Old Buckenham Parish Meeting

Our village meeting
The Old Buckenham Annual Parish Meeting was held on Friday 31 May in the Village Hall.
Those present were councillors Jonn Hicks (Chair), Steve Milner, Donna Oakley, Adrian Joel and Ben Devlin. Also in attendance were Rachel Noyes (Clerk), District and County Councillor Stephen Askew, Sue Heinrich (Breckland Council Neighbourhood Planning Co-ordinator) and Sarah Dye (Green Working Party) as well as 16 members of the public.
Jonn Hicks welcomed everyone to the meeting and apologised for Andy Nicholls’ absence.
The minutes of the Annual Parish meeting in April 2018 cannot be found, they were taken by a stand-in Clerk and no one has been able to find any copies of minutes. As a result there could be no matters arising from the minutes.
Neighbourhood Plan. Sue Heinrich, Breckland Council Neighbourhood Planning Co-ordinator gave a presentation. She manages the Neighbourhood Planning in Breckland but has previously worked in both private and public sector. Sue explained that the Planning System covers development and use of land using a large Guidance Policy, with the aim of achieving sustainable development. The assumption is in favour unless there are significant reasons why not. Breckland Council has a Local Plan and Local Authorities can produce their own. A Neighbourhood Plan can be completed by the PC if they wish to have one. A summary of her talk will be published separately on this blog  at a later date.
Chairman’s report. Jonn Hicks opened up his report to the public asking “what do you want as a village?” When asked what the Council are doing to encourage new members, he explained that it is difficult to get new members due to the time commitment around work and families but that also a lot of people are put off due to the abuse and confrontation received. The councillors, their families and the clerk have all been on the receiving end to various degrees. Gemma Frost explained that she had previously resigned due to the constant and persistent abuse and harassment she received from a few individuals. An ex-councillor in the public explained he resigned due to frustration at lack of progress. Ben Devlin highlighted the positives that the Parish Council had achieved in the last year. The Green looks great, Rod Alley Pond and Ottomer Ponds have both received a lot of needed attention. A parishioner who had only recently moved to the village said that she thought the Parish Council were doing a great job and they had a very good impression of the Parish Council and its members. The chairman explained that in the past, the Parish Council had been a bit closed off to the public. Since becoming Chairman, he has opened up meetings more to the public to allow greater participation and discussion, an Action Log is used to keep track of work and allows accountability for failure to complete work. This has resulted in greater progress in the last year. Parishioners are encouraged to get involved and join the Parish Council and help spread the load, as people need to remember that the councillors are all volunteers who have jobs and families too. It is very easy to get co-opted on to the Council. Unfortunately it is only a minority that are causing issues for the councillors. Some people felt that most of the village don’t know what is happening or about the Parish Council involvement in improvements. Jonn Hicks explained that the minutes are published in the village newsletter every month by Ron Brewer, are posted on the Old Buckenham blog and the Parish Council website. Key events are also published on the village Facebook group. In the past, there has been great village spirit at big events organised by the Parish Council: the street party for the Golden Jubilee and a cycling event with Diss Cycle Club. But when organised again, they failed to get enough interest. Several parishioners explained that the village needed something to stir interest – 10k event? A parishioner explained that Old Buckenham is loved and highly thought of by people in the village and those living outside of it too but that it's only a few people who cause issues. If the Council can keep their enthusiasm for the village strong, it will spread to all the parishioners. The chairman explained he had been tempted to walk out due to the recent stresses for him and his family. Gemma Frost explained that while she is a very enthusiastic person who is always keen to get involved and help, the problems she faced recently had driven it out of her causing her to resign. It was suggested that the Parish Council should stop responding to those individuals and simply get on with the good work they are doing ie “cease and desist” and if they continue to cause issues then maybe seek legal advice.
Adrian Joel. Adrian Joel has stepped down as District Councillor after 24 years. On behalf of Old Buckenham residents and councillors, the chairman presented Adrian with a bottle of whiskey as a thank you for his many years of hard work in the post. Adrian Joel thanked everyone for their kind words. He had many good and bad times as a District Councillor but is particularly proud of his recent achievement at getting new homes for local residents/workers/families in the village.
District and County Councillor’s report. As a resident of Old Buckenham for many years, Stephen Askew was sad to hear about the problems faced by the Parish Council, including the low numbers of parishioners that regularly attend meetings. The Green, which used to be cut for hay, is now looking great. As a District and County Councillor, he has also received some abuse emails but just have to ignore them as you can’t please everyone.
Since Adrian Joel retired, he was happy to be back as District Councillor again. One focus has been to improve broadband in the area. Very pleasing to see it improving (slowly) and that its just down to BT to complete the work. Steve Milner added that only one exchange box was planned for Old Buckenham and that now it is up to eight, including Stacksford. Stephen Askew added that the website Better Broadband is a good source for advice on internet speeds.
Village Green. The Parish Council has a lease to manage the Green. Originally it was set at five years but has been proposed to extend it to 20 years in order to encourage long term investment. It also helps with funding and grant applications. The lease has already been signed by the Green Right Proprietors and the Lord of the Manor and now just requires a Parish Council signature. A parishioner added that Manor Pond is overgrown with algae and weeds. These are going to be dealt with but the treatment requires the correct temperature and water level. The slope into the pond will also be graded to allow easier access for wildlife. Sarah Dye explained that they have been advised not to include donated plants to the ponds due to the risk of contamination, etc. Another parishioner thanked everyone in the community who contributes to the management and upkeep of the Green, including the man who cuts the grass by St Andrews Close. However he objected to the extension of the lease as he felt that it was unfair for the parishioners who might struggle financially to support Green maintenance. A proposal was passed on to the Parish Council in which he suggested the Green be purchased by the Parish Council. The chairman explained that he would not sign the Lease Extension now and would add it to the next Parish Council meeting agenda.
Other items raised. Steve Milner wanted to highlight recent road safety news. There is an active group on Cake Street who monitor the speed of vehicles entering the village. Some 15% to 20% of the cars monitored were speeding. A grant of £1600 has been awarded to help purchase an electronic sign to display drivers’ speeds and which are proven to reduce speeds. Four locations have been selected so far: Abbey Road, Cake Street, Hargham Road and the B1077 approaching from Attleborough. A parishioners highlighted an issue with a car being driven excessively fast in front of the Ox and Plough on several occasions who has been reported to police. Steve Milner explained that if this occurs regularly, then collect date/time information and then the police can attend to try and catch them. They cannot act simply on the public’s word but must witness it themselves. The police attend and monitor on Cake Street due to the Speedwatch team’s initial work in monitoring speeds. Recently 23 people were caught speeding outside the Chapel on Hargham Road, some of which were village residents. When asked if there was any way to monitor the size of vehicles using a road, Jonn Hicks explained that the police won’t do anything as it is Trading Standards which have placed the weight restriction on Hargham Road but are not enforcing it. The only thing the public can do is take a photo of the lorry/company and the registration only. “No Construction Traffic” signs are to be asked for Hargham Road and Abbey Road when the Attleborough SUE work begins.

Old Buckenham Parish Council

Report on the June meeting

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 6 June in the Village Hall. Those present were councillors Jonn Hicks (Chair), Steve Milner, Donna Oakley, Adrian Joel, Andy Nicholls and Gemma Frost. Also in attendance were Rachel Noyes (Parish Clerk) and Jim Trice (Met Office) as well as seven members of the public. Apologies for absence received from Ben Devlin. The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 9 May were approved with an amendment that a property would count towards the quota despite being outside of the village boundary. Gemma Frost is still a Parish Councillor as the Notice of Vacancy has been cancelled by Breckland and therefore she does not need to be co-opted back in.
Presentation concerning proposed new weather radar. Jim Trice from the Met Office attended the meeting regarding the building of a new weather radar in the village.  A report on his presentation was posted on this blog on Sunday 16 June.
Public participation. A parishioner asked if using boards on the Green might be a way of boosting numbers of the public attending parish council meetings. While there is the noticeboard at the shop, not everyone attends the shop or reads the board. Steve Milner will look at possible equipment to use. Another parishioner explained that, after proposing an alternative to leasing the Green at the Annual Parish Meeting, there has only been six days to ask for general views and so they requested that the lease extension was not signed at this meeting to allow more time to collect parishioners’ views.
Green management and signing of lease. The chairman explained that he had requested that the village survey be completed again and could use those results to judge whether to sign a lease extension. He had also calculated that the Green had cost each household in the village 9.3p per week last year (although it was pointed out that not all households pay Council Tax). Several councillors felt that there had been so much discussion in the past about signing the original Green lease that the extension should be signed now and that discussing having a lease at all would be starting the process all over again. They also felt the Parish Council needed security for spending money on the Green in the long term. It was proposed that the Green Lease Extension be signed at the meeting and this was agreed (5 in favour, 1 abstained).
Joint meeting with village hall management committee. This was arranged for Monday 24 June at 7.30pm at the Village Hall Memorial Room. 
Declarations of interest. Andy Nicholls needs to complete a new declaration of interest form due to new business.
Financial matters. Balance in the community account was £45,262.14 and balance in premium account was £2,878.92. Letters of thanks had been received from the Village Hall management committee and the Monday Mardle for their precept grants. Payments approved totalled £1,590.95.
It was questioned why the parish council is paying £385 to lease the recreation area from the Village Hall, plus maintenance costs, when it is not used by anyone. The original lease will be consulted to see if there is a get out clause. The Village Hall could then use it how they wish, maybe extending the car park for which they could receive an income from school parking permits. Andy Nicholls highlighted that planning regulations would need to be consulted for any change of use.
Income received was £250 from the Ox and Plough and £500 from the Green Rights Proprietors.
The Asset register had been updated to include an Eco bar trailer for transporting mower to playground, etc, to cut grass and a strimmer and lawnmower added. The Asset register was approved (5 in favour, 1 abstain). Donna Oakley and Adrian Joel will take the audit form to the Internal Auditor and, once signed, it will be sent to the External Auditor. This must be received by Monday 1 July, otherwise there are financial penalties.
Jonn Hicks wished to thank Donna Oakley for the excellent work tidying up the financial records of the Parish Council over the last year.
Planning applications. Crown Lane Cottage, Crown Road. First floor extension to existing single-storey annex and storage/workshop building (3PL/2019/0508/HOU). The dwelling will be quite far back from the road and is being built for son to live in.  This was supported by the council (6 in favour).
9 The Old Yard, Hargham Road. Erection of office building with first floor two-bed residential accommodation - revised elevations from previous application (3PL/2019/0539/F). Will roughly be in place of original dwelling but with slightly lower elevation. Applying for moving some windows and a new balcony. This was supported by the council (6 in favour).
Poplar Farm, Fen Road. Demolish existing agricultural building and construct new residential dwelling (3PL/2019/0287/F). Amendment with additional contamination information and with Highways and tree information provided. This had been discussed last meeting Application was not supported (5 in favour of not supporting, 1 abstaining).
Eastview, Cake Street. Conversion of existing detached bungalow to two 3-bedroom semi detached houses, incorporating ground floor side and rear extensions with new roof to accommodate new first floors (3PL/2019/0540/F). Left, right and back extensions are within permitted development. Raising elevation requires planning application. Entrance to plot being moved further away from the difficult corner on Cake Street. Developers are flexible about keeping/closing original entrance but in dialogue with Highways about it. Expected Highways will require it closed. A turning circle will be within the land to allow cars to turn and exit properties forwards and not reverse onto road. In a 30mph zone, 43m of vision is required from the entrance. By moving entrance, they will have 45m. The properties are still a good distance from the boundaries and will be a greater distance than some are currently nearby. House is increasing in size by 85%.This application was supported by the council on the conditions it meets Highways requirements, particularly regarding the new entrance to the plot (6 in favour).
Planning decisions by Breckland Council. Land to the north of Fen Street. Erection of four detached dwellings (3PL/2019/0231/O). This has now been considered and the application has been approved.
Orchard House, Loss Wroo, Hargham Road. Demolish existing extensions and conservatory, erection of two-storey extension on south elevation, erection of boundary fences and entrance gates (3PL/2019/0445/HOU). This application has been considered and has been approved.
Items for Highway Rangers. Old Hall Farm Cottage corner on junction of Cake St/Harlingwood Lane: Hedge requires cutting back to the telegraph posts, Crown Rd/Grove Rd: hedge requires cutting back ,ditch alongside Cake Street, Hargham Road: 30mph sign with red paint on it needs cleaning and clear pathways around the green from overgrowing grass, etc.
Chairman’s Report. Wedding near the Ox and Plough recently was for a local couple. For any future weddings/events requiring a marquee on the Green, the Parish Council needs to be consulted and a fee paid for additional use of the Green. There are to be no cars on the Green. Only bikes for Two Wheel Tuesday are allowed. Lots of edges around the Green need strimming/tidying. The Village Handyman to have a day’s work tidying up around benches, war memorial, etc. However the Ox and Plough are responsible for maintenance around the parking bays.
Members of Working Parties. These were assigned.
Personnel Committee: Steve Milner, Ben Devlin, Gemma Frost. 
Play Area Working Party: Donna Oakley, Adrian Joel, Steve Milner, Jonn Hicks, Kerry Talbot (R). 
Recreation Area Working Party: Jonn Hicks, Andy Nicholls.
Road Safety Working Party: Steve Milner, Gemma Frost, Andy Nicholls, Mike Bartlett (resident), Trevor Crooke (resident), Lucy Womack (resident)
SNAP: Steve Milner.
Attleborough Development Partnership: Adrian Joel.
Old Buckenham Village Hall: Jonn Hicks.
Allotments: Adrian Joel, Gemma Frost.
OBPC website: Steve Milner, Rachel Noyes.
Old Buckenham Green Rights: Andy Nicholls.
Almshouses Trust: Ben Devlin.
Village Green Management Working Party: Gemma Frost, Andy Nicholls, Sarah Dye (OBGRP), Allison Frank (OBGRP), Terry Cracknell (Lord of Manor), John Fernihough (resident), Adrian Joel.
Eleemosynary Trust: Jonn Hicks.
Village Green Working Party. It was agreed to spend remaining grant money on bench bases around Ottomer Pond (6 in favour). The Ox and Plough have raised money for a bench for Alec Byrne. They need to consult with the Green Working Group about this.
Road Safety. Grant received of £1650 for an electronic speed display sign. In addition to a large donation, now have approximately £4000. Going to speak to Breckland about locations for sign.
Play Area. Playdale coming out to inspect and give a quote for a new bridge as other bridge parts showing signs of wear. Jonn Hicks and others will be relaying the path in the play area, sorting bases for the bins and replacing wood around chippings. Last inspection was in October and it is completed once a year.
Councillors’ reports. Steve Milner reported that the Scouts have offered to clean the memorial. Donna Oakley said a van with the name “Culling Metal Scrap Dealers of Norwich” on it was seen emptying their rubbish into our bins. Couldn’t get vehicle registration or a photo but need to write a letter to them. Andy Nicholls felt there was a need to debate the proposed weather radar tower which could have a strong impact on the village visually. as well as nearby villagers. The chairman suggested waiting till the public have a chance to learn about it at the planned Public Consultation and then discussing it at the next Parish Council meeting when residents can attend and give their views. Steve Milner highlighted that that is what the planning system is for and when they submit their application, we could give Parish Council views then. The public event will be advertised with posters and Facebook posts in additional to the planned leaflet drop to ensure as many residents are informed as possible.
Allotments. There had been a request for two beehives at the allotments and the council approved this (5 for, 1 abstain). Allotment number 8 needs maintenance as it is not currently being worked on and weeds spreading to other allotments. Adrian Joel will speak to resident.
Items for next agenda. These would include the Action Log and the proposed weather radar.

The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Thursday 4 July at 7.30pm in Old Buckenham Village Hall.

More on Old Buckenham weather radar

Details given at June parish council meeting
Jim Trice from the Met Office attended the meeting regarding the building of a new weather radar in the village. This is a summary of his presentation.
The proposed location is part of the Anglian Water site on Abbey Road. It is a brownfield site that will need clearing before the radar could be built. The area required is approximately 20 metres by 10 metres and would consist of a tower and a cabin for housing the transmitter and communications equipment.
The site was chosen out of 15 initial possibilities. A shortlist was created by comparing cost, radar coverage and project risks. Old Buckenham was chosen due to best coverage all the way to the coast and was at a higher elevation above sea level than some of the other sites.
The radar tower would be 22 metres tall and the radome 5 metres in diameter. In the dome is a rotating dish which transmits a pulse of energy and detects the interaction with precipitation. Towers are normally located at the top of hills but due to the flat topography of the area, a taller tower is required to ensure the radar is above most landforms and trees (including future growth).
The radar is needed because of limited coverage and accuracy of the rainfall intensity in East Anglia and will help improve weather forecasting, warnings of flooding and improved forecasts of snowfall. Additionally, it will improve forecasting for a much wider area and provide Anglian Water with data for more efficient use of water resources and sewerage systems.
As announced in a previous post on this blog (Wednesday 6 June) a 'drop-in' event is planned for the local public on Friday 28 June from 2pm to 8pm at the Village Hall. Poster boards will help illustrate the scale of tower. A leaflet drop is being organised to advertise the event.
Comments from those at the parish council meeting were that New Buckenham and Carlton Rode would need to be contacted as it is close to the parish borders and will be visible to them. When asked about the Airfield’s views, Jim Trice explained that while they did not have a problem with the frequency involved with the radar, they did have an issue with the height and had also requested that a light be located at the top of the structure.
There would be no additional benefit to the village as it would require specialist contractors to build and operate. The parish council chairman said that there should not be any construction traffic through the village and down Abbey Road.
When asked about any possible noise or health risks, Jim Trice said that there are strict guidelines about what noise levels are acceptable and they are confident that they would stay within those limits as the radar rotates quite slowly. Public Health England had monitored a similar weather radar at Ingham and published a report showing that there were no health risks.
A parishioner asked how the radar would improve the use of water resources and sewerage systems. It was explained that Anglian Water would be able to use the data collected to have more accurate estimates of rainfall and therefore adjust the systems accordingly.
A planning application should be submitted in the next couple of months with the hope of starting work at the beginning of 2020. Construction should take about six months and the radar and its current technology are expected to last for around 20 to 25 years.

Regrowing in Old Buckenham

Nature takes back control
Just nine months ago Ottomer pond looked like this:

Yesterday the scene had changed considerably. Nature is a great healer.

Great day for a run in Old Buckenham

How the morning went by
The blog editor was out and about with his camera today trying to record some of the more unusual images of the 10k race that took place to raise money towards repairs to the Old Buckenham windmill.
Here is a sort of essay of captioned pictures to try to capture the successful and cheerful time that was had by all. It is expected that the event will have raised around £3000.

People queuing to get into the village hall...

...just to sign on and get their paperwork.

Then to find somewhere to fill in their details...

...in triplicate?

Waiting for the start...

...while the mobile tv equipment is delicately adjusted.

The wheelchair entrant starts off first...

...while everyone else gets ready for the 'off''.

The race begins...

...with nearly 300 others taking it slightly slower.

Time to get the bottles of water out...

...as the runners started to return.

All the runners were cheered home...

... including a first time runner amazed at what he had achieved.

Then a relaxing walk back to the village hall...

... to queue for homemade cakes.

Some of the many helpers enjoyed some cake too...

...while the winning runners collected their medals.

Overall a great day out that the village should be proud of. It is intended to have another run in 2020 so make sure you are part of it.
You can click on the individual images to see them at a larger size.

Running 10k in Old Buckenham

Come along and watch

Some of last years' finishers

The Old Buck 10k road run will be take place tomorrow (Sunday) and is starting at 10am from the top of Crown Road. There will be around 300 runners taking part. Many villagers are helping to make this event work and to raise raise for repairs to Old Buckenham windmill.
Good luck to all runners,especially those who are actually running. If you are not running, it would be nice to see you out around the course or at the end to give the runners a true Old Buckenham welcome and encouragement. 
Also why not come along to the Village Hall for the presentation of medals to the winners at 11.45am. There will be cakes and refreshments for sale at the Village Hall for all so please come out and be part of this great event.

Weather radar in Old Buckenham?

See the plans later this month
Come along to the Village Hall on Friday 28 June to learn more. Anglian Water's site is along Abbey Road just past the Airfield. All other details are on the poster, click on the image to make it larger.

County Councillor's work for Old Buckenham

Sorting out local problems
Stephen Askew, the Norfolk County Councillor for the the ward covering Old Buckenham, gave a talk at the village Annual Parish Meeting on Friday 31 May. This is the part of his presentation that covers his local work.
Locally, apart from private constituent issues I have had several matters to try to resolve on behalf of the parish. These have mainly been drainage issues and I’m pleased to say that with the exception of Church Lane, these appear to have been sorted.
The parish has had the benefit for the second year running of a significant contribution of my “Member's personal budget”.  The sum of £675 was allocated to assist clearing and re-establishing the ditch on Hargham Road to prevent the flooding which had been occurring at every significant rainfall and a further £1242 was spent to clear the ditch further along by The Green alongside “The Kenyons” which should ease the troubles which have occurred between The Green and Mill Road. It is felt that there may need to be some remedial works in the future at the drain outside “The Hawthorns” but for the moment the works undertaken should suffice in the short term. A total of £1917, which is just shy of a third of my budget, has been spent in Old Buckenham this financial year so it has done quite well.
Church Lane has been more problematic. After several attempts to resolve the issue, all sources of routine maintenance have been exhausted. I chased this up only last week to get clarification of the next steps and was told that the matter will be briefed for a future drainage scheme. What form and timescale that might take, I don’t know as yet but I will keep it live and press for the matter to be resolved as soon as is practically possible.
The other major item which has been ongoing and taken up a significant amount of my resolve has been the matter of the pedestrian crossing. It has been some two years or more since I had a mandate from the Parish Council to try to establish a pedestrian crossing on the B1077 following public concern over the dangers of crossing this busy road at school time. In those two years I have had a number of meetings with the sub group set up by the Parish Council consisting of some current and previous Parish Council members, met on site with members of the committee, our MP George Freeman and Tom McCabe the director of the then Environment, Development and Transport (EDT) portfolio, spent £1500 from my member's budget to get an assessment from officers to establish what type of crossing is required and where suitable to deploy it. As a result of this we achieved a line in the budget for a crossing to be deployed should the scheme meet all necessary criteria and overcome the hurdles on the way (such as planning regulations, permissions and safety criteria). I have had further meetings with officers and numerous correspondence along the way and I’m pleased to report that at present it is hoped that everything will be in place for the programming of works to start on the construction of the pedestrian crossing from Monday 29 July 2019 in time for the new school year at the start of September. Of course it’s never over until the fat lady sings but at the moment I’m as confident as I’ve been so far in this journey that the parish should have the crossing for future generations it has sought.

Prestigious building in Old Buckenham

Best in East Anglia

It has been announced that Chapel Green School in Old Buckenham, an ‘inspiring’ £14m purpose-built school for physically disabled and complex needs children, has been named “Project of the Year” in the prestigious RICS Awards for the East of England.
It had initially been awarded the best project within the ‘design through innovation’ category and as a direct result went forward to be judged alongside all other category winners to finally be selected as the East of England’s overall ‘Project of the Year 2019’.
The Project of the Year accolade, presented to a scheme demonstrating outstanding best practice and significant benefit to their local area and wider economy, was won this year by Chapel Green which  beat off the challenge of over 30 other high profile and worthy projects which were also shortlisted
The school can accommodate up to 110 pupils ranging from three to 19-years-old. It includes passive ventilation, thermal mass and natural daylighting to provide exemplar teaching and learning spaces. Externally, a multi-level play mound provides excitement and stimulation to meet the therapeutic and development needs of the pupils.
The school also features a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy pool, physiotherapy room, medical room and a sensory room. There is even a Life Skills flat which replicates ‘real life’ adult living accommodation to help prepare students for life after education.
Chair of the judging panel for the RICS Awards, East of England, Jonathan Nelson, said: “It's been said that 'Buildings Learn', developing and adapting as society evolves. At Chapel Green SEN School this could not be truer. From applying first principles, good practice and actively putting the students at the forefront of design, the outcome is an inspiring and immersive development. As the students develop and learn, so does the building, by offering staged and progressive learning surroundings. The building effortlessly links inside with out and cleverly connects familiarity and the less familiar in a sympathetic way."
James Montgomery, Head of Architecture for NPS Property Consultants Ltd, added: “Chapel Green has been designed to meet the specific needs of its pupils and create a learning environment for their diverse needs, overcoming barriers to learning in the process. We have together successfully delivered a project which meets these aspirations. To be judged by our peers across the region as ‘Project of the Year’ is a fantastic achievement and the ultimate professional recognition of a job very well done.”
The successful team behind the project included NPS Property Consultants Ltd, Norfolk County Council Children's Services and constructor Morgan Sindall. NPS led the design delivery and coordination, project management and cost managed the successful scheme from conception to completion. This included a great deal of liaison with multiple stakeholders to ensure the project’s vision was fully defined and achieved.
The project now moves forward to compete in the Grand Final of the RICS Awards in London on Friday 4 October.

Old Buckenham WI in May

Time to decide on resolutions
At their May meeting Old Buckenham WI discussed and voted on the resolutions being put forward at their national Annual Meeting to be held in June. Two members, Rosemary Pratt and Kate Lloyd, had thoroughly researched their subjects and gave members information to consider before voting took place. Rosemary dealt with the resolution concerning cervical screening, which saves around 5,000 lives each year, yet attendance is currently at its lowest level for a decade. About 2,600 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in England each year and about 690 women die from the disease. It is estimated that if everyone attended screening regularly, 83% of cases could be prevented. Members are urged to take action to raise awareness of the importance of screening to help eradicate cervical cancer. 
The second resolution was presented by Kate Lloyd and concerns the decline in the number of bus services, particularly those in rural and semi-rural areas. In order to alleviate loneliness, improve health and well-being, as well as promoting sustainable development, the WI is calling on the government and local authorities to increase subsidies and to work in partnership with bus companies and community transport operators to enable an adequate provision of services. Members voted in favour of both resolutions and our vote will be taken forward to the annual meeting.
The next meeting is on Thursday 27 June when Julie Porter will be talking on 'Recycling with a difference'. Then on Thursday 25 July the speaker will be Martin Woodhouse and his subject is ‘Drive safer for longer’.

Another Old Buckenham newsletter

June issue is here for you to read
You may have had a copy delivered but otherwise pick up a copy at the village shop of All Saints Church.

Busy month in Old Buckenham

Diary dates for June 

Saturday 1    WI coffee morning, 59 Fen Street, 10.30am to 12.30pm

Monday 3    Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm

Monday 3    Reflection and Prayer, Methodist Chapel, 7pm to 8pm

Tuesday 4    Coffee and Chat, Church Rooms, 10.30am onwards

Wednesday 5    Chapel Friendship Group, Methodist Chapel, 2.30pm

Thursday 6    Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm

Friday 7    Visits from Mobile Library during morning

Sunday 9    Village 10K run, 10am start on the Green

Wednesday 12    Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm

Thursday 13    Breckland Flower and Garden Club, Besthorpe Hall, 2pm

Thursday 13    Social and Wine Circle, Church Rooms,7.30pm

Monday 17    Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm

Wednesday 19    Songs of praise, Methodist Chapel, 7.30pm

Thursday 20    Community Cafe, Chapel Green School, 9.30am to 11.30am

Wednesday 26    Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm

Thursday 27    Women's Institute, Village Hall, 7.30pm

Saturday 29     Summer Fete, Chapel Green School, 12 noon to 3pm

Old Buckenham 2000 Trust

Trust has its AGM
The Old Buckenham 2000 Trust held their AGM on Wednesday 15 May in the Church Rooms.
The Chairman’s report was a brief resume of activities during the year which consisted of a 10k run in April 2018 and a Disco in February 2019, both events raising substantial sums of money to be distributed to various village organisations. Another 10k run is scheduled for Sunday 9 June this year and another successful event is anticipated.
The annual Christmas Sainsbury collection for the St Martins Housing Trust took place and the day was organised by Terri and Steve Hammond on behalf of the OB 2000 Trust.
The Trust currently has five trustees and would be keen to talk to any interested prospective members with a view to increasing the number to between six and nine.
The Treasurer reported that the Trust currently has a healthy balance after making several payments. The 10k run raised funds for the Church ‘Raise the Roof’ appeal in excess of £2000. The Disco raised £381 awarded to the local Scouts Group and £190 was awarded to the Brownies. Both groups were very appreciative of these funds and have expressed their intentions to put the monies towards future planned events and trips.
All trustees were prepared to remain for another year and with no other attendees present the status quo was retained. All current holders were re-elected en-bloc with the introduction of a position for a Communications Officer, these duties are to be undertaken by Meg Batchelor.
It was agreed that the AGM needed to be advertised locally and the Secretary is to maintain an administration diary to ensure everybody is kept informed of meetings and other activities.
The next AGM has been arranged for Wednesday 13 June 2020 in the Church Rooms at 8pm.

Old Buckenham Methodists

Busy time at Methodist Church
A successful and enjoyable Alternative Quiz was held in April with five teams competing. A very different range of questions were tackled, many of which were visual questions using the TV screen fixed on the wall. The eventual winners was the team ‘two plus two’ consisting of Alison and David Hannah, Alison Frank and John Frost. Refreshments were on the tables to be nibbled all the evening and teas and coffees were served at half time. An excellent evening all round with £150 being raised at the Quiz for St Martins Trust in Norwich.
A very happy afternoon was held a few days later when the Chapel Friendship Group held their latest meeting. This time there were more quizzes devised by one of the members with the winners of each receiving a prize.
On Monday 3 June there will be an hour of Reflection and Prayer between 7pm and 8pm as part of the initiative of the Church of England, praying through the nine days between Ascension day and Pentecost. This will be led by Rev Jacqui Horton. Then on Wednesday 5 June the Chapel Friendship Group (CFG) meets at 2.30pm when Rev Jacqui Horton will be helping to organise something that relates to the '30 days Wild in June' being organised by the Wild Life Trust.
Songs of Praise will be as normal at 7.30pm on Wednesday 19 June.
Looking forward to the following month, the CFG meets at 2.30pm on Wednesday 3 July when Jacqui will be showing pictures and objects from her recent travels whilst on her sabbatical.
On Sunday 7 July at 3pm there will be a special service (no service in the morning). Sadly the Church will be losing the minister Rev Jacqui Horton and the deacon Jen Woodfin. Jacqui is moving on to become Superintendent of the Central Norfolk Circuit and Jen is going also, to continue her work as Deacon in that Circuit too. It is sad to see them go. A special service will be held on the above date, Jacqui and Jen will choose some hymns/songs and tea and cakes will be served. This service is open to all people in the village to enable them to come and say goodbye to Jacqui and Jen. If you have met them in the ten years that they have been connected to our Methodist Church, please come as this will be their last service here. They have both been very instrumental to the life of our church, (literally in Jen's case, as she plays the organ) and they will be missed tremendously.
Wednesday 18 July will be the last appearance of Jacqui and Jen at our Methodist Church for Songs of Praise at 7.30pm.
These events are open to all, please come and join in.

Old Buckenham and flowers

Found in the attic
On Thursday 9 May members of Breckland Flower and Garden Club welcomed Terri Potter to Old Buckenham Village Hall. It was Terri’s first visit to the Club and she presented her demonstration called “Attic Attack”. The clue was in the title as all her props had been retrieved from her attic. Terri began with an old suitcase from around 1975 which she filled with beautiful white flowers and foliage from her garden, creating a bridal bouquet arrangement and taking us back to her wedding day. Next, using a container that she had made and stored in her attic for sometime, she created a stunning design using carnations and roses with colours from lemon through to bright orange. For her third arrangement she used a container she had found in a well-known shop, one where when you see it you have to buy it as there is a good chance it will be gone next time you visit. Using beautiful pink lilies named ‘Christopher’ she created another delightful arrangement adding aspidistra leaves and some unusual spades she had made from thin wire and found in, yes, the attic. Next using knitted small hammocks hung onto some robust branches and greenery from the garden she produced yet another unusual arrangement. Her fifth design used an old picture frame with tubes attached to add foliage and flowers. For her sixth and final arrangement Terri used a tall three-tier stand, decorated with glass-shaped diamonds down the sides. This year NAFAS celebrates its Diamond Anniversary, 60 years since it was recognised that ladies were in need of something creative to do together following the war when they had been busy doing men’s work now no longer needed. Refreshments followed with a chance to purchase more raffle tickets. At least ten lucky ladies would be taking Terri’s’ arrangements home.
Terri judged the competitions. The winners were Christine Hewson for the table show “Blossom Time” and Pat Barton who won the trophy for “Long forgotten”, an arrangement using an item from the attic.
The next meeting on Thursday 13 June at 2pm is a garden visit to Besthorpe Hall followed by afternoon tea at Peter Beales so no meeting that day at the Village Hall.
For more details regarding any of the above including membership or visiting the club, please contact Christine Hewson on 01953 454528 or Sally Westrup on 01953 788712.

Helicopters over Old Buckenham

Local flying

On a couple of occasions recently, people have contacted Old Buckenham Airfield to let them know about a helicopter annoying horses in the village. It’s nothing to do with the Airfield at all and whoever it is seems to land just outside their sphere of influence. They saw it on their screens on Friday morning and the registration was G-GETU which is large black executive machine quite possibly undertaking charter work. 

The Airfield are at pains to point out that this is nothing to do with them, even if the helicopter did come within their ‘zone’, they are not able to prevent it from doing so.

 At the same time some may have spotted another black helicopter, this time with a gold stripe, flying in the area. This is bringing, Matt at the Airfield has been told, the new owners of Banham Poultry to and from their site on Bunn’s Bank. Once again, the Airfield powerless to stop them although the Airfield have asked them to take a path that causes least nuisance which they appear to be doing. In this instance any complaints arising should be addressed to Banham Poultry direct. 

The Airfield are happy to pass on any information that they see on their screen (which depends on the aircraft to be fitted with a system called ADS-B). 

Latest parish council meeting

Discussions in May

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 May at 7.30pm in the Village Hall, Old Buckenham. Those present were councillors Jonn Hicks (Chair) Steve Milner, Donna Oakley, Adrian Joel and Ben Devlin as well as Rachel Noyes (Clerk), two members of the public and District and County councillor Stephen Askew. Ben Devlin was co-opted in as a councillor (4 in favour,) Jonn Hicks re-elected as Chairman (4 in favour), Steve Milner elected as Vice Chairman (4 in favour) and Declaration of Acceptance signed by all present.
Apologies for absence had been received from Andy Nicholls and Gemma Frost who has resigned as a councillor.
Minutes of April meeting. These were approved.
Matters arising from these minutes. Should have read 17 houses to be built (rather than 12).
Public participation. One parishioner requested that someone from the parish council attends village hall management meetings. Jonn Hicks will attend if no one else does. The key fob box for Village Hall was moved slightly because of the installation of the defibrillator.
A further parishioner discussed Fen Street planning application (3PL/2019/0231/O). They felt that by moving garages to the side of the houses, it increased the urbanisation of the countryside. They wanted to highlight that Highway had concerns about the application but that Breckland were recommending approval despite the safety issues raised. As these were also issues that the Parish Council had highlighted to Breckland Council, would the Parish Council change their view and support of the application? Another parishioner also discussed the Fen Street application (3PL/2019/0231/O). Apart from purchasing more land, which was not possible, there is little that can be done. A clear passing place will be created.
Stephen Askew, the recently elected District Councillor, said he would provide an update on the Puffin crossing at the Annual Parish Meeting on Friday 31 May). Church Street is proving difficult to sort but still working on it. Funding for Public Partnership is delayed but hopefully should be decided soon. Adrian Joel had been asked by a member of the public about the move of Banham Poultry to Bunn’s Bank and therefore asked if Old Buckenham Parish Council would be consulted. Jonn Hicks explained that it had already been approved but they had applied for an extension. Also newer technology should mean there would be no smell emitted.
Financial matters. Balance in the community account was £47,623.64 and balance in the premium account £2,878.92. Income received included allotment rent of £100, £450 from Breckland Council for community car scheme and £70 in donations for wood.
Payments to be approved totalled £5,603.53 and included Norris & Fisher (insurance renewal) of £560.39, agreed grants of £2,759.98, £95.85 to community car drivers, £600 to JD Tree Services and £540 to Broadland Tree Services for the Christmas tree on the Green.
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).
Poplar Farm, Fen Road. Demolish existing agricultural building and construct new residential dwelling (3PL/2019/0287/F). Concerns were raised about the single land access to the site accommodating construction lorries. It was also highlighted that it is outside the village boundary (but within the Parish) and therefore would not count towards the 17 houses quota. (in favour 1, against 3, abstain 1).
Site at Harlingwood Lane. Construction of two new dwelling houses and garages (3PL/2019/0333/F). Previous applications have been refused due to concerns from Highways. In particular, the junction to turn out of Harlingwood Lane is dangerous. There is also a pond on site as it was used to drain water away from a neighbouring field, but drainage has been factored in to the plans. Ben Devlin felt that it was important to use these pockets of land in the village in order to limit the spread outwards with large developments. (4 against, 1 abstain).
Hunters House, access roads in and around Old Buckenham Hall. Construction of two new dwelling houses and garages. Redesign conservatory to a garden room (amended design) (3PL/2019/0385/HOU). Lots of extensions have already been done on house. They are re-doing an existing extension. (in favour 5).
Orchard House, Loss Wroo, Hargham Road. Demolish existing extensions and conservatory, erection of two-storey extension on south elevation, erection of boundary fences and entrance gates (3PL/2019/0445/HOU). Previous application approved by Council but then withdrawn. This is a new application with addition of fences and gates. (in favour 5)
Land to the rear of Church Farmhouse, The Green. Outline consent for the erection of a single detached dwelling and garage (3PL/2019/0466/O). Will be a shared driveway with a 1½ storey house. Some residents concerned by traffic and being overlooked. Jonn Hicks explained that using the planning checklist for guidance, there was not anything to object to. This was outline consent only and designs with windows, etc, would come later on. A member of the public highlighted that there was a row of tall trees at the back of the front property in which were not on the drawings which would prevent it being overlooked. (in favour 5 as long as the trees are kept).
Land to the north of Fen Street. Erection of four detached dwellings (3PL/2019/0231/O). Application has been adapted. Forward garages removed. Original application was supported by the parish council as long as conditions regarding traffic safety and utilities were met. Adrian Joel felt that, as these conditions have not been addressed, the parish council could not support it. Steve Milner also expressed disappointment that Breckland had not shown any positive engagement to find solutions to the issues raised (eg working with Sustrans for ideas for cyclists) and highlighted that there was no safe way in/out of Fen Street as all junctions were difficult. Ben Devlin again highlighted the need to use the pockets of land available in the village and questioned whether four houses would make much difference to the existing traffic. He felt that construction and speed limits/cycle paths in the village were separate issues. (in favour 3, against 2).
Planning decisions by Breckland Council. Manor Corner, The Green. Two-storey side extension and internal alterations (3PL/2019/0083/HOU). This application has now been considered and the application has been refused.
College Barn, Cake Street. Variation of condition number 2 on 3PL/2017/0927/F as the roof height has been increased by 500mm as the existing headroom was too low once insulation has been introduced (3PL/2019/0282/VAR). The above application has now been considered and the application has been approved.
Playground posts. The wooden posts around the children’s play area have been removed. As previously agreed, the council will not be paying for the installation of the posts. The £55 payment towards the reflectors has been returned and asked to be donated to Raise the Roof Fund. NCC Highways has asked the parishioner to restore the verge to its original state. Jonn Hicks and the parishioner who installed the posts have had a discussion. Both parties agreed that they had had a conversation previously in which Jonn Hicks had said to send the paid invoice to the parish council for discussion over possible part/full payment. However this was unlikely due to the work not being authorised previously by the parish council. It was questioned why the paid invoice was addressed to the parish council when they had not requested the work. Many parishioners and councillors felt the posts were a good idea and were disappointed to see Highways object to them and request their removal. It was particularly felt that Highways are quick to object to issues but slow or reluctant to improve things for villagers’ safety. It was suggested that D Jacklin from Highways was invited to walk around the village with councillors in order to highlight the many issues (speed limits, potholes, etc).
Green lease. The Green Working Party were keen to extend the lease as they were pleased with how it has gone over last few years. The documentation has not yet been passed on to parish council for consultation. Once it is received, the parish council will look at the details and discuss.
Chairman’s report. In the week before the current meeting Gemma Frost (and later the Clerk) received a phone call from a parishioner who was rude and hung up on her. It was this abuse and pressurising from several parishioners that was a contributing factor to Gemma Frost resigning from the council. Several councillors and even their family members have had verbal abuse aimed at them in recent months. Parishioners need to remember that everyone volunteers their time for the villages’ benefit and no one has the right to be rude and abusive to the councillors or their families. The parish council are happy to listen to concerns and help where possible as long as they are spoken to in a polite and respectful manner. The Clerk should be the first form of contact and it is worth remembering that decisions are made by the whole Council and not individuals.
Play Area. Thanks to Jonn Hicks for cutting the grass around the play area. Also praise from several councillors on how much their families enjoy using it.
Recreation Area. Adrian Joel explained that Andy Nicholls has spoken to Stuart Barker about cutting the grass in future. The next cut will wait until drier weather and also once the water from the leak from Chapel Green School has drained. A corner has been marked off for bee orchids to grow.
Councillors’ reports. A parishioner has spoken to Steve Milner about the 40mph zone on Cake Street. Highways have been contacted about speed limits in the village but are not interested in changes. Ben Devlin requested a budget of £3,000 to repair and update the phone box (quotes have been approximately £5,000). Budget approved subject to getting written quotes prior to work. Will hopefully progress this month. Also will be cutting the grass for the Ox and Plough ready for Two Wheel Tuesday so will try and cut the Village Hall grass too. Adrian Joel had received a request for an allotment from someone who lives outside of Old Buckenham. Usually £50 rent but as there is only six months left, it is reduced to £25. A parishioner has complained that the stones on Hargham Road are difficult to walk on and untidy. The phone mast is progressing, currently waiting for companies to install electricity to the site and then erect the mast.
Items for next agenda. These are expected to include the phone box, Parish Council working parties and the Neighbourhood Plan.

The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Thursday 6 June at 7.30pm in Old Buckenham Village Hall.

Busy time for Old Buckenham WI

What the WI has been up to

The month of April was a busy one for Old Buckenham WI. On Friday 12 April five members joined 750 WI members in Norwich Cathedral for a service to celebrate 100 years of the Norfolk Federation. The service was led by the Dean of Norwich and reflected the work of the Federation since 1919.
On Thursday 18 April week Old Buckenham WI met with other WIs in the area for a group meeting when the guest speaker was Kate Prout, a roving reporter from Anglia TV. At the regular monthly meeting the following week the speaker was Simon White who gave an insight into the history of Peter Beales Roses and talked about the forthcoming developments of the nursery in Attleborough.
The following day twelve members with friends embarked on two local walks as part of the Women Walk the World Day event. The walks were followed by a light lunch in the Village Hall and raised £143 for Associated Country Women of the World, which raises funds the education of women in third world countries and of which the WI is a founder member.
The next event is a Coffee Morning on Saturday 1 June at 59 Fen Street, by kind permission of Roy and Pat Dickinson, from 10.30am. Please do come along – this is an excellent opportunity to see around Roy and Pat’s delightful garden. The next monthly meeting is on Thursday 27 June when the speaker will be Julie Porter talking about 'Re-cycling with a difference'.

Election result in Old Buckenham

Our 'new' Breckland councillor

As a result of yesterday's election, our existing county councillor Stephen Askew has now also taken on the job representing Old Buckenham on Breckland District Council.

The official result was:

The Buckenhams & Banham

ASKEW Stephen, Conservative Party, 458 votes, elected

NEBBETT Christine, Labour Party, 106 votes

PRIOR Janet Margaret, Green Party, 270 votes

 (Electorate 2,547, ballot papers issued 843, turnout: 33.10%)

Old Buckenham's latest newsletter

May issue has just appeared
This month's issue has been late appearing but is now being distributed around. Plenty of news for you to read.

Busy May in Old Buckenham

Diary dates for May 

Plenty for you to choose from in the month of May
Wednesday 1    Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm

Thursday 2    Breckland councillor election, Village Hall, 7am to 10pm

Tuesday 7    Coffee and Chat, Church Rooms, 10.30am onwards

Wednesday 8    Chapel Friendship Group, Methodist Chapel, 2.30pm

Thursday 9    Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm

Thursday 9    Breckland Flower and Garden Club, Village Hall, 2pm

Thursday 9    Social and Wine Circle, Church Rooms, 7.30pm

Friday 10    Visits from Mobile Library during morning

Saturday 11    Litter Pick, meet at Church Rooms, 10am

Wednesday 15    Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm

Wednesday 15    Songs of praise, Methodist Chapel, 7.30pm

Thursday 16    Community Cafe, Chapel Green School, 9.30am to 11.30am

Thursday 16    Dial M for Murder, Village Hall, 7.30pm

Friday 17    Dial M for Murder, Village Hall, 7.30pm

Saturday 18    Bingo, Church Rooms, 2pm

Saturday 18    Dial M for Murder, Village Hall, 7.30pm

Sunday 19    Christian Aid cake stall, Church Rooms, 10.30am

Monday 20    Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm

Thursday 23    Women's Institute, Village Hall, 7.30pm

Wednesday 29    Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm

Thursday 30    NB Silver Band, Methodist Church, 7.30pm

Friday 31    Annual Parish Meeting, Village Hall, 7pm

Calling Old Buckenham photographers

Display your pictures
Calling all photographers in Old and New Buckenham and the surrounding villages. Here is a chance to put your work on public show.
The seventh BUCKS PHOTOSHOW takes place in New Buckenham Village Hall from
Friday 24 to Sunday 26 May. It will be widely advertised and hopefully you will get a lot of visitors seeing your work.
It’s all very simple. For just £16 you rent an 8 x 4 ft display board and on it you arrange however many of your pictures you wish - it’s your space. If you can’t fill a board, why not arrange to share with another photographer? You put up your pictures yourself before the show opens on the Friday evening and take them down after the show closes on the Sunday lunchtime. It’s up to you whether you offer your work for sale.
Applications (together with a cheque for £16 payable to New Buckenham Village Hall Trust) should be sent to Charles Oxley, Old Vicarage, Castle Hill Road, New Buckenham, NR16 2AG not later than Saturday 18 May but preferably earlier. If the event is oversubscribed, display boards will be allocated on a ‘first come first served’ basis, giving priority to exhibitors who live in Old and New Buckenham and the immediately surrounding villages. If you have any queries before you apply, please phone Charles or (preferably) send an email (charlesoxley@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 01953 860708). He would be pleased to hear from any photographers in the area who have not previously exhibited but who may be interested. 

   

More lilies in Old Buckenham

Easter lilies in All Saints church
Some people who have helped to sponsor the flower arrangements of lilies, each one in memory of departed relatives or friends, are unable to come and see them in person, so these photos are posted on the blog for them to see.
You can just click on the individual pictures to see them at a larger size.

Lilies in Old Buckenham church

Come and see the flower displays
Several people were busy in All Saints Church yesterday using around 200 lilies to produce displays around the church. Why not pop in to see them on Easter Monday or later in the week?
Photos of some of the arrangements will appear on this blog over the next day or two.

Old Buckenham Women's Institute

March meeting report 

At the March meeting of Old Buckenham Women’s Institute, members were treated to the fascinating story of Laura Eke and the Fisherman who painted in wool, John Craske. Christine Humphries, a distant descendant of Laura, told the story. Laura was born in Dereham in 1882, the daughter of a railway worker. After school she worked as a nanny in London and on her weekends off would return home and always visit Dereham market where she took a liking to a tall handsome young man singing with the Salvation Army – John Craske. John was born in Sheringham in 1881 to a family of deep sea fishermen who moved to Dereham to run a wet fish shop. John and Laura were married in 1908 and John worked on a fish round. In 1917 at the third attempt John joined the army but collapsed with the flu which left him with an abscess on the brain and diabetes. For the next 25 years Laura nursed him through poor health, often in and out of comas, while also running the shop. With periods in Dereham and various places near the sea where his health improved, John took up painting. All of his pictures were of the sea and ships. While living at Hemsby he made model boats which sold well and which led to his paintings being recognised and displayed in a London gallery. As his health and eyesight deteriorated he took up needlework, creating amazing depictions of his favourite themes. His artworks can be seen in Aldeburgh, Norwich and Sheringham museums and a nine foot long tapestry of the north Norfolk coast is on display in Glandford Shell Museum. John died in 1943 and Laura died 14 years later from “hard work”. 

After a break for refreshments President Kate Lloyd gave a report on the Norfolk Federation of WIs’ Centenary Annual Meeting at the Theatre Royal which was enjoyed immensely by the members who attended. Apart from the business of the meeting the main speakers were Peter Wilson, former Chief Executive of the Theatre Royal and Pam Ayres who had the audience laughing uproariously.
The next meeting is on Thursday 25 April when Simon White will be talking about Peter Beales and the romance of the rose. Then on Thursday 23 May  members will discuss and vote on the Resolutions for campaigning on this year.