Author: Julia Smith (Page 1 of 11)

Minutes meeting 29th February

HALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 29 th February 2024 at 6.00p.m. at Royal British Legion Club
Chairman welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.
Minutes of the meeting of 25 th January 2024 had been circulated and were adopted although
Chairman pointed out that a venue for wreath making has not yet been finalised.

UPDATES and NEWS: *Christmas Card donations – amount of £60 realised. It was decided to
donate this to Hope for Tomorrow, the Cancer Treatment ‘bus. (Linda announced that the recent
‘Cuppa for Cancer’ event held at Queen’s Hall by Halstead Town Council raised £2,350.00 for this
charity, a brilliant effort). *Calendars ’24, all but 11 were sold/donated an excellent effort.
*Afternoon tea at Queen’s Hall – all agreed that this was a lovely event and the food was delicious!
Chairman gave thanks to Margaret T who had arranged the afternoon. *Factory Shop VIP event –
HiB was thanked for attending as several places were invited but attendance (apart from HiB
team) was poor. Everyone attending was given a special scratch card giving a discount on future
purchases! *Co-op Community Payment – first instalment has been received amounting to
£603.46. *High Street Parking – proposal for paid parking on High Street and The Centre was
discussed and HiB has written to North Essex Parking Partnership asking that this proposal be
reviewed. Debra thought that a scheme for 30 minutes free parking and then an hourly charge
might not be a bad thing. Anyone wishing to lodge their thoughts can write to NEPP. *High Street
Regeneration proposal: HiB has been told that scheme plan has been lodged with Essex CC but
that it has been said that appropriate licences need to be sought. HiB, together with Clerk of
Halstead TC walked round the town with ECC officer about 5 years ago and all planting was
logged, containers measured, etc. and all was agreed. HTC should hold licences. *Halstead
Flower Club, that disbanded last year, has donated their remaining funds of £46.39 to HiB and has
been thanked for this gift. *Essex Life magazine will be running an article on Halstead in a future
issue and has asked HiB for some details and photos (they have been supplied)
EVENTS: *Next community litter pick is planned for 31 st March (Easter Sunday). Meet at 10.30 in
Chapel Street Car Park (there’s lots of litter to collect after the recent high winds!!). *Next River
Clean event will take place on 3 rd March. *Great British Spring Clean will take place 15 th March-31 st
March ’24 – HiB’s target is 50bags *HiB Plant Sale will be on Saturday 11 th May, Joan will
purchase plants, some have been offered to us. Pat has knitted some stunning flower displays
that will be on sale *Summer Plant Sorting Saturday 18th May, Planting commences Sunday 19 th
May *Halstead Summer Fayre ’24 will be held on 3 rd August. *There is proposal for a Guys in the
Park event again in 2024-details when released. *Annual Town Meeting will be 29 th April, 7.15pm
at Queen’s Hall.
ANGLIA IN BLOOM 2024. Spring Launch will be held on Thursday 28 th March at the Rugby
Club, Wymondham. Cost is £20per person and refreshments will be provided. Doors open 10am
for 10.30am start. Jon Wheatley, an eminent garden designer and member of the RHS Federation
who has recently been given a prestigious award by RHS, is coming to speak and there will be
information about themes for the year celebrating 60 years of Britain in Bloom. Please let
Margaret E know by Tuesday 5 th March if you’d like to attend – there is a cap of 4 people per
delegation.
It was announced that entries for Its Your Neighbourhood in 2024 will be given a National Garden
Gift Token of £15 – to be distributed

RHS events 2024

RHS events:
Tuesday 26 th March 10-1pm – Big Seed Swap One Colchester Community Hub in
the High Street. Please come along and share seeds or just come and tell us what
you do and more about your group. (Poster attached)
 
Tuesday 26 th March – ONLINE Peat Free Workshop at 7pm to 8:15pm on Zoom
sign up will follow soon. This is an opportunity for In Bloom, Community groups and
It’s Your Neighbourhood groups to find out more about Peat Free and find out how
other groups are coping using Peat Free compost.
 
1 st – 7 th April Community Garden Week (could you do something that involves your
community to showcase your hard work? Invite other community groups to your
gardens? It is the Easter Holidays, so what about a family fun day?)
 
22 nd – 29 th April ‘Grow with it’ This year’s seasonal programme being delivered by
the RHS. Here is the link to the page to register your interest and where you will
receive updates. https://www.rhs.org.uk/get-involved/grow-with-it
  
1 st – 7 th June Volunteers week-  (could you do something that involves your
community to showcase your hard work? Alison used this opportunity to gain new
volunteers for the Colchester Hospital project)
 
Britain in Bloom celebrates 60 Years this year and their theme for 2024 is
Friendship. We would love to hear of stories from your groups, gardens and
projects around the theme of Friendship. You can share them with me or send them
to communities@rhs.org.uk . If your groups uses social media then tag the RHS on
your posts. Instagram: @rhsgrassroots. X: @rhsbloom. F: @rhscommunitygardening
 
This would be the perfect time to sign your groups up to ‘It’s Your
Neighbourhood’. This will put your group on the RHS Map of Community Groups.
Here is the link. https://www.rhs.org.uk/get-involved/its-your-neighbourhood

AGM Minutes 29th February 2024

HALSTEAD IN BLOOM

MINUTES OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2023

28 th February 2024.

Apologies received: There were some apologies from team members.
Chairman Margaret Eskins welcomed all present and acknowledged that this was an AGM
similar to that of 2022and is still compliant with our Constitution.
Chairman Margaret Eskins gave a brief review of 2023 which was, she said, another busy year.
Some new containers had been purchased although the promised Town Centre Regeneration
programme still had not taken place. Consequently there had been no town entry into Anglia in
Bloom 2023 although a virtual entry and some Its Your Neighbourhoods were lodged. HiB took
part in the Annual Christmas Tree event at St. Andrew’s Church and at other events in the town
such as the Torchlight Procession and the decoration of Holy Trinity Church at Christmas. The
celebratory Afternoon Tea at Queen’s Hall in January ’23 had been a success thanks to Marie’s
great catering. Annie and Mike organised a Quiz event which was well supported and Margaret
Tyler, Helen Rose and Karen and Billy Ballard ran a very successful Local Garden Competition.
The Spring Launch for Anglia in Bloom was held at Swiss Garden, Old Warden and members of
HiB attended – and got wet as it poured with rain! Bedding for summer ’23 was purchased from
Plants that Grow at Great Yeldham and plants were of good quality and made a great display.
Chairman thanked Joan for designing all displays and thanked all who assisted with watering
duties. Calendar 2024 had been a success and all who assisted with selling and those who
supplied knitted goods for sale on stalls were thanked. Halstead in Bloom had received many
donations and sponsors this year.
Chairman made the point that nothing would happen if volunteers were not so generous with their
time and efforts and Chairman thanked all those who had helped Halstead to Bloom in 2023.
Secretary Julia Smith had prepared a report that is attached herewith.
A financial report was given and is attached herewith. All Accounts Documents were displayed
and copies of the Balance Sheet and other reports were available. (Please do let me know if you’d
like a copy of any of the reports and if you wish to view the various invoices, etc.)
Election of Officers. There were no nominations for Chairman so existing Chairman. Margaret
Eskins indicated that she would be willing to serve for a further year as Chairman of Halstead in
Bloom. It was proposed that Margaret Eskins should stand as Chairman of Halstead in Bloom for

  1. Vote for proposal was unanimous. Margaret Eskins was elected as Chairman of Halstead in
    Bloom 2024.
    There had been no nominations for Secretary or Treasurer so existing Secretary/Treasurer Julia
    Smith indicated that she would be willing to serve for a further year as Secretary/Treasurer of
    Halstead in Bloom. It was proposed that Julia Smith stand as Secretary/Treasurer for 2024 and.
    vote for proposal was unanimous. Julia Smith will stand as Secretary/Treasurer for 2024.
    Any Other Business There was no other business.
    Chairman thanked all for their input

Minutes 25th January 2024

HALSTEAD IN BLOOM
               Minutes of a meeting 24th January 2024 at 6.00p.m. at Royal British Legion Club
Chairman welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

Minutes of the meeting of 30th November 2023 had been circulated and were adopted when change of time for Halstead in Bloom Afternoon tea was noted. (should be 3pm, not 3.30pm).
UPDATES:  *Torchlight Procession: Letter was received from Halstead TC thanking HiB for support for this event and noting that £1123.37 was raised for the Major’s Charities (Halstead Day Centre and the Salvation Army).  All agreed this was a spectacular event and very well attended. *Meet and Greet event at The Bull. HiB was asked, at short notice, to attend this event arranged by Halstead Residents’ Association Party.  It was not very well advertised, and not well attended but about 5 people took our contact details and 2 calendars and 2 postcards were sold. *Southwold Music Trust.  HiB gave a donation to this trust in memory of David Tarbun who was very involved with their work.  A lovely email was received back thanking HiB for the donation and detailing some work  done by David at the School.  David would have been proud about how we’ve helped.  *Donation from Dave and Lin Gronland. Just before Christmas donation of £500 was gratefully received from Dave and Lin and a letter of thanks has been written.  *Donations in lieu of Christmas Cards.  There were many contributions to this amounting to £60 and messages were on display (and will be taken to the Christmas Tea).  We need to decide where these donations should be given – please have a think and we will decide at next meeting. (I will try and bring a chart for suggestions to the Christmas Tea).  *Stones for painting. Some have been taken to Holy Trinity School and recently 420 have been delivered to Richard de Clare School.  Pat’s grandchildren have beautifully decorated some stones, Margie Clarke has taken some and Joan has also some to paint.  Billy said that he will take some to the school he caretakes.  Anyone else who’d like to have some please let me know!

 CALENDAR 2024:  Calendars were well received and we have just about 25 left in stock.  Phil the Egg Man has sold 40 for us, Hume’s sold 7, Halstead Town Council sold 13 and Greenstead Green Post Office sold 20.  Others were sold on our stalls.  Chairman thanked all those who manned stalls and thanked all those who donated goods – knitted hats, gloves and coats, Christmas Tree decorations and knitted hats for chocolate oranges.  Chairman also thanked Joan for making around 80 wreaths that were very quickly snapped up and for the Christmas cards supplied.  Joan has offered to give workshops on making wreaths for 2024 sale.  A venue has been arranged and it is hoped that workshops can start in October – more details nearer the time!


EVENTS: *Next community litter pick is planned for 28th January. Meet at 10.30 in Chapel Street Car Park (there’s lots of litter to collect after the recent high winds!!). *Next River Clean event will take place on 4th February. *HiB Afternoon Tea will be 27th January at Queen’s Hall. 3.00pm. Cost £10pp.  We have been advised by HTC that any cars must be parked in marked bays and no double parking – tickets will be issued for contravention.  *Halstead Summer Fayre ’24 will be held on 3rd August.  **The Factory Shop, Halstead, will be having a VIP evening on Friday 26th January and HiB team is invited.  There will be tea/coffee and biscuits!! 5.30pm to 7.30pm. 

ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM  2024.  Spring Launch will be held on Thursday 28th March at the Rugby Club, Wymondham.  Cost is £20per person and refreshments will be provided.  Doors open 10am for 10.30am start.  Jon Wheatley, an eminent garden designer and member of the RHS Federation who has recently been given a prestigious award by RHS, is coming to speak and there will be information about themes for the year celebrating 60 years of Britain in Bloom.  Please let Margaret E know if you’d like to attend – there is a cap of 4 people per delegation.


als

WORKING  PARTIES:   Joan acknowledged that working parties had been somewhat curtailed by poor weather recently, but plan for Tuesday 30th will be weeding and maintaining, meet at car park near to Halstead Icing at 2pm and bring hand tools.  Peter Nice has asked for some help in Halstead Public Gardens on either 6th or 13th February (or possibly both!) Further details when Peter returns from leave.  Work is also needed at the Road Runners’ Bed.  Joan will advise as necessary.   Linda asked if the pavement beside the Road Runners’ Bed can be swept as it is piled high with dead leaves and is very slippery.  Has been reported. Joan noted that the footpath near to Richard de Clare School is also unsafe with dead leaves.   It was noted that there will be a Partnership meeting on 6th February at 3.30pm and these matters will be discussed.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    Jean noted that the hedge in Parsonage Street has now been cut back – Karyn showed an email from local resident complaining that Eastlight Homes caused devastation to the plants and shrubs here. Subsequent to meeting Karyn advised this resident that HiB will raise the matter at forthcoming Partnership meeting and was told that Eastlight had now apologised for rough work and will undertake to work with residents to restore the wildlife area and improve the visual aspect of the work.  Carol Noted that the recent winds had caused broken branches, twigs, etc. to build up on the area Sudbury Road/Portway Close. Carol will cut up the debris and was advised to take it to the green bin at Empire which will be emptied when collections start after the winter break.  Ian spoke about the new housing on Mount Hill and noted that these houses are not within the boundaries of Halstead, although residents will surely use Halstead’s amenities.  Joan asked if anyone present had attended the recent Energy Efficiency meeting at Queen’s Hall.  No one present had attended.  Margaret E noted that many pot holes in Halstead are receiving attention and will be mended.  This will greatly improve the surfaces in many places.

*eThere being no other business meeting closed at 6.50 pm.
Next meeting is Thursday 29th February 2023   6pm at Royal British Legion Club.

Please note that this next meeting will be our Annual General Meeting 2023 when Officers will be selected for 2024.  If you wish to nominate for post of Chairman, Secretary or Treasurer please let Secretary know.  Accounts for 2023 will be available at this meeting and any questions you may have about HiB going forward can be asked at the meeting or submitted prior to the meeting for answer on the night.

HALSTEAD IN BLOOM
               Minutes of a meeting 24th January 2024 at 6.00p.m. at Royal British Legion Club
Chairman welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

Minutes of the meeting of 30th November 2023 had been circulated and were adopted when change of time for Halstead in Bloom Afternoon tea was noted. (should be 3pm, not 3.30pm).
UPDATES:  *Torchlight Procession: Letter was received from Halstead TC thanking HiB for support for this event and noting that £1123.37 was raised for the Major’s Charities (Halstead Day Centre and the Salvation Army).  All agreed this was a spectacular event and very well attended. *Meet and Greet event at The Bull. HiB was asked, at short notice, to attend this event arranged by Halstead Residents’ Association Party.  It was not very well advertised, and not well attended but about 5 people took our contact details and 2 calendars and 2 postcards were sold. *Southwold Music Trust.  HiB gave a donation to this trust in memory of David Tarbun who was very involved with their work.  A lovely email was received back thanking HiB for the donation and detailing some work  done by David at the School.  David would have been proud about how we’ve helped.  *Donation from Dave and Lin Gronland. Just before Christmas donation of £500 was gratefully received from Dave and Lin and a letter of thanks has been written.  *Donations in lieu of Christmas Cards.  There were many contributions to this amounting to £60 and messages were on display (and will be taken to the Christmas Tea).  We need to decide where these donations should be given – please have a think and we will decide at next meeting. (I will try and bring a chart for suggestions to the Christmas Tea).  *Stones for painting. Some have been taken to Holy Trinity School and recently 420 have been delivered to Richard de Clare School.  Pat’s grandchildren have beautifully decorated some stones, Margie Clarke has taken some and Joan has also some to paint.  Billy said that he will take some to the school he caretakes.  Anyone else who’d like to have some please let me know!

 CALENDAR 2024:  Calendars were well received and we have just about 25 left in stock.  Phil the Egg Man has sold 40 for us, Hume’s sold 7, Halstead Town Council sold 13 and Greenstead Green Post Office sold 20.  Others were sold on our stalls.  Chairman thanked all those who manned stalls and thanked all those who donated goods – knitted hats, gloves and coats, Christmas Tree decorations and knitted hats for chocolate oranges.  Chairman also thanked Joan for making around 80 wreaths that were very quickly snapped up and for the Christmas cards supplied.  Joan has offered to give workshops on making wreaths for 2024 sale.  A venue has been arranged and it is hoped that workshops can start in October – more details nearer the time!


EVENTS: *Next community litter pick is planned for 28th January. Meet at 10.30 in Chapel Street Car Park (there’s lots of litter to collect after the recent high winds!!). *Next River Clean event will take place on 4th February. *HiB Afternoon Tea will be 27th January at Queen’s Hall. 3.00pm. Cost £10pp.  We have been advised by HTC that any cars must be parked in marked bays and no double parking – tickets will be issued for contravention.  *Halstead Summer Fayre ’24 will be held on 3rd August.  **The Factory Shop, Halstead, will be having a VIP evening on Friday 26th January and HiB team is invited.  There will be tea/coffee and biscuits!! 5.30pm to 7.30pm. 

ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM  2024.  Spring Launch will be held on Thursday 28th March at the Rugby Club, Wymondham.  Cost is £20per person and refreshments will be provided.  Doors open 10am for 10.30am start.  Jon Wheatley, an eminent garden designer and member of the RHS Federation who has recently been given a prestigious award by RHS, is coming to speak and there will be information about themes for the year celebrating 60 years of Britain in Bloom.  Please let Margaret E know if you’d like to attend – there is a cap of 4 people per delegation.


als

WORKING  PARTIES:   Joan acknowledged that working parties had been somewhat curtailed by poor weather recently, but plan for Tuesday 30th will be weeding and maintaining, meet at car park near to Halstead Icing at 2pm and bring hand tools.  Peter Nice has asked for some help in Halstead Public Gardens on either 6th or 13th February (or possibly both!) Further details when Peter returns from leave.  Work is also needed at the Road Runners’ Bed.  Joan will advise as necessary.   Linda asked if the pavement beside the Road Runners’ Bed can be swept as it is piled high with dead leaves and is very slippery.  Has been reported. Joan noted that the footpath near to Richard de Clare School is also unsafe with dead leaves.   It was noted that there will be a Partnership meeting on 6th February at 3.30pm and these matters will be discussed.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    Jean noted that the hedge in Parsonage Street has now been cut back – Karyn showed an email from local resident complaining that Eastlight Homes caused devastation to the plants and shrubs here. Subsequent to meeting Karyn advised this resident that HiB will raise the matter at forthcoming Partnership meeting and was told that Eastlight had now apologised for rough work and will undertake to work with residents to restore the wildlife area and improve the visual aspect of the work.  Carol Noted that the recent winds had caused broken branches, twigs, etc. to build up on the area Sudbury Road/Portway Close. Carol will cut up the debris and was advised to take it to the green bin at Empire which will be emptied when collections start after the winter break.  Ian spoke about the new housing on Mount Hill and noted that these houses are not within the boundaries of Halstead, although residents will surely use Halstead’s amenities.  Joan asked if anyone present had attended the recent Energy Efficiency meeting at Queen’s Hall.  No one present had attended.  Margaret E noted that many pot holes in Halstead are receiving attention and will be mended.  This will greatly improve the surfaces in many places.

*eThere being no other business meeting closed at 6.50 pm.
Next meeting is Thursday 29th February 2023   6pm at Royal British Legion Club.

Please note that this next meeting will be our Annual General Meeting 2023 when Officers will be selected for 2024.  If you wish to nominate for post of Chairman, Secretary or Treasurer please let Secretary know.  Accounts for 2023 will be available at this meeting and any questions you may have about HiB going forward can be asked at the meeting or submitted prior to the meeting for answer on the night.

HALSTEAD IN BLOOM
               Minutes of a meeting 24th January 2024 at 6.00p.m. at Royal British Legion Club
Chairman welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

Minutes of the meeting of 30th November 2023 had been circulated and were adopted when change of time for Halstead in Bloom Afternoon tea was noted. (should be 3pm, not 3.30pm).
UPDATES:  *Torchlight Procession: Letter was received from Halstead TC thanking HiB for support for this event and noting that £1123.37 was raised for the Major’s Charities (Halstead Day Centre and the Salvation Army).  All agreed this was a spectacular event and very well attended. *Meet and Greet event at The Bull. HiB was asked, at short notice, to attend this event arranged by Halstead Residents’ Association Party.  It was not very well advertised, and not well attended but about 5 people took our contact details and 2 calendars and 2 postcards were sold. *Southwold Music Trust.  HiB gave a donation to this trust in memory of David Tarbun who was very involved with their work.  A lovely email was received back thanking HiB for the donation and detailing some work  done by David at the School.  David would have been proud about how we’ve helped.  *Donation from Dave and Lin Gronland. Just before Christmas donation of £500 was gratefully received from Dave and Lin and a letter of thanks has been written.  *Donations in lieu of Christmas Cards.  There were many contributions to this amounting to £60 and messages were on display (and will be taken to the Christmas Tea).  We need to decide where these donations should be given – please have a think and we will decide at next meeting. (I will try and bring a chart for suggestions to the Christmas Tea).  *Stones for painting. Some have been taken to Holy Trinity School and recently 420 have been delivered to Richard de Clare School.  Pat’s grandchildren have beautifully decorated some stones, Margie Clarke has taken some and Joan has also some to paint.  Billy said that he will take some to the school he caretakes.  Anyone else who’d like to have some please let me know!

 CALENDAR 2024:  Calendars were well received and we have just about 25 left in stock.  Phil the Egg Man has sold 40 for us, Hume’s sold 7, Halstead Town Council sold 13 and Greenstead Green Post Office sold 20.  Others were sold on our stalls.  Chairman thanked all those who manned stalls and thanked all those who donated goods – knitted hats, gloves and coats, Christmas Tree decorations and knitted hats for chocolate oranges.  Chairman also thanked Joan for making around 80 wreaths that were very quickly snapped up and for the Christmas cards supplied.  Joan has offered to give workshops on making wreaths for 2024 sale.  A venue has been arranged and it is hoped that workshops can start in October – more details nearer the time!


EVENTS: *Next community litter pick is planned for 28th January. Meet at 10.30 in Chapel Street Car Park (there’s lots of litter to collect after the recent high winds!!). *Next River Clean event will take place on 4th February. *HiB Afternoon Tea will be 27th January at Queen’s Hall. 3.00pm. Cost £10pp.  We have been advised by HTC that any cars must be parked in marked bays and no double parking – tickets will be issued for contravention.  *Halstead Summer Fayre ’24 will be held on 3rd August.  **The Factory Shop, Halstead, will be having a VIP evening on Friday 26th January and HiB team is invited.  There will be tea/coffee and biscuits!! 5.30pm to 7.30pm. 

ANGLIA  IN  BLOOM  2024.  Spring Launch will be held on Thursday 28th March at the Rugby Club, Wymondham.  Cost is £20per person and refreshments will be provided.  Doors open 10am for 10.30am start.  Jon Wheatley, an eminent garden designer and member of the RHS Federation who has recently been given a prestigious award by RHS, is coming to speak and there will be information about themes for the year celebrating 60 years of Britain in Bloom.  Please let Margaret E know if you’d like to attend – there is a cap of 4 people per delegation.


als

WORKING  PARTIES:   Joan acknowledged that working parties had been somewhat curtailed by poor weather recently, but plan for Tuesday 30th will be weeding and maintaining, meet at car park near to Halstead Icing at 2pm and bring hand tools.  Peter Nice has asked for some help in Halstead Public Gardens on either 6th or 13th February (or possibly both!) Further details when Peter returns from leave.  Work is also needed at the Road Runners’ Bed.  Joan will advise as necessary.   Linda asked if the pavement beside the Road Runners’ Bed can be swept as it is piled high with dead leaves and is very slippery.  Has been reported. Joan noted that the footpath near to Richard de Clare School is also unsafe with dead leaves.   It was noted that there will be a Partnership meeting on 6th February at 3.30pm and these matters will be discussed.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    Jean noted that the hedge in Parsonage Street has now been cut back – Karyn showed an email from local resident complaining that Eastlight Homes caused devastation to the plants and shrubs here. Subsequent to meeting Karyn advised this resident that HiB will raise the matter at forthcoming Partnership meeting and was told that Eastlight had now apologised for rough work and will undertake to work with residents to restore the wildlife area and improve the visual aspect of the work.  Carol Noted that the recent winds had caused broken branches, twigs, etc. to build up on the area Sudbury Road/Portway Close. Carol will cut up the debris and was advised to take it to the green bin at Empire which will be emptied when collections start after the winter break.  Ian spoke about the new housing on Mount Hill and noted that these houses are not within the boundaries of Halstead, although residents will surely use Halstead’s amenities.  Joan asked if anyone present had attended the recent Energy Efficiency meeting at Queen’s Hall.  No one present had attended.  Margaret E noted that many pot holes in Halstead are receiving attention and will be mended.  This will greatly improve the surfaces in many places.

*eThere being no other business meeting closed at 6.50 pm.
Next meeting is Thursday 29th February 2023   6pm at Royal British Legion Club.

Please note that this next meeting will be our Annual General Meeting 2023 when Officers will be selected for 2024.  If you wish to nominate for post of Chairman, Secretary or Treasurer please let Secretary know.  Accounts for 2023 will be available at this meeting and any questions you may have about HiB going forward can be asked at the meeting or submitted prior to the meeting for answer on the night.


All welcome.    Contacts:  Margaret Eskins, Chairman: 01787  269443; Joan Gibson, plants/working parties: 01787 473070.  Julia Smith, Secretary 07762587141 email;: jaygrey@btinernet.com
www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk:   Facebook: halsteadinbloom;  Instagram @halsteadinbloom
Join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road) and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate .


All welcome.    Contacts:  Margaret Eskins, Chairman: 01787  269443; Joan Gibson, plants/working parties: 01787 473070.  Julia Smith, Secretary 07762587141 email;: jaygrey@btinernet.com
www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk:   Facebook: halsteadinbloom;  Instagram @halsteadinbloom
Join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road) and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate .



All welcome.    Contacts:  Margaret Eskins, Chairman: 01787  269443; Joan Gibson, plants/working parties: 01787 473070.  Julia Smith, Secretary 07762587141 email;: jaygrey@btinernet.com
www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk:   Facebook: halsteadinbloom;  Instagram @halsteadinbloom
Join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road) and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate .


Minutes 30 November2023

HALSTEAD IN BLOOM
               Minutes of a meeting 30th November 2023 at 6.00p.m. at Royal British Legion Club
Chairman welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend.

Minutes of the meeting of 2nd November 2023 had been circulated and were adopted.
UPDATES:  *Overhanging vegetation – no change!Billy offered to cut back as necessary in the Christmas holidays.  Any cuttings must be handed back to owner!  *Christmas Fayre feedback – all agreed that it was great to see the town ‘buzzing’ with families out for the day with lots of smiling faces.  HiB sold 54 calendars in all plus 100 Christmas cards, 15 wreaths and other goods – a great day and thanks to all who donated goods and manned the stall.  *Christmas tree event – feedback.  There were more trees in St. Andrew’s Church than on previous occasions   The ‘winner’ is not yet known.  The event at Trinity Church after switch on of lights was well attended..  *Co-op community day feedback.  This seemed to be just a photo opportunity.  Margaret E, Annie and Mick attended and Sue joined after her stint at the stall.  Money was paid into the bank account.  *Fallen tree over footpath.  Debra hadn’t been on that path since last meeting. (post meeting note:  Has been inspected by ECC and the Allotment Society has agreed to cut down the tree in the near future).  *Wooden posts at Sudbury Rd.  Tim was asked to remove these. *Priory Hall coffee morning feedback- 11 calendars were sold plus 26 cards.  Resident, Judy, had made jam and proceeds of £7 was donated.  Raffle raised £66.50 and coffee sales £22.40 both sums were donated to HiB.  With donations the sum raised was £162.90 and Priory Hall were thanked for their help in fundraising. *Christmas cards-donations in lieu.  A tin for donations was at the meeting and will be at each calendar stall until Christmas, there is also a sheet for messages.  We will decide after Christmas where donations are to be made .
CALENDAR STALLS: stall manning sheets were available – if you can help but weren’t at the meeting please contact Secretary to see available dates/times.  There are 187 calendars ‘in stock’
EVENTS: *Next community litter pick is planned for 31st December. *Next River Clean event will take place on 3rd December..  *Halstead Torchlight Procession 2023 will be 6th December. Ian and Joan, plus Julia and Graham offered to shake collection buckets.  6.30 at the HTC stall in High Street to collect buckets  *HiB Coffee and Mince Pies at White Hart- planned for 14th December but it was thought that this date might be changed – HiB team will be notified . *HiB Afternoon Tea will be 27th January at Queen’s Hall. 3.30pm. Cost £15pp.  We have been advised by HTC that any cars must be parked in marked bays and no double parking – tickets will be issued for contravention.
als

WORKING  PARTIES:  Joan advised that Tuesday 5th December will be weeding and tidying.  No working parties in Thursdays for the time being.  All will be notified of any planned works.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS:    Planning permission has been sought for Land East of High Street for 31 dwellings with 10 of the air raid shelters to be retained.  Full scheme can be seen on BDC website and comments can be made if desired.  Climate Event HTC has advised of an event at Queen’s Hall on17th January ’24 at 5pm to promote alternative energies. All invited to attend.
Debra asked where calendars can be purchased: Hume’s Bakers, HTC Office, Phil the Egg Man and Greenstead Green Post Office.

*eThere being no other business meeting closed at 6.35 pm.
Next meeting is Thursday 25th January 2023   6pm at Royal British Legion Club.
All welcome.    Contacts:  Margaret Eskins, Chairman: 01787  269443; Joan Gibson, plants/working parties: 01787 473070.  Julia Smith, Secretary 07762587141 email;: jaygrey@btinernet.com
www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk:   Facebook: halsteadinbloom;  Instagram @halsteadinbloom
Join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road) and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate .

Co op support

On Saturday the 18th November 2023 we received confirmation of the recent donation of £1032.29 from the Co op on Colchester Road in Halstead. We met Debs their community pioneer who thanked us for everything that we do for Halstead.

Debs position as a community pioneer is to promote the Co op`s involvement in their local community, and we look forward to continue working with her.

We are extremely grateful to the Co op for their continued support.

Minutes 2nd November 2023

HALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 2
nd November 2023 at 6.00p.m. at Royal British Legion Club
Chairman welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend. Chairman
extended a welcome to Debbie who is our Co-op Member Pioneer
Minutes of the meeting of 28th September 2023 had been circulated and were adopted.
UPDATES: *Quiz: Our quiz went ahead on 27th October and raised £270 on the door and £131 on
raffle, total of £401. Chairman thanked Annie and Mike for their hard work in arranging the event
and to Margaret T for organising the raffle. As agreed the proceeds will be sent as a memorial to
David Tarbun – a donation of £500 has been made in his name to his chosen charity, Southwold
Music Trust. Members present felt that the evening felt a bit rushed and the Quizmaster was
rather deprecating in his remarks – and the questions were hard! *Seats in H.P.G. We have
been told that these will be refurbished/are being refurbished and Margaret C has seen work in
progress. *Trinity Court troughs. Planting has been removed. We are told by Eastlight that Trinity
Court residents are going to set up a gardening club and will take on planting. *HALSTEAD bed:
Stones have been purchased from Silverton Aggregates and Holy Trinity has taken 220, Richard
de Clare has requested 520, Margaret T has asked for 50 for Guides, Brownies, Rainbows. It was
suggested that Ramsey College be contacted to see if they can take some. St. Andrew’s has
been asked but have not responded. Post meeting note: Nicky has spoken to Little Pickles
Nursery who will take 100 (I will sort out some of the smaller ones!!). *Surgery vegetation-Billy and
Karyn cut down the vegetation that was over the path as we agreed. They asked if they should
continue with other work but were told that a contractor is being engaged for this work. Well done
Billy and Karyn for your hard work. *Plant Stall- thank you to all who donated plants, nearly all of
them were sold! The stall raised £139.25 in total plus sales of calendars and cards making a total
of £236.50 plus there were donations of £113.90. Well done to stall holders and growers.
*Vegetation over pavements: All instances have been reported but as yet no action is
forthcoming. Billy offered to cut down the overhanging branches along Parsonage Street – RdeC
school will be asked if this will be in order – Billy said he could not remove the cuttings. *Meeting
times going forward – those who have responded have asked that times remain as is for at least
the winter. Will be raised again later in the year. *Broken bracket on trough outside Sainsbury’s.
Has been inspected and it was decided that as troughs are now planted and they will need to be
removed in spring to allow for railings to be painted it is best left for now. *Greene King letter, as
requested by Ian a letter has been sent to G.K thanking them for the planting at The Bull.
CALENDAR STALLS: stall manning sheets were available – if you can help but weren’t at the
meeting please contact Secretary to see available dates/times. We will have a stall at the
Halstead Horticultural Late Show on 11th November and Priory Hall is to hold a coffee morning for
us to sell on 16th November (meet at 10.30). Don is arranging the event, plus a raffle.
EVENTS: *Next community litter pick is planned for 26
th November – it was reported that 3 pickers
turned out on 28th October while we were planting: word is spreading!!. *Next River Clean event
will take place on 5
th November. *League of Friends of Halstead Hospital is holding a quiz at
Queen’s Hall on 18th November. £6 per person. Tickets can be bought from Linda Jackson at the
Cleaners in The Centre. *Co-op Community Day will be on 18th November 10am-11am at the
store in Colchester Road. There will be opportunities to promote Halstead in Bloom and we will be
given space on the community boards for promotion. There will be some free fruit for volunteers –
wear your High-viz vests, please. Debbie explained that the Co-op is willing to assist charity
groups and we can feed ideas to her. HiB has been chosen as a Charity Partner for the year
23/24 and we are grateful for this support. *Halstead Christmas Fayre will be 25th November from
10am to 4pm. We thought we might have the ‘sand game’ that was prepared for the summer fayre
but didn’t’ happen. Joyce has been knitting (and would be grateful for any spare wool that anyone
might have). *St. Andrew’s Christmas Tree event will be 24th/25th and 26th November. Annie is
arranging for a HiB tree to be decorated. *Halstead Torchlight Procession 2023 will be 6th
December. Ian and Joan, plus Julia and Graham offered to shake collection buckets. 6.30 at the
HTC stall in High Street to collect buckets *Poppies are now on sale and HiB will have some on
calendars stalls.
WORKING PARTIES: Joan advised that planting 2nd November had been cancelled due to
adverse weather so Tuesday 7th will be planting at Butler Road, Trinity bus stop, half barrels in
H.P.G., Pink House, Trinity Church and Mount Hill.
Wednesday 8th will be putting out the soldiers’ names at WWI war memorial, St. Andrew’s
Churchyard at 10.30am – should take about an hour. After that it will be continuing planting as
and when. 21stNovember will be decorating Christmas trees in Holy Trinity Church at 2pm. There
are 9 trees and we have been given some lovely decorations that will make a good show
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: Margaret E announced that the Christmas Mince Pie and Natter at
the White Hart will be on Tuesday 14th December at 2pm. The HiB Christmas Afternoon Tea will
be in January, probably 13th or 27th whichever is best for Marie.
Margaret also announced that we will be having a Donation instead of Christmas Card programme
as last year. Margaret then gave some RHS Its Your Neighbourhood certificates: Halstead
Community Allotment (Guides/Brownies/Rainbows) was awarded Level 5-Outstanding; Halstead
Bowls Club was given Level 4 ‘Thriving; Halstead Royal British Legion Club and The Causeway
was awarded Level 3, Developing; Trinity Serenity Garden was awarded Level 3Developing,
Trinity Sharon’s Garden was awarded Level 4 Thriving, Trinity Gardening Club was awarded Level
5 Outstanding; Halstead Retain Fire Station was awarded Level 4 Thriving. A great result for
Halstead! Well done!! Chris announced that HiB will be able to keep the Green Bin for green
waste next year – this announcement was cheered! Alan spoke about Ukraine House where the
3 large bins have been emptied of plants. These are HTC containers and if necessary will be
moved by Tim & Jason. Joyce spoke about the awful state of grounds of Doctors’ Surgery. As
was said, we have been asked not to do any further cutting back, Debra noted the amount of
rubbish left after Hallowe’en which is a great shame. Debra noted that there is a tree falling down
over the footpath in Hedingham Road – post meeting note: This is definitely ECC responsibility.
Will be reported. Debra noted that the poo bin on this footpath has now been emptied after much
lobbying. Debra said that she has some rechargeable tools that can be used by HiB including a
long hedgetrimmer, strimmer, and chainsaw, Fiona noted a broken sponsor sign on The
Causeway. Will be removed and a new one fitted. Linda said that she would appreciate some ivy
for the triangle in St. Andrew’s Churchyard. She needs some compost as well. Please advise
Linda if you can help with ivy. Ian spoke about the rats that are around the river area and also at
Martin’s Road where there is an abandoned garage with rubbish outside. Carol had noted that the
wooden frame of the banner that was in Sudbury Road needs to be removed. Will be reported.
Carol also said that the yellow paint on seed drill will need to be attended to in 2024.
*There being no other business meeting closed at 7.15 pm.
Next meeting is Thursday 30th November 2023 6pm at Royal British Legion Club.
All welcome.
Contacts: Margaret Eskins, Chairman: 01787 269443; Joan Gibson, plants/working parties: 01787

HALSTEAD IN BLOOM
Minutes of a meeting 2
nd November 2023 at 6.00p.m. at Royal British Legion Club
Chairman welcomed all present and accepted apologies from those who could not attend. Chairman
extended a welcome to Debbie who is our Co-op Member Pioneer
Minutes of the meeting of 28th September 2023 had been circulated and were adopted.
UPDATES: *Quiz: Our quiz went ahead on 27th October and raised £270 on the door and £131 on
raffle, total of £401. Chairman thanked Annie and Mike for their hard work in arranging the event
and to Margaret T for organising the raffle. As agreed the proceeds will be sent as a memorial to
David Tarbun – a donation of £500 has been made in his name to his chosen charity, Southwold
Music Trust. Members present felt that the evening felt a bit rushed and the Quizmaster was
rather deprecating in his remarks – and the questions were hard! *Seats in H.P.G. We have
been told that these will be refurbished/are being refurbished and Margaret C has seen work in
progress. *Trinity Court troughs. Planting has been removed. We are told by Eastlight that Trinity
Court residents are going to set up a gardening club and will take on planting. *HALSTEAD bed:
Stones have been purchased from Silverton Aggregates and Holy Trinity has taken 220, Richard
de Clare has requested 520, Margaret T has asked for 50 for Guides, Brownies, Rainbows. It was
suggested that Ramsey College be contacted to see if they can take some. St. Andrew’s has
been asked but have not responded. Post meeting note: Nicky has spoken to Little Pickles
Nursery who will take 100 (I will sort out some of the smaller ones!!). *Surgery vegetation-Billy and
Karyn cut down the vegetation that was over the path as we agreed. They asked if they should
continue with other work but were told that a contractor is being engaged for this work. Well done
Billy and Karyn for your hard work. *Plant Stall- thank you to all who donated plants, nearly all of
them were sold! The stall raised £139.25 in total plus sales of calendars and cards making a total
of £236.50 plus there were donations of £113.90. Well done to stall holders and growers.
*Vegetation over pavements: All instances have been reported but as yet no action is
forthcoming. Billy offered to cut down the overhanging branches along Parsonage Street – RdeC
school will be asked if this will be in order – Billy said he could not remove the cuttings. *Meeting
times going forward – those who have responded have asked that times remain as is for at least
the winter. Will be raised again later in the year. *Broken bracket on trough outside Sainsbury’s.
Has been inspected and it was decided that as troughs are now planted and they will need to be
removed in spring to allow for railings to be painted it is best left for now. *Greene King letter, as
requested by Ian a letter has been sent to G.K thanking them for the planting at The Bull.
CALENDAR STALLS: stall manning sheets were available – if you can help but weren’t at the
meeting please contact Secretary to see available dates/times. We will have a stall at the
Halstead Horticultural Late Show on 11th November and Priory Hall is to hold a coffee morning for
us to sell on 16th November (meet at 10.30). Don is arranging the event, plus a raffle.
EVENTS: *Next community litter pick is planned for 26
th November – it was reported that 3 pickers
turned out on 28th October while we were planting: word is spreading!!. *Next River Clean event
will take place on 5
th November. *League of Friends of Halstead Hospital is holding a quiz at
Queen’s Hall on 18th November. £6 per person. Tickets can be bought from Linda Jackson at the
Cleaners in The Centre. *Co-op Community Day will be on 18th November 10am-11am at the
store in Colchester Road. There will be opportunities to promote Halstead in Bloom and we will be
given space on the community boards for promotion. There will be some free fruit for volunteers –
wear your High-viz vests, please. Debbie explained that the Co-op is willing to assist charity
groups and we can feed ideas to her. HiB has been chosen as a Charity Partner for the year
23/24 and we are grateful for this support. *Halstead Christmas Fayre will be 25th November from
10am to 4pm. We thought we might have the ‘sand game’ that was prepared for the summer fayre
but didn’t’ happen. Joyce has been knitting (and would be grateful for any spare wool that anyone
might have). *St. Andrew’s Christmas Tree event will be 24th/25th and 26th November. Annie is
arranging for a HiB tree to be decorated. *Halstead Torchlight Procession 2023 will be 6th
December. Ian and Joan, plus Julia and Graham offered to shake collection buckets. 6.30 at the
HTC stall in High Street to collect buckets *Poppies are now on sale and HiB will have some on
calendars stalls.
WORKING PARTIES: Joan advised that planting 2nd November had been cancelled due to
adverse weather so Tuesday 7th will be planting at Butler Road, Trinity bus stop, half barrels in
H.P.G., Pink House, Trinity Church and Mount Hill.
Wednesday 8th will be putting out the soldiers’ names at WWI war memorial, St. Andrew’s
Churchyard at 10.30am – should take about an hour. After that it will be continuing planting as
and when. 21stNovember will be decorating Christmas trees in Holy Trinity Church at 2pm. There
are 9 trees and we have been given some lovely decorations that will make a good show
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: Margaret E announced that the Christmas Mince Pie and Natter at
the White Hart will be on Tuesday 14th December at 2pm. The HiB Christmas Afternoon Tea will
be in January, probably 13th or 27th whichever is best for Marie.
Margaret also announced that we will be having a Donation instead of Christmas Card programme
as last year. Margaret then gave some RHS Its Your Neighbourhood certificates: Halstead
Community Allotment (Guides/Brownies/Rainbows) was awarded Level 5-Outstanding; Halstead
Bowls Club was given Level 4 ‘Thriving; Halstead Royal British Legion Club and The Causeway
was awarded Level 3, Developing; Trinity Serenity Garden was awarded Level 3Developing,
Trinity Sharon’s Garden was awarded Level 4 Thriving, Trinity Gardening Club was awarded Level
5 Outstanding; Halstead Retain Fire Station was awarded Level 4 Thriving. A great result for
Halstead! Well done!! Chris announced that HiB will be able to keep the Green Bin for green
waste next year – this announcement was cheered! Alan spoke about Ukraine House where the
3 large bins have been emptied of plants. These are HTC containers and if necessary will be
moved by Tim & Jason. Joyce spoke about the awful state of grounds of Doctors’ Surgery. As
was said, we have been asked not to do any further cutting back, Debra noted the amount of
rubbish left after Hallowe’en which is a great shame. Debra noted that there is a tree falling down
over the footpath in Hedingham Road – post meeting note: This is definitely ECC responsibility.
Will be reported. Debra noted that the poo bin on this footpath has now been emptied after much
lobbying. Debra said that she has some rechargeable tools that can be used by HiB including a
long hedgetrimmer, strimmer, and chainsaw, Fiona noted a broken sponsor sign on The
Causeway. Will be removed and a new one fitted. Linda said that she would appreciate some ivy
for the triangle in St. Andrew’s Churchyard. She needs some compost as well. Please advise
Linda if you can help with ivy. Ian spoke about the rats that are around the river area and also at
Martin’s Road where there is an abandoned garage with rubbish outside. Carol had noted that the
wooden frame of the banner that was in Sudbury Road needs to be removed. Will be reported.
Carol also said that the yellow paint on seed drill will need to be attended to in 2024.
*There being no other business meeting closed at 7.15 pm.
Next meeting is Thursday 30th November 2023 6pm at Royal British Legion Club.
All welcome.
Contacts: Margaret Eskins, Chairman: 01787 269443; Joan Gibson, plants/working parties: 01787

  1. Julia Smith, Secretary 07762587141 email;: jaygrey@btinernet.com
    www.halsteadinbloom.org.uk: Facebook: halsteadinbloom; Instagram @halsteadinbloom
    Join membership of National Co-op (Colchester Road) and note HiB as your preferred charity to donate via –-
    Coop purchases

Winter planting 2023/24

We have started the 2023/24 winter planting, this years plants are Polyanthus in White, Red and Orange, Bellis and Pansies.

There was an excellent turn out by the volunteers for both the sorting of the plants on Saturday the 28th and planting out on Sunday the 29th of October.

A big thank you goes to our suppliers for the winter planting of 2023/24 Bourne Brook Nursery in Greenstead Green.

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