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Wymondham Youngsters Shine in English Youth Ballet Production
EYB's 'Sleeping Beauty' ran from 25-26 July
The talents of Lily (15), Tabitha (17), Lucy (10) and Sophie (12) from Wymondham took centre stage last month as they joined the prestigious English Youth Ballet (EYB) in its production of Sleeping Beauty. After competing in highly selective auditions in March, these dedicated young performers earned their place in the elite 100-strong cast, sharing the stage with internationally acclaimed professional dancers at the Norwich Theatre Royal.
This was an extraordinary opportunity for these young Wymondham dancers. They experienced firsthand what it means to be a professional dancer and took part in rigorous daily rehearsals, including intensive ballet training and coaching from industry professionals. Their journey is a testament to their dedication, discipline, and passion for dance, and they made the entire community proud.
I had the pleasure of speaking with Sophie Smith (12), who trains at Oakleigh Dance School. She said, “I started ballet when I was 5 years old until I was about 7 when my teacher retired. I went back to dancing when I was about 9, and I will be 13 soon. I am very shy, but when I dance, I find myself having more confidence. I can express myself with dance without needing to use my voice. I decided to audition for EYB because I wanted to see how it felt to perform on a big stage and see how it feels, to make my family proud and push myself to do knew things. I was interested in how a big show would be put together, to see and work with professional ballerinas and to wear some lovely costumes too.”
EYB Principal Ann Wall will play the role of Aurora, and spoke about the joy of working with such talented young dancers. “Being part of EYB is an amazing experience for any young dancer. I feel privileged to be a principal dancer with the company. I love teaching and coaching all the young dancers; I see some of the most talented young dancers in the country. I feel honoured to be a role model to the dancers and help give them an insight into the world of professional ballet. Dancing with EYB is an experience that will stay with the young dancers forever.”
This acclaimed production of Sleeping Beauty combined tradition with innovation. The ballet’s essence is good gloriously triumphing over evil. In Act 1, at Aurora’s Christening, the relatives present gifts to the baby, but it is interrupted by wicked Aunt Carabosse, who places a curse upon Aurora. To reverse the curse, the good Aunt Lilac places Aurora, her family and guests in the Palace Gardens in a cryogenic frozen state to sleep for one hundred years. The Cryonite Fairies protect her until she is awakened by her Prince. Upon his kiss, the curse is lifted, and Carabosse is defeated.
The English Youth Ballet, established in 1998, is renowned for its commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers. Many former EYB performers have gone on to join world-renowned companies such as The Royal Ballet, and our local dancers are now following in those same inspiring footsteps.
This performance was a moment of immense pride for our community. We saw our own young talents perform alongside some of the best in the industry, and they more than did us proud.
Help Shape the Future of the Town Centre
We’re asking for your views once again as we continue work to improve the public spaces in Wymondham.
Seven new concept design options have now been developed for the town centre, and we’d love to hear what you think. It only takes five minutes to complete our short survey and share your thoughts.
This follows the first stage of consultation last year, where South Norfolk Council and Wymondham Town Council gathered initial feedback from the community. Your views now will help the project team decide which design options should be taken forward.
Feedback from residents will be considered alongside factors such as budget, planning guidance, and environmental constraints to determine which improvements can be delivered over the next two years.
The survey closes at midnight on Sunday 31 August.
You can also view the proposals in more detail at a temporary exhibition in Wymondham Library. The exhibition runs from Wednesday 6 August to Friday 29 August, during normal library opening hours. Paper copies of the survey will be available to complete on-site.
If you’d like to speak to the project team directly, we’ll also be hosting two drop-in events at Market Cross. One is on Friday 15 August, 9am-12pm; the other is Saturday 16 August, 9am-12pm.
Feel free to come along and ask any questions – we’d love to hear from you!
Here's that link to the survey again.
“A True Celebration of Dog Ownership"
Centre Paws holds a successful Annual Dog Show
A fantastic turnout of dogs and their owners attended the Annual Dog Show and Open Day at Centre Paws Norfolk on Saturday 19th July.
Celebrating its seventh year since the Wymondham-based canine hub opened, the show featured all shapes and sizes of dogs, from puppies to veterans, as well as crossbreed rescues and pedigree pooches.
The show was due to be held in June, but with the heatwave, it was decided by organiser and business owner Kathryn Cross to reschedule for the wellbeing of the dogs.
After weeks of worry that the hot weather would never end, the temperature was ultimately perfect, and despite some showers during the day, the event went ahead without a hitch.
Several local businesses and crafters had stalls selling their wares, including one teenager selling homemade dog biscuits as a fundraiser for a volunteering trip to Costa Rica.
Wymondham Young Farmers ran a bar; a hog roast was supplied by Anna Kouzmin, and Dann’s Ice Cream kept everyone cool. The on-site businesses were also kept busy – The Farm Café had a steady stream of customers all day; Centre Paws Pet Spa offered nail trims, brushing demos and advice on grooming, and Canine Dip and Dive Wymondham opened its gates for free swims.
Mrs Cross said, “We were delighted with the number of dogs that entered the show; it was a true celebration of dog ownership. The hot weather we have had means many dogs have been having their walks cut short, so it was great they could get out and have some much-needed fun. In the end, we had rain and sunshine, but the decision to hold the show on the campsite field paid off as we had shade and shelter from all the elements.”
Supreme Best in Show was won by a beautiful 20-month-old Rottweiler called Bruna.
Nature Group Volunteer Richard Hyde Recognised by 2025 Community Awards
Community spirit was in full swing at Bawburgh Golf Club on Friday July 4th as South Norfolk Council celebrated the outstanding contributions of its residents at the 2025 Community Awards.
The event brought together local leaders, volunteers, and proud family members to celebrate those who go the extra mile for their communities. Ten awards were handed out, each spotlighting a remarkable story of dedication, creativity, and heartfelt compassion.
Wymondham was recognised when a Special Recognition Award was presented to Richard Hyde for the huge contribution he has made at Ashwellthorpe Lower Wood and through Wymondham Nature Group. His craftsmanship has also raised thousands of pounds for the Norfolk Wildlife Trust.
Each winner was presented with a certificate and received £250 to donate to their chosen community group or voluntary organisation.
For more information on all the winners and how you can get involved next year, please visit this website.
Local Organisation Wins Top National Award for Peer Support Training
Local mental health non-profit organisation Cup-O-T: Wellness and Therapy Services has won national recognition at the Occupational Therapy Excellence Awards 2025, taking home three major honours, including the prestigious Grand Prix Award for overall excellence.
Held in Birmingham on June 20th, the awards celebrate innovation and impact across the therapy sector. Cup-O-T was recognised for its ground-breaking Peer Support Worker Training Programme, receiving:
~Merit for Excellence in the Charity Sector
~Winner: Excellence in Training
~Grand Prix Award for Overall OT Excellence
Cup-O-T’s award-winning Peer Support Worker (PSW) Training equips individuals, educators, charities, and businesses to deliver safe, structured mental health support through the power of peer connection. It is a Norfolk-based non-profit supporting young people and communities through holistic mental health services, workshops, and peer-led training.
The training blends therapeutic insight with practical tools and emotional safety. Delegates have gone on to launch support groups, secure jobs, and lead community initiatives.
“Since the course, I’ve started a film group and help run a neurodiverse Facebook and WhatsApp community. It’s really empowered me to take initiative,” said one PSW Delegate.
“I now run an adult woodland group for 18–24-year-olds – something I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do before,” said another.
Cup-O-T is now accepting applications for its autumn training intake in Norwich, with an online option launching in early 2026.
Register interest and sign up here.
Whether you're a professional or simply want to make a difference, this training offers the support and tools to help others in meaningful, sustainable ways.
Council Powers Ahead with Green Energy at the Leisure Centre
South Norfolk Council is stepping up its green credentials by installing solar panels and battery storage systems at Long Stratton and Wymondham Leisure Centres. These upgrades will make both facilities more energy-efficient, significantly reduce operational costs and deliver long-term savings for taxpayers.
South Norfolk Council Leader, Cllr Daniel Elmer, said:
“As a council, we’re incredibly supportive of sustainable energy solutions that respect the district’s unique character. These improvements reinforce our commitment to achieving net zero and ensure our leisure centres remain environmentally and economically sustainable for years to come, without negatively impacting the local environment.”
Wymondham Leisure Centre, one of the Council’s most energy-intensive sites due to its year-round pool heating, will benefit from the installation. The new systems will cut grid electricity usage and lower running costs, making the centre more sustainable and cost-effective.
These upgrades mark a significant milestone in South Norfolk Council’s ongoing efforts to lead by example in environmental responsibility and smart public investment.
Local Theatre Star Returns to Wymondham Abbey for ‘Big Bad Wolf’
Saturday 2nd August - Book Fast!
Eloise Hare grew up in Wymondham before honing her theatrical skills at Trinity Laban. A few years ago, she and a friend Peter had an idea do their own open-air theatre tour. Now, after forming their own company and a phenomenally successful 2024 tour with their production of ‘The Secret Garden’, they are back at Wymondham Abbey with ‘The Big Bad Wolf’.
The Abbey Team wrote on their website: “On Saturday 2nd August, come on a musical journey of plotting and scheming with folklore’s most notorious villain – the Big Bad Wolf. Living in exile in the Deep Dark Wood, he parties and plays rock music every night with his cronies, far away from the goody-goody townspeople of Fairytaleville. But whatever happened to Little Red Riding Hood? Did the Three Little Pigs go on to have a successful music career? And is the Wolf really as bad as he seems?”
The performance is on Saturday 2nd August. Doors open at 4:30pm and tickets are available here.
Successful Ashleigh Arts Show Chronicles Primary School Artwork
And milkshakes are available for whoever finds Wymondham's missing painting...!
On the last weekend of the academic year, Ashleigh Primary School proudly opened its doors to the public to present a year of artwork. All Asheigh adults and children had their work displayed.
The show was very well-attended with lots of families spending time enjoying refreshments from our PTA pop-up cafe, and joining in with collaborative artwork.
The weekend showcased artwork from Nursery to Year 6, postcards from 'The Great Postcard Exchange, colouring competition entries (with super prizes sponsored by the PTA, Reeves the Stationers, Orchard Toys and Ketts' Books) and 9 artworks from a very special set of commissioned paintings for our Staff and visitor room. The fun continues through the Summer with the 10th painting waiting to be found.
(Clue: It is on loan to one of Wymondham's cafes. The first person to find it will win a round of ice-cream milkshakes…)
For more amazing photos of the art, go to Ashleigh Friends PTA Facebook.
Cohabiting Couples Face Legal Blind Spots as Reform Drags On
With cohabiting couples now the fastest-growing family type in the UK, many believe they have similar legal protections to married couples – especially after long relationships or where there are children involved. But the reality can come as a shock when those relationships end.
Despite ongoing pressure from legal and policy bodies, meaningful reform still lags behind. In the meantime, the risks for cohabiting couples remain high, particularly with the persistent myth of the ‘common law marriage’.
As explained by Sarb Gosal, family law specialist: “There is no such thing [as common law marriage] in England and Wales, and couples who live together without marrying or entering a civil partnership need to be aware they do not have the same legal rights or financial claims.
“That means if a cohabiting couple separates, whether they share children or not, there is no automatic right to the protections that marriage brings - such as maintenance, a share of property, pensions or other assets - regardless of how long a couple have been together.”
The number of cohabiting couples has more than doubled over the past 25 years and now exceeds 3.5 million households according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics, but the law has not kept pace with societal change. While the Law Commission has long advocated for reform to introduce basic financial protections for cohabiting couples who have children or have lived together for a significant period, successive governments have failed to legislate.
In 2022, the Women and Equalities Committee called for urgent action to address the lack of legal protection, and the Labour Party has expressed support for cohabitation reform, but no clear timeline has been set beyond saying a formal consultation will be issued this year ‘to build public consensus on what cohabitation reform should look like’.
“It’s a persistent legal blind spot,” added Sarb. “Cohabiting couples often build long, committed lives together – even raising children or buying homes – but have no automatic legal safety net if things go wrong. Until reforms catch up, couples should get advice early to avoid the risk of unfair outcomes if the worst happens and relationships break down.
“For now, the safest approach for cohabiting couples is to act as though there will be no legal safety net – and put the necessary agreements in place. That way, if the worst happens, the outcome doesn’t depend on a legal system still catching up with modern family life.”
Until legal reform happens, the best protection is preparation. Legal experts recommend a few key steps:
Create a cohabitation agreement
This sets out how property, finances and responsibilities will be handled during the relationship and in the event it ends.
Sign a declaration of trust
Where a property is jointly owned, this clarifies who owns what share.
Make a will
Cohabiting partners do not automatically inherit under intestacy laws.
Consider parental rights
Unmarried fathers are only automatically granted parental responsibility if named on the birth certificate. Legal advice can help clarify child arrangements and support.
If you would like to discuss any aspect of this article, please contact us on 01603 677077 or email info@spiresolicitors.co.uk. Our friendly and efficient Family Law team are here to help.
What's in a Photo? VJ Day...80 Years Ago
The advert for a sports meeting 80 years ago shows it was scheduled to take place on Bank Holiday Monday 6th August 1945, at the King’s Head Meadow in aid of War Charities Week.
However, with the fall of Japan following atomic bombs being dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the sports were postponed to the evening of August 15th, which was celebrated as VJ Day. On that historic day, the end of World War Two was celebrated with singing and dancing on the Market Place, with a huge bonfire lit on the Fairland. A ladies' football match was also staged.
Just before VJ Day, the then very-strong Wymondham and District Fur and Feather Society held "A Grand Victory Show" at the Senior School (now Wymondham High Academy), along with other events.
Whilst people celebrated the end of the conflict, and there was great relief it was finally over, there was also much sadness over those who never returned.
In August 1995, there were events held to commemorate the 50th VJ Day anniversary, among them a service at the Abbey, organised by the Royal British Legion and with a capacity attendance. The front of the service programme is shown.
Meet Nicole Flack: Shaking Up the Norwich Ceramics Scene
Nicole Flack, creator of the brand-new Norwich Ceramics Market, is on a mission: to bring cool, handmade pottery out of the stuffy gallery and into the hands of everyone in Norfolk.
Originally born in London, Nicole moved to Attleborough with her family as a child, and her roots here run deep, along with her passion for making ceramics accessible, fun, and full of personality.
In the underground indie ceramics scene, Nicole is already well-known as the founder of the hugely popular Norwich Makers Market, a celebration of indie makers and small businesses that’s earned a loyal following. But Nicole isn’t just a champion of other creatives — she’s a ceramic artist herself, crafting quirky, dinosaur-inspired clay pieces under the name Cretaceous Creations (find her on Instagram at @cretaceous_creations_). Her signature Pliosaur mugs have even become a cult collector’s item among pottery fans.
“I wanted to shake off the idea that ceramics are delicate or intimidating,” Nicole says. “Pottery should be playful, punk, and part of everyday life — and Norwich is the perfect place to share that with people.”
If you’ve noticed more people hunting for handmade mugs and dinosaur pots lately, you’re not alone. The surge in popularity has a lot to do with the hit TV show The Great Pottery Throw Down, which turned the humble pottery wheel into must-watch TV — and inspired thousands to get their hands muddy too. Meanwhile, shoppers are turning away from mass-produced homeware in favour of small-batch, local, and handmade.
Nicole’s new project is all about championing this movement. Through the Homegrown Pottery Society — her tongue-in-cheek name for the community of makers she’s gathered — she’s shining a light on the side of pottery you won’t find in big stores: indie, imaginative, and proudly local. Expect mugs, bowls, plates and pots alongside dinosaurs, mythical beasts, and playful clay creations you’ll want to take home.
“I love that Norwich already has such a thriving indie ceramics community,” Nicole says. “There’s so much talent here, but not always enough spaces for makers to reach new people. This market is about giving them that chance — and helping more people find something unique to treasure.”
The very first Norwich Ceramics Market takes place at The Forum on Sunday 7th December, with dozens of local potters ready to help you find your next favourite mug — or maybe your first cute clay dinosaur. Whether you’re a collector, a curious shopper, or just after something that makes your morning brew more joyful, Nicole promises this is the place to find it.
Accepting applications from talented makers now until 10th Aug.
Prose Memoir: Touched By The Past
I’ve been spring cleaning for a couple of weeks. This serves more than one purpose; a cleaner house, of course, and a de-clutter. Sometimes other things happen, and I am visited by a loved soul from the past.
I was pulling cushion covers off to wash. My tiniest cushion is one made by my step-grandmother, Marg, a handmade log-cabin-style quilt front with a black velvet back, 12 inches x 12 inches. I know I’ve washed this pillow cover before, yet something strange happened this time.
I pulled the little pillow out from the cushion cover. The cloth was an old sugar sack with words printed in pale blue: “DE CANNE PUR Fabrique au Canada SUCRE Fin…”. Also, written in pencil on the old sugar sack, “March 12, 1982 M Mc Cowan 7 Ann Street Seaforth.”
The memory video went into rewind, and I could see the white clapboard house as clear as my daffodils outside the window today. I was sitting on Grandad’s front porch, amid all of Grandma Marg’s beautiful plants. I recall sleeping in their guest room once, and Marg bringing a small heating pad to lay on the bed, warming it before I snuggled in. I can never remember Marg sitting idle. She was always doing her needlework, knitting, crocheting, or sewing quilt squares. So many memories flood my thoughts this morning since opening the log cabin cushion.
This is one of those patterns so steeped in tradition that I approach it almost in awe and reverence, for all the generations of families who slept snuggly under a Log Cabin quilt.
Log cabins may have been built in pioneer America, but the log cabin quilt pattern reaches back to Isle of Man and Ancient Egypt. From what I read, the red centre square represents the fireplace of the cabin. The light colours represent the side of the house in the sun. The dark colours represent the side of the house in the shade. The rule for quilting is the same as for carpentry: measure twice, cut once. Another interpretation is that the light colours represent happiness and the dark colours represent sorrow. Some families may have an imbalance of sorrow and happiness. The log cabin quilt demonstrates that in life, it all evens out eventually. When we look back over time, the sorrowful parts fade, and the happy life situations are remembered with more detail.
The British Quilt Heritage Project has examples of Log Cabin quilts dating from the first half of the 19th century.
The early quilts were almost always tied, not quilted, and made from scrappy materials of different weights, usually laid on a foundation fabric, making them very difficult to quilt. Often, several women of a community would come together, all of them working on the quilt at the same time, and chatting about their families.
This morning, I knew nothing about log cabin quilting, and when Marg came to me with her name on an old sugar bag, she inspired me to do some research and rewind my memories from fifty years ago, when she gave me this cushion, which I placed on a ‘spoon back’ chair.
Council’s Controversial Tree-Felling
And how to avoid E-Coli
Our Instagram and Facebook posts are normally full of enthusiasm, camaraderie and – we like to think – wit. With the odd wild animal or successful project thrown in.
But recently we’ve been attracting surprising numbers for our new posts on our tests of E.coli, a type of bacteria found in animal stomachs and poo. Most strains are harmless, but the more E.coli there is in seas and rivers, the higher the chances of sickness if that water is ingested.
People are more likely to ingest water if they swim. This can happen not just through accidental mouthfuls but also skin abrasions if you’re unlucky. This is why we have started testing the Tiffey weekly during the summer at either end of Becketswell Park, where the public uses it most.
The Environment Agency has strict tests for official bathing waters: carried out weekly in the warmer months, it tests 100ml each week. Any bathing water which produces over 900 colony-forming units (cfus) is deemed poor.
We test 1 millilitre, meaning that, by calculation, anything over 9 colony-forming units is poor. We’ve had figures over 200 cfus per ml. This has occurred twice on the Lizard and at Dyke Beck by Chapel Lane Bridge. It’s often after high rainfall, or during very low river levels. Becketswell Pool was over 20 cfus/ml for the whole of June, twice over 60.
The sources of E. coli are many. News tends to feature spills from pumping stations or sewage works. But other causes include drains and ditches, broken septic tanks, manured fields, and animals. While we try to track the offenders down, the advice is simple:
when using the Tiffey, wash your hands before eating, and cover any cuts and scrapes before going into the water.
We will continue publishing our tests on our social media alongside the pictures of tiny frogs, laughing volunteers and strange fungi, and on our website at https://www.greeningwymondham.org. At the time of writing, we’re waiting for the town council to decide whether a noticeboard in Becketswell Park is appropriate. If you would like to join our testers, email us at greening.wymondham@gmail.com!
We would also welcome an arborist into our ranks. As our tree mapping and monitoring project continues, we are coming across areas of concern.
Last month, a splendid “acacia” was felled in Priory Park – not the first mature tree to be lost to Wymondham.
You don’t need reminding that when hot weather appears, the shade of trees is welcome. According to the New Scientist, they can lower the temperature of a city by up to 12 degrees. Then, when heavy rainfall appears, they help us in our battles against flooding. A mature tree provides life to tens, if not hundreds, of species. All this while providing beauty and soothing our souls.
So we have some questions about South Norfolk District Council’s decision to allow the felling. The tree was in a conservation area but was also protected by a TPO (granted by SNDC last year following an attempt to fell it then).
It was felled on the grounds of safety and damage to a nearby wall. The nearby wall showed no obvious signs of tree damage, there was no structural report to prove it, and the tree itself we believe to be a false acacia.
The type of tree is seminal – some tolerate internal stress better than others, and the bare bones of the test done show this one had less than 50 per cent dead wood.
And the replacement tree? A Prunus species of a mere 10-12cm in girth, which will take decades to rival the felled tree in biodiversity, shade giving and beauty. Too many rules of thumb allow people to think a hundred-year old tree can be replaced by 100 saplings when the benefits of the baby trees will not be felt for decades. In this case, it's one baby tree for one august veteran.
Bring on that arborist!
Get Your Children Reading with the Summer Reading Challenge 2025
Children can grow their imaginations with this year’s Summer Reading Challenge: Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors, which launches in Norfolk libraries on Saturday 5th July.
Developed by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with public libraries, the Summer Reading Challenge is a free activity for children aged 4-11. It’s all about reading for fun, aiming to improve children’s reading skills and confidence over the summer holiday. Children can read anything they like and collect free rewards for their reading. For under 5s, there is a mini challenge, so they don’t miss out.
This year’s theme will inspire children to tap into a world of imagination through reading, exploring the magical connection between storytelling and nature. They can also join in with free Story Garden activities at their local library.
To sign up to the challenge, just pop into your local library or visit the website. Children will need to be library members - you can do this in a library or online. It’s free of charge, and children will receive their own library card for which there are no overdue fees.
This year’s Summer Reading Challenge features artwork from award-winning illustrator Dapo Adeola, whose stunning illustrations will bring the Story Garden theme to life; creating an enchanting world where children can find magical creatures, plants and flowers to inspire their next reading adventure.
Find out more here.
Heritage Museum Holds a Successful ‘1940s Day’
It was a day of nostalgia. Looking back at the war years at Wymondham Heritage Museum’s 40s Day, visitors were able to see how people lived, worked, and grabbed what leisure they could as the fighting dragged on.
In the reconstructed Anderson Shelter, they could see how people took refuge from the attacks, listen to the sound effects comprising an actual recording of bombing in the blitz together with a commentary of how a typical family would have passed the time during the raids.
The dungeon was transformed into a Bletchley Park-style coding room where adults and children could try their hand at deciphering codes.
The sweet rations naturally proved popular with the children, dispensing 3-ounce bags of wartime treats such as jelly babies and M&Ms brought here by the Americans when they came to the UK.
The Tearoom was buzzing, serving traditional fare while out in the garden. Games were laid on for the children. These included hopscotch and skipping, still popular with children today.
Apart from the permanent war displays, the special exhibitions have been dismantled. The Anderson Shelter and its sound effects have been retained, while the dungeon has returned to a spooky prison cell.
As the school holidays get into full swing, youngsters are well catered-for this month. Once again, there is free entry for children and free squash in the Tearoom. There are plenty of activities to keep them amused, so when they come out with the usual holiday whinge of “I’m bored”, bring them to the museum.
Dressing up, digging in the sandpit, turning the crank and operating the Gane machine in the Brushroom are just a few of the things they can do. The craft table in the Tearoom plus tasty snacks - and of course, don’t forget the free squash! Oh, and bring some change so they can drop it in the wishing well and wish the holidays could be longer. Parents may want to drop a coin in a wish for the opposite!
Full information about the museum, including opening times and admission details, can be found at our website.
Exciting Announcement for the Baptist Church!
Wymondham Baptist Church is excited to announce the groundbreaking of our eagerly anticipated building extension project, set to commence on Monday, July 21st! This momentous occasion marks a significant step forward in the vision God has given us to demonstrate His love to our community and provide a warm, inclusive space for everyone.
Spanning an impressive 128 square metres, this eco-efficient extension is designed to be a welcoming community space in our growing town. The extension will feature a welcoming reception area and an open-plan layout that prioritises accessibility for all.
This vibrant community hub will serve as a launchpad for an expanded range of services, including our Roots Community Cafe, food bank, and a variety of support groups. Additionally, it will open doors for new groups and charities to establish their services within our church, amplifying the support and resources available to our community.
We can't wait to see how this new chapter will help us offer more support to our community and make an even greater impact!
The project is now fully funded thanks to generous grants from South Norfolk Council Pride in Place, Congregational and General Charitable Trust, Community in Action Fund, Paul Bassham Charitable Trust, Laing Family Trust, Norwood and Newton Settlement, Geoffrey Watling, The Leslie Mary Carter Trust, Greater Norwich Growth Board, through the Infrastructure Investment Fund, Joseph Rank, The Benefact Trust as well as generous donations and fundraising within the church and local community. We are so grateful to these funders for their support and look forward to the opening of the extension in the Spring of 2026.
Roots Community Cafe will close on Friday 18th July, as will other activities that run from the church building. However, Sunday worship will continue as usual at 10:30 am each Sunday morning when we will access the church from the old main entrance.
Although the usual activities will not be able to run during the build, we are available to help anyone we can during this time. The office email will be checked each day, so if you have a need, please contact us at office@wymondhambaptist.org or ring 01953606520. Watch this space to find out more about this exciting project and our opening events in 2026.
Gascoyne Employees Volunteer for Wymondham in Bloom
The team from Gascoynes were delighted to be able to volunteer for Wymondham in Bloom the day before their Anglia in Bloom judging tour. Unfortunately the weather didn't go in our favour, nevertheless we were able to help with cleaning the bins and with the litter picking.
It's a privilege to be able to give something back to the community and we'd like to thank Kim and her team for making us so welcome. We hope our small contribution helps the town to achieve an award in 2025!
Community Garage Sale to take place on Bank Holiday Monday
North Wymondham Community Centre is again hosting a town-wide Community Garage Sale on Bank Holiday Monday 25th August 2025.
This is a great way to get neighbours chatting and working together, and buyers like it when there are a number of stalls on a road.
There is no registration fee, but the Community Centre are always happy to receive a donation for the upkeep of the hall.
Text your name and address to 07851 370666 or email tony@valemail.uk, if you would like to be added to the list of participants.
Ask Garden Expert Guy Barker Your Questions
Monday 18th August
Join Wymondham Garden Club for Gardeners' Question Time with invited expert Guy Barker.
This will be an open meeting where members and guests can ask our invited professional Gardener for advice, counsel or comment on all matters gardening related.
This year we welcome back local expert Guy Barker. Questions can be submitted in advance via the club email address.
Sounds boring? It isn’t! There’s always something to learn, a new trick, technique - or a plant to avoid. Plenty of witty conversation. Come along, ask, listen & learn.
Show Table:
~ A Jam jar of Flowers
~ 7 Cherry Tomatoes
~ 3 Tomatoes (not cherry)
~ 3 Beans – Runner or French
~ Vase of Carnations or Pinks
~ 1 Fuchsia (stem or Pot)
~ Photography Competition – Norfolk in Summer.
Club Table: A favourite from my Garden – Plant or Flower, Fruit or Vegetable.
The meeting begins at 7.30pm in Town Green Centre. Members Free, guests £4.
For further information about the club contact wymondhamgardenclub@gmail.com
The Lowe Down: Tolstoy’s Surprising Relevance to a Wymondham Geography Teacher
In Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace, one of the central characters is an army general called General Kutuzov. He is based on a real historical figure. He was in charge of the fight against Napoleon during the 1812 Franco-Russian conflict, notably culminating in the Battle of Borodino.
To what extent Tolstoy’s depiction of him is accurate, I have no idea, but the fictional Kutuzov is a fantastic character. Tolstoy praises him so much because he is not a typical military ‘winner’.
He's not a young, militaristic, death-defiant warrior. He is old, fat, and disabled, and often falls asleep in meetings. He gets long nights’ sleep, reads novels, and enjoys the company of women.
He also doesn’t approve of glory. He has no interest in it. When a young, ambitious officer comes to pitch him a new battle strategy, it falls on deaf ears. All that interests him is mitigating the loss of life as much as possible. He much prefers trusting to ‘Time and Patience’ and taking things slowly, rather than risking hundreds of lives and millions of public funds on unnecessary opponent-thrashings to seek a cheap moment of glory.
He “insisted that battles, which were useless…should not be fought”. His motto was “Time and Patience”, Tolstoy writes.
(He would have had a bone to pick with our current military climate!)
Kutuzov reminds me of a Wymondham High Geography teacher I knew called Mr Harrison. I should clarify – physically, the young, attractive, athletic Mr Harrison was of course nothing like the ageing, overweight army general. But his ethos was similar.
Mr Harrison never taught me in class, but I did have him as my Instructor for a Duke of Edinburgh Training Expedition. (For Bronze DofE, our school had this bizarre system where you had to do the expedition twice. One as a ‘training’ walk, and then the real one, which was exactly the same. Why? Don’t know.)
Before we even hiked a step, Mr Harrison got us in a group, sat us down, and told us how we should approach the weekend.
The goal was not to try to finish super fast and burn ourselves out in minutes. When he went walking himself, the most important thing for him was that he felt “comfortable”. Support your team members and keep people feeling positive, rather than chasing after a record-breaking time or trying to beat your friends. He didn’t say the exact words “Time and Patience”, but he exemplified that ethos to a T. Forget glory; keep yourself safe and grounded. Mr Harrison was the Kutuzov of Wymondham High.
Granted, that advice can be taken too far. On some occasions, of course, momentum and pace are important, especially when you have time deadlines to meet. But most of the time, that advice is golden! And it really surprised me hearing it as a teenager, because it was so not what I expected him to say.
I thought of this recently when I was channelling my inner Kutuzov/Harrison energy on a cycling expedition in Ireland. My ethos was this:
1) Go as fast as you can comfortably go;
2) Stick with the group, rather than rushing off ahead;
3) Don’t kill yourself with an unsustainable pace to be the first one to reach the top of the hill;
4) Trust to ‘Time and Patience’! Get in the gear you need to be in; keep it sustainable; don’t worry about rushing to the end.
Ironically, I cycled faster as a result. (And, on more than one occasion, was the first of the group to reach the top of a nasty hill.)
Very occasionally, something a teacher told you in childhood sticks in your head for years. It’s rare. But that was one of them.
I’m aware as I write how incredibly banal and saccharine this ‘wisdom’ sounds, but it is worth reminding ourselves: who won the Battle of Borodino? (Spoiler: it wasn’t Napoleon.)
This is not ‘go really slow and take it easy’ on steroids, but ‘see the bigger picture, be in for the long game and forget instant moments of glory’.
Or, if none of that convinces you, it’s a fun reminder that human nature persists throughout time, even to the extent that a nineteenth-century literary character from a superlong Russian novel has a surprising amount in common with a young, suave Wymondham teacher from my school generation.
"Leo Tolstoy in His Study" by Tschäff is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
Vic's Picks: Summer Holiday Activities
As we move effortlessly into the summer holidays, those long weeks stretch ahead with limitless possibilities. In Wymondham, we are fortunate to have on our doorstep lots of different activities to fill our days. While it’s been a while since I’ve had that traditional long school holiday, I’ve cast my mind back to include ideas for people still in that period of their lives, but have also tried to include something for everyone. I’m sure you’ll have your own summer traditions, but here are some of my top activities for the summer holidays.
My first pick is one of the lovely, accessible, and free walks we have available in and around Wymondham. If you’re a true Vic’s Picks enthusiast, which I must assume you are, you’ll know that I already wrote a piece about my favourite walks around town. But specifically for summer, the Tolls Meadow walk is convenient as it has shaded areas to stay safe in the sun. But also Silfield nature reserve walk is very pleasant in the sunshine.
Continuing with the affordable theme, the playground at Kett’s Park offers fun for the younger years. I’m old enough to remember when Kett’s Park was simply a big bit of grass. It’s been nice to see how it’s transformed and improved over the years, especially in its activities. If you’re slightly older, you can utilise the wide open space for your own sporting activities, or for a reasonable price you can even try your hand at some tennis or the various keep fit activities on offer in the hall.
Story Garden adventures are offered free of charge in the form of the library reading challenge – a challenge that I embraced every summer throughout my childhood and can thoroughly recommend. You can set your own goals and choose whichever books you want to read. You used to earn stickers, but now you can unlock digital rewards in the form of special online badges. I don’t want to make any promises, but I used to get a small medal at the end, but perhaps you can find a way to celebrate yourself if this is now a thing of the past.
For theatre lovers, the Big Bad Wolf will be visiting Wymondham to offer an outdoor theatre experience at the Abbey, so do watch out. According the posters, it is a rock and roll musical suitable for the whole family. It appears to be an interesting reimagining of the fairytale classic Little Red Riding Hood. It’s an outdoor showing, so it is a perfect way to spend those light summer evenings. I think a bit of outdoor theatre during the summertime is always such a great atmosphere to be a part of.
Finally, for those wishing to travel in style, the Mid-Norfolk Railway will be hosting a teddy bear’s picnic in August. You are given a chance to complete various teddy-bear-themed activities. The line operates between Wymondham and Dereham which is great for us, and is a great way to get some fun and historical education in at the same time!
Whatever you get up to this summer time I hope you enjoy the sunshine over our historical town, and be sure to make your own memories, whatever you get up to this summer.
Book Your 2025 EAMA 10K Place Now!
The annual event is filling up fast!
Places are filling up fast for the much-anticipated EAMA 10K, which returns to the historic market town of Wymondham on Sunday, November 16th.
Organised by South Norfolk Council and sponsored by East Anglian Motor Auctions (EAMA), the 10-kilometre road race offers participants a single-lap route through the picturesque countryside near Morley, starting and finishing on Lady’s Lane.
Proceeds from entry fees help fund vital local services, with a portion also donated to the Chair’s chosen charity, The Ted Ellis Trust.
Council Chair, Cllr Deborah Sacks, said:
"The EAMA 10K is a fantastic example of how sport can bring our communities together. It’s always inspiring to see runners of all ages and abilities taking part, and it’s wonderful that the funds raised go towards supporting services that make a real difference in people’s lives."
She added, “I’d especially like to encourage local businesses to join the Corporate Challenge. It’s a brilliant way to promote team spirit, support employee wellbeing and show your company’s commitment to the local community, all while having fun and raising money for a good cause.”
Participants can choose from two start times, 10:00am or 10:10am, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all runners, regardless of pace.
Entry costs £18 for affiliated runners and £20 for unaffiliated runners. Teams can also take part in the Corporate Challenge for £65 per team.
The event is sponsored by EAMA, a family-run business and trusted name in Norfolk’s motor trade since 1946.
With limited places available, the Council is advising runners to book now to avoid disappointment. Visit: southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/eama10k
Saturday 2nd August
1940s Weekend Day 1
9am-5pm, 
MNR Abbey Station
The Mid Norfolk Railway is hosting their 1940s event over two days from Wymondham to Dereham. Activities at both stations and along the line will provide entertainment, education and tasty treats.
midnorfolkrailway.co.uk/1940s
Sunday 3rd August
1940s Weekend Day 2 9am-5pm, MNR Abbey Station
The Mid Norfolk Railway is hosting their 1940s event over two days from Wymondham to Dereham. Activities at both stations and along the line will provide entertainment, education and tasty treats.
midnorfolkrailway.co.uk/1940s
Wednesday 6th August
Art Society Demo by Viv Rainsbury 7pm, Catholic Church Hall
Viv is a Great Yarmouth based artist whose twin passions are animals and art, with a keen interest in conservation, the environment and endangered wildlife. She will demonstrate a Hereford Bull in acrylics, using broad brushstrokes.
wymondhamart.org
Monday 18th August
Gardeners' Question Time 7:30pm, Town Green Centre
Join Wymondham Garden Club for Gardeners' Question Time with invited expert Guy Barker. Members Free, guests £4. Further info email wymondhamgardenclub@gmail.com
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077254060337
Saturday 23rd August
Photographic Society Summer Exhibition 10am-4pm, Central Hall
An exhibition of prints and digital images from WPS members, demonstrating a wide variety of styles and subjects. Free entry!
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Sunday 24th August
Photographic Society Summer Exhibition Day 2 10am-4pm, Central Hall
An exhibition of prints and digital images from WPS members, demonstrating a wide variety of styles and subjects. Free entry!
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 30th August
Community Orchard Volunteer Workday 10am-12pm, Browick Road Orchard
Refreshments and tools provided but bring your own gloves. Entrance opposite Gunton Road NR18 0QN or Ayton Road Car Park.
greeningwymondham.org
Tuesday 2nd September
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
PDI Images from the summer. Members to comment and advise.
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Wednesday 3rd September
Art Society Demo by Denise Allen 7pm, Catholic Church Hall
Denise loves to paint en plein air, and was once a wild card on Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year. She will demonstrate her ‘deconstruction and reconstruction’ technique.
wymondhamart.org
Friday 5th September
Photographic Society Coffee Morning 10am-12pm, Dell Bowls Club
Informal chat about anything
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 6th September
Celebrity Organ Recital 7pm, Wymondham Abbey
Wayne Marshall OBE - Virtuoso organist, world-renowned for his musicianship and versatility. Tickets £15 (under-18s £5) from the Abbey shop or online
wymondhamabbey.org.uk
Tuesday 9th September
Volunteer Workday 9:30am-12:30pm, Friarscroft Wood
Meet by Windmill Surgery. Refreshments at 11:00am. Bring yourself, a pair of gloves & sturdy boots.
greeningwymondham.org
Norfolk Creations Exhibition 11am-4pm, Becket's Chapel
A passionate group of quality crafters from around Norfolk with a wide range and variety of arts and crafts on display and for sale from 9-21 Sept.
norfolkcreations.co.uk
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Peter Benson: Photography on the Dark Side, London Nights via Zoom
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 13th September
Community Orchard Volunteer Workday 10am-12pm, Browick Road Orchard
Refreshments and tools provided but bring your own gloves. Entrance opposite Gunton Road NR18 0QN or Ayton Road Car Park.
greeningwymondham.org
Volunteer Litter Pick 10am-12pm, Methodist Church Town Green
Join volunteers to help tidy up the town. Bring yourself & a pair of gloves. Refreshments afterwards inside the church.
greeningwymondham.org
Organ Recital 11am, Wymondham Abbey
Daniel Ayers, Organ Scholar at Royal Holloway, London
Free entry, retiring collection in aid of Abbey funds. Refreshments served from 10:30.
wymondhamabbey.org.uk
Monday 15th September
Fungi - Friend or Foe? Garden Club Talk 7:30pm, Town Green Centre
Our speaker Dr. Tony Leech is the Norfolk County Recorder for Fungi. Members Free, guests £4. Further info email wymondhamgardenclub@gmail.com
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077254060337
Tuesday 16th September
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Open PDI Competition, Round 1 with External Judge
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 20th September
Young Rebels 1pm, Fairland Hall
A place for local young aspiring music artists to develop their talent in a supportive community.
facebook.com/people/Rebel-Arts-Wymondham
Sunday 21st September
Norfolk Creations Exhibition Final Day 11am-4pm, Becket's Chapel
A passionate group of quality crafters from around Norfolk with a wide range and variety of arts and crafts on display and for sale from 9-21 Sept.
norfolkcreations.co.uk
Tuesday 23rd September
Volunteer Workday 9:30am-12:30pm, Friarscroft Wood
Meet by Windmill Surgery. Refreshments at 11:00am. Bring yourself, a pair of gloves & sturdy boots.
greeningwymondham.org
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Scott Hurd from Namibia via Zoom
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Thursday 25th September
Patrick Boswell presents Wymondham Scroll 7:30pm, Fairland Hall
Join Wymondham Heritage Society for this fascinating presentation. Free for members - visitors £2.
wymondhamheritagemuseum.co.uk/?p=programme
Saturday 27th September
Community Orchard Volunteer Workday 10am-12pm, Browick Road Orchard
Refreshments and tools provided but bring your own gloves. Entrance opposite Gunton Road NR18 0QN or Ayton Road Car Park.
greeningwymondham.org
Sunday 28th September
Counting Angels & Family Activities 3pm, Wymondham Abbey
Part of our 'Sundays at Three' series. Free entry, retiring collection in aid of Abbey funds. Refreshments available.
wymondhamabbey.org.uk
Tuesday 30th September
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Continuous Improvement: Groups with lead member discussing different camera features.
wymondham-ps.org.uk
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