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ScaryCrow Trail Returns to Wymondham!
24th October to 2nd November 2025
Something spooky is happening in Wymondham! Get ready for frightfully fun family entertainment as the Halloween Scarycrow Trail returns from 24th October to 2nd November 2025 in conjunction with Wymondham Business Group. It’s the perfect half-term activity for all ages — and it’s completely free!
The Scarycrow Trail is a self-guided Halloween adventure where residents, organisations and businesses across Wymondham create creepy, creative scarycrows to surprise and delight. Using a free online map, families can explore the town, discover each spooky display, and enjoy some seasonal fun in the fresh air.
There’s no deadline to sign up if you’d like to add your Halloween decorations to the trail — the more the scarier! Whether it’s a spooky skeleton, a classic scarecrow, or a quirky monster, your creativity will help bring Wymondham to life this Halloween.
Stay up to date and get the online map by searching ‘Wymondham Halloween Scarycrow Trail 2025’ on Facebook. You'll find trail updates, inspiration for your own display, and photos from the community.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of Wymondham’s most fun and family-friendly Halloween traditions!
For enquiries or more information, please contact the organiser, Kay Rose, on Facebook, or via Instagram @kaykaykayrose.
Sellout for the Mid Norfolk Railway Halloween Express
Tickets are sold out for the inaugural Mid Norfolk Railway Halloween Express!
As part of the Mid Norfolk Railways 30th Anniversary celebrations, the team at Wymondham Abbey Station wanted to host an event which was both family-friendly and value for money. Hence, the MNR Halloween Express, on Friday 31st October: this Halloween Train will take you from Wymondham Abbey Station on a spooky ride to Kimberley Park Station.
Look out for the Wicked Witches of Wicklewood on the way. You may spot a few on your travels.
Fun activities and goody bags for all children are included in the price, and light refreshments will be available to purchase at Kimberley Park Station. You can dress up if you desire, parents included!
We look forward to welcoming those who have bought tickets.
Don’t Miss the Abbey’s Green Halloween Event!
Halloween will come alive for environmentalists this October at the Abbey’s ‘Green Halloween’ event! On Halloween night, don your old clothes, wellies, and a torch, and come to the Abbey’s churchyard to explore its diverse and rich churchyard wildlife.
The event is FREE - and anyone of all ages is welcome.
It starts at 4:30pm with a blessing of the churchyard, and will feature indoor craft activities, bat, moth and bug-hunting outdoors, and homemade soup to enjoy on the side.
No need to book - just come along, enjoy yourselves, and explore the hidden side of Nature!
Community Centre to host Leah Sloman’s fundraiser for Pancreatic Cancer UK
I am running the London Marathon to raise money for Pancreatic Cancer UK.
Fundraising has already begun through the Community Garage sale, where my family and I put all the money raised on the day towards my fundraising efforts.
Next is the Charity Fundraising Day. Please come and support me on Sunday 12th October from 11am to 1pm at North Wymondham Community Centre. There will be a raffle, teddy tombola, draft stall, Pokémon card game, a pre-loved clothing rail, refreshments and much more.
Brighten up an October Sunday and join us to help raise money for this worthy cause.
Wymondham in Bloom Win GOLD!
It was total euphoria for the Wymondham in Bloom team at the Anglia in Bloom Awards in St Ives, as they again achieved a Gold level award for the town. This was the fifth time the group had an in-person judging session and the third Gold in a row.
This year the Bloomers had even more new volunteers join in, which made all the difference in ensuring the town’s planters were watered, litter was picked up and weeds were removed.
Awards were also presented to individual sites in the town. Both the White Hart and the Ex-Services Club received Gold awards for their floral displays and the Mid-Norfolk Railway achieved Silver Gilt for their nod to 200 Years of Railways. The Wymondham Dementia Support Group's garden also was shortlisted in the special category of supported living.
The group would again like to thank the White Hart Pub for their generous sponsorship of this year's campaign, which has allowed us to invest in new weeding and watering equipment, high visibility vests and of course lots of plants.
The team haven’t taken much time to rest after the celebrations as they’re already back out weeding and pruning before the winter weather hits.
You too can join in! If you’d like to make new friends and spend time outdoors, as and when you’re available, send an email to wymbloom@gmail.com. No gardening experience necessary!
ONE DAY LEFT to Vote for the Big C in Charity Shop Awards!
Vote for Big C’s Furniture and Craft Emporium
Big C Cancer Charity is thrilled that its Furniture and Craft Emporium on Allenbrooks Way in Wymondham has been shortlisted for the Charity Retail Association’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards.
Now in its second year, the Awards, run by the Charity Retail Association, are a chance for people to show their favourite shops how much they mean to them and to celebrate the amazing work being done by dedicated teams.
The Furniture and Craft Emporium is one of only two shops in Norfolk to have been shortlisted and is up against five other shops in the region including Cancer Research, Emmaus Cambridge, Keech Hospice, St Helena Mersea and West Norfolk Deaf Association.
More than 5,000 nominations were received this year and, as part of the process, people were asked to share why they were nominating their favourite shop. Wymondham shoppers said:
“The shop management team particularly stand out – they give so much time and energy to ensure the shop is as friendly and as successful as possible. Also, the range of goods, you can find almost anything you need!”
“They have a fantastic selection of books and furniture with an outstanding craft section. The staff and volunteers are so friendly and helpful; it's got a real community feel.”
Whether you’re a regular to this amazing emporium or you’ve visited once and loved the experience, Big C would love for you to make your vote!
Voting is quick and easy, just click here or search ‘UK’s favourite charity shop awards’.
Voting closes at midnight on Thursday 2 October. The public vote will decide 12 area winners, to be announced on 6 October, and one overall winner, which will be named later in the year.
Trick or Treat Trail To Return 25th October
On Saturday, 25th October the scarily popular Trick or Treat Trail will return to Wymondham town centre. Dozens of high street businesses will again be giving away free treats to children in Halloween costumes from 12-2:30pm.
The ScaryCrow Trail will also be running in the town so there will be plenty of fun for all. Follow Wymondham Town Team on Facebook for all the details: www.facebook.com/WymondhamTownTeam/events
Wymondham Acts of Kindness: the Mystery Flower-Giver
Here is Wymondham’s latest whodunnit – who is Morrison’s mystery flower-giver?
This month, at least four people have had similar experiences.
“Thank you to the gentleman who gave me a bunch of yellow roses today in Morrisons. You made my day,” wrote one lady on Wymondham Ways.
“Just a little thank you to the very kind man that gave me and another lady a bunch of roses in Morrisons today, a lovely surprise…it made my day, apparently this is a gesture he sometimes does just to keep us all smiling. Still some very kind people around,” said another.
And one lady received not just flowers but flattery: “Just wanted to say thank you to the kind gentleman in Morrison’s this morning who gave me a lovely bunch of flowers. It made my day, and the bit where he called me a young lady!”
Which begs the question – who is this man spreading anonymous floral cheer? Assuming it is just one man?
These Wymondham Ways posts offer no clue to his identity, but people are speculating. One commenter wondered, “So does this guy just hang around in the supermarket or does he work there?”
Maybe he doesn’t work there, and compliments women and buys them flowers for a hobby. Maybe he is a particularly kind staff member who does it on his breaks.
Or maybe there’s more to this story.
Whoever he is – the women of Wymondham are noticing you, Mr Morrisons! Your small acts of anonymous cheer are making a difference.
What’s in a Photo? 150th Anniversary of C.C. Clements
The ironmonger's shop of C. C. Clements & Sons in Fairland Street recently celebrated its 150th anniversary with fascinating displays in its front windows.
Among the memorabilia featured were photos, receipts, tools, advertising material and much more. Established in 1875 by C. C. Clements, ownership changed to his wife on his untimely death at the age of 44. His son, Jack, took over until 1942, when it was bought by the Oldfield family.
In those early days, the shop was highly concerned with agriculture. The Norfolk (Agricultural) Show, later The Royal Norfolk Show, was held three times in Wymondham in the late 19th century. A report of the 1895 show reveals "the forges were provided by C. C. Clements of Wymondham, agents for all kinds of agricultural implements and machinery."
Wymondham agricultural shows, almost certainly with Clements attending, continued until World War I. These shows were held on a site now occupied by Wymondham High Academy. Clements also once had a display area for harvest machinery on a site where the Wymondham and District Ex-Services and Social Club now stands.
In 1981, George Squires, who had been an apprentice there since the age of 15 in 1957, acquired the business and ran it with his wife.
Sadly, George lost his wife and son, Kevin, who also helped run the shop, and he now runs it with his son David. Today the shop no longer plays as big a part in local agriculture as it used to, but it still offers a fine range of ironmongery, paints, decorating materials, tools, domestic hardware, locks, keys and more. Long may it continue!
Grandparents’ Rights When Estranged from a Child: What Are Your Options?
At Spire Solicitors LLP, we often speak to grandparents who find themselves in the heartbreaking position of being estranged from their adult child and, as a result, cut off from their grandchildren. This can be a deeply emotional and distressing experience, especially when a previously close relationship is suddenly lost.
Understandably, many grandparents want to know what legal rights they have and what steps they can take to stay involved in their grandchildren’s lives.
Do Grandparents Have a Legal Right to See Their Grandchildren?
In England and Wales, grandparents do not have an automatic legal right to see their grandchildren. This can come as a shock to many, particularly in situations where they have played a key role in their grandchildren’s upbringing.
However, this does not mean all is lost. While grandparents do not have an automatic right, the law recognises the importance of maintaining family relationships wherever possible – including between grandparents and grandchildren.
Applying to the Court for Spend Time With Arrangements
If an agreement cannot be reached informally with the child’s parent(s), grandparents may apply to the Family Court for permission to make an application for a Child Arrangements Order under section 8 of the Children Act 1989. This order can set out arrangements for spending time between a child and their grandparent(s).
This is a two-step process.
First is the permission stage. Grandparents must first apply for leave (permission) from the court to make an application. The court will consider factors such as:
~The nature of the relationship between the grandparent and grandchild.
~The reason for the application.
~Any potential impact on the child.
~Whether the application is being made in good faith.
Secondly, if permission is granted, grandparents can then apply for a Child Arrangements Order. The court will make a decision based on what is in the best interests of the child.
Mediation and Reconciliation
Before court proceedings are considered, grandparents are usually expected to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This is a chance to explore whether issues can be resolved through discussion rather than litigation.
Mediation is often a more amicable and cost-effective route, and it can help repair fractured family relationships, especially if the estrangement is recent or linked to a specific dispute.
Can Estranged Grandparents Still Be Granted Spend Time Arrangements?
Yes – courts do grant spend time arrangements to grandparents, particularly where there is evidence of a meaningful, positive relationship with the child and where contact is considered beneficial. The wishes and feelings of the child, their welfare, and the family circumstances will all be carefully considered.
While it is not guaranteed, the court does recognise the value grandparents can bring to a child’s life, especially where they offer emotional support and a stable presence.
What If the Child Is in Care or Adopted?
Different rules apply if a child is in the care system or has been adopted. In those cases, grandparents may still be able to apply for contact, but the process and prospects of success will vary depending on the individual circumstances.
It’s important to seek legal advice early to understand your position and options.
How Spire Solicitors Can Help
Being estranged from your child and unable to see your grandchildren is incredibly difficult. At Spire Solicitors LLP, our Family Law team can guide you through your options with sensitivity and clarity.
Whether you’re seeking legal advice, assistance with mediation, or wish to make an application to court, we are here to help. We’ll take the time to understand your unique circumstances and support you in taking the next steps with confidence.
Get in touch on 01953 606351 or email info@spiresolicitors.co.uk to speak to a member of our friendly and experienced Family Law team.
Greening Wymondham plots replanting scheme after the high winds
And more October 2025 updates
High winds are once again wreaking havoc on Friarscroft Wood.
It’s hard to see the positives when two trees come down overnight, making seven we’ve lost since January. South Norfolk council had just removed a dead tree and several suspicious branches – and now this.
The problem seems to be that, unmanaged over the years, the self-seeded trees have grown too close together and are therefore more spindly and weak. The ground in the woods is reliably damp because of the springs, but this could mean some younger trees have less purchase.
It will mean more brush piles for wildlife, our own wood chip, and even trunk seating for the open areas. We are nothing but optimistic, Greening Wymondham.
Sometimes you have to be optimistic. After the rolling back of environmental protections in the name of strategic development and house building under this government – a little of which has been rowed back on – it was good to hear Helen Sibley’s talk at the council offices recently.
Helen is the Green Infrastructure Officer for South Norfolk and Broadland, and she outlined the Green Infrastructure Policy for the area. It will guide councils and groups like Greening Wymondham in resisting or ameliorating development proposals and shaping their own projects for public benefit.
It’s been created using mapping to show ideal green infrastructure for existing towns and villages. This is based on data indicating what’s best for mass physical and mental health. It includes quiet roads, cycleways and paths alongside access to open spaces, both green and blue. The latter is access to rivers, ponds and the sea. It is also a guide for ideal future development, which none of us would deny will be necessary.
Sadly, it is neither statutory nor funded, but together with the Local Nature Recovery Plan for Norfolk and Suffolk, it could give councils leverage to ensure development is kinder to both people and the environment. And guide groups like ours to significant projects.
For more tangible good news: we’re delighted to have been summoned to the Ex-Serviceman’s Club recently for the presentation of a very generous cheque from the Wymondham and Attleborough Darts League. We were nominated by Belinda Sheldrake of the Wymondham Ladies’ Team, and are very grateful to be among the lucky recipients.
We’ll be meeting groups like ours at the Biodiversity Fair at the Forum in Norwich on 4th October. If you’re in Norwich that day, pop into the Forum and visit our stall – it runs from 10am to 2pm. We know there will be lots of friendly faces but it would be good to see some from Wymondham!
We stay on for the county-wide Biodiversity Awards later that day: we’ve been nominated in two sections - and we’re crossing our fingers! It would be truly great to have recognition for the inspirational work done by all the Greening Wymondham volunteers, but we know that there are some excellent projects and teams throughout Norfolk.
Which is why, later in the month, we’re hosting a day-long meeting at Fairland Hall for community groups from all over Norfolk, under the aegis of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. Wymondham Nature Group will be with us to talk about what has been achieved so far in Wymondham. The first of these meetings was held in Great Ryburgh last year and was hugely useful and illuminating. It gave us all a chance to hear about projects people had started, what the pitfalls and positives were, and to discuss solutions.
And just in case you think it’s all talk and no action, the first fork will go into the ground at Rothbury Park on October 27th for the start of the replanting scheme. We’ll be working with the Conservation Volunteers and local people who’ve already let us know they’d like to help. If you’d like to join us – and be among the first to see the planting plans devised by Groundwork East – email us at greening.wymondham@gmail.com. We’ll be featuring all this exciting work on Instagram and Facebook.
Photos of the Month: 2024-2025 Trophy Winners
Includes winning photos from the new season too!
First of all, congratulations to our Club Competition trophy winners from our 2024-2025 season!
See above our Tier 1 winners, Dianne Ashton and Tony Palmer. (The other winner, Phillip Payne, was not pictured as he was away.)
Tony also won the shield for the Most Improved Photographer of the Season.
In Tier 2, Jez Wood had a clean sweep in all categories, except for Projected Image of the Year, which Craig Harriss (Left) won.
David Hazleton won Landscape of the Year.
Then, on Tuesday 16th, WPS had the first cumulative competition of their 2025-2026 season, judged by Stephen Carroll over Zoom.
In Tier 1, Nick Coates came out on top with his montage of 5 images called ‘Busy Bugs’. The judge liked the colour palette used and how there was always something new to find in the image.
Nick Coates told the magazine:
“For me, macro photography is a magical entry into another world. It is often only when I come to edit the images on a large screen that I see for the first time the intricate detail of flowers and the life on, around and within them. ‘Busy Bugs’ is the result of many hundreds of shots taken in order to see the bugs close up, and then be able to select five with broadly matching hues that could be combined into one harmonious whole.”
In Tier 2, it was Jez Wood again who came out on top with his image of a Blue Tit called ‘Hunting Spiders’. The judge liked that Jez had caught some natural behaviour, and the bird was very sharp despite the speed of flight, with feather detail and claws standing out.
Both images scored a maximum score of 10.
November Symphony Orchestra Concert to Celebrate Ravel’s 150th Birthday
A new season with some new faces at Wymondham Symphony Orchestra! Their next concert will take place on November 29, 2025, at 7pm in their usual home, Wymondham Abbey Church.
This autumn, they’ll be celebrating the 150th anniversary of the French composer Maurice Ravel (born in 1875). Despite initially receiving little acclaim from the musical elite of the Paris Conservatoire, by the 1920s and 30s, he was internationally renowned as France’s greatest living composer. A master of orchestration, often associated with the Impressionist movement, he is known for his precise and detailed classical forms.
To celebrate what would be his 150th birthday year, the orchestra’s Autumn concert will feature two of his most well-known works: Pavane pour une infante défunte, and his orchestration of Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition.
To accompany these two pieces, the program will also feature Die Fledermaus Overture by Johann Strauss II (arguably his most famous operetta) as well as the short, punchy Slavonic Dance no3 op 72 by Dvo?ák.
The orchestra is looking forward to the start of their 2025/2026 season, welcoming new Musical Director Theo Vinden to lead them through this exciting repertoire.
Tickets are available online 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.
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.
‘Get your spookiest costume ready’: Heritage Museum Events and Updates
Take your kids along to these free Halloween events!
Already, the lazy, hazy days of summer have gone, and we’re racing towards autumn. That means there is just this month left to visit Wymondham Heritage Museum. And we’re going out with a flourish. A spine-chilling one.
During half-term week from Saturday October 25th to Sunday November 2nd, we will be celebrating Halloween with free entry for children. Now’s the time to get your spookiest costume ready for your visit.
The museum will be decorated with seasonal decorations. For budding witches and warlocks, there will be games and a pumpkin trail around the museum with prizes. Dare you put your hands in the sensory box? Have a good feel around and see if you can guess what’s inside. Is it something nice, or have you got hold of something that perhaps ought to be in the witch’s cauldron?
The Tearoom will have themed cakes and snacks with free squash for children. On the craft table, there will be lots of bits and pieces for youngsters to make something spooky.
And of course, there are all the museum’s other displays and exhibitions to make it an all-round family visit. Remember the museum closes for the season on November 2nd, so only a few weeks left to come and discover the town’s fascinating, rich history.
In conjunction with Wymondham Business Group, the museum will be taking part in the Wymondham Scarycrow Trail from October 25th to November 2nd. Look out for the figure outside the museum.
Also, don’t miss Wymondham Town Team’s Trick or Treat Trail on Saturday 25th October. There are free treats for kids in costume from participating businesses. Dress up and come along to the museum for a surprise!
More information about Wymondham Heritage Museum here.
PC Chris Shelley and Sam Mugford to head the Nature Group’s September lineup
Don’t miss the Nature Group’s illustrated talk by PC Chris Shelley, showing case studies about how the Police have tackled wildlife and animal crime within Norfolk. This will take place on Thursday 9th October, 7:30-9:30pm.
On Thursday 13th November, 7:30-9:30pm, the Nature Group is also hosting Sam Mugford of the John Innes Centre, for his illustrated talk, ‘The Secret Lives of Greenflies and their Friends’. Sam will talk about aphids and other sap-sucking insects, including the fascinating aspects of their biology: their curious sex lives and extraordinary toilet habits. He hopes the audience will come away seeing these bugs as more than just a nuisance in the garden.
Both of these events are taking place at the Town Green Centre (NR18 0PW), behind the Methodist Church. Admission for all events is £3, or £2 for Wildlife Trust members, and there is no need to book.
Save Our Hut! Calling All Residents of Wymondham!
The Scouts and Guides need your help!
Our Scout and Guide hut is in danger of closing unless we can recruit committee members to help us manage the hall.
Please join us at our next meeting at the Scout and Guide hut, which is taking place on Sunday 19th October 2025 at 2pm.
Please help us save our hut!
If you have any questions, queries or ideas, please email us at scoutsandguideswymhallman@gmail.com.
Around Wymondham in 80 Dishes: Mad Hatters Tearoom
Whatever you have planned for this week, make time to stop at Mad Hatters on the market square. Katherine Ford has been the proprietor since November 2012. Friday morning, I dropped in with Alex and our neighbour Ruth. It will be neither our first time nor our last.
The ceiling is adorned with ivy and fairy lights. Colourful flower baskets cascade down each side of the front door. Another thing I liked was that the wooden tables were covered with plastic table cloths tacked down and easily cleaned.
This tea room is a cosy oasis, and Katherine gives such a friendly welcome to all. She brought in an extra chair to accommodate a table of three. Many guests are regulars and known by their first name.
There were several choices of drinks, from smooth, hot white chocolate to refreshing elderflower press. My friend Ruth and I indulged in sharing a Brie and Cranberry toasty. This was brought to us on two plates with crisps and a colourful, crunchy green salad with red onion and bits of corn.
They pampered my husband with a fruit scone with butter and jam. When requested, extra butter was given, and a raspberry adorned his plate. They even allowed him to take his delicious coffee in a takeaway cup.
Katherine serves delicious home-baked cakes, scones, sausage rolls, Cornish pasties, and a variety of sandwiches, hot and cold, as well as a special afternoon cream tea. The prices are comparable to many of the other Tea rooms/coffee shops in town.
Mad Hatters is a Gem in Wymondham, one of eighteen good places for a sit-down meal. As well as the delicious treats and quality food, what sets Mad Hatters apart is the intimate atmosphere of seating for 11, and often, diners who do not even know one another begin conversations.
Mad Hatters also provides take-away orders and has seating outside to accommodate 4 people. If there was anything to critique, it would be that in a place so small with wooden floors, it does get quite noisy, especially with the coffee makers. Does the taste of the food and drink compensate for this? We thought so. Our friend has mobility issues, so another suggestion may be to have another short step outside the front door. This would make for less of a big step up, which is difficult for some older people.
We are spoiled with the number of Restaurants, Pubs, and tea rooms in town, and Mad Hatters Tea Shop is one to return to again.
The Lowe Down: Run Norwich 10K Diaries
The yearly Run Norwich 10K took place in September – and as usual, Wymondham were out in force.
I was there. I saw many people with Wymondham Athletics Club T-shirts, one or two former schoolmates, and one former Wymondham High teacher. There was also more than one regular from the Wymondham New Year’s Day 10K.
My sister, mum and I turned up at 9am, my sister armed with multiple bags and suitcases because she was leaving on the train afterwards. My sister wasn’t best pleased with me because I had signed us all up months earlier and put her in a pace category about ten minutes slower than her actual 10K time. She was kind enough not to be too insulted.
This pace category was more accurate at the time I booked, but between then and the event day, her running became exponentially faster, so she was now negotiating crowds who were no longer at her level. Though she still achieved a Run Norwich PB.
(For some reason, I had also put her name down as ‘Miriam’ – her birth certificate name – rather than Mim. That didn’t go down well either.)
The best part of any running event is the running itself. The second best is reaching the finish line, and the third is watching everyone’s pompous warm-ups at the start. Regular gym-goers will know the funniest part is watching people look at themselves in the mirror very seriously, like some cinematic action hero. There’s a similar phenomenon at the start of a race, where people warm up in a way that says, ‘yes, I’m very serious and deep about this.’
Also, watch out for the people who confidently march right to the front! You pass most of them again on the hills.
But the best part, in my view, is the running.
Stephen King calls writing ‘self-hypnosis’. I agree, but would also say the same about running. The 45-50 minutes of covering the ten-kilometre distance – they are the best, and most precious, minutes of the day. Your brain goes on autopilot, and the only focus is putting one foot in front of the other. You don’t have to – and often can’t – think about anything else.
So the blissful oblivion of the run came and went. I was lucky enough not to have any problems.
Regular Wymondham attendees know the real hassle starts after you’ve finished the race.
I reach the finish line – also with a PB in the bag. The immediate finish line is wonderful. The usual cocktail of relief and smugness kicks in. It’s a hot day, and several of the men start whipping their tops off, so it becomes a parade of toned male torsos.
Then the annoying step is navigating the city. That is – navigating the endless barriers, cutoffs, and road closures set up to facilitate the event. You are grateful for these barriers while you’re running, because it means you don’t have to think about oncoming vehicles. Then the moment you’re done, they go from being a godsend to the most inconvenient things on Earth.
I was at the finish line considerably before my mum or sister. I started walking to our meetup point while they were still running – and they still arrived before me. This was not helped by the dodgy phone signal. It was only when I got to the meetup point that the flood of texts arrived saying, ‘Fred, where are you?’, or WhatsApp pins saying ‘WE’RE HERE!’
We have lunch with some family friends – also Wymondham New Year’s Day regulars. I’m asked for a photo by two very nice and vaguely familiar women, who turn out to be the mother and sister of an old primary school friend.
Then, having deposited my sister at the train station, we’re in the car hurtling down the road, and I see one of my Wymondham High teachers on the pavement with their family. We were going too fast for me to roll down the window and call out.
(Which was probably for the best. I don’t think this teacher likes me.)
One of my deeper university friends asked me, ‘did you do anything symbolic to signify the end of summer?’ My answer would usually be ‘no’, but I had to say something, so I mentioned this. It was quite a useful go-to answer.
And not untrue – because for most of us, this was the end of the summer break before returning to school/uni/work. And a very good end it was.
Vic's Picks: Best Indoor Activities
Now that the colder months are upon us, and we’re actually able to comfortably wear a jacket again, I remembered how quickly the days can change from being absolutely sweltering to quite chilly. So this has gotten me thinking, as it gets colder and we look to spend more time indoors, here are my top picks for indoor activities in and around Wymondham.
My first pick is outside of Wymondham, which is pretty poor, I know, but it's the very hotly anticipated and very late reopening of Norwich Castle. The keep and museum were, as is the case for most children in the area, hugely familiar to me, even to the point of boredom… there's only so many times you can go over the years where you soon feel like you’ve seen it all. However, with the restoration work finished, it's like a whole new castle, well, not really. Not only is it now new and exciting again, but it's indoors! I think this will be on lots of people’s to-see lists this autumn, even for people like me who’ve been there more times than they can count.
Returning to Wymondham, next up is the Big C charity shop. Now this is a fav of mine for shopping, which is also basically an indoor activity, but also for its crafts; the emporium holds various crafting workshops, meeting a variety of themes and crafting styles. Not only is it a nice, relaxing way to spend your time, but you'll be away from the looming cold weather. It's also a great way to meet new people and spend time socialising while working on your project.
Going with the crafty theme, next up is stART studio in Wymondham. They offer various classes and workshops if you're into a more structured set-up or are looking to focus on improving a specific skill set or medium. But they also offer the Art and Pottery Cafe. I feel like pottery cafes in general have become more popular in recent years, and I can see why - they offer not just painting like lots of places, but also let you sculpt your own items from clay. Not only is it indoors and relaxing, like the Big C crafting events, but you can bring a few friends and all create the same item, do a competition, or choose a theme. Even though I'm very far from being an accomplished pottery painter, the fun and satisfaction of creating your own work makes up for a few dodgy brush strokes.
The library is always a great place to get indoors and catch up on emails or find your new read. As a self-certified literature enthusiast, you'll find me recommending the library for any and everything, but it’s also truly a great place to go when the weather is turning. Not only does Wymondham library have lots of great books, but it’s also in quite a central location and has lots of seating options, whether you're there to crack on with some work or relax and have a read. What’s also nice is you'll often find some light refreshments. And a warm cup of tea can be the most welcome thing, especially if you’ve been caught out in the rain.
I’ve spoken lots about relaxing indoor things you can do, but if you're still looking to keep active while indoors, Wymondham Leisure Centre offers lots of fun indoor spots. Of course, they have their gym and swimming pool if you're looking for some alone workout time, but if you fancy some good team spirit, they also offer badminton court bookings for a bit of competitive fun. They also offer, which in my younger years I really enjoyed, an open rollerskating session with disco lights. Now, while I don’t really ever find myself rollerskating anymore, I do remember it being the highlight of my week as a child.
So there are just a few of my top indoor activities. As ever, as soon as I finish writing a Vic’s Picks article, I remember lots more I could have included, and I’m sure you have some of your own favourite ways to pass the days when the weather is harsh. As always, I hope you can enjoy, or already enjoy, some of my picks for this edition, and you have my commiserations if you’re not an autumn fan, but I, for one, am very much enjoying the colder weather.
Write to Reply: Gary Blundell's Letter to the Editor
I am writing in response to your recent article concerning the Wymondham Town Council’s decision to appoint our Costessey-based events company to help deliver this year’s Christmas concert.
I would like to provide some clarification. Our not-for-profit Community Interest Company is run by a team of volunteers, not by a single individual, and has no political affiliations or connections with any councillors or political parties. We were only invited to step in after a local Wymondham charity, who had originally been approached, did not respond to repeated requests for support. In order to assist the town, we agreed to take on the organisation of the event and waived our usual fees, as our aim is to support community events rather than benefit financially.
I would also like to respectfully note that it is inappropriate to direct any personal criticism or political assumptions towards me individually. I am just one member of our wider CIC team, and our role here is purely to help ensure a successful community event.
We value the opportunity to support Wymondham in delivering its Christmas concert and hope this clarification can prevent any misunderstanding.
Derek’s ‘Last Marathon before my knees give out’
The 55-year-old Wymondhammer is running the Battersea Marathon for two special charities
Derek Hearn is raising funds for local cancer charity Star Throwers, and for Bliss Cavaliers, a small national charity dedicated to rescuing, caring for and re-homing Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Derek says this will be his last marathon before his knees finally give out!
He is finding training tough-going and is getting back into it following recent illness and injury, but he is determined to achieve his goal. "I will get over the finish line at Battersea no matter how long it takes me, but the additional goal is to raise money for the charities.
There’s no doubt it has been difficult to find the time to train. Many of my runs have been fitted in whilst waiting to collect my daughter from her circus and dance groups, but that’s been a good use of time! It’s amazing how time has flown, and it’s now only four weeks until the marathon.
“Star Throwers were brilliant supporting my wife when her sister was ill with cancer. I hope to raise funds to help them continue their great work. We are lucky to have Star Throwers on our doorstep.
Also, as a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel owner, I want to help a very small charity that incurs a lot of expenses rescuing vulnerable Cavaliers. As with other Cavalier owners, I am all too aware of the conditions this lovely breed is prone to, and in these challenging financial times for them, fundraising is essential to keep caring for these dogs.”
For those who don't know, there is a group that meets up each month for Cavaliers and their owners. This is at Centre Paws here in Wymondham. Details are on Facebook.
Derek is looking forward to this last marathon challenge, and if you wish to support him in his efforts, please click here and visit his JustGiving page. THANK YOU!
Rugby Club Veterans Inducted into Hall of Fame as Club Celebrates 50 Years
Wymondham Rugby Club celebrated the opening day of the new season by unveiling a Hall of Fame for the players at the heart of the club’s 50-year history.
Thirty-three club veterans were inducted into the Hall of Fame - marking not just their thousands of games in red and black, but also the huge amount of work behind the club’s growth from a group of friends to the 2000 members of today.
All the inductees played at least ten years of senior rugby at Wymondham, and took on important roles in running the club and its more than 20 different squads.
“All of those nominated are playing legends of the club,’ said chair Paul Wootton.
Among those honoured was the late Roger Miller, who died four years ago at the age of 51.
“Roger was a larger-than-life character - a modern prop-forward well ahead of his time who went on to be a brilliant coach and chair of the club. His passing in was one of the most painful for us all to endure,” said Paul.
The youngest player is Holly Watts, the driving force behind the formation of the Wymondham Wasps women’s team in 2009.
She explained: “We started as a small fitness group - and laid the foundations for what’s now a thriving women’s and girls’ section.
“We’re seeing more girls pick up a rugby ball at a younger age, and the visibility of the women’s game is increasing, especially with the World Cup showcasing the talent and passion in the sport.”
Paul said: “In many ways Holly is the most important inductee - without her, I am not sure women’s rugby would be where it is at the club.”
The launch of the Hall of Fame happened on the opening Saturday of the new season - with Wymondham men’s 1st XV beating Chelmsford 51-14.
Wednesday 1st October
Art Society Demo with Kay Barker
7pm, 
Catholic Church Hall
Kay is a prize-winning printmaker who has
worked in collographs, lithography, screen printing, etching and woodcuts. She will give us an introduction to various methods of printmaking.
wymondhamart.org
Friday 3rd October
Photographic Society Coffee Morning 10am-12pm, Dell Bowls Club
Informal chat about anything
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 4th October
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 7th October
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
Wymondham Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dell Bowls Club
Guest Speaker Matt Curtin: Iconic scenes of Devon & Cornwall
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Talk: Church Going by Andrew Ziminski 7:30pm, Wymondham Abbey
Andrew is a master mason who has written two books on his work, Andrew will be signing books at the end and there’ll be an opportunity to look at the rare mason’s marks in the Abbey.
Tickets £8 (includes wine and nibbles) from the Abbey shop or online.
wymondhamabbey.org.uk
Thursday 9th October
Talk: Tackling Rural Crime 7:30pm, Town Green Centre
Join WyNG for an Illustrated talk by Pc Chris Shelley, Norfolk Police.
He will speak about how the Police tackle wildlife and animal crime within Norfolk, along with some Norfolk case studies.
All welcome - admission £3, NWT members £2 – no booking required. Questions to Wymondham@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
facebook.com/WymondhamNatureGroup
Saturday 11th October
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 14th October
Wymondham Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Studio Night with Geoff Long. Professional Model, bring camera.
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 18th October
Organ Recital 11am, Wymondham Abbey
Peter O’Connor, St Andrew’s Hingham and Assistant Organist. Free entry, retiring collection in aid of Abbey funds. Refreshments served from 10:30.
wymondhamabbey.org.uk
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
Monday 20th October
Garden Club AGM & Plant Sale 7:30pm, Town Green Centre
Join Wymondham Garden Club for a review of 2025 and proposals for 2026. Plant sale at knock-down prices. Members Free, guests £4. Further info email wymondhamgardenclub@gmail.com
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077254060337
Tuesday 21st October
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
Tripod competition PPCC/ACC. With Pikes Peak & Adelaide. External Judge.
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Thursday 23rd October
Talk by Steve Gaskin 7:30pm, Fairland Hall
Join Wymondham Heritage Society for a talk on Nelson. Free for members - visitors £2. New members can join at a meeting or contact Janet Benjafield on 01953 600205.
wymondhamheritagemuseum.co.uk/?p=programme
Saturday 25th October
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
Trick or Treat Trail 12pm-2:30pm, Wymondham Town Centre
Dozens of businesses on the high street will have treats for children in Halloween costumes.
facebook.com/WymondhamTownTeam/events
Sunday 26th October
The gorgeous solemnities of Paganisme: clerical vestments explained 3pm, Wymondham Abbey
Talk by Fr Andrew Hammond, Vicar of Wymondham Abbey as part of our 'Sundays at Three' series. Free entry, retiring collection in aid of Abbey funds. Refreshments available.
wymondhamabbey.org.uk
Monday 27th October
Volunteer Workday 10am-2pm, Rothbury Park
Join volunteers to help this newly refurbished park to thrive. Bring yourself, your lunch, a pair of gloves and sturdy footwear. 18 Rothbury Road NR18 0LD
greeningwymondham.org
Tuesday 28th October
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
Presentation by Gavin Bickerton-Jones: Behind the scenes of film set photography
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Friday 31st October
Green Halloween 4:30pm-6:30pm, Wymondham Abbey
Free nature themed Halloween event for all ages in the church and churchyard. Craft activities, bat and bug hunting, homemade pumpkin soup. Come in old clothes and waterproofs and bring a torch.
wymondhamabbey.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
Thursday 13th November
Talk: The secret lives of greenfly and their friends 7:30pm-9:30pm, Town Green Centre
Join WyNG for an Illustrated talk by Sam Mugford from the John Innes Centre. Sam will talk about aphids and other sap-sucking insects, especially about many fascinating aspects of their biology including their curious sex-lives and extraordinary toilet habits. Admission £3, NWT Members £2. No need to book. Wymondham@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
facebook.com/WymondhamNatureGroup
Saturday 15th November
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
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