Hang your head in shame Monica…
Dear Editor Thanks for another ‘cracking’ issue of the Village Tribune recently received. However, a comment (p.37 of Issue No.62) – the letter on car clamping is extremely interesting, entertaining even but, somehow I have my doubts about its accuracy. Bearing in mind that your publication covers the months of April & May – could this letter from Mr. G. Kirt have anything to do with an April Fool joke? If so, “Nice one!” If not, my apologies and I shall hide my head in shame and slink away into the Fen never to be heard of again.
Monica Berry, Deeping Gate
Nine Bridges…
Dear Editor I am another resident from Northborough who is very angry at the way Peterborough City Council treat us and either fail to consult before carrying out work, or worse after consultation, disregard the wishes of the people and do just what they like. The ghastly site at Nine Bridges is yet another example of the council lack of respect for the over-taxed residents. Councillor Holdich says in the issue 62 Tribune that it has to be a “safety fence” so, why the crash barrier? I am not concerned anymore about the mess the council is making of the city, especially Cathedral Square with the frivolous fountains and the square seems to be higher in the middle which looks hideously stupid. At least that is six miles away from me, but Nine Bridges is a lot closer to my home. The ugly wooden fence and metal crash barrier must be removed and the iron railings should be refurbished and refitted securely. That I am sure is what the villagers want!
Roger Wileman, Northborough
VE Day memories…
Dear Editor With the recent 65th anniversary of VE Day, I am reminded of the celebrations that took place in Peakirk. I was a lad porter at the station on the day it was announced that the war was over,I was given the rest of the day off.Before leaving I collected all the spare fog detonators from the platelayers hut,(these are an explosive device which clips to the rail with a lead strip, it explodes when run over). I, together with one of the men porters,clipped them all onto the rails of one of the sidings and then pushed wagon over them.The result was a brief but very noisy salvo.
Later that day several of us village lads started to collect materials for a bonfire which we built on the green at the side of the monument.As the news that we were building the bonfire got around more people got involved in collecting. As soon as it was dark the fire was lit and I think the majority of the village residents were in attendance. Tom Neaverson brought an effigy of Hitler which he hoisted on a pole and then shot it with his shotgun. One of my pals and me bought a box of crow scarers,(a kind of firework) these added to the rowdyism.
Later that year the official stand down of the Home Guard took place at Peakirk.Several units from the area formed up in the station yard before marching through the village led by a band to Mr Parson’s field where a drum head service was held. I recall that the parade was led by a Peakirk man,Ted Sutton,the tune they marched to was Colonel Bogey. I forward this thinking it might stir a few memories among the older residents.You have my permission to edit any of the above should you decide to print any or all of it.
Regards, Sid Bates
Thanks to all…
Dear Editor I would like to thank all the Village Tribune readers who have shared their memories and the atmospheric photograph of Walderam Hall. Their information has enabled me to amend my research and to learn more about the building’s tenants. However, I would love to know more about the fire and later refurbishment mentioned by ‘Name and address supplied’. I am very flattered that my article has generated so much interest. I am currently working on the site’s pre-Conquest history, which I hope to publish eventually.
Avril Lumley Prior
A privilege to serve…
Dear Editor I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you for the generous gift of garden tokens which I received following my retirement as Churchwarden of St.Benedict’s Church. When The Parochial Church Council invited me to stand as Churchwarden in 1996, I could not foresee the road ahead with all it’s twists and turns. It has been a privilege to serve in the village of Glinton having the opportunity to meet and work with so many people. With the tokens, I have purchased a garden bench ready for once that sun really starts to shine! Thank you again,
Veronica Smith
Oh yes we can!…
Dear Editor Could you please put an appeal into the next edition of the Trib’. There are a group of us ‘locals’ who are thinking of putting on a village(s) pantomime. We are on the look-out for budding thespians, musicians, wardrobe people, scenery builders – not to mention an appreciative audience. If anyone feels that they can help, offer advice or support in any way shape or form, myself or Pat Hoppe would be delighted to hear from you. Pat’s email address is: sales@astore-harrison.co.uk and I can be contacted at: carolarthur1@hotmail.co.uk If we get enough interest, I plan to have a launch meeting at my home in Glinton, so smack those thighs, dig deep into the dressing up box and get in touch!
Carol Arthur, Glinton
Northborough Village Fete…
Dear Readers Sunday 12th September promises to be another fun-filled family day on the playing field in Northborough. After the success of last years family day we are eagerly awaiting and preparing for the next one – this year we have a circus theme. We will be holding another fun run on the day along with the church service being held in the village hall.
The day will start with a car boot sale, to be followed by The Brays and other bands performing on the main stage. The arena will also be showcasing many talents from Dog Agility to Dance Troups. The village Hall will be exhibiting art by a local art group. Stalls and rides will be a-plenty on the field, so if you would like to have stall on the day please contact us on 07534 824864. Refreshments will be available throughout the day so you will be thoroughly entertained, we very much look forward to seeing you all there!
Many thanks, Leanne Yates
Dual use for playing field under threat…
Dear Editor For many years, the playing field at John Clare School in Helpston has been open for the whole village community to enjoy after school until dusk, at weekends and during school holidays. It is well used by young people and families who wish to play on the swings and basketball court, have a game of football or enjoy a picnic. Unfortunately, this arrangement has been put under considerable strain in recent months due to the anti-social behaviour of a minority of young people who meet on the field in the evenings. Examples of this behaviour include:
The destruction of our wildlife area gate and fence
Vandalism of the children’s log trail and outdoor classroom
Glass alcohol bottles smashed on the playground
Young people taking extra-ordinary risks. For example, climbing the 12 foot fences of the basketball court.
It also clearly states on the field notice board that bikes and dogs should not be brought onto the field. Unfortunately, these rules are broken on a daily basis too. The school is committed to providing this essential open space for the community, but cannot afford to continually repair and replace equipment. We are especially concerned that the dangerous risks taken by children on the field will lead to a serious accident.
We are now working closely with the police and local residents to help prevent further disturbances. It would be a great shame if the field was closed to the public in the future, depriving so many children and adults of a lovely place to meet and play. I am writing this letter to the Tribune on behalf of the Dual Use Field Committee (made up of parish councillors, school staff and Helpston residents).
Martin Fry, Headteacher, John Clare Primary School, Helpston
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