FREE - Issue Number 293 - July 2021 THIS PAPER IS FREE! HELP YOURSELF!!

Rotary Young Citizen Awards 2021

L to R Lesley Cowling, prizes sponsor, Grace Lawlor, ATC winner, Michael Haythorpe, Rotary President,
James Naylor, litter picking winner, Eduarda ( Eddie) Mucavele, Wayland Academy winner.

At an awards evening held via Zoom on 3rd June, Watton Rotary JAMES NAYLOR
Club announced the recipients of this year’s Peter Cowling Young Our youngest recipient, James came to our notice when a local
Citizen Awards. Named in memory of a late and much-loved newspaper article described his mission to clean up the village
President of the Rotary Club, the aim of these awards is to where he lives, Saham Toney. During walks with his mother, he
recognise and celebrate positive contributions made to their local became dismayed at the amount of litter they found, and the risk it
community by young people up to the age of 18. Two recipients posed to wildlife. So he went on ‘waste walks’ to collect rubbish,
were chosen by the Rotary Club from nominations received from but also wanted to encourage others to do so. He wrote letters to
local organisations working with young people. A third was the head teacher of his school, Parkers Primary Academy, to
selected from local newspaper coverage of his activities. Breckland Council, and to the Environment Minister asking for
Following the Awards evening, Rotary Club President Michael help. ‘If every person went for a local walk once a month picking
Haythorpe met with the three recipients at Loch Neaton to present up rubbish along the way’ said James ‘then your local area would
them with certificates, trophies and gift vouchers. The names of be safer and pollution would be less’. Wise words indeed from
the recipients and their achievements are: James, who is just 8 years old.
GRACE LAWLOR EDUARDA (EDDIE) MUCAVELE
A member of Watton Air Cadet Squadron, Grace was nominated Eddie’s nomination came to us from Glen Allott, the Head
for a Young Citizen Award by her commanding Officer, Pilot Teacher of Wayland Academy. She has played a key role in the
Officer Kris Crittenden. In listing her many attributes, Kris told us Youth Advisory Board at the Academy, and has been a driving
that besides exemplary conduct, Grace was a role model to other force behind the anti-bullying initiative, even travelling to a
cadets, particularly during recent lockdowns. Grace attended conference in Dublin in 2018 to represent the views of Norfolks
almost all virtual parades, when other cadets dropped out. She young people. In 2019, she was the lead speaker at Norfolk’s anti-
passed exams to became an instructor cadet at the age of 14. Other bullying Conference. She has made a radio appearance, and has
accomplishments include representing Norfolk and Suffolk in frequently met with Watton Town Council and Breckland Council
marksmanship and in Athletics. She also completed the Duke of to discuss the needs of young people in and around Watton. She
Edinburgh bronze award during lockdown, and has also looked took a lead role in moving forward plans to build a skate park in
out for vulnerable neighbours who were isolating at home. In our Watton and also the launch of the Youth Hub which provides a
view, a very deserving recipient of a Young Citizen Award. place for young people to meet safely.

to working out of the building and the availability of parking is

Parking At Wayland House a part of their tenancy. Some, such as the podiatrist and
We are becoming increasingly concerned about the amount of physiotherapist, have clients with disabilities who need to park
unauthorised parking in our car park at Wayland House. It has close to the building and there have been several occasions
come to our attention that a number of local residents and users recently when this has not been possible. Illegal parking is a
of the town have taken advantage of the reduced footfall at considerable inconvenience to us and our tenants.
Wayland House during the pandemic to avail themselves of the Understandably our tenants are somewhat annoyed to find the
car park. Some are using for long stay, even overnight and this car park full of cars without permits hindering their business
is not acceptable. activities.
We would like to remind everyone that this is a private car We will be taking further measures to stop the inconsiderate
park and parking is for staff, tenants and their clients, all of use of the car park but, meanwhile, are taking this opportunity,
whom have been issued with permits, and users of the building if you are one of those who has been using the car park, to ask
for which we have temporary permits. We wish to make it you politely not to park on our premises in future unless you
clear that you are not covered by insurance when parking are using our services.
without permission and are parking entirely at your own risk. Wayland Partnership Development Trust
The businesses with offices in the building have now returned
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 2
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 3
Kids often have their own unique sense of style so customising
A Quick Look Round their old clothes can be a fun way to let their creativity loose. This
can be enjoyable for kids of all ages – and adults too! Search for
By Orbiter
Well here we are at last (hopefully) at the end of lockdowns and upcycling tips online.
such restrictions, though with African and Indian covid variations Get the kids making temporary tattoos out of paper, perfume and
being mentioned in the news, I can only trust that anything I write water – you’ll find loads of tutorial videos on YouTube to show
here will not have become nonsense by publication date. But if you how.
things stay as they are I will be able to visit any shops I choose and Get adventuring
to paraphrase a once popular song, I will also let “Aunt Bertha hug With many places reopening with limited numbers, it pays to plan a
and kiss me.” And I may be allowed to go to the seaside again, trip in advance. Theme parks and zoos can be an expensive day out
although that may get a bit too crowded, with so many holidays for a family, but there are ways to cut some of the costs.
abroad being cancelled many folks are opting to stay in England Travel by train. Check out daysoutguide.co.uk/uk-days-out for
until normality returns. various deals.
On a more local note, I see that the BBC are mulling over whether Look out for discount vouchers on products in the supermarket.
to bring back local accents to their regional programmes, and yes it Bring the zoo to you with Chester Zoo’s official YouTube channel.
would be nice to hear the dialect tones that were a welcome part of Create that fun adventure vibe by setting up a blanket in the living
Radio Norfolk such as we enjoyed thirty years ago, but are there room and having a picnic lunch.
many of these rich tones still around? Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity with over 580
In my village most of the ‘agricultural’ accents have largely services across the country delivering debt counselling, money
disappeared or only become recognisable in the inflections of management education, job clubs, life skills groups and more. Visit
speech in a few of the older inhabitants, while the old country capuk.org to find out more.
names for animals and flowers would mean nothing to most present
day listeners..
But if they want more rural accents perhaps Sid, whose
Henk is Looking for
adventures are recorded in this paper each month under the
heading ‘The Ovington Crower’ is the man for the job! Gail Attfield . . .
As I watch the happenings in the fields of sport. I find it At the end of the seventies in Emmen Holland, there was a little
personally annoying when, at the start a football match some or British community of people working in the oil and gas
all of the players, ‘take the knee’ to show their support for the business. This company was called “Sperry Sun” and they had a
BLM movement. This action may be thought by some to be a location in Emmen.
worthy demonstration but I feel that politics of any kind should I was working in a local supermarket at that time , and so I met
not be allowed to intrude on leisure pastimes. As I say, only my a lot of these people when they came around for their groceries.
opinion. While the men worked on locations in Europe or sea, their
Since the current pandemic troubles began there have been great partners had to stay home with sometimes their kids.
changes in nearly everything we do most noticeably with many However, with some people I build up a nice relationship and I
folks working from home rather than the old way of making even was invited for a two weeks stay with the family Watson
long journeys every day. Everything we do in a new way causes in England, who originally came from Gillingham Kent.
unforeseen changes and this new home-working era has tended I also became friends with Gail Attfield and Julian Barnes who
to make the housing market suddenly become alive with came from Norfolk. When Julian was at work, Gail sometimes
demand for properties in areas such as Norfolk, and already joined me and my friends and go out to the local café’s and disco’s
prices have started to increase alarmingly although things may as there was “Funny Castle” and “Grimme aan de markt”.
settle down again when the so-called stamp duty holiday comes During a short stay In England Julian and Gail got married in
to an end. Wayland before they returned “home” too Emmen Holland.
They say that there is a good and bad side to everything and I I lost track of them, because shortly after their marriage they left
have found that during the recent restrictions my petrol usage Emmen for a job on an other location somewhere in the oil
has diminished to the extent that one fill-up has lasted about a industry. A few years later I heard that they got divorced and I
couple of months as against the usual three weeks or so, but I really felt sorry for them.
notice that petrol prices seem to be climbing fast. I suppose we I tried several times in the past decades, to find Gail using the
can’t have it all ways. Watching this rise suddenly makes me phonebooks or even called people in England with the surname
realise how steeply prices have been suffering from inflation Attfield but no luck.
year after year. For instance, throughout my childhood the most
purchased bar of chocolate was a ‘penny Nestles’ whereas today
a penny would not provide more than a tiny nibble. But incomes
have also risen, so I suppose it is all like running on the spot to
get nowhere.
It seems that nothing evolves without causing un-foreseen
problems and a new example is the introduction of E.scooters.
These are not a really new idea, but have suddenly become
popular in cities, but seem to herald more accidents to
pedestrians to add to their current dangers of being in collision
with other walkers who are distracted by their smart phones.
Sometimes I think it is better to be old and safely tucked away
at home.
Good afternoon.

What are we going to

do with the children?
Finding new ideas to keep the children entertained can be a
challenge, especially after having them at home so often over the
last year. Thinking ahead, doing a bit of research and creating a
plan or timetable of activities to keep the kids occupied can help to So, I am looking for Gail E Attfield, age around 63/64 and born
take some of the stress out of this time. Read on for fun ideas you registered in Ely mothers name Dove. For as far I can remember
could try and enjoy a stress-free summer holiday with the family. Gail was born December 1957, but that is a guess. Gail was
Get outdoors married to Julian Barnes in the district Wayland. The picture,
We’ve all experienced the blessing that is the great outdoors during that was me at the end of the seventies, long time ago.
the lockdown, and with the weather looking good, getting out and I would like to say thanks too Julian Horn and the Wayland
about over the summer is a no brainer. News for giving me the opportunity to do this request and all of
Make packed lunches and take the kids on a nature hike. There are you in advance helping me to find Gail. If you know of Gail,
activity sheets you can download online to help get the kids please get in touch via Julian on newsfromwayland@gmail.com
hunting. Kind regards, Henk Homan, Emmen Holland
Create a treasure hunt in the garden or check out geocaching.com –
both fun activities for zero cost.
Get in touch with your local Friends of Park group and take part in
a community litter pick.
Dance-Away
Get together with friends and organise a mini sports day followed
by a group picnic. Stop Press News
Get crafty You will have heard that full lifting of Coronovirus restrictions are
For those days when the weather isn't too great, it’s good to have not being lifted on 21st June. This means that we will not be able to
some ideas of activities you can do indoors. hold our dance on Saturday 3rd July. Hopefully we will be able to
If you’re planning a mini sports day, get the kids making medals, hold a dance on Saturday August 7th.
score sheets, and maybe some bunting out of leftover fabric. Please look out for our posters to confirm this date.
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 4
affect outdoor tomatoes and requires the same The Neighbourhood Plan matters. It can make a
In Your Garden treatment. Saham Toney real difference to the way Saham develops in
With Lotta Potts Some roses need to be pruned this month. All future. Once approved, planners and developers
After the frosty April with the showers coming the climbers, ramblers, old-fashioned and shrub Neighbourhood Plan cannot ignore it and continue ‘business as usual’.
all at once as biblical downpours in May, June roses that only produce one flush of flowers The Parish Council and villagers alike will have
treated us to the most phenominal rush of usually finish by the end of July. These are the Update the means to object effectively to unsuitable
growth. The heat and sunshine brought ones to prune except the varieties that are grown Shaping the future of Saham Toney! development by simply quoting any non-
everything on at once including the weeds we mainly for their autumn hips. Basically it's a At the time of writing (11 June) we have been told compliance with the Neighbourhood Plan policies.
couldn’t get near in the rain. I have never seen case of hard pruning the varieties that make lots to expect the examiner’s report on the Plan In addition, they will be able to check that sites
such large dandelions and didn’t they grow, of growth (mainly ramblers) to keep them during the week starting 14 June. As that is after included in the Neighbourhood Plan meet all the
bud, flower and seed quickly? The annuals both within their framework but the smaller varieties the print deadline for this issue, we can’t yet tell criteria specified to ensure they are acceptable.
wanted and not also rushed into growth and just need a bit of a tidy. The roses should have you what must be changed in order for the The Neighbourhood Plan matters. It can make a
flower. The poppies and lupins have never more detailed instructions but if all else fails Neighbourhood Plan to go to a village real difference to the way Saham Toney develops
looked so good and all was a riot of colour. I you can refer back to the grower or retailer. referendum, but rather than wait for the August over the foreseeable future. Once approved
am wittering on before the middle of June so it Modern bush roses don’t need summer pruning edition, we will publish the report on our planners and developers cannot ignore it and
remains to be seen what weather marvels await but do need dead-heading. This can seem like website (www.stnp2036.org) with some initial continue their ‘business as usual’.
for the rest of this month and into July. I hope it pruning as to dead-head tidily usually involves explanation as soon as we get it. We hope you agree and when the time comes, that
doesn’t disappoint but give it twenty minutes removing quite a bit of stem with the old flower, Breckland Council requested, and were granted, you will vote “YES” at the referendum
and we’ll have some change. back to a leaf or bud. an extra week to make a second response to the As usual, if you have any comments or questions
On to what we should be doing. One of the The other pruning that gives people headaches examiner’s earlier questions, and finally on any of this, or the Neighbourhood Plan in
annual events we used to have in July or August is wisteria. It will run riot and attempt to take submitted that on 21 May. Nothing in their new general, or if you'd like to be added to our mailing
is the holiday. It remains to be seen if we shall over the roof and wheedle its way into the loft. response particularly concerned us, but we were list, please get in touch with Chris Blow, Saham
be allowed out in time for this year’s annual If you have a wisteria it's the one plant you can't pleased to get them to “own up” about how Toney Neighbourhood Plan Work Group leader on
break but if so a brief idea of how the garden neglect when it comes to pruning. If it's to grow many houses have been built in Saham Toney 01953 880915.
will fare in your absence is pretty against a wall make sure you put in horizontal since their own Local Plan was approved in Most importantly, stay healthy and safe!
straightforward really. First things first – wires then train the stems along until it's November 2019. That number was 48 – for
security. Lock away all tools and ladders and covered as much wall as you want. In July cut context, set that against the Breckland Local
any side entrances. Leave the lawn alone for as back the long, whippy tendrils back to Plan target for Saham Toney up to 2036, which Shipdham & District
long as you can so that it won’t grow too 6” (15cm) to stop it going everywhere. It was 33. Of the 48 houses, only 3 (on Ovington
quickly and definitely don’t water or feed it. should build up short flowering spurs. Whilst Road) were included in and supported by the Book Group
Don’t water it anyway as it will recover with a cutting the whippy bits back cut the main stems Neighbourhood Plan. The Keeper of Lost Things by Ruth Hogan has
decent drop of rain. Dead-head all flowering back to their limit on the wire. It will continue We have already used this fact to submit an parallel stories both portraying love and grief in
plants (this needs doing even if you are at home to make growth during the season and will need additional objection to the current application very different guises.
only oftener). Pick all fruit and veg. Any you cutting back again in mid-winter. It's very hard for 54 houses at Nilefields and will do likewise Eunice works with Bomber, a publisher, who
can’t use either freeze or give away as an to kill by pruning. You might lose flowers a for any future applications for sites not included has the problems of a sister who wants him to
encouragement to a friend to keep doing this year after July pruning if you get it wrong – in the Plan. publish her dreadful novels and the diminished
while you are away on the understanding you hard to see how – but persevere. You can also Breckland must arrange a referendum within 13 output of his favourite author Anthony, a writer
will return the compliment. Ask them to keep train wisteria into a standard by letting it twine weeks of the examiner’s report. Until we see of short stories. Eunice is in love with Bomber.
your containers and baskets cared for as well. If up a strong stake then keep stopping the new what changes the report may require, we can’t Sadly for her he is gay, but there is a deep sense
you don’t have a friend to phone and pots and shoots until it forms a dense head. If you do this tell you precisely what you’ll be voting on, but all of fellowship and love between them, which
baskets out front a good ploy is to keep moving it will still need to be pruned now but at least it's the same, in advance of that information, we urge reveals itself in an extraordinary act of
them about several times before you go to keep more accessible. I must admit I have two of parishioners to start thinking about the need to vote compassion..
any interested thieves confused. It still is a risk them on a pergola. My expert author only and also how you will vote, and offer the The keeper of lost things is Anthony, a sad man
to leave the front of the house bare but is no mentions wall or standard training so it’s hoping following general observations about both: whose fiancée was tragically killed just before
worse than leaving it with pots of dead plants. for the best on other structures but last year’s Reasons to vote “Yes” at the referendum (and their wedding. Laura is escaping an abusive
As far as the containers are concerned move efforts have worked well but the blue one support the Plan) marriage and becomes Anthony’s assistant,
them all to a shady sheltered spot and give them throws out numerous shoots from the base. The Neighbourhood Plan is the best document typing up his short stories, his housekeeper and
a good soak. If they are all together the friend Despite removing these last summer and this the village has with which to exercise control over eventually his carer. On his death Laura
who is watering the veg will be more amenable winter there are lots more of them so here we go what development takes place – and what does not becomes the inheritor of his estate, including his
to watering the pots as well, rather than be again but I am enjoying the long racemes of - over the next 15 years. house which has a mysterious locked room.
expected to go all round the place with cans. blue scented flowers until the time comes to The Neighbourhood Plan is the only document There is one rider with the bequest. Laura is
Access to the hose is a good idea! It just give them the chop. that meaningfully protects the local environment – asked to maintain the lost things and endeavour
occurred to me that you could swap the baskets All the bedding plants and perennials benefit i.e., Saham Toney’s landscape, character, to return them to their rightful owners.
for those artificial ones – do this a few times from dead-heading. Tall specimens like separation from Watton, green spaces, heritage, On taking up residence Laura unlocks the room
before you go and leave the artificial ones up for delphiniums and lupins should have the key views, habitats and wildlife. to find shelves of catalogued, lost things.
the break period. flowering stems cut down to the ground once Sites allocated in the Neighbourhood Plan have Laura meets Sunshine, who has Down’s
The other annual event to watch out for is the flowers are over. As well as making the been assessed against a range of factors to ensure Syndrome, beautifully and realistically
blight. If you are new to veg growing and have plant look tidy you may get a second flush of they are suitable and will only gain planning presented , and together with Freddy, the part-
found that one of the easiest varieties is spuds small spikes later on. If there’s a side shoot permission in future if they meet the rigorous time gardener, Laura sets up a website inviting
don’t get caught out by blight as it may put you prune to there as it may produce more flowers. criteria the Neighbourhood Plan specifies. people to claim the lost things, perhaps giving
off for life because disposing of an infected Encourage pruned plants by scattering some The Neighbourhood Plan, together with the some insight into the importance of the items in
plant, never mind crop, is unpleasant and very organic fertilizer around and give it a good village SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) their lives. A jigsaw piece and the biscuit tin of
smelly. July is the start of the blight season so if drink. While dead-heading, which is a pretty Design Manual, offers real protection against ashes were the most intriguing lost items. The
you planted first early varieties you will boring job, it's worth remembering that once increased flood risk from new development, and latter brought a very thought-provoking story to
probably not even see blight so maybe a good plants have shed seeds for next year they have practical proposals for improving current problems a satisfactory ending.
tip for next year or the first time. Second earlies done their stuff and will no longer flower. The villagers experience. Sunshine, the teenager with Downs who makes
may suffer if not harvested before blight strikes. best example of this is the lovely sweet pea. The Plan has been written by a group of ‘a lovely cup of tea’ whether it is needed or not
It’s not really worth growing main crop varieties Instead of dead-heading you live head by villagers who care about what happens in Saham, is a favourite, several members having
as these will be the ones to suffer blight unless removing the flowers virtually on a daily basis not faceless planners in Dereham who don’t know professional or other experience with similar
you fancy the Sarpo blight resistant varieties. I for the vase or presents. If they are allowed to anything about our village. personalities. All the characters are well
don’t bother with maincrop as they are so cheap carry on and seed it takes ages to recover so Reasons NOT to vote “No” at the referendum (and depicted so we either love or hate them
in season and take up more room than I have. keep picking them. Many people think that reject the Plan) This proved a popular choice enjoyed by all
However I am assured by friends who grow the flowers should be left in gardens but this is one Without the Neighbourhood Plan, development members but one.
Sarpo mains that their blight resistance is guilt-free removal and if you have lots you will will continue to happen as Breckland planners see Our next book is The Light in The Hallway by
superb. Back to blight for those who don’t be so popular with the recipients! fit – you can judge for yourself if you’re happy Amanda Prowse.
know it. It will appear in damp conditions when Sow seeds of veg that you like if this is the with the 48 houses on sites they’ve approved over
the temperature is warm. This is known as a appropriate time and keep succession sowing of the last 18 months or so.
‘Smith period’. It starts off as brown blotches varieties you have already sown. Apart from Most of the developments recently approved by Watton Methodist
on leaves then on to stems. If left the brown root veg that can stay in the ground it’s Breckland have focused almost entirely on a desire
markings will travel down to the tubers and advisable to harvest and eat or freeze veg as to build more houses regardless of other factors. Church Special
these will then rapidly rot. There are two ways soon as it’s ready. They’ll all go woody and Without the Neighbourhood Plan, there is a
of dealing with it. The first is to spray with tough if left and not watered so that’s another very limited range of policies a site must satisfy to events in July
Bordeaux mixture. This needs doing every thing to keep going all month. If you have comply with the Local Plan. Wednesday July 7th: Coffee on the Car Park
couple of weeks and after rain, preferably containers or baskets that got overlooked on the The Local Plan offers almost no protection 9.30 – 11.30 am (Country Market inside whilst
starting before the brown blotches appear and watering front the best way to get them back is against flood risk and does not even address we are outside – all welcome to both)
keeping going until mid-August. The other to fill a bucket or larger container (I use a large improving things as they stand. Saturday July 17th: ‘On the trail of Jane Austen’
way is to remove marked foliage. It’s a bit plastic trug) with water and sink the offending If you disagree with part or all of the 7 pm – an illustrated talk about the life of Jane
drastic and more hands on but it works. If it pot/basket in it and leave it until soaked. You Neighbourhood Plan, we ask you to think what the Austen by Rev Jacqui Horton. Period music
gets as far as the stems then cut the lot off below can tell when it’s done as it’s almost impossible alternate is: no Neighbourhood Plan and hence no played by Deacon Jen Woodfin and
ground level and harvest the tubers. Without to lift. This is a good hint to keep them watered. village control over what happens! In that scenario refreshments included. Please book with the
the foliage they won’t grow any more anyway. So there we are. you can expect more of the same – at the rate of 48 Methodist Centre administrator on 01953
Best to use them as you never know if the blight Until next time, keep weeding. homes approved in 18 months, there will be 881451. No charge but donations invited.
got to them without your seeing it. Blight also perhaps another 480 in the next 15 years.
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 5

Town Council join Great British Spring Clean Because of the

changing Covid
restrictions please
check before
travelling
to an event

Above Watton’s Mayor Jane Fountain with Robert Warwick and Cllrs Pat Warwick and Beryl Bunning. Below Left
Councillor Stan Hebborn at Portal Avenue with local residents Charlotte and Jacqui Greenough and below right
The Watton Men’s Shed team at Church Walk.

This year Watton Town Council joined the Avenue and Church Walk. The Breckland help. We’d also like to take this opportunity
charity Keep Britain Tidy and their Great ‘Glutton’ was also in town so it really was a to say ‘thank you’ to residents who regularly
British Spring Clean campaign on Thursday proper spring clean. litter pick their local walk or area, we know
3rd June. Mayor Jane Fountain was busy at Chaston you are out there and making a real
Councillors and local residents donned their Place “It’s really very satisfying to feel that difference”. Keep Britain Tidy have a
Hi-Viz jackets and gloves and tackled litter you are helping to improve the environment ‘million mile mission’ this year and today’s
around the town. There were four groups in Watton. We are very grateful to the litter pick in Watton contributed an amazing
based at Chaston Place, Bridal Road, Portal Councillors and volunteers who came out to 64 miles to the total.

and, although there aren’t many of them, they combination of the old and new that we can
Thought for the have their own special beauty too. How easy it move forward throughout our lives. As we are
is to be caught up by the dramatic, showy, progressing out of lockdown, we must look at
Month plants and so miss the beauty of the smaller,
‘ordinary’, ones.” So, I hadn’t pulled up all the
ways of incorporating the best of the old
alongside new ideas and new ways of working.
By Deacon Jen Woodfin,
Watton Methodist Church weeds after all - and that was a really good At the Methodist church we wanted to find a
A little while ago we had invited some people thing! way of re-starting our very popular coffee
to our garden. So, being a bit of a perfectionist As I reflected on this later, I had two trains of mornings. We had to think differently and so
when it comes to gardening, I did some extra thought. Firstly, just because I no longer saw have ‘coffee on the car park’ on the first
weeding including pulling up all the forget-me- the value of the forget-me-nots, my visitor most Wednesday of the month. This enables people
nots that had just begun to go over. When the certainly did. We all have different views and to meet in a safe way and this also attracts new
visitors arrived, they looked round and made ways of seeing beauty in God’s creation. So let people. Through this we can continue to offer
appreciative comments. This included one lady us celebrate the diversity of people and hospitality and welcome everyone in
saying “I was attracted by the lovely acers in creation. fellowship, and through the love of Jesus. Do
pots, with their fresh new leaves, but when I Secondly, we shouldn’t be so quick to dismiss join us – you would be most welcome.
went close to them, I saw a few forget-me-nots the old in favour of the new. It is in the
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 6
be placed in the parterre later this month. It’s have an area of much weeds to clear for
Great Hockham Gardening wonderful to feel that life as with nature is moving when the sweet corn is ready to go in. I
Club Corona Diary along, as it should be. Enjoy the sunshine. Cheers, have planted a wigwam of runner beans
It seems that the summer has been dragged kicking Annette. and sugar snap peas at home too. The
and screaming into 2021. For once we had a bank Retail therapy seems to be the order of the day for mole is running around everywhere in
holiday with entirely good weather and we were Julie Brown: the new flowerbed. He has moved the
able to relax in our lounger chairs and listen to the Hello Ed, Goings on at No1 – I have been armchair bulbs I planted and the alliums are
sound of next-door’s mower on Saturday, Sunday… shopping on Facebook marketplace. I have bought a coming up in strange places. I have
and Monday! new 50 meter garden hose for Liz, a new 30 meter enjoyed pheasant eye daffs for the first
Again, Sue Thomas does not seem to have had the hose for No 1, both for £30. Also, a garden planter time and the night-scented stocks, which
time to listen to lawn mowers: with climbing frame, which the lady gave me when were put in as a filler late last year, fill
Hi Ed, Tomato plants safely installed in the poly I collected, as it had some paint on it. You will see it the warm evenings with their beautiful
tunnel. Self pollinating beans also safely installed in at the front of my new raised sleeper vegetable bed scent. I have been in awe of the ferns and
the poly tunnel. Strawberries which are in big pots (right), and metal posts to hold the log roll, that Liz hostas that fill the shady corner of the
are fruiting also in the poly tunnel. Just another has given to me, upright and in place. I am waiting garden. I cannot believe the size of the
week and we will be eating them again. Can't wait. for a garden planter to be delivered today or leaves – and the fronds: they are
As usual at this time of year, my beautiful Magnolia tomorrow. With all this shopping I can be getting on beautiful too.
(Susan) has fallen foul of the weather. As it flowers with things in the garden. On bank holiday Monday Michael came
later than the 'common' Magnolia, it always seems I cut the grass bank holiday weekend. I was doing by to help move the 3rd stone onto my
to produce it's dark pink flowers just as the wind 'No mow May' but if I waited any longer I don't Japanese bed. The bonsai horse chestnut
howls and the rain gushes down, knocking the think that my ancient B&D hover mower would not was moved into the prepared hole too, it
petals off before they can fully open. The Verbena have managed it. I didn't want to strim the edges, so will remain in its pot. I then have lots of
Kilimanjaro (wedding cake bush) is now showing I cut them with the garden scissors – more control it slate chippings to clean to put over this
off all it's beautiful tiers of flowers, looking just like looks tidy. I saved lots of creepy crawlies, but it took surface. The log roll edging needs to be
a cake, as it should. Just had a call from the horse forever. Those log roll edges will help to prevent the finished going in and the weed
muck lady, and am off to collect a couple of trailer need to do that again: I'm not a masochist. suppressant down. I have one or two
loads of manure. Still putting custard on our I have managed to make up a hanging basket and other plants to go in and ornaments too –
rhubarb!! Stay safe, Cheers, Sue. planted the tower of pots with salmon busy lizzy. It nearly there. Moving that stone freed up
Annette Ridley is among the butterflies: was a show last year and I hope for the same again several places to continue improving the
Hi Ed, It’s been a busy spring in the garden just but just the one colour. garden. Privet hedge needs a tidy and a
trying to keep the weeds under control. But I think I have grown from seed this year, Black Russian trim then the bird feeder will come out of
I’m now finally winning the battle. Lovely to have and Gigantico tomato and sweet corn, and I the grass into this area where the horse
the warmer, sunnier weather. Love watching the managed to grow Morning Glory, which remind me chestnut was.
orange ornamental poppies blooming alongside the of Granny Hinchliffe and our Mum. In my raised vegetable bed I planted
Cambridge blue aquilegia. Nature always amazes! I was given 3 tomato, 2 cucumber and 2 melon broad beans and garlic last year, which
We found a brimstone moth in our shed and are plants: these are in situ in the green house and are have done well. I planted carrots,
seeing more orange-tip, common blue, admiral and coming along. I don't think my greenhouse will be parsnips, radish and lettuce between the
peacock butterflies along with a tiny moth no bigger hot enough for the melon. rows of garlic. In the other bed I planted
than a forget-me-not. I started to volunteer again at Back in March I weeded my neighbours garden and carrots, marigolds, golden beet, Tony
Oxburgh Hall as a room steward but am always planted potatoes which are growing well. A few won't eat the red beetroot. Then more
drawn to the kitchen garden. Love their Victorian strawberries went in too. I have since planted runner carrots as I love them. All seem to be coming up. seemed that, although there were restrictions on
greenhouse filled with hundreds of plants waiting to beans on a wigwam and a few sugarsnap peas. I Nearly forgot to mention the beauty of an old people meeting, there was no information regarding
fashioned peony. Looking forward to the day when limiting the gatherings of other life forms. To this
I can just lay in the hammock listening to bird song. end was arranged a get-together of canine members
See you all sometime soon, Julie at the garden of yours truly.
It has to be said, things have been different this year. So we just picked a day and went for it. On the day
Yes, we have had a lot of rain, but eventually the the weather had been looking a bit ruff in the
muddy tracks dried up. Even though there was morning, but the afternoon bought quite a bit of
intermittent light rain, the ground conditions sunshine. Luck must have been on our side as on the
improved. Then we had the wettest May since following day it was raining cats and dogs. On
whenever, with one day a couple of weeks ago, on arrival, guests became re-acquainted with one
my rain gauge, showing about 20 mm. Everything another in the time-honored ceremonial of sniffing
returned to mud, but a week later it was dust again. one another’s bottoms. Thank goodness the dogs
But all this is not what seems to me the most were better behaved. Meeting others and having a
unusual thing: we have been walking the (various) poodle around the garden after such a long time in
dogs in Hockham Woods for decades and at no time lockdown was very welcome, although all the
of the year have we ever seen this particular track talking left some people a little husky. All guests
flooded. It became flooded around the turn of the bought something to eat, while we supplied hot
year and remains so – into June? brown liquid. Anyone thinking there would be any
Finally, the forecast looked good for a few days. low calorie options was barking up the wrong tree.
With the garden at it’s height – the grass needing One member bought along a most interesting dish I
mowing at very short intervals, top heavy plants didn’t recognize at first, although it did ring a bell:
needing support, potatoes needing ridging, tomatoes turned out to be a Pavlova. All good things must
needing canes, etc., we thought we deserved a come to an end and on leaving, some of the people
break. Prue and I decided that with lockdown easing were looking a little melancollie. Sorry, I blame the
and gatherings of some numerical value being lockdown.
permitted, we ought to try and arrange a safe and Edward Szczepanowski: Secretary, Great Hockhan
legal social event. Having given it much thought it Gardening Club.
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 7

Ashill & Holme Hale the natural breaking point below the flower to
Rotary Young A farewell note from
detach it from the stem.
Garden Club Vegetables, Fruits & Herbs: Feed tomatoes and
Environmentalist Revd Gerry Foster
peppers using a high-potassium liquid fertiliser
Early Summer - and it is not only the buds opening every 10-14 days once the first fruit has set. Pinch
By the time most readers see this newsletter the out side shoots of cordon tomatoes. Awards
Garden Club should have just held its first monthly Towards the end of June or early July check your Watton & District Rotary Club have held a
meeting of 2021 on June 24th when award first early potatoes, once you see flowers open on Young Environmentalist competition with
winning garden designer Chris Deakin will have plants, by gently forking around one plant to see if students at Wayland Academy, organised by
talked on designs for smaller gardens. Our July tubers have reached the size of a hen/duck egg. If Science Teacher Ed Sadler.
monthly meeting will be held on Thursday July so lift your first potato crop of the year. Students were asked to think about Climate
22nd at 2.30pm in Holme Hale Pavilion where Dr Pick cut-and-come-again salads and herbs Change and produce an entry using a specific
Ian Bedford will present a talk on how useful regularly. Check early sowing of beetroots and issue, examples of which were given on the
wasps are for our gardens entitled “the trouble carrots to see if ready for harvesting. entry form – as attached. Guidance was given
without wasps”. We have sufficient space to apply Put up shading in your greenhouse to help stop the to entrants to divide their project into 3 main
any social distancing measures required and still temperature getting too high. Open windows, parts:
accommodate all members. New members are also vents and doors on hot days and damp down the 1. Research into what climate change is, how
most welcome. Our Annual Flower Show for 2021 floor. humans are involved, and the problems it
will be held on Sunday July 25th which is open to Wildlife Gardening: causes.
all members and the general public from 2-4.30pm To support bees let herbs flower to provide pollen 2. Choosing a specific issue to highlight ,
to view all the entries and have a lovely cuppa and for them. Bees love oregano, thyme and chives. using facts and data they find from the
cake, so come along for a floral extravaganza. Plant borage and leave it to seed for next year. internet.
In the meantime now that summer has arrived in Remove unsightly thread algae from ponds by 3. Ideas about how to reduce peoples carbon
our gardens, with roses blooming and the twisting it around a stick. Remove blanket weed footprint, with advice, tips and inspiring Dear Watton Community
vegetable patch producing nutritious bounty, there and leave on the side of the pond for a day or reasons for why people should use their ideas. It has been such a privilege to live amongst you
are lots of jobs to keep us active in the garden. two to give any creatures a chance to get back in The best 5 entries (from Toby Bennett Y7, for over seven years, and serve as Vicar of
Here are some suggestions below. the pond. Blanket weed can then be composted. Angel Pircabescu Y9, Tia Sayer Y8, Ysella Watton. I now approach retirement and moving
Gardening jobs for June and July Trees, Shrubs, Website: ashillgardeningclub.wordpress.com/ Lawson Y8 and Illyana Guerrero Y8 ) were away.
Flowers and Lawn: Email: ashillholmehalegardenclub@gmail.com
Give container plants a regular high-potassium forwarded to the Rotary Club where they As we come through all the changes, do keep
liquid feed now they are actively growing. It will were judged by a small sub-committee, and a safe and well and pulling together in
keep them looking healthy and help flower winner and a runner-up chosen, who were: partnership. We are stronger together.
displays last longer. WINNER: TOBY BENNETT Everyone has a contribution to make towards a
Now is an ideal time to plant autumn flowering RUNNER-UP: ANGEL PIRCABESCU flourishing community, but we need to continue
bulbs, such as Colchicums and Nerines. An Awards Evening was held by Zoom on helping every age of individual to flourish first.
Cut back early flowering herbaceous perennials, 3rd June. All entrants received a Certificate, TEAM: Together Everyone Achieves More . . .
such as Pulmonaria and oriental poppies, if they and the Winner and Runner-up also each or Together Everyone Achieves Miracles!
are looking tired or have mildew. This will received an Amazon voucher to spend as they Thank you for enriching and blessing my, and
encourage a second flush of fresh foliage and, wished, as we were unable to meet live, the my husband, Dave’s, lives. Please come to my
sometimes, later flowers. Certificates and Vouchers were delivered to last Service at 10.00am on Sunday 25th July
When adding lawn clippings to the compost pile the Academy and presented by Glen Allott the 2021 at St Mary’s Watton. Do check first the
mix them with carbon-rich ‘brown’ woody Principal. church website (www.stmaryswatton.org ) to
material, such as prunings or cardboard, to stop the This was the first time we have held a Young see if booking through Eventbrite is still
compost becoming too wet. Environmentalist competition, and it is our required by then, to follow the Government and
Into July deadhead repeat flowering roses to intention to hold this again next year on this Church of England Coronavirus Pandemic
encourage a good display all summer. Using sharp important topic. guidelines.
secateurs, cut down to the first leaf beneath the Watton & District Rotary Club Every blessing on each and every one of you. . .
flower or deadhead by hand (with gloves), using www.wattonrotary.org Thank you so much: Gerry
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 8
and hanging baskets looking very attractive throughout
Let’s go wild! the village..
Launching Sunday 4th July at 1pm is ‘Wild Church’. A John was the Chairman of the Parish Council when he
space for reflection, connection and exploration. was the only Councillor, he kept things going, ensuring
Wild Church exists to support physical and mental that the issues of the time were dealt with efficiently and
wellbeing, encourage creation care and green living, as promptly as possible. The new Councillors would like
build community and allow a safe space to explore the to give John and Cynthia a sincere vote of thanks for the
Christian faith in some of our beautiful green spaces. work they carried out at a very difficult time.
Each month there will be opportunity for nature related Please may I remind everyone, if you have comments,
activities and a ‘breathing space’ zone to chat and complaints or congratulations about the work of the
explore what faith might mean to you. Parish Council, you should put them in writing to the
All sessions are on the FIRST SUNDAY of the month at Parish Clerk so that they may be acted upon and recorded
1pm where you are encouraged to bring a picnic and join in the minutes of the Parish Council Meetings. The
us for lunch. address to letters to is gristonclerk@gmail.com
We are lucky to be able to offer this in two beautiful
locations. On the odd numbered months (July, Sept,
Nov, Jan, March, May) we are located at the ‘The
Hive’ in Great Cressingham. This is at the Methodist
The Watton Society
Chapel on Chalk Road. There is a toilet and we have
permission to use the village green so there is plenty
was much amused!
of space for exploring (please park at the village green
500m before the chapel).
On the even numbered months (Aug, Oct, Dec, Feb, Apr,
June) we will be at Loch Neaton. Look out for the
gazebo and flag! We will be based at the top of the Loch
at the Watton Sports Centre end. Our first session will be
building a community bug hotel for the grounds of the
Loch and making our own to take home! If there is time
we will do a brief bioblitz of the Loch and see which
minibeasts call the Loch their home! We are also
partnering with Coffee Café (See their Facebook page
@CoffeeCafeVintageHorsebox) so watch this space! We
are hoping they will be at the Loch each month for Wild
Church so you can enjoy a nice coffee and a tasty treat!
Each month there will be opportunity for games and
activities for the young and young at heart and also space At our zoom meeting in May thirty four members joined
to be with stillness and opportunity for conversation. together to be addressed by Queen Victoria – who seemed to
Wild Church is open to all. Whether you are a family show some resemblance to Georgette Vale. Her Majesty
graciously talked to us about her life, her likes and dislikes -
that loves to get outdoors, somebody that enjoys
including the men in her life – and made several interesting
exploring new places or for people that want to be part references to the events taking place in Watton during her long
of something. All are welcome. Wild Church is a place reign. Although she is famed for not being amused, once or
to gather for ALL people. A fully inclusive space in twice there was a glimmer of a smile! We thanked her most
regards to belief, tradition, faith, no faith, disability, humbly for spending time with us.
sexuality, gender, seekers, enquirers, doubters, those The Watton Society has made tentative bookings for September
that have it together, those that don’t. Those who like to December and will be contacting all members about this with
to fit in boxes and those that don’t feel like they fit suggestions and ideas for the future. Our subscriptions, due in
anywhere. Those who have the answers and those that October, are only £5 a year and we welcome visitors at our
meetings.
just have questions. Those that just want a space to be
The website will be upgraded and updated over the next month or
or somewhere to belong. Those that just want to get so, www.wattonsociety.org.uk, email: info@wattonsociety.org.uk,
outside for a couple of hours. Those that want to meet Phone 01953 882613.
new people. Those that want to learn about nature.
Those that want to meet with God.
Further details can be found on the Wild Church
St Mary’s Church, Watton
Sunday Services
Facebook Page: @wildchurchnorfolk
Come join us at St Mary’s Church for our Sunday
Great Cressingham village website: https://tinyurl.com/
Services at either 8am or 10am. Depending on
sjrumszk or on Facebook @greatcressinghamhive,
government guidelines, if number restrictions are in
www.lochneaton.org.uk and on Facebook @lochneaton
place then booking will be required for the 10am
Do like and follow our pages to be kept up to date or to
Services which can be done via our website:
get in touch!
www.stmaryswatton.org. Further details of our other
services will be found there also, so please do keep
Griston Parish Council checking.
World Day of Prayer
As I write this short article, the sun is shining and the
All are welcome to join us in praying with Vanuatu for
garden is beginning to show it’s lovely colours, which
this year’s World Day of Prayer on Friday 2nd July 2021
raises the spirits somewhat.
at 2.00pm here at St Mary’s Church. Refreshments
We should soon hear from the Prime Minister what is
follow the service. Please do check our website,
going to happen after 21st June 2021 about the end of
www.stmaryswatton.org nearer the time in case booking
lockdown and what we, as members of the public are
is required due to ever-changing government guidelines.
allowed to do. Please remember to stay safe.
Storybags
The Parish Council has two vacancies to be filled, if you
Our children’s group, Storybags is on Mondays 9.30am –
are interested in becoming a Griston Parish Councillor,
10.45am for pre-school children and parents/ carers
please write a letter, addressed to the Parish Clerk stating
(during term-time). Play, bible story, drink/snack and
why you think you would like to become a Councillor.
friends. Depending on government guidelines, booking
You might like to state your interests and any skills you
may still be required, details of this can be found on their
have acquired through your working life or life in
Facebook page: @storybagsstmarys
general. Anyone can apply as long as they are over 18
Rainbows
years, have lived in the village for a year or more, or are
For girls aged 5-7 years, Rainbows meet each Monday
on the Electoral Register.
(term time only) at St Mary’s Church 4.30pm – 5.45pm.
The recent vacancies have happened due to the
Email Rainbows1stwatton@hotmail.com or find them on
resignations of John and Cynthia Ashdown, who, during
Facebook
their time as Councillors have worked solidly for the
The winners of June’s 150 Club are:
village, making sure that the recreation ground was
1st prize £50 - ticket number 20 – Rosemary Millard
clean, safe and a pleasant environment for the children
2nd prize £25 - ticket number 66 – Iris Clarke
and families to enjoy. They have also kept the planters
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 9
We got back into camp yesterday, and in the
The Letters of evening, we were away again, and as usual
first on one of their northern ports, and what a
Freddie Thripp do. We have been there before, so we knew
We left Fred last month back in 1940 just the easiest way in, but after watching a nice,
having been slightly wounded and posted to or a lucky shot, in amongst the buildings
an OTU. In February of 1941 he was posted around the docks, one of their searchlights got
back to Watton, although, as his opening us then about a dozen lit us, then hell was let
comments imply, his Mum and Dad may not loose, and so were we. We were at 12000',
have been too happy to see hime back here . . then when the machine gun stuff started
. coming up, my driver just managed to find
SGTS. MESS. 82 SQDN. our altimeter, and pulled out at about 4000'
R.A.F. WATTON, THETFORD, and just about shook them off, and was I glad.
NORFOLK. There had supposed to be some stuff on
Dear Mum Dad Rene & Harry. tonight but it has been cancelled, I am not
Sorry I am late again, but I suppose by now sorry though as we were due for aerodrome
you have noticed the top right hand corner, control which meant being on the flare path
and I think that should explain itself, but for all night directing machines in by radio. But
goodness sake don't start worrying. so far as we know, there is something in the
It feels good to be back here again, or at least wind for tomorrow morning.
on the old squadron, as we are at Watton's Don't worry about me doing the same as Ron
satellite drome. We are living in a large Bowers, I should at least give you a weeks
house, or a small mansion with the officers in notice but it wont be for about a fortnight yet.
the other half. It is about two miles from the Sgt Frederick Thripp - Fred Glad to hear that the district did so well for Wing Commander Theodore Hunt DFC
drome, nicely camouflaged, and in a small the ship, I suppose that everybody is broke
kind of wood, and apparently Gerry has not two raids already, and were recalled last night now, but I thought, we had a paper shortage, think I will close now and catch up with a few
found this spot yet, so don't forget to put the before we got there. not throwing it about the sky. hours shuteye, so cheerio for the present.
correct address or at least the one I have given We had a nasty do last Friday night and Well it is like this here, it is nearly supper With Love. Fred
you, because the proper one is never given for Saturday morning, getting to bed at five time, and I must not miss my meals, and I The next letter is dated by Fred 5th April
that reason. o'clock feeling fine, maybe. It was a target in also want to get a spot of sleep in, as we have 1941 (Saturday)
There are quite a number of our old ground N.W. Gerry land, I have been near there once been on the go since dinner time, today I SGTS. MESS 82 SQDN.
crew still here which makes it a lot better, but before, but I think that the barrage there mean, which meant that we missed our R.A.F. WATTON THETFORD,
there is only one machine left that we knew. equalled the London one, and we had about breakfast, too bad, so will say cheerio for the NORFOLK.
Thanks very much indeed for the parcel, fifty searchlights after us, to make it more present. With Love. Fred . 5/4/41
though the original intention will be lost, but interesting. PS We have a chap here from Luton on this Dear Mum Dad Rene & Harry.
it will still come in very handy. We should have quite an interesting time squadron, and one of curly's friends from I received your letter this morning, and am
We have already got organised on our leave, tonight, or at least I hope, and an extra kick E'borough in the other squadron. very sorry that I kept you in suspense for so
but owing to chaps due for it before us, we do out of it, as there are such things as delayed long, I did not realise it was so long, but the
not get ours till April 28th, when we get 12 action. You have quite a good time really, The best I can date this one is late March and days come and go so quickly now that we
days all in one lump, but I shall spend a thinking that you are getting your own back Fred tells his own story: dont know whether we are on our head or our
couple of days in Peterborough, because there for one or two things. SGTS. MESS 82 SQDN. feet, but that is better than dragging along.
are one or two people there I want to see, one Well I am afraid that I shall have to close R.A.F. WATTON THETFORD, Dont worry about my teeth, as it was not the
in particular, but time will soon roll along. now, as I have to get ready for the fray, and NORFOLK. dentists fault, I think he was pretty good
Well I don't think there is much more to say also get a little supper, I hope, so cheerio for Dear Mum Dad Rene & Harry. myself, but that tooth was rather large, and as
for the present, and as I have to do a spot of now. With Love Fred Thanks for the letter, it seems quite strange I had not lost any blood for sometime, it just
practice bombing this afternoon, and I must PS I dont know about one in every port, this though to get one in your handwriting, as I came out in a rush. But it is OK now. As a
get used to my new guns (we have two new one is a bit different from the last am getting more used to other handwriting. matter of fact, I have another appointment on
type now), will say cheerio for a while. Those two raids were on 1st March and 2nd Well we have been having a fine time this last Tuesday, but he knows how to deal with me
With Love, Fred March according to the ORB but the 2nd week, no trips at all since last Sunday [Ed: this time.
PS If you could manage it, I would another March was a Saturday evening which does 23rd March], and nearly every afternoon off, This week has been marvellous for us in a
thin pair of socks to wear with my shoes, as not agree with Fred's . Take off for the latter so you see we have been OK. We had quite a way, but it has cost us a lot. Last Monday we
the shops shut early here. was not until 2213 Hrs (10.15pm) and they decent trip last Sunday, stooging around made most of the news by making an early
did not land until 0059 (1am) on the 3rd. The looking for enemy dromes, or machines rush along the west coast of France, Two of
Fred was back here with his crew from 1940 Operations Record Book (ORB National taking off and landing, but we were out of our crews being lucky enough to find two
Joe Hunt, Pilot; Ken Tucker, Observer and Archive AIR-27-681-34) records that luck. There we were at only 2000' going large vessels with only one escort vessel, so
Fred as Wireless Operator/Air Gunner0. evening nine aircraft set out at different times backwards and forwards going from one they went to the bottom. In the afternoon
Watton's satellite 'drome was of course RAF spread out, Fred being the last.: “Eight of drome to another, annoying them something some more went the opposite way, and
Bodney and the small mansion in which they these nine aircraft carried out offensive awful as they did not know whether to light created havoc there, but one crew were
were housed was Clermont Hall. His first patrols of enemy aerodromes in occupied up their dummy or the real drome, and we as unlucky, though it was worth it.
recorded operation was at 10pm on 21st territory. The weather over the continent was happy as a couple of sand boys, even though A couple of days ago we made another early
February 1941 which was a trip over the sea not good, the night being extremely dark with one of our dromes was a crack fighter start, hitting half the Gerry navy at once,
to bomb Wilhelmshaven, I think this was his low cloud and heavy rain over most of the squadron, and we were low enough to see the leaving half to fix them up. The rest of us
“practice bombing”! Back in 1940, the Mk IV areas to be patrolled. Crews, were however, little lights in the big Dutch towns. They got nipped inland, we caught out a fighter drome
Blenheims that were flying from here only able to locate several active aerodromes fed up eventually after about 3/4 hr of it, so before they could take off, bombs and guns as
had a single .303 Vickers K Gun, a relic from which were bombed.” they lit up their real drome either for them to well, boy, and was it fun, just what we have
the First Word War, (mostly) as its only Fred's next letter is dated (unusually!) 19th. land or take off, and that is where they made been waiting for.
defence. Now, Fred's office now sported two March 1941 their mistake. So we did a quick turn and In the afternoon some more nipped out again,
Browning .303 machine guns which were a SGTS. MESS 82 SQDN. went straight in, at about 1000' and finished but again they caught another packet, we had
much more capable defence although Fred's R.A.F. WATTON THETFORD, up at only 600 - 500', though they cheated me a couple of casualties, and I am afraid that
comment that he needed to get used to them NORFOLK. in the end. Just as I was going to give it to Tich's friend Jagger caught a very nasty
suggests they weren't that familiar to him. Dear Mum Dad Rene & Harry. them with both guns, when they switched the packet indeed, he shouldn't need much of a
The next letter is marked as a Sunday, which After about a week, I thought that I had better lights off, and opened up on us, though we coffin.
if correct must be the 9th March 1941: write, but we have been rather busy, and in dodged them easily. Yesterday it was a bit of a bind though, over
SGTS. MESS. 82 SQDN. between we have been to Peterborough. We I think by the sound of certain engines, going four hours at sea, and the fishermen across the
R.A.F. WATTON, THETFORD, have been leading the attacks on these fire in a certain direction tonight, we must have other side were too interested in their work to
NORFOLK. blitzes, and what a time too. One night we got something big on again, and take it that it will even notice us, I wanted to make another dash
Dear Mum Dad Rene & Harry. down low to miss the fighters, then we got a be our turn tomorrow night, but it is a lovely inland, but we were on a different job, so that
Thanks very much for the socks, they are bit off course, and found ourselves in the night for a do, just the kind of night we dream was that. One of our new crews either tried to
very nice indeed, it seems that the butcher has centre of Antwerp, then a few hectic about, but we will have our turn in due imitate a submarine, or something went
quite a nice taste in mens hosiery, what's moments, a wide circuit, then we found course. wrong, but he made rather a large splash.
going, is she getting some practice in on the ourselves below the roofs of Brussels, after As I have been having one or two late nights We are having grand time here with the
quiet. that Ghent, eventually coming out in the just recently, going to the flicks in the big city weather, it does not know whether to rain
Well we are more or less settled down here Channel, with somebody jamming our D/F though it holds a different outlook now, I snow thunder or give us some sun so just
now, in more ways than one. We have done station, but we got back OK. does a bit each when it thinks fit.
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 10
Well I think this is about all for now, as it is
nearly time to get back to "work" and I dont
have much sleep.
The culprit did not get very far, before hitting
What is it? Does Anyone know?
want to walk back, so cheerio for the present. the dust, and the one survivor has been
With Love, Fred expecting to be shot all day, so I dont know
I find Fred's comments about his experience whether he has died of fright yet.
at the Dentists rather interesting – the idea While we were away they only lost a couple
that the fact he “had not lost any blood for of crews, which was not too bad. Other than
sometime” caused what sounds like extreme that, everything is still the same.
bleeding. That seems a rather old fashioned I was going to write before, only we had to
belief for a well educated young man? go and do some business at Blackpool and
When you realise that 'Titch' was the family did not get back until this evening.
nickname for Fred's younger sister Rene, the I am sorry that I cannot write anymore for the
sentence “I am afraid that Tich's friend Jagger present, only instead of having a late do, it
caught a very nasty packet indeed, he has been altered into a very early do, so as I
shouldn't need much of a coffin.” seems a am darned tired, I must get a little sleep
rather shocking sentence. Does it reflect his somehow tonight, so cheerio for the present.
loss of emotional sensitivity after exposure to With Love Fred
so much death and horror over the months on I think this letter (and Fred's previous
operations? remarks about Titch's crush, Jagger, give a lot
Sgt. Harry Jagger was a 21 Squadron away regarding the condition of his mental
Wireless Operator/Air Gunner and was the health: “I must get a little sleep somehow
only member of his crew killed when the tonight” speaks volumes for how he is
Blenheim he was flying in was peppered by feeling.
shrapnel after a shell burst directly above the He completed his 50th operation in early May
gun-turret. I have had first hand accounts and his last operation with 82 Squadron was
from ground crew who had to clear up after on 13th May when he and his crew left
such incidents, which were not as uncommon Watton for 110 Squadron at RAF
as one might hope. It was a very unpleasant Waddington. From there in Early July 1941
job. he was posted to Malta and on the 18th July
Harry Jagger was 22 years old when he died 1941 after attacking a power station at Tripoli
on the 2nd April and his remains are buried at an Italian Air Force CR41 fighter hit their
Dunstable Cemetery. aircraft at long range and they crashed into
the sea.
Fred's last letter from Watton is dated by him No bodies were ever recovered.
on 12th. May 1941 (Monday) Wing Commander Theodore Moseley Hunt
SGTS. MESS 82 SQDN. DFC, Son of William Moseley Hunt and Lily
R.A.F. WATTON THETFORD, Gertrude Hunt, of Lockeridge, Wiltshire. was
NORFOLK. aged 26
Dear Mum Dad Rene & Harry. Sgt Kenneth Charles Tucker, Son of Charles
Well I arrived back here OK, only to find that Frederick and Florence May Tucker, of
Gerry had been at our machines the night Luckett, Cornwall, was aged 20
before, though I cant say where. Then again Frederick Samuel Thripp, Son of Frederick
last night, he rocked east anglia, and finding William and Lavina Emily Thripp, of
our drome at last, but even though quite a Totternhoe, Bedfordshire was also aged 20.
number dropped on the drome no damage They deserve to be remembered. Do you have any knowledge of the use or purpose of the above chalk board? It may have
was done, but we did not let many people come from Watton. Answers on an email to newsfromwayland@gmail.com if you do please.

many illnesses including Covid which will But at least these two weeks give a picture COVID housebound clinics of roughly 30
Patient be used to plan services and improve of how things were in the relevant weeks. patients.
treatment. When patients complete the online form, The Practice has done a superb job with the
Participation B) Practice phone number not these are assessed by either a GP or one of vaccine roll out as many patients will
appearing on caller ID the Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) testify. Managing the rest of their work
Group Watton Any patient who requires the Practice before being allocated to a clinician for during the pandemic has been challenging
number to appear on their phone when the follow-up. The AHPs work closely with the and the PPG has appreciated their response
Medical Practice Practice rings them, should let the Practice GPs and all work with the two Nurse to our suggestions for improved service
Watton Patient Participation Group (PPG) know. They can do this by going on the Practitioners, Jen Reilly who also assesses and care. In a future edition, we will write
would like to update you on the following website to the Reception and Enquiries forms and Debbie Blundell who looks after about other aspects of the work of the
matters which they have been talking to the Room on the front page of the website. the Care Homes. The Practice as a whole Practice and our own aspirations of what
Practice about: Click on the box “Ask a Receptionist a works as one team. we want to achieve to contribute to the
A) Patient Health Records being question” and fill in your request. If you do The Practice has the following Allied health and well-being of the patient
not use the internet, ring the Practice to Health Professionals (AHPs): Tobi community.
uploaded to NHS Digital from GP
make the request. Amadasun, Clinical Pharmacist, Mark If you want to be in touch with the PPG
Practices in England Bilby and Rob Mackie Advanced please contact the Chair, Pat Warwick –
All patient records from GP practices will C) The message on the Practice
phone Paramedic Practitioners and Lisa Dymond details below.
be uploaded to NHS Digital unless you as a
The Practice is changing the message to Senior Psychiatric Nurse. Email: patwarwick@live.co.uk
patient choose to opt out. Because of
make it shorter and more informative. And Week commencing 22/03/2021 Or write to the Chair, Pat Warwick c/o
protests by GPs, MPs and patient groups,
rather than music playing, there will be GP phone calls to patients – 355. Watton Medical Practice, 24 Gregor
this transfer has been delayed from 1 July
information about other services that can GP face to face appointments with patients Shanks Way, Watton, Thetford, Norfolk
to 1 September 2021. You can choose to
be accessed via the website. – 58. Routine phone calls – 18. IP25 6FA
opt out of having your records transferred
AHP phone calls to patients - 297.
and you have to do this by completing a D) Some figures about appointments
AHP Face to face appointments with
form on-line or in writing to the Practice.
This is something that you need to think
We know that patients are concerned that
GPs and other clinical staff are not making
patients – 35. AHP routine phone calls – Because of the
22.
about now. The Practice will be putting
information on their website and social
face to face appointments. We asked the
Practice to provide some figures and they
Week commencing 17/05/2021 changing Covid
GP phone calls to patients (including
did so for two weeks when they were fully
media about this and there will be a poster
in the Waiting Room. If you are concerned staffed (ie no-one on holiday) and there
routine) – 457.
GP face to face appointments with patients
restrictions
about this and do not have access to the was no Bank Holiday. On each occasion
internet, please contact the Town Council the week was just before our regular PPG
– 92.
AHP phone calls to patients (including
please check
and collect a copy of the poster there. They meeting so that we could discuss them
are open from 9am to 1pm Monday to then. It takes an administrator time to
routine and Lisa Dymond and Debbie
Blundell) - 363.
before travelling
Friday. collect these figures and we may ask for a
AHP Face to face appointments with
In summary, NHS Digital is planning to
use the patient information for research on
month at a time in the future when the
Practice is not so busy with vaccinations.
patients - 108. This number includes 2 to an event
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 11
were desperate to get to work (or home) on time dark wool. Knitted on a round to create a seamless
Hold Very and would often turn a blind eye and allow many
The History of Knitting tube they were a necessity in the fisherman’s
more than five while hoping that an Inspector Part 4 - Scottish Knitting and other islands wardrobe all over the British Isles. The Guernsey
Knitting continues, as it has traditionally, to be an
Tight Please would not appear when he would be in trouble
(though even inspectors might often keep the important occupation for residents of Scotland and
sweater was modified to become the Gansey,
jumpers with special features including shorter
By Ken Knowles punishment down to ‘a few words’.) its islands. cuffs to prevent hooks snagging and pull the
When I was a tiny lad my mother impressed upon During the rush hour period nearly every passenger The first knitters in Scotland were highly paid fisherman overboard; gussets under the armpits; a
me the need to avoid speaking to men that I did not knew exactly where to alight but later in the day craftsmen of the 16th and 17th centuries. By the seamless construction for extra warmth and oiled
know but made one important exception, the Fred’s passengers would include many who were mid to late 1700s knitting skills had spread wool to repel water. Like recipes familes handed
London bus conductor, who, for convenience I will not usual travellers and they would frequently throughout the country creating thriving cottage down patterns for generations.
call Fred. depend on Fred to advise them as to where to get industries, mainly producing knitted stockings. The Herring Girls who followed the herring fleets
Most people would assume that Fred was just there off and to which other bus they might need to In the late 1700s the distinctive two coloured round the coasts each year thus travelling the
to collect fares but in fact he was an essential tool in change, and when they approached the changing patterns developed, they stood out, were length of the country actually passed on patterns
the whole running of the transport system that point he would call out to alert them. increasingly popular thus protecting the from place to place. Cornish Ganseys are
allowed the population to move swiftly around the It was in these non-rush hour times that Fred could livelihoods of the local knitters. traditionally much plainer than the Scottish.
enormous extent of the capital whenever they air his normal personality, and it was then that By the 1800s the stockings were associated with All knitting patterns consist of 2 stitches, knit or
pleased. people recognised him as their friend, and this their locality, partly coloured with a variety of purl. It is a much loved craft worldwide.
It is difficult for a stranger to appreciate the vastness gained great importance during the Second World patterns. Mittens, and later gloves, were made in For more information please contact: Kathy on
of the London area at the time soon after the Great War when Fred and his colleagues helped keep the same way, eventually having names or instals 820615, Marlene 820327 or Sue Hart 822536
War of 1914-1918, as for almost the previous five things moving through the difficult times of the worked into the tops or ribs.
hundred years London had been expanding far blitz. Sanquhar gloves knitted on the round is one such
outside the original City walls, while all the many It was during this period that Fred was sometimes item, named for the town of origin. These were The Cream Tea Is Back
villages in the twenty or so miles outside had been joined by a Freda, one of the many females that made from ‘drugget’ a blended yarn of wool and You may recall that in July 2019 a Cornish cream
developing inwards, making one huge metropolis took the places of Freds that had been called up for linen or wool and cotton sourced from a nearby tea was held in my garden to raise funds for
bounded approximately by what would later be service in the armed forces. mill in Crawick where it was used in carpet Watton Memory Cafe. This was such a success
known as the Circular road, although there were I have always admired our bus conductors right production. Sanquhar gloves are still made today that I was asked if it could be repeated. Of course
several fingers of habitation extending into the from the Chrismas, when as a little boy I was given but rarely for sale 2020 was out of the question due to COVID-19
nearby counties of Essex, Kent, Surrey, Middlesex a Conductor set for my present. At the time I Many islands around the British Isles have their but I’m pleased to say that another Cornish cream
and Hertfordshire. This great mass of built up area thought Fred’s job was just to sell tickets and call own styles and traditions. Shetlanders were known tea afternoon is planned for 21st August.
meant that the average Londoner would only be out the names of important places, but later in life I for lace knitting made from finely spun wool hand This time it is hoped that we can raise another
familiar with a mere fraction of the whole. realised Fred was a vital and knowledgeable servant plucked from the neck of the sheep. The intricate magnificent amount in aid of St Mary’s Church.
This is where Fred became so important. As the who made travelling about the capital so easy. open work was invented by the islanders but there So please make a note in your diaries for Saturday
financial hub of the country was centred in London Everyone, for instance, knew where say, the Tower are few lace knitters continuing their craft today 21st August between 2pm and 5pm and come
the greatest number of business offices were of London was situated, but how to get there, and although Shetland wool is still a high quality much along to 34 Vicarage Walk, IP25 6PH to enjoy a
clustered around Central London, so to serve these, by what bus, was beyond most of us. But Fred loved yarn. traditional cream tea. There will be an even bigger
many buses were routed to pass right across from knew! Fair Isle is a remote island north of mainland cake stall than last time together with a raffle and a
one side of London to the other carrying millions of Now Fred has gone, and all the London buses are Scotland the women of which still produce skillful, tombola.
workers to and fro every day of the week, except on One-man operated, all very efficient, and the driver intricate patterns today including designs If you need any further information please email
Sundays, causing what were known as rush hours may be a very nice chap, but he no longer seems containing crosses and lozenge shaped hexagons me on cath.clay@sky.com
early each morning and in the reverse direction in quite so involved with such things as crowd control formed into the basic OXO pattern. Smaller See you there.
late afternoon. or giving useful advice. patterns such as anchors, rams’ horns, flowers and
ferns all reflect life and the environment on the
During these rush periods Fred would be fully No longer does Fred command the bus from the
Isle.
Wayland Men's Shed
engaged ensuring that all fares were collected from open platform that formed his base at the foot of the Social Group, at "Watton Sports Centre".
passengers, both on the lower and upper decks, at stairs, and no longer do we hear the cry “Hold very Shetland wool is used with different colours from
different breeds of sheep ranging from shades of Hi all, by the time you read this article we will all
the same time making sure that the load of tight please” before he rang the signal for his driver have entered into another extension of the covid-
passengers did not exceed the set limits which to proceed. grey; browns to pale fawn to white. Natural dyes
had to be bartered for. Examples include madder 19 lockdown, our proposed re-opening of WMS
allowed five standing, though Fred knew that folks Right, Fares please - Move along inside. on the 28th of June will now be postponed and a
root was mixed with lichen to produce bright red,
ochres and even blue were made from plants. new re-opening date will be announced in the
These were known as blocks so distinctive to old August edition of the Wayland News, I would take
Fair Isle knitwear. The shepherds would knit while a guess that this will be on Monday 26th July
watching their sheep. Today most Islanders subject to committee approval. In the meantime,
continue to hand sheer their sheep the majority of the members of our Carpentry and Computer
the fleeces being sent to a spinning mill at sections of our shed are progressing with
Sandness on Shetland Mainland where they are refurbishing the old Groundsman's Workshop and
commercially spun. stores at the rear of the Main Sports Centre
In the 1930s the Prince of Wales wore Fair Isle Building where they will be working from, this
sweaters as part of his golfing attire. work is estimated to take 3/4 weeks and should be
A genuine Fair Isle made garment carries its own ready for our next re-opening date in July. That's
trademark in the form of a star motif as the star is all from me for now, we are nearly there, and I
included in every pattern as a guarantee of quality look forward to seeing you all again soon. Cheers,
and origin. Richard Adams, Laison Officer. Tel: 01953
The Channel islands are known for the 881004
fishermen's’ jersey or guernsey made from thick,

The Cherry
Blossom drop in
Brenda and Ken
Davis’ garden is
almost as beautiful
as it is on the tree
Cherry blossoms are a symbolic
flower of the spring, a time of
renewal, and the fleeting nature
of life. Their life is very short.
After their beauty peaks around
two weeks, the blossoms start to
fall. The cherry blossoms and the
leaves are edible and used in
many traditional Japanese sweets
and tea. They are first pickled
and then used in recipes for
mochi cakes, candies, and even
cookies. You can also brew
sakura blossom tea or make
cocktails with preserved
blossoms.
(Don’t try that at home though!!)
The Wayland News July 2021 Page 12

Please Support Watton Evening WI The Ovington Crower

By Tha Boy Sid
Well har yew gittin on now thas tunned a bit warmer,
YOUR Local thas meard the ole plants in tha gardin start tew show a
bit of ‘thusiasm. An tha weeds is lovin it tew, tha missus
hev bin owt nigh on every day wi’ har hoe, she rekkun
Businesses thas abowt tha searm as when she yewsed tew goo
alonga me fer a bit of choppin owt, allus a hoein.
Things hent chearnged much in tha willage since we’re
bin lowed tew git owt an abowt a bit more, tha Chuch is
wun thing thas opened up a bit more, but thar hint bin
‘lowed tew sing yit, so tha ole kwire hent bin tew busy
of leart, mind yew thet hent stopped ‘em keeping thar
throots well oiled down tha pub moost nites.
One of our members, Helen Hornagold was our speaker for Horry hent got on tew well wi his whisky mearkin, tha
May; who demonstrated how to make hand lotion and whool thing blew up a cuppla wiks agoo an he hed tew
explained how she started making products. Helen started spend nigh on a whool wik tew gittin it tricolearted up.
making soap fourteen years ago for her grandson because of He did bring a sample rownd tha otha day fer me tew
his sensitive skin condition. At first, she made soap for try, goo tew hell iffen thet dint fare tew teark orl tha
family and friends but since moving to Norfolk she has her ‘namel offen my teeth. Thet meard me corf an sum onnit
own garden workshop. splashedorl oova tha bike I wos fixin up fer my sista’s
Helen more recently started making candles and hand lotion boy. Well ile tell yew thet wos tha best paint stripper ire
with a mindset that everything must be as natural as possible eva sin. Horry say tew me he say “Dew yew rekkun thas
and most suitable for all skin types. All products are made a bit tew strong Sid, shood I water it down some?” ‘cor
from natural oils and hydrolysed salt to make soap, and blarst Horry “ I say “yew cud pore thet in loch Neaton
variations of many natural and essential oils to make other an thet wood still knock yore socks orf iffen yew hed a
items, shampoo, bath/shower gels, body lotions. gobful of it” “Well” he say “Thet wood meark tha ole
Helen’s working life was spent in the NHS, as a nurse and fish an ducks easy tew ketch I shood think” he say. Rite
for 20 years working in general practice. She taught students fer Horry, allus thinking of his gut.
in her working life and now enjoys teaching students how to Anyolehow heese not givin up but is gooin tew chearng
make their own special blends of soaps gels and lotions. his resipee, an let the brew stand fer a bit longa afore he
This summer Helen hopes to restart her workshops, most of gives me anotha sample. I don’t rekkun I shell be at
them are held local to Carbrooke / Watton. Please do not hoom when he cums rownd agin fer a while.
hesitate to contact her either via the website, email Wun thing tho, since he hent bin down tha pub leartly
madeinnorfolk@hotmail.com or by phone 01953 886915 if thas saved me a bob or tew, cos when thas his shouwt
you would like any information about products or heese allus gone tew strain tha greens or suffin thet gits
workshops. him owta tha bar.
We all enjoyed learning a new skill and many of us hope to Boy Julian got ontew me larst wik an sed “I gotta hev
attend one of Helen’s workshops. Amanda Tortice thanked yore bitta squit by tha 12th of tha month Sid or else thet
Helen on behalf of the members for her very interesting talk. ont git in, an I’ll hev tew git sumwun else tew dew a bit”
President Sandy ran a photograph quiz on Thursday 20th “Cor blarst ole partna” I say “Thas when haysel start, an
May via Zoom. Member numbers were down a bit, people iffen tha grass an wetha is rite I shell be up tew my ears
are getting out and about more. It was in two sections, the in gittin tha hay cut an carted, cos we hev got a contrac
first was of 20 pictures of famous sites in the UK, including tew dew sevrul earkas in Carbrook an even Saham
Watton and Norwich. The other section of 20 pictures was of Waite tha year. They say ower small bales is wot tha
everyday objects from unusual angles and at high hossy peepal want. So I shell hefta wuk orl nite tew git
magnification, it was amazing how this could make some
yore bit dun, an I hoop yew’ll remember thet cum
things real difficult to identify! For example, a single grain of
Chrismus” He nivva sed nuffin so I’m dewin this by
sugar! Great fun was had by all, with Ruth on 18 points and
candlelite so I dunt annoy tha missus or kip har awake.
Leigh with 17 on the famous sites section, and Hilary with 16
Well thas yore lot cos tha candle hev bunt owt, so fare
points and Margaret on 15 for the close-ups. With the
yew well an dunt fergit. Dew yew kip a troshin.
summer coming, it was agreed this would be our last Quiz
Regards Boy Sid
night.

THE WAYLAND NEWS

PLEASE READ!!! Page space is allocated strictly on a first come,
first served basis. 12 Noon on the 12th of the month preceding
publication is the last date and time that copy will be
CONSIDERED for inclusion. Arrival of your copy before deadline
does not guarantee inclusion, if you wish to be certain your
entry gets published, then please make sure it arrives in plenty
of time otherwise you may still be disappointed.
You can contact Julian by ringing (01953) 858908.
The e-mail address is now:
newsfromwayland@gmail.com
Views expressed in articles in The Wayland News are those
of the contributors and not the views of the publisher or
printers.
While every care and effort has been taken to ensure
accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for
errors or omissions.
This issue of the The Wayland News was published by:
Julian Horn, 32 High Street, Watton IP25 6AE
and printed by:
Sharman & Company Ltd, Newark Road
Peterborough PE1 5TD. Phone: 01733 424 949