Tim and Amanda have their cake - but have yet to eat it. (photo: Julian’s photography)
Tim and Amanda have their cake - but have yet to eat it. (photo: Julian’s
photography)
LET them eat cake! And so they did, in style too. In June, The
Linton News ran an appeal - to find a local "maker of wedding cakes".
Tim and I had decided to marry. We love Linton so much that we wanted to hold
the whole wedding in the village and use as many local businesses as possible.
Following the service in St Mary’s Church, we held a fabulous reception in the
Crown, thanks to Joel and his team. We then moved down the High Street to
entertain over 100 guests at the Dog & Duck with Bob and Tracy. Our guests
danced at a ceilidh in a beautiful marquee supplied by Trevor Page Marquees of
Linton.
Flowers, supplied by Sarah Chamberlain, adorned every venue.
The whole day was beautifully photographed by none other than our own Julian of
Julian’s Photography, who excelled himself by climbing - welly clad - into the
river to photograph us as we came through the ford in a horse and carriage.
For a time the one missing ingredient was the cake. Well, the Linton News saved
the day as no fewer than six local ladies contacted me to volunteer their
services and all were experienced wedding cake makers.
Elva Morgan was the first to call and after an initial meeting, Elva designed
and made the beautiful cake you see in the picture. The challenge was for the
cake to match my bouquet and I was wowed by the result; Elva did a fantastic
job, very professional. We are planning to post out pieces of the cake in
specially made boxes as we ran out of time on the day. Many guests have said
they can’t wait. One friend has asked Elva to make the cake for her wedding in
December. So, the moral of the story is - if you’re planning a wedding, then
look no further than Linton Village, it can all happen here!
Amanda Warren (nee Wain)
Picky Left to right: Officials, Bob & Dawn Scott; Cyclists, Sally Plummer,
Gloria Fidler, Oriel Laws, David Parry-Smith, Sarah King.
Does anyone really know what they’re letting themselves in for
when they agree to a sponsored cycle ride? Sarah King recounts her experiences
of the Historic Churches ride.
SATURDAY 13th September was the day of the Cambridgeshire Historic Churches
cycle ride so out came my hardly used bicycle and off I went, late as usual, for
a group photo at St Mary’s Linton.
The next church was the URC so past the Guildhall we went, over the bridge
avoiding a suicidal duck and up to the church and a friendly welcome. If you’ve
not been in there before, like me, stick your head round the door as it’s a
lovely church. Our forms duly signed and our signatures on a bit of paper to say
we’d been there and off we cycled, two off to Saffron Walden, and three of us
(Sally, Gloria and myself) on to Abington.
This bit of the day educated me - not only is there a pathway running along the
A road to Abington but there is the odd slope or two as well - neither of which
I knew despite going along that bit of road at least twice a week (in a car I
hasten to add). I also learnt that there appears to be dog agility classes at
the kennels en route and three churches in Abington. The first one, the URC, was
not open so we went to St Mary’s, Great Abington, and St Mary’s, Little Abington
which, if my memory serves me right, has colonies of bats with the only breeding
Natterer bats in Cambridgeshire.
Soon we headed on to Hildersham. Down a hill we whizzed and up to Holy Trinity,
which was a surprise. It looked quite ordinary from the outside but the artwork
was incredible. Standing looking over a field with two beautiful horses in it I
thought - what a doddle! An hour and a quarter and I’d done six churches! Boy
was I in for a shock! Balsham was next (another Holy Trinity). Sally, very
sensibly, stopped for some blackberries so Gloria and I joined her. They weren’t
terribly tasty compared to those at Whittlesford but I enjoyed them anyway.
We continued on to Balsham and the hill seemed to carry on and on. The Balsham
stop was quite convenient - a loo at last! It would be a while before any others
were spotted We had a very friendly welcome and saw a few more cyclists
including a lady wearing a hat underneath her cycling helmet! Soon Sally carried
on to Newmarket and Gloria and I headed for St Andrew’s at West Wratting. I
thought I was seeing things as we pulled up to the door - flasks and cake! Not
far behind us was the lady with the hat and helmet - we got chatting and it
turned out she was called Helen and was supporting Hildersham church. She was
protecting herself from the sun and from accidents with a belt and braces
approach.
The two became three again and off we went down the hill. Gloria pointed out the
bus shelter - on the way up she had spotted what looked like school chairs
inside and there turned out to be a blackboard as well. I suppose people do get
bored waiting for buses!
St Mary’s (yes, another one) at Weston Colville was closer than I thought and I
was disappointed to find it closed. Then on to Brinkley, where my husband
arrived with supplies. At this point the lack of originality in church names was
becoming slightly ridiculous. Yes you’ve guessed it, another St Mary’s! It was
nice to see a church where the bells were rung from the ground floor. The
gentleman who welcomed us rang one of them and I had a quick go at one of the
others but I have to admit I’m not sure whether I was doing it correctly, and it
seemed a lifetime since I’d tried to learn at Linton. After lunch Gloria and I
set off en-route back to Linton (Helen having gone on before we got to
Brinkley). Gloria, very sensibly, headed straight back to Linton but at Weston
Colville I went off to find the Methodist Chapel. The next few hours seemed to
be very long. I got to the chapel then pushed on to Carlton church. This is a
lovely, unspoilt little church, which looked like it should have been the
setting for the wedding in Lorna Doone.
Eventually, past the turning for Weston Colvillle, I came across the memorial at
the site of Wratting Common RAF.
I wonder what memorials will be erected to those who have gone to Iraq and not
come back and whether they will be remembered in a couple of generations? The
memorial made me appreciate what my Dad had gone through during the war . The
next day when I rang home it turned out that he had been based there! Anyway,
back to the cycling and the churches.
Off to West Wickham I rode, to be welcomed by a closed church. It was a nice
spot and an attractive looking church so I must go back. It was the last St
Mary’s out of the 14 churches I visited.
The next stop was All Saints at Horseheath where they looked very surprised to
see me. They had not realised there was a sponsored cycle ride. Still, it was
nice to find people impressed by what I had done - perhaps it was worth it after
all. Surprise, surprise they have a loo in the church. Hurrah!
At this point I was in a quandary - I could go home but I had another hour or so
to go so I could get in some other churches. So my husband and I agreed to meet
at Shudy Camps church. As it turned out this was a major mistake (next year I
will take a map so I can see where the churches are!). My husband received a sad
little message saying I ached all over and had to go back up a hill to find the
church, and him. Eventually I found my husband but no church. I still don’t know
where that church is. If anyone mentions the words Shudy Camps and I look a
little odd it is only because I associate it with being in pain!
Even so I really would recommend doing the cycle ride. It was tremendous fun and
I hope to get 15 churches on my form next year.
So any time you see someone cycling for any of the Historic Churches Trusts, be
nice to them and present them with a bottle of Radox!
DO you have an eye for a story? Do you ever make up alternative
headlines for news articles or always notice tiny typos in books and newspapers?
The Linton News is looking for a new Editor-designate to learn within the team
and then take over as Editor. Could you be that person? Anyone can apply. Even
if you have just moved to the village or if you have never edited before, give
us a call.
The Editor needs writing and organisation skills and experience with Apple Mac’s
would be an advantage, but it is not essential. Everyone who joins the Linton
News is trained and supported by the other members of the team. It is an
excellent opportunity to learn and practise new skills and at the same time
really get to know Linton.
The Linton News is an independent organisation but it is owned by the Parish
Council, as are the computers and software that are used to produce the paper.
Every member of the team is a volunteer. Production of the Linton News is a
highly organised enterprise and missing deadlines is not an option. The Editor
is involved in deciding what will be covered in the next issue, receiving
submissions to the paper, asking people to write articles and even doing some
writing and taking the odd photograph or two. It is an extremely varied role.
After articles have been received the pages are put together using desktop
publishing software, proofs are read and finalised and the pages are sent to the
printer. Of course the Editor does not have the only important role. The other
members of the team are also vital to the paper. The Editor is aided by the
Assistant Editor’s (currently Sally Simmons and Wendy Foster). Judith Rouse gets
in the advertising that provides the revenue to produce the paper, Norman Dann
produces the ads and keeps the accounts, Mandy Honeyman designs and manages the
website, Graham Potter is the production manager and Gloria Fidler and Tracey
Wilson read proofs and write articles. Finally, Kate France organises
distribution. If you would like to discuss this opportunity further please
telephone Hazel Olway or email
LNeditor@linton.info.
LNT
September meeting:
IT was reported that, after much deliberation, The Linton News team has agreed
to an extra page in the paper devoted to the Parish Council (see pages 7 & 8).
Progress is still being made on the churchyard lighting but there is a delay
regarding the type of lamps that can be used in a conservation area.
Reports are still being received about cars parked on grass verges on the days
they are being cut. There are three contractors working within the village and
co-ordination and advertising of the days on which grass cutting is to take
place is problematic.
It has been agreed that a hedge will be planted on the rear boundary of the
cemetery. Loose head stones etc. are being investigated. A damaged plank in the
bridge over the river next to the church had been reported and quickly repaired.
The repairs needed on the adventure playground have been completed, all except
for one minor repair that will not affect use.
1289 replies to the village survey have been received and are being processed by
a Market Research company. The council also are being asked to discuss the
future of the Paynes Meadow area for either recreation or development. No
decision was agreed but all parties are invited to an open meeting for ideas on
its future.
A letter outlining costs to alter Back Road at the Balsham Road end was
received. The cost was considered out of council budget and was passed to the
Traffic working party for discussion.
A resident has complained to council about the parking in Meadow Lane. After
discussion this was passed to the County Council Highway for comment.
A concern that has been with us since issue one of The Linton News - dog fouling
- was raised again. The District Council has a new Dog Warden so fouling can now
be reported and hopefully action will be taken.
The lighting on the new dwelling in Balsham Road was raised again. It would seem
all streetlights are subject to light pollution laws and the light on the side
of the development is still causing problems.
Council discussed the colour of a building on Cambridge Road but as it is not in
the Conservation Area and is not a Listed Building, there is nothing that can be
done.
Thirteen crimes have been reported to the police during August. There is a
Police Consultation meeting to be held on 9th October at Bassingbourn. The
District councillors reported that SCDC were to discuss a request from the local
Police Authority to assist in funding of the newly created Police Community
Support Officers. This is to be discussed at the next Parish Council meeting.
Linton is to benefit from a feasibility study by the Environmental Agency with
funding being provided by SCDC.
It is hoped that a swimming pool linked with the new special needs school could
be designed to incorporate a pool for public use.
It was reported that constituencies’ boundaries were now being reviewed and that
there was a proposal to remove the Abingtons, Linton and Balsham from the South
East constituency of Mr Paice and put them into the South constituency of Andrew
Lansley.
Councillors are still worried that not enough attention has been given to the
wheelie bins’ situation in parts of the High Street, though the bins are shortly
due in Linton. It was reported that all properties in High Street had been
surveyed and those affected will be allowed to keep their plastic bags. There is
a SCDC Hotline for information.
It was reported that there might be a possibility to improve the Pavilion
facilities. Councillors had no objection but expressed a wish that it should
include a storage area for the container contents.
The district councillor reported that phase 1 of Flaxfields development has
received permission and is fully funded. Phase 2 is still in the pipeline. It
was agreed that a place for a bench in the Rivey Close/Balsham Road/Tower Green
area would be investigated.
The 30 mph yellow backed signs on Horseheath Road and Balsham Road are missing.
At the start of the new school term, traffic problems were being experienced in
the High Street, particularly around the Co-op. Lorries parking and extending
their delivery time into the time when the schools start their day was the
cause.
Picky Heather Greenhalgh presents Sarah Bowie with her prize.
FOR many residents in Linton, this summer consisted of strained
necks, peering through railings and furtive scribbling down of house numbers.
The reason? Why the Linton Picture Quiz of course - and a grand prize of £75.
The quiz was devised and sold by the Linton Infants School PSA. To give everyone
a fair chance, the quiz was launched at the Summer Fair in June and finished in
mid September. A little over £260 pounds was raised in the process.
The objective was to find the location of 75 pictures taken around the village
of distinctive parts of buildings. A simpler quiz consisting of 25 pictures was
produced so that the infant children could take part too.
Of the 120 or so souls who rose to the challenge, a total of fifteen returned
correct forms. The lucky winner, Sarah Bowie was drawn out of a hat by Heather
Greenhalgh (headmistress) at the school’s AGM on 22nd September. The fastest
correct entrant was John Supcik who received a bottle of bubbly and some
chocolates. He completed the challenge in an extraordinary two days. I only hope
that no-one needed a plumber over that period!
Interestingly, one of the hardest pictures to identify was the Infants School
itself, although the lights in Gary Hall’s window caused some sleepless nights.
A big thanks must go to Sweet Talk News and Hale and Jacobs newsagents for
acting as selling points for the quiz, which enabled everyone in the village to
get involved. The correct answers and the names of the fifteen correct entrants
will be shown in the window of Sweet Talk News.
What will next years challenge be? You will just have to wait and see.
Ewen Kellar
SAVE The Children (Linton and District) are holding Christmas
coffee mornings where a wide range of Christmas cards and gifts will be on sale.
The coffee mornings will be held at Mabbutts, High Street, Hildersham on
Saturday 11th October and at The Old Guildhall, 4 Church Lane, Linton from
10.30am - 12 noon on Saturday 1st November .
Do come and help the children of the world who are living in poverty. Every
three seconds a child dies of hunger or illness rooted in poverty.
Judith White
I AM sure that many of us have enjoyed playing with dolls’
houses in our youth. The Hildersham WI were therefore delighted to welcome Mrs A
Pelley who spoke to us about ‘The World of Miniature Dolls’ Houses’.
Mrs Pelley explained that dolls houses were originally used as teaching aids for
children and that the wonderful miniature pieces of furniture were carpenter’s
apprentice pieces. The earliest dolls’ house dates back to 1675 and in 1988 was
valued at £25,000. The famous Queen Mary’s dolls house has never been valued.
Apparently American dolls’ houses always open from the back whereas English ones
open from the front.
Mrs Pelley’s display incorporated exhibits of different shops, gardens and
scenes illustrating famous pictures. She explained that it is essential to use
only authentic materials in keeping with the times. All monies from Mrs Pelley’s
talks and exhibitions are donated to the Milton Children’s Hospice.
Gillian Anderson
ON a warm September evening it was business before pleasure at
the WI bring and share Harvest Supper.
Boards were circulated for suggestions for an outing next summer.
Members were reminded of the Jumble Sale at the Social Centre on 11th October in
aid of WI funds; help in the morning and afternoon will be needed.
Reports were given of outings arranged by the County Federation to Bolsover
Castle in Derbyshire and to the Theatre in Southwold to see a performance of
‘Dry Rot’; both outings were enjoyed by all.
Eight members volunteered as a WI group to enter the Quiz evening and supper, a
fund raising event organised by Sue Ellis for the work on the Bells of St Mary’s
on 4th October at Linton Infants’ School.
Dawn Scott thanked those who had given blankets for the appeal for the Malindi
Orphan Care Group and 80 were ready to be collected and delivered.
Eventually we were able to satisfy our appetites with a splendid assortment of
savouries and delicious desserts followed by coffee or tea.
The next meeting is at 7.30pm on Tuesday 7th October at the Social Centre when
the Rev. David Reindorp will speak on ‘Millionaire or Bust’. There will be a
trading stall for cakes and produce.
Cynthia Norris
LINTON WI will be having a jumble sale at 2pm on Saturday 11th
October, at the Social Centre. There will also be a nearly new rail. A small
amount will be charged for admission and for tea and biscuits.
Contributions are very welcome. If you have anything you would like to donate
please bring it to the hall at 12 noon No large items or furniture please.
Joan Pearman
Dear Editor
I moved to Linton just under three years ago - to a lovely house in what I
thought was a lovely, safe village. My house fronts directly onto the road and I
do my best to keep it in good repair and plant regularly to keep it looking
attractive for anyone walking through our village. But there has proved to be
one big drawback.
In the three years I have been here I have been a victim of verbal abuse and my
home has been subject to regular attacks of criminal damage.
This last occasion was at pub closing, when a crowd of drunk youngsters roamed
the High Street - stopping at my house to demolish plants and plant boxes. I
gave chase - only to be revisited the following night with threats to kick my
door in
The police suggested that I log this as a case of criminal damage - which I have
done. Their view was that this sort of occurrence is becoming more regular - so
heaven help us all!
Advice? YES! Log all similar incidents with our local police - they can act only
when they are made aware of petty crimes such as this - but to do this they must
have the information.
So, to all of us who want to feel safe and secure in our homes and who want to
be proud of the village we have chosen to live in - please act before Linton
becomes a sorry place to live.
Dear Editor
This summer, residents living on or near Wheatsheaf Way have had to endure ‘Boy
Racers’. Speeding, revving engines, screeching tyres, blaring music, handbrake
turns, up to seven cars circuit racing at one time – all this between 7pm and
5am. It’s not just a noise nuisance, it’s extremely dangerous driving.
The noise has disturbed our sleep many times. Summer evenings were ruined when
we would have liked to have been sitting outside enjoying our garden. I am
confident we are not the only household that has been distressed and upset by
this anti-social behaviour.
The police have been helpful and are aware of the problem. Residents can help by
phoning the police on ( 358966 to report dangerous driving or provide
information that could help them to identify the drivers and their vehicles.
Dear Editor
A short while ago there was a public meeting at the Social
Centre to agree proposals to improve safety, noise and environmental pollution;
it was chaired by the local authorities. At that meeting, the majority of the
electorate voted to close the High Street to through traffic coupled with a new
roundabout at the Horseheath Road junction.
Since then, I have gained the impression that the Parish Council had set their
own agenda for a one-way system and were not prepared to consider alternatives.
This has been demonstrated by the recent questionnaire that, in true Blairite
fashion, only seeks our comments on the favoured one-way system. As we have had
no opportunity to comment on the alternatives, the Council will be able to
report our views only in respect of the one-way system as if this is our
majority proposal.
Very clever but hardly fair or democratic. I trust we can make our wishes on the
(preferred) alternative proposals known to the County and District Councils.
M R K Holden
Dear Editor
I wonder if your readers will be able to help me? I have discovered that from
the early 1700’s to mid 1800’s my husband’s ancestors were living and
multiplying in Linton.
The names on the family tree are Strange, Cartwright, Seaman, Brown (and maybe
Wallen). Does anyone know how I can find out any further information about
people living in Linton at that time?
Sheila Strange Hertfordshire
Picky A murmuration of starlings convene on a Linton rooftop
HOW about this ‘parliament’ of starlings, evidently not so
scarce as supposed. What could they have been debating?
It’s been observed that as soon as one flies away the others all move up to fill
the space. Is that what’s known as a cabinet reshuffle?
Gloria Fidler
NOW the Indian summer is over and it is finally autumn it is
time to book your ’flu jabs at the Health Clinic.
Everyone over the age of 65 and those in ‘at risk’ groups are eligible for a
’flu jab.
We have three Saturday clinics in October and other sessions at various times
throughout the week.
We hope to hear from you soon.
Sheila Griffiths
BELGRAVE House veterinary surgery recently received three
worried calls from people who had tried to catch what appeared to be an
abandoned lurcher dog along the Roman Road between Hildersham and Linton. One of
the callers said the dog ran into the road in front of her car but she was
unable to catch it.
The animal was finally captured after a couple of days when it was scavenging
for food. It was taken to Sawston police who suggested it was abandoned by hare
coursers the previous weekend.
The Linton vet is pleased the dog is happily re-homed and the new owners are
delighted with their gentle and well-behaved pet.
They are concerned that such animals are victims of circumstance. They point out
that the dogs are in no way to blame for the illegal sport they are trained for
and are badly let down when they fail to run fast enough.
Kate France
MRS Ann Simpkin won the pair of tickets to see Cambridge United play at any home match this season. The tickets were very generously given to Linton Guides to help raise money for two Linton girls selected to go to an international Scout and Guide camp in Austria. Kate France
THE winners of September’s K-Club monthly draw:
1st (£50) Dr Y Hsiao (No. 190);
2nd (£25) Mr B Richardson (No. 176);
3rd (£10) Mrs W Foster (No. 197).
NEARLY 1300 completed surveys have been sent away for data
processing. This is an excellent response and the steering group would like to
thank everyone who took the trouble to fill one in. Many of you complained about
the length of it so it may help to remind you that:
The original survey was much shorter but many additional questions arose
following the consultation with the village back in March!
Residents of villages all over the country have been filling in questionnaires
of similar length, so you are not alone!
Many of you were very willing to remind us of Linton’s problems but finding a
solution acceptable to the majority may not be so easy; it therefore needed to
be detailed if it was going to be of any use.
Especial thanks are owed to the deliverers and collectors, of whom there were
over 60 volunteers. We hope to write to all of you soon but will postpone doing
so until we have the data returned and can arrange dates for future meetings.
These will be advertised as before in the Linton News and around the village.
Thank you again to all who helped.
Judith Rossiter
THE Camera Club used its September meeting at the Social centre
to get organised, with members taking on specific responsibilities for running
parts of the club.
That took a couple of minutes and the rest of the time was devoted to what
members like to do - getting into the photography.
Ten members competed for space with scores of prints brought in for inspection
and friendly assessment by members and then we enjoyed members’ digital
photographs being shown on the club’s computer. Photographs ranged from the
summer’s awayday subjects to insects and a hot-air balloon rally.
The club organisers are: Events and awaydays: Roger Lapwood and Ron Pitkin,
Website editor: Jim Cracknell, Treasurer: Mike Clay, Refreshments: Alex Todd,
New members & PR: John Keeble
If you are interested in joining the club, email jkeeble@clara.net; or
visit www.camclub.info where you can see examples of members’ photography.
Everyone is welcome, so why not come and join us next month?
John Keeble
THE Young Parent Project is run by Romsey Mill in Cambridge to
give advice and support to teenage parents in the area (they accept referrals
from Linton). On 8th October the Family Resource Centre is open for collections
of unwanted baby equipment, baby clothes (up to one year), maternity clothes,
and baby toys.
If you have anything that you would like to donate please bring it along between
10am and 3pm to the Social Centre. Much of this unique project relies on
fundraising and any goods that are not needed by these teenagers are sold in
their charity shop to help support them. Please ensure all items are in good
condition and have instructions where possible.
Romsey Mill are also desperate for volunteers to help transport these donations
to Mill Road in Cambridge (the charity shop is situated behind Cycle King with
free car parking) If you can help please call me. Please also call if
you will be bringing large amounts so that transport can be planned. Tracey
Clayton
A VERY special series of eight concerts over the next eight
months includes the inauguration of Linton Music Society’s new grand piano by
the internationally known pianist John Lill. The piano will be housed in LVC,
and the first taste of programming using the piano comes in the opening concert
given by the Bingham String Quartet with pianist Nigel Clayton. This exciting
programme includes the Brahms Piano Quintet, Haydn String Quartet Op.33 No.2
‘Joke’ and Shostakovich’s String Quartet No.8 and will be performed at 7.30pm on
4th October at LVC.
Tickets from the Box Office ((503333) or on the door.
Sally Plummer
ACTIVITIES and Care for the Elderly - ACE – has been having a
holiday, but will be back in action in October.
Our coach trip to Angelsey Abbey on Thursday 21st August, was well attended.
This beautiful local National Trust house and Mill has famous gardens. At this
visit, the dahlias were the highlight - the range of types and colours was quite
amazing. We hope to re-visit when the spring flowers are the feature.
Our next ACE social event is the Christmas Gala Matinee at Thursford– a really
spectacular show, I am told. We will find out on 23rd November, thanks to Linda
obtaining tickets; not an easy task. We will make a day outing of this, but as
it is a matinee we will not be home too late. We will subsidise the coach, but
there will be a charge. Please contact Linda or Gill/Dawn ((891001).
This is open to all older villagers, but hurry as tickets are going fast.
Again, thanks to the ladies of the committee who organise these events; your
work is much appreciated.
If you feel that you could help us, please contact Enid. We would be happy to
hear from you, as a little extra help is always welcome.
Enid Bald
Picky Visit Sumatran Tigers at Linton Zoo
IT’S Tiger Week at Linton Zoo! Throughout the half-term holiday
a full programme of keeper talks and interactive events will take place but
additionally we will be especially focusing on tigers.
Linton Zoo hopes to raise £2,000 towards a European Zoo Association campaign,
which is supporting several projects aimed at helping to save tigers in the
wild.
There will be talks at the tiger enclosure daily and various items, such as
photos of Anastasia, Linton’s tiger cub, and tiger key rings will be on sale,
the proceeds of which will support the tiger campaign.
At the beginning of the 1900’s there were eight subspecies of tigers, numbering
around 100,000 animals; now we have only five subspecies and around 5,000 tigers
left in the wild.
Captive breeding programmes such as the one at Linton are successful and this
will help safeguard against total extinction but much more work and support is
needed to protect natural habitats and the last few tigers that we have left in
the places they so rightly belong.
Kim Simmons
LINTON Historical Society AGM took place on 16th September. Our
speaker was Tim Ellis, a local thatcher, originally living in Linton. He was
apprenticed to a Norfolk master thatcher for eight years before starting up on
his own. It is a very hard, lonely but rewarding life. Mr Ellis brought along
samples of the materials and tools of the trade – Norfolk Thatch and Long Straw.
Unfortunately these days Britain does not produce enough; 60- 70% of alternative
materials have to be imported, and the cost of roofing with thatch is
particularly expensive.
There are about 700 thatchers in the country and Mr Ellis will soon be looking
for an apprentice to train. Norfolk Thatched roofs last for about 50 years, Long
Straw for 25 – 30. Thatching has been used on houses for about 900 years – but
the patterned ridging is relatively recent, as is the covering of the roof with
chicken wire to keep out predators, such as birds, rats, mice and more recently
squirrels. The method of thatching was demonstrated and the use of different
tools explained. Many questions were answered and members will now be looking at
thatched roofs with quite an experienced eye. A wonderful example of Mr Ellis’s
work can be seen in Green Lane where he is presently re-roofing in Norfolk
Thatch.
The next meeting is on Tuesday 21st October, when Stan Sutherland will explain
the use of local and national records for family history research.
Joan Pearman
BEING a parent is one of the few things in life that you don’t
need a qualification for, yet it’s an incredible challenge which sometimes
requires every ounce of your energy.
Parentalk is designed to give small groups of parents a chance to share
experiences, learn from each other and discover how to enjoy parenthood.
The Family Resource Centre will be running Parentalk sessions in Linton from 8pm
starting on Tuesday 4th November.
The course lasts eight weeks, is video based, very easy to understand and
benefits every parent. Why not pop down to the Resource Centre on a Wednesday to
test out the video and magazine content for yourself?
Please telephone Sarah or Tracey if you would like to register for this
course.
Or if you have an interest in one on an alternative day or time, why not get a
group of half a dozen friends together and run the course yourself?
Parentalk also produce a series of books that are available to borrow or buy
from the Resource Centre. Parentalk guides are packed full of practical, down to
earth information and advice on how to make the most of all the important stages
of your child’s growing up.
Some of the titles include The First Six Weeks, The Teenage Years, Being a
Grandparent, Your Child and the Internet and Being a Working Parent.
Tracey Clayton
ON 5th September 60 golfers from Hadstock and Linton took part,
in teams of four, in the Annual Hadstock Golf Day at The Lakeside Golf Club.
The standard this year, our fourteenth, was the best ever, with thirteen of the
fifteen teams being under par. The trophy was shared between Andrew Arnold,
Brian Bacon, Jeremy Taylor and Paul Penney, the hot favourites, and outsiders
Tim Plumridge, Roger Smith, Adam Boyden and David Durrant, with a score of five
under par.
Afterwards everyone enjoyed a very pleasant evening at the King’s Head in
Hadstock with music and a superb buffet. Our thanks to the King’s Head for an
excellent evening.
The long driving contest was won by David Farrant and the special prize
concerning sartorial elegance was won by Murray McKenzie. The Cropper Spoon was
won by Glyn Cropper. Why? Well, ask him.
Tim Plumridge
ON Wednesday 8th October The Family Resource Centre will be
holding a Visitor Display Day.
Many of our regular users and visitors will come together to display and/or sell
their products including Creative Memories, Beverley’s Jewellery, Busy Fingers,
Usbourne Books & Traidcraft. There is no obligation to buy and we would welcome
you to join us for a cuppa between 2 & 4pm at the Social Centre. For further
details contact Tracey or
traceyrussell@talk21.com.
Tracey Clayton
FUNDS raised at this year’s Thurlow Fayre surpassed all previous
21 years. The monies will be distributed over the coming month to the churches
of Little Bradley, Little Thurlow and Great Thurlow, plus the village hall, the
sports pavilion, the WI, Thurlow School, Preschool and Toddler Group, and
village sports teams. The Royal National Institute for the Blind will also be
receiving £100, donated by the ‘Odds and Sods’ Tug-of-war team drawn from
members of the crowd.
Susanne White
"ALL souls day" is the time of year when we traditionally
remember the souls of those who have died. This year at 6pm on Sunday 2nd
November there will be a service at St. Mary’s Church when those who have been
bereaved this year, or at any time, can come together to pray, to sing hymns, to
remember and give thanks for the lives of their friends and loved ones. Everyone
is warmly invited. The names of those who have died will be read out and candles
of remembrance will be lit during the service. There will be a time to talk
after the service when refreshments will be served.
Please give the names of those to be remembered to Lesley Gore
Lesley Gore
GRANTA Grapevine, the monthly talking newspaper for visually
impaired people in the Linton area, will be holding its twelfth Annual General
Meeting in the Community Room at Chalklands at 2.30pm on Wednesday 15th October.
Members, friends and anyone interested in the work of the Grapevine are invited
to attend.
New listeners to enjoy the tapes and new volunteers to help in their production
are always welcome.
Janet Crofts
SINCE our last update, things have developed significantly. BT
has announced a lowering of the trigger levels necessary for ADSL Broadband to
be brought to Linton. The good news is that we have now reached this trigger
level and the service will be available from 5th November. To check whether you
are able to get ADSL, visit the following website
http://62.172.198.79/broadband1/ and if successful you will need to choose a
service provider and place an order. Further details on ADSL and service
providers can be found at
http://www.adslguide.org.uk.
The results of the EEDA "Connecting Competition" were announced at the end of
July. Our community bid along with several others in the Cambridge area was
aggregated with the South Cambs District Council bid to achieve better economies
of scale and value for money. However, since BT has recently seen the awakening
of broadband interest in rural communities, it has used its monopolistic
position to set or alter trigger levels for communities such as ours, affecting
community level schemes. The SCDC bid is not allowed to cover Linton since most
users will be able to get ADSL and the community service providers, Invisible
networks do not see any financial viability in covering Linton now.
The remaining 12 villages covered in our original bid will be treated as a
priority by SCDC but the provision of broadband is yet to be determined as SCDC
must follow a yet to be finalized procedure in allocating funds or through a
tendering process. Even though bids were aggregated, there is no additional
funding for these communities and even the money SCDC bid for has been cut by
10% to give a total of £300,000 for all the 101 communities covered in the bid.
A consequence of this reduction in funding is that any community elements, which
may have benefited the community are lost, and now that ADSL is available for
Linton there is no central focal point. It was hoped that a community dividend
would be payable by the supplier for each subscription but due to the low level
of funding and the availability of broadband to Linton already this will now be
unavailable.
We are now waiting to see what proposals SCDC will make for the remaining 12
villages and how their broadband requirements will be met and at what price. As
more updates become available we will make them available via the Linton News.
Adrian Winckles
THE NSPCC (Linton Branch) will be holding a Wine Tasting and
Tapas Evening at 8pm on Saturday 22nd November at Linton House (courtesy of Dr
and Mrs Bertram). Phillip Harris of Laymot and Shaw Wine Merchants will talk
about fine wines from Spain, Portugal and South America.
The wines sampled will be for sale and available in good time for Christmas.
Guests will also enjoy a delicious assortment of tapas, traditional Spanish
appetisers.
All proceeds will go to support the work of the NSPCC. Please put the date in
your diary now!
For further information and ticket reservations, please contact me.
Martha Crouch.
Picky John Batchelor (Chairman LA4Y), Anne Parry-Smith (K-club member), Peter
Dixon (K-club promoter)
THE final prize draw of the 2002/03 ‘K-Club’ year was made on
Friday 26th September at the combined churches’ Harvest Supper Barn Dance. The
first prize-winning number was No.085 held by Bob and Frances Simmonds, who will
receive a cheque for £750. Bob said they were, "delighted to win and very
pleased to support Linton Action for Youth in the brilliant work it does".
Kate Homan (No.342) won the second prize of £300 with Judy Rossiter picking up
the third prize of £100 with No.234.
All the winners are from Linton and are picking up a prize for the first time in
5 years membership - over this period the ‘K-Club’ has raised more than £9,000
for Linton Action for Youth, to help fund youth-related activities in and around
the Linton area.
Peter Dixon
FLAXFIELDS have organised an autumn outing to cheer us up before
the onset of winter.
There will be a day trip to Sandringham on Thursday 16th October. The coach will
be leaving at 10am and returning at 4pm.
The coach will be accessible by disabled customers. If you would like further
details, including details of the cost of the trip, please contact Jacque.
Jacque Wilson
THE Gardening Club’s new season begins with the AGM on 14th
October, after which there will be a display of members’ slides and photos.
There will also be some bulbs for sale and, if they have survived the summer’s
hot weather, a selection of plants. The Club is still in need of committee
members so we would be pleased to hear from any volunteers.
A varied programme will follow when we meet at 7.30pm on the second Tuesday of
every month at the Social Centre. The talks will include the Gardens of the West
Highlands, Gertrude Jekyll and the Edwardian garden and the care of houseplants.
The December meeting is a social evening when we relax and anticipate Christmas.
We look forward to meeting up with existing members and would welcome any
newcomers.
Gloria Fidler
ON 11th October Aztecs Junior Football club will be holding a
Dance at Linton Village College from 7.30pm . The popular local band QED will be
rocking the night away with a great selection of covers from the 70’s 80’s and
90’s .
Tickets for this dance will sell fast as it has always been a great night out.
There will be a bar and raffle.
Max Penfold
FIRST day of September, two thousand and three. We may tell our
children, and they may tell theirs how we saw the closest passing of Mars for
sixty thousand years. I too was out there Mars-ing with polished lenses and
shaky hands as the first wave of chilly autumnal mists rolled in from the night.
Whatever this big red and brightly shining planet may signify, my interest was
caught between spectacles. Zooming in on the big harvest moon in search of Chang
Er, I panned back to earth with a clump of vivid scarlet and red geraniums
illuminated by the garden lamp in my sights.
I took a few private moments to value the fruition of summer and celebrate the
marvel of seasons as our planet spins with little falter around the sun. On Mars
I hardly think you will find bouquets of bright yellow crazy daisies or
elderberry hung heavy with fruit and here the man in the moon often smiles down
on us all.
Much more locally, a little dog appeared to squeak on the recreational ground,
leaping back in surprise at the bright green and purple wiggly thing on the
grass. Actually it wasn’t the dog that squeaked at all, but a death’s head hawk
moth caterpillar Acherontia atropos. If it were to survive and turn into a moth
one would clearly see markings over its head resembling the skull and crossbones
giving rise to folklore surrounding this beast as a harbinger of war. Well,
don’t be alarmed, for this gigantic and magnificent creature that grows to about
three inches long and sticks out like a sore thumb will almost certainly be put
to death by our cold winter or by bird, cat, dog or man.
As a caterpillar its diet consists largely of deadly nightshade and potato
plants, yet the moth has a penchant for honey, using a very powerful proboscis
to prize its way into beehives, hence it is also known as the bee robber.
Another caterpillar of similar colour and size is that of the privet moth Sphinx
ligustri reputed to be the largest British resident moth. Despite its menacing
black horn it feeds primarily on privet and lilac and whilst doing so this
larvae, and other hawk moth larvae, have a habit of raising their front ends in
a sphinx-like pose as its Latin name suggests, and indeed in America they are
known as sphinx moths.
Reg stood in his impeccable garden and said "See that yonder field? When I was a
boy, depending on the weather, it would be harvested one week before September
ends, or one week after" He continued with a sigh, "The ol’ boys used to miss a
week off school to help their families with baling". He looked down at the soil
with furrowed brow, praising the sanctuary of his allotment.
I remembered when he was a young farmer and how I skived a day off school to
look after my pet privet moth caterpillar. Fascinated by its colour I spent the
day in bed painting pictures of it over and over again whilst pondering; if
moths are attracted to light then why did they not all fly towards the moon? Oh
well! Chang Er took a pill, turned into a fairy and flew there.
Now the harvest and Mars have passed and Reg no longer farms, but I do hope you
all had a moment on the sixteenth of September to see the clouds bathed in red
evening sunlight hanging like Portuguese men-of-war in the skies above the water
tower. Like something from Mars. An artist from Hadstock commented, ‘Truth,
stranger than fiction".
THE Bowls Club competition finals were held on Sunday 21st
September with Eric Garden beating Roy Traver in the singles and M. Botcher/B.
Beavis beating A Hodson/D. Dimmock in the pairs.
We are now starting our winter pair competition, the draw having been made after
the finals.
Do come along to our AGM in the Pavilion at 7.30pm on Tuesday 28th October. All
prospective new members are very welcome and there will be tea and biscuits
after.
Derek Dimmock
Note Parish Council Matters is written, edited and published by the Parish Council with the support of the Linton News Team.
Parish Council Matters
Mrs Gill Barker, Clerk to the Parish Council
WELCOME to the first edition of a regular update on the work of
the Parish Council. These pages will keep you up-to-date with matters dealt with
at Parish Council meetings; introduce you to your Parish Councillors; and
publish important Council documents, such as the Chairman’s Annual Report and
relevant parts of the Council’s annual accounts. You will find details of how to
contact us by phone, personal visit, letter and email. Councillors will use
these pages to highlight the main areas of their work.
In the past details of Parish Council business have only been posted on the
Parish Notice Board. While we will continue to do this, these pages will enable
us to expand the information we provide each month. They also give us the
opportunity to seek your views on issues before Council decisions are taken.
Your feedback will be essential. Future editions will run a Residents’ Responses
column and we would love to hear your comments. You know what they say: if you
like what you read, tell others--if you don’t, tell us!
Some of what we will publish in the paper reflects our ambition to achieve
Quality Parish Council status. It’s not obligatory to do this but Linton
Councillors have decided that they want to do more than just the minimum
required, and have given their wholehearted support to making these pages a
success.
A huge thank you is due to the Linton News Team, who have agreed to publish
these pages in the Linton News each month and have been extremely helpful in
guiding us in how to make it more interesting for you to read. Assuming you have
got this far – they must have had some effect! There’s no denying that a
proportion of the Parish Council’s work is routine, and pretty mundane – but we
will try to keep it to a minimum in the paper. Again, any suggestions would be
very welcome.
Gill Barker
Tony Smith
ONE of the most constant areas of concern of the Parish Council
is traffic and safety on Linton’s roads, in particular the High Street and the
A1307.
The problems of the High Street are well known, particularly to mothers with
small children. However, we are now considering these problems specifically from
the point of view of less agile and able members of the community.
We have the opportunity for grant funding from the Jointly-Funded Minor
Improvement Schemes, which are considered annually by the County Council, and
this year we are hoping to put forward two schemes: a bid for a
‘mini-roundabout’ at the junction of Balsham Road and the High Street; and the
Linton Disability Access Project.
Who better to assist the Parish Council in identifying these problems than
residents Tony Smith and Margaret Anderson. With their input we have identified
specific areas where road crossing is a problem (if not impossible!), as well as
areas where small changes could considerably improve visibility, and hazards
that others might not notice.
This scheme incorporates dropped kerbs, additional and painted safety barriers,
and removal of hazards, all of which would improve access to most of the village
amenities. Plans can be consulted in the Parish Council Office and anyone is
welcome to add their suggestions for the scheme.
During walks around the village it was noticed that some of the hazards could be
tackled by individual householders, for example overgrown foliage and hedges,
and steps which narrow the width of pavements. It is particularly noticeable in
Symonds Lane at the moment, where the hedgerow has been cut right back, that the
pavement is now of sufficient width to allow residents in wheelchairs to utilise
this area more safely. Steps which protrude onto paths could be painted white to
make them visible.
Complaints are frequently received of bikes being ridden on pavements, or left
lying on pavements. If cyclists knew how dangerous and distressing this can be
to the disabled or visually impaired, they would act differently.
All road users and pedestrians have to live together in the village. Lets be
more considerate of each other! With the Disability Discrimination Act coming
into force in 2004, help us to ensure that Linton is in the forefront of caring
for less able residents.
Negotiating the junction at Horn Lane
August 2003
The Chairman welcomed two new recently elected Councillors, Esther Cornell and
Bob Hammett.
Residents Andy Booth and Tony Smith were thanked by the Chairman for their
assistance in advertising the change of rubbish collection day.
Mr Clay reported on Open Spaces. There had been problems cutting grass verges,
due to parked cars.
Mr Gore reported on the recreation ground, in Mrs Kenyon’s absence. The block
paving in the front of the pavilion required weedkilling and the hedge
surrounding the Anglian Water pumping station required trimming.
Mr Gee reported that the cemetery was in reasonable condition and that there had
been no further correspondence concerning the child injured playing there. Mrs
Albrow reported that the Venture Playground had recently been the subject of an
arson attack with a waste bin set alight. Part of the slide unit had also been
broken. Repairs were costly but in hand.
The Chairman drew attention to the Traffic Working Party Minutes. The Council
noted that the newly formed Steering Group, including members of Access 1307,
Pavements are for People, the Parish Council and a County Highways Officer, had
also recently met and an Action Plan had now been agreed. This listed all the
works required and gave time spans for their implementation. Further regular
meetings have now been set up to 2005. Some individual items on the Action Plan
were queried, in particular the proposed new parking restrictions for the High
Street. Esther Cornell reported that this was now out for consultation with the
residents concerned and some replies had already been received.
An update on Quality Parish Council status had been circulated. Council agreed
that if the Linton News could be persuaded, an extra page circulated with their
paper was the best way forward.
The payments due were considered and agreed. The Clerk was asked to organise the
removal of the graffiti on the bus shelter at the Fire Station. All the
correspondence for July was noted. Agreement was given for Linton Guides to site
bird boxes in the Pocket Park; thanks were extended to Tony Smith for his
assistance with the Disability project. Further issues discussed: the churchyard
lighting project; a visit by members to Bircham House in Sawston with regard to
the Hereward Housing proposals for Flaxfields; Paynes Meadow Open Space (it was
agreed this would be discussed at the next meeting); an incident report from the
police regarding recent arson attacks on waste bins; a policy review.
Finally, the Chairman reported that the Clerk would be on holiday for one week
during August but the office would remain open.
Dr Cox was concerned about the Planning Application for the Dog & Duck public
house. The Listed Buildings Officer at SCDC required the roofline to ‘have a
kink in it’. Dr Cox said, ‘The continuous roof line proposed by the applicants
is much preferable.’
September 2003
Dr Urwin thanked Dr Attwood, for emptying the newly installed waste bin
on Camping Close. Arrangements had been made for it to be emptied by the proper
authority.
Councillor Hammett asked for an update on the Churchyard lighting. The Clerk
reported that it had now been agreed that three streetlights would be organised.
This required Listed Buildings approval, which was being sought.
Mrs Kenyon had issued a written report on the recreation ground. The issues
regarding trees were to be forwarded to Mrs Anderson, the Tree Warden, for her
comments.
Mr Gee reported on a request from Mrs Anderson to plant hedgerow on a section of
the rear boundary of the cemetery. This was agreed. Mr Gee further reported on a
loose monument, which had been laid down and reported to the Clerk.
Dr Rossiter reported that a plank in the footbridge south of the church had been
broken. This had been reported to the Clerk and repaired quickly.
In Mr Ballentine’s absence, Mr Potter reported that the repairs to the venture
playground had been carried out.
Dr Urwin reported, in Dr Cox’s absence, that the path widths in Leadwell Meadows
required checking. The Clerk would organise this.
Parish Plan: Dr Rossiter reported that 1289 questionnaires had been returned and
these were now being sent to the external data processors. The results were
expected within 2-3 weeks. The Market Research company had stated the 35%
response was extremely good at and the collation expense would now be within
budget.
A letter from SCDC had been received outlining a number of options for the open
space at Paynes Meadow. Councillors voiced their concerns that this area had
remained untouched since the development was completed. Problems with
negotiating a lease were revisited. As a result Councillors agreed the best way
forward was a public meeting, inviting residents of Chalklands and Paynes
Meadow, to hear what SCDC and the developers had in mind. The Clerk was to reply
seeking a public meeting, giving dates when it could be held.
The payments due were examined and agreed with Councillors Potter and Urwin
signing the cheques.
The correspondence list was then reviewed. It was noted that the Chairman would
attend the AGM of Hundred Houses; there had been several replies from residents
regarding the County Council proposals for parking restrictions in the High
Street. All of these would be forwarded to the Steering Group. The report from
the Highways put the cost for the alterations required to Back Road/Balsham Road
to enable buses to use this route at almost £55,000. This put the proposal out
of reach for the Parish through the Jointly Funded Minor Improvements bids and
as such would now have to be put to the Traffic Working Party and the Steering
Group to try to find an alternative source of funds. A letter regarding parking
in Meadow Lane had been received. Councillors noted that there was a severe
problem in this area. It was agreed to forward this to County Highways to see if
they could find a solution. There had also been a letter regarding speeding in
Wheatsheaf Way and this was to be reported to the police for action.
Councillor Clay noted an increase in dog foul on pavements. It was agreed to
notify the Dog Warden at SCDC of areas of concern. It was reported that a house
on the Cambridge Road was being painted a bright shocking pink. As the house is
not either in the Conservation Area or, indeed, a Listed Building, there is
nothing that can be done.
Gill Barker
Mrs Enid Bald
Although from Durham, coming to Linton was as if I was coming home. I would like
to help preserve the distinctive character of the village, whilst aware that it
must be flexible to meet the changing lifestyle of the inhabitants. Being
involved with tree and hedge planting is one way to enhance the natural
character of the area.
Helping start the Mobile Warden Scheme has been one way to aid the older and
less able villagers; I would like to do more for this group. Having been on NHS
salaries for most of my life, I am very aware of the need for affordable and
suitable housing for single people of all ages. I am currently exploring the
possibility of a Farmers’ Market in the village and ways to promote local trade
and industry. I am keen to improve leisure facilities for all age groups,
including paths safe for all ages and abilities to use.
email chair@lintonpc.org.uk
Mr Graham Potter
I have lived in the area all my life, coming originally from Shudy Camps, and
attended the Village College. I moved to Linton in 1980 and have been here ever
since. I joined the Parish Council in 1986 after becoming involved with the
Linton News and then its website and have been involved with all of them ever
since.
I believe any village community should be able to make full use of all the
amenities it owns--I see no point in providing something and then not being able
to use it because of its state of repair. My first duties included looking after
the adventure playground, the recreation ground then the pavilion. I have been
Chair of the Council and am currently Chair of the Finance Committee and
Vice-Chair of the Council.
I plan to continue to serve the village until I have had enough rather than it
having enough of me. (891001
email vchair@lintonpc.org.uk
Please note any member of the Parish Council can be emailed by putting their
name in front of @lintonpc.org.uk
Picky The Jubilee stone and trees on the recreation ground
Picky The refurbishments at Horn Lane Bridge
Dr Valerie Urwin, Chair of the Council, presented her Annual
Report at the Annual Parish Meeting of Linton Parish Council on 29th April,
2003.
LAST year was notable for the nation as it was the Golden Jubilee Year. The
Parish Council undertook a Golden Jubilee Project. The completion of the main
project took place on Monday 3rd June in the recreation ground. Prior to that
day we had planted a group of 20 trees, which had been carefully selected to
provide a golden look throughout most of the year and had also arranged a large
beautiful piece of Clipstream stone to be erected in the middle of this group
appropriately engraved. On Monday 3rd June, we held a ceremony to officially
open the tree area and unveil the stone - unveiling the stone proved to be
challenging but with the help of lots of willing children we succeeded. It was
lovely to see the children being involved. Once the formalities of the ceremony
were over we had organised different sporting events including football and
netball shootouts, bowling and for the younger children various races such as
egg and spoon and sack race. We supplied special trophies for all the winners,
including one for the best-dressed hobbyhorse for the little ones. Throughout
the day villagers sat and ate picnics while the two bouncy castles we provided
never seemed to stand still for more than a second. We were delighted that our
efforts to provide a village event for all ages was so well supported and if the
many comments we received after the event were anything to go by, was enjoyed by
many. It should also be noted that Linton Parish Council’s efforts for the
Jubilee were also recognised by SCDC. We won the award for the Most Long-lasting
memorial to the Golden Jubilee in South Cambridgeshire presented by South
Cambridge District Council. In addition to our main event we also arranged for
all children under 18 to receive a specially minted Jubilee Coin.
The recreation ground has seen further improvements this year. Firstly the area
in front of the pavilion has been landscaped and has had block paving installed
at a cost of £7149. Together with the new windows and doors in stalled in the
pavilion last spring, this area of the recreation ground is now an attractive
area and an asset to the village. Further to the west of the recreation ground
we have installed the much requested skateboard equipment. Thanks to much effort
from an energetic resident, Mr Creedy, in applying successfully for grants, the
Council had to put up only £1000 for this project although the total cost for
this installation was £14,650. We have been delighted to see how well used this
area is. And this project demonstrates well how the Parish Council can respond
to requests if it is within our power to do so.
The refurbishment of the Horn Lane Bridge area was completed during the year
with the laying of new tarmac. Not only on the bridge itself, which utilised a
special tarmac, but the roadway and footpath either side leading up to the
bridge were also resurfaced.
Other notable areas of expenditure throughout the year include repairs to the
venture playground, the area around the village sign and the cemetery. In
addition we gave grants to numerous local groups including £2500 to Linton
Mobile Warden Scheme and £2500 to Linton Action for Youth. We have of course
this year paid the final instalment of £33,000 for the major works on the
recreation area installed last year.
Councillors’ time is taken up with more than simply monetary issues.
Traffic problems both within the main village and on the A1307 continue to be a
major issue. We have continued to support the Action Group, Access 1307, which
was formed as a direct result of the Public Meeting organised in June 2001. I am
pleased to report that as a direct result of the Access 1307 group activities
James Paice, our local MP, has taken up our fight for improvements to the road.
We have attended two meetings recently, organised by James Paice, to bring all
the traffic issues for Linton to County Council attention. Further meetings are
planned in the near future to ensure continued pressure on County Council to
address our problems which also include the High Street. Funding or rather lack
of it would appear to be the main stumbling block for some road improvements to
be actioned, for example a roundabout at the junction of Bartlow Road and the
A1307. We have been told that this roundabout will be installed but the funding
will not be available for at least eight years. One area we are actively
involved with at the moment, which would open up an avenue of funding not
currently available to Linton, is assisting the three schools in Linton to apply
to join the Safer Route to Schools Scheme.
Another area of funding we hope to utilise in the near future is the Parish
Transport Grant.
We were however successful in our bid for funding from the Cambridge County
Council Jointly Funded Minor Improvement Scheme. Our proposal for flashing speed
warning lights on the A1307 was successful and we look forward to them being
installed during this year.
The Linton flood remains a major issue. I am pleased to report that the
three-year independent research project being carried out by the Department of
Geography at the University of Cambridge is now under-way. Details of the
proposed project were given to us [in March 2003]. I can also report that during
the last year the Environment Agency carried out a pre-feasibility study on a
Linton Flood Alleviation Scheme. The conclusion they made was that they should
now carry out a full Project Appraisal Report for a flood alleviation scheme.
However, it is not know when or if funding may become available for this work to
be carried out. Nevertheless we are hopeful that between the EA and the
University of Cambridge, Linton may get the answers we need regarding accurate
assessment of flood risk in the future and the installation of an appropriate
flood alleviation scheme.
In previous Meetings we have mentioned that we are trying to attain Quality
Parish Council Status. There were one or two major hurdles to overcome, one of
which was that Councillors had to be elected. Thanks to last years’ elections we
fulfil that condition. The other major issue was that Linton had to have a
Parish Plan. I am pleased to report that after an enormous effort by a lot of
people this condition will also be met during this year. It is interesting to
note, however, that the government that instigated this scheme still has some
work to do itself, since they have still to put a panel together to assess the
applications. The first applications can be sent after 1st July and although we
will not be the first we will hopefully be in a position to apply later this
year.
Sadly, I have to report that during this year three ex-Councillors have passed
away--Professor Leighton, Ron Hatfield and Ron Amsden. All three gave much of
their time to bring improvements to Linton.
To end my report on behalf of all Councillors, I would like to express our
sincere thanks to our clerk, Gill Barker. She works like a Trojan for the
village and manages to keep us all well informed with Council issues.
Dr Valerie Urwin
Contact the Council, Linton Parish Council, Linton Social
Centre, Coles Lane, Linton, Cambridge CB1 6JS 891001
Mrs Gill Barker lintonpc@btconnect.com
Office hours
Monday 9am–12noon, 4–6pm
Tuesday–Friday 9am– 12noon
Or by appointment