Comedy Night – Saturday 16th March 2019
Author: Jez Wilson
Heyford Picturedrome – Thursday 21st March 2019
Our next film to be shown on Thursday 21st March is ‘The Death of Stalin’, a 2017 British ‘black’ comedy drama written by Armando Iannucci and starring Michael Palin and Simon Russel Beale about the bumbling carryings-on in the aftermath of Stalin’s death in Soviet Russia. This is a highly rated film – one not to be missed. Don’t be put off by the title!
Doors open at the usual time of 7.00pm for free tea or coffee with the film due to be screened at 7.45pm.
There will be a licensed bar for the purchase of wine and soft drinks.
There is no joining fee and admission is £4 per person.
Tony Clewett – Phone: 01327 341533
Parish Council – February 2019 Meeting
The February 2019 meeting of Nether Heyford Parish Council was held on the 4th, at the Baptist Chapel Schoolroom
Public Participation – Cllr Adam Brown sent the following report.
NCC will meet twice this month: on 14th February to discuss the next phase of plans to establish two new unitary authorities in the county, and on 21st February to discuss the 2019/20 budget. On the 14th February Council will also debate a motion put forward by me which seeks to formalise NCC’s opposition to the proposed Strategic Rail Freight Interchanges near Blisworth and Milton Malsor. In that motion I highlight the severe impact on nearby villages and the brilliant work by local activists in opposing the scheme. Having discussed the matter with colleagues within the Conservative group I am optimistic that the motion will be passed and a strong message will be sent to the planning inspectorate and the Secretary of State for Transport.
In terms of budgetary matters, our leadership team is increasingly optimistic that we will end this financial year on budget or with a moderate underspend. As a member of the Scrutiny & Overview Committee I have been part of the team analysing next year’s budget and we have highlighted a number of areas of concern, most notably: the desire for continued subsidy of youth groups which allows them to use school premises in Northamptonshire; an instruction to Cabinet for NCC to be more aggressive in its approach to procurement in order to realise over £1m of savings; the importance that additional spending on social care services be sufficient to meet the anticipated demand.
Next year’s budget currently does not account for the recent government decision to allow NCC to increase Council tax by 2% in addition to the 2.99% permitted by the Secretary of State. I have argued that should we accept that additional 2% rise then the money must be used to reinstate services that the public have clearly told us they wish to retain such as enhanced winter gritting. Whilst the 2% would raise approximately £6m, much of that money would need to be put into reserves to allow for potential pressures on statutory services. Of course NCC has previously been criticised for failing to raise council tax, and whilst we remain one of the lowest areas for council tax in the whole of England in the midst of ongoing financial pressure it would be irresponsible to pass up the opportunity to strengthen the County Council’s revenue raising ability.
Village Hall
Alwyne Wilson introduced herself as the new chair of the Village Hall.
Bliss Close maintenance issues
Tom Dodd spoke about problems experienced by residents of Bliss Close with the maintenance of the public spaces, or buffer zones. Residents ware paying a considerable amount for maintenance which they do not feel is being carried properly or with any reference to the costs they are incurring. Any requests to see the contracts are rebuffed, and it seemed that the agreements were in perpetuity with no right to appeal or withdraw. He was concerned to know what had passed between Council and the developers on this issue. It was felt that safety issues were a concern of the Parish Council, even if other issues were not. Cllr PG reported that there were similar maintenance contracts in place in Bugbrooke, but that they were being properly handled. It was suggested that there might be breach of contract. It was felt that at this stage the issue did not involve the Parish Council, as the Council referred to in the House deeds was almost certainly South Northants Council. Such maintenance contracts were becoming common and similar conflicts were arising all over the country, and causing concern in Government. SC felt this was not an issue for Council, and AW felt the residents would have to take legal advice. The Clerk was instructed to write express concerns on safety issues, and the Chair expressed sympathy and support on behalf of Council.
Allotments
Rent night took place on Jan 24th. All but 8 rents collected. SC suggested a reminder letter at the end of the month. AW suggested setting up online payments with monthly instalments.
Neighbourhood Plan
It was reported that information was still being received in the form of postal votes for preferred future building sites. SNC were looking for 25 – 59 new houses. It was felt the village would be more comfortable with 25 – 29,
and felt that that community led housing and self-build should be explored.
Dog Mess
This is a perennial problem and Councillors felt there was more on the Green than was usual and were disappointed. A new Dog Bin has been installed on Church Lane and it is hoped that this might help with the river area. This problem has been further highlighted by contact with David Banner who farms the field on the other side of the pedestrian bridge. This maintained as a traditional style water meadow and as such it represents a valuable amenity and environment. Mr Banner is disappointed that many dog owners let their dogs run free and foul freely. He would ask that dog walkers keep to the paths and that they keep their dogs on their leads at least until they have “done their business” and that this be bagged and removed. While there are often not sheep in the meadow, the grazing of sheep is an integral part of the meadow’s management. Dog faeces can contain a parasite that causes sheep to abort and can also kill them. He would be most grateful if dog walkers could remember this.
Election Dates
It has now been established that there will be no District or Parish elections in 2019 with the onset of the unitary council imminent.
Roads and Pavements
The installation of a 20mph speed limit was raised. This was felt to be an aspiration for next year, although it could be applied for under NHB.
Parishioners are reminded that anyone can report a pothole or other highways problem online to the Streetdoctor service, and this can refer to problems outside the village too. Alternatively, phone 0300 126 1000 and ask for Streetdoctor
Spring Clean
The annual “Spring Clean” would be taking place on March 30th/31st.
Signs
The Clerk had contacted Matthew Clarke at Keir/Highways who was still searching for a quote for a finger post for the church. He had also advised that renovation of the direction sign on the green would probably cost £1500.
Next Meeting
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday March 4th at the Baptist Chapel Schoolroom at 7.30 pm and is, like all Parish Council meetings, open to all Parishioners.
Parish Council Notes by the Clerk; Guy Ravine February 2019
For further useful information about Nether Heyford Parish Council and full contact details for the clerk and the councillors please visit our Nether Heyford Parish Council page.
The Great British Spring Clean – Weekend March 30th & 31st 2019
The Great British Spring Clean is back!
Take part in Nether Heyford’s annual Clean-up on the weekend of 30th and 31st March 2019.
Last year, volunteers collected over 31 bags of rubbish, let’s see what we can do this year. Let us just hope the weather is better!
If you would like to join us, please let us know so we can plan the event and arrange the locations
Join the dedicated Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1066602963545586/
Email: Heyford_Prattler@yahoo.co.uk or post a message on the Heyford Prattler Facebook page
Be part of the pick
30th and 31st March 2019
“We are calling on #LitterHeroes across the country to help improve the environment on their doorstep. We’re aiming to inspire 500,000 people to join forces – in partnership with community organisations, businesses and the government – to collect and safely dispose of single-use plastic from our streets, parks and beaches, recycling as much as possible.
So join us, as we prepare to stand together and declare that single-use plastic litter – which degrades the beauty of our environment and threatens to harm wildlife – is not acceptable.”
Website: www.keepbritaintidy.org
Heyford Tennis Club – February 2019
We are a friendly club that welcomes players of all ages and abilities.
We offer four social sessions:
- Monday – Men’s night
- Wednesday – Social play from 7pm,
- Friday morning: – Ladies morning
- Sunday morning: open club session for league level play.
At other times the courts are available for use by members.
We offer coaching sessions – juniors and adults.
This is also open to non-members.
We have between 5 and 7 teams playing in the Northants Leagues.
Club News We are now seeking funds to refurbish two of our three courts. The surface of these courts is starting to break up from the weather and many years of use.
Can we offer anything else? We are always looking for ways to ensure our club is used by as many local people as possible and welcome any suggestions or ideas of what else we could do.
For further useful information about Nether Heyford Tennis Club and full contact details please visit our Nether Heyford Tennis Club page. You can also visit the Facebook page via on our Links page or telephone Jo on 01327 349094.
Village Hall – February 2019
First, a huge thank-you to the many volunteers who helped to make our traditional Pantomime ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ such a great success. We had a packed house, making all the generous contributions of time, effort and raffle prizes well worthwhile. The atmosphere was amazing. This was my first experience of our village panto and I was overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and goodwill of everyone involved.
Our next Pantomime by the Looking Glass Theatre will be ‘Dick Whittington’ at the end of the year. More information nearer the time.
And now – the Annual Fete, which this year will be held on Saturday 8th June.
We are so fortunate in Nether Heyford to have such a splendid village green and
over many years our Fete has proved to be a very special event for our village. It has also represented our main fundraising effort to make sure that we have
enough funds to maintain our village hall in first class condition for everyone who wants to use it. As such we have a great tradition to maintain.
For this we need ‘all hands on deck’ again to make sure that we have an
enthusiastic team of helpers to work together to organise not only the regular events but also perhaps some new attractions. By the time this issue appears we will have held an initial ‘ideas session’ on 29 January, to be followed by regular team meetings as we work together to create yet another amazing Fete.
In the meantime, I would like to issue a warm invitation to the many villagers and friends who have helped in the past – and also to those who might fancy getting involved for the first time. Come along and join our team.
Alwyne Wilson, Nether Heyford Village Hall Management Committee
Call Alwyne on 01327 340803
Heyford Bowls Club – February 2019
It is nice to report 2018 turned out to be a very good year for the indoor bowls section and good turnouts were maintained throughout the year. The afternoon bowls have recruited several new members so well done to the loyal supporters of afternoon bowls for creating and maintaining a very enjoyable afternoon bowling section.
The fun night on Wednesday 9th December turned out to be another hilarious occasion. A good turnout saw three very different types of games played. A good turnout produced by the new format turned out to be a very enjoyable evening.
2019 will see the start of another year’s bowling competitions. Last year these produced some excellent bowling. Competition was keen, making it hard to win a trophy. Our first competition (THE DAVE JULAND PRESIDENT’S CUP) will be played on Saturday 9th February, 1.30pm start.
Our two (WARDINGTON LEAGUE) matches resulted in a mixed bag. A loss at home and a win away at Middleton Cheney.
Thank you to all our members for making 2018 a successful and happy year for the indoor bowls section. Good luck to all our bowlers in the coming year.
Den Taylor
For more bowls club information please visit our website:
Nether Heyford W.I. – February 2019
Our New Year started with a return to W.I. crafting roots when Deborah Burrow and Arlene Harrison showed members how to paint without paint brushes. It is surprising how much talent lies hidden in Nether Heyford W.I.
Contrary to popular belief, being a member of the W.I. really is not just about ‘Jam and Jerusalem’ or listening to talks given by visiting speakers. As anyone who watched the TV. series about the W.I. a few years ago will remember, the original ‘Jam and Jerusalem’ brigade was responsible for a great deal of amazing war effort. However, as a Nationwide Federation, the W.I. has to move and change with the times. Each year resolutions are put forward by W.I. branches and, from these, six are chosen at a short listing meeting of Federation Representatives. Every W.I. member has the opportunity to vote on the resolution that they would most like to go forward for further discussion at the Annual Meeting. Depending on the number of votes either one or two chosen resolutions then becomes the W.I. Campaign for the following year. This ensures that every campaign is dear to the hearts of our members. In 2017 we highlighted the ‘Plastic soup pollution’ and in 2018 it was ’Making time for mental health’.
Voting time is here and this year’s resolutions range from:-
1. Improving Plant Bio-security – calling for a certification scheme to assure the public that plants, soil and containers they buy have been screened and are infection free, thus ensuring the safety of our native trees and plants.
2. Planting and care of trees – to mitigate climate change, to improve air quality and to reduce erosion and flooding.
3. Call against the Decline in Local Bus Services – particularly in rural and semirural areas.
4. Suffering in Silence – why we have to end the taboo around menstrual health.
5. Pelvic Floor Education
6. Don’t Fear the Smear – encouraging women to look after their health.
As you can see, a real variety and not a single mention of Jam OR Jerusalem!! There is, however, a real opportunity to make a difference in the world about us.
Our meeting in February will be a look at the amazing career of the most popular crime novelist of all times as Steve Dimmer examines the writer’s life. Beginning with the creation of Hercule Poirot in 1920, through the Golden Age of detective fiction, the emergence of Miss Marple until Agatha Christie became the indisputable ‘Queen of Crime’.
Along the way we will be looking at the real-life mystery involving the novelist’s actual disappearance and perhaps trying to solve this intriguing puzzle. If, like me, you are a ‘who-dunnit’ fan this would appear too good to miss.
The meeting will be in the Village Hall at 7.30 pm on Thursday, February 7th. The charge will be £5 for non-members and will include the usual W.I. refreshments. We would love to see you there.
Mary Rice – Heyford Lodge – 01327 340101
Parish Church of St. Peter & St. Paul – February 2019
Nether Heyford Parish Church of St. Peter and St. Paul
I’m writing this letter in the aftermath of the ‘meaningful’ vote on Brexit, lost so spectacularly by the government, and the subsequent vote of no confidence, from which that same government emerged unscathed. As I write, the Prime Minister and her ministers are meeting with politicians from other parties and from across the House of Commons to try and find a consensus on how best to move forward. At this stage, however, none of us know what will happen next.
In the Church’s calendar, we’re about to enter the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, and our Bible readings reflect this. We look at St Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth, where he writes about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In a church context, these gifts and talents are given to people to encourage and grow the Christian community. But in the wider context, we all have skills and passions that we can put to use for the benefits of other, and the growth of the communities in which we live and work. We’re all given these gifts to share with others, not keep to ourselves. If we do the latter, the community can’t grow, but if we use our gifts and talents for the common good, if we seek to serve others, our communities will be all the better for it.
St Paul writes about the gift of tongues, but warns of the confusion that can arise when everyone speaks at the same time, which is often how it seems to be when events in the House of Commons are reported. More positively, however, we might reflect on the gifts of wisdom and discernment, and pray that these are seen and used more effectively amongst our politicians. We must hope that’s the case, and trust that our leaders and representatives are now working together for the common good, not just of this country, but of the EU and the wider world. And in the meantime, we can play our part by working for the good of our communities, helping them to flourish and grow in these confused and uncertain times. So, as I pray for Christian unity across the world, I pray too that, whatever our faith, we can all put our gifts to work for the benefit of others, that we can encourage one another, and build up our communities. And I pray particularly for wisdom for our political leaders, and for peace and unity in our nation, and in our relationships with other countries.
With every blessing,
Stephen – 01327 344436
During February we shall be praying for people living in Hillside Rd and Hillside Crescent here in Heyford, Sutton St, Yew Tree Gardens and Sutton Acre in Flore, The Manor in Church Stowe and the Gate House and the Old Dairy in Brockhall.
Heyford Picturedrome – Thursday 21st February 2019
Our next film to be shown on Thursday 21st February is ‘Lion’, a 2016 biographical drama starring Dev Patel and Nicole Kidman about a 5 year old Indian boy, Saroo, who gets lost on a train which takes him thousands of miles across India and away from his home and family. Saroo must learn to survive alone in Calcutta before ultimately being adopted by an Australian couple. 25 years later and armed with only a handful of memories, his unwavering determination and a new technology known as Google Earth, he sets out to find his lost family and finally returns to his first home.
Doors open at the usual time of 7.00pm for free tea or coffee with the film due to be screened at 7.45pm.
There will be a licensed bar for the purchase of wine and soft drinks.
There is no joining fee and admission is £4 per person.
Tony Clewett – Phone: 01327 341533
Our March film on 21st March will be the 2017 British ‘black’ comedy drama starring Michael Palin and Simon Russel Beale about the bumbling carryings-on in the aftermath of Stalin’s death in Soviet Russia. Highly recommended!
The Nether Heyford Prattler 