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Councils Agree to Cooperate on Town Centre Project
It is fantastic news that the town and district councils have agreed to work together to regenerate Wymondham town centre. We as a business on the high street are very excited to see where this takes the town and look forward to hopefully participating in the consultations for this.
Following my comments in the last edition I have discovered my memory is not so good now as I am pleased to say some councillors do shop with us at Hemstocks.
Anglia in Bloom 2024 Launch at Rugby Club
Nearly 80 Anglia in Bloom competitors convened on 26th March at Wymondham Rugby Football Club for a spring launch event. The bloomers from around the Anglian region listened to inspiring presentations from the judging committee and award-winning garden designer Jon Wheatley.
Participants also heard a presentation on ‘Wymondham in Bloom: The Journey So Far’, featuring photos from our first entry in 2019 up until the 2023 competition when the volunteer team finally achieved a Gold award.
The RHS is celebrating 60 years of Britain in Bloom this year and they’re pulling out all the stops to get as many people involved as possible. They’re particularly keen to see new small community groups signing up for the “It’s Your Neighbourhood” campaign, which is free to enter.
The afternoon tea style lunch provided by the WRFC catering team was extremely well received and folks headed home stuffed and inspired for the season ahead.
Anyone interested in joining the fun with Wymondham in Bloom can email wymbloom@gmail.com or call 07941 514 766.
Historic Norfolk Announce Two Major Events and New Chandeliers at Becket’s Chapel
Spring is fast approaching and we have an exciting programme of events coming up! Historic Norfolk’s Annual Lecture begins our season on Friday 19th April at 7.30pm.
Richard Halsey MBE RSA will explore the history of the chapel as further revealed during the recent major repairs. All is not as we thought! Comprehensive scaffolding has given direct access to parts of the structure not normally accessible, both inside and out, and along with areas of paint and plaster removal has enabled a detailed analysis of the building to take place.
This investigation has revealed exciting new information about the building’s history, as Richard will explain. In addition, Patricia Forero-Senior ARB RIBA AABC, Project Architect, will explain how the chapel is being adapted to meet the demands of net-zero, or carbon reduction.
We are proud that Becket’s Chapel is one of eight trail-blazing projects across the country where Historic England is supporting organisations to make their heritage assets as carbon neutral as possible. These projects will then form a series of Historic England case studies, giving Becket’s Chapel a leading profile in the realm of historic buildings adaption required to meet the demands of climate change.
Tickets for the lecture will be available through our website www.becketschapel.org.uk.
Another highlight of the coming weeks will be the installation of three large chandeliers in the main hall. Made in France by artisan glass specialists, these will hang from alternate central rafters where there is evidence of previous large light fittings. In addition to providing additional lighting, the chandeliers also contain infrared heaters which will enable us to efficiently and effectively heat the chapel year-round, keeping all users and visitors to the Chapel cosy and warm!
Featuring special decorative motifs that reflect the chapel’s architecture and history, including Kett’s Rebellion, St Thomas Becket and Wymondham Old Grammar School, the chandeliers will be a modern addition that further enhances the building both decoratively and practically.
Historic Norfolk has recently been awarded a significant sum towards the costs of the chandeliers from South Norfolk Council’s Pride in Place grant scheme which is part of UK Shared Prosperity Funding (UKSPF) programme. Our trustees very much appreciate this support and look forward to continuing a constructive dialogue with South Norfolk Council as the next phase of the project moves forward.
Music-lovers will be delighted to hear that The Cavick Quartet is returning by popular demand on Saturday 27th April for its second concert since the renovation. The concert begins at 7.30pm and features a programme of works by Beethoven, Elgar and Haydn. The last concert was a sell-out, so do not delay in booking your tickets through our website www.becketschapel.org.uk.
In early May, Historic Norfolk welcomes the return to Becket’s Chapel of Wymondham Arts exhibitions. This year there is an extended programme through to mid-November, reflecting a significant increase in demand for our wonderful venue.
If you live in or near Wymondham and would like to support Historic Norfolk’s project at Becket’s chapel as a volunteer, please contact us at hello@becketschapel.org.uk.
Spring/Summer Fashion Show At Abbey
Middletons Clothing is again teaming up with Wymondham Abbey to present a summer fashion show which promises to be a great night out for all involved. The event will be supported by Reno Refills with wine and Kemball & Franklyn for delicious canapes.
Your £12 tickets include a welcome drink, canapes, discount voucher and entry into a prize draw to win a £100 voucher. You can top up your drinks during the evening at the pay bar.
Get your tickets from Middletons Clothing, the Abbey Gift Shop, or online at wymondhamabbey.org.uk/fashionshow. Enquiries can also be made over the phone at 01953 607518 or email info@middletonsclothing.com.
The fashion show is one of a number of fun and creative events taking place during the Wymondham Spring Arts Festival. wymondhammagazine.co.uk/springartsfestival
Wymondham Winners At Business Awards
Congrats to CSN Autos
On 5th March, Broadland and South Norfolk Councils announced the winners of this year's Business Awards at a packed event at Norwich City football ground.
The awards were hosted by the Council's Director of Place, Phil Courtier, and sponsored by law firm Birketts LLP.
South Norfolk Council’s Cabinet Member, Cllr Lisa Neal, said: “It’s brilliant to see so many local businesses thriving. Our judges had a really difficult task to whittle down a shortlist. Although there can only be one winner in each category, everyone at the event should be proud of what they have achieved.”
CSN Autos, an independent MOT, servicing and repair garage in Wymondham won South Norfolk Small Business of the Year. Cllr Overton-Neal, said: “They have a clearly focused management team that have driven growth, with ambitious plans and targets for the future. They understand the importance of customer service and the way they utilise data and metrics is impressive.”
Find out more about the winners at southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/businessawards
Wymondham To Host Concert Celebrating Friendship With Twin City Of Novi Sad
The Norfolk & Norwich Novi Sad Association will be celebrating the friendship links with our twin city of Novi Sad with the annual Paul Cross Memorial Concert to be held on Saturday 15th June 2024 at 7pm in Wymondham Abbey.
An eclectic programme of classical and modern pieces to be performed by the Norfolk String Quartet, Chaos Collective, will include an exciting piece by a modern Serbian composer.
The splendid city of Novi Sad is situated on the banks of the River Danube in the Vojvodina region of Serbia. The association was set up in 1989 and many social, cultural and educational links have been maintained, with frequent visits to enjoy the sights and delights of this area.
Profits from the concert support an educational project at The Milan Petrovic School for youngsters with special needs and disabilities in Novi Sad. The Association has helped fund a variety of projects over the years
The concert is held annually in memory of Paul Cross, a former chairman of the association who did so much to promote the friendship links.
Tickets: £20, members £17, students £5. For more information contact Doug Underwood, Chairman. Tel 01953 601585 email: dougsandraunderwood@gmail.com
Wymondham Storyteller to Host Climate Podcast
A South Norfolk-based charity communications professional is to take over as host on the popular Carbon Copy podcast, which launches its third series on March 20.
Isabelle Sparrow has lived in Wymondham since early 2020, and began working for climate charity Carbon Copy in May of the same year.
“I’ve always cared about the environment, but it was really when I had my first child that I started to feel more anxious about the future, and like I needed to channel that anxiety into action. I’ve always worked in communications and PR, so when I saw the role come up at Carbon Copy it seemed like a perfect fit.”
The podcast is one of a wide variety of ways the charity communicates about local climate action, including a national collection of a thousand stories from organisations all across the UK, area-specific information about the changing climate and Climate Action Plans; media campaigns and blogs; and nationwide events that bring people together.
“We launched the podcast back in 2022, and the previous two series were hosted by Carbon Copy’s co-founder, Ric Casale; but we are changing things up a bit with series 3, getting much more into the personal stories of our guests, really trying to draw out the passion and dedication they have to making a difference.
“I’m a huge fan of podcasts myself, and I particularly love human interest stories that open the door to a whole new way of thinking about things. I hope that the Carbon Copy Podcast can create that kind of experience for listeners – and leads more people to get involved in climate action projects where they live.”
Episode 1, which focuses on the Save Hemsby Coastline campaign, is available to download from all mainstream podcast platforms.
Time to Nominate Your Community Heroes
South Norfolk Council has launched its popular Community Awards. Now in its 13th year, the awards celebrate and recognise local people who go above and beyond to support their community. Many Wymondham volunteers and groups have won in the past, so make sure to nominate your community superstars before the deadline.
South Norfolk Council’s Chairman, Cllr James Easter, said: “There are so many people in the district who give up their time to help others and these fantastic awards are a chance to say thank you and celebrate their hard work. If you know of someone who goes the extra mile to support the community, show them how much you appreciate them and nominate them today.”
This year, there are three new categories, including Town or Parish Councillor of the Year, Connecting Communities Award and the Healthy and Active Award.
The other categories are: Young Achiever Award, Community Organisation of the Year, Business in the Community Award, Volunteer of the Year, Environmental Champion Award and Lifetime Achievement Award.
The awards are sponsored by Clarion Futures. Their Neighbourhood Investment Manager, Yvonne Ogden, said: "We’re delighted to be sponsoring this year’s Community Awards that celebrate the contributions and achievements of individuals, businesses and community groups across South Norfolk. Community spirit and support is so important, especially as the cost of living continues to bite, and it’s great to see local residents being recognised for the difference they are making.”
All shortlisted nominees will be invited along to the awards ceremony at Glen Lodge, Bawburgh Golf Club in July and the winner in each category will receive £250 to give to their chosen community group or voluntary organisation.
To make a nomination visit the Council’s website or call 01603 430611.
Kett’s Books Secure £300,000 Grant To Buy Market Place Premises
Kett’s Books, Wymondham’s independent community bookshop, is delighted to have been awarded a grant of nearly £300,000 towards the purchase of their present premises at 11 Market Place. The volunteer-run bookshop successfully secured the grant provided by the government’s Community Ownership Fund, by demonstrating that Kett’s Books adds value to Wymondham and to its customers’ and volunteers’ lives.
Kett’s Books relocated to their new premises in September 2023 and since the move, has gone from strength to strength. The increased space, with its beautiful interior, has enabled the shop to provide a greater selection of books and they are seeing a large increase in customers not only from Wymondham but from much further afield. The shop is now able to offer more volunteering opportunities for the local community and also provides space for other community businesses to rent, and a small event space for hire, making the bookshop a real community asset.
Their success has been recognised by the Bookseller magazine’s National Book Awards, who recently named Kett’s Books ‘Independent Bookshop of the Year’ for the East. The team behind Kett’s Books is looking forward to finding out whether they will be named the UK Independent Bookshop of the Year at a prestigious ceremony in May.
Tracy Kenny, Managing Director of Kett’s Books, says: “So many people put so much personal investment into getting us into our new home, we realised it was urgent to protect that investment for the long-term. We turned to the Community Ownership Fund to help us secure our future by buying the building, so Kett’s Books can stay at 11 Market Place. “The work is not done - we have to raise 20% match funding in order to complete the purchase. We are contacting local grant-making bodies for support, but our own community has been following this journey, and has already pledged about a third of the remaining £62,500 we need to raise.
“The people of Wymondham and further afield believe in what we’re doing with the community bookshop - they see that we are offering a benefit to the town, and running a business in a way that resonates with how they believe the world should be. By owning the building we will be able to do this for the long-term, further invest in the area, and continue to grow a love of reading for adults and children - which can have a life-changing impact on families across the town and villages.”
Tracy added ‘We were able to move into Market Place because of the support of our customers and volunteers and funding from Kett's Books Friends, the Norwich Freemen's Charity, and the South Norfolk Council Pride in Place Fund, and we sincerely thank them and all our customers for their support.’
Anyone who would like to know more about Kett’s Books, the work they do, and how individuals or organisations can be involved is welcome to attend an open house on these dates:
Wednesday 3 April 18:00, Friday 19 April 14:00, and Thursday 2 May 18:00
Kett’s Books would like to extend their thanks to the government-backed Community Ownership Fund for recognising the value that the bookshop offers to volunteers as well as the town, and giving them the opportunity to serve the community for generations to come.
Town Council Watch: Boat Race Special
Local Democracy Sketch
Fierce, long-standing rivalries. Anticipation. Perspiration. The sweet taste of victory. The agony of failure. It’s said by many to be among the most grueling amateur events in the world.
That’s right, Wymondham Town Council were back once more for their March full council meeting back on the 5th of the month. And it falls to TCW, dressed immaculately in his best blazer and school tie, to cover it all. So slip into your unitard. Listen to your cox. And pull, pull, pull. It’s a Town Council Watch: Boat Race Special.
But can TCW keep this up the whole column, with only a scant knowledge of rowing?
Nice work if you can get it
The council continued to float towards hiring a new full time deputy clerk this month. The role will assist the main town clerk, who must have really been busting a gut of late, to need the help of an extra oarsman.
It makes you tired just thinking about it.
With no opportunities to improve efficiency apparently left in the locker, the council could soon be paying out for an extra £34,800 salary instead. Once you include pensions, tax and expenses, that translates to around £50,000 from the council’s budget every year, according to TCW’s supercomputer.
Or two new playgrounds per year, as some might like to picture it as.
Hiring a deputy clerk is an idea that's largely been brewing behind closed doors via the council’s personnel working group, which meets in private. The full council haven’t had any formal costed proposal to look at yet.
Notes from the reclusive working group’s December meeting merely say “discussion took place” about the new role but stopped short of actually recommending it. By February, they were drafting a job specification for the role, which the full council okayed this month. Now the position is being advertised online.
The casual reader could start to worry that the council has drifted into spending a new £50,000 a year without ever having a discussion of the pros and cons in front of the public.
Interesting point, casual reader. You’re getting good at this.
It’s The Mag Wot Won It
Next up was the main piece of business for the evening. The Town Council would finally be deciding whether or not to contribute its £250,000 share of a deal with South Norfolk Council to invest something in the region of £1 million in town centre improvements.
Lots of the public had turned up to see what would happen. They gathered excitedly on the riverbanks and the bridges.
They must have been tipped off about the important meeting in the local press or something…
Plenty were keen to step up to the megaphone microphone during the public participation section, including Ann Rostron of Greening Wymondham fame:
“Let's be excited about this, not fearful of change.” she implored the crew in front her. “We all have the chance to increase the town's prosperity and make it enjoyable, healthy and sustainable. Let's grasp it with optimism and enthusiasm, the first step on our journey to make our town centre fit for the 21st century.”
An enthusiastic clap broke out among the gathered public.
Ms Rostron was carried aloft and thrown into the river in celebration.
The next member of the public dreamingly invited councillors to picture someone writing a postcard home from an improved Wymondham town centre, by way of inspiration. The public broke into applause once more.
Hmm. That was all a bit much for TCW’s sensibilities but, you know, whatever floats your boat.
Cllr Michael Rosen (Lab) formally introduced the proposal, saying he was “pleased to see we’ve got genuine cross party support”. He then spoke proudly of securing “an extra £50,000 [from South Norfolk], which is specifically to be spent on community engagement.”
The North Wymondham councillor had just got his stroke into a good rhythm, highlighting how long it had taken the new Town Council to make a decision, when he was interrupted:
“I’m going to have to ask you to wind it up please,” the meeting’s chair, Mayor Suzanne Nuri-Nixon (Lib Dem) stuck her oar in.
“Well, this is why I call you the Liberal un-Democrats!” sniffed Mr Rosen.
Boat races at Wymondham Town Council are less the famous light-blue on dark-blue nowadays, more yellow on red.
But if the public had arrived bringing enthusiasm and positivity about improving the town centre, things took a snarky turn when some of the councillors got hold of the rudder. and began their contributions.
The casual reader might even wonder if they weren't that keen on the project generally but had been bounced into it by some clever political manoeuvring, media attention and pressure from the public. If you can't change the outcome, moan about the process.
Casual reader! You're on fire today!
An agitated sounding Cllr Lucy Nixon (Lib Dem) read out a prepared statement defending it taking almost a year for the Town Council to reach a decision:
“There was no written agreement, no proposed contract or any documentation saying that a £250,000 investment from Wymondham Town Council would guarantee a return of £1 million from South Norfolk District Council” she railed.
Cllr Joe Barrett (Green) rattled through an 8-minute party political statement read out at 100 mph, which by the end had one member of the public grunting “cut his mic off!”
The essay offered a personal track and trace of the town centre improvement project’s origins, dwelling repeatedly on the involvement of former Conservative councillor and pet bogeyman Tony Holden.
Next in the crosshairs was a “chronic failure of leadership at South Norfolk Council” and the Central Wymondham councillor knew just who the culprit was: “South Norfolk Council Conservatives have a shockingly sloppy approach!”.
Cllr Roly Frosdick (Lib Dem) seemed untypically hot under the collar: “If it took time I'm sorry about that but South Norfolk shouldn't be so damn impatient!” he spluttered, before demanding: “Come on district councillors! Deliver this right now and say this is a million coming to Wymondham.”
A collection plate was left at the door for the district councillors to empty their pockets.
Wymondham Access Group (WAG), the apolitical accessibility campaign group chaired by Liberal Democrat town and district councillor Dave Roberts, seemed particularly interested in the budgetary machinations over at South Norfolk.
Cllr Paul Barrett (Green) read the statement out on their behalf, making clear the views weren’t his own.
Their chairman sitting round the same table must have had a sore throat. Get well soon Dave.
After briefly acknowledging that the scheme was “a good concept”, the statement veered onto technicalities of the funding deal, talking about the sale of Middleton Street and even “a recent recorded vote at District Council” on the matter.
An impressive ability to track all the political goings on at South Norfolk there. People from WAG should join the council or something!
It fell to Cllr Todd Baker (Lab) to sum up what a lot of the audience might likely have been thinking about the irritable performances on show. The Central Wymondham man was the only town councillor to receive a clap from the public:
“Without wanting to speak for those people who are gathered here, I think few of them, or perhaps none of them, care for the reasons for the delays in the project or the politicking at district level.”
He then praised the high levels of public engagement and hoped they’d continue as the project developed.
The vote passed unanimously and TCW understands a total package of £955,000 on Wymondham town centre has since been approved by South Norfolk.
“TOLD YOU IT WOULDN’T BE A MILLION POUNDS!”
Town Councillor In Praising Wymondham Magazine Shocker
Some of the final words fell to darling-of-the-TCW-column, Alex Perry (Lab), who had some business-critical updates for the group:
Firstly, Toadwatch had been a huge success and many toads had been saved. But then he had some kind words for a certain high quality community publication:
“I know people have differing opinions on Wymondham Magazine when they cover us,” he laughed.
Can’t imagine what he means by that…
“But they’ve done us a big favour,” he continued. “by really publicising the Spring Festival and the Arts Council events… and offering to do that for free.”
Wymondham Magazine stepped in as sponsors, after the council’s Leisure & Tourism Committee essentially told respected community organiser Tony Vale where to go, when he requested they provide support for the Spring Arts Festival idea. “Maybe come back in 2025” came the all-too-familiar cold shoulder.
Never mind. Where the Town Council falters, Wymondham Magazine shall provide a lead. It’s like we’ve got experience doing it.
“So I would just say consult Wymondham Magazine for details of time and dates of all the events”, he wrapped up.
Preaching to the choir there. We already know the councillors are all avid readers. Hiya guys!
Take a bow
So there we are then, the toads are safe, the political grizzling over Wymondham town centre is water under the bridge and the project can finally start turning the corner under Hammersmith Bridge.
Let's hope it doesn't all come back up like a nasty bout of E. coli. TCW's keeping his mouth closed just in case.
Non-Proceedable Offers – Are They Your Answer?
When launching a property to the sales market, the ultimate objective is to sell. To achieve this, viewings and offers are essential and in today's market, can arrive in a non-proceedable form.
As a seller, it can be a conflicting matter, so what to do? To answer this, it is important to recognise a seller's requirements, timescale, and prerogative. For a seller with a tight timeframe to complete, or who must complete before their move is possible, receiving viewers who are not yet on the market is highly unlikely to be their answer.
Likewise, a seller with no particular timeframe often benefits from such viewers who recognise and commit to a house they fall in love with, proving focused and goal-driven.
Ultimately, it is an agent’s responsibility to best guide and inform their sellers of how to proceed, and to align their efforts with their seller's needs and objectives. This is yet another reason why a good working relationship between seller and agent is fundamental.
Moving forward to a scenario of receiving non-proceedable offers, the key is communication led by the agent between all parties to sustain focus and aid progress to proceedability. However, marketing efforts should not be paused or forgotten. A seller should remain on the market until said offer is proceedable, otherwise, the door to other offers, which may see a better result, closes.
I hope this brings a helpful perspective to current and upcoming sellers reading this. If you have any questions that you need an answer to, get in touch today.
If you are seeking advice and support regarding your property goals, call us ANYTIME on 01953 665 785 or send a text or WhatsApp on 07923 236 076. For interesting news and tips, follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Visit: ewemove.com/instant-valuation.
Returning to Wymondham: Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
That often repeated, never appreciated idiom might never have resonated more than when I left Wymondham for university. While being a resident of Wymondham or the surrounding villages my whole life, I held the greatest appreciation for our historic market town when I left it. Moving away from Wymondham was certainly daunting, but the possibility of missing Wymondham did not even register. However, in my nearly three years living away from Wymondham, each time I return I find myself noticing things I had so far failed to do so in my 18 years of residing in it. (Including how much I took for granted our lack of hills).
Not many people at my university had ever heard of Wymondham, well actually not a single person had heard of Wymondham. I typically had to resign in telling people I was from Norwich, and when that (worryingly) failed, I just gestured east of London. Even as I write this a squiggly red line appears under my correct spelling of Wymondham. In response to our surprising lack of fame, I of course endeavoured to mention Wymondham at every conversational opportunity – no matter how loosely relevant.
I found myself recalling facts about Wymondham Abbey, which until recently had remained completely unthought of since my primary school years. “Yes, they really hung William Kett from its tower … What do you mean you’ve forgotten that vital Elizabethan history lesson from ten years ago?” I was equally disappointed to discover that my university town had in fact failed to erect an octagonal stilted building in the seventeenth century.
It may be so that university is incredibly fun and exciting, and has certainly taught me lots, but no lesson am I more grateful for than learning of my exceeding love of walking up and down our cobbled streets, visiting our numerous small businesses, historical sights, and looking for ducks along the river Tiffey.
While Wymondham is certainly little, quiet, and occasionally smells of manure, if my leaving has taught me anything, it’s that there’s no place quite like it!
What’s in a Photo: Shopping Local
These photographs from around 1900 speak for themselves. It was before the motor car took off and only an occasional horse-drawn vehicle was seen on the streets. There was no worry about crossing.
With a population of 4731 recorded in 1901, most inhabitants lived in the middle of the town or very near it with no estates on the outskirts.
Although the railway ran there were no bus services and no car ownership, so townsfolk almost certainly rarely shopped in Norwich and, of course, there were no supermarkets.
However, the town was well served by a variety of shops, among the retailers being grocers, greengrocers, drapers, butchers, milliners, outfitters and ironmongers, among which even then there was Clements!
There were also a number of little general stores situated around the towns. In those days the townsfolk really did shop local!
Keeping Legacies in the Family and Out of Court
Inheritance challenges and disputed wills are soaring, but it’s not just the high profile, mega wealthy that are fuelling the action.
Figures from the Ministry of Justice come against a backdrop of headline-catching disputes such as the case of Russian tycoon Vladimir Alekseyevich Scherbakov, who died in 2017, leaving his entire estate to his Swiss-born partner Brigita Morina and the children they had together. A challenge by children from his previous marriage saw Morina pitched into battle over his £100 million estate, before winning the case in the High Court.
And it seems everyone is fighting for a greater cut of the inheritance pie. The number of disputes reaching the court has more than doubled in the past decade, according to data released by the Ministry of Justice. In the latest figures, 195 disputes went in front of judges in 2021/22, up from 145 in 2017, and from just 80 in 2012. According to specialists, this is only the tip of the iceberg with most disputes settled out of court.
“The soaring number of disputes is being driven by many factors,” explained Harriet Cracknell, Private Client Executive: “There is greater awareness of the right to challenge wills, highlighted through news coverage of high-profile cases like that of the Scherbakov family, but also because of the changing shape of family structures. Blended families, involving second marriages and stepchildren all lend to the complexity.
“Importantly, growth is being fuelled by high property values, as the property-rich baby boomer generation pass on, which means there is more at stake, more to fight for.”
This is endorsed by figures from HM Revenue and Customs, which is set to record its highest ever inheritance tax receipts for the current financial year at some £7.5bn.
The rise in dementia is also helping fuel the rise in the number of inheritance disputes, with those missing out arguing that individuals were not mentally capable or had come under the influence of those caring for them.
In one recent case, a daughter is fighting the former paid carer of her father over a will drafted in his final year. Having married her 11 months before he died aged 94, he left the whole estate to Guixiang Qin. Robert Harrington’s daughter has accused Qin of exerting undue influence over her father and argued that he did not have the necessary capacity to make the revised will.
Explained Harriet: “This case alleges what’s known as a ‘predatory marriage’, where someone marries a vulnerable, probably elderly person, to secure an interest in their estate. Where families suspect any undue influence, it’s best to take action sooner, rather than later.
“For example, they can ask for a mental capacity assessment if they expect a new will is being made. It’s vital in such cases that a full assessment of mental capacity is made and recorded when the will is drawn up. “
“Too often, the disputed funds are consumed by the cost of fighting the will, and it’s far better to get affairs in order in advance, and to look for ways to satisfy family over any decisions that may be contentious.” Harriet added. “The use of trusts to protect the interests of children from earlier marriages can be a really valuable tool, for example, as it allows the spouse of a subsequent marriage to be protected without handing over the inheritance.
“Another good move before a deterioration in mental capacity is to put in place a Lasting Power of Attorney that will cover how financial affairs are to be managed in the event of mental decline. A Lasting Power of Attorney does not allow an attorney to make or amend a Will but it does mean that somebody you choose and trust will be looking after your finances should you lose the capacity.”
If you would like to learn more about the topics mentioned in this article, get in contact with us today on 01953 606351 or email info@spiresolicitors.co.uk.
Revealing The History Of A Wartime Relic In Town
As a boy during the Second World War living in a north Norfolk village I was aware of a gun emplacement having been built on the perimeter of our garden for use by the Home Guard.
Recently, much to my surprise, (having walked through Cemetery Lane in Wymondham many times) to note a similar gun emplacement situated in the bank close to what was then the A11 main road.
It is a Spigot Mortar emplacement built about 1941 as a defensive measure with its primary use to fire at and destroy tanks and vehicles. The pivot in the centre, being over eighty years in situ, is made of stainless steel and is as good as new. History shows the mortars were difficult to use and not popular with the Home Guard.
Fortunately a German landing on the north Norfolk coast never materialised and the defensive positions were never used in anger.
Ted Talks: Old Mates
The stories are in my system,” said Ted, “names from 80 years ago are coming back.” One of these names was Harry Dunn. Harry was from a very different social world than Ted, his parents lived at Burfield Hall in Suton and they had their very own maid and butler!
In those days the parents of rich kids only let their children play with other posh kids, and so Ted never got invited to Harry’s home. However, this didn’t stop them from being good mates at school and then at work for 5 or 6 years, until Harry went off to Eaton College to study agriculture.
Most people in those days left school as young teenagers, and continued to play games at lunchtime after they had started work. Ted hung out with his pals, Brian Reem, Chris Fish and Stanley Blake, during his breaks. Brian was an engineer from Little Melton, Chris was from Park Lane, and Stanley lived somewhere inside a row of terraced houses.
They played catch the ball, jump in the sack, and endurance piggy-backs. They also liked to throw around an empty cardboard box, if they found one lying in the street. When it came to making their own entertainment, nothing was wasted.
They enjoyed team games, but they also challenged each other with dares, such as walking along a 9-inch wall. The young ladies of Wymondham used to watch these dares avidly, and they would laugh and say “silly fool” if you fell off the wall. These women never joined in with the men; they had their own games, such as netball and tennis.
Ted still wears a pair of trouser braces, with a horse head design, that he wore while playing these games around 80 years ago. He does wonder if his old mates are still living after all this time. So, if you do remember Ted, please get in touch, as he will be very pleased to see you.
In the meantime, Ted has begun to share his life stories with the other residents of the care home where his wife stays. He feels that if he can cheer other people up with his memories, he will!
Problem solved!
A Short Story
Lord John Frasier stood by the window and gazed out across the terrace. In the distance, by the orangery, the splashing fountain caught the rays of the morning sun. He saw James the gardener beginning work on the rose border, following the instructions he gave him the previous day. Everything seemed to be in order at Palweir Castle which had been the family home for seven generations. There was just one problem which disturbed him – the marriage of his daughter Charlotte. It had kept him awake for many nights. Today she was due to return home with her fiancé to discuss the Easter wedding. Lady Sylvia and he had yet to meet him and to make things extremely difficult in Lord John’s opinion - he was FRENCH! A frown settled across his brow. For God’s sake, couldn’t she find an English chap? There were plenty of blue-blooded types available. Why couldn’t one of them be his prospective son-in-law? The breakfast gong sounded as Lady Sylvia swept into the room.
‘Come along John. Why are you looking so miserable? Hurry up! Breakfast is served and Charlotte and Anton will be arriving at 10 and Juliet from the events company will be here soon after that.’
‘Coming dear,’ he replied.
Charlotte skidded the Jaguar to a halt on the gravelled drive and dashed to the front door to greet her parents. She hadn’t seen them for six months since starting her work at the art gallery in St Tropez. Her mother was smiling, but her father did not look so happy. Anton followed her up the steps to the solid oak door. Kisses and handshakes were exchanged. At least he didn’t kiss me, thought Lord John. Can’t stand the French – they’re always kissing each other.
They settled themselves in the drawing room while coffee was served. Charlotte talked at length about the exciting people she had met at the gallery. Anton kept quiet. He could feel Lord John watching him intently. Not much later Juliet the events manager was shown into the room. She always organised their annual summer fête and Christmas soirée.
‘Juliet darling,’ Lady Sylvia gushed. ‘Lovely to see you. You know Charlotte of course although she wasn’t here for our Christmas event last year. And this is her fiancé, Anton.’
Anton stood up. ‘Enchanté, Madame,’ he said with a small shake of the hand. Lord John noted the gesture and the expensive watch on the wrist. Seems to have some manners he thought.
The three women discussed details of the church service, flowers, marquees and colour scheme. The two men sat and listened.
‘Now shall we discuss the menu for the wedding breakfast?’ asked Juliet, shuffling the reams of notes she’d taken so far. Lord John immediately stood up.
‘I want an English menu,’ he said quite forcibly, with a definite accent on the word English. ‘No fancy foreign food.’ Anton and Charlotte exchanged glances. ‘Soup. Roast beef. Sherry trifle,’ he barked, reddening slightly. Juliet made more notes.
‘What about stilton and watercress soup, dexter beef with vegetables from the walled garden and trifle for dessert?’ she suggested.
‘We must have strong horse radish and good thick gravy,’ Lord John told her.
Charlotte said she didn’t like trifle. (Anton wasn’t sure what it was, but kept quiet.) Eton Mess was decided upon instead.
‘Named after England’s finest school,’ Lord John declared. ‘Most of our prime ministers were pupils there.’
‘Now what about the wine?’ asked Juliet. ‘We usually serve a welcome drink on arrival and of course with the food.’
‘Must be English wine,’ said Lord John. ‘Champagne of course.’
‘Champagne is French,’ Juliet said discreetly. ‘I can find you English sparkling wine. I have contacts with a vineyard in Kent that produces excellent wine. After all, what's in a name? It doesn’t have to be champagne. An English sparkler will be fine.’
‘Good. Excellent. Do that Juliet,’ thundered Lord John.
‘Certainly not,’ interrupted Lady Sylvia. ‘It’s a wedding. Our only daughter’s wedding. We must have champagne. The name is everything. Nothing else will do, no matter how fine you say it will be.’
Juliet explained that the word ‘champagne’ was limited entirely to wine produced in the Epernay region of France. Nowhere else was permitted to use the word ‘champagne’ on their wines.
‘But…’ Lord John was about to say, when Anton spoke up.
‘If you will permit me to say something. My family has vineyards in the champagne region. We will gladly provide wine for this occasion. If you let me know how many cases will be required, I will arrange for them to be shipped over. I have contacts in the Burgundy region too, so I could provide excellent red and white wine also. It would be my family’s present to you all.’
‘Very good of you, sir. An excellent offer. Splendid,’ enthused Lord John. ‘I shake your hand on that. Good man.’
His opinion of his daughter’s fiancé changed immediately and the problem that had been on his mind seemed to have vanished into thin air.
Permanent Makeup and Medical Micropigmentation
Professional Service in Wymondham
Caroline Day Specialises in permanent make up and works from her home clinic in Wymondham which is fully licensed by the local authorities.
Micropigmentation Brows (which is less traumatic to the skin than microblading) includes hair stroke brows and powder brows or a combination of both. Within reason, she can also correct previous microbladed brows. Permanent eyeliners from a natural line to a dramatic wing and smoky effect. Lip blush which adds a tint of colour to your lips.
She also carries out medical micropigmentation for people who have undergone breast surgery such as mastectomies and breast reduction, Caroline can restore the areola and soften scar tissue with a course of micro needling and skin camouflage. She only uses pigments that are REACH compliant and safety cartridge needles and devices which are high quality.
These procedures are suitable for everyone except during pregnancy, heart problems, Type 1 diabetes and severe autoimmune disease.
Not only has she had extensive training with this profession, Caroline also teaches this profession for a leading academy in London and aims to open up her own training academy in the future.
Caroline will carry out skin patch testing along with a consultation which includes a short medical questionnaire.
Online booking is available:
cdaypmuuk.book.app
carolinedaypmu.uk
carolinedaypmu@gmail.com
Tel: 07984 108764
Greening Gets Going
Late spring is always a race for Greening Wymondham projects as we work with volunteers to get plants in, plants out, drain, build and sow. That’s before we start on the Tiffey with river litter picking and balsam bashing – and testing is all year round, come wind, come shine. Andrew Robinson – pictured here - clearly got the shine.
Friarscroft Wood benefited from all your help as we work to make one part of the wood accessible to the public and secure the other for wildlife. It’s always interesting to see what people think they can dump in open spaces but the leaking oil barrel and asbestos have gone. The next confirmed work date is April 16th.
Browick Road community orchard raced ahead last month planting up the forest garden area with blueberries, plum cherries and sea buckthorn alongside the more usual primroses, foxgloves and forget me not. At any time of year it’s worth a visit, and part of the work has been clearing the concrete path to Ayton Road to improve access. As you can see from the photo, the many volunteers are allowed a much deserved break - on occasion…
Do join us on the 20th April this month at the Baptist Church where from 1000-1200 they’re holding a WBC Eco Silver Award Celebration. We’ll be sharing a stall with Sustainable Wymondham, where you can find out more about what we’re doing. We’ll also be supporting - and recommend - Wymondham Hedgehog Haven’s stall. Bring your hedgehog sightings and you’ll get plenty of advice and insight into the life of our prickly garden aids.
And we have a new logo! Produced by the talented Carol Sharp, it’s more determined and focused, and features a ladybird – not just a garden friend, but a symbol of transformation.
We’re also beginning to plan Wymondham’s Great Big Green Week, from June 9th-16th, themed on Swaps. So we’ll be including the events which were popular last year but offering more ways to swap or barter to help save the environment and our purses! Let us know what you’d like to enjoy that week, at greeningwymondham@gmail.com – or contact us on Twitter. You can also find out more about us on our website greeningwymondham.org or follow us on Instagram.
An Early Spring for Gardeners:
Narcissi or Daffodils; How to Grow Orchids
This year spring has sprung early. A mild winter and, as we’re all too aware, lots of rain – which hasn’t put plants off growing! Every gardener will have noticed plants are a week or more ahead of where we’d expect them to be for this time of year.
Narcissi or Daffodils? The club competitions’ for March and April centre focus on Narcissi and Daffodils as well as early Tulips.
Which reminded me of the age-old question – What’s the Difference between a Daffodil and a Narcissus? The layman’s answer, nothing! Narcissus is the Genus, Daffodils fit into the species and subspecies of Narcissus. There’s over 50 species of Narcissus. Wild Daffodils are one species, often known as the “Lent Lily”. Cyclamineus is another species, “Jetfire daffodils belong to this group. Jack Snipe – which grows well in our part of Norfolk sits in another species.
With all the fancy species names, no wonder we refer to them all as Daffodils!
In the autumn, Garden Centres and specialist nurseries sell hundreds of different sorts, so why not buy a few? They are one of the most minimal maintenance and effort free bulbs you can grow, and of course, there are so many colours and shapes to choose from.
Orchids: The Garden Club meeting on 15th April focuses on indoor plants – Orchids. With the aptly named talk “Orchids and How to Look after them”. The speaker is Colin Thorburn, president of the Orchid Society of East Anglia. Well qualified, expert on all things to do with Orchids, Colin will be able to tell us all how to make our Orchids Happy. Meeting details are in the “What’s On” section of the magazine.
164ft Long Watercolour of Wymondham Street Scene on Display at Becket's Chapel
Following a visit to Walberswick in Suffolk , a painters paradise immortalised in paintings by Philip Wilson Steer and Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Patrick was himself inspired by the work of John Doman Turner, a 1920’s artist and a member of the Camden Town School of painters, founded by Walter Sickert and Spencer Gore. He (Turner) produced the Walberswick Scroll some 123t long in watercolour depicting every house in the village.
Wymondham artist, Patrick Boswell, now in his 82nd year, is preparing for his next exhibition centred around a yearlong project completed last November. Entitled “The Wymondham Scroll” it is a 164ft long watercolour of street scenes of the Medieval and Georgian heart of the market town of Wymondham, where he has lived for the past 29 years. It depicts every house and business starting from Wymondham Heritage Museum, through Bridewell St, Market St, Town Green, Vicar St, Damgate St and Fairland St, depicted in his relaxed illustrative style.
The Scroll will be rolled out with 60ft of scroll displayed at a time, changed every few days throughout the week-long exhibition at Becket’s chapel with Wymondham Arts Centre. This almost unique project is the first to be attempted in over 100 years in East Anglia.
Some prints of parts of the scroll will be available to purchase and the entire scroll can be viewed in the chapel on video from start to finish.
Patrick is probably best known for his landscape and seascapes of the East Anglian coast of North Norfolk and his Broadland scenes where he captures sailing boats and Broadland landscapes with the details of someone who really knows their boats having been a keen sailor since an early age and who still sails through the summer months in his Yare and Bure One design based at Horsey and Hickling.
The exhibition starts on 7th May through to 12th May, daily 11-4. Also on show will be a selection of his more familiar oil paintings of local landscapes, books and prints. He is an author of four books which describe his painting journeys;
Boswells Norwich, Boswells Coast, Boswells Broadland and Boswells Holland.
His work can be seen on his website; www.patrickboswell-artist.co.uk and on Instagram @patrick.boswell
Free Writing for Wellbeing Sessions
As part of the Wymondham Spring Arts Festival, Lyn Hazleton is running two free ‘Writing for Wellbeing’ sessions in Wymondham Library on Thursday 2nd May and Friday 3rd May, 14:00 - 15:30.
This is an opportunity to see what writing for wellbeing is about, how it differs from creative writing and how its purpose is to enhance mental and emotional health, gain greater awareness of how you are feeling and encourage kindness and compassion for yourself and for others.
WPS Photo of the Month: The Champion
The Champion by Jez Wood is the judges’ favourite image from the latest round of the Wymondham Photographic Society’s Cumulative Print Competition.
The authors comments: In order to capture this image I had to lie in and get covered with very smelly Gauno.
The judges comments: This is a "Marmite" image where you either love it or hate it. The author has managed a pin sharp focus to the head and eyes of this Gannet but rendering the body in an out of focus, symmetrical and high key manner.
The Wymondham Photographic Society meets on Tuesdays at the Dell Bowls Club. New members are warmly welcome! wymondham-ps.org.uk
Summer Photography Exhibition
15-16 June
Wymondham Photographic Society with S & P Financial services Summer Exhibition. This will be at the Tiffey Room in Wymondham Central hall on the 15th and 16th of June, displaying images from our members covering a large range of subject matter. There will be mounted prints and projected digital images to view, as well as club members around to answer questions on anything photographic and give info on our club.
We are also asking for any members of the public to send any phone images taken in and around Wymondham to: enquiries@wymondham-ps.org.uk, and we will pick the top 3, which we will print and mount for the winners over the weekend. This should be a fun way for people to get involved, and maybe spur them on to join our club! We will also have a public vote for visitors to pick their favourite club image on display.
Brush Maker Recalls Wymondham's Manufacturing Heyday
When Doug Fulcher walked into the Brushroom at Wymondham Heritage Museum he was taking a step back in time. Back to December 1947 when, aged 15 he became an apprentice at Briton Brush Co. Doug looked around the room pointing out familiar items and machinery as well as spotting familiar faces in photographs from his brush-making days.
Doug was following a family tradition. His father, John, was a brush factory warehouseman at Briton and his grandfather, also John, was a fibre drafter, brush manufacture.
Doug has generously donated a small collection of brushes to the museum and he dropped in to see his items on display together with photographs and a copy of his indentures he had supplied.
He is pictured in his apprentice days in 1948 with the master pan hand, George Pearce. Doug is making a “banister”, a general-purpose brush for hand-sweeping floors with a dustpan.
Among the brushes Doug has donated is one he made. It is used to clean under the grate of an open fireplace to remove the cold ash and dust, hence its short bristle.
Doug was born and bred in Wymondham and played a large part in town life. A keen cyclist, he was involved in many sports and leisure activities. In 1969 he formed a photographic club which became Wymondham Photographic Club.
In 1951 Doug joined the RAF as an armourer to do his National Service. After demobilisation in 1956 he trained as a Typewriter mechanic before becoming the local Agent for the Co-operative Insurance Society, and he remained as Agent for the next thirty-four years, retiring in June of 1992.
The museum’s Brushroom has also benefited from another donation. An extensive collection of brushes, books and brushmaking ephemera belonging to the late Mervyn Jones has been donated.
Mervyn Jones was an avid collector of brushes and related ephemera. He had been involved in brush manufacturing for the majority of his professional life. He initially worked with Briton Chadwick in Wymondham but then moved on to Moseley Stone and later Stanley Tools.
He was extremely knowledgeable about brushmaking and the history of brushes. He wrote a book in 1974 entitled “The Story of Brushmaking – a Norfolk Craft”, to accompany an exhibition that year at Strangers’ Hall, Norwich.
Mervyn died in January 2023. The collection was kindly donated to the museum by his children Rachel Scandling, Sarah Jones and Ben Jones.
To see the new collections in the Brushroom, the museum is open daily. More information at wymondhamheritagemuseum.co.uk.
*From April 27th and every third Saturday when there is a Farmers’ Market, the museum will have extended opening hours, 10am-4pm.
Bunwell Based Arts and Crafts Exhibition Organisers
Going From Strength To Strength
After running for 10 years Norfolk Creations are planning their biggest ever year of exhibitions and it has got off to a great start with them winning the Norfolk Small Business Award 2023 for “Business Hero”.
Norfolk Creations is a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers that through exhibitions and markets showcase the work of talented Norfolk based artists, artisan makers and creators.
They were originally founded in 2013 by Liz Jenkins from Bunwell and last year they celebrated their 10th anniversary. Over those ten years, they have increased the number and length of their exhibitions, as well as the number of Norfolk venues they exhibit in.
In those ten years they have also been able to support and showcase the work of over 90 Norfolk based artisan businesses and in last years exhibitions over 45 creators were supported. They pride themselves on being able to offer a great shopping experience and always endeavour to offer visitors a wide variety of different arts, crafts and makes with a mix of both traditional and contemporary.
As already mentioned - 2024 sees them start the year with a bang - with them being awarded the Norfolk Small Business Award 2023 for “Business Hero”. This adds to two EDP Norfolk Arts Awards gained in 2022 for Best Small Organisation and The Business and the Arts Award. Liz Jenkins, their original founder is “thrilled with our award - it is great to get recognition for the work we are doing supporting Norfolk artisan businesses - we love working with the artisans, Norfolk is a very talented county. Having run an Artisan business myself, I know how difficult it can be to get established hence my founding of Norfolk Creations.”
With the number of exhibitions they now hold and the number of artisans they support Liz now has three other volunteers who work alongside her - Christine Herring is one of those volunteers and is now co-organiser with Liz and had the honour of collecting the latest award at the Awards Evening on Saturday 17th February “It was a great moment being able to collect the Business Hero award on behalf of Norfolk Creations. It makes me feel really proud of the group and it’s lovely to be recognised for the work we do”.
Liz and Christine believe one of the strengths of Norfolk Creations is the way they work. “We operate slightly differently to other craft fairs in that we tend to hold longer events ranging from 4 days to 3 weeks long. All the exhibitors take turns to steward at the events. The advantage of this is that we can accommodate more exhibitors at an event and because they don’t have to attend everyday it enables exhibitors time to continue making and creating or fit it around another job”.
This year Norfolk Creations have 13 exhibitions and Christmas Markets planned (so far) including Wells Maltings, The Forum Norwich, Thornham Village Hall, Wymondham Becket's Chapel and Diss No8 Marketplace, which is a brand new venue for them.
“We are always looking for new venues throughout Norfolk that we can use to showcase some of the county’s talented artisan crafters and Diss is our newest venue - it is a beautiful venue and we are excited about our first exhibition there in May”.
Wanting to give back to their numerous visitors, some of whom visit frequently, 2024 sees Norfolk Creations introduce a Customer Loyalty Card Scheme.
Anyone interested in visiting one or more of the Norfolk Creations exhibitions and markets or exhibiting with them, you can visit their website, FB or IG pages.
A few dates for your diary - They will be holding three local exhibitions - they will be at No 8 Marketplace, Diss 1st to 4th May and 12th to 15th June and then back at Wymondham Arts Centre in Becketts Chapel from 30th July to 4th August - open daily.
North Wymondham Community Centre 50th Anniversary Events
North Wymondham Community Centre is marking its 50th anniversary with a series of events throughout the year.
The first is an Anniversary Quiz in the hall in Lime Tree Avenue, Wymondham on Saturday 20 April 2024 (7.00pm for 7.30pm start), coinciding with the launch of the Wymondham Spring Arts Festival. 7.00pm.
Teams of up to six people are invited to book a table for 5.00 per person. Bring your own drinks and nibbles.
This will be followed on Saturday 4 May 2024 (7.30pm) by Made it to 50, another selection of short plays, written and presented (script in hand) by local play writing group, Four by Four. Tickets are 6.00 (cash on the door).
Bookings for both events can be made by Text on 07851 370666 or via tony@valemail.uk
Save the Date: Wymondham Chocolate Fest. Sunday 7 July 2024. More details to follow.
Life at Wymondham Baptist Church
Anyone who has visited Roots Community Café will be aware of the improvements in our church kitchen. Following a leak in the church kitchen we decided to upgrade our kitchen as a first step in our future extension plans. Here are before and after photos:-
As part of the vision that God has given us we are planning to upgrade our buildings taking them into the 21st century. Roots Community Café is open on Wednesday and Friday each week from 10.00a.m. to 1.00p.m. and our teen café, Thrive@Roots is open on Tuesday afternoon from 2.30p.m. There is always a warm and friendly welcome to everyone who visits. A listening ear and caring staff. The same welcome is there on Sunday morning at our worship service at 10.30a.m.
April is a busy month at WBC on Friday, 12th during Roots Cafe and Saturday 13th from 10.00a.m. – 12 noon we will be holding our first Uniform Swap. If you need school uniform come along and see if we can help. If you have some uniform you can swap, that's great, let us have it.
On April 18th we start an Alpha Course – do you have questions about what we believe as Christians that you would like to ask, book a place and come along and see if we can help you with your questions. Call the church office to reserve your place – 01953606520 or email office@wymondhambaptist.org
On April 20th we are celebrating the achievement of being awarded the A Rocha Silver ECO church award. We are being joined by Greening Wymondham, Sustainable Wymondham, Wymondham Nature Group and Wymondham Hedgehog Haven and will learn about a variety of recycling opportunities. There will also be some activities for you to engage in and of course tea and coffee to enjoy. Come along and join in.
On the following Saturday, 27th April from 1p.m. – 4p.m. we invite you to join us for our Craft and Crumpets afternoon. Come and see the crafts and hobbies that the WBC fellowship engage in and perhaps buy some of the goods they have made and again enjoy some tea and coffee and crumpets. All proceeds from this event will go to our Building Fund.
On May 26th we are holding Café Church – come and enjoy church in a different way. Join us for breakfast at 10.30a.m. and different activities start at 11a.m. This time we are looking at the film ‘The Lion King’.
We are really excited to be hosting The Happy Day Gospel Choir on Saturday, 15th June. Book the date and come and enjoy an evening of fantastic Gospel music. In the coming weeks tickets will be available - contact the church office on 01953 606520 or email office@wymondhambaptist.org to book your seat.
Monthly French Chat Group
Bonjour! We are a friendly group of French speakers who get together once a month in Wymondham to chat & put the world to rights- in French! If you're rusty, fluent, native or anywhere in between, do come along.
It's free, no judgement, no formal teaching, just great company. We meet on the first Wednesday of the month, at the Queens Head Wymondham at 6.30pm. So the next one will be Wednesday 3rd April at 6.30pm at The Queens Head Wymondham. A bientôt!
The Lowe Down:
Waste Land
In T.S. In Eliot's iconic poem The Waste Land, he writes, “We think of the key, each in his prison / Thinking of the key, each confirms a prison.” In other words, when we search for that one ‘key’ (or general rule) that will solve everything, we only box ourselves in. Rather, we only free ourselves (metaphorically) when we let go of searching for the one solution and accept life’s messy contradictions and complexity instead! It’s both a helpful rule for reading the poem (because no one lens will ever fully ‘unlock’ The Waste Land) and possibly for life in general.
Of course, the Modernist writers were not exactly bastions of self-help mastery. In my view, Modernism is like Romanticism: it produced iconic literature, but one spends most of the reading experience worrying about the writer’s well-being. Take Virginia Woolf’s Mrs Dalloway. At the novel’s conclusion, the suicide of a shellshocked army veteran is presented as an act of “defiance”, with the eponymous narrator making the astonishing confession that she was “glad that he had done it… He had made her feel the beauty; made her feel the fun.” Maybe I’m naïve, but that seems unhealthy. The real-life tragedy that Woolf herself committed suicide casts an even darker light on this borderline glorification of the act.
I don’t much care for Virginia Woolf’s books. I feel empathy for her mental health struggles – especially if the views expressed in Mrs Dalloway are indicative of her own – but I find her stream-of-consciousness writing insufferable. T.S. Eliot is the stronger writer, in my view. Incidentally, he too had a mental breakdown but recovered when he found religion. I’m not religious myself, but if it saves someone from feeling like The Waste Land, all power to it! Those lines about the “key” are the words of a man who has suffered through depression but has come out the other side. That lends his words extra poignance.
I think of Eliot’s “key” rule in the context of exams. How many times have we seen articles saying, “Top 10 GUARANTEED Ways to Pass GCSEs”, or “Short List of the Top 50 Tricks for A-Levels?” (As if we needed more lists to memorise.) And the truth is that short of basic things like eating, sleeping, and not overworking ourselves to insanity, there is no one key. It’s just continuing with the hard graft day by day and trying not to panic.
But I often find myself guilty of the impulse to find one golden solution to everything – and it always helps less often than one hopes. I started taking 30-second cold showers because I read an academic paper that claimed it boosted the immune system (at the time of writing, I’ve been ill twice in the last fortnight). Adolescence is particularly prone to this: especially in this age where identity is discussed like never before, there is great pressure to decide in your teenage years who you “really are”, and what your USP is that makes you different from everybody else. Talk about a tall order. Does anyone know “who they really are”? Especially during adolescence, the desire to find one “key” to one’s identity is a terrible thing: during what other period of life do you change more? As a wise thinker once said, life is about “being self-deceived, not knowing who you are, taking a while to work out who you are, maybe being wrong for a bit, right for a bit, [and] wrong for a bit…”. Accepting that is so much healthier. I remember a period when I was constantly worrying about “who I was as a person” – and felt much happier on the days when I forgot to think about it and just read books and had fun.
I am not usually a fan of literary Modernism (the Franz Kafka, Virginia Woolf, James Joyce crowd, etc). But T.S. Eliot did well when he wrote The Waste Land. And whilst it would be pretentious beyond belief to recommend it as a self-help text during exams, part of me still wishes I had known it: it tells us to do the work during the school day and then relax, without worrying about the “one exam solution” you’re missing, or who you “truly are”.
Spring into Action
From My Perspective
As a gardener I look forward to spring. It's a time of rebirth, a fresh start with new challenges to be faced and obstacles to be overcome. I know there’s a lot of work to be done, but I’m confident that all of the effort will be worth it.
That’s exactly how I feel about all of the work that has gone into regenerating our town. We started by creating the job of Town Coordinator. It took months of work and seemingly endless meetings to get the town council to agree to a budget for the role, and even longer to appoint someone to carry out the work, but all of the effort paid off, and the current councillors are so pleased with the result that they have not only renewed the contract, but are hopefully going to increase the amount of time dedicated to promoting the town and boosting tourism.
The next step was to get South Norfolk and Wymondham town councils to allocate funds for an overhaul of the town centre, and in March after a fair bit of procrastination and indecision the town council agreed to allocate money to the project, that could pave the way to around £1 million being spent to improve our town centre.
I know that inevitably it will be a good while before we see any diggers making a start on the work. Of course, I expect there to be public consultations, meetings with businesses and other stakeholders, all of these things take time but are absolutely crucial if we are to make the best of this once in a lifetime opportunity. However, the longer our councillors spend dithering the less we will be able to do, so I would urge them to take the lead and press on as soon as possible.
Although there has never been any doubt in my mind, I know that there has been a fair bit of discussion around whether the funds are available, and if so, if this is the best use for them. I’m sure I’m not the only one who sees the irony in the fact that at the same meeting that councillors who at first insisted that there are not enough funds available finally gave in to public opinion and agreed to help the town, then appear to have agreed to employ a full-time deputy clerk. While I’m not in a position to comment on the workload of council staff, I can’t help wondering, given financial constraints whether part-time help would have been enough.
All in all, although I’m frustrated by all of the delays, I’m delighted to see all of the work that has gone into the town centre regeneration project bearing fruit, it’s now up to our elected representatives at county, district and town councils to come together and give us results that we can be proud of. I hope they won’t let us down.
England star’s Norfolk roots celebrated by England Rugby
England Rugby have launched a social media video filmed at Wymondham Rugby Club celebrating home-grown talent Tommy Freeman.
Freeman was one of the emerging stars of England’s Six Nations campaign, which saw the team find an attacking spirit that won over fans after several years of lacklustre performances.
Tommy played his youth rugby at Wymondham before a move to college in Northamptonshire which led to him being picked up by Northampton Saints.
Freeman said: “I just want to wish the Wymondham boys back home - the Red and Black army - all the best of luck. I had some awesome memories down at the Paddock. Keep smashing it lads!”
Former Wymondham teammate Connor Jermyn said: “He was a lot smaller then! But yes, he was very skillful. If we ever needed a bit of magic in a game, it normally came from him. I’m proud of him.”
The film crew was at Wymondham on the day both the club’s 1st and 2nd XVs paved their way to league promotions with crucial wins against Shelford and Lakenham.
Club chair Paul Wootton said: “I’d echo what Steve Borthwick has said about Tommy and the England team.
“Our players and coaches have worked so hard this season - achieving double promotion would show the levels of ambition and spirit we have here at Wymondham but we still have a huge amount to do.”
England Rugby is celebrating the clubs which have nurtured future England stars. The series of films, called “It Means Everything”, is available on England Rugby’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/watch?v=RurfUrdq3vM
New Spinning Studio Launched at Leisure Centre
A brand-new cycling studio was unveiled at South Norfolk Council’s Wymondham Leisure Centre on Saturday 23 March.
Council Chairman, Cllr James Easter, officially opened the studio which has 30 bikes.
He said: “Where some councils are cutting their leisure provision, we are continuing to invest in our residents’ health and wellbeing. The new studio is a fantastic addition to our thriving Centre where this type of cycling is incredibly popular.”
All studio cycling classes will now take place in the new studio, as well as new Les Mills virtual classes including Virtual RPM, Virtual Sprint and Virtual Trip.
The opening event also raised over £100 for cancer charity Keeping Abreast, with a sponsored cyclothon involving 4 back-to-back classes.
Cllr Easter added: “It was a great opportunity for members and non-members to test out the new studio, while raising money for this great cause.”
In addition to the new studio at Wymondham Leisure Centre, a £4m refurbishment project is underway to modernise the swimming pool at Diss Leisure Centre, which will reopen to the public in December.
Visit: southnorfolkleisure.co.uk for more information.
Wednesday 3rd April
Art Society Demo with Peter Partington
7:15pm, Catholic Church Hall
Peter Partington is widely known as The Wildlife Artist and has had a long career as an artist and illustrator of the world of nature. He will paint wildlife in its habitat.
www.wymondhamart.org
Friday 5th April
Photographic Society Coffee Morning
10am-12pm, Dell Bowls Club
www.wymondham-ps.org.uk
Tuesday 9th April
Wymondham Photographic Society
8pm-10pm, Dell Bowls Club
Guest Speaker Sam Lister: Underwater Photography
www.wymondham-ps.org.uk
Thursday 11th April
Nature Group Indoor Meeting
7:30pm, Town Green Centre
Illustrated talk by Allan Archer - Dinosaurs in your garden – the evolution and life of birds (with props). All welcome - admission £3, NWT members £2 – no booking required.
01953 602 876
www.facebook.com/WymondhamNatureGroup/
Friday 12th April
School Uniform Swap
10am-1pm, Baptist Church Queen St
Bring uniform items which are too small and swap for the right size.
Saturday 13th April
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.
www.greeningwymondham.org/
Monday 15th April
Garden Club Talk: Orchids and how to look after them
7:30pm, Town Green Centre
Illustrated talk by Colin Thorburn. Colin is the president of the Orchid Society of East Anglia. If you want to learn how to grow and nurture Orchids, come along, Colin is an acknowledged expert. Members Free, guests £5. Show Table: 3 daffodils/narcissi; 3 tulips. Club Table: A favourite from my Garden – Plant or Flower, Fruit or Vegetable. For further information about the club contact wymondhamgardenclub@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077254060337
Royal British Legion
7:30pm, Ex-Services Club
Monthly Meeting in the Regal Lounge
branches.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/wymondham
Tuesday 16th April
Wymondham Photographic Society
8pm-10pm, Dell Bowls Club
Inter-club Tripod Competition
www.wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 20th April
Farmer's Market
9am-1pm, Market Place
Browse a range of artisan products from local producers.
Lace Making Display
10am-1pm, Wymondham Library
Presented by Wymondham Lacemakers
Eco-Church Award Celebration
10am-12pm, Baptist Church Queen St
All welcome for creative activities and celebrations.
Third Saturday Activity
10am-12pm, Poppy's Pantry
Hedgehog Haven Stall
10am-12pm, Baptist Church Queen St
www.greeningwymondham.org/
Bingo
6pm, Rothbury Road Community Centre
Over 18s only
50th Anniversary Quiz
7pm, North Wymondham Community Centre
Teams of up to six. £5 pp. Text 07851370666 to book your place.
Sunday 21st April
Star Throwers 15th Anniversary Afternoon Tea
1pm, Park Farm Hotel
To book Tel: 01953 423304 or email victoria@starthrowers.org.uk
WTFC Quiz
7pm, Football Club, King's Head Meadow
Monday 22nd April
Arts and Latte - one free hot drink per customer
10am-11:30am, Waitrose Cafe
Dementia Support Group
10am-12pm, Fairland Church Centre
Step into Spring
Tuesday 23rd April
Open Door at WMC
10:30am-12pm, Town Green Centre
All welcome for refreshments and conversation with colouring, jigsaws, crosswords and more.
wymondhammethodistchurch.com/
Annual Parish Meeting
7pm, WTC Kett’s Park Office
All residents welcome to attend and share views.
www.wymondhamtowncouncil.org
Wymondham Photographic Society
8pm-10pm, Dells Bowls Club
Guest Speaker Paul Radden: Winter in Yellowstone
www.wymondham-ps.org.uk
Wednesday 24th April
Tai Chi Taster Session
1pm, Central Hall
Tel: 07905 086959 to book
Bingo
6pm, Rothbury Road Community Centre
Over 18s only
Play: Waiting in the Wings
7:45pm, Central Hall
Wymondham Players present 4 evening performances Weds-Sat and a Saturday matinee at 2pm.
Thursday 25th April
Home from Home
1:30pm-4:30pm, Baptist Church, Queen St
Warm Space
Heritage Society Meeting
7:30pm, Fairland Hall
Talk by Tony Wright: Hethersett Races. Meetings are free to members, non-members are always welcome (£2 entry fee).
01953 600 205
www.wymondhamheritagemuseum.co.uk/?p=heritage.society
Friday 26th April
Dementia Support Group
10am-12:30pm, Fairland Church Centre
Step into Spring
Music Bingo
6pm, Rugby Club
Tickets available online
buytickets.at/wymondhamrugby/1134333
Saturday 27th April
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.
www.greeningwymondham.org/
Crafts and Crumpets
1pm-4pm, Baptist Church Queen St
Creative displays and tea and crumpets available for purchase.
01953 606520
Cavick String Quartet
7:30pm, Becket's Chapel
To raise money for further upgrades to the grade 1 listed building. Tickets available online
www.becketschapel.org.uk/event-details/cavick-string-quartet-2
Sunday 28th April
Spring Birdwatch with Wymondham Nature Group
7am-9am, Toll's Meadow
Monday 29th April
Dementia Support Group
10am-12pm, Fairland Church Centre
Step into Spring
Tuesday 30th April
Maypole and Music
9:15am, Ashwellthorpe Woods
Wild Tribe Toddler Group. Bring snack, drink and activity.
Wymondham Photographic Society
8pm-10pm, Dells Bowls Club
Guest Speaker Graeme Taplin: Drone Photography
www.wymondham-ps.org.uk
Wednesday 1st May
Tai Chi Taster Session
1pm, Central Hall
Tel: 07905 086959 to book
Art Society Critique with John Shave
7:15pm, Catholic Church Hall
The short AGM is followed by an evening of critique from WAS member John Shave. Members are encouraged to bring in their own paintings for some constructive advice from well known professional artist and popular tutor John.
www.wymondhamart.org
Thursday 2nd May
Creative Writing Taster Session
2pm-3:30pm, Wymondham Library
Book via lyn.hazleton@btinternet.com
Talk: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
2pm, Central Hall
Nicholas Chapman MBE will present his talk, hosted by u3a.
Fashion Show
7pm, Wymondham Abbey
Middleton's Clothing presents a memorable evening of fashion supporting the Abbey. Tickets available at Middleton's and the Abbey Shop.
Friday 3rd May
Dementia Support Group
10am-12:30pm, Fairland Church Centre
Step into Spring
Open House at the Meeting Point
10:30am-12pm, Town Green Centre
Beer, Gin and Rum Festival
1pm-11pm, Ex Services Club
Runs through 6th May while stocks last.
Creative Writing Taster Session
2pm-3:30pm, Wymondham Library
Book via lyn.hazleton@btinternet.com
Saturday 4th May
Creative Wymondham Arts & Crafts Fair
10am-2pm, Central Hall
Browse stalls while enjoying music from the Dell Boys.
Meet the Local Authors
10am-2pm, Tiffey Room Central Hall
Chat about books with local writers.
Guided Town Walk
11am, Market Cross
Led by Georgette Vale. Tel: 07867 681839
Selection of Plays by Four by Four
7:30pm, North Wymondham Community Centre
Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the building. Book via tony@valemail.uk
Sunday 5th May
Car Boot Sale
9am, WTFC Kings Head Meadow
Status Quo Tribute Band
7:30pm, Wymondham Central Hall
Tickets at Reeves Stationers or Tel: 01953 600563
Monday 6th May
Spring Fair
11am-2pm, Town Green Centre
Cakes, plants, new & nearly new, tombola and lunches served. Free Entry
wymondhammethodistchurch.com/
Duck Race
11am, Wymondham Abbey
www.wymondhamabbey.org.uk
Tuesday 7th May
Art Exhibition
11am-4pm, Becket's Chapel
The opening day of a new season of art exhibitions from Wymondham Arts Centre.
www.wymondhamart.org
Thursday 9th May
Nature Group Indoor Meeting
7:30pm, Town Green Community Centre
Sweet Briar Marshes – a wilder Norwich for all: Matt Wickens of Norfolk Wildlife Trust's urban team will explore the fascinating features and wildlife of Sweet Briar Marshes, discussing why it is important, and where NWT is heading for both nature and people in the fine city. Admission £3, NWT Members £2.
01508 488337
www.facebook.com/WymondhamNatureGroup
Thursday 23rd May
Heritage Society Meeting
7:30pm, Fairland Hall
Talk by Ian Hinton, Norfolk Historic Buildings Group. Dating Old Houses Using Examples from South/Central Norfolk. Meetings are free to members, non-members are always welcome (£2 entry fee).
01953 600 205
www.wymondhamheritagemuseum.co.uk/?p=heritage.society
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