Issue Number 195 - December 2012

Wayland News digital on www.waylandnews.com

Book Week at Westfield Infant & Nursery School

The children of Watton Westfield Infant and Nursery School enjoyed a wonderful enrichment experience celebrating Book Week in November. They have listened to a performing story

teller, walked to the public library, enjoyed a visiting a theatre company and learned lots about how books are made and organised. The school is busy developing their class book corners and

main library too. For Children in Need, on the Friday of Book Week, every child dressed as a book character and entered into the national Fun Day.

Winner Takes All in our Christmas Crawl

How would you like over 400 to spend in Watton High Street just before Christmas? You would? Well, the Watton Town Team thought so too, and so we have organised our 2012 Christmas Crawl, and put up for grabs, in a SINGLE Grand Prize, more than 20 vouchers, with a total value in excess of 400 from many of our High Street independent businesses! Oh yeah, whats the catch? No catch but you do have to be in it to win it! All you have to do is to pick up a Christmas Crawl entry form from our stall at the 'Inside Out' market, or, if you cant get to that, from Adcocks in the High Street, after 1st December, and then visit each of the participating businesses listed and ask them to stamp your form. That's it, that's all, nothing else. You don't need to spend anything with the business to get the stamp, though they would love it if you did, just ask and they will stamp your form for you. Once you have filled it up with stamps from all of the participating businesses, return the form to Adcocks and put it in the bin there for the Grand Draw. The draw will take place at our Festive Christmas Market on the 15th December, when Father Christmas will pull the winner's name from the hat . . . or whatever size receptacle we can find if a hat just isn't big enough ONE winner will receive ALL the vouchers which can be redeemed at the High Street businesses who have given them. Oh yes and if you have got a young one, put their name down on the form because we have 26 runner's up Pirate Treasure Chest make our way to the Sports Centre through Nelson Court you might even want to join us on the way. For those who would like to attend the carol service only, please feel free to turn up at the Sports Hall in the Sports Centre, ready for the service to start at 3pm. The change of venue is down to the change of day, so do please come along and bring a friend with you. In the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations it is good to take time out and celebrate what the festival is all about. It is a slight change from the usual, but it is going to be good and we look forward to welcoming you to celebrate the true meaning of CHRISTmas. Any enquiries please to Rev.Geoff Garrett 881439 or Rev Steve Sowerby 881035. Prizes for them. Businesses taking part this year are Edwards, Adcocks, Grandma's Patch, James Ball, Myhills, Lings, Doves, The Bakehouse, Watton Plaice, Sandra's Cafe, Total Health Pharmacy, Mark Bunning, Top to Toe, Dutch Flower Parade, Steven Smith Butchers, Amys Cards & Gifts, The Golden Lantern, Studio Khyber, Little Gary's, Spoilt for Choice, Smiths Clothes, BWB Domestics and Buy Right (in Rudlings old shop). Please note vouchers can not be redeemed for cash and certain conditions may apply to some businesses (such as can not be used to buy stamps or pay for dry cleaning etc.) may apply. Your local High Street businesses really do care about you and you wouldn't want to be without them now, would you?

The Town Carol Service

Churches Together are arranging the Town Carol Service to follow on from the Christmas Festive Market on the High Street. The service this year is going to be on Saturday 15th December 2.30 at Chaston Place and/or 3pm at the SPORTS CENTRE. The theme of this years service is Looking for Christmas? For those who want to gather at Chaston Place (outside the Coop/Boots) we will begin with a couple of carols followed by a short dramatic presentation on the theme and then we will

Watton Senior Citizens Party

Takes place again on the 15th December at Wayland Academy in Merton Road. Free tickets will at Mullengers Estate Agents in November and, as for so many years, the evening will include good food, entertainment from youngsters at the school and the fellowship of old friends. With around 100 people involved in looking after our 200 visitors this is a true free community event with the funding and staffing provided freely from within the town and the school. The first 200 will get the tickets for this early Christmas evening, enjoyed by many over the past 40 plus years.

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Ballroom at the Queens Hall

Ballroom, Latin and Sequence Dancing at the Queen's Hall, Watton on 5th January 2013 8 p.m. to 11pm admission 4

Remembrance Roundup
Laying of Poppy Crosses on War Graves, Saturday 10th November A short service took place at St Marys Church Watton at 12 oclock to place the Poppy Crosses on the War Graves in the Churchyard. This Parade was attended by the Mayor and Mayoress, members of Watton Town Council, representatives of the of the town plus members of the general public. The Last Post and Reveille were sounded and the Two Minute Silence observed. The parade then marched past the War Memorial, the representatives of RAF Honington and USAF Lakenheath and the Town Mayor, Mr Paul Cooper, taking the salute.

War dead remembered at Wretham

People from four local villages gathered at St Ethelberts Church at Wretham for an annual Remembrance Day service bathed in brilliant sunshine. The Wretham and Hockham Royal British Legion standard was paraded to the war memorial, where the names of war dead from the four villages were recounted by Maj. Richard Wilson and wreaths were laid by representatives from the four parishes Wretham, Hockham, Larling and Shropham. The standard was then taken into church and laid on the altar while the service was led by Mrs Jean Rolph. A collection was devoted to the Royal British Legion. Wretham and Hockham Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal A collection of 237.70 at the annual Remembrance Service for Hockham, Larling, Shropham and Wretham , held at St Ethelberts Church, Wretham, brought the total amount raised for the Poppy Appeal in the four villages to around 1600. Wretham and Hockham Royal British Legion branch chairman Maj. Richard Wilson described it as a marvellous amount.

Czech and Polish comrades honoured at Wretham

Royal British Legion, RAFA, detachments of the Army Cadet Force and the Air Training Corps and members of the general public. The Last Post and Reveille were sounded and the Two Minute Silence observed. It was very refreshing to see the numbers of the general public attending and a very good turnout of both the Army Cadets and Air Training Corps. Remembrance Sunday 11th November The Remembrance Sunday events for the Royal British Legion started at 10.00 hrs at Merton Parish Church where the Standard was paraded accompanied by Mr David Sell and Capt Glyn Bellamy. The Standard, accompanied by Mr David Sell and Capt Bellamy then proceeded to the Tottington War Memorial where the wreath was laid by Mr Sell and the Exhortation and the Kohima were spoken by Capt Bellamy. The parade on the Sunday afternoon at the Thetford Road car park under the command of the Parade Marshal, Mr Pat Murphy, marched on to parade at 14.30 hrs and after a short service wreaths were laid by the Mayor, representatives of RAF Honington and USAF Lakenheath, Royal British Legion and RAFA and the various voluntary organizations

The parade was lead by the Band of 864 Sqn ATC and proceeded to St Marys Church, Church Lane, where the main Service of Remembrance was held. Once again the members of the Royal British Legion would like to thank the Mayor and Watton Town Council for their support, the representatives of RAF Honington and USAF Lakenheath for their attendance and all the towns voluntary organizations. The final Service for this Remembrance weekend is at Griston Parish Church where the Watton & District Royal British Legion Standard will be paraded by Mr Alan Chilvers. It is at this stage that all members of the Royal British Legion would like to wish Alan all the best as he has a major operation on his ankle on 20th November and will be off the road for approximately three months. We are sure in this time that he will continue to write poetry and we look forward to seeing his latest offering! Finally, it is to the general public of Watton and the surrounding area that the Legions thanks are given for their overall support over this weekend and we know that this is truly appreciated by members of our Regular and Territorial Armed Forces. Ed: Video of this event is available on: www.waylandnews.com

Men who came to Britain from Czechoslovakia and Poland during the last war and flew bombers alongside their English comrades were honoured in an annual ceremony at a village church in Norfolk. The 14 graves of Czech and Polish airmen stand in the corner of St Ethelberts churchyard at Wretham. The men flew Wellington bombers with 311 Squadron from the airfields at Wretham and Honington. The service was taken by the Rev Canon Bob Baker, Rector of the Thetford team ministry and chaplain to Thetford RAFA, who organise the event.

Wreaths were laid at the war memorial outside the church gate, including those from military attaches at the Czech and Polish Embassies, Mayor of Thetford Terry Lamb, Parish Council chairman Paul Adams, Royal British Legion, RAFA and RAF Honington. The 60 or so people who attended went away with an extra memento this year. John and Eileen Kitson, who help publish a monthly news magazine for the village, handed a special issue to everyone, based on the life history of Frantisek Binder, a Czech rear gunner, sent to them by his grandson and containing pictures of his burial at Wretham in 1942.

Remembrance World Wide

It is comforting to know that the fallen are remembered world wide. Bradenham resident Adrian Horn is currently working in South Sudan, from where he sent The Wayland news following report: The weather was hot and sunny, and sweat ran down my face a different story to the cool weather we have been having around Bradenham and Watton. It was only a couple of days ago we were having a bonfire party at our house, and now I am back in Juba, in South Sudan thankfully this time with my wife by my side! I am working there as a senior justice and security adviser, trying to help South Sudan build a police service and help them build a peaceful nation. South Sudan are only just emerging from a long, bloody and violent war, so memories are very fresh in the minds of many. I have worked in many African countries, and it is humbling to know that Remembrance Day is an important day wherever I travel to. I have had the honour of laying wreaths on behalf of the Commonwealth in Sierra Leone, and have been reminded that many people from Africa gave their lives supporting us in fighting wars. So, standing there in the heat in front of the British Embassy at 11am on the11th of the 11th was nothing compared to what millions of others have been through in the name of peace. It was best described as a family service a good number of people from several countries and several organisations, including the UN who have a large presence here. Perhaps the relevance today of Remembrance Day is highlighted by the fact that the British Officer who led the service had buried three of his own soldiers over the last 6 years.

Watton Relief Do not fear, Christmas Art The Inside the Christmas Exhibition Out Market In Need Indoor Market Charity is here
The Trustees of this Charity will be meeting on the 5th December to consider applications from residents of Watton for financial support this Christmas. It is hoped, therefore, that applicants will contact the Clerk to the Trustees prior to that date so that the Trustees can fulfil their duties. The Charity is an amalgamation of Charities set up many years ago to support those in need. The Trustees have a duty to distribute the income of the Charity to relieve, either generally or individually, persons resident in the town of Watton who are in conditions of need, hardship or distress by making grants of money or providing or paying for items, services or facilities calculated to reduce the need, hardship or distress of such persons. Institutions or organisations which provide or undertake in return to provide items, services or facilities for such persons may also benefit. In the past few years, grants have, in the main, consisted of support for the elderly to help with the extra costs of Christmas and/or heating costs. However, the Trustees are most willing to consider applications from other age groups provided they are residents of Watton and they are in conditions of need, hardship or distress. No preference is given to any section of the community but there will be times when applicants will be required to give full personal financial details and provide whatever information the Trustees require before decisions can be made. Any information given will be treated in the strictest confidence. Persons who have already given their details to the Clerk should still apply if further help is needed. Applications for assistance should be addressed to:Derek I Smith, Clerk to the Trustees. Watton Relief In Need Charity, 39 Dereham Road Watton IP25 6ER. Tel: 01953 884044 Email: derekismith@talktalk.net Christmas is almost upon us and as December the 25th draws ever nearer, we all have that daunting problem of finding the perfect gifts for our loved ones. I imagine by now you're all planning that trek to do the big Christmas shop? Well this year you will have to look no further than your local high school, Wayland Academy. With the lack of the usual Watton Festive Market, a group of local young people decided that an indoor Christmas Market would be an ideal opportunity to bring that festive spirit into Watton once again. The school hall will be full of local crafts people selling their unique and beautiful gifts at affordable prices. The organisers, whom are mainly attendees of The Surge, will be donating all profits they make to Project Rainbow in aid of organising more excursions for the young people of Wayland. The day will commence at 11.30am and Santa will be arriving at 1.30pm to meet and greet all the local children in his grotto (photos of this magical moment will be available for purchase). There will be a wide variety of stalls at the event to suit everyone's desires including: festive tombolas; hand crafted jewellery and traditional Christmas tree decorations. If whilst browsing the market you feel a little peckish there will be inexpensive refreshments on sale: cakes, mince pies and hot/cold drinks are just a few examples of the snacks available until the event closes at 4pm. We all look forward to seeing you at the event on Sunday the 9th of December and would like to wish those we do not meet on the day a very Merry Christmas. The Dragonfly Gallery proudly present Christmas Art Exhibition with a seasonal theme from Saturday 1st December Saturday 15th December Dragonfly Gallery, Wayland House, High St, Watton. 18 artists, mediums to include: acrylic, mixed media, silk, pastel, watercolour, oil, textile, jewellery and collage. Please join us for a trip around the Christmas Cornucopia. Housed within the gallery is Dragonfly Gifts and Cards a small retail area to support both the artists and the Gallery. Unique art cards and unusual crafted gifts, all hand-made by local artists. Opening Times: Weekdays 10 - 4pm, Saturdays 10 1pm Contact Susan Hollingworth for further information 01953 880205

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Christmas Coffee Morning with Crafts and Gifts

at St Marys Church, Watton Saturday 8th December 9.30am 12 noon Come and enjoy a coffee and browse our craft, gifts, cake and produce stalls.

Rocklands December Bingo

The next Bingo will be held at Rocklands Village Hall on Wednesday 19st December. Doors open 7pm for 7.45pm start. Have a great night out for less than 5! As well as a warm welcome, there will be cash prizes, festive refreshments, raffle and a very generous Jackpot on offer. All Proceeds go to the Village Hall.

On December 1st, our wonderful independent Watton retailers are planning to do different in true Norfolk style on December 1st. Many of them will be emerging from behind their counters and setting up stalls in the High street. They understand that many people will want to shop on line or in bigger retail centres, but they also know that they have a great deal to offer their customers and so they are going to make it easy for you. So let your curiosity get the better of you! Come and see your familiar friendly shopkeepers in the unfamiliar setting of the stripy market stalls; come and support your local High street on December 1st (and then come again for the Festive Christmas market on December 15th!)

Ovington Bazaar
Come along to the village hall between 12 and 3pm on Saturday 1st December and sample the delights of a traditional Christmas Bazaar. Pick up a bargain or two on the gifts and crafts stalls which will be crammed with ideas to inspire your festive shopping. We have a variety of games and competitions to keep you occupied and refreshments to sustain you. Lunch is available in the form of rolls or delicious home-made soups, as well as plenty of tea and cakes. The competition for the under 16s to design a Christmas card will be judged at 2pm. Entry to the bazaar is free and all proceeds are divided between the Church and the village hall.

The Country Market this Christmas

Country Market wishes all its customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year All our producers thank you for your custom over the past year and wish you a very happy Christmas. The Market will close for a well earned break in January. We close at 11.30 a.m. on Wednesday, 19th December, 2012 and reopen at 8.30 a.m. on Wednesday, 6th February, 2013. All customers coming to the Market on 5th and 12th December will receive a free raffle ticket for a 10 voucher to spend in the Market. The draw will be made first thing on 19th December and the winner can spend the voucher at any time from then on. It can be used for a mixture of items from our different stalls - just tell the sales people that you are going to use a voucher when you make your selection. Many lovely gift items are now appearing on the stalls as well as all the usual baked goods, produce, and fresh eggs. Jewellery, small quilts, bags, tree decorations, gift boxes, aprons, knitted goods, including some really pretty baby clothes, and some unusual gifts, are all there for your interest and delight. Greetings cards for all occasions are readily available. Also we hope to welcome our wooden toymaker back for the last few weeks. All our goods meet the high standards required by the Environment Agency of all retailers. You can buy from us locally made products with the utmost confidence in their quality and safety. Happy shopping! Happy Christmas!

Operation Smile for a Christmas Soire

Three West Norfolk Community Choirs are coming together to sing for their audience who will be seated at candle-lit tables on Saturday 15th December at Swaffham Assembly rooms. Starting at 7.30pm the evening includes a glass of wine on arrival and a buffet supper later on. People are also encouraged to bring their own wine and drinks to carry them through the rest of the evening and the choir members themselves are preparing delicious delights for the food table. Proceeds from this event will go to Operation Smile that is a charity providing free surgery to repair cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities for children around the globe. Swaffham, Snettisham and Fakenham Community choirs are part of an initiative by their Musical Director Carol ONeill who founded Sing For Wellbeing in 2008. When singing in a traditional concert setting we dont get to mingle with our audience so at this special time of year we thought we would do something different, said Carol. It is also an opportunity for us to do something for the unfortunate children in this world who cannot smile so readily. We plan to sing a short repertoire of Seasonal & Winter songs and then hand out song sheets and invite our audience to sing traditional Christmas Carols with us where they are seated. For the rest of the evening we will socialise in a convivial setting. She continued. This proves to be a popular event so early booking is recommended. Tickets are 5 and can be got from The Green Parrot and Ceres Bookshop in Swaffham, Sweets n Things in Fakenham and Scrappy Cat Crafts in Snettisham. Tickets can also be reserved by calling 01328 838316 or by visiting www.singforwellbeing.co.uk

Car Boot, Carols and Bingo all at Ashill Community Centre

There are some really good events being held at Ashill Community Centre in December starting on Sunday 2nd with a Car Boot from 9 12.30 (in aid of the Community Centre). On Sunday 9th at 3pm there is a Carol Concert in aid of Cancer Research UK with Watton Silver band. Entry is 2 for adults and 1 for children which includes home-made cakes and there will be a raffle. And on Tuesday 11th there is Cash Bingo with eyes down at 7.30pm and includes a raffle.

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Norfolk Wildlife Trust

To ask a question about the Norfolks Wildlife please call the Norfolk Wildlife Information Service. Wildline 01603 598333 9am - 5pm Mon - Fri. E-mail wild@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk Website http://www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/naturalconnections Further details and Membership enquiries 01953 498467 Local group E-mail: breckland@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk Tuesday 18th December, 7.45pm-10pm In Search of Wild Orchids. A talk by Roger Jones, followed by Seasonal refreshments and raffle. Venue: Watton Christian Community Centre, 57 High Street Watton. Cost : Members 5 Non-members 6

Councillor's Chat
With Michael Wassell I am sure that we were all inspired by the determination and success of our British Olympic and Paralympics athletes earlier this year. Now a new generation of budding athletes will have an opportunity to discover where their sporting talents lie, thanks to Breckland Councils 2012 Olympic Legacy Sportivate courses. Running during November and December in Attleborough, Swaffham, Watton and Thetford, the courses offer a variety of sporting opportunities for residents aged 14 25 years. Young people inspired by Britains cycling success can try out the Virtual Velodrome, an extensive workout where young people can pit their wits against the worlds finest cyclists in virtual on-screen races. Other courses include boxing, archery, table tennis, dodgeball and trampolining. The Sportivate courses have been organised by Breckland Council in partnership with Active Norfolk and local schools, clubs and activity providers. There are six sessions for each sport and participants can attend as many of these as they wish. The cost is 2.50 per session and anyone attending five of the six sessions will be entered into a prize draw to win a 30 Amazon voucher. For more information about the courses, call Stefan Clifford on 01362 656870 or look for sports information on the Communities pages of the Breckland Council website www.breckland.gov.uk. Breckland Council is helping the old and vulnerable stay warm and well this winter. The Council is working with partners across the District to make sure those most vulnerable are identified and supplied with a pack of items to help them keep warm as part of a Norfolkwide Warm and Well campaign. The Keep Warm kits are packed full of goodies for the winter, including fleece blankets, hot water bottles and room thermometers. Keep Warm and Well is a joint project between Breckland District Council, the county council, the NHS, and the voluntary sector. I have arranged for packs to be available for collection from Watton Town Council offices, and I am grateful for their help in this matter. These should be ready for collection by the time that this article is published. If anyone requires any information on this please do not hesitate to contact me. I was very pleased to represent Breckland District Council at the launch of an innovative programme aimed at achieving a greater number of new business starts throughout the district. In collaboration with Norfolk County Council, Enterprise Norfolk in Breckland will provide people with the necessary skills, knowledge and confidence to take that big step into starting a business and to potentially turn an idea into a reality. The program is free of charge and individuals and businesses that sign up to Enterprise Norfolk will benefit from continuing support from Brecklands Economic Development Service. Enterprise Norfolk in Breckland will include: Training on things such as writing a business plan, self-assessments,

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financing, marketing etc. One-to-one mentoring from business coaches and mentors, Advice and guidance from business start-up professionals, Awareness raising events; and much more. Courses, events and meetings will be held in Watton and the other 4 market towns in Breckland. For more information please contact Dan Cox of Brecklands Economic Development Service. (dan.cox@breckland.gov.uk or 01362 656235) During the recent Could We Should We meetings that were held throughout the district, I was encouraged that the attendance at the Watton meeting was the largest at any of the 5 events. You will have seen the results that have been widely publicised and are available on the Breckland web site www.breckland.gov.uk. I think that many were surprised at some of results in particular that nearly 80% of the respondents felt that it was appropriate to raise council tax, in order to meet the current financial constraints that all district councils throughout the country are facing. Part of my responsibility as a Cabinet Member at Breckland is Finance, and I am acutely aware of the pressures that we are facing, in terms of providing value for money. I have emphasised these pressures to our representatives in national government, meeting several times with George Freeman MP, who has confirmed his support, and who will reinforce the representations that we have already made at a high Ministerial level. It might be of interest to learn that if one were to move a few miles or so along the road to Hingham instead of paying 64.05 to Breckland as a Band D council tax payer, you would pay 130.68 to South Norfolk District Council. The refuse bins there must be gold plated! On a more serious note, I want to assure residents that when we produce our spending and income proposals we will take into account the main points that the public have raised. If you would like me to keep you updated on what is happening in Breckland then please email me with your contact email address and I will be pleased to do so. This will be the last time that I write before Christmas , so I just want to take the opportunity to wish everyone, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, which I hope brings all that you wish for. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you feel I can be of assistance on any Breckland District Council matter. My contact details: Email: michael.wassell@breckland.gov.uk Phone: 01953 882884 or 07778 491569 Regards to all Michael Wassell

We held our A.G.M. at our November meeting and 18 members attended. We have had quite a successful year, which included an extremely generous cheque for our group, proceeds from two of our members opening their gardens to the public, (despite a problem with the road outside their houses), and monies raised from the carnival etc. We thanked all those who have helped us over the past 12 months and members both new and old - John & Rod!!! We also thanked the Church for all they do for us and how accommodating they are to our requirements. The Committee stood down and was re-elected back "en masse". Our final meeting of the year will be on December 10th at 10.15am. This will be our Christmas Party and rumour has it that we could be lucky enough to receive a visit from Santa himself. Maybe if he brings one of his little elf friends with him, they could help with the washing up again!!! If you would like details of this meeting, or about the group, please phone Helen, 01953 884713, leave a message and I will get back to you as soon as I can. On behalf of Ron, myself, Susie, David & Jill may I wish all our members and all readers A Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. We look forward to meeting mor new people in the New Year.

He gives twice who gives quickly

Did you know the motto for SSAFA FH and what does it mean? Well this applies throughout life dont you think? If your child is crying or upset the quicker you can give them a kiss and a reassuring hug the sooner they will recover and learn how to cope. If someone is unwell, the sooner you can give them comfort and maybe a lift to the surgery or to the hospital the better for them. If one of your family is in financial trouble the sooner you can give them a red one (10 note) to tied them over the sooner you can relieve their worry. The sooner you put the bird feeders up in the garden the sooner the birds and their young will be ready to face the winter months. If someone has worries and concerns the sooner you get the kettle on and give them some time to talk the sooner they can get over their upset and try to get on. The sooner you put anti freeze in your car the sooner it will feel the benefit in the cold months The sooner you get your flu vaccination the sooner you have the protection . you need. The sooner you plant your Spring bulbs the sooner you can go out in the New Year and look for the first signs of end of winter. And the sooner you contact SSAFA (Norfolk) with your donation or with your request for assistance the sooner SSAFA FH can help you, your family or someone you know. SSAFA FH are here all year round, not just at Christmas. We are here to answer your call when you need help and we will do it sooner rather than later. Tel 01 603 403322 (Mornings) SSAFA FH (Norfolk) wish all good Seasons Greetings and a Happy and safe New Year.

Christmas Coffee Morning

with Crafts and Gifts
at St Marys Church, Watton Saturday 8th December 9.30am 12 noon
Come and enjoy a coffee and browse our craft, gifts, cake and produce stalls.

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Great Hockham Gardening Club

Our club meeting on Wednesday 14th November was attended by 25 members. Our Chairman, Ed, welcomed everyone and introduced our speaker, Barry Gayton (right), radio and Countrywide Question Time broadcaster whose garden, Desert World we will be visiting in August. His talk, entitled Weird and Wonderful was really interesting and his photographic presentation showed incredible deviations and intriguing gifts of nature. He brought along examples and plants to buy too. He was also a great asset for our own Question Time problems. We now have 3 competition opportunities each meeting, a flower, a fruit or vegetable and a seasonal photograph, garden or nature inspired. The winners for October were Flower: 1st Claudine Garrod, 2nd Jane Dalton, 3rd Jill de Ruyter; Veg/Fruit: 1st Chris Halford, 2nd Sue Cunningham. 3rd Sue Thomas; Photo: 1st Jane Dalton, 2nd Chris Dalton Hazel will take in orders for Fothergills seed merchants at the December meeting, from which we should get a 40% discount if we order up to 100 in total. Everyone was reminded to sign up for the Annual Dinner at McTaggarts on January 30th. Also please book in advance for the Clematis Pruning at Thorncroft Clematis Nursery on Sat 16th February. To book or for more information please give me a call.

Ashill and Holme Hale Garden Club

Octobers guest speaker was Allan Hale who gave a presentation on A Birders Year in Norfolk and featured many spectacular photographs from his own garden in Beachamwell as well as other parts of the county. Starting with winter birds, he began with the familiar pheasant and partridge found in local gardens and then moved on to the pink footed goose, from Siberia and Iceland, which are found on the north Norfolk Chris Warren won the best single stem coast. Allan not only flower competition, a stunning dahlia. photographs birds but also rings them, a process that takes the first time these birds had bred three years to secure a licence. in the area for 150 years. He also Using nets, he captures birds such featured the ring plover, as the waxwing and goldcrest and woodcock, willow warbler and carefully weighs and measures wren as common at this time of them before applying the ring. He year. Members were surprised to revealed that greenfinches have see that the kingfisher was little become far less common in recent larger than a house sparrow. Sedge years: he used to ring 400 of them warblers and marsh harriers could each year but a digestive disease be found in wetland habitats in spread at bird feeders has reduced summer and now buzzards were numbers to about a quarter of this. more common at this time of year Blue tits and great tits readily over Norfolk. Woodpeckers, jays nested in garden nest boxes but he and robins were also featured, the advised members to ensure that last of these starting life with dirty these boxes did not face the brown plumage before developing prevailing wind and rain from the their red breasts. south and west. The goldfinch was Autumnal visitors to Norfolk Allan probably the most common bird in mentioned included the swallow, Allans garden and thrived on hobby, knot and oyster catcher. niger seed from his many feeders. There were now breeding colonies In the reed beds on the north coast of egrets at Holkham and Kings wigeon and coot were common Lynn. By November tree sparrows winter birds. Starlings were can be found although they are declining in number but are more becoming rare; snow bunting can common in winter and some travel be seen at Cley and Salthouse. In from as far afield as from 300 December waders and ducks are miles the other side of Moscow. common at places such as Wells, Turning to springtime visitors, as well as curlews and brent geese. Allan showed pictures of several Allan finished by defending the birds that are found on the coast at much maligned sparrow hawk that that time such as the bearded tit, is often seen as responsible for sanderling, mediterranean gull, killing garden birds such as the avocet and black tailed godwit. He blackbird and blue tit: he argued showed a dramatic sequence of that these two common birds photographs depicting a bittern produced about 14 offspring seeing off a heron that had strayed annually but about 12 of these are into its territory. He finished this destroyed by cold and starvation as section of his presentation by well as sparrow hawks before the showing several attractive next breeding season, with the photographs of owls and kestrels. sparrow hawk only being Allan warned that gulls on roofs responsible for helping to harvest were becoming a considerable pest the surplus; certainly they are in places such as Kings Lynn in infrequent visitors to his garden early summer. Here in the docks where he rings several hundred area could be found the spectacular birds each year. peregrine falcon with its three to Allan concluded his presentation four foot wing span. In fact, he had with a humorous quiz which helped to place a metre square nest perfectly completed a delightful box on a high building there and and informative afternoon for falcons had used it by year three, which he was warmly thanked.

Ashill Youth Club

Christmas Fair
2pm Saturday 15th December
Ashill Community Centre

Raffle ~ Tomboloa ~ Cake Stall Games and Santa in his Grotto

Refreshments
To donate a prize for the Tombola or Raffle etc. please contact Mark on 01760 440 577

Our next Club meeting is on Wednesday 12th December and is a Quiz Night and Social evening. Teams of 4 to 6 max. Free to members. 3 non-members. Members are asked to bring along a plate of finger food to share also a Xmas raffle prize. Drinks provided. It is an ideal time to join our club, make new friends and learn new skills. Membership fee just 10 per year. We meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month. Our indoor meetings are at the Edinburgh Hall, Harling Rd. Gt. Hockham and start at 7.45pm. Look us up on our website: www.greathockhamgardeningclub.org.uk We would like to say how super the new kitchen looks in the village hall and how nice it is to have such improved facilities for everyone who uses the hall to enjoy. Well done to everyone concerned. We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and all the best for the New Year. Jane Dalton (Club Sec. Tel: 01953 498694)

Bradenham & District Horticultural Society

Because of the election of Police Commissioners we had to hold our November meeting a week early on 8th. Our speaker was Coral Hoyos from Gooderstone Water Gardens and her talk was a fascinating mix of history and the current gardens. The Water Gardens were started by Corals parents when they retired from dairy farming. We were shown a slide of a small herd of cows in what appeared to be a very wet field. This led to the youngest sons suggestion of a river walk garden to keep Dad occupied. Billy Knights (Dad) was so taken by this idea the plans he drew up had to be done on a roll of wallpaper. Bearing in mind that Billy was 69 at this stage, to get these plans up and running and organise all the machinery to dig out waterways and ponds must have been as much hard work as farming. He made friends with the late Alan Bloom who became a valued adviser as Billy had no formal training. All the while Coral showed us slides of the progress of the gardens. Sadly they became derelict after Billys death but she inherited the 6.5 acres and in 2002 began a very tough restoration. Not content with this area she expanded the gardens to incorporate an 8acre natural area for wildlife. This area is accessed via 13 various bridges across the waterways, one of which features in all her publicity material and is called the Monet Bridge. Not surprising if you see a photo of it! All these bridges needed rebuilding. The many slides showed us plants in huge drifts but nothing exotic. The sheer talent of putting the right plant in the right place makes it all look stunning and some of the varieties have turned up all by themselves. Coral has left these in many places as they are obviously happy where they are. This is the kind of gardening we all do only on a rather grander scale. What a nice surprise when some water gardens tend to be terribly formal with hard landscaping between ponds. Thank you Coral. It was a real pleasure. It was good to share the fun with her as she (like all our speakers) was asked to judge the mini-show. Luckily she likes confectionery as this months show was 6 pieces of confectionery to give as a Christmas gift, with one piece for the judge to taste. The winner was Barbara Steward with Anne Marie Haskey 2nd and Sheila Sorrell 3rd. All the entries looked delicious and must have been so as Coral thought shed like to go round again to be sure! What a star. We ended the meeting with Geoffs Tips which included plant bare root trees and shrubs, prune apples and pears by a third, remove hellebore leaves and much more but youll have to come to a meeting for the full monty. Marianne Kilmartin, Chairman

December AGM for the Ovington Gardening Club

The November meeting was given by Mrs A Bridge on the subject of 'Colour, Chaos and Curry'. This was a very interesting travelogue of a visit to India and Sri Lanka which showed the differences in attitude to road safety, hygiene, animal welfare and many other issues. This talk was totally different to normal and was very well received by members. The December meeting is the Annual General Meeting and will be held at 7.45pm on Wednesday 5th December in the village hall. There is an informal meeting following the AGM and the programme for 2013 will be available as well as refreshments provided by the committee and friends.

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Ashill Community Centre Sunday 2nd December 6 per table

Gareth Malone style choir Car Boot Sale takes on new members
Gareth Malone has shown the nation that Choirs can change peoples lives and Swaffham Community Choir runs on the same principles. The Choir is once again opening its doors to new members as it moves into its 5th year and offers everyone the opportunity to sing for wellbeing in a warm welcoming group where auditions are not necessary. Starting on 8th January the 12-week term runs on Tuesdays from 7pm 9pm at the Sacred Heart School on Mangate Street and is accessible to all ages and abilities. There is nothing like a Community Choir for forging friendships and having fun, said The Choir's founder and musical director Carol ONeill who has been running choirs and groups for 18 years. The sessions are designed to introduce people to their own voices and enable them to blend with others to produce stunning results but noone ever has to sing on their own unless they choose to. Over time a great sense of wellbeing and belonging develops when a Choir works together to achieve something that they wouldnt have thought possible. Choir night becomes sacred to many people because it adds another dimension to their lives. Singing is also a great way of improving your health as the lungs expand to support the heart, oxygenating the blood, nourishing our organs and lifting the spirits, continued Carol. People who are interested in belonging to the choir should call Carol on 01328 838316 or visit www.singforwellbeing.co.uk

News

Watton Medical Practice Winter Newsletter

Thank you to all of the patients who have taken the time to complete our latest Questionnaire. 366 patients returned the surveys and the feedback has been interesting, constructive and given us a clear idea where we need to improve. Thank you also to the members of the Patient Liaison Group who agreed the initial survey and who took the time to come into the surgery to act as independent survey takers! The latest survey means that with the one done earlier in this year in the summer; we have surveyed over 600 patients regarding the appointment system and the surgery. The results have been very conclusive. 95% of Patients said that the appointment system worked for them. 90% of patients who expressed a preference said that they would recommend the practice. 90% of Patients are either Very Satisfied or Satisfied with the care they receive at the surgery Areas for Improvement are mainly around communicating the methods and application of the existing appointment system Some patients did not know that a phone call can be with a GP of choice. Some patients told us that they did not know that they can ask for a mutually convenient time for a return phone call. Some patients did not know that phone calls can be booked in advance for early morning (Tuesday or Thursday) or late evening (Wednesday). Especially to assist those who are busy during the day or have difficulty receiving a call in normal working hours. Some patients have requested more information on how the appointments system works. Some patients did not like having to inform the call taker of the reason for wanting to talk to the doctor. We will aim to continue to produce newsletters and information for our patients and to try to disseminate the information to as wide an audience as possible, via newspaper, Parish Magazine, local outlets, in surgery, through personal distribution, and on our website. If you would like to receive the quarterly newsletter by e-mail, please pop your details into reception. We also hope that many of you will receive this newsletter and be able to spread the information to those who do not have access to it; to answer some of the surveys comments, the details of the appointment system are as follows: 1. Phone in to the surgery 01953 881247, throughout the morning to ask for an appointment. 2. If you would like to speak to a specific doctor or have a specific time frame for the return call, please make it known to the call taker. 3. If you choose to do so (it is not compulsory) please give an indication for the reason for your request to the call taker, it may help the doctor. 4. The doctor will call you back and will discuss your condition with you the patient, and together you will agree an action plan. This may include an appointment at the surgery, medication, tests, referral, wait and see, or a mixture of all of these. 5. It may be appropriate for the doctor that you speak to, to book you an appointment with another doctor or the nurse practitioner, this is making the very best use of clinical resources at the practice 6. If you require a follow up appointment, the doctor will discuss this with you and if necessary the doctor will make the appointment themselves. Finally and as an important note, we do not have trainee doctors in the building. Every doctor is fully qualified but we may have doctors who are continuing their training and gaining experience whilst at the practice.

To book a table please contact Mark on 01760 440 577 Refreshments & Tombola in Hall

In your garden with Lotta Potts

At last the weather turned a little kinder in the middle of November. Just for a day or two but it enabled us to get out and tidy a bit. Theres always a difference of opinion at this time of year regarding tidiness. One school of thought likes to put the garden to bed for the winter with neatly dug beds and borders, no weeds and all the fallen leaves gathered and disposed of in proper mesh bins or bags tucked in corners. Another one thinks oh leave it till spring - itll all die down anyway or the dead stalks and seedheads look wonderful covered in frost. This view has a lot of merit as all the dead stuff lying around gives cover to small mammals and insects (and slugs and snails). Then theres the middle ground. This bunch digs as seems to be necessary to get rid of perennial weeds and veg that will never amount to anything after the summer we had and leaves the leaves on bare soil or sturdy plants. I have to admit to belonging to this last group and enthusiastically embrace Monty Dons advice on Gardeners World the other week that leaves can be swept off paths or grass back under the shrubs or hedges that dumped them in the first place. Why didnt I think of that before? I bet most of you already knew that but never told me. Heres the thing, if you tidy up a bit then you have a little room for something else. Nows a good planting time either for now or spring. Bare root shrubs planted now will flower next spring/ summer, probably better than those planted at the time from containers. You have to have faith in the suppliers though as the only information you have is in the catalogue, on the website and/or on the label. Container grown shrubs are usually sold in flower so you know exactly what you are getting. Winter flowers tend to be on shrubs or at ground level. Taller things have the sense to wait until the threat of heavy snow or gales is pretty much over. Whilst browsing for the Christmas Tree and lights and shiny things to go on it its worth having a look at garden centres and sheds as they will all have racks of plants for sale. Pansies, violas and hardy cyclamen are all available in December and a cheery sight they are too. Ornamental kale/cabbage plants have become more popular over the years and I have to say they are a bit Marmite as one either loves or hates them. They do pep up a container though and have the advantage (if you dont much care for them) of becoming very tatty once spring starts so can be composted with a clear conscience. The shrubs that flower between the end of November and February tend to have small flowers that pack a punch of scent. Winter honeysuckle, wintersweet, Viburnum x bodnantense Dawn, some Daphnes and witch hazels all come into this category and really need to be planted near a path or doorway so you can get the benefit of the perfume. Some can be a bit overpowering and spread the scent far and wide. If thats the case enjoy something that someone else has planted! If you are fortunate enough to have a reasonably sheltered fence or wall facing south or west you could try draping it with clematis. Freckles is probably the first one developed for scent and availability but new varieties are coming along all the time. To get the best ones for flowering in winter it might be best to contact a specialist grower or look on the internet. To list them all would take up even more of Julians space! The best advice for winter - keep off the lawn! The next best advice for Christmas time is dont buy tender pot plants and poinsettias that have been outside shops or on market stalls for hours. Theyll get chilled and wont last long. The advice I keep for the New Years resolution list, every year, is to tidy up the shed, garage and greenhouse. Then clean tools, trays and pots and store them neatly. I do mean it but when it comes to it on a cold and miserable day A very Merry Christmas to all and do remember if you can get outside, keep weeding!

The GP Appointment System - frequently asked questions

I can never get to see the doctor. Just phone in to the surgery and the doctor will call you back. If you need to see the doctor, the doctor will organise it with you. The discussion regarding a plan for your health will be made between you and the doctor. I cant get an appointment with a specific doctor. Just tell the receptionist your preference and they will offer you a telephone call-back with the doctor of your choice. I dont want to tell a receptionist what is wrong with me. No-one has to tell the receptionist what is wrong with them, patients can say Personal However, if you feel able to give a brief reason for the call, it really does help the doctor. I cant book in advance to see a doctor. If you need to book a telephone call-back in advance, just tell the receptionist and they will organise it on a mutually convenient date in the following 2 weeks. I work so I cant have an telephone appointment. You can specify a convenient time for us to call you back. We also offer early morning calls on a Tuesday and Thursday and late evening calls on a Wednesday, which can be requested.

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The Wayland News Page 7

Watton Town Team launches plans for an exciting 2013 in Watton High Street
The past year or so has brought able to show existing retailers that growing flowers and plants to help difficult times to the retail and there is a loyal customer base and with this event. service sectors in every town, but that will also encourage potential The following programme which it is the independent shops in small new retailers to take up space in still at the planning stage and market towns such as ours that the High Street. which has been discussed with the have been the hardest hit. In recent So what is the Town Team retailers, includes a wide variety of months the Town Team, formed planning? themes to attract the interest of a earlier this year to try to address Across 2013 they are planning a wide range of groups. It is not yet the problems facing local series of themed events that will set in stone as the final dates may independent traders, has been highlight and promote as many of depend on a number of factors working hard to make a difference our shops and services as possible. beyond our control. and they have some really positive For example almost every retail March 23rd (or 30th Easter Sat) ideas to keep local Wedding Weekend (An shoppers coming into the High Street Saturday Markets Easter celebration for those High Street and to attract 1st December - The Inside Out Market planning a wedding and/or a visitors from outside the new home) Come and meet some of the High Street Wayland area. The Town April: Motorcycle event in businesses you might never have visited! Team has produced a association with Lings. programme of events - 15th December Entrepreneurs Market May 4th (Bank Holiday Wayland Weekends - for weekend) or 11th Wayland and Charity Christmas Market 2013 which they believe Book Week For Adults and will help to increase the footfall in business and most of the services children a Story Book Window the town, if they can market and could be involved in the Wedding Competition Promoting our Book publicise them well and make Weekend in March because they sell Shop & the Library and Reading them happen successfully. gifts or services for newlyweds and June 22nd/23rd Classic Car Weekend Cars everywhere How can Wayland News Readers those setting up a new home. A Book Event which might include July 13th The High Street in Bloom help? First of all talk about what is quizzes and competitions to delight Shops and streets full of flowers happening in our High Street the younger generation might focus promoting our Florists (which of course includes the old on the Bookshop, books stalls and September 14th: Wayland Healthy Thetford Road, Norwich Rd and the library but through window Eating Week Health Fair/Food Middle Street); word of mouth is dressing and competitions would Festival/Food demonstrations always the best form of advertising bring shoppers into most High Street October 5th Wayland 40s so tell your neighbours, and if businesses. Weekend Recalling our WWII you are a part of the digital world, Similarly a High Street in Bloom Heritage, Rationing, RAF Watton, tell your friends on Facebook, event could give a wonderful focus the Blenheims, the Yanks tweet and re-tweet your followers to the High Street in summer with December Celebrating Christmas on Twitter; start a positive flower and plant arrangements Please contact Beryl (882265) or conversation on Streetlife. everywhere. And to help manage the Chris (881234) of the Town Team if Secondly we need people who do cost to the Town Team Wayland you need more information or are their shopping somewhere else, to News readers who are gardeners and able to help. change their habits. We need to be allotment holders might consider

Watton blind people need your help

Norfolks leading charity for people with poor sight is appealing for help to run its monthly audio book club in Watton. The Norfolk and Norwich Association for the Blind is looking for a volunteer to lead the club, which is held on the first Wednesday of each month at Watton Library. The charitys leisure co-ordinator, Mark Smith, said: Audio books are a wonderful way for people who cant cope with print any more to continue to enjoy the world of literature. We need someone perhaps with a literary background, or a former teacher to lead our discussion group in Watton to co-ordinate lively debate and opinion, and make a real difference to the lives of visually impaired people in the area. Its only an hour and a half a month, but it can be very rewarding. Ring Mark Smith on 01603 629558 or e-mail marksmith@nnab.org.uk if you can help.

Macmillan Coffee Morning Thanks

Jenny and Dave Simons would like to thank everyone who supported their coffee morning by attending or by donations. The total raised was 442.50, which included 103 from the Esso Garage who had put a collecting box in their shop on the official Biggest Coffee Morning day. Many thanks to their customers and our helpers on the day - Sue and Trevor Bunce, Stella Leonard, Jill Beech, Lesley Cowling, Pam Challand, John Carter and Penny Simons.

Pupils of Watton Westfield Enjoy a New Musical Garden

The picture above shows pupils of Watton Westfield Infant and Nursery School who have been enjoying their new Musical Garden Area. It has chimes, a steel pan, a percussion stick, a xylophone, a staging area, a story chair and will soon have lovely

planters and a set of drums. The school would like to thank the Friends of Westfield, Wayland Partnership, QTR, Mr and Mrs Orford and EMI for their generous grants and donations that made this facility possible. A very generous elderly Watton

couple, Mr and Mrs Orford gave money for the project originally and have recently donated a further 1,500 to buy more. The school would like to offer their sincere thanks to Mr and Mrs Orford for their kindness and generosity.

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Watton Hockey Club Christmas Bingo

Weds. 5th December in the Gallery Bar Doors open 7pm, Eyes down 7.30pm
Great Prizes - Everyone Welcome

The Watton Society Quiz

West Norfolk Aviation Society

News

The Watton Society celebrated the 20th anniversary of their annual quiz in the Queens Hall on 7th November. Mr Peter Walmsley again showered the evening with wit and information whilst being a generous and kindly question master. Once more a very close contest resulted in The Team with no Name retaining the coveted wooden spoon trophy with 148 points. However The Likely Lasses ran them a very close second with 144 points, and they themselves were only 2 points up on Rotundas with 142 points. Shown

Chamber Inner Wheel Club of Watton News Commentary By Norman Wilson, Chairman

holding the SPOON are Mr Barry Bethell, Mrs Judith Bethell, Mrs Nancy Robert, and Mr Daryl Woodward. This team now have an unbroken run of 4 successive wins. We should not forget the spirit of the evening in that each and every team entered is very much appreciated by everyone attending the event. The Co Operative team manfully accepted the prize for propping up the others and they were as much applauded as any other for their entry. Bryan H Wykes (Vice Chairman Watton Society)

For our last meeting of this year our members gathered together in our usual venue, Methwold Social Club, and were royally entertained by one of our members, Andrew Barnes, who gave an illustrated talk on aviation over the last one hundred years. Included were brilliant illustrations and pictures of aircraft portraying the growth of the aircraft industry and the rapid advances that have been made in aircraft design and particularly performance during the century of powered flight. Andrew was warmly applauded and thanked for his detailed research. We shall be taking a break over December to allow members to fully involve themselves with their families during the festive season and will reconvene on Tuesday January 8th at 7.30 at the usual venue, where we shall have the much travelled raconteur and aviation expert, Chris Lucas, as our guest for the evening. All are more than welcome to come along and enjoy the company of fellow aviation enthusiasts. Or visit our website: westnorfolkaviationsociety.co.uk Local contact is Rod Rumsby on 882246 for more information on forthcoming events and directions for finding Methwold Social Club.

District Chair, Maria Raynor receives a gift from Watton President, Jenny Simons (right) Since the last publication of the Wayland News, the members of Watton Inner Wheel Club have been busy. Very busy. The October meeting took the form of a Cookery Demonstration by Ray Lock who showed the ladies how to make exotic desserts Black Forest Gateau and Hazelnut Meringue in time for the Christmas Season. Wine was served and the delicious desserts sampled by those present. November 2nd saw the return of the regular Barn Dances organised by Inner Wheel. A good company enjoyed trying to follow the Callers instructions and dancing to the music of Shinanikins. A Ploughmans Supper was served and the evening, which included a raffle, realised 214 for Charities supported by the Club. The following Wednesday the Queens Hall was packed for the first of a season of Lunchtime Concerts. The President welcomed the popular Westend Waiters to entertain the audience and they were ably supported by local Drama Group Four by Four. Following the Concert, which was hugely enjoyed by those present, lunch was served. After expenses, this event added a further 372:66 to the Charities Account. In the evening two teams from the Club took part in the Watton Society Quiz. The Club meeting in November was attended by the District Chairman, Maria Raynor. After the business meeting, which included making a Christmas donation of 100 to each of the following charities The Thursday Club,Tapping House Hospice, Nelsons Journey, St Martins, PACT, the Salvation Army and Star Throwers, Maria gave an interesting talk entitled From Chieti Scalo to District 8. This traced the journey of her family from post-war Italy to Saffron Waldron. She also outlined her hopes for Inner Wheel and congratulated the Club on all activities. Maria was thanked by President Jenny Simons who presented her with a gift and a cheque for her chosen charity Acorn House On Tuesday 13th November 4 members attended the District meeting at Diss. Currently the ladies are preparing for the Christmas Coffee morning on December 1st. This will feature stalls, Tombola, raffle, and delicious home made cakes and pastries.This event supports Inner Wheel charities and the Queens Hall maintenance fund. The ladies are also rehearsing for the next Lunchtime Concert to be held on December 12th at 12 noon, when they invite everyone to join them for a Christmas Celebration followed by lunch with a decidedly festive theme. Both events take place in the Queens Hall and tickets for the latter (5) are available from Mullengers. Proceeds for charities supported by Inner wheel.

of Wayland Chamber of Commerce There are a number of things happening in the Wayland area and beyond that we should bring to your attention. Firstly the Town Team, initiated by the Chamber, are running another Entrepreneurs market on 15th December. This is the Festive market with charity stalls as well with Middle Street closed and Father Christmas visiting as well! There is some news on the general business front. Changes are planned on Business rates. At the moment the business rates are collected by Breckland on behalf of the government, the police and the county. The government then distribute the money back to local authorities in grant. The government plan to change this in the future. So Breckland will be encouraged to promote business to benefit from a larger business rate base. The government have announced that they are postponing the 5 yearly revaluations of business rates which are based on rental potential. Currently business rates are paid on the valuations relevant in early 2008. These were the high point of rent valuations. It is in all our interests to seek the government to rethink this move! A number of business rate payers do not know that you can firstly check your business rates to see if you are valued correctly compared with others and the currently use of the space see http://www.2010.voa.gov.uk/rli If you have a rateable value below a threshold you can apply for a rebate contact the Anglia Revenues Partnership who manage the rates for Breckland. Finally we are starting to see the effects of the governments green deal for businesses. This will enable qualifying energy saving investments to be paid for through the saving on the utility bill without any outlay. In the next blog we will explain more about this.

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Watton Rotary Roundup

The Rotary Club of Watton & District celebrated the 68th anniversary of the granting of its Charter by Rotary International with a dinner in the Queens Hall, Watton On Friday 12th October. Rotary District 1080 Governor Trevor Sayer and President of the Inner Wheel Club of Watton, Mrs Jenny Simons, were the official guests of honour; also in attendance were the presidents of the Diss, Swaffham and Thetford Rotary Clubs. After the dinner, President Peter Semlyen presented the District Governor with a special replica of the rare 1080 District Banner designed by Pugin originally produced as a limited edition in 1995 (see picture), The evening was rounded off by a great performance by the much-indemand, Watton Rotary-based West End Waiters, who raise money specifically for research into Motor Neurone disease, as suffered by tone of the performers. Two weeks later we hosted Jazz at the Queens Hall which, for their 8th appearance, featured DixieMix, the jazz band gaining recognition as one of the very best in the region. With the raffle, a sum of 650 was raised, which goes into our fund dedicated to the many local, national and international good causes we support, as frequently reported in these columns. On Saturday 15th December we plan to have a stall on the Town Teams market in Middle Street, where we will be

Wells Cole CC Christmas Bingo

Tuesday 18th December

Prizes and Cash
Doors open 6.45pm eyes Down 7.30pm

offering some high-class and Christmas related bric-a-brac. Father Christmas has once again asked us to help with his Christmas Day deliveries this year and we have agreed to make the arrangements. To have presents delivered on Christmas day simply take them ready-wrapped to either Watton or

Saham Toney Post Office by midday Monday 17th December. Parcels should be clearly marked with recipients name and full address, including a postcode to help pinpoint the precise delivery address. There is a small cover charge of just 1 per item, payable when depositing parcels.

Hackers, Calendar girls take over jobs for the boys! Tackers & Stuffers
We continue to hack, tack and stuff with great enthusiasm. Judging from the results the apron demonstration was a popular choice with several finished articles shown at the following meeting with others still in progress. Most were designated as Christmas presents for family members of various ages. We had a successful Linus workshop in October with another planned for 19th November. The trip to the Fabric Guild on 18th October yielded some lovely fabric bought at reasonable price now laundered by volunteer members ready for more Linus quilts. I believe there were a few personal purchases as well. On 27th November there will be a demonstration of how to make an appliqu roll suitable for storing and transporting small planned projects. At the meeting on 11th December we will enjoy tea or coffee and mince pies with our usual lucky dip of needlecraft related surprises provided by participants. Amazingly we will not be meeting on 25th December. Our first meeting of 2013 will be on 8th January. This will be our AGM when subscriptions are due. This is also when we plan the programme for the year so ideas and offers are much appreciated. For further information contact Jane on 01953 884215 or check our Blog on http://htsqgroup.blogspot

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The Wayland News

Wives of the Light Dragoons, who are based in Swanton Morley, have created a charity Calendar to raise money for the Light Dragoons Colonels Appeal. The Calendar features a series of amusing photos of themselves wearing army kit and running the army camp whilst the soldiers are away. The women, whose ages range from 20s to 40s and have no previous modelling experience, are contributing towards the Charity which aims to give enduring support to Light Dragoons wounded on operations or in regimental service, to their families, and to the families of those killed on duty. One of the calendar's campaign organisers, Justine Plant, whose husband Sam is the Commanding Officer of the Light Dragoons, said the models, who have 51 children between them, were inspired by their husbands' bravery. "As wives of the Light Dragoons we are more than aware of the risks our husbands take when deployed, and as a small, family regiment where we all know each other, when any of our soldiers are injured it affects us all. For this reason the Light Dragoons Colonel's Appeal is close to our hearts. We wanted to do something to

show our support. A group of 29 of us have got together to produce an amusing - we hope! - calendar which depicts us running the army camp while our husbands are away. We have had a great deal of fun putting it together, and hope people will support us by buying it - and that they will enjoy what we have produced!" The calendar has been a totally Light Dragoon affair, with ex Light Dragoon Chris Jelf, now a professional photographer, giving up his time to take the photos. In addition Jenni Sime, a Light Dragoon wife, who runs her own graphic design company, donated her time to make the calendar look fantastic. The 2013 Calendars cost 5 and from mid November and will be available from various outlets across Breckland and can also be bought on-line via the Light Dragoons Colonels Appeal website: www.ldcolonelsappeal.com The wives will also be selling the calendars at the Light Dragoons Welcome Home Parade on 5 December in Dereham. For further information relating to the parade including road closures, bus changes and car parking see www.lightdragoonsparade.com

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News

Poppy Appeal boost from a Silly Grandad's poetry

The Royal British Legion Poppy appeal has received a boast of 120 from the sale of the book of poems written by Alan Chilvers and titled Poems From a Silly Grandad. Alan, who is the Watton and District Branch Standard Bearer presented the proceeds from his book to the Poppy Appeal Organiser, Jean Sell on Saturday 3rd November. (Pictured left) Alan has been writing poetry for a number of years and was persuaded to put them in a book by his family; having done that he thought it might benefit the Royal British Legion if he donated a 1 for every copy sold. The book which came out in late June this year has sold 120 copies, most sold to friends, family and Legion members with the odd copy going to Essex and London. Mr Chilvers said I would like to thank everyone who has purchased a book and therefore helped a very important charity. There are still copies available from Edwards in the High street, or from the author on 07749276676

Letters to the Editor A Quick Look Round By Orbiter A Big Thank You from the Wayland
Players! At the time of writing, there are still three days to go before Calendar Girls opens at the Queens Hall. However, the Wayland Players have been overwhelmed by the support they have received from the people and businesses of Watton and would like to take this opportunity to thank a few individuals. First of all, Julian and the Wayland News for accepting the articles and adverts which have given us such great publicity. The paper provides a wonderful platform for groups such as ours and long may it continue. Secondly, Adcocks, our ticket agents, who have had a lot more work than normal dealing with ticket sales! Then there's Alison and the Village Florist who always supports us and has done especially sterling work for this play, Alan at Top to Toe Photography who somehow managed to make us all look amazing and of course, Janet Lundie who has worked so hard on the set. There are so many others we can't possibly mention them all, among them family and friends of the cast & crew and Friends of the Wayland Players. Most of all, we'd like to thank YOU, the people that have bought tickets, already making this show almost a complete sell out. STOP PRESS P.S.! Wow! What an amazing four nights! Over 700 of you came to see 'Calendar Girls' and from the laughter and applause you gave us, you all enjoyed it. On behalf of the Cast and Crew, thank you all so much for your support. Final figures aren't yet in but I can safely predict that we will be able to donate well over 500 to Leukaemia Research. Wendy Collins, Co-Director. A "Thank You" Message from Kathleen Brown I wish to thank all my neighbours in Nelson Court, Watton and my many friends at the Methodist Church, Flower Club and other organisations that I have attended and supported over many years for all their kindness and help when I was at home prior to my move into Eastlands Care Home at Taverham. The many Birthday cards, Get Well letters and 'phone calls which I have received since my move have been much appreciated and special thanks are due to all those friends who have visited me at my new home. I am very happy in my new surroundings, it's home from home, the carers are devoted to their work and it's especially nice to be so close to my family. Christmas Greetings to You All and God Bless. Kathleen As the festive season approaches, the usual tidings of great gloom abound, this time regarding ash trees. The disease which is wiping them out is now widespread across the country, and follows the incidence of other plagues which have affected elms, oaks, horse chestnuts and various other woodland favourites. Is Mother Nature trying to tell us something ? The last month or two has seen our world getting dafter, with namecalling affecting many of our public figures, such as one politician getting into trouble for calling a policeman a pleb. Since this word just suggests a person of lower intellect, the reaction seems to be more suitable to the kindergarten, for surely we have all endured far worse insults on a regular basis. But insults seem to be making the headlines, with footballers, of all people, complaining, while bad language seems to have become part of our broadcasting services, or at least the BBC, (the commercial stations are discouraged from using naughty words, lest they offend the targets of their advertising). While the live comedy shows are all guilty, the worst offender seems to be Mock the Week, where hardly a noun is voiced unless qualified by an offensive adjective. No, I am not a wrinkly old prude, but for me a swear word is usually the response to banging my head on a cupboard door or some similar incident. Of course at one time polite society would use milder words, such as flipping or blinking, but even then such adjectives did nothing to help the narration. But it is not only those in the public eye that seem to be losing their way in life. There has been a steady increase in incidents involving railway level crossings, with people, both on foot and in vehicles, ignoring all warnings of impending trains, so that calls for these crossings to be abolished altogether are being made. But they have been in operation for up to 150 years, so why the sudden increase in accidents ? When one sees films showing roads and rails crossing in America, with no gates or warning signals, one wonders why we in England cant cope. In a recent article by the Mayor of Watton, he made mention of our rather inconvenient local postal address, which includes the town of Thetford.

This has long been a subject of annoyance, for quite frequently deliveries being made from distant parts are delayed because the lorry driver has deliberately aimed for Thetford, and then, when making enquiries locally, has found great difficulty in getting directions, since, as can be verified by experiment, hardly anyone in Thetford has even heard of Watton, let alone our adjacent villages. (In fairness to Thetford people, how many Watton folks could direct a lost motorist to Croxton or Barnham, or even Thetford itself ?) Luckily now that Postcodes are in full use the problem is not quite so bad, but most of us prefer to omit the word Thetford from our address, even though the authorities dont approve. Now we are all used to receiving shocks from time to time, but one that really struck home the other week was when, on the way home the price of petrol at my local garage was 138p per litre, but next morning it had been reduced to 135p. Three pence per litre down, all in one go, was almost beyond belief, but of course the reduction was soon repeated in the other outlets, but for one glorious period Watton prices were better than those at Waitrose in Swaffham, which is usually the local cheapest. But these prices fluctuate so much, that by the time these words are read they will probably have all changed again, up or down. And to think that not many months ago strikes were held in protest at the prospect of a rise to 1 per litre! It seems that the government are again bowing to pressure, and have announced a further delay in the removal of the FM radio service in favour of Digital. Of course the Digital service is a brilliant innovation but this does not mean that FM is no longer any good. It simply makes sense that those with FM sets in excellent working order, particularly motorists, should be allowed to keep them. This being the late autumn, or the beginning of winter, the problem of leaves on the line has prompted the railway companies to announce that times of trains are to be extended, since delays are to be expected. What are they like? In my commuting days we never suffered from leaves on the line. Perhaps passengers should carry brooms! Merry Christmas.

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The Wayland News Page 11

no longer available because the white clover now growing has such a large flower that the bees are unable to access the nectar. Slides were shown of lawns left uncut for too long which could produce a parasitic plant called broom rape. This shows itself by a long stem with no leaves but topped with brown flowers. Rat tailed plantain, when it first appears in the garden, bears its seeds on upright stems but after being mowed a few times, it changes its habit and starts producing its seeds horizontally to escape the mower. Its seeds are sticky and cling to shoes and also to the wheels of the mower and get moved round the garden in this way. There are two varieties of bindweed. The small flowered one is native but the large flowered one was introduced as it was thought to be prettier! Wild garlic, commonly known as Jack by the Hedge, is the host plant for the orange tip butterfly. Swine cress and yellow oxalis favour gravelly drives and do not mind being walked on or driven over. We also learnt that there are 5 types of red poppy in Norfolk. As this is supposed to be the Norfolk emblem, one wonders which one of the five it is. The ivy-leafed toadflax seen growing out of walls, has developed a seed pod which embeds itself in cracks in walls in much the same way that we use plastic rawlplugs (and is similar in construction) and swells up when it gets wet in winter and releases its seeds in spring. In this way, it climbs up the wall. Holly is supposed not to be harmful to brick walls and if left, it will flower in winter. This provides food for a variety of wildlife when there is nothing else available. Holly is only harmful to the soft mortar in flint walls. Gardeners who leave odd dark corners of the garden with nettles and think they are aiding with conservation are not helping the declining butterflies as they only like to lay their eggs on female nettles growing in full sun. Robert was an imposing figure in full beard but was ready to mix with our members after his talk by discussing their queries. He is able to talk on a variety of natural history subjects including plants, insects and butterflies. We showed our appreciation with our applause. The task was won by Mrs. Gillian Ellis from Attleborough. Whats on in December 4th Christmas Dinner at the Dell Bowling Club, Old Norwich Road, Wymondham. Please try to arrive by 11.30 am to be seated by 12 noon. Entertainment will be provided by Bob Reeves, the Busking Bargee. 12th Entertainment will be provided by the Rockland Primary School children. Please try to arrive a bit earlier, say 1.50pm, as the children have to leave in time for school in order to be dismissed. PLEASE NOTE THERE WILL BE NO LUNCH CLUB MEETING IN DECEMBER. RING MARION ON 01953 483431 if you need further details. New members always welcome. Why not start the new year by coming along to Shellrock Circle Club? A HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL.

Shellrock Circle Club

For the over 50s of Rocklands and the surrounding districts. Venue: The Village Hall, The Street, Rocklands. Each year, the Club tries to give our members a free trip. This year, it took the form of a mystery tour arranged between Mrs. Jean Ayres, our entertainments officer and the coach company. The final destination proved to be the peaceful market town of Spalding. The town is characterised by its place in the flat fens and its Georgian terraces. This area has proved well suited to the growing of tulip and daffodil bulbs and every year, the town attracts thousands of visitors to see the floral floats and parade put on by the town. The fields with their wide beds of the same colour tulips are also a sight worth seeing. Some people were surprised at the amount of nationwide retail outlets that were in the town. Robert Maidstone, the well known naturalist, was our Speaker on the 14th of November. His subject was Wild Flowers in the garden. During his talk, Robert took us to various parts of a typical garden and showed us slides of plants that could be found there. Some very interesting facts emerged. We learnt that there were 307 types of dandelions in England. Any that flowered in March/April were not true dandelions. Apparently, clover honey was

There is more news on www.waylandnews.com have a look!

Thetford Singers Present

"On the Way to Bethlehem"

Performance also featuring contributions from the Thetford Voices Youth Choir Saturday 8th December 7.30pm The Harvest Centre, Fengate Drove, Brandon. 6 (5 concessions), including seasonal refreshment And shortened performance (Thetford Singers alone) on

Sunday 9th December 4.00pm

Thetford United Reformed Church, Earls Street, Thetford Tickets for the performance on the 8th are available in advance from Leaping Hare, King Street, Thetford (01842 751975); tickets for both performances available on the door.

A Hair Of The Dog?

According to national charity Alcohol Concern 200,000 people come to work with a hangover every day and the over 45s are 3 times more likely to drink alcohol every day. Many of us enjoy a drink but there is clear evidence that alcohol can cause a range of health problems such as stroke, cancers, high blood pressure and heart disease, and is associated with many different types of crime such as violence and antisocial behaviour. The government advises that people should not regularly drink more than the daily unit guidelines of 3-4 units of alcohol for men (equivalent to a pint and a half of 4% beer) and 2-3 units of alcohol for women (equivalent to a 175 ml glass of wine) where Regularly means drinking every day or most days of the week. Regularly drinking over these limits can put you at increasing risk of developing health problems. Alcohol is very much a part of our culture in the UK and never more so as we head towards the festive season. It is a tricky subject to talk about and this year for Alcohol Awareness week the theme is Its time to talk about drinking Total Health Pharmacy in Watton is encouraging people to find out the facts. The pharmacy has information, tips, tools and advice for people who want to learn more. Pharmacist , Geoff Ray, says This is not about pointing the finger at anyone. Alcohol Awareness week is all about awareness. It is a matter of choice but people are often shocked when they understand how many units of alcohol are in their favourite drink. One unit of whiskey is 25ml or 5 medicine spoons! We can offer practical tips on how to enjoy drinking safely. One way that Alcohol Concern is getting the conversation started is by challenging people to give up alcohol for one month in January. People are encouraged to sign up for Dry January.

A Mardle with the Mayor

Cllr Paul Cooper I would like wish all our readers a very Happy Christmas. Especially those living on their own, or have family away at this time of year. I appreciate all the feedback I receive from my mardle. Where has this year gone? Is it an age thing, because as one matures there seems to be less time in a day. Perhaps its because we forget things and have to retrace our steps to remember what it was we were going to do. I like most people have to write things down, just hope I remember where I put the piece of paper. I do try and use my mobile phone for notes and to record memos. What have I been doing since my last Bardle? It has been a quieter month than previous, but I am sure the month of December will be busy. Lots of invites have already been received and we will try and attend where possible. I attended The Watton Society AGM, where we given a very entertaining talk about the Town Clock and its history by Julian Horn. Also we had a short film on the workings of the clock. Lets hope our Town Clock chimes dont upset the neighbourhood as this seems to be happening everywhere nowadays. Even Church Bells are not excluded from people complaining about their noise. I mentioned were being invited back to Watton Junior School. That visit took place on Monday 22 October where the Mayoress and myself attended school assembly. I had the honour to read out the names of the successful pupils forming the School Council, there were two from each year. A thoroughly enjoyable visit again. I was invited back to Total Health pharmacy to help promote Mens health. It seems many men are reluctant to talk to The challenge is to stay off the booze for 31 days, feel better, save money and make a difference. You can sign up individually or as a team through the website www.dryjanuary.org.uk and will receive motivational tips to keep

their local pharmacist about a whole list of things. Pop in guys and have a chat, they dont bite. We attended the laying of Poppy Crosses on the war graves at St Marys on Saturday 10 November. This was followed by Remembrance Sunday, which actually fell on the 11 November this year. I was proud to wear my late fathers war medals. The weather was fine and it was nice to see such a good turn out of all ages. I would like to thank all those who attended. It was quite ironic as I joined the Royal Navy on 11 November, a day I will never forget. You never forget your service number either. The Watton Town Council website is up to date so please have a look. Driving Tips Now the clocks have gone back one hour means the possibility of driving in the dark. I know lots of our senior citizens prefer not to drive in the dark, so if you dont have to, dont. The minimum eyesight requirement in daylight is to read a number plate at 20.5 metres and for those still in old money its 22 yards or to put it another way the length of a cricket wicket. If in doubt get your eyes checked. For those with access to a computer it might be a good idea to have a go at the Theory Test, which all pupils taking the practical test must successfully pass before applying. The Theory Test consists of multi choice questions and a hazard perception video, good luck. you going. For more information about alcohol awareness, visit Total Health Pharmacy at 14 Gregor Shanks Way opposite the Watton Medical Practice. The pharmacy is open 7 days a week from 8am until late.

The Wayland News Page 12

News

WAYLAND CMA
December 15th Longshot
Tel 01953 889 890 for details The Best In Country Music 8 til late

The Ovington Crower

Hare yew gittin on tergither, thas tunned suffin raw in tha mornins leartly int it, shall hefta git tha ole winta drors on afore long. Tha ole Wikka hed wunna tha membrance sarvices larst Sunda, cos we wus lucky an dint lose tew many of ower boys as yew know, but we hed a bitta quiet fer a cuppla minits an I got to hang a wreath on tha wore moreal. Horry wos thare, fust tiome fer evrathin I rekkon, his Sunda Sewt wos orl tricolearted up and wos covered with medals, sum lukked verra owld ter me. So I say ter him I say, Wared yew git orl tha gongs from Horry I say. I thort yew wos in tha Hoom Gard, not traipsing orl oova yewrope Waal he say. I wos on speshul dewtys alonga tha Hoom Gard, so I wos givun reckonission fer my unda cuvva wuk I hed a cloosa luk at his cleckshun, an I cud see sum onnem wos fer the fust world wor, waal I know Horrys nokkin on a bit but he hent thet owld. Wen I arsked him he say Thas sum o my farthas and ole uncle Horry tha fust, an my ole Grandaddy he got sum fer scrappin in the boor wore, so I thort I shud member orl them gud ole boys wos gone afore No arnsa ter thet I rekkun. Did yew hev eny o tha ole firewuks tha year? Arta thet lood of gret ole sploshuns we hed arlier, we dint hev much of a dew this time arownd, but oova tew Watton thar ware a hell of a lotta gret ole fizzes an bangs, so summa on yew hed a a lotta munny tew chuck arownd, cos tha corst a forchoon. My missus she say Wot we goonta be dewin fer Chrismus tha year Sid? I say tew har I say Goo ta hell wumman I say Thas munths away yit No thet ent

she say. Dew yew luk at tha calenda Sid, thas oonly jist up the rood Blarst I say I oonly jist put tha ole Chrismus tree up inna tha ruf Well yew duzzy ole fewl she say,yew betta git up thar an git it down agin cos I shull sune be puttin up orl tha decrashuns I shall hatta dew as Im towld cos tharll be rukshins Torkin of Chrismus, thetll sune be tha ole Willage Chrismus Bazaar inna tha willage horl. Ole Missus R she say tew Horry, Yew hent hed a shearve fer a munth or tew, can yew dew Fartha Chrismus fer the little kiddies tha yare? Horry cum back sharp as a nife Wos innit fer me my gud wummon? Nutthin she say Yewr dewin it fer the littluns, dint yew see Fartha Chrismus wen yew wos a boy? Well yis say Horry He allus gi me a ding o tha lug, niva did git a present Oh why? arsded Missus R. Cos I knew he wosnt the reel blooke say Horry An when I hossed his whiskas orf he got suffin raw an I got a smack o tha chops, so I dint goo anymore Well really Horry she say Yew shud be shamed o yoreself, our children arnt like thet tewday Ill hev yew know So I rekkun hese lumbered, dont yew. Any ole how, I hoop yewll cum along ter tha bazaar on tha fust o Decemba at just afore forses. My missus she say thas 12 oclock fer them as downt dew a lotta choppin owt. Thars lottsa gud stuff ter buy, plenty o gud wittals an moost of orl yew git spookin tew by orl ower Ovintun peepal, cos ware like thet. Will see yew thar ole partners, now dew yew kip a troshin, an if things downt alta sun, tharl stay as thar are. Boy Sid expresses their commitment and excitement about the future of our school. The outdoor learning projects are particularly forefront at the moment as we have a new outdoor classroom and we are working with a local charity to develop woodland learning. Children are going to be using the information and facilities locally, to enhance their learning, develop ideas and support local charities and businesses. We are looking forward to the Christmas fair, where the school and community are working together another way for us all to support each other. Stalls will be set up in school on Saturday 8th December, from 11-1pm. Do come along and browse the wonderful selection of crafts, food goodies and activities that will be available. The Friends of Great Hockham always put such an effort into making every event special, so I have no doubt that the collaboration of both the Friends and the Village will result in something brilliant. If you would like Great Hockham Primary Schoolto visit the school at any time, to look at what it has to offer, then please get in touch with Mrs Sarah Jones, school administrator, on 01953 498302, or email office@hockham.norfolk.sch.uk

The Singing Farmer

On a Sunday afternoon in November 2010 The Rotary Club organised a Concert at the Queens Hall:- An Audience with The Singing Farmer. The event was most successful and a recording was made of the proceedings. It has taken longer than expected for the DVD to be produced but this will now be available by the end of November. Many of the audience showed their interest in the DVD and the Club will be contacting those who left their names and addresses with Martin after the Show. The DVD is entitled The Last Resort and will cost 11 a copy including p&p. The Concert was well received and Winston was in excellent form. I am sure that many who attended would like to remember the afternoon by buying a copy and those that didnt see the Show will need to buy a copy to see what they missed! More information about Winston can be found on his Web-site shown below. Anyone else interested in a DVD should contact one of the following: Derek Smith 01953 884044, derekismith@talktalk.net Martin Anscombe 01953 884224, martinanscombe@aol.com; Winston Harrold 01263 861386, 07748186489, winston@singingfarmer.co.uk. Web Site: www.singingfarmer.co.uk

Great Hockham Primary School launches new logo

Great Hockham Primary School have launched their new school logo. The school vision is about Putting the Great into Great Hockham Primary. This started with the school logo, which labelled the school as merely Hockham. The children, staff and local community are very much involved in putting the Great into Great Hockham and it was felt that the logo needed to reflect this. Headteacher, Mrs Hannah Wheeler, thought that that the change was a necessary start to a new year and new start for the school. Staff, children and governors agreed that keeping the squirrel motif was important, but including the lower case lettering and, most importantly, including the word Great. Mrs Wheeler said 2012 is going to be a Great year for Great Hockham. The Autumn term has started off well, with renewed vigour and motivation. Everyone involved with us

Join Up January in Your Local Library

Norfolk Libraries really do have something for everyone: from console games to the latest bestsellers. We can teach older people how to use the internet on one of our free Surfs Up! courses; lend out toys and books for children with our brilliant Story Sacks; help you reminisce with someone youre caring for using one of our beautiful reminiscence kits or even deliver books direct to your door if you find it difficult to get to the library. More than 5000 people joined the library last January, and were hoping to beat that this year. Its free to become a library member and quick and easy to join up in a library or online. So if youve not visited us for a while, why not make it your New Years resolution to get back into your local library? With ebooks to download, our online catalogue you can search from home, renewals available 24 hours a day online or by phone and 47 libraries (not to mention our 13 mobile libraries) across Norfolk, its never been easier to use your library service. During January, a voucher sheet with offers on DVD hire and book reservations among others will also be available to members when they borrow an item from the library. Find out more at www.norfolk.gov.uk/libraries or pop in to your local library.

Watton & District University of the Third Age (U3A)

Denise James portrayal of life in a Tourist Office caused many a laugh at the October meeting. The incidents and situations that Denise came across were worthy of a Sit Com comedy script. There will be no Pub Luncheon group meetings in December. The U3As annual Christmas Lunch is being held at Richmond Park G.C on Friday 7th December at 12.45pm. Tickets are now available at 13.50 for a two course lunch Coffee and mince pies together with a free raffle. The coach for the Christmas Spectacular at Thursford will leave the Queens Hall car park at 5.15pm on Wednesday 28th November. The visit to the Jaguar Car Plant at Castle Bromwich is now confirmed as Wednesday 27th February 2013. This trip is limited to thirty members. The next monthly meeting is on Thursday 13th December. Entertainment will be by Gerry Morris with A Little Bit of Ireland featuring humour, songs and instruments. For more information on the national U3A go to www.u3a.org.uk

News

Letter from Australia

By Chris O'Connor It goes without saying that Australia is a large country but surprisingly the population is small, around 30-million, the majority of whom live on the eastern seaboard and will never venture into the legendary outback. Those who do are overawed at the naked beauty of the land. It is a land of delicate contrasts from thousands of acres of red desert through to huge canyons and in some areas hidden waterfalls where you would expect to see only dust. It is also a land full of life and many visitors are surprised to see native flora and fauna surviving in a land that ostensibly appears to be devoid of life. Over the past forty years I have spent many days and hundreds of thousands of kilometres exploring what is known as the Great Southern Land and it never ceases to humble me with its magnificence, down to earth people and wildlife. Only a few months ago I was in the far north of Australia swimming in a pool that nature had carved out of hard rock over millions of years. A waterfall some two hundred metres high pounded down and into the crystal clear water. Fortunately the area was devoid of crocodiles that day but it gives you an idea of the contrasts and dangers people visiting Australia can expect. Each year a close friend of mine, John, joins mine on a trip to the outback. We usually try and head for places that most people will not go to, not because we are heroes but because we want to explore and step in the steps of those early pioneers of Australia. The men and women who through sheer determination and guts managed to conquer a seemingly inhospitable land, a land where David Attenborough once said you can smell the antiquity of the earth. Strangely we often return to Central Australia or the far north of South Australia; we seem to enjoy the smell of ochre coloured desert, the hundreds of kilometres between stops and the intensity of the skies at night where a million stars look down upon you. Visitors from Europe are often stunned at how clear the sky is and that is simply because in the outback of Australia the air pollution level is at a minimum. In the old days we used to sleep in swags on the ground but as we have gotten older and our bones less forgiving we have opted for camper trailers which contain a decent mattress, cooking facilities and refuge from the millions of flies that attack you by day and the mosquitoes that disturb you sleep with their kamikaze like attack at night. We have lost count of the amount of flies that have managed to find their way into our mouths or the mozzie bites in the morning that make you scratch most of the day. But compare those annoyances with this. Some 300 kilometres west of Alice Springs weve camped alongside a small oasis complete with palm trees whose ancestors were around prior to civilisation as we know it. South of Alice Springs we camped in the dead centre of Australia; a very isolated place where as we built a fire roaring outback fire and prepared our dinner and got ready for our first drink of the day a father and son turned up in the four wheel drive and we had a wonderful evening in pure isolation discussing everything from cricket through to vintage wines. At night you could hear the howling of the native dingo which amidst the silence was quite eerie.

The next night we were camped beside a hot spring where the temperature of the water was around 30 degrees, a welcome relief from the chilling early morning wind. Incredibly tiny fish nibbled at our toes as we swam around this is the middle of nowhere. The next night we camped in an abandoned railway station on the edge of Lake Eyre. Those of you who are old enough will remember this was the area Donald Campbell attempted to break the land speed record in the 1960s. It is an incredible area of the nation; Lake Eyre is the lowest point in Australia, at approximately 15 m below sea level, and, on the rare occasions that it fills, it is the largest lake in Australia and 18th largest in the world. It covers an area of over 9500 square kilometres. The railway station we camped in had been built on the edge of the desert lake in the late 1800s and helped service the famous Ghan railway line stretching 1500 kilometres from Adelaide in South Australia to Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. Water was not in abundance on this occasion but John and I had a wash under a single tap dribbling sulphurous water that had been placed here eons ago and drew its water from deep in the earth. This all sounds quite adventurous but visitors to this area, who ignore the rules, die. Sadly the Outback does claim on average 40 lives a year. On the 13th December 1998, German tourist Caroline Gromller died on the road from Oodnadatta to Lake Eyre North. To venture off the beaten track in the Australian Outback without following simple rules is just like stepping out onto a busy road from between parked cars without looking left and right. Stupidity can kill you anywhere. Along with her partner they made a number of mistakes. They went in the middle of the summer, where the temperatures reach 50 C in the daytime; their vehicle became bogged in the red desert sand and they made the fatal mistake of not staying with their car deciding to walk and try and find help. Sadly Ms. Gromller walked past a cattle trough situated just a few hundred metres from where she perished. There is no second option in this area of the world. Incidentally, as I write this a 25 year old man who worked on a cattle station has perished after his vehicle became bogged. Police say he died from dehydration and exposure simply because he did not have enough water. But let us not dwell on the sadness of the outback; rather delight in what it has to offer. Over the years John and I have watched blood red sunsets and sunrises over the desert dunes, a sight you will never forget and humbles you with its splendour. In parts of South Australia we have driven through gorges that contain fossils millions of years old and if you take the time to look are easy to see. We have watched hundreds of kangaroos take flight as we drive past, skipping over fences and bounding at a speed an elite athlete would envy. On the odd occasion they have managed to connect with our four wheel drive. On another occasion we drove 1000 kilometres north east of Adelaide to the very remote town of Innamincka, an intriguing outback destination with a permanent population of about 12 nestled near the Cooper Creek where we camped and were overawed by the sheer size of the area we were camped in. The Innamincka Regional Reserve spans a total of 1.3 million hectares and is home to 200 species of birds, many native animals and reptiles. Above all over the years John and I have stopped and smelt the antiquity of the earth.

News from the West Norfolk Aviation Society

For our last meeting of this year our members gathered together in our usual venue, Methwold Social Club, and were royally entertained by one of our members, Andrew Barnes, who gave an illustrated talk on aviation over the last one hundred years. Included were brilliant illustrations and pictures of aircraft portraying the growth of the aircraft industry and the rapid advances that have been made in aircraft design and particularly performance during the century of powered flight. Andrew was warmly applauded and thanked for his detailed research. We shall be taking a break over December to allow members to fully involve themselves with their families during the festive season and will reconvene on Tuesday January 8th at 7.30 at the usual venue, where we shall have the much travelled raconteur and aviation expert, Chris Lucas, as our guest for the evening. All are more than welcome to come along and enjoy the company of fellow aviation enthusiasts. Or visit our website: westnorfolkaviationsociety.co.uk Local contact is Rod Rumsby on 882246 for more information on forthcoming events and directions for finding Methwold Social Club.

The Wayland News Page 13

News from the Wayland Partnership

1. FREE Maths or English Courses at Wayland House, High Street, Watton. You can gain a qualification by attending two classes per week over an eleven week course. The course starts in January 2013 dates to be confirmed. Maths will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9.30 12 Noon and English on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12.30pm 3pm. To book call Laura 07825114272 or Adult Education 01603 306556 or email laura.white@norfolk.gov.uk or skillsforlifeadmin@norfolk.gov.uk Adult Education may be able to fund your childcare. 2. Have you thought about starting a Twitter account for your business, organisation or community group? It is free, easy to use and can be less time consuming than writing press releases or constant marketing emails. With Twitter you can promote your group and network with specific audiences based on location and theme. And the more we build up an online network of local groups in Wayland, the more useful it becomes. If you are already a tweeter, find us at @waylandtweets, follow us and lets grow the Wayland Twitter network together. Or if youd like support and advice in setting up your own Twitter account or any other aspect of social media so that you can take part, email Julian Horn on julian@waylandnews.com or Iain Cockburn on iain@wayland.org.uk. We have already held a free training course on Twitter basics and are planning additional sessions. Details will appear in the Wayland News and at @waylandtweets. 3. New volunteers needed to help us help the Wayland community. Various opportunities are available. If you have some spare time and would like to help, meet new people and learn new skills, contact Iain on 01953 880204 or mail to iain@wayland.org.uk 4. Have you heard or read about the Wayland Partnership? Do you know what we do? Would you like to find out about the help and support we provide to the Wayland community? Call in and see us at Wayland House next to the Police Station in Watton High Street.

Church Times and News

Watton Churches Together

Service Calendar for December
St. Marys Church, Watton
1st, 3rd & 4th Wednesday at 9.30am Holy Communion 2nd Wednesday Morning Worship Church Office opens Tues, Wed & Thurs 9am-1pm Tel: 01953 881252 margaret@churchadm.freeserve.co.uk www.stmaryswatton.org Sun 2nd 8.00am Holy Communion 10.00am Holy Communion Sun 9th 8.00am Holy Communion 10.00am Holy Communion 12.30pm Holy Baptism Sat 15th 2.30pm Looking for Christmas at Chaston Place, leading to 3.00pm - Town Carol Service at Watton Sports Centre Sun 16th 8.00am Holy Communion 10.00am Holy Communion Sat 22nd 6.30pm Carol Service Sun 23rd 8.00am Holy Communion 10.00am Holy Communion Mon 24th Christmas Eve 4.00pm Christingle Service with Shine!, especially for children and families 11.30pmHoly Communion Tues 25th Christmas Day 10.30am Family Holy Communion Sun 30th 10.30am Group Service of Holy Communion Watton Methodist Church Every Wednesday the Church is open for quiet reflection and prayer between 10.00am & 12.00noon Its your quiet place. At 10.30 there is a half-hour Midweek Service in the Large Vestry led by the Minister or a Church Member. www.wattonmethodist.btck.co.uk Minister: Deacon S Sowerby 01953 881035 Sun 2nd 10.45am Mr B Lawrence 2.30pm Circuit Service at Walsingham Sun 9th 10.45am Mrs A Fox 6.30pm Mr D Harrison Sun 16th 10.45am Rev M PillayHoly Communion 6.30pm To be arranged Sun 23rd 10.45am Mrs E WarbyCarol Service 6.30pm Rev M Pillay & Deacon Sowerby Holy Communion Mon 24th Christmas Eve 7.00pm Deacon S Sowerby Carols by Candlelight Tues 25th Christmas Day 10.00am Deacon S Sowerby Sun 30th 10.45am Section Service at Swaffham Roman Catholic Community Each Sat 5.30pm Mass at Watton Methodist Church Mon 24th Christmas Eve 4.30pm Mass at Watton 11.30pm Carols at Swaffham & Midnight Mass Tues 25th Christmas Day 9.30am Mass at Swaffham Pentecostal Church, Dereham Road, Watton Children have their own programme during the Sunday morning services Sun 2nd 10.30am Christmas all wrapped up Why do we celebrate Christmas? 6.00pm Pudding, Praise and Prayer Sun 9th 10.30am Christmas all wrapped up Why did the Son of Man come into the world? Sun 16th 10.30am Family Christmas Carol Service Sun 23rd 10.30am Christmas all wrapped up Christmas is really here! 6.00pm Carols by Candlelight Tues 25th Christmas Day 11.00am Christmas Day Service Sun 30th 4.00pm New Years House Party St. Nicholas Church, Ashill Tuesdays at 10.00am Said Holy Communion Sun 2nd 9.30am Lay Led Morning Worship Sun 9th 9.30am Morning Worship Sun 16th 9.30am All Age Worship Mon 17th 6.00pm Carols on the Green Sun 23rd 4.00pm Carols & Crib Service Mon 24th Christmas Eve 9.30pm Holy Communion Tues 25th Christmas Day 9.30am All Age Worship St. Georges Church, Saham Toney 10.30am Benefice Service of Holy Communion 11.00am Morning Worship 11.00am All Age Worship 11.00am Carol Service Christmas Eve 11.00pm Holy Communion There is no service at St Georges on Christmas Day Sun 2nd Sun 9th Sun 16th Sun 23rd Mon 24th Sun 2nd Sun 9th Sun 16th Wed 19th Sun 23rd Tues 25th S. S. Peter & Pauls Church, Carbrooke 6.30pm Group Darkness to Light Advent Service 10.30am Holy Communion 10.30am All Age Worship 6.30pm Carol Service with Carbrooke School 10.30am Lay Led Worship Christmas Day 10.30am Family Holy Communion St John the Evangelist Church, Ovington 9.30am Holy Communion 12.30pm Holy Baptism 5.00pm Carol Service
nd

Breckles, Caston, Great Hockham, Griston, Merton, Stow Bedon & Thompson Worship Calendar for December Sunday 2 First Sunday Of Advent 10:30 am United Holy Communion Sunday 9th Second Sunday of Advent 9:00 am Matins (BCP) 10:30 am United Holy Communion 3:00 pm Lessons & Carols 5:00 pm Candlelit Lessons & Carols Sunday 16th Third Sunday of Advent 9:00 am Matins (BCP) 10:30 am United Holy Communion Friday 21st 6:00 pm Candlelit Lessons & Carols Sunday 23 10:30 am 3:00 pm 6:30 pm
rd

Early Morning

The Wayland News Page 14

Thought for the month by Fr Gordon Williams, Parish Priest, Our Lady of Pity Catholic Church, Swaffham
The famous Japanese poet Basho ( 1644-1694) Buddhist monk and lifelong traveller always rose very early in the morning, usually at dawn. He would wash in the mountain stream and then sit in meditation. This was his spiritual discipline. Benjamin Franklin also extolled the virtues of health, wealth and wisdom to getting up early. I have learnt something of this wisdom in my own way too. I have always been an early riser, but now I get up early for inner reasons. It has nothing to do with cramming more hours into the day for more and more things, quite the opposite! Early rising gives time for stillness, solitude, and quite. There is something mysterious about the dawn that is deeply attractive. Maybe its the quiet stillness as the darkness gives way to the gentle light of dawn. At certain times of the year the sound of the dawn chorus adds another sense of wonder. The seasons of the year also bring their own sense of the mystery of change. For me its the perfect time for prayer and quiet meditation. A Sioux Indian Chief once said: In life there is only one great duty the duty of prayer. Each Soul must meet the morning sun, the sweet earth, and the Great Silence alone. What is this Silence? It is the Great Mystery, the Holy Silence is His Voice! There is great wisdom here, but I think too few take any notice. Getting up early can really influence the rest of your day. Of course, if your are to do this you must get to bed early enough! Starting the day with a firm foundation of mindful prayer and quiet can flow into your daily activities and bring some balance to life. Whereas, if we get out of bed at the last minute and gulp a cup off coffee and rush of the work, that too will influence your day. To witness the dawn each day is in itself a wake up call from somewhere beyond our understanding. It is a call from the Spirit. For me, it has become an important part of my day. It is a practice I learnt many years ago, influenced as I was by a visit to Japan. Over many years it has never lost its allure. Yes, there are times when its difficult to get out of bed, especially on a winter morning. But the value of it is doing it even when I dont want to! In our world of obsessive doing, its good to spend some special time just being, . This practice is not just for monks, nuns and zen mountain dwellers. Anyone can practice this way of prayer. If you are not an early type of person, but would like to bring some of what Im speaking of into your life, why not get up a little earlier and see if it draws you. Its the intention that counts, even a few minutes can have an effect. Like the Japanese poet Basho, morning is when I am awake and there is a dawn in me!

Caston Merton Gt. Hockham Griston Breckles Gt. Hockham Griston Merton Stow Bedon Gt. Hockham Caston Thompson Gt. Hockham Caston Stow Bedon Thompson Merton Breckles Thompson

Fourth Sunday of Advent United Holy Communion Candlelit Lessons & Carols Candlelit Lessons & Carols

Christmas Eve and Night 11:00 am Christingle Family Service 3:00 pm Christingle 5:00 pm Christingle 8:00 pm Lessons & Carols 11:30 pm Midnight Holy Communion Christmas Day 9:00 am Holy Communion (BCP) 10:30 am United Holy Communion Sunday 30th First Sunday after Christmas 10:30 am United Holy Communion

Watton Food Bank donations will be received at all our regular Sunday morning services. PRAY AND PLAY Wednesdays at 10:15 am at Caston School Hall 5th, 12th and 19th December and from 9th January For those of all our parishes with children aged 0-5 THE WAY YOUTH GROUP (ages 11+) 14th December, Bowling with other youth groups, 7:00 pm 13th January, 7-8:00 pm, Rectory 18th January, with other youth groups, Caston Rectory,7:00 pm Enquiries: The Revd. Bob Nichols: Tel.: (01953) 483222; Email: revbobnichols@gmail.com

All Saints Church, Threxton Christmas Carol Service

on Sunday 23rd December at 6pm

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT
HOLY CROSS CHURCH, CASTON SUNDAY, 23rd DECEMBER 6.30pm Followed by Mince Pies and Mulled Wine. parking at Church Farm. All are most welcome at this traditional Carol Service entirely lit with candles

St Ethelbert, East Wretham Candlelit Carol Service

on Sunday 16th December at 5pm
Followed by Mulled Wine & Mince Pies

Christingle Service
Christmas Eve 5pm, Holy Cross Church, Caston

Everyone Welcome to join us

Parking at Church Farm
All Proceeds to the Children's Society

Watton Bereavement Support Group Meeting

Wednesday 5th December 2pm Christmas Party Tea at Watton CCC. Please bring along a plate of nibbles.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON TEAS

Hosted by St. Marys Church in December
Sun 16th at Watton Christian Community Centre 2.30 - 4pm Please join us, a warm welcome awaits you and your friends.

Sun 9th Sun 16th Sun 23rd

Advertising

The Wayland News Page 15

Richmond Park Golf Club Ladies Section

Richmond Park lady golfers have had a good year under the captaincy of Margaret Broadbent who now hands over to our new Captain Eileen Chard, we wish her well. Despite the River Wissey running perilously high on more than one occasion we have managed to hold nearly all the competitions scheduled this year and we are pleased to say we have welcomed several new younger members to our ranks, Sandie McCormack being one of them. She was recently awarded the Heather Piper Trophy which is for the player with the most reduced handicap over the season. Regarding our team efforts we have been successful in the Norfolk Womens County League, eventually finishing 2nd in Division 6 and have now gained promotion to Division 5. In the winter months we hold more social competitions and recently played A game of 2 Halves, the front 9 being medal format and the back 9 Stableford. Sandie overcame the muddy conditions and was triumphant once again. In a year marred by the death of the Clubs owner we held many events including the honour of hosting the Norfolk Past Captains Society in April and a successful Am-Am in July. In August we helped the County celebrate their centenary and concluded the year by hosting the Junior Girls Autumn Cup. Some of you who have lived in Watton and its environs for a long time will instantly recognise Elaine Aberdeen, who was victorious in the Secretarys Salver Competition pictured right with last years Captain. She taught at Wayland School for many years & has been Lady Captain at Richmond Park. If you are new to the area and are wondering which golf club to join, look no further than Richmond Park. We pride ourselves on being a friendly, sociable bunch of ladies some of whom even take short golf breaks together either in the UK or abroad. The club itself is well known for its relaxed atmosphere and good food. For further details ring 01953 881 803. excellent cover for a stealthy, stalking predator, should one really exist. The Beast of Bodmin gained its name back in 1983, following reports that a panther type creature had been killing livestock, with an estimated 100 sheep being slaughtered that year alone, tracks and marks consistent with those of big cats being left to fuel the legend. Having previously dismissed reports of big cat sightings as mass hysteria on behalf of confused witnesses, in 1988 the Ministry of Agriculture, merged on its dissolution in 2002 with DEFRA, stepped in and directed the Royal Marines to carry out a massive search for the animal, to no avail, declaring that a dead foal had been killed by a fox. In 1995 the Ministry carried out another study, again inconclusive. Reported sightings run into many thousands and according to the British Big Cats Society, 2,123 sightings were reported between April 2004 and July 2005, the South West, in particular Devon, having the highest, followed by Scotland and then Wales. A skull found by a Devon farmer in July 2005 has been identified as that of a puma. Seems on the surface to be fairly substantial evidence, otherwise if this was a hoax, from where did he get a puma skull? Also in 2005 the Beast of Burford was, apparently, photographed prowling around in fields and one farmer said he watched the animal run away after killing three of his sheep. In January 2012 three wallabies were found dead near Stroud in Gloucestershire, stripped to the bone with their internal organs left beside the carcasses and with puncture marks to the neck, consistent with an attack by a big cat. Several attempts have been made to hoodwink the general public, probably the most bizarre having been reported by two national newspapers in April 2005 as fact, complete with a photo of what appeared to be a black leopard, which turned out to be a large black cuddly toy panther. In the summer of 2011 police found a foam-filled fake after a reported white tiger stopped play at The Rose Bowl, Hampshires cricket ground. Norfolk has had its fair share of sightings. In 2009 an apparent wild cat dubbed the Beast of Burnham Thorpe was spotted near the Sandringham estate, thought to be a lynx or a Scottish wildcat, which have been known to attack humans with their razor sharp claws. At the end of March 2011 a number of people reported seeing a black panther like animal roaming wild on the Bayfield Hall estate near Holt. In April 2011 a lady from Aylsham reported seeing, from the car window, a large black cat in the grounds of Felbrigg Hall, walking through a wooded area. On 17 May 2011 two people reported spotting a large, very dark, cat-like creature on heathland at Salthouse. On the 1st of June 2011 a lady reported that as she and her husband were travelling by car from Dereham to Scarning a large, beautiful, jet-black cat appeared in the middle of the empty road ahead, stood motionless for a few seconds then sauntered back the way it had come and disappeared in a field. Eye witness accounts continue in 2012 two ladies reported coming within feet of a huge black feline creature in the Lake District; two ladies in Bedford claim to have seen a lion stalking around a housing estate, last seen heading for a pig farm; the hunt for a lion in Essex caused panic in August after holidaymakers claimed to have seen the beast near a caravan park in St Osyth near Clacton; three people in Manchester reported seeing a mountain lion type creature in a back garden; two ladies out running in Cumbria reported coming face to face with a big black cat. In spite of all the scepticism, there have been several irrefutable sightings, regrettably mostly only after the animals had been killed. In 1980 a puma was captured in Inverness following two years of sightings, given the name Felicity and lived for a further five years in a wildlife park. In 1989 a jungle cat was killed in Shropshire after being hit by a car, following 13 reports of sightings over the previous three years. In 1991 a leopard was shot on the Isle of Wight, the gunman having mistaken it for a fox. Also in 1991, a large adult lynx was shot near Great Witchingham, thought to have escaped from illegal ownership or a zoo. and did you know, most reported sightings of big cats are of black panthers? However, this is most unlikely. But why would this be? Answer in the next issue.

We are now open to 5pm Monday to Friday

Did you know . . .?

By Rosalie Davis Gibb . . . over recent decades reports of big cat sightings around the UK have steadily been increasing, particularly since the Dangerous Wild Animals Act of 1976, introduced to make sure private individuals who keep dangerous wild animals do so in ways that create no risk to the public. Local Authority Licences are required for any animals that appear on the Schedule to the Act, covering everything from reptiles to spiders and are subject to protection under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. So if you fancy a pet wart hog, walrus or wandering spider, along with dozens of other creatures, youre probably out of luck! Today, from the feline family, only the domestic cat is excluded. Previously, a number of small cats were excluded, including any descended hybrids the wild cat, pallas cat (also known as Manul, covered in long coarse fur to combat the extreme temperatures of its Asia/China habitat), little spotted cat (also known as Oncilla, one of the smallest South American cats), Geoffroys cat (native to South America), kodkod (related to Geoffreys cat and found only in Chile and Argentina), bay cat (also known as Bornean Red Cat, very rare, found only in rocky and scrub areas of Borneo), sand cat (found in desert regions from the Sahara to Baluchistan), blackfooted cat (Africas smallest cat weighing only 2-4lbs) and the rusty-spotted cat (one of the smallest cats and native to Central and Southern India and Sri Lanka), all of which are similar in size and appearance to domestic tabby or tortoiseshell cats. So were presumably not considered dangerous, due to their size. One theory on the increase of big cats roaming the countryside is the sudden release of the animals into the wild since 1976 by owners not wishing to get involved in the licencing requirements. The most famous is probably the Beast of Bodmin, also known as the Beast of Exmoor, the subject of many alleged sightings and reportedly the size and colouring of a black panther. All sightings consistently describe the animal as being a large cat-like creature with a long tail, standing low to the ground, mostly dark grey to black and, in one instance, with dark green eyes, having been seen clearly as the black creature ran across the road in front of a car. The rolling wooded hills of Exmoor, the county from whence came R D Blackmores Lorna Doone, provide

The Wayland News Page 16

News
depths with a carefully shotted float set up, so there is no excuse for not getting out there. Even with all this variety, easily the most popular winter species is the humble pike. It can be found in almost any fresh water, running or still. They fight hard, are relatively easy to catch at small sizes and don't require a small mortgage in tackle. Pike fishing is certainly some of the most exhilarating and quick fire angling available in the UK in winter and a highly recommend giving it a go, whether it be on the broads, in a lake or your local river. As with all angling disciplines, fish safety is paramount for the longevity of our sport. You will need a landing net large enough for your target species, an unhooking mat, gloves and a pair of forceps at the least. Pike can be very delicate specimens, so be sure to take care when handling them and ensure they are out of the water for the absolute minimum of time needed for your trophy shots. Winter fishing is also an excellent opportunity to see our countryside in all it's beauty and splendour. There is nothing quite like stepping out of your door into the predawn glow of a crisp, frosty morning. It feels like the whole world is yours alone and is, I believe, one of the greatest aspects of fishing at any time of the year. Packing a flask full of soup or tea is a great way to stay warm in the harsh weather, as well as the obvious warm clothes. Along with the beauty of the colder months

Winter Fishing
By Jake Holman Well, another winter season is upon us and it's time once again to break out the thermals and flasks. This year, my cold weather fishing sees me chasing monster carp in a local mere. Fingers crossed you will see me holding a monster in the snow! Our area has an incredible variety of specimen angling for any brave souls willing to get out there and take it. From truly superb pike angling on Thompson Water and Scoulton Mere to specimen bream and roach in Loch Neaton and Garner's Pit in Saham. It is a long held belief that winter fishing is extremely difficult, and you might as well stay in and put your feet up. Whilst it certainly does present some challenges and force you to think beyond beautiful summer afternoons trotting lazily through weirs or zig fishing for monster carp, it is by no means impossible. In fact, these challenges make any fish caught a real trophy for the books! Freshwater fish, in general, become sluggish and docile during the colder months. This means that they are using less energy and therefore need to feed less. This doesn't mean they stop entirely! Small areas of bait can still produce impressive carp, and a large common carp in it's dark winter colours is a sight to behold, believe me! Specimen roach and bream can be teased from the frigid

WAYLAND EVENTS DIARY

December
Sat 1st Sat 1st Sun 2nd Wed 5th Wed 5th Sat 8th Sat 15th Sat 15th Tue 18th Ovington Christmas Bazaar In the Village Hall 12 - 3pm Inside Out Market Watton High Street from 9am Ashill Community Centre Car Boot Sale See ad Watton Hockey Club Christmas Bingo See ad Ovington Garden Club Christmas Coffee Moring at St Marys Church 9 -12Noon Charity Festive Market and Entrepreneurs Market High Street Watton from 9am Ashill Youth Club Christmas Fair See as NWT Talk in Search of Wild Orchids. WCCC. See ad

The Watton Society Talk

Wednesday, 19th December 7.45 p.m. at the Christian Community Centre

The Westend Waiters

come the dangers of freezing conditions. When the lakes start to freeze there is a particular need for caution. Never walk on ice, no matter how thick it may appear. Warmer spots caused by any number of things including silt and deep water can create thin areas that look solid, right up until the moment you disappear! This really is a stunning time of year to be on the bank, and the rewards are beyond come pare. However you choose to enjoy your winter, I wish you tight lines, wet nets and may all your fish be big ones.

3 for members and 4 for non members, which includes mulled wine and mince pies.

Andrew Francis Funeral Service

Wattons Only Independent Family Funeral Directors

The Role Of the Funeral Director

When you suffer a bereavement, a funeral for a member of your family is the most difficult day of your life. Everything your family and friends ever thought about a loved one is expressed on that day. When someone dies it comes as a great shock. Sometimes the death may be expected, but nothing prepares you for the emotional shock of losing someone close. As your funeral directors, we are here to help and advise in whatever way we can. we are dedicated professionals who provide a personal service to you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is a rare privilege to be a funeral director, to stand in a sensitive position at a crucial time in the midst of your family, knowing the quality of our service and reputation will help you through this most difficult time in your lives.

Now it is official Caston is a special community

Caston has been named winner of the Under 500 Population category of the The EDP Pride in Norfolk Awards! The initial competition flyer asked What makes your community special? The judges were looking for entries that celebrate the wonderful community life of Norfolk. The entry from Caston described various aspects of the villages life: the Friday drop-in sessions, the wide range of organisations using the village hall, special events such as the Jubilee celebrations and the New Years Eve Safari Supper, Holy Cross Church, the school, the website and parish council schemes (such as speed watch) to name but a few. Perhaps the most important paragraph in Castons entry was the first one: Caston is a rural village with a happy buzz. There are numerous examples of residents pulling together to support the community and individuals. The three judges who visited Caston in October were able to experience our wonderful community life for themselves. They clearly enjoyed the buzz of a drop-in session, and were pleased to hear details of village activities from residents and representatives of our many organisations. After that, they toured Caston to see the lovely village for themselves. Two representatives of Caston Parish Council will be collecting the 500 prize at a ceremony at County Hall on Friday, 30th November. The Parish Council will decide at a future meeting how the money will be spent. The village is very grateful to Mary Nichols who initiated and co-ordinated the competition entry for the village. Well done, Caston!

Tel: 01953 883033

A Happy and Peaceful Christmas from The Wayland News See you in January!

THE WAYLAND NEWS

Page space is allocated strictly on a first come, first served basis. Deadline is 12Noon on 16th of the month preceding publication and that is the last date and time that copy will be considered for inclusion. Arrival of copy before deadline does not guarantee inclusion, if you wish to be certain your entry gets published, then please make sure it arrives in plenty of time otherwise you may still be disappointed. If you are submitting on paper you MUST sign and include your contact details with each item. If you do not, the item will NOT be published. You can contact Julian by ringing (01953) 858908. You can write to 8 Princess Close, Watton IP25 6XA The e-mail address is julian@waylandnews.com Views expressed in articles in The Wayland News are those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or printers.
While every care and effort has been taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions.

This issue of the The Wayland News was published by: Julian Horn, 32 High Street, Watton IP25 6AE and printed by Sharman & Company Ltd, Newark Road

Peterborough PE1 5TD. Phone: 01733 424 949