Haydon News - December 1997

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Hi Folks - I hope you've had a good month and are looking forwardto the festive season as much as I am up here above the village. We'll have a full house over most of the Christmas period and there will be plenty of 'cheer and goodwill' I do hope it is the same with you. If you know of anyone who is going to be alone this year please try and make the effort to take them some 'cheer and goodwill' - or better still have them around to your place for a few hours. Having experiencedit I can assure you that it is a pretty miserable experience having Christmas Dinner on your own.

Half a dozen of us dressed up for Halloween and went around to Anna's place, The Oddfellows Hall, to enjoy such delicacies as Spooky Soup, Spawn of Satan's Salmon, Toadstools baked in Puff Balls. We were dropped off in Church Street causing heads to turn as we passed the Railway. A large group of youngsters in Halloween make-up were assembled outside the pub, I was dressed as a Ghost and had on a mask - in fact some said I looked like a member of the KKK rather than a ghost, others else described me as a Ghoulie.

I felt like the pied piper of Haydon as the youngsters trooped behind me and my two witches through the subway and across the old bridge, parting outside Harry's Fish and Chip shop. I later discovered that these enterprising youngsters had raised over £100 for the Football Club's All Weather floodlit pitch fund.

As we entered the dark gloom of the specially decorated restaurant the mechanical door bell announced our arrival. Our other companions were already there at the second table on the left, to our right a family dressed up to look like the Adam's Family were tucking into their Spicy Kidney Pate. On the left, at the table for two, one chap was dressed as a Vicar.

The six course meal was excellent and with all the staff dressed up in similar attire there was good banter flowing.

Isa, Haydon Bridge's renowned fortune teller was there looking marvellous in the specially prepared coven in the back-room, raising funds for Cystic Fibrosis and I understand that over the two Halloween evenings she raised some £308. The four ladies at our table all had their fortunes told and came back well pleased by what the future holds for them. I wonder just how much Isa has unselfishly raised for charity over the years?

Now as is usual on such occasions the wine was flowing freely at our table and naturally as the evening wore on our tongues became looser, our voices louder and - dare I say it - conversation slightly licentious.

Towards the finish I felt a tap on my shoulder from the table for two, turning around I expected the guy dressed as a Vicar to do his "Be away with you Satan" bit and exorcise The Oddfellows Hall of ghosts and other evil spirits. He succeeded as his charming companion said "May I introduce you to Father Leo Pyle - the new catholic priest" - We all fled!

Would like to thank those members who have joined during the last few months. We wish to say a big Thank You to those people who sent in generous cheques over and above the standard £1 membership fee.

There is no restriction in the numbers of Friends of Haydon Bridge so why don't you join today? Just slip a £1 coin into an envelope addressed to The Friends of Haydon Bridge to become an active or non-active member. Please remember to include your name, address and telephone number - see page 3. Leave your envelope at either the Post Office, John Clarkes or Marsh's Newsagents - no stamp is required.

'The Friends' were established in 1978 following the Station Yard Factory debacle. One of its main functions has been to produce and distribute the Haydon News, which it has done continuously since January 1979. The constitution allows for other activities to benefit the village - more details of these will be included in the February edition of the Haydon News. Please note that there is no issue of the newsletter in January.

9 Councillors and 3 members of the public were present. The meeting started with Mr. Thompson and Miss Mansfield from Haydon Bridge High School talking about the school's continuing quest for Sports College status.

Stage I involves the school working along with the parish on improving resources and personnel for local schools. An extra gym with better facilities will be one item on the agenda available for use by anybody in the area. So far only 10 schools have achieved Sports College status and Haydon Bridge is continuing to try to obtain status with the financial help of local people and businesses.

Stage II is application to the sports lottery committee. A community application would be seen in better light with local sport organisations combining with the High School in their application. The Lottery funding would enable the sports area to be doubled with top quality changing rooms available for all. The disabled will be fully catered for and other communities can link in to the facilities.

With European funding, computer links between all schools in the Haydon Bridge catchment area will be possible, accessible to all.

Mr. Thompson pointed out that land is still available at the school for a bowling green.

The broken pillars at the entrance to Station Cottages are to be assessed and hopefully repaired.
The cost of providing a street light on Land Ends Road is to be looked into as the cost seems to be rather high.
An estimate has been received for mending the Church clock.
Despite pleas for support no-one has volunteered to help the proposed bowling green off the ground. A committee is required before the project can take off and if this does not happen the funding will be lost.

A quotation has been received for provision of a seat at Spa Well.
The annual grant to Age Concern was approved (£75).
Traffic calming measures at Martins Close have been registered with NCC. As there are about 500 others on the list early provision is unlikely. The cost will be in the order of £3,000. It was emphasised by one Councillor that other parts of Haydon Bridge are also candidates for traffic calming measures.

The Haydon News was placed onto the Internet on the 5th of November.
The URL and e-mail details are shown below.

Stan - Thanks for the EM [Electronic Mail e-mail Ed.]. I have checked out the site, receiving loud and clear. Spent a very enjoyable 30mins reading your newsletter while listening to a touch of Rock and Roll.

You are able to capture village life as it is, the ups and downs, the highs and lows. The frustrations of those who try to get something started which will benefit all, only to see their hard work disappear as they fail to get the backing of the majority, the minority who sit back and pick and say "I told you so".The highs pick your publication up, the Fire works night held by the Scouts, I remember them well, the dark and chill of the November nights until the bonfire is lit and the fireworks light up the sky, the taste of the hot-dogs linger in my mouth and he memories of the work that went into setting it all up, that to me is what the village is all about. Public Office what can one say other than, if you decide to do it, be thick skinned and understand that you can not please everyone, speak up and accept criticism after all it is those you represent and if you ask it is those who will provide you greatest help. I speak with experience in this as I am a Director of a group with 30,000 members in Victoria and over 100,000 members in Australia, you should see our A.G.M's at times.

Thank you very much for the time you have put in to get this together for those of us who are a long way from the Village but can now remain part of the happenings. I hope your operation goes well and is nothing
serious.

From an Essex reader Hello Mitch - I love receiving my copy of the mag via Brian - but to actually have Haydon Bridge news here on the Net is a definite plus. Keep up the good work - I will certainly be bookmarking the site, and will be an avid reader. I always find bits in the mag about people I know and events I remember, although I left the village in the mid fifties. You may remember my Mum and Dad, Con and John Rogan, who lived in John Martin Street until Mum died twenty years ago. Cheers and best wishes from

And from Edinburgh - Dear Haydon News Editor - It is great to see Haydon Bridge on the Web! Well done! Now I can read the Haydon News as it comes out, in the comfort of my Edinburgh home, rather than waiting to read the dog-eared copies my mother keeps for when I visit Northumberland.

Yours nostalgically - Carmel Smith
X-Pupil of Shaftoe Trust and Haydon Bridge High

If any non-resident of Haydon would like to join the Haydon News mailing
list please let the Editor know. Current cost is £5 for 10 issues
inclusive of U.K. postage and 1 year's Membership of the Friends of
Haydon Bridge. If you receive your Haydon News in the Internet why
not send us a fiver anyway - help us continue the service.
Return to Haydon News Index

After I had spoken to you on the 'phone I wondered if your newsletter might be able to help me with something which has been taxing me lately.

My mother was born at Langley Sawmill in 1910, where my Grandfather was the Manager. My Mother, Beatrice Rubina (known as Ruby) was the second of the 6 Moody children (Pop, Ruby, Elizabeth, Helen, Alec and Evelyn). My Grandfather was killed on the road outside Langley Castle during the 1920's and after a couple of years the young family moved nearer to Newcastle, where life was very hard with no breadwinner. My Grandmother died after a couple of years and the older girls brought up the younger ones.

I was born in 1943 and was always enchanted by the stories my Mum told me of her young days in the fields around Langley Sawmill. Although they walked into Haydon Bridge for all shopping and were quite poor, the children obviously had a happy and fun filled childhood. My mum worked at Langley Castle for a while and was sacked for getting lost and going down the wrong staircase! She also delivered mail on horseback to outlying farms. 'Low Stublick' I have never been to except in stories, but I know they received a lot of post some Winters!

Now I get to the point of my story . . . . my Mother's best friend, who also lived in the Sawmill cottages at the time, was Dinah Patterson. My Mother's stories were full of Dinah and their escapades. I would love to know if Dinah is still living in Haydon Bridge and if so to get in touch with her. I am sure that she is married and therefore has a different surname, but someone may know of her if you are able to put this letter into your paper. My mum died last year, but Alex, Helen and Betty are still very much alive and I am sure they too will remember Dinah. If Dinah should read this or if anyone knows Dinah, nee Patterson, I'd love to hear from them. I hope you can assist me and best of luck with the newsletter.

Eds note - A quick phone call to my Oracle in the village ascertained that Dinah had married Herbie Thom(p)son in 1937 - but which Thom(p)son family was that I pondered as I walked into the Anchor for my ritual afternoon thrashing at pool. Sid Thompson was anchored to his usual seat nattering to a mate. Without giving the reasons I asked "Did Herbie Thomson have any family ?" quick as a flash came the reply "Wey aye, Ya knaa Charlie Thomson wey's married to Dorothy - your lasses's mate? Well he's Horbies lad." When I arrived home I checked the facts with Sylvia and rang Dorothy who confirmed that Herbie had indeed been married to Dinah who had died in 1991 at the age of 81. Herbie died in 1977 at the age of 71. Dorothy was pleased to get my call and agreed that I could pass on the information already gathered, together with her phone number. Moira was pleased that we had been able to establish contact for her and plans to ring Dorothy and make arrangements to meet.

Letter 1. Dear Mitch - I agree with him
(a) You do an excellent job in the 100's of hours every month that you spend in producing a newsletter that truly reflects village life.
(b) You cannot stop yourself being unpleasant about the councillors. It looks like a personal vendetta between you and them; but you have the winning hand, because you as editor always have the last word.

This is an injustice.

In November, for example, you say: I reckon that if the Football Club organising committee got themselves on to the local Council ... we'd actually see things getting done. And in response to Geoffrey Jackson's letter: I must be achieving something if I can persuade Councillorsto put pen to paper, and actually say something deserving of a reply.

Mitch, don't give up. We are not putting pressure on you to go soon. But for heaven's sake, lay off the Councillors; after all it's us the people of Haydon Bridge who elected them to represent us.

Best wishes and thanks (really!). I'm sending this anonymously because I don't want to be seen as part of an Anti-Mitch or Anti-Council, clique.

And now for a couple of courteous letters written by three Chesterwood people who are known to me. As with all letters, good or bad, I accept the views and opinions expressed as being helpful in formulating the content of your newsletter. Whether I agree or disagree with the points put forward is, to me, not important.

Letter 2. Dear Mitch,
We entirely agree with the views expressed by Geoffrey Jackson in the Nov. issue of the Haydon News.
The editorial content of the paper has, for some time, been a source of irritation, containing too much personal information about the editor. Many of the jokes have been in very bad taste and quite inappropriate in a Community newspaper which should be informative, interesting and pleasant to read. We are pleased to see that the Nov. issue meets these criteria and hope that it will continue to be so. Names supplied.

Letter 3. Dear Mitch,
Thank you for the invitation contained in the current Haydon News to comment on Councillor Jackson's letter.

His letter has my total support and, in addition, I would like to add the following.

It is my understanding an Editor's job is to vet material received from various sources and include a short editorial comprising no more than two or three paragraphs.

The current Haydon News contains items signed 'Mitch' or SBM on almost every page and previous issues have been similar. If suitable material is not forthcoming from other sources could not the Haydon News be cut in size thus reducing costs. Under previous Editors the paper has comprised a maximum of four or five pages whereas the current copy has eight.

I appreciate the effort you put into the production of the Haydon News and trust you will accept my comments as constructive criticism.

You agreement to Cllr Jackson's opinion that I am 'intimidating and adopt an editing style trying to crudely impress a bunch of readers' and that 'I do the village a disservice.' is noted.

Thanks for the praise - Part of this reflection of village life also includes opinions of all aspects and views

Claptrap - I only criticise elected Tynedale Councillors. Don't editors usually have the last word before publication? Or do you want to pop around and censor everything before I publish?

These words were intended to draw an analogy between how good the HBAFC had been in raising some £3,000 in a few weeks compared to how long it takes bureaucratic groups to do similar things. It should not be construed to mean anything other than that!

It does, at times, seems to many of US that our elected representatives concentrate more on their Tynedale positions than village matters.

Thanks Georgy. Where I was brought up we were taught to stab people from the front! The purpose of anononymity is to protect the writer from possible harassment from readers and not for the reasons you appear to be using it!

It disappoints me that both of you wholly agree with Cllr Jackson's letter, this suggests that you also agree with his intimation that I was responsible for the membership of The Friends falling to an all time low in May. At the time of writing The Friends membership stands at a 16 year high of more than 50 people - I wonder why?

Having adapted to a style which very many readers can, and do relate - I am genuinely sorry that this irritates you so. The jokes of the type I suspect you considered were in bad taste stopped some months ago. I am delighted that the November issue met with the criteria you have set and will do my best to ensure that these standards are maintained.

Each morning when I awake I am happy and cheerful. In the Haydon News I try to reflect this mood hoping that some folk are cheered by my antics. On my trips around the village I meet more than 150 or so people a week - most admit to liking my style, which by it's very nature becomes personalised. I go to more meetings than most people in the village so it should be no surprise to anyone that my name or intials frequently appear. Similarly I report what I see and hear, without smothering it all in candy floss.

'Mitch' denotes that it is the editor making comment and 'SBM' when I act as an article writer/reporter. I would like to see less "SBM's"

When I took over as Editor advertising totalled approximately 36 blocks - it is now 60 blocks enabling us to produce 5 or 6 pages plus Church and Medical pages. The newsletter content is now some three times more than before. I can assure you that my daily feedback is that a majority of people enjoy reading the extra pages - warts and all.

I thought you might like to see one anonymous letter which arrived, the two people concerned get my award for the shortest letter of support for Geoffrey. [Not included in Internet Edition]

And IF I were to award a prize for the best letter of the month it would go to a Langley reader who's sense of humour seems to match my own she said, a little tongue in cheek one would hope:

Dear Mitch - Under your stewardship the Haydon News has become more informative,
humorous and readable. As for tabloidised?

I fear that with regard to our Parish Councillors, you are in danger of going just a tadge over the top. While I agree that Councillors should be up to criticism and held accountable for their action/non-action; in the case of the 'Howards' (Bill in particular) your comments are increasingly personalised. I think you must ask yourself the question: Is satire appropriate to a parish magazine? If so; you are clearly an erudite, urbane man pick on somebody your own size!

You know what - Langley writer? I've just had a rethink about your award and have decided that you will indeed get your gong and I would like to present it here in the Haydon News today in front of the 1600 readers.

Trumpets sound, crowds applaud, she steps forward curtsies in a dignified manner as The Editor presents her with the first Letter of the Month Award or LOTMA for short. By the way you'll have to cut it out of the newsletter as we don't have the dosh available to give you a real medal. Your citation reads:

The LOTMA award this month is awarded to Rag Tamer of Langley on Tyne
who produced a balanced letter in humourous vein and correctly guessed
what the present Editor of the Haydon News would like written as his epitaph

What made me finally decide on the gong award is that when I ran your letter through my Spell Checker it stopped for a few milli-seconds at 'tabloidised' before spewing out 'hot-blooded' as the closest fit. Don't you think it rings well "A hot-blooded erudite urbane man". As I walk around the village I will proudly wear the banner. Mind you Rag Tamer you were nearly disqualified when it was found that your postcode and Councillor Geoffrey Jackson's are exactly the same!

As for your comment "pick on somebody your own size" are you suggesting that Cllr Bill is smalller than me? - How dreadful of you! Sadly no one has thought of addressing the reason for the criticism levelled at Tynedale Councillors, this will be thproughly dealt with when I respond in detail to Geoffrey's letter - I held off to await the response of my appeal for letters so I think we'll leave it untilnext year as the festive season is once again nigh. - Hark! I seemen in white coats approaching - They're coming to take me away ha ha hee hee. Mitch

PS - Nowt wrang wirra bitta satire hinny its way much berrer than the lang neefs roond here. Yer knaa yor reet aboot me wate, am gannin on a diet nixt yoor and a just might dee them thor exorcises the quacks taakin aboot.

Recently whilst collecting house to house for the British Legion Poppy Day Appeal, three young chaps around 11 to 13 years ?? shouted to me :"Hi Mister, how much are your poppies?" - "Just as much as you feel you want to put in the collection box", I replied as I went to knock on the next door. On hearing this they then followed me up the short drive and each in turn popped in their twenty pences, took a poppy each and asked "Can we have a pin Mister?" - I replied "Of course you can" and thanked them for their donations as they went off to pin on their poppies.

My shoulders were a little straighter and my resolve much stronger as I went on my way thinking "Yes there is a purpose in the small amount of time I was taking to help those in the past but safeguarding the future. That had just been proven to me by the gesture of those three young chaps and indeed to everyone who contributed.

Mrs. Loyd would like to thank all of those people in the Parish who contributed to the Royal British Legion collection. The sum of: £886-33p was collected this year. Volunteers are needed to help in next years collections

It is not only very satisfying to make your own Christmas decorations using foliage from the garden but with a little thought even the most simple display of natural materials can look beautiful and seasonal. A festive wreath is easy to make with just a few basic components and materials collected from the garden or countryside. Essentials are: scissors, wire-cutters, secateurs, florists wire.

You will need a wreath base to start with. Use long flexible stems - any long prunings from shrubs will do - stripped of foliage. Form a circle of the required size with one stem and weave the rest of the Items around it to form a ring which is six to ten stems thick. Bind wire diagonally around the stems and repeat in the opposite direction

If your lawn is like mine then a few minute's raking will produce the moss needed to cover the stems of the wreath base. Dampen the moss and bind it on with wire. Any evergreen foliage can be used to dress the base and you can add fruit, berries, cone , candles, ribbons and so on. You should aim for a well balanced arrangement - too many different elements will be distracting. For a stunning display try to stick to a colour scheme.

1. Red - Foliage green of contrasting shapes (conifer, ivy, holly, laurel). Cones natural. Nuts natural. Cinnamon sticks tied in bundles with red ribbon. Berries red. Small red apples. Ribbon red.
2. Gold - Foliage green (conifer and laurel) and gold-variegated (ivy, holly). Cones sprayed gold. Nuts sprayed gold. Ribbon gold.
3. Silver - Foliage blue (eucalyptus and cedar) and silver- varigated (euonymus Silver Queen). Cones sprayed silver. Bells silver. Candles white. Ribbon white or silver.
Place the foliage, fruit and trimmings together on the worktable to consider how well they go together and try other possibilities before you start attaching them to the base. Keep it simple; smothering it with plastic baubles will look tawdry. Use real fruit, nuts, berries etc when it is practical.
First fill the base with plain foliage, tucking it into strands of wire. Next place variegated or contrasting pieces. More wire can be used to secure the leaves. Spray with water as you work. Wire oranges and apples with clusters of nuts for a natural look. Make a hook in the end of a length of wire and pass it through the centre of an apple. The straight end of the wire will fasten the apple to the base. Drill a small hole in each nut and attach to wire. Use wire to secure cones. Attach ribbon and your wreath, created from the glory of the winter garden, is completed.

This month - ensure the garden is ready for winter weather.
Cut back tall roses to half their height to prevent wind -rock but leave full pruning until spring.
Frosty nights will lift recently planted trees and shrubs. Firm them in and give a protective mulch. Check stakes are holding firmly.
Spread gravel around alpines to help drainage and reduce plant-rot in cold, wet weather.
Avoid walking on lawns when the soil is very wet or frozen.
Fish will die if their pond freezes over. Use hot water to make a hole in the ice to allow poisonous gases to escape. If freezing weather persists and a thick layer of ice forms, syphon out 2" of water from under the ice to allow efficient gaseous exchange.
Insulate outdoor taps with a piece of old cloth or bubble polythene in a plastic bag tied with string.
Put out fresh water for the birds if the weather turns icy. Use a bowl large enough for them to bathe in. Feed birds on a table out of reach of local cats.

James Thin

Short talk given about MARIE CURIE CANCER CARE when it was explained how nursing cancer patients is now done in the home if possible because people respond better to treatment at home.

Mrs. Bowen welcomed as new member and she won the raffle. Mrs. F. Ord won competition for favourite photograph.

In October three of our members attended the Autumn Council Report. It was Mrs Goodchilds first meeting as chairman and she carried it off well.

We listened with interest to Proffessor Ian Fells, who spoke about "Our Environment at Risk … the costs and the benefits". He gave some frightening figures, warning us that all gas, oil and coal supplies would be exhausted by 2050. His prediction for the Millenium was that we would work on ways on using gravitational energy of the type responsible for black holes. All the world's energy could be met by an amount the size of an Atom. He certainty gave us plenty to think about.

For light relief the finalists of the Coral Speaking competition performed for us. Everyone was amused by the winning rendition of "I know an old woman who swallowed a fly".

Six of our members went on a trip to Warburtons Bakery. It was a splendid outing and each lady came home with gifts of 'yes you've guessed' loaves of bread.

Our speaker for the November meeting, Sheila Maurice kept an audience captivated with her talk on Porcelain Restoration. A very intensive and fascinating occupation Sheila has been teaching adults the craft for the past fifteen years. Creative skills and colour sense is needed and you treat the damage rather than the object. She told us a fascinating story about the restoration of the 'Dainty Dinah' bust. (Horners Toffee factory logo) which was taken down when the factory closed. It was still stuck to the chimney and put in a council depot. It had huge cracks in it and was a challenge. We were shown step by step photographs of the restoration of Dainty Dinah. One of our members told us that she had driven a show van for Horners Toffee Factory.

The night following our meeting, members were invited to Bardon Mill WI. Seven of us enjoyed a flower arranging demonstration given by Olive Dalrymple. There were wonderful ideas for Christmas and three of our members were lucky to win lovely flower arrangements. Peggy Dakers won a gold angel made entirely from pasta, a very different original idea. We hope she will try and make us all some. We all enjoyed a lovely supper, and thanked the ladies of Bardon Mill institute for inviting us to a smashing evening.

This was my very first Pie and Peas supper at Langley WI. I had heard such glowing reports about this annual event so I looked forward to a very enjoyable evening.

As I entered the hall and saw all the tables full I knew this event was very well supported. The ladies of the WI were rushing about making sure everyone had their meals served hot, and with brimming teapots to replenish cups. I sat down at the table with my husband and friend Dorothy and we tucked into a tasty supper. When all the clearing away had been done we eagerly awaited for the entertainment to begin.

I haven't laughed so much for a long while as I did listening to the rib tickling jokes of compare Eddie Milligan. The delightful duo Angela and Wayne had our feet tapping to their fine accordion playing. A very poignant moment in their performance was Angela's own composition dedicated to the memory of the Lockerbie Disaster.

Eileen Martin dressed in lad's gear and sporting a flat cap, treatedus all to a humorous Geordie monologue, that was deservedly applauded by everyone.

The next spot-featured two of our WI members, Laura Gilhespy and Francis Wise, they performed an amusing afternoon tea sketch featuring local characters. This went down a treat.

Our resident auctioneer Maurice Reed was unable to be present as he is recuperating, and was missed for his expertise in disposing of cakes and homemade biscuits at the end of the night. His place was taken by our compare who with humour and determination brought a successful evening to a close.

Thanks were given, and the ladies of Langley WI had triumphed once again and I look forward to the next time.

Old Jerry Attric had just put a Woodbine between his thin blue lips and with fingers thrust deep inside a pocket of his greasy waist-coat fumbled for a match as I sat down next to him as he slid an old photograph across the beer stained table towards me. "Here son have a look at that", said he as I picked up the picture of a most beautiful younggirl that had been taken at Geromes photographic studio in Northumberland Street in 1946.

Of course I knew who she was, and knowing her background - she was a cut far above the rest of us lads and lassies in Haydon Bridge - but that did not deter or discourage the then young Jerry Attric from fancying his chances with the girl, in a most honourable way. After all why not? For he was a good looking example of mature youth in his prime with his glorious head of flowing ginger hair and he excelled as an all-round sportsman. Apart from that he travelled daily by train to Newcastle to study at "Skerry's" College, his chances did seem rather good.

She, a very attractive young lady, lived with her parents in a large stone house with a solid oak front door up the North bank, they had a resident maid and occasional gardener, her father being a banker in the city was looked upon as 'Somebody' in Haydon Bridge. He was on every committee going thus enabling his daughter to have a comfortable life, which in fact seems to have been a round of gentle pursuits.

The young Jerry's first and only acquaintance with the girl came one night at a Jimmy Shand dance held in the Town Hall by the Flower Show Committee. Jimmy Shand and his Band were well known throughout the length and breadth of the land as a Scottish broadcasting band and of course for Jimmy and the band to come to Haydon Bridge was something special.

Not that her father approved of his daughter going to the village hops amongst the "lower classes", reminding her that they, as the "Top people", were "their betters". However on this occasion, seeing it was Jimmy Shand - a respectable band - and his daughter would be accompanied by her friend Mavis, a young lady who epitomised respectability, her father relented. But as always her appearance had to be vetted by her mother. A blouse that was too revealing was met with a great deal of "TUT - TUTTing and needed changing immediately.

Stars studded a velvet sky and a pale undulating ray of light from the Hunters Moon danced upon the river as young Jerry Attric made his way across the bridge towards the Town Hall from the Railway Hotel where Ernie Mitchell had just called "last orders!". After all a few pints of McEwans best makes a good start to a Terpsichorean evening thought he as he ran his comb through his Brilliantined ginger locks as a last minute check. Blinking as he stepped into the bright light of the Town Hall from the blackness of the night, he paid his two and six pence.

There he sat, the maestro himself complete with button accordian, just as young Jerry had seen him on record covers in the music shop on Battle Hill in Hexham. His bald head shining under the hall lights together with his dead pan expression left no doubt that this was the mand himself - JIMMY SHAND. He was dressed in white shirt, black bow tie and Dinner Jacket, as were the rest of the Band.

His little drummer sat to one side beating out the rythym to the "Blue Bell Polka" - a - "Dratity, TAT - TAT -TAT, a Drat - a TAT - TAT -TAT." Sadie and Lily Pickering danced stylishly across the floor in pretty dresses wafting the scent of Lily of the Valley into Jerry's nostrils as he picked his way along the edges of the floor avoiding the dancers enjoying the Polka. Matt Smith the local postman, in a flurry of sweat, puffs and red face came louping past with legs kicking high and feet at all angles as the "Blue Bell Polka" continued to the note perfect fingers of Jimmy Shand on the accordian and the - "Drat-aty-Drat, TAT-TAT" of the kettle drum.

By now the music had stopped as everyone made their way back to their seats, puffing and wiping sweat from neck and foreheads. Young Jerry had found a corner to stand where he could eye the talent on offer, and was doing just that as he lit a 'Gold Flake' to give him confidence and hoping that he looked like Spencer Tracy at the same time.

As the evening wore on there was the traditional mixture of Quick-Steps, Modern waltz, Foxtrots, Valletas, Military Two-Steps and many more which were varied during the evening by at least one "Excuse-Me". The M.C. announced the next dance would be an "Excuse-Me" and to the strains of "In the Mood" the floor swished to the sound of natty footwork. It was at this point that the young Jerry Attric saw her - his heart went all of a flutter and he weakened a little at the knees when his gaze fell upon those full pouting lips, her gentle hazel eyes framed by hair as black as a Raven's, her skin was a clear milky white.

This was and opportunity not to be missed, thought Jerry, an "Excuse Me". In this dance one could step out onto the floor and say - "Excuse me" to the gentleman dancing with the girl of your choice, and being the gentlemen that they were in those far gone days, would honour the rules and move over. This he did as Jerry strode onto the floor, full of confidence in his well pressed dark brown double breasted pin-striped suit with 21" bottoms to the trousers, white shirt and brown tie. Jerry knew full well that his flashing white smile and Brilliantined hair would do the rest.

As her soft warm body moved languidly into his strong arms, his knees weakened a little more when he felt her warm breath on his cheek. As they moved off around the floor the Crooner stepped up and sang "When The Deep Purple Falls" - because he was Scottish no one could understand him, but that made no difference to the young Jerry Attric, for in his arms was the girl of his dreams from the big house up the North Bank. He wanted everyone to notice as he glided past putting in his natty footwork, fast cuts, kicks and bags of swanky style as she matched him in every move without loosing herself from hsi trembling grip.

Being the gentleman that he is the young Jerry Attric conducted his partner back to her seat and her companion Mavis, he then retired to the gents to check in the mirrot that his hair still looked good. It was while he gave an upward flick with the comb that he heard Wilf Dawson the M.C. announce "THE LANCERS", an energetic dance with a good deal of spinning in the sets, when men became reckless and swung young girls off their feet.

As Jerry rushed out and was about to say "May I have the pleasure" a tall broad shouldered chap in a kilt, from the Scottish side stepped in and swept her off her feet - galloping down the hall as Jimmy Shand gave it full blast to the tune of "A Hundred Pipers", causing the floor to vibrate and throb from dozens of galloping feet.

Shortly before the end of the evening came an old fashioned Medley followed by one more Polka where once again Matt Smith came into his own partnered by Betty Davidson from Peelwell Farm, leaving everyone breathless and glad of a longer break than usual before the band struck up for the last Waltz. As I looked at the photograph I got up from my seat and went to the bar for another "Broon" and a pint of McEwans best for Old Jerry. I was just sitting down when he found the match in his waistcoat pocket as I asked him what became of that dark haired beauty that he once fancied from up North Bank. "WEY", said he as he lit the Woodbine that led to a fit of coughing - causing him to break wind in a rather uncontrollable manner with each consecutive cough. I hoped that the people sitting at the bar didn't think it was me! "WEY", again said he after getting over his violent disturbance - "She married yon gadgy in the Kilt, him fra the Scotch side, he's a Gentleman Farmer yer naa, living aboot Gretna."

For a moment there seemed what was like an eternity of silence as I looked into his sad old face, I could see his mind rolling back through the years - he wasn't here, he was way back in 1949 to the night of the Jimmy Shand Dance - this brought back to my mind a poem an old man used to recite in the days of my youth.

A faded invitation card of 1925
What happy memories it evokes,
What happy hours revive!

I hear again the beat of jazz played at its very best; the Charlston and the Black Bottom; the one-step and the rest. I see again bobbed hair, bandeau and sleeveless shimmering frocks above the knees and silk clad legs, strap-shoes and ankle socks. I hear once more the melodies that made those days unique: "When you and I were seventeen" as we "danced cheek to cheek", "My Souvenirs" and "Tea for Two", "The Blue Room" and "Girl Friend" and "Bye Bye Blackbird ". AH, we thought those days would never end.

I put the little card away among my souvenirs and think of all the joys we had in carefree early years. And now, Alas, those days are gone, Old age has come at last. But it brings pleasure to recall those
memories of the past.

. . . . . As Old Jerry lifted his glass to drain it a tear ran down his cheek from a moist eye as he returned the photograph to his pocket - and I just sat in silence.

"Hello" said the Old Bridge to the New Bridge."Did you know its 12 months since we last had a chat? Mind you I must say that in the pastyear I've had plenty time to relax."

"Lucky you" remarked NB "And how did that come about? When we do chat you're usually bending my ear about you working hard to keep the pressure off me."

"Yes, I know" said OB "and I'm sorry if you get upset - but surely you've noticed the nice weather we've had. I've had no floods to contend with."

"That's all very well with you but the so called nice weather did me no favours whatsoever. The extra traffic going on for days out had my back red-hot."

"Oh poor you" replied OB with just a hint of pity, "You should have had a word with Eileen to get some lotion for ........."

"Now Now" interrupted NB "Don't knock Eileen. Her and her team have worked very hard to get the traffic off me. Take the time when those people up the road got their By-pass - there was Eileen out with her leaflets once again."

"Yes, Yes, I give her full marks. But I was only trying to cool the situation" quipped OB.

"Yes, but I think the furore before they began building has given 'the powers that be' second thoughts about extending" commented OB.

"Indeed so" replied NB. "You will be able to see the new Chapel. It looks as if it's going to be a very impressive building."

"It may take longer for the footballers to get 'League Status'" replied NB, with tongue in cheek, "With all the activity of Auction Sales, Quizzes, Hikes, walks etc., and that's just for the lights! "

"Oh Ye's's's" was OB's stuttered reply "But let us look on the bright side, this may be just the thing to keep this village together since YOU, and don't take offence, appeared on the scene"

"You mean to say that I have had a bad influence on the village?" said NB in an emotional voice.

"Sorry" said OB "You know I didn't mean that, but can I say when you came in I lost my cutwaters for the fish but the Otters have returned."

"OK, I'll try and explain" said OB. "The lights will show the way for the fish. There's no heavy water and no cutwaters. The Otters are there so the fish will get no further than the pool between us, so happy fishing."

"You've got me beat" said NB "Here comes another artic, I've got to get back to work."

"Fish in the pool" mused OB, "We could have Heron 'n Trout, Otter'n Eel, Salmon 'n ...." but OB was brought out of his reverie as the artic clattered its way over the main street manholes. "Ah well" said OB "Such is the valediction ..."

THE UNSPOKEN WORD

The unspoken word portrays
what we know to be the truth
captured in innocence through childhood
it can be both gentle and uncouth

The silent emissions themselves
speak out loud and clear
Telling us in our hearts and minds,
we feel what our ears do not want to hear

Sometimes you don't acknowledge
the signals which you can receive
Because deep down you know it's very difficult to want to believe
that the information given
is not quite precise
something's being held back,
cloaked by a clever disguise

The unspoken word is so silent
it can creep up unawares
like in the pages of a letter
or someone's glancing stares

When we need help or guidance
but are afraid to ask
the unspoken word sends the message,
assisting with a difficult task

No matter what the situation; pleasing, surprising, deceiving or the
need to share,
if you listened really hard, you would know the unspoken word was
there.

You don't always want to hear it,
as it can put your instincts to the test,
but more often than not, the unspoken word is your friend and is there
for the best.

Jacqueline Chilton

As most of you will by now well know, Dr. High is leaving the village after over 30 years living here. A small informal farewell buffet supper has been arranged in St. Cuthberts Church Hall between 7:30pm and 9pm on Wednesday 7th January. Dr. High will be in attendance.

If you would like to say farewell to your former Doctor please feel free to come along. It would help, if you intend to stay for a while, to bring along some finger snacks and a bottle if you so desire.

It must be stressed that this is a completely informal occasion - no gifts necessary as official presentations were made on Dr. High's retirement party at Langley Castle.

A site for a four rink artificial bowling green is available at Haydon Bridge High School and funds have been allocated by Tynedale Council & Haydon Parish Council to match a National Lottery bid for the balance of the costs.

What is now required is the formation of an Outdoor Bowls Club Committee to take the matter forward to the construction of the facility and beyond. Past efforts to get this Committee off the ground have not been successful as such a body would need at least eight interested persons to come forward.

If you are interested in forming a Committee, please contact Bill Howard (684355) and an inaugural meeting can be arranged at an early date. A lack of response will inevitably result in the proposal being dropped, along with opportunity of having this facility in Haydon Bridge.

Four of the ladies that I regularly meet at the Saturday coffee mornings were involved in a road accident on the A69 at Henshaw on 26th November.

Good wishes and a speedy recovery to J. Bottomley, M. Johnstone P. Stewart F. Turnbull.

NEW YEAR - NEW COURSES - The coming of the New Year will herald in a great many things, and amongst them will be a host of classes and groups in the area offering a wide variety of opportunities for local people.

Those seeking to improve on their qualifications can do so in two different languages - French and Spanish, at beginners or more advanced Computer skills, as well as in Maths, Sociology, Decoupage, and Art

Craft skills are especially well catered for, with groups offering the chance to do metalwork, fly-tying, stick-dressing, upholstery, arts, decoupage, and floral art.

Yoga, squash, volleyball and badminton groups all help to keep their members happy, fit and healthy in the New Year, with a choral group and wind-band keeping others in tune.

Details on all these groups, venues and costs are available from Haydon Bridge High School. (Tel: 01434 684422 Fax: 01434 684226)

ACROSS

1 STINGY CRAYFISH LOSES HYDROGEN SYMBOL (7)
6 LEGENDARY GERMAN ALCHEMIST (7)
12 SOFA LOSES 100 - PAIN REACTION (4)
14 MEASURE KNOCKS ABOUT CHIN (4)
15 CHINESE FRUIT (6)
16 BROKEN PIECE OF GLASS (6)
17 FORM OF PROTECTION (6,6)
18 CONTAINING BONE (6)
20 HYDROCARBON (6)
22 BACKSIDE (5)
23 CONSUMPTION (3)
25 HERBACEOUS PLANT (5)
26 HAUNT CONFUSION CAUSES HEADRESS REMOVAL (5)
28 FERROMAGNETIC MATERIAL
29 LARK ABOUT (6)
30 CLOCKED (5)
32 MILTARY HEAD-DRESS (5)
36 VESTIBULAR APPARATUS (3)
37 YOU WOULD LIKE THIS TOUCH IN THE LOTTERY
41 OLFACTORY PROPERTY (6)
43 COCKED HAT - DOUBLE GRAINED (6)
44 WAS THIS COWBOY A GOAT? (5,3,3)
45 OUTER COURT-YARD OF A CASTLE (6)
46 MIX UP (6)
47 XXII - XII = (4)
48 FAVOURABLE POSITION (4)
49 DOGMATISM (7)
50 CLEAN YOUR TEETH (7)

DOWN

1 VOLLEYS (6)
2 TAKE UP RESIDENCE (6)
3 ADOLF'S OFFICIAL TITLE (6)
4 DELIVERS FROZEN WATER? (3,3)
5 HOLES LEAD TO HEBREW WORLD OF DARKNESS (5)
7 GANGWAY (5)
8 REMOVES HEADRESS? (6)
9 DAMAGE (6)
10 CORD OF TWISTED FIBRES (6)
11 ARRANGEMENT (6)
13 COMMUNITY (6)
19 DESCRIPTIVE MARKER (7)
21 ATOMIC (7)
23 REMOVE A KNOT (5)
24 FEELING OF DESIRE (5)
26 ULTIMATE (3)
27 A LITTLE BIT (COLL) (3)
31 HAS MASS AND OCCUPIES SPACE (6)
32 MONKEY-BREAD TREE (6)
33 CLOTHING SOMEONE FORMALLY (6)
34 I OIL MYSELF TO GIVE MALE ITALIAN NAME (6)
35 NATURAL ENDOWMENT (6)
37 CHINESE EMPEROR (6)
38 THE FORMATION OF ICE ON SURFACES ALSO A LONG PUCK SHOT(6)
39 HEDGES (6)
40 FACIAL EXPRESSIONS (6)
42 MORE CUNNING (5)
43 NUT CHEWED BY S.E. ASIANS (5)