February 2009

So here we are - already well over a month into 2009. I have not had to be too inventive this month as there seems to an awful lot of information coming my way to pass on in the Newsletter. Keep it coming! I have included the usual photo (right) purely for interest. I guess that this issue signals the last in the current year and time for a change on the picture of the church showing top right.

Enjoy the snow scenes - My thanks to Andrea (guess who?) yes Snow

click on the link below.

www.flickr.com

Beware of Burglaries

Below is a copy of an e-mail received from Laura Parkinson at Michaelmas Cottage on Monday Feb 23rd. It speaks for itself really, and re-inforces that we must all be careful.

Dear Richard, I was wondering if you know who the neighbourhood watch person is for the village. Someone attempted to break in at just gone 12.30 last night. Luckily the dog heard them and we switched the lights on, but our gate was still ajar this morning. A car came and picked someone up on our corner a few minutes later so I think it was probably quite carefully planned. I think I need to up our security levels a bit! If there is a neighbourhood watch person I can email and hopefully they’ll let everyone know, but if not would you mind forwarding a message to the people on your list? I hope you are well. Many thanks. With best wishes, Laura

Apethorpe Hall English Heritage has submitted a Planning Application for Security Gates and Fencing at the top of Laundry Road at the Entrance to Apethorpe Hall. The Planning Application is Ref. No, EN/08/02193/FUL and information on this is available from http://www.east-northamptonshire.gov.uk/. The deadline date for comments is 12 February 2009.

Apethorpe Calendar Project Guidelines

As agreed at the village meeting on 13^th January ’09, an Apethorpe Village Calendar is being produced during 2009 as a communal project for everyone in the village – young and old. The beautiful Apethorpe countryside will be reflected in this calendar with 13 stunning(!) photographs all taken by village residents. This is your opportunity for artistic pride since the selected photographs will be published in the calendar with the best being displayed in the King’s Head and the blog through the year.

The Calendar Project will enable you (and the children) to pick up your cameras and explore the surrounding countryside, seek the best views, submit your photographs and be involved in supporting your village – good exercise and good fun, all in one!

The final Calendar will be professionally produced towards the end of the year and will be ideal for home and office or for presents for family and friends.

Below are the guidelines for submitting photographs for this project:-

1) It is open to all village residents of any age apart from Maggie Farmer who is to be our judge for at least the first year. You can submit as many photos as you like.

2) For this first calendar, photos will be landscapes taken in and around Apethorpe.

3) No photos of other villages and no surreptitious inclusion of your family or pets. As a rough guide, countryside that can be included should be within 30 minutes walk of the village.

4) It is not a competition. We will be selecting a range of photos so if the nine best photos are, for example, beautiful sunsets or the same view, they will not all be selected as we need variety for the final choice. There is no prize for any selected photos apart from the pride of seeing them in the final article.

5) Photos will be submitted in four groups representing the four seasons. There will be deadlines given for each season (see below)

6) The orientation of photos should be landscape

7) Photos need not be taken this year. They can be old ones that you have taken over the years. If you have some very old ones these would also be very welcome.

8) Following each deadline, a pool of between six and ten will be selected for that season. These will go forward for the final choice.

9) When photos go forward for judging, they will be anonymous as far as the judge is concerned. She / he will make their choice bearing in mind:-

A) Quality of photos

B) Originality of photos

C) The need for a variety of views and weather conditions

D) Their adherence to the appropriate season and to the guidelines.

10) The selected photos will be displayed anonymously in the King’s Head within three weeks of the deadline date. Judges choice is final.

11) Photos must be submitted by the appropriate date (see below) and will not be accepted after that date.

12) You may submit photos at any time during the appropriate season, you don’t have to wait for the deadline.

13) The following methods for submitting digital photos are all acceptable (in order of preference):-

A) The preferred method is as attachments to an email to annmike.johnson@tiscali.co.uk

B) On a USB memory stick or flash memory or similar

C) On a CD or DVD disc

D) Older and film based photos can be scanned, Mike Johnson will help with this if required

B, C and D submitted to Mike Johnson at Lavender Cottage, 5A Manor Farm. They will of course be returned provided names are attached.

14) The selling price will depend on printing costs but the project will be non- profit making

15) Following the final deadline, the final choice of thirteen photos will be selected by the judge from the four pools, one for the cover and one for each month

16) At present we are looking into how to fund the first run of 100 or more calendars

What We Need From You

1) Submitting lots of photos

2) Buying the final calendar (we are hopefully aiming at around £5). We are aware that for some people there may be conflicting loyalties for calendar purchase but you can still submit photos.

3) Suggestions of designers / printers who will produce a quality product at a reasonable price

Submission Deadline Dates

Winter – March 31^st 2009

Spring – May 31^st 2009

Summer – Aug 31^st 2009

Autumn – Oct 31st 2009

Apethorpe Parish Meeting - Notes

Tuesday, 13^th January 2009, 7.30pm, Kings Head

1. Apologies: Mike & Lois Phillips, David Manger, Ian Groundwater, Richard Parkinson, Simon Johnson, George Ord, Laura Parkinson.

2. Minutes of last meeting: Accepted as an accurate record

3. Matters arising

a) Freedom of information act :

Model Publication Scheme, Statutory obligations, Terms of Reference (MWr)

Described by MWr as “Bureaucracy at its worst!”

Applies to Parish meetings (under the auspices of the ‘Model Publication Scheme’) and requires us to provide information on request:

i. Who we are and what we do

ii. How we raise and spend money

iii. Priorities

iv. How we make decisions

v. Policies and procedures

vi. Lists and registers

vii. Services we provide

It was proposed (MWr) that we formally accept the Model Publication Scheme

Seconded: A Forbes

Unanimous vote

Terms of Reference (attached) were outlined. It was agreed to adopt them in principle and adjust them as required

Proposed: C Forbes

Seconded: F Porter

Unanimous vote

b) Community responder scheme (DM)

This scheme has received funding for half the cost of a defibrillator from the British Heart Foundation. There is the possibility of the remaining funds being found locally. Mike Walsh gave a brief account of how this may occur (details will be expanded at a later date)

Any volunteers should give their name and address to DM who will forward them to EMAS allowing a CRB check to occur prior to formal training ACTION DM

c) Allotments (MWr)

MWr described the suggested scheme; land behind the tennis courts.

Leader properties own the land and have indicated that they are happy in principle.

There is a covenant on the land to prevent building; raised by Yvonne Tomkins, Willowbrook Lodge. The parish will approach Yvonne to advise of the allotment project and ask for her agreement ACTION MWr

Dennis Chamberlain is happy to assist with the logistics of the project

A short discussion followed about the cost of water to the site. This will be researched ACTION MWr

d) Polling facilities (MWr)

The garage of Rick and Sandy Avern (Willowbrook House, Manor Farm) has been approved for use as a polling station for the residents of Apethorpe.

Many thanks to Rick and Sandy for their generosity in providing this valuable public space

e) Public telephone box (MWr)

The request to retain the box is with the Secretary of State; the response may take up to 1 year. Feedback will be given when it is received

f) Neighbourhood watch

Guy Porter has agreed to assume the role of coordinator following Richard Dorling’s note that he might not be available to assist.

The meeting was grateful for Guy’s offer of help and also extended their thanks to Richard Dorling for his efforts since arriving in the village.

This will be a standing item on the agenda ACTION GP

g) Childrens play area/scheme

ENDC have recruited Play Rangers to facilitate play and sports schemes in villages throughout Northamptonshire. They bring all the equipment and anticipate managing after school clubs and holiday clubs. ENDC wanted to know if the scheme was of interest and if any outdoor space could be made available

· 0-7 years (play)

· 7-13 years (fun and sport)

· 13+years(sports coaching)

It was suggested by the meeting that The Green at Apethorpe Hall maybe a suitable site. MWr to ask EH ACTION MWr

The scheme requires a local facilitator. Rachel Johnson kindly offered; it was suggested that she may gain assistance form Laura Parkinson ACTION RJ

h) Peacocks/hens (Molly & Polly!)

George Kelly and Dave Moisey set traps in Mike Walsh’s garden. They have been moved to Haddon – we were informed they are happy with the move.

4. Finance report (M Walsh)

Attached

MW advised that an audit will be required 31^st March 2009 but that this will not attract a fee as we only have income this year ACTION MW

5. Apethorpe Annual Precept – 2009/2010

Currently this is zero rated for Apethorpe

If the meeting decides on a precept the value will be divided between the 93 households in the village

This was discussed and a proposal was made to retain the zero precept

Proposed: M Hindmarch

Seconded: F Porter

Majority vote to carry the proposal

6. Highways and planning issues

a) Local planning applications:

Nil to report

b) Winter driving & Road Salting Routes

MWr distributed ENDC maps of salted routes. Please contact Malcolm if you wish to have a copy ACTION ALL

c) Local priorities (e.g. Sign for Laundry Road)

Following a recent ‘mail shot’ request form MWr a list of priorities for the villagers of Apethorpe have been forward to ENDC

i. Footpath maintenance between Apethorpe and Kingscliffe

ii. Improved signage and sight lines on the approach to the bridge

iii. Signage indicating that Laundry Road is a ‘no through road’ and indicate a speed limit

iv. Highway maintenance along the road to Nassington

v. Repair of loose kerbstones through the village

vi. Parking around the pub, particularly on the grass verges

7. Village Calendar

Described by MJ who will circulate a full description throughout the village

Attached

An enthusiastic discussion followed. All attending thought this was an excellent idea and encouraged Mike to pursue this ACTION MJ

8. Apethorpe Hall

This property remains unsold

MWr advised that EH were planning more tours this year as follows:

· June-September 09

· Wednesday and Saturday

· 10.30, 13.00, 15.30

A Forbes offered his assistance ACTION MWr/DM

9. Kings Head Update

Julia thanked the village for their patience over the festive season as increased business had resulted in some parking difficulties

Julia described

· Burns night supper (24^th Jan)

· Valentine’s supper (13^th Feb)

· Valentine’s dinner (14^th Feb)

10. Any other business

In future AOB will be replaced with items of information as large items of AOB do not allow sufficient consideration to be given to possibly important items.

Anyone attending the meeting should ensure that they inform the clerk of items 5 days ahead of the meeting; they can be provided by email at deborah.manger@btinternet.com or by post at Reed House

Information given was that there was a programme about Apethorpe Hall on BBC1, 7.30pm 14/01/09

11. Date of next meeting – Tuesday 28^th April 2009

Apethorpe Parish News

Services in February 2009 Sunday 1st February 11am Matins Mrs Ord

Sunday 8h February 11am Family Eucharist Rev Michael Whawell

Sunday 15th February 11am Family Eucharist Canon M. McAdam

Sunday 22nd February 11am Family Eucharist Canon John Beaumont

Sunday 1st March 6pm Benefice Evensong Bishop John

A LETTER FROM BISHOP JOHN

LENT begins in February. The word itself is an Old English word meaning “spring”, but at church it refers to the 40 days and 40 nights running up to Easter. During Lent we prepare ourselves to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and discover how those great events affect our lives as individuals and as a community. Traditionally Lent is a time for “giving up” something as an act of self-discipline. I rather prefer the idea of “taking on something extra”. So you could try attending our Lent Meetings, which are going to happen on Tuesday evenings throughout March when we shall be getting to know each other and looking at the Bible together. Full details will appear in next month’s newsletter. LENT starts on Ash Wednesday, 25th February. There will be special services that day at 9.30am (Nassington) and 7.30pm (Woodnewton). We hope you will join us. With warmest good wishes to you all +JOHN FLACK WE have been busy in the Church over the past few weeks, firstly Pat Kittens has kindly cleaned out the Bell room which was covered in sticks, old nests and dead birds. He has also cleaned out the parapet on the tower that was full of guano from the pigeons, a truly filthy job, well done and thank you Pat. We are putting wire anti pigeon spikes on the parapet to try to stop them using it to court and breed. Roy Rogers and his son are going to insure that the spire and the tower are bird proof in the future. We are also installing security into the church to protect the roof, which will no longer be insured against theft by either of the approved insurance companies. There will also be more security installed for the inside of the building and its contents.

November 2008

Another view of Apethorpe in bygone times

Helen & Richard's wall

On Wednesday November 19th Richard and Helen Dorling's lovely new wall took a turn for the worse by having a car driven into it. The damage inflicted can be seen in the photo below.

Should anyone have seen anything please get in touch with Richard or Helen at 6/7 Bridge Street as they would be delighted to find how this happened as the car driver left the scene. It is believed to have occurred during the rush hour period. (Do we have one of those in Apethorpe?), so would probably be early evening. Any information would be gratefully received.

George Kelley in the Daily Mail

Hey - Just look at this fantastic article that appeared in the Daily Mail today.

My thanks to Simon Johnson for alerting us to it.

Just follow the link by highlighting all of it and pasting into the web browser window.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/gardening/article-1085531/The-selfless-man-Britain-How-man-worked-unpaid-20-years-preserve-forgotten-Northamptonshire-palace.html

DOCTOR'S PHARMACIES UNDER THREAT !

It may not be a surprise to some people to know that Pharmacies attached to Doctors surgeries are under threat. However some of you may not be aware of what is proposed, and to that end I have inserted a document from Wansford Practice. This also applied to all rural practices, and we have also a document with much the same information from the Oundle Practice.

If you have strong views on this, then you should act as soon as possible to make your views known as suggested in the letter by the date indicated.

Wansford Surgery

Future of GP surgeries threatened with the loss of retaining their Right to Dispense Prescriptions You may have read in the press recently that surgeries such as ours are at risk of losing the right to dispense prescriptions. This, for our patients, would mean them having to travel to another pharmacy to cash their prescriptions after seeing the doctor. It could also mean that we would have no alternative other than to curtail certain services and in many parts of the country could lead to the closure of surgeries. To help rural surgeries secure their right to dispense we are asking for your support please by writing a letter to: Gillian Farnfield, Area 453D, Skipton House, 80 London Road, London SE1 6LH with a copy of the letter to us please for us to pass on to the MP In doing this we would ask that you please make reference, in your letter tothe fact that this would result in a reduced service, lack of choice as to where you would be able to dispense your prescription, and inconvenience in having to travel miles to cash your prescritption. We have until the 20th November to appeal against this so please make sure your letters are sent and received by this time. If you want to see an end to Dispensing from your surgery, do nothing. If, however, you want to change any of these plans you need to let the Government know your views, at the above address, as they believe they are acting for YOU. Thank you for your support Drs Takhar, Nally, Hume, Hawkins, Baker and Jones

CONGRATULATIONS

The engagement of Mike and Jane has been announced although no date for the wedding has yet been planned.

Pictured right the happy couple are seen celebrating in traditional style at the King's Head.

We're not sure which of them is making an honest person of the other , but wish them every happiness for the future.

Together again at last!!

Residents may remember that during July, an abandoned stolen car was found next to The King's Head very late one night. On that same night Margaret Parkinson had her bicycle stolen from the garage and it was assumed that this bike was used as a means of transport for the perpetrator of the crime to get away on. However it appears that not being as fit as Margaret, they only managed to get as far as Wansford before ditching the bike in a hedge there.

Amazingly during October Sandy Avern (resident super sleuth) noticed an advert in Wansford Post Office saying that a ladies bike had been found, giving a number to ring. Passing this on to the Parkinsons Margaret was thrilled to learn it was indeed her bike, and they are now happily re-united. Here's a video clip showing just how pleased she is!!

Village Meeting held on October 7th 2008

Apethorpe Parish Meeting - Notes Tuesday, 7th October 2008, 7.30pm, Kings Head 1. Apologies: Dennis & Anne Chamberlain Linda Hindmarch Phil Brown Pat Howells Richard Dorling Simon Johnson Ian Groundwater Guy Porter Roger Glitheroe George Ord 2. Minutes of last meeting Proposed – Richard Parkinson Seconded- Lynn Winder

Matters arising a) Community responder scheme (D Manger) Recently Sean Keown has contacted DM advising re British Heart Foundation application and possibility of training. Sean has suggested a meeting and DM asked people to contact her & Sean so that this can be taken forward ACTION DM b) Footpath maintenance (M Winder & H Smith) MWr described the development of the pathway between Apethorpe & Kingscliffe. He confirmed that the East Northants DC will perform 4 cuts per year using a verge cutter. HS suggested that if the village required a closer cut during the year that this would have to be arranged locally. The options included: · Maintain the path ourselves accepting personal liability · Accept the condition of the path · Raise a village precept which would be gathered by EN DC on behalf of the village A discussion ensued regarding the maintenance and the possibility of maintenance. MW asked the meeting for a vote on the use of volunteers who accept personal liability. (Proposed R.Parkinson, seconded M.Johnson). A majority vote was carried. The cutting of the path will be facilitated by volunteers ACTION MWr c) Allotments (MWr) MWr has had communication with the owner of the land behind the tennis courts (Leader Properties). The owner is happy to enter into an arrangement with the village. MWr suggested that a volunteer was required to take this project forward and liaise with the company. Laura Parkinson will lead on this project & will feedback to the parish meeting ACTION LP d) Thanks (MWr) The parish meeting wished to formally extend its thanks to Andrew Forbes and Pat Howells for their dedication and hard work during the tenure of their posts as Chairman and Clerk respectively. 4. Finance report (M Walsh) MW presented the accounts (attached) The parish meeting would like to thank Mike Walsh for his continued efforts on behalf of the village. Countywide planning issues and local planning applications MWr & DM advised the meeting that EN DC requires the parish meeting to report on points of accuracy with respect to local plans and that points of style should be made by individuals It was also pointed out that in order for the village to be fully engaged with countywide issues a volunteer is required who could offer the meeting assistance; attending strategy meetings, assessing local plans. Anyone who has an interest in this please speak to MWr ACTION ALL DM advised the only recent application in the village, apart from Coach House (see later) was an internal change to the cottages at 6-7 Bridge Street; this has been approved. The application for Lilac Cottage is at appeal during which time no further comments are allowed a) Update of Parish Watch Meeting (M Johnson) MJ had attended a strategy meeting regarding minerals and waste management. He concluded that the possible future local impact was that the A47 would become busier with heavy traffic. Communications and the ‘blog’ (R Avern) RA described the ‘Communicare’ scheme to the meeting; this is currently described on the blog. This charitable patient – doctor association, based at Wansford, would like increased input from service users. Please approach the Wansford surgery for further information ACTION ALL RP asked if the parish news could be placed on the blog. It was agreed that this was appropriate ACTION RP/RA RA advised that a paper version of the blog is available for those villagers who request it 7. Polling facilities (MWr) MWr advised the meeting that there are currently no polling facilities in Apethorpe. He described the facilities that are legally required: needs to have a private area for casting of vote and toilet facilities A discussion followed regarding the options: homes within village, postal votes RA offered access to his garage and downstairs toilet facilities. This will be proposed to EN DC ACTION MWr 8. Public telephone box (MWr) It has been confirmed that Apethorpe public telephone box has been identified as a box that will be removed. MWr has written to the Secretary of State advising that the box should remain for the following reasons; · Heritage feature within a conservation area · Poor mobile phone signals · Need for an emergency phone · We are awaiting a response. A discussion followed about the possibility of purchasing a maintaining the box. No conclusion was reached 9. Freedom Of Information Act (MWr) The parish meeting must comply with FOI conditions and requests form January 2009. The following will be required: · Terms of reference (attached – please comment) ACTION ALL · Publication of meeting notes and storage of all material and documents pertaining to parish meeting activities ACTION MWr/DM Any other business a) Apethorpe Ramblers Society (R Johnson) Next meeting will occur when the White Swan at Woodnewton opens; the walk will include a visit for refreshment b) Sign for Laundry Road; ‘no through rd’/‘kids’(F Porter) FP described the reasons why some residents of Laundry Road would like a sign that indicated that this was not a through road. This will require an inquiry to the Highways Authority ACTION MWr c) Access and Planning Application for Coach House (RJ) RJ described the anticipated timeframe for renovations to Coach House and the lack of access through the driveway of Coach House during this period. There was a lengthy discussion regarding whether this would continue following the building works; some residents of Manor Farm felt strongly that this would not be permitted. It was concluded that the parish meeting could not facilitate this issue and it was agreed that Simon and Rachel Johnson would check the legal and liability issues again; they would confirm the outcome with their neighbours ACTION S&RJ The planning application is available for viewing (blog) and comments can be forwarded to the planning officer directly or through MWr d) Neighbourhood watch (DM on behalf of Richard Dorling) Richard Dorling has advised us that he anticipates leaving the village in approximately 6 months time; he would like somebody to assume the role of Neighbourhood Watch coordinator before he leaves Volunteers please speak to MWr ACTION ALL e) Church ‘development’ (RP) RP described the possible reprovision of the pews in the church to enable the building to be used as a community facility. Discussions included: · The merits of removing the pews · The need for a community facility · Versatility of chairs It was suggested that this discussion required a formal discussion and should not be managed as AOB. This was agreed and will be discussed formally at the next meeting. All interested parties should forward discussion points to DM prior to the next meeting so that they can be made available with the agenda ACTION ALL f) Childrens play area (MWr) EN DC has funding available to develop childrens play areas specifically for the 8-13 year age group. There are currently 26 children in the village and it was agreed by those in attendance that this would be a worthy project This project requires a lead (volunteer). Enquiries to MWr ACTION ALL g) Peacocks/peahens (C Forbes) These recent visitors appear to be causing damage to plants and property. Advice will be sought form Dave Moisey on how these birds can be managed ACTION MWr Date of next meeting – 13th January 2009

Apethorpe Parish News November 2008 St Leonard's Church Apethorpe aims to make the love of God known to everyone who lives in the village, through lively worship and caring fellowship.

Autumn Colours Sunday 2nd November 11am Patronal Festival Bishop John Flack Sunday 9th November 11am Remembrance Sunday. Rev Michael Whawell War Memorial 10.55 Remembrance Service Lt Col Peter Kerruish Sunday 16th November 11am Family Eucharist Canon Michael McAdam Sunday 23rd November 11am Family Eucharist Canon John Beauumont Sunday 30th November 11am Holy Communion Rev Dr Jack McDonald

There will be a coffee morning in aid of St Leonard’s on Saturday 15th November from 10.30 in the Shooting Cottage, Manor House. Fabulous, inexpensive jewellery, ideal as Christmas presents, will be on sale. For more information ring 470690 or 470231. Bishop John Flack will give a talk on Wednesday 26th November entitled “My life in the Vatican” at 7.30 in the Church. This will be a fascinating insight into the workings of the Vatican. Refreshments will be provided. Tickets are free and available from Lady Brassey 470231, Tamara Ord 470683 or Richard P 470653. On Sunday the 30th, Jack McDonald will celebrate Holy Communion from the Book of Common Prayer. This is possibly his last visit for sometime. Bishop John will conduct a Confirmation for 12 candidates here. The Ven: David Painter Archdeacon of Oakham will preach, and Andrew Forbes will provide a choir from Oundle School. Canon Michael McAdam will take a Christening, Christingle and carol service on the 21st December. More details next month. For the past two years a traveling crib (Posada) has been taken into homes in Nassington during December leading up to Christmas. This year we would like it to travel to all of our Church Parish, Please contact Philippa Joice on 01780 782773 philippa@planetjoice.co.uk if you want more information or wish to give the Posada a home for the night.

House Prices in Apethorpe

Homes for sale in Apethorpe

August 2008

Where's This?

As promised in the last issue here is the next picture of Apethorpe in bygone days.

The picture that appeared in the last issue was of course taken at Apethorpe Hall in the swimming pool. The picture was taken by Elle Dunn who specializes in taking pictures of decaying buildings. She has also taken a series of pictures of Woolwich Arsenal.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Matt Snow has alerted us to a potential threat in the village which is shown below. Please follow his advice to ensure you don't lose any valuables.

"I am aware that a prolific burglar from Peterborough has got a new girlfriend in King's Cliffe. I have no doubt this explains the stolen car dumped in our village, and the subsequent theft of a pedal cycle (although before he sues me under the Human Rights Act I have no legal basis for my hunch). Please ensure that you lock doors, windows, don't leave anything valuable in cars etc, or he will steal from you." Thanks Matt

VILLAGE PARTY

See who was there!!

My grateful thanks to Andy Aveyard and Andrew Williams for capturing "those moments" so well !!!

www.flickr.com

Click on image above. When web site opens click on browse under thumbnail images on right. Then click on slideshow.

Contributed by Richard Parkinson. The village Party was a great success, the weather was reasonable, the tents stayed put in the wind and the roast disappeared, as did a huge quantity of drink. Whilst we did not take a count of the attendance, we had supplied 120 plates and these were not enough, I therefore estimate that there were about 140 people, including all the children, all of whom had great fun. I would like to thank Lord and Lady Brassey for supplying the wonderful setting and also all my helpers, Simon and Jack for the bar, Malcolm and Richard for their excellent carving skills and especially Julia from the pub, who had organized the food and who did sterling work serving you all as well as supplying a free barrel of beer. Then there were all those who helped put up tents etc. and tidied up on Sunday. Lady Brassey’s Tombola raised £300 for the church and the rest made £365 for the village and church. If anyone has any ideas for next year, please mail me, rjmaparkinson@tiscali.co.uk.

Lost

Following the Village Party Glenda Kerruish has discovered a grey hoody top sixe XL that doesn't belong to her or anyone she's asked. If you have lost such an item please contact Glenda on:- gkerruish@aol.com Concert Review - by Andrew Forbes

I was most grateful to the Villagers who looked after the choir members. The choir sang better than ever, and it was a really good evening. Despite the number of people away, and the road closures, there was a good turn out and the occasion was much appreciated by the audience. The choir really had a good time, and I gather that Apethorpe is one of the highlights of their tour, so who knows....they may be back! I hope to be able to arrange more concerts in the Autumn. Malcolm & Lynn Winder have sent me a piece regarding the collection that recently took place for Christian Aid.

"Many thanks to all those in Apethorpe who gave to Christian Aid this year. The amount collected from the Village was £215-00 which was then added to by a further collection on Sunday, 18th May 2008 at St. Leonard's Church of £155-00 -- an amazing total of £370-00. Christian Aid works with the world's poorest communities by investing in projects that provide benefits for years to come. This Aid is designed to help people improve their lives whatever their background or religion and the generous donations from Apethorpe are a substantial contribution to this aid."

If anyone has any items that they would like included in the Monthly updates or in the main issues please just e-mail them to me on rick.avern@sky.com

Tennis Club BBQ

Check out the photos

www.flickr.com

by Mike Phillips As you will see from the pictures the Tennis Club BBQ on the 2nd August was a huge success. The Fortissimo Swing Band lived up to their name and made the party go with a 'swing'!

Thanks to Ali & Richard for all their hard work in hosting the event and also to all those that helped in so many ways. The Tennis Club has sent a cheque for £500 to Marie Curie Cancer Care from the proceeds.

Marie Curie would also be grateful for donations of:- paperback books - foreign coins - jewellery - mobile phones - used postage stamps. Contact them at 7c Commercial Road, Grantham. Tel 01476 576000.

So the Summer is well and truly upon us now and many people have been taking the opportunity of escaping to other Countries. However - spare a thought for the UK because when the weather is good, there's often nowhere better. Take a look at the picture below supplied by Andrew Williams of a big sky over Apethorpe. Whilst on the subject of the countryside, please find below the report of the second ARS walk by Rachel Johnson.

The hottest day of the year so far did not deter some of the more hardy villagers on the second ARS walk. Easy walking up to Spa Farm and then a slightly more challenging 'hack' through a fully grown rapeseed field brought us to the Roman Spa. This is currently very overgrown (summer foliage) but was an exciting and interesting first time viewing for some members of ARS, and is worth a revisit when some of the growth has fallen back. The lack of rain in the last week made for a nearly dry Morehay Lane, that ancient grassed road into Kings Cliffe. We also had first sight of the new competition for Mr Fowler's Happy Hen Eggs as well as a full view of the 400 trees that Fowlers have planted to landscape their enterprise. Then it was on to welcome refreshment in the garden of the Crosse Keys via the watermill. We finished the ramble with a ceremonial walk along the new footpath (perhaps to be renamed the Howells' Way?) arriving back at 1pm sharp! Next ARS walk in September. Details to be announced.

KING'S CLIFFE & AREA COMMUNITY SPORTS PROJECT

Mike Herring has asked me to include details of a forthcoming event that is aimed at giving all the Apethorpe folk a chance of seeing the full details of this new project.

Kings Cliffe and Area Community Sports Project Sun 7th Sept 2008 at the Kings Head Apethorpe, 7.00pm You are invited to the Kings Head at Apethorpe to see a presentation of where things are with this major new sports and leisure facility for this area. The first £3/4m has been raised and football pitches, skate park and BMX track will be opened shortly. Future plans include tennis courts, indoor sports hall, all weather area etc and this is your opportunity to have a real input into these plans. The meeting will be of particular interest to parents with young children to teenagers. After the meeting a tour of the site will be available for those who would like to see the real scale of things to come. Mike Herring 01780 470753

TELEPHONE BOX

Rick, You have recently reported on the blog that BT intend to remove the village payphone as a cost saving exercise. On behalf of the village I have formally objected to this to East Northamptonshire Council on the basis that the removal would mean the following: The Loss of a Heritage Feature The Loss of a Feature Located in a Conservation Village The Loss of a Public Service The Loss of A Public Telephone in an area where there is Lack Mobile Phone Coverage The Loss of a Telephone which is required for Emergency Calls Our objection has been passed on to the Secretary of State for a final decision.

House Prices in Apethorpe

Homes for sale in Apethorpe