Index

Haydon News

October 1998

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EDITORIAL

Hi Folks – One of the difficulties in being the Editor of the Haydon News, with a style such as mine, is to decide what and how to write comment in the newsletter each month. As I am about the village visiting the various pubs and eating houses on almost a daily basis many people approach me and let me know their views on subjects that they would like covered in the next issue of the newsletter. Most are blunt and to the point however I have also observed just how extremely parochial the views of many villagers are. As most of you know by now I rarely make comments on matters of importance which I do not have first hand knowledge of – “too risky” Jim Davidson would say.

On Saturday 26th of September I was sitting here in my study – half listening to the Newcastle v Coventry match on the wireless – I was staring at this blank page, thought processes in a turmoil – should I or should I not cover the story?

You see folks for the four days previous I had spent each full day sitting in the public gallery at Court 2 Quayside Law Courts listening to the case concerning the action against the former owners and manager of the Peelwell Residential home just across the field from me. The former Peelwell farm where my Uncle Tom worked as a young man and where my mam took me to the fetes they used to have. Me a 6 year old terrified to put his hand into the bran tub to draw out a sticky toffee apple. How can I write about the case without offending either of the parties involved wondered I, perhaps I shouldn’t bother to try – this would have been the easy way out..

My thoughts were suddenly interrupted by a great cacophony of barking from Millie - a few seconds later the doorbell rang. At the door a well known figure in the village stood, explained why he was here I invited him in and we entered the study.
Following preambles we cleared up a couple of points when he raised the question of the subject over which I had been pondering for the previous hour or so. He agreed with me that I could not ignore the happenings of the past fortnight as the Haydon News normally reported on topical issues, and this one was certainly topical. We had amicable discussions for about quarter of an hour then he departed with the words:

“Mitch, I don’t envy you – the task you have to face !”

My report is on page 11, make of it what you may but please read it with an open mind. Next day I received the letter shown on page 10 – it was not written or prompted by my visitor.

On the Saturday evening it was down to the Prize Bingo in the Community Centre for a couple of relaxing hours with about sixty others ages between 8 and 85 years – I didn’t win!

Due to the absence of Chris and Joyce, having a short holiday, other Friends of Haydon Bridge, Alistair and Mike were on duty helping Pauline and Sylvia by selling raffle tickets and making the tea and coffee. Young Joseph Tulip volunteered to call the numbers – and what a grand job he made of that, he is also a bit of a comedian and had us all in stitches with his calls of “Two fat ladies 88” and “One fat lady number 8”

Since the Prize Bingo started a few months ago the attendance's have progressively increased each month – if you haven’t been yet why don’t you pop along on the last Saturday of each month. All profits are turned back into the various groups or organisations in the village and so far about £1000 has been raised.

If your group would like a Bingo session to be organised on its behalf please contact Joyce, Pauline, Sylvia, Chris or any member of The Friends.

The proceeds of the last couple of Bingo session are going to used by The Friends of Haydon Bridge to take members of the over 60’s Club and other elderly folk out for a Christmas Dinner at Oddfellows Hall on Saturday 19th December at approximately 5 p.m.. The meal will be followed by a light hearted concert in the Church Hall – this being organised and performed by The Rainbow Writers.

There are some tickets still available so if you are not a member of the over 60’s Club but are over sixty years old and wish to come for a good evening out please fill in the slip on page 9 and leave at the Post Office. As the numbers are limited to 50 people a ballot may have to be made to decide who to invite. If you are a member of the over 60’s Club you need not apply as your place is guaranteed.

The Friends of Haydon Bridge are again attempting to increase their membership. I would recommend that you consider joining to lend your support to the group’s increasing involvement in activities which benefit the residents of the Parish. Your support need be no more than moral as a non-active member. Joining The Friends does not imply that you support the views expressed in the Haydon News or the editor’s own particular style – however it does show you have an extra interest in your community. And we’re talking only of 10p per month ! Please fill in the slip on page 4 today – go on and do it now before you forget.

Bye for now Mitch

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Public Participation

Village Appraisal – Cllr. Mrs. Marion Howard outlined the proposals for developing the picnic site on the north side of the river. This site is available for sale to the Parish Council. The proposals include play areas for toddlers and junior age children, a picnic area with tables and seats, car parking bays and improvements to the road. The proposed development of the riverside at the bottom of Martins Close is on hold until the River Authority finish their redevelopment.
The light on Land Ends Road has been erected and a trench dug but as yet it is not connected.

Matters Arising
The A66 seems to be getting more attention and money spent on it than the A69. The time has come for another big push by villagers for another big push by villagers for a by-pass.

Planning – A number of planning applications have been received including an extension to the kitchen at Langley Castle. A proposed development of two detached houses at Hordley Acre House caused concern with the Council. The access was thought to be dangerous.

Correspondence – The level crossing will be closed from 11.00 p.m. On 17th October until 9 a.m. On 18th October.

Any Other Business – The fence around the disabled bungalow behind Strother Close is broken. The Council to be asked to repair it.
- The seat at the entrance to Strother Close from Church Street has been broken by British Telecom, it was claimed.. They are to be asked to repair it.
- The Water Board will be asked to remove the pipes left at the east end of John Martin Street.
- A problem with moles in Hordley Acres is to be investigated.
- The 30 m.p.h. Sign has still not been erected beyond the nursery entrance, nor has the barrier. The N.C.C. To be approached about these problems.
- The path is to be resurfaced on the North Bank past the High School and the hedge is to be cut.

PAT

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HELP US HELP THE COMMUNITY - JOIN THE FOHB TODAY

Present membership runs out on 30th September. New subscriptions are now due for the period 1st October 1998 – 31st December 1999. Membership is 10p per month so a subscription for the period is £1-50p. Please complete the form below and enclose with your membership subscription. You can give it to any member of the Committee or leave it in an envelope at the Post Office addressed to The Friends of Haydon Bridge. If you are a non-resident of the Parish of Haydon the subscription is 60p per month which includes a UK postal delivery of the Haydon News – please send cheque for £9 –00 to the Editor – address on page 2.

I wish to become an active / non-active member (delete as appropriate) of The Friends of Haydon Bridge for the period 1st October 1998 – 31st December 1999. Please find enclosed a cheque/cash to the value of . . . . . . .
Name .................................................................
Address .................................................................
.................................................................
Phone ......................... Please note that donations greater than minimum amount are welcome – all monies received will be used for the benefit of Parish inhabitants. Cheques payable to The Friends of Haydon Bridge

Readers outside U.K If you wish to support the Friends of Haydon Bridge e-mail us now at FOHB

Index

The Haydon Bridge W.I. Welcomed Mrs. P. Scott, Chairperson of the Hexham Branch of the Sugar Craft Guild who gave a talk and demonstration on ‘Sugar Craft‘.

She brought with her an exquisite display of objects made from sugar paste and chocolate. There was a plaque with a castle painted on it and a silver coach complete with horse. To go with this ‘Cinderella’ theme there was a glittering slipper filled with flowers. The variety of items produced was amazing; a delightful foxglove, a convincing fox, owls, squirrels, rabbits and a profusion of flowers to name only a few. There was even a baby in a christening gown. It was a fantastic collection and greatly appreciated by everyone.

The five raffle prizes were won by Mrs. Sparke, Mrs. Benson, Mrs. Thompson, Mrs. Gilhespy, and Miss M. Longley.

The competition for a ‘Home-made Sweet was won by first, Mrs. Clark and second Mrs. Sparke.

Myra Bowen

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Mr Paul Pender
Haydon Bridge Youth Football Chairman

With reference to the recently held BBQ night. This was a great success and I am led to believe everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. I would like, through the Haydon News, to thank the following people who with out their support the night could not have taken place. Betty and Maurice, Barry Hope, Allan Borthwick and Gillian Flanagan and the sponsor for the kids quiz and BBQ Harry’s Chippy. We must not forget the main person who ended up doing all the running about to get things ready and was working up until times of 11 p.m. washing and preparing for the big night ~ Jeanette Burrows and also to Maureen for letting her have so much time off work. The quiz night was won by Peter Drydon, Jason Pender and Marc Findlay, well done boys. Many thanks again to all who came and supported their Youth League.

Don’t forget to come and watch us if you have a spare Saturday morning (Under 10’s) or Sunday afternoon (Under 12’s,13’s and 14’s)
Paul Pender

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Dear Mitch,
Will you please include a note in the Haydon News to say that the Meals on Wheels organiser is now Mrs. B. Smith, Anchor Hotel.

Yours sincerely

L.C. Coombes
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Ed’s note

My pleasure Mr. Coombes. – Readers should note that Mr. Coombes has done the job for the past thirty years or so. Any queries on the Meals on Wheels service should now be directed to Beryl at the Anchor Hotel on 684-227.

We will definitely make sure we stop by in Haydon Bridge on our next visit home.

If anyone is travelling to Charleston S Carolina look us up - we are always good for a cup of tea. We are the only Blacketts in the phone book.

Dorothy Blackett

Dear Editor
I have just received a copy of September’s Haydon News per kindness of a Haydon Bridge friend. I enjoy it so much I would like a copy each month from October. [Enclosed was a cheque and donation – Ed.]
Thanking you and wishing you every success.

Yours sincerely
Jean Dinning
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Readers will recall that Jennie Anderson (Jean Dinning) was the beautiful leading lady in Zurika the Gypsy Maid in the 1936 production (Haydon News May/June 1998), her leading man was Harry Swallow. Sadly Alfie Kent died recently leaving only three members of that show still alive. One being Jean, her friend Connie Raine and Eric Turnbull.
Nice to hear from you again Jean – glad you like our newsletter. Readers please see note on page 4 re joining the Friends of Haydon Bridge and having the Haydon News delivered.

Index

Over the years I have been a regular visitor to the village.

My husband and I enjoyed good chats and made friends.

But has all hospitality gone from having a good night out, a chat with friends, talking and hoping to meet new ones.

You can see trouble coming! People asked to leave – Why can’t these people leave you alone? Do they not know how to enjoy themselves without causing trouble? Or have they not yet grown up? Before long you will be getting fewer and fewer visitors.

I thought long and hard about writing this but it seems it has to be said – it is a while since we visited but it will be a long time before we will again. If there are fewer visitors come to the village questions need to be asked and why?

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Ed’s note
Is this just the tip of an iceberg or a one-off? Our traders and licensees need the extra income that visitors bring. I welcome comments from residents and non-residents alike on what opinion they have of village services and how they can be improved. Similarly do you think there is a behavioural problem with the customers?

An E-mail from Canada
Here's a greeting from Vancouver Island from a Scotsman who has had many a merry evening in the "Club" and around the several cheerful hostelries in your delightful village.

I was "ower the moon" when I ran across your website. So many memories, and so many friends still around. My first grandchild was born in a house on the main street that used to be the property of a lady by the name of Lily Kent. Her niece is in fact my Daughter-in-law, Hazel, born and raised at Warden. I know there's nought [except expense, and I'm a Scot!] to stop me from contacting my old Pal Tommy Moore --and mustn't forget Pat--in Brigwood by phone, but here's a novel way, eh?

And there's a wandering Geordie by the name of Norman Bell who makes this Port Alberni area his second home, particularly during the local "Salmon Festival". Missed you this year, Norman---I was in Hexham while you were in Port Alberni! Your landlord tells me you were sitting on a forty-pounds-plus Salmon, third-prize weight and hardly any time to go when some lucky stiff boated one a couple of pounds heavier! I'll bet you said

"Oh dear!!"

Or something like that----. Never mind ---next year--.

Keep this great wee site going--- it's a breath of happy past times to this Scotsman.

Bobby Rogerson

I feel that I have to reply to the letter printed in the September issue of the Haydon News regarding Haydon View Rest Home, formerly Peelwell Rest Home.

I have had cause to visit Haydon View on a regular basis over the last 8 or so years. And I am still visiting there on a weekly basis. The improvement in the lives of the residents over the last 18 months or so, has been remarkable. If this is a Variety Club and Music Hall as was written in last month’s Haydon News then long may it go on.!!

Not only do the residents have ‘in house’ entertainment but they have trips out to the Metro Centre where they can choose their own clothes, gifts and treats etc., rather than visitors having to do their shopping for them, and then having tea in the restaurant before coming back home. They have had a trip to the coast, Kielder and various other local areas, and are now hoping to go further afield for a couple of days or so.

This has brought life back to the residents who, when they were living in their own homes, had neither the confidence, transport or help to be able to do these things even though they wanted to. These trips are available to all residents who can cope with them.

As Mrs. Audrey Kay, son Chris and the hard working staff of Haydon View hold a Fair to raise funds for trips out and ‘in house’ entertainment I feel that the money could not go to a better cause. Here we have our own Rest Home, where people from the village and the surrounding area know that if they need residential care, that life has not got to be sitting in a chair, watching a permanently turned on TV and that they will probably know the staff who will be helping them with their daily needs.

Obviously, there must not have been so much traffic at Peelwell farm house, when Nancy Ridley lived there, but are there many accidents on the dangerous bend? As I see it, everyone drives with tremendous care and attention at this access, and if there had been any doubt about its safety at the time of the conversion from a farm house to a Rest Home, I feel sure that the Local Authority would have objected at the time.

My opinion is that, long may Audrey and her son Chris help to make the latter years of their residents lives high quality, happy but most of all fun !!

Name and address withheld by Editor

The bend at Peelwell corner is extremely dangerous and in the past few years or so the garden wall of the house on the corner has had to be rebuilt on more than one occasion - many readers will also recall that the wall is often referred to as ’- - - - - - ’s leap’ following one local motor-cyclists encounter with the perimeter boundary. In the past month, as the skid marks on the road-side verge reveal, a bush on the north-bound corner was nearly demolished by an out of control vehicle.

SHAFTOE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

The Governors will meet in mid – November.Applications for grants for educational purposes should be sent to the Clerk at the address below not later than Saturday 31 October to ensure consideration at that meeting.

Further information or advice can be had by telephone from the Clerk (John Richardson) on 684 298.

Shaftoe Educational Foundation
Shaftoe Terrace
Haydon Bridge
NE47 6BW

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It all started one sunny evening in early June, yes honestly we did have some sunshine, I’m not sure though if that brief encounter could be classed as summer though. Nevertheless, I received a call from my friend Lorna who enquired if I would be able to call up to Hill Top (Langley) later on the night. Alan would like to put a proposition to me. It all sounded very intriguing. I ventured up to Langley post haste.

We sat in the front-yard and Alan put his idea to me; As secretary to the Youth League, and with Alan and Lorna’s godson playing (my son) they knew the position we had recently found ourselves in – very short of ready cash!!

We were joined by Sue Self and the plan of action took place. Alan proposed to undertake a Personal Challenge of a 10 mile walk, this would be marshalled by Sue. Discussion ensued over the route that Alan planned to take. Alan proposed to start at Hilltop and go via ~ Moralee ~ White Chapel ~ Prior House ~ Chesterwood (his birth place) ~ New Alston (where we suggested he be joined by some of the junior footballers and myself for the last leg) back to the Railway for light refreshments, for the junior members, and something stronger no doubt for the weary walkers! I agreed to speak to the rest of the managers and Paul Pender (Chairman to the Youth League) to see how they felt about this project. I assured Alan that I thought it was a wonderful idea. Alan’s aim was to try to raise £500. It sounded a lot but we were sure that this could be achieved, especially with Alan’s footballing background and his contacts throughout the community. We were all aware of the problems Alan had encounter over the last 12 months and Alan was more than willing to direct his energy into making something for the junior teams.

I contacted the rest of the managers and Paul that night and a meeting was set up to discuss Alan’s plans. We all thought it was wonderful that he wanted to contribute to ensuring that the youngsters all benefited by his challenge.

I returned to Hilltop with the news that the walk could take place, then the planning really took off. The date was set for July 29th 1998 and we hoped for fine weather. Come what may Alan would be walking accompanied by Sue. I supplied Alan with 6 sponsorship forms, duly printed stating that he was taking on a ‘Personal Challenge’ and all proceeds would be donated to the Youth/Junior Football League. We thought 6 forms would meet our needs! how wrong can you be, there wasn’t a night went by over the next few week when a some point in our regular conversations Lorna would ask for more forms - what was Alan doing with them all ( had he become a secret paper mache fiend?) No ! the forms where being distributed throughout the neighbouring countryside, through Alan’s connections at Matthew Charltons, without Wendy and Eileen who asked all and sundry to sponsor him, our funds would have been a lot less – thank you girls. Our thanks at this point must also be given to the Pubs and Shops for putting up the sponsor forms and collecting money in, not forgetting everyone of you who contributed to the cause.

The day eventually dawned, it wasn’t bright and sunny, but cold, wet and windy! Yes this was July. Weather aside Alan and Sue + Robbie (Sue’s faithful fourlegged friend) set off. Lorna followed in the car ensuring that things were running according to plan. Alan had his form verified by the strong arm of the law at Ridley Hall, where a police patrol car had stopped (on other business). It was then onward to White Chapel, they were greeted there by Stuart Herdman, who sponsored Alan on route. For all the weather was atrocious they were making very good time. Lorna came back into the village and collected myself and Jamie, who was going to meet Alan and Sue at Prior House and walk with him from there. Sue’s son Jamie was also going to meet his Mum and Alan. We arrived at Prior House and within a short time Alan and Sue appeared along with Robbie. It was still raining, but their spirits were high and they rose even further when I informed Alan that he had succeeded in securing sponsorship to the tune of £1000.!!! Onward they went towards Alan’s birthplace of Chesterwood. We took a short break here for Alan to take light refreshment with his cousin Jimmy Pigg. We had agreed to meet up with the rest of the youth footballers around 1 p.m. and Lorna ran me up to New Alston to wait for Alan, Sue, Jamie and Robbie to join us there. Photographs were taken on the windswept, freezing hillside as the boys and Alan met, then it was downwards all the way into the village.

What a reception, as we entered the village, shoppers and shop keepers had come out to greet Alan and Sue along with the boys. What a sight, Lorna must have been very proud of Alan that day, knowing that he had raised so much for our teams. I guess that statement ‘behind every great man, is a great woman’ it certainly fits this couple. We were greeted in the Railway, with juice for the younger walkers and something slightly stronger for the rest of us. As he sat, Alan pronounced that he would have to think of something else to help us. Lorna just raised her eyes skyward and pleaded ‘not a parachute jump’!! its O.K. he’s not really going to do that - but watch out in your next issue for an interesting night - just before Christmas.

The final amount raised surpassed all expectations - £1631.36, Well Done Alan. The cheque was officially handed over to the Chairman and the Treasurer (Mr Paul Pender and Ms Jackie Bell) at a music night, where Alan entertained in his usual manner and raised another £68 with a raffle. Is there no stopping this man? Watch this space.

Many thanks again, your junior youth team’s appreciated all your help.

Jackie Kirsopp
Secretary to Haydon Bridge Youth Football Teams.
Under 14’s, 13’s, 12’s & 10’s.

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Plenmeller House
Plenmeller
Haltwhistle
NE49 OHT
1st October 1998

Dear Mr. Mitchell

CHALLENGE 2000

Challenge 2000 is an ambitious project to raise £10,000 by the year 2000 on behalf of the charity CAFOD.

CAFOD, the Catholic Church’s official aid and development agency, funds over 1,000 projects in 75 countries, responding to emergency situations world wide.

On Monday 28th December 1998, a group of men, women and children of all ages and faiths, plan a sponsored walk along the route of Hadrian’s Wall, 14 miles of rugged terrain through breath-taking scenery. Last year a similar event raised £3,000 towards the £10,000 target and this Christmas it is hoped to offer the opportunity to exercise mind and body to anyone wishing to come along, creating a truly ecumenical experience as well as raising money for a most deserving cause.

CAFOD is committed to helping people all over the world provide for themselves and their families, to live in dignity and self-sufficiency. At a season where we in this country all tend to over-indulge, this could be a welcome opportunity to help others and rid ourselves of those excess pounds.

We would greatly appreciate any publicity you can give the event, giving my name as contact.

If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

P.F. Peace
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Ed’s note
What a splendid way to get rid of those post Christmas cobwebs – perhaps if family readers could discuss ways of supporting this cause as a family group I’m sure that plenty of sponsors could be found to help raise the modest target funding. Remember folks that this is a non-denominational sponsored walk. Let me know if you plan do anything to support CAFOD.

If you’re not the walking type you could offer your services and car to chauffeur the hikers from the village to the Wall and back – something I’m prepared to offer now.

Mitch

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One of the best flowering plants in my garden this month is the Japanese anemone. I planted several named varieties in a new border about six years ago and they sulked for a couple of years. I was beginning to think that despite a reputation for tolerance of soil and neglect they didn't like where I'd put them. Then they flowered for me, gentle shades- of pink and plum on long, waving stems that never need staking and they have improved each year since. These plants are really self-sufficient and, once established, are very long-lived. They flower in the autumn when other plants and flowers are fading and the foliage turns to red and purple with the first frosts. The flower has great beauty and grace, made up of single petals with a central green boss encircled by a ruff of gold stamens. It is also available in a semi-double or double form and in colours from pure white, through shades of pink, to a deep wine. These anemones are very easy once they have settled in. Their preference is for a fertile, well-drained soil in partial shade but they are very adaptable and hardy and would flourish in most situations in Haydon Bridge. Plants can be increased by division between October and March. Carefully dig up the crown with plenty of soil attached and separate into pieces. Make sure there are plenty of roots attached to each piece. Replant and be prepared to wait a year or two for the first flowers.

Root cuttings taken November-January are another method of propagating Japanese anemones. Select short strands of the main root and sever with a knife. Position them horizontally in a seed tray of moist, sandy compost covered with 1" of compost and place in a cold-frame. Young shoots will appear in the spring and can be planted into pots. Wait a year before planting out in the garden.

This month
-bring tender perennials into the conservatory or porch for a
frost-free winter.

- Fuchsias and pelargoniums (geraniums) should be cut back to half their size and watered very sparingly until spring.

- Empty any earthenware pots which could be damaged by frost or move them under cover.

- Plant spring flowering bulbs. Lift gladioli corms and store in a frost-free but cool outhouse over winter.

- Autumn planting, while the soil is still warm is considered to be the best time to plant trees, shrubs and plants.

- Village window boxes and pots looked so good all summer. Plant them up with winter flowering pansies to cheer us up through the next few months. Heathers, dwarf conifers and ivy are also suitable for containers.

Hi again folks ‘tis me again just giving you a bit more gen on my comings and goings this month. Unfortunately a couple of days after my court appearances I fell ill and had to retire to my bed so my appearances around the village have been few and far between. My suffering wife was scheduled to go into hospital on Thursday 1st October for a back operation but even that had to be postponed until I recover.

I was having a shave on the Friday morning when the phone rang, it was Nessie Marshall for me Sylvia told her I’d ring her back. When I did Mrs. Marshall reminded me that the Dancing Club was holding a Dance in the Community Centre that evening and I’d previously agreed to go along even though I’d expected to be on my own. Sylvia had already told Nessie that I was a bit poorly however I did say that if I was well enough to go out we would pop in for a short while.

Evening came – after Coronation Street I felt a bit better so suggested to Sylvia that perhaps we could go to Oddfellows Hall – have a glass of wine and a light meal then walk over the bridge to the Community Centre.

We entered the main hall of the Community Centre at about 10 p.m. The place was full of both music and people having a good time – however the music was not Disco but that of an earlier age when dances were dances and men were gentlemen asking the ladies to be their partner. All of the men were dressed smartly with jackets and ties, the ladies had best frocks on with many wearing the glittering dance shoes of old.

Daphne and Jimmy Biggs of Tarset were the hosts for the evening leading most of the sequence dancing with deft movements of foot they glided around the dance floor masters of this Terpsichorean art, as Owld Tawny would have said. Jimmy was also M.C. And he’d quickly announce the next dance, put on another selection before joining his partner back on the floor.

We’d only been in for a few minutes when Nessie brought a good selection of finger snacks from the kitchen and explained that the Dance Club function was to raise funds for St. Cuthbert’s Church. The Rev. Vincent Ashwin gave a short ‘thank you everybody for coming speech’ before leaving for another commitment.

Looking around the hall I admired the coloured drawings and balloons put up all around – I understand they were the creation of Joyce Armstrong and certainly added a bit of cheeriness to what is normally a very drab room.

Many of the people there popped over and had a little natter making us very welcome. Not being a dancer of repute I stuck to my seat as the couples danced around the room doing The Jacqueline Cha Cha Cha, Flirtation Two-step and the perennial favourite The Bradford Barn Dance. On one occasion amongst the swirling dresses I picked out the intricate and skilful footwork of Margaret Curry doing her stuff – marvellous sight. Although we had intended to stay only for half an hour we were enjoying it so much that we stayed until the end – the final touch I loved – standing and singing The National Anthem. The evening cheered me up after a miserable week – we drove home singing ‘Roamin in The Gloamin’.

The function raised £324 for Church funds – Well Done

Haydonian Nancy Ridley was born at Lipwood Well Farm in 1911. She was the only daughter of Matthew Ridley and Ann Henderson, Matthew died in 1928 aged 61 and Ann died in 1950 at Lipwood Well.

For those readers who do not know where Lipwood Well is – it is the building first on the right after you have passed the Rattenraw turn-off as you head towards Haltwhistle. Many of the farm buildings were demolished when the A69 was widened. Nancy’s first attempts at writing were as Editor of the Lipwood News – she never married and had one sibling who died in infancy.

Her grandfather, Matthew (1830 – 1913) married a Corbridge lass by the name of Mary Charlton. Matthew was apparently ruthless ambitious and overbearing man typical of a Victorian. Matthew’s own father (also Matthew) was a much gentler man. It was great grandfather Matthew who, finding his Birkshaw farm too small, moved into this Parish to farm at Peel Well. Gradually the family extended the already substantial land holding to include the farms of Lipwood Well, High and Middle Lipwood and Seldom Seen.

Grandfather Matthew and his son William made a great success of farming at Peel Well. Indeed the Peelwell Border Leicester sheep reared at the farm were quite famous in their day.

Nancy moved away from the area to live in Newcastle returning to live in the Tyne Valley at Wylam in 1966. She wrote five books

Northumbrian Heritage – 1968
A Northumbrian Remembers – 1970
Northumbrian at Large – 1975
Portrait of Northumberland – 1977
Northumberland Then and Now – 1978

Many villagers remember Nancy very well as she returned here regularly. She is buried in Beltingham Churchyard – a village she loved. Her headstone contains the words at the top of this column.

She lies but a few paces away from my own great great grandfather John Makepeace, my own ancestors were established farmers in the area in the 1600’s.

Mrs Audrey Kay and her son Chris, purchased the Peelwell Home in May 1997, some irregularities were found by the new owners. These were, the Kays felt, serious enough for them to be reported to the police resulting in charges being brought against former owners Mary Moore, husband Tot Moore. And their daughter Fiona Hawkins.

I have heard all the village gossip and opinions being expressed over the past 15 months – voiced in the main by people with a personal axe to grind against one party or the other. Indeed some villagers would have had the accused tarred and feathered and sent packing. Others would have the accusers deported and their passports withdrawn – banned forever from living here under ancient law enacted in the 1100’s when the Knights Templar were esconsed at Threepwood and Pandon. In those days even folk from Hexham were not allowed to enter! And as for the Editor of the Haydon News? – well he should have had three white feathers for not mentioning such an ‘important village event.’ Such was the ‘balanced view’ being expressed, pre-trial.

“What was the real truth?” wondered I when I heard that the the case had started in the Newcastle Law Courts on Monday 7th September.

There hadn’t been much in the local papers about the case save to say that Thomas and Mary Moore along with their daughter Fiona Hawkins were charged with conspiring to steal from residents at the Peelwell Residential home. All three denied the charges. Prosecution witnesses gave their evidence in the first week of the trial.

Fiona Hawkins did not give evidence and medical statements were produced to show that if she had taken the stand any evidence she gave would be unreliable because of her confused and depressed state. On a number of occasions both the Judge and defence Counsels warned the jury of six men and six women not to come to any conclusions regarding Mrs. Hawkins absence from the stand.When I took my seat in the public gallery in the second week Mary Moore was in the witness box undergoing intense questioning by prosecuting Barrister Mr. Graham who’s frequent claims that although Peelwell had been very successful, in recent years the place had been allowed to run down and was barely covering its running costs. This was denied by the accused as was the prosecution claim that the owners took money from the personal monies of residents to top up their own pension funds.

Specific things that came under close scrutiny by the prosecution were:-

(a) The paying of a locksmith approximately £40 cash for attending the Home to let in a resident who had locked herself out of a room. The locksmith was paid cash taken from the personal allowances of another resident, claimed the prosecution,. Mary Moore denied this and said that the money had only been ‘borrowed’ from money she had set aside but this had been returned shortly afterwards.

(b) Clothing charged to residents and was not actually provided. This prosecution claim was also strenuously denied by the defendant.

(c) A cosmetic appliance supposedly purchased for one resident did not exist. This was strongly denied.

(d) Irregularities in hairdressing charges to patients.

(e) Irregularities in chiropodist charges to patients.

(f) Use of resident’s money as petrol expenses.

Haydonian Keith Harrison was the defence Barrister for the Moores, Fiona Hawkins was represented by another Barrister. Mr. Harrison was thorough in his work and through detailed questioning of his client and other defence witnesses spent a long time demonstrating that the resident concerned was in fact a family friend of the Mrs. Moore a family relationship stretching back some 60 years.

Defence evidence was also given with regard to (b)
A Boot’s receipt was produced, it was claimed to be the receipt for (c)

The irregularities concerning (d) and (e) were explained away as book-keeping procedures and explanations were given to the Court – these seemed to demonstrate that in fact there were no discrepancies in the charges to patients for either hairdressing or chiropody.

There was, according to the defence, a simple explanation for (f) which was that rather than have residents collected by a hospital ambulance it was much more comfortable and convenient for the resident to be taken by private car which enabled both the resident and carer to get back to the home much quicker which was also beneficial for all residents at Peelwell.

A string of character witnesses, people who had had relatives in Peelwell whilst the Moores were owners, all gave evidence to say how under Mary Moore’s management Peelwell had been an excellent well-run home for the elderly. Indeed in prosecution Counsel's final submission even Mr. Graham acknowledged that prior to the place being up for sale it was indeed a good home. Similarly the Judge, in his summing up referred to the evidence showing it was a well run establishment. Two senior people from a London home and a Manchester Home gave evidence of one resident who specifically asked to come to Peelwell to be looked after by Mary Moore.

One witness, I think that judge referred to the ‘quality evidence’ she could give, was not allowed to give evidence on one particular aspect, vital to the defence case as he ruled that the evidence was ‘hearsay’

Mr. Moore’s cross examination by Mr. Graham was interesting as throughout the hearing the defendant was adamant in his pleadings that he had nothing to do with the day to day running of the place and knew nothing of the books. When like his wife he was accused of taking money to top up his pension he loudly said “RUBBISH” to the prosecutor – this happened on a number of occasions. As Mr. Graham continued with his questioning every time he asked the accused a question concerning the Peelwell books Mr. Moore would lean over the rail, look Mr. Graham in the eye and say in a loud voice “You are obviously not listening to what I am saying – I had nothing to do with the day to day running of the Home.”

During questioning Mr. Moore revealed that a bank account belonging to the Peelwell Home was still open and had not been touched since the start of the Police investigations. Asked why he had not reported it to the Police he answered “I was never asked.” This account held a credit balance of well over £1,000 – the bank statement was shown to the jury.

[Note. The prosecution claimed that in total some £750 was missing or had been misused]

During his two hour final submission Mr. Harrison submitted that neither of the Moores had a case to answer as no money had actually been stolen from any of the Peelwell residents and all ’irregularities’ had been accounted for.

Mrs.Hawkins’ Barrister highlighted his client’s mental state at the time of the alleged crimes and indicated this could probably explain some genuine mistakes which had been made during the accused’s latter period as Manager of the Home.

The Judge, Mr. Nolan, who had been most thorough and sympathetic throughout made a two hour summing up speech which I thought was excellent. During this he was very fair to both parties however he did point out that although it had been shown that the accused were of exemplary character this could be said of most people before they committed their first crime. It was also pointed out that the prosecution witnesses were present employees of the Home.

He told the Jury that if they could not make a decision before 4:30 that he would allow them to leave for the weekend and recommence their deliberations on the Monday. On Friday 25th September, at about noon, the jury – who had been most attentive throughout the trial and taken copious notes, retired to consider the evidence.

The defendants retired to a local hostelry, under instructions to be back in the Court building at 2:15. Your reporter and his companion were elsewhere in Newcastle for part of the lunch-break. Entering the quayside pub at about 1:30 we ordered our meals – the place was packed and the Moore’s beckoned us over and after a bit bum shuffling we sat down at an adjacent table to wait for our lunch.

I made small talk reminding Mary that she had not yet sent in the Haydon News Crossword for September – her response is exactly what I expected and certainly not for these columns.

Shortly after 2 p.m. the Moore’s left – we still waited for our lunch – my companion asked me what I thought would be the outcome. My response was that on the defence evidence I had heard over the past four days there would be sufficient doubt in my mind to find them all not guilty.

We returned to the Court building at about 2:20, I agreed with my companion we would leave at about 3:30 as we had to be back to Hexham before 4:30 however I said that I expected that after a two week hearing the Jury would probably require a lengthy period to discuss the case and I would likely be back on the Monday. How wrong I was!

At about 2:40 p.m. one of the court officials came out and I heard him say –

“The Jury has reached a verdict.”The Barristers and lawyers hastily fastened open collars, adjusted their dress and signalled their clients to return to Court 2 – within five minutes we were all back in court and for the first time the ominous presence of a uniformed police officer sat by the door – all three defendants stood in the dock. A knock on the courtroom door – we all stand as the Judge enters the Court –Judge sits – we all sit – Jury return to Court – defendants stand –
Clerk speaks – Jury Foreman speaks

“How do your find the defendant Fionna Watkins? “GUILTY”

“How do your find the defendant Mary Moore?” “GUILTY”

“How do your find the defendant Thomas Moore?” “NOT GUILTY”

If your reporter were editor of a large newspaper he would let the story end there and produce sales catching headlined articles to boost the circulation of his newspaper – but he’s not and won‘t..

Mr. Moore was allowed to leave the Dock and joined us in the public gallery however before dismissing the Jury the Judge informed them that he would not be sentencing Mrs. Hawkins or Mrs. Moore on that day and that each faced other charge(s). Prosecuting Counsel rose and said that the Crown had not yet decided whether to proceed with these charges. The Judge indicated that he would probably be the Judge in any other case and would like to know if the prosecution intended to proceed before deciding the sentence for the guilty parties. He added that he had to be extremely careful in deciding the appropriate sentences in this difficult case.

The Jury were then dismissed - Mrs. Moore and her daughter were released on bail pending sentencing.

I left the court five minutes later. As I was performing u-turn at the rear of the court building I had to stop to let the Court 2 Jury pass and observed the smiling foreman shaking hands and bidding farewell to one of the other jurors as they made their way home after a gruelling two weeks work. Their ordeal was over, however for the witnesses, both defence and prosecution together with the previous and present owners a new ordeal lies ahead.

The witnesses were of necessity split into two camps and the time for reconciliation is here. We live in a small community and it must be recognised by each camp that the other side were giving evidence only on events of which they had first hand knowledge.

Fionna Hawkins no longer lives in this part of the County and must wait, in mental torment, for the Judge’s decision on her sentence. I wish her well for a quick and lasting recovery – having trod a similar path myself in the past I appreciate what she must be going through.

Mary Moore who has protested her innocence throughout this case – and still continues to do so – must also wait to find out what sentence is to be imposed by the court. Whilst waiting for her case to be heard she bravely held her head high and continued to use the village shops whereas most of us would probably have locked ourselves away for 15 months. I hope she has the strength to continue the same stance post-trial. By the way Mary the crossword is a bit easier this month !

Tot Moore has also protested his innocence throughout and was found not guilty by his peers. As demonstrated in court he is quite capable of fighting his own corner.

Mrs. Audrey Kay and son Chris who own Haydon View Residential Home must now be allowed to get on and run this much needed facility for our elderly folk. I have visited the place on a number of occasions since they took over and have been suitably impressed on their plans. I wish them every success in this venture.

This report is my own and any interpretation should not be considered to be the opinions of the Friends of Haydon Bridge.

S.B. Mitchell, High Brindles, Haydon Bridge
4th October 1998

NB – I have heard but have not yet confirmed, that appeals against the verdicts are to be made. SBM

Index

From the skeul on the hill aa could see aal aroond,
te the places aa knew as a bairn.
From the born in the wood where we tickled the troot,
te the Tofts Bank where sledgin aa'd larn.
On the banks of the Tyne, a bent pin on a line,
we’d cast reet and left with a worm.
We’d gan nestin for bords eggs in a wood doon the Land Ends,
past the hoose were John Martin was born.

From Whitechapel West te Capon Cleugh East,
from Stublick te Sewingshields Crag.
Thor’s nee place aa knaa ov that aa’d rather be ov,
te nee foreign shores me they’d drag.
For a summer excorsion thor’s nee better vorsion,
than te wander aboot on the waal.
Or te gan into Geeswood, te see if the trees wud,
support me rope swing as aa swang.

Just doon past the Spa Well we’d dive off the rocks,
and at Limestone we’d gan swimming theor.
The tales aa wes telt ov the folks drooned in Kidd’s Hole,
it fair filled me young heart with fear.
But sec thowts ov that kind didn’t pray on me mind,
it wes heroes and dreams left thor mark.
With two coats on the groond and a baal that was roond,
aa wes ‘Wor Jackie’ at Lowhall Park.

From Brokenheugh, Lipwood and South te Deanraw,
te Elrington on the old line.
We’d waalk theor on Sundays, mind they were sec fun days,
if aad only known that at the time.
But me mind used te wander, ov young girls aa’d ponder,
on Humbleton Fell thor’s nee doot.
It’s a grand place to be just afore Sunday tea,
but thor’s not many lasses aboot !
Thor’s the times aa remember, November, December,
wi snow piled high ower the door.
From Threepwood and Elfoot te Peelwell and Pagecroft,
they’d keep food for three months in store.
It’s the place aa belang te, the home toon aal gan te,
when the Lord says “It’s time te gan yem”
And from the field below Crook Hill,
aa’m sure that aa’l see still,
the places aa knew as a bairn
.
‘D’
Index

In several editions of these medical newsletters over the years 1 have mentioned the need to reduce the use of antibiotics. We have always tried to be restrained in their use, whilst at the same time not refusing them to people who need them. As you may have read in the papers recently, the message has just started to seep into the collective consciousness of the ruling classes, that all is not well in the world of microbes and their relationship with man and that action is now required more urgently than ever.

We now have many microbes that are resistant to all our drugs and the number is growing. Microbes become resistant to drugs because, quite simply, those microbes that have experienced a mutation in their structure that allows them to survive exposure to an antibiotic, are the ones that are left after treatment and which go on to breed and get passed on to other people. The microbes pass the resistance information on to their friends by little chemical messages called plasmids.

The British Medical Journal recently devoted an entire issue to the subject and a number of communications have been sent to GPs urging greater restraint. It may be that very tight (legal?) controls will be introduced on the use of antibiotics quite soon and we may all have to get used to the idea of allowing the common infections, that we all get, to take their natural course and get better on their own. This will reduce the development of resistant microbes and, perhaps, allow the remaining microbes to return to their earlier type.

Remember - sore throats, chest infections, flu, coughs and colds do not normally require an antibiotic. Ear infections in Europe do not usually get antibiotics, just pain killers and patience. Urinary tract infections (cystitis) and sinusitis may need antibiotics but only for three days, first aid treatment for cystitis remains a very large fluid intake - if you can wee faster than the bugs can breed, you'll win!
One of the benefits for patients of short courses of antibiotics is that the price is much lower and more people will be able to pay less for their prescriptions by having a private prescription. Another benefit is that side effects, like thrush and diarrhoea will be less frequent.

We may well send samples of phlegm and urine and throat swabs off to the laboratory more often, for analysis, before prescribing in the future too. This I'S to cheek that both an antibiotic is in fact required and to find out which one is most likely to work. This may delay treatment by a day or two.

Antibiotics are also used very widely in agriculture and very tight controls will probably be introduce there too.

1 hope people will understand the reasons for using antibiotics as little as possible. Please ask if you do not understand.

OUT-OF-HOURS COVER

By the time this edition of the Haydon News hits the streets it will be common knowledge that we and Allendale have become part of the out-of-hours cooperative. Some people will be anxious about what this means for them.

There is now, and there always has been, a doctor on call at every moment of every day of the year. If an emergency arises then medical help, in the form of a local doctor, is available at the end of the phone.

HOW TO USE THE SYSTEM

If you require assistance with an emergency when the Health Centre is closed:

1. Get the number of the central answering service from the Health Centre answer phone.

2. Phone the central number. A trained telephonist will take your details and pass them immediately to the nearest Primary Care Centre (Hexham for us).

3. The Doctor on call will phone and discuss the problem with you. Advice will be provided or an appointment made for you to attend the Primary Care Centre. If it is appropriate, a home 1 visit will be arranged by the doctor.

Those doctors who joined the out-of-hours cooperative a couple of years ago have proved that the system works well. A lot of hard work, thought and expense has gone into producing a service tailored to the needs of a rural population. People can place their confidence in the system without hesitation.

Each practice will continue to provide personal care to patients who are dying and, in extremely severe weather, each practice will undertake its own out-of hours work.

The out-of-hours centre, where the doctor on-call is based, is at the Abbey Clinic in Hexham. This is, as the name suggests, right next to the Abbey and very easy to find.

1 have spoken to a number of people who have used the system, including my Mum, and they agree that it works well. Any anxieties that people have will soon be allayed. We welcome feedback on how the system works for you. Let us know.

It's a fallacy. The notion that religious experience is a special kind of experience is a fallacy. The notion that religious experience is a special sort of experience is corrosive of real religion. Profoundly corrosive!

God is not encountered primarily in the exotic, the arcane, or the devout. So we do not need a special religious faculty to experience God. We do not need a sixth sense or a third eye even to find God.

If we do think in terms of religious faculties, umptennth senses and third eyes as the surest route to God, then most of us are ruled out. Clearly, the vast majority of us do not have that sixth sense, third eye, or religious faculty.

At the heart of our Christianity is the understanding that all our experiences are religious. Or none of it is! Most of us have a sense of ,awe and insight at some time or other. Birth, marriage, death give us moments of profound experience and vision, perhaps? And maybe we would call these moments religious. But they are not the norm.

Mystical expereince is not the stuff of our religion. These 'highs' enlighten and encourage us, but they are at best lights in our ordinary, everyday lives.

God is not locked in the sacred. Not since God became human. No, God informs all that we do and all that we are. So we not have to go into a temple or a prayer room to meet our God. We see God in the faces of our fellow-men and women.

The God of the Christians is not the God of souls, full stop. Rather, the God of our whole humanity. So perhaps we need to beware of being too spiritual. For our own sakes and others'

Just a thought or two I thought I'd like to share with you after reading something about an excess of spirituality.

Leo Pyle.

Father Leo Pyle is parish priest of the Roman Catholic Church of St John of Beverley.