Today Pink Chair Engagement (PCE) volunteers met up in Littleport Village Hall.

Armed with sewing machines, we set to work, sewing some of the community voluntary group squares, into one huge Community Picnic Blanket.

The groups who created a material square include: Littleport Guiding Groups and Cubs, Littleport First Responders, 363 Motor Cycle Club, The Men’s Shed, The Port Youth Group, St George’s Church Groups, Vine Community Church, Littleport Timebank, Littleport Library craft & stories. Plus more!

With the help of those who came, we managed to complete a lot of it. We plan on continuing the project when we visit the Grange care home next Saturday 18th January.

The finished blanket will be available to borrow from the Parish Council Office. Any group who have completed a square can borrow it over the coming summer.

A historical diary of its use will be kept containing a photo of each use.

#Livelovelittleport

Press release from Pink Chair Engagement

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We held our latest: Pink Chair Engagement (PCE) event today on the green opposite St George’s Church in Littleport. We are popping up throughout Littleport, crafting, chatting and engaging.

The project aims to take back areas which have become known for anti-social behaviour. So the area starts to have a new positive identity. Filled with community fun!

We unveiled our new pink chair banner. A big Thank you to Cllr Clive Webber, Littleport Parish council and The Printing Barn for providing our banner.

Crafts included: wood whittling, crochet, knitting and card making. Lovely 4 year old Rose was passing by with her Dad. Using our craft box, Rose made a beautiful sparkly butterfly.

Pink Chair Engagement is unique to Littleport.

#livelovelittleport
Fb/pinkchairengagement

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From the off, the room (about 120 in the audience) was filled with laughter, music, fun, surprises and a huge dusting of talent !

All the cast members were amazing and everything went to plan. A colourful and spectacular assault on the senses. For both the communities young and the old.

The lively production of Aladdin was brought to the Littleport stage….Directed by Karen Booth, musical direction by Mark A J. Checkley and Choreography by Nikki Dyer.

A new stage venue for the players this year, being held at the Littleport & East Cambs Academy.  A venue which Chelsea Booth explained, accommodated the cast so very well. Providing ample rehearsal space.  Also, meaning bigger and better and more challenging, but very rewarding sets.

Littleport village hall, has in past years, provided the community and the players with a suitable venue.  Providing a much loved, heart of the village and memory making venue.

But as the community of Littleport grows and indeed flourishes. The Littleport players needed more space and to be able to comfortably hold a larger audience. The use of the academy space quickly came into its own. Once rehearsals for the production had got under way.

On opening night, it was lovely, as the audience could hear and see the performance well, from wherever they sat.

Funds raised from the ticket sales and a nightly production raffle, amazing prizes included those given from the plethora of takeaways and restaurants around the village. Which will go towards funding, the next planned Summer show and Christmas performance next year.

Also other fundraising events are planned to pay for a much needed, new large shed. To store props and scenery.

(Editor private note: If any businesses out there, thinks they could assist with a large shed for this well loved community group. Please do get in touch with Spotted in Ely).

Audience Feedback includes – that the ‘performance was hilarious’, From a Mr Timbers: ‘you deserve all the praise, well done all’.

From Ms Reeve-Smith: ‘Wow ! What a great show. Haven’t belly laughed like that in ages. Thank you’.

A special well done and thanks must go to all the cast. Also to the the incredible, ever ready backstage crew, front of house and anyone else who has helped the players in any way.

There are tickets still available for 2pm & 7:30pm Saturday 8th December and some limited availability for the 2pm matinee performance on Sunday 9th December. So grab yourself the best weekend ticket in the village. You will not be disappointed.

 If anybody feels that the stage is beckoning. Maybe, you have found yourself breaking into song in the Main Street Co-op.  Or when opening the door to the post person, you find yourself grabbing a hand to offer a quick jig!  Then you seriously need to sign yourself up. FB/TheLittleportPlayers

Maria x

livelovelittleport

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Teachers, parents and the PTFA worked together to provide an enjoyable evening, for both the young and the old. The event, 3 months in the making.

Promising excitement , celebration and most of all a festive sprinkling of sparkle and a guest appearance by the main man himself – SANTA! (A very busy man whom, I am reliably informed, felt compelled to visit the school. After he had found out, how well behaved and hard working the schools children are)

An amusing moment was when Rachel Dray from the PTFA, was busy serving hot chocolate. When she accidentally spilt some. One very young child, then explained: that he was off to tell Santa and that she was very naughty!

It was a spectacular night, with craft stalls, a teacup ride, a frosted forest light trail, fun games, free hot chocolate whilst waiting for Santa and a hog roast.

The Lakenheath Silver band provided some big band Christmas music. The beautifully lit forest scenes and all the lighting, was managed by McLatchie electrical.

The event finale was provided by the super www.Fireworkscrazy.co.uk

As the families looked on. The sky was illuminated, by a stunning firework display. Full of colour, bangs and in time with the display music: ‘The Greatest Showman’.

The school and the PTFA have received so many positive feedback about the event. All saying, thankyou, for such a memorable time.

The total raised from ticket sales and on the night funds, is in the region of £2000.

This will enable all the year six pupils this year to have an amazing London theatre trip, complete with boat trip along the Thames.

Maria x

#livelovelittleport

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The fayre is always well attended and has many quality craft stalls, which are all unique.

Many are from out of the area and belong to several specialist crafting guilds. The running theme, is that they all love to come to Littleport as it has a vibrant, community feel and people genuinely enjoy and buy their creations.

As you come through the welcoming church vestibule, decked with fir and pine cone garlands. You open the ancient, big oak door and the air is full of Christmas. Scents of pine needles, ginger biscuits, fruit cake and mulled wine.

The first thing that I spy, is an amazing 30 piece handknitted nativity set. Made specially for the fayre. You can buy a square and hope to win.

One of the jewellery stalls is run by the lovely Liz Hunter, ‘Handmade by Histon’. Liz prides herself on doing one off pieces, which are interesting and intricate in design. Using semi-professional stones and handmade glass beads.

A special skill which Liz has, is to adapt the ancient African/Indian Peyote stitch, woven fine bead work and produce beautiful, modern pieces.

FB/HandmadeinHiston

Moving on, I was welcomed by a pair of beaming elves. The happy mum and daughter duo. Whom I recognised from the Autumn fayre.

They started attending craft fayres two years ago. Julie cares for her autistic son at home and needed a hobby. She developed her knitting and crochet skills and can now do just about anything. Julie enjoys being on her craft stall as it is very social, meeting so many lovely people. Also a lovely mum and daughter time.

FB/crochetJules

Another stall, on first sight looks very ‘Harry Potter’. Full of stunningly crafted tall pens magnifying glasses and wooden bowls to name but a few. Pat Carter is a master crafter who specialises in searching for unusual, reclamation material. Which he uses to make so many items. Being hand turned on a traditional lathe. This process of making, using primarily ancient wood, is popular in America. But becoming more so over here. Pat’s father had been a pen maker and after he sadly died. Pat (self taught) decided to continue on with his fathers craft. The items which Pat has fused into pens etc. Includes wood, resin, watch parts and other items. The strong core of the pen, often being brass.

One pen which catches my eye is a light wood and brass one, which is engraved with ‘Rolls Royce’. Pat explains that he had to really search out the material. The light and smooth wood actually coming from a Rolls Royce. Also, a brass gearshift and across the top and bottom of the pen is a tyre tread designed metal band. Obviously a one off design. Pat likes to push himself, particularly when fusing newly found, different items. Another pen contains watch cogs and marbled resin mix. Another, which is bright reds and browns contains mulled wine ingredients.

For those who have an interesting in sewing, is a pen fused with many tiny coloured buttons and resin. The buttons were first stuck onto the pens carbon fibre sleeving. Then a coating of resin was placed on top. Everything on Pats stall is very tactile. Enjoyable to hold and to feel the different finishes. Easy to marvel at each, and every one.

Rev’d. Howard explained that the beautifully crafted pen which is used during the church wedding services, is one of Pat’s creations.

FB/PenmakinginCambridge

The proceeds of the fayre go to the the Ministry of the Church so that the church can continue to flourish and to welcome the community.

Maria x

#livelovelittleport

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This week I had planned as usual to go out into the community.  To be in Littleport, at the heart, a place which I love and have loved since my family and I moved here eight years ago.

To eagerly gather details from the community for this weeks feel good, happy article. A task, which has now become an honour, a pleasure, something which I cherish and love to do.

To promote everything good. To provide a spotlight, for the local volunteers, unsung hero’s, schools, community groups and amazing stories here in Littleport.

But…. I have felt unable to leave my home due to a violent incident which occurred a few nights back. Directly outside of my home. A set of circumstances that my family and I found ourselves unwittingly caught up in. Through no fault of our own. The details of the incident cannot and need not be detailed.
Overnight, I had lost my happy mojo. I was deeply concerned, that I was now not able, maybe never able again, to provide a community story. Due to not feeling able to go out of my own front door.

Just at the exact moment, when I was seriously starting to wonder as to what I should do….amazingly the feel good community story came to me instead!

The series of events started to brighten. Indeed, It tapped so loudly at my door, demanding to come in. I tried to shrug it off and to refuse it passage.  But it was full of light, hope, love, offers of assistance: shopping, lifts, a comforting ear, coffee and cake. A shoulder to cry on, if one was needed.  From so many, by so many.
The community had heard, from my immediate friends of our dark day and had come out in force. United and full of resolve.

Full of strength and love uniting as one, to collectively bring the smile back to mine and my families faces. Some of these messages were from strangers, who wanted us to know that they were there and that they truly cared.

I know that a very small number of individuals have chosen to be in the dark shadows.  Choosing to take a different life for themselves. Trying to make themselves outsiders and too often blame others or circumstances on their life’s direction.

To those, well you know what? Life is what you make of it.

You are the destiny of your own creation and only YOU hold the key.

It doesn’t matter whether it is charitable support services, defendant support services, the police, teachers, social services or anybody else for that matter. No other persons are responsible for you, or can ultimately make how you live.  Make your daily life style choices or what happens, for you.

Taking responsibility of life’s pathway is like holding a computer games console, a key to the door, driving a car, paddling a boat, or whatever. You alone, choose how to live your life, what you choose to do with it and what type of contact you have with people.

This community welcomes all.  It truly does.
The more you dip your toes in the more you feel the warmth and the less you feel like an outsider.

Yes it takes guts, courage and a bit of will power, but the rewards shine brightly and you never know, you may just end up liking it.
But if you never choose to, you will never know.
Do you really want to miss out?

Somebody once said to me:
“But there is no way back?”
There is.  All you need to do is dip your toes….

A community who cares.  Is a community which is valued.

Maria x

#livelovelittleport
#communityspirit
#policingeastcambs

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Scout leader, Julie explained that earlier this year The Co-Op made the Scouts one of three local groups which they are assisting with fund raising.

The stand was also an opportunity for locals to find out a bit more about the local clubs, through a very informative information board and to enquire about how to join up.

Julie was joined by leaders, Chris and Claire. Several scouts, including Ralph and Dennyson.

Accompanying Claire was her delightful, disabled assistance dog, Niamh.

Niamh certainly looked the part, as she was wearing the scouting scarf (necker).

Customers were able to buy tickets for either a hamper or cash prize squares.

Running alongside, was a toy and a cake stall which Co-Op staff had helped with.

The scouting movement is a fun way to socialise and to learn new skills, which sometimes includes summer camps.

As well as finding out more about the area where you live and other local charities.

It is open to both boys and girls.

The Beavers are a group from 6 – 8 yrs

Cubs takes children from 8 – 10/5 yrs

Scouts from 10/5 – 14

Then members can move onto

The Explorers 14 – 18 yrs

And the Scout Network 18 – 25yrs

Further details can be made through the groups Facebook page or enquiries can be made by emailing Julie and the gang at: Info@1stlittleportscoutgroup.org.uk

Well done all!

Maria x

#livelovelittleport #Thescoutassociation

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The lure of visiting ‘The Hangar – Littleport’s Men’s Shed’ became more than tempting. I think in part, it came about as my father had never let me into his shed. So I was a little intrigued, to say the least. I would be going into a mans domain. A sacred space of tools, cuppas (cake if you are lucky) and wood.

I was warmly welcomed by the lovely Nigel, Graham and Paul. Also by Michael, who popped in, whilst I was there.

Nigel was instrumental in setting up the Littleport Shed. The shed idea being connected to the National Men’s Shed scheme (UKMSA). Nigel and the volunteers wanted to make a difference in Littleport. The ethos being that men could come together in a relaxed, self-contained setting. To chat, tinker and make things out of wood, metal etc. To enjoy computing also.
Nigel, pre retirement, was a teacher at King’s Ely. With a love for computing, programming in particular. He has brought to the sessions a ‘Rasberry Pi’ programming computer. Small enough to sit in your hand and is now connected to the sheds TV. This can help with many things. Particularly, with project design. So far, a wooden World War biplane and a mobile phone stand have been created, along with a few other bits. In the future, Nigel hopes to raise enough, to have a 3D printer installed.

In the members own words. It is a: “Playgroup for old codgers” but of course all men over 18 are made very welcome.

The setting up of the group has been funded primarily by The Vine Church. The building, which is in Globe Lane. Which was for many years a hair dressers. Once the space was gained (Spring 2018), Nigel and his volunteers tidied, painted, floored and sorted out some plumbing and electrics. So it could be a safe and more spacious space.

The Hangar needed tools, particularly those used in woodworking. So the word was put out and a Facebook page set up ‘The Hangar, Littleport Men’s Shed’.

Littleport Rotary Club donated £150. The parish council, the Littleport Lions Club and St Georges Church assisted as well. Parish Councillor Clive Webber arrived with an arm full of drill parts. Michael, a local member of the shed donated a new drill. Other individuals donated tools as well.

UKMSA advises that they, ‘support and provide guidance to individuals and groups across the UK in starting and managing Men’s sheds. Raising awareness of the social and health benefits of Men’s Sheds in reducing isolation, loneliness and in empowering local communities’.

Nigel added, that those who may benefit mostly from the group are those men who have experienced bereavement, isolation through home working, poor mental health and general isolation or boredom. But all who walk through the Hangars door will benefit and will quickly feel able to engage, in a relaxed atmosphere. Good old men’s banter at the core.

Nigel has certainly seen these benefits already, first hand. Not only have members learnt new skills from each other, but having a good old fashioned natter and men’s moan off, is so beneficial.
The days of the dank, end of garden, independently used wooden shed, hasn’t necessarily gone….but has just had a big upgrade. Social in nature, with the added benefits of having, just the right tool, somebody always knows how to do something and with heating, running water and working electrics it is a win, win situation.

The origins of the social shed stems from Australia, in 1988. Then it grew to Ireland and then the UK. The UK now has some 460 groups now in operation.

New members will need to comply with the groups health and safety policy, filling out a membership form. Membership is only £12 a year. With sessions, just £1 a time.
The shed members meet: Thursdays 9:30am to 12.00pm (Globe Lane).

So, please don’t be shy. As once through the Hangar door you are in for a treat and above all fun!

I have been left with shed envy and have now lost my husband to the Shed…..not necessarily a bad thing

Nigel hopes that in time, as membership grows. More sessions can be added.

If anybody wishes to donate, either tools or funding to help with more specialist equipment. Please contact Nigel, through The Hangar in Littleport, or the Facebook page.

Maria x

#livelovelittleport #ukmensshedsassociation #mensshed #UKMSA #littleportparishcouncil

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This is their story (I will refer to: as our friends):
(Thankyou: Phyllis, Ida, Richard, Jenny & The Grange: Taz)

Littleport, during World War 2 was viewed as being a safer area. Littleport and The Fens was seen as a predominantly natural marshy region, flat and away from any high populated city or national area/building of high security importance with few main transport links. It was expected that Germany would drop bombs on Britain’s main cities. As this had been their action during the Spanish civil war.

Our friend living in Prickwillow recalls being aged 10 at the start of war and that a letter had been sent to the countries prime minister from Hitler. Due to this letter, the country was now at war.
From the outset of war. Littleport and the fens were deemed as being a suitable place, where city children could be welcomed and evacuated too.
These evacuee children came to this area by train, bus and coach. On arrival (usually to a village school or hall) the children would be welcomed with drink and cake freshly made by residents. Often welcomed by a prominent Fenland group, such as the Local Mothers Union. In reality and as we now know, nowhere was truly safe. The children were usually kept with siblings. But not in all cases.

Our friend explained at Alexandra Hall, Victoria Street, Littleport, evacuee children were welcomed. Addresses were assigned and they would then begin life, for the duration of the war (nobody really knew how long this would be).

Some of these children, included those who were Jewish. She recalls that the village children thought that they spoke differently. But all were integrated and included well. Into mainly welcoming families and the local school. It was sometime later, that the magnitude and atrocity affecting Jews in occupied towns became apparent…..
Many evacuated Jewish children would never see their birth families again. Boys and girls were educated separately. Most of the Fenland children found these extra friends as being of interest and fun could be had. The reality of war was viewed less dramatically by the younger children, than those whom were teenagers. The horrors of war would for them, forever be committed to memory.

As war took grip the local schools closed. Both Littleport and Prickwillow. But were used to aid war effort and to assist with the distribution of food rationing.
One of our friends attended the once Prickwillow school. Indeed five generations of her family attended. She was active in trying to prevent the schools closure in more recent years.
This food rationing via a rationing book, continued well after the conclusion of war. Indeed many years after. On the whole this was effective. There was a feeling and rumour, that certain families received more, a bit extra. One of our friends said that her mum always seemed to have extra sugar. But as she adored tea.. She would swap some sugar for the tea with a neighbour.

The Boys Salvation Army became prominent and assisted where needed. The evacuees initially arrived and started school with a name tag attached to their coat button. This tag stated their name, school and other details. They had a small suitcase, a gas mask and a pre-addressed, stamped postcard to send to parents, telling them where we had arrived.

Our friend, Aged 12, having lived in Littleport all her life. Was grateful that she lived on a farm, Mildenhall Rd, Littleport. Her father was the farm manager and as such he wouldn’t be enlisted to fight in the war. Those exempt from conscription were: Dock workers, miners, farmers, scientists, merchant seamen, railway workers and utility workers.
An Uncle went to war and sadly didn’t return. Food was plentiful on the farm. To be fair, being from a farming community. People ate from garden to table. Growing a good variety of fresh goods. Rabbit and wild fowl was readily available.
As war raged on. It became clear that nowhere was truly safe. The fens were home to many flight landing strips with bases. Ely, Lakenheath and Mildenhall to name but a few. It was these areas that proved to be some what of a target. Our friend explained the terror of one night when the long concrete access road to the farm became a mistaken target (looked like a runway) and was bombed.

But all was not lost as the ‘land Girls’ from the British women’s Land Army had arrived! These enthusiastic young woman were speedily put to work at the farm and in the area. The farms becoming in affect, their employers. The idea was that these civilians could replace men called up to the military.

Our friend, who lived with her family in Prickwillow lived in a cosy, functional home which was full of asbestos inside and out. Her Grandmother lived a short way away in a riverside, corrugated iron cottage. During the day she had asked our friend if she could the next morning bring her some bread. This day was the last time that she would see her Grandmother (& a male relative….too painful to explain). Two American B17-Flying fortress, believed to have left a local airbase. They flew over her Grandmothers home, it is believed their wings touched. This cause of event, had catastrophic implication. The planes were loaded with bombs. Both fell to the ground. One fell in a field, exploding into a fireball on contact. The other landed on the Grandmothers house. Killing those inside. The date was 6th February 1945. Her Grandfather had been heavily into horse showing and had collected a lifetime of memorabilia. Something which our friend had fondly viewed with her Grandfather (possibly, hoping to own sometime). All was destroyed. Nothing was left….

Our friend recalls Anderson shelters quickly going up, at the start of war. People seemed to like making these. As it felt like proactive work. Many became very inventive with their shelters. A neighbours was made from an old chicken coop, dug into the ground.

The sight of regular, daily planes going over brought about differing feelings from our friends. This seems to be dependent with the age. Those whom were the youngest viewed as excitement. The others as terrifying. A daily reminder of being at war.

Our friend, lived just outside of Welney. Was aged 13 at the start of war. Initially working on a land farm. Then going into the ‘Home Guard’. The Home Guard, started out being voluntary, but then became compulsory as war bore on.
Our friend, in part, valued this time. As it taught many skills. Recalling that on one day there were 13 fires to be put out. On another occasion a plane had tried to Bomb Welney bridge. This bridge was an important access into villages. Luckily the bomb landed in a field, falling short. Being part of a Home Guard platoon came with some much needed social events. Which included meals and dances or village ‘whists’.

Our friend, was born in 1943. So was a young child at the start of war. Remembering the affects of food rationing and that it was still in place when she was 12 or 13 years of age. Her and her family lived in Cambridge University accommodation. Her family ministerial. She would help with the food distribution. She remembers it all being laid out on tables at a shop ‘Joshua Taylor’, Market St, Cambridge. Enjoying as a young girl cycling in Cambridge. For a city, obviously not as built up as now. They had a larger than average garden she enjoyed having fruit from the fruit trees. She recalls that everybody pitched in. That there was an amazing sense of community.

Our friend, remembers the sad time when and an Uncle died during war. His wife and young daughter moved in with them. Our friend later became a teacher and understands the importance of war being taught in schools both then and now. But to children who aren’t too young. Due to the deep seating feeling war evolves and the atrocities that can be viewed from history. Her Grandfather was a missionary in Africa.

I asked all four as to why it is important for our community and future generations to remember war. They spoke of the need to respect and remember those whom sacrificed and who lost their lives.  In order to give us the future which we enjoy now. To ensure and protect that we never be at war again. Too much needless human loss. Too many families affected and torn apart.

So how did Littleport remember…

Adams Heritage Centre pay respect

During the weeks leading up to Armistice Day, Clair’Marie from the Heritage Centre trustees requested that the community come together. To help her create a creative visual remembrance window. To mark the community coming together in remembrance. She needed beautifully crafted (whichever medium you chose) hands and poppies. The poppies being in red and purple (to remember the animals whom died in war). The idea was that the window would describe a  ‘Joining of hands’. This was symbolic at the end of the war and now too. The red hands were joined together to create one, centrally displayed huge poppy.

The residents, schools, pre-schools, child minders and local businesses (whom helped distribute flyers) didn’t disappoint).  Clair’Marie received a staggering approx. 1,000 !
The poppies were made from everything, strayed plastic bottle ends to metal and wire work.  The youngest participant being just a few months old. A beautiful poppy with the babies hand print for the poppy leaf. Two children (9 yrs) drew and cut out beautiful poppies. Both with themselves coloured in, peeking out from the top of the poppies.
In case you missed it. When the window display is taken down. It will be kept in part of the heritage centre. For another viewing day :
Poppy Exhibition Day – Sunday 25th NOVEMBER from 10am.

Remembrance Rocks 

Mark announced via social media that his Niece and Nephew: Elizabeth, aged 5 and Morgan, aged 8 had wanted to do something special to remember the soldiers. They were already part of the #Norfolkrocks. So it seemed a fitting idea.  They painted many rocks and hid them around Littleport, near to one of the primary schools.  I am sure you will agree. They did them beautifully and they were found!

The Rainbows, Guides and Brownies

The youngest section of girl guiding got crafting. Rainbows are aged: 5 – 7yrs. They made beautiful spray painted, bottle top poppies to display. The photo shows: Alicia, Isla and Isabella, from Littleport 1st Rainbows enjoying their group time. Well done girls!

The Beavers, Scouts and Cubs

Not to be left in the dark by the guiding girls. The Littleport beavers & scouts got busy. Painting rocks.  These rocks were placed along St George’s church footpath. For worshippers to view on Remembrance Day. They were all individual and stunning. Well done all!

The Port Youth Club

We all had an inkling that the fabulous staff at the Port youth club were up to something…When several weeks leading up to Armistice Day. Via social media, they put out a request for chicken wire, plastic sheets and plastic bottle tops. All I can say is wow, what a display ! The wired poppy display is just by the door, as you go into church. Showing 100. As well as a steel silhouette which was cut from a steel sheet by Stuart Palmer at Anvil Crafts. Their is a Podcast recording which Carol Palmer assisted the port to put together. The link can be found on the ports Facebook page. The youths were joined at the church on Remembrance Day by the bikers of 363.

Leading up to remembrance. I asked the question:

“Why is it important for the young, as well as the old to remember now, those whom fought in the war and to keep the memory alive?”

Reply – Charlie N “We must remember. If we do not, the sacrifice of those who lost their lives will be meaningless. They died for us, for their homes, families, friends, strangers and the future they believed in. To pay our respects to those who died, serving their country. We must NEVER forget those who spent their lives protecting us”

Wow! Well done Charlie. Awesome, well thought out words. You have made The Port and Littleport proud. Well done all.

Royal British Legion (Littleport Branch)

In honour of the 100 years. A memorial garden has been made. This is at the large graveyard, Parsons Lane. It is to be dedicated in April. So look out for that.

In memory 1918-2018

Maria x

#livelovelittleport #spottedinely #guiding #girlguiding #scouting #scouts #rembrancesunday #armistaceday #royalbritishlegion

The Littleport Remembrance Parade

Photographs taken by Maria Stableford

The post Littleport Young and Old Remember (1918-2018) appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

When I arrived, I found a good size area, which I never knew even existed. A hidden, rambling, thorny and overgrown piece of land. What struck me was how quiet it was. You felt away from the hustle and bustle of life and could easily see, hear and feel the nature around which was bursting from within. It truly felt to me like a secret garden.

Deborah Curtis Watson and others had the vision. That through campaigning, support from Littleport Parish Council, East Cambridge District Council, Sanctuary housing, Littleport red lions, Littleport Time bank, The Port Youth Club and the community. There was a chance that this once neglected area could be brought back to life again. To be accessible to all.
The garden was named ‘Peacocks Meadow’.

Days were set aside, rota’s drawn. Heavy machinery was brought in to do the initial clearing work.
Volunteers appeared and tirelessly cleared the ground of brambles, freed ditches and levelled areas which needed to be for easy pedestrian access. The local ‘Lions’ had some members come from as far afield as Great Yarmouth. Volunteers supplied tea and cake.

Wild flower seeds were bought, to be germinated over the winter and then sown. All involved were very keen to keep the wildlife which had made it their home and to encourage more. This has now been done, through hedgehog, reptile, frog and toad, wildlife houses and specialised planting etc. Through the tireless work of the garden committee. Peacocks Garden was selected to be one of 50 community growing spaces to be awarded a ‘Grow Wild Seed Pack’. A National outreach scheme scheme run by Royal Botanic gardens, Kew London.

The garden is now a haven for wildlife, a relaxing quiet area for the community to enjoy. People have enjoyed a variety of events which include an Easter egg hunt and bug hunting. More events are being planned.

As with any garden, particularly one of this size. The garden requires constant pruning, cutting back, pathways maintained etc.
Recently another ‘garden tidying’ day was held. The community came out and helped.
Littleport Timebank members were able if they wished to garden in exchange for credits.

Carol and Stuart from Fenland Spirit Services donated a mower to help in the garden. One resident, Ben who came to the garden day, explained that he loves the garden as it is accessible for his mobility scooter and that he likes to spend as much time there as he can.

The garden members regularly post updates on their Facebook page. Find these: Fb/Peacocksmeadow Also the event days and when they need additional help to maintain.

Like any community volunteer project, the more hands, the lighter the work will be. So please do volunteer your services as there is always something to do in the garden. The reward will be a satisfying time, fresh air and great fitness benefits.
Message the group and let them know when you can help. Even if you can do just an hour. It all helps.
A group gardening event is planned for November. So keep an eye out for that.

So the ‘Secret Garden’ may not be very secret anymore. But I for one, am glad it now isn’t!

#livelovelittleport

Maria x

The post The Secret Garden appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Every year we all rush out to source the biggest and best pumpkin which we can find. Eagerly dreaming up new carving ideas. Our front of house becomes full of ghouls, demons, skeletons and monsters ready to pounce on any brave trick or treaters.

But is this festival for all……Not necessarily.
Many children enjoy the spooky going ons and relish the next jumpy moment.  Pushed on, by the lure of something sweet and nice.
But children are children, all individuals, with individual likes and dislikes.  It is this difference which make the children of the Littleport community so amazing, caring and each unique.
A proportion of these children, will not enjoy all the aspects of Halloween.  Some may not want to be involved at all.  Which you know what ? Is just fine.
Others may wish to celebrate, but in some other way.
Children come in all shapes and sizes.
Other children may have a disability, such as autism or Aspergers and a full on Halloween may not be the best way forward.  Changes of routine and the sudden presence of visual ghoulish dress up and of loud creepy noises etc. May not be the best. This is all dependent on the child of course.  All goes really and children should be able to have a good time however they spend Halloween.

So with this mind Julie and all, at the Littleport Vine Community Church. Held an amazing free, children’s ‘light’ event for Halloween.  An alternative type of party and fun. Local children, aged 5-10 were invited along to the church to enjoy an early evening of games, food, crafts, lights and music.
22 children enjoyed: star coaster making, sun-catchers, sweetie skewers.
The room was beautifully decorated with dim lights, fairy lights and LED balloons. Group party games were fun, followed by a picnic by lantern light.
A short talk on light and Jesus, alongside modelling balloons.
The party ended with a good old children’s knees up of dancing and each child was given their own memento from the light party of a helium LED balloon.
This is likely to be a recurring event.  So keep an eye out for it next year.

For more details about the Vine Community Church and all events.
Find them on Facebook and also:
www.vineccl.org.uk

#livelovelittleport

Maria x

The post Pumpkins V’s Dream Catchers appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

When you go for a walk, people often strangers, will talk to you. This may just be about the weather or to tell you about a local point of interest.
During one such trip a local man, when I told him that we were newbies, asked if I had been to the Branching Out charity shop. I hadn’t and so he urged me to check it out. He said that it was such ‘A Happy Place’.
I found the shop easily in the High Street and I was soon eagerly scouring the clothing rails and shelves. What struck me the most, was how well organised the shop was and with very friendly staff. The shop display had incredible attention to detail, with the design and care taken.
Dress necklaces, were displayed, by being draped over many gold sprayed barbie dolls which were attached to a large ornate picture frame. Sounds very kitsch. But you know what, it worked!

More recently I was told about the Branching Out workshop on Grange Lane. Again, a local described this place as such a Happy Place. Intrigued I visited and I came away so very happy and you will too.
Branching Out is a disability charity which has a central workshop and two shops. The stores being in Littleport and Chatteris.

The organisation provides highly skilled and worthwhile day provision for people with learning disabilities and complex needs. The team workers, headed up by the Grange manager Susan Wiggins offers a safe and relaxed atmosphere. This helps with behavioural correction and personal development, building upon both social aspects and daily skills. With the emphasis on creativity. The staff are able to identify the issues and what a persons trigger may be. Then come up with a strategy plan, which works.
Adults attend mostly, for 2 to 3 days a week. Often for several years.  Across the organisation there are 17 members of staff.
The disabled people who attend are either local, but can be from further afield. Particularly as the care which Branching Out offer, is highly specialised and often not catered for in many towns.

So how is this service funded.
Well with difficulty. But through donations, staff perseverance, commitment, grants and finance knowledge, somehow it does.

This year Branching Out became a ‘Partner Charity’ for the White Stuff clothing store, in Ely.
Surinder, the manager at the White Stuff says, that it is a privilege and honour to sponsor the store for three years. This will mean regular fundraising by the store staff. In the form of sweets selling, from the many jars which are behind the till. As well as bigger fund raising events. In the summer, Surinder and the staff set themselves a challenge. Which they weren’t entirely sure they could complete. It was a week long challenge where the staff would run (mileage by group) the equivalent of Ely to Edinburgh. Some 350 miles. They were to run the task on a hospital grade treadmill. Which incidentally had been previously donated to Branching Out. For the disabled clients to remain fit and active. Donated by Co-Op Littleport.
The White Stuff staff didn’t disappoint. They smashed it!!
These funds this year, primarily went towards building work. To bring more light into the Grange workshop converted barn, by way of an amazing high window door entrance. The removal of what was once a dark brick wall, now floods the workshop with natural light. An amazing 409.5 miles was covered by the White Stuff. Staff and visitors to the store donated £412 during the fundraiser.

Other ways that the store has raised additional funds has been through raffles, cake sales, lucky dip, book sales and more recently Halloween bingo.
In order for this charity to continue its amazing work. It does need the support of both locals, businesses and visitors.
Your help can be through volunteering for the store or at Grange Lane. So many things need to be done. This may be assisting the disabled in looking after the Grange Lane garden or in the shop. Helping with the craft making or assembling at home. So cutting out craft items, which go in packs for the disabled clients to then assemble in the workshop.

The clients make so many amazing things, which are available to the public to buy.

Personalised wooden items:
Named Christmas Eve boxes
Signs
Birthday bunting
Christmas, Halloween,Easter etc decorative items
Plus oodlles more.

Stationary wedding items: Including Keep the date’ cards
Cake stands

Many items to hire for either wedding or baby showers:
Sweet cart
Wooden ladder for displaying things e.g wedding table plans etc.
Rustic post box

Decorated items for the LGBT community.

You can also purchase fruit & veg and plants from the allotment.
Fire wood available
Event room hire too.

Either turn up or call if you would like anything.

Please, if you can spare some volunteer hours, wish to donate items to go on sale in the shop, to donate some funds or are a local business who would like to sponsor this amazing charity please do. They are waiting for you at this special, Happy Place.
Susan and everybody at Branching Out thank everybody who donates and assists them.

#branchingout
#whitestuff
#co-op
#charity
www.branchingoutuk.com
Tel: 01353 863561

#livelovelittleport
Maria x

The post A Happy Place appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The poppies can be in any form: card-work, drawing,painting, knitting, crochet. All sizes up to about A4.
So get creative !
Open for all.
See below, some of the beautiful work which has already been handed in.
The poppies can be posted through the centre letterbox or contact Claire’Marie above.

The individual poppies will form a symbol of thanks in the form of one huge poppy ring. Which will be displayed in the centre window for all to see and enjoy.

#livelovelittleport
Maria x

The post Community Poppy Crafting Appeal appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The post Little Legs Dance the Night Away appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Often people accidentally mislay items around Littleport. Whether this be a child’s cuddly softy or more recently a 10” dinosaur. Sadly, but luckily not so often, something is stolen.

In both instances the drive by the community and our local beat officers to reunite the owner with the item is incredible.  Showing no tiring of resources until both are united. This coming together by the Littleport residents, takes the forms of chats in the local shops, cafes, on social media and word of mouth.

On Thursday (11th Oct) a very unusual mint green Jorvik child carrier trike was stolen from Johanna and her family. The family naturally were very upset and distraught, not sure if they would ever see it again.

During the day PCSO,s Robinson and Chennell were out on patrol locally, when they noticed an unusual looking trike in Church Lane.  The trike was with a group.  The ever poised police nose sniffed out, that something wasn’t right or adding up.

Details were obtained and the trike was seized and stored temporarily at the Co-Op. Through the power of social media and the community the trike was then cycled by a police officer back to the now happy owner.

An eye witness: Elaine confirmed that about 21:55hrs she was travelling along Wisbech Rd when she saw an unusual, but amusing sight.  A Police Officer wearing a fluorescent jacket was riding the trike towards the chippy roundabout and was being tailed by a marked police car.

The owner of the trike, Johanna advised that her family had happily owned the trike for about 4 months. It was now an integral part of the family.  Being ridden around the village and to take her young daughter to school.

Johanna has been bowled over by the support of the Littleport community and their infectious resolve to get the bike quickly back to the family. Johanna initially reported to the police the theft and also did a local social media post showing a photo of the missing bike.

So many people have since sent the family messages of support and to say how pleased everybody is, that they now have the bike back.

The police have advised that enquiries re: the suspects are continuing and if anybody knows any details to contact East Cambs Police.

I have been reliably informed that a photograph of the officer riding the trike is in existence. But they are being a bit shy.
However, the officer may participate in the annual naked bike ride in Cambridge next year. As he/she has got a taste for the saddle (Joking! Like the above pic, a bit of artistic licence)

To Johanna and her family. Wishing you many years of trike enjoyment in Littleport. If locals see them, give them a wave.

#livelovelittleport
Maria x

The post Does Anyone Have My Trike? appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

A 15th century church (early records indicate an initial building,14th century) dedicated to St George, the patron saint of England.  A church, which is lovingly and enthusiastically headed by Revd. Howard Robson. Ably assisted by his many volunteers and committee members.

Lisa, the chair of the church events committee.  A crafter herself, had a great idea of a yearly, quality craft fair to bring people from outside of the area into Littleport. As well as raising funds, to help secure the comfortable future of this historical building. 100% of the stall fees go to the church.

Saturday 22nd September, locals and people from far and wide came together for the third year of this growing event. With an amazing selection of stalls, food and an outdoor gin bar.  All beautifully presented and organised superbly. This organisation and the friendly, relaxed Littleport community feel is what several of the stall holders commented so fondly on.  Saying, that this is why they come back year after year and plan on doing so, hopefully for many years to come.

The stalls included artists, jewellery making, crochet & wool work, sewing crafts, metalwork, wooden toys and home goods, lace making,candle making, felt work and so many more.

Lace maker: Sue Medlow first learnt this intricate craft in 1991 when she enrolled on an evening class at Cottenham village college. Using multiple threads, a wooden with beaded bobbin and with central pins placed on the backing.

Sue has given it a modern twist with decorated cards and decorative hangings. Exquisite and with patience, Sue ably demonstrated her craft throughout the day.

Having held a positive and steadfast presence for so many years.  The doors welcome all. Not only through their church services.  But through church clubs and drop-ins: Messy church (children & toddlers), Tea & Tots, Shine (promoting talk between children and the elders of the community), Play & Pray.  As well as providing a vital lifeline and base for the food bank.

Well done all!

#livelovelittleport

Best wishes

Maria

The post Autumn Arts & Craft Fair appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

87 households in Littleport came together, to create one huge yard sale, complete with maps and the best walking routes.

The idea was thought up by a parent group at the new Littleport,  Highfield Academy. To raise some funds, to benefit the students who attend the school.

It was Spearheaded by a lovely lady, Chelsey Marie Meadows. Whom by all accounts did a sterling job, even when her printer decided to give out, during the 11th hour.

There was an entry fee for stall holders and a small fee for the sale of stall location maps.

It was a huge success and attended by many. Some bought, others stopped by for a chat and a purchase. It was great to see so many residents, young and old wandering happily from stall to stall.

Some lovely stories came out from the day. Two stood out for me were: one from a lady who contacted me, Whilst busy at her stall, a man had come by.

After chatting for a while, it transpired that they had gone to school together, many moons ago. But had over the years lost contact. Not any more!

Another was that some under 5’s pocket money had finally run out during the stall visits by them and their accompanying families. One of the children got a bit sad as she really liked the look of something. Seeing the monetary issue, the stall holder gave the item to her. A big smile firmly back on her face.

An awesome total of £129.21 was made for the school and importantly the children.  The money was handed over to Highfield Littleport Academy by 7 year old Bailey Meadows.

Well done all!!

#livelovelittleport

The post Successful Community Yard Sale for Highfield Littleport Academy appeared first on Spotted in Ely.