Bergholt Heath YFC Results 12th December and Fixtures

After all the snow some footie at last and a decent set of results on balance.

Our under 8s didn't play - the team they were originally scheduled to play are no longer in the league.

The under 12s played Long Melford at home in the league cup and won 3-2 to progress to the quarter finals. The result did not reflect the game which could have ended 10-0 as Bergholt missed at least 3 one-on-one's against the Long Melford 'keeper - none of the shots ending up on target - before Long Melford took the lead with their only attack of the first half, with the Bergholt keeper shovelling the ball across his 6 yard box the striker ran in and put the ball in the net with a "if you're not going to pick it up I'll put the ball in the net" attitude of a good striker. Having missed at least another 2 or 3 more easy chances, Bergholt scored with a much harder chance, Ronan Gallagher getting in front of his marker at the near post to steer in a low cross from Gianni Sabini. The second half saw Bergholt camped inside the Long Melford for long periods but their 'keeper continued to keep Bergholt at bay. Antonio Sabini scored a good second and then he slotted home a penalty after Ronan Gallagher was adjudged to have been brought down in the box. Long Melford pulled a goal back with almost the last kick of the game. Bergholt Heath 'man of the match': Ciaran Donnellan.

The under 13s were away to Halstead in the league, but lost a close match 3-0 with the first goal coming after less than a minutes from a bad back pass and the third coming in the last minute on the break as Bergholt were trying to grab something from the game.

Our under 15s continue to struggle in the league, losing away to Alresford 10-1. James Dixey scoring the Bergholt goal.

The under 16s won away to Boxford 3-0 in the league cup, Glenn Wheeler x 2 and Adam Bartlett scoring the goals. They also progress to the quarter finals.

Our under 18s completed the fixtures, winning at home to Tolleshunt D'Arcy 5-3 in an entertaining league game despite playing with only 10 men. Jacob Hill lead the way with 2 goals, with others coming from Ben Brice, Ben Flower and Dean Bennell.

Next weekends fixtures, 19th December:
Gt Bradfords v Under 8
Under 12 v Frinton KO 10am
The under 13's do not have a game
Under 15 v St Edmunds KO 12 noon
Gt Bradfords v Under 16
Under 18 v Feering Blues KO 10.30am

The weather wins - Bergholt Heath YFC fixtures

Not surprisingly, all this weekends games were postponed. In fact no games took place in the Colchester and District Youth League! The only surprising thing is that the league itself did not call off the games and left it to the individual teams to do the necessary.

Hopefully things will be back on track this coming Sunday 12th December, with the following games due to take place:

Under 8 v Coggeshall KO 10.30am
Under 12 v Long Melford Colts League Cup R3 KO 10am
Halstead Blues v Under 13
Alresford Reds v Under 15
Bullers FC v Under 16 ECC R3
Under 18 v Tolleshunt D'arcy KO 2pm

Village Bulletin Online

This quarterly publication is now available to read online along with many archive copies. Find out more about what First Responders have been up to, how residents can benefit from faster broadband and much more of local interest. Click on the following link www.westbergholt.net/village_bulletin.htm.

Women's Institute - December Report

Members braved the icy conditions to be welcomed by the president Pat Moran to the Christmas party. The supper was prepared by the committee and members were then entertained by Ray Spiller with his musical quiz and CD's from the pop charts interspersed with his anecdotes.

Next month subscriptions of £30 are due also the remaining payment of £7 for our birthday lunch in February. The meeting on 5 January will welcome a speaker from the Salvation Army. The competition will be a pretty cup and saucer.

Bergholt Heath YFC Results 28th November and Fixtures

Not surprisingly, all yesterdays games involving the village teams were postponed due to frozen pitches. In fact in the end all scheduled league matches in the Colchester and District Youth League were postponed yesterday.

Should the weather improve in time, next weeks fixtures - Sunday 5th December - are scheduled to be as follows:

Marks Tey v Under 8
Under 12 v Heybridge Swifts Youth KO 10am
Harwich & Parkeston v Under 13
Under 15 v Brightlingsea Regents KO 12 noon
Under 16 v Colchester Athletic KO 2pm
Colchester Athletic v Under 18

The Friends of Hillhouse Wood 16th AGM

takes place on Wednesday 8th December in the Orpen Hall and will welcome both members and non-members alike. Refreshments will be served from 7pm. The AGM will be followed by an illustrated talk entitled Walking, Wildlife and Winning Lottery Bids in the Dedham Vale which will be given by Simon Amstuz, Joint Project Manager for the Dedham Vale AONB and formerly Project Officer for the River Colne Countryside.

Any queries to M R Pluck, Honorary Secretary on 01206 514173.

Bergholt Heath YFC Results 21st November and Fixtures

Our under 8s got back to form at home to Long Melford. Jonah scored a hat-trick. Alex and Richard also got on the score sheet with one each. Nathan was the under 8's 'man of the match'.

The under 12s had a hard battle away to Wivenhoe on a muddy pitch, winning 3-2 with all the goals coming in the first half. Bergholt went 1-0 up with an own goal from a corner. However sloppy play in midfield presented Wivenhoe with 2 quick goals. Jake Adams pulled it level and then Antonio Sabini scored a penalty after a defender handled on the line. The referee booked the player which is the first booking we have seen at this age group, but a booking is better for the boy than a sending off at 11 years old. The second half was mainly Wivenhoe but the defence held firm and did not present them with many clear cut chances. Bergholt Heath's 'man of the match' was Aaron Marley.

Our under 13s Essex Cordell Cup game at home to River Hawkes was postponed due to player's illness which meant we could not field a team.

The under 15s lost away to Long Melford 8-1, which is a big improvement, and we are starting to score goals again. One of our new signings, Kristoff Andreas-Carter, scored his first goal for the club.

Our under 16s were at home to Halstead and won 3-0. Bradley Povah, Tom Hodder and Josh Claydon scoring the goals.

The under 18s were way to Lawford Reds and lost 7-0.

Fixtures for next Sunday 28th November:

Lexden Saints v Under 8
Under 12 v Wivenhoe Blues, KO 10am
Holland Blues v Under 13
Under 15 v St Edmunds, KO 12 noon
Gt Bradfords v Under 16
Under 18 v Feering Blues, KO 10.30am

Getting acquainted with fungi

– is the subject Ian Rose delighted his audience with at the Gardeners’ Association November meeting. Ian is a well established mycologist who has led and participated in numerous fungi forays across the British Isles. His talk was illustrated with a selection of slides featuring fungi in its many guises of colour, shape, and size. Location and smell, and importantly whether it was edible or poisonous were also useful facts noted. His extensive collection of pictures covered fungi ranging in form from ‘dry rot’ to the much prized ‘chanterelle’. Pictured right is the Cantharellus cibarius Chanterelle.

A day outing to East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden, Norfolk - http://www.e-ruston-oldvicaragegardens.co.uk - has been planned for 15 June 2011, stopping off en route at Taverham Garden Centre. Cost £18.50 for coach and entry. Members and non-members are urged to book early so as not to be disappointed. Further information obtainable from the Treasurer at terryclaydon@aol.com

At the next meeting on Monday 13 December at 7.30pm in the Orpen Hall members will welcome Maureen Sayer, a local florist, who will demonstrate on creating festive decorations using natural materials from the garden. A fork buffet will be served at a cost of £2.50 to each member. New members are welcome to join the Association at the December meeting.

Joining our organisation is easy and inexpensive. Membership subscription is value for money at only £8 per year. The Chair, Valerie Lofthouse, can be reached on 01206 855450 or valerielofthouse1@hotmail.co.uk for details on the Gardeners’ Association.

Chitts Hill - Emergency Closure

Essex Council have announced the emergency closure of Chitts Hill for approximately 100m either side of the level crossing in order to repair faulty high voltage cables. Works are expected to last up to 4 days and so the road may not be reopened until Tuesday/Wednesday 23rd/24th November. The picture shows the location of closure and alternative route via Eight Ash Green (click for larger picture).

Advance notice closures are normally announced on the village website at http://www.westbergholt.net/road_closures.htm

Bergholt Heath YFC Results 14th November and Fixtures

Not the best of weeks! The under 8s didn't score any goals, away to Bures.

The under 12's lost away to Lexden Saints, who are top of the table and yet to drop a point this season, 4-2. The first half saw us go 2-0 down but we fought back to 2-2 by half time, and we could have been one or two goals in front at half time if the Lexden Saints keeper had not made some excellent saves. The half time changes didn't work as planned and the second half we struggled to get forward and lost two further goals without really threatening. A disappointing end. The Bergholt Heath goal scorers were Gianni Sabini and Leo Tiffney. Our man of the match was our goalkeeper Connor Welfare, for his second half performance!

Our under 13s also lost to the top of the table side, this time at home, 4-1, to Stanway Villa. Keir Brown scored the Bergholt Heath goal.

The under 15s had a full team for the first time in several weeks, but lack of games was certainly a factor, especially in the first half when they found themselves 16-0 down at home to Clacton. A half time switch of positions by the manager made for a much improved second half, with the game finishing 18-1. James Dixey scored the Bergholt Heath goal.

Our under 16 team had a spare weekend as there was no scheduled fixture.

Our under 18s completed the set of poor results, losing 7-0 at home to Lawford Blues.

Fixtures for Sunday 21st November:
Under 8 v Long Melford KO 10.30am
Wivenhoe Yth v Under 12
Under 13 v River Hawks 'A' - Essex Cordell Cup Round 3, KO 10am
Long Melford Reds V Under 15
Under 16 v Halstead Blues KO 12 noon
Lawford Reds v Under 18

Not all Pharaohs & Slaves

The WEA's Spring course tells a different story about Ancient Egytpt to the one we think we know. Frances Boardman, the course presenter writes:

"Ancient Egypt could not have flourished without the people who farmed, fished and built all those monuments. Meet some of these ordinary men and women as well as kings and queens."

The course takes the form of a series of illustrated talks starting on Tuesday 11 January 2011 at 8.00 p.m. and runs for eight weeks, instead of the usual ten, due to other commitments of the tutor. The plus side to this is that the course fee is only £35.00. The talks last for an hour and a half, with a coffee break in the middle, when there is a chance to look at and borrow books on the subject.

We meet in the Methodist Hall in Chapel Lane CO6 3EF.

If you are not sure whether this is for you, why not come along and sample the first evening for free? For more details, or queries, ring the Secretary on 01206 240791.

Hope to see you there!

Autumn clean?

St Mary's Church is holding its Autumn churchyard clear-up on Saturday 27th November starting at 9am. A great opportunity for volunteers to come along, with rakes and gardening gloves please, to help tidy up.

Heathlands School Special

Sunday 21st sees a special Family Service at St Mary's Church welcoming children from Heathlands School. The service starts at 9:30am if you would like to join them.

Buying Online This Christmas?

If so, why not access your favourite e-Tailer through our webshop. The prices, offers, discounts will all be the same with the single difference that they will pay commission to parish funds which can then be spent on community projects! For a typical Xmas Present shopping list commission of around £15 could be earned. The website is dead easy to remember - just type in buy.at/westbergholt in your browser and either search there or click through to your favourite online shop.

The latest update from buy.at includes new offers and shops:

SPECIAL OFFERS
Activity Superstore – 10% off everything

• Use code ‘ASNOV10’ to receive 10% off everything
• Expires: Friday 31st December 2010
• Commission: 15%

PLAY – 25% off selected board games

• 25% off selected board games like Monopoly, Yahtzee, Pictionary, Jenga, Twister and many more
• Commission: 6% on clothes, 3.5% on Mobiles, 2% on DVDs, CDs, Books & Games, 4% on Gadgets, 0.5% on PCs & Electronics and 1% on Game Consoles

ASDA grocery– 3 for £10 on selected Wine

• Great offer in the build up for Christmas: Get 3 bottles for £10 on selected wine
• Commission: £.5.50 for new grocery customers (minimum spend £25)

Thorntons – 3 for 2 on selected treats

• Thorntons is offering 3 for 2 on a great selection of treats from Chocolate Smothered Orange Slices to Continental chocolates. Grab three items from the 3 for 2 selection and get the cheapest FREE!
• Commission: 8%

Game – Call of Duty: Black Ops for only £24.99 (RRP£42.95)

• Call of Duty: Black Ops launches tomorrow Tuesday 9th November and GAME has a limited launch offer which allows you to get the Standard Edition on Xbox 360 or Play Station 3 for only £24.99 when bought with selected titles
• Please see their website for full Terms and Conditions
• Commission: 3% on software sales, 1.5% on Solus hardware sales

Dare 2b – 60% off sale

• To help launch the new autumn/winter range you can now get 60% off hoodies, fleeces, shorts, jackets and much more
• Commission: 6%
  

Superdrug – 3 for 2 deal

• This fantastic 3 for 2 offer gives you the chance to get some amazing deals. You can mix and match any items that have the ‘present’ icon and get the cheapest free!
• Expires: Tuesday 16th November
• Commission: 6.5%

Hotels – up to 40% off winter beach holidays

• The fabulous winter sale has launched and you can save up to 40% on winter beach holidays to Barbados, Thailand, Greece, Spain, Portugal, Tunisia and many more!
• Expires: Book now until Wednesday 15th December and travel between now and Monday 31st January 2011
• Commission: 6%

NEW RETAILERS

National Trust Memberships

• From £16.50 you can visit hundred of fantastic places in England, Wales & Northern Ireland as many times as you like. No commission is offered for Life Time Memberships
• Commission: 30% off the membership value
• Note: Get 12 months membership for the price of 9. There’s a FREE pair of binoculars for you too!

Women's Institute - November Report

The president, Pat Moran, welcomed members to the Annual Meeting. Vouchers were given to Joyce Hollock and Mary Fulford who were joint winners of the monthly competition for 2010. A letter was received from the federation secretary, Val Stone, for our cheque of £19.32 collected from 'pennies for friendship' for ACWW.

Pat Beeching chaired the Annual Meeting with president Pat Moran re-elected, Pat McSweeny remaining as treasurer, Marie Fitz-John minute secretary and Jacqui Hunns joining the committee as secretary. Retiring secretary, Rachael Colley, was presented with a plant and good wishes given to her for her forthcoming marriage.

Two plays then followed 'Crickets' written by Rene Keates and 'Old Friends' written by Joyce Lucking both members of our WI.

Next month is the Christmas party which will begin earlier at 7pm, members are reminded to please bring cutlery and a glass.

Bergholt Heath YFC Results 7th November and Fixtures

Great results in the league cup!

Our under 8s unfortunately didn't score any goals today, at home to Stanway Villa.

The under 12s played Wivenhoe youth Reds at home in the league cup and ran out comfortable 11-0 winners. The goals were scored by Ronan Gallagher, Aaron Marley, Jake Adams, Gianni Sabini, Antonio Sabini, James Hirst, a hat-trick from James Holden, plus two own goals. Bergholt Heath also missed a penalty. Our 'man of the match' was James Hirst.

Our under 13 team also played at home in the league cup, going two better than the under 12s by beating Halstead Town Reds 13-0. The goal scorers were: Cameron Siedlecki x 2, Henry Ellis x 2, Callum Sells x 2, Myles Went, Kier Brown, Daniel Harding x 2, Jonathan Knight, Arthur Turner and Edward Quilty.

The under 15s game Vs Gt Bradfords was postponed due to player unavailability.

Our under 16s completed the home ties in the league cup, beating Brooklands 4-3 in extra time - after being 3-0 down at one time! The Bergholt scorers were: Tom Hodder x 2, Glenn Wheeler and Bradley Povah.

The under 18s did not have a scheduled fixture today.

Next weekends fixtures:
Bures v Under 8
Lexden Saints v Under 12
Under 13 v Stanway KO 10 am
Under 15 v Clacton KO 12 noon
Under 16 No game scheduled
Under 18 v Lawford Blues - League Cup - KO 2pm

Family Quiz for Youth Football Teams

Next Saturday 13th November, Bergholt Heath YFC are holding a General Knowledge Quiz at the Orpen Hall. Starting at 7:30pm the event is open to teams of all ages up to 6 people per team with a trophy to be won by the winners. The cost is £10 per team in advance or £12 on the day. Please bring your own drinks and nibbles and some spare cash for the raffle.

Interested in youth football? Find out more about your local team at http://www.westbergholt.net/football.htm.

Bergholt Heath YFC Results 31st October and Fixtures

Our under 8s scored 2 goals this week, away to Clare.

The under 12s drew 1-1 away to Cornard Dynamos Blues. They went behind with an own goal in the first half but yet again played much better in the second half and deserved to level the match with a goal scored by Ronan Gallagher. Antonio Sabini also hit the bar with a clever long range free kick as Bergholt dominated the last 30 minutes. The Bergholt Heath 'man of the match' was Matthew James.

Our under 13 team gave what the manager described as a "halloween" performance and were 5-1 down at half time away to Stanway Villa and eventually lost 9-1.

The under 15s team did not play this week.

Our under 16s lost away 3-1 to AFC Sudbury in a tight physical match. Tom Hodder scoring the Bergholt Heath goal.

The under 18s were the only team at home this week, but unfortunately also lost 3-1 to Feering Falcon Reds who apparently were aided by a couple of strange refereeing decisions. Joshua Wright scored the Bergholt Heath goal.

Next week the attention of the older age groups turns to the league cup, whilst the under 8s continue in the 'non competitive' league. The fixtures are below, note the slightly later kick off times due to fireworks the previous night on the Poors field:

Fixtures 7th November:
Under 8s vs. Stanway Rovers Yellows, kick off 11.30am
Under 12s vs. Wivenhoe Reds, kick off 10.30am (League cup R2)
Under 13s vs. Halstead Reds, kick off 12 noon (league cup R1)
Under 15s vs. Gt Bradfords postponed due to lack of players
Under 16s vs. Brooklands, kick off 2pm (league cup R2)
Under 18s have a spare weekend and there is no scheduled fixture

Allotment Tips

Gardeners and farmers are never satisfied with the weather. Despite some long dry spells early in the season and then a wet period, it has been a good productive season for most of us at the allotments. The weeds seem to have been harder to control than ever but amongst them all everything from potatoes to cabbages and courgettes have cropped well. With all but the winter vegetables left to harvest plot holders can begin to turn their minds to next season. The manure has arrived and digging can begin.

Tips for the winter months:

• Begin to lift leeks as required and store carrots in peat or sand.
• Remove weeds such as the deadly nightshade before they drop their seeds but others such as chickweed can be dug in deeply.
• Broad beans can be sown in late autumn for an early crop, but might need some protection, otherwise sow again in February.
  
• Plant shallots on the shortest day and then harvest them on the longest day.
  
• Prune autumn raspberries and reduce the dead wood in black currant bushes by about a third.
  
• Plan for next year, using a three year rotation if possible. Peruse the catalogues and order seeds and potatoes.

A good internet link for further advice can be found at http://www.allotment.org.uk/garden_month/garden_october.php

Allotment Holders Site Committee

Bergholt Heath YFC Results 24th October and Fixtures

The under 8s had another disappointing day away to Halstead, and didn't score any goals for the second match running.

The under 12s drew 1-1 at home to Bures. In what was a typical "game of 2 halves", in the first half Bures took the lead with a long range shot that dropped into the roof of the net - whilst many of the Bergholt boys looked like they were still to wake up. In the second half Bergholt played much better and carried the game to Bures, equalising through Gianni Sabini. Unfortunately despite pressing they could not force the winner. The Bergholt Heath 'man of the match' was Gianni Sabini.

Our under 13 side also played at home, losing to Colchester Athletic 5-2. Cameron Siedlecky and Callum Sells scoring the two Bergholt Heath goals.

The under 15s game was postponed a while ago due to injuries and known absences with half term holidays.

Our under 16 team completed the 3 home games on the Poors field but also lost, 2-1, at home to Feering Falcons. Jack Gatland scoring the Bergholt Heath goal.

Finally our under 18 side, looking stronger with some recent signings, won away 5-2 at Clacton Community. Dean Bennell scored a hat-trick with Leo Reid and Jacob Hill adding the others.

Next weeks fixtures:

Clare Town Lions Vs Under 8s
Cornard Dynamos Blues Vs Under 12s
Stanway Villa Vs Under 13s
The under 15 match is postponed
AFC Sudbury Vs Under 16s
Under 18s Vs Feering Falcon Reds

Spooky Players

... The Orpen Players next performances are targeted squarely at the Halloween season with a production of "The Ghost Train" by Arnold Ridley (of Dad's Army fame) running at 8pm on 28th - 30th October.

The plot revolves around a party of passengers who find themselves stranded in the waiting room of an isolated station. The station master tries to get them to leave citing the local legend of a ghost train that dooms all who see it to death.

Cast details etc... at http://www.orpenplayers.co.uk/

Bangers at Heathlands

... with a BBQ and Firework Display. Heathlands Primary School PTA is holding its 18th fireworks on Saturday November 6th in the school grounds.

Tickets/programmes are now available from local shops priced £3 pre-purchased or will cost £4 on the night. Children under 3 free. Ticket reservation 01206 240288.

Gates open 5.30pm, fireworks 7pm. Barbecue and hot drinks available.

Flower Club Update

Vice-chairman, Pat Sharman welcomed members and visitors. There are still two diaries for sale at £4.60 each. As the planned demonstrator was unavailable Jan and Ken Law from Chigwell stepped in with their title My Fair Lady and Gent. Both demonstrated and the appropriate music from the show accompanied the arrangements.

Wednesday 17 November is an open meeting and tickets are for sale £5 members, £7 non-members. Contact Jayne on 01376 564135 to reserve. Lee Berrill from Earls Barton in Northamptonshire will base the demonstration on Winter Wonderland. Light refreshments and mulled wine will be served. There is no meeting in December.

Join a fungus foray

... through Hillhouse Wood on Thursday 4th November.

Meeting at the Old Church at 10am Ian Rose will be leading the ever popular fungus foray, seeing some of the 60-70 species in the wood. You will need to be dressed appropriately for walking in the wood — sturdy shoes are a must as the paths can be wet!

Organised by The Friends of Hillhouse Wood in conjunction with the Woodland Trust this event will run 'weather permitting'.

Is ‘Jenny Wren’ visiting your garden?

... was one of the questions members were asked at the October meeting of the West Bergholt Gardeners’ Association. Mike Logan-Wood, RSPB Lead for Chelmsford and Central Essex told his audience that UK’s shortest bird’s scientific name means ‘cave dweller’. Although difficult to attract to bird tables, the wren can be seen in the garden foraging in or close to cover. They are more insectivorous than most other garden birds.

The speaker entertained members with his amusing and informative account, illustrated with slides, on the ‘secret lives of garden birds’ including the robin, sparrow, starling, blackbird, song thrush and dunnock.

A day outing to East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden, Norfolk has been planned for 15 June 2011, stopping off on route at Taverham Garden Centre. Cost £18.50 for coach and entry. Members and non-members were urged to book early so as not to be disappointed. Further information obtainable from the Treasurer at terryclaydon@aol.com

Ian Rose will be addressing members at the next meeting on 15 November at 7.30pm in the Orpen Hall. He will present on ‘Fungi – edible and otherwise’, Visitors are also very welcome to attend; entry £3.

A ‘fungi forage’ in Hillhouse Wood led by Ian Rose, will take place on 4 November. This is organised by the Friends of Hillhouse Wood. For further information daviddb@virgin.net or 01206 241684.

Joining our organisation is easy and inexpensive. Membership subscription is value for money at only £8 per year. The Chair, Valerie Lofthouse, can be reached on 01206 855450 or valerielofthouse1@hotmail.co.uk for details on the Gardeners’ Association.

Bergholt Heath YFC - Results 17th October & Fixtures

Our Under 8s team came down to earth with a bump at home against Gt Bradfords and didn't manage to score any goals. They were up against a very good Gt Bradfords team.

The Under 12s battled hard to get a 2-2 draw away to Heybridge in a good physical contest, which was probably a fair result. The Bergholt Heath goals were scored by Aaron Marley and Jake Adams and our 'man of the match' was Antonio Sabini.

Our Under 13s side had a break from league action by playing in round 2 of the Essex Cordell Cup competition. At home to St Claires 'B' from Dagenham they won comfortably 3-0. The Bergholt scorers were Danny Crouchman, Fawaz Oleyboo and Callum Sells. It's good to see Bergholt Heath represented in the 3rd round of an "whole of Essex" competition.

The Under 15s are still struggling to field a full team and lost this weekend away to Brightlingsea Regents 17-0, but with only 7 players. Despite being very short of numbers, the team did not drop their heads and actually conceded less goals in the second half than they did in the first half - so their fitness must be good!

The Under 16 team lost a close match away to Colchester Athletic 4-3. The manager was much happier this week than in recent games and by all accounts we should have won the game - all 4 of the Colchester Athletic goals being somewhat fortunate whereas the Bergholt goals were all from good team play. Alex Bartlett scored all three of the Bergholt Heath goals.

Finally our Under 18s lost 10-1 away against a very strong Feering Falcon Blues side. Tom Foster scored the Bergholt goal on his debut.

Next weekends fixtures - 24th October:

Halstead Vs Under 8s
Under 12s Vs Bures United KO 10am
Under 13s Vs Colchester Athletic KO 12 noon
The Under 15s match at home to Arlesford Reds has been postponed as we cannot field a team due to injuries and holidays
Under 16s Vs Feering Falcons KO 2pm
Clacton Community Vs Under 18s

Dirty car?

... then come along to Orpen Hall car park, 9am - noon, Saturday 16h October, and help Bergholt Heath YFC raise funds for a memorial in the village to the club's former chairman Peter Redhead who sadly died this summer. All age groups from under-8 to under-18 will be taking part and will be pleased to receive donations in exchange for cleaning your car.

Best of British and a Christmas Special

These are the themes of two upcoming concerts being given by the West Bergholt Concert Band. The Best of British concert, in aid of Colchester Garrison Riding for the Disabled features a wide range of British Classics from Colonel Bogey March to Bohemian Rhapsody. Tickets will be available on the door at St Botolphs Church, Colchester, on 20th November at £6 adults, £4 concessions and starts at 7:30pm.

Their Christmas Concert at St Mary the Virgin, West Bergholt takes place on 11th December at 7:30pm with tickets priced at £6 adults, £5 concessions, and will feature many Christmas Classics including The Bells of Christmas, Happy Holidays/White Christmas, Mary's Boy Child and many more.

Bergholt Heath YFC - Results 10th October & Fixtures

The under 8's played a very entertaining game at home against Bures. Richard Frost scored the pick of Bergholt's 3 goals with a shot from the edge of the area into the top corner of the net.

The under 12s gained revenge for their poor performance and result at home to Coggeshall last week, winning the reverse fixture away 6-1. After trailing 1-0 at half time with another inept half, stern words from the manager seemed to do the trick and after "watching the game on TV" as one parent put it at half time, they worked harder to win the ball, got their passing going, and ran out comfortable winners. Bergholt Heath's goals were scored by: Antonio Sabini x 2, James Holden x 2, Gianni Sabini and Jamie Bowden. The Bergholt Heath 'man of the match' was Matthew James.

Our under 13 team did not have a match scheduled this weekend.

The under 15s scored their first goal of the season, by George Lowe, but unfortunately still lost away to St Edmunds 11-1. However due to continued absences through injury, they only fielded the minimum 8 players.

Our under 16s team also lost away, to Brightlingsea 3-1 despite having taken the lead. Joshua Claydon scored yet another goal for Bergholt.

The under 18s were beaten at home by Gt Bradfords 6-0. Nothing more to say about that one.

Fixtures for Sunday 17th October:
U8 v Gt Bradfords KO 10.30
Heybridge v U12
U13 v St Clares 'B' KO 10 (Essex Cordell Cup)
Brightlingsea V U15
Colchester Athletic v U16
Feering Falcons Blues v U18

Women's Institute - October Report

The upcoming 90th anniversary & Wilkin's of Tiptree were key topics for the October meeting.

Pat Moran, president, welcomed members and visitors. The federation sport's quiz will be for sale next month. A secretary for 2011 has to be found by the annual meeting next month when the WI Adviser, Val Stone attends. Next year is our 90th birthday and a luncheon has been arranged in February 2011 at the Balkerne Rooms Colchester Institute. A £5 deposit should be paid in November. A coach will be booked.

The WI 2011 programme is complete and a special 90th cover has been organized.
Wednesday 8 December will be the celebration of Christmas at Chelmsford Cathedral. Times 2.45pm and 7.45pm.

Mr Chris Newenham representing Wilkin's products from Tiptree spoke about the history and future plans. Members were surprised to hear Christmas puddings and boxes of tea are stocked in the shop. A visit to the orchards will form part of our annual outing next year.

Free Music Workshops

... with West Bergholt Concert Band on Saturday 16th October, 2:30-4:30pm in West Bergholt's St Mary the Virgin Church.

A distinguishing feature of the West Bergholt Training Band is the regular Music Workshops, which the band holds. They are free and are open to all woodwind and brass players. There is no audition but you will need to read music. Members of the concert band will also be playing so you will have the opportunity to play interesting music with more experienced musicians.

The session will include a range of musical styles from jazz to light classics, pop songs, music from the shows.
The enjoyment does not end there. There is the opportunity to join the Training Band which meets on Friday evenings at the Heathlands School in West Bergholt. For more information on the bands have a look at our website, www.wbcb.org.

If you play a woodwind or brass instrument and would like to have an enjoyable afternoon of music, make a note for 2:30pm, 16 October, St Mary the Virgin Church, West Bergholt.

Get crafty update..

Find out more about quilting, art, lace, patchwork and many more crafts at an exhibition being held on 16th October in the Methodist Church & Hall between 10:30 and 5:30. Admission is £1 and refreshments will be available with proceeds going to church funds. The hospice will be selling craft books for their funds.

On the related subject of donations the recent house-to-house collection for 'Action for Children' raised a staggering £845.13p - well done to all.

BHYFC Results & Fixtures

The under 8s didn't have a game as their scheduled match against Coggeshall was postponed as Coggeshall could not raise a team.

The under 12s did play their counterparts at Coggeshall, but were on the end of a very disappointing 2-1 home defeat. Jake Adams scored the Bergholt Heath goal and "man of the match" was Leo Tiffney.

The under 13s gained our solitary point this weekend, drawing 2-2 at home to Harwich and Parkstone. Edward Quilty and Fawz Olabooye scoring the goals for Bergholt Heath.

Unfortunately due to several injuries, our under 15 team had to call off its game at home to Long Melford. Speedy recoveries hoped for!

The under 16s team lost 4-0 away to Halstead Town Blues.

Our under 18s team were only able to field 10 men due to college and work commitments, but battled hard only to eventually lose 4-3 away to Bullers. Alex Ponsford, George O'Connor and Dean Bennell were the Bergholt Heath scorers.

Next Sunday - 10th October - fixtures:

Under 8 v Bures KO 10.30am
Coggeshall v Under 12
Under 13 No Game
St Edmunds v Under 15
Brightlingsea Regents v Under 16
Under 18 v Gt Bradfords KO 10.30am (Orpen)

Update on New A12 Junction for North Colchester

Work has been proceeding apace and the 2nd-3rd October road closure is going ahead as scheduled in order to connect the link roads to the A12 (see website for detail). The new junction will serve an area of redevelopment land to the south of the A12, in the vicinity of the Weston Homes Community Stadium, and will enable the development of
residential areas and other mixed uses. It will form a direct link between the A12 and
the new Northern Approaches Road (Phase 3), and also serve the relocated BP Services and the proposed Park & Ride. The full news update can be downloaded from our website here.

So where is ratty?

... seemingly alive and well on the River Colne!

West Bergholt Gardeners’ Association members shared the passion of Darren Tansley, Essex Wildlife Trust, in ‘The Search for Ratty’ when they learnt about his project on water vole restoration to the stretch of the River Colne between West Bergholt and Chappel. Darren’s presentation was followed by the Annual General Meeting when eight committee members were elected. This was the first meeting of the 2010-2011 programme of speakers and activities.

A day outing to East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden, Norfolk has been planned for 15 June 2011, stopping off on route at Taverham Garden Centre. Members and non-members were urged to book early so as not to be disappointed. Further information obtainable from the Treasurer at terryclaydon@aol.com


Mike Logan-Wood, Leader of the RSPB Chelmsford and Central Essex Group, will be addressing members at the next meeting on 18 October at 7.30 in the Orpen Hall. He will present on ‘Secret Lives of Garden Birds’. Visitors are also very welcome to attend.

Joining our organisation is easy and inexpensive. Membership subscription is value for money at only £8 per year. The Chair, Valerie Lofthouse, can be reached on 01206 855450 or valerielofthouse1@hotmail.co.uk for details on the Gardeners’ Association.

Bergholt Heath YFC Results & Fixtures

Our under 8's team is thoroughly enjoying their first season playing football together. Today the goals were scored by Jonah Murray and two from Richard Frost. Well done boys!

The under 12's lost their first match in the A league this season narrowly losing out to Lexden Saints, current A league champions, 2-1 at home. Both of the Lexden goals were somewhat lucky - a deflected shot wrong-footing the goalkeeper and a speculative high shot that caught in the strong wind. The game was generally very even with both sides having chances. The Bergholt Heath goal was scored by Antonio Sabini with a quick shuffle to the left to create space inside the area and a cool left footed finish into the corner. The Bergholt Heath 'man of the match' was Jamie Bowden.

The under 13's lost 9-2 away to Stanway Rovers, also in the A league. Bergholt Heath took the lead and at half time the match was evenly balanced at 2-2. The second half saw Stanway Rovers bring on some of their "Alliance League" players which made all the difference, with the score running away from Bergholt and the team looking a little demoralised at the end.

Our under 15s are still to get their season up and running in the D league, today losing away to Clacton 25-0. However the manager was unable to field a full team of 11 players.

The under 16's faired better but still came out on the wrong side of a 2-1 defeat at home to Brightlingsea.  Josh Claydon scored the Bergholt Heath goal.

Our under 18's team were the only winners this week, running out comfortable 9-1 winners away to Tolleshunt D'Arcy. A true reflection of the teams dominance would have been a score well into double figures, however the referee appeared to take pity on the home team, which kept the score down. Alex Ponsford scored a hat-trick, with Ben Brice and Leo Reid scoring 2 each. Ben Rout and Ben Flower completed the scoring for Bergholt.

Fixtures for next Sunday 3rd October:
Coggeshall v U8
U12 v Coggeshall KO 10am
U13 v Harwich & Parkeston KO 12 noon
U15 v Long Melford KO 2pm
Halstead Blues v U16
Bullers v U18

End of life in the slow lane

The equivalent of a dual carriageway in broadband is about to arrive in West Bergholt, and the improvement in speed should be more noticeable than joining a motorway from a country lane!

Next week sees the installation of the first access point in the village by County Broadband, a company specializing in wireless broadband connections for rural communities. Earlier in the year residents and Village Bulletin readers will recall that the Parish Plan group started

discussions with County Broadband to determine how the village could move away from its not-spot backwater, and enter the mainstream of digital activity. Now after months of behind the scenes activity involving grant applications, discussions with the Parish Council and the equivalent of digital water-divining by County Broadband, the basic plumbing-in activity begins.

Here’s what will happen:

• Starting right now, residents can express interest (see link below) in becoming connected to the County Broadband systems, allowing access speeds of up to 8Mb (remember the days of 56K modems!);
• By end of September an access point will be installed on the highest point in the village; this will receive digital signals from Braintree – you will be lucky if you spot this, as it’s only the size on an A4 piece of paper!;
• In October County Broadband will be able to install receiving equipment in homes and businesses in the village. To begin with this will be confined to a line of sight distance from the first access point to individual properties;
• By the end of the year and depending upon the rate of take-up from residents, more access points will be installed to enable coverage of the whole village.

If you are interested (and we are expecting that many households will be eager to get onboard quickly) you should start by registering your interest at County Broadband’s website.

Click here to register your interest, or call County Broadband on 0845 686 5000.

The company is maintaining a register of interest, and will be forwarding contracts for service provision shortly. Their website also contains all the technical and installation information you’ll no doubt want to find out about, together details of connection and subscription fees.

Whilst the Parish Plan Group and the Parish Council will maintain a dialogue with County Broadband, and oversee the delivery of the service in the village, the basic model for residents and businesses is that of traditional customer and supplier. Accordingly, any queries relating to the service should be made directly with County Broadband. Having said this, news about the introduction of the system will feature on the village website www.westbergholt.net and periodically in the Village Bulletin.

Press down that digital accelerator and hang on to your hats!

Article composed by Chris Stevenson: Chair West Bergholt Parish Plans Group

BHYFC Results & Fixtures

Unfortunately two of our teams had their matches - both at home - postponed this weekend as the opposition could not raise a team (worrying for this time of the season!): The under 13's Vs Stanway Rovers and the under 15's Vs Frinton & Walton.

Our under 8's played their first home match in the "non competitive" league against Stanway Rovers on the Poors field. The boys all enjoyed themselves.

The under 12's played their first away match of the season against newly promoted Frinton & Walton. Having been comfortably 2-0 up in the first half, a sloppy goal was given away and then they had to play uphill and against the wind in the second half. Frinton & Walton played some long balls into the box and having survived some close shaves it was no surprise when Frinton & Walton equalised. The manager changed formation to 4-4-2 which steadied things, and although the home team continued to have most of the possession it was a little more composed. With around 5 minutes to go Gianni Sabini broke down the right and crossed for James Holden to score the winner from close range. Final result F&W 2 - 3 Bergholt Heath. Scorers: Frinton & Walton: Edward Dooley, James Dafion. Bergholt Heath: Matthew James, Leo Tiffney, James Holden. Bergholt Heath 'man of the match' - Jake Adams.

The under 16's team lost 5-1 away to Cornard Dynamos. Unfortunately there was a bit of 'handbags' in the match and one of our players was sent off for retaliation. The Bergholt Heath scorer was Joshua Claydon.

Our under 18's also lost a close match 2-1 at home to Colchester Athletic Reds, the winner being a speculative long range effort that almost disappeared into the clouds before dropping down beyond the goalkeeper, bouncing on the line and back up into the roof of the net. Bergholt Heath's scorer was Leo Reid.

Next week's fixtures:

Under 8 v Marks Tey KO 10.30am, Poors Field
Under 12 v Lexden Saints KO 10am, Poors Field
Stanway Rovers v Under 13
Clacton United v Under 15
Under 16 v Brightlingsea Regent KO 12 noon, Poors Field
Tolleshunt D'Arcy v Under 18

Your Colchester - Your Budget

As balancing the budget becomes increasingly difficult, Colchester Borough Council needs to make some tough decisions that will impact on you as local residents.

Residents’ views are critical in helping the Council to shape the future of its services and Colchester Borough Council would like you to share your priorities with them. Simply tell them which services are most, and least, important to you.

Say what you think. Complete the quick questionnaire by visiting www.colchester.gov.uk/yourcolchester or share your ideas on Twitter at www.twitter.com/yourcolchester.

The questionnaire asks you to state the 3 most- and 3 least-important services to you from the folowing list:

• Activity Centres
• Arts and Culture
• Benefits
• Building Control
• Business and Economic Development
• Car Parks
• CCTV
• Cemetery and Crematorium
• Community Support
• Council Tax
• Customer Service Centre
• Housing and Homelessness
• Licensing
• Mayoral and Civic Duties
• Museums and Heritage
• Parks and Recreation
• Planning
• Planning and Transportation Policy
• Regeneration
• Sport and Leisure
• Street Cleaning
• Street Wardens
• Support Services
• Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour
• Tourism
• Waste and Recycling Collection

It also invites you to contribute any ideas you might have to save money or increase income.

The questionnaire will be available to complete until 4 October 2010. The Council will then collate and consider your responses as part of the first stage of its budget consultation.

If you have a head full of trivia

... then the annual Methodist Church quiz night should be for you. On Saturday 25th September, starting at 7pm, tables of four can be booked from Judith for just £16. Judith can be contacted on 01206 241969.

Anyone for coffee?

As part of the MacMillan Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning, St Mary's church, New Church Road, will be open from 9am on Thursday 23 September. Last year 43,000 people registered and raised £7.9 million, it is hoped £8 million can be achieved this year. Our contribution last year was £251.29p - let's see if we can smash that amount this year!

Women's Institute - September Report

The president welcomed members and asked for suggestions for committee in 2011 to be brought to the October meeting.

The walks and lunch on 25 August was a great success and Clarice Chittenden thanked Pat Moran for organising the event with 27 people attending the lunch.

The speaker was Liz Mullen (pictured right reporting from a field gun team training exercise), an ex-BBC Essex presenter who now works on '107 Garrison FM' radio. Her talk was entitled Not Just a Game of Soldiers.

Orders can now be made for 2011 calendars £3.25 and diaries £3.45 - member Barbara Buckley has a photo included in the calendar.

BHYFC Results & Fixtures

A mixed start to the season with lots of goals scored in both directions.

Our new Under 8 team started their first ever season of "non-competitive" mini soccer away to Long Melford in the "West" league. Thomas Whitlow scored a goal.

The Under 12s won their first game of the new season in the 'A league' at home to Cornard Dynamos Blues, 2-0. Ronan Gallagher and Antonio Sabini scored the goals is an excellent display. This was an especially pleasing result as Cornard finished above us, second in the league last season, and we lost the corresponding fixture 3-1 last year.

Our new Under 13 team lost their first match in the A league 2-1 away to Brooklands. Myles Went scored our goal.

The Under 15s did not fare so well, losing 15-0 away to Cornard Dynamos.

Our Under 16 team also lost, at home to Sudbury 4-1. Our goal was an own goal.

Unfortunately the Under 18s match at home to Bullers was cancelled as the away team could not raise a team.

Fixtures for Sunday 19th September:

• Under 8s vs Lexden Saints, KO 10.30am
• Frinton & Walton vs Under 12s
• Under 13s vs Stanway Rovers, KO 10am
• Under 15s vs Frinton & Walton Reds, KO 12 noon
• Cornard Dynamos vs Under 16s
• Under 18s vs Colchester Athletic Reds, KO 10.30am

Autumn events season under-way

As everybody gets back from summer two clubs' events are introducing the autumn season.

The Colne Valley Flower Club start their season on 15th September with a demonstration by Joyce Furssdonn with her arrangements based on the title 'Inspire and Enjoy'. For further information 'phone Clare on 01206 241145 or visit the club's page on the village website.

The WEA introduce a 10-week series of talks by Graham Slimming on the subject of "Art in the Age of William Morris" on 21st September in the Methodist Church Hall. You can read more about this on our newsfeed here or contact the WEA on 01206 240791 or visit their page on the village website.

Don't forget that these and many other events are listed on the homepage of the village website. If you have an event to list, contact the webmaster.

West Bergholt 1 2 3

No relation to Chelmsford 1 2 3, the September edition of the Village Bulletin is now available online to read at http://www.westbergholt.net/village_bulletin.htm. Check it out to find out more about events, activities, people and everything else that makes our village tick.

Record collection...

The RNLI has benefited to the tune of £1,149.37 following the recent house-to-house collection undertaken in the village. This is the largest sum ever collected from the village and thanks are given to all those who donated so generously.

Art in the age of William Morris

"We will evaluate Morris's contribution to the development of the concept of design in the social, aesthetic and ideological context of his times" - so writes Graham Slimming about the series of ten illustrated talks about to be given by him on this subject.

Graham is a popular lecturer and the WEA course starts on Tuesday 21st September 2010 at 8.00 p.m. and all are welcome. The talks last for an hour and a half, with a coffee break in the middle, when there is a chance to look at and borrow books on the subject.

The course will meet in the Methodist Hall in Chapel Lane, and the standard fee for the course has only risen by 50p this year, to £44.00.

If you are not sure whether this is for you, why not come along and sample the first evening for free? For more details, or queries, ring the Secretary on 01206 240791.

Hope to see you there!

Open Rehearsal with Popular Local Band

West Bergholt Concert Band, one of the areas busiest & most popular bands, is holding its next open rehearsal on Friday 24th September at Heathlands School, West Bergholt.

The band’s musicians of all ages & abilities invite local woodwind & brass players to come and join them for the rehearsal with either the Training Band at 6:00 pm (Grades 1-4) or the Concert Band at 7:00 pm (Grades 4 & above).

The rehearsal will feature the band's wide repertoire, with music from Toy Story & Spiderman together with pieces by Holst, Queen, Ellington and Lloyd-Webber and as always will be held in the band's relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

If you cannot make Friday 24th September, the band rehearses every Friday night from Friday 3rd September and new members are always welcome. For further details, please see our website www.wbcb.org.

Common Ground 20

The latest CBC newsletter is now online on our website. Read more there about safety, Infopoint, Discos, Summer fete, recycling and the Game 5 Walk Challenge. The last of the five walks starts in Wet Bergholt on 13th November meeting at the White Hart at 10am.

Eco-SOS Competition

Do you know how much it costs to run your home, more importantly how easy it could be to reduce those costs and help the environment? If not, why not enter Colchester Borough Council's Eco-SOS competition and possibly be a lucky winner of a free home energy makeover. To find out more and download an entry form click on the link given here:

http://www.westbergholt.net/downloads/eco-SOS-comp-2010.pdf

Women's Institute - August Report

The president Pat Moran welcomed members and reported a very successful outing in July to Carter's Vineyard. On Wednesday 25 August the John Lampon Hall has been booked from 10am when there will be coffee available followed by a three and a half mile walk and a one mile walk. A ploughman's lunch will be served from 12 noon. Names and £3 to Jan Lumb. Participation in the walks is optional.

Mr John Morgan spoke about his life and times down the mines.

It has been decided not to have a stall at Heathlands School fete in the future as members are involved with many other organisations on that occasion. £37 was donated to the school.

Subscriptions for next year will be £30 with half going to our WI and the other two quarters to Essex Federation and National. A report on the AGM in Cardiff was given by the president.

To celebrate our 90th birthday next year a cake will be served at the January meeting with a Lunch at the Balkerne Rooms in February. A coach will be provided.

Overweight?

Do you want to lose weight, feel better and meet some like minded people? If the answer is yes, come along to the Weight Watchers meetings held in the Methodist Church Hall, Mondays 7pm to 8pm.

For an informal chat, please feel free to call Karen Robinson on 07976 602690 or contact her by email to wwkarenrobinson@gmail.com.

Gardeners' travels

The West Bergholt Gardeners Association have been getting out & about with 4 summer visits recently. The first in May, to the flagship RHS garden at Wisley, provided the opportunity to appreciate the huge diverse plant collection.

In June a party visited Olivers Gardens (the lake pictured right), Colchester for the National Gardens Scheme. Philip Morant’s description of the garden in his 18th Century 'History of Essex' was considered to be as apt today by the owner. A garden tour culminated in refreshments on the terrace.

Also in June members visited Cants of Colchester Rose Field. As Britain’s leading rose specialist, members received professional advice on propagation, maintenance and rose types. Splendid displays of colour and fragrances were most appreciated.

On a July evening Kings Seeds, Kelvedon, a leading supplier of vegetable, flower, herb and Sweet Pea seed since 1888, welcomed members. Our host informed us on his company’s interesting history and stages of seed production during a conducted tour.

Next meeting is on 20 September at 7.30pm in the Orpen Hall. To find out more about the association visit the village website at http://www.westbergholt.net/gardeners.htm.

Flower club raising its profile...

The Colne Valley Flower Club welcomed Lisa Howarth from Sandy in Bedfordshire to their June meeting with her arrangements entitled Summer Holiday. Lisa who is a florist shared some useful tips with the members.

The club has been raising its profile at the Country Fayre at Westwood Park with a floral display and have a go sessions for visitors to make a simple self-contained arrangement.

This month is members evening when everyone can take part. There is no meeting in August. Further information 'phone Clare on 01206 241145 or visit the village website at http://www.westbergholt.net/flowers.htm.