CHURCH OFFICERS .......................................................................................................................... 2 WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER .................................................................................. 4 MOTHERS’ UNION – WROXHAM BENEFICE BRANCH ........................................... 4 COFFEE MORNING ....................................................................................................................... 5 DATE FOR YOUR DIARY ............................................................................................................ 5 ST JOHN'S CHURCH COFFEE MORNINGS ...................................................................... 5 UNITED REFORMED CHURCH ............................................................................................. 5 FRIENDS OF WROXHAM CHURCH .................................................................................... 7 ST HELEN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH. ..................................................................................... 8 BROADGRACE CHURCH .......................................................................................................... 8

LIBRARY & SCHOOL NEWS ........................................................................................................... 8 CLUB NEWS ............................................................................................................................................ 9

HOVETON & DISTRICT CONSERVATIVE COFFEE CLUB .............................. 10 WROXHAM FLOWER CLUB ............................................................................................ 10 WROXHAM FOOTBALL CLUB....................................................................................... 10 HOVETON, WROXHAM & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB ............................ 10 GARDENING TIPS FOR DECEMBER AND JANUARY ......................................... 11 WROXHAM AND HOVETON LIONS CLUB ............................................................ 11 THE PROBUS CLUB OF BROADLANDS ..................................................................... 12 BROADLANDS ROTARY CLUB ...................................................................................... 14 WROXHAM BURE VALLEY ROTARY CLUB ............................................................ 15 WHB TWINNING ASSOCIATION ................................................................................. 16 WROXHAM SOCIAL CLUB .............................................................................................. 16 WROXHAM & DISTRICT LADIES’ LUNCHEON CLUB ..................................... 17 BARTON HOUSE RAILWAY ............................................................................................. 17 WROXHAM WI ....................................................................................................................... 18 HOVETON & DISTRICT WI ............................................................................................. 19 1ST WROXHAM GUIDES .................................................................................................... 19 ASHMANHAUGH & BARTON WANDERERS CRICKET CLUB ..................... 20 FITNESS FOR ALL! ................................................................................................................. 21

COUNCIL NEWS ............................................................................................................................... 21 NORTH NORFOLK DISTRICT COUNCIL ..................................................................... 21 HOVETON PARISH COUNCIL ............................................................................................ 23 WROXHAM PARISH COUNCIL NEWS ........................................................................... 25

ARTICLES & PRESS RELEASES .................................................................................................... 26 MACMILLAN MAMMOTH QUIZ ....................................................................................... 27 THE PRESTON ROOMS – THE VILLAGE HALL .......................................................... 28 BRIDGE VETS ................................................................................................................................. 28 WESTOVER VETERINARY CENTRE.................................................................................. 30

NOTICES ............................................................................................................................................... 30 THIS MONTH'S COVER ..................................................................................................... 31

FORTHCOMING EVENTS ............................................................................................................ 33 CHRISTMAS WITH GARY WINTER .................................................................................. 33 WINTER WONDERLAND ....................................................................................................... 33 DING DONG MERRILY….. ....................................................................................................... 35 THREE RIVERS WAY PHASE 2 .............................................................................................. 35 HORNING TO LUDHAM BRIDGE...................................................................................... 35

CHURCH OFFICERS in Wroxham Hoveton Belaugh & Neatishead

Church of England RectorThe Revd Elizabeth Jump The Vicarage 11 Church Lane Wroxham NR12 8SH Tel: 01603 784150 whbrector@btinternet.com Churchwardens Wroxham St. Mary Vacant Hoveton St John Mr David BarnettTel: 782002 d.barnett23@btinternet.com Hoveton St Peter Mrs Sandy LinesTel: 782282 sandylines36@gmail.com Belaugh Vacant

United Reformed Church Minister Rev Bruno Boldrini94 Welsford Road NR4 6QHTel: 01603 458873 Secretary Mrs Lynne HowardTel: 01603 738835lmhoward100@btinternet.com Contact for JAM (Sunday School) Mr Chris BillingTel: 783992chrisb@ukbis.com

Roman Catholic Church Parish PriestFr. James Walsh The Presbytery 4 Norwich Road North Walsham NR28 9JP Tel: 01692 403258www.sacredheartnorthwalsham.com Sacristan Tryddyn Horning Road West Hoveton NR12 8QJTel: 782758

Baptist Church PastorVacantwww.neatisheadbaptist.org.uk

Neatishead Baptist Church, Norfolk, NR12 8YF

Contact Mrs Sue GibbonsTel: 01692 631118 s.gibbons15@btinternet.com

In Association with Broadgrace Church MinisterJohn HindleyTel: 737974 enquiries@broadgrace.org.uk

From the Rector the Revd. Liz Jump

I have just come back from a week away. Not a momentous statement, except maybe for your Rector who finds it very difficult to justify stopping and taking time out. There is always so much to do - a never ending list of things that must be done, things that should be done, and things that will be done one day should I ever find the time. My week away was not, technically, a holiday. Clergy are required to take a retreat each year, and so I recently contacted several retreat houses to find one that had a vacancy for a very tired Rector. The only one with availability didn’t really fit my idea of retreat space. Not the green fields and gentle streams of the 23rd psalm, but a Franciscan Community right in the heart of a busy city. London, to be precise! So, slightly unsure of the way this would work, I set off for my time out. And it was wonderful. I had taken one book with me; a book about finding space with God in busy ministry - and all through the week that theme came up again and again as God found ways to show me the importance of just resting and being with Him, and of maintaining that in the busy times. I wandered into Southward Cathedral to find a clergy study day, reflecting on finding time with God in busyness. I attended Communion in Westminster Abbey, having to concentrate to follow the service amid the crowds of tourists - God in the midst of busyness to be sure. And on my final day I wandered through the busy streets, again reflecting on the ability to be quiet with God in busy times and spaces, and found myself outside a church which advertised coffee (and very good it was too) only to find that I had unknowingly arrived at the church which hosts Moot, a new religious community. That evening I attended their very simple yet beautiful contemplative service which left me feeling that my week was complete. I arrived back aware that life would be once again busy and full of essentials and deadlines, but also with the resolve to remember that in that busyness it is possible to find God. God is not the God only of the still small spaces, of the green pastures and the living waters, but also the God of the difficult times, the busyness and the things that must be done. All we have to do is remember that and take a moment to pause and acknowledge His presence. Love and prayers Liz

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER Friday 3rd March 2017, St. Helen’s, Hoveton Although the local Churches Together group no longer meets on a regular basis we still join in worship and events which involve us all and Women’s World Day of Prayer is just such one of those events. On Friday 4th November several of us went to Heartsease Lane Methodist Church to learn about the 2017 service, which has been prepared by the Christian women of the Philippines. Their theme is justice, depicted on the right in a painting by Rowena Laxamana-Sta.Rosa, who lives in Cavite, Philppines. She contributes a lot of her artwork to women’s fellowship activities and other Church activities. The Philippines are a group of fascinating islands situation in the Pacific Ocean and during the workshop on 4th November we learnt a lot about the islands, their history, and the culture which exists today. There is far more to The Philippines than Imelda Marcos and her shoes! For instance, did you know that before Spanish colonisation began in the sixteenth century, women in the Philippines occupied a fairly high status in the community and equal importance was given to male and female offspring, inheritance was shared equally and education for both was encouraged. Today it is a different story and, despite having two female presidents, the majority of Filipino women remain poor, and are vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. Therefore the title of the 2017 WWDoP, “Am I Being Unfair to You”, seems very apt. After Christmas several of us will be involved in preparing for our local WWDoP service and if anyone feels like joining our practice sessions in the New Year please contact Sue Gibbons on 01603-738893, or Alex Howe on 01603-783096. MOTHERS’ UNION – WROXHAM BENEFICE BRANCH In November we were very pleased to have the Mothers’ Union Diocesan Chaplain, the Reverend Simon Lawrence, to talk to us about how we can be refreshed by Advent, the weeks leading up to Christmas, by finding time to be silent and allow God the time to speak to us and for us to grow spiritually. The Advent Carol Service will be at St. Michael’s, Sutton, on Wednesday, 7th December at 2.00pm. If anyone needs a lift, please contact Suzanne or Val. Our Branch Carols and Readings will be on Tuesday, 20th December. Please bring your favourite Christmas readings and maybe there’ll be a mince pie or two for you! Also remember to bring something for the bring and buy stall. We start the New Year by a meeting on Tuesday, 17th January when Sue Cobb will share some her favourite Christian literature with us. Please bring some of your own. Everyone (not just Members) is welcome to join us. We meet at St. Helen’s Church at 10.30 am. Please contact Suzanne Barnett, Branch Leader (782002)

or Val Ovenden (782466) for more details or to arrange a lift. COFFEE MORNING in Wroxham Church Hall on 23rd January 2017 from 10.00am. Bring & Buy Stall and Raffle. Admission £2.00 Everyone welcome. DATE FOR YOUR DIARY Christmas Fair on 3rd December in Wroxham Church Hall 10am - 12 noon. Books, Tombola, Cakes/Jams & Pickles, Christmas Goodies & Surprise Gifts, Bric-a-brac, Bacon Rolls with Tea & Coffee and Children’s Activities with Rev’d Liz Jump. ST JOHN'S CHURCH COFFEE MORNINGS The next monthly Coffee Morning for Hoveton St John Church will be held in the Church on Wednesday 14th December at 10.30am There will be a raffle & bring & buy stall. Do come & enjoy a friendly chat with friends whilst enjoying coffee cakes & scones. The December Coffee Morning Host will be Sylvia Tilson. A warm welcome awaits you. Our first Coffee Morning of 2017 will be on Wednesday January 11th, 10.30am in Hoveton St. John.

UNITED REFORMED CHURCH Minister Rev Bruno Boldrini 94 Welsford Road NR4 6QH Tel:01603 458873 br1.boldrini@gmail.com Secretary Lynne Howard 01603 738835 lmhoward100@btinternet.com

Services and Events in December and January (all at the Hub unless stated otherwise) December Sunday 4th 11am Holy Communion Service led by Rev Malcolm Wright Sun 11th , 11 am Service led by Mrs Wendy Gilbert Sun 18th, 4pm Carol Service led by Rev Bruno Boldrini, in the Church Hall Sun 25th, 10.30am Christmas morning Service led by Rev Sue Seeley January Sunday 1st 11am Holy Communion Service led by Revd Bruno Boldrini Sunday 8th 11am Service led by Canon Simon Stokes Sunday 15th 11am Service led by Rev Bruno Boldrini, followed by Church Meeting Sunday 22nd 11am Service led by Rev Malcolm Wright Sunday 29th 11am Service led by Rev Ian Fosten Coffee is served after each service. Please do join us! Our weekly Community Café on a Thursday 10.30-12.00, is a great opportunity to meet up with friends over a coffee and slice of homemade cake. It’s free – all we ask for is a small donation towards the costs. All are welcome! JAM (our Sunday Kids Club) is always open to new children for fun, cooking, games, crafts and Bible stories. Please contact Chris Billing at chris.billing@ukbis.com or phone 01603 783992 for more details. Here are the sessions for December and January:

Sunday 4th Dec

Jam Session 10:45 -12:15 in Wroxham Church Hall

Sunday 11th Dec

Jam Session 10:45 -12:15 in Wroxham Church Hall

Sunday 18th Dec

Family Carol Service in Wroxham Church Hall 4pm Led by Rev Bruno Boldrini followed by sausage rolls, mince pies, mulled wine, tea, coffee etc.

Sunday 25th Dec

Family Christmas Day Service in The Hub 10:30-11:15 led by Rev Sue Seeley. Bring your favourite present to show off

Sunday 8th Jan Jam Session 10:45 -12:15 in Wroxham Church Hall

Sunday 22nd Jan

Jam Session 10:45 -12:15 in Wroxham Church Hall

FRIENDS OF WROXHAM CHURCH President: Right Reverend Graham James, Bishop of Norwich Charity no: 1107913

AGM The AGM was held on October 27th and the future of the film shows was discussed. More details about the meeting will be given next month. EASTONS HOLIDAYS On Thursday November 24th at 7.00pm in Wroxham Church Hall Mr. Robert Easton will give an illustrated talk on the family history and present day range of holidays and day excursions offered by Eastons. Tickets £7 (including refreshments) from 01603 782466/782555/784748.

If you have any ideas for fundraising activities, or would like to join the Friends and get involved, please contact Val Ovenden on 01603 782466 or email fowc@btinternet.com ST HELEN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH St Helen's Coffee Drop-In: The next 'drop-in' is in St Helen's Narthex on November 9th at 10.30 for coffee or tea and a cake: the proceeds go to small local charities. A warm welcome assured for patrons old and new. Fourth Wednesday Club: meets again on Wednesday November 23rd. This popular social club is open to all 'Senior Citizens' over 60 from 11.30 - 16.30; it starts with coffee, and continues with a simple hot lunch around 12.30. It's a popular and friendly gathering fulfilling a local need. The 'sub' of £2.50 includes the coffee, lunch, homespun entertainment and a raffle. There are also plants and previously-owned books for sale and the money raised is distributed to local charities. Rooms available: St Helen's has rooms available for small bona fide meetings and gatherings of up to 30 people; several organisations meet here on a regular basis. Facilities for preparing light meals and hot drinks are available (you bring your own refreshments). Centrally situated with excellent car parking. Please call 01603 782758 for further details. BROADGRACE CHURCH Minister: John Hindley Telephone: 01603 737974 Email: enquiries@broadgrace.org.uk Website: www.broadgrace.org.uk Services: We meet each Sunday at 4pm in The River Rooms in Coltishall, the old Salvation Army Hall opposite the garage in the centre of the village. Come along and you and your family will find a warm welcome, a friendly bunch of people and the chance to think about the spiritual, significant issues of life. See www.broadgrace.org.uk for more details or, give John a call on 01603 737974.

LIBRARY & SCHOOL NEWS WROXHAM LIBRARY Tel: 01603 782560 or email: wroxham.library@norfolk.gov.uk Website: www.library.norfolk.gov.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/NorfolkLibrariesUK Follow us on twitter http://twitter.com/WroLibrary Drop-in, 10-5 Monday - Saturday and late opening till 8pm on Fridays Email us at wroxham.library@norfolk.gov.uk<mailto:wroxham.library@norfolk.gov.uk> Social Activities and events at the Library Wroxham Parish Council Surgery

If you are a Wroxham parishioner and have an issue or a parish query, pop along to the library to speak to Councillors from Wroxham Parish Council on Saturday 3rd December 10.00 -11.30am. This is a drop in surgery and so no appointment is necessary. The next surgery after this will be Friday 6th January. Christmas Carols and Festive Stories around the tree Tuesday 6th December, 1.30 - 3pm. Come along to Wroxham Library for some festive cheer! With musical accompaniment from Broadland High School students, we will be having a good old fashioned singsong and listening to a Christmas story or two. If you would like to come but don't easily get out and about, please contact the library to arrange transport. This free event is Dementia friendly - Booking advisable - call 01603 782560 or pop in. With Refreshments. Bookgroup Why not join the Wroxham Bookgroup? A great opportunity to try reading something new and to meet new people! The group meets at 2pm on the third Wednesday of every month. Family History. Use our free access to Find My Past and get advice from Diane, our family and local history expert by booking a half hour session on Fridays from 6-7.30pm. We can also offer free 1 hour support sessions from our Family History volunteer, these must be booked in advance, please call for more details, Knit and Natter - come along to our informal gathering. Thursday 1st and 15th December 2.00- 4.00pm, please bring your own project. Crib Club (Cribbage card game) - new players welcome -Thursday 8th December 2.00-4:30pm. Please bring your own board and cards if you have them. Scrabble Club meets on the last Thursday of each month from 2.00-4.30pm. (29th December) All welcome

CLUB NEWS

HOVETON & DISTRICT CONSERVATIVE COFFEE CLUB Our next meeting at The Wroxham Hotel will b e on Thursday 8th December, at 10.30 a.m. when we shall hold our Annual Christmas Quiz – who will win the prize this year! On January 26th it is great pleasure to welcome Mr. Mike Southey, his subject – The History of ITV. Contact Tel; No. 01603 783490 WROXHAM FLOWER CLUB The next meeting of the Flower Club is on Wednesday, 14th December at 7.30 at The Church Hall, Wroxham, with a demonstration by Anne Colby entitled “Christmas Spectacular”. This is likely to be a lovely evening with seasonal refreshments and visitors and new members are all very welcome. There is no meeting held in January. Rosie Howell (01603 737762) WROXHAM FOOTBALL CLUB The 1st teams mini revival didn’t last long as they slipped to their fifth consecutive defeat in all competitions during November. There was to be no run in the FA Trophy, despite a decent performance we lost 2-0 at Needham Market. Further league defeats followed and we remain firmly rooted to the foot of the table. The one consolation was that as these notes were produced we beat Hellesdon 4-1 in the Norfolk Senior Cup to progress to the Quarter Final which may give the team a confidence boost. We must hope that we are able to gain a lift for the second half of the season but it will be difficult. December home fixtures are Bowers & Pitsea on the 3rd, AFC Hornchurch 17th & our local Boxing Day derby with Norwich Utd on the 26th. The reserves have suffered somewhat by 1st team call-ups but are in 3rd place in the Anglian Combination Premier Division which is still a pretty good achievement. Unfortunately we were without our regular central defenders for the Senior Knock Out Quarter final with Reepham and lost 5-2. Our U18’s lost for the second time to Kirkley & Pakefield who are a very good side and that may be has put paid to hopes of retaining the East Division title won last season. But there is a long way to go and they will battle all the way. Despite some awful weather our Fireworks Display on Nov 6th went well and those who came enjoyed the evening. Not unexpectedly the attendance was down on last year but we still made a small profit. Thanks to everyone who did come. Our next fund raiser is the Xmas Draw, so if you are attending one of our games do buy some tickets available at the bar. The social club is available to hire and there is still time to book for your Xmas or New Year events. Please contact Chris Green on 783936. For full details of all club matters, please logon to our website www.wroxhamfc.com or follow us on Twitter @the_yachtsmen Xmas greetings and happy new year to all our followers. HOVETON, WROXHAM & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB

Charlotte Philcox’s practical talk on Vegetable growing in pots and containers last month was enjoyed by everyone, with many good ideas noted for trying out next season. The monthly bloom results for November were 1st Jean Hanson, 2nd Terry Crouch, 3rd Pat Crouch. Our speaker for December 2nd, 7.30pm at Hoveton Village Hall, will be Sheila Ashe with her presentation of The Winter Garden. December contest entries for members to bring along will be: a flowering indoor plant, 6 Christmas fayre and a monthly bloom. Afterwards there will be refreshments, raffle and time for a chat. Visitors are welcome, £2. Looking ahead to 2017; we will be holding our AGM and Social on January 6th at 7.30pm. Do come and join us to find out about our full calendar of events booked for next year. Yearly membership of £15 will include a 10% discount at two local garden centres. Contact Pat 01603 782523. GARDENING TIPS FOR DECEMBER AND JANUARY Where has 2016 gone? It’s nearly over but what a lovely year it has been. This is a good time to tidy up your beds and borders. Remove any weeds; add organic matter and fork over. Cut down herbaceous perennials and divide plants if they are getting too big. If your shrubs are getting too large, prune them back. Hedging, like privet, laurel and beech can be cut back hard if needed. If any planting is planned, bare root is available, especially roses, hedging, trees and shrubs. Prepare the ground before planting, adding organic matter to the hole, then plant, firming around the base of the stem. Keep clearing the leaves around the garden and compost them. In the veg garden, harvest Brussel sprouts, leeks and parsnips. Dig over, applying organic matter and leave rough for the frost to break it down. If the weather is bad, catch up with those indoor jobs. Clean those trays, pots and labels. Once you have finished with your lawnmower, give it a clean. If you get it serviced, book it in now. Tidy the shed, clean and sharpen your tools. If you don’t fancy venturing out, sort out your seeds and decide what you would like in the garden next year. Invite your friends and neighbours round to share thoughts and ideas. Or why not join a club, like ours, where you’ll meet like-minded people who’ll be happy to share ideas. Have an enjoyable Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all.

Michael Ottaway, Chairman

WROXHAM AND HOVETON LIONS CLUB Here we are, another month gone and Christmas is getting nearer. Our charity concert with the RAF Squadronaires Big Band was a huge success and after

expenses we made a profit of £1315-00, which will be going to the RAF Benevolent Fund. A big thank you to all who came to the concert and all the businesses who gave raffle prizes. The craft fair in November was also very good with many different crafts available and lots of customers coming through the door. Our next craft fair will be March 12th 2017. Santa and his Sleigh attended the late night shopping evening at Horning and this was very much appreciated. He will also be attending the Winter Festival at St Johns School, Horning on Saturday 3rd and be starting his tour of the villages in our area at the beginning December, the first being Horning on Sunday December 4th. Santa is looking forward to seeing all the children then, After this he will be visitjng Wroxham, Rackheath, Coltishall, Hoveton, Horstead, Salhouse and Tunstead, along with a full day outside Roys on Saturday December17th and Tescos at Stalham, on Wednesday December 22nd. As the visits will be dependent on the weather, we will post a notice detailing the visit on our Facebook page the day before. This will be updated early afternoon on the day, should there any doubt due to the weather, so don’t forget to check our posts. Our £100 charity draw this month goes to SENSE nominated by Kim Needham from Hoveton, who donated goods to our shop in the precinct. Any one who feels they would like to join us in becoming a Lion, please ring me on 01603 784093 or our membership chair person, Lion Suzanne Barnet on 01603 782002. I'm sure you would really enjoy it. All that is left now is for me to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year and please do not forget to keep an eye on our elderly neigbours and vunerable people during our coming winter. Thank you all.

Lion Terry Vout, President THE PROBUS CLUB OF BROADLANDS The Probus Club of Broadlands is a fellowship club for men who are retired or semi-retired. We meet on the last Wednesday of every month between 12.15 and 15.00 at The Norfolk Mead Hotel, Coltishall for drinks, a delicious chef cooked lunch and a guest speaker presentation on a variety of local and general interest subjects. At our last meeting on 26th October we welcomed our speaker Robert Jennings from our locally based Royal British Legion (RBL) group.

We were given a history of how and why the RBL started and how still vital in supporting all ex-servicemen and their families. Below is an abbreviated and much shortened version of Bob’s detailed and clear notes for his presentation. The British Legion was formed on 15 May 1921, bringing together four national organisations of Ex-Servicemen that had established themselves after the First World War. At that time the main purpose of the Legion was straightforward - to care for those who had suffered during service in the Armed Forces, whether through their own service or through that of a husband, father or son. The suffering took many forms: the effect of a war wound on a man's ability to earn a living and support his family, or a war widow's struggle to give her children an education. After the war Britain's economy plummeted and in 1921 there were two million unemployed. Over six million men had served in the war - 725,000 never returned. Of those who came back, 1.75 million had suffered some form of disability and half of these were permanently disabled. Added to this figure were the families who depended on those who had gone to war - the wives and children, widows and orphans as well as the parents who had lost sons in the war. The situation so moved Lancastrian Lance Bombardier Tom Lister, that he decided that if the government was either unable or unwilling to do anything to improve the lives of Ex-Servicemen, he would do something about it himself. This eventually led to the formation of The British Legion. When the Legion's leaders looked around them, they saw the gigantic task of looking after those who had suffered in the recent war and the need to prevent further sacrifice by reminding the nation of the human cost of war and to work actively for peace. By the time of the Legion's formation in 1921, the tradition of an annual Two Minute Silence in memory of the dead had been established. The first ever Poppy Day Appeal was held that year on 11 November 1921. The Legion was granted ‘Royal’ status in 1971 and in 1981 membership was extended to serving members of Her Majesty's Armed Forces. Today anyone can become a member, men and women of all ages, whether they have served in the Armed Forces or not are welcome to help continue the work that was begun nearly 100 years ago. Every year in November, we distribute poppies to remember the fallen and support the new generation of veterans that need our help. Our Remembrance events will help the nation to come together and remember our Armed Forces past and present. The Poppy Appeal has been running for 95 years and is still the most important source of funds to help the Legion carry out its work.

For the 2015/16 Appeal the national total was over £44 million with the Norfolk total at £701,837.32. Bob was applauded and thanked for his detailed and informative presentation in return he thanked us for our attention and friendly hospitality and enjoyable lunch. The Probus Club of Broadlands is always keen to welcome new members, or to hear from those who would like to know more. We look forward to meeting and greeting you at one of our future meetings . Contact Steve Robb on 01603 736597

BROADLANDS ROTARY CLUB Fund Raising in October On Saturday 22nd October we joined with our sister club in Wroxham to collect for the ‘End Polio Now’ project and we raised just over £500 to help complete this task. Our thanks go to all those who donated to this cause. Remembrance Sunday On November 13th we laid a wreath at the Wroxham War Memorial. The Jon Egging Trust In October we had an inspiring talk from Sarah Cross about the work of the trust in Norfolk. The trust was set up in memory of Red Arrows pilot, John Egging who lost his life at the Bournemouth Air Show. It realises his dream of supporting young people to reach their full potential. (http://www.joneggingtrust.org.uk) St John Ambulance We had a brilliant demonstration from Val Saunders on resuscitation and using a defibrillator which was really useful now there are so many available in the community. Lendwithcare - Double recognition for Broadlands Rotary Club Our District has awarded us the Certificate of Recognition for our work supporting poor entrepreneurs through Lendwithcare and Lendwithcare has recognised our Rotary Club as Lender of the Week! One of Our Recipients of a Loan - Helping in Ecuador We have now helped 20 entrepreneurs around the world. One is Melva Rivera who lives in southern Ecuador. She and her husband have a small business making and selling building bricks. They also have a smallholding and grow maize, beans and sugar cane. All of their eight children are now married and independent. When they started their business 32 years ago, they produced 5000 bricks monthly and had to lease a kiln. Through years of hard work, their micro-enterprise grew and now they produce 20,000 bricks a month. They own their own

kiln and a large plot of land. They employ three labourers, one full-time and two part-time and earn on average a profit of $700 per month. Melva requested a loan to buy sand and other raw materials in bulk, to save on costs. Part of the loan supports employing the labourers. Our Carol Service: Wednesday December 14th at 7pm at St Margaret’s Church, Old Catton This is one of the most enjoyable events in the year, with all our favourite Carols and readings. Afterwards we chat over drinks and nibbles before we set off for home in a festive mood. You would be very welcome to join us and if you can let me know we can cater accordingly. But if you are unable to tell me in advance, just come along and swell the voices singing carols! The more the merrier! If you would like to know more about our club and our events please contact me: annchantryprice@gmail.com, Tel: 01603 270478 / 01296 660202 or visit our website: http://www.rotaryclubofbroadlands.org.uk Ann Chantry-Price WROXHAM BURE VALLEY ROTARY CLUB By the time you read this the draw will have been made in our spectacular “win a car” raffle in aid of EACH, the East Anglia Air Ambulance, the End Polio Now campaign and other charities supported by our rotary club, and hopefully the winner will now be proudly driving around in their brand new car. Full results including confirmation of money raised next time, but we certainly went out with a flurry of activity in November with appearances at Budgen’s, Poringland, Castle Mall (twice) and the Christmas craft fair at the Norfolk show ground. A huge thank you to everyone who bought tickets and even if you didn’t win this time we can all be happy knowing our contributions have gone to some great causes. Our collection at Roy’s in Wroxham in October in aid of our Purple for Polio campaign, done jointly with Broadlands rotary club, raised£551 – again many thanks to everyone who donated. We have also recently made donations to other local charities including Nelson’s Journey, the Benjamin Foundation, and the Nancy Oldfield Trust. We have also approved a project to supply a replacement water tank for a village we work with in Ghana, where the existing tank has recently sprung a leak. Now we are into December we are active with our Santa and sleigh collecting for local charities including East Anglia air ambulance and East Anglian Children’s Hospices, so keep your eyes and ears open for our visits. We are always pleased to welcome more new members into the club - you can pop along and meet us any Monday evening if you fancy finding out a bit more about us and what we get up to, but please contact our secretary Anne Kittle in advance on 07887523071 to check the meeting details and so we can ensure we have food for you. Visit our web-site on www.wroxhamrotary.org.uk for more information and details of our exciting programme for

the first half of 2017, or our Facebook page on www.facebook.com/wroxhamburevalleyrotaryclub or contact our president, Rosemary Youngs on 01603 717272. There is no better way to give something back to the local community...and no better time than now.

WHB TWINNING ASSOCIATION Our annual AGM meeting was well attended on 10th November in Wroxham Church Hall; we listened to our Treasurer and Chairman telling us about our finances and year’s activities, their thanks to the committee and all who help us, including our excellent hosts without whom we could not function and Marie, who audits our accounts, and then on to the serious business of sampling the Loire wines which our kind French friends always bring us from their local vineyards. A very convivial evening. Our Twinning visit to France next year, 9-15th August, is progressing well, coach, overnight stay and visit to Versailles all booked and our French hosts well on with organising our trips out while we’re there. We’re very pleased with the costs which are not much more than two years ago: an extremely reasonable week’s holiday. The post-Christmas dinner is booked at Wroxham Barns on 13th January 2017: more details, menu etc will go out shortly. Looking forward also to our Quiz and Supper evening on 4th February in Wroxham Church Hall, teams of six, starting at 7.30pm. French Conversation is continuing to tackle our bilingual texts and then discussing the various themes and topics which arise, where we met our partners at Jane and Phil’s in Wroxham in October. Angela’s turn to host in Hoveton in November on 16th and our Christmas bring a plate buffet at Elizabeth’s in Belaugh on 14th December. Book Club was at Sheila’s in Wroxham in November for “The Poisonwood Bible” by Barbara Kingsolver: no meeting in December on the last Wednesday so two books to discuss when we meet again in January. For any more information on any of the above please contact us via our chairman, Peter, on 01603 782733 or peter_c_milsted@talk21.com WROXHAM SOCIAL CLUB May I take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and New Year and to thank the Committee for all their help, work and support over the past year. Thank you to all the members too. We wouldn’t have a club without you. We had our Jumble Sale in October which was not very well attended, but we still made a profit to help towards all the work which we have had done. By the time you read this we will have had our Club AGM and Bowls AGM. Events:- Dec 3rd Bingo Dec 10th Reminiscing Quiz with ‘Linda’ Dec 17th Christmas Party Next year’s events will be up to the new Committee to decide. Newsletters will be out as soon as we have news for you. Bingo starts 8pm. All other events 7-30pm.

Friday night is Darts night. 7-30pm & Snooker. Snooker available most nights. Phone me for more information. New members over 16 years. Membership is £26 for a year due in December, joining later in the year the fee is pro rata. Half price for 16-17 year olds. Temporary Membership is £5 per week. Deductable from full membership. We have two full size Snooker tables, Lawn Bowls, Table Tennis, Darts, cards etc. are always available. Quizzes, Bingo, Whist etc. Club membership entitles you to all club events and facilities. Bowls, Leisure and Social. For more information please contact Rosemary Burdett (Chairman) 419811. Or any other member or committee member. WROXHAM & DISTRICT LADIES’ LUNCHEON CLUB We meet on the first Tuesday of each month (excluding July, August and September) for an excellent lunch, followed by a talk on a variety of subjects, which is always interesting and entertaining. New members and visitors are always welcome to join us for good company and to hear speakers on a wide variety of topics. Mrs Jenny Atkinson on 01603 472556 or 01692 535932 will be happy to give you further details. BARTON HOUSE RAILWAY www.bartonhouserailway.org.uk enquiries@bartonhouserailway.org.uk 01603 782008 Open 3rd. Sunday of the month from April to October from 2.30pm to 5.30pm A letter of thanks to everyone had been received from the Preston Family and on behalf of the Unthank Family Centre team (nominated charity) who ran the BBQ and raffle at the evening running, advising that £640.55 had been raised. Our final normal third Sunday Running of the season was on 16th. October and with the weather being very reasonable visitor numbers were the fourth highest of the season almost reaching 100 but in spite of this, takings were surprisingly down at a fraction over £300. The usual end of season meeting followed the running with Peter Bower in the chair. It took the same form as for previous years with members forming into groups to discuss good and bad points from the year after which items were summarised to be followed up as necessary in due course. Running dates for 2017 were outlined, the third Sunday runnings from April to October inclusive with Bank Holiday Runnings on Easter Monday. The Evening Running would be on Saturday 23rd September and the Santa Special on Sunday 17th. December. A lovely buffet had again been provided by Christine Spencer and grateful thanks were given to her for this. The nominated charity for 2018 would be "Chatterbox" who's aim is to improve the facilities for children who have specific speech and language disorders. The first Junior Club Day took place on Saturday 29th. October from 10am till 12noon when after a formal introduction and welcome, the children (under supervision) were given the opportunity to perform any duty they wished (driver, guard, signalman etc.) and it went without saying they all enjoyed it to the full. It was good to see and it was with grateful thanks to staff who attended without

who's time this event would not have been possible. The Joint Friends Committee were scheduled to meet at 7pm on 22nd November, the Annual Dinner has been planned for 9th January at Barton House and the Annual Meeting on 6th. Feb. A busy week-end to finish this year either side of the Santa Special is the preparation Day on the Saturday and clear-up Day on the Monday.

SEASONS GREETINGS FROM ALL AT BHR.

REMINDER: SUNDAY 20th DECEMBER 12noon to 3pm THIS IS THE "SANTA

SPECIAL" BOOKINGS ARE NECESSARY

Booking forms available at BHR or by application to: “Santa Booking” BHR, 53, Harbord Close, NORTH WALSHAM, Norwich, Norfolk.

NR28 0TA 07749 806351 or 01692 218515 e-mail: emmahoward88@yahoo.co.uk

WROXHAM WI At the October meeting of Wroxham WI Alistair Murphy, Curator of Cromer Museum, enthused members as he spoke with passion of the life and work of photographer, Olive Edis (1876-1955). Although not a native of Norfolk, she made Sheringham her home taking advantage of the clear natural light to take portraits in her glass roofed studio. She loved to photograph the local fisher and lifeboat men but as her fame grew she was inn demand to photograph members of society and royalty including Edward, Prince of Wales and Albert, later King George VI. She had the gift of making all her subjects feel at ease in front of the camera, believing that the face is an X-ray of the soul. Poignant photos of women from the First World War and stark scenes of post war devastation made her the first women celebrated as a war photographer. Members were encouraged to visit Cromer Museum to see Olive's work and the exhibition in her honour, " Fishermen and Kings" at the Castle Museum, Norwich until 22nd January 2017.Members heard how Norfolk WI would be taking part with many other organisations at The Forum, Norwich on 25th November to support the campaign "Norfolk Says No" to abuse and sexual violence. A focus for the day is a 10 foot high totem shaped as a crossed ribbon which will be covered in white ribbon messages of support including one from Wroxham WI.Having celebrated with a Birthday Lunch on 4th November members are now looking forward to the next meeting on Wednesday 21st December, the Christmas Party, lovely things to eat, fun and entertainment! Then it is down to business at the New Year meeting on Wednesday 18th January 2017. Why not come along for 2.30 pm at the Church Rooms, Norwich Road, Wroxham to see what Wroxham WI has to offer you. Jean Watson

HOVETON & DISTRICT WI Craft Day: For the first time ever Hoveton W.I. hosted a Craft Day on Thursday 27th October. Over 30 W.I members and friends from all over the county came along to try their hand at new crafts. They were supervised and encouraged by specialist tutors. The choice was stained glass art, rag rug wreaths, weaving and patchwork needle cases and, of course, being the W.I. a good lunch and refreshments were provided. A big ‘Thank You’ goes to our secretary Sandra Balaam for organising such a successful and popular event. At the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 2nd November the committee members who served for 2015/16 were re-elected with Sue Cobb as President. After the AGM a floral themed quiz caused lots of amusement and this was followed by our usual cup of tea and cakes. The Christmas meeting on Wednesday 7th December will be musical. We will be welcoming ‘The Norfolk Belles’ with musical director Margaret Collingwood to entertain us. Our Christmas lunch has been booked for Monday 12th December at The Brick Kilns, Little Plumstead. The January meeting on Wednesday 4th January will be ‘An Afternoon at the Movies’ in Hoveton Village Hall! This time it will be the wonderful 2016 film based on the TV series of ‘Dad’s Army’. Not to be missed. Popcorn and ice cream will be available. The first lunch group get together of 2017 will be at 12.15 p.m. Monday 9th January. Our January Craft Group meeting will be on Tuesday 17th. If you think you might be interested to find out more about the W.I. why not come along to one of our meetings at 2 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month at Hoveton Village Hall. For more details contact Sue on 01603 783387. 1ST WROXHAM GUIDES Late in October, Wroxham Guides joined South Walsham Guides for a walk around Fairh Woodland & Water Gardens with one of their conservationist. Unfortunately we weren’t very l with the weather – it rained all day and there were still showers as we walked / squelched in torch to the staithe. When there was a break in the clouds, the Guides turned off their torches and trie identify some constellations, not easy when the clouds obscured parts of them. Back in the tearo the Guides completed nature related quizzes and enjoyed a hot chocolate before heading ho Throughout November, Guides continued to work on their chosen Go For Its! – Animal Activa Lights, Camera, Action. Activities have included a pet based bingo game, designing myt creatures, creating shoe box habitats, playing animal charades, filming wildlife, completing an act based on famous lines, making photo frames and a camera obscura. Most Guides have now comp

4 out of the 6 clauses of the Diwali Challenge badge. Discovery – acting out stories of Rama and Cuisine – making Chai, Barfi, vegetable samosas or chocolate pedas; Traditions – creating Ran and Henna designs. By the time this goes to print, Guides will have completed an activity on light another on celebrations. On the nearest Wednesday to Remembrance, Wroxham Guides spen informative evening at the new Norfolk Girlguiding Archive Resource Centre. Helen, the Co Guide Archivist dressed up a traditional Guide Captains uniform and welcomed the Guides to Centre in darkness – blackout conditions. She spent the evening telling the Guides how Gu started and ran various activities so Guides today could learn what Guides did during the 1st and World Wars. The learnt the history of ‘unclaimed babies’ which were later produced as ‘Peace Ba and now known as Jelly Babies and Digging for Victory. We hope Helen will run another sessio us next year using other materials and uniforms in the archives. The new recruits have now fini their red scarf challenges and 2 have now made their Guide Promises and the three oldest Guide well on their way to completing their Baden Powell Awards. In December 10 Wroxham Guides be attending the Christmas Camp at Eaton Vale with other Guides and Scouts from around County for an action packed weekend of adventurous activities, crafts and finding time to wat Christmas themed film. We will be holding a Christmas craft themed evening and finish 2016 session at High Altitude where Guides will bounce on wall to wall trampolines, with some angle they will be bouncing off the walls. As the year comes to an end, I would like to thank all those pe who have given their time, shared their skills and or funding to help Wroxham Guides enjoy su varied and challenging programme which has given the Guides opportunities to try new activities extend their skills in a safe and fun environment. In the new year we will welcome a couple of from the waiting list and look forward to another full programme. Kate Leader 1st Wroxham Guides 01603 722665 katherine135@btinternet.com ASHMANHAUGH & BARTON WANDERERS CRICKET CLUB The cricket season has finished for another year although we have one team playing in an ind winter league throughout some of the colder months, just to keep our hand in so to speak! Winter indoor practice nets will commence very soon both for adults and juniors, for th interested in joining us please keep an eye on the website, Facebook page and Twitter for up to d information, dates, times and venues.

We also have some very exciting news to announce regarding our new main club sponsor and n player/coaches; again keep a look out for the announcement on our website and in the local press more information. We ended the season with a Halloween party in the clubhouse which we hope those who atten enjoyed, it was a fun evening for everyone, thank you to all who helped and supported the club in final fundraiser of the year. The club as a whole would also like to thank everyone who has supported us throughout the p year and very much look forward to seeing you on the boundary in the future. Please note that the Ashmanhaugh and Barton Wanderers CC AGM is scheduled to take place January 11th at The Green Man, Rackheath. This will provide an opportunity for everyone to h their say, to meet up prior to the start of the season and to find out more information about fut plans. Please see the website and social media for confirmation of times etc. Finally may we take this opportunity to once again thank you for your support and to wish every a very Happy Christmas and a happy and healthy 2017 Best wishes from A & B Wanderers CC FITNESS FOR ALL! Have you been told you need to exercise more? Would you like to improve your mobility? Would you prefer to stay local? Try your local community fitness club, run by Neatishead Community Gym! We can’t promise you honed hunks or leotard clad lovelies, but we can promise a warm, friendly welcome and expert advice. Our regular members are people just like you, nervous about walking through our doors but now delighted they did. Come and try us out with a FREE TASTER SESSION. We are open Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays 8.30 to 12.30. Ring Carol on 01692 535342, or email gym@victoryhall.info to book your session now.

COUNCIL NEWS NORTH NORFOLK DISTRICT COUNCIL Message from County & District Councillor Nigel Dixon Update on the Regeneration of Former RAF Coltishall Many of you will know that after HMP Bure was built on part of the site the remainder was bought by Norfolk County

Council (NCC) in Jan 2013 as a regeneration opportunity, rather than letting it stand empty and decay as has been the fate of many ex airfields. Over the past 3 years much effort has been spent repairing buildings, replacing infrastructure and marketing the 600 acre site with a vast range of buildings. Below is a list of key regeneration achievements on what’s now called Scottow Enterprise Park (SEP): A 49.9 mega watt PV solar farm on most of the grass area of the airfield producing electricity and income of around £500,000 a year for the next 20 years. A program to refurbish and reconfigure 122 buildings offering 510,000 sq ft of space is progressing well with 80 completed and occupied; this work is likely to continue for at least 2 years. This has created space for existing businesses to grow and new ones formed. There are about 65 Tenants, most are active businesses, some are for storage facilities and the list even includes the local running club which has a clubhouse and uses the taxiways as safe training routes. The site has Enterprise Zone status which offers tenants up to 5 years business rate relief, simplified planning procedures and access to superfast Broadband. There are 9 start-up businesses and 133 people are employed across the site. A new water supply network project is well advanced and has about 6 months further work to supply all planned buildings. One building has been configured to offer ‘incubation space’ for start up businesses from Dec 16 and there’s a support program for those working in Science, Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing (STEM) activities; this links up with work being done by North Norfolk DC to promote STEM based business, training and job opportunities. SEP is already making a modest operating profit in 2016/17 even though the site has required considerable investment and still needs more to replace the roofs of 2 Hangars and other work. SEP offers huge scope for economic regeneration and work prospects on a semi secure site which is also within a conservation area; it has created a range of high skill, well paid job opportunities within easy commuting distance of Hoveton & Wroxham. It’s a good example of efforts to create work to match the rising local population. Winter Weather Snow Clearance Issues As we approach Winter, many of you will recall the problems of past Winters and I don’t know how severe the coming winter will be but it’s timely to remember the following points when coping with winter weather: 1. Norfolk County Council has responsibility for clearing and gritting the vast majority of Norfolk roads; it has comprehensive arrangements and resources to cope with most winters and the cost is both affordable and provides good value for money.

2. There will inevitably be times when demand exceeds available resources and NCC relies on communities to deal with some tasks on a self help basis, especially for footpaths and common areas around business premises etc. 3. Grit bins for footpaths and steep slopes can be provided where communities agree there are high risks. There is a partnership arrangement whereby Parish Councils provide the grit bins in places it selects and NCC supplies the grit either on a routine basis or on request. Communities are then able to promptly deal with footpath gritting selectively as they wish. Are your grit bins full, in readiness? 4. Communities are also encouraged to clear snow from footpaths and other public areas, on a self help basis, when gritting isn’t available or appropriate. There is a common myth that individuals who clear snow from footpaths, in front their property for example, make themselves liable for personal injuries if someone slips over in that area. Clear legal advice from NCC lawyers states that is not the case, providing people follow normal practices such as using a broom or shovel to clear snow. Do not use hot water to simply melt the snow which then re-freezes, forming sheet ice. In many cold countries, it’s either a legal obligation or expected practice for residents to clear snow from bordering footpaths etc and that is one reason why they seem to cope much better than we in the UK. Finally, as we approach the festive season I take this opportunity to thank you for your support (whether it’s information, ideas or views) and wish you a happy and healthy festive break. My contact details are: Tel 783885 or e mail: nigel.dixon@norfolk.gov.uk or NigelNDD@aol.com HOVETON PARISH COUNCIL The minutes of HPC meetings can be viewed at http://www.hoveton-pc.org.uk or on the Village Notice Boards

News From Hoveton Parish Council A number of vacancies still exist for councillors, so Hoveton Parish Council is on the lookout for dedicated and enthusiastic members of the local community who would like to get involved with the development of the parish as a whole. Have you ever thought about becoming a parish councillor? Would you like to know more about what’s involved? Why not come along to the Council’s next meeting to find out more, and to discover if the role of a parish councillor might interest you? Hoveton Village Hall Update From Cllr Jilly Gourlay Gosh, folks....where has this month gone?! So much to do and so little time! As reported last month, Hoveton Parish Council has now taken on the trusteeship of Hoveton Village Hall and playing field. Rita Massingham and her committee have run and kept this wonderful amenity in superb shape for a number of years, under incredibly difficult circumstances. I'm

sure as a community (and indeed on a personal level) we all wish Rita well and send our sincere thanks for her work. A small committee has been formed to keep the Village Hall up and running. If you'd like to help, please get in touch – we could always do with more help and ideas. We plan to install Wi-Fi sooner rather than later, so if there are any small businesses who would like to use our rooms, we'd be delighted to hear from them. We have three rooms that can easily accommodate up to 20-30 people for meetings, or perhaps you'd like to start up a business and need office space? Do you belong to a club or organisation that needs accommodation? Want to hold a family or children's party? Why not use us?! Did you know we have a bar? You can use it! (Just apply for a licence.) We have some great fundraising ideas that we hope will take place from spring onwards, so watch this space; but if you have an idea that you think would raise money, please get in touch. What would YOU like to see happening at the Hall? What would YOU support? Hoveton Village Hall is run as a charity. It does not receive any funding from the District Council, so it has to make its own money to stay open. Hoveton Parish Council pays for grass cutting, but we need a new roof, new play equipment for the younger ones, and the Hall needs decorating too. Please support the events we put on, and we'll do our best to improve the facilities this village badly needs. You can reach me at twinklingjilly@gmail.com or on 07818 214277 to find out more. If you'd like to rent the facilities, please call Mrs Cannon, the caretaker, on 01603 784100. Hoveton Police Station Following Stalham Police Station's recent closure, police teams covering Stalham and Hoveton (including the Stalham Safer Neighbourhood Team) will now work together from Hoveton Police Station on Stalham Road. Norfolk Constabulary's dedicated Broads Beat service will also continue to be based at Hoveton, and a Police Volunteer will be available at the Station on a Monday morning. Residents are advised to continue to call the 101 non-emergency number with any enquiries or issues (or 999 in an emergency), but Hoveton Parish Council is pleased to see this more visible police presence in the village. Halogen Heater Loan North Norfolk District Council has kindly provided Hoveton Parish Council with a halogen heater, which may be loaned to vulnerable residents in times of hardship. If you are struggling to keep warm this winter because of a breakdown of your heating system or a late delivery of heating oil, please contact Cllr Peter Howe on 01603 783096 to request use of the heater. New Sign For Granary Staithe A new sign designed by local artist Nick Walmsley will be put up in the next few weeks. The sign explains, very briefly, some of the history of the Staithe.

Next Meeting – Monday 5th December, 6.30pm Hoveton Parish Council’s next meeting is on Monday 5th December, 6.30pm, in the Jubilee Room at Hoveton Village Hall, and all are welcome to attend. In the meantime, please visit the Council’s website (www.hoveton-pc.org.uk) or check the parish noticeboards for updates and information, or to view the minutes of Council meetings. If you have any concerns or ideas you’d like to share, please contact the parish clerk (07572 349600 or clerk@hoveton-pc.org.uk) or one of your parish councillors. The Council’s first meeting of 2017 is due to take place on Monday 9th January, and our next report for The Bridge will be published on 1st February. Until then, Hoveton Parish Council would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday season and a very happy new year! WROXHAM PARISH COUNCIL NEWS The Government wants more housing to be built and Wroxham, like most other villages in the country, wants a say in controlling the worst excesses of development and creating the best possible environment for us all. Pressure from central government to allow more housing to be built is a challenge for all local communities and with a plan to create 37,000 new homes in the greater Norwich area Wroxham Parish Council has decided to create a Neighbourhood Plan. So what is a Neighbourhood Plan? Well for a start it’s not the Parish Plan which was created a few years ago. It’s a statutory document that states how much and what kind of development a community will allow and what infrastructure changes may been needed to accommodate it. You may have read the recent publication of the latest plans from the Greater Norwich Growth Board, made up of representatives of Broadland and South Norfolk District Councils together with Norwich City Council and the Broads Authority showing the sites of proposed possible new housing development. The GNGB have set themselves a target of building 37,000 new homes in the greater Norwich area within the next ten years plus creating 27,000 new jobs. In the early summer it appealed for land owners to come forward with sites for new housing. These include a proposal to build more than 300 new homes on land bordered by The Avenue and the Salhouse Road. This application has been around for a while and just because a developer wants to build it doesn't mean to say it will be allowed. But the GNGB has its job to do and pressures are mounting everywhere for more land for more homes. So what does a Neighbourhood Plan do exactly? Well it’s our chance to produce a document which will outline where and what type of new development we feel is appropriate for our village. It will be a big job and will require a lot of work by the team involved in creating it. There will be public meetings and consultations. We will be asking everyone for their thoughts and ideas. When the plan is finally completed it will be submitted for approval to Broadland District Council. If it is accepted there will then be a referendum for all voters in

the village to either accept or reject the Plan. If it is accepted then it becomes the template for the future and any planning application that goes against the Plan should fail at the first hurdle. It also means that we would get 25% of the Community Infrastructure Levy - money paid by builders of larger developments - rather than the 15% we would get without a Neighbourhood Plan. The Government also has a new Bill before Parliament at the moment which would give greater weight to Neighbourhood Plans and allow them to be amended by local communities if circumstances should change in the future. Many villages now have these plans - Blofield was amongst the most recent - and it’s now our chance to shape the future of our village. Work will begin in earnest in January. The plan will be to form a working group made of people from our village to assist in this important project. If you would like to help we would love to hear an expression of interest from you. If you have a background in architecture or planning you may be able to lend your skills to the group. Or are you a people person and would love to help us in talking to people about our future? This great task will require an assembly of all the talents in our village. If you would like to register your interest please contact the Parish Council’s Convenor for the Neigbourhood Plan project, Councillor Malcolm Allsop by email if possible - malcolm.allsop@icloud.com New Teams On The Parish Council The Parish Council has announced a range of new initiatives to make it more effective, more transparent and more open. It has appointed a number of councillors, each supported by a team of colleagues to tackle issues in specific areas of interest. They are as follows: Planning and New Capital Projects: Cllr Barry Fiske, Finance: Cllr Ian Joynson; Recreation And Amenities: Cllr Chris Hall; Administration and Governance and Parish Surgeries: Cllr Kim Claxton; Wherry Gardens: Cllr Patrick Hadingham; Press and Public Relations, Neighbourhood Plan and Relationships With Other Councils: Cllr Malcolm Allsop. You can contact any of the councillors about issues in their remit. Their contact details are on our web site www.wroxham-pc.org. The Council has welcomed its newest member - Cllr Tony Adams. Tony had a long career as a London firefighter and the director or of a home counties building company before moving to Wroxham last year. The next Parish Surgery - come along and talk to a councillor - is at Wroxham Library on Saturday December 3 between 10 and 11.30 a.m. where you can also register your interest in helping with the Neighbourhood Plan project. Keep up to date with latest news on our Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/ourwroxham Contacts for Parish Clerk Daphne Wyatt : wroxham_pc@btinternet.com. Tel. 01603 721474

ARTICLES & PRESS RELEASES

MACMILLAN MAMMOTH QUIZ

The Macmillan Mammoth Quiz is back, now in its 9th year with a brand new, brain-teasing quiz for 2017. The Mammoth Quiz is Macmillan’s nationwide quiz. Simply put, it is the same quiz, being held on the same day, at the same time, throughout the country. The mammoth quiz even holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest simultaneous quiz. We need you to help make the 2017 Macmillan Quiz the biggest and best yet.

Macmillan are looking for local groups and businesses across the UK to host a quiz on 24th February 2017 to raise vital funds for people affected by cancer. It's a really fun and easy way to raise money for Macmillan, and you can hold your quiz anywhere from the local pub or bowling club to the office or school. Previous participants have commented “It was a great Quiz and everyone enjoyed it tremendously” and that “the questions are so interesting and catch the imagination”.

It free to sign up to host a Mammoth Quiz. You will then be sent a welcome pack with a 2017 quiz and fundraising materials. All that is left for you to do is book a venue and sell tickets! There is also the Macmillan Mammoth Quiz website (www.macmillan.org.uk/mammoth). On here you will find tips for organising your quiz, posters and tickets, a bit of information about Macmillan and even some sneaky samples.

To register for your 2017 quiz pack, find out more about the Mammoth Quiz and start downloading sample questions and fundraising materials, please log on to www.macmillan.org.uk/mammoth or email fundraising@macmillan.org.uk

THE BEST CHRISTMAS EVER . . . Wroxham Barns loves Christmas and just can’t wait …. there’s so much going on. Open daily 10am to 5pm and closed only on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day the festivities start as the decorations go up early in November. They believe that Christmas shopping doesn’t need to be a chore – no stress, no queues here – so visitors can enjoy browsing and start ticking items of the Christmas shopping list. Discover beautiful things for the home as well as design-led, quirky and handmade Norfolk gifts. Of course, there’s also lots of delicious food and drink at Wroxham Barns with everything from store cupboard staples for your Christmas baking to gourmet gift boxes. To round off a great day out there will be daily festive specials on the Restaurant menu from 1st December. Mark the date for the special Christmas Customer Evening on Thursday 1st December 5pm – 9pm. FREE to attend, all welcome and plenty of free parking so no High-Street hassle. To get everybody in the Christmas spirit, there’s a complimentary glass of mulled wine and a mince pie waiting at The Pantry Coffee Shop, music from two local Choirs and a visit from Santa in his sleigh. Plus a range of special offers available – for one night only!

Especially for the children, Santa has agreed to take time out of his busy schedule and will be hosting 1½ hour SANTA PARTIES in Bella’s Barn on Junior Farm with gifts for the children, magic tricks, fun and crafts while mum and dad are welcome to take lots of photos. Taking place on 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th December at 10.30am, 1pm and 3.30pm, booking is essential as places are limited. Ticket prices range from £6.75 to £10.75 which includes admission to Junior Farm and Santa Party, while standard admission to Junior Farm applies to adults. THE PRESTON ROOMS – THE VILLAGE HALL Our event for December is the Christmas Thank you and Grand Draw. This will take place on December 16th , following on from the Christmas Carol Service at St Swithin’s. In case you need reminding, the Carol Service starts at 6.30pm, with the Thank you starting at around 7.30pm, when everyone has made their way back from the church. This event is a great time to have a catch up over a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie.

As this is the last newsletter of the year, may I on behalf of the committee say a big Thank You to all those people who organised and took part in the events of 2016. The committee is busy planning events for 2017 and if anyone has any suggestions for great fund raising ideas we would very much like to hear from you. We would also love to hear from anyone who would like to become a trustee of the Preston Room.

Finally, on behalf of the Preston Room Committee may I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Sue Watts

Secretary

BRIDGE VETS

With the festive season upon us, we would like to make you aware of a few problems and illnesses we see particularly at this time of year.

Decorating our homes is something we all look forward to, the smell of the Christmas tree. But to our pets the needles can be quite toxic if eaten and even an irritant on their

paws. Don’t forget that seasonal plants such as holly, poinsettia, ivy and mistletoe can all be toxic; they best to be kept out of their reach. Brightly coloured baubles and shiny tinsel are new and exciting for pets,

who may try to eat them causing all sorts of problems or just break them and get cut. Try to ensure fragile glass decorations are well out of reach and secure. Make sure that fairy lights and wires are “chew proof” from inquisitive puppies, kittens and even rabbits too!

Food wise there are hazards galore at this time of year. Most will be well aware that chocolate is extremely poisonous to dogs and cats (rule darker equals more deadly); call us immediately if you suspect that your pet has eaten any. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting and diarrhoea and increased urination, progressing to seizures and sometimes death. Grapes, raisins, currants and sultanas can be very toxic to our pets, so don’t give your pet’s mince pies, Christmas cake or pudding. Even a small amount can cause a problem including vomiting and diarrhoea which can progress to kidney damage and even failure within a few days. A Christmas treat for our four legged friends is often the turkey gravy poured on their dinner. Rich, fatty foods such as gravy can cause stomach upsets, along with diarrhoea and in some cases a serious condition called pancreatitis – which is an inflammation of the pancreas resulting in pain, vomiting and dehydration. Dogs will often require hospitalisation for treatment. Turkeys bones are a choking hazard, can seriously damage internal organs and also cause obstructions and constipation. Some nuts contain toxins, which can affect the digestive and nervous systems and muscles of dogs. As well as being a choking hazard and potential intestinal obstruction.

One other unexpected problem is antifreeze; it is very tasty to cats but will cause irreversible kidney failure even if your cat just licks their paws after walking through a puddle of it. Emergency treatment is needed.

Obviously we all like to spoil our pets at Christmas, but like us they also suffer if they overindulge! Try to keep treats to a minimum; their favourite treat is your love and attention.

Don’t forget that your pet maybe very stressed by all the changes in your home with extra noise and guests, ensure they have somewhere safe to hide if they are feeling nervous. Call our veterinary and nursing team for extra advice on helping them cope, or for any other advice on 01603 783920

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the team at Bridge Veterinary Practice.

David and Marie Martin

WESTOVER VETERINARY CENTRE We’ve continued to see a wide and fascinating variety of cases over the last month, including a trip to Amazona Zoo to ultrasound a Spider Monkey and check on a lame Capybara. We have also been getting plenty of use from our other diagnostic equipment including our video endoscopes. These are wonderful pieces of kit that enable us to pass tiny cameras into airways (bronchoscopes) and the intestinal tract (gastroscopes). One of the most rewarding procedures is the retrieval of foreign bodies that may otherwise go on to be very problematic to our patients. One such case was Chloe, an 8 year old domestic long haired cat who had suddenly started violently sneezing and retching. Bronchoscopic examination under general anaesthetic revealed that she had vomited an enormous blade of grass into her nasal cavity that had become lodged between her throat and her nose. Retrieving long, but delicate foreign bodies is not the easiest of tasks, but on this occasion produced one of the most impressive I have seen in a long time! With Christmas around the corner I thought I’d also use this opportunity to make a few timely reminders. Festive season means chocolate in abundance, which is toxic to dogs, as are raisins, sultanas and even currants ( as one well informed client recently reminded me), so please be careful they don’t get access to these things. For our feline companions out there, watch the tinsel and other decorations that may be played with and potentially swallowed, avoid having lilies in the house, which can cause kidney failure in cats, and keep the paracetamol locked away for our colds and hangovers only as it is highly toxic to cats! Toby Morrell MRCVS Westover Veterinary Centre

NOTICES HOVETON & WROXHAM SURGERY AND ITS PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP (PPG) For those of you who are lucky enough not to have to visit the Medical Centre before Christmas the PPG would like to alert you to a questionnaire which has been put together by the PPG in partnership with the Medical Centre’s staff. The idea of the questionnaire is to

assess the views of users of the Medical Centre and to gain an understanding of how the Practice might be able to improve its service. Patients with appointments will be handed a questionnaire by the reception staff on arrival but if you are just passing please do call in and request one that you can fill in there and then or take home with you to fill in at your leisure. Patients’ comments are always valued and the PPG would really appreciate it if as many of you as possible could complete the questionnaire before the Christmas holidays. Alex Howe 01603-783096 WROXHAM CHURCH HALL is available for hire during the day. It has a modern kitchen, good facilities and good car parking. For more information ring Janet Benson, Tel: 10603 783140 MORE WROXHAM MEMORIES The Gentleman's Magazine praised it as a miniature Westminster Cathedral when it was built in the 1830s - the Trafford Mausoleum in St Mary's churchyard now in need of some tlc. And did the audience really applaud too much for the critic reviewing a Wroxham Players production in the 1960s. Go to the parish council website <http://www.wroxham-pc.org/> http://www.wroxham-pc.org/ click on History and then Wroxham's Gothic Masterpiece for the first story then scroll down to the foot of Penny For Nell's Thoughts for the second. Or check the same titles on <http://mywroxham.norfolkparishes.gov.uk/> http://mywroxham.norfolkparishes.gov.uk/. THIS MONTH'S COVER This month to mark the season of Advent, a combination of two beautiful paintings by two old Netherlands masters. The floral garland originally framed a picture of the Virgin and Child and is by Jan Philips van Thielen; the profile of St John the Baptist by Matthias Stom. The artists were contemporaries, working in the first half of the 17th century. Van Thielen was a favourite flower painter of the time and his garland is a composite of spring and summer flowers alluding to the eternal virtues of the Virgin and Child, and some welcome colour in November; the Baptist heralds the coming of Christ, his cousin. Little is known of Stom who went to Naples and followed the chiascuro style of Caravaggio. Netherlands religious paintings of the time are immediately recognisable by their use of subjects with contemporary clothing and a distinctly northern European 'look': Stom's young Baptist could easily be just in from looking after cattle on the polder!

Nick Walmsley

Letter to the Editor I read with interest your short piece about the visit of George VI to Wroxham. As I understood it the King came to open an extension to the Primary School in Church Lane and that in the meantime the Queen Mother had tea with Lady Hastings at Bureside. I was told that they had tea outside in the wooden summer house, which I managed to maintain. The summer house is from an ancient range of prefabricated model produced by Bolton and Paul.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS BELAUGH VILLAGE CHRISTMAS LUNCH Please join us for an informal lunch in the Old School Room on Sunday 18th December at 1 - 1 30 pm. Please bring a plate of food, savoury or sweet and drinks of your choice. Tea and coffee will be provided. Any queries contact Maggie 783870 or Lindsay 783870. HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE! CYCLE RIDE The Three Rivers Way and St. Benet's Abbey - 29th December Find out about the 1000 year history of a favourite Broads landmark on a guided walk around St Benet's Abbey. Participants are invited to cycle to the site and back from Hoveton, using the new Three Rivers Way for part of the route. On the way back, there will be stop for refreshments at Horning Church. For further info. and details of how to book onto this free event, please see: www.norfolkwalkingfestival.co.uk<http://www.norfolkwalkingfestival.co.uk> CHRISTMAS WITH GARY WINTER Saturday 3rd December Hoveton village hall 7pm to 10pm advance tickets only £8.00 adults £5.00 children includes seasonal buffet and lucky ticket available from co-op or snappers on Stalham high street or 01692580485. WINTER WONDERLAND 17th and 18th December 19 Ingham road Stalham 4pm to 7pmWinter wonderland with Santa's grotto seasonal refreshments and raffle plus photos with Santa by Kerry from snappers. Free entry. Both events raising money for the East Coast Truckers children's charity 3rd & 4th December St John’s Community Primary School,

Hoveton A fantastic, festive trail around Hoveton and Wroxham with 40

large gingerbread figures decorated by local schools, community groups, organisations and businesses. Each Gingerbread man is

sponsored by a local business or community organisation.

Find letters hidden on the Gingerbread men and uncover the Christmas themed phrase to win a small prize! Entries submitted

at the school.

A trail map and leaflet will be available to those wishing to explore and check off each of the Gingerbread men

A fabulous Gingerbread Village awaits you in the school hall!

A fantastic free exhibition of Gingerbread houses and other creations, all made and decorated by the pupils of St John’s

School & Nursery…. Come and see the amazing sweet creations!

Beautiful nordic Christmas trees will also be available throughout December to purchase from the school to support

St John’s School

Kindly supported by Minors & Brady

THE OLD WOMAN WHO LIVED IN A SHOE

Rehearsals are well underway for the next production by the Horning Amateur

Theatrical Society (HATS) – ‘The Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe’ by Norman

Robbins

Dame Dallymore's orphanage is in peril. She has been unable to pay the rent for ten years, so the cruel Squire wants to make her - and all the orphans - homeless. Everything works out in the end, but not before all sorts of amusing adventures have beset the loveable and hilarious characters in this lively new pantomime that combines tradition with originality in the time-honoured Norman Robbins

style. With lavish settings and colourful costumes, HATS can promise a spectacular show.

Performances are at the Village Hall, Horning, Norfolk NR12 8LQ on Thursday 19th January, Friday 20th January and Saturday 21ST January (all evening shows at 7.30pm) and Sunday 22ND January (matinee at 2.30pm). Doors open 30 minutes before ‘curtain up’. Ice creams will be available to purchase during the interval.

Tickets are priced £6 Adults and £4 Children (16 and under). Seats may be booked by calling Delyth Crook on 01603 782990 or in person at the Horning Post Office or at Sentiments in Wroxham.

DING DONG MERRILY….. Barton Turf Choral Society are presenting their Christmas Concert at Barton Turf church on Saturday 10th December at 7.30pm. A lovely programme of Christmas music featuring traditional carols, and Charpentier’s Messe de Minuit de Noel, will be followed by seasonal refreshments. Tickets are available on the door - £8 adults, £4 children. THREE RIVERS WAY PHASE 2 HORNING TO LUDHAM BRIDGE Exhibition Thursday 2nd February 2017 There will be an exhibition explaining the options for the route of Phase 2 of the Three Rivers Way, Horning to Ludham Bridge, on Thursday 2nd February 2017 from 15.30 to 19.30 in the Annex, Horning Village Hall. The exhibition has been organised by Norfolk County Council Highways & Transport Department and representatives of the engineering design team will be on hand to explain details of the alternative routes, answer questions and receive your comments and suggestions. This exhibition is an important event in the continuation of the route and all residents of Horning, Ludham and Potter Heigham are encouraged to attend to understand the details of the proposals and give their support.

For more details email info@3rw.org.uk The Three Rivers Way Association advocates safer routes for cycling, walking and access for all between the villages of Hoveton, Horning, Ludham and Potter Heigham. Phase 1 was completed in July 2016 making it easier to travel between Hoveton and Horning without using a car. First indications show that the route is used frequently by residents and visitors. Views on the next phases are now being sought. Progress with the design of Phase 2 and support from local residents will ensure that funding applications can be made promptly when the opportunity arises.