton

with short chapters.
For our December meeting we will
have different format with everyone
reading a favourite piece of prose or
poetry, possibly seasonal. This
annual miscellany with some
Sheringham. They had lots of fun doing
activities such as rock climbing, mountain
biking and much more.
Just before half-term we had a non-school
uniform day when the staff and pupils
came to school in clothes with a yellow
01953
thoughtful poems on the subject, which
are now on display in the main corridor.
Soon we will be looking forward to the
holidays. Merry Christmas and a happy
New Year from everyone at Watton Junior
School!
883288


seasonal refreshment makes for a

most enjoyable end to the year.
Very Competitive Prices
We will begin the year with a
literary lunch hosted by a generous
Gt Hockham Christmas Market Most Makes of carpets
member. The discussion afterwards & Vinyl Supplied and Fitted
will be about the work of locally
born author Norah Lofts and
donations will be made to the Red

Cross as our lovely hostess will
accept neither help nor payment.
As usual our meetings are at the
homes of members on the 3rd
Tuesday of each month at 2 p.m.
For further information contact me,
Sue Hart on 01362 822536.
West
Norfolk
Aviation
Society
The November meeting was well
attended, including two guests, to
hear fellow member Martin
McClelland‘s talk entitled Three
Years at RAF Kemble 1977 and 1980
when its main function was aircraft
storage, repair and maintenance.
Martin, a Radar Specialist, was
given permission to photograph the
arrivals and departures of a large
number of all types of aircraft.
Added to this, he also spent time
with the Red Arrows Display team,
resulting in a superbly illustrated
and entertaining evening.
Next Meeting Tuesday 7th
December 7.30pm at Methwold
Social Club, Speaker: Trevor
Burlingham - Aircraft of 70s & 80s
New members & guests welcomed.
For more Information Tel: 01842
879210
MOTs £35.00
VEHICLES FROM V 99 ONWARDS. £40 FOR OLDER VEHICLES
IVAN CHUBBOCK GARAGE SERVICES
SHIPDHAM
Tel: 01362 820416
The November Farmers and Craft Market at Great Hockham was a
great success with even more local stall holders attending the
village‘s new shopping experience. It was the village‘s third
market with 21 Stalls, including Metfield Bakery, John Barnard's
Meats and Pies, Goat's Cheese from Fielding Cottage, Wayland
Free Range Eggs, Norfolk Apple Juice, flavoured vinegars from
Scrubby Oaks, two cake stalls, one of which are gluten free cakes.
Our Christmas Market will be on the 11th December 10am to
2.30pm we look forward to seeing you there...
See www.greathockham.org for more information.
Macmillan Coffee
Morning thank you
The coffee morning held at 95, Nelson Court on 5th November
raised the magnificent total of £338. Our grateful thanks to all who
came and supported us, to those who gave donations and to the
helpers on the day – Jill Beech, Pam Challand, June Garratt and
Sue and Trevor Bunce. Thanks too, to Hazel Lee who gave some
handmade Christmas cards and stockings to be sold.
Dave and Jenny Simons.
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 14 News

Attleborough Coffee & Chat

At St Mary’s Church Hall, Behind St Mary’s, Attleborough
Saturdays 10am to 11.30 - Come and have a coffee, tea or
maybe a scone and most importantly a chat.
SUNDAY AFTERNOON TEAS
Hosted by St. Mary’s Church in November
Sunday 19th December and 16th January at Watton Christian
Community Centre 2.30pm until 4pm. Brighten up a Winter Sunday
Afternoon by joining us, a warm welcome awaits you and your friends.
“The Best In Country Music” 7.30 „til late
A Wolf in Thompson Victory
Attleborough for Sixth Year in
Forest Harrand Quiz
It is not generally known that when
Attleborough was surrounded by a vast forest,
the local population was terrorised by a vicious
Wolf. The story of this dark period of Norfolk
history, 'Little Red Riding Hood', is to be told in
pantomime form by the 'Attleborough Players' at
the Connaught Hall, Attleborough, Thursday
27th, Friday 28th, Saturday 29th January 2011.
The reconstruction of these horrific events will
begin at 7.30 p.m. each evening, with a matinee
beginning at 2.30 p.m. on Saturday 29th.
FOR THE MATINEE ONLY, children 3 years
of age or less can enter free of charge, but must
occupy a seat with a parent. This is a necessary
security arrangement as the resident Wolf has a
liking for children, cooked or uncooked.
Tickets will be on sale after the Christmas
holiday at a date to be given on application to On Friday evening 12th November the Caston Parish Council and Chairman of
'The Flower Box', Church Street, Attleborough. teams of the four villages of Caston, Caston Village Hall and who died in
Tel: 01953 453533. All tickets are priced at Griston, Stow Bedon & Breckles and 1980. Mrs Evelyn Harrand has
£5.00. It has been suggested that the price be Thompson met at Caston Village Hall presented the shield to the winning team
increased to establish a Benevolent Fund for the to compete in the annual James Harrand over the years and she can be seen in
families of members of the cast injured, or Quiz. the photo presenting the shield and
destroyed, by the Wolf, but the price of tickets Thompson eventually ran out as certificates this year to the winning
remains at £5.00 for each patron. winners for the sixth year in succession captain of the Thompson team,
Please note also that the 'Attleborough Players' following a closely fought contest in Bronwen Tyler. Also in the picture are
cannot accept responsibility for injuries which they beat Caston by the closest fellow winning team members Leoni
suffered by any member of the audience. margin of one point. The scores were Paton, Dinah Baker and Glenn
level between these two teams before Snowling.
the start of the final round. The quiz-master was David Blincow,

Has Your PC Slipped a Participatory
Disc? Netted a virus? Budgeting
Mouse trapped and A new round of Participatory Budgeting is
about to be launched across Breckland. This
wont work now? scheme invites bids from community
organisations and groups for projects which
For all manner of computer meet the ‗Stronger and/or Safer communities‘
priorities. There is a budget of £6000 for each
repairs and support
Call Julian Horn on 01953 881885
area and bids of up to £2,000 will be welcome.
‗Stronger‘ - (projects that)
 increase the participation and engagement
“Silver Surfer” support a speciality!
of local people in community activities
 promote engagement and seek participation
in positive activities for local people
 develop opportunities for people from
different backgrounds to interact positively
 develop diversionary activities which
support local community, sport and cultural
opportunities
 encourage the opportunities available for
local people to influence decisions in their
local community
‗Safer‘ - (projects that)
 reduce the incidence of anti-social
behaviour and/or crime
 reduce the fear of anti-social behaviour and/
or crime
 raise the confidence of communities in the
safety of their local area
 protect vulnerable people within our
communities e.g. young or older
people
The project involves local people
and elected members and it is local
people who decide how the funding
pot is allocated.
The Application forms
guidance are available from the
Wayland Partnership either as hard
and
copy or by email. Contact Jan
Godfrey
jan@wayland.org.uk) for copies.
(880202
The deadline for entries is 5.00pm
on January 31st. Entries received
after that time will not be
considered. The projects will be
shortlisted on February 8th by a local
panel and the decision event, when
the public can vote for their favourite
project will take place during the
week beginning February 21st.
The evening was enjoyed by all who
attended, combatants and spectators
alike, and the competition was held in a
deputising for Ian McIntosh who
organised the questions but was sadly
indisposed, and the visiting score-
very
atmosphere.
friendly yet purposeful keeper was Robert Knight (from
Charvil near Reading). Thanks were
The quiz, which is held annually at this expressed to Brenda Southgate for
time of year, started in 1982 in honour organising the evening and to John and
of James Harrand, a former school Wendy Chapman who also helped the
headmaster who was also chairman of event and ran the raffle.
It’s Panto season for
Swaffham Players
Swaffham Players present Beauty including local ex-radio presenter
and the Beast the perfect family Tom Clarke as potty Dame Lotty.
pantomime for the festive season. Director Sarah Krill, Musical
Yes it‘s that time of year again and Director Rachel Mycock,
we are all on the pre-Christmas Choreographer Clare Smith and
countdown. One big question is how script written by Mark Andrews
to keep the family amused this Productions this production is sure
Christmas time and the Swaffham to sprinkle fairytale magic onto the
Players may have the answer. From whole family.
Tuesday 28th December to Saturday With tickets priced at £8 and £7 for
1st January, the Swaffham Players concessions, this seasonal
will be treading the yuletide boards spectacular is sure to sell out fast,
at Hamonds High in Swaffham with so be sure to book your place and
Beauty and the Beast the join the Players for this magical
pantomime. production. All evening
A sparkling cast of local talent with performances start at 7.30pm with a
new faces Imogen Smith and matinee on Saturday 1st January at
Connor Nash joining the Players as 2.30pm. (Call 01760 441663/ 07540
Belle and the Beast and a welcome 881759 for box office).
return to some more familiar,
Watton Annual
Town Carol Service
Watton Churches Together will be holding the Annual
Town Carol Service in the Queen's Hall on Sunday
12th December at 7pm. Music will be provided by
“Shine!” and the collection will be donated to Watton
Cubs and Scouts. After the Service, Coffee and Mince
Pies will be served. Come along have a great evening
and joyfully sing your heart out.
News
A Ceremony
of Carols
―Ceremony of Carols‖ is Thetford
Singers' Christmas concert which is
being held at the Guildhall, Thetford
on Saturday 11th December at 7.30
pm. The programme includes
Ralph Vaughan William‘s ‗Fantasia
on Christmas Carols‘ and Benjamin
Britten‘s delightful ‗A Ceremony of
Carols‘ which will feature local
harpist Mary Barclay. Mary has
played with the choir before and this
will again be a treat for everyone.
There will also be opportunities for
audience participation. Tickets,
available from the Tourist
Information Centre, 2newhorizons,
Pal House, Kings Street, Thetford
01842 751975 (or on the door) are
£6 (£5 concessions).
Inner
Wheel
Watton
The November meeting was held at
Ann Akister‘s home, but
unfortunately our speaker was ill so
we spent the evening discussing future
events and any other items of interest.
Our next event is the Christmas Stall
at the Queen‘s Hall on Saturday, 4th
December from 9.30. We will have a
tombola, homemade jams and cakes,
books, jigsaws and other goodies, and
when you have visited us you can go
upstairs for a cup of tea or coffee and
a slice of cake as it will be Farmers‘
Market Day. Our next event is also at
the Queen‘s Hall on Wednesday, 8th
December at 12 noon. Our Christmas
Lunchtime Concert will be given once
again by June Garratt and Friends, to
be followed by a turkey bap and all
the trimmings and a mince pie to
enjoy with your tea or coffee, all for
the usual £5, tickets from Mullengers.
Our Barn Dance with Shinanikins will
be on 11th February – a long time
ahead I know, but I‘m sure you all
have your 2011 diaries by now so
make a note of the date! All profits
from these events go to charity and we
have decided to give £100 to each of
the following:- Salvation Army,
Thursday Club, Pact, EACH, and
Nelson‘s Journey. We will also be
giving a donation to St Martin‘s Trust
( a charity for the homeless) for which
we have been raising money ourselves
over the last 6 months and this will be
in excess of £100 though we haven‘t
got the final total yet. Please continue
to support us by attending and, we
hope, enjoying our events so that we
can continue to support these
charities and others. We wish you
all a very happy Christmas. Jenny
Simons (Club Correspondent)
Senior’s Party
Watton Senior Citizens Party takes place again on the 11th
December at Wayland Community High School in Merton
Road. Free tickets are at Mullengers Estate Agents and, as for
so many years, the evening will include good food,
entertainment from youngsters at the school and the fellowship
of old friends. With around 100 people involved in looking
after our 200 visitors this is a true free community event with
the funding and staffing provided freely from within the town
and the school. Watch out for the posters. The first 200 will get
the tickets for this early Christmas evening, enjoyed by many
over the past 40 plus years.
New guide for Wretham Church
A blow by blow account of its
rebuilding, hand written almost 150
years ago, has allowed a retired
journalist to produce the first
comprehensive guide to St Ethelbert
at Wretham and shed light into its
history.
The church was demolished and
rebuilt in 1864-5, the third church on
the site.
The cost was met by the Wyrley
Birch family, owners of Wretham
Hall, and by the Rector and their son
in law, the Rev James Park Whalley.
He lived opposite the church in what
is now Wretham Lodge. The family
paid for the nave, the Rector the
chancel.
His great great grandson, Dr.
F.L.Whalley, of Lee-on-Solent,
Hampshire, discovered his relative‘s
record of the work and sent them to
Norfolk. Over last winter, former
EDP journalist John Kitson, a
resident of Wretham for over 20
years and church secretary since
2002, pored over the 32 pages,
largely hand written in pen, and
gradually transcribed them.
They showed that the church was
designed by Scottish born architect
William Armstrong, who practised
in London and was involved in the
design and later alterations to the
former Haveringland Hall in
Norfolk.
St Ethelbert was erected by builder
and stonemason Robert Bartram, of
Millgate Street, Aylsham. Corsham
and Ancaster stone was brought in
by rail, lime came from Heydon and
Mildenhall, roof tiles from
Stafffordshire and the floor tiles are
Minton.
While Norfolk craftsmen carried out
most of the work, including carving
Attleborough High supports the
Shoebox Appeal
Attleborough High School and Sixth
Form Centre once again participated
in the Shoebox Appeal run by the
Operation Christmas Child. Students
were encouraged to bring in items to
their tutor group who then prepared
boxes which will be sent to children
abroad, who, otherwise may not
have received a Christmas Present.
One group collected a total of 17
boxes! Operation Christmas Child is
an initiative of Samaritan‘s Purse
and is the world's largest children's
Christmas project. Last year over 1.2
million shoeboxes filled with gifts
and goodies was packed by children
and adults in the UK and sent to
some of the toughest parts of the
world.
Organiser, Caroline Graham,
commented that "despite there
the intricate font cover, stained glass
came from Whitefriars in London
and the Grade II listed organ was
built by James Corps. The church,
now part of the Thetford team
ministry, also has a memorial by Sir
Edwin Lutyens.
The result remains one of Norfolk‘s
most interesting examples of
Victorian church design – not least
the work of the talented Rector. Mr
Whalley took 18 months to hand
paint the intricate font cover, painted
the entire organ casework (itself fully
restored in 2004) and a range of wall
paintings in the chancel.
The Rector‘s notes make clear his
thoughts - and sometimes impatience
and anguish - at the building process,
include detailed articles from The
Times and local newspapers of the
being a recession students have
responded very generously bringing
in boxes full of lovely gifts for
others, I have been taken aback by
the enthusiasm of some students
and am very proud that our students
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 15
Watton Ballroom
Dancing Association
Queen’s Hall, Watton
8 to 11.00 Admission £3.50
Saturday December 4th
Mike 01953 882799
Christingle Service
Caston Church
Christmas Eve at 5 pm
Everyone welcome - not for just the
children! An enchanting service to
begin your Christmas.
Parking at Church Farm
rebuilding and consecration service
and the inspiration he found for his
own work in that of Italian
Renaissance painter Benozzo
Gozzoli. The copious notes are
reproduced in full as the second half
of the book. They have greatly
helped the detailed description of the
church in the first half.
The fully illustrated 74 page
guide, printed in Wretham by
James Barke, is available in
the church or from John
Kitson, 4, Windmill Lane,
Wretham, IP24 1QR, tel 01953
498 609 Email:
jrandeikitson@greenbee.net It costs
£3, with £1 for postage and packing.
Cheques made payable to Wretham
BROOM HALL
PCC, to which all proceeds are
devoted. Country Hotel
Saham Toney
Your Local Three Star Hotel
Wednesdays Steak Night
Sirloin or Rump with chips £10.00
Fridays Pie & Mash Night
Pastry Pie & Mash with Dessert £9.95
New Ivy Room for Bar Meals
Monday to Saturday 6.30 – 8.30
Tuesday to Saturday 12.00 – 2.00
01953 882125
www.broomhallhotel.co.uk
care so much about others"
Lauren Richmond commented that it
had been really "mad in form over
the last week, but that it had been
fun with everyone working together CARBROOKE,
to fill and wrap shoeboxes" Nr. WATTON
NORFOLK
HOGGIN
SAND, SHINGLE
CRUSHED CONCRETE
LIGHTWEIGHT HARDCORE
Phone for a
On (01953) 883143
Mobile 07721 535 285
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 16
Prayer of the Heart
Activities at Watton Methodist Church
Comprising Christian Meditation and Bi Monthly Worship.
For further details ring Joyce 01953 886674
WATTON BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP
Wed 1st Dec. 2pm Members Social Meeting at Watton CCC
Mon 20th Dec. 12.30 for 1pm Christmas Lunch at Wagon & Horses
Wed 5th Jan 2pm Meeting at Watton CCC
Mon 17th Jan 12.30pm for 1.00pm Lunch at Griston Wagon & Horses
Father
Christmas is
visiting
Caston
Where? When? . . . Caston School Christmas
Fayre on Thursday 9th December at 6pm. Visit
Father Christmas in his Grotto, Raffles,
tombolas, Christmas stall and lots of other
festive cheer! Any donations for prizes will be
much appreciated and can be left at Caston
School (01953 483304).
Please come along and support this event -
all proceeds will be used for equipment and
school visits, the funds which the Friends of
Caston School raise are considered to be the
"icing on the cake" and regularly provide
funding for items which the school budget
could not readily afford. The Friends of
Caston School work very hard and the staff,
Governors and children are most appreciative
of their continued support.
Be a friend . . .
We have just launched our ‗Friends of Wayland
Radio‘ Scheme and are hoping that many of our
listeners will sign up. For just £10 a year listeners
will be playing their part in providing financial
support for their local radio station and the team
of over 50 volunteers, receive our newsletters
keeping them up to date with the latest news and
information, have the opportunity to share in the
broadcasting experience, sitting in with a
presenter as a programme goes out live, and have
a chance to participate in our listener panel –
helping to shape our future programming.
To become a Friend of Wayland Radio email
sue@waylandradio or write to Caroline Hogan,
Wayland Radio, The Stables, Swaffham Road,
Ashill, Thetford, Norfolk IP25 7BT
And other news . . .
During the summer Wayland Radio undertook its
first Outside Broadcasts from the Wayland Show,
the Little Ellingham Bygones and Vintage
Weekend and the Twinning Weekend in
Swaffham.
David Hatherly, Station Manager said, ‗Being
able to get out into the Community and meet our
listeners face to face is something we‘ve been
working towards and it‘s great to have begun with
our outings to local events. We intend that this
will be an important part of our continuing work
to make a difference in the Wayland Area.
www.waylandradio.com
studio@waylandradio.com/01760 441 161
“Marine Jack”
Chris Edwards, John Clarke, ―Marine Jack‖ Clarke and Robert Chalmers
Attending Remembrance Services and
witnessing (if they will forgive me for
using the term) old men lay wreaths
often with a tear in their eye; I
sometimes wonder what their thoughts
are as they stand in silent tribute.
Without knowing each man‘s own
particular history it is impossible to
know; but every one of them has a
story to tell, often a story that makes
you wonder how they endured what
they did.
―Marine Jack‖ is the tale of local man
Jack Clarke who, as a Royal marine,
saw a great deal of service on two ships
in the Second World War. The book
has been written by Mr Robert
Chalmers, a solicitor formerly working
in Watton, after Jack shared with him,
many anecdotes of his wartime service.
Jack is continuing his commitment to
society by donating all proceeds from
book sales towards the East Anglian
Air Ambulance.
Jack was a pre-war regular who
enlisted with the Marines in 1936, and
together with most of his recruit squad,
he joined the new Gloucester class
cruiser HMS Manchester in 1937. The
outbreak of war in September 1939
brought with it three eventful years of
operations for Jack Clarke.
As well as escorting Atlantic and
Arctic convoys, they spent much of
their time in the Mediterranean;
One Year On . . .
We cannot believe that we have been
open a year on the 1st of December,
we have gone through a lot of changes
in the year. All of these have hopefully
enhanced the shop for the customers
and our volunteer‘s.
When we first opened the door‘s stock
was not in quantity and
donations were slowly
coming through the
door as we were new on
the high street. But we
welcomed all donations
with open paws being
clothes, toys, bric-a-
brac, furniture, despite
the fact that we have
possibly had a few areas
that we have moved around in the last
few months and a small refit. The team
feels that they have now finally got the
shop sorted and it‘s looking good for
the customers and themselves as they
can see where everything belongs.
News
including engaging the Italian fleet at
Cape Spartivento, and protecting
convoys to Malta, operations which
cost a number of warships, including
the loss of the carrier HMS Eagle.
During the Operation Pedestal, on 13
August, Manchester was torpedoed by
two Italian MAS torpedo boats off
Tunisia, killing several of her crew,
and was subsequently scuttled by
explosive charges.
Jack's next ship, in which he was to
serve for the remainder of the war, was
the newly completed battleship Howe,
which he joined in October 1942 and
stayed with her until 1945.
Mr Chalmers' book provides an insight
into the busy life of a typical Royal
Marine at sea in the Second World
War and provides a graphic example of
the indispensable role played by the
Royal Navy in the defence of this
island nation.
Jack was also a great friend of Watton
man, Ernie Edwards whose family
have run Edwards newsagents for well
over one hundred years. Ernie‘s own
memories of the Second World War
are recorded in the book ―Kalamata
Beach‖. Ernie was with the Royal
Army Service Corps and spent 5 years
as a POW after being taken prisoner at
the end of the Greek campaign. Both
books, are available from Edwards
Newsagents in Watton now.
We would like to thank all those who
have supported us by donating items as
without these we would not be able to
function, and hope that we can rely on
your continuous support. Thank you to
all those that support by purchasing
from our selection of items, hopefully
over the coming year we
will be able to meet your
requirements.
May we also take this
opportunity to thank the
Manager Deputy Manager
and a massive thank you
to the volunteers for
without them the day to
day running of the shop to
raise funds would not be
possible. These funds enable us to be
taken care of before finding a new
home.
Thank you everyone. From all of the
animals being taken care of by the
RSPCA
News
Rotary roundup
From time to time we like to
recognise individuals whom we
think have given to the community
―Service Above Self‖ by awarding
Paul Harris Fellowships (PHF).
Paul Harris founded Rotary in 1905
and in most parts of the world
fellowships are a fundraising ploy;
they are simply purchased by
donating $1,000 to the movement‘s
own charity: The Rotary
International Foundation. In Britain,
however, we think that a PHF
should have more significance, it is
treated as an honour rather than an
artefact and Rotary Clubs ‗award‘
them to anyone in the community
meeting the exceptional Service
Above Self criteria. Watton Rotary
has just made such an award to Paul
Weatherill, who has championed a
number of ShelterBox and
WaterAid initiatives in and around
Watton and through schools. The
picture show Paul receiving the
PHF from President Mike Harvey.
It‘s Christmas time and we are
pleased to respond to a request
from Father Christmas to help
him again this year; so, some of
Shellrock
Circle for
the Over
50’s
On Wednesday the 10th November,
we were pleased to welcome Jean and
Terry back from their travels ―down
under.‖ We were also pleased to see
that the visitors who came along last
month, returned to share another club
meeting with us. On the programme
was an anagram quiz to do with
shopping. This was followed by a tea/
coffee break during which the raffle
was drawn. Afterwards we had a few
games of ―HOI!‖ The competition to
create a Christmas Cracker attracted a
record number of entries and was won
by Jean. Our programme in December
is as follows
6th Committee Meeting 2pm till 4pm.
The Village Hall, Rocklands.
Committee members please note.
8th Club Meeting 2pm till 4pm. The
entertainment will be provided by The
Pearlies. The competition will be to
make a table decoration. Thisis within
everyone‘s ability, so lets have lots of
entries.
16th Here is an extra Christmas Treat
for you all. Rockland County Primary
School children will be holding a
dress rehearsal of their Nativity
Production at Rockland St Peter‘s
Church. If you would like to attend,
please be at the church by 1.45pm.
This should last until 3pm after which
time the children will have to be back
at school. Please try to attend to give
them your support. It is usually a jolly
programme so you can be assured of a
good afternoon‘s entertainment.
Please note this is a THURSDAY.
21st Marion and Archie‘s lunch club
at ―White Lodge‖ Attleborough.
Contact Number: 01953 483 431 if
you would like to join in.
New members are always welcome
and our venue is The Village Hall,
The Street, Rocklands.
our members will be out on
Christmas Day morning
assisting him with delivering
special presents to special
people. Anyone wishing to
avail themselves of this
popular service can take
their ready-wrapped presents
to Watton Post Office by
midday Saturday 18th
December. Parcels should be
clearly marked with
recipients name and full
address, including postcode
to help Santa find locations
quickly using his worldwide
SatNav. There is a small
cover charge of just £1 per
item, payable when
depositing parcels.
Finally, readers and the public at our 2 Jazz nights over £1000, and
large have been really generous and the recent Audience with Winston
supportive during this past year. In event a superb £ 1000 plus thanks to
particular, our street collections for him waiving his fee because the gig
the Haiti and other massive was recorded for his to make first
disasters have been hugely DVD. Many individuals and
supported despite the hard times. charities, locally and worldwide,
Our market bric-a-brac stall on the
1st Wednesday each month (March
have been supported through the
funds we have raised with your help
to November) has raised over £500, this year; we can‘t thank you
Rocklands School news
Mrs Heather Ware is now into her second
half term as head of the Rocklands
Primary School and Great Ellingham
Primary School partnership and is very
enthusiastic; 'I am very much enjoying my
first term as Executive Headteacher at
Rocklands Community Primary School.
Everyone connected with the school has
been extremely welcoming; the
supportive, family ethos of the school is
fantastic. The school gives pupils lots of
individual attention to support their
learning and development.‘
The children had a Remembrance Day
Assembly on Thursday 11th, when they
planted poppies in our mini Field of
Remembrance. They wrote verses and
messages to those who fought for our
country. Many children were motivated to
go home and talk to
their parents and
grandparents about
war and life during
wartime, and this
encourages us all to
remember.
Class three celebrated
the end of the
gardening year and
the harvesting of their
produce from their
garden by making a
delicious pumpkin soup. The recipe for
this can be found on the school website.
Class two is busy learning about Ancient
Romans and are encouraged to visit
interactive sites such as that run by the
BBC.
The school talked about bullying during
November as part of its work within the
National Anti-Bullying Week. This was in
the form of assembly work and class
work. The focus this year was on ‗Taking
Action Together‘. It emphasised what
children can do to get help. It is known
that bystanders who watch or laugh at
bullying are part of allowing it to happen.
For this reason, all children need to know
how to help someone and whom to tell.
Rocklands school supported Children in
Need on Friday 19th November. The
children were invited to wear non- school
uniform in return for a voluntary donation
of £1 to Children in Need. The dress code
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 17
enough and we hope that our future
events will continue to attract and
entertain you whilst raising cash for
our charities‘ fund.
Have a good
Christmas and a Petrified of Your Computer?
prosperous New
Year.
Martin Anscombe
You don’t need to be!
Ring Lesley Horn
For 1 to 1 beginner’s support in your own home
Friendly, patient and knowledgeable help with using your
computer to find things on the Internet, email your family &
this year was spots, and everyone was friends, “Listen Again” on the BBC® iPlayer® and do your
urged to ‗Show their Spots‘. shopping without leaving your home
In a return to old school traditions parents
will be offered the opportunity to order
cartons of milk for their children to have
at morning break. The cost is 22p per
01953 881 885
carton for children 5-11 and under 5s have
milk supplied free of charge. Parents will
be able to set up a standing order via
www.coolmilk.com and Cool Milk will
arrange to deliver the milk to school via
our local Dairy Crest village milk-woman.
With less than four weeks until Christmas,
the school is busily preparing for the
festive season. We have Christmas cards
and personalised tea-towels on order, a
whole school trip to the Ipswich Museum
and to the Norwich Theatre Royal
Pantomime to see Jack and the Beanstalk,
a Christmas lunch
for the children on
Thursday 16th and
the Nativity Event at
St. Peter‘s from 2pm
on Friday 17th
December.
Everyone is going to
be looking forward
to a festive break
after all that!
For further
information about
school activities, student projects and the
opportunity to keep up to date with
events, visit our website: http://
www.rocklands.norfolk.sch.uk . Here you
can also listen to the children talking
about all the amazing fungi they have
found and researched. Visit the Parent
page for school term dates, and the
calendar for information and school
Bales Browne Accountancy
events throughout the year. Services Limited
Accounts preparation for Sole traders,
Limited Companies and Partnerships
Thank You Personal, Limited Company, and Partnership Tax Returns
Book-keeping PAYE VAT Returns
Can I please say "thank you" to the shops
in Watton who donated such lovely
prizes to the Raffle held at the concert in Karen Bales ACCA MAAT Bsc (Hons)
aid of Independent Age on Saturday 13th
November at the John Innes Centre, Telephone 01953 884019
Colney, Norwich. Cynthia Conrad
118 Norwich Road, Watton, Thetford, Norfolk. IP25 6DU
(voluntary visitor for Independent Age)
Email: balesbrowneaccountancy@yahoo.co.uk
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 18 News

Presents Why are

what I would be getting – that
was all part of it – the surprise
when I undid the parcel. And I
By Ken Knowles
doubt if even the most expensive
present ever cost more than about
three and sixpence. That‘s about
That was before they started using bottles.
And when I was about five, they gave me a
bus conductor‘s set, with a little peaked cap, a
sort of rack with all the different coloured
tickets on it, and a little punch thing that hung
over my neck that used to ping when I
scratch was when an aunt gave me a pair of
socks. A boy of eight does not appreciate
such a present, even if they are useful.
we
More popular, in our house, and indeed in
nearly every house in the country in about
1938, was the game of Monopoly, while at

waiting?
―What are you buying my 16p in today‘s money. And the pretended to punch the tickets. I used to go about the same time most boys were
grandson for Christmas?‖, I asked gifts themselves were completely round all my cousins who were my enraptured by the advent of Meccano. This
my daughter. different. ‗passengers‘ and ask them where they wanted brilliant product enabled us to use our powers
―Oh, he‘s got it all written down‖, The first photo in our family to go, and for some unknown reason they of invention to make all kinds of models – Thought for the month by
she replied. ―Here it is. Microsoft album shows me with a little milk always used to say ‗Marble Arch‘ please. bridges, cranes, cars, towers and so on, with Rev. Barbara Winner from
747 solar powered iPod. cart, with me holding up one the Then a couple of years later the rage was for the advantage that we could always save up Methodist Church
―And how much does that cost?‖ little cans, just like our real Cowboy Outfits, and we all used to spend our pennies to buy extra pieces in the local Why don‘t we just have Christmas
―It‘s only £404.99p‖. milkman, except he had a horse to most of Xmas Day pointing the guns and toy shops in order to make things bigger and tomorrow? I don‘t know about you
―How much? Good heavens, are pull the cart. The milk used to be making silly noises that were supposed to grander, in competition with our friends. At but I‘m not ready for it!
you mad? He‘s only seven years in a great big churn, and he used represent gunfire, any boy not having a the same time the same company were My grandchildren are looking forward
old, for goodness sake.‖ to ladle it out in pint or half pint proper gun used the first two fingers of each producing Hornby trains, once again to Christmas. With the exception of
When I was his age I never knew measures into my mum‘s jug. hand instead. I think my parents regretted providing wonderful presents that could be the youngest one that is. At three
giving me this outfit, for our ‗gun‘ noises added to and enhanced whenever our limited months she has no idea what it‘s all
FINE BOOKS must have driven them to distraction. funds allowed. about. She hasn‘t experienced
J.C. BOOKS BOUGHT
SOLD
AND Sometimes we were given books. Not real
books like Charles Dickens, but Annuals
Of course, this present giving was a two-
way thing, and we always gave our
Christmas before and even if she had,
she doesn‘t have the capacity for
& Applestore Gallery issued by the same people that published the
twopenny magazines that we read every
parents something, though I am afraid the
presents were rather pathetic- usually a
anticipation. All in good time she will.
We know the importance of
week throughout the year, like the Wizard, tie or handkerchiefs for Dad, and something to look forward to – to
Telephone/Fax 01953 883488 the Hotspur, Adventure, or the Champion, or probably a couple of iron holders for anticipate, even when it involves a lot
55 High Street, Watton the penny comics like Comic Cuts, Chuckles, Mum (in those days irons were made of of hard work and preparation for us.
For quality out of print books, Fine Bindings and Jingles or Funny Wonder. Later on came the solid metal and were heated over a fire, When we wake up in the morning,
Collectable Editions. New Books including local and Beano, but my favourite was Modern Boy making the handles almost as hot as the even a small thing to look forward too
children’s classics. Annual, which was all about the latest sole). can lift our spirits. On the other hand
Visit the Applestore Gallery on the first floor, aeroplanes, trains, cars and scientific Yes, presents in those days were simple if we have been disappointed and let
developments. and inexpensive, but the pleasure of down it can spoil our sense of
exhibiting the Paintings of Kevin Robinson and his
Of course, not all presents came up to our receiving them was as much in the anticipation.
complete range of East Anglian prints including Watton
expectations. The most disappointing in my unwrapping as in the actual article. It Before the first Christmas God‘s
and Wymondham.
memory was when an aunt gave me a was always more exciting when we did people were looking forward to the
Chemistry set, the box of which showed a not know what we might find inside the arrival of a special person. Someone
boy happily doing all sorts of interesting parcel, which seems much more who they had been promised would
experiments. Inside were a row of little jars pleasurable than knowing in advance lift them out of their disappointments
containing various powders and a couple of exactly what we would be getting. and darkness into a time of hope and
Test Tubes, and a leaflet describing the fun Oh, and whatever we received, we had to light – a Saviour. They longed for his
that was to be had, but the only thing of write to the donor a thank you letter, a custom arrival. At the first Christmas this
interest seemed to be the iron filings that that seems to have gone by the board these special person arrived. He wasn‘t
could be collected on a magnet. days. quite what they were expecting. He
Another present that did not come up to Ho, hum. arrived as a vulnerable baby and his
parents gave him the name Jesus.
We think about this every year in the

Christmas at Watton weeks leading up to Christmas and we

call it the season of Advent. It is a
time of anticipation and preparation.

Methodist Church
Come and celebrate Christmas with us at The
Methodist Church, High Street, Watton.
This year we start with a rousing Carol
Service for our Morning Worship on Sunday
19th December at 10.45am.
The following Friday Christmas Eve, 24th
December we have our traditional
Candlelight Carol Service at 7pm
accompanied by Watton Silver Band. The
collection at this service will be divided
between the Colin McKenzie Centre in
Watton and Christian Aid.
Christmas Morning Worship 25th December at
10am will be a Family Service in celebration of
the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The collection at this service will be for
‗Action for Children‘ (previously known as
the National Children‘s Home)
Sunday 26th December, Morning Worship is
at the normal time of 10.45am.
Everyone is welcome to join with us in the
celebrations at this joyous time in the
Christian Calendar.
NB. To those of you who support our weekly
Wednesday Coffee mornings in the Christian
Community Centre, we will be closed for
holiday on Wednesday 29th December and
5th January,
We look forward to seeing you all again
when we re-open on the 12th January 2011.
Children often enjoy Advent
Calendars at this time.
What are we looking forward to and
preparing for?
The first Christmas was a wonderful
time for those who welcomed Jesus
and he did bring the things they hoped
for. We are getting ready to celebrate
the coming of the Saviour Jesus.
Every Christmas brings its own
wonder as we celebrate his coming
into the world.
Why not join us as we make our
preparations and anticipate the wonder
of Christmas Day? The angels who
brought the good news of the first
Christmas said that it would bring
great joy to all people.
We wish you joy this Christmas.

Attention All Shipdham Recreation Group

Gardeners! Shipdham Recreation Group
want to say a big thank you to
Improve your soil, keep weeds Watton And District Rotary
Club for buying a piece of play
down and keep moisture in with equipment valued at £500.
Sterilized Mushroom The group has been going now
for about 18 months after some
Compost youngsters in the village put a
The ideal mulch and petition together asking for a
skate park. One of the Parish
soil improver Councillors took this on board
and setup the Shipdham
Only £1.50 per Bag Recreation Group with the task
of finding out what the village
Delivered free (min 5 bags) wanted and where it wanted it.
Shipdham is a large village and
Watton area has a Bowls Club, Community
Centre, meeting halls, football
01953 881969 clubs and a cricket club and
many more clubs and groups.
There is also Bullock Park a
large playing Field but with no
play equipment at all, so it was
no surprise after consultation
with the village that the
majority of the village wanted
the Park to have a play area.
Shipdham Recreation Group
has successfully obtained a
lottery grant worth £10,000 the
Parish Council has matched
that by another £10,000
Shipdham community centre
has also given us £10,000. A
resident has given us three
pieces of equipment worth
£4,800. We also have had
donations of work and metals
valued at £2,800 to date.
Where are we to date? Well
new fences have been built,
lighting is being put in and yes
of course the kids have their
skate ramp, this is just a start to
the skate park. All the rubber
flooring and play equipment is
here and awaiting installation
So we say a big thank you on
behalf of Shipdham and the
Recreation Group to Watton
and District Rotary Club for
their kind donation to the
project which will soon be
enjoyed by the youngsters in
the village and around.
Church Times and News
Breckles, Caston, Great Hockham, Watton Churches Together Tues 14th
Sun 19th
6.30pm Carol Service
10.30am Crib & Christingle Service
Griston, Merton, Stow Bedon, Thompson
Service Calendar for December Sat 25th Christmas Day
Worship Calendar December 2010 St. Mary‟s Church, Watton 10.30am Family Holy Communion
th
Sunday 5 DECEMBER - Advent 2 1st, 3rd & 4th Wednesday at 9.30am Holy Communion
St John the Evangelist Church, Ovington
10:30 am United Holy Communion Stow Bedon 2nd Wednesday Morning Worship Thursdays at 8.00am Said Holy Communion
5:00 pm Candlelit Lessons and Carols Breckles Church Office opens Tues, Wed & Thurs 9am-1pm Sun 12th 9.30am Holy Communion
Tel: 01953 881252 margaret@churchadm.freeserve.co.uk
Tuesday 7th December Fri 24th Christmas Eve
www.stmaryswatton.org 6.00pm Carols by Candlelight
7:00 pm Lessons and Carols Service for Caston Sun 5th 8.00am Holy Communion
Area Women‘s Institute There will be no service at St John‟s on Christmas Day
10.00am Holy Communion
Sunday 12th December - Advent 3 12.30pm Holy Baptism Service Calendar for January
9:00 am Matins (BCP) Merton 7.00pm Informal Worship in the Church Room
St Mary‟s Church Watton
10:30 am United Holy Communion Thompson Sun 12th 8.00am Holy Communion
Sun 2nd 8.00am Holy Communion
10.00am Holy Communion
Friday 17th December 7.00pm Town Carol Service in the Queen‘s Hall
10.45am Covenant Service at the Methodist Church
6:00 pm Candlelit Lessons and Carols Merton Sun 9th 8.00am Holy Communion
Mon 13th 7.30pm Wayland Group WI Carol Service
th 10.00am Holy Communion
Sunday 19 December - Advent 4 Sun 19th 8.00am Holy Communion
Sun 16th 8.00am Holy Communion
10:30 am United Holy Communion Breckles 10.00am Holy Communion
10.00am Holy Communion
3:00 pm Candlelit Lessons and Carols Gt. Hockham 12.30pm Holy Baptism
6.30pm Watton Churches Together Unity
6:30 pm Candlelit Lessons and Carols Caston 6.00pm Carol Service
Service at the Methodist Church
Fri 24th Christmas Eve
Friday 24th December 4.00pm Christingle Service with Shine!
Sun 23rd 8.00am Holy Communion
11:00 am Christingle Family Service Thompson 10.00am All Age Worship & Holy Baptism
especially for children and families
3:00 pm Christingle Gt. Hockham 6.30pm Choral Evensong
11.30pm Holy Communion
5:00 pm Christingle Caston Sun 30th 8.00am Holy Communion
Sat 25th Christmas Day
8:00 pm Lessons and Carols Stow Bedon Watton Methodist Church
10.00am Family Holy Communion
11:30 pm Midnight Holy Communion Thompson Sun 2nd 10.45am Rev B Winner - Covenant Service
Watton Methodist Church 6.30pm Mrs J Roebuck
Saturday 25th December Every Wednesday the Church is open for quiet reflection and
9:00 am Holy Communion (BCP) Merton Sun 9th 10.45am Mrs S Mann
prayer between 10.00am & 12.00noon 6.30pm Rev B Eagle
10:30 am United Holy Communion Breckles
It‟s your quiet place. At 10.30 there is a half-hour Midweek Sun 16th 10.45am Mrs E Wright
Sunday 26th December - Feast Of St. Stephen Service in the Large Vestry led by the Minister or a Church 6.30pm Watton Churches Together Unity Service
10:30 am United Holy Communion Caston Member. www.wattonmethodist.btik.com Sun 23rd 10.45am Mr B Lawrence
Sun 5th 10.45am Mr M Chumbley
Sunday 2nd January 6.30pm Mr & Mrs P Cook
6.30pm Rev B Winner -Holy Communion Sun 30th 10.45am Mr R Hompstead
10:30 am United Holy Communion Gt. Hockham
Sun 12th 10.45am Rev B Winner- Holy Communion 6.30pm Rev B Winner
(No Sunday Club today)
7.00pm Town Carol Service in the Queen‘s Hall
Roman Catholic Community
For all our parishes… Sun 19th 10.45am Church Stewards - Carols
6.30pm Mr B Lawrence Sun 16th 6.30pm Watton Churches Together Unity Service
„The WAY‟ Youth Group (ages 11+) led by Father M Johnstone at the Methodist Church
Fri 24th Christmas Eve
Sunday 12th December, 7-8:00 pm, Rectory
7.00pm Rev B Winner - Carols by candlelight Pentecostal Church, Dereham Road, Watton
Pram Services Sat 25th Christmas Day Sun 2nd 3.00pm New Year House Party
For parents or carers with children aged 0-5 10.00am Rev B Winner Sun 9th 10.30am Morning Service
Wednesdays, 10:15 am at Caston Primary School Hall Sun 26th 10.45am Rev B Eagle—Section Service Sun 16th 10.30am Morning Service
(22nd December at Chase Farm, Caston) 6.00pm Prayer & Praise
Roman Catholic Community
Enquiries: The Revd. Bob Nichols: Tel.: (01953) 483222; Each Sat 5.30pm Mass at Watton Methodist Church Sun 23rd 10.30am Morning Service
Email: revbobnichols@gmail.com Fri 24th Christmas Eve Sun 30th 10.30am Morning Service
4.30pm Vigil Mass at Watton Methodist Church St. Nicholas‟ Church, Ashill
11.30pm Carols at Our Lady of Pity at Sun 2nd 9.30am Lay Led Morning Worship
Swaffham followed by Midnight Mass Sun 9th 9.30am Morning Worship
Sat 25th Christmas Day Sun 16th 9.30am All Age Worship
9.30am Mass at Swaffham Sun 23rd 9.30am Holy Communion
Sun 26th 8.30am Mass at Swaffham Sun 30th 10.30am Group Service of Holy Communion
10.30am At Swaffham - Mass of the St. George‟s Church, Saham Toney
Holy Family Jesus, Mary & Joseph Sun 9th 11.00am Covenant Service at the Methodist Church
Pentecostal Church, Dereham Road, Watton Sun 16th 11.00am All Age Worship
Children have their own programme during the Sunday morning Sun 23rd 11.00am Holy Communion
services on 5th & 19th December 12.30pm Holy Baptism
Sun 5th 10.30am ―Jesus God‘s Gift at Christmas‖ - S.S. Peter & Paul‟s Church, Carbrooke
Wise men follow Jesus‖ Sun 2nd 10.30am Benefice Service of Holy Communion
Sun 12th 10.30am Noah‘s Ark all age Family Carol Sun 9th 10.30am All Age Worship
Service Sun 23rd 10.30am Methodist Service
Sun 19th 10.30am ―Jesus God‘s Gift at Christmas -
Joy to the World‖ St John the Evangelist Church, Ovington
6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Sun 9th 9.30am Holy Communion
Sat 25th Christmas Day Sun 23rd 9.30am All Age Worship
11.00am Christmas Service
Sun 26th 10.30am Christmas Communion
St. Nicholas‟ Church, Ashill
St. Mary’s Church, Attleborough
Tuesdays at 10.00am Said Holy Communion
Sun 5th 9.30am Lay Led Morning Worship
& All Saint’s Church, Besthope
Sun 12th 9.30am Morning Worship Christmas Services & Activities
Sun 19th 9.30am Crib & Christingle Service November 28th 4.30 pm St. Mary‘s Church Christingle Service
Tues 21st 7.00pm Carols by Candlelight (following switching on of the town‘s Christmas lights)
Fri 24th Christmas Eve December
11.30pm Holy Communion Sun 5th 6.30 pmSt. Mary‘s Church Advent Procession
All Saints Church, Threxton Sat 25th Christmas Day Sat 11th 2-5 pm St. Mary‘s Church & Church Hall
9.30am All Age Worship
Christmas Carol Service Sun 26th 10.30am Group Service of Morning Worship
Children‘s Christmas Workshop
Sun 12th 4.30 pm All Saints‘ Carols by Candlelight

with Watton Silver Band Sun 5th

St. George‟s Church, Saham Toney
10.30am Benefice Service of Holy Communion
Fri 17th 7.30 pm St. Mary‘s - ‗Carols for All‘ with New
Buckenham Silver Band and ‗Livewire‘
Sunday 19th December at 6pm Sun 12th 11.00am Morning Worship Sun 19th 6.30 pm St. Mary‘s Church Nine Lessons & Carols
Wed 24th 4.30 pm St. Mary‘s - The Blessing of the Crib
Fri 17th 7.00pm Carols by Candlelight
Priest in Charge Sun 19th 11.00am Christingle Service 7.30 pm All Saints‘ Holy Communion with Carols
Earlier this year the Bishop of Norwich asked me to provide 12.30pm Holy Baptism 11.30 pm St. Mary‘s Church Midnight Mass
pastoral and spiritual support for All Saints Threxton, a situation Fri 24th Christmas Eve Thurs 25th 8.00 am St. Mary‘s Church Holy Communion
which was to be reviewed later this year. After a recent meeting 10.00pm Holy Communion (1662)
with representatives from All Saints, the Archdeacon and the There will be no service at St George‟s on Christmas Day 10.00 am St. Mary‘s Church Family Eucharist
Rural Dean, it has been mutually agreed that I will be formally 11-3.30pm St. Mary‘s Church Hall
S.S. Peter & Paul‟s Church, Carbrooke Christmas Day Lunch (telephone 01953
appointed as Priest in Charge of All Saints church which will take
Sun 12th 10.30am All Age Worship
effect from 8th December. I will hold this alongside my post as 456211 for more details)
3.00pm St John Ambulance Carol Service
vicar of St. Mary‘s Watton. Geoff Garrett 26th 3.00 pm St. Mary‘s Church Parish Eucharist
Mid-Norfolk Times Page 20
£250 in the back of the net!
Pupils at Ashill VC Primary School all the Community came along to see how
took part in a Penalty Shootout many of the hundreds of penalties
afternoon on Thursday 7th October to taken, they could save.
raise money for the school and The children had a wonderful
Football In the Community who have afternoon and all those who attempted
been running Multi Skills sessions in the 10 penalties, scored at least one
the school for the past two years. goal!
Some Goal Keepers from Football in On Thursday 4th November those
Richmond Park Ladies
The new Lady Captain of Richmond Park, Ann Achilles, had a
beautiful day to start her year in office. Thirty lady members attended
the AGM in the morning, and then formed a guard of honour at the first
tee for Ann to take her first shot as Captain (see photo). The fundraising
for her charity, which is the Breast Cancer Resource Fund based at the
Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital, started with a guess for the
length of the drive, with a prize for the winner. Ann's new Vice Captain
is Margaret Broadbent, and the third member of the team would
normally have been the outgoing Captain, Sheila Hill, but,
unfortunately, Sheila was involved in a car accident a couple of weeks
ago and was unable to attend. However, she sent a very able deputy in
her husband, Eric. Despite the onset of some very wintry conditions, the
ladies of Richmond Park Golf Club have had an active month of golf.
Here are the results of our recent competitions: 1-2-3 Stableford
competition: Winners - Jan Bone, Lesley Matthews and Liz Johnson
with 37 pts.
October Stableford: Div 1 Julie Ellis 29 pts; Div 2 Diane Pitman 28 pts;
Div 3 Geraldine Rowarth 19 pts. November Medal: Div 1 Anne Bell
Net 75; Div 2 Margaret Orchard Net 86; Div 3 Eileen Chard Net 89.
November Stableford Div 1 Maureen Flack 33 pts; Div 2 Margaret
Orchard 29 pts; Div 3 Audrey Cleverly 18 pts
Sports News
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
SERVING WATTON & DISTRICT
W.C. LITTLEPROUD & SON
of BRADENHAM
‘A genuine, family owned & run business
offering a caring, traditional & affordable service‟
Written estimates always provided Memorials supplied
Personal supervision Pre-Paid Funeral Plans available
Arrangements may be discussed in the privacy of your own home
Tel: (01760) 440269 (24 hrs)
Established over 60 years
EVENTS DIARY
If you would like to see your event included in this section then
please email details to julian@waylandnews.com
ACC = Ashill Community Centre, Hale Road, Ashill; Watton
CCC = Watton Christian Community Centre;
Wells CCC = Wells Cole Community Centre, Saham.
children who raised money were
presented with a certificate with those
December
Thurs 2ndBradenham Bowls Club Christmas Bingo. Village Hall 7pm
raising over £30 being given a
Fri 3rd Gt Ellingham Prize Bingo Rec. Ctr. Eyes Down 7.30pm
Norwich City Football. The child who
raised the most money, Jake Chapman Sat 4th Inner Wheel Queen's Hall Christmas Stall
from Class 3 was presented with this Sat 4th Charity Auction in aid of The Big C at
Longham Village Hall, 3 p.m.
seasons‘ Norwich City shirt, shorts
Sat 4th Christmas Stall Queen‘s Hall 9.30 (see IW article)
and socks. £250 was raised in total.
Sat 4th Livewire Celebration of Christmas at Gt Ellingham See ad
Wed 8th Lunchtime Concert with June Garratt and friends. Tickets
Friends of Caston School
Sat 4th
£5 from Mullengers. See IW article.
} Mixed Media Exhibition at Dragonfly Galley
Christmas Bingo Sat 11th } Wayland House Watton. See ad for full details
Sat 11th Christmas Sale Coffee Morning Saham Hills Methodist
Thursday 2nd December Caston School Church 10am till 12 Noon
Eyes Down at 6.30pm Numerous Christmas Prizes Wed 15th Watton Society Christmas meeting 7.45 Watton CCC
Annette Jude and Suzy Turner Music and Song See ad
Sun 19th Carol Service at Saham Hills Methodist Church 6.30pm
The Watton Society Sun 19th Carols by Candlelight at Caston Church 6.30pm
Tue 21st 7.45pm NWT Talk Changes in the Norfolk Countryside.
Christmas Meeting, Wednesday 15th December, 7.45 p.m. at Venue Watton CCC
the Christian Community Centre. Annette Jude and Susie
Turner with music and song. £4 for members and £5 for non February 2011
members, which includes mulled wine and mince pies. Fri 11th Barn Dance with Shinanikins (see IW article)
Information on the Watton Society from John Kerr, 01953
882613, johnkerr36@yahoo.com
MID-NORFOLK TIMES
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