This page archives 2008 Old News items.

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Natland Weather Report

Annual rainfall was 65 inches which is very high (2007 was 56 inches). Most of the extra rain fell in August and October.

Weather Forecast

To see the weather forecast for the Natland and Kendal area try the following links:

If you are going walking in the hills you might find it helpful to consult

Natland.info Update

Rather to my surprise, December turned out to be the record month for visitors to Natland.info.  Thank you all for your support during 2008 and keep the news, photos and ideas rolling in for 2009.

Virus Warning: Antivirus 2009

Attempts to hi-jack your computer or your wallet continue unabated, sadly, and here is yet another topical scam to beware.  If, on surfing the internet, you are suddenly faced with a pop-up message like the one shown below, BE ON YOUR GUARD!
 

This kindly warning that popped up on my screen is actually a scam. There is a clue for the eagle-eyed in that there is a spelling mistake but no doubt that will get corrected before long. If you click on OK, it will load a Trojan Horse virus onto your computer.

If your anti virus software is up to date, it should do what mine did and immediately alert you to the danger.  But if you are not so well protected, you are at risk of a major breach of your computer security with many hours of frustration the least worst likely result!

Happy New Year!

Editor, 1st January 2009

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Natland Palm Fair Enhanced

From the Scrapbook #09:
Park Close Houses

In From the Scrapbook #05: Church View and the Crossroad on the Green,
Dora Bianchi talked about moving into Park Close in 1948.  

Brian Nicholson has subsequently provided Natland.info with more information about the building of these houses and their original occupants.

These council houses were built just after the war in 1947. Originally only 8 houses were built. The  semi-detached houses at each end of the row were built as soon as the first 8 houses were occupied.  

Park Close circa 1950

My parents moved into number 7 in November 1947 with three children and eventually having four children. to bring up there. When the other end houses were finished and occupied the council had to re-number the row and our house became number 9.The postman must have been confused until he knew everybody's name!

The original occupants were:

 Brian Nicholson, 28th December 2008

Thank You, Carol Singers

Thank you to everyone who joined in the carol singing on Monday 22nd December and contributed to the total of £125 raised for Manna House in Kendal, the advice centre for homeless people. It was a very enjoyable and successful evening.

Canon Tim Evans, 23rd December 2008

Thanks to Matt Corry for the photos.  Click on picture for enlargement.

Evacuated to Natland

In contrast to George Wenman's wartime experience in Natland (see George's Story), Greta's evacuation was a happy one.

To read about Greta's stay in Natland and her poem in memory of her lovely aunt see Greta's Tale.

Editor, 20th December 2008

 Helm Update 2008

2008 was the first full year of ownership of land on Helm by Friends of the Lake District (FLD). Here is an update of events:

In February, we planted some rowan and hawthorn trees, scattered around, to ensure that we keep some trees in the main allotment. We have been thistle digging, something we have to do as a responsible landowner. Thistles are a food source for the birds too, but as we are unlikely to be able to get all of them, there will still be some for the birds.

Despite the poor weather over the summer, many people have been out on the Helm enjoying it. Friends of the Lake District (FLD) are pleased that many people are now using our land, particularly since the new gates went in. These were built by a contractor from Elterwater using oak from the Coniston area and they have been met with great approval from many people.

We have continued grazing in the main allotment, with sheep and a few cows.  This is important as part of managing Helm - without livestock on, the grass would grow very rank and we would lose the wildflowers that we have.

There is limited stone and much of it is quite small - it's like doing a huge jigsaw and as one of our volunteers said, "without the benefit of a picture to work from!"

We have been very lucky to have lots of help from volunteers this year - some existing FLD members, but quite a few local people, who clearly love Helm. Staff from Axa Insurance have been out to help us for 2 days this year too - most people were from the Kendal area and were happy to help their local environment. In total in 2008, 434 hours have been given by volunteers on Helm. Without help like this, our job of looking after Helm would be so much harder, so huge thanks to everyone.

It is hoped to improve access early in 2009 with the installation of another kissing gate, this time to allow access onto the lane bordering the eastern side of Helm.

FLD now has an interim Management Plan for our land and we will be having an event in 2009 and asking for comments on it. More work parties are planned for 2009 and we will be having surveys done of birds, reptiles and butterflies.

Many thanks to everyone who has helped on Helm in whatever way - Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year!

Judith Moore, Friends of the Lake District, 19th December 2008

Views from the Tower

It was interesting, for me at least, to see how much better was the equipment of some who climbed St Mark's Tower last week compared to my little compact camera!  

Judith Robinson used her long telephoto "birding" lens to produce these pictures of remarkable clarity.

Red Screes behind Stainbank Green, Kendal

High Street and Mardale Ill Bell behind Kendal Golf Course with Kentmere Pike to the right

Prizet House

Thanks to Judith for submitting her photos.  
Would anyone else who visited the tower like to send us their pictures?

 Editor, 15th December 2008

Church Tower Memories

Brian Nicholson, a Natlander from 1947 to 1962 also climbed the tower last week and told Natland.info of the memories it invoked.

In about 1951, when I was about 11 years old, I remember going up the church tower with my pals.  After confirmation classes in the church, we used to wait until the vicar had gone home then climb up the tower and sit in the bell or clock rooms.  The tower door was always open.   Around bonfire night, we used to go to the top of the tower and fire rockets over the village.  No health and safety warnings then!  Just harmless fun, we thought, until the vicar found out!  But we never touched or damaged anything.

He soon made sure the tower door was kept locked!

When I saw there was an open day to climb the tower again, I went along and climbed the spiral staircase which I last did about 56 years ago.  It was a very memorable experience on a sunny day to view the village, which has changed a lot since I lived on Park Close.

 Brian Nicholson, 15th December 2008

Scam and Fraud Warnings

A couple of cautionary tales for you!

1.: Amazon.com

Have you bought anything from Amazon over the internet? Many of us will have done so in the run up to Christmas. If you have, beware this e-mail scam. Under the heading Amazon.com: Your Account Information it starts by saying:

Our security procedures mean that we may occasionally request proof of identity in order to improve our store and platform, prevent or detect fraud or abuses of our website and enable third parties to carry out technical, logistical or other functions on our behalf.

Checking on the real source of the message suggested it was nothing to do with Amazon but yet another variant of a scam trying to get you to divulge your personal details and raid your bank account.

2.: Cash Machine Fraud Warning

George Wenman (of George's Story fame) has sent Natland.info a cautionary tale concerning a current threat to users of bank cash machines.  Click on ATM THEFTS to see the full story.  If you are unable to view a powerpoint presentation, here is the summary:

If a cash machine witholds your card and someone immediately offers to help you retrieve it by suggesting re-entering your PIN to get your card back- Don't Do It!  The chances are that they will "steal" your PIN and later your card and your bank balance!  Always check the card opening for foreigh objects.

ATM THEFTS shows you specifically how the theft works and how to avoid falling victim.

Editor, 15th December 2008

Neighbourhood Forum Summary of Meeting

Held at Natland & Oxenholme Village Hall on Monday 1st December 2008

Local View

David Peters, Chair of Natland Parish Council, provided his own view of Natland. Natland, a small to medium sized village, has its own shop, primary school, church, village hall and a reasonable bus service.  It does not have a pub or an adequate car park. David suggested the most significant thing about Natland is its proximity to Kendal - a fact which has advantages and disadvantages.  The main disadvantage being that Natland lies in the path of Kendal's expansion and residents hold strong views that Natland should retain its distinctive identity as a village with no more housing.   David suggested Natland should be willing to bear a fair share of housing development.  He provided an update on South Lakeland District Council's Local Development Framework, mentioning concerns when Natland was placed in the Kendal functional area.  However, in the latest Local Area Partnership (LAP) proposals Natland, along with Stainton and Sedgwick, is included in the Kent Estuary LAP.  David also mentioned concerns that Natland is placed in electoral divisions/wards where Kendal residents are in the majority and suggested this could not provide good governance for Natland.

Transition Town

Gareth Thomas acknowledged everyone is aware of the term 'Climate Change', but stressed the term 'peak oil' is closely related and describes the point we are at in the extraction of oil, ie. very close to or just passed the point of maximum cheap extraction. He stressed the need to reduce our dependency on oil, as well as reduce carbon emissions.

Gareth explained that he was part of a group in South Lakeland which coalesced after a talk at the Brewery in 2007 to form South Lakes Action for Climate Change (SLACC). One of the aims of SLACC is to investigate whether people are interested in joining a transition (away from oil dependency) initiative.   SLACC has 'grass roots up' groups looking at energy use; transport; food; local government; campaigning and events/education.  Gareth explained what the groups had achieved to date; what is planned for the future and how people can get involved in a positive solution approach to issues.   For more information see Transition South Lakes .

Gareth confirmed SLACC would support Natland in its aim to provide allotments for interested residents and Graham Wadsworth mentioned Sedgwick was also considering provision of allotments.  It was suggested the villages work together on this issue.  

South Cumbria Rivers Trust

Ben Lamb explained the background to the formation of this new trust in 2006, which has since achieved charitable status, enabling it to draw down funding.  The Trust works in five main catchment areas - Duddon; Crake; Leven & Windermere; Kent & Gilpin and Bela, and is based at the Cumbria Wildlife offices at Plumgarths.    It works with Angling and River Associations to look at problems on water courses and in the following ways:-

• Education
• Training in riverfly and invertebrate recognition (the basis of the food chain) to highlight any issues.
• Survey Work
• Using walkover surveys and electro fishing to build up comprehensive data on the status of salmonid-fry populations, as well as other species.
• River & Habitat Rehabilitation
• Bankside fencing, tree planting and instream modification to prevent the problems caused by silting up from bankside poaching.

Ben then talked about the 19 non-native invasive plant species which have a high impact on native flora and fauna, specifically Himalayan Balsam.  He highlighted the variety of ways Balsam can spread and how it has colonised river banks and other damp areas, suppressing native grasses and flowers.  Bees love it and neglect our native English flowers but when the Balsam dies back in autumn it leaves bare banks leading to soil erosion.

Ben gave an enthusiastic account of the Kent Valley Balsam Bashers who organise work parties to pull up the Balsam plants and also the work of the Rothay Balsam Group who have recently received a £5K grant from the Environment Agency.  Ben explained how people could help to eradicate balsam in their area and asked everyone to raise awareness of the problem. Balsam can also be sprayed by a certificated user.

Ben mentioned the explosion of roach in Lake Windermere, aided by rising water temperatures and the precarious plight of the white clawed crayfish, whose last stronghold is Cumbria.  United Utilities have provided some funding for the Trust.  For more info. see South Cumbria Rivers Trust or phone Ben on 01539 816311.

Police:

Sergeant Paul Mellor introduced himself as one of the three rural supervisors for the area based at Milnthorpe.  He stressed the area is relatively crime free - 6 crimes recorded from Natland in the past twelve months, and some of those did not occur in the area, but were reported by Natland residents!   Sergeant Mellor said the Drink/Driving campaign will see increased police patrols throughout the county over December.  Any concerns can be reported to the police on 0845 3300247 or anonymously on the crime stoppers number 0800 555111.

Graham Wadsworth, Sedgwick Parish Council highlighted issues arising from the recent floods when the only road into Kendal was through Sedgwick and Natland, and the problems resulting from confused drivers not knowing where they were going.  He queried the lack of signage and the implications for emergency vehicles when the lanes were log jammed and suggested a plan was needed to deal with emergency situations such as flooding.   Sergeant Mellor agreed a plan was needed, but stressed the police can only work with the resources they have, though they can seek assistance from neighbouring forces if necessary.  He pointed out that signage is the responsibility of the Highways Agency, who are not always quick off the mark.

Debbie reminded the Forum of a presentation by Chris Biggs, Emergency Planning Officer, who had suggested local communities work together to put their own plans in place to deal with such eventualities.  Graham confirmed that Sedgwick is looking at a small scale emergency plan.  Sergeant Mellor mentioned the need for a lead agency to take control in flooding incidents has been identified at high level, and these concerns would be passed on.

Oxenholme Parking Scheme

Debbie reported on a change in parking restrictions on Helmside Road and the top of Oxenholme Road, and said that whilst Councillor Bobbett had used his allocation for highway issues this year, Oxenholme is on his 'radar' for next year.  It was mentioned that the station car park, which is full very early in the day, is being extended.

Hincaster Trailway

Bridget Pickthall explained the plan to develop the route of the old railway from Hincaster to the A6 as a multi use track.

Heversham Primary School, as part of its forest school initiative is designing a logo and Dallam School is involved via a new land based studies course.  Some funding has been secured towards producing an environmental study and bidding document and there are plans to approacht Natural England for funding.

Wind Energy Planning Applications

Debbie reported that the Armitstead application had been refused and subsequent actions the applicant can take.  It was confirmed  the application had already gone to Appeal.

At the Sillfield site, plans are reduced from 4 turbines to 3 and whilst full plans are in, this has not yet gone to planning.

Stainton Chapel

Freda Kitching explained the plans to convert a 300 year old listed building into a village hall.  The building is in a bad state of repair and progress is slow, although a recent Neighbourhood Forum grant will fund a report from a quantity surveyor.

Bus Shelter at the Hospital

Debbie mentioned plans to re-site the bus shelter at the hospital to enable double-deck buses to get around the loop.  The Town Council is taking the lead on this and something should be happening soon!

Community Speed Watch

Debbie explained this community initiative in Duddon to reduce the number of speeding vehicles, accidents, traffic noise and pollution.  Community groups are provided with a speed detecting device by the police to log speeds and pass on the data.

The Duddon experience recommends that parishes get together to share the equipment. More details available from Debbie on 01539 713180.

Next Meeting:

The next Upper Kent Neighbourhood Forum will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday 3rd March at Selside Village Hall. All Welcome.

Cathy Craig, Cumbria County Council, 15th December 2008

Natland 2009 Calendar #7

Shown below are two more pictures from Geoff Cater's Limited Edition 2009 Calendar featuring photographs of Natland.

Whereas normally on Natland.info you can click on a picture to get an enlargement, this does not apply here. The calendars plus Limited Edition Postcards and some framed pictures are available at Holmes Nursery. The calendars and postcards are also available at Natland Post Office. The calendar is priced at £8, the postcards are 40p and the framed prints are £20 for a large framed print and £15 for a small framed print.

Geoff Cater, 14th December 2008

Summary of Natland Parish Council Meeting

8th Devember 2008  

• It was reported that after several months waiting a reply has been received from Nick Raymond of Cumbria Highways about various matters: neither the Sedgwick Road footway nor street lighting at St Mark's Fold has yet been adopted and there was no longer a guarantee that the hedge between the footway and the carriageway would be kept in its present form; the Highway Authority will be contacting the developer about re-instating Helm Lane adjacent to Yew Lodge; the damaged concrete approaches to the cattle grid at the north end of the Helm are privately owned and not therefore the Highway Authority's responsibility. The council felt that the latter was a matter of public safety and the clerk will urge the Highway Authority to pursue the matter.
• The council agreed to formally delegate to the clerk the authority to respond to planning consultations but there will be no change to Natland's practice of circulating all councillors with a proforma for their comments.  However there has recently been a considerable fall in the number of applications received.
• It was resolved to donate £100 each to WRVS, Citizens Advice Bureau, North West Air Ambulance and Great North Air Ambulance.
• Meeting dates for 2009 were agreed; the Annual Parish Meeting will be on May 21.
• Consultations about the next stage of the Local Development Framework are about to start with the publication of the Allocations of Land DPP (Development Plan Document) discussion paper.  The information, with maps, is on the District Council's website, and how to respond will be on the Agenda of the parish council's next meeting.
• The next meeting is on Monday, 26th January at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Hall.  

Thanks to Rhian Peters for the report. 

Click for Summaries of earlier meetings

For more information see Minutes section on the Parish Council page.

St Mark's Towering Success!

Better weather for the purpose could not be envisaged!  It was the perfect winter's day to visit St Mark's Church, Natland in order to climb the tower.  As far as anyone knew, this was the first time the tower has been open to the general public and forty or so people, armed with cameras of all sizes, were determined to take good advantage.

Inside the thankfully warm church, it was a hive of activity as preparations were being made to decorate the Christmas tree.  Canon Tim Evans gave a briefing to those ascending who were then taken up in groups of eight, using the clock room and the belfry as staging posts.

Most, but not all, made it all the way up the dark and narrow spiral stairs.  It was very dusty; a lady who went up in a long black coat came down in a long white one!  Those who reached the top were enthusiastic about the experience.  The air was clear and the views splendid in all directions.  

One man said he had enjoyed it so much he was going back into the church to make a big donation.  Another told tales of firing rockets from the tower in his youth.  Thoughts were swapped about what a great place it would be to bring a flask and sandwiches to sunbathe in peace and tranquillity!

For more pictures from St Mark's Church Tower, see

• Winter Wonderland Views
• Natland from the Tower

If anyone has photos of their visit that they would like to share with Natland.info, please send them via .

Editor, 11th December 2008

The Other Side of Helm

It's been several months since the eastern side of Helm was opened up to the public, but, given a free and sunny winter's afternoon, we have explored it at last!

Natland from the path to Barrows Green.  Click on the photo for the panorama.

We left Natland by the footpath that leads towards Barrows Green and climbed up the "Back o'Helm" lane to the little junction where the bridle path leads right to Helm End and left to curl below helm back to the A65.

Traditionally, we would have gone left here but now the land is open we entered onto Helm by the side of the gate at that junction.  There is now a clear path winding its way up to Helm summit although the trig point lies on the other side of the fence.  

Natland, Kendal and the Lakeland fells from the eastern side of the Helm  ridge

Middleton Fell

Friends of the Lake Dstrict are to be applauded for their efforts in opening up Helm.  It's just a shame that, despite it being designated as CROW land with a public right to roam, there is not yet any easy means of access to the north eastern field from the top of Helm.  Let's hope that negotiations eith the owner prove successful in the near future.

Don Shore, 9th December 2008

Click on the link to see the Friends of the Lake District's December e-message

 Welcome to Natland

An updated version of the Welcome to Natland leaflet is now available for download. Other than amendments to contact personnel, there are no significant changes.

Editor, 8th December 2008

Brownies Say Goodbye To Lesley

Badge work plays an important part of Brownies and during her time with Natland Brownies Lesley has introduced the girls to many different kinds of badges "It's great to see the girls experience different activities and gain new skills." Lesley has also planned day trips to the Sandcastle at Blackpool, Ostrich World and Waddow Hall for the Brownies to enjoy.

1st Natland Brownies remember Lesley "she will be missed" "she was really good at crafts" "she was a lovely person" "we enjoyed the trips out" Lesley has always enjoyed supporting other groups in the village including St Mark's Church. It has been a tradition on Mothering Sunday, for Natland Brownies to collect and arrange daffodils into small bunches and then present them to all Mums in the congregation.

On behalf of all the girls (past and present Brownies), thank you Lesley for your dedication to 1st Natland Brownies over the last 14 years.

Lesley will remain involved in Girlguiding UK as PR Officer for the Cumbria Division.

Rachel Ellis, 7th Decmber 2008
Reprinted with permission from St Mark's News

A65 Hedge Laying Competition

Friends of the Lake District's annual hedge laying competition takes place on Saturday 14th February 2009. The site is three miles south of Kendal on the side of the A65 near Barrows Green (GR: 527 875).  The competition encourages more hedge laying and increases people's skills and the quality of hedge laying.  Up to thirty competitors take part from professionals in the Championship Class to novices and local young farmers.  Thanks to Peter Edmondson of Low Barrows Green Farm for providing the hedge.  It is free to attend - so come along to watch and learn!

If you would like any more information please contact Jack Ellerby at Friends of the Lake District, 01539 720788, or visit Friends of the Lake District.

Jack Ellerby, Friends of the Lake District, 8th December 2008

Natland 2009 Calendar #6

Shown below are another two pictures from Geoff Cater's Limited Edition 2009 Calendar featuring photographs of Natland.

Whereas normally on Natland.info you can click on a picture to get an enlargement, this does not apply here. The calendars plus Limited Edition Postcards and some framed pictures are available at Holmes Nursery. The calendars and postcards are also available at Natland Post Office. The calendar is priced at £8, the postcards are 40p and the framed prints are £20 for a large framed print and £15 for a small framed print.

Geoff Cater, 9th December 2008

St Mark's News:  December 08

The new edition of St Mark's News is now available in the church, price 50p.  
This edition includes:

• Are We Gifted and Talented? by Tim Evans
• Moving on From Natland, Oxenholme and New Hutton by Tim Evans
• Natland Brownies Say Goodbye and Thank You to Lesley by Rachel Ellis
• The Children's Society by Dorothy Airey
• Where Shall We Get Married?
• Plus details of all Church services and events this month

St Mark's Church has its own dedicated page on the Natland.info website.  Click on Church to view it. 

Tim Evans, 6th December 2008

Local Development Framework Consultation

If anyone would like to provide Natland.info with a precis of the proposals, particularly regarding how they affect Natland, it would be greatly appreciated.  And if anyone does provide comment on the consultation documents, it would be good if you would share the key points on this website.

You can see the full e-mail by clicking on Allocations of Land and you can view the Newsletter by clicking on LDF Newsletter.

Editor, 6th December 2008

Winter Wonderland Views

This is entitled Winter Wonderland Views and features a snowy and misty Natland, including footage taken from the top of the Church Tower.  Click on the link to see the video.

Editor, 5th December 2008

Natland Engineering Company

One of the stranger requests received at Natland.info was to verify the existence of the Natland Engineering Company, a London based business offering employment opportunities in the Far East. We were unable to provide any meaningful information, other than, as far as we know, it has nothing to do with Natland in Cumbria.  However if anyone does know anything about this business, let us know and we will pass on the information.

Editor, 5th December 2008

Natland 2009 Calendar #5

Shown below are another two pictures from Geoff Cater's Limited Edition 2009 Calendar featuring photographs of Natland.

Whereas normally on Natland.info you can click on a picture to get an enlargement, this does not apply here. The calendars plus Limited Edition Postcards and some framed pictures are available at Holmes Nursery. The calendars and postcards are also available at Natland Post Office. The calendar is priced at £8, the postcards are 40p and the framed prints are £20 for a large framed print and £15 for a small framed print.

Geoff Cater, 5th December 2008

200 Club Winners

For only £1 per month you can support the Natland & Oxenholme Village Hall
and win the chance of a prize every month in the 200 Club draw!

The winning numbers in this month's draw were:

To learn how you can join in the fun and support your Village Hall at the same time,
see 200 Club.

Midge Fairhurst, 2nd December 2008

Venus Emerging!

Lost Beneath a Sea of Mist

Martin and Pat Tetlow climbed Helm on the afternoon of Saturday 29th November when a temperature inversion caused Natland to disappear below a sea of mist.  They sent Natland.info several stunning photos of which these are but a selection.  

As usual, click on any photo for an enlarement.

Many thanks to the Tetlows.

Editor, 2nd December 2008

Natland.info Update

"Many Dogs" continues to be the top search string used to find us, by a long way!

Another Fraud Warning!: Fraudulent attempts to obtain personal financial information over the internet show no sign of abating.  I very nearly fell for a scam last month.  Although it involved Google Adwords, even if you are not involved with such things it could be worthwhile reading what happened as it is typical of the sort of credit card scam trap into which it is so easy to fall if you are not careful. Just imagine that rather than seeming to come from Google Ads, it appeared to come from an organisation with which you have an account.

I received an e-mail about my Google Adwords account that looked quite genuine.  It referred to not having been able to charge my credit card for the outstanding balance on my account and gave instructions as to how to update my account information. It seemed plausible as there had been some problems on the account. I was about to click on the innocent looking link but fortunately, as the cursor hovered over the link, it showed the webaddress to which I would be redirected.  It mentioned Google plus a load of numbers but then at the end, instead of the expected ".com", it read ".ru".  The alarms bells rang. That meant it was a Russian address.  Checking the route by which the e-mail had been sent (Tools / Message Options / Internet Headers) showed that far from coming from Google Ads, it had originated from someone at "brabocars.com".  

! ! ! ! ! SCAM ! ! ! ! !

Spotted it just time to stop passing over my credit card details.

Editor, 2nd December 2008

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If you are not on the list to receive Update Alerts by e-mail (i.e. notification when significant new items are added to the website so that you don't have to remember to visit it) click on and send us a blank e-mail.  It is secure and your e-mail address will not be abused for other purposes! 

If there is anything that you think we could do better or if there are particular ideas or suggestions that you would like us to explore, do get in touch. The simplest way is to click on the link to send me an .

Church Tower To Open For Visitors

Canon Tim Evans, 1st December 2008

Composers and Musical Instruments Quiz

Do you know which famous film dog has the same name as a famous composer?  

If so you are on your way to completing the Composers and Musical Instruments Quiz in aid of the Friends of St Mark's School.

Entry forms, price £1, are available from Natland Post Office and General Store.

Carol Stearne, Friends of St Mark's School, 1st December 2008

Natland 2009 Calendar #4

Shown below are another two pictures from Geoff Cater's Limited Edition 2009 Calendar featuring photographs of Natland.

Whereas normally on Natland.info you can click on a picture to get an enlargement, this does not apply here. The calendars plus Limited Edition Postcards and some framed pictures are available at Holmes Nursery. The calendars and postcards are also available at Natland Post Office. The calendar is priced at £8, the postcards are 40p and the framed prints are £20 for a large framed print and £15 for a small framed print.

Geoff Cater, 1st December 2008

From the Scrapbook #08:

School Days at St Mark's

Dora Bianchi, formerly Dora Kitchen, who lived in Natland from 1936 - 1957, continues her reminiscences of life in Natland in the 1940s.

My school day memories start with me standing at the school railings (taken later for the war effort) shouting "Come and get me" to my mother whom I could see across the green, working about the house. The school room (infants) had a large black cast iron stove, which used to glow red hot. The teacher, Miss Procter, made cocoa on it for the children who brought their dinners,this was before the school canteen. Miss Procter gave us a chalk and a slate to write on; we sat in little wooden chairs and a table in front of us. Another thing we did was thread beads onto shoe laces, rather a waste of time as we had to unthread ready for next time.

I loved school as I got older; I sat my 11 plus and passed but decided not to go to the High School, you had a choice in those days.

I can remember one of the classrooms being made into a kitchen, so we could have school dinners. The meals were  cooked by Mrs Simkiss and other ladies helped. The meals were very good and plenty of them. Meals were cooked at Natland for Crosscrake School; these were taken in big metal boxes by Mr Broadbent from the Post Office; he had a van.

We used to go for walks from school to Helm. We collected leaves and flowers on the way back. These were for the nature table. The school won a prize  at Kendal show for a display of Autumn berries and fruit.

We used to collect rosehips during the war, for making rose hip syrup for babies. We got three pennies for every pound we collected,from the govenment.If you collected 10 lb you got a badge.

One family who came to school were the Wightman family, they farmed at Prizet. The boys sometimes rode down Hawes Lane on a donkey. The donkey was put in the field at Natland Hall while the boys were at school and collected at home time.

We always had a concert and party at Christmas at school. The mothers of the children helped at the party tea, we had games afterwards.

In summer we had sports day with races and a fancy dress. We all got a bag with our tea in it.

The school had a garden, behind the school house in Natland Park field. The older children used to do the gardening. We had all sorts of vegetables and potatoes and also raspberries and strawberries.

I really enjoyed my school days and learnt a lot. I never regretted not going on to the High School.

Dora Bianchi, 1st December 2008

This is a photograph of the pupils of St Mark's School, Natland, possibly in 1946. In those days children who did not go to the High or Grammar schools stayed on at the village school. 

Dora rembers the names of many of the people in the photograph but not all.  

Can you help identify those marked "?" ?

Click on the photo for an enlargement.

Back row: ?, ?, ?, Peter Sennick, Tom Dixon, Ronnie Holmes, ?, ?, ?, Reginald Capps, George Holmes, Billy Stobart, Richard Hall

4th row: Mr Inglesfield, ?, Sidney Appleton, ?, John Mansfield, Margaret Copeland, Elizabeth Dixon, Dorothy Slater, ?, Betty Kirk, ?, ?, Peter Kirk, Geof Wightman, Mr Collett

3rd row: Phyllis Sennick, Margaret Croft, William Brown, Edith Kirk, Hamish Thew, Peter Humber, ?, John Holmes, ?, ?, ?, Dorothy Cottam, Miss Dale

2nd row: Dora Kitchen,?, Derek Wightman, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, Kathy Wilson

Front row: Geraldine Sharpe, ?, ?, ?, Robert Dodgson, Margaret Kirk, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?

Dora added that she would be very interested to hear if anyone out there can fill any of her gaps.  She found it quite sad as she was writing those names as there are so many of them that she knows to have died.

Catherine Carter Weds in Natland

Catherine Carter, a former chorister at St Mark's, returned to the church on Saturday to marry Stuart Robertson.  The couple first met when they were at school in Carlisle but romance did not blossom until they met again through a friend several years later.  Stuart is a Lieutenant Commander in the Royal Navy and Catherine works for the Police.  The page boys were Catherine's nephews, Dylan and Ben.

Thanks to Geoff Cater for the photographs

Editor, 26th November 2008

Vicar Moving to Training Directorship

As its name suggests the Yorkshire Ministry Course provides training for candidates from the whole of the county of Yorkshire, which covers five Church of England Dioceses, from the North York Moors to Sheffield, and from the East Coast to Bradford. It's a very diverse region with deeply rural areas to the north, industrial cities in the South and West and large numbers of members of other faith communities in areas such as Bradford and Sheffield.

At the heart of the new post will be working with students on their practical work preparing for ordination, such as placements in different parishes, leading worship and the role of the clergy. As well as its base in Mirfield, the Course also operates from the campus of St John's University in York, so Tim will be spending some time there. Tim will travel across to Mirfield for part of the week and work from home the rest of the time, thanks to the marvels of modern electronic communications.

Since he arrived in here in 1997 Tim has been involved in similar work through the Lancashire and Cumbria Theological Partnership, based in Carlisle, and so his new post builds on the work he has done there, as well as drawing on his experience of parish ministry since 1987 in London, Lancashire and South Lakeland.

Tim told Natland.info "Natland has been the family home where Daniel and Rachel have grown up and been to school.  It has been a wonderful privilege to live in such a beautiful area and to be part of a close-knit community and so moving from Natland after eleven years won't be easy."

In the immediate future Tim, Mary, Daniel and Rachel will be moving to Lancaster.

Canon Tim Evans, 25th November 2008

From the Scrapbook #07:

Natland in the War

Dora Bianchi, formerly Dora Kitchen, who lived in Natland from 1936 - 1957, continues her reminiscences of life in Natland.

Dora plus a pre-war photo of her with her mother and Raymond Elvey who lived at Compton House.

My dad was called up in 1940.

He bought our first wireless (radio) before he went. I think the first thing I remember hearing was the story of the Three Little Pigs.

I became a great fan of Children's Hour with Uncle Mac reading stories. I can still hear the voices of Larry the Lamb, Dennis the Dachshund and the Policeman. Another favourite was the Romany Stories.

The war didn't seem to come to Natland really, except for my dad being away.

As a child, I didn't notice a lack of food. We kept hens so had plenty of eggs. We got fruit and vegetables from Natland Park farm; my mother worked there, helping Mrs Kendall in the house. We could buy sweets from the post office, they sold "Lucky bags" 3 old pence each. The sweets were a  bit sticky but we enjoyed them, we also used to eat OXO cubes which we bought for a penny.

Once during the war, my dad was passing on the main road in a convoy and his officer let him call on us. He brought a box of sweets which had been issued to his tank crew.

Natland school got some hot chocolate powder sent from the American army. We all had to take a jar or a paper bag to school and were all given a share of it. We didn't know what to do with it, I think most of us ate it by licking our finger and dipping it in the powder.

We had lots of evacuee children at school. They lived at St Marks Home. Most came from Cullercoats; we found them very rough and noisy. They seemed to be always in trouble at school. I don't suppose we were very nice to them, resenting their towny ways. I remember there was a lady evacuee living at the vicarage; she had a baby in a pram. The vicar (who shall remain nameless) wouldn't let her stay in during the day, she had to walk the roads whatever the weather. My mother sometimes asked her into our house when it was wet. My mother once took the coat off me and gave to her for her baby.

German prisoners used to work on several of the local farms. They walked from Kendal every day. They came on their own with no guards. I suppose they didn't want to escape; it was better than fighting! They wore brown uniforms with POW on the back. We used to walk along with them and talk to them; they were very pleasant and friendly.

It's strange but I don't remember any Victory parties but I am sure there must have been something, perhaps some one else can tell us about them?

Dora Bianchi, 25th November 2008

Dora's previous reminiscences can be read at From the Scrapbook

Natland 2009 Calendar #3

Here are two more pictures from Geoff Cater's Limited Edition 2009 Calendar featuring photographs of Natland.

Whereas normally on Natland.info you can click on a picture to get an enlargement, this does not apply here. The calendars plus Limited Edition Postcards and some framed pictures are available at Holmes Nursery. The calendars and postcards are also available at Natland Post Office. The calendar is priced at £8, the postcards are 40p and the framed prints are £20 for a large framed print and £15 for a small framed print.

Geoff Cater, 25th November 2008

For those wanting information about walks in the Lake District or Pennines or just wanting to look at the photographs, there are several websites worth looking at, including:

Walk the Fells by David Hall
The Lakeland Fells by Andrew Leaney
Mad About Mountains by Ann Bowker
Lake District Walks by John Dowson
The Walking Englishman, author unknown
and my own, rather more idiosyncratic blog of walks, BOOTboys, the design of which bears more than a passing resemblance to that of Natland.info!

Editor, 24th November 2008

Dedication of New Memorial

Although the event has been reported elsewhere (see Westmorland Gazette and also The Fallen Remembered), I thought Natland.info might like to have photos of the ceremony unveiling the new names plaque. The photo on the left shows the Nixon family aranged round the plaque, whilst on the right is a general photo of the folk attending the service.

Mike Bagnall, 24th November 2008

Natland Palm Fair

The exhibit voted "best in show" at this year's Craft Fair was the appliqué picture of Natland Palm Fair by Whin Inglesfield, who has now returned to the village after some years in Kendal.

Natland Palm Fair by Whin Inglesfield.  Click on picture for an enlargement

When asked about the story behind the picture, which she produced in 1979, Whin told Natland.info:

It was inspired by my research into the history of Natland and by themes from Breughel. The Palm Fair was one of Natland's special events in bygone days.

The Fair formerly lasted several days, including Palm Sunday.  There was racing, leaping, wrestling, cock-fighting, dancing round the "Lover's Tree", (a hawthorn- there's one on the green today), and palms were borne round the village.  I have included other amusements common to the neighbourhood at the time- pushing-off the barrel, five-stones (a game with pebbles), tumblers, and gingerbread and ribbon sellers, but I forgot the fortune-teller!

A tribe of itinerant earthenware dealers has made their headquarters here for centuries- they are the dark skinned folk in the picture, selling their wares in the foreground and participating in events.  One of their members, Bonny Jane, and her swain, John, are plighting their troth beneath the "Lovers' Tree" as was the custom- a local song relates their love story.  The potter women wore gaudy gown bunched up behind and wore their black hair tied in a kerchief, topped by and old faded hat - and they smoked clay pipes.

Latterly the Fair was held on Palm Sunday only; it degenerated with drinking and brawling, and was discontinued about 1835, so I dated the picture about 1810 to predate its decline.  The viewpoint is from the site of the church, which replaced the little chapel across the green in 1825.  The inn is now the village shop, the smithy converted to cottages and some cottages have been altered- and the village pump has gone.

You can read more about the Palm Fair in Whin's book, Natland and Oxenholme - The story of a Westmorland village.

Editor, 20th November 2008

Natland 2009 Calendar #2

Shown below are two more of the pictures from Geoff Cater's Limited Edition 2009 Calendar featuring photographs of Natland..

Whereas normally on Natland.info you can click on a picture to get an enlargement, this does not apply here. The calendars plus Limited Edition Postcards and some framed pictures are available at Holmes Nursery. The calendars and postcards are also available at Natland Post Office.

The calendar is priced at £8, the postcards are 40p and the framed prints are £20 for a large framed print and £15 for a small framed print.

Geoff Cater, 20th November 2008

Neighbourhood Watch Consultation Results

Thanks to all who responded to the Neighbourhood Watch Policing Priorities counsultation exercise distributed to those on the Natland.info e-mailing list.  The findings have been passed on to Dr John Perkins, Chair, Cumbria Neighbourhood Watch Association.

Natlanders were asked what, in their opinion, should be the top three policing priorities in Cumbria for the next three years?  All respondents mentioned anti-social behaviour and most mentioned burglary.  Other topics named were crime, vandalism, police presence and dangerous driving.

Editor, 20th November 2008

Down to the Woods!

St Mark's School has started an exciting new project. We are going to visit Larkrigg Spring for four afternoons before the end of term to work on Forest Schools. This is an initiative from Scandinavia with the underlying philosophy of taking learning into the outdoors. We are being guided by a trained Forest Schools teacher who will work with the children in the classroom  initially, preparing them for working outside, and will then lead activities in the woodland: craft, environmental education, art, science, literacy, maths etc.

Our PTA, the Friends of St Mark's, has kindly bought full waterproofs for use by the children in the class. Our kitchen will be providing hot drinks and cakes for a snack half way through each afternoon and a large group of parent volunteers will be supporting the teachers to provide an adult / pupil ratio of 1:4 for the sessions.  

Our first session was on Monday this week, with one of the younger classes. Despite the rain we spent the afternoon getting the children used to the idea of learning outside the classroom. Having been fully equipped with heavy duty waterproofs and fitted out with wellington boots, the children were ready for everything.

On the way to the woods they discovered all the joys of rural Cumbria: mud, puddles, leaves and fantastic views. In the woods they were able to explore and discover the natural world. Some made dens, some created nests for some small soft toy birds we had taken with us and others explored the woodland floor.

Looking closely, children found fungi, unusual leaves and signs of human activity hidden under piles of leaves. The class had a beak mid afternoon for a reviving hot drink and some of our school kitchen's tasty cakes.

We returned to school just on time for the end of the day, wet, muddy and tired but inspired by the potential for learning of the world on our doorstep.

I look forward to telling you more about the project as the weeks progress.

Peter Barfoot, St Mark's School, 18th November 2008

Neighbourhood Forum Returns to Natland

The next meeting of the Upper Kent Neighbourhood Forum will take place on Monday 1st December 2008 at 7:30 p.m. in the Natland & Oxenholme Village Hall

This Neighbourhood Forum is organised by Cumbria County Council in order to encourage communication between residents, service providers and Councillors.  The Forums can give details about issues of interest to local people and give a chance to raise concerns and ideas for the area.  The Forum holds five public meetings a year and you are very welcome.  

The Agenda includes:

• LOCAL VIEW: David Peters will give some observations about life in Natland.
• INVASIVE PLANTS ON THE RIVER BANKS: Ben Lamb from South Cumbria Rivers Trust will explain why the Trust was set up.  He will then cover the issue of invasive species, the problems they are causing, and what people can do about it.  
• WHAT IS A TRANSITION TOWN? You may have come across Transition Towns on the news, through friends or on the Archers!  Lots of people are starting to hear about them. Gareth Thomas is part of a local group which is working to plan for the transition between current plentiful oil and the future expectation of scarcer oil.
• UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS AND LOCAL PROJECTS
  Police  
  Oxenholme Parking scheme - Debbie Binch
  Hincaster Trailway - Bridget Pickthall
  Wind energy planning applications - Debbie Binch
  Stainton Institute - Freda Kitching
  Proposal for a new bus shelter at the Hospital - Alan Bobbett
  Community speed watch - Debbie Binch

The Upper Kent Neighbourhood Forum covers the parishes of Longsleddale, Killington, Fawcett Forest, Whitwell & Selside, Whinfell, Strickland Roger, Strickland Ketel, Skelsmergh, Grayrigg, Lambrigg, Docker, Scalthwaiterigg, Firbank, New Hutton, Natland, Sedgwick, Stainton, Hincaster and Old Hutton & Holmescales. We are on the web at Cumbria Forums.

Kathy Craig, Upper Kent Neighbourhood Forum, 18th November 2008

Summary of Natland Parish Council Meeting
10th November 2008  

• The Clerk reported that the scheme to close the central reservation at the Prizet crossroads would have made provision for cyclists and pedestrians to cross, but the scheme had now been dropped.
• Councillor Jackson reported that the allotment working group is in the process of approaching landowners in the search for a suitable plot of land.
• Councillors Chandler and Parnham reported back on two "parish summit" meetings they had attended about the proposed setting up of "Local Area Partnerships" (LAPs) in South Lakeland District.  These bodies would deliver a limited range of services, using powers and budgets mostly devolved the district and county councils, in accordance with the wishes of their respective localities.  Feedback from all seven parish summits will result in a second round of consultation with parish councils over December and January.  The LAP boundaries have been re-drawn giving 8 LAPs. Natland is proposed as part of the Kent Estuary LAP covering the area south of Kendal, which is to have a separate LAP of its own.  Neighbourhood Forum boundaries will be redrawn to match the LAPs.  The constitutions, functions and budgets of the LAPs will be less clearly defined than the geographical boundaries and may have to evolve with time differently for each LAP.  The first LAPs are expected after the county council elections in June 2009.
• It was noted that the taxi business has gone from Long Meadow Lane as a result of actions by SLDC planning enforcement officers.
• The council agreed to pay the £250 cost of adding names to the new plaque at the war memorial, and thanked Councillor Chandler and the PCC for the considerable research and organisation then project had entailed.
• The council resolved to precept £7000 from the 2009/10 council tax.
• The next meeting is on Monday, 8th December at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Hall.  

Thanks to Rhian Peters for the report. 

Click for Summaries of earlier meetings

For more information see Minutes section on the Parish Council page.

Natland from the Tower

The tower is reached by entering through a small door on the outside of the church. Inside there is a very narrow stone spiral staircase with not a great deal of light.  There are two landings on the way up.  

The first contains a large tablet bearing the inscription:

This Chapel was rebuilt and enlarged in the 1825 by which means 160 additional Sittings have been obtained and in consequence of a Grant from the Society for promoting the Enlargement and Building of Churches and Chapels, 120 are hereby declared free and unappropriated for ever, in addition to 51 formerly provided by Joseph Fawcett Minister.
William Bainbridge Chapelwarden.

It is a pity that such an interesting comment on the social history of the church, recording an event that made it possible for the poorer parishioners to attend, should have been consigned to such an inaccessible location when the present church was built.

The clock, which is wound weekly by hand, is also to be found on this landing.

I was surprised to find that the roof area is not flat but is, in fact, a four-sided slated pyramid.  It is a good job there is a stout and reasonably high crenulated wall around as some of the slates are extremely slippery.

Looking East

Visibility was excellent, other than into the noonday sun, and I was able to take panoramic pictures in all directions.  You can see how the village has developed in the last fifty years from little more than a hamlet.  Indeed, it is a remarkably large church for what, when built, would have been a small population (which puts into perspective the number of the Fallen from Natland in WW1).

Looking South

I had been slightly apprehensive about the descent as I usually find scrambling up more comfortable than down but somehow going down was easier- possibly because the visibility is better.  Nevertheless, my fleece was covered in dust and cobwebs from the inevitable brushings with the wall.

Looking West

I hope that visitors to Natland.info will enjoy these views from St Mark's Church tower as much as I did in taking them.  For an enlarged view of any picture, simply click (or possibly double click, depending on your settings) on the photo.

Looking North

Open Day:  There is likely to be a Tower Open Day in the near future for people to climb and enjoy the view.  The date has not yet been decided so keep an eye on Natland.info for its announcement.  It is an opportunity not to be missed- but not in your Sunday-best clothes!

Don Shore, 13th November 2008

Neighbourhood Watch:  Suspicious Activity

The Police have had calls from NHW members in Dent, Holme, Lindale and Cartmel. Each call has been about differing types of activity - men selling persian rugs from a van with an unrecorded registration number, man knocking on doors about a survey about womens TV programme watching, man walking around stating that he is from Waterboard (left when challenged), and a foreign non english speaking gentelmen, who was apparently looking for directions.  Unfortunately none of the people reported were traced.  It is however important for you to continue to contact us about such incidents with as much detail as possible.  We have also had some unusual incidents reported around stables in the Cartmel valley area.  Please ring 0845 22 00 347 if you see anything at all unusual.

 Andrea Bell, NHW Development Officer, 12th November 2008

Natland 2009 Calendar

Shown below are two of the pictures from Geoff Cater's Limited Edition 2009 Calendar featuring photographs of Natland..

Whereas normally on Natland.info you can click on a picture to get an enlargement, this does not apply here. The calendars plus Limited Edition Postcards and some framed pictures are available at Holmes Nursery. The calendars and postcards are also available at Natland Post Office.

The calendar is priced at £8, the postcards are 40p and the framed prints are £20 for a large framed print and £15 for a small framed print.

Geoff Cater, 11th November 2008

Nowell Sing We!

The orchestra will also be playing Gustav Holst's lovely St Paul's Suite.

Programmes, priced £8 and £7 will shortly be available and a glass of wine/fruit juice with mince pies will be served after the concert.        

This concert is the first in a series of four, organised to celebrate the choir's 40th anniversary season.  Do come along and help us to make this a very special year in the history of the choir. Further details can be seen at The Pronobis Singers.

Clive Walkley, 10th November 2008

Feeding in the Rain!

Thanks to all those who supported us and to Heather Gardner at the Natland MillBeck Ice Cream Parlour, whose hot soup proved more popular, on this occasion, than her home made ice cream.

Has Bill Oddie ever found such a comfortable bird-watching venue?

We hope for better weather in January, for the Big Garden Birdwatch event. Watch this space for details of dates and times.

David Stocks,  RSPB South Lakes Group, 9th November 2008

Equally and Collectively: The Fallen Remembered

To learn more about the Fallen of Natland and John's mission to have them remembered, see: Equally and Collectively:  The Fallen Remembered.

Editor, 5th November 2008

St Mark's School Open Day & Prospectus

On Tuesday 11th November there is an Open Morning for parents and guardians of children due to start school in September 2009.  

Come along and view the school at work and ask any questions you may have about your child starting school.  We look forward to welcoming you and your child.  For more details, telephone 015395 60719.

Peter Barfoot, Headteacher, 5th November 2008

Natland's Vicar Moving On

Canon Tim Evans will be leaving St Mark's Church in January to take up a new post in Mirfield, near Huddersfield. After over 11 years in Natland, he is going to be Director of Pastoral Studies for the Yorkshire Ministry Course, which trains clergy for the Church of England and the Methodist Church.

 Editor, 4th November 2008

Craft Fair Success!

The 9th Annual Craft Fair & Exhibition was held in the Village Hall on Saturday, 1st November, and was very well attended by local people and visitors.

On behalf of the Village Hall Management Committee I would like to thank all the stallholders, the exhibitors and the visitors who helped to make this event such a success. £675 was raised for Village Hall funds.

Next year's Craft Fair is to be on Saturday, 7th November.

Midge Fairhurst, 3rd November 2008

The Mystery of the Lady in the Hat

It has been suggested that the lady in the hat in Dora Biachi's photo of Natland Sports Day 1946 is the school teacher, Miss Procter, who lived in one of the Church View cottages on the Green.  It has also been suggested that the year might be a little later than 1946 if the baby on her knee is one of the Sharpe boys.  Perhaps 1947.  Do you agree?

Editor, 3rd November 2008

Natland 2009 Calendar

200 Club Winners

For only £1 per month you can support the Natland & Oxenholme Village Hall
and win the chance of a prize every month in the 200 Club draw!

The winning numbers in this month's draw were:

To learn how you can join in the fun and support your Village Hall at the same time,
see 200 Club.

Midge Fairhurst, 3rd November 2008

Water Bills Successfully Reduced

Collin Mansfield's offer to help Natlanders who might be being over-charged (see Is Your Water Services Bill Too High?) led to twenty enquiries seeing information on how to claim a reduction in domestic water rates.

Although two applications were refused, nine households have successfully claimed and donated their current year's refund plus Gift Aid tax reclaim to St Mark's Church, which should be more than sufficient to pay this year's water charge for the church.

Anyone who still needs help in trying to claim their rebate should speak to Collin on 07740 447858.

Collin Mansfield, 2nd November 2008

Sir Nigel's Visit

To know more about this classic steam locomotive see Sir Nigel Gresley.

Editor 1st November 2008

From the Scrapbook #06:

Natland Sports Day

Dora Bianchi sent Natland.info this picture of the prizewinners at Natland Sports, circa 1946.  The picture was taken in the field where St Mark's School now stands.  Dora remembers the line up as:

Back row from the left: Alan Brown, Dorothy Slater, Sonia Swainbank, Geraldine Sharpe, Richard Swainbank

Seated from the left:  George Nicholson, Peter Humber, Lady in hat with Roger or Stephen Sharpe on her knee, Canon Miller, Phyllis Sennick, Dora Kitchen

Dora adds "I was dressed as a Russian girl. My mother put dolly blue on my wellies.  The lady in the hat might be Mrs Keesey or Mrs Maples."

Can you confirm the identity of the lady in the hat? Or do you know what has happened to any of the others in the picture?  Or do you have a story about Natland Sports? Why not send an to Natland.info and tell us about it?

Editor, 1st November 2008

Guides' Christmas Card Delivery Service

Once again 1st Natland Guides will be operating a Christmas card delivery service for parishioners who want to send cards to addresses within the parish.

There will be a box at the back of church for the cards from Sunday 30th November until after the services on Sunday 14th December.

There is no charge for this but any donations will be given to charity.

Rachel Watkinson, 1st November 2008

Helping out at Rainbows

If you think that you may be able to help out on one night, please ring Rachel Ellis on 0105395 61770. Thank you.

Rachel Ellis, 1st November 2008

 St Mark's News:  November 08

The new edition of St Mark's News is now available in the church, price 50p.  
This edition includes:

• "In God We Trust" by Tim Evans
• "Did You Find Out Where Your Rainwater Goes" by Collin Mansfield
• "The Fallen Remembered" by John Chandler
• The Lord's Prayer as a text message
• Open PCC Report
• Plus details of all Church services and events this month

St Mark's Church now has its own dedicated page on the Natland.info website.  
Click on Church to view it. 

Tim Evans, 1st November 2008

Natland.info Update

There is no Wildlife News report this month due to the sad death of its regular author, Neil Robinson.

With the future of the Wildlife page now uncertain, the opportuntiy has been taken to restructure this website somewhat to make it a little easier to navigate.  All the feature items about things (e.g. Natland Caves), people (e.g. Annie Gibson), events (e.g. Flower Show), Wildlife Reports or other items such as the Scrapbook can now be easily found by first visiting the new Features page via its hot button at the top and bottom of the main pages. It is possible that I have missed some of the (many!) links that needed changing so if you spot anything that does not work properly, please let me know.

During October, a useful meeting was held with the Crosthwaite and Lyth webmaster and, from time to time, you can expect to find links to items on their website that may be of interest to Natlanders and vice versa.

Those missing a Wildlife News item this month might like to visit Crosthwaite and Lyth's Autumn on the Township Plantation.

Visitor numbers to the Natland.info News page in October were perhaps surprisingly high at 793, the second highest ever (after July 08). Once again, the most visited page was Old News 2007 and "Many Dogs" the top search string used to find us!

Editor, 1st November 2008

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Log of visitors to the Natland.info News page (previous year in grey):

If you are not on the list to receive Update Alerts by e-mail (i.e. notification when significant new items are added to the website so that you don't have to remember to visit it) click on and send us a blank e-mail.  It is secure and your e-mail address will not be abused for other purposes! 

If there is anything that you think we could do better or if there are particular ideas or suggestions that you would like us to explore, do get in touch. The simplest way is to click on the link to send me an .

Natland: The Lake District!  Again!

On a night when even the mountain marathon was called off, it is no surprise that Natland found itself once more awash.  The water had drained from the Green by the morning but Sedgwick Road once again was more like a river.  The overflow pipes from the field storm pond were doing their job but sadly the Highways Department had not cleared the grid of leaves and consequently the water streamed across and down the road towards Kendal.  

The junction with Helm Lane was particularly bad.  The situation was not helped by the trunk roads being flooded leading to many cars taking a detour through the village.

Incidentally, a curse on the plumber who deliberately drove at high speed to soak me whilst taking the grid picture!

A more pleasant aspect of all the water was the reappearance of Cracaltwater, between the farm and the canal.

Don Shore, 26th October 2008

The Cellist who Inspired Du Pré

Many years later, Jacqueline du Pré was asked how she became interested in the instrument; she replied that as a young girl she heard a recital by a boy on the BBC Childrens Hour!

Mr Lawrence gave a history of the cello from its inception in the 16th century and its development to what it is today.  In fact, it virtually started life as a large violin.  Of course, he brought to the meeting three different cellos made at different times, (one 40 years old, one 150, and another 250 years old) and was able to demonstrate the tone of each instrument.  Throughout his lecture he left the audience entertained with his playing as well as various stories and comments, including a very funny rhyme by Richard Stilgoe.

A highly entertaining afternoon was rounded off by Mr Lawrence and his wife performing their party piece whereby they played "Men of Harlech" as a duet on the one instrument - not the easiest of finales!                                             

Paul Singleton, 25th October 2008

Distraction Burglaries: The Good News!

After telling you bad news about distraction burglaries, there is a bit of a success for Neighbourhood Watch to tell you about.

The postmaster at Greenodd Post Office, who is a member of the village NHW,had a visit from some people about whom he was not happy. It appears that they were asking to change a large quantity of £20 notes for smaller denominations.

This is a con trick that some thieves use and is called "ringing the changes", the object being to confuse the shopkeeper and steal money.

The post master declined to help them and they left. He obtained the vehicle number and circulated it to the police via his NHW contact. The vehicle had previously been involved in similar offences in the Lakes and was later involved in theft of jewelry in Barrow. The thieves were arrested. This is a good example of the benefit in being vigilant and taking prompt action.

As ever, remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to the police on 0845 33 00 247.

Neighbourhood Watch, 25th October 2008

More Distraction Burglaries

Over the past few days there have been two distraction type burglaries in our area. One in Ulverston and one in Levens. It is thought that the same people are involved and that they are preying on elderly vulnerable people. At the first offence they posed as waterboard workers. On the second they said they were from NHW. They are desribed as two males. One 40 to 50, heavy build, wearing dark boilersuit and donkey jacket. The other one younger, thinner and taller and wearing black trousers. They have been known to wear baseball caps with 2 letters on the front. It may be that a blue car,possibly a Ford Focus was involved.

Please remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to the police on 0845 33 00 247.

Neighbourhood Watch, 23rd October 2008

The Craft Fair, the Unicorn and the Witch!

The annual Craft Fair & Exhibition is to take place in the Village Hall on Saturday, 1st November, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; admission 50p, raffle and refreshments, with all proceeds going to Village Hall funds.

There will be 24 stalls selling items made by local craft people but a very popular part of this event is the exhibition of items made by local people.  Midge Fairhurst would welcome the loan of any pieces of craft work for the day. Please contact Midge on 01539 731727 for more information.

As for further adventures in Nutacre, they are on their way. One is about a lady called Lizzie Pettigrew whom the Nutacre children suspect is a witch! There is also a chapter on the arrival of inspectors to the school! Printing should be going ahead in the next few weeks.

Midge Fairhurst, Norma Singleton & Alison Leiper, 22nd October 2008

From the Scrapbook #05:

Church View and the Crossroad on the Green

Most Natlanders will be aware that the Village Green used to contain a crossroad. The left hand photograph from Daphne Lester's Scrapbook shows the view from the Church tower. The date is uncertain but the crossroad is clearly visible.  Also the Hawes Lane houses had not been built and Church View still comprised seven separate cottages.

Following the publication of Daphne's memories of Annie Gibson, who lived at 4 Church View, Dora Bianchi contacted Natland.info to say:

My name is Dora Bianchi, née Kitchen, I now live in Burneside but lived in Natland from 1936 - 1957. My younger brother still lives on Park Close in the house into which we moved after my dad came back from the war in 1948.

I came to live at 3 Church View in 1936. As I was only six months old I don't remember much of the first few years. One thing I do remember, when I was about three, was going with my dad up to his allotment which was opposite the church up Helm Lane.

No. 3 was the house jutting out from the others. No. 2 was lived by the Holmes family and No. 1 was used as a very small shop. This house was demolished to widen the road.

We only had four rooms.  There was a living room with an old fashioned range with oven and boiler for hot water. When we needed hot water a "ladle can" was put under the brass tap . There was one window which looked out onto Ted Gibson's garden.

The other room downstairs was the "back kitchen"; it had no window and just a cold water tap on the wall. My mother used to cook on a paraffin stove in this dark little room or in the oven on the range. We did have electric lights.

Upstairs there were two bedrooms, one a good size like the livingroom but the other (my room) was triangular in shape. Just enough room for a bed across the wide end and a small chest; it had only a tiny window in an alcove.

You will notice I haven't mentioned a bathroom! The bath was a tin one in front of the fire, filled with the ladle can. The toilet was quite an expedition, it was round the corner of No. 1 and into the back gardens( I think the building is still there). It was an earth toilet with a wooden seat, ashes were put down the hole. At night we used a chamber pot.

The old man at No. 5 was Mr Hewertson (Old Rob). He worked at Natland Park farm; my dad (Bill Kitchen) used to cut Rob's hair once a year.

No 6. was the home of the school teacher, Miss Proctor, who taught me in the infants class at Natland old school.

Dora has promised more tales of growing up in Natland.  We look forward to them.

The right hand photo above shows the Green in 1962 after the crossroad had been seeded.  The old School can be seen to the left of the Church. Below is an enlargement of the children playing on the Green.

Can you identify anyone?

Editor, 22nd October 2008

Upper Kent Neighbourhood Forum: Extracts

Extracts of the meeting at New Hutton Institute on Monday 13th October 2008

• Wind Energy Planning Applications
• Micro-hydro Electric Scheme
• Developing Local Partnerships
• Date of Next Meeting

Wind Energy Planning Applications

Subsequent to the presentation by Banks Development at a previous Upper Kent Forum, there are now plans for a further wind farm at Sillfield - very close to the Armitstead site. Mr. Drinkall asked that it be mentioned that Old Hutton & Holmescales Parish Council voted against the Sillfield site, but could not vote against the Armitstead application (which probably goes to planning on 30th October) because declarations of interest meant the Council was not quorate.  

Micro-hydro Electric Scheme

John Farmer, Chair of Langsleddale Parish, explained the ideal was to use free water to produce carbon free electricity. Of the five possible schemes, two have gone as far as feasibility studies. John explained that the technology was straightforward, involving a small dam to redirect some of the flow through a pipe into the turbine house.  The water goes through the turbine, returned to the stream and the electricity produced fed into the national grid.

The first scheme at Docker Nook would produce approximately 15 kw of electricity (enough for 12 households) and a planning decision from the LDNPA is imminent.  The second slightly bigger scheme at Sadgill is unlikely to go ahead at the current time for a variety of economic and geographical reasons.

John confirmed the community is kept informed of developments and responded to questions on 'payback' time, noise and environmental issues, stressing that ecology has first call on the stream at all times.   

Developing Local Partnerships

John Dyer, South Lakeland District Council, explained the rationale behind the current strategy to develop local partnerships.  This arose from statistics which show people feel council services have not improved and a lack of satisfaction with opportunities to participate in decision making, along with the national agenda to empower communities.

He listed the potential benefits of partnership working including the need for local services to reflect local needs; greater opportunities for people to be heard and better co-ordinated and joined-up services and suggested many of the building blocks to achieve this - key service centres; regeneration partnerships; parish planning groups; parish councils; neighbourhood forums, County Council divisions and District Council wards as well as LDNPA and YDNPA - were already in place.   He asked people to look at the proposed boundaries to check where they feel their natural affinities lie.

Dianne Whitehead, Cumbria County Council, added the aim of partnership working is to allow the County, District and Parish Councillors of an area to take, or influence, local decisions whenever possible to give increased accountability.  Each area will have a dynamic co-ordinator working with local councillors, residents and other agencies to ensure joined up services. Dianne stressed that Neighbourhood Forums will continue and Parish Councils will play a key part in local partnerships.  Consultations on the plans will continue until mid-October, including parish summits for each area.  It is anticipated whilst different areas will develop at different speeds, co-ordinators will be appointed early in the next financial year.   

Dianne suggested many local issues could be devolved to local partnerships and rather than being decided remotely, they would be discussed and actioned by locality partnerships.  She confirmed the Police, the Primary Care Trust, members of the Local Strategic Partnership, Cumbria Association of Local Councils and other agencies would be involved in local partnerships, but initially the concentration was on the three tiers of local government.   Consultation results will be taken back to the Local Strategic Partnership before taking it back to the District and County with a recommendation that it takes effect early in the next financial year.   Dianne suggested that consultation to date has shown there is a clear view that Kendal should be a separate locality, but she queried what people at this Forum felt, adding that there will be Neighbourhood Forums to match locality partnerships.

Concerns were expressed that as the valley gets most of its services from Kendal, Kendal is its natural service centre.  It was also suggested that the LDNPA is frequently the more important authority for the valley than the County or District.   Councillor Collins suggested it may be possible to have a locality partnership for Kendal itself and another for the rural areas which uses Kendal as a service centre.  This would mean redrawing boundaries but a solution needs to be found which suits each area best.   It was suggested that the LDNPA is very interested in parish planning and have funding for such.  If the LDNPA could be involved in locality partnerships through the parish plan process, it would give a greater and more joined-up voice.  The need to involve young people to be represented was also stressed.

Concerns were also expressed on how the scheme would impact on Cumbria Highways. Dianne suggested communities would have the ability to influence services delivered, and both she and John stressed the introduction of Comprehensive Area Assessments meant

Authorities and Agencies have to work together.  Councillor Collins suggested the authorities do just enough to stay clear of penalties and then get on with pleasing the public.

There will be a short second phase of consultations with parishes, so that by the end of the year the County and District have a rough idea of what they are going to do and can settle on a provisional structure to take forward.

Date of Next Meeting

The next Upper Kent Neighbourhood Forum will be at 7:30 p.m. on Monday 1st December at Natland & Oxenholme Village Hall. All welcome!

Kathy Craig, Upper Kent neighbourhood Forum, 22nd October 2008

St Mark's Church Photos

Several new photographs have been added to the page dedicated to St Mark's Church.

Tim Evans, 19th October 2008

Descent and the Natland Caves

Editor, 20th October 2008

A Tribute to Neil Robinson

Natlanders will have been saddened to learn of the death of Neil Robinson.  Neil had produced the monthly Wildlife News for Natland.info and also for its predecessor village website.  It had been a pleasure working with Neil.  He was totally professional in the production of his material and it proved to be a widely read and greatly valued regular contribution to village life.  In addition, Neil was always keen to know what was happening in the gardens of other Natlanders and ever ready to help in the identification of unusual wildlife visitors.  He will be much missed.

Neil's obituary can be viewed by clicking on The Westmorland Gazette

Don Shore, 17th October 2008

Distraction Burglaries

Recently there has been a number of incidents in the South Lakeland area nvolving bogus workmen.

As always, the advice is:

• Only deal with reputable local firms.
• Never allow anyone into your home without checking their ID throroughly.
• If in doubt ring the police.

Neighbourhood Watch, 10th October 2008

200 Club Winners

For only £1 per month you can support the Natland & Oxenholme Village Hall
and win the chance of a prize every month in the 200 Club draw!

The winning numbers in this month's draw were:

To learn how you can join in the fun and support your Village Hall at the same time,
see 200 Club.

Midge Fairhurst, 6th October 2008

More Babies Discovered!

See Wildlife News Afternote for the story and photos.

Editor, 6th October 2008

A Memory of Annie Gibson

Regular visitors to this website will appreciate that a considerable amount of material has been provided this year by former Natlander, Daphne Lester and, indeed, there are still several treasures yet to emerge from her scrapbook.

Daphne, who now lives in Milnthorpe but maintains a close interest in Natland, has written for visitors to Natland.info her recollections of Annie Gibson, a local character who lived next door to her on the Village Green. 

To learn more about the feisty Annie and also of life in Natland in the 1960s, click on
A Memory of Annie Gibson

If you have a story to tell about Natland or Natlanders of yesteryear, why not share it with us on Natland.info?

Editor 6th October 2008

Rainbows Change Night

Rachel Ellis, 5th October 2008

A Letter from Wainwright       

c/o The Westmorland Gazette,

KENDAL,           

5th July 1970       

Dear Mr Lester,

         Thankyou so much for sending me a copy of your Pennine Way narrative, which I found most entertaining as well as interesting.  I am always pleased to hear of the adventures of other fellow-sufferers on this ill-starred journey and of course can follow their wanderings exactly in my mind's eye, every detail of the route being ingrained permanently in my memory: it is a scar I shall take to my grave.  You seemed to have had better weather than was my lot, for nowhere in your story do you lament the fact that you were ever born; I would have thought there must be a few occasions at least when every hapless traveller along the Way seriously questioned the desirability of going on living.  You have my sincere congratulations.  I hope you have learned your lesson and are spared similar experiences in the future.  unless, of course, you enjoyed it-- there's no accounting for tastes.  Me, I'm back in my beloved Lakeland.

         Sister Daphne is, of course, well known here: she taught my two step-daughters at the High School and is acquainted with my wife.

         Thankyou, too, for your kind references to my book.

Yours sincerely,                            

A.Wainwright                            

Editor, 1st October 2008

St Mark's News:  October 08

St Mark's Church now has its own dedicated page on the Natland.info website.  
Click on Church to view it.

The new edition of St Mark's News is now available in the church, price 50p.  
This edition includes:

• "Giving in Grace" by Tim Evans
• "Come Down O Love Divine" by Tim Evans
• "Down Ampney and Ralph Vaughn Williams" by Clive Walkley
• "Rydal Hall" by Mike Bagnall and David Tiffin
• Plus details of all Church services and events this month

Tim Evans, 1st October 2008

Stand-in Wildlife reporter, Don Shore has a bird in the hand, witnesses a confrontation between a swan and a stag and searches for babies in his pond.  

For more, see September's Wildlife News.

Planning Application

The following planning application has been submitted to SLDC:

• SL/2008/0958 Site Address: ROSSLYN, BARROWS GREEN, NATLAND
  Description: CONVERSION OF DETACHED GARAGE TO ANCILLARY LIVING ACCOMMODATION
  Received Date: 12/09/2008

For more general information see Planning Applications.

Editor, 1st October 2008

Natland.info Update

September visitors to Natland.info were a little down from August but well up on last year. Surprisingly, the most visited page was Old News 2007!  Perhaps it had something to do with the item on windfarms, Harvesting the Wind, as there are more controversial proposals in the vicinity.

Further to the items on converting electronic documents from a format that you cannot open to another that you can, Jamie Shore told Natland.info of another website that provides a free conversion service: www.zamzar.com.

Yet again Natland.info has had trouble sending an Update Alert to some but not all BTinternet addresses.  This time they were rejected with the rather non customer friendly message: Resources temporarily unavailable, please try again later.  I'm not going to try again; this message has been in the queue too long.

Janet Thompson told Natland.info "During last week we were having a lot of problems connecting to BTInternet. Whilst taking to "India" ( BT) my husband came across a message which said Engineers were working on BT internet problems. Speaking to various people today it would seem that quite a lot of people have had connection problems and they all thought it was them - not BT!!  One had even gone so far as taking their computer into KTD for a "sort out"!!!  There was a power cut around Crosscrake last Wednesday - could this have caused problems?"  

Enquires made to BT have not so far produced any satisfactory explanation but I am pleased to report that subsequent mailings have been trouble free.

Editor, 1st October 2008

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Log of visitors to www.natland.info/News (previous year in grey)

If you are not on the list to receive Update Alerts by e-mail, i.e. notification when significant new items are added to the website so that you don't have to remember to visit it, click on and send us a blank e-mail.  It is secure and your e-mail address will not be abused for other purposes! 

If there is anything that you think we could do better or if there are particular ideas or suggestions that you would like us to explore, do get in touch. The simplest way is to click on the link to send me an .

From the Scrapbook #04:

Tying the Knot- and the Gate!

And tell the Best Man to take plenty of change!

Editor, 28th September 2008

First Night Free!

Natland Badminton Club, which meets on Thursday evenings in the Village Hall at 8:15 p.m. is offering First Night Free!

Everyone is welcome, whether you have never played before, want to get back into the sport or just get fitter.  Come along and join us.

Contacts:
Graeme Murray 0797 2620465, Graham Blakey 01539 730904, Nigel Gregg 01539 732274

Graeme Murray, 25th September, 2008

Off Road Trails and Quiet Lanes

Keith Bradbury responded to the recent item Trails Around Natland by sending Natland.info a mountain bike route of his own, described as A cultural tour with easy riding and memorable views. Click on the link to download it.

  Keith Bradbury, 24th September 2008

Afternoon Tea in the Village Hall

Natland and Oxenholme W.I.will be hosting an Afternoon Tea at the Village Hall on Saturday 4th October between 2 and 4 p.m..  You will be able to try your hand at a number of tabletop games, such as Rummikub, Scrabble, Cluedo, Draughts, various children's games etc.  - or just sit and talk with friends old and new.

There will be a cake stall with homemade goods and you will be able to purchase scones and cake to enjoy with your tea.

The admission charge of £1 (children 50p) includes a bottomless cup of tea or coffee.

Children accompanied by an adult will be very welcome.

Kirsten Cannon, 23rd September 2008

Trails Around Natland.

Eariler this year, when we consulted visitors to this website, it was suggested we should include descriptions of local walks. Progress so far has been limited to obtaining Malcolm Taylor's agreement to update and publish his booklet of walks although the recent feature article Natland Treacle Tours does describe such a walk.

However, a bit of semi-random surfing recently unearthed descriptions of two local routes that are already on the internet; one, the Tea Shop Walk is intended for those on foot and the other for cyclists, the Mountain Bike Trail.

If anyone would like to volunteer to update Malcolm's work, please let me know.

Editor, 21st September 2008

Natland Treacle Tours!

Editor, 12th September 2008

Neighbourhood Watch:  Help Wanted

Volunteers are required to help pack literature for Neighbourhood Watch information folders and Streetsafe bags.

No skills are required, you can sit down on the job, no heavy lifting and refreshments will be provided.

the event is taking place on Tuesday 16th September 2008 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Kendal Police Station, Busher Walk.

If you can help (the more the merrier) please contact 01539818681 and speak to Andrea Bell, Jamie Dixon or leave a message on the answerphone.

Thank you  

Andrea Bell NHW Development Officer. 11th September 2008

Old Computers in Demand!

Do you have an old computer lying around taking up space?  I did so I put it on Kendal Freecycle and within a couple of hours or so had over a dozen requests.  Clearly there is quite a demand.  A word of warning though- do make sure you thoroughly remove any confidential information first.

Whatever household items that you have that are useable but no longer needed, Kendal Freecycle is a great way of passing them on to a new home.  It's easy, efficient and good for the environment (and the soul!).

Don Shore, 7th September 2008

Neighbourhood Watch:  New Co-ordinator

Barry Evans of Spence House, Helm Lane has taken over from Neil Robinson as Natland's Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator.  

Barry can be contacted at 015395 60382 or by .

Editor, 7th September 2008

Natland: Consistently The Best Kept Village

Natland Parish Council Chair, David Peters, contacted Natland.info in response to the item From the Scrapbook #03: Natland: The Best Kept Village.  He wrote:

I enjoyed re-living that summer's day in Orton in 1979.  Your readers may be interested to see fuller details of Natland's remarkable run of success in the "Large Village" section of the Cumbria's Best Kept Village Competition from 1979 to 1993.  Shown below is the record, based on the framed certificates that hung in the Village Hall until a few years ago.

Under the rules a village that won the district competition for two consecutive years had to miss a year - hence the "not allowed to enter" notes.

David Peters, 6th September 2008

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