January 1988

The new year started with a wet day and then several dull, wet and wild days. By the second week we had some lovely sunny days with blue skies.
The issue of January Parish News  brought the glad news that Mr Derek Reynolds of The Cottage, Johnson Street, has offered to do all the church brasses each week for 1988 and was gladly accepted.
A calendar for parishioners is to be displayed in the newsagents of A T Throwers.  This is to fill in dates of forthcoming events to prevent clashing of dates.
Members of St Catherine’s Church Sunday School enjoyed a party in the Church Room at the weekend. There were games and a disco for older children and members which was followed with tea provided and served by the members.
Ludham Parish Council met in the Church Room on Tuesday week. It was reported that following a meeting to discuss the Child Watch and Home Watch Schemes, just one co-ordinator for the Home Watch had come forward and it was hoped that others would follow. Footpaths within the village had been improved and thanks were expressed to the councillor responsible.  Work also continued on the children’s playing corner.  It was decided to call a public meeting to discuss having a place within the village for young people to congregate.  Next meeting is on Tuesday February 2nd.
There are changes ahead in the village. The antiques and wine shop on the Yarmouth Road has closed with the death of Gilbert Sparrow, and the bicycle shop run by Geoff Sparrow is to change hands with him going to Stalham and the shop to become a unisex hairdressers.  The bakery and vegetable shop has closed until further notice, and the Humphries are leaving Cook Stores at the end of January, so new people will come in.  Hoping they will stay longer than the average two years.  It has changed hands rather frequently over these past few years.
This is the wettest January for 45 years and more rain is forecast according to the BBC weather forecast. But at last it is mild.
Ludham Wives met for the first time in January 1988 to listen to Mrs Barry Marshall talking about the time that she and her husband decided to ‘opt out’ and go ‘up, up and away’.  Mr and Mrs Marshall moved to Norfolk 26 years ago and got bitten by the sailing bug. After years working for an oil company and ending up with four years being in Aberdeen, the Marshalls surprised their family by announcing that they had had enough and were going to sail into the sunset.  After a bit of discussion and planning the day dawned when, with their house sold and their furniture put into storage, the Marshalls set off in a 32 ft sea going boat which had a 36PH engine for emergencies.  The day chosen happened to be the day of the Tall Ships race and it was a magical experience to sail out past all the cheering crowds in such spectacular company. The original plan was to go for about six months.  At first the biggest problem seemed to be to get out of the habit of rushing from one place to the next, but to realize that there was time to stop and stare. Mrs Marshall described their travels so vividly that members got the flavor of the life that she and her husband had so enjoyed, not for the six months planned but for seven years.  Most of the time they spent round Spain instead of the Greek islands,  their original destination, but that just proved that the object was to be able to drift wherever fancy took them rather than having to conform to outside pressures.
The monthly branch meeting of the Women’s Section Royal British Legion was held on Wednesday week in the Methodist school room with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding.  It was an informal meeting and fund raising events for 1988 were discussed.  The president, Mrs R Burton, thanked members for her gift received on her 90th birthday.  Tea hostesses were Mrs Forster and Mrs J O’Neil.  The trading stall manned by Mrs F Deacon realized £25.20 for branch funds.
January 18th
Members of the Forget-Me-Not Club, accompanied by their president, Mrs Alexander and Mrs O’Gorman and friends went by coach to a lunch at Hotel Wroxham.
January 20th
The first meeting of the WI this year was held in the Church Room with Mrs Gould presiding. It was attended by 37 members and 3 guests. A great deal of business was discussed including dates for money raising events, the annual outing and the charity that members would like to support this year. Representatives for the annual meeting in Norwich were chosen and Mrs Gould will also become representative on the village fete committee.  After the business members were able to sit back and enjoy a demonstration of microwave cookery, and a vote of thanks was given by Mrs J Clarke.  The items of cookery were brought by members. Earlier in the meeting a reading was given by Mrs J Farrington and birthday flowers were given by Miss V Parsons.
January 29th
Mrs Ros Cordiner of Latchmoor Park, Ludham, who is a teacher, took her Open University degree over five years.  She felt she needed a degree in today’s competitive teaching world.  Her subjects included music, an arts foundation course, religious technology and education.  Mother of two, Mrs Cordiner who teaches first year pupils at Catfield               had nothing but praise for the course although she found it hard work.  “The whole thing is excellent” she said “especially for those with no formal qualifications at all”.
The January meeting of the Mother’s Union was held in the Church Room with Mrs R Fulcher presiding.  She announced that she will be retiring as enrolling member after 30 years.  Mrs A Morgan , the vicar’s wife, will take over in April. Mrs Morgan then gave a talk on ‘All God’s children’ and was thanked by Mrs Fulcher. Tea was served by Mrs J O’Neil and Mrs B Holland.  The stall made £5.80 for branch funds.
Ludham Wives met in the Methodist school room to listen to Mr Gilbert Howard telling them about some of the history of Norwich Cathedral. Mr Howard became a guide for the cathedral after retiring from the Ministry of Works. He gave the group a potted history of the cathedral, telling them who was responsible for its construction and how the people of Norwich and the Benedictine monks were frequently at odds with each other, how the cathedral has suffered over the years from five riots, lightning, and occupation by Cromwell’s men who had burnt priceless books and vandalized the ceiling figures.  He used slides showing both interior and exterior shots of the cathedral. Mr Howard also reminisced about his personal memories as a guide.

February 1988

Because this February is so mild the grass is being cut on Baker’s Arms Green and people’s private lawns.  It has not left off growing all winter.  Crocus and violets are in bloom and daffodils will not be long.
February 7th
About 100 people attended morning service at St Catherine’s Church conducted by the Rev B Morgan.  Mr J Savage was the organist.  The lessons were read by Mr P Horton.  During the service there were two baptisms – Susan Jean Spurden and Natalie Beverly Louise Jones.  The collection was taken by Mr P Horton and Mr K Fitz-Hugh.
Despite gales 17 members attended the monthly branch meeting of the Women’s Section Royal British Legion in the Methodist school room with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding.  Following the business, members enjoyed a talk given by a fellow member, Mrs M Thomas on her visit by invitation of Lady Billington to Castle Billington in Southern Ireland. She was thanked by Mrs J McGuire.  Tea hostesses were Mrs D Cable and Mrs E Carter. The trading stall manned by Mrs F Dean realized £24.35 for Women’s Section funds.
February 17th
Thirty eight members of the Women’s Institute and two guests met at the Church Room with Mrs W Guild presiding. A long business agenda included such varied topics as the annual meeting in London, the possible charity for the year at group meetings to be held in Ludham this March.  A visitor from Stalham then gave an illustrated talk on ‘The forefathers of Israel’.  Members found this not only entertaining but thought provoking and discussion took place while tea was served.  A competition for the prettiest spoon was won by Miss J Clarke.  Birthday flowers were given by Mrs V Fitz-Hugh.
February 23rd
A coffee morning held for the Muscular Dystrophy charity in the Church Room raised £54.
February 27th
A jumble sale organized by Women’s Section of the Royal British Legion in the Church Room also raised £211 for the Muscular Dystrophy charity.
Over 100 people attended the February family service held at St Catherine’s Church which was conducted by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan.  Mr J Savage was organist.  Members of the Guides and Brownies attended as it had been their Thinking Day.  They also carried their standards.  The processional cross was carried by Matthew Holland and the Mother’s Union banner by Mrs M Fulcher.  The Sunday School children carried their banner. Musical items were provided by children of the Sunday School.  During the service there was the baptism of Peter William David Savage and at the coffee break a christening cake, made by Mrs  L Savage, was distributed to the congregation.
The Forget-Me-Not Club has resumed after the winter break.  Forty members attended the first meeting and they were pleased to welcome four new members.  Tea was provided and served by Mrs Denny, Mrs Hill, Mrs Truett and Mrs Forster.  At the meeting last week 41 members attended and one new member.  Tea was provided and served by Mrs Moone, Mrs Clarke, Mrs Fuller and Mrs Knox.  The trading stall was manned by Mrs Dean and Mrs Forster at both meetings.  Mrs Janet Smith thanked all members for their support, especially for their fund raising efforts and for the cakes they have made for various events.  A new committee was elected:- president Mrs Rose Brown, vice president Mrs Barrie Marshall, secretary Mrs Carolyn Mobbs, treasurer Mrs Babs Slaughter, catering managers Mrs Betty Holland and Mrs Joan O’Neil, press officer Mrs Elspeth McCarthy and floating members Mrs Dorothy Hornsby and Mrs Joan Bacon. Mrs Mobbs presented Mrs Smith with a chrysanthemum in a basket on behalf of the committee in recognition of her hard work during the past year.
February weather included fine days and wet days but also blue skies and warmth. Spring bulbs are near to flowering and grass still growing after our mild winter. Very little frost up to now.
The little building in the street, which has in turn had many varied uses and was formerly a cycle shop, is now a unisex hairdresser called the ‘Cat’s Whiskers’ and has been in operation about a week.
February 27th
A jumble sale was held in the Church Room, organized by committee members of the Royal British Legion.  The sum of £211.25 was raised for Women’s Section funds.
Bingo held in the Church Room for the village hall funds raised £76.46p.  There is generally one fund raising event for the hall held each month.
The branch meeting of the Women’s Section of the Royal British Legion was held in the Methodist school room with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding. £300 was allocated from branch funds to Women’s Section benevolent schemes. Mr Freeman gave an informative talk on the care of house plants.  A vote of thanks was given by Mrs D Barnard. The trading stall made £24.34 for branch funds. Eight members attended the group 12/14 meeting held in Repps village hall.  The delegate was Mrs J O’Neil.
At the first meeting of the Wives Group following the AGM with Mrs Rose Brown presiding members welcomed Mrs Dinah Roberts who gave a delightful demonstration on making and decorating chocolate Easter eggs. Toffee and chocolate with mouth-watering fillings were also made.  The meeting was well attended and a vote of thanks to Mrs Roberts was proposed by Mrs Janet Smith.
Forty one members of the Forget-Me-Not Club attended the Thursday meeting with Mrs Abraham presiding. Tea was provided and served by Mrs Sheldrake, Mrs Sayer, Mrs Turner and Mrs O’Gorman. Competition winners were Mrs Temple, Mrs Barker and Mrs Burton.  The trading stall and library were manned by Mrs Forster and Mrs Dean.
A jumble sale held in the Church Room in aid of the Guide and Brownie funds raised £117.  Competition winners were Mrs Hall, Mrs Brown, Mrs O’Gorman, Mrs Holland, Mrs Roll and Mrs Turner. ‘Guess the weight of the cake’ was won by Mrs Cator and ‘Number of sweets in jar’ by Caroline Lecky.  Thanks to all helpers and supporters.

March 1988

A Sung Eucharist service was held at St Catherine’s Church on Sunday morning and was conducted by Rev B Morgan.  The processional cross was carried by Mrs S Hall, the Mother’s Union banner by Mrs D Nicholson and the Sunday School banner by Mrs L Savage and Pete Savage. The lessons were read by the vicar and intercessions by Mrs O Mason. Mothering Sunday prayers were said.  The sidesman was Mrs R Fulcher. The service was followed with a Mothering Sunday service in the Church Room which was attended by 60 people.  It was led by Mrs D Nicholson.  Readings were given by Peter Tully and Mrs Sue Gordon. The flowers and cards were distributed by Mrs L Savage and Mrs Cordiner who also took the collection.
The Methodist Church celebrated Mothering Sunday with two services.  In the morning the service was conducted by Mr C Barclay of Trunch with Mrs C Thower as organist.  In the afternoon the service was taken by the Rev S Yelland, the circuit minister..  The children of the Sunday School sang two hymns with Mrs Thrower at the organ.  After the afternoon service the children of the Sunday School gave everybody flowers.  Tea was served in the school room.
March 14th
The annual Parish Church and Vestry meeting was held in the Church Room and conducted by the vicar, Mr B Morgan. Mrs S Hall and Mr K Fitz-Hugh were re-elected as churchwardens. The church secretary is Mrs O Mason and the treasurer Mrs L Savage. Council members elected were Mr A Sheldrake, Miss V Parsons, Mrs J Seymour, Mrs D Nicholson, Mrs K Fitz-Hugh, Mrs S O’Gorman, Mrs B Gowing and Mr K Walker. Mr Mason gave the annual report which was approved, and the financial statement given by Mrs L Savage was also approved.  Mr Sheldrake gave the Church Room accounts in the absence of Miss V Parsons who was unwell. The choir report was given Mr J Savage, organist and choir master.  The Sunday School report was given by Mrs Cordiner who also reported on the electoral roll.  The Synod re-elected Mrs O Mason and Mrs L Savage.  Mrs Mason also gave a report on the meeting they attended.  The vicar gave his thanks to all those who had shared in the running of the church or supporting it in any way.
There was a large attendance at St Catherine’s Church for the family service conducted by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan.  Mr J Savage was organist.  The processional cross was carried by Matthew Holland.  The Mother’s Union banner was carried by Mrs M Fulcher and the Sunday School banner by Katherine and Laura Cordiner, and Sarah Billington.  The intercessions were given by Mrs L Savage and readings by Mrs D Nicholson.  Mrs R Cordiner conducted the theme of drama which included a verse from ‘Jonah Man Jazz’.  The vicar presented good attendance badges for family service.  Coffee was served during the service.  The collection was taken by Mrs J O’Neil and April Goodgens.  The sidesmen were Mr A Sheldrake and Mrs J O’Neil.
The collection taken at the Women’s World Day of Prayer service amounted to £29.75 for funds.
At a meeting of Ludham Wives a cheque for £145 was presented by Mrs Jean Bacon on behalf of members to Mr Elliot of the Zipper Club in support of Papworth Hospital.  After the presentation Mr Elliot gave a brief talk on heart disease and the formulation of the Zipper Club and its aim to help patients through the traumatic experience of heart surgery.  Mrs B Brown presided and Mrs Wendy Gould proposed a vote of thanks.
Palm Sunday service was held at St Catherine’s and was Sung Eucharist. The Rev B Morgan conducted the service and Mr J Savage was organist. Rebecca Savage carried the processional cross.  At the beginning of the service, after the processional hymn, members of the congregation were given a palm cross by the vicar and Mr A Cordiner. The intercession was given by Mr A Sheldrake.  The sidesmen were Mr P Horton and Mr C England who also took the collection. The wine, water and wafer were taken to the altar by Mrs D Nicholson and Tracy and Kim Nicholson.
Some 42 members attended the Forget-Me-Not meeting held in the Church Room with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding. Tea was provided and served by Mrs Cable,  Mrs Amis, Mrs Thompson and Mrs Barnard. A new member was welcomed.  Competition winners were Mrs D Cable, Mrs Watson, Mrs Hornsby and Mrs Jean Smith.  The trading stall and library were manned by Mrs F Dean.
A successful bingo session was held in the Church Room organized by Mr F Carter and raised the total of £87.89 for the organ fund.
Ludham Mother’s Union members held their Lady Day service on Wednesday in St Catherine’s Church arranged by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan, who also conducted the service and gave the address.  Mr J Savage was organist. The lessons were read by Mrs A Morgan and Mrs M Fulcher.  There was a tea afterward in the Church Room and it assumed a party atmosphere to mark the resignation of Mrs M Fulcher after 33 years as enrolling member.  On behalf of all the members Mrs M Kemp, the longest serving branch member, presented Mrs Fulcher with a gold cross and chain.  Mrs S Hall had a cake made, suitably inscribed, and members had provided the refreshments which they served while Mrs J O’Neil and Mrs R Holland were the tea hostesses. The business part of the meeting consisted of the financial report presented by the treasurer, Mrs D Nicholson, and the annual report read by Ms McGuire (secretary), Mrs Hall presented a pot plant to Mrs Fulcher and Mrs A Morgan.  Mrs Fulcher also received a handmade preserved flower card with the signature and names of all the members and the vicar.  Mrs Fulcher said it was a truly happy and memorable occasion.  The trading stall made £5.00 for branch funds.

Cuttings and Inclusions Jan - Mar 1988

April 1988

April 1st
All the Easter services at St Catherine’s Church were well attended and were conducted by the Rev B Morgan, vicar.
They began on Good Friday morning with a united service at Stocks Hill.  At the 11 am Sung Eucharist service the choir sang an Easter anthem.  The processional cross was carried by Rebecca Savage. Readings were given by the vicar and Mr A Sheldrake.  Mr Sheldrake was the server. The wine, wafers and water were taken to the altar by Mrs R Cordiner and Catherine and Laura Cordiner. The sidesmen were Mr R Fulcher and Mrs B Gowing who also took the collection.  The 8 am service was well attended. Server was Mr A Sheldrake and the collection taken by Mrs S Hall.  At the 6.30 pm service given by the vicar Mr A Cordiner carried the processional cross and readings were given by the vicar and Mr A Sheldrake.  Mrs J O’Neil was sidesman and took the collection.  The church had been beautifully decorated by the women of the Flower Guild and there were 96 arum lilies kindly given by the parishioners. The Sunday School members and children had made an Easter garden.
On Good Friday at High Street Methodist Church a service was conducted by the Rev G Munnerly with Mr C Thrower at the organ. A short service combined with St Catherine’s Church was held on Stocks Hill.
April 3rd
On Easter Day the communion was conducted by the Rev F C Bond at the Methodist Church.  The morning service was taken by the Rev S Yelland, the circuit minister. The evening service was joined by the Spinnaker Cruise with the Rev Gavin Reed conducting it.  Mrs C Thrower was at the organ for the service. Refreshments were available in the schoolroom for the Cruise party.
April 6th
An Easter sale was held in the evening in the Church Room, organized by Mrs S Hall and members of the Handicraft Guild.  The sum of £377.70 was raised for St Catherine’s Church organ fund.
Thirty five members attended the Forget-Me-Not Club meeting in the Church Room with Mrs A Alexander presiding. Tea was provided and served by Mrs P Denny, Mrs A Truett and Mrs P Knox.  Competition wins were Mrs Taylor, Mrs Butcher and Mrs Denny.  Birthday cards were given to Mrs Densham and Mr Peter Day and a pot plant and card sent to Mrs Small who is unwell. The trading stall and library were manned by Mrs W Forster and Mrs Dean. Members were reminded of the coming sale and 21st birthday event.
The First Ludham Guides held a sponsored silence in the Church Room.  The money is going into the general fund and the sum of £169.10 was raised.  Thanks were given to all the Guides and Guiders for the tremendous effort, and to the sponsors.
April 16th
A jumble sale in aid of the Village Hall Fund, held in the Church Room on Saturday, raised the sum of £197.00.
April 20th
Thirty two members of the Women’s Institute met at the Church Room.  The president, Mrs W Gould, was in the chair.  Unfortunately several members were unwell.  A comprehensive agenda followed which included arrangements for the jumble sale, volunteers for the Red Cross door-to-door collection and an unanimous vote to give £25 to the cost of a new piano in the Church Room from the W I funds. Mrs D Lloyd agreed to hold a coffee morning at her home to raise money for the Royal National Institute for the Blind.  Mr Peter Barry then demonstrated a deep frying unit.  The demonstration was entertaining and highly efficient and the results were appreciated by the members in the audience. The stall raised £2.37.
The annual Parish Council meeting was held in the Church Room.  The Parish Council’s annual report was given by the chairman, Mrs V Bensley, followed by reports of the Council accounts, the school management and also voluntary organizations in the village. These were from the Women’s Institute, Ladies Handicraft Guild, St Benet’s Players, the Royal British Legion (Men and Women’s Sections), Ludham Playgroup, the Village Hall management committee, Ludham Wives and the Womack Herons. Growing concern was expressed about the level of salt water in the rivers and the need for very urgent action. Mr Leslie Green gave a report of Ludham Ancient Welfare Trust, his last report after many years of service. He is looking for a successor. The District Councillor also gave a report. Ludham has again entered the best-kept village competition.
April 21st
The Parish Council AGM was held in the Church Room.  Mrs Vi Bensley was the elected chairman and Mr David Ritchie vice chairman. Mrs P Savage was elected a governor of Ludham First School to represent the council.  The suggested meeting place for young people in the village was discussed in length.  It was decided that support should be given to the suggestion of a bus to transport youngsters to the Stalham Youth Centre and notice to this effect will be posted locally. The Council expressed its disquiet about the state of the bus shelters and parents were asked to co-operate with the Council in making sure these are kept clean and used for the correct purpose.  Many letters had been received in support of the need for public toilets at Ludham Bridge.  Work on Womack Staithe and the children’s playing corner had now been completed to the satisfaction of the council. Dr David Gabriel expressed his concern about the purity of the local water and it was agreed a letter should be written to the District Council on the subject. The next meeting was organized for Tuesday June 7th.
Ludham Wives met Thursday evening in the Methodist school room with Mrs R Brown presiding.  Mr A Howard gave an account of a visit he had made to New Zealand.  His talk was accompanied by some beautiful slides of places which must have been a wonderful experience to have seen.  Mrs Janet Smith proposed a vote of thanks.  The previous week the members had paid a visit to Broadland High School to see a production of ‘The Yeoman of the Guard’, given by the North East Norfolk Operatic Society.  This was arranged by Mrs Barrie Marshall and was appreciated by all who attended. Although the jumble sale competed with the Grand National a profit of £92 was made towards a chosen charity.
Bingo was held in the Church Room and raised £73.86 for Ludham 1st Girl Guide camp account funds.
The Women’s Section Royal British Legion was held in the Methodist school room with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding. Sixteen members attended. A talk on Edwardian musical boxes was given by Mr Murray Harvey and members joined in singing some of the songs.   A vote of thanks was given by Mrs E Carter.  Refreshments were served by Mrs D Cable and Mrs E Carter. The trading stall realized £21.28.
April 23rd
 A jumble sale was held by the W I in the Church Room and raised £123 for W I funds.
Forty eight members of the Forget-Me-Not Club attended their meeting in the Church Room with Mrs Sue O’Gorman presiding.  Tea was provided and served by Mrs B Moors, Mrs D Clarke, Mrs Moira Fuller and Mrs W Forster.  Birthday flowers were given to Mrs B Moore, Mrs E Hankin and Mrs M Turner.  Competition winners were Mrs F Carter, Mrs Dean and Mr & Mrs McCleod.  Trading stall and library were manned by Mrs Forster and Mrs Dean.
April 27th
At the April meeting of the Mother’s Union the vicar, the Rev B Morgan enrolled Mrs Angela Morgan as the enrolling member of Ludham Member’s Union. Mrs A Morgan thanked Mrs M Fulcher for her work as enrolling member for 33 years and thanked members for their help and support. Tea hostesses were Mrs Betty Holland and Mrs D Barnard.  The stall made £3.54 for branch funds.
April 28th
The Ludham Wives Group met in the Methodist school room with Mrs R Brown presiding.  Mr Johns was warmly welcomed and gave a demonstration and talk on making ships in bottles.  His hobby talk was much enjoyed by members who also had an opportunity to buy some of his beautiful models and do-it-yourself kits. A vote of thanks was given to Mr Johns by Gay Carter.
April was very mixed with warmth, wet and cool, easterly breezes and grey skies.  By the end of the month the rainfall was plentiful and frequent.
April 30th
A jumble sale was held in the Church Room and raised £213 for Forget-Me-Not Club.
A jumble sale was held during the week in the Church Room and £188 was raised for village hall funds. The next event will be a coffee morning with cake and plant stall in the garden of Mrs Mary Hayes home, The Dormers, Norwich Road on June 7th at 10.30 am.

May 1988
 
May 5th
The Forget-Me-Not Club had a very happy afternoon at its meeting in the Church Room when its 21st birthday was celebrated by 60 members and 12 guests.  They were welcomed by Mrs Sue O’Gorman and a toast was drunk to the club’s future success.  After a short resume of the past 21 years given by Mrs V Abraham, a flower arrangement was presented by Mrs Pegg to Mrs Nancy Paul, the first president and founder of the club. Delightful entertainment was given by the pupils of the primary school who also sang ‘Happy Birthday’ for the club. It was much enjoyed by all. They were thanked by Mrs Vida Hill. A splendid buffet was provided by the helpers and a very welcome cup of tea was served by Mrs Sheldrake, Mrs Sayer, Mrs Clarke, Mrs Moore, Mrs Forster and Mrs Knox, who also coped with the washing up. A vote of thanks was given by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan, on behalf of the visitors.  Birthday flowers were given to Mrs Pegg, Mrs Watson and Jean Smith. Competition winners were Mrs A Cramb, Mrs William and Mrs Eve Lonsby.  A small momento was given to everyone present and a surprise presentation of a tea set and a basket of roses were given to Mrs Alexander who had helped to organize the club for 21 years. The meeting ended with a robust rendering of ‘Auld Lang Syne’ by all the company.
There was a different venue for the Ludham Wives Group who met in the Church Room to see a demonstration of flower arranging given by Mrs B Gallagher. The blooms and unusual foliage made some very interesting designs, the theme of which was the names of various rooms of a house.  Later the beautiful sets were raffled and some lucky people carried home attractive arrangements.  Mrs Barry Marshall gave a vote of thanks.  The president, Mrs R Brown chaired the meeting which was again well attended and enjoyable.
The Royal British Legion Womens Section branch meeting was held in the Methodist school room with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding. Following the business members enjoyed a talk by Mrs E Piggin, group representative, who was thanked by Mrs D Barnard.  The darts team of Mrs O’Gorman, Mrs M Turner, Mrs E Carter and Mrs P McCleod were congratulated on winning the group darts final.  The team were also runners-up in the county final.  Tea hostesses were Mrs W Forster and Mrs F Dean.  The trading stall manned by Mrs Barnard and Mrs F Dean made £19.32 for branch funds.
May 8th
The May family service was well attended with children, staff and parents from St Peter’s Aided Primary school from Nuneateon who took part in the service.  It was conducted by the Rev B Morgan, and Mrs J Savage was organist.  Matthew Holland carried the processional cross and the Mothers Union banner was carried by Mrs A Morgan and the Sunday School banner by Katherine Cordiner, Rebecca Roll and Cheryl Willoughby.  The collection was taken by Tracy Nicholson and Lisa Savage.
May 9th
St Catherine’s Church was filled on Monday morning for the funeral service of Mr Charles Mileham of Norwich Road, Ludham conducted by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan, with Mrs J Savage as organist. Immediate mourners were the widow, Mr & Mrs S Pride, Andrew Mileham, Ross Nicholson, Mr & Mrs G Thrower, Mr & Mrs Goodson, Mrs G Rampling, Mr & Mrs B Roll, Mr & Mrs B Carter, Mr M Goodwin, Mr I Ross, Mr J Roll and Mr C Roll. Mourners also included representatives from Manderly Golf Club, the Masonic Lodge Wroxham, the Royal British Legion and many other friends and villagers.
May 12th
A Deanery Ascension Day Sung Eucharist service was held at St Catherine’s Church on Thursday morning and was well attended. It was conducted by the Rev B Morgan with Mr J Savage as organist. The processional cross was carried by Matthew Holland, the readings were given by Canon Gwyn Blyth, Rural Dean, and the Rev F Payne.  The intercessions were by the Rev N Martin, and the address by Mrs Edwards, widow of the former Rev Edwards of Sea Palling.  The elements were presented to the altar  by Mr S Hall, church warden, and Canon Blyth assisted at the Communion.  Sidesmen, who also took the collection, were Mr R Fulcher and Mrs B Gowing.
Whit Sunday May 15th
Morning and evening services at St Catherine’s were well attended and were conducted by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan.  Mr J Savage was organist. The morning service was sung eucharist.  Mrs A Morgan read the lessons and Mr A Sheldrake gave the intercessions.  The elements were then carried to the altar by Mr A Cordiner and Katherine Cordiner. The sidesmen were Mr P Horton and  Mr C England.The processional cross was carried by Matthew Holland, and at the evening service by Naomi Turner. At the May family service at St Catherine’s a further 17 kneelers were dedicated by the vicar. These had been made by women members of the parish and by one man.
Forty members of the Forget-Me-Not Club met with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding. Tea was provided and served by Mrs Arnup, Mrs Cable, Mrs Barnard and Mrs Thompson.  Birthday flowers were given to Mrs M Alcock and sweets to Mrs McCleod and Mrs  Lepoiderin.  Competition winners were Mr J Gravenall, Mrs F Dereham and Mrs Lepoiderin. The trading stall and library were manned by Mrs Forster and Mrs Dean.  Details were given of a mystery tour on June 15th.
May 21st
A jumble sale was held in the Church Room and raised £144.81 for St Catherine’s Church funds.  It was organized by Mrs L Savage and helpers.  It was reported in the May issue of the Parish magazine that the estimated cost of St Catherine’s Church per week is £215.
The Crown House is looking smart with new pvc windows fitted which are the old style as before, and all the walls are painted white.
North east winds kept May and the beginning of June cool with some misty days.  This is still the driest side of England.  Storms elsewhere.
Ludham Stores, formerly known as Cook’s Shop has been modernized and is a self service mini-market after all these years of personal attendance.
The Ludham Wives Group meeting was held in the Methodist school room with Mrs R Brown presiding.  Members enjoyed a demonstration of basic needlework given by Mrs Joan Bacon who explained her work as she pinned and cut out a pattern for a dress. It was absorbing and inspiring giving the urge to renew efforts in the field of dressmaking. Members picked up many hints.  Mrs P Gibbs proposed a vote of thanks to Mrs Bacon.  Two weeks later some of the members visited a showroom in Norwich to look at many of the new gadgets which had been designed to help in the art of needlework.
Some 41 members attended the Forget-Me-Not Club meeting with Mrs Alexander presiding. Tea was provided and served by Mrs Denny, Mrs Truett, Mrs Knox and Mrs Hill.  Birthday flowers and sweets were given out. Competition winners were Mrs P Temple and Mrs McCarthy.  The trading stall and library were manned by Mrs W Forster.  A petition urging the Home Secretary for improvements in law and order was signed by members and helpers.

June 1988

June 4th
A jumble sale was held in the Church Room and raised £183 towards the Church Room piano fund.  It was organized by Miss V Parsons, Mr and Mrs J Newland and helpers.
The total amount raised for Christian Aid Week from all sources was £390.81 which compares favourably with last year’s total of £325.89 from the same efforts. This came from united service collections, united coffee evenings and gift envelopes. Thanks to the village helpers was given by the Rev F Bond.
June 11th
High Street Methodist fete, instead of taking place at the White House, home of Mr and Mrs David Black, was held at the Methodist school room because of the bad weather. Various stalls and guessing games were held.  In all £210 was raised for Methodist Church funds.
The Royal British Legion Women’s Section held a wayside stall on Baker’s Arms Green and raised £83. The Ludham branch of the Legion celebrated its 26th birthday at the Methodist school room.  Following business committee members served a salad supper and a birthday cake made by Mrs S O’Gorman.  Members enjoyed a sing-along accompanied on the piano. The trading stall realized £3.50 for branch funds.
June 9th
A coffee morning was held at ‘Dormers’ by invitation of Mrs M Hague with a bring-and-buy and plant stall and realized £122.85 for village hall funds.
June 10th
An exemption dog show was held at the village hall and raised £250 for village hall funds.
June 11th
The Ludham Wives Group met in the Methodist school room with Mrs R Brown presiding.  Members enjoyed a talk by Mrs Winstone on dolls through the ages.  Her beautiful collection of dolls was admired.
Forty five members attended the Forget-Me-Not Club with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding.  Tea was provided and served by Mrs D Clarke, Mrs Moore, Mrs Fuller and Mrs Forster.  Birthday flowers were given by Mrs Lepoiderin.  Competition winners were Mrs Watson, Mrs Arnup and Mrs Dean.  The trading stall and library were run by Mrs Forster and Mrs Dean.
June 15th
Members and friends of the Forget-Me-Not Club enjoyed a mystery tour which ended at the shrine at Walsingham.  Later a super meal was enjoyed at the Black Lion Hotel.  The return journey via the coast road rounded off a happy occasion.
The two anniversary services on Sunday at the High Street Methodist Church were both conducted by the Rev S Yelland, the circuit minister, with Mrs C Thrower at the organ. The children sang and in the afternoon Miss Brenda Seale read bible stories with the children acting them. Coffee was served in the Sunday School after the morning service.
Twenty four members of the Royal British Legion Women’s Section, Ludham branch, attended the county rally held at Blakeney.  The branch standard was carried by Mrs C England and the Women’s Section standard by Mrs E Carter.
The St Benet’s Players are to present ‘The Tangled Web’ by John Wythes (a member of the society) at the village hall on July 8th and 9th.
A very pleasant and interesting evening was had by the Ludham Wives Group.  The meeting was chaired by Mrs R Brown, the president. Mr Ted Doe, a former professional musician, told of his years as a cellist with many famous orchestras, during which time he travelled the world.  Before that he had had quite a different career as a musician in the Welsh Guards during which time he played on many occasions at Buckingham Palace and elsewhere. During his years as a classical cellist he played with many famous soloists such as Yehudi Menuhin and Daniel Barenboim.  He gave up his musical career when he felt that he had been called to do psychiatric work and became a nurse for and helping many disturbed patients. He has recently come to Ludham and is now a minister of Neatishead Baptist Church. A warm vote of thanks was proposed by Mrs Dora Crowden on behalf of the members present.
Ludham Women’s Institute had a very busy and happy two weeks.  Mrs Doreen Lloyd allowed a coffee morning to be held at her home and £70.50 was raised for the Royal National Institute of the Blind.  There was an excellent attendance despite unfavourable weather.  At the yearly open evening meeting on June 15th Mrs D Gabriel gave an account of the AGM in the Royal Albert Hall during the short business meeting before members welcomed guests.  The entertainment was given by staff from a music shop in Norwich who had brought three organs with them and delighted the meeting by demonstrating the capabilities of the instruments.
June 22nd
On Wednesday 34 members of the W I and guests went by coach to various venues in North Norfolk.  Mrs G Crocker had arranged visits to Alby Crafts, Langham Glass and Felbrigg Hall.  The weather was kind and the trippers rounded a happy day off with tea at Blakeney village hall, prepared by Blakeney Women’s Institute.
June was a dry month with many days with average temperatures 57F (14C).  Many days were chilly and cloudy with little difference between day and night temperatures, more often experienced during hard frost of winter. It was cold and dry and 3 inches of rain and not growing weather for crops.
A wayside stall was held on Baker’s Arms Green and raised £25.75 for Ludham Wives Group charity fund.  It was organized by Mrs R Brown, the president.
Some 45 members of the Forget-Me-Not Club attended the meeting in the Church Room with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding.  Tea was provided and served by Mrs Sheldrake, Mrs Sayer, Mrs Turner and Mrs Longley.  Birthday flowers were given to Mrs Gilbert, Mrs Bigg, Mrs Needham, Mrs Arnup, Mrs Truett and Mrs McCarthy.  A handbag perfume and flowers were presented to Mrs O’Gorman from all the members and helpers with good wishes for her birthday, and thanks for all her kindness and help.  Competition winners were Mrs Gall, Mrs McCleod and Mrs Gillette.  The trading stall and library were manned by Mrs Forster and Mrs Dean.

Cuttings and Inclusions Apr - June 1988

July 1988

July 6th
Because of the bad weather the Royal British Legions Women Section’s strawberry tea took place in the Church Room.  It was well attended.  Organized by Mrs M Turner and Mrs S O’Gorman, the event raised £155.85 for Women’s Section benevolent funds.
July 9th
The annual summer church garden fete took place in brilliant sunshine in the vicarage garden and was organized by members of St Catherine’s Church PCC. Opened by Mrs Angela Morgan, the event raised £389 for St Catherine’s Church funds.
July 10th
The annual united Womack Staithe service was held on the Sunday afternoon and was conducted by the Rev S Yelland, Methodist circuit minister and the music was provided by the Stalham Youth band conducted by Mr G Thirst.
The monthly meeting of the Royal British Legion Women’s Section was held in the Methodist school room with Mrs M Turner presiding.  Arrangements were made for the wayside stall on Thursday August 4th at 9.00am on Baker’s Arms Green.  Also the jumble sale on Wednesday August 10th at 7.00pm.  Mrs E Carter was the speaker and gave a resume of her life in the ATS attached to the Royal Engineers from 1939 – 1944.  Mrs J McGuire proposed a vote of thanks and presented Mrs Carter with a leather purse.  Tea hostesses were Mrs D Lloyd and Mrs Williams. The trading stall manned by Mrs D Barnard and Mrs F Dean realized £25.11p for Women’s Section funds.
At the next meeting of Ludham Parish Council  Dr Gabriel reported that work had begun in preparing a parish directory and a draft would be submitted to the next meeting. A notice board for the village hall is to be made and the W I has agreed to contribute towards the cost.  The chairman of the village hall expressed her thanks for this.  The chairman, Mrs V Bensley, reported on the work of tidying up the Baker’s Arms Green and the childrens  playing corner and thanked members of the council and public who had helped. A letter from a parishioner complaining about the lack of help in supplying a building for the young people of the village was read and noted.  The clerk reported that a notice board to be erected in the bus shelter was ready and it was agreed that this would be erected in the presence of the police, police liaison officer and the chairman.  Following a further complaint from a member of the public about the smell from the Ludham sewage works it was agreed to write again to Anglian Water, with a copy to Mr Ralph Howell MP.  Following a recent accident in the village, it was agreed that press cuttings would be sent to Norfolk Highways department with a request that a warning sign be put up at the dangerous corner and that the Catfield – Ludham road be gritted in wintry weather.  The parishioner’s waiting list for moorings on the staithe will be put on display at all council meetings.  Next meeting on August 2nd.
The Ludham Wives Group spent an enjoyable and interesting meeting in the Methodist school room with Mrs R Brown presiding.  It was the last meeting before the summer recess.  The guest speaker was Mrs Rose Tusting who was born in Norway and gave a description of life there.  She first came to England as an au-pair, met and married a Norfolk man and has lived for many years at Neatishead.  She spoke of her childhood on a Norwegian farm and the amusing folklore tales which abound in most countries.  Dressed in national costume, Mrs Tusting also brought with her many objects of art and goods from her native land. The meeting was well attended and Mrs Gay Carter proposed a vote of thanks.
July weather by 27th has been a mixture of little sunshine and constant heavy showers, some with thunder. Having spoilt much of the fruit harvest, it could be a poor cereal harvest too. Several fields are no longer golden brown in colour.
July 20th
Forty two members of Ludham W I met in the garden of Mr and Mrs A Clarke.  Business formalities were kept to the minimum so the members and their president, Mrs W Gould, could enjoy an informal meeting. Tea which included strawberries and cream was prepared and served by members of the W I committee. A competition organized by Mrs D Lloyd raised £27. All agreed it had been an enjoyable meeting.

July 24th
A united songs of praise service was held in St Catherine’s Church on the Sunday evening and was conducted by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan with the Rev F Bond, retired Methodist minister, also taking part.  Mr J Savage was the organist. The processional cross was carried by Nicola Hatton.  Prayers and readings were given by Mr C Thrower, Mrs A Morgan, Mr J Savage, Mr E Gotterson and Mrs D Nicholson. A duo was sung by Mrs V Hill and Rev F Bond with Mrs C Thrower at the organ.  The hymns were chosen by members of the congregation.  The collection was taken by Mrs S Hall and Mr E Gotterson.
July 26th
In perfect weather 48 members and helpers of the Forget-Me-Not Club enjoyed a boat trip on the River Ant starting from Stalham to How Hill, where some disembarked and walked around gardens.  The Osprey is a very comfortable boat with easy access so all members, including those of 90 years plus, were able to go on the trip.  The skipper gave an interesting commentary on the past history of the river and wild life and the first mate was very kind and helpful, supplying them with cups of tea or coffee. All agreed it had been an unforgettable afternoon.
July 28th
A wayside stall was held on Baker’s Arms Green and raised £26.12 for W I funds.  It was organized by the president, Mrs W Gould and committee members.
Forty three members of the Forget-Me-Not Club attended the  club meeting  with Mrs Alexander presiding. A minute’s silence was observed for a member, Mrs I Small, who died last week.  Tea was served by Mrs Hill. Mrs Truett, Mrs Denny and Mrs Knox.  A basket of flowers was given to Mrs Louise Gall who will shortly be celebrating her 93rd birthday.   Competition winners were Mr Peter Day and Mrs M Alcock.  The trading stall and library were manned by Mrs W Forster and Mrs F Dean. Members were pleased to hear of the very successful competition held by the club at the village hall fete when the sum of £94 was raised, the club benefitting by 50%.
The month of July was announced as the wettest for 50 years.  Rainfall was heavy and prolonged.
The Royal British Legion Women’s Section held a wayside stall on Baker’s Arms Green and raised £82 for its funds.
Twenty Ludham School of Dancing pupils took their Royal Academy of Dancing ballet exam.  The results went as follows:  Primary grade - Julie Peters Pass Plus, Lucy Maud Smith Commended, Susan Brown Pass Plus, Emma Rouber Pass Plus, Oliver Pitts Commended, Luke Smith Highly Commended.  Grade One: Rebecca Newell Pass, Vanessa Peters Pass Plus, Kate Elliot Pass Plus, Lucy Bowler Pass Plus, Marie Nicholls Commended, Melanie Bonester Commended.  Grade Two: Margaret Dawson Pass Plus, Lucy Postle Commended.  Grade Four: Melanie Kay Pass, Emma Parsons Pass Plus, Sharon Porteous Commended, Erica Carver Commended.  Senior Grade:  Charlotte Falkener Highly Commended. All of the pupils are trained by Maureen Newland.  The school has been established for 12 years.  There are also tap dancing classes taught by Miss Sarah White.  The classes for the baller and tap are held on Fridays in the Church Room and Saturdays in the village hall. For further information phone St Benets 245.
July 31st
David Manor and Charlotte Robertson were married.  They came from Charlestown, West Virginia, USA and it was by request of Charlotte that they should be married in St Catherine’s Church, Ludham, where her great, great grandmother had been married and later emigrated to America. The happy couple were somewhat surprised as the quiet wedding was joined by several parishioners and music and flowers.  The register was witnessed by the vicar’s wife, Mrs Angela Morgan.  The church treasurer, Mrs Lynda Savage, and Mrs Beulah Gowing had helped with Charlotte’s quest for the  geneology  of the Garrett family two years  before.  By a coincidence this year, an Irish woman from Bray, Wicklow, and a South African man from Port Elizabeth also researched the same Garrett family and are all slightly related.
Some 39 members of the Forget-Me-Not Club attended the meeting in the Church Room with Mrs Sue O’Gorman presiding.  Tea was provided and served by Mrs D Clarke, Mrs S Fuller, Mrs W Forster and Mrs E Saunders.  Competition winners were Mrs F Carter, Mrs R McCleod and Mr B Forster.  The trading stall was manned by Mrs Forster and Mrs Dean.  Names were taken for a proposed visit to the flower festival on Aug 26th.
A jumble sale was held in the Church Room and £147.85 was raised for the Royal British Legion Women’s Section benevolent fund.
A wayside stall was held on Baker’s Arms Green and raised £76.19 for St Catherine’s Church flower festival expenses.  The festival is to be held Sept 2-4th.
Another wayside stall held on Baker’s Arms Green raised £41 for Ludham Society funds.

August 1988

August weather, although showery, cool and blustery turned out to be a better month with some fine days for the harvest, and it was drier on the Norfolk and Suffolk coast and sunnier than the rest of Britain. Even the Continent suffered low cloud.
August 23rd
A coffee morning was held at Dormers by the invitation of Mr and Mrs D Hayes. Competition winners were Mrs B Holland, Mrs M Hayes, Mrs K Griffiths, Mrs M Turner and Mrs A Morgan.  The sum of £106.42 was raised for St Catherine’s Church funds.

September 1988

September 2 – 4th
The total raised for St Catherine’s Church funds from the week-end Flower Festival was £900 while a donation of £100 from a parishioner raised it to a total of £1000. Several hundred people visited the festival.  The theme was the Benedictus ‘Oh all ye works of the Lord’ and there were many splendid displays depicting the theme.  All services were well attended and were conducted by the Rev B Morgan with Mr J Savage at the organ. In the evening there as a united service.  The processional cross was carried by Mrs S Hall and members of the choir sang and played a chorus.  The lessons were read by Mr A Sheldrake and Mrs I Elphick.  The address was given by Bishop Hugh Blackburne who spoke of the beauty of the lovely church and flowers.  The collection was taken by Mrs B Gowing, Mrs J O’Neil and Mr P Horton.  The vicar thanked everyone for all the work that had been put into the festival. The event had been organized by Mrs S Hall, churchwarden and helpers.
September 8th
The funeral service took place at St Catherine’s Church for Miss Vera Parsons, who had lived in Ludham for over 40 years, having moved there from London during the war. The service was followed by cremation at St Faiths. Both services were conducted by the Rev B Morgan. Mrs B Gowing was organist at the church.  Miss Parsons had taken an active part in many organizations in the village;- as a past president of the Women’s Institute, president of the Ladies Bowl’s Club, secretary of the Parochial Church Council, member of the parish council, and secretary and treasurer of Ludham church room. The service in church was attended by relatives and many friends.   The esteem in which Miss Parsons was held was shown by the number of people who attended the service. Miss Parsons was church organist for over 30 years and was a good benefactress to Ludham Church, the last action being to have the small path widened for better access for wheelchair users and parishioners. Eloquent testimonies were given by the vicar of Miss Parson’s church life, and donations were being given in lieu of flowers for the Ludham Church organ fund for which relatives and friends tendered their sincere thanks.
Immediate mourners included Miss S Parsons, Mr and Mrs Ayton, Mr and Mrs A Swanton, Mr and Mrs A Sheldrake and Sarah, Mr and Mrs M Wilson, and Mrs M Plumstead.  Others present were: Mrs  L Savage (also representing Mr J Savage), Mr and Mrs Fulcher,, Royal British Legion, Mr and Mrs Horton, Conservative party, Mrs O Mason, Church Council, Miss J Clarke, Mr and Mrs S Hall, Mrs D Ritchie, Mrs M Fowery, Mrs C Mobbs, Mrs S O’Gorman, Mrs M Turner, Mrs H Burton, Mrs E Saunders, Mr and Mrs T Baker, Mrs L Alexander, Mrs F Densham, Mrs J Fuller, Mrs M Helston, Mr A Bird, Mrs Dunning, Mr Richardson, Mr D Mattocks, Mrs F Griffiths, Mr and Mrs W Sloper, Rev and Mrs F Bond, Mrs J Mitchell, Mrs W Pyns, Mr and Mrs A Clarke, Mr D Fuller, Mrs P Lambard, Mr and Mrs Jackett, Mr A Bettis, Mrs K Brown, Mr D Henry, Mrs A Morgan, Mr and Mrs D Warren, Mr A Brown, Mrs Kemp, Mrs D Briggs, Mr and Mrs J Sayer, Mrs Blorell, Mrs G Amis, Mrs Lloyd, Mr and Mrs C Thrower, Mr and Mrs W Truett, Mrs L Hill, Mrs E Watgate, Mrs H Taylor, Mrs H Clarke, Mrs P Timothy, Mrs V Bensley, Mrs J Roll, Mr P Day, Mrs K Grapes, Mr D Reynolds, Mr R Osborne, Mr and Mrs F Park, Mr J Paul, Mrs Leate, Mr and Mrs H Holland, Mrs J O’Neil, Mrs Lambert, Mr and Mrs T Thrower, Mrs Litton and many others attended.
Miss Parsons will be sadly missed in the village.
September 10th
The Forget-Me-Not Club members held a very successful flower, vegetable and handicrafts exhibition. Though entries were somewhat down in number the standard was high.  A beautiful scenic picture painted and donated by Mr H Clarke was won by Mrs Cable.  Mr A Sheldrake made a speech and presented the cups and trophies. The sale of entries after the show and competition made the total of £134.
September 10th
Mrs Myrtle Hebdon’s personal effort for the church and organ fund has been a sponsored bicycle ride which raised £130 and car boot sales on her field for 3 Sundays  £70.
September 11th
Children of St Catherine’s Church Sunday School went by coach for their outing to Pleasurewood Hills.  They were accompanied by the Sunday School teacher, Rene B Morgan, parents and friends. A barbecue tea was enjoyed.
A wayside stall was held on Baker’s Arms Green and raised £54 for the Girl Guide camp funds.
At the Forget-Me-Not Club meeting held in the Church Room on Wednesday 35 members attended and Mrs Sue O’Gorman presided.  Tea was served after a bingo session.  A minute’s silence was held for the late Mrs Edith Taylor.
September 18th
Sometime on Sunday night St Catherine’s Church had a window broken in the nave on the south side. A slim-built person entered and unlocked the small south door and one or more persons dragged the heavy green portable safe across the floor, scratching the tiles. They used a blue belfry curtain to ease the journey, taking it as far as the small door using hassocks to bridge the height, and Mr Cobb’s wheel barrow for transport.  They managed to get the safe outside but, unable to break it open, had it upside down to try to shake the money out of it.
September 22
Rain overnight and rain and very high winds on September 23rd - 50 mph mentioned on the coast.
A service was held on the Thursday afternoon at St Catherine’s Churchyard for the interment of Miss Vera Parsons’ ashes, conducted by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan. The ashes were interred in Mrs Swanston’s grave who had been Miss Parson’s aunt. Those present were Mr and Mrs A Sheldrake, Mrs S Hall, Mrs J Fuller, Mrs S O’Gorman, Mrs M Turner and Mrs A Morgan.
Under the chairmanship of Mrs Rosie Brown, Ludham Wives Group opened its autumn session by welcoming Mr David Armstrong who gave a talk on ‘ Great Grandfather’s Story’. He read many humourous extracts from a published work written by his ancestor’s own time as vicar of Dereham, and who served the parish for 38 years and lived on there after his retirement until he died 2 years later.  The account  drew great comparisons with events of today.  The speaker was thanked on behalf of members and friends present by Mrs J Brown.
September 23rd
The monthly branch meeting of the Royal British Legion Women’s Section was held in the Methodist school room with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding. During business nominations forms for officers and committee members were circulated. County Chairman, Mrs M Arnold was the speaker and gave an illustrated slide talk on her holiday in Yugoslavia and Austria and was thanked by Mrs S O’Gorman, who presented her with a pot plant.  Tea hostesses were Mrs J O’Neil and Mrs B Holland.  The trading stall manned by Mrs D Barnard and Mrs F Dean realized £19.02 for section funds.
Members, helpers and friends of the Forget-Me-Not Club, accompanied by Mrs V Abraham and Mrs S O’Gorman, went by coach to North Walsham to attend the annual Age Concern service held at St Nicholas’ Church and were welcomed by the Rev Martin Smith.  After the service tea was enjoyed at the community centre North Walsham.
The funeral service for the late Mr F J Kitchener Dyball was held at the Methodist Church on High Street, conducted by the Rev Stephen Yelland, followed by interment in the parish churchyard.  The immediate family mourners were Mrs Jean Dyball, widow, Mr and Mrs Thurlow, Mr and Mrs R Dyball, Mr and Mrs G Amis, Mr and Mrs M Dyball, Miss R Thurlow, Miss A Dyball, Miss J Dyball, Mr S Amiss, Mr J Amiss, Lisa and Max Dyball and Mr J Clarke.  They were joined by a large congregation of neighbours and friends from all walks of life.  Members of the Royal British Legion were present, the standard being carried by Mr C England and the exhortation at the graveside was given by Mr J Gravenall. Kitchener had lived in Ludham all his married life apart from six years service in the army in a tank regiment.  Since his retirement he had taken a great interest in the village – no footpath was unknown to him and the help he had given to the Parish Council in keeping the village tidy will never be fully known. The Council was represented by the vice chairman, Mr David Ritchie and other members.
The Harvest Supper at High Street Methodist Church was also held on Friday 23rd September and was attended by about 60 people. The guest speaker was Mr Geoffrey Mall.
September 25th
On Sunday morning there was a family gift service on the Methodist Church conducted by Mrs M Ketteringham, and in the evening a service of Praise and Harvest Thanksgiving was led by the Rev F Bond with members of the congregation taking part.  The gifts were distributed in the village.
September 29th
The Ludham Wives Group meeting was opened by the president, Mrs R Brown, with a special item.  Earlier this year Mr and Mrs Graham Smith organized the annual Fun Run which raised £1000. The charity chosen to benefit was the doctor’s surgery in Ludham, so it was with great enthusiasm that members gave the cheque to that amount, presented by Mr and Mrs Smith, to Dr Jarvis who accepted it on behalf of the surgery.  The money is to be spent on the purchase of a special electrically operated couch which will be a great asset to village health care.
Later Mrs Winstone, who had entertained members a few weeks ago with a talk and an exhibition of dolls throughout the ages, paid a return visit to demonstrate the making of these dolls, the bodies and dressing and decorating them.  All the intricacies of this fascinating hobby were explained in detail.  A vote of thanks from an appreciative audience was proposed by Mrs Janet Smith.

Cuttings and Inclusions July - Sept 1988

October 1988

The Harvest Festival services were held at the beginning of October weekend and all were well attended.  They opened on Friday evening and continued on Sunday.  All the services were conducted by the Rev B Morgan and Mr J Savage was the organist.  The children sang and played a hymn and took their harvest gifts to the altar and the choir sang the harvest anthem.  The harvest produce will be taken to Sydney House, Stalham.  The church had been beautifully decorated by the women of the Flower Guild and also there were beautiful arrangements for two weddings held on the Saturday.
The model dog which usually stood outside the butcher’s and which was a great attraction to the children, particularly toddlers, has recently made the sum of £32.97p for the RSPCA funds.
October 15th
The Forget-Me-Not Club held a jumble sale in the Church Room, organized by Mrs Alexander and Mrs S O’Gorman.  It was very well attended and trade was brisk, raising £210 for funds for the club.  Competition winners were Mrs J Williams, Mrs C Thompson, Mrs S Hall,  Mrs M Alcock, Mr P Day and Mrs S O’Gorman.
October 19th
On the Wednesday members of Ludham Women’s Institute held their exhibition in the Church Room.  There were 158 entries in all the classes.  The judges commented on the high standard of all the exhibits but particularly of the bakery and very high praise was also given for the staging and presentation.  After the points had been added together, Mrs Gould, the President, presented to Mrs E Bond the winner’s cup and to Mrs Elphick, the glass goblet for second place.  The exhibition was opened to the public and after the close of the exhibition many of the goods were sold in aid of the general funds and exhibition expenses.  The members of the exhibition committee were given a small gift in appreciation of their hard work and sleepless nights and were warmly thanked by the president.  At the close all agreed that it had been a great day and really enjoyable.
October 20th
Forty members attended the Forget-Me-Not meeting in the Church Room on the Thursday with Mrs Sue O’Gorman presiding. A new member, Mrs Moffat, was welcomed. After a bingo session tea was provided and served by Mrs D Clarke, Mrs W Forster, Mrs E Saunders and Mrs S Fuller. Birthday flowers were given to Mrs Spratt, Mrs Dean and Mrs Fuller.  Competition winners were Mrs Hankin, Mr Grommell and Mrs Dean.
October 27th
Forty seven members attended the Forget-Me-Not meeting in the Church Room with Mrs Alexander presiding.  Tea was provided and served by Mrs M Sheldrake, Mrs B Sayer, Mrs C Longley and Mrs M Turner. Names were taken for the Norwich shopping trip on Tuesday November 15th at 9.45am.  Members were reminded that meetings start at 2pm from next Thursday.  Birthday flowers were presented to Mrs D Clarke.  The trading stall was manned by Mrs Forster and Mrs Dean. Competition winners were Mrs Wilkins, Mrs Hanlam and Mrs Bigg.
The annual meeting of the Royal British Legion Women’s Section was held in the Methodist School room with Mrs S O’Gorman presiding.  Following the business, officers and committee members were elected. Tea hostesses were Mrs D Cobb and Mrs W Forster.  The trading stall manned by Mrs D Barnard and Mrs Dean realized £25.37 for Women’s Section funds.

November 1988

At the Annual General Meeting of the Royal British Legion Men’s Section at the Methodist school room officers elected were the padre, Rev B Morgan, President Mr R Fulcher, Chairman Mr J Grounall, Vice Chairman Mr P Day, Secretary Mr F Carter, Treasurer Mr R Forster, Welfare Secretary Mr W McCleod and Standard Bearer Mr C England. The Sunday November 13th Remembrance Service is to be held at the Methodist Chapel.  Members should meet at 10.40 am. The bingo poppy appeal held in the Church Room raised £73.96 and the jumble sale on Saturday November 5th raised £144.
The social meeting of the Wives Group took place in the Methodist school room with deputy president, Mrs Barrie Marshall presiding. Members enjoyed a talk on ‘Norfolk Dialect’ given by Mr G Taylor, who spoke of the richness and colour of the language of the old time East Anglian.  Although the derivative of the dialect is unknown, it is thought it may have originated from Scandinavian.  Mr Taylor produced a tape recording of Allan Smethhurst, the Singing Postman, which caused some amusement amongst the members who remembered their grandparents having the same dialect.  Mrs J O’Neil proposed a vote of thanks.  The jumble sale held by the Group in October raised £84.85.
The monthly meeting of the Mothers’ Union was held on Wednesday in the Church Room.  Mrs R Fulcher presided while Mrs A Morgan was on holiday.  There were several apologies so it was a rather small audience who welcomed Mrs June Baker as Archdeanery President.  Matters discussed included the tea afternoon held at the vicarage which raised £37 for branch funds.  Mrs Mason gave an account of the Quiet Day at Aylesham which she and Mrs Barnard attended.  Mrs Mason and Mrs Fulcher had attended the Deanery Council meeting in Catfield as Mrs Smith is retiring as the presiding member.  Mrs Morgan will be commissioned at Stalham Church at 10 am on  Jan 25th 1989 as Deanery President.  Mrs Baker gave a very interesting talk on the overseas work of the Mothers Union with some lovely slides to illustrate her talk and was thanked by Mrs Fulcher. Mrs D Barnard was at the trading stall which raised £1.53 for branch funds.  The next meeting will be Nov 25th at 2.15 pm. Mrs Sue O’Gorman has collected a box full of goods for the health and beauty stall to be held in Norwich.
At a meeting of the Wives Group held in the Methodist school room, Mrs R Brown presided and gave a warm welcome to Mr and Mrs Ted Doe when they gave a talk and demonstration on the art of stained glass.  Members heard from Mr Doe the various phases of the history of this interesting subject and there was a demonstration during the evening by Mr Doe on how some of the designs were made.  Mrs Wendy Gould proposed a vote of thanks to Mr and Mrs Doe.
The Royal British Legion will hold Bingo in the Church Room on Tuesday Nov 22nd at 8.00pm in aid of Christmas parcels.
Ludham Wives had a foretaste of Christmas at its meeting on Thursday in the Methodist school room with Mrs R Brown presiding. She welcomed the return of Mrs Cochrane, who gave a demonstration of making Christmas decorations, creating some beautiful arrangements, using both fresh and artificial material that would certainly brighten the festive season.  Members were very impressed and had the firm intention of trying them out.  A vote of thanks was given by Mrs Dora Crowden.
November 13th
Before the Remembrance Day service at the Methodist Chapel the ninepins of Ludham Parish Church rang a half muffler peal.  The service was conducted by the Rev F Bond assisted by the Rev B Morgan, vicar of St Catherine’s, whose theme for his sermon was ‘The Peace’. The organist was Mrs L Thrower and the lesson was read by Mr F Carter, Royal British Legion branch secretary.  The branch was well represented by members, supported the members of the R B L Womens’ Section branch.  There was a large congregation present.  The branch standard was carried by Mr C England and the Women’s section standard by its chairman, Mrs J McGuire.  Miss S Tribett and Miss J Lincoln carried the standards on behalf of the Guides and Miss K Duffield carried the standard on behalf of the Brownies.
At the wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial wreaths were laid by Mr G Barber, Royal British Legion, Mrs E Carter, R B L Women’s Section and Mr P Scott for the Scouts.  A short service was conducted by Mr Morgan.  The exhortation was recited by the Branch Chairman, who also read the names of those who fell in the two wars.  The Last Post and Reveille was sounded by Mr Frank Neville from the Salvation Army at Coltishall who has done this for many years.  The collection at the Chapel amounted to £98.60.
The meeting of the Royal British Legion Womens Section was held in the Methodist School Room with 20 members.  The guest this month was Mrs Betty Gallagher who gave a demonstration on flower arranging for the festive season.  Tea hostesses were Mrs P Knox and Mrs R Morton.  The trading stall raised £13.98.
The Ludham Parish Council held its monthly meeting in the Church Room.  A report was given of a meeting discussing ‘Village homes of village people’, and it was agreed to proceed with a housing survey in the village in cooperation with N A C Rural Trust.  The new village directory is now ready for publication and it is hoped that the copies will be ready early in 1989.  The council expressed thanks to those who compiled it.  It was agreed that the Football Club’s new changing rooms should be entered in the Norfolk Society Awards Competition.  It was reported a bottle bank was now open at Womack Staithe and already many local people have begun using it.  The chairman reported on the situation regarding the public toilets to be built at Ludham Bridge.  North Norfolk DistrictCouncil was proceeding with a compulsory purchase order and money would be available as soon as it was possible to proceed with building.  The council thanked the chairman for all efforts which had been made in the matter.   Great dissatisfaction was again expressed about the fact that there is only one governor to represent 14 parishes at Stalham Middle School.  It was decided that further representation and action needed to be taken in what is obviously a very unsatisfactory situation.  The next parish council meeting will be on Tuesday December 6th.
November 26th
The Forget-Me-Not sale was held in the Church Room.  Trade was brisk at the well laden stalls and Father Christmas was in great demand, resulting in raising £448 for club funds.  Competition winners were Mrs N Turner, Mrs B Hall, Mrs S Gotts, Mrs S O’Gorman, Mrs F Densham,   Mr P Day,  Mr F Carter and Mr Scott.
The November meeting of the W I was held in the Church Room with 36 members present.  The president, Mrs Gould was in the chair as the AGM was to follow.  Members stood to sing ‘Jerusalem’.  Among the business discussed was correspondence between the North Norfolk District Council and the Secretary about the provision of a toilet block at Ludham Bridge which has now been reinstated on the building programme.  Ludham Parish Council wrote to thank the branch for its contribution to the cost of the village hall notice board.  The sum of £80 has also been sent to the Great Ormond Street Wishing Well appeal.  Both Mrs Gould and Mrs Elphick thanked members for their help and support that had made the October exhibition such a great success.  At the annual meeting the new committee was introduced.  Several committee members had returned this year and Mrs Gould thanked them for all their work, particularly Mrs K Sloper. Mrs Gould was re-elected president.  The meeting closed with thanks for the past year and hope for the next year.
A coffee morning was held in the Church Room on Monday morning and raised £114.46 for the John Grant School at Caister.  It was organized by the 1st Ludham Guides.
Mrs A Morgan presided at the November meeting of the Mothers Union in the Church Room.  Mrs Cunningham from Martham was the speaker.  A report on social care was given as a result of the meeting held at Mary Sumner House in London.  A vote of thanks was given by Mrs Sue O’Gorman.  Mrs J O’Neil and Mrs B Holland were the tea hostesses.  The trading stall manned by Mrs D Barnard made £2. 10p.
A Christmas Fayre was held in the Church Room and was organized by members of the St Catherine’s Church Parochial Council.  The sum of £435 was raised for church funds,
Some 37 members attended the Forget-Me-Not Club meeting held in the Church Room with Mrs Alexander presiding.  Tea was provided and served by Mrs Denny, Mrs V Hill and Mrs Truett.  Birthday flowers were sent to Mrs B Sayer.  The trading stall and library were manned by Mrs W Forster and Mrs F Dean.  Members and friends went by coach on Tuesday November 15th to Norwich where they enjoyed a shopping trip.
There is at present the total of £3,347.90 in the organ fund and a new estimate for repair is to be obtained.

December 1988

December 1st
A confirmation service with communion was held at St Catherine’s Church on Thursday evening and was well attended. The vicar, the Rev B Morgan gave the welcome and announced the hymns.  The service opened with a processional hymn, the cross being carried by Caroline Cordiner.  Mr J Savage was organist. The lessons were read by Mrs P Brandon, lay reader, and the Rev J Smith of Catfield. The service was conducted by the Rt Rev Kenneth Riches of Dunwich, retired Bishop of Lincoln, who confirmed candidates from Ludham, Catfield and Happisburgh.  The sidesmen were Mr R Fulcher, Mrs B Gowing and Mr P Horton.  Refreshments were served in the Church Room following the service
December 4th
The Christingle Service at St Catherine’s Church on Sunday afternoon was well attended and was conducted by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan.  Mr J Savage was organist and a reading was given by Mrs L Savage.  The processional cross was carried by Rebecca Savage.  The congregation joined in the service and, after a short address by the vicar, the Christingle were presented to the children and adults by the Sunday School teachers who had led with candles.  The vicar accepted the envelope.  The collection was for the Church of England Childrens Society.
A National Childrens Home evening was held at High Street Methodist Church and raised £121.08p.  On Sunday morning at the Methodist Church a family gift service was well attended.  Mr Adrian Turner led the service.  The many gifts were received by Mr Harry Pascoe, the N C H representative.
At a Christmas Whist Drive in the Church Room 41 players took prizes and £78 was raised for Church Room funds.  The prizes were presented by Mrs A Sheldrake and competitions drawn by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan.  The Church Room committee thanked all those who had generously given prizes and helped in any way and they looked forward to seeing everyone on Jan 7th.
At the Ludham Wives Group Christmas came a little nearer when members were entertained by the Broadland Bells.  The festive meeting was opened by the president, Mrs R Brown who welcomed the ringers on their return visit.  Beginning with the well-known piece of music ‘The swan’, they continued with a splendid and enjoyable rendering of many items from their repertoire and ended with familiar Christmas numbers.  During the interval members were invited to try the bells which caused much amusement to those not participating.  Refreshments of sausage rolls and mince pies were served. On behalf of the audience Mrs Carol Willoughby gave a vote of thanks to Broadland Bells, expressing appreciation for all concerned.
December 6th
At the December meeting of the Parish Council it was agreed to increase the mooring fees at Womack Water.  Visitor fees will be increased from 70p to 80p a night and parishioners basic fee from £65 to £75 a year.  The clerk reported a waiting list of 20 parishioners.  The increase for parishioner moorings was raised during question time.  The Council agreed to consider the renewal of about 65 yards of quay at the next meeting.  It was reported that the new football changing rooms were now finished and had been inspected by the Football Trust which had expressed complete satisfaction with the fine building and the final grant has been received. Thanks were expressed to the clerk for all the work done in the matter and the Council congratulated the club on its completion of the project.  Representation had been made to Norfolk County Council for the number of governors for minor authorities at Stalham Middle School to be increased.  One governor for fifteen parishes was felt to be ridiculous. The parish precept for 1988-90 was agreed with a small increase of 4.2 per cent as suggested by the district council, of this £600 was again earmarked for the village hall.  The report for the ‘Best Kept Village’ competition 1988 had been received from NCC and was discussed. The report was good except for the dissatisfaction expressed about the state of the churchyard.  This year Ludham was placed fourth in its group of villages whereas last year it was first.  An application to build 10 starter homes was given long and careful thought and it was finally agreed to make no objection providing there is one for first time buyers and covenanted to remain so.
December 18th
A Christmas nativity and family service was held at St Catherine’s Church conducted by the vicar, the Rev B Morgan and the Sunday School teachers. The service was very well attended.  The processional cross was carried by Matthew Holland and Mr J Savage was organist. The church had been beautifully decorated by the Flower Guild and the bells were rung, led by Mr F Carter.  In the evening there was a large congregation for the annual festival of nine lessons and carols.  They were welcomed by the Rev B Morgan.  The processional carol ’Once in Royal David’s City’ was sung by candlelight.  Various Christmas items were sung by the choir with Mr J Savage, the organist.  Readings were by Mr F Carter (bell ringers), Mrs A Morgan (Mothers Union), Mrs B Hall and Mr K Fitz-Hugh (church wardens), Mrs J Seymour (Flower Guild), Mrs V Bensley (Parish Council),  Mrs B Marshall (choir) and Mr A Sheldrake (sidesmen).  The Word of Life was read by the vicar.  The sidesmen were Mrs B Gowing and Mr J Wythes.  Tea and mince pies were served in the Church Room afterwards.
About 55 members and friends of the Forget-Me-Not Club attended the Christmas party with Mrs Alexander and Mrs Sue O’Gorman presiding. They were delightfully entertained by the pupils of Ludham First School who sang Christmas songs and performed their Nativity play under the guidance of Mrs Gilbertson.  They were thanked by Mrs O’Gorman. A welcome cup of tea was served by Mrs A Sheldrake, Mrs Sayer, Mrs Turner and Mrs Knox.  The lovely buffet was provided by the helpers.  Birthday cards and flowers were presented to 12 members and everyone won a prize in the competition.  The afternoon ended with the retiring president, Mrs Alexander, being presented with a painting of the Broads, painted by Mr Herbert Clarke, and a basket of flowers.
The total amount known to be raised in Ludham during 1988 by functions held amounted to £12,978.25p.
The population for Ludham is about 1400 according to the Parish Clerk, Mr W Sloper.
December 24th
About 120 people attended the midnight service of Sung Eucharist at St Catherine’s Church on Christmas Eve, conducted by the Rev B Morgan. The organist was Mr J Savage who conducted singing of carols before the service.  Matthew Holland carried the processional cross.  The collection is being divided between Potter Heigham and Ludham church funds.
During the Christmas and New Year period the flood lighting of the Church was provided by a private windows company and was much appreciated by everyone.  Bells were rung to welcome the New Year at midnight led by Mr F Carter.


Cuttings and Inclusions Oct - Dec 1988