Magazine Editor: Angela Harbottle, Old House, The Broadway, Great Dunmow,
Essex CM6 3BH tel 872894 fax 872370 e-mail: angela.harbottle@virgin.net
The December 2014 issue of The Five Parishes Magazine contains the following
editorial content. For various reasons we are unable to publish the names,
telephone numbers etc of private individuals. However if you require further
information about any of the events mentioned, the Editor, Angela, will be happy
to help you. Her contact details are shown above. Contributions for the Magazine
should reach her by latest 10th of the month prior to month of publication.
DECEMBER LETTER TO THE UNITED PARISH
Canon Ivy writes from The Rectory, Park Road, Little Easton
01371 872509 ivycrawford@btinternet.com
The Christmas lights are switched on in London, the John Lewis Christmas advert is making
headlines, and the supermarkets have been stocking mince pies for what seems like months. In the
midst of the consumerist hum I invite you to pause and ponder at the wonder that awaits us in the
Christmas story…
At Christmas we remember the best gift ever – when Jesus came to earth, but sometimes we can
become so busy preparing for Christmas that we forget all about him.
This Christmas, experience the most timeless of stories and discover again that the best gifts do indeed
come from the heart. In the run up to the celebrations, take time out to read the Christmas story for
yourself. It can be found in the bible accounts recorded in the Gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke and
John, or go to www.therealstory.org.uk, it’s well worth a look and will appeal to all ages!
There you will also find an Advent Challenge – a reminder to do a good deed and spread generosity
to those around us. Granted you don’t need access to a website to do a good deed and spread
generosity to those around you. Simple acts of generosity help others to feel good, and resonate with
the essence of Christmas, and the season of goodwill. The Bible is packed full of stories of helping
one another, showing generosity and gestures of compassion.
Allow yourself time to stop for a few minutes each day and remember that Christmas has to begin
with Jesus. Remind yourself what happened to the baby of Bethlehem; the man he became; what he
did and taught; and how he was crucified and raised from death so that we can experience God’s love
for us, and know our sins forgiven.
The Season of Advent begins on the 30th November. It is seen as a time of spiritual preparation in
the lead up to celebrating the real meaning of Christmas – the birth of the Saviour of the world. Sadly
many people see Advent as the countdown to Christmas when they open their advent calendar and
collect a chocolate each day, thus missing the point of what Advent is really about. Advent is about
the importance of stopping, being still and listening, to find some inspiration to get through the
challenges and difficulties that form part of life, to allow God’s peace into our hearts. This can be
the Christmas you have been dreaming of.
May this Advent and Christmas time be special and relevant to each one of us as we make space in
the busyness to prepare to celebrate the real meaning of Christmas: the gift of ‘real love’ in the arrival
of the Saviour of the world – Jesus, Emmanuel, God with us. This gift, from the heart of God, is not
only for Christmas!
I look forward to welcoming you at our Christmas services, and seeing you at the carol singing in the
pubs. When you see me, let me know what difference the Christmas story is making in your life.
Wishing you joy and peace this Christmas
Ivy Crawford
STANSTED AIRPORT NEWS
SSE 2015 Calendar
The 2015 Community Calendar features a selection of photos from across Essex and Hertfordshire.
The A3 format has been changed slightly this year to make the days of the week easier to read. Priced
at £6, it can be obtained from a range of stockists or from the SSE office at the Molehill Green Village
Hall 10am to 5pm on Mondays. Contact them on 01279 870558 or info@stopstanstedexpansion.com
or go online at hhtp://stopstanstedexpansion.com.
Working Party & Celebration at the SSE Wood
In November 2004 Terry Waite planted a special oak to start the wood and an inscription was set on
the wall of Broxted Hill Farm. In 2009 a commemorative oak was planted in memory of Norman
Mead. Working parties have kept the wood healthy and tidy and another will meet from 10.30am to
2.30pm on Sunday 30th November to mark the wood’s tenth anniversary, and to tidy it up once again.
Light refreshments will be provided. (Editor’s note: Apologies for the short notice; the SSE press
release came too late for our November issue.)
NEWS FOR ALL PARISHES
CAROL SINGING IN THE PUBS
Do come along to these special events where members of the Five Parishes choir will add their voices
to the carol singing.
Thursday 11th December: The Three Horseshoes, Duton Hill
Tuesday 16th December: Prince of Wales, Broxted
Thursday 18th December: The Swan, Great Easton
Tuesday 23rd December: The Stag, Little Easton
All from 7 – 8pm each evening. Children particularly welcome.
COPY DATE FOR JANUARY ISSUE
For the January issue to be distributed by the beginning of the month we must work to the printer’s
Christmas schedule. This means changing the copy date and we ask that all contributions for January,
editorial and advertising, be with us by Monday 8th December. This will mean information via
village correspondents must reach them by Sunday 7th December. Thank you.
COUNTESS OF WARWICK SHOW
www.countessofwarwickshow.org
We are delighted to announce that proceeds from The Countess of Warwick Show this year amounted
to £15,000 which will be shared equally between our four churches. The reduced profit was due to
extreme weather on the Monday and lower attendance. Thankfully more people attended on the
Sunday than in previous years, resulting in a higher profit than otherwise might have been the case.
Our thanks are due particularly to the Show Committee who work tirelessly throughout the year to
plan this spectacular weekend. Also to the numerous volunteers and supporters of the Show.
Teddy Update
Those of you who enjoyed the animal experience this year will be interested to hear that Teddy and
other members of his Ladlers Red Poll herd were exhibited at the Red Poll East Anglian Region Herd
Championships in October. They won 5 awards: 4 first and 1 second.
CHARITY GIVING
Canon Ivy is pleased to announce that the Five Parishes gave £500 from the Harvest Festival service
in Little Easton church to Us (the new name for USPG) and £520 to the British Legion Poppy Appeal
from the Remembrance Day services. Thank you to everyone who supported these collections.
THE MOTHERS’ UNION
The Christmas Party will be in the Thaxted Centre for the Disabled on Wednesday 17th December
starting at 2pm. There will be Christmas food, carol singing and sharing Christmas greetings. Molly
and the committee hope to see all members there.
FRIENDS OF THE FIVE PARISHES
The following report on the first of the two Magic Evenings is by two of the guests, to whom we
send our grateful thanks.
’Twas was on a warm Hallowe’en evening that while travelling we found ourselves at a hall in Great
Easton, a spooky glow penetrating through misty windows, the hum of chatter and a green glow
through a partly opened door. With trepidation we entered inside, cobwebs, spiders, lanterns,
mummified figures, skeletons adorned the walls and ceilings. A tall figure came towards us, a shard
of light lit up a magnificent jacket of gold, he introduced himself as the magical Brian Miller – would
we be put under his spell? Only time would tell.
Before we knew it the room seemed to be full of colourful witches, gruesome ghouls and even a
werewolf! One of his trusted and glamorous assistants seated us at a table; spooky, they had our
names already on the table; just the start of unexplained events that would occur during the evening.
As we were seated, a meal of generous proportion was served. What an accommodating place we
had found ourselves in.
Magical Brian was fiendishly funny, he entertained us, with the help of a few of his amazing friends.
He then had a few guests join him in front of us, amusingly scary Felix the ghost, Clarence the Clown
representing the younger generation, and Pauline the Corpse Bride. They all received praise from the
great magical Brian on their attire and some received prize envelopes for their splendid efforts.
The lights dimmed and a single light shone brightly to the centre of the stage. Mischievous Magical
Brian hit the spotlight donned in silver sparkles to widen the eyes of all those before him. He
introduced his first accomplice, the amazing Magical Michael Carr. He entertained, receiving gasps
of delight, as he confused everyone with his sleight of hand and humour, and amazing optical
illusions.
Bertie Pearce, a second dapper gentleman, appeared who used not only guests from the room, but a
selection of household items, even a lawnmower, tying them in knots (literally). Fortunately all
escaped unscathed and no worse for their experience, but left with an incredible memory.
Our next experience was a taste of the orient with Tensai, colourful silks, a perfectly orchestrated
flawless routine, with a finalé of levitation. Who would have expected this in the local village hall!
The magic and mischief supplied by the Friends of the Five Parishes was amazing and breath-taking,
and a credit to all who tirelessly put in so much effort. We think the most amazing thing is that they
manage to repeat the event for a second night. Our luck on stumbling into such a group of people,
with such warmth, wit and hospitality, can only be described as spellbinding which we highly
commend and recommend.
THE FRIENDS OF THE FIVE PARISHES 50% CLUB
It is not too late to join the 50% Club. A cheque for £8 will buy a subscription from January until
August 2015 for the monthly draw which raises funds for The Friends who provide financial help to
our churches for maintenance. It also gives subscribers the chance to win half of that month’s pot.
Please send your cheque, made payable to ‘The Friends of the Five Parishes 50% Club’ to Fran
Woodrow, 11 Emblems, Dunmow, CM6 2AG. Meanwhile, why not have a go at our December
Quiz? Contact the editor on 01371 872894 or at angela.harbottle@virgin.net for a copy.
EASTONS & TILTY WOMEN’S INSTITUTE
The December meeting of the Eastons & Tilty W.I. will be on Thursday 11th December in Great
Easton Village Hall at 12.30 for 1pm. This is the Christmas lunch day and President Doreen and the
committee look forward to seeing everyone. They wish members a very merry Christmas and a happy
New Year.
THAXTED FLOWER CLUB
On Tuesday 2nd December the theme of Jane Knight’s demonstration will be Christmas is Coming.
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING IN DUNMOW:
A reminder that the Christmas Shopping Day in Great Dunmow is on Sunday 7th December.
ST CLARE HOSPICE LIGHT UP A LIFE
This area’s event will be at the United Reformed Church, Great Dunmow at 3.30pm on Sunday 14th
December.
FIVE PARISHES FARE – YOUR FAVOURITE RECIPES
FESTIVE TRIFLE
This recipe is full of festive flavour, quick to prepare when time is short (it only takes about fifteen
minutes, plus chilling time) and it uses up any leftover mincemeat from making mince pies.
Serves four
200g Mincemeat
1 pot Thick Custard
1 Madeira Cake
500ml Orange Juice
4 tbsp Brandy (optional
3 or 4 tbsp grated Chocolate
Heat the mincemeat in a pan and leave to cool. Fold into the custard, cover, then put in the fridge.
Slice the Madeira cake and dip each piece into a mixture of the orange juice and brandy. Place a
layer of cake on the bottom of a serving dish and cover with half the custard mixture. Use the
remaining Madeira slices to make a second layer, then pour over the rest of the custard mixture.
Cover and chill in the fridge for 2 hours. To serve, grate the chocolate over the dessert.
If you have a favourite recipe, seasonal or otherwise, which you would like to share, please send it
to the editor details as above.
GREAT EASTON CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL
We kicked off the second half term with a brilliant morning of running! 29 children went to HRS to
represent the school in the Dunmow Family Cross Country event. For the first time ever, Year 1 and
2 children were able to take part. It was the usual damp and breezy day, but the sun popped out so
we were able to run in the dry! Well done to all our runners who did extremely well and special
congratulations to our four top three finishers too. Thank you to all the parents for helping with
transport, we couldn’t do it without you!
A few weeks ago we were lucky to have D.D. Everest, author of Archie Greene and the Magician’s
Secret, visit the school. We were joined by Year 5 children from Felsted Primary School and Des
told us how he gets his ideas for writing, how his children help him and how long it takes him to write
a book. He signed copies of his book for children who had bought one, and answered lots of their
questions. We all had a brilliant morning and were inspired to become writers!
On Tuesday 21st October, Miss Jackman, Miss Miles and Mrs Williams took 12 Year 5 and 6 children
to a workshop run at Chelmsford Cathedral. It was a fantastic bible story telling day, where children
worked in teams to act out, sing and be part of the story telling. The children were impeccably
behaved and represented the school brilliantly.
Our Key Stage Two children have been learning about World War One and spent a day with other
schools at HRS where they watched a play and talked with exhibitors from Chelmsford and Braintree
museums. They also visited the Imperial War Museum, Duxford, to find out more about aircraft and
land vehicles used in WW1. We had an education session by a member of the museum staff and
children were able to try different helmets, soldiers’ clothing and look at other interesting artefacts.
After Holy Communion service we joined with schools around the country to watch a live
Remembrance assembly broadcast from The Tower of London. On Armistice Day the whole school,
family and friends, walked to the war memorial. The children read prayers, listened to Flanders
Fields, Laurence Binyon’s For The Fallen and they all laid a handmade wooden poppy around the
memorial in our own tribute to the sea of red in London. An ex-pupil played the Last Post bringing
a tear to everyone’s eye.
Finally, the Christmas Fayre takes place on Sunday 30th November – please come along from 123pm and wear your favourite Christmas jumper! Our youngest children are busy learning their
version of the nativity and Key Stage Two will put on their own festive performance. The Nativity
Service is at 10am on Friday 19th December in Great Easton Church. Again, the children will wear
their Christmas jumpers – why don’t you? It will be an exciting end to the year. Wishing you all a
very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2015!
Claire Jackman (Headteacher)
HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH?
I read recently that today’s 65 year olds have a 47% chance of living past 90. Furthermore, predictions
by the Office of National Statistics show that by 2066 there will be more than half a million people
in the UK aged 100 or over. There were 12,320 in 2012. How accurate these predictions are is not
certain but there is no doubt the Queen will be writing more and more birthday cards to centenarians.
The implications of this means that most people will live longer than they think which will call for
much planning so their money does not run out before they do!
So perhaps the biggest question of all is how much is enough? Linked to this we all have a Number.
It is the amount of money we need for the rest of our lives by a certain age so we can live the life we
want – and never run out of money. A bigger Number means bigger lifestyle. Stopping work at 50
rather than 60 will require a bigger Number. So will holidaying in exotic places, flying first class,
driving an Aston and keeping a Ferrari in the garage for sunny days!
Everybody has different lifestyle aspirations but few know their Number, and most under estimate
how big their Number needs to be. The damaging effects of inflation reducing the purchasing power
of money further widens the gap between what we think we need and what we actually need. Many,
understandably, worry about running out of money and ‘reduce’ their lifestyle accordingly, working
longer or not doing those things they would perhaps like to do. However, some will already have
enough and not know it!
A quick rule of thumb when assessing assets and long term cash flow requirements is “the 4 percent
solution” which was publicly articulated in the 1990’s by William Bengen. The solution asserts that
someone can safely withdraw up to 4 percent annually from a diversified portfolio of invested assets
with a low risk of exhausting the fund during their lifetime, irrespective of market fluctuations. This
simplified solution can help determine whether available assets are sufficient to support a desired
lifestyle in addition to the State Pension or any other guaranteed inflows that might be received or,
conversely, whether changes have to be made to savings and/or lifestyle expectations.
So the good news is you are likely to live longer than expected, but some effort will be required to
ensure you outlive your money rather than the other way round!
Andrew Peirson CFPcm
LITTLE EASTON NEWS
LITTLE EASTON CHURCH
Churchwardens Frank and Carolyn Bennett write:
We thank so much our committee members for all the help and support they give us throughout the
year. We send special thanks, love and good wishes to James and Clare as James continues to recover
from his fall.
As always, we do appreciate all that Canon Ivy does for us. Her leadership and enthusiasm carry us
and we are grateful for the wisdom that she brings to her work with us.
Our heartfelt thanks go to all those who contribute to our services: our organist Peter Smith for his
beautiful music and leadership of the Five Parishes Choir which always creates a special occasion.
We thank Canon John Sibson who supports Ivy, our sides persons, readers, prayer leaders,
communion servers and our Verger, Sue, who looks after everything relating to weddings and funerals
with such dedication. We thank all those who so generously supported our two major fundraising
events, the Auction of Promises and our Harvest supper, both of which were hugely successful.
We are grateful to those in the background but who do not go unnoticed: our small army of helpers
who clean the church, create beautiful flower arrangements and provide and serve refreshments. John
and Rose Livings continue to look after our churchyard, keeping the grass mown and weeds under
control, many thanks go to them. Thank you to John also for climbing our tower stairs every week
to wind the clock. We thank Roy Blackwell and his team for their help with the maintenance of the
church fabric.
We send everyone our warmest good wishes for Christmas and health and happiness for the New
Year. We look forward to seeing you carol singing in the pubs!
Flower Arrangers
Joan writes: As always at this time of year a few sincere words of thanks to the ladies on the flower
rota at Little Easton Church. I am truly grateful as they do everything I ask with kindness and good
humour. They donate huge amounts of foliage and flowers to make beautiful arrangements
throughout the year. Thank you all very much, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
HARVEST SUPPER
Little Easton churchwardens and committee members thank everyone who supported the Harvest
Supper on the 18th October. It was attended by 105 people who enjoyed a lovely evening. They
were served with a delicious supper, with good ale and wines, and after supper were treated to some
excellent entertainment by local artists! Over £2,000 was raised towards on-going church repairs.
LITTLE EASTON PARISH COUNCIL
The Parish Clerk writes: We have a vacancy for a new parish councillor. This would particularly
suit someone who is interested in the local area and community and has 3-4 hours a week to help with
village projects. Contact the Clerk or any councillor for more details.
Thank you to all the residents who wrote letters to the District Council objecting to the second Land
Securities planning application with an access off the new Dunmow Bypass. You will be pleased to
learn that UDC refused planning permission for this application, although the plan will still be
considered by the Planning Inspectorate as it was brought into the Inquiry. A decision will probably
come in the first quarter of the New Year. If residents feel ready to take down the yellow signs in the
village, please return them to any councillor or the clerk.
There is no meeting in December. Please see our website www.littleeastonpc.co.uk or contact Jackie
Deane, Parish Clerk, 01371 870059.
The Parish Council wishes to thank everyone involved in the Magazine for all their hard work this
year and wish all residents and readers a very Merry Christmas.
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY
Little Easton Parish Council is delighted to invite all children in the Parish, including grandchildren,
to a Christmas party for fun and games on Sunday 7th December in the Memorial Hall between 2 and
4pm. Admission is free but they ask that children be accompanied at all times by a parent or carer.
So that catering arrangements can be made, please register your interest by emailing EMGLEPC@outlook.com or phone 01371 870059 giving details of the number of children attending, ages
and any dietary requirements or allergies. The organisers will try to avoid food products which
include nuts but unfortunately they cannot guarantee that food will be nut free. There is no need to
provide individual names of children.
THE STAG
Grateful thanks go to George and Rose for the fireworks and food which everyone enjoyed so much
on the 5th November. Please remember, there will be no kitchen facilities during the period Thursday
25th December to Thursday 1st January 2015 inclusive.
DOGS’ MESS ON CHILDREN’S PLAYING FIELD
We resist articles on this subject but then the danger to children in Great Easton just had to be
included last month and so this same warning must be given for Little Easton:
Yet again all dog owners are asked to please pick up after your dog. The problem is exceptionally
bad at the moment on the playing field and, as we should all be aware, this can cause serious illness
in children. If this continues, it will lead to dogs being banned from the playing field. Poo bags are
FREE from the library.
REMEMBRANCE
All residents of Little Easton join in remembering those from the parish who lost their lives, or were
seriously injured in the Great War 1914-1918, the second World War of 1939-1945 and more recently
those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country whilst on active service in other parts of the
world.
COPY DATE FOR JANUARY ISSUE
Please note amended date at the top of this section.
THE MOBILE LIBRARY
This service will be at Butchers Pasture in Little Easton on Fridays 5th and 19th December, arriving
at 10.35am, departing at 10.55am.
WEEKLY SESSIONS IN LITTLE EASTON MEMORIAL HALL
To hire the hall, contact Jenny Green on 01371 870402. For more details see the hall website at
www.littleeastonvillagehall.org.uk.
Monday
Tuesday
First Wednesdays
Thursday
Thursday
8.00pm to 10.15pm
7pm
7.30 to 9.30pm
10.00am to 12noon
7pm
Carpet Bowls
Dog Training
Tai Chi Chuan
Art Club
Dog Training
GREAT EASTON NEWS
CHURCHWARDEN’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE
Churchwarden Angela sends grateful thanks to everyone for their help and support in 2014,
particularly members of the church committee for all that they do in keeping everything running
smoothly. Thank you to Sheena for the flower arrangements, to George who winds the clock weekly,
to Molly Maid for their cleaning service and the team of people who lead intercessions at 11am
services. A very special appreciation goes to Hubert for all that he does in the keeping the churchyard
looking so good.
In addition to Peter Smith, services are supported by organists Peter Cross, Lloyd Griffin, Quintus
Benziger and Mary Irwin-Parker. Thanks go to them all and to Alison, for their musical
accompaniment from time to time. But of course a special mention is reserved for our bell ringing
team and for the Five Parishes Choir under the direction of Peter Smith.
Last but by no means least, our grateful thanks to Canon Ivy for her unfailing support, energy and
inspiration and to her and Canon John Sibson for their excellent services through the year.
Angela and the committee look forward to seeing everyone at the Christmas Day services. The new
heating system is installed, trees have been pruned and tidied up and a warm welcome awaits you. A
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone.
GREAT EASTON & TILTY PARISH COUNCIL incorporating DUTON HILL
The Parish Council have awarded the grass cutting contract for 2015 to Steve’s Gardening Services.
Steve lives in Great Easton so give him a cheery wave when you see him working. We hope this will
be the beginning of a long association. The last date for this year’s green skip is Sunday 14th
December. The Parish Council hope you have found this facility useful. There will be no meeting
during December but it is hoped that a good crowd will attend events around the Christmas Tree (see
below).
Members of the Parish Council take this opportunity of wishing you all a very happy Christmas.
GREAT EASTON CHRISTMAS TREE
Following their success of the last two years, the events team in Great Easton are planning yet another
spectacular Christmas Tree for the village green. The tree will be erected on Saturday 29th November
with the lighting up ceremony at 6pm on Sunday 30th November. Do go along as this promises to
be another fun evening.
On Sunday 21st December at 5.30pm all villagers, their friends and families are invited to join an
evening of Carol Singing around the tree together with children from Great Easton Primary School.
Mulled wine along and other Christmas cheer will be in abundance. The team look forward to seeing
you there.
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY
Great Easton Community Events Committee will host again a Christmas party for all children up to
12 years old living in Great Easton, Duton Hill or Tilty. There will be an entertainer, disco, tea and
visit by Father Christmas! It will take place on Sunday 14th December at 3pm to 5.30pm at Great
Easton Village Hall. The party is free due to the other fundraising events held this year but please
contact the editor in the first instance as soon as possible to put your children’s names down, so that
they can let Santa know how many presents to bring! Older children are welcome to come and help
and they will also receive a present from Santa – phone to say if you are coming.
SERVICE AT THE MOAT HOUSE
The Christmas Communion Service at The Moat House Residential Care Home is on Monday 22nd
December, at 10.30am.
AN OPEN LETTER FROM RETIREMENT VILLAGES GROUP LTD
Dear Neighbours
The main entrance and driveway to Maynard House apartment scheme at Moat Park is now open.
This means our new residents and any visitors to Maynard House can now approach by this wonderful
sweeping driveway that provides a great first glimpse of our apartments.
We have appointed local company Phipps Landscapes to provide our on-going grounds maintenance.
We are delighted to support a local business and know the Phipps team will provide a quality service
as they nurture our six acres of parkland across the winter and into next year.
To mark the opening of Maynard House properly, we have planned a number of local events which
we hope some of you will have a chance to attend. We hope you can come along to our Christmas
Weekend on 6th/7th December with mulled wine, mince pies and Christmas music. Please feel free
to call in, you will be very welcome.
Reservations are now being taken for our apartments on a weekly basis. If you know anyone
interested in this lifestyle option, please do make them aware. Sales consultant, Linda McLean, is
available Thursday-Monday 10.30am-5pm, or tel: 01371 483360.
Best wishes
Sarah Burgess, Sales and Marketing Director, Retirement Villages Group Ltd
GUY FAWKES PARTY
A wonderful Guy Fawkes Night was held on the 2nd November in the recreation ground. The bonfire
was huge and the fireworks wonderful. Food and drink were in plentiful supply and Dave and Karen
did everyone proud. Many thanks to Peter and his many helpers. It was great to see so many families
there and the children enjoying the fireworks. (Editor’s note: apologies that the Vetchat warning
about animals and fireworks did not appear. Owing to a Broadband glitch, it arrived too late.)
COMMENT FROM A VILLAGE RESIDENT
What a lovely job Steve’s Garden Services have made of the village green and recreation field. It
makes the village look so much nicer. We understand that the residents of Duton Hill are equally
pleased with the work to their football ground and the bus stop area. Long may it continue.
COPY DATE FOR JANUARY ISSUE
Please note amended date at the top of this section
THE MOBILE LIBRARY
This service will be at Great Easton Primary School on Tuesdays 2nd and 16th December, from 11.15
to 11.45pm. On the same day it will be at the Village Hall at 11.50am, departing at 12.15pm.
WEEKLY SESSIONS IN GREAT EASTON VILLAGE HALL
To hire the hall, contact David Chalkley on 01371 852180
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Friday
6.30 to 9.30 pm
6.15 pm
7.30 pm
10am to 12 noon
7.30 to10.30 pm
9.30 to 12 noon
3.45 to 4.45 pm
Dog Training
Keep Fit
Circuit Training
Great Easton Baby and Toddler Group
Carpet Bowls
Upholstery class
Children’s Karate, age 5 and upwards
TILTY & DUTON HILL NEWS
CHRISTMAS THANK YOU
Churchwardens Paul and Jane send their best wishes and a big thank you to everyone who has
supported Tilty during the past year. Thank you to all the flower arrangers and cleaners who work
hard to keep the church looking beautiful and who produced such lovely arrangements for the Flower
Festival. Thank you to our team of organists, coffee makers and our committee who keep things
running smoothly and lastly our grateful thanks to Canon Ivy and Canon John Sibson for excellent
services throughout the year. A Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year to everyone.
SENIOR CITIZENS’ CHRISTMAS DINNER
The DHCA Senior Citizens Christmas Dinner will be held on Tuesday 16th December at The Three
Horseshoes. If you are a new Senior Citizen living in the village, or have celebrated your 65th
birthday since last Christmas, please inform Audrey on 01371 870927 or Derek at the pub on 01371
870681 to ensure you receive an invitation. These will be sent out – please reply either way, by
Friday 5th December, so that the organisers know how many to cater for. Thank you. Happy
Christmas!
COPY DATE FOR JANUARY ISSUE
Please note amended date at the top of this section
THE MOBILE LIBRARY
This service will visit Duton Hill Three Horseshoes on Tuesdays 2nd and 16th December, at 12.20pm
departing at 12.40pm.
BROXTED & CHICKNEY NEWS
ST MARY'S CHURCH
Churchwarden’s Christmas Message
Terry writes: Earlier this year St Mary’s church Broxted faced a wake up call and it was good to see
that so many in the community wanted their church to continue.
I thank my committee for their support and the members of the PCC, everyone who provides
refreshments, reads the lessons and the prayers, the support from Molly Maid and from Peter Smith
and the choir, the additional organists who help out, the flower arrangers, the brass cleaners, the grass
cutters and everyone who helps and keeps the church running, the givers of money, the giving of
time, the gifts of cakes and refreshments, the sharing of knowledge and understanding and the
congregation who attend.
Yet all of this could not continue without the time and commitment of Canon Ivy with support from
Canon John Sibson. I have been fortunate over the last few months to work closely with Canon Ivy
and she has helped me tremendously, as have others, as I settle in my role as churchwarden.
Details follow of our Festival of Angels and our Carol Service is on Sunday 21st December. Happy
Christmas and I look foward to working with you all in 2015.
Bulb Planting, 25th October
The plan was to plant 2,000 in the grounds of the church, but no-one knew who would turn up and
how long it would take. In the event almost sixty people came to help, watch and encourage the
planters. Many brought their own bulbs to plant in memory of a family member, friend or specific
event so nearly 2,500 bulbs were planted. Spring is now eagerly awaited to see the result of their
labours! A small café was set up in church with coffee, cake and soup available to refresh the planters
and visitors, and this proved very popular.
Festival of Angels
The festival will be held in church on Saturday 13th December from 10.30am to 4.00pm, and Sunday
14th December 12.30pm to 4.00pm. There will be gifts to buy, refreshments, music, displays and
lots and lots of angels! Do pop in to see it all and to get in the Christmas spirit.
Table Top Sale
On Saturday 17th January a Table Top Sale will be held in Broxted Village Hall from 10am to noon.
Tables cost just £10 and this is an ideal opportunity to have a good clear out after Christmas and
convert all those things you no longer want into cash. .
BROXTED PARISH COUNCIL
The Council does not meet in December so the next meeting will be on Thursday 8th January 2015
in the Village Hall at 8.15pm. Members of the public are always welcome. The minutes are posted
on the village notice boards, and can also be found on the Council’s website at
www.essexinfo.net/broxted.
BROXTED & DISTRICT COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Village Coffee Mornings
The December Coffee Morning is a week earlier than usual, on Wednesday 10th December, from
10am to 12 noon. The January Coffee Morning will be on the third Wednesday, as usual, on the 21st
January. Absolutely everyone is welcome.
Children’s Christmas Party
The Community Association is hosting its annual free Christmas party for all children of primary
school age and under in the village on Sunday 7th December from 3pm to 5pm. There is just time to
book in your child(ren).
Older children are welcome to come along and help, and adults are welcome to stay if they wish but
do not need to. All that is asked is that they provide an item of food for the party tea. .
BROXTED VILLAGE HALL
The bench in the grounds of the hall, placed there in memory of Dudley Smith, has been replaced.
This has been part-funded by a grant from the Uttlesford Community Grant scheme. The Parish
Council has also installed a litter bin next to the bench, with the hope that locals and visitors will use
both!
CONGRATULATIONS ON A SPECIAL AWARD
Many congratulations to Roger Clark for winning an Uttlesford Community Achievement Award
which was presented to him at a ceremony in Saffron Walden in November. Roger was given the
award for over 15 years of unsung public service, not least for the fact that barely a community event
takes place in Broxted which has not been masterminded by him. He chairs the Parish Council, he
mans the crockery smashing stall which raises so much money for the community at local village
fêtes and, of course, the Countess of Warwick Show, he runs regular charity quiz nights, he
masterminded the village Jubilee Celebrations of 2012 and he was instrumental in arranging the
renovation and decoration of the village hall, including the onerous job of applying for funding. If
that were not enough he also has significant commitments in Elsenham.
This is by no means a comprehensive list of all that Roger does for the community. It wears us out
just thinking about it and we send him our heartfelt congratulations.
PRINCE OF WALES - QUIZZES
There is just one quiz in December, the Christmas Special on Thursday 4th December. Entry is £2
a head and there are cash prizes. To book a meal call Terry or Karen at the pub on 01279 850256.
As the first Thursday in January is New Year’s Day the only quiz will be on Thursday 15th January.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Alice and Lionel Lewell will switch on their Christmas light display at Church End on Monday 1st
December. As previously, proceeds to will go to the Animal Rescue Charity, Bishop’s Stortford.
Donations of lights, working or not, are always welcome.
COPY DATE FOR JANUARY ISSUE
Please note amended date at the top of this section
THE MOBILE LIBRARY
This service will visit Broxted on Tuesdays 2nd and 16th December, arriving at Cranham Road at
1.25pm, departing 1.40pm and arriving at the Prince of Wales at 1.45pm, departing at 2pm. It will
arrive at the Molehill Green Village Store at 2.05pm and depart at 2.20pm.
WEEKLY SESSIONS IN BROXTED VILLAGE HALL
To hire the hall, contact 01279 850445
Tuesday
Wednesday
Third Wednesday
9.30am
6pm to 9pm
7pm
10am to 12pm
Pilates Class
Adult Dancing Class
Dog Training Class
Village Coffee Morning
EXTRA ITEMS:
HARLOW CHORUS
The Harlow Chorus Christmas Concert The Glory of Christmas is on Saturday 20th December at 7pm
at Passmores Academy, Harlow, CM18 6JH, featuring pupils from Henry Moore Primary School,
Harlow Chorus Academy, Harlow Chorus and Redbridge Brass. All tickets are unreserved, £15 full,
£11
concessions,
under
16s
£2.
Credit
card
bookings
from
http://www.harlowchorus.ticketsource.co.uk. For enquiries call Julia Dimon on 01277 362440.
CHRISTMAS SMILE LINES
What do you get Dad?
December is the month when the family begins to discuss what to get Dad for Christmas. Some argue
for a shirt; others hold out for a pair of socks. But the argument usually ends in a tie.
Mother in a storm
One cold winter night, during a violent storm, a mother was tucking her small frightened boy into
bed. She was about to turn off the light when he said with a tremor in his voice: “Mummy, will you
stay with me tonight?” Mummy smiled and gave him a reassuring hug. “I can’t, dear,” she said, “I
have to sleep with Daddy.” A long silence – and then came his shaky reply: “The big coward!”
Christmas gifts
Grandfather was talking to his grand-daughter, “When I was a child all we got for Christmas was an
apple and an orange.” The little girl clapped her hands in joy. “Brilliant! I’d love a new computer
and a mobile!”
Christmas shopping
It was Christmas and the judge was in a benign mood as he asked the prisoner what he was charged
with. “Doing my Christmas shopping early,” replied the man. “Why, that’s no offence,” said the
judge. “How early were you doing it?” “Before the store opened,” replied the defendant.