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Our stock is carefully hand selected, so that it allows

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Once you have made your selection, we then service

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Dennis Willetts, Publicity Officer The first “Parish Plan” edition of the Quarterly Village Newsletter under my editorship was distributed to time in January. If this newsletter was delivered to you in April, we are again on track. The May Fayre takes place on 4th May. The Parish Plan Group will have a stall as part of our initial consultations. The launch of the questionnaire is set for 18th July at the Village Festival.

Martin Wright, Chairman We meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month, 8pm at the Cricketers. We report to the Parish Council on the 2nd Wednesday. There are never enough people to do all the work in this complex project. Additional volunteers are always welcome, or just deliver the literature. We welcome new members John Alcock and Keith.Winterbourne to the EAGPP committee.

Richard Brown, Treasurer: The Parish Plan Group’s bank account has been opened. We have applied for grants to several funding bodies including ITV, the Rural Development Council and the Lottery Community Fund. Our first applications have been approved and we should shortly be in funds. Meanwhile the Parish Council is covering the Groups expenditure.

Andrew Cook, Secretary The last few months have been a busy period for the group. The initial consultation meetings have validated our choice of the 5 main topics. We will consult on the details of the questionnaire at the upcoming May Fayre. We are confident that we will launch the final questionnaire at the Village Festival in July. My second daughter was born in March giving the village another resident that could be effected by the success of this process!

Tel 01206 240314

Tel 07894 789107

Tel 07977 075761

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April 2009 Issue Quarterly Newsletter. Collate village issues and problems identified during the Spring 2009 initial consultations

May May-Fayre on Seven Star Green (Monday 4th May) Further consultation on village needs and on the detailed questions for each major topic.

June Produce the Parish Plan Questionnaire based on peoples’ opinions of the needs of the village

July Official launch of Parish Plan Questionnaire at the Village Festival (Saturday 18th July). Issue Summer Quarterly Village Newsletter The Questionnaire will be delivered to all homes

August House-to-House visits to those who have not returned their questionnaire.

September Initial analysis of results. Produce the “Village Needs” statements.

October Further detailed analysis of results

November Publication of Key Issues identified in the Questionnaire. Issue the first draft of the Design Statement Issue Autumn Quarterly Village Newsletter

December Produce summary document of progress for 2009

January 2010

Results presented at a General Village meeting. Final polish of the Parish Plan.

February Presentation of the Parish Plan to EAG Parish Council for adoption.

March Well earned rest for the EAGPP team.

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EAGPP Progress report The Parish Plan is an opportunity for everyone to influence the development of Eight Ash Green. It is a Community-led plan for the village. It will sit along-side the wider planning framework for the borough which is being developed by Colchester Borough Council, and which will shape the future development in the town and surrounding areas between now and 2021. The Parish Plan gives a local view of how the village should develop in the wider context of the Borough Council’s Plan with specific focus on the aspirations of the local community. A local Plan The Plan is being produced at the local level. It will state the views of the village as a whole. It will provide an opportunity for local community groups to become actively involved in the decision-making process affecting the future of their village. One of the key aims of the plan is to influence other outside organisations and in particular the Borough Council’s Local Development Framework. The Starting Position Villages throughout Essex are in various stages in the preparation of the their Parish Plans. Rather than “re-inventing the wheel”, in late 2008, the EAG Parish Plan Group carried out a study of the main topics included in the plans of other villages. A common feature were sections covering: 1. Planning – where development should be sited, where it

should be resisted, which parts of the village should be preserved.

2. Transport – footpaths, public transport issues, congestion, roads safety issues including speeding

3. Facilities and Services – shops, recreational facilities, community groups

4. Community Safety & Administration – crime, policing, rubbish collection

5. The environment – countryside protection, noise,

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The Parish Plan Group adopted these 5 groups of key issues as our starting point. In our presentations to the community and to groups in the Village, we have noted that there has been general agreement that these topics probably cover most of the issues about which residents wish to express an opinion. If other major issues arise during the initial consultation, they too can be included. Initial Consultations Having produced a broad framework for the Parish Plan, we have started our initial consultations with local community groups. The purpose is twofold. Firstly we sought opinions on whether the 5 major topics are the right ones for the structure of the EAG plan. Secondly, ideas put forward by residents will be used to flesh out the questionnaire and decide on the final list of questions in each of the 5 topics. We are currently in the middle of these consultations, which will go on until May 2009. At that point we will start to draft the Questionnaire that will be distributed to all households. The Parish Plan Group The Parish Plan Group started out with just the statutory officers for the formation of a trust. As the work has proceeded, several other volunteers have joined the Parish Plan Group. We are also grateful to the band of deliverers who distribute this Quarterly newsletter. They too constitute one of the community groups who are consulted on the plan. There is work for many more hands. If you can help, contact the Parish Plan Group on eagpp@btinternet.com, or try our website on:

www.eightashgreen.com.

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LITTLE MALTINGS

Feline Lodge (Cattery) Fully approved

Abbotts Lane Eight Ash Green

Colchester CO6 3QL

01206 564401 07956 429102

Prop. Brenda Eagland

2008 was really enjoyable with talks ranging from the cultural – history of our local church and Monet’s paintings and garden - to the purely fun events – choosing colours to suit you and a suitably messy plant propagation workshop. There was plenty of clearing up to do after that one!! The year ended on a high with a hugely successful grant aided course on digital photography for all of us budding Patrick Lichfields out there.

2009 will be just as exciting with more of the same fun and friendship!! ———————————————————–

5th May A visit from a healthy lifestyle consultant to keep us all fit and active in 2009.

2nd June The World of Optical Illusions, with Colin Hopper. 7th July An evening guided walk around Colchester entitled ‘The Legend

of the Chattering Corpse’. Meet at The George at 7pm for 7.30pm. And of course we’re all going to back to The George afterwards to calm our shattered nerves before going home!!!

1st Tuesday in the month - 7.30pm - Fordham Village Hall New members and visitors are always welcome. Just turn up on the night

or phone our secretary, Mrs Audrey Crees 01206 241293.

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SPEEDING IN THE VILLAGE Letter from Anthony C Robin, 29 Spring Lane, Tele 571910 Whilst the vast majority of drivers drive within, or slightly above, the speed limit of 30 mph in the village, there are a significant minority who drive well in excess of this speed. There are two places where I notice this in particular. Readers will know that Spring Lane runs downhill from the Brick & Tile, and then climbs again after crossing the small stream before getting to the Cricketers. There is also a slight bend to the left near the Village Hall. This bend is not so sharp as to require vehicles to slow down, but it does severely restrict the view, including that of visitors leaving the Village Hall. Whilst I have a good view towards the Cricketers, when leaving the Village Hall the situation is reversed. A few years ago, when leaving my drive near the village hall, I cautiously turned into the road. A car came down the hill from the Cricketers well in excess of the speed limit. Luckily the other driver was alert, but he only avoided hitting me by skidding right across the road. If something had been coming the other way, he would have hit one of us. This incident prompted me to raise the issue with the Parish Council. A speed survey was done, and SLOW was painted on the road shortly afterwards. However I was told that because the average speed was not high enough, nothing further could be done. It is not the average speed that I was complaining of, but the maximum speed of a few thoughtless people. The other place where I regularly notice many vehicles going far too fast is along the A1124, especially between the Zebra crossing and the Post-Box (where the Post office used to be). Not only cars but heavy lorries pass this point well in excess of the limit. The footpath is very narrow, with a brick wall at the side, and it can be quite intimidating. If anyone thinks I am exaggerating, I suggest they walk along there when there are lorries doing 50 mph, with the driver on the phone, and one has to pass say a wheelchair or a family with a dog. I doubt if the pavement is wide enough for two wheelchairs to pass. The road through the village was once designated as the A604 to Cambridge. The authorities changed the labelling to A1124 Halstead to discourage the long distance traffic which was to use the A120 & M11. No doubt the Satellite navigation systems tell drivers that this route is much shorter (and quicker with a slow vehicle). I have no objections to drivers using these roads, but I do feel that the speed limits should be enforced. I am a driver myself and I am not trying to get anyone fined or have points on their licence, just to obey the law of the land.

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LINE DANCING AT EIGHT ASH GREEN VILLAGE HALL

In these days of health and fitness consciousness, there is no better means of getting exercise in such a fun way. Its popularity began in America, and has spread across the world, and there are many venues and classes. You only have to look at the holiday brochures to see how many ‘Line Dancing Breaks’ there are as evidence of its popularity.

Ignore any rumours you may have heard about the Eight Ash Green Line Dancers regarding dislocated knees, turned ankles and sounds of exhaustion coming from the Village Hall! The only sounds you will hear are sighs of relief when we have danced a sequence correctly and are all facing in the same direction - and the frequent bouts of laughter when we get the steps all wrong!

Len, who takes the class, has been a qualified teacher for many years and has infinite patience as he takes us through the steps. We also have line dancers who have been dancing for a while and they will willingly guide any newcomer who feels slightly out of step.

The dancing begins at 7.30 on a Tuesday evening, with a break for refreshments, and ends at approximately 9 p.m.

You don’t have to be a Fred Astaire or Ginger Rogers to join and it doesn’t matter if you have three left feet, come along to see what it is all about – you will be made most welcome in a refreshingly friendly atmosphere.

As well as being good for you it is a wonderful way of meeting new friends and meeting up with old ones.

For more information, please call Alvena on 01206 240862.

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Central Heating Installations/Alterations/Power-Flushing Boiler Changes & Breakdown Repairs

Gas Boiler Servicing – gas safety certificates issued to homeowners, landlords & tenants

Tel/Fax 01206 243334 / Mobile 07771 646590 Email fisherpenberry@aol.com

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REPORT OF EAG ACTION GROUP AGM The Annual general meeting was held in the Village Hall on 21st January. The meeting was opened by Alan Chapman, chairman, who welcomed everyone. The committee had continued to hold meetings, bearing in mind the fluid state of the Borough Council’s Local Development framework, and that there are still no park-&-ride projects elsewhere in the Borough. Jenny Jones, Deputy Treasurer, presented the accounts which had been audited for the year ending 31.12.08. The balance as at 31 December 2008 stood at £10,754.90. A copy of the audited accounts was available for inspection. Alan Chapman announced that Kim Rees unfortunately had to give up her position as Treasurer. He expressed his thanks to Kim for all the hard work she had put in since the action group was formed and in her absence asked Kim’s husband, Gareth, to convey the appreciation shown. Dennis Willetts, Borough Councillor explained the new planning process, - the Local Development Framework (LDF), the Core Strategy, leading on to Site Allocations. There was no indication of any anti-social proposals for the former proposed park-&-ride site. He mentioned the rejection of a proposal for a private park-&-ride near the Spring Lane roundabout at Lexden, which was not supported by the Planning Inspector at the LDF local enquiry. Ted Gittins, the Action Group’s Planning Adviser, reported that The Site Allocation stage had now been reached in the LDF, with the proposals on public display from 16 January to 27 February. The Council had indicated those sites they would prefer to be developed in the future. There were no plans for large-scale growth out-of-town, any growth mainly being set in the town centre. We need to keep a watching brief because there are developers who would like to put quite large schemes in and around the village. The existing committee were re-elected by a show of hands. Jenny Jones was appointed Treasurer and Ann Tilman, Deputy Treasurer. There was a session of lively discussion, including: how planning policy might change after a General or Borough election; The need for social housing; and the traffic levels in Argents Lane. Alan Chapman thanked everyone for their attendance and continued support. Alan can be contacted on 01206 546760.

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DOG FOULING Dog owners in the village are being reminded that they are legally obliged to pick up after their pets, if they foul in a public place. The start of summer is the ideal time to repeat this very important message.

Most owners are extremely responsible. Unfortunately, a small minority still let the rest down which gives all dogs a bad name, so we are urging every dog owner to get behind this campaign.

The Borough Council provides facilities to make it as easy as possible for dog owners to clean up after their pets, including dog waste bins and free ‘poop scoop’ bags. However, it is ultimately the owner’s responsibility to clean up and dispose of any mess. Anyone who isn’t prepared to do this should frankly not own a dog.

We hope that the extra publicity in the Village Newsletter will encourage all dog owners to clean up after their pets so everyone can enjoy the summer on the Heath and public footpaths, free of the of nuisance dog mess,"

Failure to clean up after your dog can lead to a fixed penalty notice of £50 and failure to pay this may lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £1000. Anyone with information about a regular offender is requested to ring the Borough Council on 282581.

The procedure is based around the phrase “GRAB IT, BAG IT AND BIN IT” which is a simple plan for owners to follow:

GRAB IT - Always keep a supply of plastic bags near your dog's lead - supermarket carrier bags make great poop scoops - so you don't forget to take a poop scoop with you on every walk. Simply insert your hand in the plastic bag and pick up your dogs waste. It's easy and really not as bad as you may think.

BAG IT - Carefully turn the plastic bag inside out and your dogs mess will then be 'bagged'.

BIN IT - Dispose of your bag in a 'Poop' bin. Contrary to popular belief, wrapped dog waste can also be put into a public litter bin if a specific dog waste bin is not provided.

Borough Animal Warden

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For a happy and peaceful Eight Ash Green, try a

Fully Qualified Reflexologist For relaxation, ailment, or just for

sheer pleasure. Treat yourself to a well deserved, wonderful foot massage in

the comfort of your own home. Treatments start at £10.

For more information contact Sarah on: 01206 797152

For a fit and healthy Eight Ash Green, try

ABT Blast Keep Fit Get rid of those calories at your local

community keep fit class for all ages and abilities, aerobic routine followed by toning.

8pm on Mondays at Holy Trinity Primary School. £3.50 / £4.00

Contact Emma on 01206 213443 Have Fun. Lose Weight. Get Fit.

James Barker M: 07882 320 549

Plastering, Rendering, Plaster Board Fixing,

Coving, Floor Screeding,

Re-skims & Repair Work See Samples for Venetian Marble Plastering

Free Quotation

EAG MAN OF THE MONTH We say a big thank you to Geoff Tye, our village handyman man. He keeps our side walks and ditches free of our rubbish, and if you’re an early riser you might see him in a ditch with his yellow jacket and can-gripper. Give him a wave and good morning, I’m sure he would appreciate it. EAG WOMAN OF THE MONTH Katie Gilfoyle-Smith is doing a 15 mile sponsored walk on the 2nd May bank holiday weekend to raise money for the Eight Ash Green cubs. Organised by Manningtree and Stour Valley Rotary Club, she has done it every year for the past seven years, from Harwich to Manningtree. (25% to a charity of your choice)

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ALL SAINTS CHURCH NEWS Developments at All Saints Have you had a chance to see the changes to the west end of Eight Ash Green church? Designed by the internationally renowned architect Quinlan Terry, it not only gives us kitchen and toilet facilities, but lets in more light and gives a much more attractive and accessible entrance into the building. We have also improved the cremated remains area in the grave yard with the addition of a bench and a stone walk-way to make it a place people can more easily spend time. At your service? Each year we have over 30 services in the church at Eight Ash Green. Our two monthly services are at 11.15 am for Morning Prayer on the 1st Sunday of the month, and then a quiet service of Holy Communion using the traditional words, on the following Thursday at 11 am. You would be most welcome to come to either. In addition to our regular schedule of worship at Eight Ash Green Chuirch, we held two special services over Easter: An Hour at the Cross on Good Friday and Holy Communion at on Easter Day. From April 26th we are also starting a new informal service for the whole parish, each week in the John Owen Barn in Fordham. Its called Sunday@6 and, as it ‘says on the tin’, it will meet each Sunday at 6 pm. Why not come and check it out? More details will be appearing on the website www.sundayat6.org.uk Friendship Club – 20 years young The parish Friendship Club has just celebrated its 20th anniversary. It offers older people a varied programme of events, talks and outings in a friendly atmosphere, with delicious refreshments. Meeting 2-4 pm on the 2nd Thursday of every month in the John Owen Barn, new members are always welcome. If you’d like to find out more, the programme can be found at http://www.fordhamchurch.org.uk/groups/friendship-club.html or call Barbara Jones on 240034. Rev Andy Saville (01206 243265)

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THE VILLAGE RADIO HAMS By Dave Silverton, G7KME

The older residents of the village will probably remember the classic 1961 TV comedy “Hancock’s Half Hour” which included an episode called “The Radio Ham”. The comedian Tony Hancock played an amateur radio enthusiast who receives a may-day call from a yachtsman in distress, but a hilarious series of events prevent him from getting its position. Despite the advent of CB radio and the internet, amateur radio is still going strong with several keen enthusiasts in the Village, and a radio club in Colchester (Colchester Radio Amateurs). Because radio amateurs broadcast on a wide range of frequency bands, and at much higher powers than CB, enthusiasts have to take a technical examination before we are issued with a licence by the Government. We address each other using our licence names, eg “G7KME calling M1XXT”. The very first Radio Amateurs had to build all of their own equipment. While that is no longer the case, quite a few delight in the ability to build hardware, write software, modify gear, and otherwise experiment with radio equipment. Some Radio Amateurs just chat to others world-wide on the airwaves. Contesting is very popular. International contests are organised in which stations aim is to contact as many other stations, in as many different countries, in a set time. The picture shows the Colchester Club station in a portable contest. There is also an Amateur Radio Emergency Network which assists the Borough Council’s Emergency Planning Team in times of civil emergency, such as the telephone network failing.

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10.45 Maypole dancing by the pupils of Holy Trinity Primary School

11.30 Clog Dancing by Bows and Bells EAG Parish Plan Committee Display

Refreshments (Teas etc) by local organisation. B.B.Q. By Scout Group.

White Elephant stall by Youth Group.

Remap is a national charity, where voluntary members give their time and skills to undertake the challenge of adapting aids and making one-off inventions. These inventions are all designed to assist individual disabled people to gain more self s u f f i c i e n c y a n d g r e a t e r independence. We need more help at our Colchester branch; so if you have the time, we would value having your sk i l ls , t e c h n i c i a n s / e n g in e e r s / designers/ craftspeople/some one to take the minutes. The final delivery of a piece of equipment, which the client receives, is free of c h a r g e . L o c a l c o n t a c t s ; Chairperson Lynne Ashkham 07906 256118 or Sue Tye 01206 792182. www.remap.org.uk

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The Cricketers Fine Pub / Restaurant

Fresh Homemade Food right on your door step

Need a Challenge? Quiz on alternate weeks at 8pm!

The Cricketers, Spring Lane, Fordham Heath, Colchester, CO3 9TG.

Tel: 01206 240 666, Email: thepubman@live.co.uk

Remember coming soon, Village Disco on 24th April

2 Main Meals for just £10.00 available from 12noon till 9pm Monday to Friday!! Or choose off our specials if you fancy something a bit different.

We serve food from 12noon everyday till 9pm apart from Sundays where we stop at 8pm.

You name the occasion and we cater for it from birthday

parties, wedding receptions to large meetings or club meets.

For the first time we now have our own mini bus so you can

drink and we will drive!!

Why not come and warm yourself up with a great meal and a drink next to our fantastic open log fire?

We are a family business offering a warm and very welcoming atmosphere to everyone.

19

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News From Holy Trinity School There is certainly never a dull moment here at Holy Trinity and we as a staff are constantly looking for opportunities to extend the excellence and enjoyment agenda. This term has had a multicultural theme with two separate special days organised for the children by our very talented Modern Foreign Languages co-ordinator.

The first was a Chinese day to celebrate Chinese New Year. This incorporated many exciting activities including Chinese dance and storytelling. The children were all taught the Chinese fan dance and dragon dance and many learnt to write their names and greetings in Chinese. Lunchtime was a particular highlight as we shared a Chinese meal of ribs, five spice chicken and rice followed by fortune cookies. Many children proved to be real experts at eating with chopsticks.

This week we have had a French day. At Holy Trinity we teach French to all our pupils from reception right up to year 6. It is a proven fact that children have a greater aptitude to learning languages if they start before the age of 12 and we have certainly found that to be true here.

During French day the children were given mock passports and activities were divided into regions of France. The children had to get their passports stamped as they moved around the different “regions” giving them a greater understanding of the geography of France. The days activities included French dancing – learning the Polka and the Gallop, singing French songs, designing and making Eiffel Towers, recreating artwork inspired by Henri Matisse and enjoying French food. Everyone wore red, white and blue which made for a very colourful sight.

In a broadly white British school we feel it is so important that children experience a little of the cultures of other people. In this way they learn tolerance, understanding and begin to develop a sense of the diverse world we live in. Both days were enjoyed enormously by both staff and children alike.

22

� ���* $ & " 1/ �����The first Eight Ash Green and Fordham Heath Village Newsletter was produced and distributed in January 1984. It came about because my wife, Anna Greenwold, and I, attended a Village Parish Council meeting in the autumn of 1983. We drew attention to the fact that although most villages had a 'Newsletter' alas there was not one in ours. A brief and enthusiastic discussion followed but in no time at all, several fingers were pointing in our direction! It was suggested that we might like to take on this task with the support encouragement and funding by the Parish Council!

So, Anna became the Editor for the next twelve years and we, as a family, all enjoyed helping her. After her untimely death, in January 1996, I continued as Editor until January 1999. Approximately eighteen village organisations regularly contributed articles. Sue and Ron Pettitt valiantly typed, collated and printed the newsletter and there were many willing helpers who delivered it throughout the village. The names who come to mind are Kate Prestwich, Gael Campbell, Shirley Ward, Val Dadds, Elizabeth Connell, Alice Siefers, Rita Butler, Yvonne Diggle, Paul Walton, Lyn Enoch, Barbara Cardy, Mary Crane, John Revett, Sue Cole, Jean Fluety, Julia Diamond, Helen Swinstead, Anna and I. Ronald Greenwold created ink drawings for most of the front covers, and Peter Jones did a fine one of Mortlock’s Garage.

Actually the whole exercise was really enjoyable and much valued by every household. The Newsletter virtually paid for itself with the income from about thirty advertisers. Our Parish Council put in their news each quarter and of course villagers had an opportunity to send in their comments and to contribute articles. For example, when Mrs Dawes retired from being a teacher at Eight Ash School I managed to persuade her to write about her time at the old and the new schools. Colin Fairweather, Laurie Coffey and Andrew Plummer took over from me when I decided to devote more time helping my charity REMAP.

Roley M Greenwold, 01206 240843

And From The Current Editor Many thanks to the advertisers and contributors who have made this edition possible. The next newsletter will be a major milestone in the Production of the Parish Plan. It will either accompany or include the Parish Plan Questionnaire, the results of which will shape the future development of the Village. The closing date for items in the July edition of the Newsletter will be 21st June. So get writing.

Dennis Willetts, Newsletter Editor, 01206 240314, eagpp@btinternet.com,

23

Broadband in the Village, by Chris Gray “Speeds of up to 8 Mb” How often do you see this statement being made by Broadband suppliers touting for your business? The key words here are “up to”. The reality is that in Eight Ash Green you will not be able to get anywhere near 8 Mb’s on your Broadband connection.

Why?. BT provides you with Telephone/Broadband services from one of 3 exchanges (depending on where you live in the village). They are:- Colchester, Fordham and Marks Tey. The speeds you can obtain depend largely on three factors;-

• The distance between you and the exchange (I live 5km from the Colchester exchange and the maximum speeds I am achieving are 336kbps Downloading and 268 kbps Uploading)

• The condition/age of the telephone wiring in your house (more on this in a future article)

• The day of the week and time of the day you are using the Internet. The evenings and weekends are usually the busiest times on the Internet and your connection can slow down during busy periods because of network utilization.

So what can be done to improve your Broadband speed?. Unless you move house to be closer to an exchange your line speed will not improve. Unfortunately, we do not yet have high-speed fibre cables in the Village and I am not aware of any plans for fibre to be installed either by BT or any of the Cable operators. Installing fibre is an extremely expensive business with typical “dig” costs around £300-£400 per metre. In the current recession it is unlikely that this investment will be made

You can find out more information on your BT exchange by logging onto a free website called Sam Knows. This is a very useful site, which will also give you the names of all the ISP’s (Information Service Providers) who have equipment located in the three BT exchanges and can provide your Broadband (For example, Talk Talk, Sky etc). Once you are on the site, type in either Fordham or Marks Tey (For some reason it doesn’t recognize Eight Ash Green!) a map will appear on the right hand side.

Click on View larger map and then click on your street location on the map and it will give you information on your exchange, the distance between your house and the exchange, and the expected broadband speed. If you do change supplier from BT please bear in mind that this will not increase your broadband speed (they will still be using your existing exchange line) but you may/may not make savings on rental/call costs.

Another alternative is mobile broadband, which is available throughout EAG.

In the next edition I will explain how to make your broadband more effective.

24

ASHCROFT REST HOME Family-run home Established 25 years CSCI Registered– Dementia Care Specialists in caring for clients with Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Our objective is to provide for the health and social needs of each of our r e s i d e n t s w i t h professionalism, compassion and experience. We will care for them as an individual through understanding, respect and dignity.

Please contact Andrea or Barbara for further information

Telephone 01206 767367

Visit our website at www.ashcroftresthome.co.uk

25

Planning at a Parish Level by Amy Carter When a planning application arrives with the Parish Council it is circulated to the Planning Committee which consists of the following Councillors; Andrew Cook, John Fisher, Derek Franklin Chris Gray, and Christine Willetts. The Planning Committee makes its recommendation to the Parish Council and the application is circulated to all Councillors prior to discussion at the next Parish Council meeting when a resolution is passed on the comment we will send back to the Planning Department at Colchester Borough Council. The Parish Council does not have the authority to grant or refuse planning permission. The Parish Council are consulted on all planning applications within the village and we make our recommendations based on Material Planning Considerations as we can only make our recommendations based on planning legislation. The Material Planning Considerations are listed below for your information: The following are issues which the Planning Committee can take into consideration in reaching a decision:- ♦ Planning policy such as local and structure plans, other local planning

policies, government guidance, case law, previous decisions of the Council.

♦ Design, appearance and layout. ♦ Impact on visual or residential amenity including potential loss of daylight

or sunlight or overshadowing, loss of privacy, noise disturbance, smell or nuisance.

♦ Impact on trees, listed buildings or a conservation area. ♦ Highway safety and traffic. ♦ Health and safety. ♦ Crime and fear of crime. ♦ Economic impact. The following are NOT relevant planning issues and the Planning Committee cannot take these issues into account in reaching a decision:- ♦ Land ownership issues including private property rights, boundary or

access disputes, restrictive covenants, rights of way, ancient rights to light.

♦ Effects on property values. ♦ Loss of private view. ♦ Identity of the applicant, their personality, or a developers motives. ♦ Competition. ♦ The possibility of a “better” site or “better” use. ♦ Anything covered by other types of legislation.

26

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EAG CARPET BOWLS CLUB The Club recently celebrated its 22nd anniversary, with membership peaking at 36. We are members of the Essex League which gives us an opportunity to play other clubs all over Essex. Some of our members play in County Matches, which has taken them to Blackpool, Isle of White and Great Yarmouth, winning many trophies between us.

Up to 2008 we were in the first division. But recently our membership has fallen to twelve active players. We have now dropped to the second division. But we have managed to recruit a few new players to join us for this season, and they are doing really well.

The carpet Bowls season runs from September through to March. As we draw towards the end of the season we are lying in 5th place. During the summer months we organise friendly games with other local villages.

It would be nice to see some new faces. Our yearly membership is £5, with a nightly sub of £1.50 for hire of the Hall. So if you think that you would like to try Carpet Bowls, young ot old alike, we play at EAG Village Hall on Monday nights from 7pm. You would be most welcome.

If you would like to join, or want further information, phone Brenda on 824410.

27

Explorer Scouts Explorer Scouts is a section of the Scouting Movement for young people between 14½ and 18 year of age, both male and female.

It is not just the age difference that separates Explorers from Scouts or Cubs or Beavers. Explorers have the opportunity to undertake far more exciting and challenging activities, many of which are chosen and organised by the Explorers under the guidance of the leader team.

There are many opportunities to work towards activity badges in recognition of acquiring new skills and to take part in national youth schemes such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

It’s not all meeting up at the scout hut though; we do a whole range of activities. Recently we have gone to Go Bananas, been roller-skating, had a driving lesson, been hiking and we are looking forward to a busy summer when we hope to be camping, climbing, canoeing and generally having a great time.

Our Group, the Colchester North District Legacy Explorer Scout Unit, meet on a Tuesday in Eight Ash Green. There are regularly around 12 of us at each meeting and newcomers are always made very welcome. At the moment about half the group are girls, and the boys don’t smell too bad – honest!

Unfortunately, our current leader has had to withdraw from running the unit due to work commitments. However a leader from Lexden has come forward to run the unit on a temporary basis until a new Explorer Scout Leader can be found. We are therefore looking for someone who would like to take on this role and enjoy working with a great bunch of young people determined to get the most out of what scouting has to offer.

If you would like to know more about our group and perhaps join as an Explorer or leader, please contact Dave Humphrey on 0845-0946-208 or email to explorers@uk2.net

28

CHILDREN’S KUNG FU At EIGHT ASH GREEN VILLAGE HALL For practical self defence, confidence, fitness and peace of mind

Kung fu is brilliant, and like all martial arts it is great fun, it helps bring a community together and creates good strong students and people.

I am passionate about promoting martial arts. The sport provides a wealth of benefits to youngsters. It helps people to understanding boundaries and teaches discipline whilst having fun at the same time!.

A martial artist learns the value of respect. They realize they really can achieve perhaps what they thought at first was not possible. With the right guidance and system of study our students grow into good martial artists.

I have a deep passion for helping others, and teaching the benefits of martial arts. It is this passion that drives me; I believe that by helping people in this world they might be inspired to do well in their own lives.

For more information about any of the above, feel free to contact Sarah on: 01206 797152. Private lessons available on request.

Sarah has many years of experience in teaching martial arts. She is very committed, warm hearted lady that devotes her career to the help and care of others.

Every Saturday: 9.30 – 11.00 For Children of all abilities, six years an above!

Only £5 per class Dragon Martial Arts School is affiliated with the British Council of Chinese Martial Arts and consequently enters students into the British Championships annually. The BCCMA are members of the International Olympic Committee.

29

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30

PARISH CLERK’S REPORT The Parish Council work hard for the community all year round. Since Christmas we have been working towards making the village an even better place to live.

The Annual Parish Meeting will be held on Wednesday 13th May 2009 at 7.30pm in the Village Hall, Spring Lane.

Please come along and join in with the annual meeting. The Annual General Meeting of the Parish Council will follow this meeting and you are invited to stay and have your say!

The Colchester Borough Council has announced the dates for the Attended Refuse Freighter for the upcoming year. You can find the freighter at the School Access in Fiddlers Folly at 11.00am on:

Saturdays: 2nd May 2009, 27th June 2009, 15th August 2009

The freighter can then be found at the top of the Heath on the same dates at 11.30pm. This is an excellent opportunity to get rid of larger household items you no longer require.

The Parish Council are actively seeking a site within the village to provide a play area for the youth of the village. This is proving difficult as suitable sites are not easy to find. As things move forward with this ambitious project we will continue to keep you all informed of the progress we are making.

A recent meeting has taken place on the Heath with Richard Parmee from the River Colne Countryside Project and he has advised the Council on how to maintain the heath land to ensure it does not all become Oak Woodland, and open spaces are maintained. The Parish Council will be working on a maintenance plan to achieve this goal.

The Parish Council meets at 7.30pm on the second Wednesday of every month (except August) in the Village Hall. Please come along and have your say on what goes on in the village.

Amy Carter Parish Clerk, 01206 729200

31

Village Hall Management Committee The Village Hall celebrated its 60th Birthday just before Christmas 2008. It was formally opened on Saturday 11th December 1948 by Captain H. Hines, County Councillor of Aldham.

After the official opening, a Grand Bazaar was held. The proceeds were used to defray the cost of erecting the village hall. The current Management Committee is considering a celebration of its birthday with a 1940-50 evening in June. This will be advertised at a later date.

When travelling past the Hall in Spring Lane you will be aware that it was beginning to show its age, and was in need of a “face-lift”. The old metal windows were very difficult to paint, so these have now been replaced with new double-glazed units. The Hall has also been re-plastered on the front. As soon as we get a dry spell of weather the exterior will also be re-painted.

The inside of the hall has also been re-painted. The old curtains were badly faded, so new curtains have been hung. The floor is regularly sealed to keep it in acceptable condition.

The Village Hall is used extensively by a variety of organisations. This really helps to make it a central meeting-place for the whole village, and encourages a strong community spirit. Special rates are available for local organisations and residents wishing to make a booking.

The Village Hall AGM will be held at 8pm on 16th April. All welcome. The Hall’s Diamond Jubilee celebration will be a 1940’s party, 7-11pm on 27th June. Tickets are available from Bernard.

Bernard Alden, (Chairman) Colin Fairweather, (Bookings) 01206 562860

32

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33

Cllr Ken Free, 01206 210598,

kenfree@tiscali.co.uk.

Cllr John Fisher, 01206 213717,

fishers@fordham-heath.org.uk.

Cllr Richard Brown, 07894789107,

richard.e.brown@hotmail.co.uk.

Cllr Derek Franklin (Chairman) 210959

derekfranklin @btinternet.com.

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Cllr Andrew Cook, 07977 075761,

handacook @yahoo.co.uk.

Cllr Katie Guilfoyle-Smith, 01206 247095, Kate_guilfoyle_smith

@hotmail.co.uk

Cllr Chris Gray, 07909 926811,

har-old.c.gray@btinternet

Cllr Christine Willetts 01206

240314 ,christine.willetts

Cllr Will Ralph, 01206 213509,

debwillralph@aol.com

34

# �������! ����5���Essex County Council 0845 743 0430

Colchester Borough Council 282222

Eight Ash Green Parish Council 729200

Holy Trinity Primary School 240880

Stanway School 575488

Village Hall booking 562860

Police Sergeant Mike Lee 07966 197134

Revd Dr Andy Saville (Church of England) 242112

Revd Ruth Ridge (Methodist) 210141

Monsignor Arthur Barrow (Catholic) 576898

Zen Clinic (Dental & Cosmetic) Tollgate 762417

Tollgate Heath Centre 710030

The Brick & Tile 540468

The Cricketers 240666

Bernard Jenkin. MP 01376 564292

Cllr Tony Clover, County Councillor 322291

Cllr Jill Tod, Borough Councillor 366454

Cllr Dennis Willetts, Borough Councillor 240314

Derek Franklin, Chairman, Parish Council, 210959

Richard Brown, Parish Councillor 07894 789107

John Fisher, Parish Councillor 213717

Ken Free, Parish Councillor 210598

Chris Gray, Parish Councillor 07909 926811

Katie Guilfoyle-Smith, Parish Councillor 247095

Will Ralph, Parish Councillor 213509

Christine Willetts, Parish Councillor 240314

35

36

���# �������* ����Monday Scouts (ring 0844 414 2746 for time and venue)

19.00 Carpet Bowls Club, Village Hall 20.00 ABT Blast, Keep Fit, Holy Trinity Primary School

Tuesday Explorer Scouts (ring 0845-0946-208 for details) 16.00 French lessons, Village Hall, (term-time only) 19.30 Line Dancing, Village Hall 19.30 WI, (1st Tuesday) Fordham Village Hall 20.00 Harley Davidson Club (1st Tuesday), The Cricketers

Wednesday 18.30 Up Beat Wind Band, Holy Trinity Primary School Village Youth Club (except 1st Wed) Village Hall 19.00 Wednesday Club (1st Wednesday) Village Hall 19.30 Parish Council (2nd Wednesday) Village Hall 20.00 Quiz night (alternate Wednesdays) The Cricketers 20.00 Mini Club (1st Wednesday) The Cricketers 20.00 VW club (alternate Wednesdays) The Cricketers

Thursday 10.00 Daisy Beaders, (2nd Thursday) The Cricketers Cubs (ring 0844 414 2746 for time and venue) 11.00 Holy Communion, (2nd Thursday) All Saints Church 19.30 Christadelphians Bible Class, Village Hall

Friday 10.00 Little Pickles, Village Hall 16.30 Karate Club, Village Hall Beavers (ring 0844 414 2746 for time and venue) 19.30 Mens’ Club, Village Hall

Saturday 09.30 King Fu, Village Hall

Sunday 10.00 Worship, EAG Methodist Church 10.00 Worship, Fordham (EAG and Fordham congregations) 11.15 Morning Prayer, All Saints EAG (1st Sunday in month) 14.15 Christadelphians Memorial meeting, Village Hall 16.15 Christadelphians Bible Talk, Village Hall

Published by EAG Parish Plan Group for Eight Ash Green Parish Council Printed by Mid Essex Printers, 66a London Road, Lexden, CO3 4DF

Opinions appearing in this newsletter are those of the individual contributors and are not necessarily those of the Editor, the Parish Plan Group or Eight Ash Green Parish Council.