B2DAY FEBRUARY 2013

Featuring: Local News, Views, Letters, Features, Events, Photos and more...email: [email protected]: 01604 810831 Now Online: - http://issuu.com/b2day

FREEMORE THAN JUST A VILLAGE MAGAZINE...

www.bartontoday.orgFebruary 2013

NOT FOR

PROFIT

A Place WeAll Love

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property will be featured across our 11 branch network, in our much viewed window, on our website and www.rightmove.co.uk, and in two newspapers. What’s more, all our viewings are accompanied, so you

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Clarke Court, Earls BartonAn executive style four bedroom detached house

situated in a small close of homes of a similar

calibre. Comprising reception hall, cloakroom,

dual aspect study/family room, lounge,

conservatory, dining room, fitted

kitchen/breakfast room with integrated

appliances, utility room, four bedrooms with built

in wardrobes, refitted en-suite shower room,

family bathroom, low maintenance front garden,

block paved drive, attached double garage and an

enclosed rear garden which extends to the side.

Compton Way, Earls BartonSitting on a generous plot is this extended three

bedroom detached home, comprising entrance

hall, cloakroom, lounge with arch to the dining

room, 15' kitchen/breakfast room with central

island, UPVC double glazed conservatory

overlooking the rear garden, large utility room

occupying the original kitchen space, master

bedroom with en-suite shower room, two further

bedrooms, family bathroom, single garage, off

road parking for three cars, lawned frontage and a

good size rear garden.

Tebbutts Yard, Earls BartonThis very well presented three bedroom mid

terrace house is situated on a no-through road,

just a short walk from the amenities of Earls

Barton's village centre. Entrance hall, cloakroom,

lounge/dining room, fitted kitchen with built in

oven and hob, master bedroom with Juliet

balcony, plus two further bedrooms and a

bathroom. Outside, there is off road parking space

for one car to the front of the property with a

further allocated parking space in a nearby car

park and an enclosed garden to the rear.

Additional benefits include timber framed double

glazing and gas radiator central heating.

Cordon Crescent, Earls BartonA well presented three bedroom semi detached

property on a popular development within Earls

Barton. The property offers off road parking for

two cars, a downstairs cloakroom, gas radiator

heating and majority double glazing. Comprising

entrance porch, open plan lounge/dining room,

fitted kitchen and utility room, cloakroom,

converted garage providing a workshop/studio,

three bedrooms, bathroom, off road parking and

an enclosed, relatively private rear garden.

North Road, Earls BartonA well presented, spacious three bedroom double

bay fronted house with character features to

include stripped wooden doors, floorboards,

skirtings and architrave and a cast iron open

fireplace in the lounge. The accommodation

comprises entrance hall, lounge, dining area,

refitted kitchen, utility area, three first floor

bedrooms and a refitted bathroom. Externally

there is a front courtyard and an attractive low

maintenance rear garden with an outbuilding.

Spring Gardens, Earls BartonAn extended two bedroom semi detached

bungalow situated in a small cul-de-sac. The

property offers generous, flexible accommodation

benefiting from two double bedrooms, two

reception rooms, conservatory, double glazing

and gas radiator heating. Entrance hall, lounge,

kitchen, utility room, dining room/third bedroom,

conservatory, two bedrooms, bathroom, front

garden with off road parking and an enclosed,

south facing rear garden.

£295,000 £218,000

£147,500 £175,000

£165,000 £154,995

New New

New New

New New

Barton Today February 2013

About UsBarton Today is a Not-For-Profit CommunityInterest Magazine with over 6,000 readers.Delivered FREE every single month toevery home in Earls Barton we are notcontrolled by, or affiliated to, any political,religious, social or commercial group.

Website: bartontoday.orgManaging Editor: Steve WatkinsEmail: [email protected]: 01604 810831

Advertising: Contact us by phone or emailand we’ll discuss advertising rates andpayment methods, and help you in anyway that we can. Any problems, just call.All adverts before our deadline please.

Deadline: Space permitting, we try to printeverything sent in, but our deadline is the10th of the month (for the January issue itis November 30th).

After that date we’re flexible but we can’tguarantee publication. Include your name,address and phone number as we do notpublish anonymous articles. If you don’twant your name published let us know.Articles may be shortened if space islimited.

Articles & Adverts by Hand:In an envelope, please to: Barton Sweets,The Square, Earls Barton (Please addressall items to ‘Barton Today’)

Photos: By email or on disk please. Wecan scan your photograph but if you want aphotograph returned, include a stampedaddressed envelope.

We ask permission of a responsible adultbefore any images are published ofchildren under the age of 16.

If you live in Earls Barton:Your magazine should arrive by the last dayof the previous month. If you know ofsomeone who hasn’t received a copy bythen, please give us a call and we’ll handdeliver it directly to them.

If you live outside Earls Barton: A year’s subscription costs £18 to coverpostage and packing. Please make yourcheque out to ‘Barton Today’ andremember to give us the address formailing. If you’re overseas, contact theEditor for postal rates.

Our Aim: We wish to bring all peoplestogether in peace and harmony and tocelebrate the diversity of the humanspirit by encouraging talent in all itsforms. Barton Today does notdiscriminate against anyone.

The Legal Bit: © Barton Today 2012

All views expressed in this magazine aresolely those of the authors and do notnecessarily represent the opinions of thePublishers, or anyone involved with theproduction or delivery of the magazine.

The acceptance of an advertisement or anarticle does not indicate any endorsementof a product or service by this publication.

Barton Today is a Community InterestCompany.

The website is courtesyJames Rands-Allen of Sublime Media

The Decision o f the Managing Editoris Final

Finally snow is here!

1

The village looks beautiful and kids and adults alike are to be found at Kemsheadsfor a spot of sledging on a snowy day with no school. This picture is replicatedacross the county, as over 200 schools make the same decision. Children whoopingwith delight, parents not so sure. In this month’s Barton Today there are somelovely pictures of those winter scenes from around the village.

Christmas is now well and truly behind us. The landscape of flooded fields over thelast few months has changed to one of deep snow. It is a good time to look forwardto what other changes await us in the coming year.

We send our congratulations to our local celebrity Martin Cahill on his well-deserved MBE and perhaps his achievements can prompt us to think of how we canhelp others or achieve personal goals and challenges in the months ahead.

How about rising to the challenge of climbing Mt Kilimanjaro whilst raising moneyfor our own local charity NCTLC, or answering the call to give much needed bloodor setting a goal of losing that excess weight. You can find out more about each ofthese challenges in this month’s magazine.

Lastly, whatever activity you are up to in the months ahead, remember to send anarticle in to Barton Today. Our readers love to hear about all the exciting thingswhich are happening in our local area.

Enjoy the read.

All of those village groups/organisations get sending in your info!!We are putting together a useful numbers and information page and plan on

publishing it every three months. If you a part of a group/club and would like yourinformation included then please email your details.

Please note that no living trees wereharmed in the making of the front cover!!

Featuring: Local News, Views, Letters, Features, Events, Photos and more...

email: [email protected]: 01604 810831 Now Online: - http://issuu.com/b2day

FREE

MORE THAN JUST A VILLAGE MAGAZINE...

www.bartontoday.org February 2013

NOT FOR

PROFIT

A Place WeAll Love

� � � ��

��

EVERYMONDAY

EVERYTUESDAY

EVERYWEDNESDAY

EVERYTHURSDAY

EVERYFRIDAY

EVERYSATURDAY

EVERYSUNDAY

2


MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

Line DancingWorking Mens Club9.30am - 12.00pm

Quiz Night atThe Silver Band Club

Knit & Knatter GroupThe Library4.00pm - 6.00pm

Crib TeamThe Old Swan7.00pm - 8.00pm

Weight Watchersat St John's 9.30am - 10.30am

Yoga - 10.00am EBBowls & Tennis Club

Poker GameThe Old Swan7.00pm - 8.00pm

Ignite Youth ProjectThe Church Rooms6.00pm - 9.00pm

EB Junior YouthClub 6.30-8pm

Hokey Cokey1.30pm -3.00pmterm time onlyAll Saints Church Hall

Line DancingWorking Mens Club9.30am - 12.00pm

TaekwondoSilver Band Club

ZumbaSilver Band Club9.30am - 10.30am

Starfruit Theatre GroupBaptist Church7.00pm - 9.15pm

Street Dance at The Silver BandClub at 6pm

ScrabbleThe Library2pm - 4pm

Puppy ClassesEB Youth Club6pm - 9pm

Weight WatchersSt John's7pm - 8pm

Whats on in February 2013

Bell Ringers PracticeThe All Saints 7-9pm

Youth Club 7.30pm -9.30pm age 12-16

Jog Group atThe Grange 6pm

Line DancingWorking Mens Club9.30am - 11.30am

Taekwondo at TheSilver Band Club

Yoga - St. JohnsAmbulance Hall 6.30pm

Poker GameThe Old Swan 7-8pm

EVERYMONDAY

EVERYTUESDAY

EVERYWEDNESDAY

EVERYTHURSDAY

EVERYFRIDAY

EVERYSATURDAY

EVERYSUNDAY

REGULAR EVENTS

Sound of PantoMore on pg 22

WI Guest speakerJohn StarkeyNational ParksMore on pg 18

Tennis & Bowls ClubWhist Drive 2.00pm

Millennium WIWomen &Hypnotherapy7.45pm, MethodistChurch Hall

Tennis & Bowls ClubWhist Drive 2.00pm


Floral SocietyMore on pg 6

Bridge DriveMore on Pg 22


Earls BartonLuncheon Club atAll Saints ChurchHall from 12 till 1.30

Earls BartonLuncheon Club atAll Saints ChurchHall from 12 till 1.30

Hospice FirewalkMore on Pg 31

My little VintageShop Grand OpeningMore on Pg 13

Methodist ChurchCoffee MorningMore on Pg 7

Fairtrade CoffeeMorningMore on Pg 8


Fundraising DiscoMore on Pg 13

Womens BreakfastMore on Pg 22

EBUFC Quiz NightThe Grange More on Pg 38

Starfruit TheatreMore on Pg 18

Shara Simms at TheSilver Band Club

Shaun E.B at The Silver Band Club

Stepping StonesMore on Pg 7

A.D at The SilverBand Club

Missi Mac at TheSilver Band Club

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28


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Don’t let the short month stop yougiving blood...

"Mrs Joan Grant has been helping make the drinks for theblood donors at Earls Barton since 1998, and now feels it istime to hand over to her daughter Mrs Mary Brown. Thephoto shows Sheryl Goodman (Donor Care Supervisor)presenting flowers to Mrs Brown on behalf of her mother, asa small thank you from NHS Blood and Transplant for all herhelp over the years.

People are being urged not to let the short month ofFebruary stop them giving blood.

With only 28 days in the calendar this month, NHSBlood and Transplant (NHSBT) is appealing to newand existing donors in the area to make a date todonate in plenty of time.

Blood stocks can often come under pressure during thewinter as adverse weather conditions and seasonal illnessesprevent regular donors from keeping their appointments,making it doubly important for people to give blood if able todo so.

Donated blood is vital for a wide variety of life-savingprocedures in local hospitals. Patients undergoing major surgeryand emergency treatment often require blood transfusions, butperhaps less well-known is the fact that blood is essential to thetreatment for many different types of cancer and blooddisorders.

NHSBT’s lead donor relations manager for the West Midlandsarea, Shailesh Mistry, said: “As there are only 28 days in February,there’s always the chance that people may intend to give bloodthis month but leave it too late to make an appointment.

“As a result, we’d urge both existing and new donors to helpsave lives by booking into one of their local sessions as soon asthey can. This can be done quickly and easily by going towww.blood.co.uk or calling 0300 123 23 23.”

Anyone aged between 17-65, weighing more than 50 kg (7 stone12lbs) and in general good health could potentially start savinglives by becoming a blood donor. There is no upper age limit fordonors who have donated in the last two years.

For more information, to book an appointment or to find a localblood donor session please call 0300 123 23 23 or visitwww.blood.co.uk

• For additional information please contact the NHSBT press office by calling 01923 367600.

• For urgent, out-of-hours enquiries please call 0117 969 2444.

• NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is a joint England and Wales Special Health Authority. Its remit includes the provision of a reliable, efficient supply of blood and associated services to the NHS in England and North Wales. It is also the organ donor organisation for the UK and is responsible for matching and allocating donated organs.

• Around 4% of the eligible population are active blood donors

• A unit of blood is measured as 470mls (or just under a pint)

• NHSBT collects approximately 2 million units of blood each year from 1.4 million blood donors

• There are 4 main blood groups – O, A, B and AB. Group O is the most common and therefore the most in demand. A regular supply of blood is vital – red cells last only 35 days and platelets only seven days

• Female whole blood donors can give blood every 16 weeks, while male blood donors must wait 12 weeks between donation

• Appointments can also be booked using the newly launched application for Android and Apple Smartphone and tablet devices which enables donors to search for their nearest blood donation sessions.

Blood Donor sessions are held at Earls Barton Junior School, and any persons wishing to donate bloodor find out more information should contact 0300 123 23 23 or visit http://www.blood.co.uk

4


SSttoopp tthhee DDrroopp

CCaammppaaiiggnn

Earls Barton Litter Pick 2013

Planning has started for

this year’s litter pick. The exact dates for this event will be finalised

soon.

If you are interested in helping this year please

contact me

Peter Wright on 01604 810094 or email

[email protected] for more details

FORTY YEARS DEDICATED SERVICE TO

EARLS BARTON

George Blackwell will have completed 40 years of continuous serviceto Earls Barton as its County Councillor by May, when the next CountyCouncil elections take place. Born and raised in Earls Barton, Georgehas given a lifetime’s service to the village as County, Borough andParish Councillor – a record that will never be equalled. He has nowdecided that the time is right for him to relinquish his County Councilresponsibilities and to give Kevin Watts the opportunity to serve asthe Labour Party candidate for Earls Barton in the forthcomingelection. We hope that there will be an opportunity later this yearfor the village as a whole to express its gratitude to George for hislong period of service.

George is pleased to welcome Kevin Watts as a candidate in theforthcoming election. Born and brought up in Irchester, he hasserved as a policeman in Northampton for 15 years. He has also hadwork experience in both the charitable (Leonard Cheshire Disability)and commercial worlds. He is a single father and is active in theDisability People Against Cuts campaign.

New County Council Divisional boundaries will apply throughoutEngland for the forthcoming elections. The Earls Barton Division willnow include the villages of Ecton, Great Doddington, GreatHarrowden, Hardwick, Isham, Little Harrowden, Mears Ashby,Orlingbury, Sywell and Wilby. There are 9,700 electors in the newDivision, of which those resident in Earls Barton represent 43%. Ifyou would like to take part in the campaign to elect Kevin Watts,please contact Peter Wright (07843 062197 [email protected]).

Finally, the Earls Barton Divisional Labour Party is organising fund-raising Quiz Nights at the Working Men’s Club, Queen Street, at19:30 on Thursday 21 February and Thursday 7 March. Furtherdetails are set out in a separate Notice in this Barton Today.

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In Memorandum - Mike Roberts

We received a letter from Mike Robert’s Sister following hissad passing in December...

Huw, Dad & I visited the village Tuesday & Wednesday 8th& 9th January to talk to some friends who knew him well.He had lived at North Rd for 26 years and enjoyed villagelife. We remain shocked & saddened by his sudden death athome on 1st December. His funeral at All Saints Church on20th December was well attended by family and friends,which was a comfort to us. It was good to talk to his friendsin the church hall after the service. Huw returned Mike'sbowls to the Bowl's Club in the hope they will be put to gooduse. Si & Jaya at Vin's Store were good friends to Mike overthe years and very supportive in recent times.

He was still delivering the Barton Today magazine toneighbours in the days before he died. We will never getover his untimely death, but try to take comfort by the factthat he is now in a better place. Thanks to the people whoknew Mike, for the friendship he had over the years and forthe pleasure had by living in such a lively village.

Huw & Peter Roberts and his sister Sue.

The news of his death shocked and saddened all at Barton Todayas he was a sincere, warm person for whom nothing was toomuch trouble. Thank you Sue for sending this letter as we toowould like to remember Mike and to thank him for hiscommitment to help the community over the years, includingdelivering Barton Today Magazine. He delivered this magazine inthe North Road area of the village from the first edition 7-8 yearsago to just before he died. I am sure his friends, neighbours, andresidents of Earls Barton join us in our appreciation and inremembering him.


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A belated Happy 2013The Earls Barton Rally and Country Fayre was quite successful in2012 and we managed to send donations to The Grendon SapphireFootball Club, The Saxon Pre School in Earls Barton, The Mums andTots Group in Bozeat and Oakfield in Easton Maudit. We alsodonated to the Kidney Research Unit. We raised the initial amountfrom the Raffle at the Show and then matched it with donations fromthe fund.

On a sad note we are all devastated to hear of the death of ArthurGarrigan who was our Trade Secretary. He was an integral part ofthe committee and has served with us since we first started andwas also involved in the previous rallies at Great Houghton and EctonPark. He will leave a large hole in the committee and will be sadlymissed both as a committee member and a good friend. Our bestwishes go to his family and friends. The brighter note is that thedonation to the Kidney Research was his chosen charity so we arepleased he lived to appreciate the donation.

We are now well into planning the 2013 event and things areprogressing well. We have booked the site, the bar and theCumberland Giants. All the entry forms have been sent along witha Christmas Card and we are receiving a lot of entries so hopefullythis years event will be even more successful that last year.

If anyone is interested in helping out or even joining the committeeyou would be very welcome. Please contact Robert Hollowell on07960 082975, Pat Conroy 0n 01933 663454 or Elaine Gregory on01933 664938.

Once again may we wish you a happy and healthy 2013

Pat Conroy

Earls Barton Floral SocietyNo Meeting in February

Next months meeting will be ademonstration from our very own“Lee Berrill” presenting “Over the

Rainbow” on 21st March


Methodist ChurchLeek Pie LunchTickets are now on sale for the traditional MethodistChurch Leek Pie Lunch. This year'slunch will take place on Tuesday 12th February at 1pm.

TICKETS ONLY COST £5.75

So please do support this event if you can. If youwould like to book a place please seeMrs J Drage or e-mail [email protected]

Saturday 2nd Feb (9:30am) please come alongand support our work in the village! You can also

get a very good bargin on the day!

Preachers for February 2013 atthe Methodist Church:Sunday 3rd Feb: Rachael Newman (All age worship)

Sunday 10th Feb: Bullock

Sunday 17th Feb: Mr J Thompson

Sunday 24th Feb: Rev N Bibbings (Communion)

What do we have for our

young people at EBMC.BOY'S BRIGADE:Every Monday eveningin February 2013Anchors 5-8yrs - 6.15pmJuniors 8-11yrs - 6.30pmCompany 12-17yrs - 6.30pm

The Boys' Brigade take part in lots ofdifferent tasks and games every week sowhy not come down and join us!

If you are interested in joining the BB pleasee-mail Mr J Thompson (Company Captain)[email protected]

STEPPING STONES:Sunday 17th Feb (10:30am) Take your first stepping stone

into the church life and family by joining our young people'sSunday group.

Learn stories / skills and much more. New members alwayswelcome to join us.

For more information please go onto our website

7

A message fromJonathan ThompsonI would like to thank the community of Earls Barton and thesurrounding area for the support given to the ‘Action for Children’Christmas Celebration Concert held in December.

Thank you to ‘Musical Roots’ and to the Earls Barton JuniorSchool led by Tina Skett for their excellent music.

We were joined also by the Higham Ferrers youth folk band ledby the very talented Jan Armstrong, and this certainly added tothe evening.

Thanks to Ruth Chapman for her lovely solos, to Ann Bonsor andJoy Drage for their poems, and to ‘little Micky’ who sang withthe children.

Finally I would like to thank Pauline Henson, our organist, DaveLawrence for his sound and lighting work, and to the team ofladies, led by Diane and Joy, involved with Front of House andcatering arrangements.

The total amount raised on the night for ‘Action for Children’ was£606, which was a superb effort.

Within this community it is so good that people show such greatsupport for the needs of the wider world.

The 2013 celebration will be held on Saturday, December 14th.Book it in your diaries now.

Many thanks for your continuing support,

Jonathan.

Transforming EBMCWe have started our work for Transforming EBMC! On Saturday January 5th we started our fundraising for our 2013 project.We were raising money for Donna's Dream House in Blackpool and for Transforming EBMC.

The project has started in our small upstairs meeting room (giving it a fresh look and new style.) More news next time...


8

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FAIRTRADE NEWSOur ‘more than just coffee’has just arrived!Traidcraft’s new decaffcoffee has a smooth,intense taste, and ismade from 100% highgrown Arabica beans.The Mountain WaterProcess removescaffeine naturally, andunlike the chemicalprocesses used in otherdecaff coffees, ours actually enhances the taste of the coffee.

Traidcraft coffee is different because we’re committed to workingwith the most marginalised, smaller-scale producers. TheTraidcraft product development team literally had to climb amountain just to trade with the farmers who grow our great-tasting coffee in a remote part of Guatemala! But that’s nothingcompared to what the mountain producers have to climb to scrapethe most basic living from coffee and honey on the side of avolcano.

Traidcraft has been working with CIPAC, our coffee supplier inGuatemala, since 2007, helping them to develop their products

and open up new markets.They’re one of the poorestproducer groups Traidcraft hasever worked with, living a hardlife in an area with littleinfrastructure, and smallearnings from their crops.

Traidcraft staff regularly paysthem visits, and we know ourpeople by name. We’ve helpedthem to get Fairtrade

certification and develop their product quality, and arranged forour coffee to be packed in-country to provide extra income forlocal communities.It’s the way Traidcraft has supported hundredsof thousands of farmers across the developing world for more than30 years - we’re there to catch our people if they fall. And we’re init for the long haul, to develop sustainable businesses that will last.Hope you can join us to help support some of these communitiesat our next event:

For catalogues & other Traidcraft info please Contact Nicky on: 07812 686944 or [email protected]

Fairtrade Coffee Morningand book sale

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Saturday 9th February 10am -12 noon

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9

David Rust writes....When I found out that Martin Cahill had been awarded the MBEin the New Years Honours list I was delighted but not over surprised having beenmade aware of his selfless contribution to Earls Barton and Northamptonshire over aperiod of 50 years. His service to the communities includes Fire-fighter, the villageYouth Club, Earls Barton Cricket Club, British Red Cross (he was recently awardedthe Badge of Honour for Devoted Service) and the Parish Council of which he is theChairman.

I had the great privilege of meeting with him at his home and was immediately struckby his modesty and unselfishness. He glossed over his achievements with a wave ofhis hand but it was obvious to me as he handed me the letter he received from theCabinet Office on the 27th November that he is a very proud man to have beenawarded this great honour. Being the inquisitive man he is he is keen to find out whowas behind his nomination and has asked me to thank Rosie Smart (Parish Council),Nigel Hadley (Youth Club), Arnold Orton (businessman) and George Blackwell (CountyCouncillor) as well as the Fire Service and British Red Cross. He says he suspectsthere are others and I have no doubt he will be thanking them soon!

When I asked him what his plan was for the next 5 years he thought for a momentand then smiled. “I am not sure but would really like the Sports Project to take off. Asfar as the Council is concerned a lot will depend on whether I get voted in next timebut I shall continue with the British Red Cross.” So no thoughts of resting on hislaurels just thinking of the village and other people – no change there then. Being abetting man I have just tried to put a bet on with Ladbrokes that he will get in nextelection – I was politely informed that no bets are being taken, “We do not take betson dead certs Sir!”

So what’s next? Well the investiture of course which will be held in London at eitherBuckingham Palace or St James’ Palace – unfortunately they do not do investitures inEarls Barton Working Mens Club! He will go in a chauffeur driven car (with JohnWatts as the driver) and will take his two sisters, Janet Lester and Winnie Blackwellwith him so start picking the new hats girls!

Martin, we are so very proud of you and thank you from the bottom of our hearts forall you have done over the past 50 years – keep going – you are the Leek we are allproud to know.

Martin CahillMBE

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Action For ChildrenWe would like to thank everyone for the support given at the recentChristmas Celebration Concert, at the Earls Barton MethodistChurch.

We enjoyed a wonderful evening led by ‘Musical Roots’ and the EarlsBarton Junior School Choir.

A full report will follow next month but in the meantime our mostsincere thanks to everyone, for your help in helping the children ofthis nation, whose needs are great, and who are seeking to rebuildtheir lives.

Jonathan Thompson and Joy Drage

Preachers in February 2013 atthe Baptist Church are:Sunday 3rd No service

Sunday 10th Lesley Emerson

Sunday 17th No service

Sunday 24th Lesley Emerson

News from the Baptist ChurchThe New Year began politically with a focus on changing the BenefitSystem. We have been reminded about why it was introduced andhave been told why, financially and economically for the country, itis necessary for it to change. The focus has mainly been onUnemployment Benefit but has widened now to the pensioners’winter fuel allowance. I believe it is the case that the amount spenton Unemployment Benefit is a very small part of the Benefit Systemas a whole.

I expect that all of us have benefitted from the system at some stagein our lives whether it be when we were children from the ChildAllowance that our parents received, when we were parents fromthe child allowance given if we had children, from the state pensionwe might be receiving now or for all the other ways that the Britishstate has tried to help people in society.

In Jesus’ time of course things were very different, just as they werebefore the inception of the “Welfare State.” Jesus would have seenbeggars at the temple door asking for money as they could notsupport themselves. It was why people were expected to give tenper cent of their income (and everything else) to the Jewish religiousauthorities, because it was the duty of all of the people of God tolook after the priest, the stranger, the foreigner, the orphan and thewidow. We know this from Deuteronomy (especially chapters 24and 26), the book of the Old Testament in which is explained the sortof life the people were expected to lead.

Jesus said that we will always have the poor with us (John’s gospelchapter 12 verse 8) and therefore as individuals, as groups and as acountry we need to act justly and with mercy (Micah chapter 6 verse8) and to think of the ways we can do that. Churches Together inEarls Barton and District does it by having a debt advice service, afood bank service linking with the Daylight Centre in Wellingborough,by sending all the proceeds from Carols on the Square toorganisations working with poor children or children from poorfamilies. They may be poor financially but they may also be poor inother ways, like parenting skills, and of course working with socialcare organisations.

While we may be being forced to consider changes to our BenefitSystem we should not forget that God’s Benefit System does notchange. “Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise hisholy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits– who forgives all your sins…and crowns you with love andcompassion… The Lord works righteousness and justice for all theoppressed…The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger,abounding in love.” (Psalm 103 verses 1 to 8). That should help usdefine ours. Friendly and Reliable

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Where has B2daybeen lately?

Around the

World...

withBarton Today Carol Moore showing her copy of B2Day

to an inquisitive kangaroo at a wildlife parkin Adelaide, Australia.

Lucie Gildon with son Dominick and partner Barrywith their copy of B2Day enjoying their

Christmas break in Prague...

Look at all of those Santas in Barkers, is the real Santa the one with our xmas edition of B2Day?

Jacqui Bramall and her daughter Ellie in Barbadosenjoying the festive season and of course remembering

to take their copy of B2Day with them!

Snap shots tomake you smile

Mr Mcsnowman built by Toni, Scott, the little peopleEuan and Lleyton & our wonderful neighbours Tessa & Des

after a massive snowball fight

Nessie makes an appearance in Earls Barton!! Jacob and Grace proudly sit on with their

snow creation of Nessie

12

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UNDER THE TOWER DRAMABringing drama to Earls Barton for 40 years

A NODA AWARD WINNING SOCIETY(Read about our next production & AUDITION further down the page)

Our last production: A PLAY FOR ALL SEASONS

Well, actually two plays for two seasons!“Little Grimley presents Strictly Sex Factor On Ice” by David Tristram.

This takes place in a freezing cold hall in the middle of winter. Plus..“Gosforth’s Fete” by Alan Ayckbourn which is set at a summer garden fete during a thunderstorm!

Both of these very funny comedies were performed at the end of January but we can’t tell you how they did because this article has to go to print beforethe production dates. However, we are very pleased to be able to already say that the show was A SELL OUT. Tickets were snapped up despite theweather – snow, snow and more snow! Not only did your village drama group entertain with two comedies but for just £8.50 we served up a delicious

meal into the bargain. A friendly chef cooked Cottage Pies and fresh vegetables and then there was pudding to round the meal off. Where else could youhave all of that for such a reasonable price? We were pleased to welcome new members to this production and we would be very happy to hear fromany of you who might be interested in joining our friendly group and not just actors but anyone who would like to help backstage such as Sound andLighting technicians, set builders, someone to help with costumes and make up, anyone who would like to help with the props AND is there a buddingdirector out there? Our next production is another of our popular and looked forward to Murder Mystery Evenings when, after the usual murder, the

audience get the chance to interview the cast and try to guess, from the clues provided, who the guilty party is.When: June 8th and 9th 2013. Where: Parish Church Hall. Time: 7.30pm. and once again the production will be part of the Earls Barton Festival

Fortnight. We always like to provided a different meal with our productions (when we have a production/meal that is) and for this MM we thought,what about a Pig Roast ? Watch out for more details to come. Linda

AUDITIONS for the above take place on Friday, March 8th. Parish Church Hall. 8.15pm.Interested in taking part or helping? Then just call Linda on 01604 810665. Membership is only £7.50 a year for adults,

£4.00 juniors and £15.00 for a family in one household.


13

Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile!It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services. Managing Director Trevor Skidmore feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing

is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do

the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’ Cloudy2Clear service the Earls Barton, Nothampton and Wellingborough areas

is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal

satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Trevor a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

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Great Ormond Street Hospitalfundraising DiscoSaturday 16th February 2013Earls Barton Old Silver Band Club7.30pm-late - Tickets £3.00Contact Angie on 07843 671923or email [email protected] reason we are fundraising for this hospital is that without their fantastic work mydaughter Alix would not be here to celebrate her 18th Birthday this year. The amazingsurgeons at GOSH performed open heart surgery on her at 3 weeks of age, she is nowfit and healthy playing football and studying Animal welfare at college.

For more information on Great Ormond Street Hospital log onto www.gosh.org

Great Ormond Street Hospitalfundraising DiscoSaturday 16th February 2013Earls Barton Old Silver Band Club7.30pm-late - Tickets £3.00Contact Angie on 07843 671923or email [email protected] reason we are fundraising for this hospital is that without their fantastic work mydaughter Alix would not be here to celebrate her 18th Birthday this year. The amazingsurgeons at GOSH performed open heart surgery on her at 3 weeks of age, she is nowfit and healthy playing football and studying Animal welfare at college.

For more information on Great Ormond Street Hospital log onto www.gosh.org

Last year many of us went along to one of Julia’s Vintage,handmade and collectable Fairs held in the village andenjoyed having a good look to what was on offer and thenwait in anticipation for the next one, well the good news isthat not only will she continue to run fairs throughout thisyear but Julia will be opening a shop on Broad Street on2nd February.

The shop will be full of vintage and collectable items andshe will also be running classes in the back room, likeAnnie Sloan painting workshops, decoupage, knitting andmuch more.

Barton Today would like to take this opportunity to wishJulia every success for the future in her new businessventure.

Look out for more informationin next months magazine or goto Julia’s Facebook Page

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The Earls Barton and District Historical SocietyRoy Sharman writes The December meeting was not only festive but informative entertaining and humorous. Bill Grove from Kettering gave a talkon Phonoautographs and Gramophones. His collection covers the period from 1898 to the mid 1930s. Many of the manufacturers' names are inthe distant past and some are still relevant in the 21st Century, Columbia, HMV, Decca and Edison being most prevalent to members' memories.Many others, Peter Pan, Mikki, Quiniphone, Pixie etc not so.

Due to Bill's engineering skills every model was in working order. The sizes varied between sideboard models to an unbelievable pocket modelmeasuring around 4" in diameter and 2" thick.

The 1898 Columbia Phonoautograph operation consisted of a horizontal 2" diameter wax drum. The time run was about 2 minutes and was arecording of Christmas Carols - it just had to be. An early 1920s machine played "The Laughing Policeman"..No doubt many had experienced thisin granddad and grandma's front room in parallel with the aspidistra plant in the corner. A somewhat smaller model was produced during WWIfor the troops in the trenches. Aptly named the 'Trench Model', the record played was the famous world renowned song originally sung by theConnaught Rangers as they marched to the front, "It's a Long Way to Tipperary". The audience could not help joining in!

Bill then demonstrated an unusual Pathe Trench machine. Unusual insofar the record was only single sided and played from the centre outwards,contrary to all others in production.

Each machine was operated by a winding handle, some evident and others cunningly concealed. Only a few had storage for actual records, butall had provision for needles, ie used and unused. The foldaway methods of the voice box and speaker varied considerably.

Supplementary equipment on display was a collection of gramophone needle boxes and a couple of machines available for sharpening purposes.The stylus of the 1950s and 60s was not new, as a glass stylus was used commonly in both the late 19th and 20th century machines. Woodenneedles were used in in early models of both phonoautographs and gramophones.

The final demonstration was from what resembled a Box Brownie camera. It became a gramophone after a couple of minutes and played "TheNational Anthem", a fitting end to an interesting evening and a credit to Bill's enthusiasm and skill.

Our speaker in February will be David Hudson talking about the Cooperative Movement. The meeting will be at 7:30 on Friday 15th February in theSt John Ambulance building on Manor Road. For further information about this meeting or our future programme please contact Frank Batten on01604 810618.

14


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Ok it’s February but for me typing thisit’s just the new year and I’ve had somevery exciting news! I think I’ll keep youticking over for a little longer (well untilnext month) before I spill the beans.Anyway back to this month’s theatrenews and this month we are stayingclose to home with the Castle Theatrewhich has something for all ages this month…

We start this month at the Castle where you have the chance to seethe story of Rapunzel brought to life on stage (2 February 2013). Tuttifrutti celebrates its 21st birthday by commissioning a fabulous newplayful production of Rapunzel; a story about a girl who is taken awayfrom what she knows and protected from all the things that she loves.

Told in an inventive, visual and physical style with live music andmagical design, Rapunzel is a delightful new production for childrenabout the curiosity and joys of growing up, risk taking anddiscovering who you are. Suitable for children aged 3-7 and theirfamilies. Tickets are now on sale from the box office!

Next is a play which many of our younger readers may know fromtheir studies at school. Animal Farm is coming to the Castle 6February 2013. 17 years since its World premiere, Guy Masterson'smagnificent solo performance of Orwell's classic satire is on its finalUK tour. Using nothing but a bale of hay, some amazing sound effectsand brilliant physical and vocal dexterity, Masterson ignites thisfamous yarn bringing a modern sinister relevence to Orwell'smasterwork, leaving an indelible inprint in the consciousness.Hilariously comic and terribly poignant in turn, Masterson'sbreathtaking physical storytelling creates the enitre farmyard aroundyou in 2 hours of utterly compelling theatre. Now officially the mosthighly performed solo show in the world, this is a must seeperformance for all ages. If you've never seen or read Animal Farm,this is the show for you. Even if you remember it from school... youwon't believe what you see!

I also know that February is half term for all you younger people sowhy not come and take part in the Castles “holiday projects.” Forthree days in half term the Castle team deliver 6 one off workshops.These include Disco and Musical Theatre Dancing, Writing, Devisingand improvisation as well as 3D sculptures and mask making. Theseworkshops take place from Feb 11th – Feb 13th if you would like moreinformation about the Castle’s Februarys “holiday projects” pleasehave a look on their website www.thecastle.org.uk or call the boxoffice.

More for the younger people in the shape of a MILKSHAKE! No it’snot a strawberry one (come on Nan put the nestquick away). Anywaythe stars from Channel 5s MILKSHAKE are coming on stage! (15thFebruary 2013). The all singing, all dancing live stage show will bevisiting theatres up and down the country. Starring milkshake!favourites: Little Princess and Scruff, Noddy and Tessie Bear, Roaryand Big Chris, Fifi and Bumble and B1 & B2 – the Bananas inPyjamas, this musical spectacular is sure to have children tappingtheir toes, clapping their hands and singing at the top of their voices.Joining this fantastic line up will be two milkshake! presenters, whowill take us on a magical milkshake! adventure; bound to dazzle anddelight! In the milkshake! live show your favourite milkshake!friends come out to play! But when the time comes to go home theyfind themselves stuck outside the TV. Come and join them and thenmake sure they get back to milkshake! in time for the morning show!

Finaly something for you grown-ups: Mr Blue Sky (21st February2013) 40 years on, and the music of Jeff Lynne and the Electric LightOrchestra is still regularly played on radio stations throughout theworld. Re-live this fantastic music and take a magical trip downmemory lane for 2 hours with The ELO Experience. This show,currently wowing audiences up and down the country, is not to bemissed.

Anyway enjoy this month and I’ll be back next time….GLJ

Your host:Gary Johnson

What a way to startthe new year…

Please pay us a visit soon – A warm welcome awaits you all.

Jeyes of Earls Barton, Northampton, NN6 0NATel: 01604 810289

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• The Jeyes Heritage & Pharmacy Museum• The Earls Barton Museum of Village Life

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Many artists’ blog entries that suggest ways an artist can getahead and be recognized by trying to break away from the pack.Be different. Be daring. Stand out from the crowd. I find that thesestatements might just be at the root of the trouble with art ingeneral today. Artists hope that what we currently paint IS daringand different. After all, we don’t see OUR work in the work ofothers. Or do we? It takes years of painting and living life to findyour true voice. And some may never find a voice no matter whatthey do.

I don’t believe there is a genre that has not been painted to death;landscapes for instance. If you are honest and separate your egofrom the process, you’d find nothing new or different is beingpainted in landscapes today. I know you certainly can disagree.This may sound negative and unsupportive of landscape painters;but think about it, everyone is trying to paint what sells and, in sodoing, is virtually painting the same scenes.

Of course some use the traditional approach, some tonalism;some impressionism or whatever. But if you were to set thesepaintings next to one another, my guess is you wouldn’t see muchdifference. Sure they would show some individuality of some sort,some colour differences or angle or point of view in composition.Some will be quite good. But overall, it would be a sea of emptylandscapes of redundant scenes of trees, rivers, lakes andmountains at various times of the day. Now this isn’t to say thatone cannot paint a startling landscape. I’m sure it can be donebecause it has been done in the past, but really, how many do weneed? What is the purpose? If shear beauty is the motivation,we’ve seen it and probably done better by someone else. In somecases, we’ve traveled to some of these remote mountain spotsourselves and have seen it first hand. And let’s not forget aboutphotography. Most of us have photos of these spots. So why paintanother landscape if not to render something new about it orinterpret it through our individual bias and say something differentthan what we’ve seen before; something with a fresh point ofview?

If you are going to take the time and trouble, why not go all theway and say something different? Paint it in a way no one hasever seen before. Awaken your talent and expertise and paint amagnificent scene like no other ever painted. Impossible! I hearyou cry! Maybe not! To do this you would have to whip into lifeparts of your brain you haven’t yet used. Pull from the depths ofyour being something never seen in your previous works. Younever know, you might surprise yourself and paint a workcompletely new. Try it.

The other genre that currently shows no sign of originality is stilllife. Come on, how many flowers and teapots and grapes andbowls that lend them selves to still life, can you paint? But cananyone be creative enough to use something other than thesesophomoric, banal items? Lets face it, everything lying before usis a potential still life. Can’t we take a risk and paint these thingswithout regard to the perceived beauty inherent in the object? Afterall, anything that isn’t moving can be a still life.

The other genre is portrait painting. I haven’t seen a great portraitpainting except for John Singer Sargent,.

Most portraits seem rigid, unnatural, the sitter out of place,perturbed - generally in a costume they pulled out for the painterto paint but would hardly ever wear.

How about reaching in and grabbing the personality not just ‘thepretty image’. There are some artists doing some fine portraitstoday, but overall, yes you’ve guessed it, the same portrait is beingpainted again and again. This subject may be harder to define.Personality is a very elusive thing to paint, and difficult to elicit froma sitter much less capture on canvas. Add to the mix the artist hasto please the sitter, we can’t always paint what we see or think.

I believe this has to stop. Surely this our true goal as artists is tore-think the whole genre, find a new way to say an old thing. Artistsneed to stand up and not paint the same ole’ same ole’ paintings.Crucially we need to stop copying what works and push theenvelope.

This bit is the heart of why I am an artist……..As artists ourpurpose is to create art first and sell second. And just think for amoment if we were to create something wonderful, it would movebeyond the same old artwork being produced again and again. Tolearn, and progress, every work we create- (or should I say show),should be better than the last. When an artist finds his/her niche,that artist is as good as done! The work will be the same over andover. The curse to any artist is success. Success is a dead knellto a true artist. Refuse to be pigeonholed by the “market” and assuch produce mediocre work that only rises to that market level.It doesn’t move art up, out and over the top to new heights.

We are awash in mediocrity and we all need to raise the bar andeducate the customers into new images, new perceptions, theywill have to follow us as opposed to us pandering to a market. Thismarket is starved for something new and different and better thanwhat we offer. We have to challenge ourselves and raise the levelof the market. After all, the market is taking what we give it. If wegive it better, innovative art, it will demand better innovative art.

Think about it the next time you start to paint. Think about yourwork making a statement. Be profound. Be courageous. Stand outfor once, be heard! SG

What HasHappened to the

True Artist?


17


18

Women’s InstituteMany thanks to all of you who supported our Christmas CoffeeMorning at the end of November. Despite the fact that there were anumber of other events going on at the same time we made£424.00, so thank you everyone who was involved.

At the beginning of December quite a few of us went to see "AChristmas Carol" at the Theatre Royal in Northampton. Most of usmade a day of it by having lunch out and then going to see theperformance which was really good. We are planning a visit toDerngate in February to see "Joseph and his Amazing TechnicolorDreamcoat".

Our December meeting went with a swing. We heard all about thehistory of Pantomime from Nicola Jelliman of the theatre at MiltonKeynes. Her talk was extremely entertaining and we followed it withseasonal refreshments.

Our New Year programme kicks off in January with a talk entitled"The Story Behind the Painting" by Sue Edwards, another excellentspeaker.

At our February meeting our speaker will be John Starkey. Hissubject is "National Parks in England and Wales".This meeting is onWednesday 13th February at 1.30p.m. in All Saints Church Hall. Youmay be assured of a warm welcome if you would like to come tothis meeting as a visitor.

For further information on all our activities please contact thesecretary, Jenny Flower, on 01604 810316.

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19


Memories are Made of This…..Thanks to a successful Koru fundraising night and some generous sponsors a magical Christmas trip was made possible for families and supporters of the NC TLC Trust.

On Sunday, December 23rd a full coach from Northampton sponsored by Fine and Country went to the Winter Wonderland in London, and an amazing and magical day was enjoyed by all.

The trip saw the families being treated to a very festive day out to London and to enjoy the host of delights at the city’s Winter Wonderland including a chance to meet with Santa.

One of mum’s from the charity families, Mrs Marett, said “A huge thank you for taking us to Winter Wonderland, we had the most fantastic day and what a way to spend it with so many lovely people.

“Thanks to all your sponsors for making this happen - not sure theyrealise just how much it is appreciated “

Chief Executive Officer for the charity, Janet Smith-Walker added: “ Itwas a truly amazing day with so many families. Thank-you for makingit a truly special and humbling day. “

Once back in Northampton a meal was provided for the children by theBella Casa restaurant in Northampton.

Janet also added that Christmas for the charity’s families was alsomade extra special with the donations of Christmas presents frompeople in Earls Barton.

She added: “A heartfelt thank you to all the Earls Barton Folks whohave donated all the xmas presents for our families.

“Presents were delivered by our very own Father Christmas. We alsohad brownies and gingerbreads and other yummy treats donated bylovely Miss Bumblebee's Bakehouse.”

New Year and a New Sponsor JP Humbert Auctioneers Ltd have agreed to become a sponsor for the NC TLC Trustin 2013.

The firm undertake free valuations for a variety of items including; gold, silver,jewellery, diamonds, coins, watches, paintings, clocks, etc. No appointments needed,just come along.

They are hosting their next free valuation fortnight from 28th January to 8th February at their Towcester salerooms.

As well for the first time, they will be holding a valuation day at The Bridge Hotel, Thrapston on Monday, 4 Feb from 10am till 2pm.

Chief Executive Officer, Janet Walker Smith for NCTLC Trust said: “We are very excited to have JP Humbert Auctioneers on boardas our sponsors. Thank you so much. We are looking forward to working together this year.”

A Golden Opportunity for CharityA NEW way to donate has been taken up by the NC TLC Trust for 2013.

The Charity has signed up to Golden Giving a website/online service that makes sure more of the money you have donated to acharity goes directly to the charity and not to business/admin fees.

The Golden Giving web site is free for a charity to register and can be used to promote a charity and accept donations for theircharity too. Golden Giving states on its website: “We charge no fee for fundraising and direct charity donations. “We arecompletely free for charities, fundraisers and donors. Plus, Gift Aid is reclaimed and passed on in full.” Golden Giving explain howthey manage to do this: “We can provide our service free for charities, donors and fundraisers, as we are sponsored byphilanthropic individuals, public and private companies, from around the world.

“Our sponsors must demonstrate a commitment to charitable work or corporate social responsibility.”

Office Manager and Company Secretary for the NC TLC Trust, Lucie Gildon added: “' Golden Giving is an incredible tool for thecharities. It is totally free so all the donations made by public actually go to their chosen charities.

“It is so important that the charities get this extra money, especially in this tough economic climate. Golden Giving has also createda tool to purchase tickets for fundraising events, which again saves charities a lot of money, as there no longer will be the need topay for the services.

“We urge people to use Golden Giving ONLY if they are planning a fundraising event for their chosen charity. They are the best! “

To donate money directly to NC TLC Trust using the Golden Giving Website log in at https://www.goldengiving.com/secure/link-donation/nctlc-trust

For more charity information call the office on (01604) 811025 or email [email protected]

Barton Today

DaysSnowDaysSnow

February 2013

Thanks to everyonewho sent in pictures

Saxon pre school MK marathonMarathon, May 6th 2013.

We hope to raise money in order to continue the great work, whichis offered in the early years setting.

There's no pressure to raise a certain amount , it's a team effort!

If you want to get fit, rise to a challenge or give something back, thenplease email me on [email protected] or call or text 07769314833.

Thank you for reading!


22

15 New StreetEarls Barton NorthamptonNN6 0NN

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brightwiseelectricalCall Now for a FreeQuotation or Advice

Chris Hager Qualified,Part P Approved, Reliable

All Aspects of Electrical Work, Inspection & Testing

79 Churchill Avenue, Northampton. NN3 6PF

Tel: 07447 466835Email: [email protected]

"Sound Of Panto"Hi, come see an award winning society in their next pantomime "TheSound of Panto", loosely based on, well I am sure you can guess. Allthe usual panto characters and great music, loads of kids, baddies,comedy and funny nuns and monks. Written by our very talenteddirector who wrote "Treasure Island" which won the NODA bestpantomime award last year.

The show is on Wed 6th February until Saturday 9th February witha matinee on the Saturday. Tickets from Steve at the box office on01933 624310. Wed all pay children’s price! Takes place at ParsonsHall, High Street, Irchester. Come sing with me ....Sue Gough, Committee Member, Irchester Players

espressoWhat a Great Placeto meet for superb

Coffee and MilkshakesPlus... Breakfasts, Teas, Toasties,

Paninis, Jacket Potatoes andthe best Homemade Cakes

1 Station Road,Earls Barton NN6 0NT

Tel: 01604 812719

Women’s BreakfastYou are warmly invited to attend our next Women's Breakfast to beheld on Saturday 16.2.13 at 8.30am in All Saints Church Hall. Ourspeaker Margaret Burgon will be talking to us about her (humorous)experience of being a Vicar's wife.

Do join us and bring a friend along, for bacon rolls, croissants andfruit. Please let us know you are coming for catering purposes byphoning beforehand either Nicky 811944, Sandra 466504 or Glynis812411.

For enquiries or bookings pleasecall Jacqui on 07796 853079

Have you got Corns or Callousor painful toenails?

Jacqui Bramallhpc & state registeredPodiatrist/Chiropodist

Home visit service.

The Centre Stage Swing Band Concertin aid of the Royal Air Force Association’s Wings Appeal 2013

To be held at the Baptist Church, Park Road, Rushdenon Saturday 2nd March 2013 at 7.30pm

Tickets £10

Mike Nichols - Wings Appeal Organiser01604-810802 [email protected]

Bridge DriveEarls Barton Bowls & Tennis Club

Thursday 28th Feb - 7 for 7.30pm

£5 per person to include a light supper

Tickets from Janet 01604 811269

Pine Tree Farm, London Road, Little Irchester, Northamptonshire, NN8 2EHTel: 01933 278080

Email: [email protected] www.animals-in-need.org


Northamptonshire

AnimalsNeedin

LOVING HOmESNEEDED

23

Guinea pigs Rainbow & Nemo are acasrtated male & female 1 year old

pair they would love a nice large forever home together where there is

plenty of grass to munch on.

Popcorn & Candyfloss are gorgeous12 month old sisters they have always

never been apart and would love anice large for ever home together.

Rosemary is a sweet black & whitespotted 12 week old girl who needs a

home with a castrated male companion.

Bob is a two year old liver & whiteSprocker Spaniel and is fine with other

dogs. He needs a home with no childrenwhere he will get plenty of exercise

& stimulation to keep him busy.

Harriett is a pretty black & white semilong haired older girl, she came in to us

as her owner went in to a home. Shewould be more suited to a quiet homewith no young children, possibly as a

companion for an older person.

RalF is a one year old Boxer-X ABSOLUTLEYLOVES FOOD, will do anything for it,a 6ft fence is a must too he is a great

jumper! He's a free spirit and seems tohave bit of a prey drive. He craves love and

cuddles, likes to play, LOVES BALLS andwill play tug of war with another dog but

needs to continue to be taught to playgently. knows basic commands and letsyou know when he needs to go outside.

He is very strong on the lead but walks wellon a halti, he needs to continue with his

socialising to learn his manners while outand about. RalF travels well but doesn't like

to be left on his own. He is dog friendly,although he is dominant but will listen to

firm and consistent commands.

Paco & Izzey were handed in as their familycould no longer keep them. These pretty

tabby's are a little bemused at being in a busyrescue but their personalities will blossom

when they get in to a home. They are three yearold siblings and would like a home together.

BOB

ROSEmARY

POPCORN& CANDY FLOSS

RALF

RAINBOw & NEmO

HARRIETT PACO & IZZEY


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Hokey Cokey toddler group enjoyed their Christmas Party in December,with crafts, games and a visit from Father Christmas. Come along andjoin us on Mondays, 1.30-3pm, at All Saints Church Hall.

Hokey Cokey toddler group

at Earls Barton

Full range of services available including IUD and implant fitting,joint injections, minor surgery and counselling

monday to Thursday: 8.30am to 5.00pm • Friday: 8.30am to 12.30pmSaturday: 8.00am to 9.45am (1st Saturday in the month)

Visit our website at: www.abbeymedicalpractice.uk.com

NEw PATIENTS wELCOmEApply to register on-line at: https://SystmOnline.tppuk.com/Login?Practiceld+k83047

Children's CentreMonday (fortnightly) - Chatter-tots Stay & Play within StJohns Ambulance Hall.

Every last Saturday of the month - Dads behaving dadlywithin Nene Lakes Children’s Centre c/o Earls Barton JuniorSchool.

Every Friday - Rhymetime within Earls Barton Library.

Did you know... DIAMONDSThe word 'diamond' derives from Greek adamao, meaning 'Itame' or 'I subdue' or the related word adamas, which means'hardest steel' or 'hardest substance'. Everyone knows diamondsare hard and beautiful, but did you know a diamond could be theoldest material you might own?

While the rock in which diamonds are found may be 50 to 1,600million years old, the diamonds themselves are approximately3.3 billion years old. This discrepancy is because the volcanicmagma that solidifies into rock where diamonds are found didnot create them, but only transported the diamonds from theEarth's mantle to the surface. Diamonds also may be formedunder the high pressures and temperatures at the site ofmeteorite impacts.

The diamonds formed during an impact may be relatively'young', but some meteorites contain star dust, debris from thedeath of a star, which may include diamond crystals. One suchmeteorite is known to contain tiny diamonds over 5 billion yearsold. These diamonds are older than our solar system!

The Children's SocietyCollection Box Coffee MorningThis will be held in the Church Hall on Saturday 2nd March10.00am - 12.00 noon. Complimentary coffee and cake willbe served as a token of thanks to our collectors.

Please bring along your boxes for counting, and we willendeavour to do this while you enjoy your refreshment. Ifyou cannot make this date, we would be grateful if you couldget your box to us prior to this event if possible. I am verywilling to come and collect it.

Last year well over £1.000 was collected for this worthycharity. Every child deserves a good childhood.

Gill Metcalfe

Dont forget, you can dropyour articles and news for BartonToday into Barton Sweets!

Tel: 01604 812437 / 07921 3968147 Park Street, Earls Barton, Northampton. NN6 0EYEmail: [email protected]

www.bricklayernorthamptonshire.co.uk

New BuildsExtensionsAlterationsStonework

NorthantsBrickwork

Matt Morgan

down the Garden Path Barton Today February 2013

25

Gina Starling from Garden TLC writes....Apparently February is theofficial start of the gardening year. I must say, it never feels like it asthe last thing I fancy doing in February is gardening- it is usually fartoo cold or covered in snow in recent years. I do remember oneyear though, when we had a heat wave in February and I was downthe allotment, digging in shorts! That was only once and I nolonger wear shorts while digging- I much prefer to keep coveredand avoid sunburn.

I suppose it is true though, February is the start of the gardening year- even if itdoesn’t seem like anything is growing. The first seeds are sown in February-whether outdoors- in which case its parsnips, broad beans and garlic cloves orindoors, which includes begonias, lobelias, petunias and alyssum for thehanging baskets and a load of vegetables that can be started indoors liketomatoes, leeks, aubergine, celery, cauliflower, cabbage, sprouts and herbs(like sage, parsley and chives) If you don’t have a greenhouse leave thetomatoes until March or April.

I use covered propagators and sow the seeds in little seed trays that fit inside them, 4 or 5 in eachpropagator, depending on the size of the seed trays. They go into the airing cupboard until they have germinated, a tip Ilearnt many years ago, when we lived in Long Melford. Then they graduate to the bay window in our bedroom, where they get light on 3sides. Not perfect but I’m still waiting for my conservatory! As soon as they grow proper leaves they get pricked out into cell trays, which then go into

my little greenhouse against the house wall. It is always warmer than the main greenhouse,even though it doesn’t get much sun early in the year.

If all this seems too much like hard work, now is the time to sit inside, nice and warm anddry, to plan the year’s gardening with the help of a few seed catalogues. Then pop down toyour local garden centre with a shopping list- much better than sending off for plants- theynever look as big as the picture and in my experience, they die before they achieve anythingremotely like it. Much better to visit your local garden centre and buy a proper sized plantthat is ready to go in your garden, or lovely trays full of bedding plants already bursting intoflower- they probably work out cheaper than buying seeds, pots and compost and someoneelse has done all the work!

Just remember, that although the garden centre may sell the plants in March or April, youcan’t actually put them in your garden until late May or early June, when all chance of frostis over. So February remains the month to think about gardening from the warmth of yoursofa, and dream about those few brief months of summer when everything is flowering. Ifyou want to see flowers, visit a winter garden and enjoy the snowdrops- there are plenty ofplaces that have them and they are such a lovely start to the year.

What a mucky pup!Elaine and Gary Horne write…Sandy had her first bath! She wasn't too keen fora start, but firm words from Gary had the desired effect, and she calmly put upwith the indignity of being shampooed and rinsed! She enjoyed the thoroughtowelling afterwards, and then decided to have a mad run around all thefurniture for a few minutes.

We went visiting for the day to Puppy Walker's Debbie and Karl, who haveGuide Dog pup Pippa. Pippa had wobbly fangs, and Debbie jokingly said wecouldn't leave until they had all come out. ""Hey!" we thought, "Sandy couldstay for a few days holiday", but NO, she let us down....... within 2 hours, LittleMiss Dentist Sandy has played tuggy so much with Pippa, that all 4 fangscame out. They played so much together, that the next day they both sleptmost of the time.

We have heard from Tuppence and Sandy 1's owners, and both dogs are verywell, and much adored. Sandy 1 has now started swimming!

We've included a picture of Sandy visiting Northampton Garden Centre, in thepet department..... and as you can see, she was quite a hit with the staff! (Themucky pup picture was censored!! Hehe)


2424GalleryWestGalleryWest

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High quality picture framingservice by Fine Art Trade Guild

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26

Missing CatMissing since 8th January from

Doddington Road, Earls Barton.

Last seen wearing a gold collar with a cat face tag on with her

name and contact details. Please look in your out buildings to

see if she’s locked in somewhere, if you know where she is or

have seen her please contact Barton Today at

[email protected] and we will pass on your details to

the worried owners.

Send us your news, views,photo’s or anything of interest about

Earls Barton

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27

If you have any concerns or issues that you want answering, why not write to Barton Today’s very own agonyuncle. He works under the pseudonym Ernie, to maintain his professional anonymity. Ernie, like Eric is steepedin wisdom and worldly knowledge and is very keen to provide advice and guidance to the people of Earls Bartonto help them make those difficult decisions while Eric is away. Whatever your problem, don’t think twice aboutcontacting Ernie on [email protected]. He looks forward to hearing from you.

Dear Ernie...Dear Ernie...

Dear Ernie,

I wonder if your readers can help. For the past four years Ihave been sending a Valentine’s Card to a woman in thevillage who I would very much like to know better, if youknow what I mean. In the past I have sent soppy "I love you"cards but no luck. I have seen a card which is a bit rude butclose to what I want to say to her. What do you think Ishould do??

Yours hopefully,

Peter

Dear Peter,

When you say, “Do you know what I mean?” I have to say, Idon’t know what you mean. You could get to know her betterby being brave and actually declaring your feelings to her, butdon’t mention the “Do you know what I mean bit.” Don’t besurprised though if she turns you down. Like Robert the Brucethough, try, try and try again.

Regards,

Ernie

NB If you are the Peter I know, it might be just worthmentioning to her the fact that you recently had a significantwin on the lottery. It might change her opinion of you

Dear Ernie,

The other week I was walking down the High Street whena car passed and then I heard a huge bang as if there hadbeen an accident. It was in fact a huge pot hole that the carhad hit, knocking a wheel trim off in the process. Being asafety conscious person I spoke to a councillor who told methey had approached Wellingborough Council and theywere sending some life jackets just in case someone fell in.What sort of an answer is that or perhaps he was thinkingof himself because he is a bit on the short side.

Look forward to hearing from you,

Stanley

Dear Stanley.

I was aware of some pot holes in the local roads and I knowthe recent cold weather has not helped. I heard a rumour thatone of the refuse collection lorries actually disappeared downa pot hole on one of its rounds recently but the news has beenkept very hush hush. I suggest that you enrol at the localswimming pool so that you do not need to rely on a life jacket.

Best wishes,

Ernie

Dear Ernie,

I keep reading about the car parking problems at theLibrary/School. I have two suggestions. First one of theschool mums takes photos of all offenders and asks BartonToday to publish them and the other is to get more mumsto walk to school and back rather than use cars - it's goodfor the health you know.

Regards,

Edwina

Dear Edwina,

I don’t know if it’s true, but I’ve heard a rumour that wheelclamping will be carried out on vehicles wrongly parked in thelibrary car park with a release fee of £5000. This might be justthe deterrent that is needed. I’ve also heard from a very reliablesource that the money raised will go towards buying a snowplough for the junior school and that the site superviser isalready undergoing training at Heathrow Airport on how to useit. I think that once one or two people hear about a fine beingpaid, the problem will resolve itself over night.

Yours,

Ernie

Dear Ernie,

The other day I overheard a group of men whohad obviously played a game of indoor bowls inWellingborough just after Christmas and I left shaking myhead. This is how the conversation went. "He just fell overand hit something making a big cut in his head. anyway theambulance came and the medic put the biggest bandageever made on his head and took him to hospital. This meantwe were short of a player - how inconsiderate was that!"

Anyway I found out that the bloke was OK and did nothave to stay in Hospital but he would not come out againuntil the bandage was taken off in case people took themicky out of him. This came as a shock as the poor chapwho fell over is always taking the mick out of someone!

So here is the message from this storey as - be careful whoyou go bowling with as if something did go wrong you'llget no sympathy whatsoever - it is such a dangerous sport!!

Dear Albert.

Thanks for sharing this tale with us. All bowlers be warned andremember ‘Pride comes before a fall.’ Perhaps helmets shouldbe during a game, just in case.

Regards,

Ernie

28


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Christopher Heaton-Harris Reports2013 is upon us and it looks likeWinter has properly arrived.

I always think that January andFebruary are the hardest months ofthe year to be overly positive: coldweather and Christmas credit card billlanding on your doormat don’t exactlyhelp people feel buoyant – however Ithought I would try and give you somepositive news. News you simplywon’t hear on the TV or read in the papers...:

There is actually quite a bit of decent news around about theeconomy! Yes, honestly!

Did you know that the UK’s deficit has fallen by a quarter in thepast two years and is forecast to continue to fall?

Had you heard that exports to emerging markets from the UK havedoubled and more than one million – yes one million – privatesector jobs have been created since the current Government cameto office?

Indeed we are doing better than most of our internationalcompetitors and have lower unemployment than the Eurozone orthe United States.

Locally, there is a well kept secret that I think you should hearabout: there are currently more jobs available at the Job CentrePlus in my constituency than there are people on Job SeekersAllowance.

There’s more interesting news: the Northamptonshire Chamber ofCommerce’s latest report to MPs told us that despite someconcerns (relating to the cost of raw materials, competition andcash flow) Northamptonshire businesses, both in themanufacturing and services sector – reported an increase inconfidence relating to both expected turnover and profitability inthe coming twelve months.

Lots of international businesses are now looking to site themselvesin the UK as we have one of the lowest rates of corporation taxaround. In fact it is the lowest in the G7 and the fourth lowest inthe G20. From April this year the rate will be 23% and in April 2014it will be reduced still further to 21%.

If you are working and on the average salary in Earls Barton you’llalmost certainly be one of the 24 million people up and down thecountry who will be £267 better off in cash from April because ofthe increase in the amount of money you can earn before you payany tax at all. Indeed from April the first £9,440 you earn will notbe taxed.

Yes, there is a very long way to go before anyone can claim thatthe economy is healthy, after all we are dealing with a terriblelegacy of a decade of debt, recession in the Eurozone, a generallack of business confidence globally and commodity price inflation- but the economy is healing and we are lucky that here inNorthamptonshire the signs are that it is healing quicker than otherplaces across the country.

So, there is still a lot to do, but I am hopeful that theNorthamptonshire local economy will actually have a Happy NewYear.

Chris Heaton-Harris MP.House of Commons LONDON, SW1A 0AAE: [email protected]: 020 7219 7048Website: www.heatonharris.com Twitter: @chhcalling

29


The Luncheon Club meets on the 2nd and 3rd Friday of each monthat All Saints Church Hall from 12.30pm.

The Luncheon Club has been in existence for 34 years from an ideaof Wilf Clark, 1978; Canon Michael Baker was instrumental in puttingit all together.

Wilf Clark along with his wife Connie as cook, organised the very firstsession ably assisted by Val Gardiner, Pat Barratt, Sylvia Pullman plusone other (whom we have been unable to identify)

These few formed the committee, from this the present systemevolved. From small acorns great oak trees grow. (researched bySandra Cashmore)

The aim originally was to provide an opportunity for persons (of anyage) living on their own to meet others in similar circumstances, toenable them to renew old acquaintances and create new friendships-what better way than by sharing a meal together, especially when itis prepared for you with no clearing up to do afterwards.

Currently there are two sessions which are on the 2nd and 3rd Fridayof each month with an average of 30 diners per session, eachsession relies on a team of volunteers who; cook, preparevegetables, lay out tables, wash up and wait on tables serving freshlyprepared good quality food. Other roles undertaken include shoppingand laundry.

Transport is provided to those of reduced mobility at a nominal costof 50p; again this is reliant on volunteers.

The price of the meal is £2 inclusive of a main course, dessert andtea or coffee. We cater for special dietary needs.

The Luncheon Club is overseen by a committee, whose role is torepresent and support the members and volunteers ensuring thatboth sessions run smoothly.

Session 2 has current volunteers that have served for 20+ years! (It’sa bug you get)

As volunteers we have a great time, working as a team, everyone issupportive, all efforts are equally appreciated. We love the monthlyget together, caring and sharing having a cuppa and a natter whilegetting on with the tasks in hand. Laughter abounds. The best partcomes with the arrival of the members (All our friends) “Oh deepJoy”

The average age of our volunteers is 80 years, we are all happy tocontinue to give as we do; this is very important to us all and is agreat diversion from our own problems.

However we must be realistic, the wider community should beaware and perhaps even come along and see what we get up to.Looking to the future we particularly need a list of emergencyhelpers, a transport co-ordinator is urgently needed to recruit driversand arrange lifts.

Funds are low; sponsorship would be a good source of revenue, e.g.local companies. Whites Fruit and Veg sponsor both clubs for July,supplying salad for gratis and we are very grateful for their continuedsupport. The P.C has topped us up and any donations are absorbedby costs.

Please see testimonies below:

1. What does Luncheon Club mean to me?I’m a relative newcomer to Earls Barton. My husband and I movedhere in 2007 to be nearer to our daughter and my husband died in2009.

As you can imagine I knew very few people in the village so for methe Luncheon Club has enabled me to make new acquaintances anda few I hope I can call friends.

There is always a very warm welcome from the people who run theLuncheon Club when one enters the hall and all the ladies who helpin the kitchen have a smile for us all.

It is always a very tasty and nourishing meal and it has alwaysamazed me how reasonable the price is.

There is always plenty of camaraderie amongst members and for methis is what I enjoy most about the Luncheon Club. (Dorothy Hare)

1. What does Luncheon Club mean to me?I would like to thank all the volunteers who cook and serve a lovelymeal on the 2nd and 3rd Friday of every month.

I did not realise I was eligible until a few months ago and wonderedif there are maybe more people who like me are not aware of thisfacility.

Thanks to everybody involved in running the Luncheon Club.(Mrs E French).

Earls Barton Luncheon club


30

EARLS BARTONWorking Men’s ClubQueen Street, Earls Barton

Four traditional ales … … and a good selection of draught beers and lagers

Room hire for all occasions:(FREE for members)Birthdays, Wedding,Civil Wedding,Receptions,Christenings,Anniversaries, Funeral Parties etc..

01604 810444CIU AFFILIATED

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Thinking Of A Second Dog?Expert Dog Advice from Graeme Hall, “The Dogfather”

There’s a lot to be said for having two dogs. There are pros AND cons, however.

“Should we get another dog?”: is a question I’m often asked. Like many things with dogs, there’s no right or wrong answer in my book. (That’s a book I haven't written yet, by the way)

It depends on why you want another dog: “To keep our dog company because we don't have much time to walk him” That sounds like a bad idea already. You don't have time for ONE dog, you say..? How about: “Because mine is badly behaved and I think another dog would teach him to be good” Well you might be right. It can happen. It’s called social learning. Trouble is, it also works the other way around. There’s a good chance your new well behaved dog will learn his new friend’s habits and voila! TWO badly behaved dogs. Ahh...

It’s not all bad of course and many of my clients have more than one dog for good reasons. They certainly do keep each other company. Dogs are certainly happier in company - be it canine or human, and for many of us one dog is just not enough. Like children, they are all very different.

Assuming then that you’re looking for a second dog for all the right reasons. First of all, are you looking for a puppy or an older dog? Puppies often adapt more quickly whereas older dogs can take longer to adjust. You need to be aware of especially dominant or nervous or un-socialised dogs. You certainly don’t want a situation where fighting may occur.

Some behaviourists prefer a neutered male and spayed female. I have to say, in my experience, I’ve never found a firm combination I’d recommend. The truth is, it depends on the breed, temperament, age, sex and learnt behaviours. It’s important to see which combination will work with your existing dog.

If you think you’ve found that special dog, here are a few tips: Introduce the dogs outside on lead on neutral ground (I.e. not at home). They will sniff and even growl at first. Always use a positive voice when you see those wagging tails and calm behaviours. Walk around the area with the dogs still on lead. Keep a short distance between them so they can still sniff and see each other, but can’t make contact should things become volatile.

Have several meetings with both dogs if possible to determine if it may work. Take time in selecting your new dog or puppy. If the two are “just not hitting it off,” then you might have to rethink. There are lots of great dogs just waiting to be re-homed.

Incidentally, if you’ve given a home to a puppy and have an older dog, make sure you give the older dog a little quiet time away from the rowdiness of the young pup.

Finally and most importantly, make them a part of your family. Having two dogs gives you double the love. Enjoy!

That’s it for this month, friends. You’ll find more free dog articles, tips and help with dog training at www.DogfatherTraining.co.uk.

31

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31

Dogs Get Stressed Out Too!Expert Dog Advice from Graeme Hall, “The Dogfather”

Dogs don't have to worry about the mortgage, the kids and the rest of the stuff that gets people down, but dogs certainly get stressed and anxious too.

Some of the signs are easy to spot - A dog acting unusually fearful, for example - but many are less obvious.

Would you know if your dog was feeling stressed? Here a few things of the less obvious things that can indicate a problem.

Slow Tail Wag. (A slow tail wag and a stiff body is NOT friendly.)

Being unable to eat or play - Your dog won't take a treat when outside? It could be he’s anxious or scared.

Shedding hair. It is common to see stress shedding when a dog is at the vets.

Licking of the lips. When a dog stress licks, his tongue will usually dart out of his mouth in rapid succession.

Yawning. Exaggerated yawning when it seems unlikely the dog is tired and about to sleep.

Low ear carriage. Does he look wary?

Holding Breath, stiffness and/or staring. Can be a precursor to aggression.

Pacing. Just like an anxious person may pace, so do anxious dogs.

Diarrhoea or unusual bowel movements can sometimes be signs of stress.

Coughing, sneezing. May be a medical issue but can be a sign of stress and/or confusion.

Shaking (as if the dog were shaking off water). “Shake-off” happens when dogs begin to calm after a stressy episode.

Drooling can be an extreme sign of anxiety.

Sweaty paws can be a sign of severe stress too.

Scratching. (At the floor, doors etc., but also at themselves)

Dogs - like us - are all unique and there are countless reasons they get stressed. The good news is that with the right expert input there’s lots we can do to help our best friends get over it. The first step, of course, is recognisng it.

Need help with your dog? You’ll find more free dog articles, tips and help with dog training at www.DogfatherTraining.co.uk.

31

Dont forget, you can dropyour articles and news for BartonToday into Barton Sweets!

eveYour Parish Councilwww. earlsbarton.gov.uk

Minutes of the Meeting held at EB Fire StationMeeting Room on Monday 14 January 2013The council meets at Earls Barton Youth Club, Harrowick Lane on thesecond Monday of the month at 7.15pm, except in August. Meetingsare listed, three days before they take place, on the notice board in theSquare, outside Jeyes the Chemists. You are welcome to attend andwill be given an opportunity to address the Council.

PresentCllrs M Cahill (Chair), I Abbott, K Abbott, G Blackwell, T Brassington, RGough, M Higham, R Paintin, M Perkins, P Wright. (Cllr K Abbott arrivedduring item 006/13)

Public TimeNo members of the public were in attendance.

001/13 Duncan Brebner – Lifespace Developments – Butchers YardMr Brebner attended to present his proposals for the development ofButchers Yard. Details were noted and EBPC will await the planningapplication before making comment.

002/13 Apologies for AbsenceApologies for absence were approved from Cllr Page. Cllr K Abbott forarriving late.

003/13 Declarations of Pecuniary InterestCllr Blackwell declared a personal interest in agenda item 015/13(WP/2012/0534/F). Cllr I Abbott declared an interest in agenda item016/13. Dispensation was awarded to all members to discuss agendaitem 006/13.

004/13 Minutes of the Meeting of 10 December 2012 A request to chase up Chris Heaton-Harris MP was not included in theminutes. With this amendments noted, it was resolved to adopt theminutes as a correct record.

005/13 AccountsIt was resolved to pay the following accounts:

3497 Sublime Media – Website £222.00

3498 Lonsdale Direct Solutions – Printing – Neighbourhood Plan Survey £537.60

3499 E-on – ¼ Street Lighting Maintenance £128.90

3500 E-on – Pioneer Electricity £89.62

3501 E-on – Chapel Electricity £18.67

3502 M Freeman – Hedgecutting £50.00

3503 Anglian Water – Pioneer £25.31

3504 Anglian Water – Cemetery £23.05

3505 Anglian Water – Allotment £17.63

3506 T A Greenham – VAS Maintenance £65.00

3507 All Saints Church – Church Lighting £508.41

3508 Salcey Group – Tree Survey £630.00

3509 Viking – Stationery £40.15

3510 C Jackson – Mole Monitoring £369.25

3511 EB Methodist Church – Room Hire for Neighbourhood Plan Event£60.00

3512 E-on – ¼ Street Lighting £322.63

3513 Earls Barton Parish Council – Transfer to Sports Fund £25000.00

3514 Clerk/Registrar – Salary/Expenses £1185.38

3515 Youth Club Leader – Salary £277.37

3516 Youth Club Assistant Leader – Salary £76.28

3517 Inland Revenue – Tax/NI £446.96

3518 Park Landscapes – Grounds Maintenance £155.70

3519 A Rozzier – N/Plan Website Management £450.00

006/13 Finance & Projects(a) Report of Grounds Maintenance Committee Meeting & approve

minutes – it was resolved to adopt the minutes as a correct record.

(b) Approve awarding of Grounds Maintenance Contracts – the recommendations of the Grounds Maintenance Committee were approved. The Clerk will write to all the contractors who entered the tender process to thank them and advise if they were successful.

(c) Report of the Finance Committee Meeting & approve minutes – it was resolved to adopt the minutes as a correct record.

(d) Approve Grants 2013/14 – it was resolved to approve the Finance Committee’s recommendation for grant approval for 2013/14.

(e) Approve Risk Assessment/Asset Register/Audit Controls 2013/14 – it was resolved to approve the Risk Assessment, Asset Register, Audit Plan, Internal Controls and Terms of Reference as recommended by the Finance Committee.

(f) Approve Precept 2013/14 – The Clerk explained the changes in the Precept system to take account of the localisation of Council Tax Relief and the confirmation of a grant from BCW to assist with Precept costings. Following discussion it was resolved to approve the Finance Committee’s recommendation for Precept 2013/14 (total figure £87614. Band D equivalent £50.97 – an increase of £2.17 on last year)

007/13 Police & Community Safety

(a) Crime figures & Report – there was no representative from the police in attendance. The Clerk advised that 14 crimes were reported in Earls Barton in November.

(b) The Clerk was asked to complete the Police & Crime Plan – Make Your View Known on behalf of the Parish Council. To include concerns about our rural police now beginning their shift in Wellingborough, concerns over response times and the reduction of cars to the rural team, the need for PCSO numbers to be maintained and requesting the Panel Meetings be brought back.

008/13 Neighbourhood Plan(a) Approval for Fourth Stage delivery – following discussion it was

resolved to approve the quote for the delivery of stage 4 of the project and the management of the website. It was noted that it has been announced by Housing Minister Nick Boles that communities without a Neighbourhood Plan will have their portion of the Community Infrastructure Levy for development capped at £100 per property whereas communities with a Neighbourhood Plan will receive 25% of the total levy collected on each property.

(b) Consultation – update – Cllr Wright reported on the replies received to date. Analysis of the responses will take place at the end of January and a report will be made at the next Parish Council meeting.

(c) NCC – letter regarding schools in Earls Barton – The Clerk read out a letter which confirmed that NCC are liaising with the schools to increase capacity. The Clerk will write NCC for an update and invite both Head Teachers to the next Parish Council meeting to discuss.

009/13 Annual Litter PickCllr Wright confirmed that Wellingborough Norse will loan the equipmentrequired for this years event. The Clerk will confirm public liabilityinsurance arrangements. Dates to be announced soon.

010/13 Highways & Maintenance(a) Highway Work Priorities for 2013/14 – A list of priorities will be

forwarded to MGWSP for inspection and assessment as to whether any of them are cost effective. No guarantee has been given that any of the work will be approved. Contact the Clerk for details.

(b) Barkers Meeting – it was agreed to postpone the meeting whilst Cllr Perkins speaks to local retailers about the parking scheme.

(c) Clay Lane – update – the Clerk advised that all of the funding has now been confirmed and we are just waiting for this to come through before applying for the downgrade of Clay Lane.

(d) Litter Bins & Grit Bins – update – Clerk dealing with.

(e) Benches – Clarke Court & Doddington Road – Refurbishment works for the bench in Clarke Court have been ordered. The

32


33


bench on Doddington Road is beyond repair. The Clerk will look at the cost of replacement.

(f) Gulley Cleaning – due to take place in February.

(g) MGWSP – Parish Satisfaction Questionnaire – Clerk to deal

(h) Request for Memorial Bench – Earls Barton Recreation Field– approved. Clerk to liaise with family making request.

(i) Grendon Road – relocation of gateway to site – referred to BCW Planning Dept.

011/13 NCALC/SLCC/ACRE Correspondence(a) NCALC Update – held by Clerk

(b) Northamptonshire Larger Council’s Partnership – Thursday 17 January – Clerk to attend

012/13 BCW Correspondence(a) Wellingborough Civic Valentines Ball – details noted.

013/13 NCC Correspondence

(a) Draft Revenue Budget 2013/14 & Medium Term Financial Plan 2013/14 to 2015/16 – to take part in the consultation please visit www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/thelocaldeal

(b) Community Self Help Plans – meeting 7 February 2013 – Chair and Clerk to attend.

(c) Public Consultation – Chester Farm Survey – Clerk to deal

(d) NCC – Youth Small Grants Fund – contact the Clerk for details.

014/13 Other Correspondence

(a) The Clerk read out a letter from the Rights of Way officer regarding works carried out at Barton Mill following the recent floods

015/13 Planning(a) Proposed Development at Appleby Lodge Farm, SywellRoad, Wellingborough – Clerk to contact Prologis for dates of public

events.

(b) Applications Received

WP/2012/0534/F – erection of granny annex incidental to theenjoyment of the existing dwelling house – 1a Leys Rd – Mr B Ansell

WP/2012/0539/F – erection of side extension – 72 High St – Mr &Mrs Evans

WP/2012/0561/O – outline application for the erection of 7 dwellings,new vehicular access to Fairhurst Way (access arrangements to beconsidered – all other matters reserved) – land at & rear of 11Doddington Rd – Mr & Mrs R Whyman

Following discussion, it was agreed that an objection be lodged toWP/2012/0561/O relating to concerns over the access crossing apublic footpath. No comments were required on the otherapplications received.

016/13 Sports & Leisure DevelopmentIt was agreed to send a letter of condolence to Bob Entwistlefollowing his mother’s recent passing. Bob will be invited to addressthe Parish Council in April or May to update on the project.

Date of Next MeetingMonday 11 February 2013 - 7.15pm it should be noted that theseminutes are subject to the approval of Earls Barton Parish Council

Rosemary Smart – Clerk to the Council Tel: 01604 812850Email: [email protected]

Your Borough and County Councillors Contact Information

BoroughCouncillor

Peter Wright2 Dowthorpe End,

Earls Barton, NN6 0NH Tel: 07843 062197

E mail [email protected]

Borough andCounty Councillor George Blackwell

16 White Way,Earls Barton, NN6 0HT

Tel: 01604 813485E: [email protected]

BoroughCouncillor

Peter Morrall79 Dowthorpe Hill,

Earls Barton, NN6 0PY Tel: 01604 810824

E mail [email protected]

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Registered

All SaintsChurch News All

Holy Communion for the Less MobileThere will be a 3 pm service of Holy Communion in the Parish Church Hall onthe first Wednesday of each month – so the next ones will be on 6 February and6 March. Hopefully this venue and time will mean that those who can’t get tochurch for reasons of mobility have the opportunity to share Holy Communionin fellowship with other members of our community. If you’d like us to pick youup please phone Sue Suter on 466582 and we’ll be very happy to arrange a lift.

Mothers’ UnionOur first meeting of 2013 was held at Grangefield Care Home,Northampton Road, where we were welcomed by PeterDaniels, the manager. The evening commenced with HolyCommunion received from Miranda, Priest in Charge at AllSaints, followed by a faith supper. The members had gone totown with their donations of food and after we had all finished there was amplefor the staff to help themselves for their supper. Our next meeting in Februarywill be our AGM it is on Wednesday 6 Feb at 7.30pm at 69 Spring Gardens. Ifyou are thinking of joining this lively MU branch why not come along? We willbe reporting on the past year and also working out our programme for 2013. Ifyou’d like to talk to someone first please contact Branch Leader, KathleenDavison on 811452.

Tea and PrayerInformal meetings are held for prayer, followed by refreshments, in the homesof church members on the third Tuesday of the month at 2.30pm. If transport isa problem, lifts are available. Please phone Valerie Brown on 811 616. The nextmeeting is on 15th January at 10 Park Lane, then 19th February at 39 MearsAshby Road, 19th March at 57 Mears Ashby Road and 16th April at 20 Milbury.A warm welcome will be received at any of these homes and new membersare very welcome. Gill Metcalfe Lay Pastoral Minister 811010 members arevery welcome.

THANK YOU... THANK YOU...A huge thank you to all those who have made donations of food for people incrisis. We’ve had a tremendous response, showing once more how generouspeople in Earls Barton can be. We may even need to get a bigger box to holdthe donations. Thanks too to Geoff and Sue Adams and Helen Winrow, whotake the food to the Daylight Centre for us.

Please keep it up – the need is only going to increase.

Julia Cross All Saints Mothers’ Union.

All Bears @ All SaintsYou are warmly invited to ‘All Bears@All Saints’.There will be fun, music, story, refreshments andactivity for pre-school children (no minimum age)and a chance for their carers to relax over a cup oftea while the children play.

We meet in All Saints Church Hall at 2.15 pm and end at about 3.30 pm. Allchildren – and adults – are invited to bring their favourite bear to meet All Saints’resident bear.

Next dates: 8 & 22 FebruaryDon’t forget we also offer children’s clothes to buy or swap

QR Codes In Use In Church (Thinks: Thanks to Barton Today!)

There’s More On The Web… At present, by using the QR app on your smartphone and clicking on the code, you are taken directly to the church website, but soon the codes could be used to give even more information about the church and items inside it. Want to know more about the history of the world famous Tower? Or the choir screen which was buried and then dug up again? Like to find out more about the painting at the back of the church? Or about the font? Or the pulpit? A QR code could give you a running commentary with a choice of languages for the many visitors who come from all over the world to see Earls Barton’s greatest historical asset. Interested? Watch this space! Or rather, watch the QR Code!

Sunday 3rd February 9.30 am Parish CommunionCandlemas 11.00am Together@11

6.00pm Evensong

Wednesday 9.30am Holy Communion6th February 3.00pm Holy Communion in Hall

for the less mobile

Sunday 8.30am Holy Communion BCP10th February 10.00am All Age & Parade Service

Next before Lent

Ash Wednesday 9.30am Holy Communion with Ashing13th February 7.00pm Holy Communion with Ashing

Saturday 90th Birthday of Father Warren Warnes16th February 11.00am Sung Eucharist

Sunday 9.30 am Parish Communion17th February 11.00am Together@11Lent 1 6.00pm Evensong

Wednesday 9.30am Holy Communion20th February 7.00pm Lenten Reflection

Sunday 9.30am Parish Communion24th February Lent 2 11.00am Together@11

Wednesday 9.30am Holy Communion27th February 7.00pm Lenten Reflection


34

February Services at All Saints

All Bear@All Saints

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER(INTERNATIONAL AND INTERDENOMINATIONAL)2pm Friday 1st March at The Methodist Church

Women’s World Day of Prayer is a unique organisation; truly inter-denominational and truly international, it speaks with the voices of women fromall corners of the globe. Preparations go on for months in advance.

Women and men will be gathering to celebrate using a programme of worshipprepared this year by women in France. When the women of the FrenchCommittee met to work on the material for 2013, the theme chosen for thembecame close to their hearts: I WAS A STRANGER AND YOU WELCOMED ME.The service they have written for us has a strongly French feel and flavour.France, like other European countries, receives many asylum requests. In 2011,51,900 people applied for asylum in France. The presence of these people inthe country both enriches the culture and can cause social difficulties. Behindeach request, each statistic, is the story of a life. Some of those stories will beshared in the service. We envisage a great annual wave of prayer, rising withthe sun over the island of Samoa and then sweeping across Asia, Africa, theMiddle East, Europe and the Americas, until it comes to rest in American Samoasome 36 hours later. By then services will have taken place in over 170countries. All are welcome to attend, men and women and people of all ages.

Donations of food for the Wellingborough Food BankThere is a collection box at the back of the Parish Church for any of thefollowing: dried foods, packets, tins, sauces, sugar, jams, quick meals,powdered/UHT milk, tea, coffee, squash, fruit juices – all with as long a shelflife as possible. Food is given to those in need who are referred by SocialServices and similar agencies.

Thank you for your donations of food, please keep them coming!

AAll ll SSaaiinnttss EEaarrllss BBaarrttoonn AAsshh WWeeddnneessddaayy

!"#$%&'()*+),%-.!"%/0".+1%23+456%7%80..91%23*:;6%

<=>,%?=11*:4=:%@4#$%419=34#4=:%=A%B3$'3%

““RReemmeemmbbeerr,, yyoouu aarree aa ssiinnnneerr;; rreemmeemmbbeerr,, yyoouu aarree ffoorrggiivveenn””

AAll ll SSaaiinnttss EEaarrllss BBaarrttoonn LLeenntteenn RReefflleeccttiioonnss 22001133

DDoo jjooiinn uuss ffoorr aa sseerriieess ooff rreefflleeccttiivvee sseerrvviicceess

oonn WWeeddnneessddaayyss aatt 77ppmm 2200tthh && 2277tthh FFeebbrruuaarryy,, 66tthh,, 1133tthh && 2200tthh MMaarrcchh..

There is a9.30am HolyCommunionservice everyWednesday in the LadyChapel

36

EarlsBartonMusic

In June 2013 we are going to sing arrangements of TV and filmscores.

Music arrangements will include:

Red Dwarf, Mr Bean, Blackadder, Vicar of Dibley, Goldfinger, FromRussia with love, Nobody does it better, a Disney selection, My heartwill go on, Shrek – I’m a believer and more. There will be, additionallyopportunities for solos and small group singing other T.V/Filmarrangements. So I hope that whets your appetite.

A Happy New Year to you all and I hope to see you at one of the threeregistration nights. If you can then please register on February 1stbut you can also register on 21st and 27th .

All rehearsals at Earls Barton Methodist Chapel unless otherwisestated.

All times are 7.30pm unless otherwise stated.

FebruaryFriday 1st 6.30pm – 8.15pm –

Registration (1) only, no rehearsalThursday 21st 7.15pm – Registration (2), rehearsal (1)

starts 7.45pmWednesday 27th Registration (3) and rehearsal 2

MarchTuesday 5th Rehearsal 3Wednesday 13th Rehearsal 4Tuesday 19th Rehearsal 5Wednesday 27th Rehearsal 6

Easter holiday

AprilThursday 18th Rehearsal 7Wednesday 24th Rehearsal 8Tuesday 30th Rehearsal 9

MayWednesday 8th Rehearsal 10Thursday 16th Rehearsal 11Wednesday 22nd Rehearsal 12

June Tuesday 4th Rehearsal 13Wednesday 12th Rehearsal 14 (7pm, final rehearsal)

(Saturday 15th Concert, 7pm, Methodist Chapel)This is the last day of Festival Fortnight.

(Sunday 16th Concert, 3.30pm, Finedon Community Centre)

Please consider coming along to join in with this one. If you haven’tsung with us before but have been toying with the idea come on – doit. There will be some great fun music to perform and it will all befamiliar to you. The people are friendly too, even the musical director!!

Hope to see you at rehearsals

Nick ChapmanEarls Barton Music


‘Small Screen-Big Screen’A Concert of TV and Filmmusic arrangements

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Meet the Under12 Boys !! EBUFC Managers & Committee 2010/11MANAGERSUnder 7Contact Club Secretary

Under 8Mick McGuckin 07876 778872

Under 9Matt Parsons 01604 812273

Under 11James Cameron 07774 711171

Under 12Darren Booker 01604 811650

Under 13Steve Biggs 01604 810266

Under 14Graham Pinney 07411 522262

Under 15Dave Archer 07532 113155

Under 16Scott Bromwich 01604 510979

Under 17Keith Lawrence 01604 812517

Under 13 GirlsCliff Elliott 07815 543455

LadiesAngie Foster 01604 466265

Sat 1st TeamAntony Owen 01604 811645

Sat ReservesIan Clark (Temp)

Sunday

COMMITTEEPresident Chris Heaton-Harris

ChairmanAntony Owen 01604 811645

Vice ChairmanSteve Biggs 01604 810266

SecretaryAnne Cleaver 01604 466366

Treasurer (Temp)Antony Owen 01604 811645

Club Welfare Offi cerAngie Foster 01604 466265

Manager’s RepGeoff Cleaver 01604 466366

General CommitteeMichelle Biggs 01604 810266Andrea Nolan 01604 811591Victoria Starmer 07896 214392Graham Pinney 07411 522262

EBUFC are alwayslooking for new Players, Coaches & Volunteers.

If interested, please call theclub secretary Anne Cleaver

on: 01604 466366 or visit:

www.ebufc.co.uk

Earls Barton United Football Clubc/o Anne Cleaver (Secretary) 8 Cordon Crescent, Earls Barton, Northampton NN6 0PW - Tel: 01604 466366

BartonToday

March 2011 55.

Ah don’t they look sweet ….. like butter wouldn’t melt !!! The Under 12’s squad consists of: Dan Talbot, Dan Webb, Lewis Carvell, Harry McNeill, James Perry, Charlie Lawrence, Luke Booker, Nikhil Khatri, Alex Woodruff, Sam Fidelia, Jake Channer, William Dodwell - and missing from the photo Jonathan Ashworth, Jake Lay and Jack Smart. The team is managed by Darren Booker and Assisted by Dave Dodwell.

Not one of the biggest squads at Earls Barton Football Club but the boys all get on very well on and off the pitch(and although go to no less than 8 different schools, they still manage to communicate during the week, evenif it is on the xbox or playstation)…………..

At the start of the season it was decided that it would be good for the boys to embark on anew challenge, so the decision was taken to move from the Kettering Weetabix League over to the Northants John Henry League. With 3 divisions, the team were entered into the U12C league. Unfortunately, although coming across some really friendly opposition, the majority of games have been won with ease for most of the season, hence they are proud to be sitting at the top of their league - having scored 80 goals and letting in just 8 in their fi rst 10 games so far. The team have done extremely well and are due to play Nether Heyford in the quarter fi nals of the League Cup and by the time you read this article they will either be sad or on their way to the semi fi nals……….

Training for the U12’s is on a Wednesday night at the Pioneer Sportsground6.30pm - 8.00pm. If you are player that can add something to our team, please dont hesitate to join us at one of our training sessions.

Tesco for Schools & Clubs Voucher Scheme is back for 2011 !!!

Vouchers will be available in store and with online grocery orders from Monday 28th February until Sunday 8th May, so get collecting! Last year went well but let’s make it a record collection this year!! The more vouchers we collect, the more equipment we can get for the club.

If you collect the vouchers and would like to donate them to EBUFC, please contact anyone on the General Committee - where they will be gratefully received! If you would like a collection box and poster to put in your workplace, please email us at [email protected]

CLUB CONTACTS

FOR 2012/13

Under 7

Shad�Hester 07413�570251

Under 8

Kirk�Thompson� 07976�555534

Under 9

Kyle�Lawrence 07745�183492

Under 10

Antony�Owen 01604�811645

Under 11

Ryan�Smart 07445�948532

Under 14

Darren�Booker 01604�811650

Under 15

Steve�Biggs 01604�810266

Under 16

Graham�Pinney 07411�522262

Under 17/18

Morgan�Dawson07962�060119

Under 15 Girls

Cliff�Elliott� 07815�543455

Sat 1st Team

Matt�Smith 07967�311225

Sat Reserves

Darren�Bryant 07717�430858

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

President

Chris�Heaton-Harris

Chairman

Antony�Owen 01604�811645

Vice Chairman

Steve�Biggs� 01604�810266

Secretary

Anne�Cleaver� 01604�466366

Michelle�Biggs 01604�810266

Treasurer (Temp)

Antony�Owen� 01604�811645

Club Welfare Officer

Angie�Foster� 01604�466265

General Committee

Geoff�Cleaver� 01604�466366

Andrea�Nolan� 07801�945862

Ryan�Smart 07445�948532

Matt�Smith 07967�311225


37

EB UNITED U11’s This season the under 11’s havereally excelled themselves. Westarted off the season not reallyunderstanding what it meant totruly play as a team. So weadopted the motto ‘TogetherEveryone Achieves More’. Withthis motto we literally met it. Wehave won 6 out of 9 games inthe league and we wereunfortunate to be out of theleague cup. Some managers ofthe other teams in our leaguehave said that ‘we play the bestpassing football he’d seen ayoung side play in a long time.’This was of course a huge credit to me and Nick as we have worked so hard on this specific elementof football. As a team we need to thank Matt Whatton for coming down and coaching our twoexcellent goalkeepers who have really given a strong backbone to a strong team. I personally wantto thank Chelsea Hire for their sponsorship of the playing kit, Grassroots Construction for theirsponsorship of our rainjackets and the parents for raising money for the holdalls as without them wewould not have a fantastic looking under 11s team with all the kit they could dream of. So on behalfof me and the team...THANK YOU!

As a fun way to end the successful 2012 half of the season we played the Lads vs Parents match atthe Pioneer on the 15th December. The lads thoroughly enjoyed themselves but unfortunately lostto the competitive Parents! Although, according to the lads it should have been next goal wins! Wewill be having another game in the near future so let’s see if the lads can get revenge! Overall, agreat team, a great set of parents (who the players need to thank for their support and commitment)and let’s see how much further we can progress. So bring on 2013!

Olders vs OldersIt was a comment after last year’s game v the current adult players, we should have a Olders vOlders game next year. It took loads of texts and eventually we threw together 36 once finally tunedfootballers to roll back the years. The sides were equally split in both age and ability with Tony Batesmanaging one and Gary Mills (on crutches) the other. Once we managed to get the kit on, theymake them a bit tighter than they used too !! It was eventually time to take the field.

To lots of banter from the 80 spectators who watched the whistle was finally blown from the ref Kevin(I love the power) Sykes. As you can imagine the pace was not brisk and we focussed on totalfootball with the ball doing the work. The first goal was scored by Tony’s side with Lee Burrows slottinghome. As the first half went on the superior skills of Gary’s team took hold but they still went in 2 – 1down, very harsh.

The half time break gave players a chance to half a fag, strap themselves up and get much neededliquid on board. The second half was another close affair with the highlight for all being a world classsave from 57 year old Steve ( Gonzo ) Greenhow tipping over a 20 yard free kick which was headinginto the top corner. This will make him a hero in the playground when he goes back to work as someof the pupils witnessed it. This did make up for the error of when he passed the ball to Saul in the firsthalf to gift Tony`s side their second goal, Gonzo we have all forgiven you.

With both teams getting tired and the bar close to opening you could see players dreaming of thefinal whistle . At this stage Millsy`s team had taken the lead 3-2, reward for the emotional speechGary had given us about his love life ! With two minutes left Glen (Tom Daly) Addy broke into thebox and threw himself to the floor and that was enough for Kevin to point to the spot. Glen slottedhome the pen to make the score 3 – 3. The final whistle blew and when questioned on the decisionthe ref answered, well it evened the game up nicely !!

We all met in the bar afterwards and laughed at the pictures on the laptop of the game and enjoyedsuperb food prepared from Dawn ( Big thanks ). It was once again a major success and we raised£450 for EBSA which is much needed. Roll on next year as it was agreed it is great way to end theyear !! To conclude – YOU NEVER LOSE IT !!


38

The Feel Good FactoryHi – welcome to the Feel Good Factory. This month I want to

share with you some information that we have been sharing at

WeightWatchers since the end of November, and it is really

making a difference. Have you ever experienced that ‘I couldn’t

eat another thing’ feeling and then found room for your favourite

dessert? Well, new science has given us an insight into why this

happens, and we can apply this knowledge to help us lose

weight.

We are surrounded by food; pictures of food, offers on meals,

cakes in the office, adverts at the petrol pump, chocolates at the

tills etc. Food is available in an ever increasing way – anytime and

anywhere we want it. We live in an overloaded food environment.

In the past we have believed that overeating is due to emotional

or psychological triggers and that willpower is the tool we rely on.

The great news is that scientist have recently discovered that

some of us will react to images, smells and even just the thought

of some foods – react with a real feeling of hunger – regardless

of whether we last ate 10 minutes or 10 hours ago. Our tendency

to overeat is actually hard wired into us. This has been proven

by scientist who have taken scans of brain activity after showing

people highly pleasurable and calorie laden foods, scientists

found that the same hunger signals are sent from the brain to the

body, with no relevance to how long ago food was consumed.

This is called hedonic hunger.

So what are we doing with this new information? We know that

our environment can make a huge difference to what and when

we eat. Looking at the place we spend most of our day – home,

office, car etc – and thinking about the unhelpful things that are

there we can really make an impact. It can be as simple as

putting away things in the kitchen such as your biscuit tin and

other high calorie foods and getting out things like a bowl to

display your fruit in (and filling it!).

Humans are essentially lazy, and if we make things easily

available we are more likely to eat those than things that are more

difficult to get. To really illustrate this point if you decide that you

want to drink more water, by putting a large glass of water on the

desk by you all day or a bottle in the car within reach you will

drink more. If you had to get up to go and get it you wouldn’t

drink anywhere near as much. Try it one day.

We are getting our members to think about three key elements;

places, routines and tracking. Thinking about the places that you

spend lots of time and then looking to minimise the temptations

there. Looking to build routines that will help you to take control

of what you eat rather than leaving it to chance. Finally – tracking,

anyone who has ever tried to lose weight will know the value of

keeping a food diary, writing down everything you eat and drink

is a really powerful tool.

So if you are still feeling the after effects of the Christmas

indulging, or perhaps the never ending leftovers that you have

only just finished then you might be able to use some of the

information above to help you get back into more healthy eating.

If you would like any information on WeightWatchers please do

contact me at [email protected] or go to the website

www.weightwatchers.co.uk. If you are thinking about joining us

but are not sure, pop along to one of the meetings at St John’s

Ambulance on Tuesdays at 7pm or Wednesdays at 9.30am and

you can just sit in for one to see what we are about and decide if

it is right for you – no obligation to join. If you have any

information you would like to share in future editions of the Feel

Good Factory then please do get in touch.

More from me next month, Susan Price – Your local Triple

Diamond Weightwatchers Leader.

Meet the Under12 Boys !! EBUFC Managers & Committee 2010/11MANAGERSUnder 7Contact Club Secretary

Under 8Mick McGuckin 07876 778872

Under 9Matt Parsons 01604 812273

Under 11James Cameron 07774 711171

Under 12Darren Booker 01604 811650

Under 13Steve Biggs 01604 810266

Under 14Graham Pinney 07411 522262

Under 15Dave Archer 07532 113155

Under 16Scott Bromwich 01604 510979

Under 17Keith Lawrence 01604 812517

Under 13 GirlsCliff Elliott 07815 543455

LadiesAngie Foster 01604 466265

Sat 1st TeamAntony Owen 01604 811645

Sat ReservesIan Clark (Temp)

Sunday

COMMITTEEPresident Chris Heaton-Harris

ChairmanAntony Owen 01604 811645

Vice ChairmanSteve Biggs 01604 810266

SecretaryAnne Cleaver 01604 466366

Treasurer (Temp)Antony Owen 01604 811645

Club Welfare Offi cerAngie Foster 01604 466265

Manager’s RepGeoff Cleaver 01604 466366

General CommitteeMichelle Biggs 01604 810266Andrea Nolan 01604 811591Victoria Starmer 07896 214392Graham Pinney 07411 522262

EBUFC are alwayslooking for new Players, Coaches & Volunteers.

If interested, please call theclub secretary Anne Cleaver

on: 01604 466366 or visit:

www.ebufc.co.uk

Earls Barton United Football Clubc/o Anne Cleaver (Secretary) 8 Cordon Crescent, Earls Barton, Northampton NN6 0PW - Tel: 01604 466366

BartonToday

March 2011 55.

Ah don’t they look sweet ….. like butter wouldn’t melt !!! The Under 12’s squad consists of: Dan Talbot, Dan Webb, Lewis Carvell, Harry McNeill, James Perry, Charlie Lawrence, Luke Booker, Nikhil Khatri, Alex Woodruff, Sam Fidelia, Jake Channer, William Dodwell - and missing from the photo Jonathan Ashworth, Jake Lay and Jack Smart. The team is managed by Darren Booker and Assisted by Dave Dodwell.

Not one of the biggest squads at Earls Barton Football Club but the boys all get on very well on and off the pitch(and although go to no less than 8 different schools, they still manage to communicate during the week, evenif it is on the xbox or playstation)…………..

At the start of the season it was decided that it would be good for the boys to embark on anew challenge, so the decision was taken to move from the Kettering Weetabix League over to the Northants John Henry League. With 3 divisions, the team were entered into the U12C league. Unfortunately, although coming across some really friendly opposition, the majority of games have been won with ease for most of the season, hence they are proud to be sitting at the top of their league - having scored 80 goals and letting in just 8 in their fi rst 10 games so far. The team have done extremely well and are due to play Nether Heyford in the quarter fi nals of the League Cup and by the time you read this article they will either be sad or on their way to the semi fi nals……….

Training for the U12’s is on a Wednesday night at the Pioneer Sportsground6.30pm - 8.00pm. If you are player that can add something to our team, please dont hesitate to join us at one of our training sessions.

Tesco for Schools & Clubs Voucher Scheme is back for 2011 !!!

Vouchers will be available in store and with online grocery orders from Monday 28th February until Sunday 8th May, so get collecting! Last year went well but let’s make it a record collection this year!! The more vouchers we collect, the more equipment we can get for the club.

If you collect the vouchers and would like to donate them to EBUFC, please contact anyone on the General Committee - where they will be gratefully received! If you would like a collection box and poster to put in your workplace, please email us at [email protected]

EBUFC Announcements

Congratulations..

from everyone at the football club to Grahamand Victoria Pinney on the birth of their beautiful

daughter Florence on wednesday 5th Dec 2012

Quiz Nightat The Grange Sat 16th Feb - Teams of 4

£10.00 - 7.30pm - Everyone welcome

EBUFC are always looking for new Players, Coaches Sponsors & Volunteers.If interested, please call the club secretary Anne Cleaver 01604 466366 www.ebufc.co.uk

Churches TogetherHello

I'd be grateful if you would pass on the thanks of ChurchesTogether in Earls Barton and District to all those who in any wayhelped with the distribution of the Churches Together ChristmasCard with the December edition.

If you could also please print our thanks to all those who helped tomake Carols on the Square the success it clearly was.

Thanks must go to to the people who all contributed so generouslyon the evening by giving to the collectors. £1640.40 was collectedand will be split four ways betweeen each of the different children'scharities which the four churches in the village support.

Thanks again to everyone

Brian EmersonChair Churches Together in Earls Barton and District.

When members of the community volunteer to distributeinformation, whether it be Barton Today or the ChurchesTogether Christmas card, they do a splendid job and deserve allour thanks.

Also The Churches Together Carol Service is always very wellattended and it is great to hear that so much was raised forcharity.


39

We always welcome your letters, phone calls and e-mails on anysubject. They may be edited. Our address is shown on the Editorial

page. Please sign them and mark ‘B2Day’ on the envelope. If yourequest that your name is withheld we’ll need your phone number or

home address for verification. Thank you for writing to Barton Today

Have your Sayto B2Day...

Parking near the SchoolsAs the owner of the yellow car portrayed so handsomely on theletters page of the January issue, may I point out that I was parkedwhere I was because the library spaces were entirely filled withmothers waiting for their children to come out of school.

As a disabled badge holder, I am saddened by the way these selfishwomen make it impossible for legitimate library users to use theparking spaces provided. They have made it a nightmare to try andfind a parking space anywhere in the village during the hours ofdropping off and picking up children.

I have 4 children myself but always walked them to school when theywere young, and we all benefitted from the fresh air and exercise.

I think we all agree that if parents are able walk their children intoschool it will be benefit the congestion and parking problemsaround school as well as the health of the children and parents alike.

The Carol Service"Dear Barton Today. We attended the Carol Service as usual onChristmas Eve and stood in front of the butchers shop. Sadly we wereunable to hear very much as the PA system was just not powerfulenough. We were unable to hear any of the readings or the shortsermon. When my husband approached a member of the Council hewas told, "better do it yourself next year!" This was most unhelpfulbut sadly a reflection of some of the councillors in our village. I amunsure who is responsible for the Carol Service organisation butrequest that you pass on my concerns for this years PA system in thehope that it will improve for next year."

Yours sincerelyMaureen Rust

The carol service is always very well attended and it is a shame ifthe PA system is not adequate for all to hear. I think that the carolservice is a collaboration between the council, churches and othervolunteers who all work hard to make it a success. The intention isto include everyone so I am sure they welcome any help, suggestionsor comments from residents and those involved to improve it for thecoming Christmas Eve.

Did you know Stan Spittlesotherwise known as “Coge”?Dear Barton Today,

I live in Lyon, France and have stumbled across your magazine onthe internet. I thought it would be a way of trying to find friends ofmy late father, Stan(ley) Spittles, otherwise known as ‘Coge’ to hisBarkers workmates who passed away on 14th Sept 2012.

Stan was nicknamed Coge because at the time he lived in Cogenhoebut later moved to Brafield on the Green.

Through this announcement we are hoping to contact friends, inparticular Steve and Sarah and Wilson family in-laws, in order tolet them know that Stan passed away peacefully, in NorthamptonGeneral Hospital. He was laid to rest in the cemetery onHarborough Road, Kingsthorpe, Northampton.

Stan’s treasured shoe-making hand tools, some of which he hadprobably had since he was a boy watching his Dad make shoes, havebeen donated to Northampton University for their leather and shoe-making department.

Stan is survived by his widow, Jean (nee Rice) and children Cheryl,Susan and Mark.

If you have any thoughts or memories you would like to share withus, please do so via:

Mark Spittles on tel 01933 359261 (evenings and weekends)

Cheryl Spittles email: [email protected]

Great to find that Barton Today is being read in Lyon andhopefully that it will help in getting family back in touch.

It would be lovely to hear if any of our readers knew 'Coge" as itsounds like he was very much involved in our boot and shoeheritage.

Sledging at KemsittsDear Barton Today,

I went for the first time ever on monday to the well knownKemsitts..Kemzits?? I took my kids and some of their friends alongwith their sledges, it was great and I couldn’t believe how manypeople were there.

Anyway, we stayed for at least 2 hours but as it started to get darkand quite cold we got our bits together and started to set off home.There was only a few people when we left but was saddened to seeall the mess left behind, broken sledges, costa coffee cups, plasticbags, broken bits of cardboard and much more!!

So, a message to all reading this, this is the first time I’ve ever beensledging, we had a great time, but if the farmer that owns the landgets fed up of taking your crap away it might be last time we willALL be allowed on their land! Please take all of your rubbish home!!

Regards Lisa

Thank you Lisa for pointing out the rubbish left behind after funon the slopes. We are very lucky to have access to such a greatsledging venue and I think we all should remember to tidy up afterourselves!


After the recent announcement by The Council of Mortgage Lenders predicting a more stable and "positive" year in

the UK housing and mortgage markets, Acorn have seen a steady rise in both new properties coming to market and

ready buyers keen to move in the very near future. We are also experiencing a very buoyant lettings market, with

Earls Barton properties in particular, being snapped up almost immediately they come to market. Landlords are

seeing a higher return on investment ratios as well as very good quality tenants.

The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) said a steady increase in lending for house purchases signalled more activity,

which certainly confirms our experience here at Acorn. However, first-time buyers still require a deposit on average of 20% to get on the property

ladder, but it has been reported that building societies have been looking to increase their lending figures this year and they regularly offer cheaper

mortgages than the biggest banks. Over the last few weeks, they have improved their first-time buyer rates in particular and this has helped to

increase competition between the lenders.

"If the incremental improvements in house purchase lending that we are currently seeing persist as we expect them to, then 2013 should feel a

more stable and positive year in the housing and mortgage markets," said CML director general Paul Smee.

Adam Plater of Acorn Sales & Lettings comments “We feel very positive about the market in general, we are seeing a very positive increase in

registered buyers, ranging from first-timers and family movers to down-sizers. We are also seeing much higher enquiry rates across both sales and

lettings properties which I expect to continue to rise as we head towards Spring”.

Regards, Adam

Acorn Predict A Positive YearBy Adam Plater of Acorn Sales & Lettings

MO

RE

PROPERT

iES

WAN

TED

!

Acorn... Earls Barton’s local, family owned and operated sales and letting agent

Don’t just take our WORD for it, here iswhat just a few of our HAPPY CUSTOMERS

are saying about ACORN...

"It is a pleasure to do business with such a pleasant, friendly team,

providing an excellent and efficient service" - C&WP,�Mears�Ashby

"Very professional service, originally planned to get a couple of agencies but after Adam's

visit we decided you were the one we would be using" - Mrs�H,�Earls�Barton

"Great communication"

Anonymous,�Earls�Barton

"You are friendly and young (but good with us 'olds'!). You know Earls Barton really well

and have your finger on the pulse". Mike�&�Mary�Brown,�Earls�Barton

"Great Service provided to us and have found you to be very professional always

giving us feedback" - Rachel�Wilford�&�Kevin�Owen,�Great�Doddington

"Prompt, attentive and informative"

-�Mr�&�Mrs�T,�Bushy

"Professional and immediate response to questions"

- Mr�&�Mrs�Brooks,�Moulton

Quick response, quick replacement tenants, happy to arrange convenient

appointments, good updates on progress" - Phill�&�Rosie�Jamieson,�Northampton

"A professional and enthusiastic response. All round well done!" -

Anonymous,�Earls�Barton

"Prompt, helpful with all matters raised".

Mrs�Pragnell,�Hartwell

"Always kept us informed" -

John�&�Catherine�Bird,�Earls�Barton

Proudsupporters of

Thinking of SELLiNg YOUR HOUSE? Call for a FREEValuation

AcornSales & Lettings

MO

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No. 1 The Square, Earls Barton, Northamptonshire. NN6 0NA

Tel. 01604 810088 [email protected] www.acornuk.com

Come and see more properties in our window display

EXCEEDiNg EXPECTATiONS...iT’S WHAT WE DO EVERY DAY!

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Devon Cottage, £575,000Gt DoddingtonThis is a stunning cottage with outstanding viewsoverlooking the Nene Valley. The cottage has beenlovingly restored to offer spacious livingaccommodation withfour/five bedrooms, twowith ensuite, an openplan kitchen/diningroom, lounge,study/fifth bedroomand a balcony. It alsohas a single garage andparking for severalvehicles

Talk to your local propertyconsultantFor a refreshingly different, personal service…

Meet Steve Dodds, your local property consultantI hope everyone has enjoyed the snow and now ready for Spring which should be upon ussoon. It's a great time to be thinking of selling so if you would like a no obligation valuationthen please give me a call.

Your local property consultant Steve Dodds

Call 01604 813854 today!e. [email protected] w. www.horts.co.uk

Northampton Road £525,000 A unique opportunity to buy this beautiful propertyin one of the premier roads in Earls Barton. Thishome consists of four/five bedrooms and veryspacious living accommodation. There is a fully fittedkitchen with utilityroom, a sun room andtwo bathrooms. Themaster bedroom has adressing area andaccess to the reargarden

20 The Square £159,950 A Victorian semi detached home in the heart of theNorthamptonshire village of Earls Barton. Situatedclose to local shops and amenities this two bedroomproperty has bags of character and original features.Featuring a large lounge/dining room, kitchen anddownstairs WC to the ground floor and twobedrooms and spacious bathroom on the first floor.Externally there is a brick built workshop andcourtyard rear garden

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Compton Way £149,950An attractive three bedroom semidetached property in the sought aftervillage of Earls Barton. The property brieflyconsists of a spacious lounge/diner, kitchen,bathroom and three bedrooms. To thefront there is a gravelled driveway leadingto a single garage. To the rear there is alandscaped rear garden with views overopen fields

Oxford Close £214,950An immaculate four bedroom detachedhouse in the sought after village of EarlsBarton in a quiet cul-de-sac. Situated on theedge of the village near to open fields theproperty briefly consists of an open planlounge and dining room with adjoiningconservatory, a downstairs cloakroom andmodern fitted kitchen. To the first floorthere are four bedrooms and familybathroom. There is a single garage that hasbeen converted for use as an office and alandscaped rear garden

Broad Street Mews (option 1)£249,950An exclusive development in Broad StreetMews. This four bedroom home will befinished to an extremely high quality. Thehouse will have a fully fitted kitchen,bathrooms and will be fully carpetedthroughout. The grounds and gardens willbe landscaped to a very high standard.Please call now to discuss and reserve yournext home on this very exclusivedevelopment

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£199,950 An exclusive development in Broad StreetMews. This Three bedroom home will befinished to an extremely high quality. Thehouse will have a fully fitted kitchen,bathrooms and will be fully carpetedthroughout. The grounds and gardens willbe landscaped to a very high standard.Please call now to discuss and reserve yournext home on this very exclusivedevelopment

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B2DAY FEBRUARY 2013