You are on page 1of 16

The Mallard

Issue 325 November 2018

The Village Takes Part in the Nation’s Tribute


Please join us at our village tribute that is part of this nationwide commemoration. If
you didn’t experience the 2014 performance of ‘Lest We Forget’ in the Church, you must
see it this time. Those of you who did see it in 2014, will certainly want to see it again. It
was amazing. Come along in plenty of time to make sure you have a good seat.
A display of research into all the people named on the memorials of Great and Little
Massingham will be set up in the Church from the 11 th to the 20th November. Come and
have a look and read all about the sacrifices people from our village made in this ‘War
to end all Wars’. The Church will be open daily. Andrew Bickerton writes…….

O
n Sunday 11th November Great Massing-
ham will be taking part in the Nation’s
commemoration of the end of the First
World War, one hundred years ago.
The proceedings will commence in
St Mary’s Church, at 5.15pm,
with a restaging of ‘Lest We Forget’ from 2014,
which commemorated the start of the war.
For those who did not see this production last
time, ‘Lest We Forget’ includes poems, letters,
songs and music from 1914-1918 with graphic
scenes to illustrate them. Entrance is free but do-
nations to the Royal British Legion are welcome.
At the end of the production, we will move to the village green and assemble around
our beacon. The Tribute to the Millions will then be read . The beacon will be lit at
7pm and, at 7.05pm, our bells will join thousands of bells across the country as a
‘Cry for Peace’.
There will also be a display created from the impressive detailed research completed
by Geoff Randall as Great Massingham’s Historical Society’s contribution to this
important, nationwide event. This will be on show throughout the following week
when the church is open. Andrew Bickerton

1
‘Histry Bits’.... A Very Ancient Terrier
No, for once, we’re not talking about dogs! A terrier was a legal document establishing
ownership of property and land in the centuries following Henry VIII’s dissolution of the
monasteries – the equivalent of today’s Land Registry. One such terrier, relating to
Massingham, has survived and provides a unique insight into life in the village. Dated
1732, it was drawn up by the then Rector, Dr. John Gardner, following years of protest &
anger from the villagers. Their unhappiness can be summed up in a single word: Tithes.
Tithes were originally a tax payable in kind to the rector of one tenth of the produce of
the land (crops, sheep, cattle etc.), as payment for his services. Universally unpopular
they were payable by all parishioners, from big farmers with large land holdings, right
down to little old ladies running a few geese on the village green. Why should parishion-
ers hand over a sizeable lump of their hard-earned produce to priests who, at the
time,were regarded not so much as holy men as lazy (& often absent) leeches on society?
Our terrier gets straight to the heart of the matter.
Whereas there were formerly very great & unhappy disputes between ye Rector of Great
Massingham in ye county of Norfolk, & the inhabitants of ye said parish, it was therefore
at last mutually agreed that ye whole affair in debate should be left to arbitration, which
was accordingly done.
Despite the talk of arbitration, Dr. Gardner is clearly using the terrier to define and de-
fend his right to a full and profitable career as the village tax collector and, fortunately
for us, he goes into considerable detail in doing so.
Here are just a few of the things that were agreed by Dr. Gardner and the arbitrators:-
That every parishioner having ten calves fallen within
ye parish shall pay the tenth in kind as it falleth. That Dr Gardner checks
every parishioner having a flock of sheep and lambs his flock
shall pay ye tenth lamb as they run at hurdles. Any pa-
rishioner having any foals fallen within ye parish shall
pay for the Tythe of every such foal according to ancient
custom thereof, one penny.
Concerning Tythe milk every parishioner shall pay his
first tythe (i.e. tenth) of all his milk cows upon the twelfth
day of May in ye evening & upon ye thirteenth of May in
ye morning & continue until Lammas Day in full payment
of all Tythe milk for the year then passed.
I have further to observe that all ye houses beyond ye
Parsonage-house towards Weasenham & Ruffham have, from long time past, delivered
their milk at ye Parsonage, as Elizabeth Bubbier & others are ready to testify. I am told
that there have formerly been tubs placed for the reception of Tythe Milk; one at ye Great
Stone by ye Stocks & another upon the Green…
The terrier continues in a similar vein for several pages. From it we learn, amongst other
things, that a farmer named Carr ‘threw down’ his milk in front of the Rector during a
blazing row and no apology was given for two years; that an earlier attempt by the Rector
to charge Tythe payments on Drover’s cattle, overnighting on the village green on their
way to the Hempton Fair, was unsuccessful; that local shepherds were skilled at conceal-
ing the exact number of lambs born to their ewes from the eagle eyes of their money-
grabbing priest. And that he was ever-present during shearing time to check that none of
his share of the fleeces was ‘clandestinely made off with’. The original document is now
in the County Records Office in Norwich and makes fascinating reading. It leaves just
two questions unanswered: Where exactly in the village were the stocks? And what ex-
actly was ‘the Great Stone? David Miller

2
Deadline for the Mallard News
next issue
20th November The Launch of ‘BUMBLE!’
Despite disappointing numbers attending, thirty-four copies of
In this issue ‘BUMBLE!’ were sold at the launch on 13th November raising
• Battle’s Over £102 to donate to Great Massingham and Harpley Primary
• ‘Histry’ Bits Schools for wildlife/environmental projects.
• Launch of Bumble So far responses to the book by those who have read it have
• Grassroots Malawi
• Craft & Chat been excellent. If anyone wishes to purchase a copy of
• Mobile Library ‘BUMBLE!’ they can do so on line and Google ‘Bumble by
• Village Hall Events Andrew Bickerton’. Obviously these purchases will not include
• West Norfolk Live donations to our schools or be signed copies. They will, how-
• Quiz Night ever, make an excellent Christmas present.
• Poker Night My thanks to Beverley, Susie, Shelley and Taylor for their help.
• West Norfolk Wins Andrew Bickerton
• Bowls Chair’s Report
• Tennis News GRASSROOTS MALAWI Craft and Chat
The stalls on September 29th made In the Village Hall
£250. This makes a fantastic amount Bar, 2pm - 4.30pm
• Gert & Daisy Travel raised this Summer on the Green to £1.50 includes
• Reverend Judith £1500! refreshments.
• Church News Many thanks to all our supporters, Mondays
• Church Services those who give and those who buy. We 5th and 19th
• Historical Society couldn’t do it without you. We made a
• Fifty/Fifty Sale November
• School News massive donation of unsold items to
• Film Show Sue Ryder charity shop so, hopefully, NEXT MOBILE
• Dates for your Diary these will help them to raise funds too. LIBRARY VISIT
Hope to see you all again next From 11am,
Editor: Bev Randall
Treasurer: David Baines year. Grateful thanks Jenny, Paul As Timetabled
Website: Caroline Boyden and the children of Malawi. 20th November
Shop window

By M B LOGS
DRY STORED, SEASONED,
SPLIT WOOD
SUPPLIED & DELIVERED
CALL MARK
Based in and around Great Massingham
07766223438 or email
Call/Text: 07825 234293 markmark.bane@gmail.com
Leanne Elton

JJs Flowers
Funeral Tributes,
Simon Rivett
Garden Maintenance
Weddings, Bouquets & Pest Control
Miss Julie Morters JJs flowers
01485 609 125 or @ JJs FlowersJulieMorters 138 Summerwood
07884 238 438 Gt. Massingham 01485 520 134
justjulie71@tiscali.co.uk King’s Lynn 07557 915 188
The Birches, St Andrews Lane, Congham, PE32 1DY PE32 2HS simonrivett@hotmail.co.uk

3
Mallard News Village Hall
VILLAGE HALL REGULAR EVENTS NOVEMBER QUIZ NIGHT
Keep Fit Wed. 1.45 to 2.45pm Thursday, November 22nd
Bingo Fridays at 7.30pm Village Hall Bar, 7pm for 7.30pm
Auction Sundays A Christmas Themed Quiz
Coronation Club (4th Wed.) 2pm - 4pm Why not come and join us?
Baby &Toddler Thurs. 10am - 11.30am
W/Norfolk Radio Sundays 7pm -10pm Poker Night
Craft & Chat (1st& 3rd Mon) 2 - 4.30pm Great Massingham Hall Bar,
at 6pm, Saturday 24th November
Trefoil Guild 2nd Thursday, each month
For members and signed in guests
Film Night 3rd Thursday, each month
Quiz Nights 4th Thursday, each month Supporting
Bowls - Short Mat Wednesdays 7pm - 9.30
Historical Society 2nd Monday 7.30pm
Youth Club Tuesdays 6.45- 9.15pm
Yoga With a Chair Tuesdays 10am - 11am

West Norfolk Radio’s Live Shows


Village Hall Bar 7-10pm, FREE entry.
18 Nov Black Pages and Penguins Go Pop Support us today and you can be the
25 Nov Kevan Taplin and Emily Blake & change we need this season
Jamie. • Help make a difference and give support
www.westnorfolkradio.co.uk • Sign up for just £1 a week
• You could win £25,000 while supporting
Fitness Mobility: To sign up and start supporting visit:
Thursdays, Docking Surgery, www.westnorfolkwins.co.uk
11. 30 am - 12. 30. And search for Great Massingham

Shop window
T.J.H. Boiler & Heating Services
• Fault Diagnostics
• Unvented Hot Water Systems Call Tony on
• Landlord Certificates 07446 075677
• Oil Boiler Servicing & Repairs
• Gas Boiler Installations & Upgrades 01553 636004
• Power Flushing Based in Gayton
• Emergency Plumbing
www.tjhboilerandheating.com
Email : tjhboilerandheating@outlook.com
No Call Out Fees.
FREE Estimates Energy expert installer

Carol Walker MCFHP MAFHP


Registered Member of the British
Association of Foot Health Professionals
Landlords Electrical Testing
Electrical Upgrades Foot Health Practitioner
All Work Fully Insured Foot Healthcare in Your Home
For your free estimate please call Adam Prime on
Contact: carolwalker3060@gmail.com
01485 601141
07765 786709 Tel: 07714192521 or 01485 520 187
primenetworkgrp@gmail.com

4
Shop window
NO JOB TOO SMALL GIVE
JAY A CALL

Gardening and hedge trimming. • Guitar Tuition - Acoustic, Electric & Bass • Vocal Coaching
• Drum Tuition • Ukulele
Painting and decorating. • Music Workshops • Mandolin
Installation of wood and laminate Tel: 01553 630747 - 07720 888978 - Ashwicken, King’s Lynn
Email: stone.pony@btinternet.com
flooring, tile work, home
maintenance and repairs.
FREE quotes
07810 717 415 All building work undertaken
jaycarr25gmx.co.uk Quality assured. Renovation & newbuild

J.J & C CARPENTRY 15, Cross Street, Harpley, King’s Lynn PE31 6TJ
& REPAIRS LTD sandrreeve@gmail.com

Approved coal and


Lynn Road
West Rudham Oyster
solid fuel merchant
For Quality Fuels at the
Norfolk
PE31 8RW House
Best Prices Bed & Breakfast
Mrs. Veronica Prentice
Phone: 01485 520637 Phone O1485 528327
Mobile: 07780 776576 www.oysterhouse.co.uk

H. I. S. TV, Video, DVD & Satellite Sales, Set-up & Repairs


HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES
• Free Estimates • 30 Years Experience


General Building Work
Barn Conversions
Tim Margereson • All Makes & Models • Work Guaranteed
• Extensions 3 Weasenham Rd • Qualified Engineer • Discount for OAP’s
• Conservatories Gt.Massingham PE32 2EY


Hard Landscaping
Kitchens/Bathrooms
• Sales, Repairs, Installations & Tuning Services
• Floor & Wall Tiling Call 07786 618787 or
• Decking
01485 520745 White Cottage, School Road, Necton (opp Rectory

Why Not Advertise in the Mallard?


There is one space available at the
moment for a small advert.
Contact the editor, Bev Randall, at
mallard.editor@btinternet.com
Or Tel: 01485 520 899

5
Mallard News
Massingham Bowls Club Report 2018
This is my final report for Massingham Bowls Club as I will be standing down at the 31 st
October AGM. I would like to thanks all bowls club members for their support over the
past twenty years, nine as Chair and eleven years as Secretary. I wish my successor good
luck in their new role and hope that the club will continue to prosper in the coming years.
2018 was another successful season for Massingham Bowls Club and we continue to
achieve good results compared to some of our close rivals who have better resources. Our
achievements this season were as follows:
• The Brewery League team, led by Colin Whitmore, won the first division at their first
attempt having been promoted from the second division last season, also at their first
attempt.
• The Albert Victor A team led by Malcolm Hipkin were runners-up again in the
league.
• The Albert Victor B team led by Tony Williams finished fourth in division 4.
Massingham again hosted the Albert Victor League Presentation Night in the Village
Hall in October this year, which also brings welcome revenue to the hall and club.
Thanks for the organisation and success of this function should go to Malcolm Hipkin
who spends a great deal of time making sure everything is in place and that it all runs
smoothly. The event was well attended and yielded a surplus in takings which will be
added to the Albert Victor League funds.
Malcolm Hipkin and Peter Wadham intend to continue as joint League Secretaries to the
Albert Victor League next season, if re-elected at the AGM in February.
The George Grief Trophy Pairs Competition (trophy was gifted to the club last year by
George’s family) took place in June, organised by Vic Cross. Pairs were selected at ran
dom from the list of entrants. The winning pair was Colin Whitmore and David Gagen.
The Derek Skipper Memorial Competition took place at Massingham in August this year
and involved the A & B teams from Massingham Bowls Club and teams from Houghton
B.C. and Rougham B.C. This year’s competition was again won by Massingham A as
per usual, the event was followed by a get-together in the Social Club with sandwiches
etc. provided by members of all three clubs. Lena attended with her family and presented
the trophy to Colin Whitmore, captain of Massingham A for this event.
Sadly, another ex-member of our club, Janet Drewery, passed away this year and our
condolences were conveyed to her husband Derek and her family. Janet played for
Massingham bowls club for many years and was a founder member of the ladies’ team
but has suffered from ill health for a number of years.
A friendly ‘challenge’ match against the Tennis Club was again played in August with
about 12 bowls club members taking part and a similar number of tennis club members.
It took a similar format as last year with the tennis match being organised as 5-a-side so
as not to be too strenuous followed by tennis club members playing bowls. All enjoyed
the experience. This was followed by a barbeque & refreshments and then a game of
boules, on an improvised pitch, near the bowls pavilion. Thanks to Annie Lawton and
Ali Ward for their help with the planning and organising. I think all players from both
clubs enjoyed the day and it is planned to hold the event again in 2019.
Malcolm Hipkin ran a Race Night solely for the Bowls Club, this time. A superb profit in
excess of £400 was raised for club funds.
The outdoor informal sessions continued on Mondays again this season. Attendance at
these sessions was patchy. However, those who have attended regularly have enjoyed the

6
Mallard News
friendly rivalry with some choosing to have informal sessions on Sunday mornings too.
The winter indoor short-mat bowls sessions, on Monday afternoons last season, raised in
excess of £650 in hall hire fees for the Village hall, up by £100 on the previous year.
The Wednesday evening competitions, this year run by Bob Nash, continued to be well
Supported. Bob introduced a new system of player selection this year by ‘seeding’ some
players and drawing the paired players at random. This year’s competition was won
by Colin Whitmore and Derek Drewery.
Thanks go to Vic Cross for his help with the Monday sessions in terms of access and
standing in for me if I was not available. Both these sessions have been well supported
by club members over the years and hopefully that support will continue.
During the 2019 / 2020 season, it will probably be necessary to do some fund-raising in
order to boost club funds in order to try to achieve an improved playing surface and to
assist, where possible, with the planned and imminent improvements and enhancement
of the village hall facilities. Obviously some aspects of the improvement project will also
improve the areas around the bowls green and serve to enhance our facilities so it is
hoped we can take a positive role in these areas and lend our support to the Trustees in
their efforts to complete this major project which will ultimately benefit the community
as a whole. Massingham Bowls Club are pleased to represent the village in the various
leagues and are grateful for the ongoing support from the Massingham Village Hall
Trustees and the Social Club. We all look forward to another successful season next year
and I would like to thank all members for their continuing support of the club throughout
2018. Peter Wadham – Chair, Massingham Bowls Club – October 2018

News From The Tennis Courts …..


Response from the Club!
You Can’t be Serious! The two courts have been pressure
It has been brought to our attention washed, repainted and re-lined and they
that there are no longer any mark- look much the better for it. Prior to
ings for a netball court or 5-aside painting, a ‘binder coat’ was applied to
football on the MULTISPORTS refresh the tarmac which will reduce the
court. number of stones coming away from the
This court was opened as a Multi- surface. It cost £4,000 but it should keep
court in 1988 for the use of the vil- our courts going for a good few years to
lage and we believe that because of come.
its multi-use it has been cited in As there has been no netball played on
various grant applications. the courts for around five years, we’ve
The courts have been cleaned and left the netball lines off. But if local net-
repainted since 1988 and the multi- ballers ever want to use the courts, we
games lines have always been kept. still have the hoops and the lines can be
We were wondering who gave per- put back on easily. Arthur Allen
mission for the purpose of this court
to be changed to purely tennis?
Just because it isn’t used at this time Tennis Camp and Junior Club Latest…...
for netball or 5-aside doesn’t mean Forty - Five children participated in the recent
it won’t be needed in the future. Tennis ‘Camp’ and our Saturday morning Junior
Who had the right to take away the Club continues through the winter, weather per-
choice? Gert and Daisy mitting. Check out the Facebook page for
weather alerts. More news next month.

7
Mallard News
Macmillan Coffee Morning Continues On a High
On behalf of all helpers, I would like to thank every-
one who contributed to the coffee morning either by
the giving of prizes, auction pledges, baking cakes,
counting the money, decorating the hall (which
looked absolutely lovely), buying or selling raffle
tickets, giving donations, doing the auction (thanks
Mike) and working in the kitchen (thanks ladies).
A huge thank you to all who attended. The hall was
packed and we are aware that, at the peak time, seat-
ing was a bit of a problem. We wish you to know that next year the seating in the bar will
also be available, if people wish to sit there.
As in previous years, you gave your full support and we do appreciate it. This year we
were, at first, £500 short of last year’s total. However, Jacqui, one of our helpers, desper-
ately wanted to achieve or surpass last year’s amazing £9,900. Her friend had come all
the way from Leicester for the day because she had heard how Massingham had given
Jacqui and Barrie so much support and she, very kindly, donated £600 to take the total to
£10,000! What a fantastic result! Thank you.
Over the last twelve years we have raised an amazing £69,000. Well done and thank you
to everyone for your support. Chrissie Warnes

Firemen’s St Mary’s Christmas Market


Quiz Saturday 1st December, 11am to 2.30pm
The Firemen’s Great Massingham Village Hall
Quiz will be Games, Cakes, Craft Stalls,
held on: Refreshments,
Saturday 17th November Raffle, Tombola.
Village Hall Bar, 7.30p.m. start See Father Christmas
Quizmasters will be With a free gift
Gert and Daisy. All welcome! Please come and support.
8
Mallard News
Gert & Daisy.... .... Their Grand Tour
Special Holiday Report Edition of Gert and Daisy.
Gert and Bert go to Sidmouth every year for a week-
end to visit Jean Brooks who, as some of you will
remember, used to live with her husband Adrian
(Brook) in Cobwebs. We awl visited Jean and hed a
delicious Sunday lunch at a pub called the Bowd.
The weather wus luvly so we wus able to git owt and
about. On the Monday we went cycling on Dartmoor
and dun abowt fifteen mile. Have ter tell yew they were electric bikes and Daisy hed a
job gitting off them due ter her short legs. The easiest way were ter fall on ter the bank
and let the bike fall on top of her. Unfortunately she landed on a thistle and was picking
prickles out of her bottom fer the rest of the day! Bert clocked up 30mph on some of the
downhill bits.
On the Tuesday, we went ter Beer and hed lunch on
the beach and then went to the Beer Quarry Caves.
They are a manmade limestone underground complex
started in Roman times. Some of the stone wus used
in Westminster Abbey. They were used by smugglers
and for storage in the wartime. That wus very inter-
esting and massive. Well worth a visit if yew are
down that way. As yew can see from the photo Bob
and his gang heving so much fun!
Wednesday saw us go ter Colyton ter catch the tram through ter Seaton. That wus loike a
little railway. When we got back ter Colyton we went in the Shed which wus a massive
shed full of other people’s old truc but Bert managed to find a pair of nutcrackers he dint
already hev! Then we went on ter the Donkey Sanctuary where we hed lunch. That wus
luvly seeing awl the donkeys. One sort wus as big as a horse with gret ol lugs. Popped
inter Jean’s fer a drink and nibbles.
On Thursday, we went ter Torquay and got on a boat which went
ter Dartmouth. We hed crab sandwiches in a pub there before
gitting on a little ferry ter cross the river. There we hed a little
walk round and then cort the steam train ter Paignton. The trip
was gud. After a quick look round the station we cort an ordinary
bus which tuk us back ter Torquay. That wus exhausting!!
By Friday, we wus so knackered we stayed in Sidmouth and sat
on the beach fer a while and then wandered round the shops.
Popped inter Jean’s agin fer more drinks & nibbles.
Of course, nearly every evening we hed ter go owt to eat because
Gert and Daisy wus on holiday!
We wud loike ter congratulate Deb and Rodney on their Golden Wedding Anniversary.
Well dun fer putting up with each other that long!
Just as we’re writing this we’ve heard of a gret ol fire in King’s Lynn destroying the Sue
Ryder Charity Shop. Sid will be devastated – it’s his favourite shop!
Well, moind how yew awl go tergether. Next toime we shud be able to report on any
fireworks and start opening the Advent calendar. Gert and Daisy
Thought of the month:
Never put off until tomorrow what you can do the day after tomorrow.
9
Shop window

Over 25 years experience,


17Th Edition qualified,
Part P registered

Meadowvale Bed & Breakfast


Gayton PE32 1QT

Stunning location.
Luxury accommodation. Suit any occasion.
www.meadowvalebedandbreakfast.com

Boarding for dogs in the comfort of our home


Your dogs will be treated as one of the family for
the duration of their stay. Daily walks & spacious
grounds for your dog to play in.
Love and cuddles guaranteed!
The Paddocks, Station Road,
Little Massingham
Contact Donna on 07793 737 312

Ducklings Preschool
Great Massingham
Preschool places available
September 2018
2-4 years
Childcare available 8am-6pm
Ducklingspreschool@aol.com
07807185746

32 Walcups Lane, Great Massingham, PE32 2HR


Email: nealedavies4@gmail.com

10
Shop window

Ofsted Registered Childminding Service


Great Massingham
PE32 2HT
01485 520091
07778 500780
jimjo_171@outlook.com

BRING NEW LIFE TO YOUR HOME WITH..

The Window Doctor


WE SUPPLY A QUALITY RANGE OF
Windows · Doors · Conservatories
Porches · Car Ports · Fascia
Soffit & Guttering.
REPAIR SERVICE
Misted or broken glass sealed units replaced
with full guarantee.
Hinges, handles and faulty mechanisms replaced.
Installation of Solid, Draughty or leaky windows, doors and
conservatories cured.
Engineered & Laminates. Mouldy or shrunken rubber gaskets replaced.
Floor Sanding & Re-Finishing. Refurbish and upgrade your existing windows.
Call Chris PROVIDING YOU FINANCE OPTIONS
WITH EXPERT ADVICE AVAILABLE
Mobile 07894 791 723 YOU CAN TRUST
Landline (01485) 521707 Tel: 01945 585999 or
www.thewindow-doctor.co.uk
www.gibbswoodfloors.co.uk Gold Leaf Industrial Park, Sandall Road Rd, Wisbech

T&A
All aspects of Domestic Tree and Garden Care
Pruning, reductions, felling, hedge trimming,
climbers, shrub pruning, fruit trees and more.
Small Local Company - Qualified & Insured
Free no obligation quotes and advice

www.TandAnorfolk.co.uk

PRIVATE WING WITH TWO BEDROOMS, GAMES ROOM,


BREAKFAST ROOM AND GARDEN
Contact Su’en Miller
Tel: 01485 520 988 Parsley Barn
Mob: 07968 246 083 Weasenham Rd
Email: suen.miller@foxcotte.force9.co.uk Gt Massingham
Or book via www.airbnb.co.uk PE32 2EY

11
Message From Reverend Judith to all Parishioners

T A
A Time P
O of Remembrance
LL ARISHIONERS
This year, 2018, marks the centenary of the Armistice which marked the end
of the First World War. At the time it was thought to be the war to end all
wars. Sadly, this has not been the case and since then there have been countless
conflicts all over the world - and continuing.
Remembrance is a time both of national mourning and collective memory, a time to
bring our shared histories to life as we seek to remember individuals, perhaps family
members - military personnel and civilians - whose lives have been shaped by and sacri-
ficed in war. There is a wonderfully evocative passage in the Bible, from Micah, Chapter
4: ‘They shall beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks.
Nation shall not lift up sword against nation neither shall they learn war any more. But
they shall all sit under their own vines and under their own fig trees - and no one shall
make them afraid.’ We may not have vines and fig trees but you get the general picture:
no one shall make them afraid to speak out for truth and justice always.
The season of Remembrance is also a time to think more broadly of those dear to us who
have died, that great cloud of witnesses who wait for us upon another shore and in a
greater light, as we approach All Saints’ Day (1st November) and All Souls’ Day (2nd
November), also called the Commemoration of the Faithful Departed. Another way of
describing All Saints is ‘All Hallows’- churchyards are ‘hallowed ground’ - hence the
eve of this day: 31st October is perhaps better known as Hallowe’en -or All Hallows Eve,
a time when heaven and earth feel more closely aligned.
As Christians, we are given hope through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ who
died for us, that death is not the end, only the end of our earthly life – and the beginning
of eternal life in glory.
My colleague Jane and I will be holding special services at St. Botolph’s, Grimston and
St. Mary’s, Great Massingham to commemorate our departed loved ones; please see
parish magazines or our website: ggmbenefice.uk for details.
As a nation, we seek always to value the freedoms so dearly won for us. We should al-
ways use this precious freedom wisely – many others are not so fortunate - and pass it on
to future generations in gratitude and as an enduring legacy of peace and hope.
With my love to you all in the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, Reverend Judith.

Preschool News….. What’s been happening this half term?


The children may not remember ‘The Contours and the Mashed Potato Song’ (Home
Alone for younger viewers) but they know this is makaton for G.
We were learning biggest and smallest by building different height towers of bricks. Prob-
lem solving skills took over when 2 bright sparks used the bread-crates and a stool to
make their tower higher than anyone else.
We had an extra Fire Drill as the alarm went off! Something about burning the toast that
we had with our very healthy fruit snack! We used the Book of the Week, ‘The Very Hun-
gry Caterpillar’ to learn about different fruits and try them all out.
Our version of the Costa Coffee Shop really appealed to the children's entrepreneurial
skills with a brisk trade in lattes & tea made with air. The till was ringing with the clink of
fake bank notes designed by the children so we have probably produced next generation
of master forgers! Our next Books of the Week are ‘Cops and Robbers’ & ‘Burglar Bill’.
We were collecting conkers on one of our preschool walks ''Look Pip, this clonker has
been eaten by a squeezle''. Pip

12
Church Services November
Date Time Service Location
4th November 8.30 am Holy Communion Ashwicken
9.30 am Family Service Harpley
10.30 am Morning Praise Gayton
10.30 am Holy Communion Grimston
11.00 am Holy Communion Great Massingham
6.00 pm Evensong Congham
7th November 9.00 am Holy Communion Harpley
th
11 November 9.00 am Remembrance Service Ashwicken
10.00 am Remembrance Service Great Massingham
10.30 am Remembrance Service Gayton
10.30 am Remembrance Service Grimston
10.50 am Remembrance Service Harpley
18th November 8.30 am Holy Communion Roydon
9.30 am Holy Communion Little Massingham
10.30 am Holy Communion Gayton
11.00 am Family Service Great Massingham
11.15 am Sung Holy Communion Harpley
3.00 pm Celebration of Life Grimston
21st November 9.00 am Holy Communion Grimston
th
25 November 8.30 am Holy Communion Congham
10.30 am Family Service (Joint with Grim- Gayton
11.00 am ston) Great Massingham
3.00 pm Holy Communion Gayton Thorpe
2nd December 8.30 am Holy Communion East Walton
Advent Sunday 9.30 am Family Service Harpley
10.30 am Holy Communion Grimston
10.30 am Morning Praise Gayton
11.00 am Holy Communion Great Massingham
Benefice Prayer Meeting, Sunday 4th November at St. Botolph, Grimston
and Sunday 2nd December, at St Nicholas, Gayton.
For more news please visit our benefice website at www.ggmbenefice.uk

CHURCH NEWS A Brief Update - Kitchen/Toilet Scheme!


Wednesday Afternoon Teas - Thank you The complex legal processes with the Dio-
to all who’ve acted as hostess, baker, table cese of Norwich and the Planning Dept. are
mover, treasurer & laundry assistant: Judi, nearing completion and an approved con-
Anna, Gilly, Ann, Margaret, Yvonne, Sue, tractor will soon be instructed to undertake
Maggie, Susie and Viv. We have enjoyed the work. We can now apply, as a matter of
getting together each week in church. Cold urgency, for specialist grants to assist
weather looms. Time to move to our cosy us with this vital work. Watch this space!
Winter venue. Mary & Judith have kindly Reverend Judith
offered No 3 Abbeyfields, from Wednesday Samaritan’s Purse - Join us on 3rd Nov,
7th November. All be welcome from 2pm. 9.30am, in the Church, to fill our boxes.

13
Shop window

D S PLUMBING
est 1990
Call 01485 542576
Or 07818 602258
Boiler Servicing, New Heating Systems,
Bathrooms, Breakdowns, Repairs,
Upgrades, All Plumbing Covered.

FIRING Heath Farm Shop


Family run business
selling quality &

SQUAD
bespoke meat and
produce, from our own
farm & local Suppliers
Heath farm Shop, Lynn Lane,
Great Massingham
WOODBURNERS King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE32 2HJ
01485 520 828
Comprehensive stock to view at our Open 9-5 Monday to Friday
showroom on 9-1 Saturday
The West Raynham Business Park.
01328 854 098
e-mail: firingsquadwoodburners@yahoo.com
www.firingsquadwoodburners.com
APPROVED CLEARVIEW STOCKIST

Welcomes old & new members

High quality fitted and free-standing


furniture. Individually designed,
Excellent facilities and
a friendly atmosphere. personally installed by experts from
Good beer, real ale, wines and spirits
all at competitive prices. our Great Massingham workshops.
Separate snooker room. www.tenacityinteriors.com
Satellite, large screen TV.
Outside drinking area.
Entertainment throughout the year.
Membership applications can be obtained CALL TODAY
from the club bar 01485 521888

14
Useful Numbers
Organisation Contact Phone No.
Allotment Association Gill Goold 0750 824 2223
Baby & Toddler Rachael Lockwood Contact Village Hall
Biodiversity Project Mike Jackson 520 056
Borough Council Tim Tilbrook 01485 601413
Bell Ringing Denys Winner 520 598
Bowls Club Peter Wadham 520 796
Church Contacts Revd Judith Pollard 01485 601 251
or Revd Jane Holmes 01553 636227
Community Car Scheme Office 520 823
Coronation Club Jill Whitmore 520 609
County Council Stuart Graham Dark 07450 679 355
Doctors Massingham Surgery 520 521

The Film Night Arthur Allen 520 628


Fishing Warden Guy Belsom Sue Nash on 520 476
Guide Trefoil Guild Shirley Rae 520 259
Massingham Historical Society Peter James 521 706
Tennis and Multi-Sports Club Arthur Allen 520 628
Parish Council Kevin Webb (Clerk) 01328 855 046
Vic Cross (Chair) 520 387
Pre-School Pip Armitage 07807 185 746
Police Non-emergency 101
School Ann Beardall 520 362
Village Hall Hall & Bar & Vic Cross 520 588/520 387

The Village Store & Post Office OVEN CLEANING


• Local Free Range Eggs
CARPET CLEANING
• Twice Weekly Dry Cleaning Service SOFA CLEANING
• Holiday Insurance & Foreign Currency
• Euros on demand Call the local experts now

Clean Tech
Mark, Kerry and
FREE local deliveries
staff welcome you
to your local shop,
7days a week.
every Thursday ! 01485 609223
Mon. to Sat. Village Store Card, cheque and cash
8am to 5.30pm Great Massingham
Sun. 9.30 -12.30 payments accepted
Tel: 520 272

15
Historical Society 50/50 Sale
Thank you for your support at our recent Thursday 22nd November
events. Our 2019 calendars are selling well 7pm to 9pm at
and make ideal Christmas gifts. Massingham Village Hall
Be sure not to miss our next two events, Free Entry. Bar open.
‘The Battle’s Over’ display (see page 1) Cash only for purchases.
Then, on….. Have you got something a bit special
December 10th, that you no longer wear?
7.30 pm, at Put it on a hanger, label & price it & bring
the Village Hall it to the village hall between 2 & 4pm on
we have a talk by the 22nd (or give it to Max Pratt, Mel
Peter Gunn entitled Whitmore or Sandy Francis prior to that ).
‘Aviation Landmarks’ If it sells, you get 50% and the Village Hall
(see right) Refurbishment Fund gets the other 50%. If
it doesn’t sell, collect it on the 23rd at 10am
Peter is an expert on the history of our or we will donate it to charity.
Norfolk Airfields and this will be a very You are limited to 10 items each.
interesting, informative talk.
Please come. Members free. Guests £2 NEW THIS TIME… Following a request
for children’s clothes which we can’t
Great Massingham manage we invite you to hire a table for
Baby and Toddler just £5 and come along and sell your
EVERY THURSDAY own children’s/babies’ clothes and good
From 10 - 11.30am quality toys. No bric a brac please.
at the Village Hall Phone 521 787 to book. Only 6 tables
£2 with snack of tea & cake, 50p second child. available - first come first served!
School Christmas Fayre
Thursday 6th December
3-5 pm, at the school
Santa, raffle, stalls and games
Thursday November 15th All welcome
7pm for 7.30pm, £4 entry. Please see our flyer delivered with this
Massingham Village Hall issue about our 100 Club. Please get in
‘Edie’ touch if you want to become a member.
Dates for your Diary – November
Date Event Time Place
5/19 Nov Craft & Chat 2 to 4.30pm Village Hall Bar
11 Nov Battles Over 5.15 pm & 7pm Church & Green
12 Nov Historical Society 7.30 pm Village Hall
15 Nov Film Night 7 for 7.30pm Village Hall
17 Nov Firemen’s Quiz by Gert & Daisy 7.30 pm Village Hall Bar
18/25 Nov West Norfolk Live 7 to 10 pm Village Hall Bar
20 Nov Mobile Library From 11am As Timetabled
22 Nov Quiz Night 7.30 pm Village Hall Bar
22 Nov Fifty Fifty Sale 7 to 9 pm Village Hall
1 Dec Church Christmas Market 11am - 2.30pm Village Hall
MIKE TILBURY AWARD - Don't forget to submit your nomination for this award. Nomina-
tion forms & submission boxes are available in the Surgery, Village Store & the Village Hall bar.

16

You might also like