child on swing in new pat playground - theydon

CHILD ON SWING

IN NEW

PAT

PLAYGROUND

Village News Issue 103 September 2018

PAT Opening - Preview on 15th July The great and the good of Theydon Bois got to have a sneak preview of the revamped playground when an official "thank you" party was held at the site in Poplar Row on Sunday 15th July. Originally the day had been earmarked as the Grand Opening for all but despite the best efforts of all involved the site was not ready to open; a couple of pieces of equipment had not been installed and, crucially, the site had not been signed off as safe by RoSPA. But the private viewing for those who had helped in some way to get the project off the ground and into motion went ahead. It was a great chance for everyone to see the new site and all the equipment in situ on the new, colourful rubberised flooring.

With a drink in hand and catering donated by the Brick Lane Bagel company speeches were made and smiles were aplenty. Shelley Dix, chair of the PAT committee (pictured right) thanked everyone for their support which had turned the vision at the end of 2016 into reality 18 months later. Those attending the event included former PAT committee members, Cllr John Philip, Essex County Council chairman Cllr John Aldridge, and County Cllr Chris Whitbread.

The original playground was first installed in 1991 but by the end of 2016 some pieces of equipment were starting to look aged and needed removing for safety purposes. The PAT committee then launched into a huge fundraising effort to replace it all. They succeeded in getting some large grants, including £53K from BIFFA AWARD, £40K from the Parish Council, £20K from Essex County Council Communities Initiative Fund, £5K each from Epping Forest District Council and Theydon Bois Village Association, and £1K from TB&DRPS.

Other notable contributions were raised by the Hammond family, Butler and Stag, Lauren Louise Hairdressers, Esquires Barbers, Tesco bags of Help scheme and Quality and Excellence Butchers. The whole village pitched in to help and eventually so much was raised that the committee were able to add a few extra tweaks to the playground design as well as replace the fencing along one side, new access gates and a hardstanding area. There are now new benches in the playground too and they are dedicated to Joy Wainwright, the original founder of the Playground At Theydon, Peter Hammond, a much-loved resident & councillor and Charlotte as a tribute to this popular Theydon mother who regularly used the playground with her children.

Just before Village News went to press with this edition, there was an update from the PAT Committee - All the safety checks for the Playground have now been completed and the playground is open and safe to use. There will be an official opening that all villagers are welcome to attend sometime in September. See Village Website for date when decided.

The PAT Committee

The “Gathering” on 15th July


Parish Council Chairman’s Report

Parish Council News

It has been quite a varied time for the Parish Council since the last Village News, with some notable developments. I am happy to say that we have been able to fill the Assistant Clerk position. I would like to thank all those who applied, but in the end we were able to appoint a village resident, Sarah Shirley. Sarah has already joined us and you may well have come across her if you have called into, or phoned, the office. Sarah will be looking after our Planning committee and the Community Liaison committee, as well as more general support for Caroline. You will see her at our monthly full Council meetings, on the last Thursday of each month, where she will be taking the minutes. We are very pleased to have her on board.

At our June meeting we had PC Andy Cook attend and speak to the meeting. Andy, after a period away, has been reassigned to working with a number of villages in the Epping Forest area. Andy has committed to being with us at our monthly meetings as often as possible to help improve the communication between the village and the police. We are expecting him along to talk in more detail about the Community speed-watch initiative. As we get more details I will publicise them, but unlike on previous occasions, the equipment required for the activity is provided by the Police. We hope that this, along with the increases in police based at EFDC, covered elsewhere in the Village News, will help in the village.

I was delighted to be able to attend the official launch of the Playground at Theydon with many of the Parish Councillors. The Parish Council was pleased to be able to support this initiative financially, the first organisation to do so. Essentially, we funded the new flooring, which I have to say looks really good, to the level of around £40,000. We felt that there were so many people in the village who use or have used this facility that we wanted to make a strong statement of support. We would like to congratulate the PAT committee for all their hard work and were glad to have been able to provide support and assistance.

I am also pleased to say that the upgrade to the village CCTV is now in place and working well. We have adopted a clear policy around the use of our CCTV which Caroline is responsible for maintaining. You will also, hopefully, have seen the new signs going up which make it clear that the CCTV is in use. We are continuing to examine whether further changes or improvements are required.

As a Parish Council, we are a small number of people who work hard to deliver things for the village, but we are always happy to get help from others. I am grateful to those who have volunteered to be part of the Twinning initiative. Before the next News we will have had our busy end of year spell, and would love to have people to help at the Christmas market and our community Christmas event. This used to be what we called the Seniors, but we have decided to open it out further. If you would like to help or to attend, please just contact Caroline in the Parish Office. I hope you have all had a good summer and I look forward to seeing you in the coming months. JOHN PHILIP

Theydon Bois Parish Council - “A date for your diary”

Christmas Market 2018 Our annual Christmas Market will be held this year on Friday 30th

November. For further information, or to book a stall please contact the Parish office on 01992 81 3442 or [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Parish Council News (continued)

27th Sept Parish Council Meeting with Public Participation - 8pm - Village Hall

25th Oct Parish Council Meeting with Public Participation - 8pm - Village Hall

29th Nov Parish Council Meeting with Public Participation - 8pm - Village Hall

30th Nov Christmas Market 2018 - further info contact the Parish Office

Parish Council Lifetime Achievement Award

The winner of the Parish Council Lifetime Achievement Award (former Villager of the Year Award) for 2018 is Sue Warren. Sue has been one of our Village Tree Wardens for many years and can often be seen working around village caring for our trees with fellow Tree Warden Jane Turner. Sue was a member of the TB&DRPS committee for 4 years and presently is on the committee of TBAG where she does much of the research to defend our village Green Belt against damaging planning applications. Sue also volunteers help for many of the events involving our seniors so this award is a well deserved recognition of all her contributions. It was clearly recognised at the Annual Parish Meeting in June when there was a spontaneous round of applause when Sue's name was announced.

Sarah Shirley- New Assistant Parish Clerk

Sarah currently lives in Morgan Crescent with her husband, Matt and their two young children, Evie, 6 and Ralph 3. She has always lived in the local area, growing up in Woodford Green and later buying a house in Loughton. The family made the move to Theydon Bois in 2012.

After leaving school, Sarah obtained a law degree from University College London and went on to attend law school before taking a two year training contract with US law firm, Shearman & Sterling (London) LLP. Sarah qualified into the property department and had quite a broad practice which included development, planning and finance work. She worked for entities from both the UK and abroad.

In 2012, Sarah and Matt fell in love with the house in Morgan Crescent, but it had been empty for 18 months and had water pouring in through a big hole in the ceiling! So began a renovation project which Sarah would manage and which would come to an end in 2016. Sarah was very keen to ensure that the build was functional and modern (with open plan living) but was also reminiscent of the original style, keeping many of the old features.


Theydon Bois & District Rural Preservation Society

Our guided walk to Theydon Garnon Church on June 10th coincided with the Church’s Hog Roast which provided an extra item of interest for the intrepid walkers who had to negotiate a footpath very overgrown in places by shoulder high grass. Our final guided walk of the year will be on Sunday 9th September and this will be along part of the ‘Oak Trail’ from Theydon to Ivy Chimneys, this area of South Epping where it is proposed to build 950 new homes. The Society commented on aspects of the Epping Town Neighbourhood Plan Consultation that may have a tangential effect on Theydon Bois in that footpaths, such as those we shall be using on this walk, pass through what will be a proposed very large housing development the other side of the M25. Our aim is to ensure the protection of these footpaths that are at present well used.

On Friday 6th July at our AGM Tony O’Connor, Museum Culture and Heritage Manager of Epping Forest District Museum gave an illustrated guide to the extensive alterations and additions made to the museum that he forecast when he spoke to us a few years ago. For those who have not visited recently it looks as though there is now much more to see and new activities to try. (For details check www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/museum).

The following Sunday, 8th July, we had our usual stand at the Donkey Derby manned by members of the Committee and showing photographs of the 19th century Donkey Derby at Birch Hall together with “before and after” pictures of many roads in the village.

The Sixteen String Jack PH site, now with a new developer, looks as though it will finally go ahead with some small variations on the original approved plans. So far these have been minor and not of any particular cause for concern for us or the Parish Council, but we will continue to carefully monitor any further changes to the proposals for this sensitive site.

We have been concerned about the changes that EFDC are now making with regard to objections to planning applications before they can be referred to a Planning Committee of Councillors (in our case ‘Plans East’) as these seem to disregard local knowledge and democracy. Until the changes, if the Parish Council alone raised an objection to an application then it would be referred to the Planning Committee for decision. If the Parish did not object then only three other objectors were needed. Now unless there is a further objector in addition to the Parish Council or a councillor attends the committee to support the objection (not always possible) then it will not need referral by officers. Also without a Parish Council objection it now, in most cases, requires 5 objectors before referral. Many Parish Councils and interested parties have objected to the proposed changes, but the full EFDC Council seem to have still agreed them although some details of how this will now be fully implemented need to be clarified.

The Government just before the summer recess have published a new revision of the National Planning Policy Framework that has a number of significant changes. It remains to be seen how Local Authority interpretation of this will affect local planning decision making.


District Councillors’ Column

DISTRICT COUNCILLOR JOHN PHILIP - 812473

DISTRICT COUNCILLOR SUE JONES - 814548

On Friday the 20th July the EFDC Community safety hub was opened by the Rt Hon Dame Eleanor Laing with Roger Hurst, the PFCC, also speaking. This is the location where the 3 Essex Policemen, employed by EFDC, are based. They are up and running and have already had significant successes in the District. They are co-located with our CCTV organisation and other safety personnel. They are fully equipped and have a police vehicle there ready for use. The office has been equipped using the planned format for the revamped Council offices. We look forward to being able to give more success stories as time goes on.

Speeding has been the main concern that residents have raised with us during our recent surgeries. Excess speed causes distress to our residents and contributes significantly to road traffic accidents. Sadly, the current speed calming measures in Coppice Row and Piercing Hill are just not enough to curb the speed of the thoughtless drivers who consistently break the speed limit through the village. We, along with several residents, have lobbied our County Councillor, Cllr Chris Whitbread who is working with officers at County Council, to try and resolve the situation but with the ever increasing demands the services are being stretched beyond reason. However, there is an initiative that might help. A Community Speed Watch would involve volunteers recording the speeds of vehicles and being a very visible deterrent in the most affected area of the village. At the same time the Community Speed Watch Group provide indisputable evidence of the speed of the traffic passing through our village. There are now at least 80 Community Speed Watch groups based throughout the Essex area. The information gleaned from the teams are sent to

The Casualty Reduction Unit and most importantly warning letters are sent to the registered owners of the vehicles who are caught exceeding the speed limit.

If you could be interested in volunteering please contact The Parish Clerk at the Parish Office by phone 01992 813442 or e-mail: [email protected] Further information can be found on the Essex Safer Roads website at https://saferessexroads.org/policecommunity/community-speed-watch/


https://saferessexroads.org/policecommunity/community-speed-watch/





Theydon Bois Action Group

Theydon Bois Action Group www.theydonbois-actiongroup.co.uk Protecting the Village of Theydon Bois - Follow @TBActionGroup on Twitter

Further delay to EFDC’s Submission Version of the Local Plan The Judicial Review (JR) against Epping Forest District Council (EFDC), brought by CK Properties Theydon Bois Ltd who own the Old Foresters site, was dismissed by the High Court on 29th June 2018 on all four grounds of challenge, with costs of £10,000 awarded to EFDC. The JR had delayed submission of EFDC’s Submission Version Local Plan (SVLP) to the Planning Inspectorate for Examination in Public. CK Properties subsequently applied to the High Court asking for permission to appeal against the dismissal decision. This was refused and they have now applied for permission to appeal to the Supreme Court, resulting in further delays to the progress of our Local Plan.

Local Plannning Matters Old Coach House, 33 Piercing Hill - An application (EPF/1409/18) to demolish the old Coach House and replace it with a new 4 bedroom dwelling, double the size, has been refused. TBAG had written a strong objection on sound Green Belt grounds. Stable adjacent to Gun Cottage, Abridge Road – permission has been granted for a change to storage use (EPF/0102/18) but this came with conditions to protect the Green Belt site from further inappropriate development. Hydes Riding School, Abridge Road – Revised plans have been submitted for a smaller, 24 hr, residential security building (EPF/0429/18). TBAG has written a further objection as the fundamental Green Belt reasons for refusal have not been overcome. Lillicroft Nurseries, Abridge Road – TBAG has submitted further comments to the Planning Inspector and requested that the appeal be dismissed.

Government Planning Policies and the impact on the Green Belt The Government published its revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) on 24th July 2018 and states that it has ‘undertaken major reforms of the planning system in particular to give councils and developers the backing they need to get more homes built more quickly’. However, building on the Metropolitan Green Belt, while brownfield sites in London remain unused and undeveloped, will not provide the more ‘affordable’ homes which are most needed. The importance of the Green Belt around our towns and cities has never been greater. The prolonged heatwave and increased air pollution levels experienced this summer have highlighted how vitally important the Green Belt and other green spaces are for our health and wellbeing and a sustainable future for us all, by cooling the environment and reducing the effects of air pollution. This is why the Green Belt must be protected.

Whilst the Government continues to profess that it is protecting our precious Green Belt it is, in practice, forcing Local Authorities to build on Green Belt land and this is effectively being enforced, by the Planning Inspectorate, which is an executive arm of Central Government and which implements Government policies and instructions. This all benefits developers who wish to build more profitable, ‘executive style’ houses on green field sites rather than develop urban brownfield land, often to the detriment of local communities and without addressing the shortfall in the type of homes that are most needed.

The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) in its ‘State of the Green Belt’ report (August 2018) shows that the Green Belt is being built on at an ‘alarming rate’ and most of the new homes are unaffordable for first time buyers. CPRE state that nearly half a million homes are planned for Green Belt sites in spite of the fact that there are already enough brownfield sites for an extra million homes in England.


Theydon Bois Drama Society

- Our Last Production - Much Ado About Nothing 7th to 9th June 2018

ORDER TICKETS ONLINE FROM www.theydondrama.org or

Phone 01992 919036

A Bunch of Amateurs Ian Hislop and Nick Newman

Keen to boost his flagging career, fading Hollywood action hero Jefferson Steel arrives in England to play King Lear in Stratford - only to find that this is not the birthplace of the Bard, but a sleepy Suffolk village desperate to raise funds for the perpetuation of their beloved am-dram group. Jefferson’s monstrous ego, vanity and insecurity are tested to the limit by the enthusiastic am-dram thespians. As acting worlds collide and Jefferson’s career implodes, he discovers some truths about himself - along with his inner Lear.

Writer Nick Newman describes this play as “a love letter to amateur dramatics”. The play is lots of fast paced fun and perfect for an am-dram group such as Theydon, who are happy to laugh at our crazy hobby and ourselves for undertaking everything we do.

25, 26, 27th October 2018 Theydon Bois Village Hall

NODA REVIEW : Director Tee Greener Report Author : Andrew Rogers

This was a very good production, the best play I have seen Theydon perform. Resisting the temptation to play for laughs, they let the language speak for itself, albeit emphasised with some broad playing. I liked the updating of the play, setting it in England at the end of the First World War, with appropriate costumes and set. I liked the idea of the Watch being women and suffragettes to boot – tying in very nicely with the current anniversary. The production was fun but also there was a genuine feeling of malcontent from Don Juan's trickery, giving a clear contrast. Both the gulling scenes worked well and were funny. The first wedding scene was very good with some real raw emotions on display as Claudio rejects Hero. There was much fun to be had in Beatrice and Benedick’s exchanges and these scenes were strong. A very good set and period costumes enhanced the production, especially the men's Mess Dress uniforms.

There was a very good pace to the production but, importantly, without losing any of the pointing. There had obviously been much hard work undertaken to make this such an understandable and entertaining show. The production was of a high standard; accessible, fun, and moving.


Theydon Bois Drama Society - Our Last Production


The Past Summer in Theydon Bois The Past Summer in Theydon Bois, as described below, covers the extensive period from the beginning of June 2018 to early August 2018 as recorded in the Theydon Bois Local History. Therefore, due to space limitations, much detail has been omitted and so this Past Summer copy gives a "broad brush" picture of events which occurred during the summer period of 2018.

The last night of the three day production of Much Ado About Nothing by the Theydon Bois Drama Society was well supported despite the hot weather. The production included a cast of seventeen which was supported by a production team of some nineteen. The Director was Tee Greener.

It was revealed that 60 bank branches were closing each month with the Royal Bank of Scotland closing the most branches. More than 2868 branches will have closed between 2015 and the end of 2018. This trend was cited as being alarming with many customers now deprived of bank services; the banks claimed that this decline was due to the greater use of “on – line banking”. However some banks were reacting by increasing their services especially the Nat West Bank in Epping, as used by many Villagers, which was now opening at lunchtime each Saturday for several hours.

A further loss to local high street trading was the Gates Garage and local Ford dealership in Tower Road Epping, which closed and transferred its business to the Harlow site. Owners of Ford vehicles, especially those recently purchased from Tower Road now faced an eight mile (approx.) journey to Harlow or Woodford for spares and service. A more important question was the possible disposal of the Epping site which embodies the famous water tower, an Epping landmark. It was understood that the Tower was Grade Two listed and, moreover, was still used by the water

authority, and supported aerial systems for local radio and telephone communications. But in an age when any building could be threatened with “development”, anything was possible.

The welcome sunshine and low rainfall over the days extending back to early June had finally become a major heat wave. A temperature of 29 degrees C (84 degrees F) was recorded locally and the Met Office forecast was for the current weather to continue. The Met Office warned elderly people and those with bronchial and skin problems to stay indoors during midday periods; it was reported that only one millimetre of rain had been recorded in Essex since the beginning of the month, and drought conditions were developing with the threat of grass fires, especially in Epping Forest.

Theydon Bois Baptist Men’s Forum held its annual summer meeting in mid June at the Baptist Church to which the ladies had been invited. The speaker was Mark Lewis who gave an interesting talk about Art Deco from its artistic origins to the current vogue in jewellery design and building construction. The meeting then retired to the church social rooms to enjoy a special buffet lunch organized by Jeff Moody and his band of helpers.

Theydon Bois Primary School held its afternoon garden fete in the school grounds. The heat did


The Past Summer in Theydon Bois (continued)

Ed - Trevor lodges a comprehensive Annual Village Report with the Essex Record Office, extracts are submitted monthly for the village website and quarterly for village news. To avoid repetition, especially where news and information has been submitted by the club, society or entity directly to Village News, then it has been removed from Trevor’s Column in this issue.

not deter the many children from enjoying numerous entertainments i.e. three bouncy castles and other attractions including soap bubble blowing, venture activities and field events. the hot dog stall was not very busy but the candy floss, soft drinks and ice cream sellers were doing a roaring trade. The event was organized by the School PTA in conjunction with new Head Teacher, Andre Rall, and the income from the event would be used to meet ongoing expenses in part running numerous school activities, the school swimming pool, and a future special project.

The AGM of the Theydon Bois and District Rural Preservation Society was held in July and preceded by a talk entitled “A New Dawn on Sun Street“ given by Tony O’Connor the curator of the Epping Forest District Museum. which told the story of the people and events which have shaped the District. Following light refreshments, the Chairman Peter Newton opened the AGM by conveying the apologies of the President then commented briefly on the activities and concerns of the Society regarding new housing and other matters as detailed in the Local Plan, and especially the preservation of the Green Belt.

The Theydon Bois Singers presented their summer concert in the Village Hall entitled “An Evening of Memories of Europe” which included renderings of Verdi’s Chorus of Hebrew Slaves, a Hyon - do from Iceland, a medley from “Les Misérables” and a grand finale ending with ABBA’s “Thank You for the Music”. A duet was sung by Liz Weatherstone and Jan Cass, readings were given by John Day, Hilary Hedderick and Betsy Chaloner, and the instrumental soloists were Dave Beggs and Paul Chilvers; once again Paul was choir’s accompanist. The popular conductor was Lawrence Tatnall.

The record heat wave temperature of 83 degrees F (30 degrees C) did not discourage attendance at the 31st Donkey Derby held on the Village Green. And once again the Green resounded to the unusual sound of braying donkeys and the laughter of many children against a background of fairground music.

The Theydon Bois Horticultural Society held its 108th Annual Show at the Village Hall in glorious weather. The event was linked for the second time with the popular Tortoise Race which was held on the patio.

At 18.30 on 26th July the drought ended in the Village when a sharp thunder storm deluged parts of the area and lowered the temperature from the forecast 35 degrees C. towards which it had been steadily climbing. Elsewhere a month’s rain fell in an hour to cause flooding and leaves were stripped from trees by the hail and strong winds.

The beginning of August saw little change in the continuing high temperatures and limited rainfall. However the temperature finally fell to around 20 degrees in the second week of August.

Another problem with weather was the illegal activities of young people now free of the trammels of school. The authorities were warning of the perils of trespassing on railway tracks or dodging around closed level crossing gates. Such crossings do not exist in the Village area but rail trespass was easy as the barrier at the unsupervised Theydon Bois station is easily vaulted by the young and fit, especially fare dodgers; young children could copy their actions and gain access to the track. But then weren’t we all young once?.

TREVOR ROBERTS LOCAL HISTORY RECORDER


St Clare Compassionate Neighbour Project - Volunteers Needed

This August, local charity St Clare Hospice will celebrate 6 months of success for its Compassionate Neighbours programme, after the project’s launch in February 2018. Compassionate Neighbours is a community-led project, where volunteers support local people throughout West Essex and East Herts who are living with a life-limiting illness, or who are experiencing frailty, loneliness or social isolation. The award-winning programme, originally founded by St Joseph’s Hospice in East London in 2011, has now been established in a total of eight hospices across the UK.

Since the launch of the Compassionate Neighbours project at St Clare, the Hospice has successfully recruited 23 volunteers throughout the charity’s catchment area, who each offer their time, companionship and a listening ear to people living in their community who are coping with illness, old age or loneliness. St Clare hopes to recruit 50 Compassionate Neighbours within the first year of the project, calling on caring members of the public from the Uttlesford District, Bishop’s Stortford, Sawbridgeworth, Harlow and Epping Forest areas, to come forward and join the ranks of its volunteers.

The project aims to be mutually beneficial for both the Compassionate Neighbour and the Community Member, with pairs being ‘matched’ based on their shared likes, interests and experiences. St Clare’s Compassionate Neighbours Manager, Stacey Towler, said: “The important thing is that the relationship between a Compassionate Neighbour and a Community Member is equal. It is not about a person having care or a service ‘done to them’ – but about two people connecting and sharing time together in a way which has a positive impact on both of their well-beings.” Stacey continued: “We all know what it is like to feel lonely. However, some people in the local community must endure this quiet reality every, single day. Luckily, there are amazing initiatives like the Compassionate Neighbours project that aim to tackle

social isolation & loneliness and to reach those who could benefit from its support. Our volunteers help others by visiting people in the community regularly; offering companionship and emotional support; helping them to do the things they like doing; and helping them stay connected to the community as well as family and friends.”

New volunteers will be provided with a full training programme, free of charge. The training courses are informal, fun and inspirational, giving volunteers the opportunity to explore how they can use their compassion to help others and give them the confidence to support people in their community. Please note that you must be over 18 to volunteer for this service. St Clare Hospice will carry out a relevant DBS check and you must be willing to give up your time on a regular basis.

To find out more about becoming a Compassionate Neighbours project contact the Compassionate Neighbours Project Manager, Stacey Towler, on 01279 773279 or visit stclarehospice.org.uk/care/compassionate-neighbours/

First cohort of trained Compassionate Neighbours

https://stclarehospice.org.uk/care/compassionate-neighbours/


Arts Society West Essex - Busy Programme for Autumn It was one of those scorching hot days (remember them?) when a full coach of The Arts Society West Essex members set off to explore the beauty of the 92 acres of award winning gardens at Wrest Park, Bedfordshire, in July. The gardens feature many fine water features, follies, a temple and a fascinating archaeological storage for artefacts, wallpaper and masonry all carefully preserved by English Heritage. An exhibition of contemporary art was another attraction in the grounds which featured in the guided walk enjoyed by West Essex members. Pictured top, members of The Arts Society West Essex enjoy a talk on some of the English Heritage artefacts at Wrest Park and (below) show the grounds of this magnificent place.

The visit was part of a busy programme which will include during the autumn a four-day visit to Devon, opportunities to visit Salters’ Hall; Waddesdon Manor to see the Christmas decorations and have lunch; and a day of Johann Sebastian Bach presented by talented pianist and speaker Peter Medhurst on 28 November.

On 7 October the meeting will start at the earlier time of 10.30 to accommodate the annual general meeting at which officers and committee will be elected and Theydon Bois resident Mrs. Lis Goodwin completes her three year term as chairman. Celebrations continue of The Arts Society 50th anniversary with winning entries from the West Essex Arts Fest at Theydon Bois earlier this year being part of the Essex Area event at Braintree on 22 September.

Celebrating the West Essex 50th anniversary, members are working to produce a banner to be completed by 2020 and members are being encouraged to volunteer to contribute a panel to what will be the Theydon Bois equivalent of the Bayeaux Tapestry. The project is being led by Sheila Turnbull.


St Mary’s Churchyard - Do you know who lives here?

Every so often the family of someone who is buried in St Mary’s churchyard will get in contact, asking about the location of the grave. Some of these enquiries are easily answered, however others can result in various church members searching the churchyard for the plot in question. A comprehensive list of who is buried where would be the answer; unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, there isn't one.

Obviously where there is a permanent memorial the details are evident, although sadly some have eroded to partial/complete illegibility. However, the main issue is the large proportion of unmarked graves and the difficulty of

establishing with certainty who lies within. Unfortunately burials do not necessarily occur in strict chronological order, i.e. 1st burial in plot 1, 2nd in plot 2 etc. and consequently, reference to the funeral register alone may not indicate where a grave is located. So far, a plan for the old churchyard, (burials 1844 - 1912), has not been found. Fortunately A. A. West kept numerous records and in 1906 he describes a small number of wooden memorials, (some with painted inscriptions) and a few cards marking particular plots. However, despite indicating that the churchyard was full of graves, presumably the vast majority of grave markers had already rotted away by then.

There is a similar problem in the later addition to the churchyard. Although the funeral register begins to record plot numbers against most entries from 1920, it appears that these also are not always in strict numerical order within the graveyard’s grid system layout. A later vicar caused further confusion by starting to change the system but not completing the task. As a result some plots have 2 or 3 numbers and there appear to be numerous duplicates as well. There is a plan of the changes made, but this was done in pencil and the paper is water damaged, so is very hard to decipher. Further analysis may help match more unmarked plots to funeral register entries, but at present it’s a bit of a puzzle.

So, are you able to help? If you are aware of anyone who is buried in an unmarked grave or someone who has been interred but not mentioned on the tombstone, please contact St Mary’s (email - [email protected] / phone 01992 814725) or come and speak to one of the churchyard gardening group who meet every Thursday morning 10.00 am - 12 noon (weather permitting).

Footnote: All this probably sounds a very dull, laborious task only undertaken through necessity. However whilst entering data onto a laptop isn’t much fun, trying to solve the various puzzles the process throws up is very addictive. There are also all sorts of interesting side issues. The churchyard contains various notable people worth investigating, (e.g. J. Boulcott, baggage master to the Duke of Wellington and F. M. Buss, founder of the North Collegiate and Camden School for Girls), however, it would also be nice to know whether the unnamed stranger killed by lightning was ever identified and why the Groombridge family and 2 of their servants died within a week or so in 1865. The social history is also compelling; the large number of Victorian infant mortalities was not unexpected, but the great ages of some adults was, the contrast in last place of abode, a large house in Theydon versus the Epping workhouse etc. On a lighter note, the trends in Christian names are intriguing. Some names are constantly repeated within a family, (the curse of genealogists), but when a name appears for the first time that isn’t easily linked to royalty or a well-known actor, singer etc what’s the source? So, lots to investigate - once the task in hand is finally completed of course!



Theydon Bois Horticultural Society - Front Garden Winners The selection and judging took place during the July heatwave and many of the gardens were suffering from lack of water. Also many flowers that we normally see had gone over, especially the roses. Nevertheless, the winning gardens were beautiful and colourful and very well tended. For those of you removing your front gardens to accommodate your vehicles we would put in a plea that you try to leave one or two areas for planting to soften the design. Winners below, photos taken at the Horticultural Show, grandchildren collecting No 1, the “formal” prize.

2. Informal 1st Sue Collins -41 Thrifts Mead 2nd Mr & Mrs Gordon -42 Woburn Avenue 3rd Norman Riley -26 Heath Drive

1. Formal 1st Mr & Mrs Skingle -Midhill Coppice Row 2nd Mr & Mrs Blanks -14 Hornbeam Road 3rd Mr John Newman -2 Baldocks

3. With Parking 1st Mrs S Brough - 28 Morgan Crescent 2nd Mr & Mrs James -Hornbeam Close 3rd Mr Martin King -2 College Place

Community / Commercial 1st The Bull 2nd Queen Victoria 3rd The Baptist Church

1 2 3


Theydon Bois Horticultural Society - Annual Show

The 108th Annual Show of the Theydon Horticultural Society was held in July in the Village Hall. The weather was exceedingly hot and dry and as this followed a very cold winter and spring, entries of vegetables were down on the previous year. No “Bake Off” on the BBC meant cookery entries were also down. However, the Photography section was very well supported including pictures of birds from around the world as well as those on the village pond and a wonderful array of entries in the Junior section including Viking longships, Anglo -Saxon tiles and painting in the style of other artists. As usual, there were guests invited to share their skills with visitors and these included willow weaving and lace making. Our local MP Dame Eleanor Laing presented the trophies to the winners at the show and for the Front Gardens Competition.

The warm weather encouraged the fourteen tortoises to show their paces. In the heavyweight section, for those animals over 2.5kg, the heaviest tortoise “Fred” galloped down the lane attracted by the promise of his favourite food, grapes, beating his nearest rival by 10 tortoise lengths. In the flyweight class, for animals under 1kg, Ossie, Rhumba and Mickey ran a close race. It was won by Ossie after he put a determined spurt on the last quarter of the track.

In the middleweight race, five of the animals were enticed to race with dandelions, lettuce, and tomatoes, but one “Elvis” was given a shoe to chase! But the winner of the race was “Ptolemy”, repeating his success as he was the overall winner in 2017. Results:

Heavyweight - 1st Fred, 2nd Tom, 3rd Alfrieda Middleweight- 1st Ptolemy, 2nd Arnie, 3rd Elvis Flyweight - 1st Ossie, 2nd Rhumba, 3rd Mickey

Photo Removed By Request


Theydon Bois Horticultural Society - Annual Show (continued)


Donkey Derby - Sunday 8th July 2018 There was a good attendance at the Theydon Bois Scout Group Donkey Derby this year despite the heat as thermometers hit 30C and the event raised more than £7,000 for the scouting and guiding groups. This year there was a larger presence of scouts joining the Theydon Bois and Theydon Garnon group as both the Chigwell and Buckhurst Hill scouts came along, with one bringing a large climbing wall which proved a hit with the youngsters.

There was all the usual fun of the fair on July 8th with the Ferris wheel and a huge selection of bouncy castles as well as the traditional games' stalls which raised money for other charities in the village including the school PTA, the Church and the Playground At Theydon Committee. The scouts are raising money to replace the old storage building on their site off Loughton Lane as the present one is old and unsafe

Most people chose to come early and enjoy the show before heading home or to one of the pubs for a little light refreshment! And the event ended with the Tug Of War - which The Bull pub won for the third year in a row. The heat did have an effect though as the dog show had to be cancelled to save people dragging their

pooches out with them. The donkey rides were also scrapped though the races went ahead. There had been some negative comments on Facebook against the donkey derby for using the donkeys for the races but the donkeys were given water, shelter (which most of them chose to ignore) and more rest than usual as they only had a few races each to do all afternoon. And, as is the way with these animals - if they didn't want to run - they didn't! In fact it was the people who couldn't cope with the heat with SMK First Aid and the Community Support police attending to four poorly people on the day.

There was also another hitch this year in that it is the first year the City of London brought in its high charges for organisations, including charities, for using the land. This was hotly disputed by many people from the parish council and the scout group, which did achieve a reduction in the fee from £1,000 to £600. This year the organisers also managed to get permission to suspend all the parking bays on Loughton Lane which made the junction with Coppice Row a lot more pleasant to negotiate than normal!

Donkey Derby committee chair Nik O'Flynn said: "I would like to thank everyone who came along for their support - it is greatly appreciated and we hope you had a good time. I would also like to say a big thank you to the huge number of volunteers who come over to man the stalls, make cakes, pitch marquees etc., it genuinely would not be able to happen without you. Also to the committee and those who helped set up the event in the sweltering heat on the Saturday - and all in time for the England match kick-off! A special big thank you to our sponsor, Butler and Stag estate agents, who not only supported us financially but also held a penalty shootout stall and lent us some volunteers."


Donkey Derby - Sunday 8th July (continued)


Focus on You - Yair Cohen

‘Focus on You’ focuses on people who live or work in the village of Theydon Bois. People who perform interesting and sometimes unusual jobs.

Sue Sowerby who writes this column met Yair some years ago at a networking event in Theydon Bois. Yair was the Guest Speaker, so with a mutual interest in digital marketing, the internet and social media, she felt he was an ideal candidate for ‘Focus on You’.

Born in a desert land in Beersheva, near to the biblical Judea and Samaria, which these days, is referred to by the media as the West Bank, Yair clearly feels passionate about being part of a fascinating history. Yet, Yair is a modern Internet and Social Media Lawyer. He lives in Theydon Bois with his wife Marcia and three teenage children. Yair’s business – a law firm called Cohen Davis is based in Upshire and it is the No.1 Internet Law specialist in the UK. The firm helps individuals and businesses deal with some of the internet’s upheavals. With nearly 25 years’ experience in e-commerce, Yair’s fascination with people, law and technology has already earned him a cover story in Forbes and recently he was announced as the Lawyer of the Week by the Times newspaper. He has also presented on LBC Radio’s ‘The Legal Hour’.

In the early years, Yair left his beloved Israel and travelled extensively throughout North, Central and South America where he back-packed on his own for nearly 3 years. Whilst resting in Guatemala, he met a woman with whom he later settled in London and where he took up Law at City University. Yair explained “As a student at University I met someone who told me the internet was going to be the next big thing.” He continued: “I was strapped for cash at the time as the University fees were killing me so I decided to learn how to code websites. I cold called and convinced businesses that they needed to have a website. Very soon I was taking bookings for my clients.” He added: “I learned the backend of the internet before the internet really took hold in the UK. The term ‘e-commerce’ didn’t exist back then. I used a fax machine to take the bookings for local hotels.” Yair stated: “I then had to make a decision as to whether to continue with my law studies or turn coding websites into a career. I decided in favour of law and ended up training as a Criminal Defence Lawyer.

Around 8 years later, people started to get problems on the internet. My friends from University, now Lawyers, remembered my passion and started to send me clients. I saw a real gap in the market so I converted my practice from Criminal Law into Internet Law.” Speaking proudly, Yair said: “I was the first Lawyer to get injunctions against Google, Trip Advisor and Facebook. I had people approaching me with all sorts of issues the internet was creating for them. My early clients included rock stars and famous authors, as nobody else was doing this stuff.”

“By then, I had been a Partner in a successful law firm for 10 years but I wasn’t enjoying it. I wanted a practice that was 100% dedicated to Internet Law where the focus is on helping people rather than making money. So I opened my second law firm, Cohen Davis, with a working ethos which is driven by values. I can’t work any other way! Suddenly, I was able to help individuals in circumstances where no one else could. Many of my clients were vulnerable. People who had perhaps taken a wrong turning in their lives – not always their fault. I have a mixture of clients. Some are powerful business people and others are just normal people, who struggle to make ends meet, for example, who had been involved in the adult entertainment industry.”


Focus on You - Yair Cohen (continued) Yair said: “We are here to help the good guys. The internet is unforgiving; at least in terms of misdemeanours of others. We are here today, giving people hope and a second chance, allowing them and their families to move on.” He continued: “Setting up at Warlies Park House in Upshire has been great for our business. It is a beautiful place to work, my staff are happy and it is near home.”

So what’s next for Yair and his company? Yair replied: “We grow together with the internet. We are planning our strategy and building up our structure – that’s important.” It can’t be all work and no play, so we asked Yair what he does in his spare time. “I love the local tennis club in Theydon Bois, the atmosphere and the people. I also spend time in the forest with my Alaskan Malamute dog Kayla who likes to pull me along on my mountain bike.”

We asked: “Do you get involved in any charity work that might be of interest to our readers?” “I am a Governor at King Solomon School in Barkingside, which teaches Jewish and non Jewish pupils traditional values.” He continued: “I am proud to be a Trustee of a charity called The Breck Foundation. It was created in memory of a normal kid called Breck Bednar who was manipulated, and eventually murdered when playing online computer games. The charity helps young people, parents and teachers stay safe online through education and awareness.” Yair concluded: “ I recently fulfilled a dream and published a book, ‘The Net Is Closing - Birth of the E-Police’, where I tell the story of the state of the internet policing from the eyes of vulnerable victims.”

Will he ever return to Israel? Yair said “perhaps one day, particularly if my wife and I feel that it is no longer safe for us to stay in the UK because of the rising anti-Semitism. The UK is my first home now as I left Israel in 1991.” To find out more about the work of Cohen Davis Solicitors, visit www.internetlawcentre.co.uk

http://www.internetlawcentre.co.uk/


Copped Hall Corner

PROGRESS AT THE MANSION - The Trust has installed flights of stairs to provide access to the second floor of the Wing. This access is not for general visitors but to make access between the floors easier for the builders and volunteers that work in the Mansion. This access will enable potential funders to inspect at close quarters the next important phase of restoration which is the installation of a glazed roof over the Light Well in the Wing. There has been much interest in this project, and also in the associated work which will be the rebuilding of the lift shaft roof. Work in the State Hall is moving towards the last stage of restoration. The window shutters have been fitted with their mouldings and preparation for the final painting of the architraves is under way. The four hardwood doors are now being made. The Dado has been completed and preparations for the final painting of the architraves are also underway. With winter in mind, the Trust has improved the means for keeping the Mansion warm. A set of double doors has been installed at the west end of the ground floor corridor so that visitors at particular events are not exposed to freezing draughts. Sockets for electrical heaters have been installed in various rooms. As visitors are aware, only the rooms in use for particular events tend to be heated in winter. Now that there is access to all parts of the roof, the Trust carries out regular inspections of the upper parts including the stonework. The Trust’s builders carried out a detailed inspection of the south side of the east pediment which was mysteriously covered in grass. With this removed it was found that the upper stone work was badly fragmented by the fire of 1917. As a safety precaution, the Trust has fenced off the front of the Mansion and contacted the stone work contractors. Five large stones will have to be replaced and this work is now authorised at a cost of £30,000. A donation of £5,000 plus gift aid towards this cost has already been made and further contributions will be gratefully received.

PROGRESS IN THE GARDENS - The extensive benches in the rebuilt section of the Orchard House have been completed and the educational use of this building can now begin. Nearby in the Northern Gardens, the remaining fragment of the Elizabethan building is being strengthened by the rebuilding of the adjacent wall, that was once part of it, and which collapsed several years ago. This work is now possible thanks to a kind donation. Also in these Gardens, the newly replanted eastern section of the pleached lime walk is looking good, largely as a result of frequent watering during the recent high temperatures. Despite the hot weather, the partly underground rain water reservoirs still have sufficient reserves to meet current needs. In the ruined Winter Garden beside the Mansion, the Trust will shortly be reinstating the concrete floor over the basement reservoirs, which will prevent evaporation and create a safe environment. This work will be a major step in the gradual restoration of this important area.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS UP TO 31ST DECEMBER 2018 15 Sep – Antique Furniture Restoration (two days) 14 0ct – Apple Day 17 0ct – Astronomy Study Day 23 0ct – SPAB Study Day 27 0ct – Museum At Night (Astronomy and the Elizabethans) 04 Nov - Fitz William Concert 11 Nov – Pudding Evening 1/2 & 8/9 Dec - Christmas Carols

SITE AND GARDEN TOURS 2018 - Guided Tours of the Mansion and grounds/walled garden are held on the 3rd Sun each month (from Jan to Nov). Tours from 10.15, for two hours approx (gates open 10.00 to 11.00 only - extended to 13.00 for July only). Gates will be attended until 30 minutes after commencement of the advertised event time; no late admissions thereafter Special Openings of the Gardens are held on 1st Sunday each month from Apr to Sep - between 14.00 and 16.00. Unless otherwise stated, all events are held at the Copped Hall Mansion. Car parking is always available, as are refreshments. Vehicle access is only possible via London entrance in Upshire Road off B1393.

For further information/tickets for study days and workshops, please contact Jan Warne 020 8505 6008, or for concerts & theatre etc Francis Dennett (07749 397932

E Mail [email protected]. See also www.coppedhalltrust.org.uk.

http://www.coppedhalltrust.org.uk


Theydon Bois Golf Club

The picture on the right shows the Club’s site at the Donkey Derby in June where youngsters were

encouraged to try their hand at swinging a small club with prizes for those nearest the pins. Pictured are Linda Ames, Pat Davies, Professional Kevin Delaney, Linda Delaney and Kevin’s daughter Sophie.

For this edition of Village News, Kevin unravels the mysteries of getting out of sand.

How to Hit a Bunker Shot - From time to time when you play you are going to hit bad shots and find yourself out of position. This can mean that you may find yourself in the difficult position of being in a bunker. This can result in taking many swings at the ball and ending up in the frustrating position of not being able to get the ball out of the hazard.

However bunkers are not something that you should fear and they should not be too difficult to get out of. In this article I am going to give you a couple of simple points that should help in getting the ball out and saving that par. The first thing to understand is that it is not the ball that you are trying to hit, it is the sand with which contact needs to be made.

Set up Open Your Stance, unlike a normal shot where you stand parallel to the target line you need

to open your stance so have your feet pointing left of the target (assuming that you are right handed)

try to shuffle your feet deeper into the sand, this allows you to lower your horizon and increase the chances of making a good contact. It will also allow you to test to see what the ground conditions are, depth of sand dry/wet sand.

Keep the club face pointing at the target , although your body alignment is left of the target it is important that the club points where you want the ball to go.

Ball position, the position of the ball should favour your forward foot, this is further forward than you play a normal pitch shot

Weight distribution, favour your forward foot for this

Swing Tempo, the feeling for this is that it should be a long slow swing, it will be a far longer swing

than you would normally play for a shot of the distance that you are faced with. Swing Path, this is the most important aspect of the shot, swing along the line of your feet, do

not swing like you are trying to play to the hole. Because the club face is open the ball will go to the target and not where your feet are pointing.

Should you need any help with your game or are looking to take up the game of golf do not hesitate to contact me on 01992813054 or email [email protected]

At Theydon Bois Golf Club we are always looking for new members so should you wish to talk about memberships please do not hesitate to contact me.

KEVIN DELANEY



Theydon Bois Tennis Club

Veteran’s Finals Day is one of the main events of the year at the Tennis Club. The matches are always competitive, and this year was no exception. Those present also enjoyed a fine lunch provided by Fiona Falco.

The Mixed Doubles saw favourites Carol Hembury and Rob Halford beat Javed Shah and Sue Ward. Carol was also successful in the Ladies Doubles with her partner Fiona Jones, overcoming Nicky Howson and Sharon Greenleaf. The closest match of the day was in the Mens Doubles, with Rob Halford also earning his second title in partnership with Scott Sadler, beating Tony Casaluci and Yair Cohen.

Having had a really busy summer season, the Club continues to be active throughout September. Senior and Juniors Finals Days are followed by our Captains Charity Day American Tournament and Dinner. Our full programme of Adult and Junior coaching goes on all year round, offering a full range of sessions for all ages and abilities.

Finally, we were looking through our archives recently and came across some photos from ‘back in the days’.

Right

1969 Finals Day – we’ve discontinued the white clothing

policy!

Below

Whit Monday some time in the 1960s – fortu-nately our new courts drain

somewhat easier


Theydon Bois Cricket Club The Club is making a sustained effort at all levels to get results that will keep the interest of those playing high. The results are now beginning to show an improvement with the Saturday league side winning a number of

games and, in a number of cases, the games lost have been by a small margin. The Sunday team have had their fair share of wins and, like the other senior side, those lost have been by a few runs or wickets. The three junior (colts) sides for ages 9,10, and 11 have had regular games with varied success. The enthusiasm shown by the youngsters bodes well for the future and it is to be hoped that in four or five years time we will see as many as possible progress to the senior sides. Thanks must be paid to all the parents/guardians who have involved themselves in the various aspects of the games and to the continuing support given by the coaches under Warren Hyde. Where the Club is suffering, like so many others, is the lack of players between the ages of thirteen and eighteen. If you have a child who is currently having hysterics playing on a PS4 or other game machine suggest to them that fresh air is an alternative and bring them to the Club to see there is another world.

We always welcome anyone coming for a look around and, whilst we may be biased, we think you will find our facilities are as good as any. Drop in and make yourself known, at most times, when the bar is open a Committee member is there. To keep up with the club check in to the website: www.tbcc.co.uk.


Special Village Litter Pick Day on 6th October

The regular monthly litter picks started in summer 1997 as part of our Village’s preparation for the visit by Anglia in Bloom judges. They were scheduled to visit the village to assess whether our Village merited a place in the finals. I am glad to say that it did and Theydon Bois was in the honours and continues to receive accolades to this day. The regular Village Litter Picks have come of age; they have been a regular feature of this Village’s activities for twenty one years.

It also coincides that this autumn sees the centenary of the ending of the First World War with the usual Act of Remembrance at the War Memorial in the Churchyard. This seems like an ideal opportunity to organise a community litter pick of the village and adjacent forest areas. Promoted by the Daily Mail, communities throughout the country have turned out to help clear the abundance of unsightly waste on their doorsteps. This waste, apart

from discarded cardboard food and drink containers, newspapers and cigarette packets, also consists of plastic drinks bottles (usually still half full), drinks cans, plastic food trays and plastic milk shake containers, none of which will deteriorate in time and will reside where they have been dropped for time immemorial.

We are planning a special day, Saturday 6th October in our village and nearby forest when we hope members of the community will come out to join us and help rid our community of this scourge of litter and plastic waste. We will meet at the Village Hall at 9am in the car park. A number of ‘litter pickers’ and protective gloves will be available as will a plentiful supply of black plastic bags.

All are welcome, especially if you are one of those who care about the environment in which you live. Help us keep the village clear of unsightly waste material and also help set an example to the younger members of our village family by encouraging them to be aware of the scourge of litter. Don’t forget, 9am on the 6th October at the Village Hall car park. JOHN EATON


St. Mary’s News

C hurch news - The Act of Remembrance to be held on Sunday 11th November will be one of the most important days in our lifetime, marking the centenary of the end of the First

World War. A special service marking the centenary will be held by the War Memorial to honour the memory of all those who, so tragically, lost their lives in that terrible war and of course subsequent wars. The Act of Remembrance commences at the War Memorial in the Churchyard at 10.45 am prompt with the two minutes silence at 11am, followed by the service in the church.

C hurchyard - At the time of the June issue, we were preparing for the usual crop of mixed weather, rain and sunshine and the season of mowing the grass. Prepared as we were, we

have not had the amount of useful rain until today, 9th August. Although our mowers have been out once or twice, the grass has just not grown. The grass, shrubs and trees are all looking distressed through the lack of rain and the abundance of hot sunshine, but I think that is all changing with more rain forecast. We are standing by our mowers and are ready for when the grass growth takes off again. Unfortunately, our resident small herd of deer have not moved on as we had hoped and are attacking shrubs and lower branches of trees, which does not help with the general appearance of the churchyard. We will need to remove those branches which have been stripped – any volunteers?

One of my main ambitions since taking responsibility for the church yard has been my desire to get a volunteer to log all the graves on a lap top, showing grave number and names interred to complete our knowledge base of who lies where. A member of the Working party became interested and has undertaken a study which is still ongoing but the end is in sight. It has raised many interesting facts and, many almost imponderable questions. You can read the volunteers report on page 16 and if you have any knowledge of information requested please contact us.

M ission Committee - As we approach the end of the close season, when very little happens because of summer holidays, it is timely to remind you of a few dates to put in your

diaries for forthcoming events. The ‘Bags for Lives’ initiative whereby members of the community are invited to take a bag and fill it with cans of foodstuffs, woollen goods and children’s toys are still available should anyone wish to join in with the scheme. We are asking that they are returned to St. Mary’s on or by Sunday 23rd September which is our Mission Sunday when we celebrate the work of mission during the past year. The Manna Centre, a day centre near London Bridge for homeless people asks for tins of a variety of savoury and pudding foodstuffs to feed the homeless. For Operation Christmas Child we ask for gifts of small soft toys, balls, yoyos, simple dolls, notepads, small jigsaws but please remember they need to be small enough to fit into a shoe box. Finally we support Mission to Seafarers and they require woollen hats, warm scarves, fingerless mittens, neck warmers, toiletries and copies of Readers Digest.

Also coming up is the Harvest Festival Soup lunch on Tuesday 25th September. The event is held in the Church Hall, Coppice Row between 12 noon and 1.30pm. As stated before, this is a vibrant community event with a cross section of young mums with their children and older members of the village enjoying a wide range of home made soups and puddings all for £5. Following up on the theme of celebration of harvest festival, we do collect tins of foodstuffs for the Manna Centre, should any of you wish to donate to this good cause. Then in November, we hold our three soup lunches on the first three Tuesdays which are 6th, 13th and 20th. These are held in the Church Hall Coppice Row and are in aid of Operations Christmas Child, The Manna Centre and the Mission to Seafarers. We hope you will join us if you can.

JOHN EATON


Theydon Bois Primary School - Sponsored Painting The exterior of Theydon Bois Primary has been looking less than pristine for quite some time as a redecoration of the block has not been carried out for over ten years because there has never been enough money in the school budget to cover the costs of a renovation. Peter Arthy whose son Stefan attends the school and will be in Year 1 next term decided to ask Mears, Islington, the company where he works as a site manager, if they could assist. Peter, who is also on the

board of the school as a governor went on to explain; " I got myself elected on the board with a sole purpose to help and do what I can to improve the quality & standard of the school for our teachers and indeed the pupils.

When I asked Mears they said they were more than happy to help as long as I ran the

project”. It was quite obvious to Peter that on inspection prior to the job being carried out that nothing had been painted or cleaned for many years so before they could even think of painting the whole area needed to be jet washed, cleaned and all the cracks had to filled. Peter noted “that any decent trade’s person will tell you that the quality of your finish will depend highly on how much effort you put in to your prep".

Peter was ably assisted by 9 of his colleagues from Mears Islington none of whom actually live in Theydon Bois with the exception of Peter himself. The weather was exceptionally warm which made conditions tough for the painters so Peter made sure his painters took regular drink breaks and even supplied sun screen which when working outdoors in this weather is essential. Peter added " yes the weather was really an issue as it was extremely hot but these guys have been doing this kind of work for years so have worked in all kinds of conditions. In a way it worked out well because it was so warm it helped with the drying time. Everything had to be given two coats so the delay we had between the first and second coat was minimal"

The redecoration programme took two full weekends to carry out because of the required amount of cleaning before any paint tins were opened. The branch manager from Mears Islington Theo Petrou, who attended on both weekends, was delighted with the turnout for both weekends and had nothing but praise for his workforce "the guys have done me proud, you always worry when people volunteer for such work just how many will show up as many of them live miles from the village of Theydon Bois. However all 10 of them turned out at 8am and were still there at 6pm on the final Saturday to complete the job". When the job was completed all the painters piled round Theo's house in Chigwell to have a ‘barbie’ and drinks to celebrate a job well done.

The external appearance of the premises has been transformed and at no cost to the school thanks to the help from the Mears team who supplied all the materials and labour. The school


head, Mr Rall said he was overwhelmed by the turn out and indeed the quality of finish. “Budgets we hold for this kind of works are never in reality enough but now we have saved it, this money can be spent elsewhere which is a huge bonus".

Peter and the volunteers thanked caretaker, Steve Bristow for help with access around the school and Theydon Bois Primary School would like to thank Mears Islington for their very generous help by donating the paint and resources to carry out some much needed work to the exterior of the school. photos Peter Arthy is 4th from left (at top) against the school wall. & 4th from right below.

Theydon Bois Primary School - Sponsored Painting (continued)


Tippy’s Topics - All Things Theydon Bois - Facebook Group Welcome to our usual round up of the comments discussed and debated on our Theydon Bois Villagers group and the 'All Things Theydon Bois' Facebook pages, also a big hello to new residents. This is the place to peer into our 'media circle' and join in!

It is a pleasure to share a good number of positive stories this edition. We have seen the Playground completely transformed into a sparkling 'little gem' for villagers and visitors to use. This was due to hard work, dedication and generosity. The Playground Committee (PAT) worked tirelessly and created 'magic' the villagers pulled together - donations were received by the bucket load. So many contributed and thanks have been given. We were treated to photographs and information as the transformation took place. The playground is now open and there has been discussion as to an official opening.

Butler and Stagg our village Estate Agents generously paid for and donated a goal for use on the Green. This was warmly welcomed by villagers and special thanks was given at the kind gesture. During July one of our villagers started a collection for old football kits to go to Uganda, after speaking to a gentleman who was returning to a village there. Children from this village have very little in terms of sports kits and even share pencils in their schools. Villagers dug deep - and donated sportswear/shoes and even boxes of stationery. Many thanks to Debbie McClaren-Smith for raising awareness and collecting the items which will be deeply appreciated by the recipients.

We have two new neighbourhood watch coordinators who have taken up position in our village - they have given so much advice to our members - from keeping property safe, to what to do in certain situations. They have also been invaluable in passing information on to the right people/departments - when there may be confusion as to who to contact. They are both proactive members and many villagers have warmly welcomed their input - so a huge welcome to Kim Abbott and David McKelvey. We also saw the launch of the Epping Forest Community Safety hub - which saw funding for three officers to work alongside council staff to tackle local problems.

Ben Stern from SMK First Aid Training noticed that we did not have a community access -village defibrillator (for those who do not know) these machines can help to save a person’s life. This is now available 24/7 - he acquired a government backed grant but needed a further six hundred pounds to bring the idea to fruition. Villagers once again dug deep, raising the funds needed in record time! - He also approached shops asking if they would house the unit outside of their premises. Pharmacy and Quality and Excellence offered to house the unit and the latter has offered to pay for any electricity used. Thanks were given to all those involved. Ben will be arranging free defibrillator training at some point in the future for all interested villagers. Many have stressed how proud this has made them feel to be part of our village, with people who care.

There have been a great many items found, photographed and shared to the sites, including wallets, debit/credit cards/jewellery. Most of these items have thankfully been claimed. Recommendations are commonly sought from villagers who need cleaners - windows cleaned, building work completed and so on. Many have happily found work and had work done.

We have been treated to updates from the preschool which are always special and give us an


Tippy’s Topics - All Things Theydon Bois - Facebook Group (continued)

insight into the activities that the children participate in, especially the gardening and the growing of fruit and vegetables. Many enjoy this.

The donkey derby took place once again on our much used Green. Many turned out to support the event, which raises much needed funds. The weather was exceedingly warm so the dog show was cancelled. Many congratulated the organisers, who work tirelessly for this event to be successful, year after year.

A number of complaints have been received about people not using poop bags for dogs mess, some were very saddened at this. I will reiterate that we have these bags available at the Post Office, purchased by a villager for dog walkers to use.

Something fiercely debated has been the night time bonfire lighting near or on the allotments. Villagers have complained that they have had to close windows on very warm evenings, that their washing has been ruined and that the smell is often appalling. A villager Nichola Lashmar has given an update on the site about the investigation into this that has taken place over a three year period. An update on the situation with the bonfires that many of us have reported as burning through the night, on still summer nights producing toxic fumes and left unattended.

Over the last 3 years I’ve been looking into this, reporting to and meeting with EFDC and the Parish and District Councils and the Environment Agency, primarily to locate the fires and highlight the pollution in our homes but also to get some strict guidelines in. The fires have been located as coming from the allotments and EFDC have evidence that some of what is being burned is indeed toxic. Caroline Carroll the Parish Clerk at the Parish Council has worked tenaciously toward resolution of this issue and I can confirm that “for the foreseeable future” there will be no more fires at the allotments and that instead there will be investment in composters. A big thank you to all involved and especially to Caroline Carroll for the hours and attention she has put in, plus Duncan Forsythe at EFDC for heading up the investigation.

Many villagers were fed up with the large pothole outside of Tesco, some villagers reported damage to their vehicles. Kim Abbott suggested emailing the CEO of the store and complaining. The pothole was filled shortly afterwards.

We had such hot weather and some residents mentioned watering trees with a couple of buckets of water on an 'adopt a tree' basis. So that each of us could be responsible for the tree closest to our property. We saw on the site that some were doing this and I also had many villagers inform me in the Post Office that they were following suit.

To finish, sadly we have had villagers cars stolen to the upset and outrage of the owners. We have also once again had break-ins at the shops. Photographs of suspected perpetrators have been shared on the site. Many have suggested various ways of tackling crime.

Once again, many thanks for reading! I hope you have enjoyed my little round up of news, views, events and topics. Lots of Love Tippy xx


News, Comments & Notices

At the end of July it was announced in St Mary's Theydon Bois that the

Revd Carol Newnham is to join the Theydon Parishes as an Associate Priest.

She will be working alongside the present Vicar, and will be residing in the Vicarage of the parish of All Saints Theydon Garnon. She will be licensed by the Archdeacon of Harlow in a special service to mark the start of her ministry on Thursday 8th November at 7.30p.m. at St Mary's Stapleford Tawney. All welcome JOHN FRY VICAR OF THE THEYDON PARISHES

A NEW PRIEST JOINS THE TEAM IN NOVEMBER

BE ALERT SEPTEMBER FOCUS: ROGUE TRADERS £190bn annually lost to SCAMS (2017 Annual Fraud Indicator) Ten Tips to Keep Us Safe: 1. SAY NO to unwanted, uninvited callers

2. BE WISE TO ROGUE TRADERS too good to be true, they probably are

3. DON’T FEEL PRESSURISED TO MAKE A DECISION say you need advice first

4. BE WISE TO POSTAL SCAMS no legal company will ask for money to claim a prize

5. KEEP PERSONAL DETAILS SAFE they can be used to open bank accounts, credit

cards and loans

6. RESEARCH THE COMPANY be sure the company is who it says it is

7. BE ONLINE SAVVY check who you are communicating with online

8. TALK TO SOMEONE YOU TRUST if you’re suspicious

9. REPORT A SCAM help expose the criminals

10. YOU ARE NOT ALONE anyone can be a victim. Report it and get support.

For advice and to report scams. Call 101, report it at online or contact ACTION FRAUD: 0300 123 2040 or online at www.actionfraud.police.uk

We are asking you to join the Neighbourhood Watch mailing list. We are asking you to reach out to your neighbours who do not have access to online resources and share the information on the mailing list with them.

If you would like to join us in taking this stand, in stating that we are not victims then please email [email protected]

BE ALERT SEPTEMBER FOCUS: ROGUE TRADERS £190bn annually lost to SCAMS (2017 Annual Fraud Indicator)

THEYDON BOIS NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

http://www.actionfraud.police.uk




The Brass Band will make its annual appearance in Theydon Bois, presenting a family evening of “Festive Music and Christmas Carols” at the Village Hall, commencing at 7.30pm on Tuesday 18th December This evening has proven to be a great success in the past; therefore, you are advised to purchase your tickets early. This relaxed concert is for the whole family with ticket prices of £6 for adults and £3 for Children; bring your own festive food and drink. Fairlop Brass Band The Band was founded in 1968 as the Fairlop Junior School Brass Band. The Band became independent from the School in 1970, but for many years attendance at a Fairlop School was a criteria for Membership of the Band.

The Band was founded by its President Dennis Carney. Current Musical Director Kevin Jordan was appointed in 1984, having been a member of the Band since 1968. Under Kevin’s leadership the Band has enjoyed tremendous success on both the Concert and Contest stage. The Band has won many Contests and Awards, including being Third Section National Champions in 1995, whilst at the same time building up a strong reputation for its concert performances. The Band has recorded 3 CD’s, the first of which was played on N.A.SA. Space Shuttle mission as it orbited the Earth, and has undertaken four European Tours. This traditional Brass Band of some 25 to 30 players presents concerts of popular and well known music, and enjoys changing many people’s perception of a Brass Band. The photos above were taken at the Band’s 50 Anniversary Concert in the Chapel of Trinity College Cambridge on 23rd June 2018.

FAIRLOP BRASS - “FESTIVE CRACKERS” - AT THE VILLAGE HALL

Advanced ticket orders will guarantee entry to the concert. To reserve tickets please send an e-mail via the Contact Us section of the Band’s website, www.fairlopbrass.co.uk or call 07598 506112 and leave a message, someone will call you back within a few days.

Well known and liked Theydon Bois Pharmacy assistant Margaret Harding retired at the end of June. Margaret worked at the Pharmacy for over eight years and had previously worked at chemists in Epping and elsewhere. A small lunchtime retirement party with ‘Indian snacks’ and a retirement cake was arranged by Sailesh and his staff to mark Margaret’s retirement.

Margaret is 3nd from left with her Pharmacy colleagues in the photo.

MARGARET RETIRES FROM THE VILLAGE PHARMACY



Frank Foster House Care

Home in Theydon Bois, Essex, held celebrations on Thursday 28 June 2018 to mark their new ‘Outstanding’ status, recently awarded by the Care Quality Commission. The 80 bedroom residential care home, situated in Loughton Lane, now falls within the top 2% of care homes in the country with an Outstanding status. At the celebrations were Runwood Homes staff and visitors.

The team at Frank Foster House are delighted to be recognised for the high level of professional care it provides for its

residents. Home Manager, Cheryl Wright, commented at the event, “I am so proud to be the manager of Frank Foster House; this achievement is absolutely fantastic for us. My team are passionate about providing the best level of care and a wonderful living environment for our residents. I’d like to thank our guests for attending today to help us celebrate – the residents have all loved it too.”

Frank Foster House provides residential care for older people, including those living with dementia. This top care home also offers short stay and respite care for those looking for temporary assisted living care. For all enquiries, please call Frank Foster House in Theydon Bois, Essex, on 01992 812525.

On Wednesday 27th June, the first Community Cuppa event took place in St Mary's church hall. Running along the lines of a youth club but for adults, villagers, Lisa and Karen, explained that this trial run was to gain feedback and assess interest. "From other activities we have been involved with, soup lunches, the tennis club, learning the ukulele, we kept hearing people say 'we wish there was a more regular opportunity to get together in an open, stress-free

environment'. We're hoping this could be it! We have just started the ball rolling. It's for the people that come to shape the initiative as they wish."

After a successful pilot in June, the monthly Community Cuppa event starts on Wednesday September 26th from 10am - 12pm. Held in St Mary's church hall, anyone looking for a friendly, local meet up can come along and make of the morning whatever you want it to be. Have a cup of tea and a natter with neighbours and friends or if you prefer, games and other activities are available to use. A not-for-profit event, costing £1.50 for unlimited drinks and 50p for homemade cake. A lovely place to come with friends or come alone and make friends. The last Wednesday of every month, 2018 dates for the diary: 26th September, 31st October, 28th November, (19th December if possible).

Karen Meyer (far right) with Cuppa volunteers & visitors

ST MARYS CHURCH HALL - COMMUNITY CUPPA

FRANK FOSTER HOUSE CELEBRATES OUTSTANDING CQC STATUS



Every year we lose some new trees, mainly due to lack of water during a long dry spell. Sue Warren and Jane Turner our Village Tree Wardens have already asked for help with watering of our new trees. Now some of our youngest villagers have already taken up the challenge to help and are watering trees near their home accompanied by their mother, Louise (Opposite are Millie (left) and Florence (right) giving some trees 'a drink')

Inspired by these young volunteers our Tree Wardens said it would be wonderful if the whole school could get involved with helping these young trees to survive as they do make such a difference to our streets and they have written to the Primary School asking if the school children can get involved, either with the school or with their families at home, to help with watering any young trees in the verges nearby. The youngest trees will still have wooden stakes supporting them and these are the most at risk from a lack of water. Some will have a watering tube which is very helpful in getting the water down to the roots, but not all of them will have the tubes and need careful watering, not too fast, around the base of the tree.

Of course help is still welcome with the Tree Watering from everyone in our Village especially during the very dry spells that we have experienced.

CHILDREN HELP WATER OUR THIRSTY TREES

The Horticultural Society Committee carry out a number of plantings of new flowers around our village to brighten

it up throughout the summer. The picture shows them renovating and adding summer plants to the 'Planters' in Forest Drive.

Previously to this they had renovated and added new plants to the flower beds on the station platforms.

We certainly all owe these volunteers a vote of thanks for all the effort they put into making our village more attractive.

SUMMER VILLAGE PLANTING



Tuesday 11 September: Hilary’s View by John Evans John is a keen photographer and enjoys sharing his passion for alpines. Hilary’s View is an introduction to the botanical wealth of the Vaud Alps (Switzerland) around and above Antagnes where his friend Hilary lives. Some of Hilary’s photographs of wildlife and the changing alpine seasons add an extra dimension to the presentation

Tuesday 9 October: Iran Revisited by Arthur Nicolls Arthur is a knowledgeable and experienced plant hunter and has visited Greece, Turkey, Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan and, on a number of occasions, Iran.

Tuesday 13 November: The Reintroduction of the Bardfield Oxlip by Doug Joyce Doug’s career covered many aspects of agricultural and horticultural research. He moved to Great Bardfield in 1981 at which time Primula elatior was said to have disappeared from the parish. Knowing this to be untrue Doug set about making a survey of the plant populations that remained. Following a grant from the EU a plan was drawn up to “reintroduce” the Bardfield Oxlip.

The Epping Forest Group is a local group of the national Alpine Garden Society and is for all those with an interest in alpine and other small plants, whether in the wild or growing at home in the garden, frame or greenhouse. Meetings take the

form of an illustrated lecture or a demonstration, followed by refreshments. There is also a plant raffle, sales table and an alpine plant display. We meet at Theydon Bois Village Hall, on the second Tuesday of the month, starting at 8.00 pm. Admission is £2, non-members (£3) are welcome. Our next meetings are below (no meeting in December).

Further information is available from: Keith Ballard, Tel: 01992 813231, Email: [email protected]

www.alpinegardensociety.net/groups/Epping-Forest

ROTARY CLUB OF EPPING - RAMBLE FOR CHILDREN IN NEED - SUNDAY 7TH OCTOBER 2018

AT EPPING'S COPPED HALL ESTATE

Pudsey Bear & Children in Need Are Counting on You - Join those who care about Children in Need, for a fundraising Ramble in Epping’s glorious countryside this Autumn. On Sunday, 7th October Epping will go Rambling in support of the BBC Children in Need Appeal due to be screened on TV in November. We’ll be submitting a video of the event and hope that ours is one of the chosen few to be shown on the programme. Tickets are available in return for a donation of £5.00., which will enable two adults and up to three children to take part in the Ramble with Pudsey Bear. Sponsorship forms are also available, so you can raise even more

money for the Appeal, AND every ticket will be entered into a FREE prize draw – for a chance to win a Family Ticket for the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour! You can collect your entry ticket and have it stamped at Latham’s Home, Nicholsons Estate Agents, or Stevenette Estate Agents on the High Street in Epping. Only officially stamped tickets will be entered into the draw, so don’t forget to get yours stamped at one of these outlets.

You can get full details from our posters, Facebook page or website www.eppingrotary.org.uk Children in Need are counting on YOU!

http://www.alpinegardensociety.net/groups/Epping-Forest

http://www.eppingrotary.org.uk

THEYDON BOIS

SINGERS

Our Christmas Concert is on Tuesday 11th December 2018

at 7.45pm

Theydon Bois Village Hall

Bar Available Light Refresments

Tickets £10 in advance £12 on the door

For tickets Email [email protected]

Telephone

01992 573855




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Copy for Village News & Website Send to c/o Parish Clerk, Parish Office

Theydon Bois Village Hall, Phone & Fax 01992 813442 or email the editors - [email protected]

NEXT VILLAGE NEWS COPY DEADLINE - 16th November 2018

Thanks to our Sponsors - Theydon Bois Pharmacy, Indian Ocean, Theydon Garage, Theydon Bois Balti House, Martin Shepherd Solicitors, Theydon Bois Dentists,

Butler & Stag, Woodland Grove Care Homes & Refresh Cleaning - see pages 3, 6, 8, 39

Village Activities 2018

Village News

Edited & Produced by Tony Ames e-mail

[email protected]

Village Website www.theydon.org.uk

Edited & Produced by Jim Watts e-mail

[email protected]

11th Sept Alpine Garden Society - Talk at the Village Hall 8pm - see page 38

26th Sept Community Cuppa - St Marys Church Hall - 10am to 12pm - see page 36

27th Sept Parish Council Meeting with Public Participation - 8pm - Village Hall

6th Oct Community Litter Pick 9am - meet Village Hall car park - see page 28

7th Oct Rotary Club of Epping Ramble for Children in Need - Copped Hall - see page 38

9th Oct Alpine Garden Society - Talk at the Village Hall 8pm - see page 38

25th Oct Parish Council Meeting with Public Participation - 8pm - Village Hall

31st Oct Community Cuppa - St Marys Church Hall - 10am to 12pm - see page 36

5th Nov Theydon Bois Primary School - PTA Fireworks Night 6.30pm

13th Nov Alpine Garden Society - Talk at the Village Hall 8pm - see page 38

28th Nov Community Cuppa - St Marys Church Hall - 10am to 12pm - see page 36

29th Nov Parish Council Meeting with Public Participation - 8pm - Village Hall

30th Nov Theydon Bois Village Christmas Market - see page 4

8th Dec Theydon Bois Primary School PTA Christmas Fair 11am

11th Dec Theydon Bois Singers Christmas Concert - 7.30pm Village Hall - see page 39

18th Dec Fairlop Brass presents “ Festive Crackers” at Village Hall - see page 35

various Copped Hall - see page 24 - St Marys Church activities - see page 29

25,26,27th Oct Theydon Bois Drama Society- “A Bunch of Amateurs” - Village Hall -see page 10

various TB Vets FC fixtures at the cricket ground - see news page of the village website

This diary is updated continually on the village website - www.theydon.org.uk The information, opinions and views presented in Village News and on the Village Website reflect the views of the authors and contributors of the articles and publication of articles, advertisements or product/services information does not constitute endorsement or approval by Village News, Village Website or the Parish Council.

Village News has only a small selection of event photographs - for most of the events covered there are usually many more which can be found on photos page of the Village Website. There is also a diary page

which is continuously updated - www.theydon.org.uk

child on swing in new pat playground - theydon

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