February 2016 - Nene Local

Archive for: February 2016

Happy 80th Birthday Christopher Bletsoe

Here at the Thrapston Cattle and Livestock Market there was a big celebration on Saturday. Christopher Bletsoe celebrated his 80th birthday and celebrated in style.

His birthday wish was to return to the auction ring and, if he had enough puff to keep going, to auction off his prize bullock. A further gesture was to donate the money raised to the BDFA – Batten Disease Family Association, a charity very close to his heart.

Batten Disease is the main life-limiting neuro-degenerative disease affecting children in the UK. Children are born seemingly healthy and they go on to develop seizures, loss of vision and the ability to walk, talk and eat. Research is ongoing but there is no known cure. The BDFA continuously raises funds to help research Battens Disease and the BDFA is run by families affected by the disease and the professionals who work with them. The Bletsoe Family, with Ellen being the driving force fund raise tirelessly to help research into this terrible disease which has touched their family.

To find out more about the BDFA visit www.bdfa-uk.org.uk

James Bennie, the Chairman of the Thrapston & District Fat Stock Show Society presented Ellen Bletsoe with a cheque for £3,500 following fundraising by the Society for the Batten Disease Family Association

A suitably pleased Ellen Bletsoe holding the cheque for the BDFA

Christopher Bletsoe gave a short speech about his 60 years as an Auctioneer and that he had always hoped that he would have the opportunity to sell on his 80th birthday. He went on to thank all those who had supported him and the market over the years. Chris then sold by auction a beast he had donated to raise additional funds for BDFA

Mr Bletsoe in full flow, like he’d never been away!

Richard Sawbridge was the generous purchaser of the beast that Chris Bletsoe auctioned to raise addiitonal funds for BDFA

The auction house was packed to the rafters as the other livestock was auctioned in the usual Saturday fashion

Everyone enjoyed the Hog Roast

Mr Bletsoe’s cake was cut at the offices today

Planning Applications: 26 February 2016

Feb. 26 Planning Applications Comments Off

To add your comments to any planning applications – click on the ENC website and search for the application number.

Barnwell
16/00061/FUL (19/03/2016)
(LB/CA)
To re-thatch roof in water reed at 2 Hemington Road Barnwell
Blatherwycke
16/00212/FUL (19/03/2016) (Art8)
Agricultural grain storage building at Mill Farm Buildings Kings Cliffe Road Blatherwycke PE8 6YW
Chelveston-cum-Caldecott
16/00218/OUT (12/03/2016) (Info)
Outline planning application for the construction of 5 dwellings (all matters reserved) at Land Off
The Crescent Chelston Rise Caldecott

16/00263/OUT (12/03/2016) (Info)
Outline: Construction of three new dwellings (all matters reserved except access) at 4 Britten Close
Chelveston NN9 6AY
Easton-on-the-Hill
16/00229/FUL and 16/00230/LBC (19/03/2016)(LB/CA)(LBRegs)
Proposed double garage with associated storage to include a vehicular access from High Street. at 2 Stamford Road Easton On The Hill PE9 3NS
Luddington
16/00238/FUL (08/03/2016)
(Info)(Art8)
Single storey side extension to dwelling and single storey side extension to garage/outbuilding at
Luddington Lodge Winwick Road Thurning PE8 5BF
Nassington
16/00184/FUL (19/03/2016)
(LB/CA)
Demolition of existing rear porch, canopy and single storey extension, erection of two storey rear extension, rear porch and installation of first floor side and rear window and rear dormer window. at 20 Woodnewton Road Nassington PE8 6QQ

16/00185/LBC (19/03/2016)
(LBRegs)
Internal alterations including new staircase, first floor shower room and bedroom, removal of
partitions and new windows and dormer window. Remove rear porch, canopy and single storey
extension. Build rear two storey extension and new porch at 20 Woodnewton Road Nassington
PE8 6QQ

16/00235/LBC (19/03/2016)
(LBRegs)
Installation of external illuminated menu display at The Queens Head 54 Station Road NassingtonPE8 6QB

16/00236/ADV (19/03/2016)
(LBRegs)
Installation of external illuminated menu display at The Queens Head 54 Station Road Nassington PE8 6QB
Oundle
16/00053/FUL (12/03/2016) (Info)
Change of use – conversion of garage to residential use including installation of wc, storage are
and cloakroom accessible from house. at 7 St Christophers Drive Oundle PE8 4HU

16/00109/LBC (19/03/2016)
(LBRegs)
Refurbishment and renovation of existing domestic accommodation at first and second floors:
extension and alterations of adjacent stores and courtyard to form retail premises at 14 Market
Place Oundle PE8 4BQ

16/00183/ADV (19/03/2016)
(LB/CA)
New metal hanging sign with company name and details at The Coach House 80 South Road
Oundle PE8 4BP

16/00227/FUL (19/03/2016)
(LB/CA)
Erection of two houses. at 11 – 12 Drumming Well Lane Oundle

16/00264/VAR (12/03/2016) (Info)
Variation of condition 2 – extension to have a painted smooth render finish pursuant to planning
permission 13/01440/FUL dated 15.10.13 – First floor extension at 2 Seymour Place Oundle PE8 4QB
Raunds
15/02241/FUL (12/03/2016) (Info)
Erection of three pre fabricated modular buildings on concrete ground next to all weather pitch
within the school grounds. They would provide much needed changing facilities for community
groups who use the all weather pitch. at Manor School Mountbatten Way Raunds

16/00241/ADV (12/03/2016) (Info)
Three freestanding signs,one main totem sign, good vehicle entrance sign and a visitors car park sign at 80 Scalley Way Raunds NN9 6RJ
Ringstead
16/00215/FUL (12/03/2016) (Info)
Demolition of existing front porch, and erection of larger front porch incorporating cloakroom. at 36
Carlow Road Ringstead NN14 4DW
Rushden
16/00190/VAR (12/03/2016) (Info)
Variation of condition 15 – highway improvements works scheme pursuant to application 10/01017/OUT – Outline: Erection of a NHS Resource Centre, creation of up to 125 dwellings with associated open space, space for educational use by South End Infant School, removal of four trees covered by TPO, new access roads and alterations to existing internal road layout (All matters reserved) at Rushden Hospital The Drive Rushden NN10 9JU

16/00246/FUL (12/03/2016)(Info)
Proposed space gain scheme within its current car park by re-configuring the layout at Asda Store 161 High Street Rushden NN10 0PA
Stoke Doyle
16/00142/FUL (19/03/2016)
(LB/CA)
Replace existing Collyweston slate roof to redundant agricultural building with concrete
interlocking tiles maintaining existing roof line and pitch at Manor House Wadenhoe Road Stoke Doyle PE8 5TG
Thrapston
16/00276/FUL (19/03/2016)
(LB/CA)
Change of use from a bank (Class A2) to a hot food takeaway (Class A5); installation of
extraction/ventilation equipment; single storey rear infill extension; alterations to rear external
staircase; and alterations to shop front at 50 High Street Thrapston

Love Jolaby Dresses from Frocks?

Feb. 26 Local News, Thrapston News Comments Off

The amazingly versatile, day or evening Jolaby wrap dress – truly fabulous frocks. Ideal for the races or a wedding – one size really does fit all (some styles in S,M,L).

We are making way for the gorgeous new stock that’s just arrived so all older styles are reduced to just £65! AND, just because we love seeing more of you in this unique British label, we’re also offering 10% off new stock too for the duration of the Jolaby sale. AND, as if that wasn’t enough – there will be 30% off the Jolaby capes and coats too.

Starts Tuesday 1st March for two weeks – come along and pick yourself up a bargain!

Was £134.95 – Now £65.00

Was £148.50 – Now £65.00

Was £134.95 – Now £65.00

H Johnson and Sons Ltd – Under New Management

Feb. 23 Local News, Thrapston News Comments Off

On the very week Nigel Johnson of Johnsons Butchers retires we caught up with him to chat about his shop, Thrapston and life in general.

Just how many years has Johnsons been serving the folk of Thrapston? Well, Nigel is the third generation of the family to run the shop and he himself has been in the trade for 45 years, he grew up in the industry.

H. Johnson and Sons has been trading since 1948

We certainly bet that the shop’s walls could tell a few tales of life through the ages.
Nigel has enjoyed his working life in Thrapston, being a relatively small market town he and his wife, Jane, have been able to get to know folk and become friendly with the regulars, making their work a pleasure. Butchery is wide and varied role taking the raw product and butchering into various cuts to either serve as they are or cook in pies and sausage rolls all of which they have enjoyed doing for Thrapston people.
Nigel has spent a few weeks training the new owners about the business, we think mainly how the people of Thrapston like their lamb pies…!!

Still hard at work till the end of the week

Whilst we were at the shop today we met Dave and Mel Milson, the new owners, who are serving alongside Nigel this week and getting to know everyone.

Dave & Mel Milson excited about their new venture

I asked Nigel if he had any advice for the couple. He said ‘Offer a friendly service and a good quality product’ then added ‘Get involved in the community as there is always lots going on in Thrapston’
Dave Milson has spent his life in the industry too, beginning work at Trendalls in Oundle aged 15. He’s been a meat inspector and held various roles in the industry during the years. He and Mel decided that the time was right to begin work in their very own shop and we shall welcome them into the town. Both said they were ‘Very excited’ to be embarking on their new business in Thrapston and were keen to play an active part in the town.

Dave Milson behind the counter

Finally, when we’d taken our photos and had a good chat we asked Nigel and Jane what their plans for retirement were, Nigel said ‘To take life at a slower pace, plan some holidays and weekend breaks. Plus some cycling, tennis and enjoying their garden.’
Nigel officially retires at the end of February and the new owners of H Johnson will retain the name and begin trading on March 1st… so no interruption to supply!

Pie classes from Nigel – so we get them just how we like them!

You can follow Dave and Mel on Twitter and Facebook as well as dropping in to the shop to say hello.
Twitter https://twitter.com/JohnsonButchers
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hjohnsonandsons

Greeniversity Saves 30kg tonnes of Waste through Skills Sharing Sessions

Feb. 23 Peterborough & Elton Comments Off

New research shows that from January 2014 to June 2015 the green skills share scheme Greeniversity achieved some impressive eco results – stretching far beyond its primary purpose of enabling participants to teach and learn sustainable skills.

A Community Impact Modelling Tool (CIMT) run by Resource Futures was used to record the level of community-led action generated through the scheme, measuring the impact on waste reduction and diversion from landfill, and energy, carbon and cost savings.

Information was gathered from 88 Greeniversity events held in Peterborough, during which time 412 hours were spent organising activities that were attended by over 1,170 people.

Across the activities an estimated 30kg tonnes of waste was prevented, and from this approximately 10kg was diverted from landfill. An estimated 7.33 tonnes of carbon emissions were saved. In addition to this, the financial outputs are estimated at over £5,080, which includes cost savings through collection and disposal of waste and the value of the volunteer time for all activities.

“Greeniversity helps people get together for free classes to share practical eco skills and information. Whether it’s cooking, growing, making or mending – anything goes as long as it’s green or helps build community spirit,” explains Greeniversity Development Lead Jennie Orrell.

“We were delighted that the results from this research indicates that that not only does Greeniversity help people think about the impact of everyday actions but that it manages to achieve far-reaching and measurable environmental improvements, including diverting waste from landfill.”

Greeniversity promotes group learning and encourages community cohesiveness in a fun, informal environment. Participants gain new skills, meet like-minded people, and grow in confidence. If you’re interested in finding out more about how to sign up for Greeniversity’s free classes, visit www.greeniversity.org.uk.

Northampton Forklift Truck Firm has a New Driver

Feb. 23 Northampton & Earls Barton Comments Off

A long established specialist forklift truck provider based in Northampton has a new owner following a deal orchestrated by a corporate finance company.

(From left to right) Peter Gubb, Robert Hall, Nigel Martin, David Fletcher and Colin Gould

Watersheds Corporate Finance, based in South Bridge Road, Northampton, has announced the purchase of Stantone Mechanical Handling, located in the town’s Rothersthorpe Avenue, by Nigel Martin.

Stantone Mechanical Handling is one of the biggest forklift truck companies in Northamptonshire and has built a reputation for solving customers’ material handling needs since it was founded more than 50 years ago. It is the area distributor for Jungheinrich and Clark forklift trucks.

Nigel has 20 years’ experience in the material handling sector with Samuk Ltd and Jungheinrich UK Ltd, both in sales and general management roles.

Having worked with Stantone Mechanical for many years and given the impending retirement of the owner, Robert Hall, Nigel was delighted to pursue the opportunity.

He approached Watersheds, along with business advisor Peter Gubb, to assist with the purchase of the business.

He said: “When Robert mentioned to me that he was looking to retire I was immediately interested in buying him out. We approached Watersheds to advise on the process and they assisted in the negotiations and arranged the finance I needed to complete the purchase.

“Throughout the process I found David a great support. David introduced the funders to me and recommended DFA Law to complete legal due diligence and completion.

“Peter Gubb, as business advisor, nursed me through the whole process and completed the financial terms with due diligence. I was very pleased with the support of all my advisors both during the deal and post completion.”

David Fletcher, Watersheds Partner, said: “Stantone is a long standing and well run organisation with a strong customer service ethos. It is very satisfying to assist an individual to make the leap from working for organisations to fulfilling his dream of owning and running his own company.

“Nigel and his wife will build on the existing success of the business and plan to grow the organisation across the region. Robert Hall is staying with the business for a year and I wish them all every success in this new phase for Stantone.”

Clean for The Queen for Her Majesty’s 90th Birthday

Feb. 23 Wellingborough & Great Doddington Comments Off

East Northamptonshire Council is supporting Clean for The Queen, a campaign launched by Country Life magazine in partnership with Keep Britain Tidy to clear up Britain in time for The Queen’s 90th birthday.

Clean for The Queen will rally an army of volunteers across the country to tidy their local areas during a special clean-up weekend on 4-6 March.

In honour of The Queen, Rushden West Community Association (RWCA), along with district and town councillors, are organising a clean-up in Rushden. On 5 March, 10am – 12:30pm, they will be in the Pemberton Ward area to rid the streets of litter. But they can’t do it alone, they need your help.

Councillor Janet Pinnock explains: “We all have a responsibility to keep our community tidy and this campaign provides us with a great chance to improve the quality of our streets and public spaces. I hope it will help lead to a lasting legacy of a cleaner, tidier district.”

Beverley Stevens, Chairman of RWCA added: “The Queen is an inspiration to us all and her 90th birthday is a unique opportunity for the people of Rushden and beyond to come together in celebration of Her Majesty’s long service and dedication to this country. If you love where you live, please join us for a few hours and together we can all Clean for The Queen.”

To take part in Clean for The Queen, please register at www.cleanforthequeen.co.uk where you’ll find advice and tips about how to join a group or to simply do your bit.

To join RWCA in their quest to clean Rushden for The Queen, please contact Janet Pinnock on 01933 314211 or email JPinnock@east-northamptonshire.gov.uk

They will meet at Highfield Community Church on Highfield Road just before 10am.

The waste services team will be on hand to lend support. They will be bringing the refuse vehicles and will be take away larger items from residents if they are brought out to them.

If you can’t attend, but want to help keep the district clean and tidy, you can report a street/area that needs attention online at www.east-northamptonshire.gov.uk

East Northamptonshire Council supports community clean ups throughout the year. If you would like to organise your own, please call 01832 742026. ENC provides groups with everything they need, including litter pickers, gloves, and hi-vis vests and also pick up and dispose of the rubbish collected and advise on what to do if any dangerous or harmful materials are found.

Sixty Three Trees to be Planted after Investors in the Environment’s Member Businesses join Forces for Christmas Card Recycling Scheme!

Feb. 23 Northampton & Earls Barton Comments Off

Inspired by accountancy firm Rawlinsons’ card collecting results back in 2013, for the last few years the green accreditation scheme, Investors in the Environment (iiE), has been encouraging all businesses to get involved with the process of collecting and recycling Christmas cards annually in order to plant trees.

This year, iiE member businesses smashed their previous target of 43,000 cards by collecting an amazing 63,000 Christmas cards in spring 2016 for recycling. This will enable 63 new trees to be planted through a scheme run by M&S and the Woodland Trust.

For several years, M&S has been working with the Woodland Trust to promote Christmas card recycling. For every 1,000 cards recycled in-store through the collection scheme, M&S will fund the planting of one tree.

“We would like to thank all members and other organisations that took part in collecting the cards and delivering them to M&S stores this year,” explains iiE’s David Knight. “These efforts make a big difference to our environment and, as businesses, we have both the ability and the responsibility to act and make the right changes for the future.”

Thank you to all this year’s fantastic participants: Athene Communications, Cross Keys Homes, City College Peterborough, Citizens Advice Bureau Peterborough, Buckles Solicitors, Budget Paper Supplies, Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust, Bulley Davey, The National Flooring Company, Peterborough Cathedral, Rawlinsons, Roythornes Limited, IPM Global Mobility, Budget Paper Supplies, Vivacity, Peterborough Environment City Trust, and Hunt & Coombs Solicitors.

To find out more about the network of iiE businesses take a look at the website www.iie.uk.com and sign up to the free monthly e-newsletter. Plus join in the conversation online @iiEUK with your green pledges for 2016.

Why do we Celebrate Mother’s Day?

Feb. 23 Local News, Nene Local Outdoors Comments Off

Elizabeth from Phoenix Cards writes – Mother’s Day is traditionally held three weeks before Easter Sunday in the UK. The first Mother’s Day celebrations can be traced back to an ancient Greek Festival dedicated to Rhea, the Mother of Gods. We started using the term ‘Mothering Sunday’ in the 1600’s and is part of the Christianity calendar being the fourth Sunday of Lent.

It was also a day in the past when servants were encouraged to return home to spend time with their mothers and families.

Typical gifts given for Mothers Day were a Mothering Cake – a preparation of wheat, milk, sugar and spices.

The celebration of Mothers Day began in the early 1900’s when Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother in St Andrew’s Methodist Church in West Virginia. By the the 1920’s Hallmark was selling Mother’s Day Cards and gifts were bought to celebrate the day.

Mother’s Day must always include a card and Phoenix Trading have a lovely range of Mother’s Day Cards this year – why not take a look at the range and order via my website to guarantee delivery.

Don’t forget that our cards start at £1.75 but if while you are looking and you see some of our other beautiful cards and buy 10 or more then the price comes down to just £1.40 a card.

We also have some beautiful to do note pads and some organiser pads also that will make great gifts for those busy mums. Don’t forget to treat your mum to something special on 6th March.

Take a look at my new website www.elizabethcards.co.uk where there is a link to our lovely Mother’s Day products.

Elizabeth Wright Independent Phoenix Trader

Feb. 16 Nene Local Outdoors Comments Off

Elizabeth Wright from Raunds began her life as a Phoenix Trader in 2010 and now sells fantastic greeting cards with prices starting at £1.75 (with a further discount if buying more than ten at a time)

All cards and accessories can be accessed via her shopping website www.phoenix-trading.co.uk/web/elizabethwright – if you live in Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire then she offers free delivery otherwise there is a small £3.00 charge.

We adore Phoenix Cards, the prices are excellent and the ability to shop from your own home is great. Elizabeth is also happy to drop off a catalogue at your house if you wish or leave a basket of cards to browse and buy in your place of work or school.

For more information on buying Phoenix Cards or to ask Elizabeth how you can also become a Phoenix Trader call her on 07891 637139.

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