Apethorpe News

Apethorpe Village Party

2011-08-26T14:28:00.000+01:00

Apethorpe in the 60's

2011-07-28T13:42:00.000+01:00

Richard Parkinson kindly sent us this photograph of Apethorpe in the sixties. It shows Manor Farm as just that - a farm! Many thanks to Richard for sending it in.

The King's Head Opens Soon!

2011-07-28T13:36:00.000+01:00

APETHORPE'S King's Head pub will be open again soon and Simon Forbes and Charlotte Bussey who are running it would like to send this message out to the village:

Dear Villagers, we are proud to announce that THE KINGS HEAD, Apethorpe, shall be re-opening SOON. Keep posted for our Grand Opening dates and we look forward to seeing you all! Also make sure you keep your eyes peeled for upcoming events! We welcome any ideas, events and questions about the pub, so feel free to pop in and have a chat with us, we would like to make the pub the heart of the village community once again!

Many Thanks, and look forward to meeting soon

Simon Forbes and Charlotte Bussey

We'll keep you posted as we get more news and wish them all the very best with running the pub.

Apethorpe's Event of the Summer!

2011-07-28T13:33:00.000+01:00

APETHORPE TENNIS CLUB BARBECUE, SAT AUGUST 13, NON-MEMBERS WELCOME!
ALI and Richard Clarke have kindly offered to host this year's Apethorpe Tennis barbecue and it's set to be the Apethorpe social event of the summer.
Members, non-members, friends and family are all invited to the evening event which starts at 7pm on Saturday August 13. And if you've never been upto Richard and Ali's at Fisher Close Cottage, Lodge Farm, Apethorpe before then you're in for a treat. The scenery is stunning and Ali's food is world class.
Tickets cost £12 per person which includes all food and your first drink which our insiders say will have an Italian twist this year.
If youd like to buy tickets please contact Geoff on: 01780-470880 or Jane on: 01832-226286.

The Kings Head Closed for Business

2011-05-17T20:31:00.001+01:00

It is with great sadness that we have to report The Kings Head is closed. Pub owners Steve and Julia sent us this statement. Dear villagers, It is with much sadness that Bern and Marilyn will no longer be running the Kings Head as Lease holders, we are not aware of all of the facts but would like to assure you all that we intend to sell the lease on again or may possibly sell the pub, whatever happens and it is too early to say please be assured that we will not let the pub or the village down and will keep you informed of the situation. Kind Regards Steve and Julia From all at Apethorpe News we wish Bernd and Marilyn, Steve and Julia well.

Nuclear Waste - it's time to have your say

2011-04-06T19:04:00.000+01:00

THE future of Apethorpe is in your hands as tomorrow night the local villages come together to vote for or against dumping nuclear waste in Kings Cliffe.
Apethorpe's very own polling station is at Westmoreland House, Manor Farm, Apethorpe and is open from 4pm to 9pm on Thursday April 7th.
The question being raised is:
DO YOU WANT THE PARISH MEETING TO TAKE THE STRONGEST ACTIONS TO OBJECT TO THE DISPOSAL OF LOW LEVEL RADIOACTIVE WASTE AT THE EAST NORTHANTS RESOURCE MANAGEMENT FACILITY OR ANY OTHER SITE IN THE SURROUNDING AREA?
Many of you will have seen the advertising campaign locally which needs you to vote YES if you want to OPPOSE the disposal of radioactive waste nearby. Or, of course NO if you feel differently.
Your vote can make the difference, and Malcolm Winder, Chairman of the Apethorpe Village Meeting is appealing for everyone to attend and cast your vote.

Apethorpe votes to hold official referendum

2011-03-09T21:09:00.000Z

The village of Apethorpe has voted in favour of a referendum against the dumping of nuclear waste at an official meeting chaired by Malcolm Winder.
The meeting at St Leonard's Church this evening was attended by passionate members of the Apethorpe community and also included representatives from surrounding villages including Kings Cliffe.
A majority vote was made in favour of holding an official referendum to be managed by the local authority. Malcolm revealed this could take place as early as April 7.
Further details on the legality of which question to pose will be disclosed over the coming weeks following further legal advice.

A huge thank you from Pat

2011-03-09T18:36:00.000Z

Pat Howells would like to send her thanks for the support shown during recent months following the passing away of her husband Keith. The lovely Pat said:"I want to thank everyone who both attended Keith’s wonderful send off and who have supported me so kindly through these past months. Friends and neighbours have been amazing but I know they will excuse me if I particularly single out Nick Blackford who tried so hard to help Keith when he needed it most. This village is such a special place but in times like this it makes you realise how lucky we are to be part of such a great community. Pat added: "I have just received a thank you from the Sue Rider Thorpe Hall Hospice for the tremendous donation of £2517.39 made from Keith’s funeral and also sent directly from friends and family who could not attend. What a wonderful tribute to Keith. Thank you all so much from us both. This money will go to help others in need of their amazing care."

Neighbourhood Watch News

2011-03-08T21:25:00.000Z

Latest advice from Neighbourhood Watch:

With the TV digital switchover happening at the end of March please be aware of bogus callers knocking on your door offering to retune your televisions. These people will deliberately target the elderly and vulnerable who may have concerns about the switchover, and their intention will be to enter the property and steal money, handbags and other small items of value.
There are organisations that will help with the switchover, and their employees will carry identification, please ensure that before you let anyone into your property that you have had a good look at any identification offered, and that you feel comfortable about them being there. The best policy would be to ask a relative or trusted neighbour to help and advise you with the retune, and not let strangers into your house.
If you have any concerns about a caller at your door particularly during this period then please make sure you call the police on 03000 111 222

SAVE OUR VILLAGE FROM RADIOACTIVE WASTE

2011-03-08T20:27:00.002Z

A meeting to discuss voting against plans to dump radioactive waste in Kings Cliffe will take place on Wednesday March 9.

As many of you will already know Augean PLC have applied numerous times for planning permission to dump tons of radioactive waste just a few miles from Apethorpe. So far this has been declined but the problem is not going away and Augean keep plugging away to get permission.

To have your say and find out the latest on this shocking state of affairs please attend the meeting at St Leonard’s Church at 7.30pm on Wednesday March 9.

Apethorpe's Chairman of the Village Meeting, Malcolm Winder said: "From the generosity and concern of Apethorpe residents we have raised £600 for the referendum and we only need your vote of support on Wednesday to proceed.
He continued: "Nearby villages are doing the same so that we generate a united community response to the Government under the proposals of 'The Big Society'."

For now, please read the information supplied by Diane Gifford and the Local Democracy in Action (LDA Group).

Further information can be found at the following websites:

LDA's website http://ldia.org.uk

Twitter: http://twitter.com/ldaction

Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/pages/Local-Democracy-In-Action/177754475600827

JOHNNY’S THE PICK OF THE LITTER!

2011-03-08T20:19:00.004Z

Apethorpe’s very own good guy Johnny Earl is arranging the annual Apethorpe Litter Pick this weekend.

The event kicks off at 3pm this Sunday (March 13) outside the King’s Head pub and all equipment will be provided.

It’s a fantastic chance to get involved with the local community, make our village even more beautiful and bump into a few old faces for a chat while getting your hands dirty.

Any questions please contact Johnny on 470343 or email: johnnyearl@hotmail.com

APETHORPE POSTCARDS ON SALE!

2011-03-08T20:16:00.004Z

IF you haven’t snapped up a set of the beautiful A5 postcards produced with photographs taken in and around Apethorpe by village residents then now is your chance.

Each of the eight high quality cards has a different photograph taken by residents and is selected from the wonderful photos from the village calendar last year. All profit goes to St Leonards Church.

The cards have kindly been produced in conjunction with Mike and Anne Johnson and Malcolm and Lynn Winder.

They cost £6 for a pack of eight cards with quality envelopes or £10 for two packs.

Mike Johnson said: “You really must see these cards to fully appreciate their quality, similar cards in shops would normally sell for prices starting at £1.50 each.”

To buy a set call Ann and Mike on 470669 or Malcolm and Lynn on 470472.

THE PHONEBOX LIBRARY IS GO!

2011-03-08T20:16:00.003Z

BOOKS and CDs are required for the new Apethorpe Phonebox Library.

The BT phonebox is now owned by Apethorpe residents and our very own Graham Warren has sweated over creating a library to be proud of.

Now all it needs is your help.

Please put your CDs, DVDs and books in a box at the Kings Head pub if you would like them to be shared around the village.

Rumours that a local dignitary will officially open the Library shortly have been furiously denied. However, watch this space.

APETHORPE CHURCH NEWS BY RICHARD PARKINSON

2011-03-08T20:15:00.003Z

• The Manor House Gardens will be open on Sunday 10^th April in aid of Hospital at Home from 2.30 to 5 pm. It will also be open on Easter Saturday 23^rd April 2.30 to 5pm, in aid of Fishing for the Forces. Teas will be served in the Church on both occasions and the tickets will cost £5.00 on Easter Saturday and are available from Lady Brassey (470231) or on the gate.

• There is a Bible study evening in the Manor House Shooters Lodge on Tuesday 8^th March at 7.15 pm. Everyone is welcome, bring your own bible.

• The Women’s World Day of Prayer is on Friday 4^th March, in Nassington Church at 2pm.

COMMUNICARE LATEST BY WENDY SPENCER

2011-03-08T20:13:00.000Z

The next Communicare coffee morning will be on Friday 18^th March in Yarwell Village Hall at 10.00 am.

The programme of summer day trips is now available with the first on Wednesday 13^th April to Market Harborough & Foxton Locks including a pub lunch (£23 per person).

The fee includes collections from all local villages. Future trips are on 22^nd June to North Norfolk (£16) & on August 10 to the Cotswolds (£19).

For info and booking contact Clare 01780-470437.

• The next Communicare meeting will be held on Tuesday 8^th March at the Wansford Surgery commencing at 6.30 pm.

• Communicare are offering holiday packages to York and to Torquay this year.

The York holiday is for 4 nights from Monday May 9^th and costs £255 including travel and insurance for a stay at the Burn Hall Hotel in York.

The Torquay trip is on Monday September 12 for four nights and costs £245 for a twin/double and £285 for a single room.

Both holidays require a £25 deposit per person. Please contact Clare Wagstaffe on 01780-470437.

Apethorpe Christmas Extravaganza

2011-02-10T21:05:00.000Z

With much hilarity please enjoy some snaps I have just been sent by Mandy Foxwell from the amazing ACE that took place at Christmas. Special thanks to everyone involved in creating what surely must be a new Apethorpe staple event. Enjoy the photos and thanks to everyone for making it such an enjoyable evening by all accounts.

Phone box shapes up for action

2011-02-10T19:50:00.000Z

News reaches us that Apethorpe’s very own Phone box Library is finally taking shape.

Sources say restoration work has already taken place to transform the humble BT box into the new central Apethorpe library for books and CDs.
Some midnight scouting by our reporters revealed that work appears to be close to completion and rumours abound that a grand public opening complete with special guest is believed to be in the pipeline.

Head of Phone box operations Graham Warren declined to comment. More news as it breaks.

Shiver Me Timbers! Pieces of Eight!

2011-02-10T19:48:00.000Z

The Kings Cliffe Panto is back – with Denis Chamberlain of Apethorpe as Dame Sally Forth in Treasure Island.

Tickets go on sale at the Kings Cliffe Village Hall on Saturday 22^nd January at 9.30am (lower entrance). Performances are Thursday to Saturday evenings 17th-19th Feb, plus a matinee on Saturday 19^th, and Wednesday to Saturday evenings 23rd to 26th Feb – HALF TERM.

After Saturday (22 Jan) tickets will be available at the KC Post Office and from kingscliffeplayers@hotmail.co.uk.

‘Ello, ‘ello, ‘ello…

2011-02-10T19:47:00.003Z

EVER fancied doing something good for the community and getting to live out your childhood fantasies as a Police Officer? Well now could be your chance.

Northamptonshire Police are looking for volunteers to become Special Constables in the Northamptonshire area.

Special Constables play a vital role in improving the success of Northamptonshire Police and offer valuable free time to help keep our communities safe.

If anyone is interested please go to: www.neenor.co.uk and to learn how to join go to: www.northants.police.co.uk/careers

CHURCH NEWSLETTER BY RICHARD PARKINSON

2011-02-10T19:47:00.000Z

• Bishop John has been overdoing it and has been advised by his doctor to take a bit of a rest , therefore the service pattern for this month has had to be altered. We pray that he gets better quickly and wish him all the very best.

• Keith Howell’s funeral, led by Bishop John, was very well attended, the Church was packed, standing room only. His daughters both made exceptional eulogies and the music and hymns were very moving. We wish Pat and the family well.

• As we all know, there is a special Royal Wedding this year in April and I think that it would be fun to celebrate the occasion with a “STREET PARTY” or something of that nature. Maybe not on the day of the wedding, as no doubt you we will be watching on the television, but it could be in the evening, a bit cold, or on the following day.

April is not renowned for wonderful weather, but we have the Church tent and I can get another larger tent to make sufficient room for the whole village to attend. We could hold it either in the Estate Yard or in Manor Farm, rather than the Manor House lawn which could well be rather damp. We held the Jubilee party in Manor Farm and that worked very well. We have tables, chairs, bunting galore, drinks can be arranged should anybody feel the need and food? A lamb or pig roast maybe OR everyone contribute something themselves. Whatever it is, it needs to be warm. Any ideas please call Richard on: 470653.

Ironman Matt!

2011-02-10T19:44:00.003Z

APETHORPE’S very own Matt Snow is aiming to become Ironman Matt when he competes in the UK leg of the Ironman series in July.

The event on July 31 will see Matt complete a range of incredible human feats in just 17 hours, and Matt is asking Apethorpe residents to support him.

Matt, who recently celebrated his 40^thbirthday will compete in the event to raise money for Scope.

Matt said: “The event involves a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and 26.2 mile run.... all within a maximum of 17 hours.... yes I have now truly started my mid life crisis!”
He added: Anyway to add further pressure to my training schedule I have also agreed to raise money for Scope, who support children and adults with cerebral palsy - the most commonly diagnosed physical condition in the UK.
I have a just giving page http://www.justgiving.com/Matt-Snow
It would be really appreciated if you would consider sponsoring me for this worthwhile cause. Thanks in anticipation.”

From all at Apethorpe Village news we wish Mr Snow good luck.

Funeral of Keith Howells

2011-01-04T19:15:00.002Z

IT is with great sadness to announce the funeral of our dear friend Keith Howells will take place on Tuesday January 11 at 1.15pm in St Leonard's Church, Apethorpe. Pat and her family would like to welcome those who knew and loved Keith to join them at the service and also to join her family in a remembrance walk from Pat's house, Middle Cottage, to the Church, at 1pm. Pat has kindly asked for flowers from the family only at the funeral, but would appreciate any donations to the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice where Keith was cared for in his last week. A collection plate will be passed round in Church or donations can be sent directly to the hospice. Our love and support go out to Pat and her family at this difficult time.

Goodbye to our dear friend Keith

2010-12-30T10:45:00.001Z

IT is with great sadness that we have to say goodbye to our dear friend Keith Howells who passed away on December 29, 2010.
Keith was a great friend, a huge part of the Apethorpe community, loved by everyone and will be missed and remembered every single day that we have without him.
Our thoughts and our love go to Pat and her family at this incredibly tough time.

Message from Steve and Julia Wells

2010-12-30T10:41:00.000Z

Steve and I would like to thank everyone so much that contributed to our leaving collection , it was a total surprise and we are going to go away for a weekend in the new year with the money.

We had as most of your know a very long and drawn out sale of the business thanks to solicitors, banks and the general complications that go with selling a business, however after a 3 week hand over with Bernd we have now settled into our new home properly and are enjoying our new freedom!
We will miss Apethorpe very much and all the good friends we made during our time in the village and will visit the pub and our friends often in the future.
We wish Bernd and Marilyn all the very best of luck with the Kings Head and know that they too will love the village.
After a difficult year for many people in Apethorpe we have been very saddened by the death of our dear friend Keith and I know he will be missed greatly by many of you he really was a true gentleman and we will be there to support Pat and her family in any way we can.
Steve , Jenny and I hope that 2011 will be a much happier year for the village and wish you very happy New Year.

Lots of love Julia, Steve and Jenny

Notes from the Village Meeting December 2010

2010-12-30T10:34:00.001Z

1. Apologies

M. & L. Phillips I. Groundwater

G. & L Warren A. Forbes

C. &C. Dean A. Walsh

K & P Howells N. Pearson

R. & M. Parkinson M. Potter

2. Minutes of the Last Meeting

Accepted

3. Matters Arising from the Last Meeting.

3a) Radioactive Waste

After Planning Enquiry, the Inspector and two representatives each from the Council, Augean and Wasted Watchers toured the villages to get a feel for local opinion.

The Report by the Inspector will be published on 21^st February 2011. It has also been called in by the Secretary of State, Eric Pickles and he will publish his decision on 24^th May 2011.

A copy of the Report has been requested by M. Winder as soon as it is published.

Comments from the floor relayed:

a) Our concern that Augean have so many funds it makes any enquiry inherently unfair. (L.W)

b) Our people did very well in standing up to them. (MW)

c) On-line petitions have been seen to be successful and we should consider this approach to the Secretary of State after 21^st Feb (PK)

d) We should write letters to lobby the S. of S. after 21^st February. (PK)

Action M. Winder will write to Louise Bagshaw thanking her for her support and involvement on behalf of the village.

Action Village to write individually to S. of S after 21^st Feb, also M. Winder to write on behalf of the village community.

3b) Telephone Box G. Warren is making shelves, repairing and reframing the door then repainting the whole box for it to become a Library. M. Foxwell has offered to take on the project . Lighting will be funded by BT. Insurance is being negotiated with the Council through M. Winder.

3c) Greetings Cards. (MJ) Eight views from in and around the village have been chosen and developed into a set of Greetings Cards. Our thanks to N. Pearson for her contact with the printer. 100 sets have been created and they are now on sale.

£6.00 for pack of eight, £10.00 for two packs.

Some have been sold to the church at a lower rate to help with church funds.

Village recorded their thanks to Mike and Anne Johnson for all the work involved.

Views are also available to use as screensavers if anyone is interested, contact M. Johnson.

3d) Community Responder Scheme We now own our own Defibrillator and oxygen kit. There have been 8 call-outs since September.

3e) Holiday Village Proposal The Developer is putting together an Environmental Impact Report which has to be assessed by the Council. The meeting were concerned to hear that Rockingham Forest Park Ltd. have already started work on the project by the Kingscliffe Industrial Estate building a lake, roads and reception area without planning permission.

‘M. Winder to write to the Planning Authorities of our strong objection to the project’

Proposed by P. Kerrush

Seconded by M. Walsh Unanimously carried.

4. Christmas Entertainment (DG, MF, NP, JB)

Arranged for Saturday 11^th December in the church. 23 acts in all, programmes printed (sponsored by The Kings Head) Mulled wine and mince pies will be served. There will be a prize draw with an M&S Hamper as first prize (thanks to JB)

Other raffle prizes will be gratefully received.

Our thanks to Diane Gifford and Mandy Foxwell, Nicola Pearson and Justine Bentley for organising everything.

5 Treasurers Report

Mike Walsh reported a Credit Balance £151.06.

MW asked for a proposal to appoint four other formal signatories.

It was agreed to include M. Winder, C. Forbes, M. Johnson and P. Kerrush. M. Walsh has the forms and will arrange it.

6. Village Precept

‘We do not want to raise a Village Precept for 2010-2011’

Proposed by N. Blachford

Seconded by M. Johnson. Unanimously agreed.

7. Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. A scam involving parcel delivery and the firm PDS was outlined. M.Hindmarch informed the Meeting that this was now out of date. Other scams are around – beware.

Community Police Officers have asked villagers to look out for neighbours in this cold weather.

8. Winter Roads NCC gritters will work two networks.

Priority 1 Overnight gritting of roads from Oundle, through Woodnewton and Apethorpe to Kingscliffe and Wansford.

Priority 2 Apethorpe to Nassington gritted if man power is available.

Information available on NCC web site (/winter)

Councillor H. Smith had emailed M. Winder to ask householders to clear paths if possible in this bad weather – no risk of repercussions!

M. Johnson asked whether anything was being done about the mud outside the Augean site.

9. Apethorpe Hall English Heritage has completed 2^nd stage. Since June 2008 it has been on the market but so far no one has been interested. They are now carrying out further renovation work up until 2013 when it will be remarketed.

10. Kings Head Update. Colin and Carol Dean from The Old Post Office have suggested a village collection for Julia and Steve. Please put money in a named envelope through their door with a phone number so they can confirm receipt of it and they will pass on a gift and card to Julia and Steve. Target date 15^th December please.

11. AOB L. Winder informed the meeting that Harry James, baby to Johnny and Julia Earl was now doing well and Keith Howells would welcome visitors – please phone first.

12. Date of next meeting Tuesday 6^th April

Apethorpe's Christmas Extravaganza!

2010-10-26T18:42:00.002+01:00

Father Christmas says: "Apethorpe needs you!"

HAVE you ever fancied showing off your talents in front of the great and good of Apethorpe?
Well now is your chance following the announcement of ACE (Apethorpe Christmas Extravaganza), Apethorpe's very own Christmas talent show.
The event which is being organised by Diane Gifford, Mandy Foxwell, Justine Bentley and Nicola Pearson, will take place at St Leonard's Church on Saturday December 11th at 6.30pm.
It aims to bring back the fun and celebration of a real community Christmas and the organisers hope everyone will be involved whether actually performing or just being in the audience singing carols.
So if you've ever fancied reciting your own poem, singing your favourite song or creating a sketch with a neighbour then let Mandy Foxwell know on: 01780-479055.
Tickets cost £2 for performers and £5 for the audience with all proceeds going to St Leonards Church. Under 16s are free. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served at 6.30pm with the performances starting at 7pm.

Charity Dance with Fish and Chip Supper

2010-10-26T18:40:00.001+01:00

APETHORPE'S very own rock stars, Gone to the Dogs, are appearing at a charity dance and fish and chip supper in Woodnewton next month.
The event at Woodnewton Village Hall on Saturday November 20th is to raise money for the Sue Ryder Hospice and Macmillan Cancer Care, with all proceeds exlcuding the hire of the hall and food going to these worthy causes. The ticket price of £12.50 includes the opportunity to get your rocks off to the sounds and delights of Gone to the Dogs, and a fish and chip supper. If you'd like a drink then please bring your own along for the event which starts at 7.30pm.
Pat Howells said: "It will be a fun night but the hall limits us to 100 people so tickets will be on a first come, first served basis."
Pat is also holding a raffle and looking for donations, again, with all proceeds going to charity. So if you have anything to donate, from a tin of biscuits or Christmas crackers to toiletries or spirits, or anything imaginative and new, everything will be appreciated.
Tickets are available from the Kings Head or by calling Pat on: 01780-470129.

Village Picture to be recreated!

2010-10-26T18:19:00.000+01:00

FANCY taking part in a village photograph similar to this one taken to celebrate the Millenium?
Well, following an idea by Mike Phillips, that's exactly what is going to happen on Remembrance Sunday after the Church service.
Apethorpe News has agreed to provide a photographer to capture the people of Apethorpe on Sunday November 14th.
Many thanks to Mike and Lois for the idea and for supplying a copy of the picture above which I'm told was taken on September 15, 2000.

Objections to new Holiday Village

2010-10-26T18:13:00.000+01:00

PLANS to build a massive new retail and holiday village near Apethorpe were discussed at length at the Village Meeting last month.
The proposed development between the industrial estate in Kings Cliffe and Jacks Green would cover some 650 acres.
At present no formal planning application has been submitted but the council has asked for the view of villagers. Kings Cliffe Parish Council have already said they 'strenuously resist due to the large number (1140 dwellings) of accomodation units proposed'.
Chairman of the Village Meeting, Malcolm Winder listed the points of objection villagers had already made to him previously and appealed for people to make their voices heard.
The list so far includes:
• Disturbance to wildlife and vegetation
• Concern for the present Rights of Way
• It is a place of historical interest
• There would be increased noise particularly from the amphitheatre
• The amount of waste generated from the site
• Light pollution
• The impact of increased traffic
• The visual impact
• There are already caravan sites at Nassington and Yarwell
The above objections, plus views concerning the county structure plan will be put to the East Northamptonshire District Council.

Flora and fauna postcards

2010-10-26T18:05:00.000+01:00

YOUR photos of flora and fauna are needed to help create Apethorpe's very own postcards.
Mike Johnson of Manor Farm is asking for the best pictures taken in and around Apethorpe so that he can make the cards.
They will go on sale in the Church and the King's Head pub.
The postcards follow on from Mike's very succesful village calendar he printed last year.
Email entries to Mike at: annmike.johnson@tiscali.co.uk

Phone Box to be turned into Village Library

2010-10-26T17:56:00.001+01:00

APETHORPE'S very own telephone booth will be turned into the village's smallest and only library following discussion at the last Village Meeting.
Graham Warren has agreed to turn the box into a library for CDs and books for the village to share and use.
Turning old BT telephone boxes into useful items for towns and villages has really taken off recently with booths turned into everything from night clubs to an art galler across the country.

Apethorpe says 'No to Nuclear Waste'

2010-10-26T17:51:00.000+01:00

APETHORPE came out fighting following news that an appeal to dump radioactive nuclear waste in the nearby village of Kings Cliffe would be held in Corby.
Apethorpe residents filled their windows and houses with 'Radioactive Waste No Thanks' posters and banners to show our dissaproval at the plans.
The appeal runs from Tuesday October 26 in the Manor Suite, Holiday Inn, Corby at 10am for four weeks.
The posters around the village were displayed following a discussion at the last Village Meeting to show our view on the proposed plans to dump waste at the Augean site near Kings Cliffe.

Keith sends his thanks

2010-10-26T17:43:00.000+01:00

KEITH HOWELLS would like to extend his thanks to the support, kindness and friendship everyone in the village has shown throughout his recent illness.
Keith said: "Everyone has been so kind and supportive, not only to me, but just as importantly Pat .
A number of good people in Apethorpe have been through this and are excellent roll models as well as first class surgical and medical staff in Peterborough (as well as kind Nick Blackford in Apethorpe) to look after me. Although I don't think I fall within his current paediatric remit!"
We wish Keith and Pat all our love from everyone at Apethorpe News.

Our thoughts...

2010-09-21T16:21:00.000+01:00

SOME rubbish luck and illness has descended on some of Apethorpe's residents in the last few weeks and months, so on behalf of Apethorpe News I'd like to send our thoughts to Lady Brassey, Steven Blyth, Keith Howell, Caroline Kyam, Lisa Rogers and Justine Aveyard. We wish them all the best of health and happiness.

Apethorpe Village Meeting on September 28

2010-09-21T16:19:00.001+01:00

THE next Apethorpe Village Meeting takes place on Tuesday September 28th at 7.30pm at the King's Head, and Malcolm Winder is appealing for all villagers to attend.
The agenda includes an important update on actions required relating to the planning appeal for the radicoactove waste proposal in Kings Cliffe, and a formal response to the proposed new retail and holiday village development within the vicinity of Apethorpe will also be discussed.
If you wish to discuss any topic under Any Other Business then please send details to Carole Forbes, Clerk to the Meeting at: ceforbes_sch@yahoo.co.uk by Friday September 24.

The new Peterborough City Hospital by Victoria Leatham

2010-09-21T16:14:00.001+01:00

An artists' impression of how Peterborough Hospital's Acute Ward 2 will look

WHICH building in Peterborough has 800 lavatories, or a corridor 450 metres long? What is the biggest building project since the Cathedral was built ? The answer is contained in the title of this article. The new Peterborough City Hospital is a massive and complex building which will serve the needs of this growing city and surrounding rural communities for many years to come.
The Stamford and Peterborough Foundation Hospital Trust of which I have the honour to be a public governor, is extremely proud and excited to be able to achieve the launch of such a vast undertaking. The NHS as we all know, is going through a period of uncertainty, but one thing which is definite is that we deserve and will have a stupendous new hospital for local people.
The decision to close Peterborough District Hospital and Edith Cavell Hospital and combine their various specialist departments in one new “Super” hospital was taken some years ago. Construction began in 2007. The Trust is due to take over the keys of the new building during October! The fact that the delivery is ahead of schedule and on budget is no mean feat for those managing the project.
It is a huge building with many innovative and attractive features. There are a number of internal courtyards planted with shrubs and flowers and with brightly coloured sculptures in the space adjacent to the children’s wards. Art has been incorporated in the decoration of some large areas and the high entrance hall is to be hung with brightly coloured banners. Restaurants and cafes are conveniently situated off this main entrance hall, guides will be available to make sure you find your way to where you need to be.
It is understood that when you are anxious and unwell, surroundings can influence how you feel. A great deal of effort has gone into the management of the “patient journey” from the moment you are admitted, to when you are welcomed onto the ward. Soothing colours are used to guide you from the hall to your particular ward block where you will be treated , these colours are found repeated in stairwells and corridors making it easier for you and visitors to find their way around.
The Maternity and Paediatric centre has its own entrance and there is a specific accident and emergency area for children. This forms part of a dedicated women and children’s unit.
All expectant mothers should attend this new maternity unit from 9.am on November 30th
There is a state- of- the- art Emergency Centre and the hospital contains 18 operating theatres!
The fact that cancer treatment can be managed in Peterborough, rather than patients having to travel to Addenbrookes down the heavily congested A14 road is a huge improvement in patient care. The new Radiotherapy suite will open in April next year.
When I last visited the hospital , which is undergoing final checking, they were delivering enormously powerful scanners which only just fitted down the corridors, the latest technology has been incorporated in the various departments but the small things have not been forgotten, each bed on the wards will now have its own free television!
Also on the wards, great changes in patient care have been incorporated. There are 612 beds in the hospital. 57% of these are in single rooms with their own en suite bathrooms. The other beds are in four bedded bays where the beds face the middle of the room in a cruciate pattern. Each of these four bedded bays has its own bath or shower room. The days of long queues for the loo are over!
There is a sixteen bed critical care unit for severely ill patients.
An important date for you to remember is on the 3rd of December at 2am, Accident and Emergency will transfer to the new hospital.. Say a prayer for the staff who have to send everything to the new site...and then find it again when they get there! It is the most complicated removal probably ever undertaken in the city and may never be repeated in our lifetimes.
Everyone wants to know about parking! There is a multi storey car park for visitors and patients opposite the hospital but it is recognised that this will not be sufficient for the future. Once Edith Cavell is demolished and the site is cleared up, a much enlarged exterior car park will be available.
All outpatients attending regular clinics will be told when their clinics are moving , most relocations are taking place during November and December. Patients will be alerted to the dates when departments will be in their new locations.

Nuclear Waste Appeal Date Looms

2010-09-21T16:07:00.002+01:00

DIANE Gifford kindly sent us this update on the horror that is the on-going saga and forthcoming appeal date for Augean appeal to dump nuclear waste in Kings Cliffe.

Diane said: "The hearing is being held in Corby (Holiday Inn) beginning Oct 26. As you may know, Augean is now applying to extend landfill operations by a further 13 years - to 2026 and to open extra cells to accept more nuclear waste.

"There are 2 items of good news. Firstly, Kings Cliffe Wastewatchers hae adopted Rule 6 status and will appear as a third party. (see guide for more info as to what that means) Secondly, they've secured the services of Dr Chris Busby as an exert witness. Google his name for more info, but he speaks up at Inquiries questioning the established view of radiation harm. He recently won a case against the MOD over the connection between depleted uranium and Gulf War Syndrome, and has been on the news for his report on birth defects in Fallujah, Iraq, being caused by uranium in shells. He is currently in the USA speaking up for survivors of A-bomb tests, so he is quite a catch."

"As you see, anyone who would like to can speak at the hearing as an "interested party" but names need to be put forward in advance. Obviously it'll be important to have a good attendance. Waste Watchers have booked a 28 seater bus for the first day for a show of force - it could collect in Apethorpe"

At present, the details are:

Leaves KC middle skool at 9am, 26th Oct.
Leaves Holday Inn 1pm.

Cost £100.00 - so the charge is £3.50 a seat.

Diane added: "I'd be happy to collate numbers willing to go from Apethorpe (obviously depending on numbers, a bigger coach might be necessary) Although the Inquiry usually goes on until 5.00pm, we thought people might not want to stay the whole day, especially if they have kids with them (it is over half term). Free posters are being produced so they can be displayed in windows and around villages. When the Inspector makes her visit on 25th October, it would be good if there were plenty of these around (plus any flags or any other signs of protest)."

Contact Diane Gifford at: dg@giffordhome.co.uk

Land Rover Owners Beware

2010-09-21T16:04:00.000+01:00

CAR THIEVES in Northamptonshire are stealing Land Rover 110 and 90s and a number of local residents have already been the victims of these callous thieves.
We're sad to report that vehicles have recently been stolen from Apethorpe, Nassington and Woodnewton and Police are appealing for anyone who owns a Land Rover to keep it secure even if it's left for just a minute.
The prestigious country vehicles are being stolen and broken up for spare parts and being used to take part in other crimes such as stealing trailers and caravans.
We spoke to Land Rover Owner magazine editor John Pearson who recommended fitting a Disklock steering wheel lock as the best deterrent.
He said: "Do make sure you always use a lock, even if it is a pain to lift on and off. A relative of mine left his off during the day outside his house in Burton Latimer and it went. Two of LRO's contributors had theirs stolen as well; one at the Billing Show and the other from outside his house."
If you see anything suspicious around your vehicle or anyone else's then please call: 03000-111-222 or 999 in the event of an emergency or crime in progress.

Free smoke alarms

2010-09-21T16:00:00.000+01:00

APETHORPE'S very own Neighbourhood watch representative Johnny Earl has contacted Apethorpe News to say that free Smoke Alarms are up for grabs.
The first 50 smoke alarms will be given away on a first come, first served basis to members of NHW who are thought to be most at risk.
The Fire Service has also offered any member of NHW a free home fire safety check.
If you would like to request a smoke alarm and/or a fire safety check you will need to contact your local NHW representative and provide your name, address and telephone number. The Fire Service will then contact you directly to arrange the fire safety check. Contact: terry.savill@northants.police.uk or 03000 111 222 extn 4336.

Car vandals in Apethorpe

2010-08-11T21:07:00.001+01:00

SIMON and Rachel Johnson of Manor Farm have issued a warning for Apethorpe residents to be on the look-out for vandals after their car was badly damaged over the weekend.
The couple were shocked to discover their car had been badly damaged and it appears someone has kicked the car while it was parked on their driveway.
If anyone saw, heard or knows anything about the incident, heard the alarm of the car go off for instance, or saw anything unusual please contact Simon and Rachel or the Police in Oundle who are investigating.
We'll keep you posted if there is any more information and if anyone else has had similar problems please let us know.

TENNIS CLUB AFTERNOON BARBECUE

2010-07-23T21:44:00.003+01:00


Apethorpe Tennis club chairman Graham Warren

Apethorpe Tennis Club is holding the first of its immensely popular social events on Sunday August 1.
The event takes place at Deborah Walker’s house at 45 Main Street, Wood Newton at 12.30pm on Sunday August 1.
It costs £10 per person and includes the barbecue and first drink, and the organisers tell us that children over 10 years old are welcome.
Friendly local club chairman, Graham Warren said: “We welcome all Club members, locals and their friends to this Garden Party and hope to further the enjoyment of our club’s social aspect. The weather has been kind to us with the temperatures matching those of the Wimbledon Tournament this year, some have said that this is as far as the comparisons may run but certainly our entry fees are lower!
Graham added: "The forthcoming weeks will see ground-keeping maintenance to the court surrounds and the playing surfaces will be cleaned. Further fundraising will be needed to plan the resurfacing of the upper court and extend the playing convenience the Club enjoys. I hope to see you all on the courts or socialising nearby.”
A second event will be held one autumn evening (date tba), which will be more biased to an evening with music and entertainment.
To book your place call Geoff on 01780-470880.

NEW SPORTS AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES FOR RURAL EAST NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

2010-07-23T21:42:00.000+01:00

Opening Event – Sunday, September 12th at 2pm. Entry free

The first phase of the sports and community facilities at Kings Cliffe - including all weather multi-use floodlit pitch, two full size soccer pitches, basketball, half pipe for skateboarders and young children’s play area - is nearly complete and already in use. This is an exciting and ambitious community facility - conceived, developed and managed by local volunteers.
Everyone in the area is invited to the opening event on Sunday 12th September at 2pm. You can see and use the facilities and we are planning lots of extra activities and stalls including a Five-a-Side Football tournament which will run all day, archery, cycling, golf and rowing competitions.
A Fun Run will take place at 1.30pm and the afternoon will be rounded off with a Big Band concert.
The next phase on the 12-acre site will include changing rooms and indoor spaces for a broad range of leisure and keep fit activities for all ages. The web site for booking the soccer and all weather floodlit multi use game area (MUGA) will be up and running soon. Kings Cliffe Active is at Kingsmead, Station Road, Kings Cliffe PE8 6PX. Funds for the project were provided by East Northamptonshire Council, Kings Cliffe Environmental Association, The Big Lottery(Community Spaces and People’s Millions), WREN, Northants CC, The Welland Pot, Bullimores and Bulwick PC.

If your sport or leisure club, business or community group would like to have a stall at the opening – get in touch with Debbie Balmer on 01780-470053, football and MUGA bookings - Mike Herring 01780-470653 and enquiries about the opening - Anne Chamberlain 01780 470 455.

KINGS HEAD CONTINUES TO SHINE

2010-07-23T21:38:00.003+01:00

JULIA and Steve continue to innovate with a range of special offers and celebratory evenings at the Kings Head, Apethorpe.
The ever-popular two-for-one on Fish and Chips continues every Thursday and make a date in your diaries for the next curry night on August 18. Booking is highly reccomended.
The couple are also planning a Burghley Horse Trials special food menu and a Latino salsa evening at a date to be confirmed during September.

CHARITY WALK & EVENING AT BOUGHTON HOUSE

2010-07-23T21:37:00.000+01:00

RAISE MONEY for a good cause and get fit at the same time with a 10km walk at Boughton House near Kettering on Saturday September 4.
Walk Ten is a 10km walk which keeps within the walls of the park and takes in the stunning views of the house and grounds.
This twilight stroll gives walkers exclusive access to Boughton after dusk, and after the walk you can enjoy an evening of music and entertainment with friends and family.
The organisers are encouraging all participants to raise sponsorship in support of nurses in the community.
Marie Curie Nurses work across the UK, from remote Scottish islands through to villages, towns and our biggest cities.
Walk Ten is hoping to raise £50,000 from the Northamptonshire event alone which would fund a further 2,500 hours of nursing care in the local community.
Further information on the event can be found by visiting www.mariecurie.org.uk/walkten

TOM CHAMBERLAIN GETS WED

2010-07-23T21:34:00.001+01:00

Tom Chamberlain, son of Denis and Anne from Manor Farm, married Dr Yasmin Jaffer at The Old Palace, Hatfield House last Sunday. They are honeymooning in Thailand. On behalf of everyone at Apethorpe News we’d like to extend our best wishes to the happy couple.

Radioactive Waste Company Lodge Appeal

2010-05-26T20:09:00.000+01:00

CONTROVERSIAL plans to dump radioactive waste in Kings Cliffe have resurfaced.
Augean Plc have placed an appeal to the Secretary of State to get the decision overturned.
The company was originally refused permission to dump approximately 250,000 tons of radioactive waste just a few miles from Apethorpe by the County Council back in March.
The firm's appeal can be viewed at: http://www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/en/councilservices/Environ/planning/planapps/Pages/CurrentAppeals.aspx
We'll keep you posted on developments, and if you would like to know more then email Malcolm Winder and let him know you'd like to attend a meeting on June 8 where this will be discussed (see story below).
For further information on Augean's plans and to help the fight go to: http://www.kingscliffewastewatchers.co.uk/

Village meeting to be scrapped?

2010-05-26T19:55:00.000+01:00

TEMPORARY Chairman Malcolm was disappointed to report the worst attendance to the Village Meeting and AGM ever.
Just 12 people attended and Malcolm claims this was the worst attendance in three years.
In a note to the village, Malcolm said: "Due to the scarcity of people it was not possible to discuss a number of on-going topics nor plan for the future nor take a formal vote for Officers to the Meeting.
Malcolm is now suggesting that the village meeting may have run its course.
An emergency meeting has now been arranged for Tuesday June 8. The main topic is a presentation from Augean plc about their proposals to dump 250,000 tons of radioactive waste in Kings Cliffe.
Malcolm would also like to propose a discussion around the village meeting and if it should be run in a different way. Malcolm said: "If few people attend then the lack of interest vote wins!"
If you could let Malcolm know by June 1 on email if you could attend.
Email Malcolm at: mrwinder@btinternet.com

Tat on the terrace sale this Saturday!

2010-05-26T19:54:00.000+01:00

EVERYTHING from a summer house, a small garden shed, tools and antiques will be for sale this weekend at a garden sale in Apethorpe.
Andy and Sandra are holding the sale at 3 The Terrace, Main Street, Apethorpe this Saturday (May 29) from 10am until 3.30pm.
Along with the items listed, there will also be garden tools, a variety of framed prints, plates, antiques, plus books, games, toys, bric-a-brac and locally made fudge to top it all off!
For more information please call Andy or Sandra on: 01780-471077.

BOG OFF on Fish and Chips!

2010-05-26T19:40:00.000+01:00

THE KINGS HEAD continues its push of great summer deals with Fish and Chips every Thursday night.
Steve and Julia are currently offering buy one get one free.
Nicola and I sampled the homemade fish and chips and are pleased to report the fish was fabulous with crispy traditional batter and the chips are really good. I'd like to report that we paid in full for our dinner and were delighted by the £11.95 buy one get one free deal.
The pub also has a new website online now, go to: www.kingshead-apethorpe.co.uk

'Help! I've lost a wheelchair'

2010-05-26T19:34:00.000+01:00

IF anyone has a wheelchair that was leant to you by Glenda Kerruish please can she have it back?
Glenda lent the wheelchair to someone and can't remember who and now needs to loan it to another friend but simply can't find it.
The wheelchair is black and lightweight so it can easily fit into a car boot with the arm rests removed. If anyone knows it's whereabouts please contact Glenda on: 01780-470495 or email: gkerruish@aol.com

Summer entertainment at St Leonards

2010-05-26T19:30:00.000+01:00

IF YOU ever wanted to know more about Apethorpe's beautiful St Leonards Church then make a date for Monday June 14.
There will be a brief talk about the history of the Church and its relationship to the village over the years, an explanation of its current use and an open question time to discuss possibe future uses of the Church.
Anyone is encouraged to attend, not just those who attend the services.
We're also pleased to announced that following on from the success of April's concert, a classical music concert will take place on Friday June 18 at 7.15pm.
The concert by Scholar Cantorum and other music pupils of Oundle School will feature music by Purcell, Handel, Corelli and others followed by a party in the Church Walk with a variety of food and drink. Tickets cost £7.50 and are available by calling Richard Parkinson on 01780-470653 or Tamara Ord on: 01780-470683.

Lose the Litter a huge success!

2010-04-29T20:44:00.000+01:00

JUSTINE and Andrew would like to thank everyone who helped with the recent village litter pick and tidy up.
Thanks to a mammoth effort around fifteen sacks full of rubbish were collected along with an animal skeleton (believed to be a Muntjac deer), a large chunk of rusting car and a large wooden packing crate.
Justine was delighted to report that around half as much rubbish was collected than in the previous year's collection.
Andrew was unable to confirm how much Pigeon feaces he scraped from the roof of St Leonards church but our sources estimate three bags full.
Thanks also to Steve and Julia for providing much needed bacon sandwiches and coffee afterwards.
Here's two pictures I managed to shoot but many more villagers were in attendance, you know who you are.

Apethorpe does Opera!

2010-04-29T20:30:00.000+01:00

ST LEONARD'S Church came alive last Saturday night as Soprano Catriona Clark filled the church with her incredible voice.
Around 100 local residents watched in awe as Catriona, one of Scotland's finest young singers, and special guest baritone Daniel Howard, performed a wide array of songs from the operatic and musical theatre stage.
It's fair to say that everyone in attendance was blown away by Catriona's amazing talent.
We spoke to dozens of people who were all in agreement that a small village like Apethorpe is honoured to have had the chance to witness a pair of singers with such an amazing gift.
Many thanks to Catriona, Daniel, Oliver on Piano and Justine and Andrew for making it all happen.
If anyone has any pictures from the evening please send them to me and I'd be happy to post them on the site.

Apethorpe Hall Tours

2010-04-29T20:14:00.000+01:00

A HUGE thanks to George, English Heritage, and everyone who helped make Apethorpe residents feel so welcome at the recent Apethorpe Hall tour.
Not only did English Heritage give everyone incredible access but they also laid on posh cakes and tea!
I've posted some of my photos on the left for everyone to take a look at and I hope that we've managed to do this incredible building justice.
English Heritage has already started phase two of the work to bring the Jacobean mansion back to its former glory and if the quality of work is anything like phase one then I can't wait to have another peek next year. For more information go to: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/nav.10929
And if you'd like to buy the house English Heritage would be very keen to hear from you!

Great deals at the Kings Head

2010-04-29T19:34:00.000+01:00

TO celebrate what we all hope is the arrival of summer The Kings Head has a host of promotions to suit every kind of customer
As well as the usual high-quality menu there's now a variety of options including a great-tasting range of pizzas, a lighter bite Tapas menu, and Julia and Steve are now offering a barbeque on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, as long as the weather's good.
Nicola and I sampled the pizzas last night and can definitely recommend them, and in a quick straw poll the Tennis club members dropping by for a light snack certainly seemed to enjoy the Tapas selection.
And if that's not enough then all World Cup matches will be shown on a new HD television, starting on June 11. To celebrate there's a special World Cup real ale priced at just £2.50 a pint, and if you watch the match at the Kings Head and guess the score correctly you can win a voucher entitling you to two main meals in the restaurant for free!
Julia and Steve would also like to point out that if the World Cup is not your bag then the lounge bar and restaurant will be a World Cup free zone.

Stop Press! Apethorpe Litter Pick this Saturday

2010-04-14T19:03:00.002+01:00

YOU don't need me to tell you just how beautiful our village is. But the best efforts of everyone in the village haven't stopped some unsavoury characters dropping litter and trying to use Apethorpe as an illegal dumping ground.
Which is why this Saturday (April 17). Andrew and Justine have organised the annual Apethorpe 'Stop the Drop' litter pick.
It starts at 10.30am this Saturday outside the Kings Head. Justine and Andrew will divide the routes up and all equipment will be provided.
Julia and Steve have kindly offered tea and coffee for everyone who takes part at the pub afterwards.
Justine says: "Please make a point of coming along and doing your part as we live in such a lovely village and it's upto us to keep it that way, plus it's a really good social event for everyone in Apethorpe."
Please reply to Andy and Justine at Chaff house 479003 andyandjus@aol.com to confirm attendance.

Radioactive Waste Company to Appeal

2010-03-18T12:16:00.000Z

AUGEAN, the company refused permission to dump radioactive waste in Kings Cliffe are to appeal Tuesday's decision to turn the plan down. See the BBC news for the latest information, click the link below.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/northamptonshire/8573638.stm

NEWSFLASH! No Nuclear Waste for Kings Cliffe!

2010-03-16T22:37:00.000Z

CONTROVERSIAL plans to dump radioactive waste in Kings Cliffe, just 2.5 miles from Apethorpe, have been refused at a high-level meeting in Northampton today.
Waste management company Augean Plc applied to store the low level radioactive waste in Kings Cliffe but following pressure from villagers, local group Kings Cliffe Wastewatchers and Apethorpe's very own Chariman of the Village meeting, Malcolm Winder, the plans were today scrapped.
The plans which could have seen 250,000 tonnes of radioactive waste dumped each year until 2013 right on our doorstep were canned today by Northamptonshire County Council's Development Control Committee.
Malcolm Winder will update Apethorpe villagers on this fantastic news at next week's Village Meeting on Tuesday March 23.
For more on this story go to BBC news: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/northamptonshire/8570704.stm
Northampton Chronicle and Echo: http://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/news/Plans-to-dump-radioactive-waste.6155883.jp
Or the Stamford Mercury: http://www.stamfordmercury.co.uk/news/King39s-Cliffe-nuclear-waste-plan.6155782.jp

Carole to run for Sport Relief

2010-03-16T22:20:00.000Z

APETHORPE'S very own Carole Forbes is running three miles this weekend in aid of Sport Relief.
Carole is entering the Polebrook race this Sunday March 21st, which starts at 2pm.
All money raised will go to disadvantaged people both here in Britain and abroad through the channels of Sport Relief.
Carole has a sponsorship website and would really appreciate any donations from village folk.
Please make your donations at: www.mysportrelief.com/caroleforbes
We wish Carole the best of luck for this weekend's run.

Mandy set for Race for Life

2010-03-16T22:17:00.000Z

LODGE FARM resident Mandy Foxwell is taking part in Race for Life this year to show support for her mother.
Mandy aims to raise £350 for the charity.
Mandy said: "Some people know that my Mum is currently undergoing chemotherapy for
secondary breast cancer and has been battling with it for the last 4 years,
so it is a charity very close to my heart. I'd like to raise at least £350 and hope the villagers will support me."
All donations should be made to: http://www.raceforlifesponsorme.org/mandyfoxwell
We wish her luck with this fantastic event.

Opera comes to Apethorpe!

2010-03-12T17:50:00.001Z

ONE of Scotland's most talented opera singers will perform at St Leonard's Church in Apethorpe on Saturday April 24.
Soprano Catriona Clark will team up with special guest baritone Daniel Howard to perform beautiful songs, arias and duets from the operatic and musical theatre stage. It's sure to be a sell-out success so book fast to ensure you don't miss this unique show.
Tickets cost £15 per person and are available by calling: 01780-479003.

Apethorpe Manor House Spring Walk

2010-03-12T17:16:00.002Z

LORD and Lady Brassey have kindly given permission for a Spring walk in their beautiful garden on Sunday March 28.
The stunning garden will be opened up for villagers and proceeds will support Hospital at Home.
If you would like to participate, the garden will be open from 2pm to 5pm on Sunday March 28. Tickets cost £5.
Music will be played in the Church and teas will also be available.

Last chance to fight radioactive proposal

2010-03-12T17:03:00.000Z

CHAIRMAN of the village meeting, Malcolm Winder, has alerted us to an urgent meeting concerning the dumping of radioactive waste in King's Cliffe.
The Development Control Committee of Northamptonshire County Council are meeting at 10am on Tuesday March 16th. Unfortunately they have a reccommendation from the Planning Officers to go ahead with the radioactive waste disposal just 2.5 miles from Apethorpe.
Malcolm has made an appointment to address the DCC on behalf of Apethorpe before they make the final decision, though Malcolm believes it is a forlorn hope that any changes can be made against the Government's will for this proposal to proceed.
If you have any views or comments which you would like Malcolm to make to the council please let him have them prior to Tuesday. Malcolm can be emailled at: mrwinder@btinternet.com or call him on: 470472. For more details on the controversial radioactive waste dumping in Kings Cliffe go to: http://www.kingscliffewastewatchers.co.uk/

Send me your email address and we'll keep you posted

2010-03-12T16:54:00.000Z

WE'VE recieved some great comments about this blog recently, but I'm conscious that I still do not have a full list of emails for everyone in the village so I can keep them posted.

If you would like to be included on the distribution list for the blog so that you will get an email update from me when it has been updated, then please send me your email address and I'll include you on the list. Many thanks for your help, Marc, Dairy Cottage.

Help needed - Conker the Springer is missing

2010-03-01T19:13:00.000Z

EILEEN and Paul are appealing to anyone who may have seen their beloved English Springer Spaniel, Conker.
The young Springer is brown and white, has green eyes and thin legs and was last seen in the fields West of Apethorpe. She is wearing a thin blue, cream and brown spotted collar with a dog tag.
Eileen and Paul urge everyone to take a look in their sheds or garages to see if she has snuck inside.
If you have any sightings or know where she is, please call Paul or Eileen on: 01780-470992 or mobile: 0785-5412997 or: 07966-154070

Mike Walsh on the mend

2010-01-28T21:08:00.000Z

Really pleased to hear that Mike Walsh is back at home and recovering well. I'm sure everyone in the village sends their thoughts and best wishes to Mike and Annette. We hope to see you soon Mike.

My Fair Lady hits Kings Cliffe

2010-01-28T20:44:00.000Z

The Kings Cliffe Players are presenting My Fair Lady at Kings Cliffe Memorial Hall in March.
The play runs between Wednesday March 17 to Saturday March 20, followed by a second week of performances between Wednesday March 24 to Saturday March 27. It starts at 7.30pm.
Tickets cost £8 for adults. OAPs and under 16s are £6. Tickets go on sale on Saturday February between 10.30am and 12.30pm at the Memorial Hall Parlour (Church Walk doors). And if you can't manage to make that time then tickets will be on sale afterwards at the Kings Cliffe Post Office.

Burns Night at the Kings Head

2010-01-28T20:39:00.001Z

APETHORPE made sure that Robbie Burns will never be forgotten with a massive celebration at the Kings Head last weekend.
A local piper made sure the evening went off with a bang, and wee drams at the bar made sure everyone got in to the Highland Spirit.
Rumours suggest the editor of this blog was last seen on the dancefloor in full Highland Swing with Justine and various members of the community, though all reports have been denied.

Fancy being a Special Constable?

2010-01-28T20:35:00.000Z

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE Police has contacted us to see if any Apethorpe villagers are interested in being a Special Constable.
If you've always fancied getting to grips with criminals and doing your bit for the county, then now's your chance, so read on:

Northants Police currently has over 180 Volunteer Police Officers (Special Constables), all of which contribute to keeping your community safe and “making the difference” within it.
Special Constables are involved in a very diverse mixture of police work, a typical shift can involve crewing up with another Special or Regular Officer, and responding to calls from the public when they come in. This could be anything form anti-social behaviour to a serious assault! You may find that a large amount of your time will be spent carrying out proactive high visibility patrols in your area. This is of course very important as it improves public confidence and can deter crime before it happens.
Special Constables are often called upon to support specific operations across the force. This can present you with a number of exciting opportunities as you could be involved in, plain clothes work, intelligence gathering and executing search warrants, to name but a few.
Becoming a Special Constable is ideal for those who want to help their local Police Officers and PCSO’s and put something back in to their community.
It is also an ideal position for those who wish to become full-time Police Officers to gain excellent experience and life skills to aid them in applying.

For more information on the role, to receive an application form, or to view Northants Police upcoming Open Evenings please visit:-www.northants.police.uk/careers or call Lizzi Betts on 03000 111 222 ext 2098, our specials recruitment administrator who will be happy to advise you.

NEWSFLASH: Apethorpe Village meeting

2009-12-07T20:10:00.001Z

The next Apethorpe Village meeting will take place tomorrow (Wednesday December 9) at the King's Head.
This is a change of date (previously December 8), but rest assured there's plenty to discuss.
Current topics on the agenda include the disposal of radioactive waste in King's Cliffe, the adoption of the telephone kiosk, and the hot topic of access to Manor Farm.
Other items currently on the agenda include the latest on the allotment project, a discussion on bridge and highway improvements, an update on village finance and setting the village precept.
Any topics which you wish to discuss under 'AOB' should be sent to the Clerk of the Meeting, Deborah Manger at deborahmanger@btinternet.com by Saturday December 5. Alternatively, telephone Malcom Winder on: 01780-470472.
For anyone wishing to dine, Julia and Steve will be providing a hot supper so we can all combine dining with the meeting. Apethorpe News will bring you the latest news from the meeting as it breaks.

Editor's Letter

2009-11-29T20:04:00.003Z

"I've been away the last couple of weeks to Lesotho in Africa with a charity called Riders for Health. So if it has taken me a while to post some of your stories or you haven't had a response until now it's because we had no mobile reception and as far as I know WiFi hasn't hit deepest Maseru yet!
The charity I went out to see specialise in delivering aid to out of reach places using motorcycles and over the years I've done lots of work with them as part of my job as editor of Motorcycle News (MCN).

Life in Lesotho couldn't be more different to living in Apethorpe, but there are plenty of similarities. While my friends and colleagues were amazed by the night sky as there's no light pollution in the whole country, I was proud to tell them it's just like that where we live! And, the sense of community the villagers have in some of the most remote villages on earth rings true whether in Apethorpe or Lesotho.
Thankfully we have running water, are of good health, most of us have cars instead of using a Donkey or an Ox for our run to the corn mill.
If you would like to know more about the work Riders does, take a look here: www.riders.org
It's great to be back in our beautiful village getting ready for the run up to Christmas and I look forward to seeing you all over the Christmas period. Many thanks, Marc. "

Kings Cliffe Christmas Carol Concert

2009-11-28T19:48:00.000Z

Kings Cliffe Endowed School are inviting the local community to join them for an outdoor Christmas Carol Concert on Saturday 12th December 4pm-6pm in the school grounds (entry next to Mr Woodings shop). It is FREE entry and everyone is invited. A local choir and brass accompaniment will be leading the festivities around the Christmas Tree. There will be mulled wine, hot chocolate, hot dogs, mince pies and a raffle, all proceeds go to Kings Cliffe Endowed School. Wrap up warm and bring a torch.

Messiah comes to Oundle

2009-11-28T18:41:00.001Z

Oundle and district Choral Society Present Messiah, G.F Handel on Saturday December 5 at St Peter's Church in Oundle. The line up includes:
John Arkell - Conductor
Angus Gibbon - Leader
Maureen Braithwaite - Soprano
Yvonne Lea - Alto
Nick Scott - Tenor
Julien Debreuil - Bass
Tickets cost £10 from Oundle Tourist Information or you can pay on the door on the evening.

Allotments Project Update

2009-10-29T22:42:00.000Z

Thanks to the sterling efforts of Anne Chamberlain, Johnny Earl and Carole Forbes the allotments project is gathering momentum. I'll hand you over to the project's mastermind, Anne Chamberlain:

Anne said: "The plan remains to put in an application for grant funding to clear the site above the tennis courts. The fund is set up as the Kings Cliffe Environmental Association (ie from Landfill tax) for their next meeting in Dec/Jan. To that end we have had quotes from three out of four potential contractors and are waiting for the fourth. The rest of the application is filled in and ready to go. We are setting up a bank account and have the promise of some funding from the County Council. The target is to have the site ready to use in March 2010 – probably about 10 modest size plots."
Anne adds: "There are a couple of ‘ripples’ which we hope to address in the next week or two. One is that we may need to describe the project as ”Community Gardens” and allow some access to the whole village and a second is obtaining written confirmation from the owners of the site that they will grant us a lease for, say, 10 years. Johnny is working on this latter and may have more up to date news.
Probably we will have a short meeting in November at the Kings Head of all those interested to bring you up to date and help us make final decisions. I will email all those who have expressed interest in having an allotment, plus Malcolm Winder and Marc Potter, with the date and time."
If you are interested and think you may not be on Anne's allotment mailing list – please drop me an email or call Anne Chamberlain on: 470455 or email anne.chamberlain@farming.co.uk

Food Fit for a King!

2009-10-29T22:37:00.000Z

IF it wasn't enough of a challenge running a fantastic deli, great restaurant, and serving a few pints, Julia and Steve at the King's Head are trying to go one better with a new cafe called the King's Pantry.
It opens on Tuesday November 3 and will serve everything from a full english breakfast to traditional cakes and home made soup. As a special introductory offer pop into the pub and pick up a voucher that entitles you to a free cup of coffee or tea and a home made scone. And don't forget to tell them that Apethorpe Blogspot sent you. It opens between 10am and 2pm.

Snows raise £650!

2009-10-10T21:58:00.000+01:00

Andrea and Matt Snow would like to thank anyone who sponsored them for the Great North Run. The couple stormed the 13-miles to raise £650 for CAFOD.

Another Winder Wedding, by Malcolm & Lynn Winder

2009-10-10T21:45:00.001+01:00

Saturday, 5th September was the celebration of the Marriage of Charlotte and Daniel at St. Leonard's Church. Thanks to all those who were able to share with us in what was a really joyful day. A very special thanks to Julia and Steve at the King's Head who provided us with a wonderful welcome (after a lovely service in the beautifully decorated church) and a splendid reception. The weather was very kind to us and the village looked at its very best. This was commented on by many of the guests who came from far and wide - reminding us yet again how blessed we are to live in this beautiful village community.

Charlotte and Dan on their big day

APETHORPE VILLAGE MEETING, FROM DEBORAH MANGER

2009-10-10T21:41:00.000+01:00

Tuesday, 15th September 2009
7-30pm at the Kings Head

NOTES (32 in attendance)

1. Apologies for Absence
Ian Groundwater    Linda Hindmarch        David Manger
George Ord        Richard Parkinson        Andrew Williams
    Mark & Loudine Wiseman
    New residents were welcomed to the village and the meeting:
Nicola Pearson at Dairy Cottage
Robin and Diane Gifford at Willowbrook House
We hope that they will be happy in Apethorpe and enjoy being part of village activities.

2. Minutes of the last Meeting
Accepted as an accurate reflection of meeting

3. Kings Cliffe Landfill site – Disposal of Radioactive Waste
Presentation by Kings Cliffe Waste Watchers
Matthew Kirk and Lisa Emerson attended the meeting to provide presentations and answer questions regarding the proposed use of the landfill site at Kingscliffe for the disposal of ‘low’ and ‘very low’ radioactive waste.
The presentation was well received. The presenters left material for all those in attendance to read.
The presenters provided a template letter that could be used as a guide in objecting to the plans or in asking for an extension to the consultation period
It was suggested that a link to the material on the Kings Cliffe Waste Watchers website could be made available via the Apethorpe blog                    ACTION NP/MP
A discussion ensued as to whether Apethorpe parish meeting should object to the plans.
A proposal was made for the meeting to forward a letter to NCC objecting to the plans (proposed A Forbes, seconded M Walsh) and this was carried unanimously            ACTION MWr

4. Matters arising from the last meeting;
a) Apethorpe Village Calendar
Mike Johnson advised that the summer photo collection was on display in the church, in the Kings Head and on the blog. He extended his thanks to Maggie Farmer and the photographers for their help and enthusiasm
The printers have been selected (Austin Rose, P’boro). Each unit will cost in the region of £5.50 - £5.74.
The calendar will be available by mid November. Mike needs to know the size of the order by the end of September (orders please!) and will require payment in advance.
Next year Mike is considering a wildlife theme for the calendar.
The meeting wished a “Happy Birthday’ to Mike who was too modest to share the number of his birthday!!
                            ACTION ALL

b) Community Responder Scheme
Deborah provided an update confirming that the volunteers would be ready for training towards the end of 2009, hopefully ready to go live early 2010.
A request was made for a volunteer who would help with looking after the bank account (treasurer)
c) Allotments
MWr advised that Leader Properties will be visiting the site late September and have suggested the areas are called ‘community gardens’. All future communications will use this phrase
Anne Chamberlain and Carole Forbes have been moving this project forwards. They have reviewed funding including grants and personal donations required.
12 people have registered an interest and they believe that the community gardens will be available March 2010
                                ACTION AC/CF
d) Apethorpe Hall update
John Coulson (EH) visited Apethorpe during June and updated villagers about the hall; this was appreciated
Recent updates to MWr include:
• No buyer has been identified
• Tours less successful this year (30% down on last year, 1500 people visited this year).
• Future of tours is unknown
• Notice board is being processed

Maggie farmer advised that EH had indicated that a villager’s ball had been promised in earlier communications; this will be followed up                ACTION MWr

e) Village Party
MWr extended thanks to Caroline who managed the very successful event. The event raised approximately £1500 which has been equally split between the church and the Community Responder scheme

5. Village telephone Kiosk
MWr provided and update on this issue. The village has been unsuccessful in retaining the use of the BT phone box as only 6 calls were made from it last year (to be viable 300 calls are required)
An enthusiastic discussion followed regarding how the village could buy and maintain the box. The box will cost £51.00 to purchase (includes section 50 licence).
Charles Shaw queried whether there would be ongoing insurance costs. This would be investigated        ACTION MWr

A proposal was made that we should purchase the box (proposed Julia Wells, seconded Maggie Farmer) and that all those present at the meeting could contribute £2.00 enabling the action to be immediate. The motion was carried unanimously. All present donated £2.00.                     ACTION MWr

Maintenance was discussed. Graham Warren agreed to volunteer as ‘maintenance director’. Julia Wells advised that George has agreed to paint the box when required            ACTION GW

6. Communications – The Village Blog
The blog is now managed by Nicola and Marc Potter (Dairy Cottage). Please forward any information to marc.potter@mac.com

7. Kings Head Update
Julia thanked the village for their patience during the weekend of the ‘Winder’ wedding.
Upcoming events include:
• Childrens’ Halloween party 3-6pm
• Xmas menus are now available for viewing

The Country shop is doing well and will start to stock more ‘basics’ including home baked bread. If demand continues it is possible that the opening times will be extended

8. Any other Business
a) Manor farm access
Mike Walsh presented the matter of the access to Manor Farm via the driveway to Coach House. He had heard that villagers had not been allowed access and he believes that the current owners may be intending to close the existing access in the future.
MWr suggested that the issue needed to be resolved for the village and advised a conciliatory approach. Mike Johnson volunteered to approach Simon and Rachel to determine the situation and report back.                                    ACTION MJ
A proposal was made to formally approach NCC to determine if there is in fact a right of way through Manor Farm ( proposed by Lois Phillips, seconded Carole Forbes ) and Margaret Parkinson volunteered to deal with this.        ACTION MP

b) Treasurers report
MW presented the accounts. MWr thanked Mike for his continued support

9. Date of the Next Meeting
8th December 2009

Teething trouble

2009-09-23T21:16:00.002+01:00

SOME teething problems in the engine room mean the Flickr link to the calendar has stopped working temporarily. Until then you can look at the latest Apethorpe calendar contenders by clicking the link here, I hope! http://www.flickr.com/photos/42651357@N04/

Thanks for the welcome...

2009-09-18T23:28:00.001+01:00

Getting 200,000 copies of Motor Cycle News to press on a Monday night is pretty nerve-wracking, but nothing like the pressure of pulling together Apethorpe News. Usually I can hide behind a phone if MCN's readers don't like what we've written, not bump into them on a Tuesday night in the Kings Head. So with that in mind, please enjoy the first update of Apethorpe News from my own hand. This newsletter is about you, and the fantastic village that Nicola, Max, Finlay and myself moved into two months ago. And if our welcome is anything to go by, and the village really is as sociable and friendly as it seems then my inbox should be flooded with news. Thanks to Rick for giving me the opportunity to truly feel part of the village. If you would like anything (within reason) posting, my email address is: marc.potter@mac.com

Help stop nuclear waste

2009-09-18T21:51:00.005+01:00

ACT now if you want to stop radioactive nuclear waste being dumped in King's Cliffe. Chairman of the Apethorpe Village meeting, Malcolm Winder, has already written to the County Council on behalf of the village but is urging villagers to make their own stand. Send your letter to: The Development Control Section, Northamptonshire County Council, John Dryden House, 8-10 The Lakes, Northampton,NN14 7YD. The Planning Application is by Augean PLC and the Number is 09/0053/WAS. Or, oppose the decision online by going to www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/en/councilservices/environ/planning/planningapps/pages/currentEN.aspx

Phone box saved!

2009-09-18T21:45:00.003+01:00

VILLAGERS threw more than £50 into the pint pot at this week's village meeting to save the Apethorpe Village telephone kiosk. The red phone box will soon become the private property of the village. George Kelley and Graham Warren have kindly offered to keep on top of its maintenance.

Numbers down at Apethorpe Hall

2009-09-18T21:40:00.006+01:00

A MASSIVE 1500 people attended the Apethorpe Hall tour this summer, but this was 30 per cent down compared to last year. And the future of the tours for 2010 is in question. So far a sale has not been achieved but rumours are rife that an American University currently based near Grantham have shown interest.

Book now for Christmas!

2009-09-18T21:37:00.004+01:00

JULIA and Steve say now is the time if you want to book a place at the hottest Christmas Eve party in town. Places at the King's Head on December 24 are filling up fast, so book your place now. The Christmas menu is now available in the pub.

Plans for Lilac Cottage

2009-09-18T21:30:00.004+01:00

A NEW planning application has been put in place to refurbish and extend the fire-damaged Lilac Cottage in Laundry Road. Previous planning applications for the historic building have failed in the past due to potential over development of the site. For more details on how it could affect you, the application can be viewed at www.east-northamptonshire.gov.uk. It's application number EN/09/01385/FUL. You can post comments until October 6, 2009.

Help Communicare transport scheme

2009-09-18T20:08:00.001+01:00

IF you could spare an hour or two a week, and drive a car then you could be a massive help to Communicare. The patient participation for the Wansford and King's Cliffe surgeries are seeking volunteers to help get patients from their homes and hospitals in Stamford and Peterborough. The group will reimburse petrol costs and no medical or physical assistance is required. The scheme's Gilbert Markley said: "Involvement with the scheme would be entirely when convenient to you - the more volunteers we can recruit, the fewer times you might be called upon to offer your services." If you can help, ring Gilbert on 01780 470578

Calendar update from Mike Johnson

2009-09-18T19:45:00.001+01:00

Summer Selection: The selection of photos for the Summer Season are now on display in the King’s Head and the Church. As before, our judge (Maggie Farmer) had a difficult task and has tried to select places / areas not featured before. We also have one photo selected which was taken twenty to thirty years ago. If you look at the top of the blog you can see all the latest pictures. Thanks again to Maggie for carrying out a difficult judging job. All photos are anonymous when Maggie is judging, so she has no idea who has submitted them until the judging is complete. Autumn (final) Selection: The submission date for our final group is 31st October. Please help us to finish on a high with lots of Autumn photos for Maggie to judge. Remember that photos don’t have to be taken this year as long as they are Autumn landscapes taken in or around Apethorpe. The simplest way to submit photos is as an email attachment (address below), second preference is on a memory stick or disc but if you wish, I can scan in photos. This latter option will certainly apply if you wish to submit old or film based pictures. For digital photos, JPEG (.jpg) format is preferred but others are acceptable. For those with a digital camera but no computer, I will attempt to download directly from your camera. The Calendar for 2010: We should end up with 30-35 photos covering all seasons and a wide range of locations in and around the village from which to make the final selection for the Calendar. It is likely that we will have a small group to help in choosing the final 13 or 14 photos (one for each Month, a cover and possibly a small one for the back). I believe that they will make fabulous Christmas gifts, especially for friends and relations who know Apethorpe, they will also be a wonderful personal memory of our beautiful countryside. Those who saw my own example from last year will appreciate that they are very practical, have A4 size pictures with the same size calendar and have enough space to write in entries for each day. Could those of you who require calendars but have not yet replied, let me know how many you require by the end of September at the latest otherwise you will be disappointed! I can then inform the selected printers (Austin Rose – Peterborough) of the run size required, confirm the prices and get them to prepare the calendar ready for the photos to be slotted in after the end of October. I hope the calendars will be ready for delivery by Mid-November. I will be round collecting your money during the first week in November so that we can pay the printers as soon as they are printed. The price is expected to be around £5.50 per calendar. Mike Johnson, Lavender Cottage, Manor Farm; T: 470669; E: HYPERLINK "mailto:annmike.johnson@tiscali.co.uk" annmike.johnson@tiscali.co.uk

Apethorpe calendar gets a step closer

2009-09-11T21:54:00.007+01:00

What better Xmas present than a calendar of Apethorpe for friends, family, or even a copy for your wall? Ann and Mike Johnson are currently investigating printing options and prices for the Apethorpe Landscapes Calendar. Basically, the more they order, the cheaper they become. At present, for a print run of 100 copies the best price quoted is £5.75 for 13 pictures including the cover, or £6 for 14 pictures. If demand is high and the order is pushed to 150 copies the price drops to £5.25 for the 13 picture version, or £5.50 for 14 pictures. Please indicate your interest, and decide if you'd like the 13 or 14 picture calendar, and send the information to Ann and Mike at Lavender Cottage, 5A Manor Farm, or email: annmike.johnson@tiscali.co.uk

STOP PRESS: Village Meeting on Tuesday

2009-09-11T21:36:00.008+01:00

The next Apethorpe Village Meeting will take place on Tuesday September 15 at the Kings Head, starting at 7.30pm. It is the perfect opportunity to keep up-to-date with the latest village matters and have your say. Malcolm assures us there will be information on the proposed radioactive waste disposal in Kings Cliffe, an update on the calendar project and discussion on adopting the village telephone box, and that's just for starters. If you wish to discuss anything else, please send ideas and suggestions to the Clerk of the Meeting, Deborah Manger, at: deborahmanger@btinternet.com by this Sunday (September 13) for inclusion in the agenda.

Snow family set for Great North Run

2009-09-11T21:14:00.007+01:00

Matt and Andrea Snow would like to thank everyone in the village for their very generous sponsorship money. The Great North Run (half-marathon) is on the 20th September and all monies raised go to CAFOD. It is not too late to donate and you can still visit www.justgiving.com/andreaandmattsnow or alternatively you can add to the paper based form Matt and Andrea have on the go. We wish them the best of luck and we'll keep you posted on their progress here at Apethorpe News.

August

2009-08-19T10:47:00.010+01:00

It really doesn't seem all that long ago that I took the Newsletter over. On checking back though, it was February 2008 and it really doesn't seem more than a month or two. I have enjoyed my time as editor but sadly all things come to an end, and as Sandy and I are now off to pastures new it is time to hand on the reins to someone else. It is very fortunate that our leaving the village coincides with the arrival of a delightful young couple who now live in The old Dairy just behind the pub. Marc Potter and his two boys together with partner Nikki have arrived in Apethorpe to live "The Dream" like so many others. Marc has very kindly offered to take over the role as editor of "The Apethorpe News" on the blog. He comes incredibly well qualified to do this as he is currently Editor of that well known large weekly title "Motor Cycle News". I am sure that Apethorpe will benefit greatly from his hand at the helm and I am sure you will all be able to look forward to the blog being taken on to a new level.

Village Meeting

For some reason of which I am unaware the next village meeting appears to be on September 8th. When I looked back to last year it was in October. You may find therefore that the minutes of the next meeting don't actually appear in the next Newsletter until the November edition. so don't panic if you don't see them for a while.

The Wedding of Carole and Colin

I know that you've already seen the link to these pictures, but I promised Carole I would leave these on one of the main issues so that anyone from the village could continue to access them in the future. With the new editor we will have to change the flickr access rights and it may alter the availability of some of the older stuff. I will leave the old site running for a long while so that the links from previous issues are still available. So here is the link below:

www.flickr.com

And the Hen Night

www.flickr.com

And now the Calendar pictures

www.flickr.com

Au Revoir

So finally, it is time to say goodbye. We do hope to still be frequent visitors to Apethorpe. We wish everyone a fond farewell and hope that you all enjoy continued success and good health. Please give Marc every assistance with his new role and keep the material coming in. Any Newsletter is only as good as the news and information that comes the editor's way.

Marc can be contacted on marc.potter@mac.com

May 2009

2009-05-05T20:15:00.002+01:00

www.flickr.com

Calendar Project

If you are viewing this on the village blog, by clicking on the above picture, you will be able to see the selected ten photos which will be included in the final selection for the calendar in November. If not they are on display in the Kings Head entrance and in the church. I think you will agree that they are quite impressive. We could easily have selected another thirty or so of similar quality. Many thanks to Maggie Farmer for carrying out the tricky job of judging. All photos were made completely anonymous for this purpose (numbered 1 to 90). The final response was terrific, with 92 photos submitted (2 were too late, arriving after the judging) from around eighteen to nineteen people. I did not keep records of who submitted what, so I can’t be certain, but from memory think that the final ten were submitted by either six or seven different people. It is now time to capture Spring on camera, all the blossom, spring flowers and bluebells should inspire you all to pick up your cameras. The closing date for these is 31st May so you need to get started. I have already had one submission! By the end of the year, we could easily have a collection of two hundred and fifty to three hundred photos. These could be a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in printing there own Christmas, Birthday, Greetings or Post cards. I am considering making them available on a disc at the end of the year if anyone is interested and if those submitting photos don’t object. Comments on this idea would be welcome. Thanks to all of you who joined in, I look forward to both your entries and some from new people for the Spring selection. Mike Johnson

Advertisement for the next play at

King's Cliffe.

Notes from the Village Meeting.

APETHORPE VILLAGE- ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NOTES TUESDAY, 28TH APRIL 2009 (29 attendees) 1) Apologies for Absence Andy & Justine Julie Goldsmith Ian Groundwater Linda Hindmarch Pat & Keith Howells Richard Parkinson David Manger 2) Minutes of the last Meeting Accepted as true and accurate reflection of discussions 3) Matters arising: a. Village Clean-up Formal thanks were offered to Andy & Justine for leading the organisation of this event. MWr suggested that the village might consider whether this could happen more than once annually b. Manor Farm road refurbishment MWr congratulated and complemented the residents of Manor Farm on the renovation of the private access c. Apethorpe Calendar Project update MJ advised all that the project had received over 100 photographs from 20 residents, representative of the area during winter. Maggie Farmer has judged the entries and 10 have been selected for further consideration for the calendar; they are being displayed in the pub and on the blog The process will continue for the remaining seasons at which point the calendar will be commissioned. MJ commented that all the photographs provided a useful local resource that maybe available on a CD for personal use Please ensure you have your spring entries with Mike by the 31st May 2009 ACTION ALL d. Community responder scheme DM updated the meeting about the scheme. EMAS have visited the village to chat to the volunteers; a minimum of 6 are required to run the scheme. A further meeting is planned for the 28th May at 7.30pm in the King’s Head to discuss logistics and fund raising. Please contact Deborah at Reed House (01780 470356) if you wish to attend ACTION ALL Mike Hindmarch agreed to contact Communicare about the scheme ACTION MH Nick Blackford advised those present that he would be semi-retired in July 2009 and would be interested in joining the scheme ACTION NB e. Allotments MWr led a discussion regarding the project. Anne Chamberlain has worked tirelessly on this project since the last meeting reviewing the land, the cost of clearing it and the probability of ensuring it would be fit for purpose. This research had led Anne to the conclusion that it could cost approximately £1000.00 to prepare the site and then she was not convince that it would make a useful site for allotments Many of the village residents present were keen to continue exploring the possibility of allotments; MWr would ask Anne to hold an Allotment Meeting to confirm the numbers of households interested and clarify the potential costs to those involved ACTION MWr/AC f. Children’s play scheme MWr stated that there was no update from Rachel Johnson for the meeting ACTION MWr/RJ g. Apethorpe Hall/ English Heritage update MWr has met with representatives (John Coulson, Nick Hill, Victoria Sewter, George Kelley) of English Heritage to discuss the future plans for the hall and any issues regarding the planned ‘visitor days’; at the meeting they discussed traffic, parking, access, open times. The response has clarified the current situation: · No buyer presently but any new owner is mandated to allow access for viewing 28 days per year · Visits 3rd June 2009 – 6th September 2009, Wednesday and Saturdays 10.30am, 1.00pm and 3.30pm. · 25 people per tour, all prebooked and supervised · All advised to park at the pub car park afterwards if staying in the area · John Coulson advised that he is keen to maintain a good relationship with the village residents and as such is happy to attend village meetings. MWr to invite him to attend on the 2nd June 2009 ACTION MWr MWr advised that English Heritage would be funding (approx £1200.00) the replacement of the village notice board. Planning permission is not required if it remains in its current position. A proposal was made that it should remain in its current position. Proposed Andrew Forbes; Seconded Fiona Porter Carried majority ACTION MWr A discussion followed regarding the recent TV programme which tended to suggest that consideration would be given to private buyers as a dwelling and also to those considering institutional use. There had been comments during the programme regarding Lord and Lady Brassey. MWr read a letter form Lady Brassey to the village meeting; the letter refutes the personal comments made during the programme and clearly states the hurt caused (scanned copy attached) 4) Election of Officers No nominations were made to replace the current chairman, clerk or treasurer; it was agreed that all should be reinstated Tamar Ord gave a vote of thanks to the incumbents It was suggested that the accounts required auditing and that this could be done by a resident of the village; as the accounts have not witnessed any transactions a formal audit is not required. A nomination of Rick Avern was proposed by Mike Walsh and seconded in writing by Richard Parkinson (scanned copy attached). This was carried unanimously ACTION RA/MW 5) Financial Report These were presented by MW (scanned copies attached) MWr thanked Mike for his continued efforts on behalf of the village 6) Neighbourhood Watch Scheme report Guy Porter gave a presentation regarding the scheme that he is now leading. He has made contact with the regional coordinator and was able to make many leaflets and formal guidance available to those in attendance He is keen to be able to ensure that all villagers receive timely advice and this will be facilitated if we ensure he has our e-mail addresses. Please contact Guy directly at Laundry Cottage ACTION ALL He presented information regarding the marking of personal items including ‘Smart Water®’ kits which can be purchased at a cost of £20.00 (normally retail at £80.00). Please contact Guy if you wish to discuss this further His final comment was “be observant and use common sense” 7) Transport and Highways a. Village Bus Service MWr advised that the Transport and Highways in NCC would be reviewed and he has been asked to comment on the service on our behalf. A passionate discussion followed with many residents asserting that, despite NCC stating the service is not greatly used, the service should not be diminished; many felt it needed to be strengthened. Reasons given included the need for non car drivers to be able to get to town, doctors and dentist. Without the service the village would be cut off and having a negative impact on the movements of those who do not or cannot drive. ACTION MWr b. Bridge safety Following the recent accident at Bridge Cottage it was felt that a discussion was required about how to make access to the village safer. A lengthy discussion followed including the following · Can we make allowances for those who drink and drive? · The line of sight over the bridge · Signage · Speed bumps · Priority vehicle movement over the bridge It was concluded that MWr would advise the Transport & Highways section of NCC that there was a problem with the bridge and ask them what solutions may be possible. The suggested solutions will be presented at the village meeting ACTION MWr c. Report of countywide event DM briefly reported the key points presented at a countywide launch event of the reorganised Transport & Highways department of NCC. (Detailed notes available from MWr and DM). The key relevant points were · A new reporting system for issues affecting T&H in the county · A countywide contractor for the next 3 years · Area based working with a local contact for Apethorpe in Corby · A local notional budget for repairs 8) Forthcoming Events a. Village Open Day/Party All present felt that this event was thoroughly enjoyed by all and should be repeated. Unfortunately Richard Parkinson is unable to lead this event this year. MWr formally thanked Richard for all his efforts in ensuring this event had run smoothly in the past MWr could confirm that Lady Brassey had generously agreed to make available the Manor lawn to the village; Lady Brassey felt that any profit should be equally split between church funds and the community responder scheme. This was felt to be an appropriate use of any profit by those in attendance and all wanted MWr to extend their appreciation to Lady Brassey ACTION MWr Andy & Justine had generously agreed to organise entertainment for the event Discussions followed about the need for a lead; Caroline Clements agreed to lead the event. MWr suggested that Caroline should organise a ‘party meeting’ and ask for volunteers to coordinate catering, marquee, etc ACTION CC Please contact Caroline to let her know if you are able to help at the event ACTION ALL b. Apethorpe Church Open Week and Music in Quiet Places This week long event begins the 17th May 2009 and includes: · Bishop John visiting the church and village to make acquaintance with the parishioners · Evensong · Kids after school session on the Friday afternoon · Surgery event led by Bishop John Tamara Ord added that currently the church costs £1000.00 per month to keep open; it is open every day and hosts many services for the community. If the church is unable to maintain funding it will close for most of the year to reduce costs (it will open only 6 times a year). This event is designed to develop a positive relationship between the church and the local parishioners c. Countryside walk Sunday 10th May, David Moisey is hosting a 4 mile walk through out local countryside. Please meet at the Kings Head at 10.30am 9) Kings Head Update 1st May Tapas evening 15th May Jazz night 19th May Curry night Book early to avoid disappointment 10) Date of next Meeting 2nd June 2009: discussions to include Apethorpe Hall and the Village Party

February 2009

2009-02-01T16:39:00.009Z

So here we are - already well over a month into 2009. I have not had to be too inventive this month as there seems to an awful lot of information coming my way to pass on in the Newsletter. Keep it coming! I have included the usual photo (right) purely for interest. I guess that this issue signals the last in the current year and time for a change on the picture of the church showing top right.

Enjoy the snow scenes - My thanks to Andrea (guess who?) yes Snow

click on the link below.

www.flickr.com

Beware of Burglaries

Below is a copy of an e-mail received from Laura Parkinson at Michaelmas Cottage on Monday Feb 23rd. It speaks for itself really, and re-inforces that we must all be careful.

Dear Richard, I was wondering if you know who the neighbourhood watch person is for the village. Someone attempted to break in at just gone 12.30 last night. Luckily the dog heard them and we switched the lights on, but our gate was still ajar this morning. A car came and picked someone up on our corner a few minutes later so I think it was probably quite carefully planned. I think I need to up our security levels a bit! If there is a neighbourhood watch person I can email and hopefully they’ll let everyone know, but if not would you mind forwarding a message to the people on your list? I hope you are well. Many thanks. With best wishes, Laura

Apethorpe Hall English Heritage has submitted a Planning Application for Security Gates and Fencing at the top of Laundry Road at the Entrance to Apethorpe Hall. The Planning Application is Ref. No, EN/08/02193/FUL and information on this is available from http://www.east-northamptonshire.gov.uk/. The deadline date for comments is 12 February 2009.

Apethorpe Calendar Project Guidelines

As agreed at the village meeting on 13^th January ’09, an Apethorpe Village Calendar is being produced during 2009 as a communal project for everyone in the village – young and old. The beautiful Apethorpe countryside will be reflected in this calendar with 13 stunning(!) photographs all taken by village residents. This is your opportunity for artistic pride since the selected photographs will be published in the calendar with the best being displayed in the King’s Head and the blog through the year.

The Calendar Project will enable you (and the children) to pick up your cameras and explore the surrounding countryside, seek the best views, submit your photographs and be involved in supporting your village – good exercise and good fun, all in one!

The final Calendar will be professionally produced towards the end of the year and will be ideal for home and office or for presents for family and friends.

Below are the guidelines for submitting photographs for this project:-

1) It is open to all village residents of any age apart from Maggie Farmer who is to be our judge for at least the first year. You can submit as many photos as you like.

2) For this first calendar, photos will be landscapes taken in and around Apethorpe.

3) No photos of other villages and no surreptitious inclusion of your family or pets. As a rough guide, countryside that can be included should be within 30 minutes walk of the village.

4) It is not a competition. We will be selecting a range of photos so if the nine best photos are, for example, beautiful sunsets or the same view, they will not all be selected as we need variety for the final choice. There is no prize for any selected photos apart from the pride of seeing them in the final article.

5) Photos will be submitted in four groups representing the four seasons. There will be deadlines given for each season (see below)

6) The orientation of photos should be landscape

7) Photos need not be taken this year. They can be old ones that you have taken over the years. If you have some very old ones these would also be very welcome.

8) Following each deadline, a pool of between six and ten will be selected for that season. These will go forward for the final choice.

9) When photos go forward for judging, they will be anonymous as far as the judge is concerned. She / he will make their choice bearing in mind:-

A) Quality of photos

B) Originality of photos

C) The need for a variety of views and weather conditions

D) Their adherence to the appropriate season and to the guidelines.

10) The selected photos will be displayed anonymously in the King’s Head within three weeks of the deadline date. Judges choice is final.

11) Photos must be submitted by the appropriate date (see below) and will not be accepted after that date.

12) You may submit photos at any time during the appropriate season, you don’t have to wait for the deadline.

13) The following methods for submitting digital photos are all acceptable (in order of preference):-

A) The preferred method is as attachments to an email to annmike.johnson@tiscali.co.uk

B) On a USB memory stick or flash memory or similar

C) On a CD or DVD disc

D) Older and film based photos can be scanned, Mike Johnson will help with this if required

B, C and D submitted to Mike Johnson at Lavender Cottage, 5A Manor Farm. They will of course be returned provided names are attached.

14) The selling price will depend on printing costs but the project will be non- profit making

15) Following the final deadline, the final choice of thirteen photos will be selected by the judge from the four pools, one for the cover and one for each month

16) At present we are looking into how to fund the first run of 100 or more calendars

What We Need From You

1) Submitting lots of photos

2) Buying the final calendar (we are hopefully aiming at around £5). We are aware that for some people there may be conflicting loyalties for calendar purchase but you can still submit photos.

3) Suggestions of designers / printers who will produce a quality product at a reasonable price

Submission Deadline Dates

Winter – March 31^st2009

Spring – May 31^st 2009

Summer – Aug 31^st 2009

Autumn – Oct 31st 2009

Apethorpe Parish Meeting - Notes

Tuesday, 13^th January 2009, 7.30pm, Kings Head

1. Apologies: Mike & Lois Phillips, David Manger, Ian Groundwater, Richard Parkinson, Simon Johnson, George Ord, Laura Parkinson.

2. Minutes of last meeting: Accepted as an accurate record

Matters arising

a) Freedom of information act :

Model Publication Scheme, Statutory obligations, Terms of Reference (MWr)

Described by MWr as “Bureaucracy at its worst!”

Applies to Parish meetings (under the auspices of the ‘Model Publication Scheme’) and requires us to provide information on request:

i. Who we are and what we do

ii. How we raise and spend money

iii. Priorities

iv. How we make decisions

v. Policies and procedures

vi. Lists and registers

vii. Services we provide

It was proposed (MWr) that we formally accept the Model Publication Scheme

Seconded: A Forbes

Unanimous vote

Terms of Reference (attached) were outlined. It was agreed to adopt them in principle and adjust them as required

Proposed: C Forbes

Seconded: F Porter

Unanimous vote

b) Community responder scheme (DM)

This scheme has received funding for half the cost of a defibrillator from the British Heart Foundation. There is the possibility of the remaining funds being found locally. Mike Walsh gave a brief account of how this may occur (details will be expanded at a later date)

Any volunteers should give their name and address to DM who will forward them to EMAS allowing a CRB check to occur prior to formal training ACTION DM

c) Allotments (MWr)

MWr described the suggested scheme; land behind the tennis courts.

Leader properties own the land and have indicated that they are happy in principle.

There is a covenant on the land to prevent building; raised by Yvonne Tomkins, Willowbrook Lodge. The parish will approach Yvonne to advise of the allotment project and ask for her agreement ACTION MWr

Dennis Chamberlain is happy to assist with the logistics of the project

A short discussion followed about the cost of water to the site. This will be researched ACTION MWr

d) Polling facilities (MWr)

The garage of Rick and Sandy Avern (Willowbrook House, Manor Farm) has been approved for use as a polling station for the residents of Apethorpe.

Many thanks to Rick and Sandy for their generosity in providing this valuable public space

e) Public telephone box (MWr)

The request to retain the box is with the Secretary of State; the response may take up to 1 year. Feedback will be given when it is received

f) Neighbourhood watch

Guy Porter has agreed to assume the role of coordinator following Richard Dorling’s note that he might not be available to assist.

The meeting was grateful for Guy’s offer of help and also extended their thanks to Richard Dorling for his efforts since arriving in the village.

This will be a standing item on the agenda ACTION GP

g) Childrens play area/scheme

ENDC have recruited Play Rangers to facilitate play and sports schemes in villages throughout Northamptonshire. They bring all the equipment and anticipate managing after school clubs and holiday clubs. ENDC wanted to know if the scheme was of interest and if any outdoor space could be made available

· 0-7 years (play)

· 7-13 years (fun and sport)

· 13+years(sports coaching)

It was suggested by the meeting that The Green at Apethorpe Hall maybe a suitable site. MWr to ask EH ACTION MWr

The scheme requires a local facilitator. Rachel Johnson kindly offered; it was suggested that she may gain assistance form Laura Parkinson ACTION RJ

h) Peacocks/hens (Molly & Polly!)

George Kelly and Dave Moisey set traps in Mike Walsh’s garden. They have been moved to Haddon – we were informed they are happy with the move.

4. Finance report (M Walsh)

Attached

MW advised that an audit will be required 31^st March 2009 but that this will not attract a fee as we only have income this year ACTION MW

5. Apethorpe Annual Precept – 2009/2010

Currently this is zero rated for Apethorpe

If the meeting decides on a precept the value will be divided between the 93 households in the village

This was discussed and a proposal was made to retain the zero precept

Proposed: M Hindmarch

Seconded: F Porter

Majority vote to carry the proposal

Highways and planning issues

a) Local planning applications:

Nil to report

b) Winter driving & Road Salting Routes

MWr distributed ENDC maps of salted routes. Please contact Malcolm if you wish to have a copy ACTION ALL

c) Local priorities (e.g. Sign for Laundry Road)

Following a recent ‘mail shot’ request form MWr a list of priorities for the villagers of Apethorpe have been forward to ENDC

i. Footpath maintenance between Apethorpe and Kingscliffe

ii. Improved signage and sight lines on the approach to the bridge

iii. Signage indicating that Laundry Road is a ‘no through road’ and indicate a speed limit

iv. Highway maintenance along the road to Nassington

v. Repair of loose kerbstones through the village

vi. Parking around the pub, particularly on the grass verges

Village Calendar

Described by MJ who will circulate a full description throughout the village

Attached

An enthusiastic discussion followed. All attending thought this was an excellent idea and encouraged Mike to pursue this ACTION MJ

Apethorpe Hall

This property remains unsold

MWr advised that EH were planning more tours this year as follows:

· June-September 09

· Wednesday and Saturday

· 10.30, 13.00, 15.30

A Forbes offered his assistance ACTION MWr/DM

Kings Head Update

Julia thanked the village for their patience over the festive season as increased business had resulted in some parking difficulties

Julia described

· Burns night supper (24^th Jan)

· Valentine’s supper (13^th Feb)

· Valentine’s dinner (14^th Feb)

Any other business

In future AOB will be replaced with items of information as large items of AOB do not allow sufficient consideration to be given to possibly important items.

Anyone attending the meeting should ensure that they inform the clerk of items 5 days ahead of the meeting; they can be provided by email at deborah.manger@btinternet.com or by post at Reed House

Information given was that there was a programme about Apethorpe Hall on BBC1, 7.30pm 14/01/09

Date of next meeting – Tuesday 28^th April 2009

Apethorpe Parish News

Services in February 2009 Sunday 1st February 11am Matins Mrs Ord

Sunday 8h February 11am Family Eucharist Rev Michael Whawell

Sunday 15th February 11am Family Eucharist Canon M. McAdam

Sunday 22nd February 11am Family Eucharist Canon John Beaumont

Sunday 1st March 6pm Benefice Evensong Bishop John

A LETTER FROM BISHOP JOHN

LENT begins in February. The word itself is an Old English word meaning “spring”, but at church it refers to the 40 days and 40 nights running up to Easter. During Lent we prepare ourselves to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and discover how those great events affect our lives as individuals and as a community. Traditionally Lent is a time for “giving up” something as an act of self-discipline. I rather prefer the idea of “taking on something extra”. So you could try attending our Lent Meetings, which are going to happen on Tuesday evenings throughout March when we shall be getting to know each other and looking at the Bible together. Full details will appear in next month’s newsletter. LENT starts on Ash Wednesday, 25th February. There will be special services that day at 9.30am (Nassington) and 7.30pm (Woodnewton). We hope you will join us. With warmest good wishes to you all +JOHN FLACK WE have been busy in the Church over the past few weeks, firstly Pat Kittens has kindly cleaned out the Bell room which was covered in sticks, old nests and dead birds. He has also cleaned out the parapet on the tower that was full of guano from the pigeons, a truly filthy job, well done and thank you Pat. We are putting wire anti pigeon spikes on the parapet to try to stop them using it to court and breed. Roy Rogers and his son are going to insure that the spire and the tower are bird proof in the future. We are also installing security into the church to protect the roof, which will no longer be insured against theft by either of the approved insurance companies. There will also be more security installed for the inside of the building and its contents.

November 2008

2008-11-02T16:04:00.014Z

Another view of Apethorpe in bygone times

Helen & Richard's wall

On Wednesday November 19th Richard and Helen Dorling's lovely new wall took a turn for the worse by having a car driven into it. The damage inflicted can be seen in the photo below.

Should anyone have seen anything please get in touch with Richard or Helen at 6/7 Bridge Street as they would be delighted to find how this happened as the car driver left the scene. It is believed to have occurred during the rush hour period. (Do we have one of those in Apethorpe?), so would probably be early evening. Any information would be gratefully received.

George Kelley in the Daily Mail

Hey - Just look at this fantastic article that appeared in the Daily Mail today.

My thanks to Simon Johnson for alerting us to it.

Just follow the link by highlighting all of it and pasting into the web browser window.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/gardening/article-1085531/The-selfless-man-Britain-How-man-worked-unpaid-20-years-preserve-forgotten-Northamptonshire-palace.html

DOCTOR'S PHARMACIES UNDER THREAT !

It may not be a surprise to some people to know that Pharmacies attached to Doctors surgeries are under threat. However some of you may not be aware of what is proposed, and to that end I have inserted a document from Wansford Practice. This also applied to all rural practices, and we have also a document with much the same information from the Oundle Practice.

If you have strong views on this, then you should act as soon as possible to make your views known as suggested in the letter by the date indicated.

Wansford Surgery

Future of GP surgeries threatened with the loss of retaining their Right to Dispense Prescriptions You may have read in the press recently that surgeries such as ours are at risk of losing the right to dispense prescriptions. This, for our patients, would mean them having to travel to another pharmacy to cash their prescriptions after seeing the doctor. It could also mean that we would have no alternative other than to curtail certain services and in many parts of the country could lead to the closure of surgeries. To help rural surgeries secure their right to dispense we are asking for your support please by writing a letter to: Gillian Farnfield, Area 453D, Skipton House, 80 London Road, London SE1 6LH with a copy of the letter to us please for us to pass on to the MP In doing this we would ask that you please make reference, in your letter tothe fact that this would result in a reduced service, lack of choice as to where you would be able to dispense your prescription, and inconvenience in having to travel miles to cash your prescritption. We have until the 20th November to appeal against this so please make sure your letters are sent and received by this time. If you want to see an end to Dispensing from your surgery, do nothing. If, however, you want to change any of these plans you need to let the Government know your views, at the above address, as they believe they are acting for YOU. Thank you for your support Drs Takhar, Nally, Hume, Hawkins, Baker and Jones

CONGRATULATIONS

The engagement of Mike and Jane has been announced although no date for the wedding has yet been planned.

Pictured right the happy couple are seen celebrating in traditional style at the King's Head.

We're not sure which of them is making an honest person of the other , but wish them every happiness for the future.

Together again at last!!

Residents may remember that during July, an abandoned stolen car was found next to The King's Head very late one night. On that same night Margaret Parkinson had her bicycle stolen from the garage and it was assumed that this bike was used as a means of transport for the perpetrator of the crime to get away on. However it appears that not being as fit as Margaret, they only managed to get as far as Wansford before ditching the bike in a hedge there.

Amazingly during October Sandy Avern (resident super sleuth) noticed an advert in Wansford Post Office saying that a ladies bike had been found, giving a number to ring. Passing this on to the Parkinsons Margaret was thrilled to learn it was indeed her bike, and they are now happily re-united. Here's a video clip showing just how pleased she is!!

Village Meeting held on October 7th 2008

Apethorpe Parish Meeting - Notes Tuesday, 7th October 2008, 7.30pm, Kings Head 1. Apologies: Dennis & Anne Chamberlain Linda Hindmarch Phil Brown Pat Howells Richard Dorling Simon Johnson Ian Groundwater Guy Porter Roger Glitheroe George Ord 2. Minutes of last meeting Proposed – Richard Parkinson Seconded- Lynn Winder

Matters arising a) Community responder scheme (D Manger) Recently Sean Keown has contacted DM advising re British Heart Foundation application and possibility of training. Sean has suggested a meeting and DM asked people to contact her & Sean so that this can be taken forward ACTION DM b) Footpath maintenance (M Winder & H Smith) MWr described the development of the pathway between Apethorpe & Kingscliffe. He confirmed that the East Northants DC will perform 4 cuts per year using a verge cutter. HS suggested that if the village required a closer cut during the year that this would have to be arranged locally. The options included: · Maintain the path ourselves accepting personal liability · Accept the condition of the path · Raise a village precept which would be gathered by EN DC on behalf of the village A discussion ensued regarding the maintenance and the possibility of maintenance. MW asked the meeting for a vote on the use of volunteers who accept personal liability. (Proposed R.Parkinson, seconded M.Johnson). A majority vote was carried. The cutting of the path will be facilitated by volunteers ACTION MWr c) Allotments (MWr) MWr has had communication with the owner of the land behind the tennis courts (Leader Properties). The owner is happy to enter into an arrangement with the village. MWr suggested that a volunteer was required to take this project forward and liaise with the company. Laura Parkinson will lead on this project & will feedback to the parish meeting ACTION LP d) Thanks (MWr) The parish meeting wished to formally extend its thanks to Andrew Forbes and Pat Howells for their dedication and hard work during the tenure of their posts as Chairman and Clerk respectively. 4. Finance report (M Walsh) MW presented the accounts (attached) The parish meeting would like to thank Mike Walsh for his continued efforts on behalf of the village. Countywide planning issues and local planning applications MWr & DM advised the meeting that EN DC requires the parish meeting to report on points of accuracy with respect to local plans and that points of style should be made by individuals It was also pointed out that in order for the village to be fully engaged with countywide issues a volunteer is required who could offer the meeting assistance; attending strategy meetings, assessing local plans. Anyone who has an interest in this please speak to MWr ACTION ALL DM advised the only recent application in the village, apart from Coach House (see later) was an internal change to the cottages at 6-7 Bridge Street; this has been approved. The application for Lilac Cottage is at appeal during which time no further comments are allowed a) Update of Parish Watch Meeting (M Johnson) MJ had attended a strategy meeting regarding minerals and waste management. He concluded that the possible future local impact was that the A47 would become busier with heavy traffic. Communications and the ‘blog’ (R Avern) RA described the ‘Communicare’ scheme to the meeting; this is currently described on the blog. This charitable patient – doctor association, based at Wansford, would like increased input from service users. Please approach the Wansford surgery for further information ACTION ALL RP asked if the parish news could be placed on the blog. It was agreed that this was appropriate ACTION RP/RA RA advised that a paper version of the blog is available for those villagers who request it 7. Polling facilities (MWr) MWr advised the meeting that there are currently no polling facilities in Apethorpe. He described the facilities that are legally required: needs to have a private area for casting of vote and toilet facilities A discussion followed regarding the options: homes within village, postal votes RA offered access to his garage and downstairs toilet facilities. This will be proposed to EN DC ACTION MWr 8. Public telephone box (MWr) It has been confirmed that Apethorpe public telephone box has been identified as a box that will be removed. MWr has written to the Secretary of State advising that the box should remain for the following reasons; · Heritage feature within a conservation area · Poor mobile phone signals · Need for an emergency phone · We are awaiting a response. A discussion followed about the possibility of purchasing a maintaining the box. No conclusion was reached 9. Freedom Of Information Act (MWr) The parish meeting must comply with FOI conditions and requests form January 2009. The following will be required: · Terms of reference (attached – please comment) ACTION ALL · Publication of meeting notes and storage of all material and documents pertaining to parish meeting activities ACTION MWr/DM Any other business a) Apethorpe Ramblers Society (R Johnson) Next meeting will occur when the White Swan at Woodnewton opens; the walk will include a visit for refreshment b) Sign for Laundry Road; ‘no through rd’/‘kids’(F Porter) FP described the reasons why some residents of Laundry Road would like a sign that indicated that this was not a through road. This will require an inquiry to the Highways Authority ACTION MWr c) Access and Planning Application for Coach House (RJ) RJ described the anticipated timeframe for renovations to Coach House and the lack of access through the driveway of Coach House during this period. There was a lengthy discussion regarding whether this would continue following the building works; some residents of Manor Farm felt strongly that this would not be permitted. It was concluded that the parish meeting could not facilitate this issue and it was agreed that Simon and Rachel Johnson would check the legal and liability issues again; they would confirm the outcome with their neighbours ACTION S&RJ The planning application is available for viewing (blog) and comments can be forwarded to the planning officer directly or through MWr d) Neighbourhood watch (DM on behalf of Richard Dorling) Richard Dorling has advised us that he anticipates leaving the village in approximately 6 months time; he would like somebody to assume the role of Neighbourhood Watch coordinator before he leaves Volunteers please speak to MWr ACTION ALL e) Church ‘development’ (RP) RP described the possible reprovision of the pews in the church to enable the building to be used as a community facility. Discussions included: · The merits of removing the pews · The need for a community facility · Versatility of chairs It was suggested that this discussion required a formal discussion and should not be managed as AOB. This was agreed and will be discussed formally at the next meeting. All interested parties should forward discussion points to DM prior to the next meeting so that they can be made available with the agenda ACTION ALL f) Childrens play area (MWr) EN DC has funding available to develop childrens play areas specifically for the 8-13 year age group. There are currently 26 children in the village and it was agreed by those in attendance that this would be a worthy project This project requires a lead (volunteer). Enquiries to MWr ACTION ALL g) Peacocks/peahens (C Forbes) These recent visitors appear to be causing damage to plants and property. Advice will be sought form Dave Moisey on how these birds can be managed ACTION MWr Date of next meeting – 13th January 2009

Apethorpe Parish News November 2008 St Leonard's Church Apethorpe aims to make the love of God known to everyone who lives in the village, through lively worship and caring fellowship.

Autumn Colours Sunday 2nd November 11am Patronal Festival Bishop John Flack Sunday 9th November 11am Remembrance Sunday. Rev Michael Whawell War Memorial 10.55 Remembrance Service Lt Col Peter Kerruish Sunday 16th November 11am Family Eucharist Canon Michael McAdam Sunday 23rd November 11am Family Eucharist Canon John Beauumont Sunday 30th November 11am Holy Communion Rev Dr Jack McDonald

There will be a coffee morning in aid of St Leonard’s on Saturday 15th November from 10.30 in the Shooting Cottage, Manor House. Fabulous, inexpensive jewellery, ideal as Christmas presents, will be on sale. For more information ring 470690 or 470231. Bishop John Flack will give a talk on Wednesday 26th November entitled “My life in the Vatican” at 7.30 in the Church. This will be a fascinating insight into the workings of the Vatican. Refreshments will be provided. Tickets are free and available from Lady Brassey 470231, Tamara Ord 470683 or Richard P 470653. On Sunday the 30th, Jack McDonald will celebrate Holy Communion from the Book of Common Prayer. This is possibly his last visit for sometime. Bishop John will conduct a Confirmation for 12 candidates here. The Ven: David Painter Archdeacon of Oakham will preach, and Andrew Forbes will provide a choir from Oundle School. Canon Michael McAdam will take a Christening, Christingle and carol service on the 21st December. More details next month. For the past two years a traveling crib (Posada) has been taken into homes in Nassington during December leading up to Christmas. This year we would like it to travel to all of our Church Parish, Please contact Philippa Joice on 01780 782773 philippa@planetjoice.co.uk if you want more information or wish to give the Posada a home for the night.

2008-08-03T10:55:00.009+01:00

August 2008

Where's This?

As promised in the last issue here is the next picture of Apethorpe in bygone days.

The picture that appeared in the last issue was of course taken at Apethorpe Hall in the swimming pool. The picture was taken by Elle Dunn who specializes in taking pictures of decaying buildings. She has also taken a series of pictures of Woolwich Arsenal.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Matt Snow has alerted us to a potential threat in the village which is shown below. Please follow his advice to ensure you don't lose any valuables.

"I am aware that a prolific burglar from Peterborough has got a new girlfriend in King's Cliffe. I have no doubt this explains the stolen car dumped in our village, and the subsequent theft of a pedal cycle (although before he sues me under the Human Rights Act I have no legal basis for my hunch). Please ensure that you lock doors, windows, don't leave anything valuable in cars etc, or he will steal from you." Thanks Matt

VILLAGE PARTY

See who was there!!

My grateful thanks to Andy Aveyard and Andrew Williams for capturing "those moments" so well !!!

www.flickr.com

Click on image above. When web site opens click on browse under thumbnail images on right. Then click on slideshow.

Contributed by Richard Parkinson. The village Party was a great success, the weather was reasonable, the tents stayed put in the wind and the roast disappeared, as did a huge quantity of drink. Whilst we did not take a count of the attendance, we had supplied 120 plates and these were not enough, I therefore estimate that there were about 140 people, including all the children, all of whom had great fun. I would like to thank Lord and Lady Brassey for supplying the wonderful setting and also all my helpers, Simon and Jack for the bar, Malcolm and Richard for their excellent carving skills and especially Julia from the pub, who had organized the food and who did sterling work serving you all as well as supplying a free barrel of beer. Then there were all those who helped put up tents etc. and tidied up on Sunday. Lady Brassey’s Tombola raised £300 for the church and the rest made £365 for the village and church. If anyone has any ideas for next year, please mail me, rjmaparkinson@tiscali.co.uk.

Lost

Following the Village Party Glenda Kerruish has discovered a grey hoody top sixe XL that doesn't belong to her or anyone she's asked. If you have lost such an item please contact Glenda on:- gkerruish@aol.com Concert Review - by Andrew Forbes

I was most grateful to the Villagers who looked after the choir members. The choir sang better than ever, and it was a really good evening. Despite the number of people away, and the road closures, there was a good turn out and the occasion was much appreciated by the audience. The choir really had a good time, and I gather that Apethorpe is one of the highlights of their tour, so who knows....they may be back! I hope to be able to arrange more concerts in the Autumn. Malcolm & Lynn Winder have sent me a piece regarding the collection that recently took place for Christian Aid.

"Many thanks to all those in Apethorpe who gave to Christian Aid this year. The amount collected from the Village was £215-00 which was then added to by a further collection on Sunday, 18th May 2008 at St. Leonard's Church of £155-00 -- an amazing total of £370-00. Christian Aid works with the world's poorest communities by investing in projects that provide benefits for years to come. This Aid is designed to help people improve their lives whatever their background or religion and the generous donations from Apethorpe are a substantial contribution to this aid."

If anyone has any items that they would like included in the Monthly updates or in the main issues please just e-mail them to me on rick.avern@sky.com

Tennis Club BBQ

Check out the photos

www.flickr.com

by Mike Phillips As you will see from the pictures the Tennis Club BBQ on the 2nd August was a huge success. The Fortissimo Swing Band lived up to their name and made the party go with a 'swing'!

Thanks to Ali & Richard for all their hard work in hosting the event and also to all those that helped in so many ways. The Tennis Club has sent a cheque for £500 to Marie Curie Cancer Care from the proceeds.

Marie Curie would also be grateful for donations of:- paperback books - foreign coins - jewellery - mobile phones - used postage stamps. Contact them at 7c Commercial Road, Grantham. Tel 01476 576000.

So the Summer is well and truly upon us now and many people have been taking the opportunity of escaping to other Countries. However - spare a thought for the UK because when the weather is good, there's often nowhere better. Take a look at the picture below supplied by Andrew Williams of a big sky over Apethorpe. Whilst on the subject of the countryside, please find below the report of the second ARS walk by Rachel Johnson.

The hottest day of the year so far did not deter some of the more hardy villagers on the second ARS walk. Easy walking up to Spa Farm and then a slightly more challenging 'hack' through a fully grown rapeseed field brought us to the Roman Spa. This is currently very overgrown (summer foliage) but was an exciting and interesting first time viewing for some members of ARS, and is worth a revisit when some of the growth has fallen back. The lack of rain in the last week made for a nearly dry Morehay Lane, that ancient grassed road into Kings Cliffe. We also had first sight of the new competition for Mr Fowler's Happy Hen Eggs as well as a full view of the 400 trees that Fowlers have planted to landscape their enterprise. Then it was on to welcome refreshment in the garden of the Crosse Keys via the watermill. We finished the ramble with a ceremonial walk along the new footpath (perhaps to be renamed the Howells' Way?) arriving back at 1pm sharp! Next ARS walk in September. Details to be announced.

KING'S CLIFFE & AREA COMMUNITY SPORTS PROJECT

Mike Herring has asked me to include details of a forthcoming event that is aimed at giving all the Apethorpe folk a chance of seeing the full details of this new project.

Kings Cliffe and Area Community Sports Project Sun 7th Sept 2008 at the Kings Head Apethorpe, 7.00pm You are invited to the Kings Head at Apethorpe to see a presentation of where things are with this major new sports and leisure facility for this area. The first £3/4m has been raised and football pitches, skate park and BMX track will be opened shortly. Future plans include tennis courts, indoor sports hall, all weather area etc and this is your opportunity to have a real input into these plans. The meeting will be of particular interest to parents with young children to teenagers. After the meeting a tour of the site will be available for those who would like to see the real scale of things to come. Mike Herring 01780 470753

TELEPHONE BOX

Rick, You have recently reported on the blog that BT intend to remove the village payphone as a cost saving exercise. On behalf of the village I have formally objected to this to East Northamptonshire Council on the basis that the removal would mean the following: The Loss of a Heritage Feature The Loss of a Feature Located in a Conservation Village The Loss of a Public Service The Loss of A Public Telephone in an area where there is Lack Mobile Phone Coverage The Loss of a Telephone which is required for Emergency Calls Our objection has been passed on to the Secretary of State for a final decision.

May 2008

2008-05-10T20:24:00.000+01:00

May 2008

Where is this?

Well here goes for the first time. Many of you will already know that Mike Johnson has finally relinquished the vice like grip that he held in his role of editor of the Village News. I would like to be one of the first to thank Mike for all his hard work over the last few years, and for the informed communication that he put out so well. I'm sure that everyone would wish to join me in those thanks- THANK YOU Mike. I will attempt to achieve the same high standard set by Mike, and if there is anything within the village that you would like to pass on to others please feel free to let me know so they may be included in the next issue. Some pictures will be included that may be of interest over the coming newsletters and to that end you may like to try and guess where some of the pictures were taken. They have all been taken in and around Apethorpe either past or present. So the above is the first. There's no prizes for guessing - just plain smug satisfaction! I will confirm the images (if known) in the following issue. Apologies to those of you who do not yet have the ability to view the new look newsletters over the internet in full resplendent colour, but for now, we shall only continue to print an abridged Newsletter for those people who request one and this will be in mono only. Therefore starting with the next issue the Newsletter will only be distributed to those people who have requested a copy. (See end of Newsletter below). This will do two things - it will reduce the need for printing so many copies and at the same time help the environment. Additionally, it will enable greater flexibility when uploading the Newsletter onto the Internet which means that pictures and video clips can be included. Regular checking on the site will ensure you keep up to date. Why not save it as a favourite? http://www.apethorpevillage.blogspot.com/ WALL OF DEATH Well done to Andrew Williams who recently leapt from the roof of Woolworth's to raise money for charity. He is pictured here (far side) with a collegue just before the abseil descent. A good deal of money was raised and Andrew got safely to earth with only a minor injury to his leg. Buying him drinks in the pub will boost his confidence for his next adventure. EVENTS EVENTS EVENTS EVENTS EVENTS EVENTS EVENTS

It's important that any forthcoming events are advertised as much as possible. To that end the newsletter can help promote - but only if we know about them in good time. Please let us know all the details by e-mailing to: rick.avern@sky.com (you may click on this link to send an e-mail)

Village Events

June 7th - Apethorpe Ramblers Society. The inaugural meeting of the Apethorpe Ramblers Society will take place on Saturday June 7th. A.R.S. will depart from the King's Head car park at 11.00am and walk to Southwick arriving by 12.00. After a refreshing libation at the Shuckburgh Arms, we will return to Apethorpe arriving back at approximately 1.30pm. If you wish to have lunch at the King's Head, please arrange this with Julia or Steve Wells The walk could be a bit muddy in parts if there has been a lot of rain. The walk should be 3-wheeler friendly, except for one stile - but I'm sure we can lift any smaller members of A.R.S over that! If you want to bring push chairs, please check with Simon or Rachel Johnson (470642) who will walk the route the day before to check ground conditions."

June 11th - The St Andrew's University Madrigal Group. Concert starts at 19.30. Tickets are £5.00 and are available at the door or can be pre-booked from 01832 277132. Anyone who has any accommodation available for one or more of the students please contact the above number or let Andrew Forbes know at the School House, Apethorpe.

July 19th - Garage Sale. There is to be a garage sale and exchange during the morning from 09.00 until 12.00hrs.

Are you anything like the Johnsons who have 2 bicycles, a washing machine & 3 microwaves in their garage, all of which are surplus to requirement? There will be an opportunity to rid yourselves of superfluous tat & to purchase fellow villagers stuff on the morning of the village party on Saturday 19th July between 9am and 12noon. Apethorpians are duly invited to array any unwanted goods they wish to sell in front of their abodes for the perusal of, & purchase by, their fellow villagers.

July 19th - Village Party. This will take place in the grounds of the Manor House and will be commence at 16.00hrs. There will be a Hog Roast at 18.00 and there will also be games, music and drink. Richard Parkinson has kindly agreed to head up the organisation of the event but will need LOTS OF HELP. If you can assist in any way, either prior to, or on the day please contact Richard. Apethorpe Tennis Club

TENNIS CLUB NEWS The tennis club has been active throughout the Winter on the new all-weather court. There are still vacancies for any villagers, who are not already members to join – contact Mike Phillips (470591) or Jane Parsell (01832 226286). There will be a social evening/ BBQ on Aug ust 2nd with live band Fortissimo Swing Band. Tickets are £10 (£5 for under 12 years) & the event is open to all. A donation from the proceeds will be made to Marie Curie Cancer Care. Contact Mike or Geoff Grice (470880) for tickets. Come, give us your support & have a fun evening.

August 2nd - Tennis Club BBQ with Fortissimo Swing Band.

The King's Head

Julia & Steve would like remind everyone that the pub will be open all day on Saturdays throughout the Summer as from May 28th 2008.

Village Meeting April 29th 2008

APETHORPE VILLAGE – ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING TUESDAY, 29TH APRIL 2008 7-30 p.m. at THE KINGS HEAD, APETHORPE MEETING MINUTES Chairman: Andrew Forbes In Attendance: Councillor Heather Smith – County Councillor, Prebendal Division Attendance: 33 Apologies for Absence Apologies were received from G. Ord, P and K Howells, M. Parkinson, G. Porter, A. Walsh, V. Faraday Minutes of the last Meeting Copies of the Minutes of the meeting on 20th February 2008 were circulated, proposed, seconded and signed by the Chairman as a correct record. Matters Arising a) Lilac Cottage The Chairman reported that the latest Planning Application had been refused on 07/03/2008, the main reasons for this refusal being external appearance of the development, materials chosen, scale of the new building, adverse impact, development contrary to planning policy, loss of historic fabric and limited information submitted. b) Other planning matters Revised plans have been submitted for Bluefield’s Farm Barns. An application has been submitted for a Juliet Balcony at 1 Manor Farm – The Balcony is a decorative feature across a first floor window. c) Community Response Scheme There is no further information on this matter d) Footpath between Apethorpe and Kings Cliffe. Cllr Smith reported that the footpath was not yet finished and that the surface has to be levelled/ more top soil added in places/ compaction of the soil and further grass seeding is to take place. Further work is required at the village end of the footpath and tarmac is being placed on a section at the Kings Cliffe end. Money is in place for these works. There is a problem with the frequency of grass cutting which is only about 4 times per year. Ideally a sponsor is needed to provide finance for the maintenance of the footpath and the Chairman agreed to contact English Heritage on this matter in return for their use of the village amenity with regard to tours of Apethorpe Hall. Concern was expressed that cars park on the grass verge opposite the Kings Head car park and this is causing damage to the verge. Cllr Smith reported that low growing shrubs can be planted to deter verge parking and a list of appropriate species can be obtained form David Grindley, NCC Streetworks Manager Tel 01604 654332. However a licence to plant is required. The Chairman thanked Cllr Smith for her support in these matters. e) Bridge Repairs A two week period is required for the bridge repair works and the start has been delayed. Richard Parkinson stated that he had been given a date by the Highways Department of 2nd June 2008 for the commencement but this has not yet been confirmed. The bridge is a Grade 2 listed bridge and is regularly tested to ensure that it will take heavy vehicles. Graham Warren asked that the bridge barriers be painted as part of these works although it is not known if this is part of the contract. The idea was proposed that during the repair period village cars could be parked in the gated car park on the northern side of the road to save the long detour to Oundle. The Chairman agreed to contact Lady Brassey to determine if this is possible. It was stated to Cllr Smith that the roads around Glapthorne had been much improved but the main road from Apethorpe to Oundle has only been patched and was, therefore, very uncomfortable to drive over. Cllr Smith said that roads are only re-surfaced on a 40 year cycle and that filling potholes and patching is the only work generally taking place. The Apethorpe – Nassington Road was due to be patched on May 14th and would be closed for 2 days. f) Allotments Malcolm Winder reported that he had contacted Leda Properties of Abingdon about the land behind the Tennis Club which potentially could be used as allotments. Leda had sent a map of their land ownership and agreed to investigate the proposed allotment area which is currently set aside as a natural space. They are viewing the implications of using this land as allotments and will discuss this in the near future. g) Salting of the Wansford/Kings Cliffe Road The Council have provided an additional £1m for salting all the counties roads with a view to reducing the number of winter accidents. It is expected that there will be monies for the Wansford Road and Cllr Smith will report back to us on the situation here. h) Social Housing Following the last Village Meeting, the Chairman wrote to the East Northamptonshire Council that the village did not wish to participate in a survey to identify any need for Social Housing in the Village. The Council have responded that they are disappointed with this response due the shortage of social housing in the area and they had identified potential sites here. The Council have said that they will come back to the Village on this matter in the next year. Richard Parkinson stated that such social housing would be a benefit since people who retire or lose their jobs or require starter housing have no where to go in Apethorpe. 4. Election of Officers The following officers were duly elected: Chairman – Malcolm Winder - Proposer: Richard Parkinson Seconder: Andrew Forbes Secretary – Deborah Manger - Proposer: Malcolm Winder Seconder: Rick Avern Treasurer – Mike Walsh - Proposer: Fiona Porter Seconder: Lynn Winder 5. Financial Report The Treasurer reported that there has been no movement in the Village Account which remained at £150-03. Alistair Goodall was thanked for acting as auditor for these accounts. 6. Apethorpe Hall Nick Hill of English Heritage has send a memo to the Chairman that John Coulson the Visitor Manager has requested that the Hall be opened for timed, guided tours on Wednesdays and Saturdays during June, July and August 2008. The conditions of tours would be as before and with a view to minimal disruption to the Village. As above, the matter of English sponsoring the footpath maintenance was re-iterated Construction work on the Hall will be completed in June 2008 and the Hall will then be marketed for sale in the Summer 2008. 7. Village Party. The Village Party will be on Saturday, 19th July and, as last year, Richard Parkinson has kindly agreed to head-up the organisation of the event. Lady Brassey has kindly offered the Manor House Grounds and a Hog Roast will take place here – as last year. Laura Parkinson and Fiona Porter have offered to help with the Children’s events. Rick Avern will publish more details of the occasion via the Village Newsletter. 8. Forthcoming Events Richard Parkinson thanked everyone involved in the Village Tidy which was very successful. This is a good time of year for the event and will be repeated in the future. A tidy of the Churchyard and refurbishment of the paths has taken place to give a much improved appearance Andrew Forbes arranged a very enjoyable concert last weekend with the Oundle School Choir before a full audience in the Church. St. Andrew’s University Madrigal Group is returning for a Church Concert for the last time on 11th June 2008. As before, accommodation is required in the village for 10 girls and 8 boys and Andrew Forbes asked for offers of help with this accommodation. The information on the concert will be published in the Newsletter. The Tennis Club is holding a Social Event with live music and a barbeque on Saturday, 2nd August 2008 at Lodge Farm. Richard Parkinson proposed a Street party when the bridge is closed for maintenance works. 9. Any Other Business Rachel Johnson offered to establish and organise an Apethorpe Ramblers Society for Everyone which would undertake Saturday Morning walks over a period of one to two hours ending at the Kings Head about lunchtime. This idea was very well received and Rachel will proceed to organise the first of these to be published on the notice board and in the newsletter. Rachel also proposed a Garage Sale and Exchange for the Village on a barter or sale basis of unwanted garage items or bric-a-brac (Bric-a-brac Exchange And Sale Trading). This event could be advertised locally and this proposal was accepted for the event to coincide with the morning of the Village Party from 9a.m. to 12 noon. Thanks to Rachel for these ideas. Rick Avern – Editor of the Village Newsletter – advised the meeting that he is setting up a web site for village news/information. This will be http://www.apethorpevillage@blogspot.com/ . Any features for the Newsletter to Rick at rick.avern@sky.com Many thanks were given to Andrew Forbes for his role as Chairman over the past two years and to Pat Howells for the work as Village Meeting Secretary together with dealing with the heavy workload in pursuing the project of the new footpath. Mike Walsh was also thanked for his work as Village Treasurer. Cllr Smith confirmed to the meeting that the Council is still committed to maintaining rights of ways over land and keeping footpath open as before Cllr Smith was thanked for attending the meeting. 10. Date of Next Meeting The date proposed for the next meeting is Tuesday, 7th October 2008 at 7-30 p.m. at the King’s Head, Apethorpe. NB. You will only be able to continue receiving the abridged printed version of the Newsletter if you let me know by dropping a note into the letterbox at Willowbrook House, Manor Farm giving your name and address. View the full version now on http://www.apethorpevillage.blogspot.com/