HALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 30th January 2020 7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing
Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend. New volunteer Billy
was warmly welcomed. Billy said that his wife was also intending to volunteer and would attend future meetings.
MINUTES of 28th November 2019 had been circulated and were adopted
NEWS: *Love Your Library Day. Will be on 15th February, and HiB has been invited to attend for a ‘seed
swap’ event. Ian, Chris and Margaret E said they could be there from 10-12 and various members have seeds to
swap or give away. *Hanging Baskets. Halstead Town Council has agreed HiB can provide hanging baskets
and some town centre planting for 2020 that they will fund at a cost of £3250. Other town planting will be
funded by HiB. Invoice will be sent to HTC. *Calendar 2020 It was announced that all calendars were sold.
Cost of calendars was £1937.50 and funds received so far amount to £2752.60 a small amount is still to be
received. A total of 786 were purchased (one is held for archive) and it was said that Paul Clark Printing, at
Sible Hedingham, were very helpful and co-operative. It was decided that calendar for 2021 should be floral
and it was hoped that many people will submit photos – of all seasons. An email will be sent asking for
contributions. *Great British Spring Clean organised by Keep Britain Tidy, will run from 20th March to 14th April. HiB will be hold a Community Litter Pick on Sunday 29th March. 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*VE Celebration Day will be on Friday 8th May (Bank Holiday) and Halstead’s Royal British Legion Club will
be organising a Party in the Park; HiB has agreed to have a stall. Suggestions were that flags/bunting could be
made in fabric as in 1945 – no plastic! Period dress might be worn (this was enthusiastically embraced!).
Futher meetings will take place *Visit to Gestingthorpe Peter Nice has sent an invitation from Gestingthorpe
Church to visit and hear a short talk by Ashley Cooper on the history of the church and village. A visit to Hill
Farm where there is a museum with artefacts from a Roman villa discovered at the farm and tea and biscuits
will be provided. Date to be arranged, probably sometime in March. *David Tarbun has invited HiB team to a
celebration on 11th February at Hyacinth Tea rooms at 2.30pm. David will celebrate his 85th birthday on 10th February and would like to share some time with HiB friends. Thank you David! *Christine noted that BDC
has provided a ‘green bin’ to take HiB green waste. Bin is at Empire Theatre and will be emptied at Green Bin
Round of collections. Thank you to BDC for this help, thank you Chris for managing this waste and making
purple bags reusable! Thank you Martin for your help!
EVENTS: **RiverCare. Next event is Sunday 2nd February Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next
Community Litter Pick. Sunday 23rd February ALL WELCOME. Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church, Joan to enquire whether
Kings Seeds will give a talk. *Race Night is organised at the Con Club for 4th April. Donation from the event
will be given to HiB. *Summer Plant collection is booked for 30th/ 31st May 2020 – van is booked!!
ANGLIA IN BLOOM’20 Entries for Halstead (Town), Halstead Public Gardens, Halstead Cemetery and
Priory Hall Retirement Complex have been lodged (to ensure entry at the cheapest rate).
Anglia in Bloom Spring Launch will be on 25th March at Peter Beales Roses, Attleborough – NR17 1AY – at
a cost of £15 per person. There will be 3 workshops and a chance to look around the rose gardens. The cafe
has been revamped recently, and entry price will include a buffet lunch. We must have numbers wishing to
attend as soon as possible, and definitely by the next meeting (27/2). Transport will be organised.
RHS BRITAIN IN BLOOM ’20 . Halstead entry has been confirmed, there will be a seminar for two people
(Joan and Annie) on 21st February in Birmingham – places have been booked.
It was decided that we need to confirm judging routes as soon as possible and first proposal is:
Start at British Legion. Walk along Causeway to Bridge. Drive, via Butler Road, to Adams Court. Drive to
Trinity School. Walk to Public Gardens and through the Gardens. Drive to Hume’s. Walk to Fountain. Walk to
and through Church yard – enter from Market Hill, walk to Main door, walk to Parsonage Street. Drive to
Loom. Drive to Mill Chase. Drive to Coggeshall Pieces. Drive, via Road Runners’ Bed and through cemetery
to Resource Centre (enter by back gate). Drive to Guides’ allotment.
This is the first draft – other ideas (that can be accommodated within the allotted judging times) will be
considered. *Loom Garden. Annie spoke of her ideas for a Plastic Cascade at the Loom and asked all to
collect highly coloured plastic bottles (with tops on), CD’s phones, toys, dolls, packets that cannot be recycled,
etc. etc. Please put them in bags and give to Annie. They will be firmly attached to netting, in strips to make
them manageable, and then cascade over the loom and down the hill to make a ‘river of plastic’. There will be
information on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle ethic and about the amount of plastic currently in use and in
landfill. Volunteers were identified to make up the strips of plastic – Pauline, Joan, Linda, Nicky, Chris and
Billy all offered to help; it was agreed that this will be labour intensive. Joan advised a membrane be laid down
first to deter weeds. Linda said that her garage could be used for construction, and Margaret E offered to store
completed strips prior to putting them out.
Joan asked all to save coloured bottle tops, coloured lids from jars, etc. for a collage she is making at the
Resource Centre. It was said that bug houses will also be placed at the Resource Centre, and some ‘flowers’
made from recycled plastic spools.
WORKING PARTIES : For all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park
unless advised otherwise 4
th February. Complete current weeding programme. 11th February – all to join David
in his celebrations at Hyacinth Tea Rooms. 18th February. Deadheading. 25th February. Some cleaning at Holy
Trinity Church. Long poles for taking down cobwebs will be a help at this party.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: *New Logo this will be on agenda for next meeting. Margaret E asked if designs
already lodged could be used on tea cloths? It was thought that perhaps the Church might be ordering some tea
cloths again this year and HiB will gladly help to sell them. *New containers for 2020 so far replacement
containers at the bookies beside the Bridge, replacements for the plastic containers in St. Andrew’s Churchyard,
replacements for the plastic containers outside St. Andrew’s Church Hall and 2 replacement baskets have been
identified as being required. Please let me know as soon as possible if any others are needed – we only want to
place one order as carriage is expensive. *To Do List 2020 has been produced. Please add any events that we
need to be aware of. *Halstead Marathon 2020 -10th May – volunteers are needed to assist. 10/12 people said
they would help – numbers to be passed on to organisers. *Notelets for Halstead Christmas cards sold very
well, and it was suggested that packs of notelets with Halstead scenes might be popular. Many photos are
available – prices will be ascertained. *Annie said she would love to paint the front doors at the Library and
asked that permission be sought for this work (Essex CC). *Margaret E said that Pat had reported the metal
plaque on the Drinking Fountain at Mount Hill has been damaged/cracked. Has been reported – it is thought
that this is ECC responsibility. *Margaret T said that 53 have booked to attend the HiB meal and doors will
be open at 7pm. Joan will make table decorations – 9 tables. *Ian spoke about the new play park on the river
walk, Bluebridge end. This is too far away to be included in the judging routes but photos/info are needed for
the Portfolio. *Linda spoke about the poor condition of Manfield and asked if requests could be made for it to
be weeded and swept. There is a blocked drain at the end of Manfield. Linda also spoke about the number of
cigarette ends in the car park at Sports Centre. She has asked if signage and a bin could be put outside and
information given. Watch this space! *Alan noted the bamboo shooting in the surgery garden – Joan said this
will be treated when weather is more suitable. Alan also noted the poor condition of verges at White Horse
Avenue; BDC has this in hand.*Billy said that he and his wife had moved to Halstead, from London, about 3
months ago and they love it here! We’re glad you are here Billy! *Margaret T asked if weeds opposite The
Empire could be treated – will be requested. Margaret noted that the defective lights in St. Andrew’s
Churchyard will be repaired. *Joan noted that artwork is now installed at Surgery garden, and asked if a
plaque noting the artist could be added. His name to be ascertained. Joan spoke about the Excursions Show
attended by 2 representatives of Halstead Chamber of Trade, Joan and Julia from HiB on Saturday 25th January.
Several tour operators had shown interest in visiting Halstead as a ‘stop off’ point in their tours. *Fiona asked
if the damage to cobble stones/bollards outside Billson premises will be repaired. This will be done when work
at Pendle’s Court is done. Fiona spoke about cars still parking on the verge at St. Andrew’s Road/Parsonage St.
junction and asked if HiB could put more tubs there. It was explained that HiB has been careful to maintain
sight lines for traffic and that if parked cars impede sight they should be reported to Police. *Debra asked if
the bus shelter in Colne Road could be cleaned; request will be made. Debra noted that the Smith and Scillitoe
sponsor sign outside Hume’s is broken; will be inspected. *Iola spoke about the Essex Book Fair that will take
place at the Library; places need to be booked via Colchester Library. Iola asked if the Halstead sign at
Bluebridge will be replaced; it is understood that this will be done. Iola spoke about the poor state of the
‘Ambulance’ artwork on the corner of Colne Road/Colchester Road. This belongs to St. John’s Ambulance – if
anyone has contact with that team please do so. *Wendy again noted the deplorable state of pavement in
Colchester Road. This has been reported and it is hoped that repairs will be effected.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.58 p.m.
Next team meeting on Thursday 27th February 2020 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.
**Also now note thHALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 30th January 2020 7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing
Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend. New volunteer Billy
was warmly welcomed. Billy said that his wife was also intending to volunteer and would attend future meetings.
MINUTES of 28th November 2019 had been circulated and were adopted
NEWS: *Love Your Library Day. Will be on 15th February, and HiB has been invited to attend for a ‘seed
swap’ event. Ian, Chris and Margaret E said they could be there from 10-12 and various members have seeds to
swap or give away. *Hanging Baskets. Halstead Town Council has agreed HiB can provide hanging baskets
and some town centre planting for 2020 that they will fund at a cost of £3250. Other town planting will be
funded by HiB. Invoice will be sent to HTC. *Calendar 2020 It was announced that all calendars were sold.
Cost of calendars was £1937.50 and funds received so far amount to £2752.60 a small amount is still to be
received. A total of 786 were purchased (one is held for archive) and it was said that Paul Clark Printing, at
Sible Hedingham, were very helpful and co-operative. It was decided that calendar for 2021 should be floral
and it was hoped that many people will submit photos – of all seasons. An email will be sent asking for
contributions. *Great British Spring Clean organised by Keep Britain Tidy, will run from 20th March to 14th April. HiB will be hold a Community Litter Pick on Sunday 29th March. 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*VE Celebration Day will be on Friday 8th May (Bank Holiday) and Halstead’s Royal British Legion Club will
be organising a Party in the Park; HiB has agreed to have a stall. Suggestions were that flags/bunting could be
made in fabric as in 1945 – no plastic! Period dress might be worn (this was enthusiastically embraced!).
Futher meetings will take place *Visit to Gestingthorpe Peter Nice has sent an invitation from Gestingthorpe
Church to visit and hear a short talk by Ashley Cooper on the history of the church and village. A visit to Hill
Farm where there is a museum with artefacts from a Roman villa discovered at the farm and tea and biscuits
will be provided. Date to be arranged, probably sometime in March. *David Tarbun has invited HiB team to a
celebration on 11th February at Hyacinth Tea rooms at 2.30pm. David will celebrate his 85th birthday on 10th February and would like to share some time with HiB friends. Thank you David! *Christine noted that BDC
has provided a ‘green bin’ to take HiB green waste. Bin is at Empire Theatre and will be emptied at Green Bin
Round of collections. Thank you to BDC for this help, thank you Chris for managing this waste and making
purple bags reusable! Thank you Martin for your help!
EVENTS: **RiverCare. Next event is Sunday 2nd February Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next
Community Litter Pick. Sunday 23rd February ALL WELCOME. Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church, Joan to enquire whether
Kings Seeds will give a talk. *Race Night is organised at the Con Club for 4th April. Donation from the event
will be given to HiB. *Summer Plant collection is booked for 30th/ 31st May 2020 – van is booked!!
ANGLIA IN BLOOM’20 Entries for Halstead (Town), Halstead Public Gardens, Halstead Cemetery and
Priory Hall Retirement Complex have been lodged (to ensure entry at the cheapest rate).
Anglia in Bloom Spring Launch will be on 25th March at Peter Beales Roses, Attleborough – NR17 1AY – at
a cost of £15 per person. There will be 3 workshops and a chance to look around the rose gardens. The cafe
has been revamped recently, and entry price will include a buffet lunch. We must have numbers wishing to
attend as soon as possible, and definitely by the next meeting (27/2). Transport will be organised.
RHS BRITAIN IN BLOOM ’20 . Halstead entry has been confirmed, there will be a seminar for two people
(Joan and Annie) on 21st February in Birmingham – places have been booked.
It was decided that we need to confirm judging routes as soon as possible and first proposal is:
Start at British Legion. Walk along Causeway to Bridge. Drive, via Butler Road, to Adams Court. Drive to
Trinity School. Walk to Public Gardens and through the Gardens. Drive to Hume’s. Walk to Fountain. Walk to
and through Church yard – enter from Market Hill, walk to Main door, walk to Parsonage Street. Drive to
Loom. Drive to Mill Chase. Drive to Coggeshall Pieces. Drive, via Road Runners’ Bed and through cemetery
to Resource Centre (enter by back gate). Drive to Guides’ allotment.
This is the first draft – other ideas (that can be accommodated within the allotted judging times) will be
considered. *Loom Garden. Annie spoke of her ideas for a Plastic Cascade at the Loom and asked all to
collect highly coloured plastic bottles (with tops on), CD’s phones, toys, dolls, packets that cannot be recycled,
etc. etc. Please put them in bags and give to Annie. They will be firmly attached to netting, in strips to make
them manageable, and then cascade over the loom and down the hill to make a ‘river of plastic’. There will be
information on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle ethic and about the amount of plastic currently in use and in
landfill. Volunteers were identified to make up the strips of plastic – Pauline, Joan, Linda, Nicky, Chris and
Billy all offered to help; it was agreed that this will be labour intensive. Joan advised a membrane be laid down
first to deter weeds. Linda said that her garage could be used for construction, and Margaret E offered to store
completed strips prior to putting them out.
Joan asked all to save coloured bottle tops, coloured lids from jars, etc. for a collage she is making at the
Resource Centre. It was said that bug houses will also be placed at the Resource Centre, and some ‘flowers’
made from recycled plastic spools.
WORKING PARTIES : For all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park
unless advised otherwise 4
th February. Complete current weeding programme. 11th February – all to join David
in his celebrations at Hyacinth Tea Rooms. 18th February. Deadheading. 25th February. Some cleaning at Holy
Trinity Church. Long poles for taking down cobwebs will be a help at this party.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: *New Logo this will be on agenda for next meeting. Margaret E asked if designs
already lodged could be used on tea cloths? It was thought that perhaps the Church might be ordering some tea
cloths again this year and HiB will gladly help to sell them. *New containers for 2020 so far replacement
containers at the bookies beside the Bridge, replacements for the plastic containers in St. Andrew’s Churchyard,
replacements for the plastic containers outside St. Andrew’s Church Hall and 2 replacement baskets have been
identified as being required. Please let me know as soon as possible if any others are needed – we only want to
place one order as carriage is expensive. *To Do List 2020 has been produced. Please add any events that we
need to be aware of. *Halstead Marathon 2020 -10th May – volunteers are needed to assist. 10/12 people said
they would help – numbers to be passed on to organisers. *Notelets for Halstead Christmas cards sold very
well, and it was suggested that packs of notelets with Halstead scenes might be popular. Many photos are
available – prices will be ascertained. *Annie said she would love to paint the front doors at the Library and
asked that permission be sought for this work (Essex CC). *Margaret E said that Pat had reported the metal
plaque on the Drinking Fountain at Mount Hill has been damaged/cracked. Has been reported – it is thought
that this is ECC responsibility. *Margaret T said that 53 have booked to attend the HiB meal and doors will
be open at 7pm. Joan will make table decorations – 9 tables. *Ian spoke about the new play park on the river
walk, Bluebridge end. This is too far away to be included in the judging routes but photos/info are needed for
the Portfolio. *Linda spoke about the poor condition of Manfield and asked if requests could be made for it to
be weeded and swept. There is a blocked drain at the end of Manfield. Linda also spoke about the number of
cigarette ends in the car park at Sports Centre. She has asked if signage and a bin could be put outside and
information given. Watch this space! *Alan noted the bamboo shooting in the surgery garden – Joan said this
will be treated when weather is more suitable. Alan also noted the poor condition of verges at White Horse
Avenue; BDC has this in hand.*Billy said that he and his wife had moved to Halstead, from London, about 3
months ago and they love it here! We’re glad you are here Billy! *Margaret T asked if weeds opposite The
Empire could be treated – will be requested. Margaret noted that the defective lights in St. Andrew’s
Churchyard will be repaired. *Joan noted that artwork is now installed at Surgery garden, and asked if a
plaque noting the artist could be added. His name to be ascertained. Joan spoke about the Excursions Show
attended by 2 representatives of Halstead Chamber of Trade, Joan and Julia from HiB on Saturday 25th January.
Several tour operators had shown interest in visiting Halstead as a ‘stop off’ point in their tours. *Fiona asked
if the damage to cobble stones/bollards outside Billson premises will be repaired. This will be done when work
at Pendle’s Court is done. Fiona spoke about cars still parking on the verge at St. Andrew’s Road/Parsonage St.
junction and asked if HiB could put more tubs there. It was explained that HiB has been careful to maintain
sight lines for traffic and that if parked cars impede sight they should be reported to Police. *Debra asked if
the bus shelter in Colne Road could be cleaned; request will be made. Debra noted that the Smith and Scillitoe
sponsor sign outside Hume’s is broken; will be inspected. *Iola spoke about the Essex Book Fair that will take
place at the Library; places need to be booked via Colchester Library. Iola asked if the Halstead sign at
Bluebridge will be replaced; it is understood that this will be done. Iola spoke about the poor state of the
‘Ambulance’ artwork on the corner of Colne Road/Colchester Road. This belongs to St. John’s Ambulance – if
anyone has contact with that team please do so. *Wendy again noted the deplorable state of pavement in
Colchester Road. This has been reported and it is hoped that repairs will be effected.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.58 p.m.
Next team meeting on Thursday 27th February 2020 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.
**Also now note thHALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 30th January 2020 7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing
Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend. New volunteer Billy
was warmly welcomed. Billy said that his wife was also intending to volunteer and would attend future meetings.
MINUTES of 28th November 2019 had been circulated and were adopted
NEWS: *Love Your Library Day. Will be on 15th February, and HiB has been invited to attend for a ‘seed
swap’ event. Ian, Chris and Margaret E said they could be there from 10-12 and various members have seeds to
swap or give away. *Hanging Baskets. Halstead Town Council has agreed HiB can provide hanging baskets
and some town centre planting for 2020 that they will fund at a cost of £3250. Other town planting will be
funded by HiB. Invoice will be sent to HTC. *Calendar 2020 It was announced that all calendars were sold.
Cost of calendars was £1937.50 and funds received so far amount to £2752.60 a small amount is still to be
received. A total of 786 were purchased (one is held for archive) and it was said that Paul Clark Printing, at
Sible Hedingham, were very helpful and co-operative. It was decided that calendar for 2021 should be floral
and it was hoped that many people will submit photos – of all seasons. An email will be sent asking for
contributions. *Great British Spring Clean organised by Keep Britain Tidy, will run from 20th March to 14th April. HiB will be hold a Community Litter Pick on Sunday 29th March. 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*VE Celebration Day will be on Friday 8th May (Bank Holiday) and Halstead’s Royal British Legion Club will
be organising a Party in the Park; HiB has agreed to have a stall. Suggestions were that flags/bunting could be
made in fabric as in 1945 – no plastic! Period dress might be worn (this was enthusiastically embraced!).
Futher meetings will take place *Visit to Gestingthorpe Peter Nice has sent an invitation from Gestingthorpe
Church to visit and hear a short talk by Ashley Cooper on the history of the church and village. A visit to Hill
Farm where there is a museum with artefacts from a Roman villa discovered at the farm and tea and biscuits
will be provided. Date to be arranged, probably sometime in March. *David Tarbun has invited HiB team to a
celebration on 11th February at Hyacinth Tea rooms at 2.30pm. David will celebrate his 85th birthday on 10th February and would like to share some time with HiB friends. Thank you David! *Christine noted that BDC
has provided a ‘green bin’ to take HiB green waste. Bin is at Empire Theatre and will be emptied at Green Bin
Round of collections. Thank you to BDC for this help, thank you Chris for managing this waste and making
purple bags reusable! Thank you Martin for your help!
EVENTS: **RiverCare. Next event is Sunday 2nd February Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next
Community Litter Pick. Sunday 23rd February ALL WELCOME. Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church, Joan to enquire whether
Kings Seeds will give a talk. *Race Night is organised at the Con Club for 4th April. Donation from the event
will be given to HiB. *Summer Plant collection is booked for 30th/ 31st May 2020 – van is booked!!
ANGLIA IN BLOOM’20 Entries for Halstead (Town), Halstead Public Gardens, Halstead Cemetery and
Priory Hall Retirement Complex have been lodged (to ensure entry at the cheapest rate).
Anglia in Bloom Spring Launch will be on 25th March at Peter Beales Roses, Attleborough – NR17 1AY – at
a cost of £15 per person. There will be 3 workshops and a chance to look around the rose gardens. The cafe
has been revamped recently, and entry price will include a buffet lunch. We must have numbers wishing to
attend as soon as possible, and definitely by the next meeting (27/2). Transport will be organised.
RHS BRITAIN IN BLOOM ’20 . Halstead entry has been confirmed, there will be a seminar for two people
(Joan and Annie) on 21st February in Birmingham – places have been booked.
It was decided that we need to confirm judging routes as soon as possible and first proposal is:
Start at British Legion. Walk along Causeway to Bridge. Drive, via Butler Road, to Adams Court. Drive to
Trinity School. Walk to Public Gardens and through the Gardens. Drive to Hume’s. Walk to Fountain. Walk to
and through Church yard – enter from Market Hill, walk to Main door, walk to Parsonage Street. Drive to
Loom. Drive to Mill Chase. Drive to Coggeshall Pieces. Drive, via Road Runners’ Bed and through cemetery
to Resource Centre (enter by back gate). Drive to Guides’ allotment.
This is the first draft – other ideas (that can be accommodated within the allotted judging times) will be
considered. *Loom Garden. Annie spoke of her ideas for a Plastic Cascade at the Loom and asked all to
collect highly coloured plastic bottles (with tops on), CD’s phones, toys, dolls, packets that cannot be recycled,
etc. etc. Please put them in bags and give to Annie. They will be firmly attached to netting, in strips to make
them manageable, and then cascade over the loom and down the hill to make a ‘river of plastic’. There will be
information on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle ethic and about the amount of plastic currently in use and in
landfill. Volunteers were identified to make up the strips of plastic – Pauline, Joan, Linda, Nicky, Chris and
Billy all offered to help; it was agreed that this will be labour intensive. Joan advised a membrane be laid down
first to deter weeds. Linda said that her garage could be used for construction, and Margaret E offered to store
completed strips prior to putting them out.
Joan asked all to save coloured bottle tops, coloured lids from jars, etc. for a collage she is making at the
Resource Centre. It was said that bug houses will also be placed at the Resource Centre, and some ‘flowers’
made from recycled plastic spools.
WORKING PARTIES : For all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park
unless advised otherwise 4
th February. Complete current weeding programme. 11th February – all to join David
in his celebrations at Hyacinth Tea Rooms. 18th February. Deadheading. 25th February. Some cleaning at Holy
Trinity Church. Long poles for taking down cobwebs will be a help at this party.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: *New Logo this will be on agenda for next meeting. Margaret E asked if designs
already lodged could be used on tea cloths? It was thought that perhaps the Church might be ordering some tea
cloths again this year and HiB will gladly help to sell them. *New containers for 2020 so far replacement
containers at the bookies beside the Bridge, replacements for the plastic containers in St. Andrew’s Churchyard,
replacements for the plastic containers outside St. Andrew’s Church Hall and 2 replacement baskets have been
identified as being required. Please let me know as soon as possible if any others are needed – we only want to
place one order as carriage is expensive. *To Do List 2020 has been produced. Please add any events that we
need to be aware of. *Halstead Marathon 2020 -10th May – volunteers are needed to assist. 10/12 people said
they would help – numbers to be passed on to organisers. *Notelets for Halstead Christmas cards sold very
well, and it was suggested that packs of notelets with Halstead scenes might be popular. Many photos are
available – prices will be ascertained. *Annie said she would love to paint the front doors at the Library and
asked that permission be sought for this work (Essex CC). *Margaret E said that Pat had reported the metal
plaque on the Drinking Fountain at Mount Hill has been damaged/cracked. Has been reported – it is thought
that this is ECC responsibility. *Margaret T said that 53 have booked to attend the HiB meal and doors will
be open at 7pm. Joan will make table decorations – 9 tables. *Ian spoke about the new play park on the river
walk, Bluebridge end. This is too far away to be included in the judging routes but photos/info are needed for
the Portfolio. *Linda spoke about the poor condition of Manfield and asked if requests could be made for it to
be weeded and swept. There is a blocked drain at the end of Manfield. Linda also spoke about the number of
cigarette ends in the car park at Sports Centre. She has asked if signage and a bin could be put outside and
information given. Watch this space! *Alan noted the bamboo shooting in the surgery garden – Joan said this
will be treated when weather is more suitable. Alan also noted the poor condition of verges at White Horse
Avenue; BDC has this in hand.*Billy said that he and his wife had moved to Halstead, from London, about 3
months ago and they love it here! We’re glad you are here Billy! *Margaret T asked if weeds opposite The
Empire could be treated – will be requested. Margaret noted that the defective lights in St. Andrew’s
Churchyard will be repaired. *Joan noted that artwork is now installed at Surgery garden, and asked if a
plaque noting the artist could be added. His name to be ascertained. Joan spoke about the Excursions Show
attended by 2 representatives of Halstead Chamber of Trade, Joan and Julia from HiB on Saturday 25th January.
Several tour operators had shown interest in visiting Halstead as a ‘stop off’ point in their tours. *Fiona asked
if the damage to cobble stones/bollards outside Billson premises will be repaired. This will be done when work
at Pendle’s Court is done. Fiona spoke about cars still parking on the verge at St. Andrew’s Road/Parsonage St.
junction and asked if HiB could put more tubs there. It was explained that HiB has been careful to maintain
sight lines for traffic and that if parked cars impede sight they should be reported to Police. *Debra asked if
the bus shelter in Colne Road could be cleaned; request will be made. Debra noted that the Smith and Scillitoe
sponsor sign outside Hume’s is broken; will be inspected. *Iola spoke about the Essex Book Fair that will take
place at the Library; places need to be booked via Colchester Library. Iola asked if the Halstead sign at
Bluebridge will be replaced; it is understood that this will be done. Iola spoke about the poor state of the
‘Ambulance’ artwork on the corner of Colne Road/Colchester Road. This belongs to St. John’s Ambulance – if
anyone has contact with that team please do so. *Wendy again noted the deplorable state of pavement in
Colchester Road. This has been reported and it is hoped that repairs will be effected.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.58 p.m.
Next team meeting on Thursday 27th February 2020 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.
**Also now note thHALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 30th January 2020 7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing
Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend. New volunteer Billy
was warmly welcomed. Billy said that his wife was also intending to volunteer and would attend future meetings.
MINUTES of 28th November 2019 had been circulated and were adopted
NEWS: *Love Your Library Day. Will be on 15th February, and HiB has been invited to attend for a ‘seed
swap’ event. Ian, Chris and Margaret E said they could be there from 10-12 and various members have seeds to
swap or give away. *Hanging Baskets. Halstead Town Council has agreed HiB can provide hanging baskets
and some town centre planting for 2020 that they will fund at a cost of £3250. Other town planting will be
funded by HiB. Invoice will be sent to HTC. *Calendar 2020 It was announced that all calendars were sold.
Cost of calendars was £1937.50 and funds received so far amount to £2752.60 a small amount is still to be
received. A total of 786 were purchased (one is held for archive) and it was said that Paul Clark Printing, at
Sible Hedingham, were very helpful and co-operative. It was decided that calendar for 2021 should be floral
and it was hoped that many people will submit photos – of all seasons. An email will be sent asking for
contributions. *Great British Spring Clean organised by Keep Britain Tidy, will run from 20th March to 14th April. HiB will be hold a Community Litter Pick on Sunday 29th March. 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*VE Celebration Day will be on Friday 8th May (Bank Holiday) and Halstead’s Royal British Legion Club will
be organising a Party in the Park; HiB has agreed to have a stall. Suggestions were that flags/bunting could be
made in fabric as in 1945 – no plastic! Period dress might be worn (this was enthusiastically embraced!).
Futher meetings will take place *Visit to Gestingthorpe Peter Nice has sent an invitation from Gestingthorpe
Church to visit and hear a short talk by Ashley Cooper on the history of the church and village. A visit to Hill
Farm where there is a museum with artefacts from a Roman villa discovered at the farm and tea and biscuits
will be provided. Date to be arranged, probably sometime in March. *David Tarbun has invited HiB team to a
celebration on 11th February at Hyacinth Tea rooms at 2.30pm. David will celebrate his 85th birthday on 10th February and would like to share some time with HiB friends. Thank you David! *Christine noted that BDC
has provided a ‘green bin’ to take HiB green waste. Bin is at Empire Theatre and will be emptied at Green Bin
Round of collections. Thank you to BDC for this help, thank you Chris for managing this waste and making
purple bags reusable! Thank you Martin for your help!
EVENTS: **RiverCare. Next event is Sunday 2nd February Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next
Community Litter Pick. Sunday 23rd February ALL WELCOME. Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church, Joan to enquire whether
Kings Seeds will give a talk. *Race Night is organised at the Con Club for 4th April. Donation from the event
will be given to HiB. *Summer Plant collection is booked for 30th/ 31st May 2020 – van is booked!!
ANGLIA IN BLOOM’20 Entries for Halstead (Town), Halstead Public Gardens, Halstead Cemetery and
Priory Hall Retirement Complex have been lodged (to ensure entry at the cheapest rate).
Anglia in Bloom Spring Launch will be on 25th March at Peter Beales Roses, Attleborough – NR17 1AY – at
a cost of £15 per person. There will be 3 workshops and a chance to look around the rose gardens. The cafe
has been revamped recently, and entry price will include a buffet lunch. We must have numbers wishing to
attend as soon as possible, and definitely by the next meeting (27/2). Transport will be organised.
RHS BRITAIN IN BLOOM ’20 . Halstead entry has been confirmed, there will be a seminar for two people
(Joan and Annie) on 21st February in Birmingham – places have been booked.
It was decided that we need to confirm judging routes as soon as possible and first proposal is:
Start at British Legion. Walk along Causeway to Bridge. Drive, via Butler Road, to Adams Court. Drive to
Trinity School. Walk to Public Gardens and through the Gardens. Drive to Hume’s. Walk to Fountain. Walk to
and through Church yard – enter from Market Hill, walk to Main door, walk to Parsonage Street. Drive to
Loom. Drive to Mill Chase. Drive to Coggeshall Pieces. Drive, via Road Runners’ Bed and through cemetery
to Resource Centre (enter by back gate). Drive to Guides’ allotment.
This is the first draft – other ideas (that can be accommodated within the allotted judging times) will be
considered. *Loom Garden. Annie spoke of her ideas for a Plastic Cascade at the Loom and asked all to
collect highly coloured plastic bottles (with tops on), CD’s phones, toys, dolls, packets that cannot be recycled,
etc. etc. Please put them in bags and give to Annie. They will be firmly attached to netting, in strips to make
them manageable, and then cascade over the loom and down the hill to make a ‘river of plastic’. There will be
information on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle ethic and about the amount of plastic currently in use and in
landfill. Volunteers were identified to make up the strips of plastic – Pauline, Joan, Linda, Nicky, Chris and
Billy all offered to help; it was agreed that this will be labour intensive. Joan advised a membrane be laid down
first to deter weeds. Linda said that her garage could be used for construction, and Margaret E offered to store
completed strips prior to putting them out.
Joan asked all to save coloured bottle tops, coloured lids from jars, etc. for a collage she is making at the
Resource Centre. It was said that bug houses will also be placed at the Resource Centre, and some ‘flowers’
made from recycled plastic spools.
WORKING PARTIES : For all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park
unless advised otherwise 4
th February. Complete current weeding programme. 11th February – all to join David
in his celebrations at Hyacinth Tea Rooms. 18th February. Deadheading. 25th February. Some cleaning at Holy
Trinity Church. Long poles for taking down cobwebs will be a help at this party.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: *New Logo this will be on agenda for next meeting. Margaret E asked if designs
already lodged could be used on tea cloths? It was thought that perhaps the Church might be ordering some tea
cloths again this year and HiB will gladly help to sell them. *New containers for 2020 so far replacement
containers at the bookies beside the Bridge, replacements for the plastic containers in St. Andrew’s Churchyard,
replacements for the plastic containers outside St. Andrew’s Church Hall and 2 replacement baskets have been
identified as being required. Please let me know as soon as possible if any others are needed – we only want to
place one order as carriage is expensive. *To Do List 2020 has been produced. Please add any events that we
need to be aware of. *Halstead Marathon 2020 -10th May – volunteers are needed to assist. 10/12 people said
they would help – numbers to be passed on to organisers. *Notelets for Halstead Christmas cards sold very
well, and it was suggested that packs of notelets with Halstead scenes might be popular. Many photos are
available – prices will be ascertained. *Annie said she would love to paint the front doors at the Library and
asked that permission be sought for this work (Essex CC). *Margaret E said that Pat had reported the metal
plaque on the Drinking Fountain at Mount Hill has been damaged/cracked. Has been reported – it is thought
that this is ECC responsibility. *Margaret T said that 53 have booked to attend the HiB meal and doors will
be open at 7pm. Joan will make table decorations – 9 tables. *Ian spoke about the new play park on the river
walk, Bluebridge end. This is too far away to be included in the judging routes but photos/info are needed for
the Portfolio. *Linda spoke about the poor condition of Manfield and asked if requests could be made for it to
be weeded and swept. There is a blocked drain at the end of Manfield. Linda also spoke about the number of
cigarette ends in the car park at Sports Centre. She has asked if signage and a bin could be put outside and
information given. Watch this space! *Alan noted the bamboo shooting in the surgery garden – Joan said this
will be treated when weather is more suitable. Alan also noted the poor condition of verges at White Horse
Avenue; BDC has this in hand.*Billy said that he and his wife had moved to Halstead, from London, about 3
months ago and they love it here! We’re glad you are here Billy! *Margaret T asked if weeds opposite The
Empire could be treated – will be requested. Margaret noted that the defective lights in St. Andrew’s
Churchyard will be repaired. *Joan noted that artwork is now installed at Surgery garden, and asked if a
plaque noting the artist could be added. His name to be ascertained. Joan spoke about the Excursions Show
attended by 2 representatives of Halstead Chamber of Trade, Joan and Julia from HiB on Saturday 25th January.
Several tour operators had shown interest in visiting Halstead as a ‘stop off’ point in their tours. *Fiona asked
if the damage to cobble stones/bollards outside Billson premises will be repaired. This will be done when work
at Pendle’s Court is done. Fiona spoke about cars still parking on the verge at St. Andrew’s Road/Parsonage St.
junction and asked if HiB could put more tubs there. It was explained that HiB has been careful to maintain
sight lines for traffic and that if parked cars impede sight they should be reported to Police. *Debra asked if
the bus shelter in Colne Road could be cleaned; request will be made. Debra noted that the Smith and Scillitoe
sponsor sign outside Hume’s is broken; will be inspected. *Iola spoke about the Essex Book Fair that will take
place at the Library; places need to be booked via Colchester Library. Iola asked if the Halstead sign at
Bluebridge will be replaced; it is understood that this will be done. Iola spoke about the poor state of the
‘Ambulance’ artwork on the corner of Colne Road/Colchester Road. This belongs to St. John’s Ambulance – if
anyone has contact with that team please do so. *Wendy again noted the deplorable state of pavement in
Colchester Road. This has been reported and it is hoped that repairs will be effected.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.58 p.m.
Next team meeting on Thursday 27th February 2020 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.
**Also now note thHALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 30th January 2020 7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing
Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend. New volunteer Billy
was warmly welcomed. Billy said that his wife was also intending to volunteer and would attend future meetings.
MINUTES of 28th November 2019 had been circulated and were adopted
NEWS: *Love Your Library Day. Will be on 15th February, and HiB has been invited to attend for a ‘seed
swap’ event. Ian, Chris and Margaret E said they could be there from 10-12 and various members have seeds to
swap or give away. *Hanging Baskets. Halstead Town Council has agreed HiB can provide hanging baskets
and some town centre planting for 2020 that they will fund at a cost of £3250. Other town planting will be
funded by HiB. Invoice will be sent to HTC. *Calendar 2020 It was announced that all calendars were sold.
Cost of calendars was £1937.50 and funds received so far amount to £2752.60 a small amount is still to be
received. A total of 786 were purchased (one is held for archive) and it was said that Paul Clark Printing, at
Sible Hedingham, were very helpful and co-operative. It was decided that calendar for 2021 should be floral
and it was hoped that many people will submit photos – of all seasons. An email will be sent asking for
contributions. *Great British Spring Clean organised by Keep Britain Tidy, will run from 20th March to 14th April. HiB will be hold a Community Litter Pick on Sunday 29th March. 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*VE Celebration Day will be on Friday 8th May (Bank Holiday) and Halstead’s Royal British Legion Club will
be organising a Party in the Park; HiB has agreed to have a stall. Suggestions were that flags/bunting could be
made in fabric as in 1945 – no plastic! Period dress might be worn (this was enthusiastically embraced!).
Futher meetings will take place *Visit to Gestingthorpe Peter Nice has sent an invitation from Gestingthorpe
Church to visit and hear a short talk by Ashley Cooper on the history of the church and village. A visit to Hill
Farm where there is a museum with artefacts from a Roman villa discovered at the farm and tea and biscuits
will be provided. Date to be arranged, probably sometime in March. *David Tarbun has invited HiB team to a
celebration on 11th February at Hyacinth Tea rooms at 2.30pm. David will celebrate his 85th birthday on 10th February and would like to share some time with HiB friends. Thank you David! *Christine noted that BDC
has provided a ‘green bin’ to take HiB green waste. Bin is at Empire Theatre and will be emptied at Green Bin
Round of collections. Thank you to BDC for this help, thank you Chris for managing this waste and making
purple bags reusable! Thank you Martin for your help!
EVENTS: **RiverCare. Next event is Sunday 2nd February Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next
Community Litter Pick. Sunday 23rd February ALL WELCOME. Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church, Joan to enquire whether
Kings Seeds will give a talk. *Race Night is organised at the Con Club for 4th April. Donation from the event
will be given to HiB. *Summer Plant collection is booked for 30th/ 31st May 2020 – van is booked!!
ANGLIA IN BLOOM’20 Entries for Halstead (Town), Halstead Public Gardens, Halstead Cemetery and
Priory Hall Retirement Complex have been lodged (to ensure entry at the cheapest rate).
Anglia in Bloom Spring Launch will be on 25th March at Peter Beales Roses, Attleborough – NR17 1AY – at
a cost of £15 per person. There will be 3 workshops and a chance to look around the rose gardens. The cafe
has been revamped recently, and entry price will include a buffet lunch. We must have numbers wishing to
attend as soon as possible, and definitely by the next meeting (27/2). Transport will be organised.
RHS BRITAIN IN BLOOM ’20 . Halstead entry has been confirmed, there will be a seminar for two people
(Joan and Annie) on 21st February in Birmingham – places have been booked.
It was decided that we need to confirm judging routes as soon as possible and first proposal is:
Start at British Legion. Walk along Causeway to Bridge. Drive, via Butler Road, to Adams Court. Drive to
Trinity School. Walk to Public Gardens and through the Gardens. Drive to Hume’s. Walk to Fountain. Walk to
and through Church yard – enter from Market Hill, walk to Main door, walk to Parsonage Street. Drive to
Loom. Drive to Mill Chase. Drive to Coggeshall Pieces. Drive, via Road Runners’ Bed and through cemetery
to Resource Centre (enter by back gate). Drive to Guides’ allotment.
This is the first draft – other ideas (that can be accommodated within the allotted judging times) will be
considered. *Loom Garden. Annie spoke of her ideas for a Plastic Cascade at the Loom and asked all to
collect highly coloured plastic bottles (with tops on), CD’s phones, toys, dolls, packets that cannot be recycled,
etc. etc. Please put them in bags and give to Annie. They will be firmly attached to netting, in strips to make
them manageable, and then cascade over the loom and down the hill to make a ‘river of plastic’. There will be
information on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle ethic and about the amount of plastic currently in use and in
landfill. Volunteers were identified to make up the strips of plastic – Pauline, Joan, Linda, Nicky, Chris and
Billy all offered to help; it was agreed that this will be labour intensive. Joan advised a membrane be laid down
first to deter weeds. Linda said that her garage could be used for construction, and Margaret E offered to store
completed strips prior to putting them out.
Joan asked all to save coloured bottle tops, coloured lids from jars, etc. for a collage she is making at the
Resource Centre. It was said that bug houses will also be placed at the Resource Centre, and some ‘flowers’
made from recycled plastic spools.
WORKING PARTIES : For all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park
unless advised otherwise 4
th February. Complete current weeding programme. 11th February – all to join David
in his celebrations at Hyacinth Tea Rooms. 18th February. Deadheading. 25th February. Some cleaning at Holy
Trinity Church. Long poles for taking down cobwebs will be a help at this party.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: *New Logo this will be on agenda for next meeting. Margaret E asked if designs
already lodged could be used on tea cloths? It was thought that perhaps the Church might be ordering some tea
cloths again this year and HiB will gladly help to sell them. *New containers for 2020 so far replacement
containers at the bookies beside the Bridge, replacements for the plastic containers in St. Andrew’s Churchyard,
replacements for the plastic containers outside St. Andrew’s Church Hall and 2 replacement baskets have been
identified as being required. Please let me know as soon as possible if any others are needed – we only want to
place one order as carriage is expensive. *To Do List 2020 has been produced. Please add any events that we
need to be aware of. *Halstead Marathon 2020 -10th May – volunteers are needed to assist. 10/12 people said
they would help – numbers to be passed on to organisers. *Notelets for Halstead Christmas cards sold very
well, and it was suggested that packs of notelets with Halstead scenes might be popular. Many photos are
available – prices will be ascertained. *Annie said she would love to paint the front doors at the Library and
asked that permission be sought for this work (Essex CC). *Margaret E said that Pat had reported the metal
plaque on the Drinking Fountain at Mount Hill has been damaged/cracked. Has been reported – it is thought
that this is ECC responsibility. *Margaret T said that 53 have booked to attend the HiB meal and doors will
be open at 7pm. Joan will make table decorations – 9 tables. *Ian spoke about the new play park on the river
walk, Bluebridge end. This is too far away to be included in the judging routes but photos/info are needed for
the Portfolio. *Linda spoke about the poor condition of Manfield and asked if requests could be made for it to
be weeded and swept. There is a blocked drain at the end of Manfield. Linda also spoke about the number of
cigarette ends in the car park at Sports Centre. She has asked if signage and a bin could be put outside and
information given. Watch this space! *Alan noted the bamboo shooting in the surgery garden – Joan said this
will be treated when weather is more suitable. Alan also noted the poor condition of verges at White Horse
Avenue; BDC has this in hand.*Billy said that he and his wife had moved to Halstead, from London, about 3
months ago and they love it here! We’re glad you are here Billy! *Margaret T asked if weeds opposite The
Empire could be treated – will be requested. Margaret noted that the defective lights in St. Andrew’s
Churchyard will be repaired. *Joan noted that artwork is now installed at Surgery garden, and asked if a
plaque noting the artist could be added. His name to be ascertained. Joan spoke about the Excursions Show
attended by 2 representatives of Halstead Chamber of Trade, Joan and Julia from HiB on Saturday 25th January.
Several tour operators had shown interest in visiting Halstead as a ‘stop off’ point in their tours. *Fiona asked
if the damage to cobble stones/bollards outside Billson premises will be repaired. This will be done when work
at Pendle’s Court is done. Fiona spoke about cars still parking on the verge at St. Andrew’s Road/Parsonage St.
junction and asked if HiB could put more tubs there. It was explained that HiB has been careful to maintain
sight lines for traffic and that if parked cars impede sight they should be reported to Police. *Debra asked if
the bus shelter in Colne Road could be cleaned; request will be made. Debra noted that the Smith and Scillitoe
sponsor sign outside Hume’s is broken; will be inspected. *Iola spoke about the Essex Book Fair that will take
place at the Library; places need to be booked via Colchester Library. Iola asked if the Halstead sign at
Bluebridge will be replaced; it is understood that this will be done. Iola spoke about the poor state of the
‘Ambulance’ artwork on the corner of Colne Road/Colchester Road. This belongs to St. John’s Ambulance – if
anyone has contact with that team please do so. *Wendy again noted the deplorable state of pavement in
Colchester Road. This has been reported and it is hoped that repairs will be effected.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.58 p.m.
Next team meeting on Thursday 27th February 2020 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.
**Also now note thHALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 30th January 2020 7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing
Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend. New volunteer Billy
was warmly welcomed. Billy said that his wife was also intending to volunteer and would attend future meetings.
MINUTES of 28th November 2019 had been circulated and were adopted
NEWS: *Love Your Library Day. Will be on 15th February, and HiB has been invited to attend for a ‘seed
swap’ event. Ian, Chris and Margaret E said they could be there from 10-12 and various members have seeds to
swap or give away. *Hanging Baskets. Halstead Town Council has agreed HiB can provide hanging baskets
and some town centre planting for 2020 that they will fund at a cost of £3250. Other town planting will be
funded by HiB. Invoice will be sent to HTC. *Calendar 2020 It was announced that all calendars were sold.
Cost of calendars was £1937.50 and funds received so far amount to £2752.60 a small amount is still to be
received. A total of 786 were purchased (one is held for archive) and it was said that Paul Clark Printing, at
Sible Hedingham, were very helpful and co-operative. It was decided that calendar for 2021 should be floral
and it was hoped that many people will submit photos – of all seasons. An email will be sent asking for
contributions. *Great British Spring Clean organised by Keep Britain Tidy, will run from 20th March to 14th April. HiB will be hold a Community Litter Pick on Sunday 29th March. 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*VE Celebration Day will be on Friday 8th May (Bank Holiday) and Halstead’s Royal British Legion Club will
be organising a Party in the Park; HiB has agreed to have a stall. Suggestions were that flags/bunting could be
made in fabric as in 1945 – no plastic! Period dress might be worn (this was enthusiastically embraced!).
Futher meetings will take place *Visit to Gestingthorpe Peter Nice has sent an invitation from Gestingthorpe
Church to visit and hear a short talk by Ashley Cooper on the history of the church and village. A visit to Hill
Farm where there is a museum with artefacts from a Roman villa discovered at the farm and tea and biscuits
will be provided. Date to be arranged, probably sometime in March. *David Tarbun has invited HiB team to a
celebration on 11th February at Hyacinth Tea rooms at 2.30pm. David will celebrate his 85th birthday on 10th February and would like to share some time with HiB friends. Thank you David! *Christine noted that BDC
has provided a ‘green bin’ to take HiB green waste. Bin is at Empire Theatre and will be emptied at Green Bin
Round of collections. Thank you to BDC for this help, thank you Chris for managing this waste and making
purple bags reusable! Thank you Martin for your help!
EVENTS: **RiverCare. Next event is Sunday 2nd February Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next
Community Litter Pick. Sunday 23rd February ALL WELCOME. Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church, Joan to enquire whether
Kings Seeds will give a talk. *Race Night is organised at the Con Club for 4th April. Donation from the event
will be given to HiB. *Summer Plant collection is booked for 30th/ 31st May 2020 – van is booked!!
ANGLIA IN BLOOM’20 Entries for Halstead (Town), Halstead Public Gardens, Halstead Cemetery and
Priory Hall Retirement Complex have been lodged (to ensure entry at the cheapest rate).
Anglia in Bloom Spring Launch will be on 25th March at Peter Beales Roses, Attleborough – NR17 1AY – at
a cost of £15 per person. There will be 3 workshops and a chance to look around the rose gardens. The cafe
has been revamped recently, and entry price will include a buffet lunch. We must have numbers wishing to
attend as soon as possible, and definitely by the next meeting (27/2). Transport will be organised.
RHS BRITAIN IN BLOOM ’20 . Halstead entry has been confirmed, there will be a seminar for two people
(Joan and Annie) on 21st February in Birmingham – places have been booked.
It was decided that we need to confirm judging routes as soon as possible and first proposal is:
Start at British Legion. Walk along Causeway to Bridge. Drive, via Butler Road, to Adams Court. Drive to
Trinity School. Walk to Public Gardens and through the Gardens. Drive to Hume’s. Walk to Fountain. Walk to
and through Church yard – enter from Market Hill, walk to Main door, walk to Parsonage Street. Drive to
Loom. Drive to Mill Chase. Drive to Coggeshall Pieces. Drive, via Road Runners’ Bed and through cemetery
to Resource Centre (enter by back gate). Drive to Guides’ allotment.
This is the first draft – other ideas (that can be accommodated within the allotted judging times) will be
considered. *Loom Garden. Annie spoke of her ideas for a Plastic Cascade at the Loom and asked all to
collect highly coloured plastic bottles (with tops on), CD’s phones, toys, dolls, packets that cannot be recycled,
etc. etc. Please put them in bags and give to Annie. They will be firmly attached to netting, in strips to make
them manageable, and then cascade over the loom and down the hill to make a ‘river of plastic’. There will be
information on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle ethic and about the amount of plastic currently in use and in
landfill. Volunteers were identified to make up the strips of plastic – Pauline, Joan, Linda, Nicky, Chris and
Billy all offered to help; it was agreed that this will be labour intensive. Joan advised a membrane be laid down
first to deter weeds. Linda said that her garage could be used for construction, and Margaret E offered to store
completed strips prior to putting them out.
Joan asked all to save coloured bottle tops, coloured lids from jars, etc. for a collage she is making at the
Resource Centre. It was said that bug houses will also be placed at the Resource Centre, and some ‘flowers’
made from recycled plastic spools.
WORKING PARTIES : For all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park
unless advised otherwise 4
th February. Complete current weeding programme. 11th February – all to join David
in his celebrations at Hyacinth Tea Rooms. 18th February. Deadheading. 25th February. Some cleaning at Holy
Trinity Church. Long poles for taking down cobwebs will be a help at this party.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: *New Logo this will be on agenda for next meeting. Margaret E asked if designs
already lodged could be used on tea cloths? It was thought that perhaps the Church might be ordering some tea
cloths again this year and HiB will gladly help to sell them. *New containers for 2020 so far replacement
containers at the bookies beside the Bridge, replacements for the plastic containers in St. Andrew’s Churchyard,
replacements for the plastic containers outside St. Andrew’s Church Hall and 2 replacement baskets have been
identified as being required. Please let me know as soon as possible if any others are needed – we only want to
place one order as carriage is expensive. *To Do List 2020 has been produced. Please add any events that we
need to be aware of. *Halstead Marathon 2020 -10th May – volunteers are needed to assist. 10/12 people said
they would help – numbers to be passed on to organisers. *Notelets for Halstead Christmas cards sold very
well, and it was suggested that packs of notelets with Halstead scenes might be popular. Many photos are
available – prices will be ascertained. *Annie said she would love to paint the front doors at the Library and
asked that permission be sought for this work (Essex CC). *Margaret E said that Pat had reported the metal
plaque on the Drinking Fountain at Mount Hill has been damaged/cracked. Has been reported – it is thought
that this is ECC responsibility. *Margaret T said that 53 have booked to attend the HiB meal and doors will
be open at 7pm. Joan will make table decorations – 9 tables. *Ian spoke about the new play park on the river
walk, Bluebridge end. This is too far away to be included in the judging routes but photos/info are needed for
the Portfolio. *Linda spoke about the poor condition of Manfield and asked if requests could be made for it to
be weeded and swept. There is a blocked drain at the end of Manfield. Linda also spoke about the number of
cigarette ends in the car park at Sports Centre. She has asked if signage and a bin could be put outside and
information given. Watch this space! *Alan noted the bamboo shooting in the surgery garden – Joan said this
will be treated when weather is more suitable. Alan also noted the poor condition of verges at White Horse
Avenue; BDC has this in hand.*Billy said that he and his wife had moved to Halstead, from London, about 3
months ago and they love it here! We’re glad you are here Billy! *Margaret T asked if weeds opposite The
Empire could be treated – will be requested. Margaret noted that the defective lights in St. Andrew’s
Churchyard will be repaired. *Joan noted that artwork is now installed at Surgery garden, and asked if a
plaque noting the artist could be added. His name to be ascertained. Joan spoke about the Excursions Show
attended by 2 representatives of Halstead Chamber of Trade, Joan and Julia from HiB on Saturday 25th January.
Several tour operators had shown interest in visiting Halstead as a ‘stop off’ point in their tours. *Fiona asked
if the damage to cobble stones/bollards outside Billson premises will be repaired. This will be done when work
at Pendle’s Court is done. Fiona spoke about cars still parking on the verge at St. Andrew’s Road/Parsonage St.
junction and asked if HiB could put more tubs there. It was explained that HiB has been careful to maintain
sight lines for traffic and that if parked cars impede sight they should be reported to Police. *Debra asked if
the bus shelter in Colne Road could be cleaned; request will be made. Debra noted that the Smith and Scillitoe
sponsor sign outside Hume’s is broken; will be inspected. *Iola spoke about the Essex Book Fair that will take
place at the Library; places need to be booked via Colchester Library. Iola asked if the Halstead sign at
Bluebridge will be replaced; it is understood that this will be done. Iola spoke about the poor state of the
‘Ambulance’ artwork on the corner of Colne Road/Colchester Road. This belongs to St. John’s Ambulance – if
anyone has contact with that team please do so. *Wendy again noted the deplorable state of pavement in
Colchester Road. This has been reported and it is hoped that repairs will be effected.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.58 p.m.
Next team meeting on Thursday 27th February 2020 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.
**Also now note thHALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 30th January 2020 7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing
Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend. New volunteer Billy
was warmly welcomed. Billy said that his wife was also intending to volunteer and would attend future meetings.
MINUTES of 28th November 2019 had been circulated and were adopted
NEWS: *Love Your Library Day. Will be on 15th February, and HiB has been invited to attend for a ‘seed
swap’ event. Ian, Chris and Margaret E said they could be there from 10-12 and various members have seeds to
swap or give away. *Hanging Baskets. Halstead Town Council has agreed HiB can provide hanging baskets
and some town centre planting for 2020 that they will fund at a cost of £3250. Other town planting will be
funded by HiB. Invoice will be sent to HTC. *Calendar 2020 It was announced that all calendars were sold.
Cost of calendars was £1937.50 and funds received so far amount to £2752.60 a small amount is still to be
received. A total of 786 were purchased (one is held for archive) and it was said that Paul Clark Printing, at
Sible Hedingham, were very helpful and co-operative. It was decided that calendar for 2021 should be floral
and it was hoped that many people will submit photos – of all seasons. An email will be sent asking for
contributions. *Great British Spring Clean organised by Keep Britain Tidy, will run from 20th March to 14th April. HiB will be hold a Community Litter Pick on Sunday 29th March. 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*VE Celebration Day will be on Friday 8th May (Bank Holiday) and Halstead’s Royal British Legion Club will
be organising a Party in the Park; HiB has agreed to have a stall. Suggestions were that flags/bunting could be
made in fabric as in 1945 – no plastic! Period dress might be worn (this was enthusiastically embraced!).
Futher meetings will take place *Visit to Gestingthorpe Peter Nice has sent an invitation from Gestingthorpe
Church to visit and hear a short talk by Ashley Cooper on the history of the church and village. A visit to Hill
Farm where there is a museum with artefacts from a Roman villa discovered at the farm and tea and biscuits
will be provided. Date to be arranged, probably sometime in March. *David Tarbun has invited HiB team to a
celebration on 11th February at Hyacinth Tea rooms at 2.30pm. David will celebrate his 85th birthday on 10th February and would like to share some time with HiB friends. Thank you David! *Christine noted that BDC
has provided a ‘green bin’ to take HiB green waste. Bin is at Empire Theatre and will be emptied at Green Bin
Round of collections. Thank you to BDC for this help, thank you Chris for managing this waste and making
purple bags reusable! Thank you Martin for your help!
EVENTS: **RiverCare. Next event is Sunday 2nd February Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next
Community Litter Pick. Sunday 23rd February ALL WELCOME. Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church, Joan to enquire whether
Kings Seeds will give a talk. *Race Night is organised at the Con Club for 4th April. Donation from the event
will be given to HiB. *Summer Plant collection is booked for 30th/ 31st May 2020 – van is booked!!
ANGLIA IN BLOOM’20 Entries for Halstead (Town), Halstead Public Gardens, Halstead Cemetery and
Priory Hall Retirement Complex have been lodged (to ensure entry at the cheapest rate).
Anglia in Bloom Spring Launch will be on 25th March at Peter Beales Roses, Attleborough – NR17 1AY – at
a cost of £15 per person. There will be 3 workshops and a chance to look around the rose gardens. The cafe
has been revamped recently, and entry price will include a buffet lunch. We must have numbers wishing to
attend as soon as possible, and definitely by the next meeting (27/2). Transport will be organised.
RHS BRITAIN IN BLOOM ’20 . Halstead entry has been confirmed, there will be a seminar for two people
(Joan and Annie) on 21st February in Birmingham – places have been booked.
It was decided that we need to confirm judging routes as soon as possible and first proposal is:
Start at British Legion. Walk along Causeway to Bridge. Drive, via Butler Road, to Adams Court. Drive to
Trinity School. Walk to Public Gardens and through the Gardens. Drive to Hume’s. Walk to Fountain. Walk to
and through Church yard – enter from Market Hill, walk to Main door, walk to Parsonage Street. Drive to
Loom. Drive to Mill Chase. Drive to Coggeshall Pieces. Drive, via Road Runners’ Bed and through cemetery
to Resource Centre (enter by back gate). Drive to Guides’ allotment.
This is the first draft – other ideas (that can be accommodated within the allotted judging times) will be
considered. *Loom Garden. Annie spoke of her ideas for a Plastic Cascade at the Loom and asked all to
collect highly coloured plastic bottles (with tops on), CD’s phones, toys, dolls, packets that cannot be recycled,
etc. etc. Please put them in bags and give to Annie. They will be firmly attached to netting, in strips to make
them manageable, and then cascade over the loom and down the hill to make a ‘river of plastic’. There will be
information on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle ethic and about the amount of plastic currently in use and in
landfill. Volunteers were identified to make up the strips of plastic – Pauline, Joan, Linda, Nicky, Chris and
Billy all offered to help; it was agreed that this will be labour intensive. Joan advised a membrane be laid down
first to deter weeds. Linda said that her garage could be used for construction, and Margaret E offered to store
completed strips prior to putting them out.
Joan asked all to save coloured bottle tops, coloured lids from jars, etc. for a collage she is making at the
Resource Centre. It was said that bug houses will also be placed at the Resource Centre, and some ‘flowers’
made from recycled plastic spools.
WORKING PARTIES : For all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park
unless advised otherwise 4
th February. Complete current weeding programme. 11th February – all to join David
in his celebrations at Hyacinth Tea Rooms. 18th February. Deadheading. 25th February. Some cleaning at Holy
Trinity Church. Long poles for taking down cobwebs will be a help at this party.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: *New Logo this will be on agenda for next meeting. Margaret E asked if designs
already lodged could be used on tea cloths? It was thought that perhaps the Church might be ordering some tea
cloths again this year and HiB will gladly help to sell them. *New containers for 2020 so far replacement
containers at the bookies beside the Bridge, replacements for the plastic containers in St. Andrew’s Churchyard,
replacements for the plastic containers outside St. Andrew’s Church Hall and 2 replacement baskets have been
identified as being required. Please let me know as soon as possible if any others are needed – we only want to
place one order as carriage is expensive. *To Do List 2020 has been produced. Please add any events that we
need to be aware of. *Halstead Marathon 2020 -10th May – volunteers are needed to assist. 10/12 people said
they would help – numbers to be passed on to organisers. *Notelets for Halstead Christmas cards sold very
well, and it was suggested that packs of notelets with Halstead scenes might be popular. Many photos are
available – prices will be ascertained. *Annie said she would love to paint the front doors at the Library and
asked that permission be sought for this work (Essex CC). *Margaret E said that Pat had reported the metal
plaque on the Drinking Fountain at Mount Hill has been damaged/cracked. Has been reported – it is thought
that this is ECC responsibility. *Margaret T said that 53 have booked to attend the HiB meal and doors will
be open at 7pm. Joan will make table decorations – 9 tables. *Ian spoke about the new play park on the river
walk, Bluebridge end. This is too far away to be included in the judging routes but photos/info are needed for
the Portfolio. *Linda spoke about the poor condition of Manfield and asked if requests could be made for it to
be weeded and swept. There is a blocked drain at the end of Manfield. Linda also spoke about the number of
cigarette ends in the car park at Sports Centre. She has asked if signage and a bin could be put outside and
information given. Watch this space! *Alan noted the bamboo shooting in the surgery garden – Joan said this
will be treated when weather is more suitable. Alan also noted the poor condition of verges at White Horse
Avenue; BDC has this in hand.*Billy said that he and his wife had moved to Halstead, from London, about 3
months ago and they love it here! We’re glad you are here Billy! *Margaret T asked if weeds opposite The
Empire could be treated – will be requested. Margaret noted that the defective lights in St. Andrew’s
Churchyard will be repaired. *Joan noted that artwork is now installed at Surgery garden, and asked if a
plaque noting the artist could be added. His name to be ascertained. Joan spoke about the Excursions Show
attended by 2 representatives of Halstead Chamber of Trade, Joan and Julia from HiB on Saturday 25th January.
Several tour operators had shown interest in visiting Halstead as a ‘stop off’ point in their tours. *Fiona asked
if the damage to cobble stones/bollards outside Billson premises will be repaired. This will be done when work
at Pendle’s Court is done. Fiona spoke about cars still parking on the verge at St. Andrew’s Road/Parsonage St.
junction and asked if HiB could put more tubs there. It was explained that HiB has been careful to maintain
sight lines for traffic and that if parked cars impede sight they should be reported to Police. *Debra asked if
the bus shelter in Colne Road could be cleaned; request will be made. Debra noted that the Smith and Scillitoe
sponsor sign outside Hume’s is broken; will be inspected. *Iola spoke about the Essex Book Fair that will take
place at the Library; places need to be booked via Colchester Library. Iola asked if the Halstead sign at
Bluebridge will be replaced; it is understood that this will be done. Iola spoke about the poor state of the
‘Ambulance’ artwork on the corner of Colne Road/Colchester Road. This belongs to St. John’s Ambulance – if
anyone has contact with that team please do so. *Wendy again noted the deplorable state of pavement in
Colchester Road. This has been reported and it is hoped that repairs will be effected.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.58 p.m.
Next team meeting on Thursday 27th February 2020 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.
**Also now note thHALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 30th January 2020 7.30p.m. at Halstead Icing
Chairman, welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend. New volunteer Billy
was warmly welcomed. Billy said that his wife was also intending to volunteer and would attend future meetings.
MINUTES of 28th November 2019 had been circulated and were adopted
NEWS: *Love Your Library Day. Will be on 15th February, and HiB has been invited to attend for a ‘seed
swap’ event. Ian, Chris and Margaret E said they could be there from 10-12 and various members have seeds to
swap or give away. *Hanging Baskets. Halstead Town Council has agreed HiB can provide hanging baskets
and some town centre planting for 2020 that they will fund at a cost of £3250. Other town planting will be
funded by HiB. Invoice will be sent to HTC. *Calendar 2020 It was announced that all calendars were sold.
Cost of calendars was £1937.50 and funds received so far amount to £2752.60 a small amount is still to be
received. A total of 786 were purchased (one is held for archive) and it was said that Paul Clark Printing, at
Sible Hedingham, were very helpful and co-operative. It was decided that calendar for 2021 should be floral
and it was hoped that many people will submit photos – of all seasons. An email will be sent asking for
contributions. *Great British Spring Clean organised by Keep Britain Tidy, will run from 20th March to 14th April. HiB will be hold a Community Litter Pick on Sunday 29th March. 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*VE Celebration Day will be on Friday 8th May (Bank Holiday) and Halstead’s Royal British Legion Club will
be organising a Party in the Park; HiB has agreed to have a stall. Suggestions were that flags/bunting could be
made in fabric as in 1945 – no plastic! Period dress might be worn (this was enthusiastically embraced!).
Futher meetings will take place *Visit to Gestingthorpe Peter Nice has sent an invitation from Gestingthorpe
Church to visit and hear a short talk by Ashley Cooper on the history of the church and village. A visit to Hill
Farm where there is a museum with artefacts from a Roman villa discovered at the farm and tea and biscuits
will be provided. Date to be arranged, probably sometime in March. *David Tarbun has invited HiB team to a
celebration on 11th February at Hyacinth Tea rooms at 2.30pm. David will celebrate his 85th birthday on 10th February and would like to share some time with HiB friends. Thank you David! *Christine noted that BDC
has provided a ‘green bin’ to take HiB green waste. Bin is at Empire Theatre and will be emptied at Green Bin
Round of collections. Thank you to BDC for this help, thank you Chris for managing this waste and making
purple bags reusable! Thank you Martin for your help!
EVENTS: **RiverCare. Next event is Sunday 2nd February Meet 10am at Sainsbury’s Car Park. *Next
Community Litter Pick. Sunday 23rd February ALL WELCOME. Meet 10.30am at Sainsbury’s Car Park.
*HiB AGM for 2019 will be held on 20th March 2020 at the United Reformed Church, Joan to enquire whether
Kings Seeds will give a talk. *Race Night is organised at the Con Club for 4th April. Donation from the event
will be given to HiB. *Summer Plant collection is booked for 30th/ 31st May 2020 – van is booked!!
ANGLIA IN BLOOM’20 Entries for Halstead (Town), Halstead Public Gardens, Halstead Cemetery and
Priory Hall Retirement Complex have been lodged (to ensure entry at the cheapest rate).
Anglia in Bloom Spring Launch will be on 25th March at Peter Beales Roses, Attleborough – NR17 1AY – at
a cost of £15 per person. There will be 3 workshops and a chance to look around the rose gardens. The cafe
has been revamped recently, and entry price will include a buffet lunch. We must have numbers wishing to
attend as soon as possible, and definitely by the next meeting (27/2). Transport will be organised.
RHS BRITAIN IN BLOOM ’20 . Halstead entry has been confirmed, there will be a seminar for two people
(Joan and Annie) on 21st February in Birmingham – places have been booked.
It was decided that we need to confirm judging routes as soon as possible and first proposal is:
Start at British Legion. Walk along Causeway to Bridge. Drive, via Butler Road, to Adams Court. Drive to
Trinity School. Walk to Public Gardens and through the Gardens. Drive to Hume’s. Walk to Fountain. Walk to
and through Church yard – enter from Market Hill, walk to Main door, walk to Parsonage Street. Drive to
Loom. Drive to Mill Chase. Drive to Coggeshall Pieces. Drive, via Road Runners’ Bed and through cemetery
to Resource Centre (enter by back gate). Drive to Guides’ allotment.
This is the first draft – other ideas (that can be accommodated within the allotted judging times) will be
considered. *Loom Garden. Annie spoke of her ideas for a Plastic Cascade at the Loom and asked all to
collect highly coloured plastic bottles (with tops on), CD’s phones, toys, dolls, packets that cannot be recycled,
etc. etc. Please put them in bags and give to Annie. They will be firmly attached to netting, in strips to make
them manageable, and then cascade over the loom and down the hill to make a ‘river of plastic’. There will be
information on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle ethic and about the amount of plastic currently in use and in
landfill. Volunteers were identified to make up the strips of plastic – Pauline, Joan, Linda, Nicky, Chris and
Billy all offered to help; it was agreed that this will be labour intensive. Joan advised a membrane be laid down
first to deter weeds. Linda said that her garage could be used for construction, and Margaret E offered to store
completed strips prior to putting them out.
Joan asked all to save coloured bottle tops, coloured lids from jars, etc. for a collage she is making at the
Resource Centre. It was said that bug houses will also be placed at the Resource Centre, and some ‘flowers’
made from recycled plastic spools.
WORKING PARTIES : For all working parties meet at 2pm. on Town Bridge/Halstead Icing car park
unless advised otherwise 4
th February. Complete current weeding programme. 11th February – all to join David
in his celebrations at Hyacinth Tea Rooms. 18th February. Deadheading. 25th February. Some cleaning at Holy
Trinity Church. Long poles for taking down cobwebs will be a help at this party.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: *New Logo this will be on agenda for next meeting. Margaret E asked if designs
already lodged could be used on tea cloths? It was thought that perhaps the Church might be ordering some tea
cloths again this year and HiB will gladly help to sell them. *New containers for 2020 so far replacement
containers at the bookies beside the Bridge, replacements for the plastic containers in St. Andrew’s Churchyard,
replacements for the plastic containers outside St. Andrew’s Church Hall and 2 replacement baskets have been
identified as being required. Please let me know as soon as possible if any others are needed – we only want to
place one order as carriage is expensive. *To Do List 2020 has been produced. Please add any events that we
need to be aware of. *Halstead Marathon 2020 -10th May – volunteers are needed to assist. 10/12 people said
they would help – numbers to be passed on to organisers. *Notelets for Halstead Christmas cards sold very
well, and it was suggested that packs of notelets with Halstead scenes might be popular. Many photos are
available – prices will be ascertained. *Annie said she would love to paint the front doors at the Library and
asked that permission be sought for this work (Essex CC). *Margaret E said that Pat had reported the metal
plaque on the Drinking Fountain at Mount Hill has been damaged/cracked. Has been reported – it is thought
that this is ECC responsibility. *Margaret T said that 53 have booked to attend the HiB meal and doors will
be open at 7pm. Joan will make table decorations – 9 tables. *Ian spoke about the new play park on the river
walk, Bluebridge end. This is too far away to be included in the judging routes but photos/info are needed for
the Portfolio. *Linda spoke about the poor condition of Manfield and asked if requests could be made for it to
be weeded and swept. There is a blocked drain at the end of Manfield. Linda also spoke about the number of
cigarette ends in the car park at Sports Centre. She has asked if signage and a bin could be put outside and
information given. Watch this space! *Alan noted the bamboo shooting in the surgery garden – Joan said this
will be treated when weather is more suitable. Alan also noted the poor condition of verges at White Horse
Avenue; BDC has this in hand.*Billy said that he and his wife had moved to Halstead, from London, about 3
months ago and they love it here! We’re glad you are here Billy! *Margaret T asked if weeds opposite The
Empire could be treated – will be requested. Margaret noted that the defective lights in St. Andrew’s
Churchyard will be repaired. *Joan noted that artwork is now installed at Surgery garden, and asked if a
plaque noting the artist could be added. His name to be ascertained. Joan spoke about the Excursions Show
attended by 2 representatives of Halstead Chamber of Trade, Joan and Julia from HiB on Saturday 25th January.
Several tour operators had shown interest in visiting Halstead as a ‘stop off’ point in their tours. *Fiona asked
if the damage to cobble stones/bollards outside Billson premises will be repaired. This will be done when work
at Pendle’s Court is done. Fiona spoke about cars still parking on the verge at St. Andrew’s Road/Parsonage St.
junction and asked if HiB could put more tubs there. It was explained that HiB has been careful to maintain
sight lines for traffic and that if parked cars impede sight they should be reported to Police. *Debra asked if
the bus shelter in Colne Road could be cleaned; request will be made. Debra noted that the Smith and Scillitoe
sponsor sign outside Hume’s is broken; will be inspected. *Iola spoke about the Essex Book Fair that will take
place at the Library; places need to be booked via Colchester Library. Iola asked if the Halstead sign at
Bluebridge will be replaced; it is understood that this will be done. Iola spoke about the poor state of the
‘Ambulance’ artwork on the corner of Colne Road/Colchester Road. This belongs to St. John’s Ambulance – if
anyone has contact with that team please do so. *Wendy again noted the deplorable state of pavement in
Colchester Road. This has been reported and it is hoped that repairs will be effected.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.58 p.m.
Next team meeting on Thursday 27th February 2020 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.
**Also now note th