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St Mary’s Notices – 7th March 2016

St Mary’s Notices – 7th March 2016

Issued on 7th March 2016 this lists notices, dates, services and other events for the upcoming fortnight.

Christian Events in Colchester

As advertised in more detail in the previous news update:

  • Production of ‘Amazing Grace’ by Oddments Theatre Company at Christ Church, Colchester 7.30pm on Friday 11th March, tickets from tel: 542307.
  • Good Friday at the Mercury Theatre – Hope Undefeated – 25 March @ 7.30pm – free admission.

Messy ChurchMessy Church

Our next Messy Church is this Sunday @ 9.30am when the theme will be the events leading up to Easter. There will be something for all ages so everyone is welcome. Don’t forget the pre-Messy Church prayer meeting on Thursday @ 7pm in church.

Other Diary Dates

All the following are at St Mary’s, West Bergholt unless otherwise stated:

  • Tues 8 March – 11am Village Communion at St Mary’s
  • Tues 8 March – Lent Group – refreshments at 8pm and end at 9.30pm. This year’s theme is personal prayer.
  • Weds 9 March – 11.45am Funeral for Don Turner
  • Thurs 10 March – 9am Coffee morning;
  • Thurs 10 March – Messy Church Prayer meeting @ 7pm
  • Sun 13 March – 9.30am Messy Church; 4.30pm Evening Prayer
  • Sun 13 March – 9.30am Communion, St Peter’s, Boxted;
  • Sun 13 March – 11.15am Communion, All Saints’, Gt Horkesley;
  • Sun 13 March – 6pm Storytime Club @ New Village Hall, Gt Horkesley
  • Tues 15 March – Lent Group – refreshments at 8pm and end at 9.30pm. This year’s theme is personal prayer.
  • Thurs 17 March – 9am coffee morning; 2.30pm 5T’s
  • Sun 20 March – 11.15am Palm Sunday Communion Service
  • Sun 20 March – 8am said Communion
  • Sun 20 March – 9.30am Sung Communion, St Mary’s, Langham;
  • Sun 20 March – 11.15am Palm Sunday Praise Service, St John’s, Gt Horkesley;
  • Sun 20 March – 4.30pm Evensong, St Peter’s, Boxted.
  • Maundy Thursday – 24 March – 8pm Fellowship Meal at St John’s, Great Horkesley
  • Good Friday – 25 March – 10am service at St Mary’s, West Bergholt
  • Easter Sunday – 27 March – 9.30am Communion, St Mary’s, West Bergholt
  • Sat 16 April – training day at West Bergholt on prayer & healing ministry
  • Annual Parochial Church Meeting – Sun 17 April after 11.15am Communion
  • Senior Citizen’s Lunch – Sat 23 April

Women’s World Day of Prayer – Friday 4 March @ 4pm at St Mary’s

Thank you to Kate Penrose and Judith Fletcher for organising this years’ service and to all who baked cakes and served refreshments for the afternoon team beforehand. It was a lovely service and very well attended.

BibleSunday  Bible Readings

  • Sun 13 March – John 12:1-8 – A woman anoints Jesus with perfume.
  • Sun 20 March – Luke 19:28-44 – the events of Palm Sunday.

 

 

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Premises & Recreation – 1st February 2016

The Premises & Recreation Sub-Committee of West Bergholt Parish Council met on 1st February when, among other items, they discussed Orpen Hall, Health & Safety, budget, storage, football clubs, licences and toilets.

Premises & Recreation Minutes

Sub-committee meeting held on Monday 1st February 2016 in the John Lampon Hall

Councillors present Brian Butcher (Chair), Murray Harlow (Vice chair), Jenny Church, Rosemary James, Bob Tyrrell.
Apologies Harry Stone

Also in attendance Victoria Beckwith-Cole (Hall Administrator)

2.

Matters from Last Meeting
2.1 Orpen Hall Signage
Work in progress, will update at next meeting. BT
2.2 Health and Safety Questionnaire
This has now been completed with the exception of obtaining a copy of the Asbestos Report – Parish Clerk to look further and to contact previous Parish Clerk to where the Report maybe located. LW
BB/VBC will organise unannounced fire drills throughout the year. BB/VBC
BB asked about fire extinguisher training – VBC confirmed that she has undertaken this in another employment. As Bluebells are the main users of the Hall – VBC to ask if their staff know how to use extinguishers. VBC
At this point reference was made to the chair clips (Panto Orpen Players) – that they were not functioning properly – VBC pointed out the correct positioning of the clips and confirmed that she will meet with the Orpen Players Friday night to show the Front of House the correct way positioning them.  We discussed the Orpen Players smoking, “instructing” Zoe etc, and agreed we would meet them to discuss. VBC

3.

Clerks & Administrator’s Report
3.1 Bar Licence and Dance/Music Licence – LW has sent off PPL and PRS paperwork.  Bar Licence: LW to check with Social Club. LW
3.2 Additional Bin Hire – This will only need to be considered when the CSH implement their “weighing payment” method. However, currently it will work out cheaper to have a 360l wheelie bin for glass and cans. LW
3.3 JL Hall Toilet/Boiler – VBC updated that the plumber had to come out and deal with a leak in one of the toilets (replacement ball valve) and a leak on the boiler.
3.4 Job Role of Hall Admin – H&S – VBC reported that all points are covered within her role at present apart from “ensuring a fire risk assessment is maintained”. VBC to implement this. VBC
3.5 Draft T&C for one-off hirers – in progress will update at next meeting. VBC
3.6 West Bergholt Website – has been updated with up to date information especially with making contact details more prominent – will be checked periodically.

4.

Cleaning
No further comments – this item can now be taken off the Agenda.

5.

West Bergholt Football Club – grass cutting Lorkin Daniell Field
Signed off – this item can now be taken off the Agenda

6.

Bergholt Heath Youth Football Club – Saturday morning training proposal
Prior to meeting CS sent the Committee correspondence regarding this.  The Committee were to talk through the “Action Points” – As the first point was of utmost importance, this was discussed and agreed in principal that BHYFC could use the Orpen Hall disabled toilet – this was on the proviso that they agreed and signed the T&C which VBC will draft and send to BB for approval. VBC
The other action points will be followed up as and when necessary. ALL

7.

Refurbishment of Orpen Hall Toilets
A discussion ensued about the layout whether to draw up as per plans or to refurbish what we have. It was agreed to go with existing plans but with option that “cosmetic changes” be made once tendered. Bluebells would like to have at least one lower basin for handwashing but its need was not agreed. BB has been in dialogue with three designers and is nearing obtaining quotes for this work. BB

8.

Storage Units
Measurements of the storage units have been done and concluded that there is not enough storage.  Various options to increase storage in the future were proposed, when funding is available. One being building another garage onto the existing two garages towards the football club.  Two, where the CSH bin is located to have a unit to house the rubbish, salt, equipment needed for the handyman, etc.  MH suggested racking out the current garages to optimise the space would help.  MH to speak with the Orpen Players, BYG and Bluebells who currently rent them and come up with drawings and costings for next meeting for the Committee to consider. MH

9.

Terms of Reference
BB forwarded to CS – this item can now be taken of the Agenda.

10.

Budget for next year
2016/2017 fees were approved at the Parish Council meeting. VBC to advise regular hirers of increases. VBC

11.

AOB
BB listed out various light bulbs not working and VBC will get these replaced VBC

12.

Date of next meeting

7th March 2016 – 7.30pm John Lampon Hall
(Brian Butcher offered apologies in advance)
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Environment & Highways – 11th February 2016

The Environment & Highways  Sub-Committee of West Bergholt Parish Council met on 11th February 2016 and discussed a range of issues including litter & rubbish, hedge cutting, considerate parking, traffic safety, handymen, gardening equipment etc…

Environment & Highways Report

Sub-committee Meeting held on Thursday 11th February 2016 in Main Hall

Sub-committee members present John Gili Ross, Harry Stone, Jenny Church, Murray Harlow, Rosemary James, Phil Spencer, David Short
Apologies

 

1

Clerks Report
a)   Upturned soil left in wake of new water pipe across Heath to school. Concerns about sinkage. Following a letter from Chris to Atkins Global he was informed it was Anglian Water who did not fill the hole. He has sent them an email. We are awaiting a reply from them. LW
b)   Armoury Road – clearing of rubbish etc has been completed here.
c)    Hedge cutting at Chapel Road substation has been carried out. The cutting back required for laurel hedging along Colchester Road opposite village sign and roundabout is awaited. Laura will monitor this situation. LW
d)   A litter pick was carried out as “litter Warriors”, organised by Laura, on 6th February. Not many volunteers but a deal of litter was cleared. Other areas identified as a problem. The next date for “Litter Warriors” is on Saturday 5th March- volunteers required. LW
e)   Queen’s Road pond – litter here needs clearing. The Duck house has moved from its mooring and will need attention in the future. Also area around bus stop by Methodist Church needs to be kept under observation.
f)     Overgrown hedges on Chitts Hill have been cut back by landowner. Litter picking here is required. Handyman could do this. JGR & DH
g)    Land off Armoury Road, back of the Maltings, has been cleared by agents of the land and much litter was left behind. Laura contacted the agents and is awaiting to hear if this has been cleared. LW

2

Matters arising from last minutes
a)   Considerate Parking Scheme – Harry, John and Rosemary observed the parking situation round the school last Wednesday and made a list of 12 offenders for inconsiderate (illegal) parking. We hope this is having an effect and will repeat the exercise after half term. HS
b)   Traffic Safety Plan – awaiting 20mph signs. HS
c)    Plinth for Beacon – to be installed when weather permits. IB
d)   Lower end of Lorkin Daniell has been cleared of shrubbery – 2 Trees still require attention.
e)   Wheelie bin – to contact Marcus re progress MH, JC

3

Allotments
Report from Harry – invoices for rents to be sent out to plot holders.

4

Handyman work
David has been carrying out general work schedule. Will clear Chitts Hill area.

Footway along Colchester Road near car sales site needs attention.

Interviews have been carried out for second handyman. Selection process completed. Laura to deal with paperwork required for successful candidate.

5

Storage of gardening equipment
John will discuss with Planning Committee the possibility of putting up a storage facility near the entrance to Orpen Hall. JGR

6

Purchase of vehicle
The purchase of a vehicle has been completed. The MOT will be due in July this year. A policy needs to be written for information for all users JGR

7

AOB
a)   Repair of lawnmower is needed. Proposed cost is £180. This is an essential piece of equipment. Members of this sub-committee agreed the expense. JGR
b)   Purchase of a ride-on mower to be considered in the future
c)    Fallen Tree lying over Hall Road pond needs attention. John to discuss with Handyman. JGR
d)   Queen’s Birthday – plan to use beacon again – will need moving to LD field. Laura to register the beacon.
Possibility of a firework display.		  LW

Date of next meeting – Thursday 10th March 2016 at 5pm in JL Hall.
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Litter Warriors “Clean for the Queen”

Clean-for-the-QueenLitter Warriors “Clean for the Queen”

Litter WarriorsThe West Bergholt Litter Warriors next outing to clean up our streets takes place this Saturday, 5th March, meeting at 10am at the Orpen Hall.  This is a ‘special’ event as part of the “Clean for the Queen” Spring Clean.  Please join us litter-picking around the village, we do it once a month – it’s only an hour and can make such a difference.  All equipment will be provided.  There is an award scheme available for junior volunteers.

Clean for The Queen is a campaign to clear up Britain in time for Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th birthday, which will be officially celebrated in June 2016.

When she came to the throne litter was not the problem that it is today. Food packaging, plastic bottles, takeaway meals and cigarette butts have all contributed to a growing menace that affects our wildlife, streets, countryside and sense of pride. What better way could we show our gratitude to Her Majesty than to clean up our country?

We are calling on individuals, volunteer groups, local councils, businesses and schools to do their bit. You can start now and also take part in our Clean for The Queen weekend on March  4th, 5th and 6th 2016.  Please register your interest here and we will help you to Clean for The Queen.

Further dates

  • Saturday April 2nd
  • Saturday May 7th

Seen a Grot Spot that needs tidying? Let us know, on the Grot Spot Hotline below!

Many thanks
Laura & Rachel Walkingshaw

Call 07726 424419 or email [antibot mailto=”[email protected]”].

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Garden Security Hints & Tips

garden securityGarden Security Hints & Tips

With the weather steadily improving and with the nights getting longer, it is even more important that your garden is secure from would-be criminals.  Making your garden more secure could prevent an intruder from getting into your home, garage or shed.

Essex Police have offered the following hints and tips for securing your garden:-

  • Installing strong fences or gates will act as a deterrent, preventing intruders getting into your garden.
  • Ideally any gates, fencing, walls and hedges at the front of your property should not be more than 1.2m (4ft) so the front of your house can be seen by passers-by.
  • A standard 1.8m (6ft) wall or fence at the back of your house is sufficient.  Increase the height to 2m (6ft 6in) if there is public access on the other side – any higher than this will need planning permission.
  • Trellis fixed to the top of a fence is not only decorative but can provide extra protection as it is difficult to climb over, breaking easily and noisily. Trellis does not need planning permission.
  • If your garden is easily accessible via the side of your house,  a strong lockable gate, fitted towards the front of the property, will act as a deterrent.
  • Garden gates should be at least the same height and strength as your fencing with hinges securely attached to the gateposts.
  • Fit a good quality rim lock which can be locked from both sides as well as a padbolt with padlock inside.
  • Ensure locks fitted to gates cannot be reached from over the fence.
  • Remember to always lock your gates.
  • Planting prickly plants or a hedge, such as firethorn, climbing rose or hawthorn, around the perimeter of your garden can be a powerful deterrent.
  • Gravel on paths and driveways can act as an alert to someone coming towards your property.
  • Install dusk to dawn security lighting. The low energy lamp stays on in the dark and switches off when it starts to get light.
  • Secure garden furniture and wheelie bins so they cannot be used to climb on and gain access to upstairs windows.
  • Do not leave ladders lying around – they could be used by thieves to climb into an upstairs window. Keep them locked in a garage/shed or chained to a fixed object.
  • Do not leave tools, gardening equipment or debris lying around in the garden as they could be used to smash windows.
  • Keep your garden neat and tidy so it looks cared for.
  • While working in your garden, make sure doors and windows are locked to stop unwanted visitors.
  • Do not use barbed wire, razor wire or broken glass on walls or fences to protect your property – you could be held legally responsible for any injuries caused. Consider fitting spiky plastic topping, which is legal, along with a small warning sign.
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Winter Bird Walk 2016 Report

Winter Bird Walk 2016 Report

The morning of Saturday 27 February was cold, dank and a bit dismal – not at all inviting.  So naturally 15 people turned out for the 2016 Winter Birds guided walk in Hillhouse Wood, West Bergholt.  This was the largest number that I can recall for this walk.  It is one of the most variable of the ones I lead, both in terms of what we see and how many attend.  One year there was just two of us.  I was glad to see that Linda Firmin, Jo’s widow, had turned up, as if there is anything to see she will spot it.

One of the curiosities of these walks is that the spot at which we congregate can produce as many birds as anywhere else on the walk.  And so it proved to be this year.  While we were waiting (and no one was paying any attention to birds), I could hear Mistle Thrush, Greenfinch, Robin, Jackdaw, Chaffinch and Dunnock all either singing or calling.  This is also one of the better places to see one of the local Buzzards (how nice that phrase sounds!) over Stitchings Wood, although we were not favoured with a sighting on this walk.  They probably thought the weather was too uninviting.

The track to the wood did not produce much more than we had seen at the old church, just one or two Great and Blue Tits.  As I have done more of these walks I’ve learned that one of the things I can do when there’s not much to see on the day is to talk about what you can see at other times at various points.  So along the track non-existent Yellowhammers and Meadow Pipits came to my rescue, along the lines of ‘during summer, this is a good place to see ….. (believe me, honest!)’.

Tom Heap viewing the 'Countryfile Tree' after application of BioChar by Air Sapde to help stave off Ash Dieback
Tom Heap viewing the ‘Countryfile Tree’ after application of BioChar by Air Spade to help stave off Ash Dieback

As we entered the wood I was able to point out the now famous (to me, at any rate) ‘Countryfile tree’, around which Tom Heap had demonstrated how air spading with biochar could be a potential solution to the Ash Dieback disease.  In fact the fruits of his labours to disturb the soil were still evident.  Fortunately a good number of the group were Countryfile fans and had seen this piece in the previous week’s programme.  Andrew Savage, the Chair of the Friends, was also able to point out the work done by the previous work party to clear Reedmace from the top pond.  It is a constant battle to keep part of the pond clear; the best we can do is aim for a ‘score draw’.

The wood was relatively quiet, bird wise, so the ‘this is a good place to see’ technique was deployed a few more times, as various absent wild flowers, Nuthatches, Siskins and Nightingales came to my rescue.  One of the oddities of winter wood birdwatching is that all can be quiet one moment, and then suddenly the wood becomes alive as a travelling band of birds moves through right where you are. If only I could predict when and where this will happen!  Eventually we came across such a band, albeit a small one. Great, Blue and Long tailed tits were seen.  And then, the hoped for highlight of the walk, not one but two Nuthatches.  I’ve mentioned before how these moved into the wood about four years ago, having been absent for at least the thirty years I’ve been here.  So it’s always great to see them, and they are a lively and attractive bird to see, to boot.  Luckily these two provided relatively close and clear views, although they clearly hadn’t read the books about how they run down a tree (to avoid direct competition with Treecreepers, which run upwards).  These two were running both up and down – that’s cheating, in my book.

The wood had one more pleasure to show us: in the tops of the Alders by the stream there were no Siskins (even for Linda’s sharp eyes), but we did spot a Goldcrest high up in the tops (if you see a ‘Wren’ that high above the ground, odds on it’s a Goldcrest). And so back to the old church, and then to a much more inviting hot cup of tea and radiator!

Steve Hallam

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Crime Update – theft and car keys

Crime Update – theft & car keysEssex Police - Protecting & Serving Essex - December Crime report

Most of January & February was crime free, with just one minor crime, theft, reported occurring on 1st February.   There have been two information releases, however, one referring to the risks of car key burglary and the other inviting the public to participate in a consultation exercise being undertaken by Essex County Fire & Rescue Service into the three options they are considering for the future shape & role of the service.

Theft from a Motor Vehicle – Nayland Road

Overnight on 1st February, unknown suspects removed a rear registration plate from the victim’s vehicle without causing collateral damage.

Information Releases

Car Key Burglaries

Car-keys-near-doorIn some cases burglars are breaking into houses while you sleep with the intention of finding your car keys and stealing your car and any other small items they find on the way, what can I do?

  • Firstly before you turn in for the night check that all doors, ground floor windows and easily accessible windows are closed and locked.
  • PVCu doors – don’t forget that the door is not fully locked until you have lifted the inside handle and turned the key or thumb-turn. When replacing a Europrofile lock cylinder ensure that you get a TS1007 three star anti-snap, anti-bump lock cylinder.
  • If you have an intruder alarm and can do so activate the downstairs zone when you go to bed.
  • To stop the burglar getting to the vulnerable windows and doors to the rear ensure that side gates are closed and locked.
  • Please also ensure that you put your car keys somewhere safe and out of sight, when you return home. Put your car keys in a drawer (preferably one that is noisy to open) or some other secure place, but don’t take them up to the bedroom with you.
  • If you have cars of different values, please park the higher value car in your garage.
  • If you can’t do this, please park the lower value car in front of the higher value car, as the thieves are more likely to target high value cars and will be deterred if they can’t easily drive such a car away from the scene.
  • With high value cars consider the fitting of a tracking system, word of caution you get what you pay for, look for a system that uses RF frequency, 3 or 4G phone networks SIM as well as satellite connection GPS. There are even systems where you can
  • “Geo-fence” the vehicle location so that if it moves beyond this the tracking system is activated.

For further crime prevention advice contact your local Crime Prevention Officer using the police non emergency number 101.

Essex-County-Fire-&-Rescue-ServiceEssex County Fire & Rescue Service Consultation

The second stage of the consultation exercise on the future shape and role of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) has begun.  Three options for change have been formulated and ECFRS are now seeking your views on these.

Over the last decade, the Service has seen the number of incidents it attends reduce by around half. At the same time, the Service has increased its work on preventing fires and emergencies from happening in the first place.  This consultation concludes on the 25th of April.  As part of this Public Consultation Exercise there will be a series of events held at libraries across the County, including Southend and Thurrock, where people will be able to talk to Service managers about changes and options proposed in their local area, as well as fill out the survey.

A full list of dates, times and venues for these events is below:

  • Monday 29th February 2016 Harlow Library 2pm-7pm
  • Tuesday 1st March 2016 Harwich Library 1pm-6pm
  • Thursday 3rd March 2016 Loughton Library 12pm-5pm
  • Monday 7th March 2016 Dunmow Library 1pm-6pm
  • Tuesday 8th March 2016 Waltham Abbey Library 12.30pm-5.30pm
  • Thursday 10th March 2016 South Woodham Ferrers Library 1pm-6pm
  • Monday 14th March 2016 Basildon Library 12pm-5pm
  • Tuesday 15th March 2016 Clacton-on-Sea Library 12pm-5pm
  • Thursday 17th March 2016 Braintree Library 12pm-5pm
  • Monday 21st March 2016 Grays Library 1pm-6pm
  • Tuesday 22nd March 2016 The Forum, Southend 2pm-7pm

ECFRS would like to invite you to participate in their consultation and would also be grateful if you could help them to encourage participation in the consultation through sharing/publicising the online questionnaire available via their website www.essex-fire.gov.uk and the library events.

 

 

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St Mary’s – Preparing for Easter

St Mary’s – Preparing for Easter

This news update includes notices of upcoming services and other events of interest both in the Easter period and after.

Amazing-GraceAmazing Grace

Amazing Grace is being performed by the Oddments Theatre Company on Friday 11th March at Christ Church, Ireton Road, Colchester.  Starting at 7:30pm tickets are £7.50 booked in advance (call the Church office on 01206 542307) or £10 on the door.

Amazing Grace is the incredible true story of John Newton: a sailor who turned his back on God, a man of no morals and a trader of slaves.  Set in the height of the slave trade in the 18th century, a cast of five take the audience on a dramatic journey of discovery as John finds out about God’s infinite love and saving grace.  The production is an hour and a half long plus an interval and will be an enjoyable and moving evening of entertainment.  It is suitable for ages 14+ and features music, an exciting set and period costumes.

Good Friday at the Mercury Theatre

Being led by Seeking God’s Blessing for Colchester, this event is themed on “Hope undefeated” and it takes place on Friday 25th March commencing at 7:30pm, the Speaker will be Rev Mark Ambrose, admission is free – retiring offering.  Seeking God’s Blessing for Colchester works to enable Christian Churches and Agencies in the Borough of Colchester to work together so that the world may believe in Jesus.  The group is also planning a ‘Walk of Witness’ through the town centre on Good Friday with further details being announced once agreed with the various statutory bodies.

Other Diary Dates

All the following are at St Mary’s, West Bergholt unless otherwise stated:

  • Tue 23 Feb – 8pm – Lent Group
  • Thu 25 Feb – 9am – Coffee Morning
  • Sun 28 Feb – 9:30am – Morning Worship
  • Sun 28 Feb – 8am – BCP Communion, All Saints
  • Sun 28 Feb – 9:30am – Communion, St Mary’s, Langham
  • Sun 28 Feb – 11:15am – Communion, All Saints’, Gt Horkesley
  • Tue 01 Mar – 8pm – Lent Group
  • Thu 03 Mar – 9am – Coffee Morning
  • Thu 03 Mar – 2:30pm – 5T’s
  • Fri 04 Mar – 4pm – Women’s World Day of Prayer (see below)
  • Fri 04 Mar – 7:45pm – Wired
  • Sat 05 Mar – Vocations Day, Christ Church, Ireton Road (see below)
  • Sun 06 Mar – 9:30am – Mothering Sunday Communion Service
  • Sun 06 Mar – 9:30am – Communion, St Mary’s, Langham
  • Sun 06 Mar – 11:15am – Mothering Sunday Parade Service, All Saints’, Gt Horkesley
  • Sun 20 Mar – 11:15am – Palm Sunday – Communion
  • Thu 24 Mar – 8pm – Maundy Thursday – Fellowship Meal at St John’s, Great Horkesley
  • Fri 25 Mar – 10am – Good Friday – Service
  • Sun 27 Mar – 9:30am – Easter Sunday – Communion
  • Sat 16 Apr – Training day at West Bergholt on prayer & healing ministry
  • Sun 17 Apr – 11:15am – Communion
  • Sun 17 Apr – Annual Parochial Church Meeting – after communion service

Women’s World Day of Prayer

This year we will be having afternoon tea at 4pm followed by the service at 4.45pm. The service has been written by Christian women from Cuba on the theme ‘Receive children, receive me.’ Children & men welcome!

Vocations Day

Being held at Christ Church, Ireton Road, Colchester this is a day’s course to think about your discipleship in the church and the world.  For further details please phone 01245 294453 or email Geoff Read –  [antibot mailto=”[email protected]”].

BibleSunday Bible Readings

  • Sun 28 Feb – Luke 13:1-9 – Jesus calls the people to repent.
  • Sun 06 March – Luke 2:33-35 – Mary & Joseph bring Jesus to the Temple.

 

 

 

 

 

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Winter Bird Walk 2016

Winter Bird Walk 2016Winter Bird Walk 2016

The first guided walk of the year at Hillhouse Wood takes place this coming weekend (Saturday 27th February), when Steve Hallam leads the Winter Bird Walk 2016.  Walkers, who should meet at the Old Church at 10am  (weather permitting), wearing stout footwear and warm clothing, can expect to see a range of resident woodland and meadow species as well as some winter visitors.  You are also advised to bring a flask of hot drink with you.

Dawn Chorus walks in previous years have seen as many as 20 species registered, most being native, so who knows how many you might see with the added ‘winter visitors’?

[See the report of the walk here.]

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February Half Term 2016

February Half  Term 2016

With February half term next week Colchester Museums, Leisure World, Essex County Council and Essex Outdoors are all running extra activities to keep the kids occupied:

Colchester Museums

Colchester Museums have events running every day with art and craft workshops at Hollytrees Museum, storytelling and castle making at the Castle and monkey and fossil activities at the Natural History Museum:

Date Venue Description Times Cost Booking
Mon 15 Feb Hollytrees Museum Portraits in Shadow
Work as a group to turn your shadow into a striking silhouette portrait. Minimum age 4 years old		 Workshops at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm £3 per person Required, please call 01206 282941
Mon 15 Feb Colchester Castle Queen of the Iceni
Come and meet Boudica, the brave warrior Queen.		 Storytelling at 11am, 1pm and 3pm Free after normal admission price to the Castle Not required
Tue 16 Feb Hollytrees Museum Mini Model Homes
Be inspired by our Victorian doll’s house and make your own room in miniature.		 Workshops at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm £3 per person Required, please call 01206 282941
Wed 17 Feb Natural History Museum Monkey Business
Celebrate the Chinese Year of the Monkey with us at the Natural History Museum. Create, personalise and take home your own glove monkey.		 Workshops at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm £3 per person Required, please call 01206 282941
Thurs 18 Feb Natural History Museum Go Live! Fantastic Fossils
Are you fascinated by fossils? Come and meet the fossil experts and have your own fossils identified.		 Drop in 10-12pm and 2-4pm Free event Not required
Fri 19 Feb Colchester Castle Crafty Castles
From rubbish to ramparts, discover how the Normans built Colchester Castle out of recycled material. Make your own castle out of recycled items.		 Workshops at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm £2 per person after normal castle admission Required, please call 01206 282941

Leisure World

As well as its regular activities, Leisure World (call 282000 for bookings and more information) offers further half-term ones including art & craft and sports related as follows:

Date Times Activity Ages Cost
Mon 15 Feb 1.30 – 3.00  Arts & Crafts – Fun and mess with hands on activities using creativity and imagination 5 – 11 yrs £5.80
Tue 16 Feb 3.00 – 4.00  Creative Dance – Come along and sing and dance. Use your imagination while developing skills of movement and dance 1.5 – 4yrs £4.20
4.00 – 5.00 Mini Street 5 – 7 yrs £4.20
4.00 – 6.00 Whiz Kids – Fun activities for children with disabilities, including trampolining, bouncy castle, basketball, football and much much more 0 – 16 yrs £4.60
Wed 17 Feb 1.30 – 3.00 Team Games – Join in with a variety of sports and games: running, jumping, throwing and catching, but most off all having fun! 7 – 12 yrs £6.50
Thurs 18 Feb 1.30 – 3.00 Badminton & Short Tennis – Two fun ways to enjoy racket sports and learn new skills 7 – 12 yrs £6.50
Fri 19 Feb 1.30 – 3.00 Arts & Crafts – Fun and mess with hands on activities using creativity and imagination  5 – 11 yrs  £5.80

Base Camp

With different activities every day including such as multi sports, leisure pool, cinema visit etc., Base camp runs from 58am until 5:30pm for £30 a day.

Kid’s Camp

For school years 1 – 6 only these offer action packed days running from 9am to 3pm for £25 or 8am to 5:30pm for £30 per day.

Essex Outdoors

Essex Outdoors’ action-packed activity day experiences run at our 4 centres during the school holidays  and are the ideal way for young people aged 8-16 to try exciting new experiences in the outdoors!

Working in groups of around 10 young people, your child will have the opportunity to take part in up to four fun and challenging activities each day, ranging from archery, canoeing and climbing to mountain biking, high ropes and zip wire.

Constant supervision during the day by our professional instructors will give parents peace of mind and ensure kids have a memorable day!  All technical equipment is provided – participants just need to bring, comfortable (and waterproof!) clothing and footwear as well as a packed lunch and a drink.

Special offer for February Half Term – School Holiday Activity Days will be just £15 per child, per day, a saving of 50%.

Bradwell

  • Tuesday 16th February – High Ropes & Archery.  Book online.

Danbury

  • Monday 15th February – Archery, Aerial Trekking, Bushcraft & Obstacle Course
  • Tuesday 16th February – BMX, Zip Wire, Problem Solving & Climbing Wall
  • Wednesday 17th February – Low Ropes, Climbing Wall, Archery & Zip Wire
  • Thursday 18th February – Mountain Biking, Orienteering, Bushcraft & Aerial Trekking
  • Friday 19th February – Archery, Bushcraft, BMX & Zip Wire

Book online.

Mersea

  • Monday 15th February – Aerial Runway, Archery, Climbing & Team Challenge
  • Thursday 18th February – Climbing, Aerial Runway, Low Ropes & Team Challenge
  • Friday 19th February – Adventure Course, Aerial Runway, Archery & Caving.

Book online.

Short Breaks for Disabled Children

  • Saturday 13th February – Activity Day at Mersea
  • Thursday 18th February – One Night Break at Bradwell

More information here.

Essex County Council

Fri 12 Feb
5.30pm		 Lantern Walk on Hadleigh Downs, Hadleigh Park Make a colourful lantern then join other families in a lantern-lit walk across the Olympic mountain bike venue. £5 per child Book now to attend phone 0345 603 7624. Suitable for age 3+
Sat 13 Feb
10am – 5pm		 Raspberry Pi Event, Chelmsford  Library We will have interesting activities for all ages and abilities and activities suitable for primary school children/beginners upwards in using a Raspberry Pi. Put on by Essex Libraries and the Southend Raspberry Jam. Book now to attend for free. Phone 0345 603 7628
Sat 13 Feb to
Sat 21 Feb
10.15am – 2pm		 Secret Story Walk, starts from Thorndon Country Park South Pavilion Café Explore and experience the woods on this this self- guided trail. The story of your own creature develops as you
enjoy our play activities in the outdoors. You can really use your imagination.		 £3 per trail guide. No need to book.
Suitable for children ages 3-9
Sat 13 Feb to
Sat 21 Feb
10am – 3pm		 Mini rangers trail, Weald Country Park Buy a Trail booklet from the Visitor Centre, follow the map and stamp each page as you complete your Ranger jobs. Then return to the Visitor Centre to collect a well done gift. Please dress for a walk in the park with lots of mud. Body carriers are advised for small children as not all paths are suitable for buggies. £3 per booklet, no need to book
Mon 15 Feb

10.30am – 3pm

 Art Workshop at Loughton Library Come along to lessons in drawing and colouring, held by professional artists. £6 per person. Book now by phoning 0345 603 7628
Suitable for Ages 7+
(Parents welcome although they must book and participate)
Mon 15 Feb
10.30am – 3pm		 Recycle Themed Dinosaur Events, Witham Library Come and visit Steggy, the Stegosaurus Rex made up completely from recycled electronic materials. Come along for quizzes, treasure trails and more No need to book; drop in any time for free entry
Mon 15 Feb
2 – 3pm		 Harry Potter Night of Spells, Wickford Library Join us to celebrate the magic of the Harry Potter series with crafts, colouring, and activities to entertain young witches and wizards aged 7 and up. It would be Riddikulus to miss this! Ages 7 and over. No need to book; drop in any time for free entry.
Mon 15 Feb Pop up Drama, Harlow Library A unique drama and art workshop that will stretch your child’s imagination, build their confidence and
teach them invaluable art and drama skills.		 Book now by phoning 0345603 7628. £10 per child
Mon 15 Feb
11am		 Teddy Bears picnic at Southminster Library Make your own Paddington Bear, quiz trail and other activities. Bring a snack and decorate a cake for a teddy
bears picnic storytime.		 Free of charge, no need to book.
Suitable for under fives However elder siblings are welcome.
Mon 15 Feb
10.30am – 12 noon and 1.30pm – 3pm		 How to Draw and How to Colour, Loughton Library Children’s workshops Must book before-hand.
Phone 01992 564000
Mon 15 Feb to
Fri 19 Feb		 Bear Hunt, Great Baddow library Going on a Bear Hunt’ themed week including Teddy bears story time – bring your teddy, find the famous bear trail and teddy bear crafts. Open to all children aged 0-11 years old.
No need to book. Drop in for free.
Mon 15 Feb to
Sat 20 Feb		 Harry Potter Week, Chelmsford Library Drop in to participate in a load of fun, Harry Potter related activities such as word scrabble, colouring, and making your own Hogwarts tie No need to book. Drop in any time for free entry.
Tue 16 Feb
10am – 12pm		 Knex workshop, Frinton Library Create Knex models using your problem solving skills, imagination and communication. Limited spaces. Pop in or phone to book a place on 01255  672581.
Tue 16 Feb
10.30am to 12.00pm		 Bugs and Other Creepy Crawlies, Maldon Library Event will involve story time, making bug related craft, and making fresh fruit kebabs. Children up to 11 years old. Free entry and no need to book.
Tue 16 Feb
2pm – 3pm		 Real Life Fireman, Sible Hedingham Library Come and meet a REAL fireman, hear some great stories and make your own fire engine! Aimed at under sevens and is free of charge. No need to book.
Tue 16 Feb
2pm to 4pm		 Knex Workshop, Clacton Library Create Knex models using your problem solving skills, imagination and communication. Ticketed event. To book, phone 0345 603 7628.
Wed 17 Feb
10am – 11.30am		 Where’s Wally? trail, quizzes, crafts and fun, Broomfield Library Be the best dressed Wally in red and white Free entry and no need to book. Suitable for ages up to eight.
Wed 17 Feb 11am – 1pm Harry Potter Event, Rayleigh Library Come in costume and join in with the activities for children No need to book. Drop in any time for free. Suitable for children ages 5-9.
Wed 17 Feb
11am – 2pm		 Wild Wednesday, Danbury Country Park Free children’s activities, including making dens and mud pies, wading in the stream, splashing in puddles, kicking leaves, forest crafts, finding fish and more. Free of charge. No need to book.
Wed 17 Feb
3pm		 Paddington Bear story time and Activities Event, Wickham Bishops Join in with story time, colouring and craft activities Free entry and no need to book. Suitable for under fives. However, elder siblings are welcome.
Wed 17 Feb
2pm		 Family Bike Ride, Hadleigh Park This is a fun ride for families, taking in the beautiful landscape of the Hadleigh Downs and Thames estuary. Helmets MUST be worn – “no helmet, no ride”. Please ensure your bike is in a safe riding condition. Book now to attend. Phone 01702 551076. This event is free if you bring your own bike. Alternatively bike hire is available – please reserve a bike in advance by phoning 01702 551076.
Suitable for families with children aged 10+ (all children must be accompanied)
Thu 18 Feb
10am – 12 noon		 Kite Making, Hadleigh Park Make your very own kite with the help of the rangers, then send it soaring over the downs. Suitable for ages 4+£5 per kite. No need to book.
Thu 18 Feb
10am – 12 noon		 Drop in Pirate and Princess Event, Brightlingsea Library Drop in Pirate and Princesses Event at Brightlingsea Library. Children welcome to dress up. Story time at 11am. Crafts between 10 –12. No need to book. Drop in anytime for free. Children of all ages welcome.
Thu 18 Feb
2pm		 Harry Potter Event, Brentwood Library Come along and take part in our Harry Potter quizzes and join us as we make a spell trail No need to book. Drop in any time for free entry.
Fri 19 Feb
2pm – 4pm		 Owls From Plop to Hedwig, Danbury Library Free children’s crafts – make an owl. Share a story. Learn more about owls by following our puzzle trail. No booking required. Drop in for free.
Sat 20 Feb
10am – 12 noon		 Hour of Code Event, Rayleigh Library Take the opportunity to spend a fun hour learning to code with Star Wars, Minecraft or Frozen. For children aged 7-11.
Sat 20 Feb
2.30pm – 4.30pm		 Reading Dangerously, Colchester Library Come along to an afternoon with the Year of Reading Dangerously team, who will be sharing their enthusiasm for writers from around the world, through a number of activities, including speed- dating with books. Includes afternoon tea and a chance to chat to other readers. Drop in  for free. No booking required.
Sun 21 Feb
1pm – 3.30pm		 Iron Age Roundhouse Open Afternoon, Hadleigh Park Explore our replica Iron Age roundhouse and learn how your ancestors lived 2000 years ago. Find out how charcoal was made – without it, there wouldn’t have been an Iron Age. Drop in event. Free entry to Roundhouse.