One problem that all MPs from the North East of England have in common is how to persuade people that our constituencies are not just a short hop from London. The other day, for example, a journalist rang at 9.30 on a Monday morning to ask if I could appear on a lunchtime political TV programme that day. The reporter was most unconvinced that I would not be able to make it from my home near Hexham to the BBC Studios near Parliament in the space of two-and-a-half hours. I left with the impression that he felt I was trying to avoid a confrontation.
But distance is a feature of our lives and one that makes a difference in how you manage your life as an MP. Activity in the constituency has to be concentrated on Fridays and week-ends. Sometimes on a Thursday night I do not know until the last minute if I can get back home that night. Thus all engagements on a Friday morning come with a warning that I might be late.
Distance also determines where I base my office. My secretary operates from Westminster where all my mail is sent. This means that I can attend to it daily rather than let it pile up in Hexham where it would have to be done on a Friday when I would rather be out and about in the constituency or doing a ‘surgery’.
Mail arrives in a steady stream, some 20 letters a day, excluding the piles of junk mail that every MP gets by the sackload and which largely ends up in the bin through lack of reading time.
Sir Rupert Speir, the well respected former MP for Hexham who died recently told me he used to receive six letters a week which he answered by hand, and paid for the stamp himself. We get freepost nowadays which Sir Rupert argued lead to a surge of letters. My view is that the growth indicates how much central Government involves itself in all our lives these days and how much responsibility has gone from local institutions.
I leave home on Monday morning to arrive at Westminster around lunchtime in time for questions at 2.30 which I try to attend. The Parliamentary day runs to 10pm or later.
Tuesdays and Thursdays are the days when committees sit and these frequently involve me as I am a member of the Speaker’s Panel of Chairmen who are delegated to chair Parliamentary bills at their committee stage. The committees sit in the morning and again in the late afternoon, often running until the House rises at the end of the day.
Commentators often remark that the main Commons chamber looks empty in debates, which is true. But one of the reasons is that with so much legislation members are often busy in committees, including select committees which ‘police’ Government departments.
My office is a fast six minutes walk from the main Parliament building and if an unexpected vote is called I have eight minutes to get into the voting lobby - it keeps you fit!
Hexham is the second biggest constituency in England, some 1,100 square miles with the biggest man-made forest and the biggest man-made lake in Europe at Kielder. It takes about 50 minutes to drive from the southern boundary at Allensford on the Derwent to Carter Bar in the north and about the same to drive from the eastern edge at Heddon to Gilsland in the west.
It has some of the most affluent communities in the North-East and also some of the worst off, too. The beautiful countryside masks some real poverty made worse by the crisis in farming and jobs are hard to find in towns like Haltwhistle and Prudhoe. Isolated communities like Kielder have a real struggle to survive. But, as so many people who live in the constituency now travel out of it to work, prosperity depends on the success of the economy of the North-East as a whole. Making the North East a success is something which I have a passion for which is why I will continue to fight in Parliament for measures which will help the region and oppose those which I believe will hinder the development of new business and new talent.
So we face some major challenges but they will be worthwhile for what this part of the country has in good measure is talent, ambition and the will to succeed. It also has a very special attribute - friendly, open people who regardless of their politics are happy to chat ... it makes the job that much more worthwhile.
Heddon Brownies have had a busy Summer and have all enjoyed it to the full. After a very successful Easter Fayre we began to prepare for our Pack Holiday Week-end at Kirkwhelpington at the end of May. We made pinnies to wear the some beautiful posters to decorate the Lodge. We all had a marvellous time and after a rainy start the weather was very good enabling us to enjoy a lovely day at Marlish Farm. Everyone helped with the chores at the Lodge and Cookie (Christine Smith) did an amazing job feeding us all!
Melissa Chapman, our Young Leader, was a great asset to the team and being a true stalwart went straight to Bellingham Guide Camp after leaving us on the Sunday.
Saturday 19th June was our day out to Lowther Leisure Park in Cumbria. The weather was not as good as last year but the Brownies had a great time and lots of friends and parents joined in the fun too.
Because there are no meetings during the Summer holidays, the Brownies have already made a silk floral arrangement which will be in the Knott Hall during the August Bank Holiday week-end for the St.Andrew’s Flower Festival.
We were given some beautiful bedding plants by Mrs. Anne Anderson for the Brownies to plant in the tubs at the front of Heddon First School. The girls had a lovely evening planting up the tubs but were very disappointed to hear that only a few days later the tubs were vandalised, plants from one tub being completely destroyed. This was very upsetting for the 7 to 9 year old Brownies who take great pride in their work. The vandals concerned should be ashamed of themselves.
Northumbria 99 International Guide Camp was held at Powburn this Summer and there was an Open Day for Brownie Packs on 28th July. Our Brownies went to experience a day with Guides from all over the world. There were lots of activities for the girls and we all had a great day.
More good news for Heddon .............
Because 1st Heddon Brownies has a full pack of 24 members and a waiting list of 12, a second Brownie Pack will be opening in September. This is great news and many thanks to Wendy Ryan who has offered to train as Brownie Guider for the Pack and to Jan Liddle who will be her Unit Helper. For more details contact Wendy on 853230. Extra help is always welcomed by both the Packs so if you are interested in helping at any time please contact us.
Lesley Weatheritt, Brown Owl.
Can you ... Do you ....want to save Heddon in Bloom?
The Chairman, Gordon Stewart, and Secretary, Alison Laker, of Heddon in Bloom have announced their intention to step down from their posts with effect from 1st September 1999. They are the only two remaining founder members of the group which was formed 10 years ago.
If a new Chairman and Secretary can be found, Gordon and Alison would like to continue in minor roles in Heddon in Bloom encouraging ‘new blood’ with new ideas and enthusiasm to join this award winning team.
The reluctance of some groups, businesses and individuals to take an active role in the care of this pretty village has had a distinct effect upon their decision.
IF NO ONE IS WILLING TO TAKE OVER THE ROLES HEDDON IN BLOOM WILL CEASE TO EXIST.
The flower containers will be removed
Other flower displays will be allowed to return to nature
Village Pride days will not be organised
Village Organisations Awareness days will not be organised and there will be a knock-on effect .....
if there is no village committee Heddon cannot enter the Northumbria in Bloom Competition which will have a further Knock-on effect ...
IF THE VILLAGE DOES NOT TAKE PART IN THE NORTHUMBRIA IN BLOOM COMPETITIONS ............
The school cannot enter the painting competitions of Northumbria in Bloom.
Heddon in Bloom sponsored painting competitions will not take place
Individuals such as the award winning Peace Garden, Home from Home Boarding Kennels and the Swan will not be allowed to enter the specialist parts of Northumbria in Bloom
The sponsored litter bin scheme will cease. Graffiti will not be removed.
Painting of seats, fences, shelters, etc., will cease.
It is unlikely that the Best Kept Front Garden Competition and the Best Kept Business Competition will continue.
The Email information service, widely advertised, to promote village groups and business is unlikely to continue because of the poor response.
DO YOU WANT TO LOOSE ALL THIS?
CAN HEDDON AFFORD TO LOOSE ALL THIS?
In the last ten years Heddon in Bloom has led the village to win awards in the Northumbria In Bloom Competitions which is quite an achievement because the area covered is from Berwick down to North Yorkshire.
Heddon in Bloom has twice been a winner in Her Majesty the Queen Mother’s Birthday Awards.
The Peace Garden and Home from Home Boarding Kennels have both won Awards in Northumbria in Bloom.
Recently, Heddon in Bloom re-organised. No more ‘Committee Members’ only a Steering Group. This information was advertised in Hexham Courant and Heddon Gossip with a desperate plea for new members ... but no one offered their services.
IS THERE NO ONE IN HEDDON WHO WOULD BE WILLING TO CONTINUE THIS WELL ESTABLISHED LEAD AND TO BUILD ON THE FOUNDATIONS LAID BY HEDDON IN BLOOM WITH NEW IDEAS AND ENTHUSIASM????
IT MAY BE AFTER 1 SEPTEMBER, 1999, WHEN YOU READ THIS but please get in touch with the Editor on 852832 if you can help to save Heddon in Bloom.
Heddon on the Wall Parish Council is extremely appreciative of the work done for the village by Heddon in Bloom over the last ten years ... Heddon in Bloom has put Heddon on the Wall ‘on the map’. The Parish Council will be very sorry if Heddon in the Bloom ceases to exist and it doing everything in its power so see that it continues.
Heddon Ramblers celebrated their 10th Anniversary on Sunday, 1st August, when 28 members walked to Newburn Motor Museum and enjoyed looking at the vintage cars and then had coffee and scones. The walk continued through Walbottle Dene and Throckley Dene then via the Back Lonnen to the Three Tuns at Heddon where Ann Ling had a lovely summer buffet ready.
Heddon Ramblers first walk was in August, 1989 with 12 people. One November we took 65 people in two coaches to walk in the Lake District.
We meet on the first Sunday of each month at 9am in the Three Tuns carpark. Anyone is welcome to join us.
As you all know one of Heddopn Ramblers founder members, Norman Anderson, died in January of this year. In memory of Norman, Heddon Ramblers have bought a seat which has been sited behind the Swan. From the seat there is a beautiful view of the Tyne Valley which Norman loved.
The late Mr. Eric Proud was affectionately remembered in a ceremony in July outside Heddon Library when a seat was installed ‘with happy memories of Eric Proud’. His daughter, Margaret, his grandchildren, family, neighbours and friends gathered to toast his memory. In his latter years Eric had spent time at the Library taken their by his neighbours, Les & Joy Kirby, when he was unable to drive his car and the seat, in a very pleasant position overlooking the village, will be a fitting remembrance to him. Margaret read a poem which she felt typified her Father’s life and Les Kirby remembered him as a quiet, caring, humorous person he had been pleased to live next door to. Also inscribed on the seat is the quotation from Lord Byron ‘on with the dance let joy be unconfined’, words Margaret said her Father used many times.
You will have noticed that although ‘the talking is continuing’ the practical work is beginning on this project. Interesting Guided Walks and Workshops have already been held and enjoyed with more to come. If you think you may not be on the mailing list for information about future work on this project, and you would like to be, please ring Ian on 852591 or Ann on 852832 and your name will be included.
CONGRATULATIONS to Robert and Eileen Young, Home from Home Boarding Kennels, who won the award for the Best Business Premises in the Northumbria Region. They beat companies throughout the North East, many of whom have large budgets and workforces. The Judges remarked upon the immaculate condition of the kennels and the fantastic flower displays. Well done.
There has been an interesting variety of work. Bea Hayles talked about Pottery Painting and Yvonne Ellison took a short course on Silk Painting. Both very different and both very interesting. The regular Tutor, Barbara Clayton, continued to set instructive and interesting projects. Make a note to come to the 24th Annual Exhibition in the W.I. Hall on Saturday, 2nd October, to see the results of this varied tuition. Unframed works, local sketches and village maps will be for sale. The raffle will be drawn at 4.15pm. Come and vote for the painting you like best. At 4.30pm the member whose work receives most votes will be presented with the Reg & Edna Hewling rose bowl by the Methodist Minister, Rev. Robin R. Brooks.
A lot of events have taken place since our last Gossip... we had a car boot sale on the school field which was well supported by the people of Heddon. There were lots of bargains on offer, the weather was very kind and the event raised £94 for the school. Thanks to all involved.
The Leavers of Heddon School were given a good ‘send off’ at our Leavers Disco. They were also given a treat from the PTA of a visit to Whickham Thornes, an outdoor activity centre where they had a brilliant day and the PTA received a thank you letter from each child expressing their appreciation (which makes it all worthwhile)
We wish them the best of luck at their new school.
(The following extracts from the Leavers’ thank you letters leaves no doubt that they greatly appreciated the treat the PTA had arranged for them. Editor)
Dear PTA, Thank you for providing money so that Year 4 could go to Whickham Thornes. I had a great time, Alex. ...my favourite thing was the BMX bikes, Tom Watson. ... I liked the Ski-ing best , Trudie Sanderson. ... the problem solving was really good, Scott Mudie. ... I especially liked the BMX bikes and the archery, Hanna Cuthbert. .... the problem solving was really hard but great fun, Jessica. .... a wonderful trip, Vicki. ... we went ski-ing first, it was so good, C.Pollard. .......... the best trip I’ve been on, M. Spurr. .... my favourite bit was the BMX bikes, N.Brown. my favourites were ski-ing, problem solving, BMX bikes and archery, S.Weatheritt.. my archery team won the 1st tournament, C.Grant. .. I liked the BMX biking the best, Philip Watson. ... my favourite was problem solving, Abigail Lowes. ... I liked everything, Daniel Anderson. ... thank you for our trip, Jennifer. ... I liked BMXing best, Daniel Redpath. ... I had an excellent time, Mark. ... my favourite thing was the archery, Kimberley Stevenson. I had an excellent time, Carl Stanners. ... I would like to go again, R.Smith. I had a brilliant time, Michael Potter. Thank you very much, I had a brilliant time, Katy.
The school gave an amazing performance of ‘Peer Gynt’ as a Leavers Concert. The music was adapted by Mrs. Hindmarsh and Mrs. Downie. Mrs. Wood Choreographed the dancing and Tracey Sanderson designed and created the costumes. Both the children and the audiences at the two performances really enjoyed the concert. Well done to all.
The PTA has received a lot of support from parents, teachers and pupils of the school for which we are very grateful. We have lots of plans for events and treats for the children for next year.
FAMILY FUN DAY on 25 September is our next event. Weather permitting it will be on the school field. There will be a Raffle (1st Prize a Helicopter Ride), Tombola, Face Painting, Bucking Bronco, Children’s Motor Bikes, Penalty Shoot Out, Birds of Prey and much more.
We look forward to seeing you all in the next term. Many thanks
Thanks to our grant from the National Lottery we are now in the process of improving our Hall. The kitchen is well on its way and the main hall floor should be laid in September.
SALAD LUNCH .. Sat 25 Sept. from 11.30am. Come along and enjoy good food and good company
W.I meeting 6th Sept. Mrs. Mary Green is giving a demonstration on Tassel making
W.I meeting on 4th Oct... Mrs. Louise Dryden from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution
You will be made welcome at either or both of these meetings starting at 7pm
Make a Diary Note .. Soup morning begin again on 6th November.
Meetings will resume on Wed. 8 Sept. with a talk by Mr. F. Jewitt on Security in National Health Hospitals.
Subsequent meetings are -
22 Sept. Beryl Amos accompanied by Jennifer King will give a musical evening
13 Oct. A demonstration of Stick Dressing which should prove interesting
All meetings are held in the W.I.Hall on 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of most months and visitors and new members will be warmly welcomed. Why not join us on one of the above evenings.
At the end of July a team from St. Andrews, Heddon, (13-15 year olds) played a match against St. Gabriel’s, Sunderland. This was sponsored by St. Andrew’s Church and Heddon in Bloom (as part of it youth project). The final result was St.Andrew’s 3: Sunderland 4. This was the first 11 a side game that the local lads had played on a full size pitch with a team depleted by players on Holiday Sunderland players were signed on loan. Heddon went 2:0 down in the first half but classic goals by John Stewart and Phil Edmondson kept the dream alive, as well as a goal from a player on loan, but a late goal from St. Gabriel’s proved too much of a task to overcome. The game was played in a true friendly style with Heddon donating the match ball and certificates and the Sunderland team providing a two course cooked meal on their campsite in Slaley. ‘Man of the Match’ certificate went to Ian Edmondson, with an additional prize of a computer game donated by St. Gabriel’s . A great day was had by all and a return match is assured for next season. Team Players .. Simon Burns, James Burns, John Stewart, Dan Anderson, Phil Edmondson and Ian Edmondson.
Supporters are always welcome at matches and next season’s fixtures will soon be published.
The camps were first held in 1912 and every year since (during peace-time). The Church originally organised a part of boys under the leadership of the Chaplain. Although the framework of the camp has remained the same for many years it has been adapted to suit the requirements of today’s youngsters with facilities and activities incorporated throughout the generations.
The Camp has traditionally used bell tents which have proved popular with camper, being roomy and comfortable. Life at the Camp involves the campers organising themselves for the daily activities under the guidance of team leaders. Leaders are from a variety of professional occupations. The Camp has recently benefitted from a grant from the Heritage Fund of the National Lottery which has enabled the organisers to improve equipment and reduce fees. A separate Camp is held for girls.
The average number of campers is fifty 10 to 18 year olds. A large marquee is used for communal eating. The catering is taken seriously with a lot of money and expertise invested to provide good food. The food is prepared under the supervision of a catering lecturer from a local College. Hot shower and washing facilities are available from mains water and there are purpose built toilets on site.
Campers can be collected locally. Parents are encouraged to participate. Fees in 1999 were only £75 for a ten day stay, including transport, food and tuition in a variety of subjects including new this year .. archery.
New campers are invited for 2000. Further details of the Boys Camp are available from Mr. Tim Galloway, 15 Humbledon Park, Sunderland, SR3 4AA. Tel.No. 0191 5226442, and from Ms Margaret Humble on 0191 5200270 for the Girls Camp. Or you can contact the Heddon on the Wall Email information service for a copy of the colour brochure.
Heddon on the Wall will soon have a Website! A temporary site has already been prepared but before its official release a lot of work has to be done.
HOW YOU CAN HELP... let us have your views, comments, ideas on a web site by contacting enquiries.heddon@virgin.net or, if you do not have a computer contact Heddon Gossip Editor. Pass the word around to all groups and businesses you are connected with to ensure they all take advantage of this great facility. Ask for their views which can be passed on via the above contacts. What would the village like to see on the Web site? This service, along with the Heddon Information Service (if Heddon in Bloom continues to exist) can promote all village groups and business for the benefit of the whole village.... it’s a free service ... you have nothing to loose and lots to gain.
Each household has been advised by letter that the results of the Village Appraisal are now available - a selection are shown in the Dalmar Fashions shop window. The full report of 76 pages can be seen in Heddon Library.
Out-reach Workers have been employed by the Parish Council to make contact with the young people around the village.
The Parish Council thanks Heddon in Bloom officials, Gordon Stewart, Chairman, and Alison Laker, Secretary, most sincerely for the massive amount of work they have put in during the past ten years. The Parish Council is very sad that Gordon and Alison are stepping down from their posts and are desperately trying to find two people to carry on the good work and build on the foundations laid by Heddon in Bloom.
Hadrian’s Wall Path - route through Heddon on the Wall?
If my understanding is correct the approved route, at the present time, of this National Trail long distance footpath is along the old Wylam Railway footpath, across Close House Golf Course, around the back of the Close House University Research Gardens, through Heddon Common crossing the Houghton/Horsley road, around the Three Tuns along the road to Rudchester, basically following established footpaths and road.
A quote from "The Countryside Commission North East Edition No.2 Hadrian’s Wall Path" leaflet states .. "the Trail’s Alignment. In 1994 the government gave the green light to develop what is known as the ‘approved route’. Consideration will be given to slight alterations to the route if sound reasons can be made on farming, archaeological or nature conservation grounds. Any changes will require the consent of the Secretary of State."
The Hadrian’s Wall Path is due to be opened in June 2001 but publications, maps, signposts, etc., will need to be in progress well before that date.
To me, this route seems to be less than ideal in view of the expected 10-20,000 walkers expected each year. The Golf Club will object, the proposed Butterfly Haven, red squirrels and other wildlife will be disturbed. More safety fencing around the old quarry cliffs will be required. More strangers will be in the vicinity of the school and playground. People will have to cross the Horsley road at a dangerous point to get on the footpath opposite. It also fails to give a view of the Heddon section of Hadrian’s Wall or the opportunity of a view along the Tyne Valley.
As I am unaware of what consultations took place to determine ‘the Approved Route’ I would be interested to know from those contacted, obviously pre-1994. Were any alternative routes considered, i.e., through the Newburn Riverside Country Park and up Station Road past Heddon Hall?
I am in favour of the Trail but surely a better route through Heddon can be agreed with all concerned for the benefit of wildlife and for safety, not to mention the commercial opportunities offered if walkers are better routed through the village.
Please contact Chris Anderson, Tel.No. 01661 854264 initially before the Countryside Commission is informed of local objections, with reasons, to the ‘Approved Route’.
We need to action this before the end of 1999.
Chris Anderson
This is a heartfelt plea to all residents of Heddon
PLEASE DO NOT FEED FOXES
I do not hunt and have nothing against foxes in the wild but I have some evidence that a semi-feral cat which has been fed for the past eight years within the garden of Carters Cottages has been frightened off by a fox or, indeed, may have been taken by a fox.
(thankfully, this cat has now returned). This may also have been the fate of two other black domestic cats now missing in the village.
Foxes are wild animals who often kill lambs and other animals just for the sake of it and not for food.
PLEASE LET THEM FEND FOR THEMSELVES and do not encourage them into our gardens to prey on our pets. Cat owners are advised to keep pets indoors overnight.
Margaret Makepeace.
Just a reminder to all members of the choir that rehearsals for our next presentation will commence on Tuesday, 21st September at 7.30pm in the Heddon Methodist Church under our new Musical Director, Dr. Douglas Hunter.
Dr. Hunter has been the Musical Director of numerous choirs in the area and founded the Moorside Singers which he conducted for 26 years.
Anyone reading this who is not a member of the choir and has an interest in singing is invited to come along and join us. You could be pleasantly surprised at the enjoyment we have in making music together.
Stan Hall, Chairman.
St. Andrew’s Church, Heddon
Vicar - Rev Dr.Peter Bryars. Tel.01661 853142
The regular Sunday Services are -
8am Eucharist
9.30am Sung Eucharist
6pm Evensong
A Family Service is held at 9.30am on the 1st Sunday of each month
Mid-week Communion .. 1.30pm.. 1st & 3rd
Tuesdays of each month.
St. Andrew’s Church has been open to everyone during the Summer months. Many people have enjoyed the opportunity to visit this ancient church to learn of its history and to spend time in quiet worship. The church will continue to be open on a daily basis and all are welcome.
Minister - Rev. Robin Brooks - Tel.0191 2746057
Regular Sunday Services 10.30am Morning Worship &
Sunday School. 6pm Evening Worship
The 10.30am service on the first Sunday of each month
is a Family Service where the Sunday School children join
with the grown-ups in the Church. Families and children
are always welcome every Sunday.
Special Events coming up
5 Sept. Annual Covenant Service 6pm
11 Sept.Coffee Morning 10am-12noon
Chapel open all day for Steeplechase runners
26 Sept.United Harvest Service at St.Andrew’s 6pm
29 Sept.Pathfinders Walking Group 10am
30 Sept.New Alpha Course starts at Methodist
Church 7pm
3 Oct.United Harvest Service at Methodist
Church 6pm
23 Oct.Coffee Morning & Gift Weekend 10am-12noon
27 Oct Pathfinders Walking Group 10am
31 Oct United Songs of Praise at Methodist
Church 6pm
11 Nov.Remembrance Service 10.45am
Please watch our Notice Board for more details
METHODIST CHURCH NOTES
A new Evening Alpha Course is due to start on Thursdays at the Chapel, commencing 30 September at 7pm. The Alpha Course is an easy and enjoyable way to find out about the Christian faith, or just brush up on what you already know! It is open to anyone. For further details please contact Mrs.Myrna Luff (Tel.01661 852659) or Robin Brooks (Tel.0191 2746057)
It is good to see people using the Peace Garden behind the Chapel. It is maintained for the use of the whole village, so please come in to sit and enjoy its peace and tranquillity.
The Pathfinders Walking Group continues to flourish and welcomes anyone who enjoys an easy walk with good company. Don’t forget to bring a packed lunch. Meet at the Chapel, dates as above.
Don’t forget that there is a Mums and Toddlers Group which meets every Wednesday between 1.30 and 3pm in school term time.
St. Cuthbert’s Church, Throckley
Parish Priest - Father B. McNamara - Tel. 0191 2674389
Sunday Services - 9am: 11am: 6.15pm
"Somewhere in a village in England (and we do mean that bit of Britain called England) the committee is meeting to decide what kind of village ‘Do’ to hold for the Millennium. Shall we do the same thing we did the last time we have a village pageant? Can anybody remember what we did last time? Does anybody care?"
Whilst the committee bicker, things are afoot in the village. Something is about to develop, skeletons are going to come dancing out of the cupboard, and Wally and Les will keep gardening. The village could really have a ‘Do’ on its hands.
The NTC Theatre Company are back in Heddon on Saturday, 18th September, in the Knott Hall at 7.30pm, to perform "are we in here?" by Stewart Howson, Directed by Gillian Hambleton and Designed by Cath Young.
If you have seen any of the NTC’s previous productions you will know you will be treated, on this occasion, to a hilarious comedy. If you have missed previous productions .. Don’t Miss This One!! Make a note in your diary to keep that evening free and watch the village notice boards for further information. ... you will not be disappointed.
On 11th August at 10.15am the moon began to eclipse the sun. The clear skies gave the North East a better view of the sun. At 10.30am the moon was over the sun making the sun look like it was being eaten. At 10.45 the sky was going dark and it went very cold as the moon covered the sun. In Cornwall it was cloudy so they couldn’t see anything. 10.55 and our eclipse was nearly complete. It was easy to see all this with the eclipse glasses we wore. In Cornwall they just saw the total eclipse.
Again, a crisis in the village - after ten years of putting Heddon on the Wall ‘on the map’ in a colourful and tidy sense, the continuation of Heddon in Bloom is in doubt. The Chairman and Secretary are both founder members and have worked in official organisational posts during that time and now wish to play a less demanding role... but no-one has come forward to fill their posts. It is sad that out of a population of about 1500 there are not two people willing to build on Heddon in Bloom’s solid foundation.
A summary of the results of Heddon Village Appraisal is displayed in the shop window of Dalmar Fashions (with grateful thanks to Mary Mulligan). These cannot be read and digested at one reading but are straightforward once you have looked at them once or twice! The full report is in the Library.
The total eclipse in August was really ‘hiped’ up and I think our little corner of the country came off quite well with relatively clear skies giving a good view of the happening. I was disappointed that it didn’t go quite as dark as I expected but the eerie, cold atmosphere was an experience in itself. As I was watching the level of light slowly decrease a funeral passed the house on its way to church which I felt was very poignant.
There are some people in Heddon who are working very hard to keep their village and community spirit alive and moving into the next century.... The Butterfly Haven, refurbishing the W.I.Hall and tackling the youth problem to name but a few. This doesn’t mean that groups like Heddon in Bloom should ‘die’. Think hard and consider very carefully whether you could spare a little time to help and save this established group.
Ann Lockey (Editor)
01661 852832