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PARISH NEWS
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SHILLINGTON, PEGSDON & HIGHAM GOBION www.shillington.org.uk
Issue 141 – April 2019 Deadline for June edition - Friday, 24th May 2019
PARISH COUNCIL
ELECTIONS – 2 MAY 2019
See pages 37-39 for the current list of candidates for Parish Council. Only 9 were available
at time of going to press. There are 10 seats to be filled. If we only have 9 candidates by
election day or reach 10, then there will be no need for an election for local councillors. If
we don’t fill the 10 seats, then we will need to co-opt another member later. Closing date for
registration is 3rd April. MUSGRAVE ARMS UPDATE
Following the departure of the most recent landlord and lady and current closure of the pub,
we are happy to report that Hawthorn Leisure management have confirmed they are currently
interviewing potential replacements,(preferably with experience at running a village pub)
and hope to have the pub back open and running shortly.
In response to the many excited comments on the village facebook page over the last couple
of weeks or so about getting a community group together to buy up the pub.... if you had
noted the item in the December Parish News, you would be aware that there is no immediate
need to rush about trying to do this at the moment. The Musgrave, along with The Crown,
has been listed with Central Bedfordshire Council as an "asset of community value” as
defined by the Localism Act 2011 Section 88. This means that if the owner decides to sell the
pub, then they are required to notify the council in writing of their intention to do so. This is
then the point when the village community can come together to see if there is enough interest
and funds to be able to purchase it and run it as a community pub. Parish Council is of
course keen to keep the pub open as are so many of you.
CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA:
Following our consultation day with the community on 23rd February, where proposed
schemes were available to view and for you to make comment, we very much appreciated a
good turnout and valuable input.
From the comments made, we are now going back to the equipment providers with a clear
specification of the most popular items, so they can provide meaningful quotes to help us
decide the successful contractor. Hopefully an order can be placed shortly for the new area
to be created. We will of course keep you informed on when work will commence and
completion date.
DRONES:
We’ve received disturbing reports of drones being flown close to peoples’ homes (bedroom
windows), buzzing close to horses (even at dusk) and cattle and disturbing local wildlife
particularly nesting birds – the rookery in the church is apparently protected, however there
is frequent drone activity around this area.
Drone owners should be aware of rules and regulations in place so as to create minimal
disturbance to neighbours and animals and birds as well as the general public at large.
Airborne footage shown on facebook and YouTube may well have been captured illegally as,
according to UK laws regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority, consumer drones (classed
as those that weigh under 20kg) must be flown no higher than 400 feet (120 metres), and be
kept at least 50 metres away from people and private property, and 150 metres from
congested areas and organised open-air assemblies of more than 1,000 people.
You’re also required to keep your drone in your line of sight at all times and be aware of
designated “no fly zones”, which most notably include airports and prisons. In addition, you
need to register with the CAA if you’re planning to use your drone for “commercial
purposes” – this may sound like it doesn’t apply to you, but it extends to things like monetising
your YouTube channel or personal blog, however meagerly.
SPEEDWATCH
Last year we advertised for members of the community to come forward to form a local
Speedwatch as so many of us are fed up with all the speeding traffic now tearing through our
village roads or tailgating those of us obeying the 30mph. A couple of people did come
forward, but we were advised by police at the time that we would need a minimum of 4 to
make it more viable.
We are very pleased to report that other residents have now come forward to help set up a
Shillington scheme and there will be suitable training carried out at Kempston Police HQ on
13th April from 10.00am to 11.30am. See posters on pages 25 and 26. If you would like to
join the team – please contact Andy Ralph ([email protected]), who has volunteered to
act as Shillington Co-ordinator.
WAR MEMORIAL – GRADE II LISTING
Historic England have confirmed that following their recommendation, the Secretary of State
for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has decided to add Shillington War Memorial to the
List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. The memorial is now listed at
Grade II.
Listing helps Historic England to mark a structure’s significance and celebrate its special
architectural and historic interest. It brings specific protection so that its special interest can
be properly considered in managing its future.
Listing does not mean, however, that no alterations can be made - in fact in the vast majority
of cases applications to make changes to a listed building are approved. Further information
about listed buildings can be found on the ‘Your Home’ pages of their website.
For all Parish Council issues please contact:
Mrs. Helen Smith, Clerk to the Parish Council 11 Hillside Close, Shillington, Hitchin, Herts, SG5 3NN. 01462-713224
email: [email protected] website: www.shillington.bedsparishes.gov.uk
ANNOUNCEMENTS / ITEMS / NEWS IN BRIEF
Hello everyone
my name is Chris Littlejohn and I live in Bedford Close and have done for the past 13 years. I am running the London Marathon this year in aid of Dementia UK and Alzeimers Research - two very worthy charities.
I have been training around the roads of Shillington since before Christmas and, by the time the big day arrives, I will have put in more than 1,000 training miles in just under 6 months! (and worn out some shoes in the process). As you can see I'm taking my task very seriously, and it would be amazing if anyone feels like supporting me and the charities I'm running for.
You can donate through my virgin just giving page. Just search for my name on their website. Or if this reaches you in time, we have a fundraiser organised at the Social Club on the 6th April starting at 6pm, which should be a great evening.
Kind Regards Chris Littlejohn
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-portal/fundraiserPage?pageId=999887#stickyAnchor
SHILLINGTON SOCIAL CLUB PRESENTS:
Friday, 12th April - Vinyl Night with DJ Johnno Johnson
Saturday, 11th May - Ouse Valley Singles Club
Saturday, 15th June - Mice with Glasses
FUN DAY – SATURDAY, 13th JULY 2019
EVENING ENTERTAIMENT: Friday, 12th July - Matti Fantasi
Saturday, 13th July – Rickshaw
Aubrey John Cole (Wibby) 30th January 1926 – 13th March 2019
It was with much sadness that we heard of the passing of Aubrey (Wibby) Cole, a legend in Shillington adult football for over 60 years. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this sad time.
His funeral took place on Tuesday, 2nd April at 2.15pm in All Saints Church. If anyone would like to make a donation in his memory to be shared over his 3 favourite charities: All Saints Church, Shillington; Children in Crisis; Guide
Dogs for the Blind; this can be done via www.cheneryfunerals.co.uk
Letter from the Vicar
Richard Winslade The Vicarage, Shillington 01462-713311
Dear Friends
We took a few days of annual leave in February and I could not believe how lucky we were with the weather. We managed to choose the three wonderful sunny and warm days that surprised the nation at the end of February. It was great to leave big coats in the hotel and enjoy walking in shirt sleeves. Despite the great joy of having such wonderful weather for a seaside holiday there was still a nagging doubt in the back of my head. My thoughts turned to our environment and the fact that something is certainly not right about our seasons. It made me reflect on the Christian responsibility to be stewards of God’s creation. My theological reading at the moment is a study of Genesis written by David Wilkinson. He is a Methodist minister, theologian, astrophysicist and academic. He blends his scientific knowledge and faith together and sees no problem with science and faith working together. For him it doesn’t matter if we believe in a literal understanding of creation from the Bible or a more scientific view point. It is God’s great generosity in creation that is important. God did not bring into life a world which is plain and boring but rather a world full of an amazing range of creatures, plants and natural phenomena. If we believe in a creator God then we also need to believe in our duties as stewards of his creation. The established church has perhaps been a little slow on being green but as individuals we can all do our part, however small or large, to protect the wonderful world given to us as a gift from God.
Richard
ALL SAINTS NEWS www.allsaintsshillington.org.uk or follow us on Facebook
Parish Priest: Rev’d Richard Winslade ( 01462-713311)
[email protected] (Day off on Fridays)
Churchwardens
Liz Brewer : 01462-711594 Patricia Humphreys text: 07754-760073 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected].
Church Services:
• 9.30am - Sung Eucharist - every 2nd, 3rd and 4th Sunday.
• On some fifth Sundays services are held jointly with the Congregational Church at alternate venues.
• First Sunday of the month: 9.30am - Family Service 6.00pm - Choral Evensong.
• All other Sundays: 9.30am – Holy Communion
For details of all our services and for PCC members’ contact details, please see our website www.allsaintsshillington.org.uk, our Facebook page (Shillington Church) or the church notice
board.
All Saints Church Rector, The Reverend Richard Winslade and the Church Wardens welcome your prayer requests throughout the year.
If you are interested in joining our bible study group on Tuesday evenings please contact Reverand Richard or church wardens
Special Services at All Saints: 7th April - 9:30am - Sung Holy Communion with act of penitence and healing 6.00pm - Evensong
Holy Week
14th April - 9:30am - Palm Sunday 16th April - 7:30pm - Compline 18th April - 7.30pm - Sung Holy Communion 19th April - Good Friday
- 10:45am - ‘Walk of Witness’ from Bird in Hand, Lower Stondon
- 11.00am - Joint Service with Stondon Baptist at Stondon
- 2:00pm - Prayers at the Foot of the Cross, Shillington -
21st April - Easter Day - 6.30am - Easter Vigil, Shillington - 9:30am - Sung Holy Communion
Burials:
5th March 2019 - Mary Elizabeth Wood – Rest In Peace
SHORT MAT BOWLS
During the past two months members have been very
actively involved in County Competitions, Charity Events
as well as our own League and Annual Competitions.
Congratulations are due to Trevor Knight and Jen
Waller who achieved top positions in County Gala Day
Competitions.
Two teams playing in the Barnet League achieved mid league positions and our
involvement in the Beds and Herts League has finished with one team achieving
a mid league position and the other competing for the top spot until hopes were
dashed by a defeat in the final game, however third position with the same points
total as the runners up is a very commendable result.
Our Club Triples League has been completed and the successful teams were:-
WINNERS
John Clark, Julia Bruce, Bill Gearing.
RUNNERS UP
Carol Still/Tom Rainey, Rex Redman, Derek Lewison.
Members will continue to have a busy time over the next couple of months and
will be supporting a 24 hour Bowlathon at Wilstead in aid of British Heart
Foundation, 15 members will be enjoying a mid week bowling break at Hayling
Island, the Club will also be entertaining Harpenden Short Mat Bowls Club in a
return fixture as well as progressing our own Club Annual Competitions.
Finally, it is with great pleasure that we congratulate Derek Lewison
who has recently completed the Short Mat Bowls Umpire Courses and
is now qualified to officiate at County Competitions.
Club meetings will continue on Monday afternoons from 2.00pm to
5.00pm and Friday evenings from 7.00pm to 10.00pm at the Village
Hall. Note – this excludes Bank Holidays.
For further information contact:
John Clark ( 01462-711446) or Toni Gearing ( 01462-711871)
WOMEN’S INSTITUTE The April Meeting takes place on Thursday 4th April, 8.00 p.m. at
the Congregational Church, when Alison Heywood will be
talking to us about “Morris Dancing Past and Present”.
We are looking forward to our May Meeting which will be on Thursday the 2nd
May at 8.00 p.m. at the Congregational Church when W R Furnival Jones will
be giving a talk on “The Palace of Knightsbridge” - about the history of
- and tales from 40 years working there.
Our next interesting outing is to visit the House of Charles Rene Mackintosh on
Tuesday 2nd April in Northamptonshire, which we are very excited about.
At our June meeting we will be celebrating 80 years of Shillington
WI with a “Ladies Night Out” - this will be a social meeting with
refreshments.
We meet on the first Thursday of each month (apart from August) at the
Congregational Church at 8.00 p.m. and we would welcome NEW MEMBERS.
COME ALONG AND GIVE US A TRY!!!
It is only £3 per meeting for visitors which is great value for an evening out.
In addition, we have regular trips out, craft events (our next one will be a Mosaic
project) and run extra Clubs for Members:
BOOK CLUB
WALKING GROUP
RELAXATION
LUNCH CLUB
Please contact Liz Brewer (President) on 01462 711594
or Jill Russell (Secretary) on 01462 711533 for further information or if you would like to come along with someone
for your first visit.
SHILLINGTON MEN’S CLUB (Inaugurated in 2004)
The Club’s AGM was held on 30th January and was followed by a talk by Lieutenant Colonel Andy
Cox from Chicksands and was about his experiences and the use of intelligence in Afghanistan. This
was a very interesting insight into the UK military’s involvement fighting the Taliban.
Our first event was a visit to The Higgins Art Gallery & Museum in Bedford. It is
the principal art gallery and museum in Bedford and proved to be both very
interesting and informative. Entry is free and well worth a visit if you have a couple
of hours to spare.
In February the meal was at The Raven in Hexton. We had a choice of steak suet
pudding or fish and chips followed by treacle sponge or chocolate fudge cake.
In March our evening meal was at the Cross Keys in Pulloxhill where we enjoyed a Steak & Ale Pie
followed by Fruit Crumble.
On the 27th March we had a conducted tour of the Newark Air Museum. Newark
Air Museum is a collection of Military aircraft located on a former Royal Air
Force station at Winthorpe, near Newark-on-Trent in Nottinghamshire. There
are 76 aircraft and cockpits and 4 covered display areas. The highlight of the
visit was to climb inside the cockpit of a Vulcan Bomber and lie in the bomb
aimer’s position.
Coming Up:
April 10th - An evening meal at the Fox and Duck in Stotfold.
17th - Visit to the Amey Waste Recovery Park in Milton Keynes.
May 8th - An evening meal at the Dog and Badger.
22nd - Factory tour of the BMW Mini Plant in Cowley
About the Club:
The Club now has a membership of forty-one. There are six elected Committee Members who meet
every twelve weeks to review and evaluate past events, plan future events and review the Club’s
Finances.
Why not come along to one of our future events for a sampler, you will be made most welcome and
there will be no obligation to join. The Club offers an opportunity to make new friends, stimulating
conversation with other members, who have a vast array of hobbies and interests to talk about over
a good pub meal and of course some good Ale. It also offers a monthly visit to a place of Culture,
Interest or History. Membership is just £5 to join with an annual Membership fee of £15.
How to contact us:
For further information please contact either of the following:
The Events Co-ordinator: Michael Bradley on 01462 711162
Email [email protected]
Or
Chairman: Graham Williams on 01462 713468
Email [email protected]
ROAD WORKS AHEAD By Revd. Angus McCormick 01462-712096
Minister of Shillington Congregationalist Church
How many times recently have we seen the sign ‘Road Closed’? There are times when I wonder why I am at a dead-end and it’s because there was no ‘Road closed’ sign. It’s not so much that roads have to be closed at times, but why oh why is there no appropriate signage to allow traffic to make a choice before it ends up in a dead end!
Sometimes there are road repairs where the whole road is blocked off, but with a little co-operation on the part of drivers and a little sense of management on the part of the road repairers, it might be possible on one side of the road just to get through if your car isn’t too big. Of course the road might only be closed for a short time but even so that can be the very time when I can be on a mercy
call also and time is of the essence.
Often I am happily engaged with people who feel they are at a dead end. It can be health, age, finances, work, relationships and so on. There are many people who are just managing to get through. Many struggle. It is really helpful if any of us get the signs early enough to have options before we are stuck in a dead end.
Roads are a bit like the journey of life and living. There will be rough patches for us which we can manage. There are many times maybe when it’s very busy on the road and we are in a congestion. A detour is not the end of the world always and can even be interesting to discover a new route which is something I did recently. We have signs saying ‘scenic route’ which again we can choose if we want.
If we are cyclists we may be looking for routes with cycle paths or if we are walking we may look for that walking route which gives us the choice we want. Even a walking route can have an unexpected hazard such as overgrown brambles. Recently we made a treasure hunt for our children in the village and
they discovered the real joys of exploring in more detail aspects of the village that would often be overlooked. Geo- caching has long been another option for this kind of exploring walk.
Real questions about life and doing our best can trouble any of us. As Easter approaches with its message of hope even beyond a dead end, we might take time for those choices for ourselves. We can lean on others if necessary, reach out for help, and share the strength and love offered around us in our own community. We might not get the chance to turn round and start again using another road. On the other hand with a little help and effort we might find a whole new way of life, a new attitude and an inner satisfaction that leaves any sense of a dead end far behind.
Asking for a prayer, joining in singing, just listening to a good story, being in the company of someone who cares are all ways that might help us get out of a dead end.
You’re welcome any time to join me in worship or even just for a coffee. Once you have found your own way out of that dead end you’ll be free for a fuller, richer life.
Every blessing Angus
CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH NEWS 47 Church Street, Shillington
www.shillingtoncong-church.org.uk
SUNDAY WORSHIP:
Our Church is open every Sunday for worship at 10.30am. A warm welcome
is extended to anyone who wishes to join us.
Details of who is leading the service each week can be found in the village
calendar. Visitors always welcome.
FOOD BANK:
Donations for the food bank were delivered at the beginning of March and we continue to collect
non-perishable food items. Donations may be made at any time that the church is open.
EASTER:
Unfortunately, it is necessary to cancel the planned Easter weekend event
of serving teas and holding a decorated Easter bonnet competition, due to
the repair works required on the flooring.
The Young People’s Competition of various art forms based on a bible
story is going ahead. Remember to submit your entries by Friday, 19 April to the
Congregational Church. The entries will be displayed and judged on Easter Sunday after
the morning service, so please come to enjoy fellowship together, and stay for lunch if you
wish.
An open invitation is made for anyone to join us for a light lunch which will be served at
12.30pm. If you would like to attend please contact Nola (712096) or Janet (01582-881824)
to reserve a place and view the competition entries.
CHRISTIAN AID:
Christian Aid week runs from 12-18 May this year. To raise funds for this
organisation a lunch will be held on Sunday 5 May at 12.30pm, following
the morning service. You will be most welcome to join in the service and
stay for the lunch, or attend for the lunch only. Please contact Nola (712096)
or Janet (01582- 881824) to reserve your seat.
CRAFT CLUB:
The next meeting dates are as follows:
16th April 7 & 21 May 4 & 18 June
between 2pm and 4pm
For further details please contact Janet Worley. 01582 881824
YOUNG PEOPLE’S COMPETITION
An invitation to enter a competition for young people living within the village of Shillington with three categories:
1. Aged 5-7 years 2. Aged 8-9 years 3. Aged 10-12 years
Entries may be one person and or a group entry.
Entries can take any form such as drawing, painting, recitation, poem, drama, musical item, lego.
Entries should be no longer than 3-5 minutes if they are
drama or musical.
Entries are to be based on any Bible story.
Prizes will be offered in each category. If there is a group entry then the prize will be divided between members of the group.
A prize of £50 IS OFFERED IN EACH CATEGORY WITH £25 to go to the entrant
and £25 to go to a nominated charity.
The prize will take the form of WH Smith tokens for the successful entrants.
Entries are to be received by 19th APRIL 2019 and addressed to:
Young Peoples’ Competition Congregational Church
47 Church Street Shillington SG5 3LJ.
01462 712096.
Display of the entries and judging will be made on Easter Sunday, 21st April.
1ST SHILLINGTON BROWNIES
Brownies was initially called Rosebuds and was founded by Lord
and Lady Baden Powell in 1914.
To celebrate their birthday each year the Brownies attend a
‘Thinking Day’. On Sunday 24th February we had 13 of our
Brownies attend this event with over 110 other Brownies,
Rainbows and Guides from the local areas.
There was an Indian theme this year and so the
Brownies had lots of fun learning to dance
‘Bollywood’, design Henna tattoos, make
elephant cupcakes, paint animal sun catchers
and take part in a treasure hunt which involved
cracking a code to get the prize!
Everyone came together at the end of the day to renew
their promises and to think about what being part of such
a great organisation means for everyone across the
world.
Each Brownie then placed a 50 pence coin onto a map of
India, the proceeds of which go towards the Guiding
community.
If you are between the ages of 7-10 years old and would like to be part of a
fantastic team of girls, to have fun, learn and develop new skills and meet new
friends then contact:
Brown Owl (Alice Redman) on 07933-376816
at 1st Shillington Brownies to learn more.
Shillington
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
Tuesday, 7 May 2019 from 7.45pm at the Congregational Church, Church Street.
Guest speaker to be confirmed
This is not a Parish Council meeting. It is an opportunity to:
• Hear a guest speaker on an interesting subject
• Come and meet your Parish Councillors and representatives of other village
organisations
• Make connections with other people in your community
• Find out what’s happening in the parish
• Ask questions about the issues that concern you
ALL WELCOME
Further information available from Helen Smith, Clerk to Parish Council
01462-713224 / email: [email protected]
ALL SAINTS’ ILLUMINATED
To celebrate or commemorate your special occasion please contact:
Catherine on 07710-823384 or e-mail
It only costs £25 to sponsor a whole week’s illumination – a perfect way to
commemorate a special family occasion or loved one’s anniversary.
Sponsor Message From To
Catherine Scleater
In memory of Mavis Ingram, who died 13 years ago on 4th April. Forever in my
thoughts
Sunday 31 March
Saturday 10 April
David & Fiona
Howarth
Kathleen MacKinnon – remembering your birthday on the 30th April.
Sunday 28 April
Saturday 5 May
Dewick Family
In loving memory of Joan Dewick who died on 13th February 2018. Her birthday
would have been on 1st May. Always in our thoughts.
Sunday 28 April
Saturday 5 May
200 Club Winners
FEBRUARY 2019 MARCH 2019
1st £50 No.72 Derek Wood 1st £50 No.152 Derek Wilson
2nd £25 No.115 Trish Humphreys 2nd £25 No.103 Ruth Farmer
3rd £10 No.126 Stuart Michelle 3rd £10 No.46 Molly Wright
RAMBLING ON with DEREK TURNER 01462-712462 [email protected]
As I write this, the future of our country is being fiercely debated, but whatever ensues, it can’t be disputed that our past has continually been influenced by our relationship with our European neighbours. Even if we go back 15,000 years, to the time when the chill of the last Ice Age relented, it was people from Europe
who settled here after crossing the land that would later become the North Sea. Rising sea level which later made Britain and Ireland islands was not enough to deter more new arrivals who came in boats. With Britain’s amenable climate and productive soils creating a surplus of grain and cattle as well as mineral ores for tin, gold, silver and iron, cross-Channel trade was flourishing in the first century BC.
People in Britain and Europe had shared cultures and rituals. Although we aren’t sure of the exact reason for building large Iron Age hill forts, of which we have a fine local example at Ravensburgh Castle on the hills above Hexton, they can be found across the Channel too. So can the burial practices of powerful people who had died and were interred with their most precious belongings. Sometimes buried, sometimes cremated, these sites were meant to be seen. The long barrow at Knocking Knoll at Pegsdon made of chalk, was visible for miles.
Grave goods from Baldock and Welwyn Garden City between 100 and 25 BC included large pottery flagons known as amphorae. They had contained wine and show that rich people living within a few miles of here had acquired a sophisticated taste for items from the Mediterranean - and this was still several decades before the Romans
invaded. Locally, the presence of a late Iron Age mirror of polished bronze in a series of extraordinary finds discovered by metal detectorists in Pegsdon suggests another high-status burial took place there and also proves that craftsmen had already developed exceptional skills. Archeology though, doesn’t reveal much about the ordinary people and it’s likely that society was stratified like it is today with most just about managing. We know that our predecessors were part of the Catevellauni tribe that occupied an area roughly bounded by London, Reading, Oxford, Peterborough and Cambridge but there are no contemporary written records about them. Early visitors from Rome painted them as uncivilised and uncouth, much as British explorers made disparaging comments about those they encountered in far-flung parts of the globe in the Middle Ages. Other evidence suggests that most were peace-loving farmers.
Aerial photographs reveal soil and crop marks indicating field boundaries, small enclosures for livestock and long-gone tracks. Together they indicate a well-ordered and productive landscape. It’s unlikely that there was a village here then but the building of the church several centuries later suggests that the hill where
it stands was already a site of some significance. It’s possible that some of the roads that we use today already existed at that time. Periodically, traders dealing in items not found locally like salt and iron would have visited, travelling along what was already an extensive series of interlinking tracks that facilitated travel over long distances.
What was life like for ordinary Shillington people at this time? Most lived in family groups, in scattered timber-framed and thatched circular huts with an open fire hearth in the centre for heating and cooking.
They didn’t use money and would have been largely self-sufficient farmers who could turn their hand to almost anything, keeping a few cattle and pigs, producing crops such as spelt and emmer wheat, barley, oats and beans and maintaining or rebuilding their homes. Their year would have been structured around the rhythm of the farming year. Other local people may have acquired specialist skills - blacksmiths and potters perhaps. For the first time last year, we discovered a small piece of rare Iron Age pottery in a test pit in Hanscombe End Road. Hard, physical work occasionally gave way to ceremonies to keep the Gods onside and ancient festivals which I’ve discussed in previous Rambling Ons. At these and after the formalities were over, they’d feast, drink, gossip and probably arrange what we’d call marriages today.
When the Romans arrived in 55 AD, their attempts at colonisation did not go down well and they faced many rebellions. In 60 AD Boudicca, leader of the Iceni tribe of East Anglia, raised an army to fight them, initially with great success, and other uprisings followed. We can’t tell how much any of this affected Shillington
although two hoards of Roman coins found buried at Pegsdon around 80 AD hint at a wealthy individual, maybe a local leader, who decided to conceal his or her fortune when trouble brewed but never got round to retrieving it. Other theories are that the coins were extravagant grave goods buried in their wealthy owner’s grave or votive offerings to the Gods. We may never find out which is right. Ultimately though, the Roman army suppressed the rebels due to its better organisation and the ability to redeploy its troops where needed using the high-speed road network that they’d built. Peace and stability brought increasing wealth to all and an expanding population.
Another local big cheese was able to build a villa in the field to the right of the road to Meppershall near a spring later known as Ashton’s Well. He must have done well as he added one or more extensions later. This area has also yielded Roman coins and other finds but there may be much more hidden deep in the ground, covered by soil that has crept downhill gradually due to centuries of ploughing. If you walk up the road to Meppershall, peak though gaps in the hedge and you’ll see that the level of the field is up to 2 metres below the road.
Meanwhile, the average Shillington family continued farming, probably much as they had for centuries. The demand for wool appears to have increased and better ploughs with asymmetric iron shares appeared but how these affected Shillington
is hard to say. The good times continued until 410AD but then the Romans pulled out, opening a new chapter in our history.
Since 2013, we’ve found Roman pottery in 13 - or about 1 in 4 - of the test pits that we’ve excavated around Shillington. It’s possible that some marks the sites of small Roman-era farms but quantities are small and we still need more evidence. There are several farmhouses around the village where we haven’t dug yet and it’s possible that some of them occupy sites that have been used for 2,000 years or more.
We’ll continue to explore Shillington’s history in future articles and I plan to dig more test pits this summer as every find we make adds to our understanding of the past. If you have a site where we could excavate a 1 metre square test pit or you’d like to help at a dig, please get in touch.
Read the 2018 test report on the Shillington History Society website: http://www.shillington-history.org.uk
PLOUGHING ON……A Farmer’s Perspective ! by Whizz – T. C. Shaw & Sons
www.shawfarming.com www.mrsmiddleton.co.uk
The sun is shining and Spring seems to be here. It is glorious – dog walks are a delight and the hedges
and crops are thriving in the warmth. I’m sure it will all backfire and we’ll have six inches of snow now
I’ve tempted fate, but at the moment the weather is perfect.
The Spring barley has all been drilled and rolled. Most of it is up and growing well and the
rest was only finished being put in the ground yesterday. Once it comes up the plants will be
sensitive and very delicate but should benefit from the liquid nitrogen fertiliser they receive
and start to become strong relatively quickly.
Those crops planted in the Autumn are now rattling along and the barley in the fields next to the house
is thick and lush. The wheat is the same and the recent warm weather has helped it grow. We normally
sell some of our grain “forward”, which means we set up a sales contract in advance of harvest at a set
price and month for movement. We have a 1000 tonne contract with Weetabix again (you may see
the sign near Pirton!) Our malting barley should be heading to Bairds Maltings in Suffolk for some top
quality beer. Just think – that pint you have in the local pub could be brewed from the crop in the field
nearby!
Our newly accepted Countryside Stewardship Scheme is now in place at Barton Hill and we are buying
the relevant seed and planning the cultivations necessary to establish the options we have chosen. We
have areas which are dedicated to small birds such as finches, so we are planting seed mixes specific
to their needs. One field is being taken out of production to plant a legume / grass mix which will help
our weed control as well as benefit the wildlife. There will be extra grass margins, fallow areas and
grassland and we can’t wait to see how it enhances the flora and fauna we already have here.
Those of you who know our farm and have been on the footpaths recently may have
noticed that there are little squares within the cereal crops that have nothing growing
in them. These are “skylark plots” and as the name suggests, their main function is to
benefit skylarks. They provide a small and safe area for the birds to forage insects and
tiny weed plants, away from the tramlines (which act as access routes for predators such as foxes) but
as part of the field so that the taller crop can act as a protective hiding place. They are also handy for
hares and we have regularly seen them making use of the sheltered plots for a spot of sunbathing –
such a wonderful sight!
I had a really interesting morning today in Hitchin. A friend has started up a Hitchin branch of a “food
rescue” idea already running very successfully in Letchworth. It is a weekly event where you can pop
in for a cup of coffee and stock up on food that would otherwise be thrown away. It comes from all
sorts of places; supermarkets, veg box suppliers, cafes, delicatessens, farm shops, etc and is either out
of date or needs using up straight away. For a donation you can take home what you wish and the
money goes back into the community. I brought home a large packet of delicious artisan pasta, some
huge flatbread crackers and our favourite spicy tomato juice. Yummy and all for a good cause.
This evening’s main activity has been making garlic butter, with wild garlic given to me by
a friend. I’ve made a large batch and it will be perfect as one of two ingredients in my
homemade garlic bread, which we are all slightly obsessed with. Sliced slightly-stale sour
dough (homemade with our own flour, of course!), slathered with garlic butter and popped in the Aga
for 5 minutes…perfect!
HOLDING ON ............TO OUR PRECIOUS CHURCH
Have you read the book called “Flooded Room” by Gerry Leaky? I know
that some of us are old enough to remember that awful joke (my dad’s
favourite).
Sadly, we are going to have a flooded church if we don’t act quickly. The
latest survey of the church roof revealed no less than 30 cracks in the roofing.
Some people have already experienced a drip from above!
We really can’t dress this up – the fact is – the building needs money!
The Friends of All Saints have got a full calendar of events for this year; and funds raised through
these occasions will, as usual, keep the site in fine fettle. However, extra cash is needed when
unexpected (& expensive) problems arise. A safe & secure roof is essential to any building, but
most especially in a fine historic site that hosts so many wonderful family celebrations.
On behalf of The Friends, I ask that you have a think about completing the form below and
making an annual donation to this wonderful ‘house’. You never know when you might need it!
Thanks & Greetings,
Joy Robertson
FRIENDS of ALL SAINTS CHURCH, SHILLINGTON
To: Friends of All Saints Church, Shillington I/we enclose a donation of £……..…… as my/our subscription to Friends of All Saints, Shillington for the calendar year 2019 Name(s) …………………………………………..……………………………………………………………………………..………… Home address:……….……………………..……………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………………..………..……………………………………………………...……………………………………………………….. Email …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……….…. I would like Friends of All Saints to be able to reclaim tax on my donation: (Yes / No )
(Please delete as appropriate) Signed …………………………………………………………………..……… Date …………………….…………….…….
Please return this form, signed as necessary, together with your donation, to the Membership Secretary of Friends of All Saints Church: Joy Robertson, 18 Vicarage Close, Shillington SG5 3LS
Under tax legislation, the Friends can recover some of the income tax you pay on any of your taxable income. In allowing us to recover this tax, you must have paid, or be due to pay, an amount of income tax at least equal to
that we will be able to reclaim on your donation, this being 25p for every £1 you give. In order for us to reclaim this very valuable bonus to our income, you need do nothing at all except sign the above
to confirm that you are a taxpayer. We thank you in advance if you are able and prepared to do this.
SHILLINGTON & DISTRICT CLASSIC CAR GROUP UPDATE and MEETINGS 2019
Monday 15 April, Monday 20 May, Monday 17 June Monday 15 July,
Monday 19 August & Monday 16 September.
From 6.00pm The Musgrave Arms which has been our ‘home’ for the past year has unexpectedly closed. I hope that this friendly little pub may soon find new tenants and reopen; in the meantime we have had to look for new venues locally. Our diary is confirmed for April & May where we have been welcomed by two great hostelries. The venues for the June to September meetings will be confirmed at a later date. Please come along with your interesting vehicle or just for a look and a chat. Tell us what you think about the new arrangements so that we can decide how to proceed.
• Bring your classic or interesting vehicle on 2 or 4 wheels (hopefully more classic motorcycles and 3 wheelers this year!)
• Come along for a look and a chat even if you don’t have a vehicle.
• No charge to attend - All welcome.
Monday 15 April will see us back at:
The Crown, High Road, Shillington, SG5 3LP 01462 711667 They are delighted to have us back and these days food is a specialty.
Monday 20 May will see us at a new venue:
The Cross Keys, 13 High Road, Pulloxhill, Mk45 5HB 01525 712442 They have an enormous rally field and can supply good meals at reasonable prices.
Organiser: Dave Malins [email protected]
DO YOU USE AMAZON???
Most of us do!
Well when you use Amazon you can now sponsor Shillington Memorial Playing Field. Amazon will donate 0.5% of your net purchase price to the Charity. So every £100 spent gives us 50p. It doesn’t sound much but with the support of everyone in the Village and any friends and family we can raise some funds.
IT COSTS YOU NOTHING!
All you need to do is login at: https://smile.amazon.co.uk
Then pick “Shillington Memorial Playing Field” as your supported charity. In future you need to access Amazon through the above link in order to ensure the donations come through. You should see the link in your browser as below
As you are aware we are trying very hard to raise money for our new Community Building at the Playing Field. You will have noted from the article in the last Parish News things are not moving as swiftly as we had hoped.
However, in the meantime, we need to start raising money for new internal fixtures and fittings for the new building and getting Amazon to help us is one of the avenues we are pursuing.
Most of us use Amazon as it’s easy and convenient. If we all choose to support our local charity through Amazon Smile going forward, we could raise a significant amount of money towards the new building as internal fixtures and fittings that we will need to fund are currently estimated at £80K.
All you have to do is follow the steps above – it won’t cost you anything and you’ll be diverting a small amount of Amazon’s profits toward a local cause.
Register today to support us and we thank you for your help.
Sue Chalmers Chair, Shillington Memorial Playing Field
2019 EXCURSIONS 4th THURSDAY OF THE MONTH!
Call 0300-123-3023 or e-mail: [email protected] for more info or to book your seat.
We do require a deposit of £5.00 p.p. for any excursion. A cheque to Wanderbus, 5 The Pastures, Upper Stondon, Beds SG16 6QB
or a bank transfer to : CAF Bank Ltd, Sort Code 40-52-40, Acc No. 00013118 Name: Wanderbus Ltd (use your name in Reference)
DATE DESTINATION Bus Fare Per
Person
23rd May Cambridge £7.50
Botanical Gardens. Entry Fee £6.00. Plants from around the world.
27th June Burghley House & Gardens £15.00
Stamford, Lincs. 'England's greatest Elizabethan House' -
State rooms & Gardens £17.00 - Gardens only £13.00
25th July Waddesdon Manor, Bucks £12.00
National Trust House & Gardens - Aviary - Stables Café. Entry fee £11.00 or free to National Trust Members
22nd August Wimpole Hall, Cambs. £8.00
National Trust. Hall, home farm & gardens. Entry £17.20 or
£12.50 for just Gardens & Home Farm. Tea room. Dahlia display.
26th September
Anglesey Abbey, Cambs. £12.00
National Trust House, Gardens & Water Mill. £15.80 for all access or £9.00 for gardens only. Dahlia display.
24th October Wyvale Garden Centre, Shepreth £8.00
Various concession outlet shops, garden centre and restaurant
28th November
Christmas Market
Destination to be advised.
SHILLINGTON - WANDERBUS
Bookings & Info Tel : 0300-123-3023 www.wanderbus.org.uk E: [email protected]
Service open to EVERYONE. Cash Fares & Travel Passes accepted
As of 6th MAY 2019 “Stops at all Bus Stops on Request”
W2 BEDFORD Every Wednesday OUT RETURN
Marquis Hill (W bound) 09.10 RR
Hillfoot Rd o/s Bells Close 09.12 RR
Bury Rd, Woodmer End (N bound) 09.14 RR
Bedford - Corn Exchange 09.45 12.00
W3 BIGGLESWADE Every Monday OUT RETURN
Bury Road, Woodmer End (S bound) 09.15 RR
Hillfoot Rd., o/s Bells Close 09.17 RR
Marquis Hill (E bound) 09.19 RR
Biggleswade - Retail Park 10.05 12.05
Asda Superstore 10.10 12.00
Sainsbury’s (on request) 10.13 OR 11.57 OR
W10 ST NEOTS 2nd Thursday of Month OUT RETURN
Bury Road, Woodmer End (S bound) 09.20 RR
Hillfoot o/s Bells Close 09.22 RR
Marquis Hill (E bound) 09.24 RR
Roxton Garden Centre 10.00 OR 12.30 OR
St Neots - Market Place 10.10 12.20
W11 MILTON KEYNES 3rd Thursday of Month OUT RETURN
Marquis Hill (W bound) 09.18 RR
Hillfoot, opp Bells Close 09.21 RR
Bury Rd, Woodmer End (N bound) 09.22 RR
MK - Midsummer Blvd / Debenhams & M&S 10.10
/ John Lewis 10.12 13.15
W12 HITCHIN Every Tuesday OUT RETURN
Marquis Hill (W bound) 09.23 RR
High Rd, opp Bowles Garage 09.24 RR
High Rd, opp Hanscombe End Rd 09.27
Hitchin – Bancroft Stop D - arrive 10.05
Hitchin – Bancroft Stop G - depart 12.10
W14 WELWYN GARDEN CITY 1st Thursday of Month OUT RETURN
Bury Rd, Woodmer End (S bound) 09.00
Hillfoot, o/s Bells Close 09.02
High Rd, opp Village Hall 09.03
Marquis Hill (E bound) 09.05
WGC Central Bus Station 10.00 12.15
OR = Stops on Request RR = Return Stops on Request
EXCURSIONS – BOOKINGS ONLY
4TH THURSDAY OF MONTH - RING FOR DESTINATION DETAILS & BOOKINGS or EMAIL [email protected] Sorry Cash only - no travel passes can be
accepted. ** 16 Seater Buses available for Private Hire **
SORTING OUT THE SALT Ron Bradstreet 01462-711486
E-mail: [email protected]
After a long day, popping a ready meal into the microwave or oven might be much more appealing than spending time cooking. There is no denying that ready meals are quick, easy and often cheap. But although they may be convenient, do they also provide the nutrients your body needs to live well?
Let us look at what we need to know about ready meals and see if we can keep them as healthy as possible. In the UK it is estimated that nearly 80 million ready meals are eaten by adults every week. But while they are convenient, ready meals are no substitute for cooking a meal from scratch.
If you buy pre-packed food and drinks, deciphering the information on the labels can help you making healthier choices that will assist you and your family to eat well. Labels on food and drinks give essential information, such as the ingredients, the nutrients (fat, calories and fibre) and how much they contribute to the needs of the average adult each day. The information about ingredients, nutritional composition, best before or use-by dates and the weight of the product are on the back of the pack and compulsory. The traffic light system is still voluntary but has been around for some time. It is easy to understand. The labels show how many calories are present and are colour coded, showing whether the fat, saturated fat, sugar and salt are low (green), medium (amber), or high (red). The information on the front of the pack also explains how the portion of the food contributes to the Reference Intake of an adult. With the traffic light system, go for green, occasionally amber and red only as a treat. If the traffic lights are not available, check the “per 100g” column on the back of the pack label.
Acting to get the best result from the label information can be difficult if there is no traffic light system. Not everything we buy will have nutritional information, but it is possible to make a healthier choice from the clues on the rest of the pack. About one third of food products in the
UK do not use the traffic light system. Most pre-packed food has a nutritional label on the back or side of the packet. This contains information on energy, fat, saturates, carbohydrate, sugar, protein and salt. This is provided per 100g or per portion of the food to help you choose a more balanced diet. There are guidelines to help folk choose:
HIGH: Total Fat: 17.5g Saturated Fat: 5.0g Total Sugar: 22.5g Salt: 1.5g LOW: Total Fat: 3.0g Saturated Fat 1.5g Total Sugar: 5.0g Salt 0.3g
Some labels also provide details of Daily Reference Intakes (RIs), or Guideline Daily Amounts. These are guidelines giving the approximate amount of a nutrient and calories required for a healthy diet. All the big supermarkets and many food manufacturers display these nutritional labels on the front of pre-packaged food. This assists comparison, which is the best way of achieving a balanced diet. Most pre-packed food will also have a list of ingredients, which helps in determining how healthy the product is.
APPEAL on CB18/03287 - THOMAS’ MEADOW (Land at Hillfoot Road)
Many of you will by now have received notification that the original appeal CB/17/02991 for 35 houses on Thomas’ Meadow has now been withdrawn.
However, the appeal on CB18/03287 for 19 still remains and will be taking place on 30th April 2019 for 4 days at CBC offices, Chicksands.
Hopefully many of you will have made your comments known already to CBC when this application was originally refused and may well have added additional comments when
hearing of the appeal from further CBC correspondence.
Parish Council has been providing additional information to CBC officers/barristers in support of their case against the appeal. Members of the village working group originally
involved in “Save Thomas’ Meadow” attended a meeting with Cllrs. Alison Graham and Sally Stapleton on 25th March to review any further actions required in support of CBC.
Cllrs. Graham and Stapleton have offered to speak up against the appeal and it is hoped that interested members of the community will be able to attend the inquiry to also show
their support against the appeal. Dave H is looking at designing suitable T-shirts.
Wrest Park Volunteer Open Days
Thursday, 11th April 2019
Would you like to be a part of an outstanding team?
Would you like to spend time in one of England's most prestigious and fascinating Gardens with a story that spans over 600 years?
Would you like to share your enthusiasm and love of history?
Would you like to meet like-minded people and try something new?
Then why not come and volunteer for English Heritage at Wrest Park.
Whether it is welcoming and chatting to visitors or telling the stories of our unique house and garden, there are plenty of ways to get involved here at Wrest Park. Come along to our open day
and find out more about what's involved and how you can help our visitors ‘Step into England's Story’.
If you would like to get involved come along to one of our volunteering drop in sessions on Thursday 11th April from 1-3pm and 5-7pm to find out more.
The sessions will be held in the Ante-library of the Mansion House. There is no need to book, just come along to either session but please note if you are coming along to the evening session
please park opposite the Mansion and enter through the Mansion front door.
Afternoon Tea Fundraiser for
Muscular Dystrophy UK
Saturday 1st June at 3pm
62 Bury Road, Shillington, Beds,
SG5 3NY
£5 all you can eat - sandwiches, scones, cake, tea & Pimms
Under 12’s Free
Parking available in field opposite
This year – Please could you bring your own garden chairs to
allow us more baking time and less time furniture moving!
SHILLINGTON CHILDMINDERS
Childminders provide safe, friendly home environments for children to play and have fun whilst gently learning through their play. We take children on outings to farms, play centres, splash parks, museums and libraries as well as teach them life skills such as helping to do shopping,
gardening and cooking.
We are registered with Ofsted, have public liability insurance, follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, undertake regular training including Safeguarding and First Aid
and receive regular newsletters and bulletins from professional organisations.
Here in Shillington, we meet up at least once a week to provide children with the opportunity to learn social skills and experience different play resources. The children get to know all the childminders and children which enables us to offer the ability to cover holidays and other
absences for each other.
Some of us are able to provide up to 15 hours of free childcare a week for eligible 2 year olds, as soon as care starts, in the same way that nurseries and pre-schools can. We are also able to provide the free sessions for all 3 and 4 year olds; at least 15 hours per week up to 30 hours
per week (for 38 weeks of the year) depending on parental eligibility and the childminder's policy. The free sessions normally start the term after the child's 3rd birthday. There may be
additional charges to cover e.g. food and outings.
We each have differing childcare availability such as before and after school care, daytime childcare, overnight childcare, ad-hoc care or flexible care e.g. for shift workers.
To find out more about each childminder and their availability, please contact us:
Laura Forgham 01462 713638
Katie Brettell 01462 713054
Deb Pateman 01462 338304
Jo Wright 01462 713999
Carli Mauger 01462 339260
Laura Griffiths 07932 073339
PARISH COUNCIL – CANDIDATE PROFILES
JOHN CLARK
Aged 83, I am married and have been a resident of Shillington for 61 years. During this time I have been active in many of the various groups and organizations that support our community activities.
As a Parish Councillor for the past 26 years I have actively pursued improvements to the village amenities, with particular regard to sport, social activities, highways and safety issues. If elected I will continue to work to achieve these goals.
ALISON GRAHAM
I have lived in this village for nearly 15 years and was welcomed into its lively community from the outset. As a parish councillor I have enjoyed its team spirit that seeks to maintain us as a living village, while adapting to inevitable change. This means looking after every aspect from the tiny to the potentially catastrophic!
I have also, as ward member, been able to raise the issues faced by rural communities. As current chair of the Mid Beds Citizens Advice Bureau trustee board I have fought to prevent its closure, in these hard times.
I love the village - my grandchildren went through the lower school and I am a governor - and the local pub where I am frequently to be found, either inside - or doing the garden - and the gossip in the shops - and the fields where I metal detect.
I hope to continue to work for you!
TONY HOWELLS
Margaret and I have lived in Pegsdon since 1983, when I retired from the RAF after 31 years. I then worked in the Defence industry as a full time employee and then as a consultant. I have only recently handed over the Chairmanship of Central Bedfordshire
Neighbourhood Watch, but I remain as a committee member. I am still Churchwarden and Treasurer of St Faith`s Church, Hexton. I have been privileged to be a Shillington Parish Councillor since 2008 and I continue to feel very strongly that we, as a Council, must preserve our community history whilst looking to the future. Community life is not, nor should it be, static. My areas of special interest are the policing of a rural community such as ours, and the future “managed” development of our parish. As I live in Pegsdon I also seek to keep their needs and those of Higham Gobion, within the consideration of the Council.
ANGUS MCCORMICK
I have lived and worked for just under 19 years in Shillington. I am married with 3 daughters and 6 grandchildren. I have worked in education as a headteacher and then as an inspector in Central Bedfordshire Council as well as being a church minister for 48 years.
I am well acquainted with the workings of councils having written policy documents and worked with colleagues across the agencies from housing to social services, police, welfare, environment and education. I have worked for Powher for some years to support people across a range of issues in health, finance, care, housing and legal matters in Central Bedfordshire and as a volunteer case worker for the Royal British Legion. I have been a Military chaplain for 11 years, serving currently at Chicksands as well as a chaplain to Hertfordshire constabulary.
I am involved in many village activities such as the Village Design, Shillington Care, Men’s Group and bowls. I enjoy the working relationships I have with CBC officers. My passion is always to serve the needs and wellbeing of our community and listen to all residents. I have regularly walked the area of our parish and have served as a Parish councillor, raising residents’ issues which I will continue to do but with voting powers if elected by you.
DAVID MOTT
I have lived in the parish of Shillington for all my life and have been a parish councillor in this village for the past 16 years and also in Stondon before that.
My concerns are for the continued development of the village in a positive and sympathetic manner and I am prepared to highlight the needs of both the young and the elderly in a changing and challenging environment.
TRACEY PETRIE
I moved to Shillington in 1978 with my parents who joined the local Scout & Cub group as leaders.
I stayed in the village after I got married and had two children. My children attended the Baby & Toddler group where I was chairperson for three years. They then attended Playgroup where I was an active committee member for another three years. My children went to Shillington Lower School and I would go in two mornings a week to help children with extra reading lessons.
I helped start a netball club in the village after a MUGA playing surface was built on the playing fields. The club ran for over 10 years before finally disbanding due to the playing surface becoming unplayable and lack of new players. I have been on the Playing Fields Committee for over 19 years and have been a civil servant for 21 years.
SALLY STAPLETON
I have always lived in Shillington, starting life with my parents and grandparents at The Crown, renting a cottage in Church Street when first married and now with my husband next door to my father in Apsley End.
I have been a Parish Councillor for 32 years. I am now retired from full time employment so have more day time out and about in the village,
where I can catch up with residents and share local concerns.
I care passionately about the parish and do what I can to make sure it survives and thrives. I have been on various committees over many years and am currently Chair of the Parish Council, Secretary of the Playing Field Management Committee, Vice-Chair of the Village Hall Committee and Editor of the Parish News since 1995.
MARK THYNE
I moved into the parish 8 years ago, I feel that Shillington is one of Bedfordshire's hidden gems.
Having grown up in a small village, I have a strong sense of community. I have two young children who attend Shillington lower school and I am keen for them to continue to participate and enjoy the facilities and
activities within the village. I feel duty bound to ensure that our village way of life within the parish is secure for future generations.
DEREK TURNER
Derek and his family have lived here for 40 years and he has been a Parish Councillor for over half of them. A wide range of interests keep him busy since he retired including Shillington's history which he studies using small archaeological digs.
He takes an interest in environmental matters and walks or cycles around the village, supports local shops and pubs, leads walks in Herts and Beds and helps out on the Pegsdon Hills nature reserves.
Open Letter To All Gardeners
During the Spring, Bedfordshire Police sees an upturn of theft from gardens and allotments as gardeners get to grips with tidying up winter growth and preparing for the new growing season. Tools and lawnmowers are often the target but, even if nothing is stolen, damage is caused and is inconvenient and expensive for the victim. However, as all experienced gardeners know, there is just as much work to be done when Autumn approaches and, again, all your tools will be in constant use. Unfortunately, for the allotment holder, nature is against them as the days rapidly get shorter, the weather worsens and the allotments are less frequented over the winter. This leaves your tools and equipment unattended for long periods of time and the gap between the crime and its discovery can be anything between a day and a fortnight.
Shed and container security is all important, therefore. It is worthwhile giving your allotment a “health check”:
• Check your locks and bolts – replace any rusty items, ensure all padlocks and hasps bear the
British Standard kite mark and are made of hardened steel.
• Don’t forget the hinges on your doors – if a burglar can’t breach the lock, they may attempt to
unscrew the hinges. Use coach bolts, non-return screws or simply damage the screw head;
you don’t need to do every screw, just a couple on the hanging plate and a couple on the door
plate.
• Remember to secure outbuilding windows – even the ones that don’t open can be
vulnerable. Consider obscuring the window with an opaque window film (the type used to
obscure bathroom windows) as this will reduce the temptation. Alternatively, fit a grille or a
couple of bars across the inside of the window to reduce the window aperture.
• Consider using a battery-operated siren alarm in your outbuildings - they often cost less than
£20 and are simple to install and use. Unfortunately, these are not so appropriate for allotments
that are in remote areas
• Get into the good habit of putting everything away when you have finished with it. Your own
tools can be used to break into your storage.
Have you thought about security marking your tools? Whilst property marking cannot prevent your goods from being stolen by itself, it is a very good deterrent as it is difficult to sell on stolen property that has been marked. It also allows the police to return recovered stolen goods to their rightful owner and secure a charge.
Items you don’t mind spoiling the look of (ie, garden furniture, power tools and heaters) can be marked by etching or scratching your postcode on to them, or with a permanent marker pen. You can either put your house number and postcode but, as a lot of tools end up in the second-hand trade, you may wish to write “Offered For Sale? Call (phone number)” on the item instead.
Alternatively, there are chemical DNA-based marking products such as SelectaDNA and SmartWater. All Bedfordshire residents enjoy a discount with SelectaDNA by quoting NHWCENTRALBEDS when you buy online at www.selectadna.co.uk/nhw - using the code, you can purchase a kit for £22 including delivery. Normal retail price including delivery of a similar kit available to the public is £67.84
Display signs around the allotment site that all property is marked and traceable.
And finally, add security onto the agenda at your allotment committee meetings. Encourage members to report any breaches in the boundaries immediately and, if there is lighting, check it is working properly. It does no harm to remind people to be a little more vigilant and that security measures are in place for their own benefit.
Just so that we are clear on the extent of the problem, allotment crime is relatively low but Bedfordshire Police would still like to see less of it.
I hope that this information is of use to you. If you have any questions, or need specific advice, please do not hesitate to contact me by email: [email protected] or call 01234 275273.
We will also be encouraging members to join our BedsAlert system so that they can receive news and advice regarding crime and police activity in their local area. With kind regards 2484 Lara CURTAYNE Force Crime Reduction Officer
PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Next Development Management Committee meeting at CBC Chicksands - 24th April 2019
DECISIONS from CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL:
CB/18/04150/FULL. Mr & Mrs Hanlon, Willow Thatch, 129 High Road Single storey side extension and demolition of existing flat roof garage block and construction of new garage with office. APPROVED 11/01/19
CB/18/04366/FULL. Land West of Bury Road Erection of storage building, installation of solar panels on the roof, and formation of gravel car park. APPROVED 31/01/19
CB/18/04494/FULL. 2 Chibley Cottages, Stondon Road Two storey rear extension. APPROVED 08/02/19
CB/18/04410/PAAO. TC Shaw & Son, Pirton Grange Grange Farm, Pirton Road Prior Notification: Change of use of part of some agricultural grain store units to flexible use within Class B8 (storage and distribution) under Part 3 Class R of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015. REFUSED 08/02/19
CB/18/04653/FULL. 24 Hanscombe End Road Single storey rear extension and rear dormer to create additional first floor space. APPROVED 11/02/19
CB/18/04792/FULL. The Stable, Hanscombe End Road. Change of use from a workshop/ store to a C3 dwellinghouse. APPROVED 28/02/19
CB/19/00175/FULL. 23 Upton End Road. Single storey side extension to form a garden room. APPROVED 28/02/19
CB/19/00110/FULL. 1 Marquis Hill Detached garage. REFUSED 15/03/19
NEW/REVISED APPLICATIONS: (Parish Council comments in italics)
CB/19/00521/FULL. 95 Apsley End Road Erection of a new 4 bed dwelling. To be discussed at PC meeting on 2 April 2019
CB/19/00185/RM. Land adjacent to 129 Bury Road. Reserved Matters: Approval sought for Appearance, Landscaping, Layout & Scale following the Outline approval CB/16/04240/OUT dated 10/11/2016 - Erection of 3 bedroom detached dwelling with single garage with addition of paddock land as extension to the rear garden. The VDA comments were noted. DO NOT SUPPORT, due to limited number of off-road parking spaces provided.
CB/TCA/19/00036. Apsley House, 2a Apsley End Road Notification of works to trees in a conservation area: Fell 6 Silver Birch, 1 Acacia and 1 Tree of Heaven from around the entrance gates. DO NOT SUPPORT due to insufficient information provided on reasons for removal of trees. Unanimous.
CB/19/00257/FULL. Upton End Farmhouse, Meppershall Road Erection of detached dwelling. Cllr David Simkins declared an interest and did not take part in the discussion or the vote. The comments of the VDA were noted. DO NOT SUPPORT
CB/19/00423/FULL & CB/19/00424/LB. Marquis House, Marquis Hill Proposed new 2 car garage. SUPPORT, Unanimous.
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS
CBC’s trading standards department has provided the following numbers, to assist
residents in identifying doorstep cold callers, purporting to be from energy or water
companies, and enable checks with these organization if any reason for concern.
British Gas General Enquiries 0800 048 0202
EDF Energy Customer services 0800 096 9000
National Gas Emergency Service Helpline 0800-111-999
npower General Enquiries (landline)
General Enquiries (mobile)
0800 073 3000
0330 100 3000
ScottishPower General Customer Service (landline)
General Customer Service (mobile)
0800 027 0072
0345 270 0700
SSE General Enquiries 0800 980 8831
Anglian Water 0800 145 145
UK Power
Networks
To report or get info on power cuts
Text POWER and your postcode to 80876
National number
105
Central Bedfordshire Council, Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ. (www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk) General enquiries .....................................................................0300 300 8000 ([email protected])
Highways ……………………………………………………….…0300-300-8049
Dog Fouling/animal welfare ………………………………..……..0300-300-8302
Flooding ……………………………………….…………………… 0300-300-8049 Planning ................................................................................... 0300-300-8307
Recycling/Flytipping .…………………………………………….. 0300-300-8302 Police (Emergency) ……………………………….……………… 999 Bedfordshire Police ……………………………………..….…….. 101 (non emergency calls, but to report incidents)
Bus Information ………………….………..…. 0870-608-2608 or 01234-228337 Shillington Services (Martin Brogan) for washing machine repairs, etc. 07975-944394
Parish Councillors – contact details:
John Clark 01462 711446
Tracey Petrie via the Clerk
Alison Graham 01462 713543
Tony Howells 01582 881611
Ben Jepps 07821-155763
Angus McCormick 01462- 712096
David Mott 01462 711222
David Simkins 01462 711209
Sally Stapleton 07711 504489
Derek Turner 01462 712462
VILLAGE FACILITIES
SHILLINGTON VILLAGE HALL
All enquiries please contact the BOOKING CLERK on
07376-682935 (answerphone facility available) e-mail: [email protected]
Large Hall - Stage - Small Committee Room
Kitchen and Bar Facilities
Disabled access & toilet.
Children’s Parties Discos/Dances Meetings Table Top Sales Exhibitions Zumba Pilates
Occasional Separate Use of Car Park by Prior Arrangement only
Looking for an evening venue for your organisation ?
SHILLINGTON SCHOOL
has a large hall available for hire on weekday evenings.
For further information and an opportunity to view the facility, telephone the School on 01462-711637
SHILLINGTON SOCIAL CLUB Greenfields, Shillington
01462-711795
Now offering SKY Sport & BT Sport – be sure not to miss those big matches!!
Usual Opening Hours: Monday, Thursday and Friday from 7.30pm to closing time.
Saturday - 3.00pm to 7.30pm unless special evening function / Sunday - 12 til 4pm
find us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/shillingtonsocialclub
✓ Licensed bar with variety of beers at social club prices – £1 a pint less than most pubs.
✓ Domino and darts teams.
✓ Regular artistes and fund raising events and a great pool table
✓ Fresh filter coffee.
The Club is a village amenity - why not pop in for a drink or, even better, become a MEMBER. (FREE WiFi to Club Members)
VILLAGE CALENDAR
APRIL
7 Congregational Church Service – Revd. Angus McCormick – 10.30am
8 Playing Field Management Committee Meeting – Social Club – 8.00pm
10 Men’s Club – Evening Meal at the Fox & Duck, Stotfold
11 Wrest Park Volunteer Open Day – Mansion House – 1-3pm and 5-7pm
11 Wives Group – Birthday Outing
12 Social Club Event – Vinyl Night with DJ Johnno Johnson
14 All Saints Church Service (Palm Sunday) – 9.30am
14 Congregational Church Service (Palm Sunday) – Mrs. Sandra Galton – 10.30am
15 Classic Car Group – The Crown, High Road – from 6.00pm
16 All Saints Church Service – Compline – 7.30pm
17 Men’s Club – Outing to Amey Waste Recovery Park, Milton Keynes
18 All Saints Church Service – Sung Holy Communion - 7.30pm
19 Congregational Church Service (Good Friday) – Revd. Angus McCormick – 10.30am
19 All Saints Church (Good Friday) – Walk of Witness from Bird in Hand – 10.45am
19 All Saints Church Service (Good Friday) – Joint Service at Stondon Baptist – 11.00am
19 All Saints Church (Good Friday) – Prayers at Foot of Cross, Shillington – 2.00pm
21 All Saints Church (Easter Day) – Vigil at Shillington – 6.30am. Sung Communion – 9.30am
21 Congregational Church Service (Easter Sunday) – Revd. Angus McCormick – 10.30am
25 Wives Group – ‘An American Night’ with Pauline & Caroline – Cong.Ch. 7.45pm
28 Congregational Church Service – Mr. Allan Liger – 10.30am
MAY
2 WI – “The Palace of Knightsbridge” – Congregational Church – 8.00pm
5 Congregational Church Service – Revd. Angus McCormick – 10.30am
5 Congregational Church – fundraising lunch for Christian Aid week – 12.30pm
5 Friends of All Saints – Sunday Teas Start at All Saints – every Sunday til September.
3.00pm to 5.00pm
7 Annual Meeting of the Parish with guest speaker – Congregational Church – 7.45pm
8 Men’s Club – Evening Meal at The Dog & Badger, Maulden
9 Friends of All Saints – AGM – All Saints Church – 7.00pm followed by Illustrated Talk
“Stones, Lead & Oak” at 7.30pm plus refreshments
9 Wives’ Group – “My Photography” with Steven Granger – Congreg.Church – 7.45pm
11 Social Club Event – Live band – “Ouse Valley Singles Club”.
12 Congregational Church Service – Mrs. Sandra Hare – 10.30am
14 Parish Council – AGM - Congregational Church – 7.45pm
18 Friends of All Saints – 70s Disco in Village Hall with Supper. Dress to impress! 7.30pm
19 Congregational Church Service – Mrs. Sandra Galton – 10.30am
20 Classic Car Group – The Cross Keys at Pulloxhill – from 6.00pm
22 Men’s Club – Factory tour of BMW Mini Plant at Cowley”
22 Village Hall Management Meeting – Jubilee Room – 8.00pm
23 Wives’ Group – Annual General Meeting – Congregational Church – 7.45pm
26 Congregational Church Service – Revd. Dr. Christopher Hill – 10.30am
JUNE
1 Fundraising Event for Muscular Distrophy – 62 Bury Road from 3.00pm
2 Congregational Church Service (Anniversary) – Revd. Angus McCormick – 10.30am
3 AGM of Playing Field Management Committee – Social Club – 7.30pm
4 Parish Council Meeting – Congregational Church – 7.45pm
6 WI – “Ladies Night Out” – Social celebrating 80 years – Congreg.Church – 8.00pm
