Month: September 2019

Minutes of Meeting 26th Sept 2019

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

HALSTEAD  IN  BLOOM

Minutes of a meeting 26th September 2019  7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing

 

 Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

MINUTES of  18th July had been circulated and were adopted

NEWS:   *Roadrunners’ Donation – Halstead Road Runners have kindly indicated that they will be presenting HiB with a cheque for £1250.00 at Courtaulds Sports Ground on Wednesday 9th October at 7pm.  This is a very generous donation.  Keith Thorogood will be running for HiB in the London Marathon next year, and will be holding some fund raising events, starting with a music event on 16th November – details later.  *United Reformed Church donation of £40 received as a thank you for clear up work done by HiB in the vicinity of the Church. *Events at Ridgewell: Ridgewell WI are holding a talk on The Homes of William Morris on Thursday 17th October at 7.15pm in the Village Hall.  Visitors are very welcome.  There will also be a talk on Wednesday 30th October with Captain Adrian McCourt on the Inside Stories of the Yachts and Their Wealthy Owners.  7pm for 7.30pm at the Village Hall, tickets cost £10 each with a buffet meal, tea and coffee (bring your own drinks).  Ring Sue Kings on 07752838327 to book. *River Improvement Group. Some clearance has been done, near to the duck feeding platform.  Further clearance in front of the Mill will take place on Sunday 6th October at 1.30pm.  A limited number of volunteers will start clearing in the river and volunteers are needed to process the waste.  Braintree DC is kindly providing large bins to take away the green waste.  Environment Agency have produced a draft plan for works on the river bed that will be carried out during the winter months to avoid disturbing wild life.  *Donations have been received from Diane Samms (in lieu of a birthday gift! Happy Birthday Di) and Terry Crowe.  All thankfully received.
EVENTS:  **RiverCare.  Next event is Sunday 6th October.  Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next Community Litter Pick. Sunday 29th September then 27th October.  ALL WELCOME.  Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.  *HiB Quiz for 2019.  Friday 18th October. David has new questions this year!  Raffle Prizes would be gratefully received.  Entry money will be collected at the table on the night.  Event will be advertised.  HiB Quiz 2020 is booked for 16th October 2020.  *Winter Bedding will be collected and sorted on Saturday 2nd November and winter planting will begin on Sunday 3rd November.  *Guys in the Park event will be on Sunday 3rd November – our guys need a revamp!  Working party to be on Thursday 10th October.  *Local Garden Awards Evening – 8th November at the United Reformed Church.  Chairman of BDC and Mayor of Halstead have been invited and accepted the invitation.  Councillors will be invited.  All entrants know the date of the Awards and have been asked to attend and bring family and friends.  Can holders of cups please return them for re-engraving for 2019.  *Christmas Fayre  will be on 30th November.  We have booked a stall (at cost of £15) and will be outside Costa from 9am to 4pm.  *Annual Torchlight Procession will be on 4th December – volunteers will be needed for marshalling duties.  *HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church.
ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM’19
RHS BRITAIN  IN  BLOOM ’19  . The results, it was agreed, were excellent for Halstead.  Gold and Best Town in Anglia in Bloom 2019 were good rewards for all the hard work done by volunteers with the support of Councils.  There were nominations in several of the Special Award Categories as well; it was agreed that these certificates would be re-presented at our Awards Evening.  It was especially pleasing that Colin Bailey had received a nomination in the Grow Your Own category, and the Guides/Brownies/Rainbows had been given a nomination in the Young People 12-18 section.  Halstead Public Gardens received a nomination for Best Local Authority Planting also – these three were not read out at the Awards Day.  Complaints were made about the Awards Day and the organisation thereof.  Julia apologised to all on behalf of Anglia in Bloom and said that the AiB team had failed to deliver for various reasons.  The Autumn Seminar for Anglia in Bloom will be on 6th November at Redbourn Leisure Centre (junction 9 off the M1) at a cost of £15.  There will be speakers, refreshments on arrival, a buffet lunch and a chance to meet with judges to review 2019 campaign and look forward to 2020.  There will also be a Q&A session.  Please let Margaret E know if you wish to attend and transport will be arranged.
Feedback on judging day was that all the judges for both AiB and BiB were friendly and engaged with volunteers.  They were pleased to see the young people getting involved – Britain in Bloom judges especially appreciated young people breaking their summer holiday to come to see them.
Britain in Bloom Awards will be on 25th October in London – Lindley Hall (Old RHS Hall) in Westminster.  5 people will attend – Margaret E; Joan;Annie;Julia and Graham.  It was suggested that the team have a local event at the Con Club (the Snug will be available) from 8pm on 25th October.  All welcome.  Results will be transmitted through WhatsApp and by text.  Enjoy!!

WORKING  PARTIESFor all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park unless advised otherwise 1st October – Work at St. Andrew’s Churchyard; edging and deadheading.
3rd October Deadheading.  From 15th October onwards parties will start removal of summer bedding.
CALENDAR  SELLING:  selling started on 21st September and 23 were sold.  28th September – outside Solar Store:  9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Joan and Fiona; 11-12 Annie and Mick; 12-1 Alan and Ian.
Friday 4th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Joan and Pat; 10-11 David and Chris; 11-12 Alan and Iola; 12-1 Jenny and Joyce.  Saturday 5th October – outside Solar Store. 9-10 Sue and Joan; 10-11 Margaret T and Nicky; 11-12 Alan and Carol; 12-1 Margaret E and Annie.  Friday 11th October – outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Chris; 10-11 Joyce and Jenny; 11-12 Alan and Linda; 12-1 Ian and Margaret T.  Saturday 12th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Carol; 10-11 Nicky and Margaret E; 11-12 Wendy and Iola; 12-1 Ian and Julia.  Friday 18th October – Outside Costa. 9-10 Joan and Margaret E; 10-11 Alan and Margaret E; 11-12 Margaret E and Joyce; 12-1 Ian and Jean (can anyone else help on this day to save Margaret E doing a 3 hour stint? . Saturday 19th October – outside Costa 9-10 Sue and Fiona; 10-11 Annie and Mick; 11-12 Linda and Fiona; 12-1 Margaret E and Julia.
31st October There will be a coffee morning at Priory Hall where we are kindly allowed to sell our calendars/cards.  Meet at 10am.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    *Summer Trail. Fiona reported that 15 entries had been received, and three prize winners were picked.  Winners were very pleased with their prizes.  All agreed that the trail had been a good idea – what about next year!!  *Ideas for 2020 Margaret E spoke about the Reduce/Re-use/Re-cycle programme and felt that HiB could do more to promote this.  She suggested that for 2020 we could re-use flower pots – making flower pot men/artworks using flowerpots, etc.  Maybe this could be a competition?   Maybe we could have installations around the town?  All were urged to think along these lines and bring ideas to next meeting.  Other ideas for re-use were suggested – planted jeans, re-used plant labels, etc.  It was agreed that we need to have a ‘wow’ factor for the judges and perhaps we could have workshops to discuss what we can do.  *Seating around the town some is still in need of attention/repainting.  Please bring a list to next meeting!

*Michael’s bench in Public Gardens will be revamped by BDC.  *Entry beds. meeting has taken place with BDC and they will investigate how these can be repaired/renewed before next year. *Linda reported that one resident in Colchester Road has said she was thrilled to receive a Certificate of Merit for her front garden. This scheme will definitely be repeated next year. *Margaret T said she had spoken to a couple who regularly come to Halstead from Newmarket to see the flowers. *Joyce spoke about the litter around Trinity Flats – has been reported to Greenfields.  *Annie spoke about the amount of litter in Earls Colne when grass had been cut – has now been litter picked!  *Iola Asked why the loose step slab at Queen’s Hall hadn’t been fixed?  It was said that this is work to be done by Jason who is on holiday at present.  *Fiona spoke about the flint wall in Colchester Road that has been left damaged for some time.  This is private property and the repairs are responsibility of the owner.  *Wendy spoke about the poor state of the pavement in Colchester Road.  *Sue asked if the footway at Sudbury Road to Oak Road could be reported as it is overgrown and very narrow in places.  *Oliver gave an overview of our FaceBook page and said that last month there were 2000 hits with 841 people ‘liking’/’sharing’ pages.  The spikes were when baskets were stolen, and when calendars became available. *Margaret E spoke about volunteer hours and how valuable it is to keep records to show to judges and to various Councils.  Record sheets were shown, and approved and all present took a sheet to record anything done by volunteers related to HiB in the coming 6 months.  Margaret E will have copies if you need one, or ask and I will email one out to you.  *New Logo was discussed.  A drawing by Nicky was shown that can be used, but possibly not as a logo.  Others in the team will consider and bring ideas to next meeting.

.**********             There being no other business the meeting closed at  9.00  p.m.

 

Next team meeting on   Thursday 31st October   2019     7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing.
All welcome

Contacts:  Margaret Eskins Chairman.  01787 269443

Julia Smith, Secretary. 0776 2587141 / 01787461806. e-mail jaygrey@btinternet.com
Joan Gibson, plants and working parties. 01787 473070

 

www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk        Facebook: halsteadinbloom.    giveasyoulive.com/join/halstead-in-bloom
join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road)   and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via Co-op purchases.

Gold for Halstead

On Tuesday the 10th September approx 30 members of the team travelled to St. Ives in Cambridgeshire to attend the Anglia in Bloom award ceremony.

We are very pleased to report that we have been awarded a Gold in our category  and the best entry in the category.

Both the Town park and Priory Hall retirement complex were also awarded Gold.

In addition to the Gold awards, our plants woman Joan Gibson was presented with a special award for her commitment to both Halstead in Bloom and  Anglia in Bloom.

A fantastic achievement , and well done to everyone.

Congratulation to Gosfield who achieved a Gold in the Village category and Coggeshall who received a Silver Guilt, and congratulations to  Hunstanton who were the overall winning entry.

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