next stop claridges
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Tracy Harrison and Bob Hackett peruse a menu with apprentice chef Dean
Jarvis (photo: Jim Cracknell)
SIXTEEN-year-old Dean Jarvis of The Grove, Linton, is aiming to become a top
chef and has high hopes of getting there since he started a chef's
apprenticeship at Claridges of Mayfair at the beginning of the New Year.
Whether it was preparing salads and cooking for a family barbecue, or working
for school exams, Dean was very keen on food preparation and cookery. He
attained A* for practical and A for written work in GCSE food technology at
Linton Village College and with the help of department head, Mrs Mandy Clarke,
Dean was offered weekend work at Linton's Dog & Duck pub.
Tracy Harrison and Bob Hackett didn't really need more staff. They only tried
Dean as a waiter because of his enthusiasm. 'Anyone who shows an interest is
soon encouraged. When we realised Dean had a passion for cooking he started
assisting our chef, Carol Mackie who took Dean under her wing and taught him a
lot,' said Tracy.
"I get a real buzz doing the service," says Dean who decided to apply for an
apprenticeship with a top London hotel. A successful interview at Claridges of
Mayfair was dependent upon attaining a Specialised Chef's scholarship at the
Academy of Culinary Arts in Bournemouth.
Dean admits that leaving home last September was difficult but he successfully
completed three months' training at Bournemouth, gaining a Level 2 NVQ in
catering and hospitality. In addition to study periods students prepared and
cooked four course lunches for 80 people in the college restaurant. Open to the
public in the evenings, the restaurant offered a six course menu including
aperitif, hors d'oeuvres, a starter, sorbet, a main course and dessert followed
by coffee and petits fours. Students worked alternate evenings in the main
kitchen and pastry kitchen where sorbet and desserts were prepared.
With one other student Dean was selected for apprenticeship with Claridges. For
the next four years he will be working alternately for 12 months at the London
hotel and three months at Bournemouth.
Tracy, Bob and Carol are delighted with their protégé and are considering a
visit to the Big Smoke to see him in action. Kate France
Help! We still need a distributor
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A FEW months ago we announced that Alan Norton, who had been the distributor
of the Linton News for 13 years, was retiring and we asked for someone to fill
his position. Unfortunately, at this time the position remains open.
A member of the Linton News committee has been acting as distributor in the
interim but is unable to undertake the task permanently because of other
commitments to the News.
We now urgently need to recruit someone (or two) to take over this role. The
role involves collecting the bundles of papers from Linton News distribution
organiser, Kate France, every month on the Friday afternoon or evening that the
paper is printed. Each bundle then has to be taken to the volunteer deliverers
who see that a copy is posted to every house on their patch. Like all the jobs
on the Linton News, this is a voluntary position but petrol expenses are paid.
If you are a driver, with your own car, and two hours or so to spare a month,
and if you would like to become involved with this unique village resource, we
want to hear from you.
Like most organisations that depend on volunteers, the Linton News is feeling
the effects of the demands put on people's free time but working on or with a
local paper really is fun and worthwhile! We need to hear from you if you have
time, energy and enthusiasm to spare. Telephone the editor, or e-mail
LNeditor@linton.info LNT
SPRINGBOARDING COMMUNITY SPIRIT
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PARTIES, feasts and dances could be coming to your village soon thanks to the
launch of Springboard ñ Cambridgeshire's Toolkit for the Arts.
Historically, villages and towns celebrated and commemorated together with
street parties, festivals, feasts and dances. Traditions were made, kept and
continued.
Councillor Deborah Roberts, portfolio holder for community development at South
Cambridgeshire District Council explained, 'Cambridgeshire is famed for rural
communities that were once self-sufficient, divided by watery stretches of
fenland. There was a real sense of identity and community spirit - something
easily lost in our busy times, but also something easily regained.'
Springboard aims to give villages and towns the opportunity to build community
spirit and confidence through the arts. It provides everything a village needs
to use the arts to bring a community together.
Packed with useful information about involving local people and professional
artists, it helps celebrate local identity, deal with the press and find sources
of advice and funding. It's also full of event ideas and examples of successful
projects that have happened in parishes across the county and further afield.
Councillor Deborah Roberts continued, 'Springboard is the ultimate resource to
help villages regain and celebrate that sense of identity and pride in their
community, making the arts work for them.'
Springboard has been funded by Cambridgeshire County Council, the five district
councils ñ Fenland, East Cambridgeshire, Cambridge City, Huntingdonshire, South
Cambridgeshire - and the Arts Forum for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
For a free copy of Springboard ñ Cambridgeshire's Toolkit for the Arts, please
contact Stephanie Hogger, arts development officer at South Cambridgeshire
District Council on % 724142, or via e-mail at
stephanie.hogger@scambs.gov.uk
From Where I’m Sitting by Tony
Smith
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RENAMED 'From Where I'm Lying' after my recent stay in Addenbrooke's, it made
me realise that living in Linton is definitely convenient if you regularly need
hospital treatment and this was confirmed when the chap in the bed opposite was
sent home at the same time as myself. I telephoned my wife Sue to come down and
collect me; it only took her half an hour, whilst the other man, having
telephoned his wife at the same time was to have a three-hour wait. I have come
to the conclusion that Linton is very central to many of the nearby major
amenities. How lucky are we to live in such a location. No, actually. I do not
think we are. If a simpleton such as I can notice how handy our location is to
everywhere, then so can others. This makes Linton, Abington and other
surrounding villages a prime target for new homes, schools and commercial
ventures. Trying to fight off big ideas and plans would be about as much good as
having a helicopter fitted with an ejector seat. So, discussion and consultation
with the people who actually live in, and have local knowledge of , a location
must always surely be far better than just simply being told what is going to
happen, an example of which is the special needs school, due to open in
September 2005. Linton people were given the opportunity to view the plans, but
have had, to date, no say at all over the development, no say over how all the
extra traffic involved in the project will be absorbed into an already saturated
road network. An example of being told, instead of inviting discussion.
This brings me to where I'm sitting, Paynes Meadow. In fact, I can turn through
ninety degrees and look out over the field. There has been so much activity here
that much of the wildlife has moved out, their crest's fallen, but I can
exclusively reveal for the first time there will not be immediate building of
any new homes at Paynes Meadow. Recent findings have unearthed an ancient
slide-rule, compass, a very early example of a calculator, along with a number
of pens and pencils. The field is now sealed off after this important discovery
of Weapons of Maths Instruction until further notice.
On to the weather.
Top
1-14 February. Mild southwest to westerly winds may dominate the beginning of
the month giving most places a lot of cloud and periods of rain. This in turn
may be followed by sunny spells and showers as the weather fronts progress
eastwards across the country. The winds could well move into the northwest from
time to time behind the cold fronts, bringing somewhat colder, brighter weather
but also giving some frost patches at night.
15-29 February. May well be the coldest period of the winter, with low pressure
building and lasting for the rest of the month. It is likely to become much
colder with some severe frosts at night. Freezing fog is also likely to give icy
stretches on all untreated roads and pavements. Fog could last all day, and
where it does, the temperature will stay below freezing both day and night.
Please remember to keep warm and safe, Look after yourselves and those around
you, and I'll see you next month.
the life of riley
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IT seems that Bumble, the overweight cat, has fallen on her feet in a loving
family home in Whittlesford. She is queen of the castle with no children or
other animals at home, but is very friendly towards the neighbours' children and
everyone else she meets.
She settled in straight away and her owner said 'She's beautiful, with gingery
markings on her underside and has a very laid-back personality. She's just the
perfect cat.' And what about that weight problem? Bumble has been on a diet of
special food with only the occasional small treat and her weight is down below
5.8 kilos. Ideally she should be about 4 kilos, but as she is now fit enough to
run up and down stairs instead of just plodding, that looks like a reachable
target.
This lucky animal, who seems to have no wish to go outdoors as yet, sleeps at
the foot of her owners' bed and, the ultimate of luxuries, has carpeted window
sills from which to watch the birds as she follows the sun around the house. LNT
old &young welcome here
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THE odd thing about Linton Senior IT Club is that it is no longer a club, and
it is no longer confined to the elderly. It is a help centre for anyone, young
and old, who has a problem, technical or operational, with their computing. All
you have to do is to drop in at the 'club' on a Tuesday evening between 7pm and
9 pm when our experts will try to help you. They are not often beaten and they
don't charge you anything. Whether it is a hardware problem or software trouble,
we are there to help.
We think that this is a remarkable service for a local community and we are
indebted to our volunteers for their unstinting help. They are not just
trouble-shooters. They will happily advise and help starters with most aspects
of computing. For example, someone has just acquired a digital camera: they have
a good idea of how to use it, but are anxious to improve their pictures. Our
experts are there with practical advice. Someone else wants to use digital
photography and doesn't know where to start. We are open on Tuesdays, ready to
help. Your offspring has honoured you with a hand-me-down lap-top and you
haven't a clue how to use it. We are there on Tuesday evenings.
But, you say, I can't come every week. We say, come when it suits you. We know
that some of the other clubs meet on Tuesday evenings and you can't come to
both. (But we are there every Tuesday evening and we do not charge a penny!) You
are welcome to come and have a chat to see if what we can offer is likely to be
of help. Derek Birch
LENDING A HELPING HAND
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IF you ever have to help someone up from a chair, or push a wheelchair or put
one in a car boot, you might like to pick up some professional tips at a session
on Wednesday 25th February. It is being held in Melbourn United Reform Church,
Orchard Road from 1-4pm. It is free but please
telephone Sue Morley on 263623 as soon as possible. Take care of yourself.
G Cotgrove
christians go where they're needed
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PRESIDENT Tricia Lewis welcomed members and a visitor from Russia to our
January meeting, and wished us all a happy and healthy New Year.
A short silence was kept to remember one of oldest members, Peggy Stonecliffe,
who passed away in December. Birthday posies were distributed and the minutes
read of the last two meetings.
As there was little business to discuss, our speaker, Dr Bill Macalister of the
Christian Blind Mission, was welcomed. He was born in the Congo where his
parents were both missionaries of Irish and American descent. Dr Macalister has
worked for the CBM for many years and Cambridge is one of the two bases in the
UK. The CBM, formed in 1908, works with the blind, deaf and physically disabled
and now works closely with other charitable organisations all over the world.
Work with the blind is mostly in the developing third world countries where it
is estimated that nine out of ten people suffer with diseases leading to
blindness.
The CBM is an independent aid organisation, which centres around preventing and
curing blindness as well as rehabilitation. Four causes for the blindness are:
Cataract - operable; Trachoma ñ if caught in time curable with ointment; Vitamin
A deficiency (due to poor diet) ñ can be cured with three vitamin A capsules a
year; River Blindness ñ can be stopped by means of a drug. All of these, of
course, need funding and a great deal is being done between governments and
charities with discussion to improve and progress, aiming for perfect vision by
2020. Dr Macalister was thanked by Ann Simpkin and a donation presented to the
CBM.
The next meeting on 3rd February is 'Cards and Games' with refreshments of soup
and a roll.
Cynthia Norris
A good result!
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LINTON Granta Playgroup and Toddlers have received an excellent OFTSED report
following their inspection at the end of the autumn term.
The inspection looked at the combination of day care services and nursery
education provided by the playgroup and only made a few minor suggestions for
improvement. Anyone wishing to see the report in full can view it on the
official OFSTED website.
The playgroup also enjoyed a busy end to 2003. The annual Christmas Fair raised
over £500 ñ all proceeds will fund new equipment, art and craft materials etc.,
for both the playgroup and toddler group. The festivities continued with a
Christmas party and a concert where the children entertained parents and carers
with songs and carols.
News and Information about the playgroup can be found at the playgroup website:
www.lintongrantaplaygroup.co.uk.
If you are interested in admissions to the playgroup you can either download an
admissions form from the website or you can call Tanya Carter .
Liz Crump
Readers write
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PAYNE'S MEADOW CONTINUED
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Dear Editor
In reply to village life versus housing, in all honesty I must say this is not
about wildlife at all, this is about stifling any development on the piece of
land next to Payne's Meadow by any means. It says in the article that the
meeting was sparsely attended; that in itself tells us that 85% of Chalklands
either wants the development to go ahead or they couldn't care less. The old
grudges have not been forgotten over the battle of the first development. I know
because I have sat through every meeting of the Chalklands Resident's
Association ñ I was vice chairman for some time. Anything to do with Payne's
Meadow at that time was with 'Over my dead body', 'Not on your life', 'If they
want their name on the stone, they can get their own', (even though Hundred
Housing offered to stand the cost of the carving, they were completely frozen
out). It has calmed down a bit, but I think it could be too late to come
together with Payne's Meadow now. So if the new development goes ahead the new
Payne's Meadow will not be the isolated group it is at the moment. I've
mentioned a stone; I will bring this up in my next letter.
Andy Booth
Chalklands
TRAFFIC targets
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Dear Editor
I was pleased to read of Val Urwin's concern over the traffic issues in Linton
(Parish Council Matters, December 2003). The Access 1307 Group ñ cited as one of
the successes of the past 9 years ñ has done some excellent work, however, I
hope the next 9 years bring more than the setting up of a new road safety group.
Perhaps the Traffic Working Party could begin by publishing a schedule of the
improvements it is targeting That way we can all focus on the same issues and
activities to help to improve the levels of traffic congestion, noise and
pollution in Linton.
Dr A C Elphinstone
BAD TIMING
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Dear Editor
We have our pavements cleaned maybe once a year in Crossways. On Monday morning
pavements are full of wheelie bins and along comes a vehicle to clean the paths.
Consequently half the pavement doesn't get swept. What a waste of public money.
June Bunn
OUR THANKS
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Dear Editor
Thank you to everybody who joined my brother and myself in the knockout darts
match. The Brenda Wright memorial trophy was played for at the Waggon & Horses
on 4th December. We raised £225.00 for Macmillan Nurses.
We would like to say a very big thank you to John at the Waggon for letting us
hold it in the pub, also for the lovely spread he laid on. We would also like to
thank everybody who donated raffle prizes.
The trophy was won by Paula and Philip Newman.
Lesley Ashton &
Steven Wright
Dear Editor
Don and I would like to thank all our friends in Linton for your good wishes and
support for our new venture in Florida.
It was lovely seeing you all, especially at the great party Pat and Murray put
on for us, and the meals we have had individually (although my waistband hasn't
felt all that good). We will miss you all and look forward to your visits when
we will be able to hopefully repay you and carry on where we have left off!
Mum, Dad, Pat, Murray, Kate's Mates, Peter, Jas, Harri, Tom-Tom, Beck and Rosie
Katie, we love you all and thank you for being there for us.
Sue and Don Bishop
Dear Editor
I recently made a door to door collection on behalf of the RSPCA; this raised
£110.20. Thank you everyone for your generosity.
As you are probably aware, the RSPCA receives no state or Lottery aid and so
relies entirely on the generosity of the public to carry out its valuable work.
Christine Ellis
Dear Editor
I would like to thank everyone who contributed in any way to 'Chernobyl
Children' in the past year.
Once again friends and I will be holding a raffle, tombola, gift stall etc. at
10am on Saturday 28th February (no jumble) .
If you have any unwanted presents from Christmas for the raffle, they will be
most gratefully received, but your presence will be more acceptable.
The venue will be Chalklands Community Room.
Jean Whitby
Dear Editor
May we through the Linton News thank the very many people who supported the
Liberal Democrat Jumble Sale on 17th January, both in contributing jumble and in
coming to buy. It was very encouraging and much appreciated.
We are very pleased to say that we made £300. That will help us a lot to
continue keeping in touch with everyone on council matters through Focus.
The Liberal Democrat Focus Team
A THOUGHT FOR EVERYONE
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There is a list of folks we know
All written in a book
And every Christmas time
We go and take a look
And that is when we realise
That these names are a part
Not of the book they are written in
But of our very heart.
For once you've met somebody
The years cannot erase
The memory of a pleasant word
Or of a loving face.
Never think our Christmas cards
Are just a mere routine
Of names upon a Christmas list
Forgotten in between.
For be you relative or friend
Or just someone that we've met
You happen to be one of those
We'd rather not forget.
And whether we have known you
For many years or few
In some ways you have had a part
In shaping things we do.
So, as you read this message
That we sent at Christmas time,
Know that we sent you all our love
While you are on our mind.
Practice this all year round, not just at Christmas!
Andy Booth
Table Top Sale
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LAST year, Chestnut Playgroup and Little Acorns Toddler Group held a table
top (indoor car boot) sale at the Social Centre as part of their fund-raising
efforts for new equipment. It was such a success that we are organizing another!
The next Table Top Sale will be held at the Social Centre from 1.30 - 3.30 pm on
Saturday 21st February. A nominal entrance fee will be charged. Any items can be
sold at this sale and you don't even have to worry about the weather. There will
also be a cake stall.
To arrange payment for a table call Kate. Bring your items from 12.45 pm onwards
then, sell your things and count your money! All profits are yours. Kate Clark
OTHER LINTONS
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Illistration Ron Pitkin
FURTHER to the January article on 'Other Lintons' I remembered visiting
Linton in North Yorkshire whilst staying in the area for the famous Dickensian
Christmas Festival in Grassmere. We stayed in Grassmere having booked up rooms
months ahead and had 'The Dickens' of an experience!
The local men, women and children dress in Dickensian costumes and talk to you
in 'Dickensian' as you meet them in the street. Street vendors sell their wares
from stalls and barrows with aromas such as you've long forgotten, from roasting
beef, pork and lamb with baked potatoes, and don't forget the sweeties; toffee
apples, sweets, fruit pies and so on. If you ever want to do something different
just before Christmas book up for Grassmere but book up early! And don't forget,
while you're there get in the car and pop across to visit Linton (North
Yorkshire!) Ron Pitkin
the tip tap-ir of tiny feet
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'But Mum, I don't want to eat any more vegetables!' (Photo: Linton Zoo)
LINTON Zoo are pleased to announce another new arrival. On Friday 2nd January,
Tanya the tapir gave birth to a female calf after a long 13-month gestation. Our
adult pair, Shannon and Tanya, arrived here as babies in 1990; Shannon was born
at Edinburgh Zoo and Tanya at Southport Zoo. Both are part of a European
breeding programme aimed at saving them from extinction. They have previously
had six calves, which have all gone to other zoos in Britain as part of the
European breeding programme. Shannon and Tanya are now grandparents!
We are pleased to say that Mum, Dad and new baby are all doing well.
Although tapir have survived for millions of years, living in harmony with
nature, their future in the wild is by no means secure. A European breeding
programme will provide a safeguard against extinction for these wonderful
creatures and the arrival of Linton's female ensures another generation.
The Brazilian tapir is a large heavily-built mammal with a strange, prehistoric
appearance. The tapir is in fact so well adapted to its environment that it has
remained unchanged for about 20 million years. It lives deep in the Brazilian
rainforest where, because of the destruction of its habitat and illegal hunting
it is becoming threatened with extinction. A tapir is a shy creature, taking to
water when threatened. It is able to stay submerged for hours using its long
nose to snorkel until such time it feels it is safe to surface. For food they
eat roots and vegetation but never strip a bush bare of its leaves, zigzagging
their way through the undergrowth, conserving the habitat.
The adult tapir looks something like a cross between a pig and an elephant. Its
closest relatives are horses, zebras and rhinos. The colouring is a dark reddish
brown but the offspring is covered in white spots and stripes which it will
retain until about six months of age; this would provide a very efficient
camouflage in the dappled shade of the forest.
Next time you visit take time to look at these strange creatures because,
although shy, they become curious of quiet observers and will often come up to
the fence to investigate their visitors. Tapir are one of the keepers'
favourites too. Docile and affectionate they love to be scratched and tickled;
they hardly need to be touched before they roll over or collapse into a trance!
Kim Simmons
IT WAS WORTH THE WAIT
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LAST summer, at the Girl Guide car boot sale held at Linton Heights Junior
School, I was fortunate enough to win the first prize in a raffle for two
tickets to a Cambridge United football match.
I took up the offer on 10th January when United met Huddersfield Town. Although
we were offered priority parking, as the weather was kind, my brother and I
preferred to take a nostalgic walk from Chesterton, where we had grown up, over
Green Dragon Bridge and Stourbridge Common, up Garlic Row to an already lit
ground. I was dressed for the part with yellow jumper and black coat (United
colours) My brother Martin had been an avid United supporter in his youth. He
had collected and kept much memorabilia and data from the 1950's.
Prior to our visit I contacted the football club and was fortunate enough to
speak to Peter Salvage the chief executive. He was kind enough to give us
special hospitality and was pleased to be given all the data for the club
archives.
We had two of the best seats in the stand and invites for further visits. The
match was intense with Huddersfield getting the first goal from a penalty before
half time. The enthusiasm was good to be part of and I loved the chanting.
Although the final score was 2:1 to Huddersfield, it felt like an enjoyable
game.
Considering that the last time I went to a football match was with my father to
watch Tottenham play Wolves at White Hart Lane when Billy Wright was playing, I
feel there has been an omission in my life which has now been rectified.
Many thanks to Kate France who organised the Guides' raffle. Ann Simpkin
bells a' Peeling
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Ken Eason & Keith Nightingale
A MOST enjoyable and successful 'Sherry and Mince Pie' social event was held
by the Friends of St Mary's at the beginning of January. Over 70 people attended
at the Social Centre and £900 was raised.
During the proceedings, the chairman of the Friends, Ken Eason presented a
cheque for £3,000 towards the St Mary's Bell Restoration fund to Keith
Nightingale, the tower captain, who announced that the donation brought the
amount in the fund very nearly to the level at which the go-ahead could be given
for work to proceed.
Keith Nightingale
Bin having problems?
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WE have been asked to provide information on various aspects of the above for
the general enlightenment of your readers.
One question is about the correct container for disposing of personal mail. This
should be placed in the green bin along with junk mail and cardboard. It helps
to aerate the green material and make composting easier.
Many residents have been experiencing problems with the hotline service.
Repeated calls have not resulted in swift action. This should not be happening.
The fault lies not with the telephone service but with the contractors providing
the follow-up service. Everyone, councillors and staff, are very concerned about
this failure. It is receiving attention at the highest level and should be
sorted soon.
Long delays in the green box collection service are also unacceptable. Steps
were taken to deal with this following the previous Christmas's difficulties.
Everyone is very disappointed that the measures have proved inadequate and
strenuous efforts are being made to catch up. The problem seems to have been a
combination of more bottles being put out than the revised estimates, flu and
late delivery of extra vehicles to the contractors.
Finally, the subject of overflowing black bins. You will get more in if you do
not use large black bin liners. Small shopping bags enable more to be
accommodated. If you are a household using a lot of plastic bottles it would pay
to keep them separate and take them to a supermarket bank when you go shopping.
South Cambs recognises that this is a problem and is planning to provide plastic
recycling banks at numerous places in the district as soon as possible.
If you are a large family you can apply for a second bin. All the council asks
is that you allow officers to make sure that you are using your bins in line
with advice so as to maximise their capacity. If you are, you can get another
one for £25 or free if you are on any kind of benefit.
If you have a particular health problem that causes an unusual amount of waste,
such as incontinence pads, you may be entitled to a special medical waste
collection. Please ring up and ask.
Nappies are a different problem. Please read the advice in the current issue of
South Cambs Magazine and try the non-disposable nappy service.
The council will be reviewing the service once it has got over its teething
problems. A weekly black bin collection will be considered but is unlikely. All
councils are under pressure from central government to move to a fortnightly
collection in order to diminish the overall waste stream. You will have noticed
from the newspapers that nearby councils are debating changing from weekly to
fortnightly for that reason.
Finally please will everyone make sure they read the current issue of South
Cambs Magazine and pull out and keep the centre fold that has a bin collection
timetable. Particularly note the Easter collection, which will be on Tuesday,
13th April.
One last word. If you are not getting a copy of South Cambs Magazine delivered
to you please let your councillors know. In older villages there are many quirks
of house building which lead to the front doors of some properties being
difficult to find. We will pass this on to those organising the deliveries. In
the meantime there should be spare copies in the library and at the Village
College.
Cllrs. Joan Smith and John Batchelor.
K-Club winners
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THE winners of December's K-Club monthly draw:
1st (£50) B J Wilkinson (No. 300); 2nd (£25) Maria Sell (No. 125); 3rd (£10) Tom
Albrow (No. 102). January's draw results: P6
WHATEVER DO THEY GET UP TO?
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Camera Club members outside the Eight Bells in Saffron Walden (photo: Richard
Smith)
I'M sure this question is one that many people ask themselves when they read the
Camera Club articles published in the Linton News. I know I certainly did. So I
joined them on an outing back in October 2003.
The theme was Cambridge buildings, and through this article I want to share my
thoughts and feelings with others who might be thinking about joining, but are
just a little worried about what form the outings take and what goes on.
The day started at Coles lane car park at 9am. I was a bit nervous, as I was
sure these people had all known each other for a while. At the time I didn't
know any of them. Well, what a warm welcome I got. I don't know what I was
worried about. They are a warm and friendly bunch. We arranged who was going in
whose car and made our way into Cambridge.
I think nearly all of us have been in Cambridge but it is amazing what we
actually see when we don't have our heads down shopping. Cambridge is full of
unusual buildings and sights. It was lovely to have the time to appreciate it.
After walking around Cambridge for a couple of hours taking a few pictures
(well, around 68) and after a cup of tea and a chat in the Market square, we
made our way home arriving at about 1.30pm at Coles Lane.
A relaxing morning with great company, and a few decent pictures to show family
and friends; some of the sights I'm sure others do not notice or have time to
see. Other venues visited recently include Wytton in Cambridgeshire and Saffron
Walden.
We meet every second weekend of the month with a new venue in mind. If it's wet
we meet at the Social Centre for a bit of banter over a cuppa.
Photography is a relaxing hobby. It's up to you how far you take it. I now print
my own photos at home using a digital camera and photo printer and with the help
and advice of other club members. You can take them to a shop to be developed -
it matters not.
Within the club there is a great deal of experience and knowledge that is
shared. That's something you can't buy. You don't need a digital camera, you
don't have to be a David Bailey. Just turn up enjoy the company. It doesn't
matter how good you are with a camera or what sort of camera you use. Just come
and meet new people who share the same interest.
So if like me in the past you read these Camera Club articles and wonder what we
get up to, I hope you are a little wiser.he camera club website can be found at
www.camclub.info/
Richard Smith
Members take a break
hats off to panama
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THE Women's World Day of Prayer Movement will celebrate its annual Day of
Prayer on Friday 5th March. This year's service comes from Panama and the theme
of the service is 'In Faith, Women Shape the Future'.
Panama is a tropical country, about the size of Scotland, renowned for its wide
variety of flora and fauna. It has an attractive and diverse landscape of
forests, beaches, mountains, rivers and its most famous landmark is the Panama
canal, linking the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
After years of hardship and struggle Panama is now an independent nation, proud
of the ethnic and racial diversity of its people and of its strong Christian
heritage.
As in many parts of the world, women are emerging as a major presence and force
in public life and it is their faith and determination that the women of Panama
celebrate in this service.
Women, men, children from many different backgrounds and in over 180 countries
will be celebrating this Day of Prayer. We invite you to unite with them and
join in a Service.
Here in Linton, the ecumenical service, will take place at 10.30am at St Mary's
parish church. Our speaker will be Mrs Jane Shoesmith of Cambridge, and coffee
will be served after the service.
We warmly invite everyone, including friends from neighbouring villages, to join
us. Men will be especially welcome!
Joy Button
grade-one-a-thon update
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THE one official lesson we were allowed consisted of putting the instrument
together, so there is a lot to work at before taking my first examination in
February, but I am hopeful that I will make it.
On the day of the exam we are all going to play in a public concert in the
Guildhall, so do go along at 7.30pm on 29th February to give your support.
Among the musicians taking up new instruments for charity was internationally
famous percussionist, Evelyn Glennie, who, although deaf, is learning the double
bass .
As January has passed, I am keen to collect outstanding sponsorship, but also to
thank so many kind people who have supported my Grade-one-a-thon . Far from
being a chore, the clarinet is proving a joy to learn.....I may even venture out
in public with it! Keep your ears open near The Dog and Duck! Maybe the Linton
Jazz Group needs an extra player?
You can sponsor me: on-line at www.justgiving.com/bradley, or by cheque to EACH
(East Anglia's Children's Hospices) at my house 4 Symond's Lane. Anne Bradley
reduced history of gardens
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DR TWIGGS Way, garden historian, researcher and broadcaster, galloped us
through 2,000 years of garden history in just over an hour.
The Romans began it all (as with everything) by bringing over plants such as
citrons, vines and convolvulus, laying out their gardens with sculptures, water
features, patios and colonnades. They also grew cannabis, but apparently only
used it for cures such as for ear-ache. When they left, things deteriorated
until mediaeval times when moated and walled gardens appeared. With the aid of
slides we were able to follow the patterns and styles laid out; all very formal
with raised beds, topiary, pinery, parterres and knot gardens. We have
discovered from paintings, diaries, literature, photographs and plans how
gardens were designed, and not until 17th century were flowers and colour
introduced to make gardens a pleasure to sit in. Capability Brown landscaped
very large gardens for mansions and stately homes, and although deemed typically
English they were only called such because of the very many that he designed.
The Victorians used glass houses and imported exotic plants from abroad (the
Empire) to fill their formal gardens. Names of note are Vita Sackville West,
Gertrude Jekyll and the plant hunter John Trandescant.
I cannot do justice here to the wealth of information given on the development
of gardens here but would add that we were informed that typical cottage gardens
(chocolate box dstyle) never have been listed as English garden designs.
There is a proposed outing to Gressinghall restored workhouse, farm and
extensive gardens on 30th June ñ further details will be given at the next
meeting on Tuesday 17th February when Brian Arbery will talk on Military Matters
of local interest. All are welcome.
Joan Pearman
Everyone welcome
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AS part of the on-going children's and youth work overseen by Linton Free
Church we host at regular intervals special all-age family services. These
services explore a key Bible theme and provide a good opportunity to worship,
learn and pray in a friendly and welcoming setting. So far we have hosted
services exploring the themes of 'Harvest', 'Jesus ñ light of the world' and
'the Church as family'.
At these services we have been very pleased to welcome a number of visiting
families of all ages and would warmly invite you to our future family services.
The next two will take place on Sunday 15th February and Sunday 14th March. All
services start at 10.30am and are followed by refreshments. Alex Jacob
Youth Work NEWS
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THE youth group known as SURF meets regularly in term time on Sunday evenings
(7.30-9.15pm). The group numbers around 25 young people aged from 13-19 and is
led by a small team of experienced youth workers and helpers. The group meetings
normally include a mixture of social activities and Christian
teaching/discussion within an inclusive and informal setting. If you are school
year 8 or above you are warmly invited to come along to SURF.
For more details about these events or general information about the Church,
please contact Rev. Alex Jacob
(Linton Free Church is a member of the Evangelical Alliance and works in
partnership with Linton Churches Together.)
Alex Jacob
in praise of wheelie bins
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EVERY month the Linton News has a letter complaining about wheelie bins, but
I think it is time to start to redress the balance and announce, 'I like them!'
A simple point first. They are easy to manoeuvre. Many people prefer a suitcase
with wheels that they can tow to a case they have to carry; likewise it is a lot
easier to pull a wheelie bin than to carry refuse sacks.
A common complaint is the lack of volume for taking a fortnight's waste. In fact
they only need to hold a week's waste. Much is made of the black bins yet
everyone has got a green bin as well which is collected on the alternate week.
I admit it takes a bit or organisation to use the green bin efficiently but in
our family this has been managed, and goodness knows we are a far from organised
family. The trick is to sort your rubbish as it is first thrown out rather than
try and do it on a Sunday night. We have two rubbish points in the kitchen, one
for the green bin and one for the black bin. There are also two small waste bins
in the lounge.
The trick is to get as much as possible into the green bin. A lot of things can
go in the green bin: grass cuttings, though I can't think why you'd want to give
those away when you can put them in your own compost bin for use on your own
garden; hedge wood and bark, sling those in ñ they're no good for the compost;
weeds and flowers. Get rid of the weeds but keep flowers for your own compost;
Yellow Pages (I don't think they'd mind if you slipped in a Thomson's
directory!); cardboard; junk mail.
These last two categories create the volume which should not filling up your
black bin.
Here is an example of how it works. In the morning a cereal box is finished; the
inner wrapper goes into the normal waste but the cardboard is opened up to go
flat and into the recycling bin. Yes, you have to be organised but, like any
other routine, it is surprising how you soon get into it.
Why bother with all this you ask? Well there is the reason that your children
will thank you for helping to keep the planet a bit more sustainable for their
children.
If you've got no children or think that all children should be put out with the
rubbish itself then bear in mind that it is your wallet you're helping. Either
the black bin waste goes down or we are going to be paying more Council Tax to
cover Landfill Tax levies.
I certainly have better things to spend my money on than increased Council Tax,
so come on Linton, learn to love your wheelie bin!
Michael Womack
widen your horizons
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THE Abington Gardening Club welcomes new members and guests to its meetings,
which are held in the Abington Institute, High Street at 7.30pm. The near future
programmes are as follows: Monday 2nd February 'Cambridge Botanic Garden ñ Past,
Present and Future' by Professor John Parker. Monday 1st March 'Ice and a
Million Penguins' by Jennifer Hirsh.
There is a small annual membership, which entitles you to receive the spring and
summer programme of visits and to attend meetings free, or visitors can pay a
small fee at each meeting.
Rachel Haining
gardeners On the move
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WOULD all Gardening Club members please note that for this month only the
meeting on Tuesday 10th will take place at the Heights Junior School. We
apologise for any inconvenience, and if anyone anticipates difficulty with
transport please contact me.
The lively talk last month on the care of houseplants reminded many of us why
luscious looking species in pristine order when first displayed surprise us by
turning up their toes. The speaker Lamorna Thomas, who manages to revitalise
broken pieces of plants picked up from the floor of the garden centre, stressed
the importance of light, water and warmth in the correct proportions. Better by
far to choose a plant to fit the conditions of the space to be filled than to be
enchanted by something which will not like your house.
Further advice is to turn plants once a week and not to rely on labels which can
be unhelpful, particularly the ones covered in hieroglyphics. A reference book
is often the better source of information. So if you feed, water, protect, clean
and point them in the right direction then, just like children, your houseplants
should thrive!
The talk this month is entitled 'Gertrude Jekyll and the Edwardian Garden' by
the popular speaker Caroline Holmes. See you at school!
Gloria Fidler
K-Club winners
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THE winners of January's K-Club monthly draw:
1st (£50) Dr J West (No. 091); 2nd (£25) Anna Newton (No. 228); 3rd (£10) A.
McKenzie (No. 324). December"s draw results: P4
LINTON COUNTRY DIARY by Darryl Nantais Illustrated by Maureen
Williams
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FRUITFUL years do not always store good news for the future, for our
dalliance with development can culminate in an unexpectedly swift discord in
nature's tune. During 2003 the bullheads, sticklebacks, freshwater shrimps and
trout flourished in the Granta. The prolonged fine weather contributed to their
continued increase in numbers and size, but despite this, and evidence of
cleaner water the crayfish have disappeared again. And who's been eating the
ducks?
When the population of our wildlife expands then so does the requirement for
habitat and more food. During lean seasons some creatures have a better chance
of survival than others, usually those who dare to dance with man; the sneaky
scavengers, the hardy and the clever, like fox and rat, sparrow hawk, kestrel
and robins too!
Out towards Hildersham there are signs of another species on the increase. They
sit like a row of grumpy old men at a bar in morning suits with their feathers
shimmering with a matt black and violet blue lustre. Their disproportionate
beaks are heavy, pock-marked and extended like the aged noses of wine- drinking
Frenchmen, and I should know! Sinister yet comical, like many comedians in baggy
pants; hardy and comiquement tragique! The good old voluble, hard working rook
Corvus frugilegus rarely rests on its laurels. Their ear-piercing kaw begs the
gift of a throat lozenge as they hang about Linton, ever faithful as some of
those ducks on our Granta.
One can usually identify young rooks by the fine feathers about the base of
their beaks but that point was far from mind whilst watching them strung like
silhouetted garlands in their hundreds on wires across Back Road.
To my right, a few metres away another large flock, perhaps from a separate
colony, jabbed at muddy sods. Ten metres further up the hill on the twelfth day
of January grazed a heard of deer, heads down and munching in broad daylight,
seemingly oblivious to any click of the hunters gun.
Three years ago towards Bartlow I witnessed a similar scene of a fearless,
frenzied feed. Were storms imminent and food to be in shorter supply over the
next few days? Indeed that was the case. However, another explanation might be
the rook colonies acting in turn as look-outs whilst feasting on rich pickings.
The deer take advantage of this behaviour pattern to venture where normally they
dare not tread. Of course we cannot discount a correlation between gathering
rooks, brave deer and adverse weather conditions. Last summer enabled many of
our wild birds to have a successful first, second or even third clutch although
the extreme heat took its toll on many. Nevertheless, if the winter be mild we
can look forward to a spring abundant with wildlife.
As robust as our planet may appear, revolts in the last century have often led
to the blaming of our feathered friends, such as the sparrows, for poor
harvests. An example of how important it is to stop before we chop was seen
after drastic orders to exterminate these underrated tiny creatures, caused rice
crops to fail entirely, devastated by an insect manifestation that was
ordinarily kept in check by the sparrows. If past experience has shown that
messing with nature causes such catastrophic repercussions then why do we
continue to drive our wildlife into isolation? Some believe it is all part of a
natural evolution and that man's engineering of the planet will ensure
continuity. Others believe the sooner we bring the planet to the verge of
destruction the sooner we will modify our behaviour! What do you think?
Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where a host and another both benefit. The
hedgehog for example plays host to a flea called Archaeopsylla erinacei which
despite helping themselves to blood, keep the hedgehogs' five thousands spines
clean and possibly free of other parasites. But there are other even more
complex relationships such as the leaf cutting ants where a number of organisms
are involved and interdependent on each other. So it seems the more we learn
about our environment the more we understand that every aspect from minerals to
mice are interdependent. What possible dependency can we have upon mosquitoes or
rats? Yet, sure enough, somewhere in the long, complex and comical chain between
rock and rook there is a reason.
View from the Chair
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DIDN'T we have fun over the festive season; we had full green boxes to prove
it! It is heartening that Linton is so environmentally aware that we recycled
the evidence of our celebrations! There was confusion over the date of the
'green' collection and it bodes well that so many are keen to recycle that we
feel let down when a collection is missed. One problem is knowing what can be
put into the green bin; this is under review. You can still get compost bins
from CCC, then most waste can be composted, recycled or disposed of in the green
bin, leaving less for the black bins. The wheelie bin saga continues on our
website; feedback has been forwarded to help the system improve, but it would
have been better to have been consulted first!
Whilst sensible creatures are hibernating, we have been considering several
planning proposals, of varying degrees of controversy. We had a 'roadshow' of
the SEN school proposed for the LVC site ñ the first time we have been
consulted. The facilities looked fine, but the design, environmental aspects and
lack of a swimming pool might elicit comment. Traffic management was noticeable
by its omission, this being rather important for Linton, considering the effect
on the A1307. Other plans involving this area include 10 flats proposed on the
site of the flint cottages and possible change of use of Station House to a
nursery school. These plans will all affect the traffic on the A1307 and hence
the village. The Highways department has been made aware of the situation. LPC,
our Traffic Working Party, Access A1307 and the Linton Steering Group will be
active to obtain the best system for Linton, but you can influence matters by
letting us have your comments and idea, too.
The old Hostel site on Back Road is an example of how we can have influence. The
original plan had access through Crabtree Croft disrupting the peace and safety
of that area. LPC worked hard to retain the original access onto Back Road
(which had better sightlines, too). We have now seen plans for the proposed
higher-care flatlets on Flaxfields; a useful early consultation.
Thanks for your views on PCSOs, Paynes Meadow and the Cemetery. We will use
these and the results of the Parish Plan, to help make our decisions. There is
vacancy on LPC. Now is your chance to be involved directly!
Enid Bald
WHAT IS THE LINTON STEERING GROUP?
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James Paice, MP, meeting with the Linton Steering Group. From left to
right: Rachel Cornell, Val Urwin, John Batchelor, James Paice, Mark Kemp, Jenny
Roland and Esther Cornell
MARK Kemp, Chair of the Linton Steering Group,
explains.
Much water has passed under the bridge since the County Council proposed traffic
calming scheme failed to gain community support in the early 1990's. Since then
traffic growth across the county has placed a significant burden on the highway
network and the A1307 and its adjacent villages have suffered their share. I
joined the County Council at the end of 2001 and took on responsibility, amongst
other things, for the maintenance and traffic management work in South
Cambridgeshire. We had been having our usual communication with the Parish
Traffic Working Party but by the end of 2002 a number of Linton residents had
written to County Councillors and James Paice MP concerned about the current
situation in Linton. The letters demonstrated the problems County Council
Officers had in moving forward because of the varying views which were expressed
about both the priorities for the village and the possible solutions to the
problems.
In April of last year a meeting was held between James Paice, County Council
Members and Officers and representatives of the village including District,
Parish Councils, Access 1307 and Pavements for People. At this meeting a number
of issues were discussed and the County Council was able to outline the
financial and policy constraints, which had led to the current situation. We all
agreed that the approach which we were taking, with a range of groups expressing
differing opinions, was not helping to address the problems and it was agreed
that a group should be set up to co-ordinate the thoughts of the village and the
Highway Authority and help us all to focus on the issues to generate a
considered view from all interested parties. The Group was named the Linton
Steering Group and its purpose is to assist in the co-ordination of activities
that could affect the impact of traffic on the village.
The Linton Steering Group includes Dr Val Urwin, Enid Bald, Esther Cornell,
Rachel Cornell, Jenny Roland, and Taria McCartney representing the community and
is chaired by me.
In our first meeting we agreed to put together an Action Plan which identified
the concerns we would like to address and gave them some sort of timeframe.
As the representative of the County Council I have been there to assist the
group with understanding of the policies, processes and funding issues that need
to be addressed. This has often led to a healthy debate about County policy and
funding problems and I hope has helped to improve the level of understanding of
the constraints we have to work within.
The Action Plan is available at the Parish Council Offices should you wish to
look at it. It has allowed us to focus on specific issues through the year. In
our first nine months we have been involved in a number of activities including:
1. Had a Trading Standards check of Heavy Goods Vehicles using the village
roads.
2. Brought all three schools in the village into the Safer Routes to School
Programme.
3. A safety study of the length of the A1307 between Haverhill and the A11.
4. The introduction of a set of interactive signs to reinforce the existing
40mph speed limit.
5. The parking restrictions along the High Street and at the A1307 end of
Joiners Road.
6. Trading Standards checks on HGV's in the Village.
Particular thanks must go to Esther Cornell for the incredible amount of work
she did in assisting the schools to produce bids for inclusion in the Safer
Routes to School project and in coordinating early consultation for the Parking
Restrictions.
The parking restrictions which you were consulted on over the Autumn have now
gained approval and we will be implementing them over the next few months. We
will be checking existing speeds along the High Street and will monitor them
after the scheme is introduced. If the speeds go up too much we will have to
come back to you all and may need to revert to the existing restrictions.
We have not forgotten the problems at the A1307 junctions with Bartlow Road and
Dean Road. These are long term aspirations for us because of the high cost and
the availability of funding for Safety Schemes. The Steering Group is looking
into ways it can help with these particular problems.
I hope you take the opportunity to look at the action plan and to speak to
members of the group about our work.
If you would like more information about the Steering Group or would like to
receive copies of the Minutes of the meetings or the Action Plan, please
telephone Gill Barker on C. 891001 or email Gill at lintonpc@btconnect.com
Pam Kenyon
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I AM a native of Cambridgeshire and moved to Linton in 1955. I retired from
teaching in 1976 and became a member of the Parish Council in 1976 to 1994 and
again since 1998.
I was also a District Councillor for 22 years until 1998 when I retired. During
that time I had the honour of being the President of the Linton Girl Guide
Association until 1996.
I feel that Linton is one of the most pleasant places to live. Most of us wish
to keep it that way and do our best to improve the surroundings. We are very
fortunate to have thriving churches, good schools, an excellent health centre
and many voluntary groups and societies all of which contribute to this pleasant
village life. All of this can only thrive if there are many willing residents to
give of their time and support to encourage the continuance and improvement of
these services. I am particularly keen in enhancing and preserving the
conservation area and to encourage residents to maintain their usual high
standards in the appearance of their homes and gardens.
The children and youth, with one or two exceptions, are cheerful and friendly
and within my experience are reasonable and sensible.
John Batchelor
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IN 1998 I was elected to the District Council and at the same time became a
member of the Parish Council. Being on both authorities helps me understand
local concerns and to try and translate them into action for the benefit of the
community.
I first took an interest in community matters through a concern over the lack
of facilities for young people. That drew me into working with the Safer
Villages Initiative, the Village Action Group as well as the Parish Council. It
was through those organisations that Linton Action For Youth was established in
1997. I am pleased to say that much of the success of youth work in Linton has
been because of the initial funding provided by the Parish and their ongoing
commitment to the project. Over recent years the Council has invested heavily in
providing facilities for all sections of our community on the recreation ground
something we should all be proud of.
Now that I am a Cabinet member on the District Council, a Parish Councillor and
chairman of Linton Action for Youth this is my full time work. Before that I was
a management consultant, ran various business ventures and travelled a great
deal. My wife Julie and I made many journeys, mainly in Africa. Our best know
venture was the first descent of the Congo River by kayak in 1974. Our
explorations of Cambridgeshire brought us to Linton in 1987, our son Henry was
born here in 1989, and we look forward to many more years in this delightful
village.
COUNCILLOR VACANCY
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Linton Parish Council currently has a vacancy for a Councillor. Do you wish
you could be more involved in issues that affect the village? Do you have a few
hours each week to spare? Would you like to know more about the responsibilities
involved? Please contact the Clerk or one of your local Councillors for more
information.
Closing date for nominations is Friday 13th February. Telephone: C. 891001 or
email: lintonpc@btinternet.com
CAMBRIDGESHIRE FIRE AUTHORITY
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At the Parish Council meeting on February 5th the District Officer of the
Cambs Fire and Rescue and Service will be giving a presentation to Councillors
and all interested members of the public.
Please attend the meeting, held at the Cathodeon Centre at 8pm.
At the Parish Council meeting on 22nd January, consideration was given to
decisions on important issues you were recently consulted on, such as the
provision of Police Community Support Officers, the future use of Paynes Meadow
and next year's precept.
Watch this page for reports on the decisions taken as a result of your views.
Thank you for making them known to us in advance!
CAMBRIDGESHIRE FIRE AUTHORITY
Top
At the Parish Council meeting on February 5th the District Officer of the
Cambs Fire and Rescue and Service will be giving a presentation to
Councillors and all interested members of the public.
Please attend the meeting, held at the Cathodeon Centre at 8pm.
At the Parish Council meeting on 22nd January, consideration was given to
decisions on important issues you were recently consulted on, such as the
provision of Police Community Support Officers, the future use of Paynes Meadow
and next year's precept.
Watch this page for reports on the decisions taken as a result of your views.
Thank you for making them known to us in advance!
Council minutescouncilminutescouncilminutescouncilminutescouncilmin
Top
Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held in December, 2003. There were 12
Councillors present and the press.
There was no public participation.
The minutes of the meeting held on 20th November, 2003 were agreed and signed.
Under matters arising Cllr Kenyon reported her concern, regarding the recent
arson attacks in the village, and in particular with the attitude of the police.
She felt that the item of evidence which had been destroyed should have been
returned to the parish to see if it could be identified. Cllr Potter reported
that the officers concerned were only following policy. The Chairman read out a
letter received from the Police in reply to the last round of dog bin fires,
stating that enquiries had not provided any leads.
Cllr Clay queried whether the skateboard light had now been corrected. It was
reported that it should now be working to the correct time.
Cllr Urwin queried whether Mr Tofts, the Village Custodian, had taken up the
offer of a trial of equipment to assist him with the leaf clearance work. It was
reported that he had declined the offer. Discussion took place and it was agreed
that this issue would come to Council again next year, prior to the leaf
clearance time.
Cllr Alper queried the outcome of the meeting with the Co-operative Store Area
Manager. The Clerk reported the meeting had been successful. The Co-op had a
policy and an ongoing staff training schedule with regard under-age drinking
which was up to date. Mr Walker, the Area Manager, had agreed to re-inforce this
again with staff to be sure they were all aware of the current situation.
Traffic issues had also been discussed, including the impending alterations to
the parking restrictions near to the premises. Mr Walker was aware of these and
had passed them on to his Head Office. There had been no response. He had also
agreed to re-issue the letter from the Parish Council to all delivery drivers
which gave specific recommendations regarding deliveries to the Co-op, and also
to re-inforce the agreement that there should be no deliveries between 8.30 and
9.15 am. Staff would be requested to ensure this was adhered to. Mr Walker had
mentioned severe problems with staffing the shop, with a recent high turnover of
staff as being the probable cause of why these previous agreements had
'slipped'. There was now to be closer liaison on a regular basis between Mr
Walker and the Clerk. Cllr Kenyon reported that she was aware that staff in the
Co-op have been verbally abused by customers. Councillors expressed their
concern and noted that this was the only grocery outlet in the village and
required support.
It was then queried what the response from Glasdon (the dog bin supplier) had
been with regard the delay in returning the replacement bin. The Clerk reported
that Glasdon were happy to wait until the meeting on 22nd January for a decision
on whether to return the bin or not.
The Planning minutes were considered with no queries.
The Co-ordinators reports included:- Cllr Clay reported that turf had been
removed from the Camping Close area. The Clerk reported that Groomfields, the
contractors, had been advised. There were trees and bushes in various locations
which required trimming. The Clerk is to organise the relevant body to deal with
this. Cllr Clay further reported that recent works carried out by a utility
company had not returned the ground to a safe condition. The Clerk is to report
this to the Utilities Manager at CCC. Finally, Cllr Clay noted that a number of
footpaths were slippery at the moment.
Cllr Kenyon had issued a written report which noted that there were moles on the
Recreation ground; the Clerk is to organise their humane removal. Chestnut
leaves remain on the southern bank, harming the grass; Youths are scattering the
recreation ground with litter and an elderly lady who walks there regularly has
been collecting it up. Thanks were extended to her. Discussion took place and it
was agreed to request that the new PCSO target this area.
Cllr Cox reported that Leadwell Meadows was very muddy. There was a tree
collapsing into the river which required removing. Cllr Cox volunteered to
organise this.
Cllr Rossiter had issued a written report regarding the Parish Plan. Further to
that she reported that it now appeared SCDC may be able to assist with the
project funding. An application was currently being completed. Cllr Rossiter
then proposed that a communal shredder be made available for the residents
Christmas trees. This was discussed at some length and as a result Cllr Urwin
proposed that the use of a shredder be provided to residents on a given date at
an agreed site and advertised through the Linton News. Cllr Rossiter reported
that members of the Parish Plan Conservation group were willing to attend to
supervise the day. This proposal was seconded by Cllr Cornell and agreed by the
meeting.
Cllr Rossiter further reported, with regard the Council's wish to appoint a
Conservation Warden earlier in the year, that she would now like to be nominated
for this post. This was also agreed by the meeting.
The Policy Working Party had met recently and the Chairman reported that the
notes of the meeting had been circulated. There were recommendations for Full
Council to consider:- Councillor allowances:- 1. Councillors basic allowance:-
that there should be none allowable; 2. Chairman's Allowance:- that there should
be none allowable; 3. Travel Allowance:- be made available only to Councillors
who are either:-
a). Attending meetings of a body where the Councillor represents the Parish
Council;
b). Attending meetings of any Association of Authorities of which the Council is
a member; or
c). Any other duty approved by the Council connected with discharge of the
functions of the Council. In any of the 3 above, a travel allowance of 25p per
mile would be recommended.
Discussion took place regarding the recommendations. The only debated issue was
under Item 3 where Councillors considered that the rate recommended of 25p per
mile was not of the standard of other local authorities. For instance, SCDC paid
46p per mile. It was noted that below 40p per mile it did not affect tax. As a
result of discussions Cllr Kenyon proposed that the recommendations be agreed.
This was seconded by Cllr Alper and after a vote agreed by the meeting. The
Policy Working party had also considered the CCC Draft Corporate Plan and
recommended a response to the questionnaires follows:-'As a Parish Council we
consider that any 'vision for the future' requires much wider and earlier
consultation with the residents of Cambridgeshire, especially with regard to
issues which have a direct effect upon us. We would also like to receive a
response from the County Council to representations that we may make in the
future in response to consultation. This Parish Council is also concerned to
note that within the draft Plan the Special Educational Needs School at Linton
Village College is mentioned as definitely happening within the next two years
although the Parish Council has yet to be consulted in any way.'
Cllr Kenyon proposed that the recommended response be agreed. This was seconded
by Cllr Alper and, after a vote, agreed by the meeting.
The payments due list was agreed by the meeting. Cllrs Cox and Potter signed the
cheques.
Of the correspondence received the following were noted particularly:- a request
from 2nd Linton Brownies for a grant of £100, and from the 1st Linton Brownies
for £300. After discussion, both requests were agreed by the meeting. The
meeting closed at 21.55.
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MINUTES of the meeting on 8th January, 2004.
There were 11 Councillors and the press present.
The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed and under matters arising Dr
Rossiter reported that due to lack of time it had not proved possible to
organise a communal shredder. It was also reported that the problem of moles on
the recreation ground had now been cleared.
Co-ordinators reports followed, in which Cllr Clay reported that bushes on the
Horseheath Road, at Lonsdale, were obstructing visibility. The Clerk is to
investigate this. Cllr Hammett noted that trees in Crabtree Croft are covered in
ivy. SCDC are to be informed. Cllr Kenyon reported that the pedestrian entrance
to the recreation ground from Meadow Lane is again under water. The Clerk is to
organise tarmac repairs. Cllr Rossiter gave an update on the Parish Plan. Grant
monies to top-up the budget are being applied for from SCDC and a further
meeting of the Steering Group is scheduled for 14th January. Cllr Batchelor
praised the steering group for their outstanding efforts in bringing this
project to its conclusion.
The Chairman reported that, following on from Mr Ballentine's resignation, the
due time for an election to be called had now passed. A notice of vacancy for
co-option would now be placed on the notice board. It was suggested that the
closing date for nominations should allow for the vacancy to be advertised
through the Linton News. This was agreed by the meeting.
The payments due were agreed by the meeting with Cllr's Gore and Batchelor
signing the cheques.
The Chairman noted an extremely long post list. The main items of interest were
as follows:- there had been a number of written responses to the public
consultation on the provision of a PCSO for Linton. The results of this
consultation would come to the next meeting; information on a communal transport
scheme operating in the Haverhill area was available from the office;
information from SCDC regarding the Christmas refuse collections. There was much
discussion regarding this and it was noted that the SCDC magazine, issued much
earlier, had noted the change of day for the green waste just prior to
Christmas, but that the re-issue of this information just prior to the holidays
had arrived far too late to of benefit; a funding request from the Acorn Toddler
group for £150 toward a stairgate. It was noted that this group operates from
the Social Centre. Discussion took place and it was agreed that the equipment
required would best be provided, and therefore owned by the Social Centre. It
was agreed to recommend that the Social Centre apply for the grant; information
had been received from the Cambs Local Access Forum regarding a meeting. Cllr
Rossiter had expressed an interest in attending but unfortunately there was no
information as to venue or time. The Clerk was asked to find this out; a letter
from CCC advising that neither of the Council's two Jointly Funded Minor
Improvement bids for 2004/05 had been successful. The two bids were : 1. a
mini-roundabout at the junction of Balsham Road and the High Street; and 2. a
Disabled Access Improvement Scheme. Cllr Batchelor reported as an attendee of
the Area Joint Committee that decides on these bids. Individual bids from
parishes are awarded points under a strict criteria basis and are then put
before the Committee in priority order. The usual upper value of each bid is
£25k. Just prior to the Committee meeting, the upper bid allowance was increased
to £35k and, therefore, the number of bids for minor improvements that could be
carried out was less. This proved to be unfortunate for Linton as one of our two
bids was 'scored' and placed 8th on the list, but due to fewer bids being able
to be actioned, only the top 7 were actually agreed. Discussion took place
regarding this with Councillors all noting their concern. It was agreed that a
letter should be written to CCC expressing this concern and that both the
Traffic Working Party and the Linton Steering Group would be asked to follow
suit; Cllr Gee has suggested the formation of a Heritage Trail. Councillors
agreed he should put a proposal together and return it to Council at a later
date; Cllr Gore then requested that the EA Floodline number, together with the
area code for information specifically for Linton should be made known in the
Linton News.
The Chairman noted the recent publicity on Stansted Airport and queried whether
Councillors would like to discuss this issue as an agenda item. This was agreed
by the meeting.
The meeting closed at 21.03
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