Begin the new decade with a village walk starting from the Church Rooms on Wednesday 1 January 2020 after the big photograph at 10.30am. Hot soup and rolls for you when you finish.
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| Starting off at the beginning of 2019 |
Tuesday 31 December 2019
Ready to walk in Old Buckenham?
Be ready in the morning
Begin the new decade with a village walk starting from the Church Rooms on Wednesday 1 January 2020 after the big photograph at 10.30am. Hot soup and rolls for you when you finish.
Begin the new decade with a village walk starting from the Church Rooms on Wednesday 1 January 2020 after the big photograph at 10.30am. Hot soup and rolls for you when you finish.
Monday 30 December 2019
2020 events in Old Buckenham
Diary dates for January
Wednesday 1 Village photograph, Church Rooms, 10am
Wednesday 1 Village New Year Walk, starts at Church Rooms, 10am
Monday 6 Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm
Tuesday 7 Coffee and Chat, Church Rooms, 10.30am onwards
Wednesday 8 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Wednesday 8 Chapel Friendship Group, Methodist Church, 2.30pm
Thursday 9 Breckland Flower and Garden Club, 2pm
Thursday 9 Social and Wine Circle, Church Rooms, 7.30pm
Thursday 9 Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Saturday 11 Village Meeting, Village Hall, 10am
Sunday 12 Methodist Church, Covenant Service, 10.45am
Thursday 16 Camelot pantomime, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Friday 17 Visits from Mobile Library during morning
Friday 17 Camelot pantomime, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Saturday 18 Camelot pantomime, Village Hall, 2.30pm and 7.30pm
Monday 20 Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm
Wednesday 22 Fusion Cafe, Chapel Green School
Wednesday 22 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 23 Women's Institute, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Wednesday 1 Village photograph, Church Rooms, 10am
Wednesday 1 Village New Year Walk, starts at Church Rooms, 10am
Monday 6 Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm
Tuesday 7 Coffee and Chat, Church Rooms, 10.30am onwards
Wednesday 8 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Wednesday 8 Chapel Friendship Group, Methodist Church, 2.30pm
Thursday 9 Breckland Flower and Garden Club, 2pm
Thursday 9 Social and Wine Circle, Church Rooms, 7.30pm
Thursday 9 Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Saturday 11 Village Meeting, Village Hall, 10am
Sunday 12 Methodist Church, Covenant Service, 10.45am
Thursday 16 Camelot pantomime, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Friday 17 Visits from Mobile Library during morning
Friday 17 Camelot pantomime, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Saturday 18 Camelot pantomime, Village Hall, 2.30pm and 7.30pm
Monday 20 Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm
Wednesday 22 Fusion Cafe, Chapel Green School
Wednesday 22 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 23 Women's Institute, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Saturday 28 December 2019
First Old Buckenham newsletter of 2020
Latest village news
Many copies are now around the village so you should be able to find out what to do and where to go in January.
Many copies are now around the village so you should be able to find out what to do and where to go in January.
Tuesday 24 December 2019
Weather radar in Old Buckenham
Planning application now submitted
The Met Office have now completed their remaining assessments and surveys relating to the proposed plan to erect a weather radar at Old Buckenham and have submitted a planning application to Breckland District Council. The application reference number is 3PL/2019/1555/F and the submission and documentation can be viewed on the Breckland District Council website. All assessments and surveys are available to the public as part of the planning application documentation.
The concerns and feedback raised at the public consultation meeting, by the Parish Council, Old Buckenham Airfield and people living close to the proposed site were all essential to the framing of the assessments and amending the proposed plan accordingly.
The Met Office say they are confident that the extensive assessment period has been used to fully investigate the potential impacts of these plans on the parish of Old Buckenham and the surrounding parishes of New Buckenham and Carleton Rode and that they have addressed the majority of concerns. These extensive studies have investigated the potential impacts of the plan and will be made available with the planning application.
The Met Office have now completed their remaining assessments and surveys relating to the proposed plan to erect a weather radar at Old Buckenham and have submitted a planning application to Breckland District Council. The application reference number is 3PL/2019/1555/F and the submission and documentation can be viewed on the Breckland District Council website. All assessments and surveys are available to the public as part of the planning application documentation.
The concerns and feedback raised at the public consultation meeting, by the Parish Council, Old Buckenham Airfield and people living close to the proposed site were all essential to the framing of the assessments and amending the proposed plan accordingly.
The Met Office say they are confident that the extensive assessment period has been used to fully investigate the potential impacts of these plans on the parish of Old Buckenham and the surrounding parishes of New Buckenham and Carleton Rode and that they have addressed the majority of concerns. These extensive studies have investigated the potential impacts of the plan and will be made available with the planning application.
Friday 20 December 2019
Old Buckenham latest parish council meeting
Plenty to discuss
These notes have been written by the blog editor from the draft minutes and so may contain information that is amended at a later date.
Old Buckenham Parish Council met on Thursday 5 December in Old Buckenham Village Hall. Those present were councillors Gemma Frost (chair), Adrian Joel, Mike Farrington and Ben Devlin. Also attending were three members of the public as well as Rachel Noyes (clerk)and Donna Oakley (RFO).
Apologies for absence had been received from Jonn Hicks, Steve Milner, Andy Nicholls and Terry Cook. The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 7 November were approved (3 in favour, 1 abstain). The only matter arising from the minutes was to point out that work to deal with flooding on Hargham Road was funded for by Stephen Askew from his councillor’s budget.
Declarations of interests. Ben Devlin will abstain from vote on one planning application due to conflict of interest.
Financial matters. The Community account balance now stands at £33,781.18. Income received was £60 from allotment rents and an £800 donation towards the SAM2 sign equipment. Thank you to the parishioner who donated towards the new SAM2 sign. Payments approved totalled £741.95 (4 in favour) and included £117.45 to the community car drivers and £135 for the bin installation in the playground.
Approval was also sought for gifts to the volunteers who worked on the bus shelter and phone box, to increase the clerk’s monthly salary to £200 and to change bank accounts to Lloyds TSB. These items were approved (4 in favour).
Precept. It was agreed to postpone some decisions until the January meeting because of the low numbers of councillors present and the importance of the decisions. Grants that were agreed were £100 for the Monday Mardle, £450 for the Women’s Institute and the village Produce Show, £350 to the Friends of Chapel Green School and £300 to the Luncheon Club. A decision on a request from the Village Hall for £4779 to £8463 for new doors was postponed until the January meeting (4 in favour).
Public participation. New street lights by the crossing are still reflecting off the pond in to nearby properties. The Clerk is to contact councillor Stephen Askew about this.
Planning. (All planning applications are available for viewing on the Breckland District Council planning portal – www.breckland.gov.uk/article/2933/Search-Planning-Applications - Parish Councillors have been asked by the chairman to view the new applications in advance of the meeting).
New planning applications. Downmore Farm, Banham Road. Prior approval for change of use of agricultural building to a dwelling, Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 Schedule 2, Part 3, Class Q. (3PN/2019/0055/UC). A proposal to support was approved (4 in favour).
Land South of March Field Way. Residential development of 9 dwellings and associated external works (3PL/2019/1401/F). Second phase of the social housing planned for Old Buckenham. Adrian Joel explained that as Breckland’s Local Plan has just been approved, this would now place this development within the southern boundary of the parish and therefore count towards our quota. Several councillors questioned the need for these houses in Old Buckenham. It was also highlighted that the first phase of the development has created a few problems within the village such as lack of parking for the residents which is creating problems elsewhere, roads which are too small to cope with the levels of traffic and drainage problems. A proposal to object was approved (3 in favour, 1 abstain).
Land to north of Fen Street. Erection of four detached dwellings following outline permission (3PL/2019/1359/D). The Parish Council previously supported the PIP on this land by Stephen Askew. Some houses are now smaller than initially proposed. A proposal to support was approved (3 in favour, 1 abstain).
Land to the north-west of 29 Fen Street. Permission in Principle for the erection of one dwelling (Town and Country Planning) Permission in Principle (Amendment) Order 2019 (3PL/2019/1405/PIP).This application was previously supported by the Parish Council but rejected by Breckland due to lack of passing space. A proposal to support was approved (3 in favour, 1 abstain).
Planning decisions by Breckland Council. Downmoor Farm House, Banham Road. Change of use of outbuilding to office for financial services (A2)(3PL/2019/1020/CU).
Manor Corner, The Green. Two-storey side extension (3PL/2019/1259/HOU).
Old Buckenham Airfield, Abbey Road. Various enhancements and improvements to the Airfield including permanent placement of a decommissioned Rockwell Twin Aero Commander for use as Emergency Response training (no hot fire excercises), placement of up to two static caravans for use by key members of staff during events, creation of a small 'Memorial Park' at the centre of which will be a ground level scale depiction of the wartime airfield and addition of earth bund and fencing (3PL/2019/1231/F).
Land to the west of 22 Fen Street. Permission in principle for the erection of 4 dwellings (Town & Country Planning (Permission in Principle) (Amendment) Order 2017 (3PL/2019/1257/PIP).
Land between Willow Cottage and Priest Hill Cottage, Fen Street. Permission in principle for the erection of one detached dwelling (Town & Country Planning (Permission in Principle) (Amendment) Order 2017 (3PL/2019/1258/PIP).
All the above applications have now been considered and the applications have been approved by Breckland Council.
Policies review. Removal the requirement for a bank account in the Grants policy as many smaller groups don’t always have one and would be unfair to miss out on funding for this reason was approved (4 in favour). It was also agreed to delay any changes to the Health and Safety Policy until Jonn Hicks was present due to his knowledge of the subject.
Chairman’s report. This was provided in written form and is reproduced at the end of these notes.
Village Green Working Party. Fresh quotes and relevant certificates to carry out work on trees on the Green have been received from three companies. Proposal to give the job to the company giving the cheapest quote was approved (4 in favour).
Play Area. This will need to close until February 2020 for vital repairs and improvements ahead of an annual inspection.
Councillors’ reports. Mike Farrington was pleased to inform the council members that there have been no accidents at Puddledock in the last month.
Items for next agenda. These would include the Precept grants, having a paperless Parish Council and the Action Log.
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Thursday 9 January at 7.30pm in Old Buckenham Village Hall. Please note this is the second Thursday of the month.
Chairman’s report. Good evening everyone, this year has been a busy year and I think we can all agree the Green is looking good. The area around Ottomer Pond has regrown and the lilies on the pond looked fabulous this summer. The telephone box has been refurbished with new windows installed and has been freshly painted. A big thank you to Colin Brown and Phil Little for all their help and time helping myself do this work. The Parish Council has been working hard to make our little village a beautiful place to live and raise a family and we thank everyone who helps with the various projects that happen throughout the year. We have purchased two more defibrillators and are awaiting installation of the cabinets.
You will all notice that the memorial bench for Alex Byrne has been installed, there are two more to be installed in the new year once families in question have purchased them. The play area is currently undergoing a few upgrades. You will see that the rope bridge on the climber has been replaced, a new concrete footpath has been laid and three new litter bins have been installed. The wood chip around the high climber is being removed and replaced with rubber balls that are safer for your children in case of a fall. The toddler swing seats will be replaced and new bearings for all the swings and roundabout. Also, the grass surface has been worn away under some of the equipment and needs replacing. Therefore it will require the play area to remain closed until the beginning of February. Some will question the need for this. It’s because we are due our yearly RoSPA safety inspection and many of these points were flagged up in last year’s report so we need these jobs done to enable us to get a first class pass certificate.
I have enjoyed being your Chairman this past year and would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
With thanks.
Jonn Hicks
Old Buckenham Parish Council met on Thursday 5 December in Old Buckenham Village Hall. Those present were councillors Gemma Frost (chair), Adrian Joel, Mike Farrington and Ben Devlin. Also attending were three members of the public as well as Rachel Noyes (clerk)and Donna Oakley (RFO).
Apologies for absence had been received from Jonn Hicks, Steve Milner, Andy Nicholls and Terry Cook. The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 7 November were approved (3 in favour, 1 abstain). The only matter arising from the minutes was to point out that work to deal with flooding on Hargham Road was funded for by Stephen Askew from his councillor’s budget.
Declarations of interests. Ben Devlin will abstain from vote on one planning application due to conflict of interest.
Financial matters. The Community account balance now stands at £33,781.18. Income received was £60 from allotment rents and an £800 donation towards the SAM2 sign equipment. Thank you to the parishioner who donated towards the new SAM2 sign. Payments approved totalled £741.95 (4 in favour) and included £117.45 to the community car drivers and £135 for the bin installation in the playground.
Approval was also sought for gifts to the volunteers who worked on the bus shelter and phone box, to increase the clerk’s monthly salary to £200 and to change bank accounts to Lloyds TSB. These items were approved (4 in favour).
Precept. It was agreed to postpone some decisions until the January meeting because of the low numbers of councillors present and the importance of the decisions. Grants that were agreed were £100 for the Monday Mardle, £450 for the Women’s Institute and the village Produce Show, £350 to the Friends of Chapel Green School and £300 to the Luncheon Club. A decision on a request from the Village Hall for £4779 to £8463 for new doors was postponed until the January meeting (4 in favour).
Public participation. New street lights by the crossing are still reflecting off the pond in to nearby properties. The Clerk is to contact councillor Stephen Askew about this.
Planning. (All planning applications are available for viewing on the Breckland District Council planning portal – www.breckland.gov.uk/article/2933/Search-Planning-Applications - Parish Councillors have been asked by the chairman to view the new applications in advance of the meeting).
New planning applications. Downmore Farm, Banham Road. Prior approval for change of use of agricultural building to a dwelling, Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 Schedule 2, Part 3, Class Q. (3PN/2019/0055/UC). A proposal to support was approved (4 in favour).
Land South of March Field Way. Residential development of 9 dwellings and associated external works (3PL/2019/1401/F). Second phase of the social housing planned for Old Buckenham. Adrian Joel explained that as Breckland’s Local Plan has just been approved, this would now place this development within the southern boundary of the parish and therefore count towards our quota. Several councillors questioned the need for these houses in Old Buckenham. It was also highlighted that the first phase of the development has created a few problems within the village such as lack of parking for the residents which is creating problems elsewhere, roads which are too small to cope with the levels of traffic and drainage problems. A proposal to object was approved (3 in favour, 1 abstain).
Land to north of Fen Street. Erection of four detached dwellings following outline permission (3PL/2019/1359/D). The Parish Council previously supported the PIP on this land by Stephen Askew. Some houses are now smaller than initially proposed. A proposal to support was approved (3 in favour, 1 abstain).
Land to the north-west of 29 Fen Street. Permission in Principle for the erection of one dwelling (Town and Country Planning) Permission in Principle (Amendment) Order 2019 (3PL/2019/1405/PIP).This application was previously supported by the Parish Council but rejected by Breckland due to lack of passing space. A proposal to support was approved (3 in favour, 1 abstain).
Planning decisions by Breckland Council. Downmoor Farm House, Banham Road. Change of use of outbuilding to office for financial services (A2)(3PL/2019/1020/CU).
Manor Corner, The Green. Two-storey side extension (3PL/2019/1259/HOU).
Old Buckenham Airfield, Abbey Road. Various enhancements and improvements to the Airfield including permanent placement of a decommissioned Rockwell Twin Aero Commander for use as Emergency Response training (no hot fire excercises), placement of up to two static caravans for use by key members of staff during events, creation of a small 'Memorial Park' at the centre of which will be a ground level scale depiction of the wartime airfield and addition of earth bund and fencing (3PL/2019/1231/F).
Land to the west of 22 Fen Street. Permission in principle for the erection of 4 dwellings (Town & Country Planning (Permission in Principle) (Amendment) Order 2017 (3PL/2019/1257/PIP).
Land between Willow Cottage and Priest Hill Cottage, Fen Street. Permission in principle for the erection of one detached dwelling (Town & Country Planning (Permission in Principle) (Amendment) Order 2017 (3PL/2019/1258/PIP).
All the above applications have now been considered and the applications have been approved by Breckland Council.
Policies review. Removal the requirement for a bank account in the Grants policy as many smaller groups don’t always have one and would be unfair to miss out on funding for this reason was approved (4 in favour). It was also agreed to delay any changes to the Health and Safety Policy until Jonn Hicks was present due to his knowledge of the subject.
Chairman’s report. This was provided in written form and is reproduced at the end of these notes.
Village Green Working Party. Fresh quotes and relevant certificates to carry out work on trees on the Green have been received from three companies. Proposal to give the job to the company giving the cheapest quote was approved (4 in favour).
Play Area. This will need to close until February 2020 for vital repairs and improvements ahead of an annual inspection.
Councillors’ reports. Mike Farrington was pleased to inform the council members that there have been no accidents at Puddledock in the last month.
Items for next agenda. These would include the Precept grants, having a paperless Parish Council and the Action Log.
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Thursday 9 January at 7.30pm in Old Buckenham Village Hall. Please note this is the second Thursday of the month.
Chairman’s report. Good evening everyone, this year has been a busy year and I think we can all agree the Green is looking good. The area around Ottomer Pond has regrown and the lilies on the pond looked fabulous this summer. The telephone box has been refurbished with new windows installed and has been freshly painted. A big thank you to Colin Brown and Phil Little for all their help and time helping myself do this work. The Parish Council has been working hard to make our little village a beautiful place to live and raise a family and we thank everyone who helps with the various projects that happen throughout the year. We have purchased two more defibrillators and are awaiting installation of the cabinets.
You will all notice that the memorial bench for Alex Byrne has been installed, there are two more to be installed in the new year once families in question have purchased them. The play area is currently undergoing a few upgrades. You will see that the rope bridge on the climber has been replaced, a new concrete footpath has been laid and three new litter bins have been installed. The wood chip around the high climber is being removed and replaced with rubber balls that are safer for your children in case of a fall. The toddler swing seats will be replaced and new bearings for all the swings and roundabout. Also, the grass surface has been worn away under some of the equipment and needs replacing. Therefore it will require the play area to remain closed until the beginning of February. Some will question the need for this. It’s because we are due our yearly RoSPA safety inspection and many of these points were flagged up in last year’s report so we need these jobs done to enable us to get a first class pass certificate.
I have enjoyed being your Chairman this past year and would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
With thanks.
Jonn Hicks
Tuesday 17 December 2019
Celebrations in Old Buckenham
A busy morning
Marilyn and Adrian Joel had their Golden Wedding Anniversary on Friday 6 December and this morning planted an Evergreen Oak on the Green in celebration. Thank you to the photographer who recorded the scene.
The blog editor could not be there for this event as he was busy, along with Mr Cool, presenting certificates of achievement to pupils at Chapel Green School during their morning assembly.
Sunday 15 December 2019
Switch-on in Old Buckenham
Tree is all lit up
The ceremonial switching on of the lights on the Christmas tree alongside Ottomer pond on the village Green took place at 4pm today.
The ceremonial switching on of the lights on the Christmas tree alongside Ottomer pond on the village Green took place at 4pm today.
Grant for Old Buckenham church
Christmas funding boost
All Saints church in Old Buckenham is to receive a £10,000 National Churches Trust Cornerstone Grantshare from a £523,000 funding payout from the National Churches Trust. This grant will help fund roof repairs at the Grade I listed All Saints church to make the church watertight andto preserve its historic fabric. The church is currently on the Historic England ‘At Risk Register’.
At the moment the main roof of the church is covered with scaffolding and a protective covering while re-thatching the building with local Norfolk reed is taking place.
Broadcaster and journalist Huw Edwards, Vice President of The National Churches Trust, has said that the UK's historic churches and chapels are a vital part of our national heritage. To survive, many need to carry out urgent repairs and install modern facilities but the cost of this work is far beyond what most congregations can pay for themselves. This work on the roof repairs will help secure the future of this historic building for future generations and help to remove it from the Historic England ‘At Risk Register’.
All Saints church in Old Buckenham is to receive a £10,000 National Churches Trust Cornerstone Grantshare from a £523,000 funding payout from the National Churches Trust. This grant will help fund roof repairs at the Grade I listed All Saints church to make the church watertight andto preserve its historic fabric. The church is currently on the Historic England ‘At Risk Register’.
At the moment the main roof of the church is covered with scaffolding and a protective covering while re-thatching the building with local Norfolk reed is taking place.
Broadcaster and journalist Huw Edwards, Vice President of The National Churches Trust, has said that the UK's historic churches and chapels are a vital part of our national heritage. To survive, many need to carry out urgent repairs and install modern facilities but the cost of this work is far beyond what most congregations can pay for themselves. This work on the roof repairs will help secure the future of this historic building for future generations and help to remove it from the Historic England ‘At Risk Register’.
Thursday 12 December 2019
Recycling in Old Buckenham
The bins are back
There is now a full set of recycling bins in the village hall car park. Bring along your newspaper and magazines, your clothing and textiles, your glass bottles and jars. Money raised through this recycling helps to support your village hall.
There is now a full set of recycling bins in the village hall car park. Bring along your newspaper and magazines, your clothing and textiles, your glass bottles and jars. Money raised through this recycling helps to support your village hall.
Tuesday 10 December 2019
More from Old Buckenham Women's Institute
A busy year
The latest meeting of Old Buckenham WI was their annual meeting with reports on various aspects of the past year.
Secretary Betty Stacey reviewed the interesting speakers enjoyed during the year and the special events attended by members during this centenary year of the Norfolk Federation of WIs. The final event was be a Service of Thanksgiving in King's Lynn to be attended by some Old Buckenham members.
President Kate Lloyd reflected on the sadness this year brought with the death of some members and of some members' relatives. She looked forward to a fulfilling year in 2020. The committee was re-elected en bloc with one member having stood down and Kate was re-elected President. Mary Nicholls thanked Kate and the committee for their hard work during the year.
Alison Frank told members about her recent course at WI's Denman College learning about Kew Gardens including a visit there where she even managed the tree top walk. Susan Hunter reported on three quizzes entered by Old Buckenham WI in October and November. The team won the Village quiz, they came close in the next one but were let down by not knowing enough manufacturers of the 60 models of cars listed! Back in form they won the county WI Adviser's Quiz and were especially pleased to be the first winners of the Advisers' Centenary Rose Bowl.
Rosemary Pratt gave members details of the visit to Norfolk Cathedral's Broderers' Guild workshop where among other wonderful examples of needlework, they were working on altering the Birkbeck Cope to fit the new Bishop. They were also able to view the 'house' made of hand-knitted scarves, each one representing a homeless person. This had been put up by St Martins Trust in the Cathedral and to which some of our members had contributed.
Doris Monkhouse reviewed an evening visit by several members to Hotter's Shoe Shop in Norwich. Plied with drinks and nice refreshments, a short history of Hotter and a fashion show by staff, members were then let loose to browse and select shoes, etc. Most bought more than one item at a special reduction for the evening. Susan even found a pair of shoes which exactly matched her dress.
The next meeting of Old Buckenham is on Thursday 23 January starting at 7.30pm in the Village Hall when the speaker will be Gavin Binkerton-Jones talking about 'Norfolk wildlife through the lens'.
The latest meeting of Old Buckenham WI was their annual meeting with reports on various aspects of the past year.
Secretary Betty Stacey reviewed the interesting speakers enjoyed during the year and the special events attended by members during this centenary year of the Norfolk Federation of WIs. The final event was be a Service of Thanksgiving in King's Lynn to be attended by some Old Buckenham members.
President Kate Lloyd reflected on the sadness this year brought with the death of some members and of some members' relatives. She looked forward to a fulfilling year in 2020. The committee was re-elected en bloc with one member having stood down and Kate was re-elected President. Mary Nicholls thanked Kate and the committee for their hard work during the year.
Alison Frank told members about her recent course at WI's Denman College learning about Kew Gardens including a visit there where she even managed the tree top walk. Susan Hunter reported on three quizzes entered by Old Buckenham WI in October and November. The team won the Village quiz, they came close in the next one but were let down by not knowing enough manufacturers of the 60 models of cars listed! Back in form they won the county WI Adviser's Quiz and were especially pleased to be the first winners of the Advisers' Centenary Rose Bowl.
Rosemary Pratt gave members details of the visit to Norfolk Cathedral's Broderers' Guild workshop where among other wonderful examples of needlework, they were working on altering the Birkbeck Cope to fit the new Bishop. They were also able to view the 'house' made of hand-knitted scarves, each one representing a homeless person. This had been put up by St Martins Trust in the Cathedral and to which some of our members had contributed.
Doris Monkhouse reviewed an evening visit by several members to Hotter's Shoe Shop in Norwich. Plied with drinks and nice refreshments, a short history of Hotter and a fashion show by staff, members were then let loose to browse and select shoes, etc. Most bought more than one item at a special reduction for the evening. Susan even found a pair of shoes which exactly matched her dress.
The next meeting of Old Buckenham is on Thursday 23 January starting at 7.30pm in the Village Hall when the speaker will be Gavin Binkerton-Jones talking about 'Norfolk wildlife through the lens'.
Thursday 5 December 2019
Undercover work in Old Buckenham
All Saints church roof
With all the old thatch removed, the builders are now checking over the state of the roof timbers so that work can start on putting on the new reed thatching.
Pictures kindly taken by Bill Rout
With all the old thatch removed, the builders are now checking over the state of the roof timbers so that work can start on putting on the new reed thatching.
Pictures kindly taken by Bill Rout
Saturday 30 November 2019
Old Buckenham village newsletter for December
All the latest news
This issue is now being distributed around the village. Learn about an opportunity to be Father Christmas, the date of the next Bingo, the Christmas Eve service at All Saints, the next OB Players panto and how the editor won (and spent) £10.
This issue is now being distributed around the village. Learn about an opportunity to be Father Christmas, the date of the next Bingo, the Christmas Eve service at All Saints, the next OB Players panto and how the editor won (and spent) £10.
Thursday 28 November 2019
Rest of the year in Old Buckenham
Diary dates for December
Tuesday 3 Coffee and Chat, Church Rooms, 10.30am onwards
Wednesday 4 Chapel Friendship Group, Methodist Church, 2.30pm
Thursday 5 Women's Institute Christmas Lunch
Thursday 5 Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Friday 6 Chapel Green School Christmas Fayre, 9.30am to 11.30am
Wednesday 11 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 12 Polling Station at Village Hall, 7am to 10pm
Thursday 12 Breckland Flower and Garden Club, 2pm
Thursday 12 Social and Wine Circle, Church Rooms, 7.30pm
Saturday 14 Bingo, Church Rooms, 2pm
Sunday 15 Silver Band and Christmas tree lights on Green, 4pm
Wednesday 18 Songs of praise, Methodist Chapel, 7.30pm
Friday 20 Visits from Mobile Library during morning
Tuesday 24 'Follow the star' service, Church Rooms, 7pm
January 2020
Wednesday 1 Village photo at Church Rooms, 10.30am
Wednesday 1 Village walk starts from Church Rooms, 10.30am
Tuesday 3 Coffee and Chat, Church Rooms, 10.30am onwards
Wednesday 4 Chapel Friendship Group, Methodist Church, 2.30pm
Thursday 5 Women's Institute Christmas Lunch
Thursday 5 Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Friday 6 Chapel Green School Christmas Fayre, 9.30am to 11.30am
Wednesday 11 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 12 Polling Station at Village Hall, 7am to 10pm
Thursday 12 Breckland Flower and Garden Club, 2pm
Thursday 12 Social and Wine Circle, Church Rooms, 7.30pm
Saturday 14 Bingo, Church Rooms, 2pm
Sunday 15 Silver Band and Christmas tree lights on Green, 4pm
Wednesday 18 Songs of praise, Methodist Chapel, 7.30pm
Friday 20 Visits from Mobile Library during morning
Tuesday 24 'Follow the star' service, Church Rooms, 7pm
January 2020
Wednesday 1 Village photo at Church Rooms, 10.30am
Wednesday 1 Village walk starts from Church Rooms, 10.30am
Friday 22 November 2019
Open Gardens again in Old Buckenham
Would you like to be involved?
Dates for a big weekend in June 2020.
Dates for a big weekend in June 2020.
Tuesday 19 November 2019
Planting bulbs in Old Buckenham
Dig now, colour appears later
Have you an hour or two to spare this Friday?
Have you an hour or two to spare this Friday?
Eating out in Old Buckenham
Try out our new restaurant
Why not get together with some friends and book yourselves a table at the village's latest eating place?
If you are wondering where this will all take place then you need to go to Chapel Green School on Friday 29 November.
Why not get together with some friends and book yourselves a table at the village's latest eating place?
If you are wondering where this will all take place then you need to go to Chapel Green School on Friday 29 November.
Sunday 17 November 2019
Latest from Old Buckenham parish council
Old
Buckenham Parish Council met on Thursday 7 November in the Village Hall, Old
Buckenham. Those
present were councillors Jonn Hicks (Chair), Steve Milner, Adrian Joel, Mike
Farrington, Terry Cook and Gemma Frost. Also attending were Rachel Noyes
(Clerk), County and District councillor Stephen Askew and twelve members of the
public. Andy Nicholls and Ben Devlin had both sent apologies for
non-attendance.
The
minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 3 October 2019 were approved (6 in favour).
There were no matters arising.
Public
participation relating to agenda items. Stephen Askew said there was still some
flooding on Hargham Road despite previous work. He will use his councillor’s
budget to complete more work but if that fails, they will have to dig up the
road and do full repair work. Improvement work on Church Lane has not fully
resolved the flooding problem. The local drainage is due to be upgraded in
2021/22 and he will continue to monitor the situation. He has also used his
councillor’s budget for new signs advertising the village shop.
Jonn
Hicks pointed out that shingle needs replacing outside Post Office Terrace after
the crossing work. He is meeting with D Jacklin from Highways to discuss the
frequent car crashes at Puddledock Corner, Stephen Askew was also invited to
also attend this meeting.
Adrian
Joel enquired about getting a new name plate for Fen Street .A parishioner has
noticed that “new traffic signals ahead” sign obscures the flashing speed sign
on approach from Attleborough. Also the reflector posts next to Manor Pond and
the old style black and white signpost by Manor Pond are needing attention. The
clerk to report to Highways.
A parishioner
who cuts grass on the Green near the entrance to Oaklands asked about the Village
Green Working Party – this would be discussed later. Jonn Hicks thanked this parishioner
on behalf of the Parish Council for his work as it always looked great and offered
a fuel donation for his lawn mower as a thank you.
Financial
Report. The Community account balance is £43,235.40. Income received was £450
(community car).
Payments
that were approved (6 in favour) totalled £2,198.48 which included £175.50 to
the community car drivers, £749.21 for new play area bins, £577.32 for
newsletter paper and £66 for village hall hire.
Planning
applications. All planning applications are available for viewing on the
Breckland District Council planning portal –
www.breckland.gov.uk/article/2933/Search-Planning-Applications. Parish councillors
have been asked by the chairman to view the new applications in advance of the
meeting.
Land
to the west of 22 Fen Street. Permission in principle for the erection of 4
dwellings (Town & Country Planning (Permission in Principle) (Amendment)
Order 2017 (3PL/2019/1257/PIP).
Adrian
Joel explained that there was a slight error in the Planning Statement. It
stated that Old Buckenham needed to build 37 houses for its quota. However 20 have
already been built and a further 6 have been approved leaving a
requirement of 17 houses to be built by 2036. Several councillors
expressed concern about several key factors including drainage, highways/traffic
issues and an environmentally sensitive hedge that would be removed. The developer
was present and explained that the application had just been updated which will
mean that most of the hedge would be kept and the Breckland Tree Officer would
therefore support it. Several residents of Fen Street expressed their concerns
on the same issues as well as other utilities (such as water) and questioned
whether there was actually a need for more housing. It was also felt by some
that there was no consideration about alternative forms of transport, such as
walkers or cyclists. Gemma Frost explained that the application showed that
rainwater was going to be taken to a soakaway and that passing places had been
suggested. She also felt that it was not the developer’s responsibility to fix
the existing problems on Fen Street and that it stated in the application that
the developer was willing to work with residents. It was highlighted that the Parish
Council had previously approved an application for four dwellings on Fen Street.
A proposal not to support this application was approved (4 in favour, 1
against, 1 abstain).
Land
between Willow Cottage and Priest Hill Cottage, Fen Street. Permission in
principle for the erection of one detached dwelling (3PL/2019/1258/PIP). The Parish
Council expressed similar views and concerns as for the above application. This
application is located opposite a piece of land that the Parish Council
previously supported a single dwelling with no passing place. However Breckland
rejected it. This application does include a passing place. Some councillors
highlighted the need to be consistent in their decisions. A proposal not to
support this application was approved (3 in favour, 2 against, 1 abstain).
Manor
Corner, The Green. Two-storey side extension (3PL/2019/1259/HOU). The
applicants were present and explained that this would not extend beyond the
current footprint of the property and will end up similar to neighbouring
properties. They have worked very closely with Historic Officer to ensure they
are happy the appearance of the extension and that the correct materials are
used. A proposal to accept this application was approved (7 in favour).
Old
Buckenham Airfied, Abbey Road. Various enhancements and improvements to the
Airfield. Permanent placement of a decommissioned Rockwell Twin Aero Commander
for use as Emergency Response training (no hot fire exercises). Placement of up
to two static caravans for use by key members of staff during events. Creation
of a small 'Memorial Park' at the centre of which will be a ground level scale
depiction of the wartime airfield. Addition to earthbund and fencing (3PL/2019/1231/F).
Councillors were pleased to support the airfield as it is an important asset to
the village. However there was some concern about the possibility of the static
caravans being let out in the future. A proposal to support the application was
agreed (6 in favour) on the condition that the caravans are not to be
residential.
Double
Banks Farm, Old Buckenham Road, Carleton Rode. Change of use of existing waste
processing/composting facility to a household, commercial and industrial waste
processing and recycling facility to produce refuse derived fuel and solid recovered
fuel grade material (FUL/2019/0010).
While
the site is in Carleton Rode, it is near to Old Buckenham and so is passed to Old
Bukenham Parish Council for consultation. Steve Milner and Jonn Hicks have
visited the site and explained that the proposed change of use is excellent as
it will convert waste plastic into pellets which are combustible. However great
concern by lots of councillors over the lack of information about the
designated routes for lorries travelling to/from the facility. This could
affect neighbouring villages and some roads have weight limits. While very keen
to support alternatives to fossil fuels, the Parish Council decided to withhold
any decision until more information on traffic routes is made available.
Downmore
Farm, Banham Road. Prior approval for change of use of agricultural building to
a dwelling (Town and Country Planning General Permitted Development Order 2015
Schedule 2, Part 3, Class Q) (3PN/2019/0055/UC). Due to receiving notification
on the day of the meeting, a request will be made to delay the deadline and the
application will be discussed at December’s meeting.
Planning
decision by Breckland Council. College
Park Caravan Park, Doe Lane. Retrospective planning application for change of
use from agricultural land to leisure use (3PL/2019/0958/F). This application has now been considered and has been approved.
Ottomer
Pond benches. All three plinths have been assigned. The design for one bench
has been approved.
Action
Log. Gemma Frost updated councillors on progress of items on the Action Log
Standing Orders review. One amendment made to edit 3e to say ‘Any further involvement at
the discretion of the chairman’ and to remove 3g.
Neighbourhood
Plan. Jonn Hicks, Steve Milner and Adrian Joel attended a Neighbourhood
Planning course in October. The presenter of the course had written one
herself. Old Buckenham has already completed a village survey and has the area
designated. Next need is to decide which policies to focus on and then look to
hire a consultant to help write them. The presenter highlighted the need to
show that the Parish Council are actively engaging with the community throughout
the process. It is intended to start by using the village meeting on Saturday
11 January 2020 to consult on ideas (see next item on May Bank Holiday). A
Neighbourhood Plan will give Old Buckenham Parish Council more power regarding
the future planning and development of the village.
(Gemma
Frost had to leave the meeting early)
May
Bank Holiday. Jonn Hicks has suggested having a Food Festival and Craft Market
on the Green on Sunday 24 May 2020 to raise funds for the repair of the village
windmill. Live music would follow in the evening. To discuss the proposed event
and establish the level of interest, there will be a Village Meeting on
Saturday 11 January at 10am at the Village Hall. This will also be used as an
opportunity to discuss a Neighbourhood Plan.
Village
Green Working Party. A tree survey has been carried out for work that needs
doing and three quotes received from local tree surgeons. The quotes were £1560,
£2720 and £2920. There was confusion about how one quote could be significantly
lower than the other two. While two quotes were accompanied by a clear break
down of the specific work involved, one was more vague. There was also concern
about whether all three companies had the necessary safety certificates to
complete the work. The Parish Council decided that the companies should be
asked to requote for the work but they must include a clearer job specification
including the removal of all wood from site, a copy of their Public Liability
Statement and RAM Statement.
Road
Safety. Steve Milner will be collecting and receiving training on using the new
SAM 2 speed equipment on Sunday 14 November.
Play
Area. Work has been done on both the bridge and the path. An inspection is due
in February. Several matters need urgent attention to ensure the play area will
pass this inspection such as re-turfing under the swings, re-making the tractor
and replacing the surface under the climbing frame. Because of the height of
the frame and a potential falls, rubber pellets must now be used. Two quotes have
been received for removing the current chippings and membrane and then replacing
the wooden edging, installing a new membrane and filling with new rubber pellets.
The quotes were for £5,300 and £4,100.It was agreed to accept the lower quote (5
in favour).
Councillors’
reports. Steve Milner explained that new CAA regulations are coming in to force
regarding the flying drones. There should not be any drones flown on the Green
anyway because of the nearby airfield. Terry Cook reported back on Village Hall
matters. The PA system has been updated. The refurbishment of the Village Hall
means that there will be a small rise in hiring fees after being the same for
several years. The hall will be the polling station in next month’s General
Election. There was a query over who has authority over use of the Recreation
Area – the Village Hall or the Parish Council? As the Parish Council owns the
land, the Parish Council should have final say. There have been requests for
new football posts and to plant some trees on the land.
Mike
Farrington asked that people be careful driving through Puddledock. He has
witnessed an increase in road traffic accidents recently with the winter
weather causing problems. It was suggested that he should keep a detailed list
of all the accidents even if the police did not attend. Adrian Joel said that
the allotment rents are due and that the Christmas tree for the Green has been
ordered.
Items
for the next agenda would include an update on the proposed weather radar.
The
next Parish Council meeting will be held on Thursday 5 December at 7.30pm in
Old Buckenham Village Hall. The first meeting in 2020 will be on Thursday 9
January, a week later than the usual date.
Wednesday 13 November 2019
Christmas Fayre in Old Buckenham
Come along to Chapel Green School
Visit the school next month, the poster says it all.
Visit the school next month, the poster says it all.
Sunday 10 November 2019
Remembrance in Old Buckenham
At our war memorial on the Green
The sun was shining, the trees were in their autumn colours and many villagers and village organisations were in attendance.
Here are some photos to give a flavour of the occasion. Click on the images to see them at a larger size.
The sun was shining, the trees were in their autumn colours and many villagers and village organisations were in attendance.
Here are some photos to give a flavour of the occasion. Click on the images to see them at a larger size.
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| Tidying up the site the day before |
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| Police attend to block the road |
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| Gathering around the memorial |
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| Many wreaths were laid |
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| Primary School children with the book they have prepared |
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| The wreaths on the memorial |
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| Walking back to the Church Rooms |
Thursday 7 November 2019
Free evening talk in Old Buckenham
Norfolk's Living Landscape
Come along to Old Buckenham Village Hall on Friday 22 November and let Caroline Spinks of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust take you on a photographic journey through Norfolk's varied landscapes.
There is no need to book. The event is free and there will be a bar, coffee and tea available.
Come along to Old Buckenham Village Hall on Friday 22 November and let Caroline Spinks of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust take you on a photographic journey through Norfolk's varied landscapes.
There is no need to book. The event is free and there will be a bar, coffee and tea available.
Tuesday 5 November 2019
Next stage in Old Buckenham re-thatching
The thatch has been cleared
The old reed that covered the main roof of All Saints Church in Old Buckenham has now all been removed and the rafters can just be seen through a gap in the covering that surrounds the protective scaffolding. The roof will now be examined to see what timber repairs may be needed.
The blog editor has been trying to take some illustrative photographs and these are best he can manage. Click on the images to enlarge them.
The old reed that covered the main roof of All Saints Church in Old Buckenham has now all been removed and the rafters can just be seen through a gap in the covering that surrounds the protective scaffolding. The roof will now be examined to see what timber repairs may be needed.
The blog editor has been trying to take some illustrative photographs and these are best he can manage. Click on the images to enlarge them.
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| More old reed to be taken away |
Monday 4 November 2019
Re-thatching progress in Old Buckenham
Under cover work
Working under the protective roof, the removal of the old thatching material from All Saints Church has begun. Another load of old reed being loaded up to be carted away.
Working under the protective roof, the removal of the old thatching material from All Saints Church has begun. Another load of old reed being loaded up to be carted away.
Saturday 2 November 2019
November Market in Old Buckenham
Come along and join in
Next Saturday is an opportunity to have some homemade soup and a roll while chatting to other villagers (after you have been round the various stalls and bought your raffle tickets).
Next Saturday is an opportunity to have some homemade soup and a roll while chatting to other villagers (after you have been round the various stalls and bought your raffle tickets).
Thursday 31 October 2019
Another Old Buckenham newsletter
November issue is out there somewhere
The blog editor has been going round the village this morning leaving batches here and there. You may get one through your letter box in the next day or two, otherwise there are copies in the village shop, the pub and the airfield.
Wednesday 30 October 2019
What to do in Old Buckenham
Diary dates for November
Monday 4 Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm
Tuesday 5 Coffee and Chat, Church Rooms, 10.30am onwards
Wednesday 6 Chapel Friendship Group, Methodist Church, 2.30pm
Thursday 7 Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Sunday 10 Remembrance service on Green from 10.50am
Wednesday 13 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 14 Breckland Flower and Garden Club, 2pm
Thursday 14 Social and Wine Circle, Church Rooms, 7.30pm
Monday 18 Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm
Wednesday 20 Songs of praise, Methodist Chapel, 7.30pm
Friday 22 Visits from Mobile Library during morning
Friday 22 Talk on Commons, NWT, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Wednesday 27 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 28 Women's Institute, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Friday 29 Restaurant evening, Chapel Green School, 6pm to 8pm
Monday 4 Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm
Tuesday 5 Coffee and Chat, Church Rooms, 10.30am onwards
Wednesday 6 Chapel Friendship Group, Methodist Church, 2.30pm
Thursday 7 Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Sunday 10 Remembrance service on Green from 10.50am
Wednesday 13 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 14 Breckland Flower and Garden Club, 2pm
Thursday 14 Social and Wine Circle, Church Rooms, 7.30pm
Monday 18 Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm
Wednesday 20 Songs of praise, Methodist Chapel, 7.30pm
Friday 22 Visits from Mobile Library during morning
Friday 22 Talk on Commons, NWT, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Wednesday 27 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 28 Women's Institute, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Friday 29 Restaurant evening, Chapel Green School, 6pm to 8pm
Tuesday 29 October 2019
Partying in Old Buckenham
Women's Institute celebrates 52 years
Thursday 24 October was the evening when Old Buckenham WI and their invited guests gathered for their birthday party.
After a tasty buffet meal including the wonderful homemade sweets it was time to be entertained by Splash Duo. They soon had many of their audience singing along and even waving their arms in the air while remembering the music of their youth.
Soon it was time for the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake to end another very pleasant evening out.
Thursday 24 October was the evening when Old Buckenham WI and their invited guests gathered for their birthday party.
After a tasty buffet meal including the wonderful homemade sweets it was time to be entertained by Splash Duo. They soon had many of their audience singing along and even waving their arms in the air while remembering the music of their youth.
Soon it was time for the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake to end another very pleasant evening out.
Sunday 27 October 2019
Conservation in Old Buckenham
Learning the skills
It was dull and overcast but there was a lot of activity around All Saints Church for the one-off Conservation Skills event on Saturday 26 October.
Visitors were treated to a talk by the church architect on what was involved in getting the thatch replaced, told all about bats (All Saints doesn't have any), watched demonstrations on how thatching is done, posed for photographs that should appear in the Diss Express and were treated to a tour of the churchyard.
It was dull and overcast but there was a lot of activity around All Saints Church for the one-off Conservation Skills event on Saturday 26 October.
Visitors were treated to a talk by the church architect on what was involved in getting the thatch replaced, told all about bats (All Saints doesn't have any), watched demonstrations on how thatching is done, posed for photographs that should appear in the Diss Express and were treated to a tour of the churchyard.
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