1. pets
2. dogs

EDITORIAL
I can’t believe that this is the tenth magazine of the year and that I will
need to start preparing letters for all of our loyal advertisers to sort out
spaces for 2015. We have some more new businesses this month as
The Barn reopens at Aingers Green or maybe you need help with Maths
tuition. Just turn to page 38 for full information.
Autumn arrived briefly in August with perfect conditions for the
mushroom crop on the Green to emerge. It is truly amazing what the
hunter/gatherer can acquire whilst walking on this 43 acre site.
Hazelnuts, wild cherry or gean, mulberries, fungi, cherry plums, and even
a few grapes to entice the passing dog walker, all in season. The
hedgerows this year are laden with berries and I cannot ever remember
such a productive blackberry harvest. Harvest Festival at St Mary’s will
be on 12th October this year, details inside. Allotment rents are due on
29th September, Michaelmas, and there are bound to be a few plots
available so why not give it a try? Just contact the Parish Clerk to
reserve your space.
The Village Show was amazing this year with some really top quality
exhibits. Many thanks to the Show Committee for all their hard work, to
the exhibitors, without whom there would be no Show and to Lynda and
her team for the ever popular Dog Show. Similarly the Flower and Art
Festival was another popular venue with many talented creations on
view and tasty refreshments too.
Congratulations to Bentley Green Players and in particular to Sarah
White (Alice) and Amanda Powell (Vicar of Dibley) who were suitably
rewarded for their performances, see page 13. We are all looking
forward to January 2015 I am sure.
The Barn Café reopens shortly and we wish Julie good luck with this
venture. As with farming having to diversify so rural businesses often
apply this technique in different ways. One of our former advertisers was
Tendring Post Office which was also a wonderful shop and Deli. It
closed some while ago now but The Fat Goose at Tendring has risen to
the challenge and will now incorporate a Coffee Lounge and Deli to its
award winning restaurant.
See page 22.
We await this new
development with anticipation.
2014
CONTENTS
Editorial
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1
Letters ..
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2
Church Services
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3
Church Rotas
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4
Thank You ..
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6
Deadline
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7
Police News ..
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8
Carnival News
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9
Letters to the Editor ..
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10
Bus Timetable
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11
Dog Show Results
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12
Peter’s Potterings
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14
Show Cups and Trophies
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15
Surgery News..
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16
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Pet’s Corner ..
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17
Wildlives
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18
Running Club ..
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19
Quiz
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21
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22
Clubs & Organisations
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24
District Councillor Notes
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25
Children’s Page
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26
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Cookery Corner.
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Cricket Club ..
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27
Last month our collating team was severely depleted with only eight
people there for the first three quarters of an hour. We are all volunteers
some of whom attend every month without fail and others who come
along as and when they are able. It may surprise you to learn that we
print the front cover on our own colour printer and the text on a separate
black and white printing machine. We currently produce 960 copies and
that’s an awful lot of paper. WE REALLY DO NEED YOUR HELP. If
you could spare some time we would love to see you. Please consider
giving us a hand.
Parish Council
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28
Pre-School
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29
Nature Notes ..
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31
Farming Diaries
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32
History Society
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33
School
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34
Wind Turbine Update
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36
Hope you enjoy another 38 page magazine, for the second month
running. (We have never ever had such full editions. Thank you
everyone.
Football
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37
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FRONT COVER
Mary Maskell
PS. Barn Owls have had a BRILLIANT year and I hope there will be
space next month to tell you all about it.
Great Bentley
Show
DISCLAIMER
Neither the Church Wardens, Parochial Church Council, nor the Editor take responsibility for the information given or
views expressed in the Great Bentley Parish News. Nor is any culpability accepted in work undertaken by advertisers.
1
The Monthly Letter October 2014
Dear Friends,
October, Autumn, - ‘Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’. I have always said that I have looked forward
to the autumn of my life, when I might have learnt a few lessons and so learnt to live more ‘mellowly’ and
perhaps enjoy the fruits of earlier labour. Now I have reached the ‘grand old age’ of 64, nearly 65, I wonder
just how many, if any, lessons I have learnt and I am certainly not sitting back and doing nothing other than
reflect on my life’s work! But then 60 is the new 40 I am told!
Whatever age we are, God has lessons to teach us and in order to keep growing we need to heed them. In
groups, in organisations, in church even, the old adage ‘If we do not change we die’ rings true. Learning from
what has gone before and building on it we have to adapt to the world around us, living in the present in a way
that lays down solid foundations for what is to come, in this life or the next. Perhaps you know the parable
Jesus told of the two men, one of whom built his house upon the sand and when the wind came it fell down,
while the other built his on solid rock. Much harder to start with - imagine digging the foundations for that one!
However when the strongest wind blew it remained firm.
Where are the foundations for your life and will they stand strong for this life and the next?
Wishing you every blessing in your life-building!
Your friend and Priest
Pat
Fund raising event at Gt Bentley Church
5th - 7th December 2014
A weekend of celebration and reflection with cribs large, small and 'living',
from different sections of the community.
As you know we are having a Christmas Crib Festival at Great Bentley Church.
I am trying to make sure that I do not leave out any group or person or business who are
part of this community. The idea is that we each display a crib which if possible in some way reflects who we
are. It does not have to be large and indeed you may well have one already which could be put to use.
The idea has come from Greccio in Italy , where St Francis first brought together a living crib in the 1200’s,
with real sheep, oxen etc. Now there are displays of cribs from all over the world there as people reflect on
what it means for God to become man in Jesus Christ.
Do join in the fun – for once there is no funding being asked for! I look forward to receiving your form and I will
then send you further details.
Crib Festival
Great Bentley Church
5th- 7th December 2014
I/We would like to put a manger scene (crib) into the Festival
Name of group/ individual/family KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK
Address KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK..
KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK..
Tel no KKKKKKKKKKKKK. Email KKKKKKKKKKKKKK
PLEASE RETURN FORM TO REV CANON PAT PRESTNEY
2, CEDAR WAY GREAT BENTLEY BEFORE NOVEMBER 20TH
2
CHURCH SERVICES AND EVENTS IN
GREAT BENTLEY DURING OCTOBER
METHODIST
ST MARY’S CHURCH
CHURCH NEWS
SUNDAY 5th OCTOBER - TRINITY 16
9.30am
Sung Eucharist & Sunday School
Mon 6th
10am Support in Loss Session
Tues 7th
7.30pm ‘Holding On’ Course
Vestry Room
Wed 8th
10am Morning Prayer
7.30pm PCC Meeting, Vestry Room
SUNDAY 12th - HARVEST FESTIVAL
8.00am
Holy Communion
9.30am
Family Service
3.30pm
Family Church
Tues 14th 7.30pm ‘Holding On’ Course
Wed 15th 10am Morning Prayer
SUNDAY 19th - TRINITY 18
9.30am
Sung Eucharist
Tues 21st 7.30pm ‘Holding On’ Course
Wed 22nd 10am Morning Prayer
SUNDAY 26th - BIBLE SUNDAY
8.00am
Holy Communion
9.30am
Family Eucharist
Wed 29th 10am Morning Prayer
HARVEST FESTIVAL
Sunday 12th October
We need help to decorate the church
on Friday 10th October
Please bring along tinned or packaged food
as these will be donated to the
Food Bank.
We welcome you to worship with us during October.
Morning worship will be held at 10am unless otherwise stated.
The leaders of worship are set out below:October 5th
October 12th
October 19th
October 26th
Rev John Robinson Chapel Anniversary
Rev Crawford Logan Sacrament
The Church Stewards
Gill Bavister
Our Windows Appeal
Thanks to all who have responded to this appeal. We are
encouraging those who would like to support us, to give a
donation. It’s a big project! Thank you!
Coffee Morning in September: we raised £140 for Christian
Aid. Many thanks for all who supported this event.
Next Coffee Morning 3rd October from 10am proceeds for
Church Funds.
Fund raising for the Banso Hospital in Cameroon. The
service on 31st August, taken by Catherine, was followed by a
fund raising meal which raised £175. Many thanks to all who
supported this event.
Our 5 star kitchen! We are very proud of Brenda and her
tremendous team who have once again been awarded the highest
rating for their hygiene and food safety standards by TDC.
Cameo 6th October 6.30pm. A simple meal followed by a talk
by Rev. Crawford Logan.
Parent & Toddlers This will NOT take place on 9th because
our halls are being used for voting on election day.
Chapel Anniversary
You will see that our previous minister Rev John Robinson
will lead our worship and share in the celebratory lunch.
Messy Church
After school on Tuesday, 14th October
from about 3.30 to 5.00p.m. This is aimed at parents and carers
and their children. We have activities on a Christian theme and a
simple meal together.
Luncheon Club 14th and 28th October
If you would like to come along to the Luncheon Club please
ring 251330 and talk to Brenda. Transport can be arranged to
help those unable to get to the Methodist Church.
Each week the following events are held at our Church.
Ring these numbers for more information
Luncheon Club: Alternate Tuesdays 12 Noon 251330
Parent & Toddlers: Group Thursdays 9-15 a.m. 250431
Adventurers:
Fridays 7 p.m. 250087. Year 3 to year 6 pupils
7pm to 8.30pm Secondary school 7pm to 9.15pm
We host the Village Teen Youth Club on alternate Thursdays
during term times.
3
OCTOBER PRAYER TIME
ST MARY’S CHURCH
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SIDESPERSONS ROTA
Sunday 5th
Trinity 16
Sidespersons
Intercessions
Jackie & David Thimbleby
Jackie Thimbleby
Sunday 12th
Harvest Festival
Sidespersons
Intercessions
George Wright & family
Sunday School
Sunday 19th
Trinity 18
Sidespersons
Intercessions
Chris Aplin & Carol Kerridge
Chris Aplin
Sunday 26th
Bible Sunday
Sidespersons
Intercessions
Ben & Angela Wright
Nicky Justice
CLEANING ROTA
4th
Doctors
Keeble Court
Family Church
Sycamore Place
The lonely
Morella Close
Messy Church
Linnet Way
Housebound
Laburnham Close
St Helena’s Hospice
St Mary’s Close
The vicar
The Green
The grieving
Hollybush Hill
Churchwardens
Shair Lane
Methodist Minister
Weeley Road
The sick
Woodgreen Estate
Sunday School
Sycamore Close
Premature babies
Elm Close
Church Stewards
St Mary’s Road
Adventurer’s Club
Flagship Park
Robin Close
Air Ambulance
St John Ambulance
Alcoholics ~Anonymous
Explorer Scouts
Salvation Army
Parent & Toddlers
District Nurses
Clacton Dis. Stroke Ass.
Macmillan nurses
Beaver Club
Primary School
Blood donors
Samaritans
Alzheimer Society
Cub Scouts
Childline
Children’s Hospice
Joseph Court
Epilepsy Support Group
Brownies
Teen Talk
Fair Trade
MIND
First Responders
Rainbow Guides
Action for Children
Clacton Soup Run
Local Food Bank
Essex Vol. Ass for the blind
Explorer Scouts
Victim Support
Sylvia Adams & Rosemary Newman
ST MARY’S CHURCH FLOWER FESTIVAL
& ART EXHIBITION
11th Wendy Smith & Beverley Adams
18th Pat Nunn & Rita Baverstock
25th Linda Hayes
COFFEE ROTA
5th
Carole & Peter Allington
A very big thank you to all the flower arrangers, artists and
everyone who helped in any way manning the stalls and in
the kitchen over the Flower Festival and Art Exhibition
weekend. It was an extremely successful weekend and
many visitors said how much they enjoyed the floral displays
and pictures. We realised over £1,600 for Church funds.
Peter Allington, Hilary Harris & Rita Coles
Organisers
12th Pat Nunn & Eve Hickley
ANSWERS TO THE FLOWER QUIZ
‘ISLANDS OF THE WORLD’
19th Rosemary & David Branch
26th Stephanie Sadler
& Maria Pagram
BRIGHTLINGSEA
FARMERS’ MARKET
Saturday 25th October
9am - 12 noon
Brightlingsea Community Centre
Lower Park Road
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
Gt Bentley Guides
Hawaii
Rainbows
Easter Island
Gt Bentley Show
Prince Edward Island
Bentley in Bloom
Christmas Island
Parish Magazine
Phuket
Gardening Society
Alcatraz
Bellringers
Mouse Island
Conservation Group
Great Britain
Art Club
Alcatraz
Sunday School
Jersey
Carnival Association
Lindisfarne (Holy Island)
Evergreen Friendship Club
Isle of Wight
Women’s Institute
Mersea Island
Friends of the Green
Madeira
Football Club
Isle of Wight
Methodist Church
Japan
Bentley Green Players Isle of Arran
The winner was Christine Plummer.
4
CHURCHCARE AND CHURCH TIMES PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION
Capture the worship or community activities taking place at your church
ChurchCare, in association with the Church Times, is calling photographers of all ages and experience to take part in a
competition to celebrate and capture the vast array of worship and community activities that take place within the Church of
England’s church buildings and churchyards. The idea is to focus on church activities, rather than buildings - people, not
just places. We’re looking for images which reveal any kind of human interaction within church spaces.
There are three categories:
1.
2.
3.
Worship and prayer:
Community activities:
“Chelfie” (you, your church and its people). This is for all ages.
For the two main categories, entries will be separated into two age groups - those under 16, and
those aged 16 and over.
Entries will be judged on their composition, creativity and impact and must include people.
There will be separate prizes for images of worship and prayer, and images of community use. Entrants may submit a
maximum of three images in each category (only one prize per person) which should be submitted via email to
[email protected] with a completed entry form (available from www.churchcare.co.uk). Images must
be jpegs, and at least 300dpi and 3 mega-bytes in size, and be submitted with the date taken and name of the church. The
deadline for entries will be 31st October 2014.
The judging panel - formed of the Chair of the Church Buildings Council, the Editor and Features Editor of the
Church Times and Eamon McCabe, the Picture Editor of the Observer - will meet in November and winners will be
contacted shortly after. With thanks to the Church Times, up to five first prizes will be awarded of £150 each. Winners will
be recognised in print in the Church Times and featured on the websites and social media of both ChurchCare and the
Church Times.
See website www.churchcareco.uk for further details.
A Time to Remember
As has been the custom in the past we have a special service at Great Bentley Church on
Sunday November 2nd at 4.00pm so we can remember those who have died and who we pray
are now in God’s nearer presence. This is often particularly relevant for those who have
experienced bereavement in the last year, but it is not only for those families, but for anyone who would like to
light a candle or have a candle lit on their behalf for their loved ones who have died.
You do not have to have had the funeral at this church or indeed any church. All are welcome.
Please just fill in the form below and send it back to me by October 25th.
There will be a cup of tea afterwards in the Vestry Room.
You might also like to know that some of us meet regularly at the Support in Loss Session (SILS) on the first
Monday of every month from 10.00-11.30, again in the Vestry Room at the back of Great Bentley church. No
need to book in – just turn up!
Rev Pat Prestney
Name KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK..
I am remembering .KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK..
I will be present and would like to light the candle myself
I will be present but would like someone else to light the candle for me
I am unable to be present but would like a candle lit
5
MS-UK Wellness Centre Joseph’s Court
Ride 100
6th September 2014
Animal Bedding
The month of August is usually a quiet time for donations
of bedding with the school holidays and people away so
we quite expected not to be able to make any
deliveries. However we did in fact receive a fairly large
quantity of bedding which included two big bags of
beautifully knitted blankets thus allowing us to take
supplies to the Colne Valley Animal Rescue. Margaret is
in her eighties now but continues to battle on under what
are extremely basic conditions. It’s a very exposed
environment which does not fair well particularly in wet
weather. We do worry about Margaret and her situation
but she is a very determined lady committed to the life
she has known for so many years. She was thrilled with
the bedding we took which would very quickly have been
put into use.
Another recipient was Brenda in Alresford whom
we visited on a Sunday morning with a good share of the
knitted blankets plus tea towels. In common with all cat
rescues she is inundated with kittens, some of them
arriving with their mother but sadly too many found
abandoned and in a pathetic state. One tiny kitten was
asleep on the old sofa in Brenda’s conservatory and was
then joined by one of her siblings. A stray cat had been
found and taken in not realising that she had given birth
which then prompted a search for her babies who when
found were in a very weak condition. Brenda took in two
and the remainder went to a foster home. They were in
need of fluids which had to be administered under the
skin, poor little darlings, but lucky to be in safe
hands. Every room in Brenda’s bungalow is required to
accommodate the constant flow of cats and kittens that
arrive on a daily basis, as well as her conservatory and
the outside accommodation. Many years of experience
has equipped Brenda with the ability to know whether a
prospective new home is the right one with the right
people and she judges each one on its own merit holding
her in good stead. We did not stay long as she was
expecting people who having earlier chosen a kitten
were returning with a suitable pet carrier without which
Brenda does not let them go. It is vital that kittens both
male and female are neutered. Kittens can become
pregnant from four months old and many people do not
realise that brothers and sisters will produce kittens if
they live together unneutered. Some will have an
unwanted litter which is contributing to a cat population
crisis in the UK. Neutering male cats prevents them from
fathering kittens whilst he is out and about and less likely
to fight thus reducing his chances of getting Feline AIDS
(FIV) which is spread by bites. Neutering also makes
your cat less likely to roam and lessen his chances of
getting hit by a car and less likely to spray urine in the
home. We are always grateful to receive suitable clean
bedding including blankets, throws, sheets, duvet covers,
fleeces, sleeping bags and towels/tea towels but not
duvets, cushions or pillows.
To our ‘ladies who knit’ the fruits of your labours
never cease to create squeals of delight from the staff
responsible for the care of the cats at all the rescues,
they are always whisked away to make up lovely cosy
fresh beds for their fortunate feline recipients! Your
continued thoughtfulness and support helps to keep our
spirits up when we see the plight of so many creatures in
need and for this we give our heartfelt thanks.
Judy & Alan Bishop, 5 Morella Close, 251702
It was a fantastic day with over 20 of us partaking in the
RIDE 100, many of us had our family and friends there to
support and to help motivate us. The atmosphere in the
wellness centre was buzzing; we all cheered one another
on and celebrated each individual’s personal
achievements. The aim was for us to collectively ride
100 miles, and we smashed our target by achieving
200miles! Most, if not all, of us beat our personal bests.
My target was to reach 10miles, which would beat my
PB; I managed to cycle a total of 10.7miles.
The estimated total money raised for this event is
approximately £4500, which will go towards improving the
wellness centre’s facilities. I was overwhelmed by the
generosity of those who sponsored me; my personal total
looks to be over £570! I will let you know the full amount
next month, when I’ve collected all the money.
I would just like to say HUGE Thank you to all of
the people who sponsored me, you have contributed
towards helping a brilliant organisation that has improved
my life, (and many others) immensely. If you didn’t get
the chance to sponsor me and would like to it’s not too
late...
You can contact me on 01206 252387
Thank you all once again.
Yvonne Gibson
P.S You can see photos of us all hard at work on the
Josephs Court Facebook page.
Find us on Facebook. Josephs Court, MS-UK Centre
of Excellence
Thank you very much to the Bentley in Bloom team for
making our village look so beautiful this last summer.
The display near the village sign was particularly
spectactular.
Barbara Fookes
Roy Mead
I would like to thank all my kind friends and neighbours of
Great Bentley, for their generous donations in memory of
my dear husband Roy. Many thanks also to my family,
friends from Woods pensioners club, not forgetting our
friends from the dancing club who were always there for
us.
A total of £692 was collected and given to the
Hospice as a thank you for all the love and care that was
given to Roy in the last week of his life.
Thanking you all for your care and kindness.
Doreen, Roger, Mandy & family
Michael (Mick) Baxter
Heather and family would like to thank everyone for their
kind donations towards St Helena Hospice which
amounted to £730. Thank you all.
Heather
6
Fashion Show
MOBILE LIBRARY
TIMES
St Helena Hospice is delighted to announce that
they will be holding a Fashion Show on Friday 17th
October at the St Helena Hospice Tendring Centre,
Jackson Road, Clacton-on-Sea, with doors opening
at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.
Wednesday visits
fornightly
Great Bentley
October 8, 22 ...
This exciting event will showcase designer and
fabulous top brand fashion, with the sale of clothes
and accessories following the fashion show helping
to support people in the local community.
Tickets cost £7, which will include cheese and wine,
and
can
be
purchased
online
at
sthelenahospice.org.uk/fashion14. Tickets will also
be available on the door, space permitting.
NEXT YEARS CATEGORIES
FOR THE PHOTOGRAPHY
SECTION OF THE GREAT
BENTLEY SHOW
Naughty but nice
•
Reflections
•
What a mess!
•
Whatever the weather
•
Wild & beautiful
•
Hanging Around
•
Open (any subject)
Leaves
Birch Avenue
13.30
13.50
Hall View Road
13.55
14.20
Larkfield Road
14.25
15.25
The Paddocks
15.45
16.00
Crossroads triangle
16.05
16.45
Aingers Green
Follow us online at: facebook.com/sthelenahospice
and twitter.com/sthelenahospice
•
Arrives
Church Rabbit
Many dog walkers, churchgoers and wedding
couples may remember a few black rabbits that were
loose in the Churchyard. I managed to capture one
and named him Spirit, unfortunately the others just
disappeared. Sadly Spirit has now died aged 7+1/2
which made him over 70 in human years. He had a
good life with me, some rabbit friends for company
and free to explore the garden not cooped up in a
small hutch all day. He was quite a character and
would often come indoors from the garden with his
friend Sky to boss the cats who were scared of him
but I wouldn’t recommend trusting all cats with a pet
rabbit. I miss him a lot but now Sky has taken over
as top pet, the cats have learnt not
to mess with a small Dutch rabbit
with attitude who packs a nasty kick
and painful bite to the backside of a
retreating cat.
Mandy Miles
DEADLINE FOR THE
November magazine
Wednesday 15th OCTOBER
Material to Mary Maskell, Caldew Cottage, The Green, 250524
Please mark all material - “Parish Magazine”
email: [email protected]
AND
[email protected]
IMPORTANT - PLEASE SEND ALL INFORMATION TO BOTH OF US
Great Bentley Website: www.greatbentleyparishcouncil.co.uk
7
Great Bentley Neighbourhood Policing
Police Community Support Officer
Louise Cox
Below is a breakdown of reported incidents for
the month of August
Road Related -1
A vehicle was located in a ditch on the green – the
driver was arrested for motoring offences.
FLYTIPPING
IF you witness anyone fly tipping you should gather
as much information as possible. The type of rubbish
being dumped, where and when it was dumped, then
contact your local authority (normally the
Environmental Protection Department).
If the amount being dumped is a very large
quantity then you should report the matter to the
Environment Agency, National Customer Contact
Centre (NCCC): 08708 506 506. The Environment
Agency 0800 807060.
If there is a large amount being dumped there
and then, please contact the police with as much
information as possible including descriptions of the
people, vehicles involved and a registration.
Hare Coursing – 1
Rtc – 1
Two vehicle rtc just outside Aingers Green
Nuisance Communications – 1 Silent 999 – 1
Assault – 1
Concern for Welfare 1
Concern for the welfare of an elderly resident – dealt
with by ambulance
Theft 2 from *Property removed from the glove box
and rear seat of an insecure vehicle.
A catalytic converter was removed from a vehicle
SPEEDING
I recently received complaints about speeding in the
area of Aingers Green particularly through to the
back lanes and back into the village causing a
danger to children playing and dog walkers. Both my
colleagues and I have been conducting random
speed checks throughout this area over the last few
weeks. Apart from a handful of drivers who were
found to be exceeding the speed limit along Plough
Road the majority were driving in accordance with
the speed limit. I will continue to conduct these
checks as I am fully aware that speeding does occur
at different times throughout the day and evenings.
Speed checks are also being carried out on
Wednesday evenings whilst the bikers arrive and
disperse through the village.
Theft of a pedal cycle -1 A pedal cycle was left
securely locked at the train station on return the bike
had been removed by cutting a lock.
Theft of Vehicle – 1
A vehicle was left parked in Station Road and was
stolen.
Criminal Damage -1
Damage was found to a motor scooter which had
been left parked in Plough Road area.
POLICE SURGERIES
A Beat Surgery has been set up in Great Bentley in
the foyer of the Village Hall, Plough Road to enable
you to have face to face contact with a member of
your local Neighbourhood Policing Team to discuss
policing concerns you have within your community.
The surgery has been scheduled to take place on a
weekly basis and it is our intention to honour each
one. However there may be occasions when an
officer is not in attendance for logistical reasons or
incidents and in these circumstances I would
encourage you to contact your local officer in one of
the following ways.. Neighbourhood Beat Mobile
K.07801316876 Non-emergency number 101 or via
the Essex police website. In the case of an
emergency dial 999
If you have any concerns, issues that you
would like to bring to my attention, this is on a one to
one basis please feel free to drop in for a chat.
I will be holding sessions that will be held every
Tuesday starting from 23rd September at 11.0012.00hrs in the foyer at the Village Hall, Plough
Road.
METAL CAN RECYCLING
The metal can bank has been
reintroduced in Station Road
Please make use of this facility
whenever possible
8
Great Bentley Youth Club
Dates for Youth club for the rest of 2014. They are as follows all at 7pm to 9pm:23rd October, 13th November, 27th November and 11th December
Just to remind you that the Club is open for all young people of Secondary School age and
is held at the Methodist Church on alternate Thursdays.
We apologise for the inconvenience but Youth Club on the 9th October will be cancelled due to the
Hall being used as a Polling Station for the local elections.
THE VILLAGE SHOW- from the Acting Chairman
I believe we achieved our aim to provide you with a very good display of rural activities. It was most important
to continue with a marquee full of local produce from our gardens and allotments and a show of the hobbies
and arts &crafts we create. I am told we are one of the few remaining village shows to keep a traditional
marquee going and the only one in the Eastern Region. Many have discontinued through expense or the effort
it takes to organise. However, to see the stunning arrangements in the tent and the happy look on faces of all
ages make it all worthwhile.
Those who attended the Show may have read the programme and my note of appreciation to an
excellent committee. I hope you agree they produced a first class afternoon for us all.
What I would like to add post-event is a special thanks to all those people who just appear over the
weekend and “offer a hand” and become part of the team. There are too many to name in person and to miss
anyone would be wrong but you know who you are. So to those helpful members of the community in
whatever capacity you made yourself available – be it putting up tents & tables, escorting judges, helping a
colleague, providing technical support, providing the workers with tea (lots), organising or clearing up THANK YOU so much.
The title of Vice-President of the Show is not fully understood. You do not have to be on the committee
or organise anything. It is purely a Title to hold and by joining approximately 70 others you guarantee the
Show’s future as we do have bills to pay. Next year we will ask you to make a small donation of £10 minimum
per person. We keep you informed of Show plans and provide you with a free programme and entrance to the
marquee. The VP’s I have spoken to are happy just to be proud contributors, investing in our unique village
culture. In June we all get together for a relaxed social event kindly sponsored by our President. If you are
interested please drop the slip below into Richard & Dorothy Nowak.
And, if you would like to join our team of Show organisers please let me know. Note for diaries - Saturday
5th September 2015!
Thank you again everyone who organised or attended the Show in whatever capacity – great effort!
David Flinn B.E.M.
Acting Chairman& Show Publicity
Tel: 251485
See our website at: www.greatbentleyshow.co.uk
To: Richard & Dorothy Nowak, Fairfield, The Path, Great Bentley, CO7 8PN
I/We would like to become a Vice President(s) and look forward to more information.
Name: ..................................................................
Address: ..................................................................................................................................
Post Code.................................Tel No:...................................................................
9
The Turbine Debate
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor,
Having read the first class article in September’s
magazine on page 18, how the public are kept in the
dark about problems with wind turbines, it brought to
mind an article I read in the Daily Express on 25th
August, Wind Farms are being paid £70 million to
close down as the electricity generated is not
needed, so not only are we paying to have these
monstrosities erected but also paying owners not to
produce electricity.
Also I understand from
somebody who works in the industry that the
maintenance costs for our offshore wind farms are
high due to faulty gear boxes etc. I wonder what will
happen in the future as they age?
My main concern is the thought of having one
of these hideous structures overshadowing our
village. It seems to me the only people to gain from
these things are greedy wind farm owners and
greedy land owners.
Yours faithfully,
Mr D. Nixon
We are unable to publish anonymous letters
unless the identity of the writer is revealed to the
Editor.
CALLING ALL SINGERS
After the success we had last
year we invite you, once
again, to the scratch choir.
This year the Festival of 9
lessons and carols is on
Sunday 21st December at St
Mary’s Church, Great Bentley at 6.30pm. We would
like to invite any interested singers to join us at 2pm
on 21st December in the church. We will practice in
the afternoon and then sing at the service. No
experience necessary and you don’t have to attend
church to be involved. If you are interested can you
please ring me so I can get some idea of numbers.
Thank you.
Fiona Bodmer - 01206 251321
Dear Editor,
The magazine gave the impression that the bus did
not go to Aingers Green, but turned around at the
station. It still goes to Aingers Green, picking folk up
who have appointments at Great Bentley Surgery.
I’m not alone in being confused.
Monday 8th September when I went to
Colchester folks were complaining about the bus
time changes, especially not going into the Hospital.
It means catching another bus and the long
walk into the Hospital.
According to the bus driver, Horizon buses
were going back to the ‘Knowledge Road’ route past
the University. Again, as before, he stopped for the
University students but they never boarded the bus.
I gather they have passes issued by the University.
The bus driver gave the name of the people to
complain to:
Traffic Commissioner,
East of England, East Brook
Cambs. CB2 5BF
WELCOME AND FAREWELL
After 46 years living in St Mary’s Close, Aingers
Green, Wendy and Michael Fitzgibbon have moved to
Weeley and we welcome Jacqui Vags. We hope you
are all happy in your new homes.
Polite Request from
struggling mature studentN
Any Spanish learners out there who would like to
practise their speaking skills.
Totally informal,
perhaps a coffee and a natter from time to time.
John Evans, Guywood, Plough Road
01296 256491
WORK TO 7O. OH NO!
Several, including me, copied it down. The
bus still picks up outside the bookmakers in the High
Street. At last the bus number is now on view.
O dear me
I thought at 65 I’d be free!
To slog to work no more
That daily chore.
At 65 a pension, oh no~!
It seems to 70 I must go.
To get my pension, into work I wobble
I am causing the Government, trouble.
We at 65 living too long.
To pay at 65 a pension, to them seems wrong.
Forget not, we’ve paid in for it
Why should the Government, grab it.
So vote for me.
Douglas Gibbs
No information from Horizon buses was received by
the Editor or our Transport Rep. A phone call from a
passenger resulted in a timetable being given for
publication and this arrived 12 days after the
deadline when the magazine was complete and
ready to print. We therefore included a minimum
amount of information. Apologies for any confusion.
A full timetable is published this month on page 11.
D. Gibbs
10
NEW BUS TIMETABLE
(No bus on Saturdays)
Mondays to Fridays (excluding Public and Bank holidays)
To Colchester
Aingers Green,
St Mary’s Road
07.30
09.00
10.30
Railway Station
07.34
09.04
10.34
Sturrick Lane
07.38
09.08
10.38
Frating, Kings Arms
07.44
09.14
10.44
Elmstead Market
07.48
09.18
10.48
University of Essex
07.53
09.23
10.53
Greenstead Rd, Tesco 07.57
09.27
10.57
Colchester, Queen St
08.03
09.33
11.03
Colchester, Osborne St 08.05
09.35
11.05
Colchester, Head St
08.08
09.38
11.08
From Colchester
High St, Hippodrome
Greenstead Rd, Tesco
University of Essex
Elmstead Market
Frating Kings Arms
Sturrick Lane
Railway Station
Aingers Green
St Mary’s Road
08.12
08.20
08.25
08.31
08.36
08.41
08.43
08.47
09.42
09.50
09.55
10.01
10.06
10.11
10.13
10.17
11.12
11.20
11.25
11.31
11.36
11.41
11.43
11.47
W.J. Evans. Guywood, Plough Road
14.00
14.04
14.08
14.14
14.18
14.23
14.27
14.33
14.35
14.38
15.30
15.34
15.38
15.44
15.48
15.53
15.57
16.03
16.05
16.08
17.00
17.04
17.08
17.14
17.18
17.23
17.27
17.33
17.35
17.38
12.42
12.50
12.55
13.01
13.06
13.11
13.13
13.17
14.42
14.50
14.55
15.01
15.06
15.11
15.13
15.17
16.12
16.20
16.25
16.31
16.36
16.41
16.43
16.47
17.42
17.50
17.55
18.01
18.06
18.11
18.13
18.17
Watershed at Home does
Christmas!
THE GRANITE POST CONCLUSION
Last May, a granite post situated on the
corner of my property was uprooted by a
delivery lorry. The truck, delivering goods to
Tesco Express in Great Bentley was one of a
fleet of vehicles owned by Palmer and Harvey
of Brandon, Suffolk. It clearly struck the post
when reversing. The driver, fully aware of
what had happened decided to drive off.
I posted a poem in the Parish
Magazine, sung to the hymn “Men of Harlech”
and wrote letters, sent e-mails and made
several phone calls to the company regarding
the damage. All to no avail.
More recently however I have been in
contact with the Transport Manager of the
company, a gentleman by the name of Mr
Paulo Sezulfe who, following his thorough
investigation of the matter, has apologised to
me for the collision.
Furthermore, the
company Palmer and Harvey has generously
donated £300 to Leukaemia and Lymphoma
Research, a charity in desperate need of
funding.
I wish to make public my thanks to Mr
Sezulfe for his cooperation in this matter, his
understanding of my plight and his
commitment to seeking an honourable
solution, Palmer and Harvey and in, particular,
Mr Sezulfe, I applaud you.
12.00
12.04
12.08
12.14
12.18
12.23
12.27
12.33
12.35
12.38
www.watershedstudio.co.uk
Watershed Studio is branching out from its
usual art courses.
This November we will be running three new taster courses
suitable for people with a little or no previous machine and
hand sewing experience. Next year we hope to progress to
soft furnishing, making clothes, hand sewn curtains, shabby
chic upcycling and decorative paint finishes – the list is
endless and will be demand led.
There will be a choice of projects on each Saturday
and you can do as many as you want, depending on how
quickly you work. Each is an individual course and you can
attend any one, two or three sessions!
Saturday 1st November –
Christmas stocking, present sacks and padded hearts
Saturday 8th November –
Christmas table runner, bunting and aprons
Saturday 22nd November –
Cushions, Christmas or otherwise!
Each day runs from 10am to 3pm approx. with a short lunch
break. Cost £40
You will have a professional teacher, receive group and
individual tuition supported by hand-outs
For more information ring Allison Bond on 01255 820466 or
email [email protected]
Watershed Studio, St Clere’s Hall Lane, St Osyth, Clacton on
Sea, Essex, CO16 8RX
11
Great Bentley Show
Companion Dog Show Results 2014
We had a really wonderful afternoon and it was good to see so many people and their dogs attend the show; it
was especially pleasing, as always, to see many residents bring their pet dogs to the show and great to see
everyone obviously enjoying the atmosphere of the whole event. There were 95 dogs entered into the various
classes with 234 entries.
Thank you to our judge, J “Burt” Weedon, who so obviously enjoyed his afternoon with us; with such
large numbers in the novelty classes he still managed to finish the judging in good time.
My grateful thanks go to all my very busy team of helpers, to Lesley Shipp, Donna Morphew, Helen
McWilliams and Brooke Wingrove, where would we be without your generous help, thank you; also a big thank
you to those kind folks who helped put up the gazebo this year.
The winners of each class were; Pedigree Classes
Best Puppy
Sporting
Best Any Variety Non Sporting
Open
Mr Mills – Scottie - Tula
Mrs S Cracknells - Hungarian Vizsla - Treacle
Ms Gabuthes – Miniature Schnauzer
Jimmy Richardsons - Whippet - Flash
Best in Show
Reserve Best in Show
Best Puppy
Best Opposite Sex
Jimmy Richardsons – Whippet - Flash
Mrs S Cracknells - Hungarian Vizsla - Treacle
Mr Mills – Scottie - Tula
Ms Gabuthes – Miniature Schnauzer
Novelty Classes
Best Veteran
Best Child Handler
Best Crossbreed/Mongrel
Best Rescue Dog
Dog most like its owner
Prettiest Bitch
Handsome Dog
Dog with the Waggiest Tail
Dog in best Condition
Dog the judge would like to take home
Best Novelty
Mia Hughes – xBreed - Rosie
Armanis – Pug - Polly
Miss Charltons - Lexi
T Van Roayens – Jack Russell - Diesel
Kay Lillingtons – Australian Shepherd - Dash
Miss Charltons – Volpino Italiano – Sparkles
Causims – Golden Retriever - Lara
Working Spaniel - Chester
Lorraine Jessops - Pekinese - Leila
Mia Hughes – xBreed - Rosie
Mia Hughes – xBreed - Rosie
Thank you to everyone, and the four legged competitors for taking part and making this such a great event
again this year; it was amazing to see the number of people around the ring bringing such enthusiasm and
encouragement to the show, and of course well done and congratulations to all the winners.
Lynda McWilliams
Companion Dog Show Organiser and Deputy Chairman of the Great Bentley Show
Winter Table Tennis
HEY MAC
Starting Oct 1st and every Wednesday
morning 10 – 12
Village Hall – Michael Wright Room
Great fun and exercise for all you
recently retired folk
(And you know who you are)
We have spare bats and balls
So just turn up and give it a go
It’s Charity Quiz Night Time!
Plough Inn Monday 3rd November 8.00pm start.
Teams of up to six players @ £2.50 per player.
All proceeds in support of
Macmillan Nurses
(Specialists in cancer care at home and in
hospitals)
Raffle prize donations would be appreciated
Tom (Quiz master)
12
Bulletin from the Belfrey
BENTLEY GREEN PLAYERS
This month has been a notable one for the bell
ringers as it is 15 years since the current band got
together to learn the ancient art.
The band formed in 1999 and was able to ring
to celebrate the dawn of the new millennium on
January 1st 2000. The current band formed as a
result of a group of people making a decision that
they would like to learn.
Since then, the church bells have been rung
for all church services. In addition, the bells have
rung out to celebrate weddings, festivals and village
events.
Occasionally, the bells are rung as a mark of
respect to a person who has died and are always
rung on Remembrance Sunday in memory of
soldiers who have died in the line of duty. On such
occasions, a leather pad is fitted to one side of each
clapper so as to create a muffled echoing effect.
On Saturday the 6th September a ¼ peal of
plain bob doubles was rung by the band pictured
below to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the current
band.
North Essex Theatre Guild Awards – 2013/14
Last month I was pleased to report the nominations
the group had received for its performances of “The
Vicar of Dibley” and “Blood Brothers”.
We are pleased to announce that Sarah White, who
played Alice Tinker in the Vicar of Dibley, was
awarded Runner-up for Best Supporting Actress, and
Amanda Powell who played Geraldine the Vicar was
awarded Best Actress, at the Awards evening on
Friday 12th September.
Well Done and Congratulations to you both we are
all so very proud of you.
Lynda McWilliams
Chairman on behalf of Bentley Green Players
Tel No
01206 250732 e-mail [email protected]
We always welcome new members to our group. If
you are interested in joining us, we practice on
Monday evenings at the church.
ST OSYTH BRANCH OF THE
BRITISH LEGION
For more information please contact:
Roger Carey-Smith 07974 711909
Mandy Miles 01206 251382
Are holding their AGM
On Thursday 23rd October
At 7.30pm in
The St Osyth Village Hall Annexe.
Anybody is welcome to come along and join us.
We meet on the third Thursday of the month at
the Working Men’s Club in St Osyth.
Please contact Jim Bligh 01255 820161,
Robert Morton 01255 224086
or Hazel Ruffell 01206 251111 if you need any
more details.
Bellinging Day Out
A few months ago I wrote about Bellringing as an interesting friendly hobby with a chance to visit and ring in
amazing places.
Last month I went on a coach trip to London organised by a local ringer who catered for ringers and nonringers alike. The first church/tower we visited was St. James, Garlickhythe, a church with a lot of interesting
architecture and a ring of 8 bells. These bells were on the barge that led the flotilla of boats up the river
Thames for the Queens Diamond Jubillee celebrations.
After lunch we made our way to a small gate at Buckingham Palace to embark on a tour of The State
Rooms and garden (to be in awe was an understatement) followed by tea and cake on the patio before
ambling through the garden to the waiting coach. On the way home we stopped at St George–In-The-East
church/tower Cannon Street another ring of 8 bells. The main part of the church was destroyed in the Blitz
then rebuilt in a modern design joined to the original tower which made it look quite odd but still a nice place to
ring.
I had a brilliant day out with a great group of friends for company. What more could you ask for?
13
conditions which is why you see a lot more of it on
north facing walls and hardly any on south facing
walls.
It is also time to clear the borders of any
remaining summer bedding plants, to enable you to
finish planting the spring flowering varieties. The
longer you leave it the colder the weather, the slower
plant growth, and the longer it takes for the new
plants to get well established before the colder days
and frost of January and February. Similar to the
lawns the type of fertiliser the plants need is a slow
release type. Traditionally bone meal or any organic
material such as compost help to build up the root
system. I also use a small amount of the slow
release granules. These release fertilizer at a rate
determined by moisture and temperature, so they
don’t make the foliage grow long and lush when it is
likely to be zapped by frosts etc. It will also retain its
goodness through the cold weather then let it go as
spring warms up.
Don’t forget to plant a few daffodils or tulips
between your pansies or polyanthus, as these give a
bit more height to your displays, and a good variety
of colours is also available.
Peter’s
Potterings
Now we move into the traditional season of mellow
fruitfulness. Sounds very grand but really it denotes
the end of the growing season and the ripening and
gathering of the fruit and vegetables (and obviously
includes all the farmers’ produce).
In the past, the modern ways of preserving our
home grown produce had not become common or
even invented. 30 years or so ago how many of us
had a freezer? Probably only the butcher had one.
We had to make do with the traditional methods.
How many of you remember stuffing fruit into kilner
jars, covering with liquid, heating in the oven etc. etc.
Today all we need to do is clean them up and put
them in the freezer, and take them out as and when
required. Apples were easier to store. We just put
them into a large box of straw and put them
somewhere cool to overwinter. The fruit needed to
be checked to see if any were going rotten, but
generally they kept for six months or so like this.
Today the fruit is kept in temperature controlled
conditions, and, I suspect, treated with something
or other to help them keep longer.
Anyway enough of this nostalgia - what should
we be doing now? Earlier in the year most of us had
lawns that looked like straw rather than grass. The
rains in August/September greened the grass a lot,
and also produced lots of fairy rings of toadstools on
the Green. The rings often cause concern to the
gardener but they can’t effectively be eradicated
without digging up, changing the soil and re-seeding.
The best solution is to give the lawn additional
fertiliser to make the grass grow stronger, and I pick
off the individual toadstools and destroy them while
they are still small and have not sown their own
seeds. Don’t put them onto your compost heap as
this may well spread them elsewhere. Keep cutting
the lawn grass as the growth dictates even right
through the winter, but please raise the cutting
height. Cutting the grass too short when frosts are
about is asking for trouble. I shall also run a scarifier
over my lawn to remove a lot of the dead grass
caused by the July sun so that the new grass shoots
have more room to grow. At the same time treat the
lawn to an Autumn feed. This feed is a slow acting
feed to build up the grass plants over the winter, as
opposed to the fast acting green up ferilizers of the
spring variety. The best cure for moss is not to keep
on killing it, but to improve the soil conditions so the
grass grows better than the moss. Improve the
drainage. Using the garden fork make holes about 3
inches deep and 3 inches apart and brush sharp
sand into them. This improves the drainage and
keeps the soil dryer.
Moss thrives in moist
PETER ALLINGTON
BENTLEY IN BLOOM
All the pansies and polyanthus plugs have been
potted on and are growing well.
Please, if you want any pansies or polyanthus can
you place your orders early. Delivery will be mid
October. Prices of 6 pack pansies (mixed) £1.50; 6
packs Polyanthus (mixed) £2.25.
Please phone:
Peter Allington 251086
John & Jennie Moss 252182
Any surplus will be for sale on Saturday 25th
October from the old village hall car park
from 10.00am onwards.
Clacton VCH Group
Local History Day 2014
And the launch of a new book
‘Holland on Sea - A Record of the 20th Century’
Displays: Exhibition: Family History:
Children’s Activities: Refreshments: Sales items:
St James Church Hall, Tower Road,
Clacton on Sea
Saturday 4th October 10am - 4.30pm
FREE ENTRY
14
GREAT BENTLEY SHOW CUPS AND TROPHIES
Section 1
1
Allotment holders challenge rosette
2
Jack Wood Prize (£10)
3
Jack Wood Prize (£10)
4
The W.G. & E. Sharp Trophy
5
The Sturdy Trophy
6
The Ruth Sharp Memorial Trophy
Best Allotment Collection
Best Vegetable Exhibit
Best Flower Exhibit
Best Fuchsia Exhibit
Best Exhibit Section 1
Most Points Section 1
Mary Maskell
Shirley Weekes
Mary Maskell
Not Awarded
Mary Maskell
Mary Maskell
Section II
7
Allotment Holders Challenge Rosette
Best Allotment Collection
Barry Layzell
8
The RHS Bronze Medal
Best Exhibit Section II
Andy Owens
9
The John F. Clark Memorial Trophy
Most Points Vegetable Classes
Barry Layzell
10
The Arthur Abrey Memorial Cup
Bext Exhibit Fruit Classes
Barry Layzell
11
The National Dahlia Society Bronze Medal Runner-up Dahlia Classes
Robert Porter
12
The National Dahlia Society Silver Medal
Best Exhibit Dahlia Classes
Robert Porter
13
The Peter Duffield Trophy
Most Points Dahlia Classes
Robert Porter
14
The RHS Bronze Medal
Best Exhibit Chrysanthemum Classes Andy Owens
15
The Ray Purdy Cup
Most Points Chrysanthemum Classes Heather Baxter
16
Royal National Rose Society Bronze Medal Best Exhibit Rose Classes
Andy Owens
17
The Frank Atthill Memorial Trophy
Most Points Rose Classes
Gillian Thomas
18
The Alfred Harvey Memorial Trophy
Best Exhibit Fuchsia
Jamie Gillett
19
The Evergreens Cup
Best Exhibit Pot Plant Classes
Jackie Pinner
20
The Bay Laurel Cup
Most Points Pot Plant Classes
Mrs T. Van Rooyen
21
The Jubilee Trophy
Most Points Flower Classes excl. Dahlias
Andy Owens
22
The Friends of the Green Cup
Most Points Flower Classes incl. Dahlias
Andy Owens
23
The Presidents Cup
Most Points Section II
Andy Owens
24
The RHS Banksian Medal
Most Prize Money Section II
Andy Owens
Section III
25
The Chairmans Trophy
26
The Floral Art Trophy
27
The McWilliams Cup
28
The Great Bentley Flower Show Trophy
29
The Percy & Emma Abrey Trophy
30
The F.W. Fothergil Trophy
31
The Ross Cup
32
The Friends of the Green Cup
33
Mrs Kemp Memorial Trophy
34
The Harold Lambert Cup
35
London Camera Exchange Runner-up prize
36
London Camera Exchange First Prize
Special Awards
37
M E Gibbon Memorial Challenge Trophy
38
Kathleen & Arthur Abrey Trophy
39
The Golden Jubilee Cup
Best Exhibit Floral Art
Most Points Floral Art
Best Exhibit Cookery Classes
Most Points Cookery Classes
Best Exhibit Wine Classes
Most Points Wine Classes
Best Exhibit Handicraft Classes
Most Points Handicraft Classes
Best Exhibit Art Classes
Most Points Art Classes
Runner-up Photo Classes Adult
Best Exhibit Photo Classes Adult
Cindy Hardy
Mrs P. Last
Mrs Judy Bishop
Dorothy Richer
Dorothy Richer
Michael Carrington
Rebecca Justice
Bronwyn Dunnett
Nina Mortens
Maurice Clarke
Barry Layzell
Tracy Wright
Most Points in show exc. Sect I & IV Andy Owens
GB Resident gaining most points in
Show Adult
Mary Maskell
Most points overall - all ages
All sections
Andy Owens
Children’s Section
A
The George Mitchell Cup
Best Exhibit Judges Choice - Art
B
The Alison Lingard Memorial Cup
Best Exhibit Judges Choice - Cookery
C
The Marjorie Mitchell Cup
Best Exhibit Judges Choice - Craft
D
The Friends of the Green Trophy
Best Exhibit in Classes 174-184
E
The Longcroft Cup & London Exchange
Prize
Best Photo Exhibit Class 164
F
The James Fookes Memorial Cup
Best Exhibit in Classes 168
G
The Kathleen Abrey Cup
GB Resident Most Points under 5 years
H
The Friends of the Green Youth Cup GB Resident Most Points 5-7 years
I
The Aplin Cup
GB Resident Most Points 8-11 years
J
The Fenwick Cup
GB Resident Most Points 12-16 years
K
The Gt Bentley Show Children’s Award Most Points under 5 years
L
The Gt Bentley Show Children’s Award Most Points 5-7 years
M
The Gt Bentley Show Children’s Award Most Points 8-11 years
N
The Gt Bentley Show Children’s Award Most Points 12-16 years
O
The Great Bentley Show Cup
Most Points gained in Children’s Classes
15
Rose Howlett
Elizabeth Bodmer
Annie Bayliss
Ryan Christopher
Hugo Arthy
Sophie Wright
Matthew Whyte
Harriet Whyte
Brielle Bird
Elizabeth Bodmer
Hugo Arthy
Lucas Maskell
Sophie Wright
Not Awarded
Matthew Whyte
Surgery News
IT’S FLU SEASON!
By the time you read this, we will be well into the swing of trying to get as many of our 3,531 patients who are
eligible for this year’s flu vaccination ‘jabbed’ (eligible children can now have theirs via a nasal spray). It’s
always a mammoth task and all of our clinicians work their socks off to make sure as many patients as
possible get their jabs before the spread of the flu virus takes hold. We are targeted by the Department of
Health to get 75% of eligible patients vaccinated which is not easy, so we really do need everyone’s help to hit
this. The list of criteria for eligibility is too long and complicated to list here, so if you think you might be
eligible, call us on 01206 250691 to check and book your appointment. We have flu clinics set up for
Friday evenings and Saturday mornings this year which should be convenient to more patients than ever.
Finally, now the nights are drawing in, so come along to our Patient Participation Group meeting on
Thursday 16th Oct at 6.30pm at the Great Bentley village hall.
Richard – Practice Manager
________________________________________________________________
To improve diabetic services we have started a new process in caring for our diabetic patients across
North East Essex.
Most people have busy lifestyles and it can be difficult for them to attend lots of appointments. In view of this
we have consolidated the appointments making them more effective. When a diabetic check-up is needed, as
usual patients will be sent an invitation to attend a morning appointment to have a blood sample, blood
pressure measurement, foot examination; height and weight taken together in one go. These have to be in the
morning, as blood samples are only collected once a day at around 11.30 am.
Upon receiving the blood results, patients are sent written details of all their test results. If these results
are good the patient does not have to come back for any further appointments. In this instance the results will
be accompanied by a letter suggesting a date for the next follow up.
If the results indicate that a consultation is advisable however, a letter will be sent with the results
suggesting a time and date for an early follow up. By having full access to all the results before the
appointment it is hoped that patients can think of some ideas that might help them improve their condition. We
do not want to dictate changes to a patient – but instead want to work with them to achieve goals that are both
acceptable and achievable for them. Of course even if the results show no early follow up is necessary, if a
patient still wants to see a Diabetes Nurse specialist, they still can.
This new way of working has been successfully piloted in other areas of the country. The feedback has
been that the care improved dramatically and patients have become more informed and successful in making
improvements to their health.
We hope that our diabetic patients will find this new way of working helps them, but we are always
pleased to hear constructive comments for improvements.
Tracy (Diabetic Nurse Specialist at Great Bentley Surgery)
SESAW NEWS
Hey ho Folks, some of these Autumn mornings have a nip in them - really encourages a chap to take an extra five minutes,
except Mum's foot is still behind me, pushing me out of the door. Mind you I had the last laugh yesterday, it took her two
hours to find her spectacles in front of the Rayburn!
Now it is time to prepare the garden for winter, remember to check the bonfire for hedgehogs before you light
it. They will be looking for a good place to sleep and they are becoming very scarce so please keep these creatures
safe. If you are looking forward to celebrating Guy Fawkes night, how about taking the family along to an organised
display? You will enjoy a good show for less expense or worry whilst helping to cut down the number of pops and bangs
that terrify many wild and domestic animals.
It's lovely when another animal leaves us for a new home but sad that some are left "on the shelf". Feline pals,
Ace (black) and Bella (tabby), are a friendly, loving pair that have been overlooked for seven months. They spring to the
door when people appear, eager to start a new life. I really hope someone comes for them soon and for Tabby and white
mother and daughter, Sally and Socks who have waited even longer.
Thanks to those who attended our sales and events last month, over £500 was raised and we have received lots
of lovely cat and dog food in our various collection bins in shops and offices. Still to come is our big sale at The Old
School, Long Melford on 12th October and our Christmas Fair at Leavenheath Village Hall on 23rd November. I can't wait
to run off with the decorations when the girls start sorting them. You can be sure when things go missing, they've been
pinched by me, Kenny (the Boss) Chihuahua
16
Pet’s
Corner
GETTING OLD!
How old is your pet? Are they getting more health
problems or have you noticed any changes? An older
four legged friend is not such a problem as a brand
new puppy. Most people build up a relationship with
their friend over the years from puppy training, exercise
etc. There are of course more chances of health
problems as they get older, but if you take care and are
aware of the likely problems and keep a careful watch
out for these there is no reason that your pet should not
have a long and enjoyable life. The ageing process
affects every part of the body as with humans, the
recovery time generally takes longer. The signs to look
out for include;
Weight loss - it is probably more difficult to see if
your dog, for example, has been losing weight slowly if
it has a lot of fur. It is not like us humans where the
trouser belt perhaps goes in or out another notch, so it
is better to actually weigh your animal on a regular
basis and make a note so you can see if the weight has
gone up or down. The easiest way is often to weigh
yourself, then pick up your animal and weigh the two of
you then take one weight from another to give you the
animal’s weight. Incidentally I use the same technique
to check the weight of my suitcase if I am flying
anywhere.
Changes in appetite - obviously this can affect
the weight situation and may just be a case of the
animal feeling ‘out of sorts’ which may only become
obvious once the problem has been identified.
Common problems are often something like difficulty in
chewing food due to problems in the mouth such as
painful teeth and frequently this can result in
unpleasant smells from the mouth area.
Increased thirst - this is usually more easy to
spot in dogs than in cats but a change in drinking habits
and maybe requiring its bowl to be filled up twice a day
instead of the previous once a day.
Incontinence - This may be associated with the
increased thirst or may be an infection.
Regular checks at the Vets will often identify a
problem early and an observant owner is a great help
in diagnosing problems. Don’t be afraid to ask the Vet
about any small problems as the earlier that it is
checked the better and quicker the chance of a cure.
A great deal can be done to improve the quality of life
for an elderly pet. Apart from veterinary medication for
specific problems such as arthritis, there are other
steps you can take. Physical aids such as soft bedding
or maybe a warmer spot to sleep, which can help to
reduce morning stiffness in limbs that have not moved
much during the night. Incidently please think about
how far you take your dog for a walk. I have seen dogs
where their limbs were very sore due mainly to them
being taken for a much longer walk than usual. As the
weather was so nice their owners just kept on walking.
17
Don’t forget the generalisation of 1 year for a
human is similar to 7 years for a dog, so whilst you
may only feel one year older the dog feels it more.
Finally don’t forget the diet. The pet food
suppliers now manufacture various foods for a
puppy or kitten to elderly pets where the food
intake and the ingredients are carefully balanced to
give the required nutrients and additives for the
age concerned.
MARK ALLINGTON
01206 619441
I am pleased to announce that THE BARN
CAFÉ at Carpenter’s Farm, Aingers Green
will re-open on Sunday 5th October.
We will be open six days a week excluding
Mondays from 8am for breakfast/brunch and
will be serving lunch between 12-4pm.
There will be a selection of homemade
cakes and pastries for those who fancy
afternoon tea.
We are also fully licensed.
We look forward to welcoming new and
existing customers.
Julie Nunn
BENTLEY GREEN PLAYERS
FUNDRAISING EVENING
SATURDAY 4th OCTOBER
In conjunction with Clacton Lions we are holding
A PIG RACE EVENING
at Great Bentley Village Hall
on Saturday 4th October.
Tote opens at 7.30pm.
First race 7.45pm. Tickets £6.
Please bring your own refreshments and nibbles.
To book a place please telephone
Stephanie Sadler on 01206 250544
Wildlives
Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre
‘Catkins’, Frating Road, Thorrington, Colchester CO7 8HT
www.wildlives.org.uk
Opening hours: October - March 9.00-5.00 01206 251174 / 07802 767016
Outside of Wildlives’ hours, please contact the RSPCA 0300 1234999
Back open and busy
October 2014
After a couple of very difficult months, Wildlives has fully re-opened
and has had a very busy month.
Hedgehogs seem to have had a particularly bad year for a
variety of reasons. The centre has experienced a real influx of tiny
second litter hoglets that have either been abandoned or orphaned.
If nests are disturbed by people this can lead to the mother
deserting the babies. Do be careful in places that might be potential
nesting areas, in particular long grass, and if you do disturb a nest
cover it over with grass, using gloves so that no scent is left. If you
do this, it is highly likely that the mother will return, but do keep an
eye on things to make sure. If you think any hoglets have been
abandoned or orphaned, keep them warm with a hot water bottle
wrapped in a towel and get in touch with the centre.
Some squirrels and birds have fallen victim to tree cutting
while they are still nesting and have had to be brought to Wildlives.
Please be aware of this when trimming or cutting trees.
Other admissions in September were a long eared bat and
two juvenile male kestrels. The bat had been the victim of a cat
attack and arrived cold and dehydrated. With some intensive care –
warmth, fluids and antibiotics – he made a good recovery and Jan,
from the Bat Rescue, kindly took him to release him back into the
wild.
One of the kestrels had been shot through the wing, the other
had been struggling to find food and was starving – he is being built
up and will hopefully be released back to the wild at a later date.
Finally, after 6 months in the centre, Mo has eventually been
released back to where he came from.
Seal cub
A badly injured seal pup was found on Frinton beach following an
attack by a dog. Sadly, a number of people chose not to seek help,
including the dog’s owner, and it wasn’t until a group of youngsters
found him that the centre was alerted and he was brought in for
medical care.
The pup had numerous puncture wounds around his head,
ears, flippers, and tail and extensive wounds in and around his
mouth. He was also dehydrated, in shock, and had a swollen left
eye. Wildlives provided emergency first aid, started him on
antibiotics and rehydrated him. This involved tubing him every two
hours which is a two person job and not a mean feat! We’ll keep you
updated on his progress.
Photos - Hoglets, kestrel and seal cub
www.wildlives.org.uk
Registered Charity 1104167 Copyright Wildlives © 2014
18
Great Bentley Running Club GBRC
For two of us the big feature of this month’s running was the Mountain Trail Challenge in the
Brecon Beacons, organised by an affiliate of the Long Distance Walkers Association (LDWA).
Although primarily aimed at walkers, (as one may gather from the name) many of us who run
have benefited from such events. As big ticket races get more expensive (Brighton Marathon for
example is around £75 for a place) the LDWA presentations represent very good value for
money. The Mountain Trail Challenge, a thirty mile race, was £25. It doesn’t have the crowds
and whistles and bells of the more conventional marathon but this ultra-event has many other
things going for it.
Once again I was wing man for my buddy Rodger who actively seeks out challenges then lulls the rest of us in
with his enthusiasm. My role involves running behind him (sometimes at a considerable distance as he tackles
hills like a mountain goat) yelling instructions from the printed sheet issued at the beginning of these style of races
while he searches out the route.
The race went off from the Grawen Forest Visitors Centre north of Merthyr Tydfil with registration starting at
07.00. By the time we arrived at 07.30 there was a queue snaking all-round the plaza and the girl controlling the
door told us that entrants had been queuing from before 06.30. Some people are just too keen. Because of the
rugged nature of the event we were sent a kit list and had to produce a day bag on registration. All competitors
were supposed to carry a map, compass, whistle, first aid supplies, spare clothes, food and two litres of water
amongst other assorted requirements. We managed to share many of the items and cut back on the water to
save on weight. Try carrying a 2 litre milk container for a few miles and you will see why! We also took a stock of
energy gels rather than food. They are much lighter than a tin of beans!
Once registered everyone was at liberty to head off following the trail instructions. The route varied greatly
but was never less than scenic at worst and spectacular at best. We left the forest centre through mature pine
woods then took to boggy heathland. At an early stage we tackled Corn Du, an ascent which seemed to go on
forever, and then followed the ridge to Pen Y Fan. The route instructions, somewhat unnecessarily we felt, noted;
“Cliffs take care.” We were only too pleased that it was a relatively clear day with little wind. It gave our stumbles
over the rough terrain a bit more than the usual excitement. Winter conditions along the ridge must be quite
something to experience.
Pen Y Fan at 886 metres is the highest point in South Wales and the view made all the effort to get to the
top more than worth it. Not that we hung around to admire the scenery! The run down the side of this hill was
treacherous with various conditions underfoot. The worst sections were those which had a mixture of different
sized rocks on the trail; this meant that although gravity was shoving us downwards at considerable speed every
step had to be placed with some care. This is where Rodger’s mountain goat ancestry stood him in good stead.
Much of the route was fairly technical and it was relatively rare to find a stretch which did not require at least some
care and attention. On one of the gentler sections we followed a small canal for some 4 kilometres. Fools that we
were we soon longed for the more challenging terrain. It was never long in coming.
Safety is obviously of paramount importance to the organisers and as a precaution there were checkpoints
along the route. At checkpoint 3 the marshals were able to tell us that we were in third and fourth position
respectively and not long after we encountered a lone runner as we ascended yet another interminable slope
above one of the many reservoirs in the area. While it is great to get past someone it leaves the lingering fear
that they will once again make up ground and go by at a later stage of the event. Did he but know it, this bloke
haunted us for the rest of the race! As it happens we never saw him again but the worry that he would appear
kept us going when otherwise there was the inclination to slow up. As if it made the slightest difference in the
great scheme of things but by such foolish notions are runners driven!
Towards the end of the route there was a long stretch of boggy moorland to cross. On tired legs this felt
interminable but at least there was a relatively downhill stretch to follow. The final 300 uphill metres on the return
to the Grawen Forest Visitors Centre were the longest we have ever experienced. At check in we handed in our
tags and these were placed on the board. We asked how we had done and were told that we were in the top 65
back. Light then dawned upon them and they asked if we were on the 30 mile route (the course split at one point
giving those who wanted to a chance to do a twenty mile walk rather than the full option). When assured that we
certainly were 30 mile competitors they became really animated and announced that we were 2nd and 3rd to return
for the longer distance. They were more excited than we could manage and informed us that although we were
some time behind the first man home, (at least an hour we gathered), he had looked very bad. Did this mean we
didn’t look too bad? Perhaps we should have tried harder?
Stiff and aching in parts which don’t normally ache we asked ourselves would we do it again. Yes and
definitely we both agreed. How often do you get to run with buzzards and red kites soaring overhead? How
many times would we ever get to jump over a dead sheep as we had been forced to on one downhill moorland
section? How often would we get to stand on the highest point of South Wales then soon after to run along the
side of a canal with houseboats and barges chugging by? Look out Mountain Trail Challenge: next year we are
coming back mob handed and with any luck someone from Great Bentley Running Club will be grabbing the
honour of first person home.
Our website at GBRC.org gives details of our weekly routine and there is something for everyone no matter
what their ability. You won’t have to run thirty miles but who knows after a few months you may feel that you want
to?
Paul Carlisle
19
TWO OAP'S IN THAILAND
The Traffic in Bangkok is legendary, frequently gridlocked especially at knocking-off-work time. The
number of tuk-tuks have been reduced as their
emissions of fumes and gases were extremely
harmful, so much so that most of the drivers wore (and
still do) masks. The air in Bangkok has always been
horribly polluted and the King ordered more greenery
to be planted, down the centres of the main roads and
in roadside pots etc. This helped and the black pall of
smog hanging over the City dissipated somewhat.
Then the Sky train was built, and we watched this
being done over about three years. Again, black
clouds of smog gathered beneath being trapped by
the huge Stations above. Up and running it is
wonderful to use but it is necessary to climb huge
flights of steps to reach the stations up above. A
couple of token escalators had been installed, but not
at every Station, and for some years they did not work,
actually, a couple of the “going-down” ones worked,
but that was not particularly useful. Last year, we
found things beginning to improve and one or two of
the “going-up” escalators were working.
At Nana
Station there is a lift for the disabled, but this has
never worked, it seems this was just a token offering.
Like so much in Thailand, there is very, very good,
and then the other extreme, very, very silly.
There has also been constructed an
underground rail service.
This is something to
behold. Deep below ground, air-conditioned marble
and tiled halls and silent escalators. Fully automated,
one's money is paid into a machine, change given,
and a plastic disc issued. This disc secures entry to
the platform. Beautifully clean, quiet trains arrive
behind sliding glass (this prevents suicide jumpers and
rubbish on the track). The glass slides open and in
exactly the right place is the open door of the train. A
cool, quiet ride – this Country could learn a lot from
the Thais.
In contrast to the above wonder, one year there
was a fire in a Chinese 'restaurant'. The flames and
smoke billowed and took hold of the building above.
The Fire Service was summoned.
Meanwhile
buckets and containers of water were thrown, a hose
found by someone and eventually the fire dampened
down. About three-quarters of an hour later the Fire
Service arrived (having been unable to get through the
usual jam of traffic). The keen Firemen leapt from
their tiny fire truck, little men in very large navy
jackets with gold braid (sleeves hanging over their
hands, and shabby jeans). Their feet were clad in flipflops. BUT the Fire Chief was splendid in his overlarge jacket and the inevitable flip-flops and an
enormous metal helmet atop. Bless them, they were
so keen. No-one was injured and a good time had by
all. Probably things have improved nowadays, let us
hope so. The main railway station in Bangkok is
Hualamplong (or Humpalong we call it). This must be
one of the craziest and busiest Stations anywhere, but
it works.
20
Separate desks where good English is spoken, lots
of interesting food kiosks etc. and, down the centre
of the main hall are long rows of tall stands covered
with school-childrens' artwork.
Paintings abound
from all ages, colourful and such fun. The trains are
like the old American trains about four steps to get
up into the carriages, green and red flags still used
by the guards and often the Orient Express can be
seen and admired. The usual food vendors and
dogs are in evidence – a buzzing exciting place.
Trains are termed “normal”, “express” and “Rapid”,
but they all go at the same speed. The best way to
travel in Bangkok is on the Chao Phraya River using
the river taxis.
They come rushing along to the
floating concrete pontoons which are bobbing and
swaying, the “conductor” at the back blows signals
on his whistle to the driver. The taxi boat is shunted
close to the pontoon and passengers leap across
from the concrete, clearing the rubber tyres strapped
to both the pontoon and the side of the boat and one
has to be adept to avoid falling down between the
two into the murky depths. On take-off the whistle
shrills, the conductor stands on the pontoon and
unhooks the rope loop and casually springs back
onto the boat as it roars away – we've never seen
one miss yet! Disembarking is just as hairy as the
boat closes to the pontoon then parts from it with the
swell of the water. One's leap to terre firma needs
careful timing and both feet need to leave the boat at
the same time. We saw one lady hold onto the pole
at the back of the boat and try to step across the
gap, unfortunately for her the boat swayed out at that
moment and she was left with one foot on the boat
and one on the pontoon.
She executed an
impressive display of the splits and was hauled to
safety by the crowd of people waiting to board. We
have perfected our boarding and disembarking:
husband goes first as he has a wider stride, he turns
and grasps wife's outstretched arm and on the word
“now” she leaps into the unknown and so far has
always been hauled to safety with sunglasses,
handbag and dignity intact.
The “stations” are
called Tha's and it is quite easy to get off at the
wrong one. We did this one night, it was the last
river taxi for the evening and we found ourselves at
the site of a very large Temple, it was illuminated by
subtle green and yellow lights, very beautiful, and it
was inhabited by scores of dogs.
All were lying
down on the steps in the gardens and inside. These
were dogs that were unwanted strays and the monks
took care of them. We picked our way unmolested
between them and found ourselves a tuk-tuk to get
to our digs.
We left a donation for these good
monks.
POT LUCK FOR OCTOBER!
1.
For fear of bad luck, how is Shakespeare’s Macbeth referred to in the theatre?
2
In which German city does the ‘Oktoberfest’ take place?
3
Edward Teach (1680-1718) was given which colourful nickname?
4
Name the film/book in which each of the following ships plays a role, a. Pequod b. Hispaniola c. Orca
5
Which two actors play Lewis and his sidekick Hathaway?
6
What sort of animal is Beatrix Potter’s Mr Tod?
7
Which actor once came in second place in the 24 Hours Le Mans race?
a. James Garner b. Steve McQueen c. Paul Newman d. Robert Redford
8
Oenology (or Onology) is the science of making what?
9
Name the two co-presenters of Strictly Come Dancing 2014.
10 Canteloupe, Ogen and Galia are all examples of what?
11 In which city was the original 'ghetto'?
12 The word biscuit stems from the Latin 'bis coctum'. What does this mean?
13 What is the name of the sea strait that separates each of the following?
a. Greenland and Iceland b. Mainland Australia and Tasmania c. Sicily and Italy
14 Which US city is served by O’Hare airport?
15 Which famous street in London takes its name from a croquet like game played in the 17th century?
16 What kind of weapon is found on the flag of the Barbados?
a. cannon b. trident c. sword
17 Havana Brown, Korat, Turkish Van, Chartreux and Burmilla are all examples of what?
a. cats b. cigars c. coffee
18 Who or what performs the waggledance?
19 What is the common French term used to describe someone's bugbear or pet-hate?
20 Who is Jessica's father in 'The Merchant of Venice'?
????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
1. The Scottish play: 2. Munich: 3. Blackbeard: 4. Moby Dick, Treasure Island, Jaws: 5. Kevin Whately & Laurence Fox :
6. Fox : 7. Paul Newman: 8. Wine: 9. Tess Daly & Claudia Winkleman: 10. Melons: 11. Venice: 12. twice cooked : 13.
Denmark, Bass, Messina: 14. Chicago : 15. Pall Mall : 16. Trident: 17. cats: 18. honey bees: 19. bete noire: 10.Shylock
Caterpillars Baby & Toddler Group.
Caterpillars Baby & Toddler Group
We hope you have all had a good summer break.
Caterpillars has had a busy few months. Firstly by
including a display in the education tent at the
Tendring Hundred Show and then by supporting
Thorrington Village Day. Here we helped with a mini
sports day and had a surprise visit from Peppa Pig.
She awarded some lovely rosettes from the Village
Day committee to all the children and then posed for
some popular photographs!
I would like to thank Thorrington Village Day
Committee for their kind donation.
We have already started back at Caterpillars and it
was lovely to see so many old and new faces. You
are all very welcome to come along. Please see our
advert for further details. Please do
email or phone if you require any
further information.
Every Wednesday morning,
from 09:30am – 11:30am, during Term time
Thorrington Village Hall, CO7 8HQ.
Cost £2:50 Per Child, Additional children 50p **
Includes Child’s healthy drink & snack and
Adult refreshments.
We welcome all parents, carers and families with
their babies and toddlers from birth to five years.
** Fortnightly Rota applies.**
Fun play and learning in a safe nurturing
ennvironment.
For more details please contact Jules.
Telephone: 07980-188058
Email: [email protected]
Jules Pettit
21
Cookery Corner for October with the Fat Goose
October is normally all about Halloween and pumpkins but this month we are
celebrating the start of the game season with a long slow cooked pheasant casserole.
Lean and gamey the meat from a brace of pheasants makes a tasty autumnal treat
when slow cooked in cider. Most pheasants will have led an active outside life so the
legs can be tough and sinewy unless braised slowly. The breasts are lean with little fat
so they need the addition of bacon to keep them moist.
Slow braised Pheasant in cider
4 pheasant breasts or two whole birds, 4 large rashers good smoked bacon, 500ml dry cider, 5 shallots, butter,
1 teaspoon caster sugar, 30g plain flour, 7 tablespoons crème fraiche or cream.
Heat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas6 generously butter the pheasant and then either wrap the breasts in a rasher
of smoked bacon or lay two rashers across the breast bone of each bird, place in an ovenproof dish and put in
the oven for 25 minutes. Then reduce the temperature to 170C/325F/Gas3. Pour over 250ml of the cider and
cover with a lid or foil and return to the oven for another 60 minutes.
Towards the end of the cooking time for the pheasants, pour the rest of the cider into a pan and cook until it
has reduced by half. Thinly slice the shallots and cook in a little butter until soft, add the sugar and continue to
cook until lightly caramelised. Remove from the heat and set aside until it’s time to finish the sauce. Check the
pheasants, make sure that they do not dry out and add more cider as necessary.
To finish the sauce, add the flour to the caramelised shallots, place the pan back onto the heat and mix well
together, adding more butter if it seems dry, now add the reduced cider and crème fraiche, stirring well. Cook
slowly until the sauce thickens. To serve, slice each breast into about five slices, pour over the sauce and
serve with mashed potatoes and buttered green vegetables. The mash can be flavoured with chestnuts or
celeriac to enhance all the autumnal flavours.
News from the Goose You asked for it, so we are going to provide it. Yes, at long last
Tendring is getting it’s very own village store and deli back again. With a bit of shuffling
around and another refit we will be creating a village store, deli, all day coffee lounge and
much much more, all in addition to the restaurant. Watch this space......
GREAT BENTLEY CONSERVATIVES
Well, who would have believed so much could have happened politically in this area since last
month? Following the resignation of Clacton's M.P. Douglas Carswell, we learn that Roger Lord has left UKIP
and quit as our County Councillor.
This has prompted a County Council by-election for our Division, which covers Great Bentley,
Brightlingsea, Thorrington, Alresford and St Osyth. The by-election will take place on Thursday 9th October.
I'm pleased to confirm our Conservative candidate is Alan Goggin. Alan has the full support of the Great
Bentley branch and of our District Councillor, Lynda McWilliams. He brings great strengths and a knowledge
of rural Tendring to his candidature having lived and brought up his family and run a locally-based business in
the area. He's a serving District Councillor alongside Lynda and is actively involved in community and charity
activities (raising more than £500K over the years!) as well as being a community governor for a local special
needs school.
Indeed, you may have come across Alan before since during his term as Chairman of Tendring District
Council he introduced the Pride of Tendring Awards, funds from which have helped projects from a number of
Tendring villages, including Great Bentley.
Politics couldn't be more exciting in our area: so do play your part at the polls on Thursday 9th October!
Pam White
Secretary, Great Bentley Conservatives
Coppice Farm, Wick Road, Great Bentley, CO7 8QZ
Tel: 01255-831567
E-mail: [email protected]
22
THE MAYFLOWER COMPACT
Before landing in America the majority of the menfolk (no universal suffrage then!) drafted and signed the
famous Mayflower Compact which provided an agreement for the temporary government of the new colony.
A modern translation of the Mayflower Compact follows. The original document was lost and although
copies were made they differed in spelling and punctuation. However a handwritten manuscript, said to be
written by William Bradford is kept in a vault at the State Library of Massachusetts.
‘In the name of God, Amen. We, whose names are underwritten, the loyal subjects of our dread
Sovereign Lord King James, by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, defender
of the Faith, etc.
Having undertaken, for the Glory of God, and advancements of the Christian faith and honour of our
King and Country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the Northern parts of Virginia, do by these
presents, solemnly and mutually, in the presence of God, and one another, covenant and combine
ourselves together into a civil body politic; for our better ordering, and preservation and furtherance of
the ends aforesaid; and by virtue hereof to enact, constitute, and frame, such just and equal laws,
ordinances, acts, constitutions, and offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and
convenient for the general good of the colony; unto which we promise all due submission and
obedience.
In witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names at Cape Cod the 11th of November, in the
year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord King James, of England, France and Ireland the eighteenth and
of Scotland the fifty-fouyrth 1620’
Fun in the Methodist Church Hall
To raise money for the
Alexia Rose Appeal
LEAFLET DROPS
We regret that as from this edition
of the magazine we are unable to
include leaflet drops. (Not even if
you are willing to come and stuff
them in the magazine)!
Thursday 30th October
2-5pm
Various activities and items to buy
All children to be accompanied by an adult
We are however delighted to
include your information in the text.
Face Painting: Books for Sale:
Raffle:
Sweets for sale:
Crafts:
Refreshments
HELP ALEXIA WALK FUND
My name is Libby. I am 13 years old, live in the
village and I am trying to raise some money for the
Help Alexia Walk Fund.
To raise money for this beautiful little girl, I am
offering to walk dogs within the local area or pop to
the local shop for you for a donation. I am a
responsible dog walker, you may have seen me
around the village walking my dog, he’s a beagle
called Ramsey.
Bouncy Castle and other
Activities donated and supplied by
GARDEN GAMES
For more information ring 250431
Alexia Rose comes to the Great Bentley Methodist
Parent & Toddler Group. She needs lots of help and
her family are fund raising for a hydro therapy pool
and selective dorsal rhizotomy surgery which will
improve her chances of walking. Please come and
help the Parent & Toddler group to help Alexia Rose.
If you would like to support me doing this please give
me a ring on 255219 or if you would just like to
donate to help Alexia please go to:
http:www.gofundme.com/alexiarose.
Thank you.
23
EVERGREEN FRIENDSHIP CLUB
CLUBS &
ORGANISATIONS
Instead of being in the garden of Westwood House
on a beautiful summer's afternoon, due to the
unpredictable weather, Joye decided it would be
wiser to conduct the meeting indoors even though
the sun was shining brightly.
She began by welcoming members, and then
proceeded to recount, with the help of photos, the
events of her visit to India last March, on the
occasion of her grandson Ben's wedding to the
lovely Jyoti.
We then adjourned to the dining room to
partake of the spread which had been laid on by
Treasurer Angie and her daughter Lucy.
The afternoon ended with a picture quiz and
word making competition and finally some of the
members related their holiday experiences.
WOMEN’S INSTITUTE
Our September meeting started on a reflective note
as we held a minute’s silence in memory of Judy
Houghton who so sadly passed away on August 18th.
She was a highly respected member of our group
and a dear friend to many of us – she will be greatly
missed.
Thanks were received from St Helena Hospice
for the ladies who baked cakes for their successful
Open Day held by the Clacton Support Group. Our
President, Mrs Paulene Bentley also thanked
members who helped on, or donated items of bric- abrac to the WI stall at the Village Show.
Our guest speaker this month was Mr Gordon
Bailey whose interesting and enlightening talk was
entitled ‘Antiquities – Treasure beneath our Feet’.
For many years he has been an avid ‘metal
detective’ and had brought with him some of his
more fascinating finds ranging from a 16th century
marriage spoon and wedding plate, to a lead crucifix
dating from the time of the Great Plague. His love of
history was clear as he related facts about the lives
of ordinary people as revealed through his many
‘treasures’.
At our meeting on October 22nd, Mary Maskell will
be with us to give an illustrated talk on The Florida
Botanical Gardens (Beth Chatto’s with alligators)
Everyone is welcome to join us so please come
along for a free first visit.
Joye
GARDENING CLUB
September saw the staging of our autumn show, with
many seasonal entries. The judges were delighted
with the standard of those entries and felt that it was
an excellent and enjoyable occasion. The October
meeting is on 21st when our speaker will be Tracey
Coyne from the Anglia Bulb Company.
Her talk is entitled ‘A talk with a
Difference’! Bulbs will be on sale.
October is also the start of the club
season when subscriptions are due.
(Currently £12)
New members are
always welcome. I look forward to
seeing you there.
Dates for your diary
•
2015 diaries need to be ordered from
RosemaryK.special gold edition
•
Friday 28th November visit to see Alan
Ayckbourn’s play ‘Seasons’ Greetings’ at the
Westcliff Theatre in ClactonK.sign up if you
wish to go
•
Christmas Hampers begin at our October
meetingK.please bring toiletries & Christmas
goodies
Bob Newman
Chairman.
Guests are, as always, welcome to attend our next
meeting in the Village Hall at 7.30pm on October 7th
when the speaker will be Mr Jason Salisbury talking
about ‘Cheese – making and tasting’.
ESSEX WILDLIFE TRUST
Wednesday 15th October
Beaumont Village Hall
7.30pm
Out and about in Hamford Water
By Julian Novorol, noted wildfowl artist
Dorothy Nowak
ART CLUB
Wednesday 19th November
7.30pm
Great Bentley Village Hall
Bush Crickets and Grasshoppers of Essex
By Tim Gardiner
th
Tuesday 14 October
Musical Still Life
Tuesday 28th October
Buildings in Pen and Ink (projected picture)
24
A FEW NOTES FROM YOUR DISTRICT COUNCILLOR
POLLING STATION - County Council By Election – 9th October 2014
Please note that the Polling Station for the above election on the 9th October will not be at the Village Hall.
Unfortunately the hall is booked and is not available to be used for the elections.
However, grateful thanks go to the Methodist Church Hall who have kindly made their hall available by
changing their bookings at short notice. So on Thursday 9th October 2014 please go to the: METHODIST CHURCH HALL
to cast your vote
(Disabled access is available)
Sturricks Lane Development 14/00431/FUL
The Appellants of the above application have lodged for an appeal to the Secretary of State on the grounds of
non-determination. This means a Government Inspector will now make a decision on the application; the
decision agreed by the Planning Committee is not going ahead.
I have been informed the Appeal in this case is not going to be a hearing; the Inspector will determine
the appeal on the basis of written representations. All representations that were submitted by residents have
been forwarded on to the Inspector and I have now sent my own written representation. If I receive any further
information I shall send a message to residents, through various contacts.
High Barns – Wind Turbine 14/00932/FUL
As you know I have requested for this application to be put before the Planning Committee for a decision if the
Planning Officer is minded to recommend approval. If this is the case the application could go before
committee on Tuesday 14th October, but there is every likelihood, and after discussions with planning, the
meeting may need to be held at the Prince’s Theatre in Clacton, due to the expected large number of residents
attending.
Bonfires
I have had concerns related to me recently regarding burning of vegetation etc., on bonfires.
I have copied the Do’s and Don’ts from TDC’s website to assist those who have concerns.
Do and Don'ts
DO NOT burn damp grass clippings or ‘green’ material as this creates thick smoke.
DO NOT burn any oily rags, rubber, plastics, damp garden waste or other materials which would inevitably
create heavy smoke or toxic fumes.
DO NOT leave your fire unattended. Never leave a fire to smoulder for long periods. Hose it down until cold
before you leave it.
DO advise your neighbours that you are going to have a bonfire, so they can be prepared in case they have
any washing out or windows open.
DO choose your bonfire site carefully - away from any trees or fences.
DO have water available in case the fire gets out of control.
Any further information you may require regarding the legality of a bonfire, especially if there is thick black
smoke please log onto TDC’s website with this link http://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/environment/pollution-noise/
bonfires this will inform you of the process if you have a compliant.
Coastal Defence Work – Holland on Sea to Clacton
I have no doubt you have been reading about the progress that is being made in the local paper regarding the
Coastal Defence work. Members of the public have been showing a keen interest in the work, especially
recently with the recharging of the beaches, viewing platforms have now been put into place, due to the public
interest.
The work which is costing £36 million has been achieved by the District Council working with Essex County
Council and the Environment Agency - 1000 homes are now going to be saved from the sea for the next 100
years.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any concerns; I am always very pleased to help and hear
from you.
Many thanks
Cllr. Lynda McWilliams
Great Bentley Ward Councillor
TDC Cabinet Member for
Wellbeing and Partnerships
e-mail address
[email protected]
Telephone Number
01206 250732
25
26
GREAT BENTLEY CRICKET CLUB
Great Bentley captain Joe Fowler was happy to see his side end their North Essex League Division One
campaign with an exciting win over Colchester Cavaliers on The Green. The visitors made 175-8 after winning
the toss, with Imran Sheikh (4-37) the pick of the Bentley bowling. But the home side made a good start in reply,
with Michael Giles (19), Fowler (36) and Sheikh (35) all making decent starts. Matt Fowler fell for 13, though,
and was quickly followed back to the pavilion by the returning Johnny Hesketh and Tony King, who both failed to
trouble the scorers and left Bentley six wickets down. Rod Fowler (22) and Rob Sanderson (17 not out) steadied
the ship with a vital partnership, however, and Billy Occleshaw produced some late fireworks to seal a threewicket victory with two overs to spare. A delighted Fowler said: “It was a nice close game for those who turned
up to watch and sealed our place in the division. It was a bit scary for a while as the ball was spinning a fair
amount and it was tricky going, but Rod and Rob won the game for us. They didn’t play silly shots like the rest of
us. Cavaliers chose to bat on a good-looking wicket but the outfield was a bit slow and we bowled well, but not
amazingly.” Slow left-armer Sanderson (9-1-18-1) was praised for his fine spell with the ball and his dogged
batting as Fowler added: “They couldn’t get him away and batsmen got out at the other end but 175 was
probably a few too many still, although Johnny Hesketh kept well. There was nothing in it for the seamers,
though, and Imran and I got into them a bit and we were racing along. But the spinners turned it a fair bit and
after cruising along the famous Bentley collapse came back. Rod and Rob hung about, saw off the spinners and
brought the game back into touching distance and then Billy came in and hit two sixes and a four in one over to
seal the deal. If he had come in a bit earlier he wouldn’t have been able to play like that but it worked out.”
Bentley were unable to raise a side for their final league fixture of 2014 at West Mersea, though, and
Fowler was a little disappointed. He added: “I always want to play but some knew we were probably safe by that
stage and were less bothered. When we’ve had our best side out we’ve won, apart from Halstead away. The
losses we had were usually when we had weaker sides. We only played 10 games but the league are
restructuring and we will still be in Division One and hopefully play more games. I’ve played 19 times on
Saturdays for Frinton this season.”
The club are hoping to hold their end of season get-together at the Blue Sari in November, before resting
during the winter months ahead of preparing for the 2015 campaign. Fowler said: “Hopefully we’ll get a few more
on board and create a bit more competition for places next year.”
LEE POWER
Great Bentley 2014 Results
North Essex League Division 1
April 20: GBCC 180-5 (J Fowler 85 R Fowler 26 Kirk 22) WEST MERSEA 91 (Sheikh 2-11 Sargent 2-13 D Hunt 2-15 Kirk 222 Occleshaw 2-28) Won 89 runs
.April 27: LITTLE BARDFIELD 117 (Sheikh 4-17 J Fowler 2-16 M Fowler 2-25) GBCC 119-1 (J Fowler 57* Sheikh 22* Giles
21) Won 9 wkts
May 4 (cup): GT TOTHAM 208-5 GBCC 209-4 (Kirk 97* J Fowler 65) Won 6 wkts
May 11: Springfield PP, rain
May 18: Cavaliers 259-6 (J Fowler 2-41 M Fowler 2-64) GBCC 262-2 (J Fowler 171* R Fowler 35* Giles 33) Won 8 wkts
May 25: HIGH EASTER 202-9 (Sargent 3-33 Clayden 2-24) GBCC 128 (M Fowler 38 Bodily 30*) Lost 74 runs
June 1: West Mersea (cup) Forfeit
June 8: GBCC 228-6 (Giles 110 M Fowler 41 Edwards 27) Maldon 233-5 (M Fowler 2-38) Lost by 5 wkts
June 15: GBCC 211 (Nel 58 Sheikh 45 Kirk 31 Brooker 23) Halstead 212-5 (Sheikh 2-71) Lost by 5 wkts
June 22: BURES (Ashes) Lost
July 13: Little Bardfield PP, rain
July 20: High Easter 367-5 GBCC 161 (J Fowler 81 Haxell 30*) Lost 206 runs
July 27: GBCC 153 (Giles 49 Thompson 22) SPRINGFIELD 155-5 (J Fowler 2-33) Lost 5 wkts
August 10: MALDON PP, rain
August 17: HALSTEAD 108 (M Fowler 4-24 Occleshaw 2-17 J Fowler 2-36) GBCC 111-1 (J Fowler 58* Sheikh 43)
Won 9 wkts
August 24: CAVALIERS 175-8 (Sheikh 4-37 J Fowler 2-56) GBCC 177-7 (J Fowler 36 Sheikh 35 Occleshaw 24* R Fowler 22
Sanderson 17*) Won 3 wkts
September 7: West Mersea Forfeit
Latest Standings
P
W
L
High Easter 12
7
1
Halstead
13
7
3
Springfield
12
6
3
GBCC
14
5
6
Maldon
14
5
7
West Mersea 14
4
7
Cavaliers
14
3
8
Lt Bardfield* 13
4
6
*points deducted.
Outstanding fixtures: Halstead v
V
4
3
3
3
2
3
3
3
Pts
147
159
139
130
137
116
109
36
Ave
18.34
15.90
15.44
11.82
11.42
10.55
9.91
3.60
Springfield (Sept 20); High Easter v Springfield (Sept 21).
27
GREAT BENTLEY PARISH COUNCIL
Community Resource Centre, Village Hall
Plough Road CO7 8LG Tel. 01206 256410
Email [email protected]: Website www.greatbentleyparishcouncil.co.uk
The minutes of the Great Bentley Parish Council (GBPC) meeting and the Planning
Committee meeting held on 4 September together with the minutes of the previous meetings
and other news can be viewed on the Council website.
Tesco Deliveries - The Council received a complaint about the congestion caused by deliveries to Tesco and
resolved to write to the store raising the issue and requesting more consideration.
Circus Use of the Green - two letters were received complaining about the site where the circus was located.
Tree on the Green; a request to fell a tree on the Green and replace it was agreed.
Weeley Bridge - The Council agreed to write supporting the lifting of the weight restriction.
Proposed Wind Turbine at High Barns - the Parish Council resolved to make available a sum of up to
£5,000 to underwrite Great Bentley STOP Ltd in its efforts to oppose the current application for a wind turbine
within the Parish of Great Bentley.
Allotment Rents - The annual rent demands will be circulated to allotment holders week commencing 22nd
September
Planning Applications: Set out below are the planning applications relating to Great Bentley that were
considered by the Planning Committee.
Planning
Reference No.
& Email Link
14/01008/FUL
14/01066/FUL
14/01111/FUL
Mr R Burgoyne
Application Details
Creation of a visitor centre in the Tithe Barn, Cart Shed,
Dairy and adjacent paddock inc. changes of use to A1, A3,
B1, D2 and conference functions wedding receptions use;
construction of extensions; internal and external alterations
and ancillary works.
Variation of details approved under conditions 2 (approved
plans), 8 (Landscape Mgt Plan), 9 (vehicular access), 13
(turning heads), & 14 (Traffic Mgt Plan) of planning
permission 14/00513/FUL.
Two x 3 bed houses.
14/01113/FUL
Mrs Vera Palmer
Variation of Condition 18 of 12/00955/FUL to allow the
existing restaurant to be used for storage.
14/01134/OUT
Mr D Shipp, Mr &
Mrs D Bennett
14/01180/OUT
Proposed erection of 5 detached houses.
14/01182/OUT
14/01243/TCA
Outline application with all matters reserved for residential
development of 0.59 ha of land to create 4 detached
dwellings.
Outline application with all matters reserved for residential
development of 0.1 ha of land to create 1 detached
dwelling.
1 No. Beech – reduce by half.
Address
The Priory,
The Bury,
St Osyth
Land north of Frowick
Lane, St Osyth
Land adjacent Station
Cottages Station Road
Gt Bentley
Former Little Chef
Colchester Rd Gt
Bentley
Builders Yard & Land R/
of The Royal Fusilier
Public House
Land north of Carpenters
Farm, St Mary’s Rd
Gt Bentley
Carpenters Farm, St
Mary’s Road
Gt Bentley
20 Cherrywoods
Gt Bentley
Council Meetings: Listed below are the next scheduled meetings of the Parish Council and its Planning
Committee. These meetings are open to the public to attend. Notices are posted on village noticeboards 5
days in advance of meetings.
Parish Council Meeting:
2 October and 6 November at 7.30pm
Planning Committee:
2 October and 6 November at 7.15pm
The Community Resource Centre is staffed on a part time basis only. The opening times are displayed on
the office door and published on the Parish Council website.
Kevin Harkin - Clerk to Great Bentley Parish Council
28
Great Bentley Pre-school
www.greatbentleypreschool.co.uk
[email protected]
Firstly I would like to say what a wonderful first few weeks we have all had back. All children have settled in
really well, this includes present children as well as all the new ones. It has also been lovely to start building a
positive working relationship with all the new parents and carers too.
This month I would like to welcome Rueben and his family. I hope you enjoy your time at our Pre-school
and I can promise you will gain lots of wonderful and exciting new experiences.
Theme
Our theme this month will continue as ‘Things That Move’. Next month when we return after half term it will
change to ‘Holidays and Festivals’. This will include all the exciting events that will be upon us again as we
reach that time of the year – Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes), Thanksgiving, Christmas.
Halloween
As this festival will be in half term we are inviting all children to dress up in their costumes the week before. This
will be week beginning Monday 20th October and will be every day for that week. We will also be doing lots of
exciting activities to support this including creative and cooking experiences. We will also look forward to carving
our very own home grown pumpkins that the children have helped to plant and look after in our planters over the
past months!
Dates to Remember
Halloween Dress Up – Monday 20st October – Friday 24th October
Half Term – Monday 27th – Friday 31st October
End of Term – Friday 19th December
Best wishes
Julie Wiles
COLCHESTER SOCIETY OF MODEL ENGINEERS
The Colchester Society of Model Engineers have now been showing their work at the Great Bentley Show for
many years.
A brief history of the Society may be of interest to the village. When there was doubt about
whether there would be a stand this year there were some enquiries about how it would be missed by the public.
Formed in 1946 the Society originally held meetings in a room at the bottom of East Hill in Colchester.
The Society prospered and in 1964 purchased a plot of land of just under an acre off Lexden Straight Road.
This was financed by three of the members and was held in trust for the Society. The Society is now a Limited
Company with 135 members from all over the Eastern Counties.
Over the years members interests have led to the formation of the Colchester Model Aircraft Club and more
recently the Brightlingsea Model Boat Club forming break away societies to specialise in their own areas of
model making. There are some members of the Colchester club who still make models of these types but it
must be said, however, that the most popular model is the steam locomotive and the appealing thing is that you
can take the children for a ride behind your model. Many members build their model from scratch, but a few
make use of the commercial kits available on the market. The high cost and the skill of the member being a
major factor on the decision of building a kit built locomotive. Working drawings can be obtained from several
suppliers and original drawings of full size locomotives are available from the railway museum at York for the
more skilled to scale down in size.
The Society grounds have railway tracks in three sizes, 3½” gauge, 5” gauge and 7¼” gauge between the
rails. These scales represent 1/16, 1/8, and 1/12 of full size of trains on the main line and are standard
throughout the world, and are in use in the USA, Canada and New Zealand. On the Continent these scales
are converted to use metric dimensions.
There are meetings at the Society Club House on Wednesdays, (all day), Friday evenings and on
Sundays (all day). During the winter months the Society presents talks and demonstrations on a wide variety
of model making subjects. New members are always welcome to attend. There are reduced subs for
students in full time education and for juniors still at school (who must be accompanied by an adult member).
Further details of the Society activities can be seen if you
visit WWW.CSMEE.CO.UK, OR PHONE 01206 822735
Geoffrey King for CSMEE ltd
29
PLANTS FROM THE PAST
ACHILLEA – Yarrow
(Family - Compositae)
I am sure like me when you think of Achillea you think either of Brad Pitt as Achilles or the Greek who thought
he was immortal but died of a single arrow to his heel. Whatever you may think, this plant was named after
Achilles of Greek mythology who was told by Chiron that the leaves of this herb would heal his injured soldiers
during the siege of Troy. Unfairly, you may say that this plant was named after him and not Chiron but for all
that, this plant continued to be used for healing for centuries and had many common names but ‘Yarrow’ is
known to us all.
The curse of any lawn is ‘A. millefolium’ and gets its name from Milfoil meaning a thousand leaved –
the red flower variety is a deviation from the white and has long been found in gardens and loved by cottage
gardeners. The plant also had medicinal applications and was used to treat boils, bronchitis, toothache and
flatulence. Another common name was ‘Nosebleed’ - Gerard wrote “the leaves being put into the nose do
cause it to bleed and easeth the pain of megrim” - perhaps this was pre-leeches!
‘A. ptarmica’ has the lovely common name ‘Pearl Flower’ but if you have this in your garden good luck!
As flowers arranger we are always pleased to give our friends a piece of this attractive plant (and it is’) – but
they themselves want to dispose of it for once you have it – you are lumbered with it. Try digging it up – the
roots are everywhere. However in olden days this plant had the common name of ‘Sneezewort’ as the leaves
once powdered down could be used as an ingredient for snuff. Bless you!
I have neither lawn nor any pearls in my garden but I do have ‘A. filipendulina’. What a magnificent
plant. It was introduced to this country roundabout 1803; the heads are like yellow saucers on strong upright
stems. They are ideal for either the back of a border or, like one of my seedlings in the front where you can
really get close to the individual florets. A mistake on my part – but one that gives my husband a lot of “what
idiot put that there” and as there is only him and me and it was not ‘him’ who could it be? I ask myself. It has
now been moved! Actually to be perfectly honest, I have another variety which is rather short and when
moving the plants they got mixed up – but it has now been moved.
The achilleas are so accommodating in the garden. They are not over fussy about the soil or water but
they do love the sun and bees spend a lot of time on the heads, giving so much pleasure with their constant
‘hum’. From my point of view where would you find another flower that dries so spectacularly and keeps its
shape and colour. They are also long lasting and in my opinion are far superior to the hybrids that are on the
market in colours of terracotta, cerise etc. – which I have found, once moved to another position they go to
flower heaven! Think of dried achillea in a copper jug or with other dried plant material.
My variety is the strong yellow but there is another called ‘Moonshine’ – I think I once had this but that
was before I started labelling everything so I am not sure whether it is still around. To preserve ‘Dip the heads
in powdered borax and either hang them upside down or stand them in a jug with a small amount of water.
The latter method is preferable as it allows each head to retain a perfect shape. If hung in bunches, the stems
tend to get imprinted on the lower head and leave a mark”. (My bible – Sheila Macqueen’s ‘Encyclopaedia of
Flower Arranging’. This book has never yet let me down).
Sylvia Steed
GREAT BENTLEY PARISH NEWS
Bibliography:
WE NEED YOUR HELP
‘Antique Flowers - Perennials Enduring Classics
for the Contemporary Garden’ by Rob Proctor
and Rob Gray
Please can you spare one or at the most
two hours to help collate our
Village Magazine?
‘Dictionary of Plant Names’
We usually meet on the last Friday
of the month (see village diary on back page)
Coffee/Tea and nice biscuits provided!
Several of our regular helpers have had to retire and
we really do need extra help if we are to continue.
Many thanks in anticipation.
EVERYONE WELCOME
The Magazine Team
30
NATURE NOTES
Ladybirds Pre-School,
Thorrington.
Some will have heard of the recent problems with
BBC Countryfile’s Grow Wild project. This was a free
mixed wild flower seed offer that has turned sour due
to unappreciated toxicity in one species. Corn-cockle
[Agrostemma githgago], a member of the campion
family, an ancient cornfield weed has been wellknown in such mixes. Now someone has found the
black seeds can be toxic if eaten in quantity. This
highlights the health and safety potential minefield
one can enter in promoting almost anything.
Poisonous qualities are better known for
example in some fungi, nightshades and yew and
are accepted facts-of-life. The corn cockle farrago
centres on what is known as an introduction. If, a
slightly poisonous plant grows naturally less fuss is
made than if one deliberately spreads it around. The
natural distribution of wild plants is a complicated
matter linked to factors like habitat, climate, drainage
and soil-type. Much is heard of the wholesale losses
of species but there have been additions often as
accidental introductions. Japanese knotweed is a
notorious example introduced as an architectural
garden plant. Accidentals often prove short-lived but
some establish, such as hoary cress [Cardaria
draba], locally not uncommon on seawalls and rough
grass, originating in returning soldiers’ hay-stuffed
paillasses from the Continent to Thanet in the early
19thC.
Introducing existing native species to enhance
declining numbers would appear laudable but raises
other considerations with many wild-flower seeds
sourced from the Continent. Slight sub-species
variation is encountered and the divide between
gardening and wildlife conservation increasingly
confused. The natural distribution of plants becomes
blurred and can lead to a manufactured, “repro”
countryside. Encouraging existing local plants to
flourish should be the first priority – like late summerflowering lesser calamint on local roadside verges.
Cowslips are not part of Tendring’s native flora, yet
on the boulder clay towards Braintree they are.
Planted in gardens they are fine but not in more
ostensible wild places. Long introduced Spanish
bluebells raises the problem of a close relation of a
native species threatening to take over. The
widespread planting of daffodils is no substitute for
letting white stitchwort and other spring wayside
natives flower. There are parallels with tree planting
where a spontaneous seedling tree often thrives
better than an introduced planted one. This can lead
to the whole issue of bio-security with potential
pathogens on imported trees/timber – be it elm, oak
or ash. But before getting mixed-up with antiimmigration policies – for plants - it is best to sign off!
We hope you have all had a
good summertime. We are
excited to be back at Ladybirds
for a busy autumn term. Children who left us at the
end of July are starting the next exciting step in their
Early Years education as they joined their primary
schools in September. We wish them lots of luck and
are very sure they will all have a great time. Our new
children are settling really well and we look forward
to meeting and working with many new children, their
families and friends. ‘A warm Welcome’ to you all.
July: For the first time this year we worked hard to
create a fantastic display for the education tent at the
Tendring Hundred Farmers Show, Lawford. This was
a great way to showcase some lovely art and craft
work and photographs to highlight our achievements,
both for Ladybirds and also our Caterpillars Baby &
Toddler Group.
August: We attended Thorrington Village Day with a
small display stand and selection of children’s craft
activities. We were also pleased to help run a mini
Olympics sports event with races for all children to
enjoy. The Village Day committee supplied some
lovely rosettes for all participants. We would like to
thank the Thorrington Village Day committee for the
very kind donation to Ladybirds and Caterpillars. We
have added some lovely new resources for the
children to enjoy and explore. Your support is greatly
appreciated.
September: We were very happy to be asked to
supply a display based on Noah’s Ark, for the St.
Mary Magdalen Church flower festival. Children
made animals, using special textured plates to
accompany the ark and created a rainbow to rise
above the flowers.
Many thanks to you all for your continued support.
With very best wishes from the Ladybirds staff team.
Kathryn Long.
VILLAGE CHRISTMAS
LIGHTS
SWITCH ON
Saturday 29th November
Please join us for refreshments
From 5.00pm and singing
Switch on approximately 6.15pm
DRB
31
The Invictus Games
Saturday 13th September 2014
Farming Diaries
You may have noticed that
the gentle purr of the
combines has now stopped
and farmers are now
getting their land ready for
the drilling of the next crop
for harvest during summer 2015. This may seem a
long way off but plans for the cropping have in many
cases, been in place for a number of weeks now. A
great deal will happen between now when the new
seasons’ crops are drilled and when they are
harvested. The weather as you know plays a key
role in a plant’s development and any deviation from
usual patterns of weather can have a significant
impact on harvested yields even from such an early
stage as drilling in the next couple months. If like we
have seen in more recent years we have a poor
autumn where we get excess rainfall farmers could
have difficulties drilling the crops, they may not be
able to apply the crop protection products to
suppress and control weeds which would compete
against the crop for light, water and nutrient
resources. Even if the rest of the year is relatively
‘normal’ in terms of the weather patterns we would
expect to experience the initial set back when the
crop was established can have an effect on yields.
Another example of how the weather has affected
the crops recently, we had a very mild winter last
year allowing crops to continue to develop and grow
throughout the winter. This meant we experienced a
harvest approximately 2-3 weeks earlier than we
usually do in this area. Farmers were harvesting
from early July where they would normally begin in
mid-July.
Although harvesting of cereal crops is now
finished, the harvesting of root crops such as
potatoes are still well underway and will continue into
October. Locally in Great Bentley a large number of
potatoes are grown but they are also grown across
the Tendring Hundred area so you won’t have to
travel too far before you see a harvester lifting
potatoes from the ground. These potatoes could go
to local farm shops, to the supermarkets for the
loose or pre-packed market or be sent for
processing. In some supermarkets they have the
name and the location of the farm on packets of prepacked potatoes so why not have a look and see
which area your potatoes come from. Hopefully they
are locally sourced and from the surrounding area.
Sugar beet will begin to be harvested and
again like potatoes you won’t have to travel too far
before you see a field where sugar beet is being
lifted. It will continue to be lifted until mid January
and be sent to the British Sugar Factory at Bury St
Edmunds to be processed into the various
‘Silverspoon’ branded sugar you see on the shop
shelves.
Having decided that watching TV coverage and cheering
our servicemen and women on from the comfort of our
sofa was not enough we took ourselves off to the Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford to see the Invictus
Games live! It was standing room only on the train from
Colchester but hey we have legs which we wake up with
every morning not a special ‘leg room’ in our home with
different sets of prosthetics. It was our first visit to
Stratford let alone the Olympic Park and we both felt a thrill
of excitement as we joined the throng of people who like
us had felt drawn to witness at first hand this unique
event. As it happened our arrival coincided with the
commencement of the cycling and nothing can compare to
the privilege of adding ones voice to the cheering and
encouragement as competitors whizz by. Even in an open
air setting the noise of the crowds gave you goose
bumps. The joy of medal winners when one sees them is
humbling and we were able to speak with several of them,
their courage and commitment to overcome such life
changing injuries takes your breath away. We were
fortunate to get a glimpse of Prince Harry as he shot past
us on his bike on his way to meet the latest
winners! Having spoken to many of the service personnel
who were on duty around the park and also the games
maker volunteers it was quite clear that the Prince, as well
as being the driving force behind the Invictus Games, has
been a visible and involved presence throughout. We are
so pleased that we took the opportunity to show our
heartfelt respect and appreciation to our wounded
servicemen and women. We were left in no doubt that all
that is good, positive and uplifting about this country was
there. The Invictus Games has opened a door that in our
opinion the government and the M.O.D. have tried to keep
closed to the British public. We were aware of the
many service personnel returning from war zones with
horrific and life changing injuries and of their unimaginable
struggle to put their lives back together again and in turn
the toll that it would take on their loved ones. Of course
‘Help for Heroes’ have played a major part in keeping the
profile of our injured servicemen and women to the
forefront and goodness knows what the situation would be
if it were not for them and our service charities. However
through these Invictus Games we have learnt such a lot
not least how important sport is on the road to recovery,
giving a focus, purpose and reason to carry on whilst also
providing a return to the camaraderie unique to our Armed
Forces. It is our hope that those who are only at the start
of their journey in coming to terms with the changes in their
lives are inspired on those dark days when they feel so low
that they can, and will achieve great things, living albeit a
very different one, a worthwhile and purposeful life. Just
before we left the Olympic Park we saw a group of children
kicking a ball about and standing nearby was an Army
Colonel speaking on his mobile with a black Labrador on a
lead at his side watching and wishing she could join in the
game. We instantly recognised this dog as being ‘Fire’
who we had seen in the opening ceremony of the games
on TV. She was an explosives sniffer dog in Afghanistan
who was severely injured in an explosion and having been
nursed back to health now enjoys a well earned retirement
with the Colonel. What better end to our day could we
personally have wished for than to be able to make a fuss
of Fire and shake the hand of the Colonel and let him know
how proud we are of our Armed Forces and that we do not
take them for granted and are forever in their debt.
Vicki Brooks
Judy & Alan Bishop
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History Society
The History and Evolution of the Naze at Walton
The fascinating headland known as the Naze was the wide ranging topic of the society’s
September presentation; and if I start by saying that among the startling things we were
introduced to was the left-handed whelk, it will give you some idea of the originality of
so much of what we heard and saw from “The Nazeman”, Mike Cranstone – Todd
assisted by his wife Sue.
By starting at the famous Naze Tower and its history and the hand of modern
man on this ancient promontory, Mike was able to show the extent of the erosion and probable demise that
nature will impose within the foreseeable future.
He cited further examples: the pillbox that strangers might see fully upright on the beach and wonder,
“Why build it there?” is just one reminder of how much of the cliff has collapsed, for that edifice was once well
back from the edge. Furthermore, a full golf course once covered the grassy fields that stretched far along the
cliffs. It had been designed by James Braid, the five times British Open golf champion and noteworthy golf
course architect. Only a small fraction of the course now remains for, as Mike pointed out, something like 40
metres of the cliff has disappeared since he first roamed there as a child some 50 years ago.
We are all familiar with the crumbling cliffs that are the present day face of the Naze and its erosion at a
rate of metres per year was explained not as a simple matter of the sea attacking them. The structure of the
Naze consists of a 53.7 million year old base layer of London Clay which is overlain by a softer “Red Crag”
upper stratum which is only 2.6 million years old. It is the permeation of this upper, sand based layer by rain
and sea moistened air that is responsible for the collapse of the cliffs.
Thus a sea wall solution is not, as popularly supposed, the solution to its problem. Rather it requires
drainage through boring into the strata, again an expensive manoeuvre. Conflicting groups with differing
attitudes to erosion mean that effectively nothing is done to rectify or allay the cliffs’ destruction. Having
described the structure of the headland, Mike went on to show his pictures of the many fossils that he has
seen or acquired from the site. Due to a projector problem, Sue his wife had to carry a laptop showing these
pictures to all the audience. This she did manfully so that not too much was lost as a result. It was here that we
became familiar with the aforementioned left-handed whelk, the “Neptunia Contraria”, to give it its true name,
which refers to its spiral twisting in the opposite direction to the norm. This is a distinct species not an
abnormality and it appears in the red crag upper layer of the cliffs. Mike has only ever found a couple of these
but admits that when you take a party of kids there, as the Nazeman Trust does, they seem ironically to have a
much more successful eye. At 2.6 million years old these are youngsters compared with the sharks’ teeth
found in the clay below. Sharks later evolved into huge creatures, the megalodon, and the vertebrae, as we
were shown, attested to their giant size.
An ever popular fossil among the public, Mike explained, is coprolite, which is the scientific name for
dinosaur poo. It is a lesser known fact however, that, following a lecture on the chemical content of this
substance, it came to be realised how the substance might be used as a fertiliser and, amazingly, the result
was the start of the chemical giant – Fisons.
An amusing detail he added was that carnivores’ poo could be recognised as it had a pointed end, while
omnivores’ droppings were rounded – somehow a piece of knowledge that none of us should be without!
After taking us through a wide range of fossils, Mike then moved on to the way the Naze has developed
despite its erosion. After the site was bought in 1963 for use as a holiday camp, trees were cleared and natural
elements destroyed. But with the failure of the scheme, woodlands have regrown wonderfully well and wild
plants like the sheep sorrel and the sweetly scented common gorse have returned plentifully.
Species of bird life passing through like the wheatear on its passage from Africa to Greenland and back
attest to the fine attraction for wildlife it has become. Badgers and even deer have returned to the woodlands,
and birdlife includes the willow warbler, the chiff chaff and most notably the singing blackcap, all of which he
showed photographed there. Rarities like the pectoral sandpiper have been seen and the hard to spot shore
lark; snow bunting also pass through, even though no longer breeding there. Barn owls have returned too. So
the final picture provided was mixed: what remains is doing well in terms of development, at the same time as
the acreage of the headland is diminishing perhaps terminally.
The evening Mike and Sue had provided had ranged widely over time and subject and the audience
thanked them suitably for a most entertaining and educative talk.
**********************
For next month’s presentation on Thursday 9th October we welcome Nick Baker of the Rowhedge Heritage
Trust. His talk is entitled “Yachting, Shipbuilding and Fishing – a History of Rowhedge”. Visitors are most
welcome. Entrance £2 incl. tea & biscuits.
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October 2014
Where do the doorways lead?
The Hall way of Great Roll up! Roll up! Year 5 visit
Bentley School is a collage the Circus
of topics! Year R are learning
about houses all over the
world. Year 1’s topic is ‘Toys’,
Year 2 are learning about the
award-winning animated
block buster name of ‘Frozen’.
Year 3 are looking at ‘Lego’;
Year 4 are taking a trip to
Ancient Eqypt’; Year 5 as you
will hear are joining the circus;
and Year 6 are becoming
‘Ancient Greeks’. So walking
down our corridor you are
whisked away to the different
topics as you pass each door.
We were lucky enough to be
able to visit Circus Tyanna on the
village green. The class was
greeted by Tyanna’s mum,
Claire, who took us into the tent
to sit down on one the benches.
She then introduced us to Tyanna
who is 7 years old. Tyanna
showed us how bendy she was
and did a couple of tricks with a
hula hoop. Then we saw Miss
Jazz on the silk rope. Afterwards,
the juggler came in and he
showed us some juggling. He
juggled with balls and bowling
pins. It was amazing. After the
show we went outside to look at
the animals. There were ponies,
ducks, lamas and goats. We
were able to ask lots of questions
to help us with our lessons.
Thank you Circus Tyanna!
Snapshot News:
•
Where do the
doorways lead?
•
Roll up!
Roll up!
•
Launch of Forest
area
•
Charity Bike ride
•
Playground
Transformation
Reece Johnson in Year 6 took part in a 28 mile sponsored cycle ride in Southend on 7th
September to raise money for Leukaemia Lymphoma Research. Well done Reece on your
latest event and hope the forthcoming quiz goes well too.
Launch of new
‘Forest’ area
To launch our new ‘forest’
area on the school field, we
invited all the children to our
spin on a ‘Bedtime Hour’ event
where teachers read their
favourite book. The event was
held after school and gave the
teachers an opportunity to
showcase their favourite books
and a love of reading whilst
enjoying the new surroundings.
Playground transformed
over the holidays
Children were welcome to
come in their pyjamas, bring
blankets to keep warm and
it was a whole family event.
Families had two ‘arenas’ to
choose to sit in and listen to
the stories depending on
personal tastes.
Children were greeted by a
wash of colour and a new
surfaced playground on their
return from the summer
break. Learning through
play
and offering
opportunity for spontaneity
in the fresh air. Who said
school was dull!
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DATE FOR YOUR DIARY
THE BRAIN TUMOUR CHARITY
CRAFT DAY AND
FARMERS MARKET
Since my daughter Hollie passed away I have been
raising money and awareness for the above charity.
I have recently become a Headsmart Champion,
which basically involves sharing information and
promoting awareness that aims to bring down the
diagnosis times for children and young people with
Brain Tumours.
•
•
•
10 children and young people are diagnosed
every week in the UK.
It takes longer for them to be diagnosed in the
UK than in many other countries.
Early diagnosis can improve the outcomesaving lives and reducing the chance of longterm disability.
SATURDAY 1st NOVEMBER
GT BENTLEY VILLAGE HALL
2pm
Did you know that brain tumours are the biggest
cancer killer of children and adults under 40.
TABLES £10 or £15 for 2
Over 4,800 people lose their lives to a brain tumour
every year. The brain tumour charity do not receive
any government or statutory funding and rely 100%
on voluntary donations to fund their vital work, so
every penny really does count.
To book,
please ring
Rita Coles 251506
or
Mary Maskell 250524
Enclosed in this month’s parish
magazine is a symptoms card for your
information.
If you wish to find out more about the charity please
go to their website thebraintumourcharity.org,
donations can also be made on their website. Or
you can donate on my just giving page
www.justgiving.com/lesleyglover55 or there are
collection pots in the village at most of the shops,
pub and restaurant.
Thank you for reading
Tables are selling well so please book ASAP.
The Conservation Group consists of a small
number of people who are trying to preserve
wild areas of the village for example the heather
patch on the Green, planting wild bluebells in
the spinney (2,000 to date) etc.
Lesley Glover 07530 669761
We apologise for not including the
leaflet last month but we were
VERY UNDERSTAFFED
(minor understatement).
PLEASE CAN YOU HELP?
WE WILL NEED
CAKES FOR REFRESHMENTS AND
DONATIONS OF TOMBOLA AND RAFFLE
PRIZES.
See plea for help on page 30
THANK YOU
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PROPOSED WIND TURBINE AT HIGH BARNS
Letters of Objection
At the time of writing, over 330 individual letters of objection have been submitted to the Tendring District Council
(TDC). Add to this over 1150 signatures to the petition and this surely gives a clear indication of the level of
objection that this has identified in our community. The TDC web portal still seems to be accepting comments
so, if you didn’t manage to get your objection in by the original deadline please take advantage of this and do so
quickly!
What Else Has Been Happening?
In the past few weeks our technical experts have been working diligently to analyse the data and statements
contained in the application in order to provide us with robust arguments contesting the proposal. Additionally
you may have seen our visualisation team plus surveyors around the village during the middle of the month. As
many of you have realised, the visualisations provided in the RES application appear to completely
underestimate the size and impact of the turbine on the landscape around the village and we have
commissioned the leaders in this field to provide “accurate” representations of the turbine using the latest
accepted guidelines for this type of work. Their report, along with the other technical reports will form the main
part of the objection document to be submitted by GB-STOP on behalf of the village.
As you can see from the photograph on the right it is difficult to keep the boys from their toys!!! Many thanks to
the Village Hall and the Pre-School for their assistance at this location.
What Happens Next
The current date by which a planning decision must be made is 15th October 2014. However, due to the
Summer holidays, time has been lost in receiving replies to our requests. It is therefore likely that this date may
be deferred to sometime in November to allow enough time for TDC planning officers to properly consider the
application and our final reports. If this happens we will let everybody know the new date and also whether the
application will be decided in public by TDC Planning Committee and where.
Fundraising Events
This got off to a cracking start with £225 raised at the GB-STOP stand at the Great Bentley Show at the end of
August. A further £628 was raised at the quiz night the following weekend. This was magnificently compiled and
delivered by Tom Edwards; thank you Tom! It was a fantastic atmosphere and excellent turn-out with raffle
tickets being sold at a whirlwind rate. A big thank you is due to all who came, those who donated prizes to the
raffle and also to our various individual and commercial sponsors who paid for the hire of the hall and the prizes
for the winners. It is anticipated that there will be further events in the future but if you have something in mind,
especially if it involves fun, please let us know.
If you would like to make a donation towards the fighting fund the following are the GB-STOP bank details:Account name: Great Bentley Stop Ltd – Bank: Lloyds Bank - Account no: 53408560 - Sort code: 30 92 16
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The important factors are that we have a settled core
of players, and that some younger players are being
given their chance to impress.
The reserves’ in-and-out season continues,
and our key issue here is in addressing their poor,
and totally unacceptable disciplinary record. We
have already introduced steps on match days, and
will discuss whether further action is necessary at
our next committee meeting.
The Vets look as if they may be a force in their
league, especially once they’re up to full match
fitness. Wivenhoe Vets were runners-up in last
year’s competition, and we just ran out of legs after
holding a 5-2 lead midway through the second half.
At Holland, it was the other way round, as we
recovered from being 3-1 down to win 5-3. Its great
to see so many old faces back at the club, many of
whom served us so loyally back in the day. Some of
them look fitter than they did then!
FOOTBALL CLUB NOTES
Essex & Suffolk Border League Results
and Fixtures.
First Team (Premier Division):
30th Aug
away Tollesbury, 1-1;
6th Sept
home Gas Recreation
(K.O. Cup Prem Round), 0-5;
13th Sept
home Lawford Lads, 6-1;
20 Sept
home Earls Colne, 2-3;
27th Sept
away Coggeshall Town;
4th Oct
away Holland F.C.;
11th Oct
away Sungate
(Essex Premier Cup, 2 p.m.);
18th Oct
away University of Essex;
25th Oct
away White Notley.
Reserves (Division 2):
30th Aug
home Mersea Island Res, 7-1;
6th Sept
away Tiptree Jobserve Res, 0-4;
13th Sept
away Tiptree Perrywood, 0-2;
27th Sept
home Boxted Lodgers Res;
4th Oct
home Hatfield Peverel Res;
11th Oct
home Dedham Old Boys Res;
18th Oct
home Bradfield Rovers Res;
25thOct
home Manford Way Res
or Old Chelmsfordians Res
(Essex Junior Cup, 2 p.m.)
Lucky Team Winner September.
E. J. Page (Birmingham City) £25.
Stoner.
All Border League games are on Saturdays, and kickoff at 3 p.m. unless stated.
Great
Great Bentley Veterans
(North Essex Veterans League):
6th Sept away AFC Wivenhoe Vets, 5-6;
13th Sept away Holland FC Vets, 5-3;
27th Sept away Oyster Vets;
4th Oct away Halstead Vets;
18th Oct away Doddinghurst Olympic
(Essex Vets Cup);
25th Oct home Lawford Lads Vets.
All Veterans games are on Saturdays, kick-off 2 p.m.
Kit Sponsorship 2014-15.
Great Bentley F.C. say a massive thank-you to
GREAT BENTLEY GARAGE, and in particular
proprietor Mick Humphries, for sponsoring a new kit
for both the first and reserve teams for season 201415. As my old games master always used to say,
“Smart in appearance, smart in performance”, and we
certainly look the part.
First team performances have improved
dramatically since the opening two games, with the 11 draw at much-fancied Tollesbury catching the eye.
In truth we should have won that game, but just lacked
the composure in front of goal to add to our lead. The
hosts equalised from the penalty spot with 4 minutes
left. The defeat v. Gas was all about a resolute
performance from our point of view. Gas are an
Eastern Counties Premier standard side, who routinely
win the Border League, and we fought every inch of
the way to “restrict” them to 5 goals. The 6-1 defeat of
Lawford shows that we are capable of scoring goals
against a struggling side, while the 3-2 loss to Earls
Colne was a game that could have swung either way.
37
Bentley
Youth
Football.
The new season is under way for all our teams. The
first round of games was on Sunday 14th September
and it was certainly a busy day on the Green. Most
of our teams had been given home matches and our
Fixture Secretary Phil Carpenter did well to fit all the
games in before the 1pm playing deadline on the
Green.
Both of the full size pitches were in use at the
same time and the mini soccer pitch had 4 games on
it from 10am to 1pm. When you consider that we
also have teams also playing at Strangers Corner,
Brightlingsea it means a lot of arranging for all
concerned.
All the pitches are currently in good condition
and a big thank you to Bill Herbert for continuing to
make sure all our pitches are marked out nicely
before the games.
At the time of writing this there were no details
on team results for the new season, but we will have
updates in next months report.
One new change at the club is we now have
an appointed fundraising commitee. This is crucial to
the future of the football youth club. We aim to have
an event every month ranging from
the half term football clubs, quiz
nights and kids football birthday
parties. The email for the fundraising
is [email protected].
Thanks for reading
Rob
Diary for October
Thurs 2nd
PARISH COUNCIL MEETING, Planning Committee 7.15pm
Full Council Meeting, 7.30pm
Fri
3rd
COFFEE MORNING, Methodist Church p. 3
Sat
4th
LOCAL HISTORY DAY, See p. 24
Sat
4th
BENTLEY GREEN PLAYERS, Pig Race Evening, V. Hall, 7.30pm
Tues 7th
W.I. Village Hall, 7.30pm
Thurs 9th
COUNTY COUNCIL BY ELECTION Methodist Church Hall
Thurs 9th
HISTORY SOCIETY, Village Hall
Tues 14th
ART CLUB, Village Hall,
Wed 15th
ESSEX WILDLIFE TRUST, Beaumont Village Hall, 7.30pm
Wed 15th
MAGAZINE DEADLINE
Fri
ST HELENA HOSPICE FASHION SHOW, p. 7
17th
Mon 20th
PRE-SCHOOL Halloween Dress up week
Tues 21st
GARDENING CLUB, Village Hall, 8pm
Wed 22nd EVERGREEN FRIENDSHIP CLUB, Village Hall
Thurs 23rd YOUTH CLUB, 7pm, Methodist Church
Thurs 23rd ST OSYTH BRITISH LEGION AGM, St Osyth Village Hall, 7.30pm
Fri
24th
MAGAZINE COLLATING, Vestry Room, 9am
Sat
25th
BRIGHTLINGSEA FARMERS’ MARKET
Sat
25th
BENTLEY IN BLOOM PLANT SALE, Old V. Hall car park 10am
Tues 28th
ART CLUB, Village Hall
Thurs 30th
FUN IN THE METHODIST CHURCH HALL, see p. 23
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