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Feeling festive already? Wynterfest is coming back in 2026!
Save the date! On Sunday 6th December the All New Wynterfest will return to Wymondham, with stalls, music, food, shopping and entertainment for all the family.
For years Wynterfest has been the highlight of the town centre's year, bringing together people from across South Norfolk to enjoy the start of the festive season. Our businesses, pubs and cafes open their doors for the occasion, and many visitors discover for the first time just how much Wymondham has to offer.
One notable change is that the light switch-on will happen ten days before the event, on Thursday 26 November, at 4:00. This is so that visitors and residents can enjoy the light display in the town for longer. The separate light switch-on will be a smaller, after-school
family event, with hot chocolate, mulled wine, and a few treats available on the market cross.
Ten days later, on Sunday 6th December, Wymondham will put on the all-new full festival, complete with the traditional arrival of Father Christmas in a parade, a grotto hosted by Money Properties, a fun fair, and music on stage. The organisers are excited to announce that the band World Without End have already been booked to perform.
Wynterfest is this year being led by Together For Wymondham, which is an alliance of businesses, not-for-profit organisations, and the town council all working together to bring the festival to the people of Wymondham.
The chair of the group, Tracy Kenny, said, 'Wynterfest has always been a celebration we all share, and those who have gone before us have left a tradition of a super event. As an occasion that brings us all together, it's right that organising it should be a shared responsibility. We're really thankful to those who have led the festival in the past, and their generosity in sharing their learning with us. We're really pleased to be working as a team to once again bring a great experience to the people of Wymondham.'
Any business which would like to be involved or sponsor the event should contact togetherforwymondham@gmail.com.
Free sessions for senior citizens to cook and dine together
Following a hugely successful series of cookery sessions for women in midlife, That Little Norfolk Studio in Wymondham is about to start a six-month cooking programme tailored towards senior citizens living alone.
All ingredients and equipment will be provided thanks to funding from South Norfolk Health and Wellbeing Partnership. The sessions offer an opportunity to be inspired by new recipes, cook with others, eat together, and meet new people.
Each session will take place upstairs in That Little Norfolk Studio on Mondays every month from September to February at 10am to 1pm with a main meal and dessert ready to eat by lunchtime.
ClearCompany CIC has designed courses for five groups at their venue “That Little Shop and Studio”: families; men between 40 and 65; women in midlife experiencing troublesome symptoms due to the menopause or perimenopause; senior citizens cooking for one; and young people between 11 and 16 years old.
Anyone interested in taking part is invited to apply for their preferred sessions, or attend the full course, where they will cook a meal and dessert together under the guidance of food experts Caroline Blake and Sara Mathews. Two of the six sessions will focus on plant-based alternatives, and one will be devoted to cooking for people with allergies. Each group will be consulted on how they might want to continue to meet and eat together at the venue when the courses end.
Julie Briggs, ClearCompany CIC director, said: “Our sessions with women in midlife and beyond have been so well-received, with people making new friends, enjoying a ‘MasterChef-style’ atmosphere, and adding new recipes to their repertoire.
“Thanks to Councillor Kim Carsok’s support, we secured £12,000 funding to purchase the necessary equipment and ingredients and roll out the cookery courses. Both Caroline and Sara are fantastic cooks and very experienced at teaching cookery skills. Our forthcoming programme for senior citizens living alone will be such a good opportunity for anyone recently bereaved or who just wants to connect with people in the area.”
The schedule for senior citizens is:
Mon 7th Sept 2026: Cauliflower and broccoli cheesy mac followed by Gingerbread mug cake
Mon 12th Oct 2026: Sausage and potato traybake and bread and butter pudding
Mon 9th Nov 2026: Chicken Stroganoff followed by Apple pie
Mon 7th Dec 2026: Minced beef casserole with dumplings and lemon sponge pudding
Mon 11th Jan 2027: Chow Mein and Fruit cobbler
Mon 8th Feb 2027: One-pan Spanish garlic pasta with veg and a five-minute berry cobbler
That Little Norfolk Studio is in the former Abbey Schoolrooms, Church Street, Wymondham. NR18 0PH.
To apply for cookery courses, email info@clearcompany.org.uk or phone 07753822050.
Food waste bins coming in Autumn
Around 28,000 food waste caddies are currently being delivered to households across South Norfolk, soon to include Wymondham, marking a major milestone.
The new service began for the first phase of households in July, with a second phase rolling out in the Autumn.
Cllr Martyn Hooton, South Norfolk Council's Cabinet Member for the Environment, said:
"The delivery of 28,000 food waste caddies is a huge step forward as we prepare to launch this important new service for residents. Food waste collections will help us recycle more, reduce the amount of waste going into general rubbish bins and ensure valuable resources are put to good use.
"Instead of being thrown away, food waste will be turned into renewable energy and fertiliser, delivering real environmental benefits. I'd encourage residents to start using their caddies as soon as their collections begin and play their part in helping us create a cleaner, greener South Norfolk."
The first phase of the rollout saw around 28,000 households receive a small kitchen caddy, a 23-litre outdoor food waste bin and liners, with weekly collections beginning the week commencing Monday 27 July.
Food waste was collected on the same day as residents' existing rubbish and recycling collections by a dedicated food waste collection vehicle.
Residents will be able to recycle a wide range of food waste items, including fruit and vegetable peelings, leftovers, meat, fish, bones and out-of-date food. The collected material will then be processed to generate renewable energy and produce nutrient-rich fertiliser.
The introduction of the service is part of the Government's Simpler Recycling legislation, which requires councils to introduce weekly food waste collections and collect a consistent range of recyclable materials.
Households not included in the first phase will receive their caddies ahead of the second rollout, which starts from the week commencing 12 October. The service to communal properties will be rolled out shortly afterwards.
Residents can check when their collections will begin using the postcode checker on South Norfolk Council's website.
New play equipment at Whispering Oaks thanks to £228k investment
Families across South Norfolk are already enjoying upgraded play areas thanks to the Council’s major programme of improvements. This includes Wymondham’s Whispering Oaks playground, which now has fantastic new facilities being enjoyed by local families.
The £228,000 investment programme by South Norfolk Council has been supported by the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund. As well as new play equipment, Whispering Oaks has been treated to new biodiversity enhancements. These improvements include changes to grass-cutting regimes, wildflower planting, and the planting of new trees to encourage wildlife and enhance the environment.
Other playgrounds benefitted in this project include Appletree Lane in Roydon, and both Admiral's Way and Ullswater Drive in Hethersett. The Council has also completed surfacing improvements at Summer Close in Framingham Earl and Tulip Tree Drive in Poringland, with improvements at Hudson Avenue in Trowse completed earlier in the year.
The upgraded facilities are already proving popular, with the new play areas attracting plenty of visitors since opening.
Cabinet Member, Councillor Kim Carsok, said: “Play areas are an important part of our communities and it’s vital that the improvements reflect what residents want.
“It’s even better to now see many of the new facilities open and being enjoyed by local families. We have also placed a strong focus on accessibility, ensuring every refurbished site includes inclusive equipment so that more children can enjoy these spaces together.”
Work on the remaining sites will begin after the summer holidays, with completion expected by the end of September, weather conditions permitting. The remaining locations are, Chestnut Road, Tasburgh, Ensign Way, Diss, Filbert Road, Loddon and Knyvett Green in Ashwellthorpe.
The sites included in the resident consultation were Admiral's Way (Hethersett), Appletree Lane (Roydon), Chestnut Road (Tasburgh), Ensign Way (Diss), Filbert Road (Loddon), Knyvett Green (Ashwellthorpe), Ullswater Drive (Hethersett) and Whispering Oaks (Wymondham).
Once complete, the programme will have delivered modern, high-quality play facilities across South Norfolk, giving children and families more opportunities to play, be active and spend time outdoors close to home.
Planning application submitted for new Wymondham allotments
By the time you read this, Wymondham Town Council will have submitted their planning application for the new allotments – with a decision from South Norfolk expected in October.
The application is the culmination of close collaboration between Wymondham Allotment Association and Wymondham Town Council. As part of the submission, a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessment have been completed. These assessments demonstrate the scheme’s commitment to protecting and enhancing the natural environment, improving biodiversity and supporting sustainable land management practices.
If planning permission is granted, the new site would provide more allotment plots than were available at the previous location, helping to meet growing demand and allowing more local residents to experience the many benefits of allotment gardening.
We’re hoping the new site will provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where residents can grow, learn, share knowledge and build stronger community connections for many years to come.
The planning application is supported by a comprehensive suite of documents, including the Association’s Biodiversity Policy and Plan and Planning Justification Statement. These reflect the Association’s ongoing commitment to sustainable land management, environmental stewardship and the long-term success of the site.
A spokesperson for Wymondham Allotment Association said, "The submission of this planning application will be a significant achievement following many months of hard work and constructive collaboration with Wymondham Town Council. We would like to thank our members, supporters and the wider community for their patience, encouragement and continued support throughout this journey.
“We hope this proposal will lead to the creation of a modern, environmentally responsible allotment site that will serve the people of Wymondham for generations to come."
The Association will continue to keep members, plot holders and the wider community informed as the planning application progresses. The two Facebook sites – Wymondham Plotters and its baby sibling, Wymondham Growers – will carry our news and campaigns.
The planning application for the proposed new allotment site at Land North of Tuttles Lane West, Wymondham is now available to view on the South Norfolk Planning Portal under Planning reference: 2026/2374. Public consultation closes on 29th September. Residents are encouraged to view the application and submit any comments before the consultation deadline. 2026/2374 | New allotment site to include access, fencing, gates, shed, container, and other associated structures to replace the loss of former site in Chapel Lane | Land North Of Tuttles Lane West Wymondham Norfolk
Steam trains return to Mid Norfolk Railway
Wymondhammers can once again enjoy a steam locomotive ride from Wymondham Abbey - thanks to the steam services returning to Mid Norfolk Railway.
The steam services are returning from Friday August 21st. Not only do you get the experience of riding on a steam train, it is also a scenic tour through the heart of Norfolk, taking you through the historic Anglo-Saxon town of Dereham and with a stop at Wymondham Town Centre to explore its many independent cafés and bookshops.
This decision follows an extensive review into the railway’s safety procedures. Kellie Woodard, Business Manager at Mid Norfolk Railway Preservation Trust, said in a press release, “The decision to return to steam has been made following careful consideration of the ongoing weather conditions, the fire severity index, ground loading conditions, and the effectiveness of the additional controls now in place. If conditions change and the risk become unacceptable, the railway will not hesitate to amend or suspend steam operations.”
Sam Taylor, General Manager of the Mid Norfolk Railway, said: “We know how much our passengers love seeing and travelling behind a steam locomotive, so we are delighted to be able to say – steam is back!
“However, this decision has not been taken lightly. We have carried out a detailed review of the risks associated with steam operation in the current conditions, introduced additional controls and mitigations, and consulted with Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service.
“Our approach is very clear: we want people to enjoy the experience of steam on the Mid Norfolk Railway, but we will only operate when we are satisfied that the risks can be appropriately controlled. We will continue to monitor conditions closely throughout our steam operating period.”
Tickets can be bought on the day from Wymondham Abbey travel offices. You can visit the Mid Norfolk Railway website for more details.
Town Council Watch: License To Spill Special
Local Democracy Sketch
After being inundated with one email asking where TCW was in our June edition, your beloved columnist has spent the intermediate months regretting not placing a “TCW Will Return” notice in the last print issue, to reassure avid readers that the Mayor of Wymondham hadn’t strapped him to a table with a laser slowly sweeping up to his knackers.
No, even the man with the golden puns needs a break from time to time. But now TCW’s back, armed with his explosive ballpoint pen ready to cover a summer of local democracy goings-on. You didn’t think I’d ever stop did you?
Diamonds are forever.
Nobody Did It Better
Back in May, local elections meant TCW once more had to dust off the homemade swing-o-meter he keeps in his shed, as he stayed up long into the early hours awaiting Wymondham’s local election results.
If only someone had let poor old TCW know the counting only started the next day…
Sadly, none of the Town Councillors who stood for Norfolk County Council in various seats were successful. But TCW did at least get a quantum of solace from some of their fantastic leaflets that came through his front door.
One particularly enjoyable effort came courtesy of Cllr Dave Roberts (Lib Dem), who has voted at least three times to stop Town Council meetings being streamed/recorded on YouTube.
The camera-shy candidate’s leaflet told voters he believed councillors should be “visible” and that he knew the importance of “being transparent”,
Pass me my irony-o-meter. Still, transparent and visible. Like a sort of local government frogspawn then.
Results-wise, former darling-of-the-TCW column Cllr Robert Savage (Con) beat off a Reform rival to keep his Wymondham Central seat. But in the two bits of Wymondham that belong to other electoral divisions, Silfield and the Rugby Club estate, it was Big Nige’s boys who won the day.
Perhaps understandably neither of the two new Reform County Councillors managed to attend the Town Council’s first post-election meeting in May. There must be a huge volume of tasks they will be busy with.
The boats cruising along the Yare near County Hall in Trowse aren’t going to stop themselves, you know.
Double ‘Oh Heavens!’
July saw the first appearance at a Town Council meeting of new Spectre Reform UK County Councillor Gary Douglas-Beet, who covers the Silfield end of town, the bald-headed 59-year old receiving all the warmth of welcome from Town Councillors of Blofeld gatecrashing M’s leaving do.
“I'm quite a tough cookie”, Blofeld announced, stroking a cat on his lap.
He won’t mind this section then...
“A bit Marmite, because I shoot from the hip and say everything as it is...[]...I’m quite strongly opinionated.”
And the tough Marmite cookie had been looking to help a culinary business in his area, Station Bistro, that had been badly affected by the near-constant road closures on Station Road.
“I went to see [the owner] Brendan and I said ‘look I’m going to fight your corner.’” Blofeld regaled the group, before revealing his detail-oriented plan: “I’ve requested a meeting with Taily Whimper, their construction company”.
“We had a meeting with Taylor Wimpey about a month ago to discuss these matters”, a stirred but not shaken Cllr Roly Frosdick (Lib Dem) iced, pointedly correcting the spoonerism.
“So if there’s something you want to help with, I will give you the things that came out that the public wanted to see.”
Blofeld continued: “I’ve had a few people ask me to try and push for a shorter timespan on…”
“YEAH that’s exactly what we’ve been doing with Taylor Wimpey” Cllr Frosdick interrupted, later deadpanning: “I can brief you with what we’ve done, if you have a better outcome.”
“Anything I can do from my side, I think we’re all in this together. It’s not you and us.” Blofeld confidently closed the conversation, without letting out so much as a taily whimper.
Yeesh. These two are going to be fun to watch. TCW’s not seen pent up tension like this since he was temping in Moneypenny’s office back in the 1960’s.
Octoposty
With Town Councillors already having launched their own interdimensional postal service last year with their ‘Letters To Heaven’ box in Wymondham’s cemetery, their attention in summer turned to the much more terrestrial matter of hoping a Post Office in the town centre would open again.
Local MP Ben Goldsborough Goldfinger (Lab) had launched a parliamentary petition to say a Post Office needed to be “put back on our high street”, after counters in Jarrolds, The White Hart and OneStop had closed one after another in recent years.
Presumably due to their massive popularity and the scorchingly lucrative returns for the people running them...
In a welcome boon to the coffers of Her Majesty’s Postal Service, the bankbencher had written letters to households across town to publicise his petition to bring up the issue in parliament - even if the legislative body has no say over where Post Office Ltd place their branches, nor the ability to magic up someone to run the thing.
Never let reality get in the way of a good campaign. And besides, maybe MI6 has a secret department that coerces people into becoming postmasters against their will that only Mr Goldfinger knows about. Never say never.
Either way, it’s great to see our elected representatives taking the time to give the impression they have any influence over anything. And with elections on the horizon, Town Councillors have been getting in on the act too, helping to take the MP’s prayer to the postal gods door to door.
A For-Your-Eyes-Only email from a Town Council employee to councillors asked “Could you please give me an update on how many signatures you have for the above petition from each of your wards? I would like to give Ben [Goldfinger] an update on how many signatures we have.”
But Cllr Lucy Nixon (Lib Dem) had a confession: “Suzanne and I have not been out in South Wymondham yet due to the extremely hot weather.”
Shame. Perhaps our MP could launch a petition to ask Parliament for there to be more pleasant weather in South Wymondham?
Shirley Bussey
In August, news that First Bus were cutting routes and services in Wymondham was occupying the thoughts of Town Councillors.
A written County Council update from Cllr Robert Savage had blithely reported that First Bus were “making changes”, in the kind of way your broadband provider says they’re making changes to your monthly bill.
“Harts Farm will no longer be served due to consistent underuse even during peak hours” the bus company press release councillor report continued.
“I feel I’m going to have a little chat with my colleague.” said fellow Tory Cllr Jonathan Purle threateningly in Bond?villainesque code.
“Do you expect me to solve this myself?” “No Mr Savage! I expect you to try!”
“First Bus are implementing top down cuts across their network.” Mr Purle continued. “They haven’t given very much thought to which ones they’re cutting. If they had done, they wouldn’t be cutting the peak rate services into Norwich in the mornings. And I should imagine they’ve not genuinely assessed the usage at Harts Farm either.” He then revealed his top secret superweapon:
“I have written them a letter and I have counted the buses, I’m that sad, it looks like the buses between Norwich and Wymondham actually fall by about 20%, which I think is absolutely terrible given this is an expanding town and so forth.”
But there’d be no thrilling car chase in an Aston Martin on Cllr Purle’s watch:
“The fact I’ve got to 52 without having had a driving lesson, you can probably imagine my interest in that.”
Life must be bussy galore for him.
Odd Job
Councillors in August approved a leisure and tourism committee recommendation to create a new post of Town Crier.
According to the group’s report, the new role would “become an asset for the Council” and would be a regular fixture at events in town.
Less Moonraker. More tune maker. Like with his bell or whatever. You try making this many Bond puns and not getting jaded by the end, dear reader.
And it was good news for any taxpayers who have been watching with concern as the Town Council’s wages and salaries spending has ballooned by nearly an additional £100,000 a year since 2019.
“the role would be voluntary”.
Oh yay.
Middleton’s Street hairdressers reopens after refurbishment
Kutz Rebellion, a Men’s and Ladies hairdressers situated on Middleton Street in Wymondham, is named in tribute to the town's link to Kett's Rebellion, the 16th-century uprising which began in Wymondham. It has recently re-opened following a refurbishment.
Jen James has been running the shop for the last three years, but the same building, which dates to the 17th Century, has been delivering hairdressing and grooming services to Wymondham residents for over 100 years. Jen is the latest ‘custodian’ of the premises and business.
Jen said, ‘It is a privilege to play my part in the history of such a long-standing business, and I am proud to be here to continue to offer haircuts to the residents of Wymondham and its surrounding areas. For many years, this was a men’s barber shop, and it is fascinating to think of all those people who have stepped through this door over that time.’
Jen felt that it was time for the shop to have a ‘spruce up’, but she was determined to keep the striped poles outside as a reminder of the history of the premises. These were always seen outside barber shops in the past and are a throwback to the Middle Ages when barbers were also "barber-surgeons" who performed minor medical procedures. The red stripes represented arterial blood, the white stood for the medical bandages, and The Pole symbolised the staff patients squeezed to make their veins bulge, making it easier for the ‘surgeon’ to cut. The spiral pattern originated from barbers washing their bloodstained bandages and hanging them outside to dry. As the wind blew, the strips of cloth would twist together around the pole.
The striped poles outside Kutz Rebellion have been given a modern twist with blue and red stripes, but you don’t need to worry - no bandages will be required if you go to Jen for a haircut!
You may also notice memorabilia from Jen’s time as the lead singer and guitarist in a Rock Band - some of her guitars are on display as fond souvenirs of her life outside of hairdressing.
Jen trained in both male and female hairdressing and has over 25 years’ experience in the business, having worked in various locations across the country and abroad.
‘We all know how incredibly hard it is for small businesses on our local high streets at present, and I do try to keep my prices as low as I can as I understand that customers are struggling in the current financial climate, but this doesn’t make running a local business any easier. The business is still here though and offering haircuts to all genders at reasonable prices.
‘I have a small, loyal customer base and am hoping that a shop refurbishment will encourage new customers through the door, so that the business can continue to flourish in these premises for another 100 years at least!’
Marking the 250th Anniversary of St Georges Wicklewood
This year marked the 250th anniversary of the Act of Incorporation that allowed 23 parishes in the Forehoe Hundred to build a House of Industry on Wicklewood Common. Today, under the name of St Georges, the original building is home to 21 families.
Many of the current residents considered it important to mark this special 250th anniversary, so a committee was formed to commemorate it appropriately. We decided on three main courses of action: to apply for a Historic England blue plaque, and to host two events, each centred on an artefact: a time capsule and a bell.
The bell and its associated commemorative plaque were thought to be the most appropriate and permanent way to remember former residents whose daily lives would have been ordered by a very similar bell. Unfortunately, the blue plaque nomination scheme has yet to open this year, so the committee will apply as soon as it does.
The first of our events saw children from Wicklewood Primary School bury a time capsule (see Dr Matthews's article elsewhere in this edition), before the committee's main event took place two days later, on 4th July.
We had chosen 4th July, the principle being that anything our former colonists over the Atlantic could do, we could do better. The major instigator of the Forehoe House of Industry had been Sir Armine Wodehouse from Kimberley Hall. The committee were therefore delighted that his ancestor, John Armine Wodehouse, the current Earl of Kimberley, and the Countess were able to join us for the afternoon. Our other special guests were Father Andrew from Wymondham Abbey and Professor Susannah Ottaway, who is the leading authority on the Forehoe House of Industry.
At 2:30pm, about 90 guests and residents took their seats in front of the main building to hear Dr Hugh Osborne, our Master of Ceremonies, introduce, with some style, our varied programme of speakers.
Opening proceedings, Rachel Kidd, the curator at Gressenhall Farm and Museum, spoke on the importance of Houses of Industry and Workhouses in Norfolk. Then Dr Osborne summarised Mary Garner's excellent dissertation on the Forehoe House of Industry's early years. Professor Ottaway went on to inform us of the working lives of the children living here during this period, before Dr Hilary Matthews provided an overview of the building's different uses over the centuries. In 1776, it was a House of Industry designed to house the aged, infirm, poor and mentally unsound from 23 local parishes. In 1834, the House of Industry became a workhouse; it became a hospital for geriatric patients in the late 1940s-74, a school in the 70s and 80s, and then converted in the late 80s to the 21 private residences which remain today.
Richard Elliott, our South Norfolk District Councillor, then spoke on the building's importance to the community over the centuries. Some light entertainment was provided by Georgette Vale. Depicting a vagrant called Martha, and dressed in period costume, she acted out Mario Petrucci's poem recalling Martha's overnight stay at a workhouse. Georgette's performance stole the show!
As the event came to its end, the Earl was presented with copies of Sir Armine's letters relating to the establishment of the House of Industry 250 years earlier.
Finally, we arrived at the unveiling of the Victorian bell, which the committee had procured to hang in the small brick structure in front of the main building. The bell, like the building, is a survivor, and Dr Osborne enlightened us on its interesting history before Father Andrew blessed it. It was then rung five times, each ring commemorating 50 years of the building's life.
With the formal event concluded, the Countess of Kimberley cut the commemorative cake, adorned with the committee's 250th logo. Guests ate this cake and drank prosecco whilst chatting with new friends and viewing the display boards, each full of photos and information documenting the building's history.
The pièce de resistance was Janine Everitt's excellent art installation, graphically depicting images of the building, its former inmates, and their handwriting. This proved a great success and talking point.
All in all, this event and the burial of the time capsule went exceedingly well; the weather behaved itself, and everyone enjoyed themselves. Finally, after our guests had left, the committee and other residents held a well-deserved party.
Here's hoping the opening of the time capsule in 50 years and the celebration of the 300th anniversary will be carried out with the same enthusiasm.
Wicklewood Primary kids bury time capsule at St Georges
This year marked the 250th anniversary of the Act of Incorporation that allowed 23 parishes in the Forehoe Hundred to build a House of Industry on Wicklewood Common, now known as the housing residence 'St Georges'. We decided burying a time capsule would be a good way to start our commemorative events, so the committee invited Year 6 children at Wicklewood Primary School to each write a letter to be placed in it.
On Thursday 2nd July, 17 children and their teachers arrived at St Georges to witness the capsule being buried. Joining them were the two youngest residents of St Georges, who presented each of their older schoolmates with a commemorative sticker designed by one of our committee.
The weather was perfect, and sitting on a blanket under an open-sided marquee, the children listened to a short history of the building. Then they posed in front of the main building with their letters before these were placed in the time capsule.
Alongside their letters went a set of 2026 coins featuring the head of King Charles III, and other items including a current postage stamp and pages from the EDP newspaper published that morning. The children were impressed that it included the match report from the England v DR Congo football match the night before.
The burial site beneath three Black Locust trees was on the other side of the main building and had been dug some days earlier, no mean feat as it had not rained for weeks.
En route to the site, the children stopped at the Memorial Cross to learn that it had been erected almost a hundred years earlier to remember former inmates buried on the plot of ground behind it.
Then it was time to bury the capsule. After placing it in the hole, each child, the teachers, and parents present ceremoniously placed a trowel of earth on top of it. To make sure it will not be forgotten, an engraved black granite plaque marks the burial site. It will be opened in 2076.
Then it was back to the marquee for squash and cakes. One of our committee members had made the cakes, and she had decorated each with an edible commemorative logo.
The morning was a huge success for all concerned, but all too soon the children had to return to school. Still, it had been a fun way to begin our 250th commemoration events.
The Secret Farmer's Diary: The Wrong Records
Our mystery farmer in the Wymondham area takes a break from cutting up baler twine to store in the door pocket of his truck to tell you what he’s been up to in the last month.
August
The birds and insects continue to hum around the trees and hedges in spite of the drought. Sugar beet lap up every drop of dew they can. Golden stubbles and parched brown grass bake under the scorching summer sun and cloudless skies. Cows nibble at early blackberries in the shade of the trees next to a trickling stream.
Rain, rain, come today
I held off writing this column until the last moment to welcome (and celebrate) the mid-month rainfall. Unfortunately we have only received 1.2mm of rain as I write, though more is due tonight. At the risk of sounding like the government emergency alerts and patronisingly stating the obvious, the dry conditions mean that we can’t get on with tilling the soil and sowing next harvest’s seed until we receive a period of steady rainfall to soften the ground.
We busy ourselves with other jobs, such as hedge cutting, repairing drains, ditches, fences and machinery and bringing our records up to date for compliance and management information reports. Our straw suppliers are invoicing for payment, continuing the trend of cash out of the business begun by purchasing seed, fertiliser and sprays at the beginning of harvest. We’ll have no steady money coming in until late October when payment for early lifted sugar beet arrives.
Breaking the wrong records
Harvest was over in record time this year, taking around 4 weeks to combine and a couple more to finish baling, having had no rain to halt progress. We had two new faces joining us for harvest, supplementing two old hands who join us every summer – morale remained high in spite of the relentless weather conditions. Our rapeseed yielded well, everything else’s performance depended upon when it was planted and the type of land it was planted in: but on average yielded mediocrely.
One beneficiary of the weather appears to be our fruit trees and bramble bushes – our Victoria plums are already being gorged upon by wasps and other insects and the apple trees look abundant, even if the apples look smaller than normal. As we pray, rain dance and do whatever else we can think of to bring on the rain, we gather up the fruit to store and freeze, marvelling that the trees can continue to find moisture in the earth to sustain them.
Cheers bo’
A highlight of an otherwise subdued summer so far has been the performance of our malting barley.
We’ve not grown malting barley for more than 30 years on the farm because crops grown for human consumption have much more stringent quality requirements than crops grown for animal feed do: in addition to equally stringent ergot, mould and bug infestation levels, and stricter levels on moisture and screenings (bits of chaff or weed seeds mixed in with the grain), milling or malting grade cereals need to have a certain weight to the grains, high variety purity, lower nitrogen content, certain flour elasticity (called the Hagberg Falling Number) and particular protein and starch contents depending on what the end use is.
Our malting barley in particular needed a nitrogen content of <1.65% to make whisky grade malt (beer is 1.60%-1.85%), which we managed to comfortably meet with an average of 1.62%. Our barley will be germinated and processed into malt which will then be sent on to distilleries across the UK. Hopefully we’ll all still be around to enjoy it in 20+ years’ time to toast an abundant harvest!
'My dog is the best Christian I know': meet the Abbey's new curate, Reverend Sam Ruddock
Luka, Reverend Sam Ruddock’s dog, “is the most beautiful Christian I know,” said the new curate at Wymondham Abbey. He then proceeded to tell me how open-hearted his greyhound-whippet cross is, and how he trusts everyone to love him back.
Sam acquired his dog as a pup 8 years ago at a time of personal crisis. He had worked first in the book publishing industry and then with creating and touring shows, but had become “burned out” and was struggling with personal and addiction issues.
Sam’s wife, Megan, had grown up with Christianity while he had a non-religious background, though, on occasion, he would accompany her to church on a Sunday. However, this time he was seeking meaning in his life and was more open-minded towards faith. He reached a point in his spiritual search where he felt that he did not need to know every answer to his questions about God, but he could trust that living a Christian life had been beneficial for a great many people, including his wife. So he chose to be baptised and experienced “peace, freedom and liberation.”
Sam and Megan met online. He was a history and politics student at the University of East Anglia who had grown up in the East End of London, and she was American and worked as a policy adviser to a congressman in Washington DC. She crossed the pond to study for a master’s degree, learn more about England, and spend time with Sam. They married when they had both graduated.
It was Megan, not Sam, who first wanted to explore the possibility of ministry in the Church, and he went with her to a Vocations Day to show his support. He was surprised to discover that the Church seemed to value the skills that he had, and even more surprised when he found himself on the path to ordination in response to God’s call.
Both of Sam’s parents were social workers, with a mix of Methodist and Communist influences, and so he was brought up in a household where social equality mattered. Sam also grew up with an aptitude for sport; he played district football and cricket at school, and for his university football team. He does a bit less sport nowadays, but continues to support Tottenham Hotspur while wrestling with the “misery” that can come with it.
But overall, Sam is excited. ‘I’m already loving being in Wymondham’, he said, “and I look forward to being part of what the Abbey offers. It’s a beautiful building, where we try to make beautiful things happen for the people of this town and all who visit.”
In sum, the new Abbey curate comes across as a decent and interesting chap who is both caring and keen, and that, I trust, is good news for our town.
Spire Solicitors: Choosing the right Power of Attorney is critical
A recent court case involving misuse of millions of pounds of family wealth has provided a stark reminder for managing financial affairs: choosing the right person is critical.
Daughter Sandra Thomas used her authority under a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) to spend her mother’s money on holidays, cars, luxury meals and personal expenses, viewing the spending as early access to her inheritance from the wealthy widow who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease.
When her mother died, the will was challenged, and the financial abuse came to light, reaching the High Court, where the judge ordered repayment, ruling that Thomas and her husband misused her mother’s money while acting under the property and financial affairs LPA.
“This case is a reminder that the effectiveness of an LPA rests not just on having one in place, but on choosing carefully who is trusted with that responsibility,” explained Amy Meacock, specialist in later life planning at Spire Solicitors LLP.
“It should not simply be viewed as an administrative task. It is one of the most important financial decisions many people will make, because it gives another person legal authority to make decisions on your behalf.
“The authority given by an LPA for property and financial affairs is very broad and the circumstances in which it may be used range from helping with carrying out simple financial tasks, like paying bills, to taking complete control of a person’s financial affairs if that person has lost capacity. So it can be very far-reaching.”
For most families, an LPA provides reassurance and practical support, but it also creates a responsibility for the person appointed as attorney. They must act in the donor’s best interests, keep the person’s money separate from their own, maintain accurate records and avoid benefiting personally from the decisions made.
The difficulty is that problems may not become apparent until significant sums have already been spent, or after the person’s death when inheritance is challenged, as in this case.
“An LPA is an essential planning tool, but it relies heavily on trust,” added Amy. “The lesson from a case like this is not that people should avoid LPAs. Without one, families can face far greater difficulties if someone loses capacity. The important point is to think carefully about who is appointed and what safeguards can be put in place.”
For some families, particularly where there are significant assets involved or relationships are complicated, it may be appropriate to build in additional safeguards. That may mean appointing more than one attorney, requiring decisions to be made jointly, or asking a trusted professional to provide oversight and review financial records regularly.
Added Amy: “The uncomfortable reality is that much financial abuse happens not through strangers, but through people who have been given access and authority because they are trusted. But an LPA remains one of the best ways to prepare for the future and an essential part of the mix for later-life planning, working alongside wills, inheritance planning and conversations with family about future wishes.
“Just remember that choosing the person who holds the power may be the most important decision of all.”
If you are considering putting a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, or would like advice on choosing the right attorney and building appropriate safeguards into your arrangements, the specialist later life planning team at Spire Solicitors can help. Contact us today on 01953 606351or email info@spiresolicitors.co.uk.
What do pigs and the Garden Centre have in common?
Answer: Wymondham Acts of Kindness.
The Garden Centre wins the prize for a clear and obvious act of kindness in recent months.
As reported in Neil Haverson’s latest, the Bridewell Tearoom’s tables were in a bad way. Many of them were rocky, and drinks would spill all over them.
“So when the Garden Centre said they were going to have a refit, we asked if we could have some and they kindly donated them to us,” said Helen Munday, Bridewell Tearoom manager.
You can read the whole tale in Neil Haverson’s article, and it is a testament to Wymondham kindness. The Bridewell Tearoom now has stable tables thanks to a local business’s community spirit.
But that is not the only example of Wymondham’s recent good humour. In July, a rather curious Facebook post cropped up on Wymondham Ways:
‘Anyone missing 3 little pigs?’ asked the ironically named Mr Wolverson.
‘These three running around Town Green area at the moment,’ with pictures attached that indeed showed three pigs on the loose in Wymondham Town Centre.
The heartwarming thing was, the Facebook commenters couldn’t have been more obliging in their love for animals. Sure, one or two commenters made attempts at humour: ‘the wolf must of blown thier house down [sic]’, wrote one enterprising local comedian. ‘You could’ve blurred people’s faces tho,’ warned another commenter, an unusual hill to die on, but a testament to Wymondhammers’ capacity for friendliness and perspective on what’s important.
But most of the comments demonstrated Wymondham’s firmly kind-hearted spirit towards animals. ‘I love to see them free. I wish all animals could be free.’ ‘Best post of the day.’ ‘Freedom is so sweet - bless them.’ ‘Looks like they were heading to the Feathers for a quick pint.’
And, most importantly, we got this comment: ‘Pigs have been collected and returned home,’ said a local biology teacher. We had no way of verifying if this was true, but one rather hopes so.
So Wymondham’s community spirit and good humour extend to animals too. How nice. Almost worth a celebratory drink at The Boars.
Short Story: Romance in the Home.
Fiona glanced around the room and said, ‘This is the residents’ lounge. It’s a bit early though.
'You’re an early riser Doris,’ she said to the woman by her side, ‘but Ted’s here. He’s an early riser too. Ted, this is Doris. She moved in yesterday. Come and sit by Ted.’
She moved a chair nearer to where Ted was sitting and helped Doris towards it. Fiona looked at her watch. ‘Must go, plenty to do before the shifts change over.’
‘Good morning, Doris,’ said Ted with a polite smile. ‘A pleasure to meet you.’
Doris sat down and looked at him. He seemed what she would call ‘respectable’ – nice suit, collar and tie and she noticed a small white rose bud in his lapel.
‘Good morning,’ she replied. She wondered whether she should sit quietly or if she should engage this man in conversation. But what could she talk about? She looked round the room and her eye caught the roses in a vase on the window sill.
‘Someone ought to water those flowers,’ she said pointing her walking stick towards the window.
Ted smiled. ‘They don’t need any water. They’re plastic.’
‘Well, they look real to me. Mind you my eyesight isn’t wonderful. Wouldn’t expect it to be at my age I suppose. I’m 85 you know.’
Ted hesitated before he spoke. ‘Doris, you’re looking very good for 85. Very lovely if I might say.’
A faint blush, the colour of the roses, lit up Doris’ cheeks. No one had really noticed her since she had been on her own. The conversation stalled and for a while both residents looked at the vase of roses. Doris saw their pink hue and was reminded of the dress she wore when she first met her husband Peter more than 50 years ago. The roses annoyed Ted. It was their plastic appearance that so piqued him. He grimaced.
‘Are you OK Ted?’ asked Fiona, seeing the look on his face as she came back into the lounge. ‘You look cross. I hope Doris hasn’t been upsetting you.’
Doris. Hearing her own name brought her back to the present with a start. Peter had been dead for 3 years and the realisation that she was alone and not in their old house struck her hard. A tear began to fall.
Fiona saw it and wondered if she’d misread the situation. Ted was usually a quiet gentleman – no trouble at all and always so polite.
‘Ted, have you upset Doris?’
‘I sincerely hope not,’ he replied quickly. ‘I definitely wouldn’t like to upset such a dear lady.’ He pulled a neatly folded handkerchief from his top pocket and offered it to Doris, who took it, wiped her cheek and smiled weakly. ‘Doris was just suggesting that the roses needed some water, but Fiona, I think they just need a bit of dusting, don’t you? It’s such a pity they’re not real. Why can’t we have some real flowers?’
‘That would be lovely Ted, but it would be too expensive I’m afraid.’
‘Pity. Real roses would fill the room with perfume. Very uplifting for our spirits. Francois Bouton for example. Hybrid tea. Very fragrant. Or Joie d’été. Lovely scent.’ Ted sniffed the air as if gathering past memories.
‘You seem to know a lot about roses,’ said Doris.
‘I used to grow them.’
‘So did I,’ she replied, glad to find some interest they could perhaps discuss. ‘I had some lovely white ones in my garden that flowered all summer. You could smell the perfume a mile away!’
‘Just Jilly,’ replied Ted. ‘Very prolific. Repeat flowering. Wonderful scent. I introduced that one at Chelsea in 1962. It won me my first gold medal. You can still buy it today, I believe.’
‘A gold medal?’
‘My company was famous for its roses. We’ve bred so many new varieties over the years. Edward Parker Roses – you must have heard of us.’
The name rolled round in Doris’ head. ‘I had your roses for my wedding,’ she said. ‘Not many, ’she added, ‘but just enough to make the day special.’
‘My grandson runs the business now – he’s very clever. He’s bred several new varieties, but I’ve told him not to let the old ones disappear. They’re part of our heritage.’
‘We mustn’t forget our past,’ agreed Doris. ‘If you’ll excuse me, I need to go back to my room. I hope we can talk again about roses.’ With help from Fiona, Doris stood up and made her way out of the lounge. A nice man she thought. Her cheeks glowed again as she remembered the kind compliment he had given her.
The next day there was a knock on Doris’ door. Standing in the doorway was Fiona with a tall young man whose face was hidden behind an enormous bouquet of white roses.
‘For Doris,’ she heard as he offered the flowers towards her. ‘From Grandad,’ he added. ‘The message from him is – Looking forward to more early morning chats.’
‘Thank you so much. They’re so lovely. Fiona is there a vase I could have?’
‘I’ll sort it,’ replied Fiona. Romance in the home at last!
Photos of the Month: September 2026.
Wymondham Photographic Society had a successful exhibition in August at Central hall.
There was a steady stream of visitors over the 2 days, with multiple people showing an interest in joining the club. A big thanks to all who helped make the exhibition a success, and to sponsors WEX Photo and Video.
72 members of the public voted for their favourite image. In first place was ‘Life Underground’. In second place was 'Watching me watching you’. And in third place: 'Osea Beach Huts’. The first 2 images were mine(!), and Anthony Cooves did the beach huts.
I got the shot of the old Baker Street station early one morning, just sat on a bench and setting the camera opposite the platform and waiting to see what unfolded. As each tube stopped, a new ‘cast’ of characters were dropped off. I particularly like this shot as there are a few stories going on within the picture, as the London workers start their day.
What's in a Photo? A Watercolour Market Place
This watercolour, painted by Norwich artist William Frederick Austen in 1873, shows Wymondham Market Place very different from what it is today.
Austen (1833-1899), who once resided in Somerleyton Street off Unthank Road in Norwich, painted many scenes of the city and the county.
Perhaps Austen was interested in the King's Head, which stood on the site where the Co-Op now is, as it seems he was interested in pubs. It was said that he liked his liquor and, after running up quite a bill on the slate, he would offer to paint a picture for the landlord in lieu of payment.
At the time, with no community halls, the King's Head was Wymondham's social centre and landlord Aaron Mobbs, who was also the town's postmaster, ran it between 1865-1877.
Wymondham's 'The Shed' restores beloved toy
Sometime ago, the Shed, Wymondham’s social activities centre, were approached by a woman who wanted help with a toy truck restoration. The truck - a Tonka Toy - had belonged to her grandson and was very weather-beaten from over the years, as well as having a hole in it and a malfunctioning speaker and buttons.
The Shed announced on Facebook: ‘It took some time but after careful restoration which included new plastic welding techniques, paint matching and electronic repairs, we were ready to hand it over.
‘It’s now been reunited with her grandson - he’s 23 now!’
See the photos of the process here - all photo credits to The Shed Wymondham on Facebook.
My dad preached in Wymondham. My mum ran a choir. Now they’re married 65 years.
We lived in Wymondham from 1967-1974 and my sister was born at home at Norwich Common. My parents were very involved in Wymondham Methodist Church - Dad was a local preacher and Mum directed kids shows and plays. Mum also ran the over 60's choir.
This year they are celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary with family and friends and raising money for CRUK.
Dad has survived a stroke, cancer and a broken femur and is now 93 and still going strong. Mum is 86 and still running a choir inspired by her choir in Wymondham. They are both from Norfolk - Dad was born in Norwich, his Dad worked for Colman's and his Mum was a housewife to Dad and his 3 sisters. Mum has happy memories of her parents running a hotel in Hunstanton during the war, where she enjoyed a happy and fun life by the sea with her brother Richard. Sadly Richard died at the age of 26 from cancer.
I was born in St. Faith's in 1964 and Ruth was born in Wymondham in 1967. Mum took a break from teaching for 10 years while she was bringing us up. Dad spent some time in the RAF and he and Mum were penfriends for a time before they became boyfriend and girlfriend. They used to cycle to meet up in the early days; apparently when they had their first kiss, Dad cycled completely the wrong way home!
Ruth and I had a happy childhood with music, horse riding, tap and ballet and church activities - there were summer activities including having a dingy on the river, swimming and picnic, as well as camping holidays.
Mum and Dad loved travelling and between them have visited China, America, France, Italy, Switzerland, Hungary and Sweden. Dad loved picture framing, art, preaching in church, reading and "learning something new every day". Mum loved classical music and played the piano, and trumpet. She completed her Open University degree in her 50's as well as Grade 6 on the trumpet. She has used her musical, counselling and organisation skills to inspire and encourage numerous students and adults.
She worked at Thetford Grammar School for over 40 years until she was 80!
So what’s the secret to a successful marriage? They believe: respect, patience, encouragement, their Christian faith, and lots of love and gratitude.
Got a gorgeous dog to show off?
Now you can - at Norfolk’s Charity Fun Dog Show on Saturday 12th Sep
Wymondhammers with gorgeous dogs can now take them for a summer day out at Centre Paws Norfolk.
It is a doggy fun-filled day of stalls, activities, and in-person classes - with completely free entry, free car parking, and only £2 per class, per dog. The classes are open to all breeds, all ages, and all abilities.
There is a show dedicated to pedigree dogs, perfect for both beginners and experienced exhibitors. And there are competitions, ranging from handsomest dog, prettiest bitch, waggiest tale, and many more!
And the best part is - it’s all raising money for the Rottweiler Welfare Association. For further information, call 07941 676332 or email treasurer@rottweilerwelfare.co.uk.
(Please note: XL Bullies unfortunately cannot attend as Rottweiler Welfare’s insurance policy does not cover this breed or any other banned breed.)
Abseiling cancer fundraiser to take place at the Forum
Have you known a close friend or loved one affected by cancer? Are you looking for a new challenge? Are you an adrenaline junkie who is brilliant at abseiling - or has always fancied trying it?
If the answer to any of those is ‘yes’, Star Throwers would love you to join their abseiling event at the Forum, shown here.
It is taking place on Sunday 18th October 2026, and is a perfect opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and feel alive. Standing at the top of the Forum, you will enjoy spectacular views across the city before making your descent to Millennium Plain.
And the best part is - every pound you raise will go towards Star Throwers’ cancer support services. These include specialist nurse appointments for those affected by cancer, counselling, complementary therapies, support groups, and other wellbeing services.
Worried about being a beginner? No previous experience is required! Experienced instructors will be on-hand to guide you every step of the way.
For more information, ring 01953 423304, or visit the Star Throwers website.
Methodist Church toddler group restarts on Sep 7th
And refreshments are provided for the kids and adults
Wymondham Methodist Parent/Carer Toddler Group restarts on Monday, September 7th.
We meet every Monday during term time, from 9:30-11am.
The group started in April 2026 for parents/carers to bring their children to share in our wonderful, friendly environment, which is held at the Town Green Centre (at Wymondham Methodist Church.)
Our aim is to provide a great session for pre-school children in Wymondham. Lots of lovely toys, free play - everything from jigsaws and books to role play, toys, fun activities, story-time and singing. We provide a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment where children can gain confidence and make friends, and parents and carers can meet.
With the suggested donation of £1 per child each week, this is a new low-cost space in the centre of town for those with pre-school children to have fun every Monday.
Free refreshments are provided for all.
Parking can be found at a pay-and-display behind the Feathers Public House - a five-minute walk away.
We look forward to seeing you.
Local schoolchildren’s handmade tribute to Bayeux Tapestry on display at Heritage Museum
The Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the Battle of Hastings in 1066, has arrived at the British Museum. It goes on view on September 10th. Already there is a scramble for tickets to see the world-famous 70-metre-long tapestry, which has not been seen in England since its creation in the 11th century.
If you’re not lucky enough to get tickets to the British Museum, then come along to Wymondham Heritage Museum. Here you can view an imaginative and colourful locally-made tapestry. It may not be as big or as old as the Bayeux Tapestry, but it does evocatively depict conflict – and there won’t be a queue to get in.
In 1984, Julie Oatridge (then Julie Hunt) was a teacher at Robert Kett Middle School. She was inspired to make a Tapestry with her schoolchildren, aged 11-12, based on the Operation Overlord Embroidery on display at the Portsmouth D-Day Museum. The Overlord Embroidery is an 83-metre-long hand-stitched tapestry depicting the D-Day landings and the Battle of Normandy, and was itself inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry.
A friend went on Julie’s behalf to view the Overlord Embroidery and, with the help of a local seamstress, she designed her quilted World War Two tapestry banner.
Along with her young stitchers, she produced a banner consisting of 12 panels illustrating various aspects of the 1939-45 conflict. They include Evacuation, The Blitz, Aftermath of a Raid, Women at War, Dunkirk, Battle of Britain, Pearl Harbour, D-Day and VE Day.
The tapestry is around five metres in length and is displayed as a frieze in the corridor just off the museum’s reception. It complements the wartime display Echoes of Valour.
And in other news - some tables have been turned…
They were old, and some of them wobbled. But now the Bridewell Tearoom has been refurbished with a fresh set of tables. And it’s all thanks to Wymondham Garden Centre.
Tearoom manager Helen Munday said, “Quite a few of them were wobbly and when people lent on them drinks would get spilt. We tried to fix them, but nothing worked. So when the Garden Centre said they were going to have a refit, we asked if we could have some and they kindly donated them to us.”
So, now when you come to the museum for your cuppa and slice of homemade cake, you’re guaranteed a stable table.
The generosity of Wymondham Garden Centre in gifting the tables was reflected in the reaction to the museum's announcement of the acquisition on its Facebook page. The posts quickly amassed more than 500 likes, with many people commenting how good it was to see such community spirit.
Greening Wymondham to host 10-year anniversary at Rothbury Park
It scarcely seems possible that Greening Wymondham has reached our 10th anniversary this year. Ten years ago, we had not started work on the Browick Community Orchard or Friarscroft Wood. Ketts Park Wood was a wet path through a gloomy overgrown plantation, and Rothbury Park was just an area of mown grass, often muddy in winter. Now they are transformed. We have distributed hundreds of tree saplings to all Year 6 pupils in the Town’s primary schools, and organised regular litter picks.
We could not have achieved this without support from the Town Council and South Norfolk Council, funding from local businesses and other groups, and of course the work of a host of unpaid volunteers who turn out in all weathers to help improve the appearance of our town and its green spaces.
We are planning to celebrate our anniversary with an event at Rothbury Park and Community Hall on Saturday 19th September from 3pm to dusk. There will be a tour of the Park, refreshments, and entertainment, and everyone is welcome. We will be launching our latest project, the Tree Trail: a tour through the town identifying important trees, with an explanatory leaflet. This follows our regular litter pick on that day, starting at 10 am at the Baptist Church in Queen Street.
Rothbury Park continues to attract new users. Over the summer, the RSPB Wymondham Wildlife Explorers have used the park to research the bugs, birds and plants in the area. The council has also just received the results of a baseline survey of the Park's wild plants: 62 species were identified by Norfolk Wildlife Trust. The section we're hoping to encourage as a wildflower lawn was deemed especially rich in plants, including the noteworthy Burnet Saxifrage. It has been quite a task keeping the new ornamental planting and the trees going during the summer - passersby will be used to seeing Greening Wymondham in the park of an evening getting water to trees and plants. This month the first of our autumn volunteer mornings starts - on Saturday 5th, from 10 to 12am – so please come and help us weed, trim, and - undoubtedly - water! Later on in the year there'll be more planting to add to all the beds.
Friarscroft Wood has also suffered from drought, with its pond down to a few muddy puddles. Springs and a few scrapes have helped us keep the new trees and hedging watered, and we're hoping to build a rainwater catchment system over the winter - though nothing quite so majestic as the one at Browick Orchard. All we need now is rain!
Wymondham’s Moot Hill to open for Heritage Open Days
It has been a busy and exciting first nine months since Norfolk Archaeological Trust (NAT) took ownership of Moot Hill and began its long-term project to conserve the site. And now, on Thursday 17th September and Sunday 20th September, Moot Hill will be opening to the public for the first time as part of Heritage Open Days. Whether you are interested in archaeology, local history, conservation, or the future of Norfolk's heritage, this is a unique chance to gain insight into a remarkable site to ensure its survival for generations to come.
Moot Hill is an ancient monument on the Heritage at Risk register. Thanks to the generosity of an individual donor, NAT was able to acquire this exceptional archaeological site.
Alongside the consultation events and survey, NAT gave a well-attended talk at Wymondham Bridewell WI, sharing the story of the Trust and what is currently known about Moot Hill. A small grant through South Norfolk Councillor Ward funding will also support a creative Minecraft project for young people, inviting students to visit the site and digitally recreate how they imagine it may once have looked. NAT has also secured Love Norfolk funding to run two nature photography workshops at Moot Hill, and a “Support Your Site” scheme has also been introduced where people can directly contribute to the conservation with a regular monthly donation.
Work is now underway to create new routes and pathways, with the aim of opening initial circular paths around the edge of the monument in September/October 2026. These paths will use natural materials, including woodchip and dead hedging, giving people initial access to part of the site. We understand that some visitors may be disappointed that the centre of the monument will not be open at this stage, but further research and careful planning are needed before this sensitive part of the site can be safely accessed.
These open days to see our handiwork so far are bookable events, and free tickets can be obtained here https://norfolkhods.ticketsolve.com/ until 15th September.
Local groups and charities can sign up for a display at ‘Good Stuff’ fair
This is a shout-out to any community group, charity or facility that would like to show Wymondham what they’re about, what they’re like and what they do. And to anyone in Wymondham who’d like to find out!
We have a fair coming up, and you can be part of it. The event’s called “The Good Stuff!” and will take place in the main room at Central Hall on Saturday 3rd October from 0900-1700 (stallholders) and 1000-1600 (visitors). It’s £10 a table, free to the public and there’ll be refreshments and a raffle.
It’s being organised by Greening Wymondham, with support from Wymondham Town Council.
“I know a lot of groups who’ve been thinking about this,” says Greening Wymondham’s Jay Andrews.
“But what really kicked us into organising it was one of our volunteers. He said he and his family had lived in Wymondham for ages, and had heard about various groups. But he wanted to know more about them than he could find out online.”
“So this is our chance to offer the people of Wymondham that one-stop shop!”
For more details and a booking form, email greening.wymondham@gmail.com with the heading “Good Stuff”.
Garden Club’s recommendation for a day out: Henstead Exotic Gardens
Following our recent annual general meeting, we are delighted to announce the Club’s new chair-elect: Dr Christine Buckton.
She is well-known to many in Wymondham for her volunteer work with the Friends of Wymondham Abbey, association with the Wymondham Nature Group, and of course, her long service – until retiring – as a medical practitioner in South Norfolk.
In other news, Henstead Exotic Garden was this year’s destination for our summer outing for club members. Situated a few miles from Beccles, this garden is one of Suffolk’s best-kept secrets. Started from nothing 20 years ago, it’s a garden with exotic plants, all of which thrive in East Anglian soil.
Andrew Brogan, the very amiable owner and designer of the garden, gave us a personal tour. There are varieties of giant bamboo, rare giant magnolias and strawberry trees, and exotics such as Canna plants with striking, almost flame-like coloured flowers.
(How long does a bamboo cane take to grow to 30 ft, Andrew asked us? All our answers were wide of the mark - it takes a month!)
Plus, of course, there was tea and cake! The club would thoroughly recommend visiting Henstead Exotic Garden.
Meanwhile, as I write, club members continue to enjoy the summer – though as gardeners, we’d rather like a little bit of rain! So, we suspect, would the farmers, Anglian water and most other residents of Wymondham!
Our next meeting is Monday 21st September. See the magazine’s ‘What’s On’ section for details.
Rotary Club’s Summer of Service, Fellowship and Fresh Ideas
July and August have been energetic months for Wymondham Rotary, filled with community spirit, good conversations, and plenty of reminders that Rotary’s work goes far beyond raising money.
Jazz Picnic Success
Our Jazz Picnic had perfect weather and an excellent turnout. The relaxed atmosphere and mix of families, friends and newcomers, as well as the wonderful live jazz, created a truly memorable afternoon. Funds were raised, of course, and special thanks go to our sponsors, Spire Solicitors. But the real achievement was bringing people together.
Thought-provoking speakers
July also brought us two excellent speakers. Willem Buttinger explored the fast?changing world of social media and artificial intelligence, sparking lively discussion about how these technologies shape our lives. Geoff Stevens shared inspiring stories from Pathways Care Farm, which supports people living with mental health challenges, learning difficulties and dementia.
Continuing local work
Behind the scenes, we’ve been planning autumn activities, supporting local organisations, and exploring new opportunities for community service. Rotary clubs worldwide also continue to support major international projects, including efforts to combat malaria — a focus highlighted in the latest Rotary Magazine.
As autumn approaches, we look forward to new speakers, new initiatives and continuing our commitment to service. Whether it’s supporting local causes, learning from inspiring guests or simply enjoying fellowship, Wymondham Rotary remains dedicated to making a positive difference.
The Lowe Down: the Norfolk Libraries Pride feud is a pointless culture war
Social media has been in uproar about a decision by Norfolk County Council to remove Pride displays from the county’s libraries.
It all started when the council, now led by Reform UK, revealed that it had banned political messaging and displays – including Pride displays – from the county’s 47 libraries. The story got out, and as you can imagine, the reaction was swift. Critics of this decision included two well-known Wymondham names.
Ben Goldsborough, MP for South Norfolk (including Wymondham), put out a Facebook statement condemning the guidance as ‘shameful, divisive, and deeply damaging’. Then Wymondham councillor Suzanne Nuri-Nixon wrote the following as a comment on Goldsborough’s post:
‘Thin end of the wedge. Today LGBT+ communities. Next book banning? Book burning? Other minorities being targeted? Elected representatives are meant to serve all sections of the community not discriminate. Reform are not your friends and are not the answer.’
Goldsborough responded to this by saying, ‘if only I could give you a million likes for this!’
Certainly, if it were a choice between Reform UK or Ben Goldsborough, I would choose Goldsborough every time. At the time of writing, a Reform councillor is being investigated for a grossly offensive tweet about Nigerians, their policies are questionable (to put it mildly), and their leader is standing in a by-election against a talking bin. Goldsborough, on the other hand, is a dedicated MP whose compassion and decency I can personally vouch for, having met him twice. And I will admit that part of me does have reservations about the council’s decision. If you are looking for books on LGBT topics, especially if it’s topical (like during Pride Month), it seems legitimate to have a display dedicated to that topic in the same way you’d have a Christmas display or a History section. To clamp down on this does feel like an unnecessary restriction on curatorial freedom.
You could also argue that the decision is mean-spirited, if nothing else. I’ve been in bookshops with Pride flags flown outside, and it is always done with good intentions. People fly it to signal their support of gay people, so again, one understands why the decision feels harsh to some.
But this decision does not justify the alarmism. This is not the ‘thin end of the wedge’ towards book burning. At all. (Indeed, if people are worried about book burning, a memorable instance from recent years was when trans rights activists took to social media to burn copies of J.K. Rowling’s books. This always struck me as completely stupid because it suggests that queer activism is violent and intolerant, arguably doing far more damage to the cause than the removal of a flag.)
At the time of writing, no news report has said that the books themselves have been banned from libraries. Nor have gay people been banned – that would justify the online outcry (and it would be illegal). Gay people can still walk into libraries and read gay books and are legally and socially entitled to do so without justifying themselves. As it should be in any free country. This decision doesn’t change any of that.
Another commentator (outside Wymondham) said that removing Pride displays ‘sends a message that certain people aren’t welcome in public spaces’ – of course it doesn’t. I don’t need a flag to give me permission to enter a library, and nor do most of the gay people that I know. This well-intentioned outcry imposes a victimhood mentality on people: that no one can possibly enter public spaces unless a flag signalling their legal rights is flown outside. That is ludicrous. It underestimates people’s resilience. Believe me – nothing stops me entering a library if a book I want is inside.
Additionally, there are good-faith reasons for agreeing with the decision (remember: they did not exclusively ban Pride displays, but displays of any political nature). In an ideal world, Pride would be an apolitical symbol for gay acceptance, but unfortunately today that is not the case. For many people, Pride today has become a symbol of bullying, ostracism, and political ideas far more contestable than support for gay rights. See the Jo Phoenix tribunal, for instance, where a female academic (Dr Phoenix) was unlawfully harassed, discriminated against, called transphobic and compared to a ‘racist uncle’ for her gender-critical views. I have been in Pride-positive spaces where people talk about gender-critical perspectives as if they are Nazi-adjacent, when in reality they are perfectly lawful and often (ironically) espoused by gay people, including Phoenix who is herself a lesbian.
Bottom line: Pride these days is not apolitical. It has become political for its contestable ideas and reputation for toxic harassment of opposing opinions (there are countless similar cases). In this context, you could argue that a publicly funded and politically neutral library shouldn’t have a Pride flag displayed any more than it should have flags bearing ‘Vote Farage’ or ‘Vote Trump’.
My aim here is not to privilege either view – the point is, this is not a Stasi-like suppression of gay people. It is a dispute with plausible justifications on both sides, and one that in any case does not adversely affect anyone’s ability to participate in public life. The day Reform UK ban gay literature from these spaces, or the day they illegally prevent gay people from entering, that is the day I’ll be marching with Goldsborough.
Until then, I’ll be in the library.
Holidays can hit harder for the bereaved, but you’re not alone, says Rosedale
As I write, the school summer holidays have just begun. For those who are bereaved, holidays may feel very different, especially when a partner has died.
When someone dies, there are many losses. The Primary loss is the death of the person themselves, but there are also many other Secondary losses. The types of losses felt will vary, depending on the relationship with that person. For example, when a close parent dies, the adult child may feel they have lost their best friend, advisor, mentor or shoulder to cry on in a crisis.
When a partner dies, it is often the practical everyday losses that hit the hardest, due to constant everyday reminders. That person may have played many different roles in the relationship, such as cook, cleaner, gardener, etc. Suddenly being responsible for all household tasks can feel extremely overwhelming.
Where there are children to care for, this now becomes the sole responsibility of the surviving parent, which can be a heavy burden to bear.
Many bereaved people say the biggest loss is often companionship: someone to watch TV with, talk about the day over dinner or go on holiday with. It is often the simple things we miss, such as making plans together, deciding what to eat for the week ahead or even just being together in companionable silence.
Though we can never replace that special person and the roles they played in our life, it can be helpful to think about who else could help to fill some of the gaps left behind. Perhaps there is a single friend who would also like to go on holiday or for a day trip? When a family member offers help with odd jobs or gardening, take them up on their offer. If you belong to a supportive church, friendship circle or community group, accept those invitations for coffee or lunch or maybe initiate an invitation yourself. Maybe contact an old friend you haven’t seen in a while and suggest a meet-up. Helping and supporting others can also provide purpose and ease the loneliness and isolation of grief.
It may feel difficult at first, but strengthening and developing our existing networks and building new ones can provide emotional support, practical help, companionship and connection.
When we have lost someone who brought so much to our life, connecting with others in a meaningful way can help to ease the burden of grief.
If you would like to join one of our bereavement groups in your area, visit rosedalefuneralhome.co.uk or call 01379 640 810 for more information. All groups are free and confidential.
Around Wymondham in 80 Dishes: Town Green Garden Café
Tuesday August 18th, and finally, we have cooler temperatures! To top it off, we have had an all-night steady rain. This makes us feel like going out, and we end up at The Town Green Garden Café. We’ve been there before but not for several months. Alex and I sat outside at about ten o’clock.
There were already three people sitting outside, two of whom we knew. The café is managed by Rachael Brown. She and her husband Timothy reopened the Restaurant in 2021. The address, for those of you who haven’t been yet, is 3A Town Green, NR18 0PN (across from the Baptist Church) and next to the Antique shop.
Indoors, there is plenty of seating area. There is a long bench area, with tables and chairs in front. In the back corner to the left of the door to the back exit, there is an inviting group of cushioned armchairs, perfect for four or five to visit. This is next to the open door, and today, there is a lovely cool breeze filtering through. And outdoors at the back, there is seating for about twenty. There is lots of greenery and large umbrellas for shade. Dogs are welcome. On the path in front of the café, there is more seating for at least six, maybe more. What sets this space apart from other outdoor seating areas is the cushions! And on wooden chairs, this makes a difference.
Today, Alex ordered a bacon Panini and a Latte. I enjoyed an iced latte and shared Alex’s bacon sandwich. Alex also shared some bits of bacon with the friendly, well-behaved dog that was sitting under our neighbouring table. The Café had several items in the display case: quiche, brownies, cakes, scones. The gentleman sitting next to us raved about the cheese scones, one of his favourites. Their menu also included several choices for breakfast and sandwiches, hot or cold.
They serve breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Lunch service starts at 12:15. There is a cutoff time for cooked food at two o’clock. But still, lots of choices for ready-prepared treats.
One thing that sets this café apart is that it doesn't take payment until after you’ve eaten, unlike some others that take payment upon ordering. They also take reservations and cater for group events. They are wheelchair-accessible and have highchairs available. They have had fifty-six reviews, and all of those were rated excellent for service, food, value, and atmosphere. I cannot argue with that. We enjoyed friendly, quick service, and the atmosphere was welcoming.
It seems like this is a popular place to meet up, especially for people who are alone. This is one of the roomier cafes in town. Like the program ‘Cheers’, you want to go where everyone knows your name.
There are parking spaces out front, not many, but a short walk around the corner you may find more parking. Failing that, there is the car park down the street behind Feathers pub. Now, if you are fortunate and fit, the café is a short walk from the bus stop in front of the Co-op.
New basketball facility available now thanks to local residents
Young people in South Wymondham are enjoying a new community basketball facility made possible through a successful partnership between local residents, South Norfolk Council, businesses and community organisations.
The permanent outdoor basketball hoops have been installed within an existing sports area in South Wymondham owned by Saffron Housing, creating a free and accessible space for people of all ages to get active, socialise and enjoy sport close to home.
The project, led by South Wymondham Youth Basketball, received more than £1,500 from South Norfolk Council’s Community Action Fund (CAF), as well as support through the Council’s Go For It grant scheme. Additional funding came from a £200 grant from Saffron Housing, a fundraiser held by Wymondham High Academy’s Performing Arts Department, and other local fundraising activities and donations.
Local District Councillor Carmina McConnell played a key role in helping the project secure funding and also contributed £400 through her ward grant, helping turn a community aspiration into reality.
Councillor McConnell said: "It's fantastic to see this project become a reality. These new hoops provide a free, accessible space where young people can be active, spend time with friends and build confidence through sport. In the Silfield area of South Wymondham, facilities like this are really needed, so it's wonderful to see the community come together to make it happen.
"This has been a real team effort, with residents, volunteers, businesses and the Council all playing their part. I'm proud to have supported a project that will benefit local people for many years to come."
Spearheading the project was local parent, basketball coach and Wymondham High Academy teacher Sue Gilmour, who said:
“Until now, apart from the excellent playgrounds for younger children, there was very little local provision for older children and teenagers to meet friends, be active and enjoy sport close to home. It's been fantastic to see the hoops being used almost immediately after they were installed. That's exactly what we hoped for.
“Basketball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the community and in Norfolk. These courts provide an inclusive, accessible space where young people can develop skills, stay active, build friendships and simply have fun. We hope they'll become a real focal point for the community and encourage even more young people to get outdoors and enjoy being active.
South Norfolk Council's Community Action Fund supports community-led projects that improve quality of life, bring people together and help create stronger, more vibrant communities. For more information about the Community Action Fund, Member Ward Funding or Go For It grants, please visit the Council’s website.
Rugby Club Adds Floodlights After Years of Fundraising
Later kick-offs in winter and night-time training will now be possible on the main pitch at Wymondham Rugby Club thanks to a new set of floodlights installed in August.
Project Light Up Barnard Fields has come to fruition after months of planning and fundraising. Wymondham RFC celebrated on Facebook:
‘This has been a huge project for Wymondham Rugby Club and one that will make a lasting difference to rugby at Barnard Fields for years to come.
‘From the very beginning, this was a real club and community effort.
‘A massive THANK YOU to every single person who donated, sponsored, walked, ran, fundraised, supported an event or simply helped spread the word. Every contribution helped us reach our target and turn this project from an ambition into reality.
‘We must also give a huge thank you to Sport England for their incredible support through a £15,000 grant, which played a major part in helping us get the project over the line.
‘And, of course, thank you to Christy Floodlighting Limited and K Beales Plant Hire and Contracting LTD for their work in bringing the project to life.'
Saturday 5th September
Rothhbury Gardens Volunteer Day
10am-12pm, 
Rothbury Park
Join volunteers to help care for plants in this newly refurbished park. Bring a pair of gloves and a trowel/spade.
greeningwymondham.org
Monday 7th September
Free Senior Citizen Cookery Course 10am-1pm, Abbey Schoolrooms
Caroline Blake and Sara Mathews will lead
you step-by-step through preparing meals and desserts tailored to sustaining health in later life. Book via Julie@clearcompany.org.uk or 07753 822050
clearcompany.org.uk/tlns
Tuesday 8th September
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Post processing night looking at different ways of processing images.
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Saturday 12th September
Valuation Day 10am-3pm, Williams and Parfitt
Whether it’s a family heirloom, a forgotten treasure or a recent find, bring it along. For larger items, please bring clear photographs rather than the item itself.
williamsandparfitt.co.uk
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
Addams Family Murder Mystery Dinner 6pm-10:30pm, Barnham Broom Hotel
They're creepy, and they're kooky, mysterious and spooky, they're all together ooky….
Get ready to solve a spooky murder mystery with the Addams Family in this interactive event at Barnham Broom, full of twists and turns. Put on your detective hat and solve this thrilling murder mystery while enjoying delicious food and drinks.
barnhambroom-events.giftpro.co.uk/events/addams-family-murder-mystery
Tuesday 15th September
Volunteer Workday 9:30am-12:30pm, Friarscroft Wood
Meet by Windmill Surgery. Refreshments at 11:00am. Bring yourself, a pair of gloves & sturdy boots.
greeningwymondham.org
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Cumulative projected image competition, Round 1.
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Thursday 17th September
Moot Hill Open Day 3pm-7pm, Kett's Park Woodland
Free tours of this historically significant site by Norfolk Archaeological Trust running every 30 minutes as part of Heritage Open Days. Prebooking required online.
norfolkhods.ticketsolve.com
Saturday 19th September
Litter Pick 10am, Baptist Church Queen St
Join volunteers to help tidy up the town. Bring yourself & a pair of gloves. Refreshments afterwards inside the church.
greeningwymondham.org
Greening Wymondham 10th Anniversary 3pm-7pm, Rothbury Park
An anniversary gathering with fun for all
greeningwymondham.org
Sunday 20th September
Moot Hill Open Day 11am-3pm, Kett's Park Woodland
Free tours of this historically significant site by Norfolk Archaeological Trust running every 30 minutes as part of Heritage Open Days. Prebooking required online.
norfolkhods.ticketsolve.com
Monday 21st September
Garden Club Meeting & Talk 7:15pm, Town Green Centre
“Inspirational Planting using permaculture & methodology”
Talk with Gabrielle Reid who is an artisan florist & runs Gabriel’s garden in Gissing. A cutting garden also producing Herbs, fruit & grasses.
Title sounds a bit daunting? - it’s really about how to grow beautiful flowers using sustainable ways. Doors open from 7.10pm, talk begins ~7.30pm. Members Free, Guests £4.
For further information contact wymondhamgardenclub@gmail.com
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077254060337
Tuesday 22nd September
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Studio Night - Different studio techniques with a model. Bring your camera
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Thursday 24th September
Heritage Society Talk: Soggy Saints and Pink Wafers 7:30pm, Fairland Hall
Join Wymondham Heritage Society for a talk by Rebecca Pinner from the UEA. Free for members - visitors £2. New members can join at a meeting or online via the heritage museum website.
wymondhamheritagemuseum.co.uk/?p=programme
Saturday 26th September
Community Orchard Volunteer Workday 10am-12pm, Browick Road Orchard
Refreshments and tools provided but bring your own gloves. Entrance opposite Gunton Road NR18 0QN or Ayton Road Car Park.
greeningwymondham.org
Tuesday 29th September
Volunteer Workday 9:30am-12:30pm, Friarscroft Wood
Meet by Windmill Surgery. Refreshments at 11:00am. Bring yourself, a pair of gloves & sturdy boots.
greeningwymondham.org
Wymondham Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Continuous improvement night looking at different camera craft skills.
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Tuesday 6th October
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
Sports photography. A talk by club member Gavin Bickerton-Jones
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Wednesday 7th October
Art Society Demo by Vanessa Whinney 7pm, Catholic Church Hall
Vanessa is going to present an illustrated talk on the fascinating life and work of her late father, the celebrated architect and watercolour artist James Fletcher-Watson [1913 – 2004] who was influenced by the Norfolk School of painters and exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy, as well as being the author of several books on watercolour techniques.
wymondhamart.org
Saturday 10th 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
Monday 12th October
Free Senior Citizen Cookery Course 10am-1pm, Abbey Schoolrooms
Caroline Blake and Sara Mathews will lead
you step-by-step through preparing meals and desserts tailored to sustaining health in later life. Book via Julie@clearcompany.org.uk or 07753 822050
clearcompany.org.uk/tlns
Tuesday 13th 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
PDI Tryptych competition. Members produce panels of 3 images. A panel of members will judge.
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Tuesday 20th October
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
International Tripod Competition against Pikes Peak (US) and Adelaide (AUS)
wymondham-ps.org.uk
Thursday 22nd October
Talk: Norfolk Archaeological Trust 7:30pm, Fairland Hall
Join Wymondham Heritage Society for this fascinating presentation by Fran Young. Free for members - visitors £2. New members can join at a meeting or online via the heritage museum website.
wymondhamheritagemuseum.co.uk/?p=programme
Tuesday 27th October
Photographic Society 7:30pm-9:30pm, Dells Bowls Club
ZOOM talk by Aleka Gjika: In search of "Je ne sais quoi"
wymondham-ps.org.uk
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