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
In 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 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.
This news update includes notices of upcoming services and other events of interest both in the Easter period and after.
Amazing 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]”].
Sunday 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.
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’?
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.
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.
I used to love doing jigsaw puzzles when I had the time (before I became a parent and a working Mum!) but isn’t it frustrating when you realise that there is a vital piece of the puzzle missing?
Information published by a Christian group called ‘Journey into Wholeness’* indicates that although the percentage of the population who would describe themselves as Christians is in decline, the percentage of people who claim to have had a ‘spiritual’ experience is on the rise. These spiritual experiences may include seeing a pattern in events, being aware of the presence of God, answers to prayer and being aware of a sacred presence in nature. Apparently, over 90% of people in Britain believe in something.
Many people search in all sorts of places for that elusive feeling of inner peace, or purpose in their lives, not realising that Jesus could in fact be the vital missing piece which makes sense of their lives.
If you are curious to know more, you are very welcome to come to the Lent course on Tuesday evenings starting on 16 February, when we will be looking at personal prayer (see page 5 for more details). You will also be very welcome at the Good Friday service on 25 March at 10am, which is a time for quiet reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of our busy lives, or at our Easter Sunday service on 27 March at 9.30am, which is a livelier occasion!
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30)
Best wishes, Liz Dixon
* Journey into Wholeness, Essex Group, is a Christian group which seeks to connect with Spiritual Seekers who come to Mind, Body and Soul exhibitions.
For all the Saints
Yes – I know I’ve missed All Saints’ Day (November 1st), but I had other things on my mind during the autumn. The main source of distraction for me was a course of radiotherapy for prostate cancer which took place from Mondays to Fridays for nearly two months. Although I wouldn’t have chosen this lifestyle for the relevant period, nevertheless it wasn’t a negative experience. For a start, I received the treatment in the radiotherapy department at Colchester General Hospital. This environment has been well-planned and is pleasant, relaxing and sociable. The equipment there is state-of-the-art and represents some of the most modern in Europe. If you want to know what £25 million looks like, then pop your head round the door! The staff were friendly, professional and efficient. It’s the sort of place that makes me feel pleased that I’ve been conscientious in paying my taxes throughout my life, as well as making me proud to be a supporter (and ex-employee) of the National Health Service.
But what particularly made my experience a positive one was the range of wonderful people I met there – people I wouldn’t otherwise have encountered. There were the members of staff, fulfilling various roles, all of whom were conscientious and caring. And there were my fellow-patients (and their families and friends), some of whom were facing difficult situations – but were getting on with their lives as best they could with a cheerful and positive outlook. There was a great deal of good-humoured support given to each other, without which I for one would not have completed the course of treatment as well as I did. When I needed some quiet time on my own, I could retreat to the chapel which is an oasis of calm and peace in the middle of a busy hospital – and which is maintained by another band of saints.
So although this wasn’t an experience that I would have chosen, I do give thanks to God for all the saints I met in this process – many of whom would be very surprised (and possibly offended) to hear themselves referred to as such! If you’re faced with the prospect of radiotherapy treatment then there really is no cause for alarm – and be prepared to encounter a number of living saints!
Michael
Lent Group 2016
St. Mary’s will be holding a series of 5 Lent studies in the church hall on the following dates:
Tuesday evenings @ 8pm in the church hall:
February 16th & 23rd
March 1st, 8th & 15th
The sessions will start with refreshments at 8pm and will finish by 9.15pm. The studies will be looking at the topic of personal prayer (this is in response to a need identified in the church survey). All are welcome – you do not have to attend each session – just come to what you can – you will be made very welcome.
As with last year’s Lent Group, folk from West Bergholt Methodist Church and Great Horkesley, Langham and Boxted parish churches will be joining us.
Look forward to seeing you there!
Annual Parochial Church Meeting
Sunday 17 April 2015 at 12.15pm in the church
Our Annual Church meeting will be held this year on Sunday 17 April at about 12.15pm, straight after the 11.15am Communion service. More details will follow in the April Good News.
Senior Citizens Lunches
We would like to hold our popular Senior Citizens lunches more frequently, perhaps every 2 months instead of only once a term. The lunches are a much valued opportunity for the older members of our village to enjoy some company and a home cooked meal, particularly for those who live alone. If you can help with the organisation of the additional lunches, please contact Kate Penrose (210225) or Murray Harlow (07989 720256).
The River of God – Heathlands School Worship Display
In October last year, Heathlands School unveiled their new Worship Display for the school hall. The display focuses on a river and was lovingly created by Jo Jeffery from various shades of blue material. The photograph opposite gives an idea of what it looks like, although it’s a shame we can’t show it in colour!
In a whole school assembly, Jo explained to the children the key features of the river:
The River has been deliberately handmade to reflect the uniqueness of each of us and how we are carefully thought of and created with time, care and attention with our own mix of unique personalities and abilities.
The sides of the River are deliberately not stitched to reflect the fact that we are capable of big dreams and visions for an unlimited life.
The River is all stitched with a triple gold thread to reflect Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It’s matt gold to show the humility of Jesus who came as a servant.
The back of the River is all in gold to reflect how God’s love never leaves us throughout the whole of our life, even when we can’t see it (just as we can’t see the gold background).
Inside the river all the threads have been left loose rather than cut off or stitched in. This demonstrates that sometimes we have regrets, things we’re sorry for, things we wish we hadn’t said or done. When we give these loose threads to God, He can weave them back into our lives as something beautiful, even if this is painful and may require us to say sorry, or to work hard to finish something we’ve started.
The plan is for all pupils, and staff, to add to the display so that eventually all pupils are represented on it. This term, each class has been asked to design a fish to reflect one of the school’s Christian values, such as hope, forgiveness and thankfulness. Every pupil and member of staff will then contribute in some way to the making of the fishes, so that the whole school will be represented in the Worship Display.
I look forward to seeing the fishes in due course and am grateful to Jo Jeffrey and head teacher Jeremy Hallum for allowing me to reproduce the article which appeared in the school newsletter last October.
Liz Dixon
Noticeboard
Easter Flowers
Easter is rapidly approaching!
This year Lent begins on Wednesday 10 February so we will soon be thinking about flowers for our church for Easter Sunday on 27 March. Hopefully by then, after our topsy turvey winter, there will be lots of bright spring flowers to choose from.
Please put Easter Saturday 26 March in your diaries now and come along to help from 9.45am on that day. Ideas and suggestions gratefully received at any time. Thank you.
Women’s World Day of Prayer – Friday 4 March – 4pm at St Mary’s Church, West Bergholt
This year we are doing something different for Women’s World Day of Prayer: we will be having afternoon tea here at St Mary’s at 4pm, followed by the service at 4.45pm. The service has been written by Christian Women from Cuba and the theme is ‘Receive children, receive me’.
Everyone is welcome, including men and children! So that we have an idea of numbers for catering, please contact Kate Penrose:
The next edition of the monthly Diocesan newspaper is now available – please do pick one up from the back of the church – it’s well worth a read!
Vocations Day – Saturday 5 March
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]”].
Christian Aid co-ordinators needed!
A reminder that Richard Chadborn is stepping down from his role as co-ordinator for the village Christian Aid collection and is looking for a team of 2 or 3 people to take over from him. If you feel you could help out in any way, please contact Richard on 01206 240541.
It is a very worthwhile cause and raises around £2000 a year to help people in need all over the world.
Dates for Your Diary
Annual Parochial Church Meeting
Sunday 17 April after the 11.15am service
Home Groups
Our home groups will continue on the following dates:
Thursday 10am (Rachel Hutchings): 4/2, then break for Lent.
Tuesday 8pm (Michael Foster) – continues after Easter on 12/4, 26/4, 10/5, 24/5 & 7/6.
Lent Groups
16/2, 23/2, 1/3, 8/3 & 15/3 – see above for more details
Open House & 5T’s
Open House every Thursday morning at 9am in term times
5T’s – 2.30pm on 4/2, 18/2, 3/3, 17/3 & 31/3.
Wired
Youth Group for Secondary School Students
Fridays @ 7.45pm in the church on the following dates:
5 February – Talent night;
4 March;
1 April – chocolate night;
6 May;
10 June – Boxted v Bergholt;
8 July – Pool Party
Contact Mark for further details (241617).
Lent & Easter Services
10 February – Ash Wednesday Holy Communion – 8pm @ St Mary’s
24 March – Maundy Thursday Fellowship Meal & Communion service – 8pm @ St John’s, Great Horkesley
25 March – Good Friday service – 10.00am @ St Mary’s
27 March – Easter Sunday Holy Communion – 9.30am @ St Mary’s, led by Rev. Geoff Read
Sunday Gospel Readings – February and March
Our Bible readings for every Sunday are taken from the Lectionary, a table of psalms and readings authorised for use in public worship of the Church of England.
Date
Reading
Theme
Sunday 7 February
Luke 9:28-36
Jesus is transfigured on the mountain
Sunday 14 February
Luke 4:1-13
Satan tempts Jesus in the desert
Sunday 21 February
Luke 13: 31-35
Jesus grieves over Jerusalem
Sunday 28 February
Luke 13: 1-9
Jesus calls the people to repent
Sunday 6 March
Luke 2: 33-35
Mary & Joseph bring Jesus to the Temple
Sunday 13 March
John 12:1-8
A woman anoints Jesus with perfume
Sunday 20 March
Luke 19: 28-44
Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey (Not the set reading)
Sunday 27 March
Luke 24: 1-12
Jesus rises from the dead
Regular Events
1st Sunday in the month
9.30am Holy Communion + BUGS
2nd Sunday in the month
9.30am Family Worship
6.30pm (4.30pm in winter) Evening Prayer
Combined service with Methodist Church and the parishes of Great Horkesley and Langham with Boxted. The location and times of the service rotate between the 5 churches.
Thursdays at 9.00 am
Drop in for coffee during term time.
Thursdays at 2.30 pm
5Ts (Together for Tea on Thursdays at Two-Thirty) 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursdays in the month.
Contacts
Priest in charge:
Rev Dr Mandy Elmes,
The Rectory, 1 Church Close,
West Bergholt CO6 3JZ
Tel 01206 240906
Mob 07872 649967
[antibot mailto=”[email protected]”]
Rainbows, Brownies and Guides
Enquiries regarding Rainbows, Brownies & Guides to 07757 636446, [antibot mailto=”[email protected] or www.girlguidingessexne.org.uk”]
Cubs & Beavers contact: 241666
Scouts contact: 240549
Services at a Glance
February
Sunday 7 February 9.30am Holy Communion with BUGS
Tuesday 9 February 11.00am Combined Communion service at St Mary’s
Weds 10 February Ash Wednesday 8.00pm Holy Communion service Also 11 am Communion at St Mary’s , Langham
Sunday 14 February 9.30am Messy Church (No BUGS)
4.30pm Evening Prayer Service Also 9.30am Communion, St Mary’s, Langham; 11.15am Communion, All Saints’, Gt Horkesley; 6pm Storytime Club, New Village Hall, Great Horkesley
Sunday 21 February 11.15am Holy Communion with Baptism and BUGS Also BCP Communion, St Mary’s, Langham; 9.30am Family Service, St Peter’s, Boxted; 11.15am Morning Praise, St John’s, Gt Horkesley
Sunday 28 February 9.30am Morning Worship with BUGS
March
Sunday 6 March Mothers’ Day 9.30am Holy Communion with BUGS
Tuesday 8 March 11.00am Combined Communion service at St Mary’s
Sunday 13 March 9.30am Messy Church (No BUGS)
4.30pm Prayer Book Evening Service
Sunday 20 March Palm Sunday 11.15am Holy Communion (No BUGS)
Thursday 24 March Maundy Thursday 8.00pm Holy Communion Service @ St John’s, Great Horkesley
Good Friday 25 March 10.00am Good Friday Meditation service
Easter Sunday – 27 March 9.30am Holy Communion service
Following Colchester Borough Council’s recently launched volunteer litter picking scheme “Litter Warriors”, West Bergholt now has its very own branch. Please join us litter-picking around the village, 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.
West Bergholt is a beautiful place, let’s keep it that way!
Seen a Grot Spot that needs tidying? Let us know, on the Grot Spot Hotline below!
Litter Picking Dates for Spring:
Meet outside Orpen Hall on the 1st Saturday each month at 10am.
Saturday February 6th
Saturday March 5th (Special Clean Up for the Queen Event)
Sport Relief Community Cash to North Essex and Suffolk comes via Comic Relief. The Fund is now available, with Essex Community Foundation working with Comic Relief to get the cash to the groups that need it most.
Cash grants of £500 to £1,000 are available to small grassroots community organisations in North Essex (Colchester, north Braintree and Tendring) that are doing great work to help local people living tough lives. It is not only sporting projects or organisations that can apply, but groups across the whole of the community.
Applications for Sport Relief Community Cash need to be submitted by Monday 15th February 2016. Interested groups should click here for the grant criteria and guidance on how to apply.
Please do not hesitate to contact the Grants Team on 01245 356016 or [antibot mailto=”[email protected]”] should you have any questions.
Essex Community Foundation are:
an independent charitable trust improving the quality of life of people in our community by investing and distributing funds on behalf of a wide range of donors. Since 1996 our donors have invested £26 million of charitable funding directly into Essex, Southend and Thurrock making it a great place to live, work, learn and grow.
Enjoy a Free heritage walk around Boxted airfield on Sunday 20th March, 2016. The walk is being organised by Martin Cuthbert, Community Archaeologist exploring the legacy of the US 8th Army Air Force during their time here in WW2, a project . This forms part of a 3-year Heritage Lottery Funded project whose main aims are:
Research and interpretation of the built and social legacy of the American Eighth Air Force in the East, through community archaeology, oral history, film and photography, and re-examination of museum collections.
Celebration of this material through local and regional events, exhibitions, , touring theatre and other showcase opportunities.
Sustaining the project beyond its active stage through website, digital flythrough, learning resources, social media and museum development.
Martin says:
Join us as we lead a walk through the historic airfield at Boxted, home to the 354th & 56th Fighter Groups and the 386th Bomb Group of the 8th USAAF during World War Two.
If you’re interested in landscape history, airfield archaeology, or just fancy the chance to have a walk in the unique landscape of this World War Two airfield, this walk is for you.
This Walk Through History starts at 10am on Sunday 20th March. Parking is at Boxted Airfield Museum, Langham Lane, Langham, Essex, CO4 5NW, where refreshments can be taken following the walk.
Admission to the Museum itself is by a £3 donation, accompanied children are free. The walk, which is about 3.8 miles long is over easy terrain and is free of charge. You are advised to wear outdoor shoes and clothing appropriate to the weather.
This is one of a series of walks organised by Martin’s project, find out more at www.8theast.org.
Although this proposed crossing is distant from the village, many of you will either travel in that direction or wonder if it will impact other trunk routes. The consultation on the project is open until 24th March 2016 so please feel free to add your views.
Highways England has launched the public consultation on proposals for a Lower Thames Crossing, a new road crossing of the River Thames connecting Kent and Essex. The proposal is for a new road which would connect the A2/M2 in Kent with a tunnel crossing east of Gravesend and Tilbury, before joining the M25 between junctions 29 and 30. There are three route options north of the river in Essex and two south of the river in Kent.
Find out more and have your say.
https://youtu.be/5YbK_04gFjk
This is your opportunity to let Highways England know your views before they make recommendations to the Department for Transport later this year. If you would like to find out more please visit the website www.lower-thames-crossing.co.uk where you can:
Once again, despite receiving some 40 pages of crime summaries during December, none affected West Bergholt, early January, though has seen one incident. It is worth mentioning another local incident that may give cause for concern – a house was burgled not that far away on 18th January, access was gained by smashing a window, posted below is some advice on making your home less attractive to burglars.
Theft from a motor vehicle – Spring Lane
At 19:30 on 4th January, unknown suspects removed tools to the value of approximately £1,500 from the victim’s vehicle.
If you have been offered cheap tools, think twice – they might be stolen!
Keeping warm over the winter months can help prevent colds, flu or more serious health problems like pneumonia. Find out some simple things you can do to keep warm, stay healthy and make the best use of your heating at home.
Financial help with heating your home
If you are over 60, disabled or on a low income, you may be able to get financial help to heat your home. Contact Colchester council for advice.
Stay warm in your home
Cold Weather Payment
If you’re receiving certain benefits during very cold weather, you may qualify for a Cold Weather Payment
There are some simple tips to stay warm and safe in your home during the winter.
A warm home during the day
To keep warm at home during the day try to:
heat your main living room to around 18-21°C (64-70°F) and the rest of the house to at least 16°C (61°F)
heat all the rooms you use in the day
make sure you keep your living room warm throughout the day and heat your bedroom before going to bed
set the timer on your heating to come on before you get up and switch off when you go to bed
In very cold weather, set the heating to come on earlier, rather than turn the thermostat up. This means you won’t be cold while you wait for your home to heat up.
A warm home at night
To keep safe and warm at home during the night you should:
try to keep the temperature above 18°C (65°F) in your bedroom overnight
open the window or door a little at night for ventilation if you use a fire or heater in your bedroom during winter
never use hot water bottles in the same bed as an electric blanket, even if the blanket is switched off
unplug blankets before you go to bed, unless they have a thermostat control for safe all-night use
get your electric blanket tested every three years for safety – Age UK or your local fire and rescue service may be able to do this for you
To be put in touch with an Age UK group near you, call Age UK’s freephone advice line on 0800 169 6565.
Keep the heat in with insulation
Insulation makes your home warm and healthy and will also help to keep your heating costs down. You may also be able to get financial help to insulate your home.
It’s a good idea to:
fit draught-proofing to seal any gaps around windows and doors
make sure your loft has at least 10–11 inches (270 millimetres) of insulation -any home with 4 inches (100 millimetres) or less should have it topped up
make sure wall cavities are insulated
insulate your hot water cylinder and pipes
Dress warmly
You can help keep warm by:
wearing plenty of thin layers, rather than one thick one
putting on a coat, hat, scarf, gloves and warm shoes or boots when you go outside
wearing clothes made of wool, cotton or fleecy synthetic fibres
wearing bed socks and thermal underwear at night
Stay healthy in winter
There are things you can do that will reduce the risk of illness and protect you against the cold.
Get an annual flu jab
You can get a free jab if you:
have serious heart, lung or kidney disease or diabetes
have a weak immune system, caused by disease or medical treatment
have had a stroke or TIA (transient ischaemic attack)
are aged 65 years or over
are pregnant
Talk to your GP or pharmacist if you think you might qualify for a free flu jab.
Eat well
Eating regular meals will help keep your energy levels up during winter. Try to:
have plenty of hot food and drinks
plan your meals and keep your diet as varied as possible
aim to include five portions of fruit and vegetables daily – this includes tinned and frozen fruit and vegetables
Stay active
Exercise is good for your overall health and it can keep you warm in winter. Even a small amount of exercise can bring health benefits. If possible, try to move around at least once an hour.
Recognise the signs of hypothermia
Hypothermia is caused by getting too cold. Older people, babies and people with certain health conditions are among those more at risk.
Shivering can be used as a guide to how severe hypothermia is. If a person can stop shivering on their own, the hypothermia is mild. If they can’t stop shivering, it’s moderate to severe. Severe hypothermia needs urgent medical treatment in hospital.
The Initial Attraction – Opportunist Crime
Without that initial attraction most crimes could be avoided, statistics show that:
most crimes are opportunist crimes, yes they may go out intending to commit crime but the victim is not yet chosen. So if there is no attraction then you may not become a victim.
What is the attraction?
The shed or garage with minimal security and tools visible through the window.
A lone person down a dark street talking loudly on an illuminated new iPhone.
The house in darkness with the side gate flapping open welcoming.
That accessible open window or door.
The purse sitting in the open handbag on top of the shopping trolley.
Group sitting chatting at a bar table with a mobile phone just sitting there on the table.
The bag on the back seat of an unattended car, even though the bag may only contain your sports clothes the thief does not know this until he/she has smashed the window and stolen it.
The tradesman’s signwritten van parked on the dark drive by the gate with accessible doors and unprotected pipe tube on the roof.
The partygoer that’s had too much to drink and is unaware of his/her surroundings.
Shiny new ride on lawn mower sitting on the grass in full view of the road with no postcode/security markings visible.
The above is just short list I am sure you can think of more. What can you do? STOP, think like a thief, spot the attraction and where possible remove it.
For further crime reduction advice contact your local Crime Prevention Officer using the police non emergency telephone number 101.
Secure your home and remain vigilant
How to avoid becoming a victim of burglary.
Thankfully burglary is rare but unfortunately it does happen. As discussed above, most burglaries happen on the spur of the moment, the criminal sees an open window or open door or the house looks unoccupied. It is relatively easy to avoid becoming a victim if you follow some simple rules.
Tips to avoid becoming a victim
When you go out, always close and lock the external doors and windows, even if you are going out for a short time.
If you are installing new doors and windows, get ones that are certified to British Standard BS7950 (windows) or PAS23-1 (doors).
Window locks, especially on older windows will help stop people getting in. Burglars don’t like to draw attention to themselves so will not want to make a noise by smashing a window.
If you have deadlocks, use them. They make it harder for the thief to get out again but don’t leave the key near the door or in an obvious place.
Don’t leave spare keys outside or in a garage or shed and put car and garage keys out of sight in the house.
Intruder Alarm Advice
If you are considering an intruder alarm system it is advisable to seek advice from installers who are members of a professional body, such as:
Please note that Essex Police do not recommend any particular product or supplier.
SSAIB The Smoke Houses, Cliffords Fort, North Shields, Tyne & Wear NE30 1JE Telephone: 0191 296 3242 – ssaib.co.uk
British Security Industry Association(BSIA), Kirkham House, John Comyn Drive, Worcester, WR3 7NS – Telephone 0845 389 3889 – bsia.co.uk
For other security products that have ‘Police Preferred Specification’ status visit Secured by Design – securedbydesign.com
Systems should be fitted to British/European Standards – www.bsi-global.com
Always get at least 3 different approved installers to give you quotes before you decide.
Systems can be monitored at special centres (Alarm Reporting Centres), for a fee. Reputable installers will give you more information on this, including an alternative option to link the alarm to alert mobile telephone numbers selected by you.
Essex Police respond to monitored alarm systems in accordance with guidelines issued by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) – www.acpo.police.uk Phone 020 7084 8950. Generally, Non- monitored alarm systems are not responded to unless the person reporting the activation says that an intruder has actually been seen to enter or be on the premises.
The speed of police response cannot be guaranteed. It will depend upon the number, location and availability of police units when the call is received and a police assessment of the threat level.
DIY outlets often sell intruder alarm systems. However, bear in mind that these are normally non-monitored systems. False activations can annoy neighbours and result in action by the Environment department at your local council. If you have one of these systems you need a trusted friend, neighbour, or family member who lives close by and can deal with activations in your absence.
Some systems can be linked to your telephone and programmed to alert specific personal telephone numbers (normally up to 6) if activation occurs. Your telephone provider may make an extra rental charge for this facility. You will probably still need a trusted local person to respond in your absence.
Some mail order type companies market a whole range of alarms. You can see examples of these on web sites such as: –
In 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?
Essex County Fire & Rescue Service Consultation
