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Issue 36 - Sept 2008
SOMERSHAM VOICESSOMERSHAM VOICESSOMERSHAM VOICESSOMERSHAM VOICES A Somersham Parish Council
Community Newsletter
Our new email address: [email protected] Visit the Council website address: www.somersham.org
REPRESENTATIVE SOMERSHAM TRADERS HELPING MAKE
SOMERSHAM PLASTIC BAG FREE
GOING LIVE MONDAY 1 SEPTEMBER 2008
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Help Make Somersham Plastic Bag Free
From Monday 1 September 2008
♦ Every Somersham household will receive a free Cotton Bag, please use it every
time you shop in the village
♦ Additional Cotton Bags available in Somersham shops for £1
♦ We anticipate any disposable bags that are used will be biodegradable, shops may
charge. Don’t use a disposable bag unless absolutely necessary
BE FANTASTIC DON’T USE PLASTIC
♦ Somersham Parish Council thank the sponsors of our cotton bag scheme
Red Tile Wind Farm Huntingdonshire District Council
One Stop Shop China Garden Anderson’s Chemists
Bonnetts the Bakers Windsor Green Stores
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Dates of the next 4 Parish Council meetings :- 1st Sept, 29th Sept, 27th Oct, 24th Nov and 15th December 2008
Chairman's Report
May I wish you a warm welcome to this edition of voices, this being my first issue as Chairman. I am
David Cornwell and have served on the Parish Council in excess of twenty years so I felt I ought to be
doing my turn at the top! I would like to thank Andy Lee our previous Chairman for his good work
during his time as a Parish Councillor, I am sure I also speak on behalf of other Parish Council members.
Spring and summer are busy times around the village with lots of activity. In particular the heritage
weekend, an event which proved to be very interesting and enjoyable as well as stirring many memories
for a good number of us. The weather helped to ensure that the carnival was another successful event in
this year’s calendar, well supported by the village. I have just mentioned two events but are you aware
there are over forty clubs and organisations in our parish, which we can all join and enjoy? they were all
listed in the carnival programme.
Its great to see so many people enjoying our new metal skate ramp which was funded and supplied by
Huntingdon District Council at the beginning of the summer to replace the worn out wooden ramp, the
new ramp should provide many years of enjoyment. It is also pleasing to see so much more use being
made of the multi sports area at the Norwood Playing Field. This facility is now available free of charge
for everyone but can still be booked for organised sports for individuals and clubs; this is also free of
charge. Please contact the booking secretary Mrs Brooks 01487 741050 if you would like to book an
activity in the diary, to use the Tennis Courts please give at least 24 hours notice for the nets to be
brought out. In addition the Parish Council are currently applying for funding to replace the old chain
link fence with something much more robust which will improve ball rebound and the visual appearance
of the multi sports area. Somersham Parish Council’s Youth Working Party are investigating how we can
improve the Norwood Playing Field play and social facilities through questionnaires given to all those 17
years and under in the village via schools and playgroups, watch this space.
We have another project underway known as the LNR (Local Nature Reserve). This will develop along
part of the route of the disused railway line from Station Approach, the Lake Area and Station Land.
This is a joint project with Cambridgeshire County Council to create habitat and fauna. We are hoping to
recruit a number of volunteers to support this exciting project, if you might be interested please contact
the Parish Clerk Penny Bryant.
Finally, on Monday 1 September, the Parish Council Environment Working Party launch their first major
project – to encourage a change in shopping habits in the village and move from plastic bags to
alternative bags. By now all households should have received a free Somersham Cotton Bag to assist
with this. Many thanks to those members of the Environment Working Party for their time and effort in
this worthwhile project.
Penny Bryant - Parish Clerk, Somersham Parish Council c/o 50 High Street Somersham PE28 3JB, Phone 01487 841 359
Email: [email protected]
PLEASE NOTE
SOMERSHAM PARISH COUNCIL’S EMAIL ADDRESS HAS CHANGED TO
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COMPOST GIVEAWAY Somersham Parish Council has a limited number of compost bags to give away and can only offer 1 bag per household. The free compost bags are a ‘thank you’ from Huntingdonshire District Council to everyone for recycling through the green wheelie bin system. If you haven’t collected your bag yet, the next event will take place as follows:
Sunday 14 September 2008
10 am—1 pm
The Victory Hall Car Park
We will deliver to anyone in the village who is elderly or disabled who would otherwise be unable to collect a bag. Please contact Mrs P Bryant on 01487 841359 to arrange your delivery.
A number of "POLICE SURGERIES" are being held in the Library in Church Street, on Thursdays between 3.30pm and 4.30pm. Please do use this opportunity to talk to the police about local issues affecting you and your family
Cambridgeshire Local Transport Plan 2006-2011
In the Cambridgeshire Local Transport Plan 2006-2011, Somersham Ward is recognised as an area with poor accessibility to bus services to take advantage of work, services and leisure opportunities.
Opinions are being sought on the timing of buses. Do they meet your needs ? What changes would make bus travel more convenient and therefore increase the viability of the service ?
Please write or email the Parish Clerk with your response. The collected information will be for-warded to the appropriate department.
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CAMBRIDGE LOCAL PENSION SERVICE NEWSFLASH
A TRUE STORY…NOT A FAIRYTALE “We have too much in savings” ….” It would be wasting your time”……. When a visiting officer called to see Mr. and Mrs. X at their home in Cambridgeshire this was the customer’s stated belief. At first it seemed as if Mrs. X would be correct as the couple declared they had over £21,000 in capital. When the visiting officer had chatted for a while she discovered that both Mr. and Mrs. X had health problems that affected their personal care needs. The officer suggested that she help them apply for a non taxable, non means tested benefit called Attendance Allowance. The dual claim was successful and the couple increased their weekly income by over £120. Attendance Allowance can be a passport to other benefits and services and in this case it led to a claim for Pension Credit which allowed the couple a further weekly amount of £107 plus full entitlement to Council Tax benefit. In total, an extra weekly income worth more than £300. Not everyone who asks for a benefit check will find they receive the same sort of amount as Mr. and Mrs. X but why not make sure you are not missing out on money you are entitled to? Staff from the Local Pension Service are happy to help you complete the necessary forms in the privacy of your own home.
Give us a call. You don’t know what you could be missing
01223 545374
The Pension Service
Part of the Department for Work and Pensions
POST OFFICE CLOSURES IN CAMBRIDGESHIRE
Further to the item in the June issue of Voices, on 8th July the anticipated list was published of the Post
Offices which were recommended for closure, and it is pleasing to report that Somersham P.O. was NOT
on the list! This was a great relief to many people, who would have been severely inconvenienced if our
local post office had closed. It seems that it is accepted that Somersham Post Office does provide an
essential service. It is understood however, that Post Office Limited has decided to close the Sorting
Office located behind the post office in the High St.
Twenty three branches are identified for closure in the county, seven of which are in Huntingdonshire. Our
sympathies go to our nearby village of Earith, whose High St. post office has been listed for closure, albeit
with an outreach facility being provided, possibly at a nearby hotel. Our County Councillor Steve
Criswell has been heavily involved in opposing the decision. On 21st July, he accompanied our local MPs
Shailesh Vara and Jonathan Djanogly to present the Hunts Post petition against the closures at No.10
Downing Street. On 23rd July around 200 people voiced their objections at a meeting with Post Office Ltd
in the village hall. The public consultation ends on 26th August.
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CAMBRIDGESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL – and the role of your Councillor. Having written about Council Tax and the District Council in the December and March issues of Voices, for those
who are interested, I thought I would turn your attention to the County Council.
It is a huge organisation with a budget of around £750m and covers a multitude of functions over a large area which
stretches from Duxford in the South to Wisbech in the North. I joined the Council in October 2006 at a by-election
to replace the late John Eddy. I represent Somersham and Earith Division which covers 8 villages.
There are 69 members of the Council. 43 Conservative, 23 Liberal Democrat and 4 Labour.
Like Central Government, Policy and decision making is by Cabinet. This consists of an elected Leader, who then
appoints a Deputy Leader and 7 other executive members. Their portfolios cover Corporate Services, Children,
Communities, Adults Health and Wellbeing, Learning, Growth and Infrastructure and finally, Economy
Environment and Climate Change.
There are 4 cross party Scrutiny Panels to ‘hold the Cabinet to account’, review performance and investigate issues
of concern. There are also 5 cross party Policy Development Groups who meet in private to discuss policies and
forthcoming issues in order to advise Cabinet before decisions are taken. I currently sit on the Adult and
Communities Group.
I am 1 of 7 members on the Development Control Committee. Unlike the District Council who mainly deals with
residential and industrial applications, we deal with Minerals and Waste sites and developments owned by the
Council, such as schools and libraries.
The full Council meets 6 times per year to ratify certain Cabinet decisions, set budgets and Council Tax levels and
decide on constitutional matters. It is also an opportunity to debate issues of concern and question Cabinet members
in public.
Current high profile issues include :-
A below inflation financial settlement from Central Government. This is bound to have a detrimental impact.
The essential work of Adult Social Care and Children and Young Peoples Services already needed an increase in
funding, so the budget available to repair highways will suffer. All maintenance will be scored and prioritised with
only the worst problems being addressed. As the local member, this is probably my biggest headache. Another, is
traffic calming.
Nearly everyone I speak to would like something implemented to slow the cars passing their house. Some safety and
parking improvements are planned for the High Street later this year. I could easily spend the whole County budget
in my patch alone.
The Transport Innovation Fund. Central Government is offering to fund big improvements to public transport and
associated infrastructure on the condition that some form of congestion charge for motorists is included in the
scheme. I am against the principle of a congestion charge, but the funding for much needed improvements around a
rapidly growing Cambridge cannot come from anywhere else. A commission will look at all options and consider
the interests of everyone and report back.
The Guided Bus. This will operate from Trumpington/Addenbrookes to St Ives and open next Spring. There will be
a Park and Ride at Longstanton and St Ives and buses from the villages will be able to link up with the Busway. The
necessary funding was obtained from Central Government and developer contributions, not through local Council
Tax. The intention is to extend the service to Hinchingbrooke in due course.
Post Office closures. County Council has been involved through the Network Change Group and have made
significant representations emphasising the need for services in rural communities. The 23 proposed closures in
Cambridgeshire are less than expected. Earith is unfortunately on the closure list and as their Councillor I will be
fighting their corner.
To contact me call 740745 or you can email me at [email protected]
Steve Criswell.
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LOCAL NATURE RESERVE
Somersham Somersham Parish Council jointly with Cambridgeshire County Council is planning to create an area of greenspace by designating land in their ownership as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR), for both local people and wildlife to enjoy. The site consists of the old railway line from Station Approach up to where it drops down into the restored gravel extraction area, along with the lake and the field known locally as Station Land ( the dog walking field). By designating the area as an LNR it will provide protection from development and ensures that it will remain greenspace forever. An LNR is designated for its wildlife value, its value as a local amenity and also its use as an educational resource. Part of the site is also a County Wildlife Site because of the area of wild flower rich grassland. We would like to encourage local people to use the site as a place for informal recreation and also help to look after it. As part of the process of developing the site a draft management plan has been written that sets out how the site is to be managed over the next five years. We are encouraging local people to comment on the plan which can found on the Parish Council website http://www.somersham.org/ or a hard copy can be provided by contacting the Parish Clerk on 01487 841359 or email: [email protected] or alternatively the Countryside Manager at Cambridgeshire County Council on 01223 717930 or email on [email protected] If anyone is interested in finding out more about the site or would be interested in helping with its management then please contact either of the people above.
BBC Breathing Places: Do One Thing Event http://www.breathingplaces.org/public
Somersham Lake—Seed / Leaf Hunt - A Family Event
Sunday 26 October 2008 10 am
Meeting at the Springfields entrance to the Lake Area
Led by Cambridgeshire County Council, in association with Somersham Parish Council and the BBC Breathing Places initiative. No booking necessary.
FREE activities and giveaways for all ages Includes Seed Planting activity
CHILDREN bring your parents along and help discover more about Somersham
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SOMERSHAM BAND NEEDS YOU!!!
Where have all the players gone?
Somersham is an unusual place in that it still has a Band! Moreover, there is evidence that a band existed here as far back as the 1850’s and there is even an old tuba, unplayable, from that period.
Somersham Town Band (STB), as such, was reformed after the 1st World War and was very much a presence in the village but disbanded in 1961 to be reformed in 1981. It now attracts members from all the surrounding area who want to play music of all sorts from Pop to the Classics.
STB is the last remaining Brass Band in the Huntingdonshire District from the 10 or so bands that existed around here in the 1950’s and 1960’s. The band has a large following and has always had a full annual programme of concerts culminating with popular Christmas Cracker Concert for St. Ives Rotary Club. The STB has plays at weddings, funerals, beer festivals, fetes, carnivals, birthdays, contests, for the over 60’s and for Remembrance Services and numerous other events. There is a lively training band at its core while the ages of the main band range from 11 to 78. We know that there are a number of lapsed players out there who only need a little nudge to start them up again and want to assure them of a friendly welcome if they would like to return. In most cases instruments could be supplied.
Like all organisations, membership can fluctuate and recently the Band has lost a number of players who have gone off to University or have moved away and some even because they have started new families. However, former members have also moved onwards and upwards and perform with some of the best brass bands and orchestras in the country.
This autumn we look forward to a joint concert with the Cambridge University Brass Band on the 8th November at the Free Church in St. Ives and, of course, the Christmas Cracker Concert.
Anyone who is interested please contact David Chambers on 01487 840233.
Heritage Weekend Exhibition – the next event
It was gratifying to know that so many people who visited the Heritage Weekend exhibition at Somersham
Parish Church found the event very interesting and enjoyable. Some people are already asking if the Church
will hold a similar weekend next year. The answer to this question is that we are likely to repeat the event
but not until at least the year after next - 2010.
The history of Somersham is quite well documented up to about 1880, after this information is sporadic and
rather sparse. Bearing in mind that the population of the village almost doubled between 1971 and 1981
those of you who were living here at that time must have recollections of the changes that Somersham has
seen over the last forty years along with relevant photographs and memorabilia.
So before everyone forgets what our heritage exhibition featured, can I make an appeal for any photographs
or other material that we could use next time. We would certainly want to introduce new areas of village
history, maybe photographs and a brief history of other organisations in Somersham. This time it was the
Town Band and Somersham Primary School, but perhaps a display could be mounted from one of our
sports clubs.
At this very early stage I am happy to borrow any photographs etc. for a couple of days to computer scan.
So far we have built up a good collection of photographs that date back to the early part of the twentieth
century, however, it would be good to accumulate some of Somersham in the mid and late part of that
century.
Alan Draper (Tel: 741531)
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A VIEW FROM THE RECTORY
There are certain things we have in this life that become part of our everyday routines, that when we lose them or they fail, we wonder how on earth we ever managed without them! I write this on 31st July having been without my computer or e-mail for 10 days! I am writing this on a borrowed lap top! It’s amazing just what effect it has on our lives when what seems normal everyday suddenly changes. When I first began in ministry 24 years ago my office equipment amounted to an old electric Olivetti typewriter and a hand operated Gestetner. How things have changed! And the rate of change seems relentless, I get breathless trying to keep up! And the Church, never renowned for rapid change, has in fact changed quite markedly over the last 25 years (that is the Church of England). And some of those changes come about each time we have a Lambeth Conference every ten years. That’s not to say other changes don’t happen in the interim, they do. Reflecting on the biggest change in the last 25 years is the ordination of women to the priesthood. The debate as to whether women should be made Deacons was at its height when I was first made Deacon in 1984. Later came the ordination of women as Priests and they have been a natural part of the life of the church now for some years. General Synod recently debated the issue of whether we should now go ahead to ordain (consecrate) women as Bishops, and the result is that this process should now be put in hand. (I have to say on a personal note that once Synod had agreed to ordain women to the priesthood, ordination to the Episcopate would follow naturally without further debate. How could there be a glass ceiling for women?) Certainly the life of the church has been greatly enriched by their presence and work. It will be interesting to see how the church adjusts to the presence of women bishops. The Lambeth Conference doesn’t seem to have had a high media profile. Perhaps people are weary of all the differences and debates that seem to see the church going round and round in circles rather than moving forward. I certainly feel that some of the most important issues seemed to be getting sidelined. We have only to look at our TV screens each day to see the many needs in the world that are in urgent need of being addressed. Starvation caused by incompetence and conflict, people dying because they cannot get the very basic need of life – water. Contaminated water is killing 4,000 children every day! This seems scandalous when a few pounds can sink a well to provide fresh water for a community. It’s not just computers that fail – humanity fails everyday in its failure to look after those in greatest need and to provide for those needs. I believe the world is at a cross roads. Not so long ago we had too much food – supposedly. Now we are being told there is not enough. Set-aside which had been a thorn in the side of many farmers has been abolished, and still we do not have enough food. Why? Because farmers are now trying to play their part in lessening global warming by the production of bio-fuels. So less food for consumption by the world’s population is causing prices to rise and in turn those who can afford least will suffer more. Perhaps what we really need is some really joined up thinking by the politicians and the world powers. If we don’t have that there is a real risk of conflict over the basics of life – food and water, rather than scarcity of energy resources. We may not feel that as individuals we can do much, but we can lobby those who have the power and it is interesting to see how more and more web sites are being set up to petition those who have the power. Modern technology can be used in a very positive way – unless of course it fails! Let’s use it while we can. Chris Barter July 2008
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Donarbon Community Fund Grants available for capital projects
If you are a not-for-profit organisation looking for grant funding for a capital project, you may be
eligible to apply for a grant from the Donarbon Community Fund.
The Donarbon Community Fund, managed by the Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, receives
landfill tax credits from Donarbon Waste Management and uses the money to make grants under set
criteria.
The Donarbon Community Fund will fund projects in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough that are
within 10 miles of a Landfill site.
Grants are available for the following projects
• The provision, maintenance or improvement of a public park or other general public amenity
• The conservation of a specific species or a specific habitat where it naturally occurs
• The repair, maintenance or restoration of a place of worship or a place of architectural
importance
Grants will normally be for up to £20 000, although in exceptional circumstances, support to projects
may be offered at a higher level.
If you wish to apply for a grant you need to be able to contribute 10% of the value of the grant you are
seeking.
The first stage to access a grant is to complete an expression of interest form. This form, along with
guidance notes and more general information can be obtained from the Cambridgeshire Community
Foundation (01223 421588) www.cambscf.org.uk. The panel who will meet to consider grant
requests meets on a quarterly basis in early July, October, January and April.
SEAT PRESENTATION BY WAITROSE
Somersham Parish Councillors Judith Bullard, Steve
Criswell and Lesley Minter were delighted to accept the
generous donation of a seat by Sue Barton and Laura
Simpson from Waitrose Ltd, St Ives.
Also present for the hand-over were Helen Lack,
Huntingdonshire District Council and Penny Bryant,
Somersham Parish Clerk.
The seat is made from recycled plastic 'Bags for Life' and
has been installed near to the very popular Skate Ramp on the Norwood Playing Field. The new metal Skate
Ramp has recently replaced the worn out wooden ramp through funding from Huntingdonshire District
Council.
Photograph: Back row: Penny Bryant, Helen Lack, Steve Criswell, Lesley Minter Front row: Judith Bullard, Sue Barton
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CARING FOR CARERS
“My partner and I never do anything together any more!” one of my clients told me the other day. He was trying to care for an elderly parent along with the other demands of daily life - but that meant he had no time for his partner, let alone any time for himself. No wonder their relationship was suffering!
Many of us have to take on the role of carer at some point in our lives. There are some tough feelings to deal with here such as guilt, resentment, frustration, bitterness and anger to name but a few. Not only that, but sheer physical exhaustion can leave you feeling completely drained – as if you are running on empty with no resources left. Here are some practical tips:
• Don’t lose your identity. You may be a carer but you are also a person in your own right. Keep your own interests and hobbies going – it will help to keep things in perspective.
• It is not selfish to be self indulgent. Give yourself plenty of small treats that will recharge your batteries – you will then be able to give more back to those who are relying on you.
• Focus on activities that you can both enjoy – it may be something as simple as watching a TV programme together.
• You will get a tremendous boost once you realise that you don’t have to struggle on alone. Network like mad. Talking to friends and family will help to share the load.
• Look out for the professional help available for your situation and don’t be afraid to ask for it. There are local support groups around which have been specially set up to support carers such as those run by Crossroads (www.crossroads.org.uk).
Relate is somewhere you can turn to for help and support - our counsellors are trained to deal with many different types of relationship problems. So don't want until things get on top of you - if your relationship is under pressure, and you need someone to talk to, then call us at 01223 357424 to find out more about how we can help you.
Elaine Taylor, Relate Cambridge counsellor
Ramsey Choral Society Do you enjoy singing?
Ramsey Choral Society is a mixed choir of about 30 voices. We meet for rehearsals in Ramsey Junior School
on Thursday evenings at 7.30pm with our recently appointed music director William Missin.
Recent repertoire has included Fauré’s Requiem, Elgar’s From the Bavarian Highlands, Mozart’s Coronation
Mass, Bruckner motets, madrigals, folk songs and show tunes.
Next season we plan to perform Charpentier’s Messe de Minuit, Purcell’s Welcome to all the pleasures and
Rejoice in the Lord alway, Stainer’s Crucifixion and music inspired by Shakespeare.
We always welcome new singers (particularly in lower voices), and do not hold auditions. We begin
rehearsing for the 2008-9 season on Thursday September 4th.
We will also be delighted to welcome audiences to our concerts. We are performing Charpentier and Purcell
on Saturday November 15th and a Christmas concert on Saturday December 6th. Both these concerts will be in
the Ramsey Parish church of St Thomas a Beckett.
For more information please visit our web page, www.ramseychoral.org, or telephone Jenny on 01480
455781 (evenings)
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An Update on the Application for Change of Use of Land at Chatteris Road, Somersham for 6
pitches ( 12 caravans ) for Travellers/Gypsies: and latest application for 2 pitches
Further to the item, which appeared in the June 2008 Issue 35 of Voices, the following events have taken place on
the planning application detailed above.
A report was commissioned from an Equestrian expert on the possible effect a caravan site would have on the horses
in the neighbouring Dressage Centre.
In June another planning application, this time for a 2-pitch site (two mobile homes and two caravans) was lodged
by the applicant, to include a new access road and hard standing, to be located much closer to Chatteris Road,
between the houses of The Paddocks and Holwood Nursery. The applicant exercised his right to delay the earlier
application and asked HDC to deal with the 2-pitch application first.
The Parish Council objected to this application on planning grounds. Local residents, particularly those bordering
the proposed site, submitted further letters of objection.
The Equestrian Report was updated to reflect the changes in the size of the proposed development.
The application was listed for the HDC Development Control Panel meeting at Pathfinder House, Huntingdon on
Monday 14th July with an officer recommendation for approval.
At the hearing, David Cornwell, Chairman of Somersham Parish Council spoke in opposition, stressing the
detrimental effects to the amenity of nearby residents, and urging that the proposed development would not fit in
with the street scene or be assimilated into the surroundings. District Councillor Steve Criswell also spoke, objecting
to the application on the grounds that the location of the site was unacceptable for residential caravans irrespective
of who the occupants would be. He outlined several observations in the Equestrian report that highlighted the
possibility of significant detrimental effect on the Dressage Centre business on the adjoining site. He also drew
attention to the Landscape officer’s report which concluded the change of location of the proposed pitches – closer
to the road and between nearby houses, had increased the detrimental impact and therefore recommended refusal.
Ms T. Osborn, the owner of the Dressage Centre also spoke objecting to the application based on the likelihood of
both damage to her business, and of the valuable horses being disturbed or frightened. Mr. Franklin, the equestrian
expert, gave his opinion about that aspect and answered questions from the Panel.
The applicant made no representations.
After a considerable period of discussion by the Panel Councillors, they unanimously voted to reject the application
for a 2-pitch site.
The application for a six pitch site remains outstanding. As September Voices went to printers in early August, any
further news on the matter will hopefully be given in the December issue.
SOMERSHAM HISTORY SOCIETY
SEPTEMBER TUESDAY 23rd 7.30PM at the BAPTIST CHURCH, HIGH ST.
THE CAMBRIDGE COLLECTION
Chris Jakes, Curator of the Cambridgeshire collection at the Libraries will give an illustrated talk about the Cam-
bridgeshire Collection, the Local Studies department of Cambridge Central Library. He will be looking at the dif-
ferent and fascinating things they collect and how it is organised for the public to view and study.
£3 entry PLEASE NOTE NEW BIGGER VENUE
For further information please contact Julyan Hunter 01487 842350 [email protected]
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Somersham Community
Information Centre
Church Street, Opposite St. John’s Church.
01487 840266
2008 has been designated the National Year of Reading and we are all being encouraged to read
more and to join a library. So what are you waiting for… come and visit your local library on
Church Street (opposite the Church, just past the doctor’s surgery).
If you are already a regular library user – THANK YOU.
If you are a library member, but you haven’t used your card for a while, take up the reading
challenge and give us a visit.
If you are not currently a member – come and join. It’s free, it’s fun, it’s well worth the visit!
Our opening times are as follows:
Monday 2pm – 6pm
Tuesday 10am – 12pm & 2pm – 6pm
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 2pm – 8pm
Friday 2pm – 6pm
Saturday 10am – 12.30pm
Somersham Royal British Legion
(Women's Section)
The ladies are at present collecting old photographs of the legion, (Women's Section) to make a collage/picture to hang in the club.
If you have any photographs you think we could use, we would like to borrow them to scan. Your original will be returned to you and the copy used to help make the picture.
If you have any photographs please take them to :
Janet White, 6 Rectory Lane or Jennet Smith 18 Ibbott Crescent.
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Somersham Garden Club Thank you to everyone who supported our Summer Fayre. It was a new venture for the Club as an alternative to our usual Open Gardens event and seems to have been well received. We certainly had a wonderful time ... the bunting was up, the music was mellow, the teas were out of this world and the demonstrations and stall provided the backdrop to the warm and friendly community spirit which is so alive in Somersham. This event may have brought the Garden Club to your attention but, in fact, we have at least one event each month, often featuring interesting and exciting speakers. This year we have also visited Gardeners’ World Live (a whole day excursion with display gardens, floral tent and horticultural specialist companies to delight gardeners of all hues) and Beth Chatto’s renowned garden near Colchester. If you were inspired by the Fayre, or enthused by other events listed, you may be considering membership of the Garden Club. Our AGM and 5th Birthday are on Sunday 21st September when our Events Coordinator will present our programme for the coming year. For further details please contact our Secretary Jean Draper (741531) or visit our Website www.hometown,aol,co,uk/Mkrobinson12/SGC.
Open Cambridge on Saturday 13th September.
Open Cambridge provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the University and the Colleges through free subject themed tours, guided by our expert tour guides. Interesting and beautiful University and College buildings and collections will go on show to the public for a day of discovery for families, local residents and community groups. www.open-cambridge.org
• Learn about the history of the Colleges, when they were built and why.
• Explore inspirational gardens and see exceptional design and unusual plants.
• Enter University and College buildings to discover stunning Chapels and Halls.
• Visit libraries old and new and explore priceless and unrivalled collections of rare manuscripts and books.
• View the work of internationally renowned artists at University and College art collections.
• See award winning buildings and discover the history of the University through its architecture.
All tours are free but advance booking is essential. To book please telephone: 01223 766766
HUNTINGDON MUSIC SCHOOL Huntingdonshire Music School is based at the Regional College in Huntingdon and has nearly 400 students, ranging in
age from 4 to 86! The Music School has been in existence for over 40 years yet many people do not realise that it is
there for everyone to enjoy.
Every year the Music School sets out on a summer tour. In 2006 it was Germany and Euro Disney. In 2007 we went to
Austria and this year we are going to the Isle of Man. Taking part in these tours is enjoyed by performers and supporters
alike and a fun time is had by all!
Students have the opportunity to take AB exams each term, and the pass rate is extremely high. 24 students entered for
the April examinations and all passed, many with distinctions and merits. This is especially useful for those students
hoping to study music in higher education, but is also a valuable yardstick for those who just play for their own pleasure.
If you would like a prospectus about the School, an informal chat about the facilities available, or to arrange a tour of the
Saturday morning school, please contact Gary Sieling on 01480 379220. Gary will be happy to answer any questions
about the School, or about participation by our students in your local events. Or take a look at our website:
www.humsa.org.uk
Page 15
A Year in the Life of The Christmas Lights Working Party
Our year begins in January when all the lights are switched off at Twelfth Night, then taken down
shortly afterwards and put into storage. We have a debrief meeting to discuss any issues emerging
from the switch-on evening on 1st December.
During February and March working parties are arranged to sort out the lights, check for any damage
etc., and arrange for the lights to be “PAT” tested. All the lights have to be checked each year to make
sure they meet current standards and are safe.
In April or May we have a meeting to discuss possible new sites for the coming year and order new
lights, plus maintenance of existing lights using some of the money raised the previous year. At this
meeting we also discuss arrangements for our stall at the Carnival. This is one of our main sources of
income since we are totally self-funding.
After the summer break the Christmas tree is ordered as well as the books of raffle tickets for the draw
which takes place at the switch-on.
In September the cherry picker is booked for the installation and removal of lights on the Christmas
tree. We also have to arrange for ticket sellers, and the Parish Clerk applies for all the licenses and
permits required and she also arranges for the closure of the road at the switch-on event for the safety
of all those attending.
Late in October our busiest time starts as we begin the process of installing the lights. We usually start
on the last weekend in October, and continue each weekend in November as necessary. We greatly
appreciate the help given behind the scenes by members of the public and parish councillors, without
which the Christmas lights event would not happen. During the last weekend before the switch-on the
tree is erected and decorated. The light installations now extend through the village on all the major
routes – from the tree near the Windmill PH right through to Dews Coaches in Chatteris Road.
During November our raffle ticket sellers are busy and we also make arrangements for the
refreshments for the switch-on event. We start collecting the draw prizes for which we are very grateful
to all the local businesses and individuals who give so generously.
We arrange for the Town Band to play and make sure there are enough carol sheets to distribute to the
several hundred people who attend the switch-on evening. Competitions are held in November at both
the local schools to select the children who will turn the lights on. During 1st December the Cross area
is a hive of activity getting everything ready for the switch-on. Tables, chairs for the band and the
ticket sellers plus staging for the raffle draw and the many prizes have to be collected, Santa’s sleigh
assembled and decorated etc.
At 7pm the lights go on and hopefully all our efforts will have been worth while. The Band plays,
carols are sung and the M.C. makes good use of the efficient sound system installed. The refreshments
so kindly provided are enjoyed by all. Many lucky people win raffle prizes. There is, of course, an
attendance by a man with a white beard, red hat and coat who seems to be particularly liked by the
children!.
Page 16
CHARITY FUNDRAISING
STALLS AT THE CROSS
Charity fundraising stalls at The Cross or anywhere else on the High Street, MUST be booked in
Somersham Parish Council’s Events Diary and with Huntingdonshire District Council in the Event
Diary. Stall holders must also obtain a STREET COLLECTION PERMIT at the same time from
Huntingdonshire District Council.
To book a date please contact both of the following people:-
1. Mrs H. Brooks 01487 – 741050 Somersham Booking Secretary
2. Mr J. Frampton 01480 – 388209 Huntingdonshire District Council
STALLS CANNOT BE HELD AT THE CROSS OR
ELSEWHERE WITHOUT THE CORRECT LICENCE.
AMOUNTS COLLECTED. It is a legal requirement that all proceeds must be declared in a local newspaper; Huntingdonshire District
Council have agreed that this can be carried out via publication in Somersham Voices Newsletter.
Voices will publish all Charity Stall proceeds in each edition of the Newsletter, but it is essential that
details of stalls proceeds are passed to the Voices Editorial Team in a timely way, as soon as the proceeds
amounts are known, shortly after the stall date. Please have regard to Voices deadline dates – i.e.
• for stalls held in November, December and January – deadline 31st January
• for stalls held in February, March and April – deadline 30th April
• for stalls held in May, June and July – deadline 31st July and
for stalls held in August, September and October – deadline 31st October
STALLHOLDERS: please do not overlook this requirement.
The details may be telephoned to the Parish Clerk on 01487-841359, or alternatively submitted to the
Voices email address at [email protected] Details required are the date of the stall, the
name of the benefiting charity or organisation, and the amount collected.
Funds raised through stalls held at the Somersham Cross
28 June – Hope and Aid £95.40
12 July—1st Somersham Guides £26.42
19 July—Hope and Aid £125.00
Thanks to everyone in the community for your generous support to these organisations
Page 17
Changes to STAGECOACH service effective 24 August 2008:
Includes former Huntingdon & District and Cavalier services
Bus users are advised to check further details on-line, and/or obtain individual copies of the new routes and timetables serving Somersham, published by Stagecoach Bus Company
Changes Replaced by revised 15/15A, 15B and new 35
The Service Journey
Cambridge > Longstanton > Swavesey > Over >
Willingham > Somersham > St Ives
Service 15 /
15A
New Journey Details
� Revised service 15 now includes Fenstanton and Fen Drayton � Journeys to St Ives from Earith, Bluntisham, Colne, Somersham, Pidley and Needingworth replaced by new service 35 � Journeys to Cambridge from Willingham, Over, Swavesey, Longstanton and Bar Hill replaced by revised service 15 � Journeys to St Ives from Bar Hill, Longstanton, Swavesey, Over and Willingham replaced by revised service 15 � One direct morning journey to Cambridge from Needingworth, Bluntisham and Earith on the 15A � One morning journey to Cambridge by connecting at Earith from Pidley, Somersham and Colne on the 35 to 15A � One direct evening journey from Cambridge to Earith, Bluntisham, Colne, Somersham, Pidley and Needingworth on the 15B � Connect at St Ives to new service 55 to travel to Cambridge
Service
436
The Service Journey Somersham > Earith > St Ives > Hemingford’s > Godmanchester > Huntingdon > Hinchingbrooke
Changes
Replaced by new 35
New Frequency
* Slightly amended departure times
New Journey Details
1 journey in each direction
New Frequency
15: Hourly 15A: 1 journey in the morning
15B: 1 journey in the evening 35: Hourly (every 2 hours from Pidley)
Page 18
The Royal British Legion
Somersham Branch
Information Bulletin
Our day trip to the coast at Southend was a great success. The extremely good weather was a great
contributing factor and several stalwarts tackled the mile and a bit pier, as a promenade. I think most
caught the train one way or the other. A slight breeze and clear skies ensured that several of us ended with
red faces despite buying the usual hats associated with the coast. There was a little light lubrication
available for those who felt the need and got us off to the right start. Thank you to Dave the Driver who
was patient with us.
By the time you read this we will have had our annual wreath-laying visit to the continent having stayed in
Leuven for the August Bank Holiday weekend and we hope to have a day trip around Ypres to visit the
battlefields.
I perhaps confused some when I reported that Mrs White had taken over from Mrs Johnson on the welfare
side. It perhaps implied that Mrs. Johnson had retired from the Women’s Section of The Royal British
Legion. This of course is not the case and she is still an active ‘Chairwoman’ for the Somersham Branch.
The Colne church group have booked the hall for a further ten Salsa lessons for any of those so inclined.
They are starting on Thursday the 4th September for ten weeks from 7-8pm. Anyone interest can contact
Mrs. Taylor on 841354. The hall is available for rent at reasonable rates. Trev Welby will negotiate
booking on 740577.
An application has been made for the National Memorial Arboretum to receive a lottery grant. There is a
request for all interested parties to vote on www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards to gain a favourable
results
The MOD is holding an official service for those who served in Northern Ireland, both military and
civilian at St. Paul’s Cathedral on 10th September 2008. Those wishing tickets should phone 0800 169
2277 or download a form from www.veterans-uk-info.
All Royal British Legion enquiries should be addressed to the Chairman Mr. J. Shorten on 842657.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I wish to join The Royal British Legion for £11.00p per annum, which also covers the Legion Magazine.
Or: I wish to become a social member at £5 per annum. Please send me an application form to:
Mrs/Miss/Ms/Mr……………………….Surname…………………………..of………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
I am Ex-Service/not Ex-Service. Return application slips to the Branch Headquarters in the High St. adjacent to the Centurion Club, or the Chairman Mr. J. Shorten of 36 Parkhall Rd. Somersham. Tel: 842657.
Page 19
Page 20
SOMERSHAM WOMENS INSTITUTE
We are running a trip to the Royal British Legion Poppy Factory in Richmond, Surrey on
Monday 15th September.
The cost of the Coach will be £18.00 per head. Further details are available from Pru Leah
on 841812
Contact the Editorial team:
Paul McCloskey - 4 Meridian Close, Tel 841359
Jen Smith - 18 Ibbott Crescent, Tel 840828
Don’t Forget the New e-Mail:
Deadline for next issue 31st October
(For Issue 37 in December)
SOMERSHAM LAKE – Blue Green Algae
As many visitors to the lake will have witnessed the water has suffered from another outbreak of Blue
Green Algae, the Environment Agency (EA) confirmed this at the end of July.
Blue-Green Algae is a problem common to many ponds / lakes in the county. Somersham is a farming
area and therefore there is a large amount of nitrates and phosphates in the ground and together with the
warm weather this produces the algae.
Over the years the Parish Council has sought advice from the EA on how to resolve the problem but have
been advised there is no way to completely eradicate the risk. Somersham’s lake does not have a direct
inlet of water such as a stream and this does not help, so in common with many lakes in the area, the water
will be green for a few weeks but its quality will be monitored by both the EA and the Lake Working
Party during this period.
During this period it is important for everyone to take note of the warning signs and to stay away from the
water, this includes keeping your pets away from the water too.
The EA advise against using any chemicals on a regular basis to attempt to control the algae and there are
no guarantees in any event.
The Parish Council have been adding barley straw as recommended by the EA to minimise the risk, the
straw contains very low levels of hydrogen peroxide.
The Parish Council is working together with the County Countryside Officers to introduce natural methods
such as increasing reed beds as a long-term solution to assist in improving water quality through plant
filtration.
Finally the Parish Council will continue to take advice from the EA Fisheries Management section on
maintenance of the lake.
CHURCH OF THE SACRED HEART 19 Needingworth Road, St Ives Parish Priest: Rev P Maddison
Tel: 01480 462192
www.sacredheart-stives.org email: [email protected]
Mass Times Saturday 17.00 (Anticipatory) Sunday 08.00 and 11.00
We also have a large hall available for hire. Please contact the parish office for details.
