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Remembrance Sunday 2025: All You Need to Know
This year's commemorations are taking place on November 9th and 11th
This year's Remembrance Sunday commemorations in Wymondham will take place on Sunday 9th November and Tuesday 11th November.
On Sunday, the parade shall gather in the Market Place at 2:15pm. The march to the War Memorial will be at 2:30pm, followed by the wreath-laying ceremony, and a remembrance service at the Abbey at 3.
On Tuesday, at 11am, two minutes' silence will be observed at the War Memorial. The tribute to the soldiers shall come to an end with the sounding of the last Post and Reveille.
Town Council To Decide on Town Centre Improvement Project’s Future
Tuesday 4th November will see Wymondham Town Council vote on how to proceed with long-mooted plans to improve parts of the town centre, with the public invited to come and make their views known before decisions are taken. The open meeting will be held at 7pm at the council’s Kett’s Park offices NR18 0UT).
The £1 million joint venture between South Norfolk Council and Wymondham Town Council has produced a shortlist of design concepts for various parts of the town, after two rounds of initial consultations with residents.
First up, Town Councillors will choose whether or not to approve a concept to install seating and a path at Town Council-owned land on Fairland Hill. This would see technical designs produced to be approved at a later date.
Potential Stumbling Block?
But a second item on Tuesday could see Town Councillors quibble over taking on the future maintenance costs of improvements to the Market Place area of town, estimated at a maximum of £1 per household, per year.
The maintenance costs, which kick in three years after completion, could prove a stumbling block to the entire project if the Town Council does not accept responsibility for covering them.
In 2024, business owners and residents took to Wymondham Magazine to implore the council that “now’s the moment to help our high street”, after a spate of retail closures and empty premises, with the Town Council voting to initiate the project back in March 2024.
Both authorities have underlined their desire for residents to contribute their feedback, with over 1800 people taking part in consultations so far. Tuesday’s meeting provides people with another opportunity to have their views heard.
The same meeting will see councillors decide whether to approve a raft of new policies aimed at rapidly deleting video recordings of their meetings. The move comes after a spate of requests from residents to view the recordings’ contents, following the council’s decision to suspend the live streaming of sessions to the public. Anyone is entitled to film meetings themselves.
£70,000 Council fund includes plans to restore neglected Becketswell Pond
A wide range of environmental projects are being delivered across South Norfolk thanks to support from South Norfolk Council's Nature Conservation Fund. With a total of £70,000 awarded to 11 local groups, the fund is enabling parish councils, schools, community organisations and volunteers to transform green spaces into thriving habitats for both people and wildlife.
A project in Wymondham will focus on restoring a neglected pond.
Cllr Keith Kiddie, South Norfolk Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said:
“The Nature Conservation Fund is empowering communities across South Norfolk to take practical steps that support wildlife, improve local biodiversity and create green spaces for everyone to enjoy. These projects are helping to tackle climate change and bring people closer to nature, now and for generations to come.”
A Council spokesperson told the magazine:
“Becketswell Pond is located within a green space next to the River Tiffey, forming part of the Tiffey Valley Green Corridor. This cherished area offers residents a scenic path through green spaces and the historic Abbey area.
“The Norfolk Wildlife Trust advised that two-thirds of the pond's vegetation should be removed during the winter to minimise wildlife disturbance. One significant issue is the presence of the invasive crassula species, which spreads easily and needs careful handling to prevent contamination.
“Funding from the Nature Conservation Fund will be used to clear the pond of invasive weeds and other surface-choking plants. The removed plants will be bagged and disposed of correctly, while any spoil will be spread under adjacent trees to compost naturally. The project also includes habitat improvement work around the pond, enhancing this vital green stepping stone for wildlife along the corridor.”
Co-Op Thanks Customers For Successful N&N Fundraiser
Seen this sign outside Wymondham Co-Op? It reads:
'A huge well done and thank you to our members, customers and colleagues at Wymondham Store for raising £598 over the Local Giving summer campaign for Norfolk and Norwich Hospitals Charity: NICU, who has also received an additional central donation of £150.
'An overall total of £748.
'Thank you.'
Wymondham Leisure Centre to continue School Uniform saving scheme
A community-driven initiative led by Broadland District and South Norfolk Councils has helped families across both districts save thousands of pounds this summer on school uniforms. Following its success, the scheme will continue in South Norfolk Council’s Leisure Centres.
The School Uniform Swap Shops, hosted at leisure centres and community events throughout the summer, received an overwhelming response from residents, who came together to donate, swap and support the project in large numbers.
South Norfolk Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment, Cllr Keith Kiddie, said:
“This initiative has made a real difference to families across our communities and we’re grateful to everyone who has donated, swapped and supported the project.”
Broadland District Council’s Cabinet Member for Environmental Excellence, Cllr Jan Davis added:
“It’s been fantastic to see so many families benefit from the swap shops, not just financially, but also through the sense of community it’s created.”
Wymondham Leisure Centre was one of the South Norfolk businesses that, collectively, rescued over 450 school uniform items, saving families an estimated £14,314.
The uniform swap rails will remain in place at all three South Norfolk leisure centres, with Broadland District Council planning for further pop-ups to return next year, allowing families to donate and swap items all year round.
Cllr Kiddie added:
“A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this possible. Keeping the rails up in South Norfolk means this support can continue throughout the year and we hope even more families will get involved.”
Don’t miss the Central Hall’s Winter and Wellness Fair!
Save the Date: 6th December, 10am-4pm.
The Winter Wellness Fair is well underway! Have a wander, visit our pop-up café, and enjoy our teas, coffees, light lunches, and of course those beautiful cakes!
The day will not disappoint with an array of handcrafted, spiritually inspired gifts, crystals to dazzle you, jewellery, salt lamps, handmade soaps and even plants.
We have readers to give you guidance during today’s uncertain times and treatments available from our professional practitioners.
In the adjoining Tiffey room, there is a Winter Creations incense blending workshop. You will make loose incense from natural, locally gathered ingredients, and be able to enjoy your creations at home. Emma has been blending incense and oils for over three decades, encouraging others to connect with plant oils and resins to create something unique to themselves. Working intuitively and walking a shamanic path, Emma will guide you and support you to create incense for yourself.
There will be three talks, the subjects of which include letting go of 2025 (Reflect, Release, Renew!), looking back with compassion, and releasing what no longer serves you and opening yourself to what’s next.
Stephanie Caley will be joining us, a herbalist from the National Institute of Medical Herbalists. Stephanie will be introducing you to what is on offer in our beautiful new shop at Town Green, Caley’s Apothecary. There is also an adjoining room for Reiki and other treatments.
All these will be free of charge on the day, plus free entry to the fair, and please bring along the children as there will be an activity table for them too.
We will have Pete Maxey and Lewis Skinner playing acoustic guitar and fiddle on stage, originally part of a band that played in Glastonbury and various events around the country.
The charity this time will be for Hillside Animal Sanctuary, helping them home over 4000 rescued animals.
Town Centre Set for Transformation after Wymondhammers' feedback
Wymondham is on the brink of an exciting transformation, with plans underway to give the town centre a fresh new look that reflects the community’s aspirations. More than 3,000 residents have shared their ideas and feedback, helping to shape a vision for a more attractive, accessible and vibrant town.
The Wymondham Public Realm project, jointly funded by South Norfolk Council and Wymondham Town Council, will breathe new life into key public spaces, making the town centre a more enjoyable place to live, work, shop and visit.
Cllr Lisa Overton-Neal, South Norfolk Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Growth, said:
“Thank you to everyone who shared their views. South Norfolk Council has always supported our market towns and our aim is to create a vibrant town centre that will make people feel really proud of the place they live. A place where residents and visitors want to shop, meet friends and enjoy spending time.”
Based on community input, four priority areas have been identified for improvement:
Wymondham Market Cross Seating
Upgrades will enhance this historic focal point with improved seating and a more welcoming public space, encouraging people to relax and spend time in the heart of the town.
Fairland Hill Revamp
New planting, circular seating, and an accessible pathway will boost the area’s visual appeal and usability for all.
Market Place Enhancements
A widened pedestrian zone, landscaped raingardens, new seating and improved crossings, along with a potential one-way traffic system, will create a more inviting and people-friendly environment.
Pocket Park / Parklet
This green space will be refreshed with new landscaping and seating, offering a peaceful spot to unwind while maintaining cycle parking and reducing clutter.
These improvements are designed to boost footfall, support local businesses and encourage people to spend more time in Wymondham’s historic town centre.
Next steps include refining the designs based on public feedback, assessing technical feasibility and moving forward with planning and implementation.
For updates and further information, click here.
Wymondham Magazine Celebrates 100th Edition
Wymondham Magazine has reached a major milestone this month with the publication of our 100th edition.
Since its first issue in 2017, the award-winning magazine has become a familiar feature in homes across Wymondham, sharing community news, local events, and stories that celebrate the town and its people.
Magazine publisher Jimmy Young said: “Doesn’t time fly when you’re enjoying yourself? It’s been an absolute pleasure taking on Wymondham Magazine. It’s the people that make it. Your contributions have kept the town informed, educated and, most importantly, entertained. Thank you to everyone that’s taken the time to draft something over the years.”
Receiving no subsidy out of the public purse, the Magazine is proudly self-funded through advertising from superb local businesses.
“It’s only thanks to our advertisers that we can print and distribute 9,000 copies every quarter free of charge. So please do make sure you repay them the favour with your custom.”
From deliverers, to printers, designers and our fantastic sub-editor Freddy Lowe, the Magazine is also a source of employment and work experience for people of all ages around our community.
“Here’s to the next hundred editions!” toasted Mr Young wearing a small party hat and blowing out 100 candles on a modest cake.
Business Awards return to celebrate success
Which Wymondham business will you vote for?
The Broadland and South Norfolk Business Awards are returning to celebrate the outstanding businesses that help our communities and local economy thrive. You can now nominate your favourite Wymondham local business!
South Norfolk Cabinet member, Lisa Overton-Neal, said: “These awards are a brilliant way to recognise the creativity, hard work and dedication of our local businesses. I encourage every business to take part and share its success. I also urge residents to vote and support your favourite pub and retailer. Your vote could make a real difference, and you could win a prize.”
Broadland District Council Cabinet Member, Martin Booth, said: “Broadland boasts a wide variety of businesses from huge multi-nationals to one-man bands, in sectors as diverse as food and drink production, retail, insurance and tourism. It’s these businesses and the determination of the people behind them, that help our economy thrive, and our Business Awards are a well-deserved chance for them to be recognised for their hard work.”
The 10 categories that will be open for entry are:
~Business Growth
~Business Innovation
~Employer of the Year
~Environmental Impact
~Food and Drink Producer of the Year
~Insurance, Financial or Professional Services
~Manufacturing and Engineering Business of the Year
~New Business
~Small Business of the Year
~Tourism Business of the Year
Residents are also invited to vote for their favourite Retailer of the Year and Pub of the Year. By voting they will automatically be entered into a prize draw and be in with a chance of winning £100 of shopping and pub vouchers. There will be four lucky winners, two from each district.
Nominations are open and close Friday 12 December 2025. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 18 March 2026 at Norwich City Football Club, proudly supported by headline sponsor Birketts LLP.
To nominate your business, or to vote for your favourite retailer and pub, visit www.southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/businessawards.
George Szirtes and other top translators are visiting Wymondham!
Thursday 27th November, 2-3pm, Wymondham Library
Readings, conversations, music, workshops and a Words Fayre: what better way to celebrate drawing together in the darker nights than a Festival of literature in the community?
Don’t miss the Library’s new event: ‘LOST IN TRANSLATION’: Two multitalented translators, Amanda Hopkinson and Nick Caistor, talk with poet and translator George Szirtes, about the art of moving books across languages.
This will take place on Thursday 27th November 2-3pm. Tickets are £7.50. For tickets, click here or drop into Kett's Books.
"George Szirtes" by Menage a Moi is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
Barnham Broom Charity Golf Day Raises Funds for Macmillan and Children’s Hospices
On Friday 10th October, Barnham Broom hosted a Grand Charity Event at the golf club. The event was held to raise vital funds for two incredible charities and is the 27th year that the golf day has been held for Macmillan Nurses, raising over £320,000 on the way. This year, EACH was added to the fundraising effort for the first time.
Macmillan Cancer Support provides physical, emotional, and financial support to people living with cancer and their families. East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH) provides vital care and support to children and young people with life-threatening conditions and their families across East Anglia.
Players arrived at 10am in time for registration, where they were treated to bacon rolls and much-needed tea and coffee. Teams were welcomed by Graham and the Barnham Broom team, and the Barford Suite was set up with tables of goodies, including over 60 rounds of golf donated from many golf clubs, both local and countrywide.
Enjoying some beautiful, late-summer weather (a real treat for October!), 100 golfers teed off on the Championship Valley Course. The team names were a highlight, too, ranging from the excellent 'Rice Rice Baby,' 'The Norfolk Turnips,' and 'Keys and his Caddies,’ to the truly unprintable!
Teams started by warming up on the practice ground before gathering for the 11:30am shotgun start. The day also offered an incredible incentive: a chance to win a brand-new car during the round.
The catch? Golfers had to make a hole-in-one on the difficult 17th of the Valley course, generously sponsored by Desira Group PLC. After a complimentary glass of prosecco though on the tee, that challenge might have been a bit trickier!
Meanwhile, attendees could grab a cake and drink from the halfway hut in return for a small donation. There was a huge variety of homemade baked goodies to choose from, kindly prepared by Nicky—think lemon drizzle, carrot cake, bakewell and even rocky road! Every single donation counts, and Nicky’s cakes have become legendary over previous events!
After a fantastic round of golf, everyone gathered for a well-deserved treat: a two-course meal, prize giving, and a fun raffle. However, what truly mattered was the money raised on the day for Macmillan and EACH.
Graham Knights added, “I never cease to be amazed by the generosity displayed by all those connected with the day in what are very difficult financial times for many. My sponsors continue to support me every year, which is greatly appreciated, and my team of volunteers giving up their time to help two amazing charities means we are able to make a real difference to the lives of those people in need of help. I firmly believe that our efforts to fundraise really do help. I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported the day in some way, this year and in previous years.”
We would like to give a special thanks to Debbie for planning and coordinating the event; Graham, the local Ambassador for Macmillan; the volunteers helping to make the day a success by investing their time and energy all day, and our main sponsors: Artisan Drinks, MCB Financial Services and DMD Installations.
The turnout and support received on these days are a testament to the power of community and a shared desire to help those facing incredibly difficult circumstances. Everyone at Barnham Broom wants to say a huge thank you once more from the bottom of our hearts. Your swing might be a little rusty, but your compassion is absolutely golden!
Dandelion’s Wymondham Nursery Rated Outstanding by Ofsted
Dandelion Education’s Wymondham Nursery has been recognised by Ofsted for its outstanding teaching, visionary leadership, and inclusive practice. The inspection praised our team for supporting children’s emotional resilience, communication, and creativity.
The overwhelmingly positive Ofsted inspection at Dandelion’s Wymondham Nursery lauded the outstanding teaching and visionary leadership. Families spoke to the Ofsted inspector of transformative growth in their children’s emotional awareness, communication, and resilience.
Dandelion’s skilled staff were observed using innovative strategies to help children recognise and express complex feelings like frustration or confusion, while engaged in playful but rich conversations that support the development of meaningful relationships.
The inspector congratulated Hayley and Emma on their bespoke philosophy, which underpins Dandelion’s curriculum, critical thinking, problem-solving, and emotional well-being; the Ofsted inspector also noted that: ‘all children thrive, forming secure attachments through warmth, patience, and deep respect’; she noted the extraordinary levels of emotional resilience, the risk awareness development, and the opportunities that every child has for the development of their creativity and social skills.
Staff discussed the dedicated leadership team’s pursuit of excellence, along with the outstanding staff support and professional development on offer.
A key feature of Dandelion’s success is also attributed to its commitment to inclusive practice. Their staff are highly skilled at identifying children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and work collaboratively with families and professionals to provide tailored support. As a result, all children make excellent progress in their learning and development.
Emma Harwood and Hayley Room, the owners and founders of Dandelion, were thrilled that the inspection evidenced the value of their ethos, the dedication of their staff and their commitment to excellence; Emma stated that ‘Dandelion was a dream for us both, we had a vision of what outstanding Early Years should look like, today it was recognised.’
View Dandelion’s website for the full Ofsted report.
What's in a Photo? A Pilgrimage from Merseyside to Norfolk
It was, indeed, a memorable and emotional occasion for Angela Harvey when, accompanied by her partner Alan, she paid her first-ever visit to Wymondham from her home in Formby to hold and ring the Town Crier's bell in the Heritage Museum.
As described in the magazine's Autumn edition, Angela is a direct descendant of Jesse Harvey Senior, who had taken over the role of the Town's Bellman, as well as toll and rent collector, from his grandfather Robert in about 1880. On Jesse Senior's death in 1914, the position was taken over by Jesse Junior, who held it until World War Two, when it was discontinued.
Although she had never been to Wymondham before, Angela had collected books and newspaper cuttings on the town while researching her family history.
Angela had first got in touch with me in May, and we had exchanged photos, while my daughter Joanne helped towards the visit. On Saturday 4th October, Angela was greeted at the Heritage Museum by its chairman, Simon Long, who had arranged for the bell to be taken out of its "Wymondham Memories" cabinet for her to ring - and what a magical moment that was!
While in Wymondham, she had a look around the town at houses where her forebears lived and haunts, like the impressive Green Dragon, which they had probably frequented. With her partner, she was even invited to look round a house in Damgate, where her family once lived.
Angela was blown away by the character, heritage and history of the town - and said she would definitely be paying another visit to beautiful Wymondham!
The Power of Listening: Rosedale Bereavement Support
I don’t know about you, but to me, the world we now live in feels unrecognisable from the one I grew up in. Life seems to be changing at such a pace, I can hardly keep up! The rapid rise of social media has led to everyone being able to share their story, making sure their voice is heard and their point is made. Interrupting and shouting others down seems to have become acceptable behaviour on TV, radio interviews, and in life in general.
As someone working in the field of counselling for many years, I have noticed a subtle change of late. It now seems that in general, whilst everyone wants to be heard, there aren’t many people who are prepared to listen.
A big part of my counselling training was learning how to listen properly, making sure that the speaker feels truly heard and understood.
Listening is such a valuable gift to give someone. All it costs us is our time.
When someone is bereaved, they often want to talk about their loved one. They miss them and are in their thoughts constantly. They don’t want them to be forgotten, and talking about them can be one way of keeping their memory alive.
Many bereaved people report that people avoid mentioning their loved one in conversation. Perhaps they want to avoid causing further upset or don’t know what to say to make things better? The truth is, the bereaved person is already upset, and almost nothing anyone says can make things better!
Grief can also make some people feel very uncomfortable. Perhaps it reminds them of their own past bereavements? Or they prefer to avoid talking about messy emotions, preferring to keep the ‘stiff upper lip’?
Of course, some people prefer to grieve privately. We all have our own way of dealing with grief; there is no right or wrong way.
However, making time to listen to someone talk about their loved one and their bereavement can provide an outlet for grief, making them feel less lonely and isolated. It also demonstrates respect and helps to build stronger and more supportive relationships.
Perhaps we all need to slow down a bit, respect each other more and create some space to listen.
Rosedale’s bereavement support groups provide a safe, trusted place to talk about bereavement and be listened to. Call 01379 640 810 to reserve your free place in the next group.
One Day.
A short story.
How had things come to this, Charles thought to himself?
He stood staring down from the grey office building on the 108th floor. Shivering violently, he felt his clothes tightly squeezing his flesh, and he thought of the chunky sausages in the fridge at home. A siren on the snarled road below held no meaning, yet it seemed to be getting louder. His tie was whipped by the wind like a flag at the stern of a boat.
Soul mates, a bit of a cliché, but this was how Gina often described them to other people. Slender with pale blonde hair, brightly coloured clothing, gleaming red lips, and always good shoes … Gina put some effort into life, and he appreciated that about her personality. They had been together for five years now, and he had briefly considered marriage, mostly just after sex. But he had kept things from her. People always have secrets. His was surely imperceptible.
It started as a bit of lunchtime fun with colleagues (who could eat the most cream crackers in a minute?). They moved on to fried chicken drumsticks shortly thereafter. Before long, everyone realised, he had a natural talent for speedy overconsumption of various food items. He felt buoyed by this newly discovered talent. Gina had started to wonder if he had a thyroid problem, and he did his best to keep the weight down with late-night walks after work and fasting; but his stomach expanded like an inflated white balloon.
Monday had arrived, looking just the same as the previous one. Four slices of thick sourdough toast popped up from the toaster. Charles lavished its surface with a thick layer of salty butter, followed by the last of the crunchy peanut butter. He made a mental note to put it on the shopping list. If there were fewer than two jars in the larder, he started to panic. Gina preferred a thick cut marmalade on her toast. The thought of large pieces of orange peel set Charles’ gag reflex on high alert.
Licking his lips, Charles had a quick browse online. The pop-up adverts on Instagram had succeeded in dragging him and his credit card to one of his favourite sites many times. His defences felt particularly low that morning, and within a few clicks, he had purchased yet another navy jumper, a size up from the last one. He was reminded of his mother’s words, just before she died … “you should always wear navy darling, it complements your red hair.”
It was true to say that he had struggled with the loss of his old youthful identity and getting older was a big adjustment, but he had promised himself that he would gain some self-control in January. He had been reading ‘How to Revive and Thrive’. A Christmas present from Gina last year. He was trying out one of the techniques recommended. ‘You will not eat excessively, and you will not purchase any navy clothing’ he wrote out 50 times that night. This new handwritten mantra kept his mind and short chunky fingers occupied for a short while, and his bedroom drawers with space. But whilst standing on the bleak rooftop, he considered the monotony of his current occupation, a small cog in a large wheel as a Claims Handler.
The wind had changed direction now, and he felt as if he was being pushed closer to the edge of the roof. He quickly shoved the KFC boxes into the plastic bag, securing them with his favourite scouting square knot. With a short spin of his arm, the bag was jettisoned off the roof. Wiping grease from his moon-like face, he watched it fly like a bird on the thermals until it disappeared.
It was a personal best … three boxes of a six-piece family feast, each with a large bottle of drink.
Things were looking up.
RECIPE: Christmas Pudding
Follow Zena's recipe for the most delicious, iconic festive dessert.
Christmas Pudding is best made between October and November so the flavour can develop in a cool dark place, ready for the Christmas Day reveal.
This is such a simple recipe, developed over 20 years and enjoyed by hundreds – it is plump, with juicy, soaked fruits, and divinely indulgent on the big day.
Makes approx. 1k / 2 lb serves 6 – 8
Ingredients
110 g chopped stoned prunes (14 no)
160 g currants
110 g raisins
110 g sultanas
80 g Plain flour
1/2-teaspoon cinnamon
1/2-teaspoon nutmeg
80 g breadcrumbs
60g suet (beef or vegetarian)
80 g dark brown sugar
1/4 or 2 strips of grated or finely chopped lemon
100 ml / 2 fl oz local Stout or Guinness
1 egg – medium or large
Touch of salt
Method
• Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl.
• Spoon into a lined 1-kilo pudding bowl.
• For best results, leave it in the fridge overnight to allow the flavours to develop.
• Make sure the pudding is covered with a lid or tin foil and steam for 2 hours. (Keeping the water topped up)
• Cool in the pudding bowl.
• Rewrap in a piece of greaseproof paper and cloth or cling film.
• Store in a cool cupboard until Christmas Day and just as you’re serving the Turkey, microwave for several minutes.
• When you’re ready to serve, microwave it for another minute.
Top Tips
For a bigger pudding or a spare one for Boxing Day, just multiply the recipe; you can’t go wrong.
For a Vegan version, use vegetarian suet, replace the eggs with either a vegan substitute or a teaspoon of baking powder and a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free or rice flour.
Christmas pudding isn’t just for Christmas; it’s lovely any time of the year with cream or ice-cream. You can also make IT into an ice-cream or fill filo parcels and make Christmas Pudding Spring rolls.
Doesn’t it get you in the Christmas mood!
DIY Probate in England - Understanding the Risks
When someone dies, their estate usually goes through a legal process called probate. In England and Wales, this confirms the will and gives executors the authority to manage the estate. If there’s no will, the process is known as “letters of administration”.
Individuals can apply directly through the courts, often referred to as “DIY probate”. While it may seem like a way to save costs, it carries risks.
What is Probate?
Probate confirms that a will is valid and gives executors legal authority to manage the estate. Without it, banks and other institutions won’t usually release funds or transfer property.
In England and Wales, probate is governed by the Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987 and the Administration of Estates Act 1925. Applications go through HMCTS, with a £300 fee for estates over £5,000.
The Risks of DIY Probate
1. Misunderstanding Inheritance Tax
Executors are personally liable for ensuring inheritance tax (IHT) is calculated and paid correctly. Mistakes can result in penalties and interest being charged by HMRC. Complex rules apply, including allowances, reliefs, and exemptions.
2. Misinterpreting the Will
Legal terminology in wills is not always straightforward. Executors may misunderstand the provisions, leading to incorrect distribution of assets or disputes among beneficiaries.
3. Failing to Identify All Assets and Debts
Executors must ensure that all assets are collected, and all debts are paid before distributing the estate. Overlooking debts or paying beneficiaries too early can make an executor personally liable.
4. Problems with Property
Where the estate includes property, there can be complications such as mortgages, jointly owned property, or an unclear title. These issues often require legal expertise to resolve.
5. Disputes Between Beneficiaries
DIY probate can increase the risk of disputes if beneficiaries feel the estate is being mishandled. Executors can be taken to court for breach of duty.
6. Executor's Personal Liability
Executors carry significant personal responsibilities. Errors in tax, distribution or administration can result in financial liability, even if the mistakes were unintentional.
7. Potential Trusts
Sometimes it can be difficult to identify a Trust in a Will, or be aware of a lifetime Trust that may need to be dealt with. When a property Trust is created in a Will, even if there is a surviving spouse who lives in the property, legal advice is recommended to ensure that the administration is carried out correctly.
When DIY Probate May Be Less Risky
DIY probate might be manageable where:
~The estate is small, and all cash balances are under each institution’s probate threshold (check with each bank/building society)
~There is no property.
~There are a few beneficiaries, all of whom agree on the process.
~There are no tax liabilities or foreign assets.
Even in these cases, care should be taken to follow official guidance.
Balancing Cost and Risk
Probate is a necessary legal process, and while solicitor fees may seem high, they can save time, reduce stress, and prevent costly mistakes. DIY probate is possible, but unless the estate is very simple, the risks often outweigh the savings. Executors should consider whether they have the time and expertise to manage it alone.
If you would like to discuss anything in this article, or require assistance with probate, please contact Spire Solicitors on 01953 606351 or email info@spiresolicitors.co.uk.
Photos of the Month: Photographic Society WINS International Competition!
These are exciting times at Wymondham Photographic Society! Three members have had images chosen to be in the Norfolk Wildlife Trust October exhibition at their centre in Cley. Jez Wood and myself (Gavin Bickerton-Jones) had images in the exhibition, and Lydia Taylor not only made the exhibition she also got her mushroom image in the NWT calendar!
Jez also had a squirrel image shortlisted for the Countryfile Calendar, and I have a fox image shortlisted for the British Wildlife Photographer of the Year Award. Regrettably, we cannot yet print the shortlisted images.
My Owl image was taken on the Norfolk Marshes in February. I went over at first light and was disappointed when I saw the mist, but after about 30 minutes, the owl came out to start hunting, and the mist made for an unusual background. The flat light also showed the owl’s feathers really well - worth the early start!
Jez got the dragonfly shot in his pond after a few days waiting to see if it would emerge from the nymph. He caught the moment as it came out.
Lydia was on a walk through the woods with her husband Karl (also a club member) and came across some mushrooms in a nice pool of light. With a good angle to separate from the background, she got the shot. She doesn’t do a lot of nature images and was surprised and delighted to get into the exhibition, and then put forward as one of the 12 images in the calendar!
There were 59 images chosen for the exhibition out of 1100 entries in total, so WPS had 5% of the successful entries! The exhibition is at Cley all through October and then may travel around the region.
WPS were also involved in a ‘Tripod’ competition with two other photo clubs, spread across 3 continents: WPS were involved in a ‘Tripod’ competition with two other photo clubs, spread across 3 continents: Wymondham in the UK, Pikes Peak photo club in the USA, and Adelaide photo club in Australia!
Each club put forward 20 images that were then scored out of 10 by three independent judges, one from each country.
The range of subjects was vast, with geysers in America, sunny, sandy landscapes in Australia, Norfolk and Lake District shots, and numerous wildlife shots featuring some familiar animals to us and some very exotic birds and mammals.
Once we had seen all 60 images and heard the individual scores and judge comments, the final results were declared. In third place was Pikes Peak on 462.5 points, second was Adelaide on 489.5, and 6 points further up the road was WPS with 495.5 points! It was a great win for the club against some tough international competition.
To cap off the result, the top three individual scores from the night went to WPS members, Jez Wood, Lydia Taylor (‘A Living Jewel’) and Gavin Bickerton-Jones, with Jez being the only author to get a maximum 30 points for his Osprey image! Lydia's image is featured here. You can see Jez's Osprey and Gavin’s image here.
Cringleford and Hethersett Flower Club to hold Open Meeting
Cringleford and Hethersett Flower Club presents, ‘Welcome to Christmas’!
This is their open meeting - any attendees welcome - taking place on Monday 24th November at the Hethersett Village Hall. Doors open at 18:45.
The event will include mulled wine, mince pies, stalls and a raffle.
Tickets are £15 for members and £20 for visitors. To buy tickets, call Lynn Rawlings on 01603 457888, or email leopardlynn@hotmail.com.
Click here to see more of the Flower Club’s work.
Tell the Satellite Group Your Favourite Local Charity
In the last Rotary financial year, the Satellite Group were able to award grants of more than £10,000 from funds raised at the Food & Drink Festival, our popular quiz evenings and all our other fundraising activities.
If you know of a local charity or good cause that would benefit from a grant, do get in touch through our Facebook page or by email to wymrsg@gmail.com.
We would also love to hear from you if you would like to join our fundraising.
Open Your ‘Shut-Up Hearts’ Freely at the Heritage Museum’s Dickensian Christmas display
Free Admission, November 29th-30th, 12pm-5pm
In his many writings about Christmas, Charles Dickens said: “But I am sure that I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round as a good time; a kind, forgiving, charitable, pleasant time; the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely.”
Dickens had much to say about Christmas in particular through his book A Christmas Carol. So, I’m sure this great Victorian writer would have approved of this year’s celebration of the festive season to be staged by Wymondham Heritage Museum.
On November 29th and 30th, the museum is holding a Dickensian Christmas. You can join in the festivities from 12noon to 5pm on each day. Admission is free, something that would no doubt have gained the approval from that mean Dickens’s character, Scrooge, following his joyous conversion from miser to benefactor. Listen out for the sound of jingling bells; it’ll be Father Christmas arriving in his sleigh.
The museum will be transformed with Christmas decorations and lights, creating a Dickensian and Victorian-style Christmas. The dungeon will have a Dickensian theme too, with a Christmas Carol escape room.
There will be Christmas music throughout the museum, plus a children’s choir. In the Tearoom bedecked with traditional decorations, you can relax and enjoy seasonal fayre including mince pies, sausage rolls and other festive treats.
For the children, a special Dickens Christmas Trail challenges them to find the author’s books hidden around the museum. Note the clues to solve the Christmas word or phrase and win a prize. There are also other games to win prizes, including last year's popular Poke a Tree, while upstairs in the Bridewell room, they can show their creative skills with Christmas crafts and activities. Everything they need will be provided.
And, of course, the man in the red coat and white beard will be there. What was once the prisoners' remand cell will be transformed into a grotto for Father Christmas and his elves to greet wide-eyed youngsters. He will be there between 1pm and 4pm each day. There is a charge, but each child will receive a present.
If you’re looking for stocking fillers, don’t miss the stall of museum gifts and homemade crafts. Make sure you buy a raffle ticket for the chance to win some great prizes.
The museum’s elves are still busy getting everything ready so keep an eye on our social media pages for more information.
As Charles Dickens wrote: “There seems a magic in the very name of Christmas. And so, as Tiny Tim observed, God bless us, every one!"
Celebrate Ravel at the Abbey - there is still time to book!
Concert tickets are still available for the Symphony Orchestra this November.
Save the date: November 29th 2025. Join Wymondham Symphony Orchestra at 7pm in Wymondham Abbey Church for their Autumn Concert: Celebrating Ravel!
The first concert of the first season with their new musical director. Japanese-British conductor, Theo Vinden, has enjoyed his first term working with the Wymondham Symphony Orchestra - and is very grateful for all of the music-making, laughter, and friendships formed so far! You can read about his work here.
The Concert will begin with a set of three dances, each with its own distinctive character. Dvo?ák’s ‘Slavonic Dance no. 3, opus 72’ was originally inspired by Czech folk songs and offers a bright and upbeat piece in F major to start the evening.
Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the French composer Maurice Ravel, the next piece will be Pavane pour une infante défunte (Pavane for a Dead Princess). Originally commissioned as a whimsical salon piece for piano, it was so popular that Ravel orchestrated it a decade after it was originally written. Despite the name, this is not a funeral lament; it is meant to evoke the scene of a Spanish princess delighting in a stately dance.
The last dance before the interval will be Die Fledermaus Overture by Johann Strauss II. The opera incorporates waltzes, polkas, and other bright, bubbly melodies, and the overture gives a wonderful introduction to those themes.
The full mastery of Ravel’s orchestration skills will then be displayed in his version of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Originally composed for piano by Mussorgsky, it was composed as musical depictions of 10 drawings by his good friend Victor Hartmann. Broken up by rich and triumphant Promenade movements, the piece features 10 musical ideas, each depicting specific paintings. Examples include: Gnomus, featuring twitchy fearful music depicting a sketch of a nutcracker in the form of a wizened gnome. Bydlo depicts a peasant driving an ox and cart, which the orchestration portrays with weighty/heavy melodies. Ending with the Great Gate of Kiev, the piece reaches a finale with chanting bells, sonorous brass, and a majestic procession.
Tickets are available online at https://www.trybooking.com/uk/eventlist/wso or at the Wymondham Abbey shop. There will also be some availability on the door, but we encourage you to purchase tickets in advance to beat the queues. Prices are £15, Friends of the WSO £13 and under 18s are free.
Volunteer Request!
We are seeking volunteers to help us on concert weekends with stage setup in the Abbey. In exchange for free concert tickets, we're looking for able-bodied volunteers to help us get the staging, chairs and percussion set-up on the morning before the concert. With 4 or 5 people, it would only be an hour or two on a Saturday morning to move the pieces into position, and at least 1 orchestra member would be present to assist. In exchange for their time we would provide volunteers with complementary tickets to the concert. Get in touch at wsoticket@gmail.com
Want to get involved?
We’re a friendly group playing fantastic symphony repertoire with regular rehearsals at Central Hall in the heart of Wymondham. If you’re interested in joining the orchestra, we’d love to hear from you. In particular, we’re on the lookout for viola (grade 7 or above), double bass, trombones, and percussion players. More details about the orchestra and how to join can be found here.
Greening Wymondham Donates Trees to Year 6 Wymondhammers!
We’re up to 1000 trees! A whole wood! That’s one thousand trees given to Year 6 students at each primary school in Wymondham - Ashleigh, Browick Road and Robert Kett - over the last 5 years. We did check with the new school at Silfield, but they won’t have a Year 6 for another six years: we’ll be waiting!
Greening Wymondham’s Carol Sharp talked to this year’s Year Sixes about the value and significance of trees before the all-important handover last month.
“Visiting the schools gives us real hope for more human connection with Nature in the future.
“The Y6 children understand the importance of the trees we give them. They're very well informed and asked some very thoughtful questions."
The native trees are ordered from the Woodland Trust – the species being Blackthorn, Hazel, Wild Cherry, Silver Birch, English Oak, Rowan, Sessile Oak, Field Maple, Grey Willow. GW stores them, wraps them and gives advice on care. Any that can’t be planted in gardens can be found a place somewhere in Wymondham’s woods.
This is the fifth year Greening Wymondham has donated trees to students. Any local businesses that could support this would be most welcome next year. And we would love to have pictures of the pupils with their newly planted trees – email them to greeningwymondham@gmail.com and we’ll feature them on our social media and plot them on a map.
We celebrated another success at Norfolk’s Biodiversity Awards: runners-up in the Rivers & Wetlands section, sponsored by the Norfolk Rivers Trust. We came second to Kelvin Allen, who’s behind much of the work on the Wensum catchment.
Our nomination mentioned our river testing, balsam bashing and the training some of us have undertaken to identify the presence of river voles (hurrah!) and invasive signal crayfish (boo!) Not to mention the work we’ve done in the wet woodland that is Friarscroft.
Join us and the redoubtable Wymondham in Bloom on November 15th for the Winter Wymondham Litter Pick, starting at the Methodist Church. Who knows, there could be mince pies!
Horticultural Expert to Explain the ‘Secret Life of Plants’ for the Garden Club
Save the Date: Monday 17th November!
In his talk 'The Secret Life of Plants', Jim Paine explores some of the latest and most remarkable discoveries about the inner workings of plants. How do plants tell the time? How and why do plants communicate with one another? Did you know that some plants can generate enough heat to melt snow, whilst others nourish their young?
Come along and learn more from expert plantsman Jim.
The event will take place at 7:30pm at the Town Green Centre on Monday 17th November. It is free for Garden Club members and just £4 for visitors.
For more information, feel free to contact wymondhamgardenclub@gmail.com.
Methodist Church to hold an all-welcome memorial service for lost loved ones.
Remember those who have died at the Church's service this Sunday.
At 3pm on Sunday 2nd November, the Methodist Church will hold a special memorial service to ‘remember those who have died’.
All are welcome, and you can even request to have a name read out. If you would like this, just email them in advance at wymondhammethodistchurch@gmail.com.
There will be coffee and tea afterwards in the adjoining Town Green Centre.
Greenflies and Travellers: Nature Group’s Upcoming Events
On 13th of November 2025, 7:30-9:30pm, Sam Mugford of the John Innes Centre will talk about aphids and other sap-sucking insects, especially about many fascinating aspects of their biology, including (but not limited to) their curious sex-lives and extraordinary toilet habits. Hopefully, the audience will come away seeing these bugs as more than just a nuisance in the garden.
And on the 11th of December, 7:30-9:30pm, Mike and Pam Merrick will deliver their illustrated talk, ‘Traveller's Tree Tales: Colourful Caribbean Wildlife’.
The photo is of a Traveller’s Tree Palm taken earlier this year in Guadeloupe. Some of the audience may have read Patrick Leigh Fermor’s book “The Traveller’s Tree – A Journey through the Caribbean Islands” on which Mike and Pam have based their title.
Both events will take place at the Town Green Centre, Wymondham, NR18 0PW (behind the Methodist Church).
All welcome - admission £3, NWT members £2 – and no need to book.
Email Wymondham@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk for more information.
Photographic Society Holds a Successful Portrait Session
The Photographic Society’s Portrait Group met at the café in Waterloo Park, Norwich on 19th October, and were looking forward to a 2-hour shoot with four models, Ari, Carla, Hilda and Lucy.
We were split into 4 groups of 2 or 3 photographers each, so we all had about half an hour with each model. It was a good opportunity to get some natural light and off-camera fill flash photos, and we all got interesting and varied shots.
Organiser Geoff Long and assistant Martin were on hand to offer help and advice, which made it altogether a successful first portrait group shoot.
The next group shoot will be a dance movement shoot on November 12th at the Dell.
The Lowe Down Celebrates 100 Editions of Wymondham Magazine
Where did it all start?
Seven years ago, when I was still a student at Wymondham High, I was strolling around the town centre, when this woman cornered me in the street – in a mad rush – and said without drawing breath:
‘I’ve read your book reviews. They’re really good. The local magazine asks us to submit book reviews for them, and I always forget. Do you want the job?’
This lady worked at Kett’s Books, Wymondham’s glorious independent bookshop, and also happened to be the mother of one of my schoolmates. She was referring to some book reviews I had submitted to the Kett’s Books website.
I used to watch Booktube a lot – the corner of YouTube where people sit in front of a camera and talk about what they’ve read (it’s addictive!). These videos had inspired me to write my own stuff. My early book reviews, like every writer’s juvenilia, were cringeworthy. It was because I was trying to mimic the voice of a YouTuber, which sounds a bit dodgy on paper.
‘HEY GUYS! I’m here today to do a review I didn’t think I would do…but I’ve since decided to do. I’m still not sure if it’s the right thing, really. But I’m going to do it anyway. Please approach this video as a safe space. So, the book I’m talking about today is…’
I still remember the Wymondham High librarian, Emily Davison-Cripps. She was my first ever reader. I would email her these terrible early works, and she was always kind enough to be enthusiastic, regardless of whether what I’d written was good. She was a legend.
I submitted some more polished ones to Kett’s Books. That was how this lady on the street knew who I was. Following that street conversation, I started submitting them to the magazine’s then-editor, Katherine. She was a delight, though we never actually met in person.
Two years later, it was the summer of 2020, and COVID-19 swept the globe. I was in That Year Group whose GCSEs were cancelled on a moment’s notice. They were cancelled on the Wednesday; school was closed on the Friday.
That period was surreal. The exams we had spent the last five years working towards – the ones that feel huge and scary to a fifteen-year-old – were over. Our lives felt upended. We packed a whole Leavers’ Season’s worth of goodbyes and nostalgia into two days. Ironically, it led to more hugging between students and staff than in any other two-day period.
Katherine emailed me a few months later asking if I fancied turning the experience into a news story. I did it. I consider that article my ‘first’ published piece, even though it technically wasn’t. It was the first thing I wrote that was more than a simple ‘please read this!’
That article no longer exists – this predated the magazine’s digitalisation – but it served its purpose. It prompted the transformation of my monthly book review slot into a ‘month-in-the-life’, which then became the Lowe Down.
My early Lowe Downs were focused exclusively on the weirdness of post-COVID Sixth Form life. In the early days of Year 12, we did everything on Zoom, which led to some rather bizarre rules. We weren’t allowed to show our faces or use our audio for ‘safeguarding’ reasons. And when we did French oral sessions, it was a requirement that we weren’t sitting in our bedrooms. Quite why, we never knew – the first rule meant they wouldn’t have seen our bedrooms anyway!
These articles slowly turned into today’s ‘Lowe Down’ columns.
Now that the magazine publishes its 100th edition, I am nothing but grateful for what it has given me. It gave me the discipline of writing something each month, the privilege of being published young, and the double-privilege of having an outlet to voice my often loopy thoughts to local readers. The Lowe Downs became my way of writing about whatever was happening in my life – not something every magazine would have continued publishing. Some of these life moments were quite unpleasant; I wrote one after a traumatic fallout with a student society. Others were just bonkers – the less said about my recent ‘Getting Stood Up’ article, the better…
As I’ve got older, I’ve realised how much this magazine is made by its ensemble of writers – far beyond my contributions. We had Edward Barham’s wonderful ‘Ted Talks’. We have Victoria’s ‘Vic Picks’, and the iconic Photos of the Month from the Photographic Society. We have Neil Haverson and Philip Yaxley’s slices of history, the recent ‘Wymondham Acts of Kindness’ column, and – of course – the Private-Eye-worthy Town Council Watch.
Long may it continue. Small community publication as it may be, these small things do make a difference.
Vic's Picks: Winter Markets
As we get closer to the festive season, I’d like to share with you some of my favourite winter markets. (I’m writing this in October, but it’s always good to plan ahead.)
If you hate Christmas or just hate hearing about Christmas this early on, you might want to skip this one… I love a Christmas market, which is slightly out of character for me because I’m not the biggest Christmas fan. Nevertheless, I enjoy walking around freezing or in a nice warm hall looking at all the different trinkets, crafts, and food on offer. I think it’s a great way to spend a day, and it is also where I get most of my gifts for my loved ones. It’s a clever way to get a variety of stuff in one place, and it feels nice to support small businesses or crafters.
The winter market that I’ve been attending for many years is the Wymondham College Winter Fayre. It’s a wonderful event put on every year for those who attend the school and their parents, but also for those who come from the surrounding villages or towns. There’s always a wide variety of different stalls and items up for grabs, and it takes place inside their sports halls, so no need to worry much about the weather.
Next up is the Christmas fair at the abbey. I love all the Abbey’s seasonal stuff. I think it’s a fabulous opportunity to see some of my favourite stallholders and grab some of my favourite food. Again, this market takes place inside the Abbey, so you won’t have to suffer the weather. It’s wonderful to see the Abbey decorated for Christmas, and it’s always a lovely time.
Leaving Wymondham now, there’s often a smaller Christmas market outside the forum library in Norwich. They also often have traditional wooden cabin stalls, and it is a great festive place to relax and enjoy while taking a break from your Christmas shopping around Norwich. There are also often musical performances taking place and various workshops, some on making seasonal arrangements and decorations. Also, at the Forum, they do a vegan Christmas market. This is a good place to go with some vegan friends or to try some vegan-friendly food. It’s also usually got a variety of eco-friendly gifts, which can be useful, particularly in a time of year that can be very unsustainable.
Back to Wymondham now for an event that’s not really a market, per se, but has lots of Christmas stalls…it is the Wymondham festive light switch-on event. It’s very Christmassy indeed with loads on for all the family. From musical guests to fake snow, toy stalls, and loads of food on offer, it’s always a great evening and a very popular event too.
I know I’ve only scratched the surface with all the Christmas markets going on in and around Wymondham, but I for one am very much looking forward to attending some this year. As ever, I’m sure there are events I’ve missed, so be sure to keep an eye out for any new events or lesser-known ones. I hope you’re all keeping well and warm.
Around Wymondham in 80 Dishes: The Station Bistro
Wymondham’s Station Bistro is one of Wymondham’s historic gems. Brendan Gray took ownership of the restaurant in March of 2020, only 2 weeks before the first Covid lockdown. How about that for a challenging way to begin in business!
Friday morning, we decided to visit Station Bistro, located at the multi-award-winning Wymondham railway station.
We had the choice between the charming surroundings of the Bistro room, with real log fires in cold weather, or the delightful train-carriage setting, where diners seem to step back in time. On a summer’s day, there is also a Beer Garden for alfresco diners.
Today we sat in the large airy Bistro room and enjoyed brunch. Alex ate his favourite: a Bacon Bap. I indulged in a granary toast with spinach and mushrooms, while Ruth relished perfectly scrambled eggs with toast and extra butter. The coffee and tea were aromatic and HOT, with lots of choices.
We walked in at ten o’clock. Five minutes later, a dozen more diners were sitting, so it is smart to book ahead. Customers include people off the train, seniors, walking groups, working crews, and families.
The Menu has lots of variety and they cater for children, vegetarians, gluten-free and celiac customers. Take-away orders are also popular. Prices at the Bistro are in-line with other places in town. They also serve a delicious Afternoon Tea. The restaurant can also be reserved for Private Celebrations and Christmas dinner. Their Christmas menu begins on November 28th. Two years ago, we enjoyed Christmas dinner here.
The Bistro can also complement your meal with wine and a range of beers. They sell gift vouchers for a meal. What a great idea for your friend’s birthday or for a Christmas gift. Two years ago, we enjoyed Christmas dinner here.
I expect this year may have been challenging for them with the work being carried out all year for disabled access at the railway. The road is closed at the station approach, but is open for access at Cemetery Lane off B1172. I know they will appreciate your custom, and the Station Bistro team will give you amazing service as they always have to us.
To book a table, phone them on 01953606433 or go online to book.
Celebrate the New Year with a 10K!
There is still time to book the Athletics Club's New-Year's-Day race
Runners of all abilities are being encouraged to celebrate the new year with Wymondham Athletics Club (WAC) at their annual 10k road race.
It will be the 43rd running of the annual event and is expected to be a sell-out, with half of the places already sold.
The race is open to everyone, from first-time 10k runners to more experienced runners. WAC promise a warm welcome to anyone taking part.
James Heaney, Race Director for WAC, said: “We are a really friendly club, and we always get complimented on our enthusiastic and encouraging marshals. If you’ve never come to one of our events before, we’d love you to come and join us.
“The race is a great way to start the year, whether you’ve got a New Year’s resolution to get more active, or you’re just keen to run off some of the indulgence of the festive season.”
The race takes place on January 1 at 10am and starts and finishes at Lady’s Lane.
Refreshments will be available, with donations to the Star Throwers charity – WAC’s charity of the year.
The race has sold out every year since Covid, so don’t hesitate to book your place.
Entry is £19 for affiliated runners and £21 for unaffiliated runners. You can book here via Total Race Timing.
Tuesday 4th November
Wymondham Photographic Society
7:30pm-9:30pm, 
Dell Bowls Club
Open Print Competition Round 1
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Wednesday 5th November
Art Society Demo by John Glover 7pm, Catholic Church Hall
Trained at the Glasgow School of Art, John is an award-winning professional painter who is widely commissioned for both private and public portraits. He will demonstrate a traditional portrait from life in oils.
wymondhamart.org
Friday 7th November
We Love Fireworks 2025 5pm-11pm, Rugby Club
One of Norfolk's biggest displays, Local Food Vendors, Kids Funfair, Bars, DJ & Live Music, Stalls & much more to get excited about.
General Admission - £12 | Under 4's - Free. Tickets must be purchased in advance online.
wymondhamrfc.com/club-events
Sunday 9th November
Remembrance Parade 2:30pm, Market Place and War Memorial
Led by the Norwich Pipe Band, a large gathering of scouts, guides, veterans and local dignitaries will parade from the Market Place to the War Memorial. Followed by a Service in the Abbey at 3pm.
Tuesday 11th November
2 minutes silence 11am, War Memorial Town Green
Take time to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Ian Howard - A talk ’The truth is Black & White’
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 15th November
Volunteer Litter Pick 10am-12:30pm, 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
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 16th November
Protecting the Royals: talk by David Reeve MBE 3pm, Wymondham Abbey
Listen to the former Chief Superintendent of Police, responsible for the security of the Royal Family when in Norfolk. Part of our 'Sundays at Three' series. Free entry, retiring collection in aid of Abbey funds. Refreshments available.
wymondhamabbey.org.uk
Tuesday 18th November
Wymondham Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Continuous Improvement night. A chance to discuss camera settings and techniques.
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 22nd November
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 25th November
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Open PDI (Projected Image) Round 2
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Tuesday 2nd December
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
Talk: Scotland captured by Stephen Ball
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Wednesday 3rd December
Art Society Christmas Social 7pm, Catholic Church Hall
wymondhamart.org
Saturday 6th December
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
Winter Spiritual & Wellness Fair 10am-4pm, Central Hall
Beautiful stalls, music, children’s activities, treatments and readings, free demonstrations and talks throughout the day. Pop up café in the foyer. Free entry, cash preferable but card taken on most stalls.
Abbey Christmas Fair 11am-4pm, Wymondham Abbey
Showcasing unique crafts, Norfolk artisan products, music, a feast of Norfolk street food, children’s activities and mulled wine. Take a Christmas selfie with your friends and family in Santa’s sleigh. Free entry.
wymondhamabbey.org.uk
Sunday 7th December
A Very Wymondham Christmas 12pm-5pm, Wymondham Town Centre
The town's main festive event celebrating the lights switch on with stalls, fun fair, Santa's grotto and independent shops.
fb.me/e/3wdbaf1Tu
Tuesday 9th December
Kett's Park Volunteer Workday 9:30am-3:30pm, Kett's Park Woodland
Join volunteers to help this woodland to thrive. Refreshments at 11:00am. Bring yourself, your lunch, a pair of gloves and sturdy boots.
greeningwymondham.org
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Club projected image competition, theme ‘Leaves'
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Thursday 11th December
Talk: Traveller’s Tree Tales – Colourful Caribbean Wildlife 7:30pm, Town Green Centre
Join WyNG for an Illustrated talk by Mike and Pam Merrick.
Some of the audience may have read Patrick Leigh Fermor’s book “The Traveller’s Tree – A Journey through the Caribbean Islands” on which Mike and Pam have based their title.
All welcome - admission £3, NWT members £2 – no booking required. Questions to Wymondham@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
facebook.com/WymondhamNatureGroup
Saturday 13th December
Christmas Brass Concert 7pm, Wymondham Abbey
Cawston Band presents a festive evening of brass music in the town's most iconic building. Tickets available from the Abbey shop or website - Adults £15, under 18s free.
wymondhamabbey.org.uk/cawstonband
Sunday 14th December
Charity Music Show: Showaddywaddy Elite 7:30pm, Wymondham Central Hall
Organised by Wymondham Music Events Group in aid of local charities. Kick off the Christmas celebrations with a night of Rock n Roll featuring acclaimed tribute band Showaddywaddy Elite, and support act Mel Stevens. Doors open at 18.30. Licensed Bar available. Tickets £20 at Reeve's or online.
ticketsource.co.uk/wymondham-music-events-group
Monday 15th December
Gardeners' Christmas Social 7:30pm, Town Green Centre
End of Year Garden Club social with Christmas Fare, Fauna, Quiz & a little bit of Bingo! A relaxed casual evening, all gardeners welcome. Members Free, guests £4. Please advise if you intend to come via email at wymondhamgardenclub@gmail.com
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077254060337
Tuesday 16th December
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
Christmas Buffet and Quiz, last meeting before Xmas break
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 20th December
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
Wednesday 31st December
New Years Eve Murder Mystery 6:30pm, Barnham Broom Hotel
Unmask the killer this New Year's Eve with a Murder Mystery evening at Barnham Broom including 4 course dinner, 007 Murder mystery & Party till 2am. £99 per person. Please contact the events team on 01603 757522 or book tickets online.
barnhambroom-events.giftpro.co.uk/events/new-years-eve
Sub-editor: Freddy Lowe. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, Wymondham Magazine can accept no responsibility for any error or omission that may arise. The views and opinions expressed in Wymondham Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Wymondham Magazine. This magazine may not be sold or reproduced in any form or by any means, electronically or mechanical, without prior consent of the publishers and copyright holders, Wymondham Magazine is a brand of MYOB Digital LTD. Registered address: Black Hall Farm, Traice Road, Fundenhall, Wymondham, NR16 1HQ, VAT number: GB328358189 © Wymondham Magazine