POTTERS BAR COMMUNITY NEWS - June 2003
Community News is distributed door to door in Potters Bar, Little Heath and Brookmans Park. For this website copy we have eliminated all individual telephone numbers unless permission has been given (indicated by a *** symbol). Please get the paper version from the local library if you require these.
Please note that the following is a fairly crude formatting of the articles for which we apologise with no photos. But it may be better than nothing for those who do not get a paper copy
CONTENTS
The First Stop Website For All Things Potters Bar
Potters Bar now has its own website, run by a local resident. It’s very new and hoping to expand - with your help! Pottersbar.org will remain independent but will work with Community News and other organisations. Please look at the website and use it, as well as sending in your information.
What's On & Where, Clubs & Societies, Train & Bus Timetables, Doctors & Dentists, Shops & Restaurants, and much more. If it's not on the website, and you think it should be, then email webmaster@pottersbar.org. The aim of the website is to complement Community News, perhaps concentrating more on information than news. But let’s see how it develops. If you'd like your organisation listed on the site then send us an email. You may even like your own web-pages eg www.pottersbar.org/organisationname with lots of information, not only to encourage new members, but to keep your own members informed. If you want more folk at your events then email the details for inclusion in "What's On". Or perhaps you already have a website, and would welcome a link from www.pottersbar.org. We welcome the information in common email format, Word or text editors. Whole pages particularly welcome in html. Get emailing!!
webmaster@pottersbar.org
We would like to include Community News on the website. However Community News managing team have decided not to pass on the details of personal telephone numbers etc unless specific permission is given. Please let us know about this.
On Saturday May 10th a year, after the Potters Bar rail crash, there were two commemorations attended by families of all seven victims who died as well as some of the injured, representatives of the emergency services, those who helped and people from the town.
The memorial garden, built adjacent to the station bridge, was dedicated with a minutes silence at 12.56 during which all trains were stopped along the line. A sculpture was unveiled which has been paid for by fundraising in the town.
Then at Mount Grace school a service of commemoration was held where candles were lit - one each for those who died, one for those injured, one on behalf of the emergency services and one for the local community, lit by James Clappison, MP. There was a selection of readings by pupils and the Mayor of Hertsmere and singing from the students.
After the service people were able to look at the artwork from children in the town and also a video about the garden made by Mount Grace students. A special tree was dedicated in the grounds of the school by the Bishop of Hertford.
Afterwards a number of the families of victims expressed their thanks for the care and concern shown from the people of Potters Bar throughout the year which has passed.
CAB Open Day
WEDNESDAY 25th JUNE 2-4pm
You are invited to see how the CAB works, what we do, how we get our information, what’s involved in being a volunteer. If you can’t come on this day, please phone for an information pack 665727 or call in to the bureau.
All welcome
Public Meeting Thursday 12th June 7.30pm Cranborne School, Laurel Fields
Raise issues directly with our local Inspector, Dave Rankin and Police Authority Member Stuart Nagler. Tel 01992 555628 for details.
Donating blood is one of the most generous gifts you can give and almost anyone can do it! It’s very easy - no need for qualms - and once you’ve done it you will be so proud of yourself.
The next two local sessions are
Sunday 8th June Elm Court, Mutton Lane
Tuesday 24th June Wyllyotts Centre, Darkes Lane
Times: 9.15am to 12.30 and 2pm - 4.15pm.
For details or further sessions please ring 0845 7 711 711 or www.blood.co.uk <http://www.blood.co.uk>
New donors aged 17 to 60, weighing more than 7st 12lbs and in good health are welcome.
Roads with no deliverers - substitute the following heading
A team of nearly 200 volunteers deliver Community
News in their own, or a nearby, road. Can you offer an hour or so once every
three months if you live in or near to one of these roads.
THE CLOSE
MANORCOURT
FEATHERSTONE CLOSE
FIRE STATION
FORBES AVENUE
HAWKSHEAD LANE
LEESIDE
MUTTON LANE (Youngs-Cemetery)
PARKSIDE & FLATS ABOVE
SHOPS FROM THE WALK TO PARKSIDE
SALISBURY CLOSE 20 AH
THE SERVICE ROAD (businesses behind Darkes Lane)
ST JOHNS CHURCH
ST MARYS CHURCH
copy for next issue mid July
distribution early September
TWO LOCAL EVENTS FOR ALL THE FAMILY
This year’s Potters Bar Carnival is taking place at Elm Court Youth Centre on Saturday June 14th.
The main attractions are a flying display by UK Falconry who are flying Harris Hawks, Barn Owls and a Snowy Owl. The birds will also be on static display during the afternoon and visitors will be given the opportunity to hold the birds. The other attraction is the gold medal winning Marching Blues Band from Potters Bar, who will be giving a display of the routine which won them a gold medal at the European Championships and silver medals at the World Championships in Holland.
Apart from the attractions above there will be a children’s fairground, Punch and Judy, a Jazz Band plus others and also all the activities put on by the Charity Stalls.
It is still not too late to enter the procession or book a stall. The procession is free so if you are a Theatre Group with a show coming up, a Commercial Organisation or Charity Group who wants to advertise themselves to the Potters Bar public, or just somebody who fancies dressing up and parading through the streets please ring now for an entry form to Tim on or Sue on.
If you wish to have a Stall at the Carnival Fete please ring Tim or Sue **** for an application form.
On 12th July the Rotary Club and Potters Bar in Focus are organising Community Fun day from 1-5pm with Bouncy castles, mini fun fair, lots of stalls, music, singing, dancing games, fun for all ages. Please support this community event and savour the beauty of our park which has on the prestigious Green Flag Award. ****
SUNDAY JUNE 15TH 11.30a.m.to 5.00p.m.
Our first Essendon Gardens Open Day was on July 10th 1983 as part of the fund raising to repair St. Mary's Church which was in a very poor way with water pouring through the roof and work needed on the mediaeval tower. It took us ten years to restore St. Mary's and we are now in the process of building a much needed Church Room. Building is well under way and this room will provide proper facilities for our expanding Sunday School and other church activities as well as lavatories.
Essendon Gardens Open Day is held every other year, alternating with Bayford, another parish in our Hartford Hundred Group. It is amazing to think that almost two years have passed since Essendon's last Gardens Open Day and, already, everyone is working hard for this year's event. There are several new gardens as well as the well-loved ones of previous years. There will be
lunches in the Village Hall and Cricket Pavilion and teas in St. Mary's Church and in various gardens. Organ recitals and singing will take place in the church and you will be able to climb the church tower to see the wonderful views. There will be various stalls around the village including excellent sales of plants and there will be 'Songs of Praise' in St. Mary's at 6.30p.m. A 'Rover' map giving entry to every garden will cost £5, with children 50p and parking is free. We have made so many friends with our visitors over the years so do come along and enjoy our gardens - we would love to see you. *****
Saturday June 21st Bradmore Green and the Primary School
The theme this year will be Animal Magic and the event is sponsored by Statons of Brookmans Park.
In the morning children from the school will have a parade and fancy dress competition. From 1pm things kick off with a talent show and other events in the arena with community fund raising stalls around. There will be tombolas and refreshments. To mark the event yellow bear shaped signs will appear. Stall holders are likely to be dressed appropriately and the usual good spirits will be in evidence! This is the Big Day in Brookmans Park so come and enjoy yourselves and give good causes your support.
Open day at Northaw Village Hall
Saturday 21st June 12 noon to 6pm.
Come along to see what activities take place in the village hall. Meet the leaders and instructors who run regular activities and classes all year round. These include tailoring, handicrafts, yoga, dog training, whist drives, Cuffley Operatic society, Aerobics, Womens Institute and Cuffley Industrial Heritage Society.
Admission is free, refreshments are available. For further information please contact ****
Representing the patients in the NHS
Wednesday 2nd July 10am - 3pm. Tilbury Hall, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar.
New reforms on the way people can become involved in local provision and how complaints will be handled will come in from September this year when Community Health Councils will be abolished. What will this mean for the public and for local groups with an interest? The next meeting of Hertsmere Voluntary Sector Forum will hear about and discuss these issues. All are welcome to attend. For details telephone Hertsmere Community Voluntary Support (HCVS) 0208 207 4504.
Did you know that every month there is a lunchtime musical recital at St Mary’s Church in The Walk? Not only that, but Ploughmans lunches and tea or coffee are served before and after the recital.
In the past few months, recitals by the following artists have been enjoyed: Jonathan Melling (organ), Dennis Wood and Alan Kettley (piano and tenor), Chris White (piano) and David Bell (organ).
The last 2 recitals of the season will be performed by the Barnet Madrigal Society (3rd June) and Terence Atkins (organ) on 1st July.
The recital season will begin again on Tuesday 2nd September and will continue on the first Tuesday of each month at 12.30. Do make a date in your diary to come along to these very enjoyable events and look out for the posters around the town advertising the date and recitalist.
Welcome Back - Courses for Mental Health Sufferer
If you are a Mental Health sufferer, these Courses, run by Hertsmere CVS and Oaklands College in Borehamwood, are being designed for you to help you get back into learning in a friendly and supportive environment, where you can work at your own pace and regain your confidence.
We are delighted to announce that Courses will commence in September of this year. Five different subject areas will be offered. The college staff will meet the students in the campus café around 12.30 and finishing at 3pm.
At the moment we are keen to talk to anyone who might be interested and wants to know more. If you live in the Potters Bar area, where access to Borehamwood is difficult, we would really like to talk to you as we will be looking at ways of helping you get there.For further details please contact:-
Anne Frisch at Hertsmere CVS on 020 8207 4504
Sue Frederick or Chris Coates at Oaklands College on 01727 737 000 Ext 6412
Local resident Mrs Mabel Hammett, now retired from John Lewis plc after 45 years service, was recently presented with the Glovers Emeritus Award for services to the British Glove Association and The British Glove Trade at the BGA AGM in the Saddlers Livery Hall.
Far From Heaven (12a)
Weds 18th June 1.30pm & 7.30pm, Fri 20th June 7.30pm
In 1950’s Connecticut, a housewife faces a marital crisis and mounting racial tensions. Stars Julianne Moore and Dennis Quaid. (107 mins)
The Hours (12a)
Weds 25th June 1.30pm & 7.30pm, Thurs 26th June 7.30pm
Stars Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore and Meryl Streep. Compelling drama revolving around three women who are profoundly affected by the works of Virginia Woolf. (114 mins)
Le Diner de Cons (15)
Weds 16th July 1.30pm & 7.30pm, Thurs 17th July 7.30pm
French comedy where each week friends meet for dinner and bring along the dumbest companion they can find! This film is subtitled. (80 mins)
Johnny English (PG)
Tues 29th July 2.00pn
Hilarious spoof, spy thriller starring Rowan Atkinson, John Malkovich and Natalie Imbruglia. (88 mins)
Jungle Book 2 (U)
Tues 5th August 2.00pm
Animated, family adventure where Mowgli misses his old friends and runs away from his village back to the jungle. (72 mins)
X-Men 2 (12a)
Thurs 28th August 2.00pm & 7.30pm
Action, thriller where the X-Men band together to find a mutant assassin who has made an attempt on the President’s life. (133 mins)
The Pianist (15)
Tues 9th Sept 7.30pm, Weds 10th Sept 1.30pm & 7.30pm
Oscar winning drama about a Polish Jewish musician who struggles to survive the destruction of a Warsaw ghetto in WWII. (148 mins)
Nicholas Nickleby (PG)
Tues 23rd Sept 7.30pm, Weds 24th Sept 1.30pm & 7.30pm
Star line-up re-make Charles Dickens’ literary classic set in the 19th Century. Every family needs a hero! (132 mins)
If you would like to get to know your local footpaths why not come along to the regular Sunday walks organised by the Potters Bar Society. Potters Bar is surrounded by lovely countryside and walking is a healthy and free pastime. The walks which are normally about 6 miles and last for about 2-3 hours are led by local people and usually start in the town or close by, otherwise lifts can be arranged. Wear suitable clothing, contact leader if you need help or if the walk might trigger problems. Leader’s phone number is given for each walk. The Potters Bar Society is our local independent amenity society which keeps a watching brief on matters of interest in the town and surrounding areas. The society has over 1,200 local members (membership £2 per year, membership secretary *). Walkers who are members of the Potters Bar Society are covered by insurance but all are welcome on the walks. A fuller description of the routes is available on request.
Sunday June 8th Meet 2.15pm at White Hart, South Mimms **
Sunday June 22nd Meet 2.15pm at White Hart, South Mimms **
Sunday July 6th Meet 2.15pm at PB station or 2.35pm at PB telephone exchange ***
Sunday July 20th Meet 2.20pm Goffs Oak Methodist Church (bus 242) ****
Weds July 30th meet 10.30am The Bull, Wheathampstead ***
Sunday August 3rd Meet 2.15pm White Hart, South Mimms ***
Sunday August 17th Meet 2.15pm Welham Green Station car park ***
Sunday August 31st Meet 2.15pm PB station ****
Sunday September 14th Meet Bell Bar junction A1000 and Bulls Lane ****
The Potters Bar Society Town Group meets on 1st Thursday of each month, 7.30pm Tilbury Hall to examine planning items and other town issues.
The Country Group examines planning items in the surrounding countryside, footpath maintenance and related matters.
Ring **** for details.
Sunday 14th September 10.00am-12.30pm
Stretch your legs with a morning walk through beautiful Hertfordshire countryside. Countryside Management Service will take the lead on this moderate circular walk (6km / 3.75 miles) passing through both grazing pastures and woodland in an area that once harboured highwaymen. Bring along money if you want to join us for a pub lunch afterwards. Meet in the car park of the Black Horse pub, Blackhorse Lane, South Mymms. Public transport users can catch bus number 84 from Barnet, Potters Bar or St Albans. For bus times call Traveline on 0870 6082608.
Countryside Management Services
In May 2002 the Watling Chase Timberland Trail was officially opened. This 10.5 miles recreational route passes through the most varied and beautiful landscapes between Borehamwood to the south and St Albans and Hatfield to the north. For at least 2000 years travellers from London to the north have been following the line of the trail where reminders of the past still exist and an abundance of wildlife occurs along the trail’s entire length. Journey through time as the trail follows medieval tracks and drovers’ roads, passing the sites of coaching turnpikes and grand houses from bygone days. For cyclists a new leaflet promotes four routes following quiet roads and paths around towns and villages rural Hertfordshire. For more information on all of these contact CMS South, 0208 447 5466 or email south.cms@hertscc.gov.uk
Town Twinning Midsummer Get Together
Saturday June 21st 7.30 - 11pm Old Owens Clubhouse, Coopers Lane Road
Potters Bar is twinned with Franconville just outside Paris and Viernheim in south west Germany. Several times a year Potters Bar hosts a party of French or German people and we visit their towns as well. The weekends are well organised with plenty to do and Potters Bar residents are usually asked to give bed and breakfast and perhaps an evening meal. You can also visit the other towns on weekends away. If you want to know more why not came to the town twinning Midsummer Get Together (on left past the Chequers pub on road to Northaw)
with finger buffet, cost £2.50 and drinks available from the clubhouse bar. Or look for the stall in Oakmere Park on July 12th. Please ring **** for details.
The relaunched branch of the RNLI has recently sailed into three fundraising events raising nearly £600. Can you spare an hour or two to assist this invaluable institution which relies entirely on voluntary donations - say perhaps on June 13th or 14th when we will be collecting at Tesco. Please contact John Jones on ***.
My name is Alison Begley and I am writing to introduce myself. I am employed by Hertfordshire Constabulary as a Hate Crime Officer covering the Hertsmere area. I used to be based at Bushey Police Station but then moved to St Albans Police Station as the Central Area Community Safety Unit was formed.
My role is to support people who have experienced hate crimes and incidents such as racial and homophobic incidents as well as people with learning difficulties or older people experiencing abuse. The police do not always receive information about incidents such as these and we are trying to find ways of encouraging people to come forward to talk about their experiences. It is only by knowing what goes on that we can do anything to help. I will visit people in their homes or find neutral places to meet if that is easier.
I am not a police officer so do not carry out the actual investigations myself but liaise between victims, police and other help agencies.
Victims of hate crimes should still phone 999 in an emergency or their local police stations at the time the incidents are occurring. At other times you can contact me on 01727 796024.
Potters Bar WEA are planning a number of adult education courses for the Autumn and Spring. There will be classes on Art in the 17th Century, Music Appreciation, English Literature, Plant/Insect Relationships, Famous Scientists and Geology.
All are daytime classes held in a central location and led by professional tutors. For further information and a brochure phone Daphne Sandilands, ****.
North Mymms Nepal Friendship Link
We continue to support the Olani School in West Nepal. Last year’s fund raising included a Ploughman’s Lunch, a Barbeque and a Quiz Night. We also received generous donations from the local churches and a number of individual donors.
Pastor Harka started the school to meet the needs of the local children and it has now grown to 100 children, keen and eager to learn. Last year we enabled a classroom to be plastered and another room t be divided in two as well as supporting the on going work. We also provide a bicycle for the Pastor’s use. No company cars there!
The parents are encouraged to help meet the cost of schooling their children and they do this through various schemes such as goat raising and running a shop.
We feel that the Olani School is a worthwhile project and this year we would dearly live to provide more toilets. A ratio of 1 toilet for 100 pupils is unsatisfactory, especially where hygiene is so important and needs to be learnt at an early stage. Please help us to do this
There is a special date for your diary: Saturday 27 September 7.45 pm at the United Reformed Church Brookmans Park. A Concert given by the Singing for Pleasure Group. They are a very popular group with a varied repertoire. We are very fortunate that they are prepared to entertain us and help raise much needed funds for this remote school in Nepal. Please support us. Further details and tickets from Mary Briggs *****.
Our Summer Boot Sales are now well underway. These fortnightly events are essential to Elm Court's finances, representing about a third of our total income. But not only Elm Court benefits. Many other organisations from local Scouts to Cats Protection volunteer to run the snack bars or marshal the car park. In return their organisation earns a share of the proceeds. On a good day, we get 130 sellers' cars, and 1200 buying public, and the organisations doing the snack bars and marshalling get about £500 each, while Elm Court keeps about £1000.
So why not clear-out your shed and loft, and fill up your car and come to Elm Court. You'll not only create some space, but also earn some money for yourself and help some local good causes. Sellers' vehicles are charged £9 each and are admitted at 12.30pm. Buyers are admitted at 1.30pm for 30p per person. The sale of alcohol or tobacco is not tolerated and we cannot accommodate vehicles over 6' 6". Sale dates are listed in Community News "Whats On". For more information try www.elmcourt.org.uk
Tom Shirley, Chairman 659602
Tea Party at the Peace Hospice
June is Hospice Awareness month. On Friday 20th June there is to be a national campaign to promote the hospice movement both nationally and locally. The focus of the day is to be a big tea party, Tea at Three, and individuals, companies, schools in South West Herts will be encouraged to have a tea break at 3pm and make a donation to the Peace Hospice in Watford.
Join in the fun by holding a special tea break on Friday June 20th. Everyone loves tea and cake, so how about organising something at work or with your friends, with donations from all who attend in return for their refreshments. It can be as big or as small as you like.
For the adventurous, how about arranging a tea break at an unusual venue or with an unusual twist to it. An oriental tea break, tea party in the park, Hawaiian party with iced tea, tea with teddies at three, a mad hatters tea party………
The Peace Hospice will be also offering Tea at Three to members of the local community who would like to drop in to find out more about what the Hospice does.
Here are some interesting tea facts (taken from Tea Council Report)
On average British people drink around 3 cups of tea a day
UK workers feel that socialising with colleagues during working hours is far more important than socialising with colleagues after hours, and sharing a cup of tea is said to be the perfect way to do this
72% of women admitted to feeling more productive after a tea break
79% felt that the managers who made the tea had the best management skills, 69% that they were the most friendly and enthusiastic
80% of staff now claim they find out more about what’s going on at work over a cup of tea than in any other way.
The Peace Hospice in Watford has for 11 years provided medical, clinical, spiritual and social care, for up to 75 patients a week with cancer or other terminal illnesses. We offer support to over 150 families a year through our social work programme, and also provide a bereavement counselling service for children and adults, a cancer drop-in centre, and a base for Macmillan community nurses who look after patients in their own homes. The 11-bedded Inpatient Unit opened in June 2001 enabling us to provide 24-hour care for adults within South West Hertfordshire. £1.5 million is needed each year to run our services. More than 250 volunteers provide essential support to the Peace Hospice.
So, put the kettle on and ring the Peace Hospice on 01923 330340
The Potters Bar Bereavement Service
How do you help a young child grieve?
Not so long ago children were often prevented from grieving after the death of someone close. Adults believed young children could not understand the concept of death, and would be upset by witnessing the adults` grief. It was therefore customary to keep a child from attending the funeral and avoid mentioning the lost loved one. In recent years, however, ideas about children`s bereavement have changed. Adults often regretted being discouraged from talking about losses in their childhood, and it is now quite common for young children to be offered bereavement support.
The Potters Bar Bereavement Service is one such means of support, and provides a visiting service to bereaved of all ages. Some of the Visitors are especially trained in working with children through play and practical activities as well as talking, and whilst the child is receiving support, their adults are freed up to do their own grieving. Launched in May 1998, the PBBS has reached some 120 bereaved people, and currently has 13 Visitors. These volunteers have been trained to listen to, and support the grieving person while they try to make sense of their sometimes strange or frightening feelings.
If you are interested in becoming a Visitor, or think the service could be helpful in your own bereavement, please contact the co-ordinator on ******.
Potters Bar improves countryside access
Potters Bar joined many other parishes across Hertfordshire when the Parks and Open Spaces group signed up for the popular Parish Paths Partnership. The group will receive £1000 a year for three years towards looking after the local path network. Improvements have already taken place; new kissing gates have been installed, existing stiles improved and plans are in place to create a circular walk around the town. All the credit for this goes to the local community who have wholeheartedly become involved in the initiative. The group is very familiar with the area and draw upon local knowledge and contacts to get the job done and as regular users of the footpaths, changes are made as and when they are needed. Support and training for the scheme is provided by the Countryside Management Service and Hertfordshire County’s Rights Of Way Officers. If you are interested in joining the group and improving access to your local rights of way network then contact Dawn at the Countryside Management Service for further details on 020 8447 5466
Arthur Hugh Seabrook (c.1875-1949)
Hugh Seabrook was educated at the King Edward VI School, Chelmsford. He was very interested in mechanical and electrical engineering, gaining his first experience at the local Mesrs. Crompton and Company’s works from 1891 -1895. Following this he held the post of assistant electrical engineer at Great Yarmouth and then Hampstead. In 1900 he became the engineer and manager at the Barking and Bickton Light Railway, which included an electrically operated lifting bridge over a river, all part of the light railway system operated by the council. By 1907 he held a similar position at the West Ham Corporation. It was while there that he was a pioneer in supplying electrical power at low prices.
Two years later he was appointed borough electrical engineer to the St Marylebone Corporation, during which time he promoted the use of electricity in off-peak periods. Subscribers were encouraged to use electric heating and cooking apparatus for domestic purposes. It is interesting to note that the great debate on the introduction of electricity to Potters Bar did not occur until 1924. In1918 he resigned his position and entered into private practice.
From July 1923 he rented Wyllyotts Manor and when Professor Beresford Pike examined it, in that year, he described it as a ‘medieval gem’. At the time and for a few years earlier it had been very badly maintained: a dirty farmhouse and barn with cabbages growing up to the door. However Mr Seabrook became so fascinated with its possibilities that he purchased it from the Brewers Company in 1925.
Mr Henry Butcher, the local bank manager and historian (see Potters Bar Community News Nov 2002 Vol 5.4) did not approve of what Mr Seabrook did to create the present appearance of Wyllyotts. He regarded the house as a fake and warned Mr Seabrook that when he put in the front door and adjoining lean-to, took off the white plaster from the outside walls, bricked up between the posts and put in a fake fire place and gallery, he was doing the district a disservice in providing a lovely sixteenth century building.
This was far from the truth, Mr Seabrook was a qualified man, one who had been elected a member of the Institute Of Mechanical Engineers in 1907 and was by that time already a member of the Institute of Electrical Engineers. He also read a paper to the London and Middlesex Archaeological Society on the 7th October 1925, in which he recorded what he had done concerning Wyllyotts: this paper was subsequently published in their transactions.
He recorded that no sooner had he commenced clearing away the dirt and filth of the habitable portions did he realise its potential. To quote him ‘from that day to this I have devoted practically all my spare time to repairing the house, but I estimate that it will take me from five to ten years to make it what I want it to be.’ He noted in a most detailed account what he had observed and the alteration he had made. For example, after removing the previous weatherboard he put in personally all the present bricks with the exception of the brickwork found underneath the boards of bay 5, i.e. the low section between the two present buildings. Most of the bricks he used were found on the premises. He put in the lead lights and casements, which were removed only recently, these too were lying about the building.
Therefore Mr Hugh Seabrook not only carried out a thorough restoration of the Wyllyotts at his own expense, but also left for posterity an attractive building. In 1937 the then Potters Bar Urban District Council purchased the premises with the object of securing the future of the mainly fifteenth century building.
During the 1939-45 war Mr Seabrook held for some years the position of garrison engineer (electrical and mechanical) under the Commander Royal Engineers, Northern Command. He died on the 2nd July 1949, at Southwold, in his seventy fourth year.
I acknowledge the use of information from the Institute of Mech.E. in the preparation of this article.
Correction Community News March 2003 - Sir Vesey Strong was married at St John’s, High Road, Potters Bar in 1900, not St Mary’s which was not opened until 1915.
There are two libraries in Potters Bar. Oakmere Library is situated on the High Street, behind the Elms Clinic and Cranborne Library is on Mutton Lane. Both offer a wide range of services, many of which are free. These include:
A wide range of fiction and non-fiction books for adults and children
Daily newspapers and magazines
Internet and word-processing facilities
Videos for deaf people
Cassettes for blind people
Story-time for children under five
Reference books including telephone directories, Which Reports, dictionaries and encyclopaedias
Further services for which there is a charge very competitively priced including:
Talking books on cassette and on CD from 75p for 3 weeks
Videos (£2.50 for a week) and DVDs ( £3.00 for a week)
Music CDs (from 90p per week)
Photocopying (10p for A4) and fax facilities
Stamps, greetings cards, reading glasses are also available for purchase
Once you are a member, you can use any public library in Hertfordshire including the central reference library behind Welham Green and also the University of Hertfordshire Library at Hatfield. To find out more please visit us or ring Hertfordshire Customer Service Centre on 01438 737333, or visit the website www.hertsdirect.org/libraries
Opening times
Oakmere Library, High Street, EN6 5BZ
Monday 10.30 - 18.00, Tuesday 9.30 - 20.00, Thursday 9.30 - 20.00, Friday 9.30 - 18.00, Saturday 9.30 - 16.00. Closed Wednesdays.
Cranborne Library, Mutton lane, EN6 3AA
Monday 14.00 - 19.00, Tuesday 9.30 - 13.00, Thursday 14.00 - 19.00, Friday 9.30 - 13.00, Saturday 9.30 - 13.00. Closed Wednesdays.
I don’t need to have my eyes tested - they seem fine!
Many people in England either speak this aloud or at least think it. Life, especially during the week seems to be a fine juggling act. You don’t have time to think of your eyes yet every single act most people do is dependant on having good vision. Driving, typing out reports, going out and about. So many vision problems can be prevented when detected early. Mild astigmatism or shortsightedness may only need driving glasses. Glaucoma is not difficult to manage in the beginning stages, diabetes does not need to result in blindness. All these can be picked up and acted upon with a thorough eye test taking up to one hour. One hour each year to prevent these and other problems and to have peace of mind about your vision should not be too difficult to find.
Clyde Alexander
The Wroxham School Gets Ahead!
The Wroxham School has a new Headteacher, Alison Peacock who arrived at the school in January this year. Alison, who was previously Acting Head at Wheatcroft School, Hertford, has a Masters Degree in Education and her research and teaching initiatives have been recognised nationally.
Alison is working closely with staff and governors to instigate new developments at Wroxham. She commented ‘Wroxham has always been an oversubscribed popular school. I wish to continue that tradition and lead the school to ensure that high standards of achievement combined with happy purposeful learning, are ensured for every member of our school community’ .
Children at the school dressed as book characters on Red Nose day and fun book related activities were lead by the staff who also dressed up. The children raised over £950 during the event! Some future Year 6 journalists wrote a school magazine that raised nearly £100, cookies were made and sold by the excellent school kitchen, there was a sponsored read and sponsored silence (teaching staff particularly enjoyed the latter event). ‘I was so impressed with the creativity of the children in their fundraising and the tremendous support of parents and friends in providing such wonderful costumes’ Alison laughed.
This term a range of exciting events are planned following successful bids from community education and lottery funding to provide new playground equipment and garden areas in the school grounds. Initiatives will be lead by new Deputy Head Simon Putman who is warmly welcomed to Wroxham this term. He will lead the community project with Melanie Green. Some of the woodland will be cleared and managed to provide a shaded story circle area whilst the pond area will be extended to create a nature reserve study zone. The children have planned the playground and work will begin in the very near future.
If you have skills to offer and would like to come and join in with the playground development please contact the school office, they are very keen to hear from you.
The school is also in the process of compiling a booklet ‘What’s on at Wroxham?’ outlining the many courses and evening activities that are held at the school. If you would like a copy please call into school to collect one. The school aims to work closely with the local community and looks forward to welcoming you.
The last few months has seen a high level of activity for Potters Bar's Air Cadets. During the February half term holiday a contingent from the Squadron spent 4 days staying on the Royal Navy Destroyer, HMS Bristol. Bristol is permanently moored at Portsmouth RN dockyard and was used by the cadets as the base for a varied programme of visits on a Naval theme. The journey home saw the party visit the Army Air Corps' museum at Middle Wallop and the Air Forces' Memorial at Runnymede. The memorial honours the 20,000 members of the RAF and other Commonwealth Air Forces who died during WW2 and who have no known grave.
7 Cadets and 2 Staff are also well through their training for this year's Belgian International March of Friendship and Reconciliation. The party will take part in the March in June when they will complete 140 km over 4 days and also provide a UK presence at memorial services at a number of (mainly WW1) War Memorials in the Ardennes. Last year the team raisd £1,500 for the charity SSAFA Forces Help to help fund holidays for children with special needs. This year the team hopes to raise a greater sum.
4 cadets have also completed part 2 of their Gliding Induction Course at RAF Halton. The cadets flew in Vigilant motor gliders and each cadet receive at least 25 minutes flying. Also, more flying was provided at RAF Wyton when aerobatics was available in the Grob Tutors the Air Cadets uses.
Over the 1st May Bank Holiday 6 cadets from 57 (Potters Bar) Sqn, will participate in the 2003 Wing Exercise at Longmoor, in Hampshire. Last year the cadets came second (out of the 30 units in the Wing). This year they are looking to do better.
Potters Bar Squadron has vacancies for more cadets (male or female; aged 13 to 18). More details are available form Philip Jones on ****.
POTTERS BAR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AND DISABILITIES
GROUP
HOLIDAY TO ST OSYTH’S
For the first time we decided to organise a group
holiday. At Easter a group of 23 adults and children headed for the Essex coast.
I know many of us had been checking the intended forecasts for days in
apprehension of what was ahead. Arriving safely we checked in to our respective
caravans. A swim, then changed and to the show bar. Next morning and the weather
is looking good, after a huge hearty breakfast cooked by Angela we decided to
head into Clacton to the pier and the beach. The kids were thoroughly enjoying
the rides and amusements as were some of the adults. I must say Di did go a
shade of green on that terminator!!! The next morning I couldn’t believe how
lucky we were being with the weather, a full day was ahead at Colchester Zoo,
and what a day it was. An absolutely fabulous zoo and a thoroughly exhausting
one at that. It was the hottest day yet but nevertheless it was enjoyed by all.
The drinks and crisps donated by Smokers Paradise went down well on a much
needed break. Exhausted we got up the next day for a leisurely morning then to
find the beach via the pub!!! I can’t believe my kids were happy and content
on a small beach for so long. I would like to thank everyone who contributed to
this holiday as I can only say it was a huge success and probably one of the
best holidays I have ever had. I am sure all the children will have fond
memories of it. Thank you everyone for making it what it was. FANTASTIC.
Jo Voyce
A new comedy play written by local musician Kathleen Shanks is to be premiered on July 5th at the Wyllyotts Centre. The story is set in Doomwatch Castle, a computer game where the weird daily happenings of the strange and amusing characters who inhabit the castle is experienced by two children who bravely play the Doomwatch virtual reality game. The play is to be performed by students from the Capital Arts Theatre School. Proceeds will go to ‘War Child’ to aid children who are victims of war world wide. Tickets are available from the Wyllyotts Centre on 645005 or special rates for schools and youth groups are available from Capital Arts on 020 8449 2342.
Two local girls, students of the local Footlight School, successfully auditioned to become senior Cechetti Associates which means they will enjoy the benefit of additional classes in classical theatrical dancing. The school’s annual theatre performance will be held at the Wyllyotts Centre on Sunday 22nd June at 2.30pm. Tickets are available from Wyllyotts Box Office 645005 or the school on 020 8440 0881.
Hertsmere Borough Council has slightly relaxed its recent rules on bin collection. People will now have their rubbish collected when wheelie bin lids are open - but only once. This policy will only apply during a bereavement, when a resident has just moved into the area, during illness or in cases of disability. Apart from this, residents must ensure their bin lids are closed for collection.
Sunnybank School is about to embark on an exciting new project for the 2003/04 school year. In line with latest government initiatives it is hoped to create a new Foundation Stage Unit. Through a major restructuring and rebuilding project Sunnybank will start the new school year with a purpose built unit for Nursery and Reception children, together with greatly enhanced provision for the other groups involving under-5s which use the school including St John’s playgroup and our parent and toddler group.
Throughout June and July Hertsmere Borough Council invite people to submit photographs of Potters Bar (within the EN6 postcode). There will be an exhibition in Oakmere House in October and there will be prizes for under and over 16s. Application forms can be obtained from Dave Clarke on 020 8207 7519.
From April 5th this year, if you are the father of a new-born child you will be able to take paid paternity leave soon after the birth. This new right is part of the government’s package of more family friendly employment legislation. You can take either one or two consecutive weeks and leave must be completed within 56 days of the birth. Unless your contract says otherwise, be prepared to take a drop in pay because you may only get £100 per week Statutory Paternity Pay. Your employer will recover 92 per cent of this from the government. You must be allowed to return to exactly the same job. This is only a brief introduction to quite detailed regulations that need to be studied carefully if you intend to take leave.
Oliver Britton ***
WELCOME BACK - Courses for Mental Health Sufferer
If you are a Mental Health sufferer, these Courses, run by Hertsmere CVS and Oaklands College in Borehamwood, are being designed for you to help you get back into learning in a friendly and supportive environment, where you can work at your own pace and regain your confidence.
We are delighted to announce that Courses will commence in September of this year. Five different subject areas will be offered. The college staff will meet the students in the campus café around 12.30 and finishing at 3pm. At the moment we are keen to talk to anyone who might be interested and wants to know more. If you live in the Potters Bar area, where access to Borehamwood is difficult, we would really like to talk to you as we will be looking at ways of helping you get there.
For further details please contact:-
Anne Frisch at Hertsmere CVS on 020 8207 4504
Sue Frederick or Chris Coates at Oaklands College on 01727 737 000 Ext 6412