Stambourne

In this issue:

• STAMBOURNE PARISH COUNCIL
• BONFIRE NIGHT 2019
• ST. PETER & ST. THOMAS BECKET PARISH CHURCH
• SERVICES AT STAMBOURNE FOR THE NEXT TWO MONTHS
• RECTOR’S RAMBLINGS
• STAMBOURNE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
• STAMBOURNE LADIES GROUP
• STAMBOURNE ACTIVITIES

The latest meeting of the Parish Council took place on Thursday 19th September 2019 at 7.30pm in the Village Hall. We were pleased to welcome our District Councillor, Richard Van Dulken.

Pavilion

The refurbishment of the kitchen is now complete. This work would not have been possible without the bequest of the late Mr Wright, long-time resident of the village and Essex County Council CIF fund. A plaque has been installed in recognition of Mr Wright’s contribution.

Playing Field

Mr Keith Hoadly who has for many years cut the grass on the playing field has decided to retire. I think we can all agree he has done a great job over many years. Thank you, Keith for everything.

Footpaths

If you come across any footpath issues in the parish which need attention please let Debbie Hilliard know – even better if you are able to take a photo and send an email to her (see email below).

Planning

You may already be aware that the planning application regarding the land at Chapel End Way was considered by Braintree District Council and refused.

Finance

The Parish Council accounts for the year 2018-19 have been externally audited and agreed. All parish finances can be viewed in the minutes and agendas which are available on the Stambourne website stambourne.com/parish-council.

Essex County Council has now agreed its Future Library Services Strategy 2019-2024. It has made significant changes to its original plans and is now committed to not closing any libraries over the next 5 years. You can read the full strategy document at: libraries.essex.gov.uk/libraries-consultation

Love, loss and remembering

Autumn has traditionally been a time when Christians explore the big questions about life and death. Watching the leaves fall and the nights draw in is an opportunity for all ages to think about love and loss and remember in special ways. Children ask questions about death for all kinds of reasons. It may come from seeing a local war memorial, or closer to home with the death of a pet.

Or maybe your child has lost a great-grandparent, grandparent, a family friend, a teacher, a neighbour, an aunt or uncle. For some children, the impact of loss has huge consequences, especially if it’s the death of a parent or a sibling. However and whenever those questions come, there are good ways to remember those we see no longer with family at home:

The church also has ways of remembering those we love who have died. This happens at the start of November, at All Souls’ Day where we have a joint benefice service in St Peter’s Sible Hedingham. It is a special service where we invite people to add any names to a list and light a candle to remember them. A week later, at Remembrance Sunday, we remember those who died in wars, and pray for peace. The Remembrance service at Stambourne this year is on Sunday November 10th at 10.45.

If you have suffered loss yourself, and would like someone to speak to then please don’t hesitate to call Rev. Liz Paxton 01787 277270 or email revlizpaxton@gmail.com.

Blessings,

Rev. Liz Paxton, Rector

The Benefice of the Hedinghams and Upper Colne
revlizpaxton@gmail.com
07932 160 594 or 01787 277 270

14th August — we took over the Pavilion and welcomed Steven Garner who showed us all how to capture a likeness on paper. A spectacular two course buffet and drinks were laid on by the members who enjoyed the evening as did several guests.

11th September — welcomed the return of Amanda Sutherland. Zoe and Sian laid on an impressive buffet and drinks for us all.

9th October — our friend and neighbour Richard Wright is coming along to share his knowledge of Constable; the settings for his paintings around Flatford and Dedham and his life. Drinks and a buffet will follow.

13th November — we have Rosie giving a Christmas themed “lolly stick craft workshop” where everyone will take home a handmade memento of the evening. A buffet with a choice of refreshments follows.

11th December — we welcome back Zoe giving a tasty demonstration of edible decorations to hang on our Christmas trees. A Christmas buffet and drinks will be served.

The first Wednesday of every month is book swap at Newlands, Chapel End Way from 10am to 12pm. Bring a cake along to show off your culinary skills if you dare!

Visit our Facebook page for more information or call Vicky (07778 410 376) or Lorna (01440 785 573).

GRANDMA GETS KIDNAPPED (!)
My sister and I have been writing, illustrating and publishing books for our grandchildren for the last ten years. ‘Grandma Gets Kidnapped’ is our latest book and, like previous attempts, it is (very loosely) based in and around Stambourne.

If you would like a free copy (or copies) of ‘Grandma Gets Kidnapped’ for your children or grandchildren or friends, Alison at the Post Office has kindly accepted a pile of them and I hope you’ll pop in and pick one up.

Or if you prefer, leave me a message on 07951 771 466 and I’ll put one through your letter box.

Annette Zera

Bingo

It has been suggested that villagers and their friends may be interested in Bingo at the Village Hall, perhaps once every 3-4 weeks.

What do you think? Would you be interested? If so please let Cath (01440 785 678) or Sian (07505 355 994) know.

A date for your diary — Scarecrow competition

The Village Hall Committee will be arranging a scarecrow competition over the 75th VE Day Celebration weekend so get your thinking caps on!!

More details will follow…

Stambourne Jumble Sale

Saturday, 2nd November 2019
2 – 4pm at The Stambourne Village Hall

ALL WELCOME!

Admission 50p Tea and coffee available All proceeds to charity.

Please contact Sian Davies-Hatton (07505 355 994) or Lesley Scolley (07889 745 180) for local pick-up / drop-off in advance. Or drop jumble off at the Stambourne Village Hall on the morning of the sale.

Christmas quiz + Grand Draw

Saturday, 30th November
7pm for 7.30pm start

Two Course Meal at half-time (Vegetarian Option Available)
Bring your own Tipple

Everyone is in a team (of 10-12) so it doesn’t matter if you are clever or not – just come along and have a laugh!

£10 per person; £7 under 11’s
To book ring Cath (01440 785 678) or Sian (07505 355 994)