INSIDE THE VOICE OF HARLOW TTHHUURRSSDDAAYY, JANUARY 17, 2008 50p where sold Four-page reader holiday special PPLLUUNNDDEERREERRSS Council WWIILLLL raid reserves to solve £1.8m debt crisis COUNCILchiefs are planning to ByBENWILKINSON,Chief Reporter said this week: “The briefing wasn’t very disregard the wishes of council- [email protected] convincing. It was managerial spin by the chief executive designed to excuse himself lors and plough ahead with a raid and his directors. on the authority’s cash reserves December councillors insisted savings “Malcolm receives a high salary for to plug its budget deficit. must first be found from departmental managing things day-to-day in the Civic The revelation comes as senior offi- running costs. Centre so it’s not unreasonable to expect cers were accused on Tuesday of The meeting – from which members of him to have been monitoring things more the press and public were excluded – closely. hoodwinking councillors into partial- included a presentation to councillors by “He always pushes his way to the front ly selling off Parndon Wood Cemetery chief executive Malcolm Morley on how of photo opportunities when there’s a good and Crematorium. the problems had developed. news story so it’s time he started accepting The Star has spoken to a number of He sought to clarify the meaning of the his share of responsibility when things go councillors who were present at a behind- council’s medium-term financial strategy, wrong.” TTrreeee--ssyy ddooeess iitt!! closed-doors briefing to discuss the author- claiming its direction that reserves should Independent councillor John Paul ity’s £1.8m financial black hole. not be used to support the budget was less Goddard, who claimed he had received a Although many were not willing to go clear-cut than previously suggested. verbal rebuke from Mr Morley after ques- on record, it is understood from sources But when questioned over progress in tioning figures, said: “I find it unbeliev- across the political divide that senior offi- cutting costs, the Starunderstands he was able that, even though councillors have HARLOW’Slatest piece of public art,a 10ft stainless steel sculpture cers still plan to overcome the Civic forced to admit that little or no savings had demanded it, the senior officers have been entitled Tree Of Life,is gently lowered into place in the courtyard at Centre’s huge overspend by plundering yet been found. the Addison House Health Centre by crane. 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Sunday 11am-5pm. Buy online at www.sleepmasters.co.uk TYPICAL All beds may not be available in all stores. **On orders over £499 – stock items only. †All finance subject to status. The Usually price is the price that was charged in the following stores from 22/11/07–19/12/07. Bury, St Helens, Rotherham, Wakefield, Clay Cross, Burton, Newbury, Slough, Ipswich, Swansea, Bedford, Southampton, Chester, Connswater, 0% APR Bournemouth and Blyth. Blackpool, Doncaster, Wolverhampton, Burton, Reading, Carmarthen, Huddersfield, Croydon, Watford, Sheffield, Manchester, Lisburn and Swansea. Liverpool, Derby, Wrexham, Scunthorpe, Hereford, Cardiff, Peterborough, Catford, Telford, Gateshead, Broadstairs, Watford, Lisburn, Ballymena and Tamworth. *Extra 10% off offer ends Sunday 27th January 2008. www.harlowstar.co.uk NEWS January 17, 2008 3 Residents win CCrreemmaattoorriiuumm sseellll--ooffff review on pet zoo relocation ‘‘iiss pprriivvaattiissiinngg ddeeaatthh’’ RESIDENTS opposed to plans to move Pets Corner to fields near their homes appeared this week to have won their fight. In a surprise climbdown, Harlow Council environment and community committee vice- chairman Bob Davis told campaigners that plans to move Call for top officer to go the popular facility into Altham Grove would be reviewed. The development at Tuesday’s A FURIOUS Harlow councillor some credibility and dignity for committee meeting followed the has called on a senior officer to the authority.” presentation of a 1,058-signature resign in the wake of a Mr Goddard expressed concern petition objecting to the catalogue of high-profile about the future of The proposals on the basis of loss of controversies. Playhouse and added:“We green space, additional traffic Former Conservative John Paul need to recognise those that are and hygiene concerns. Goddard,now an independent, truly responsible for this Responding to the petition, Mr said community services chief debacle and who have faced no Davis (Labour) told the meeting: Lynn Seward should quit. disciplinary action or been “The Green Space Working Mr Goddard was reacting to subject to suspension or Party will be recommending to the resignation of Playhouse investigation themselves.” the next meeting of this manager Phil Dale,the Last summer,Mr Dale was committee on February 19 that proposed relocation of Pets’ suspended on full pay for six the Town Park Masterplan is SENIOR Harlow Council officers have ByJIMTANFIELD Corner,the upcoming partial weeks after being accused by reviewed and that a new location been accused of hoodwinking council- [email protected] privatisation of Parndon Wood senior council officers of misuse for Pets Corner is identified. lors into agreeing a partial sell-off of crematorium and cemetery and of expenses.Following a lengthy tion, a request immediately quashed by committee the closure of Harlow Pool. investigation and a cost of at John Curry, of Harlow Civic Parndon Wood Cemetery and Crem- guest and Labour joint council leader Tony Durcan, He told the Star:“I am calling least £7,000 to the taxpayer for Society, said he was delighted atorium. who added: “To defer it would be wrong – this has for the resignation of Lynn outside help,all accusations with the result: “We’ve always Members of the council’s environment been on the table for 16 months and we need to be Seward with immediate effect.I were dropped and Mr Dale said Pets Corner should stay and community committee agreed on Tues- brave and move forward tonight.” believe her own sense of honour returned to work. where it is and, if the council day to seek a private operator to buy its way The proposal was agreed by six votes to one with should have brought her to this The Starinvited the council to wishes to expand it, there is only Mrs Clark rejecting it. Councillors also same conclusion and she must comment but it declined to do plenty of scope for doing so to into a partnership to run the 48-year-old requested the public be consulted. now go in order to preserve so. the south.” public service. Afterwards, Unison branch secretary and crema- Head of regulation Graeme Bloomer claimed the torium worker Martin Stedman said: “I find it Power cable fall facility needed at least £600,000 of investment to astounding our councillors can come to a decision remain viable for the future. He also claimed popu- about Harlow when they have not got any real disrupts trains lation growth might create problems requiring pri- information. vate sector finance. “It only needs a small proportion of the money it During the two-minute presentation, several cre- creates to keep it . The council has now got rid of matorium workers in the public gallery became agi- all services which make any money.” BAD weather on Tuesday tated and started heckling, claiming members were Mr Stedman revealed none of the council’s own disrupted commuters when being given “anomalous and misleading” informa- crematorium experts had been consulted on the power lines came down near tion by Mr Bloomer. financial and equipment needs for the facility. Harlow Town Station during the And voicing her concerns, Jean Clark (Labour) He added: “There has been under-investment for morning rush hour. said: “I find it immensely distasteful we are talking years and questionable management. I don’t think Rail services ground to a halt at about the privatisation of death. It says nothing in the people of Harlow will be convinced.” 8.30am after a tree fell on to this report that gives a real case or justification to The council has highlighted three potential cables, closing the line for the sale in real or financial terms.” investors from preliminary research given the go- almost two hours. She called for a deferment for proper consulta- ahead in October 2006. Debt-hit council will raid reserves from front page unable to find a sin- gle penny worth of savings.” Conservative group leader Tony Hall agreed the debate about using reserves was ani- mated: “The upshot was that we’re going to have to use reserves and wheth- er or not that com- plies with policy depends on how you interpret it.” Joint leaders Tony Durcan and Chris Millington insisted the atmos- phere at the meeting was moderate and it was “about open and honest govern- ment”. Mr Durcan said: “It was a very useful briefing which gave councillors the opportunity to ask questions and find out more about the budget situation.” Mr Millington added: “The council faces similar finan- cial pressures to that of many other coun- cils up and down the country.” 4 January 17, 2008 NEWS email: [email protected] HHeeaalltthh cceennttrree £25.00 OFF £10.00 OFF ssccuullppttuurree wwiillll 4* TYRES 2* TYRES lliifftt tthhee ssppiirriittss * OFFER APPLIES TOTHE FULLY FITTED PRICE OF GOODYEAR,DUNLOP, A STRIKING new piece of modern art MICHELIN,PIRELLI & BRIDGESTONE AND EXCLUDES ADVERTISED SPECIALS has provided the finishing touch to BUDGET SPECIALS LEADING BRAND SPECIALS Harlow’s Addison House Health 155/70X13 TR £15.95 195/65X15 HR GOODYEAR £36.95 Centre. 155X65X13 TR £17.95 205/55X16 VR DUNLOP £52.95 Tree Of Lifewas hoisted in to place at 165/65X13 TR £18.25 the centre next to Princess Alexandra 165/60X14 HR £20.95 HI PERFORMANCE Hospital on Saturday. 165/65X14 TR £19.95 215/35X19 BUDGET WR £64.95 The 10ft-tall stainless steel sculpture, 175/65X14 HR £20.95 225/40X19 BUDGET YR £84.95 which cost Harlow Health Centres 185/65X14 HR £21.95 Trust £12,000,is the work of 185/55X15 VR £27.95 RUNFLAT Gloucester artist Simon Packard.It 195/45X15 VR £25.95 205/55X16 CONTI SSR VR £79.95 stands on a plinth in the courtyard . 195/50X15 VR £24.95 205/45X17 PIRELLI VR £99.95 195/60X15 VR £24.85 245/40X18 GOODYEAR YR £155.95 Addison House,which is home to a GP 195/65X15 VR £25.95 surgery,dental practice,cancer unit, 205/55X16 WR £30.45 4X4 sexual health services and staff 205/50X17 WR £39.95 225/55X18 GOODYEAR HR £114.95 accommodation,was built in 2000 and 225/45X17 WR £42.95 285/45X19 MICHELIN VR £175.95 officially opened by former Health Secretary Alan Milburn. OVER 1200 TYRES IN STOCK Trust chairman Martin Lawn said he was delighted with the sculpture and UNCLE TOMS RECOMMEND THAT NEW VALVES ARE FITTED AND THAT insisted the impact it would have on WHEELS ARE BALANCED.A CHARGE WILL BE MADE FOR THIS SERVICE. the atmosphere of the centre was well worth the cost. UNCLE TOM’S PRICE PROMISE “The enjoyment which we are sure will be experienced by those who work and IF OUR FULLY FITTED PRICE ON TYRES & EXHAUSTS IS visit Addison House will most certainly make them feel better which is an NOT THE LOWEST IN HARLOW, THEN TELL US AND WE important part of being healthy,” he WILL BEAT ANY SUBSTANTIATED QUOTE. said. EASYDOESIT:Artist Simon Packard oversees the operation to lower his sculpture into place (photo: S4JYQPLB/01) RRooaadd rree pp aaii rr ss ALL FITTED WITH A 2 YEAR UNLIMITED MILEAGE GUARANTEE MODEL MIDDLE & REAR REAR BOX ONLY AUDI A3 1.6 £69.95 £39.95 AU274 & AU275 FIESTA 1.25 95-99 £49.95 £25.95 ‘‘ggooiinngg ttoo ppoott’’ FE529 & FE530 £69.95 £25.95 FOCUS 1.8 HATCH 98- FE692 & FE693 PUNTO 1.2i 16V 99 ON £69.95 £34.95 FT683 & FT684 PEUGEOT 307 1.6i 01 ON £69.95 £36.95 BySUEARCHER inches (2.5cm to 5cm). It forms part of a maintenance strat- [email protected] PG637 & PG638 egy plan which is due to be thrashed ROVER 25 1.1-1.6 99 ON £64.95 £29.95 POTHOLES in Essex roads otruatn sbpyo mrtaemtiobne rsp oofl itchye hdiegvhewloaypsm aenndt RR312 & RR253 will have to be twice as deep group today (Thursday). before they are repaired, it Norman Hume, cabinet member for FREE SERVICING BATTERIES surfaced this week. Pothole Patrol returns to Second highways and transportation, said the But the proposal has caused an Avenue in Harlow for a second change would bring Essex into line time after a reader nominated with other authorities such as Kent BRAKE PAD CHECKS FROM FROM un-hole-y political row at Cons- two holes which appear to be a where only potholes which risk endan- PADS FITTED FROM £89.95 £33.00 ervative-led County Hall where lot deeper than the 2inch gering highway users are identified for ONLY opposition councillors claim it benchmark set for emergency urgent repair within two hours or by will cause more accidents. repairs. The craters are located the end of the following working day. £29.95 INC PARTS & LABOUR 3 YEAR GUARANTEE sim“pDlyo unbolitn agc coefp tthabe lep,”o thsaoilde Ldaebpothu ri’ss oCnh utrhceh sLtarnegtclehy o tfo r oHaodw afrrodm Way. rep“aPiro wthiolll ebse idneontt ifrieedq uainrdin pgr iourirtgiseendt highways spokesman Paul Sztumpf, for repair during routine mainte- who represents the Harlow North divi- Do you know of a pothole you want nance,” he said. “I anticipate this will sion on the county council. to name and shame? Call (01279) allow us to meet the expectations of “The Tories intend to implement 400577 or email the details to road users in Essex to an even greater these changes on April Fools’Day but [email protected] extent than we are already doing." it’s no laughing matter for the Essex The plans come just weeks after the public.” Conservatives announced a £10m Liberal Democrat spokesman Keith “The basic premise seems to be to overspend on the highways budget. Francis added: “The report outlining wait until damage to road surfaces gets However, a party spokesman stressed changes to the way potholes and other worse before even looking to see the group had invested £45m of addi- damage to roads and footpaths are to whether it should be fixed or not.” tional council tax in road improve- OPEN:MON-FRI 8.30-6.00 SAT 8.30-5.00 SUN CLOSED be dealt with is riddled with inconsis- The proposal is to increase the ments and citied a MORI poll which ALL OFFERS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. PRICES APPLY CASH OR CREDIT CARD SALES ONLY. tencies and it’s hard to see how it will benchmark at which potholes are found Essex had some of the best ALL PRICES INCLUDE VAT. be of benefit to residents. deemed hazardous from one to two maintained roads in the country. www.harlowstar.co.uk NEWS January 17, 2008 5 CCoouuppllee iinn ccoouurrtt Hammer attack victim left with head wound A MAN needed hospital treat- the investigation.” oonn bbrrootthheellss rraapp ment after intruders broke into The attack happened shortly his home and attacked him with a before 9pm last Monday. claw hammer in front of his girl- One of the men is described as friend and her child. white, about 35-40, stocky and The victim was left with a gash about 1.75m (5ft 9ins) tall and to his head which needed seven was wearing black trousers, a stitches after two men forced black jacket and a black woolly their way into his house in The hat. His accomplice is 30-35, of Downs, Harlow. similar height and also dressed A TAXI driver and his wife appeared He fought off his assailants all in black with a black woolly CCaammppaaiiggnn aa ccaauussee ffoorr aallaarrmm in court on Tuesday accused of run- and briefly gave chase when they hat. ning three brothels in Essex and fled but gave up when he lost Anybody with information Suffolk, sight of them. should call Ms Mitchell on Police are working on the pos- (01279) 625412. Anthony Pryor (59), of The Plain, sibility the man could have been The man is the latest person to Epping, and his Chinese-born wife Qing a victim of mistaken identity. have been injured after being Hua (37) face three joint charges of keep- Detective Constable Angie attacked in Harlow in recent ing a brothel for the use of prostitution. Mitchell, who is leading the weeks. Two teenagers were beat- They deny the allegations. investigation, said: “I would like en with a metal pole last Sunday The jury at Chelmsford Crown Court heard to hear from anybody who was in and a man was struck with a police had been keeping watch on three premis- the area so they can help us with hammer in December. es – in Sudbury, Braintree and Ipswich – for some time. “Sometimes there was little activity but on other occasions it was rather like Piccadilly Circus with up to 10 male callers coming and going during the day,” said prosecutor Stephanie Farrimond. CHURCHGATE HOTEL LEISURE CLUB “When police carried out co-ordinated raids on the three establishments they found them to be sparsely furnished save for large quantities of condoms and cash.” The court was told Pryor had placed adverts in local newspapers for personal services which included “Far Eastern massage” and “Chinese remedies”. But when undercover officers called up they were offered various sexual services including “full pleasure” for £60 or sex without a condom for £80. Miss Farrimond said that five young women found in the Braintree and Ipswich premises were all illegal immigrants. They were released on police bail but all subsequently disappeared. SAFETY FIRST: The court heard that Pryor’s tax return for the Pictured, left to financial year ending 2006 declared a profit of right,are Harlow £3,519 from receipts of £21,279 as a taxi driver, firefighters Paul while his wife declared herself to be a house- Rogers, Gary wife. But during the course of the year just Smith, Jason under £100,000 had gone into their bank Whitbread and FIREFIGHTERS in Harlow maintain their alarms on a accounts. Trevor Fuller are urging residents to weekly basis. The case continues. (photo: LHYHNBXN/03) check their smoke alarms “The message is simple: every week as part of a smoke alarms save lives,but countywide campaign to only if they work! We’re save lives. urging everyone to pull their www.cameokitchens.co.uk The Pull Your Finger Out fingers out and test their initiative was launched this smoke alarms – this simple 70 (Essex Yeomanry) week to highlight the action could save the lives of prepareyourself importance of having a their loved ones.” Signal Squadron working detector after statistics revealed that a (cid:2)A DROP in the number large number of people who of fire deaths in Essex has own smoke alarms do not been attributed to a focus on check they are functioning. education and distribution YOUR CHANCE TO Harlow station commander of smoke alarms. Matt Hughes said:“Despite Last year four people died in the fact a high number of blazes in the county FIND OUT MORE people own a smoke alarm,a compared to the nine daths disturbing number do not in 2006. 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Hillgrove House, Hillgrove Business Park, 01279 731663 Pass plus registered Mac Support,Training etc. Nazeing Road, Nazeing, Essex EN9 2HB 0800 1692683 07726 321791 012799 316431 Epping,, Harlow,, B.St’frd 6 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR January 17, 2008 email: [email protected] TYRES • EXHAUSTS • SERVICING • BATTERIES • CLUTCHES • TYRES Call for ban is ! Playhouse boss a a load of bull T E Y R E SIR, Whilst I do not condone dogs S • E bdeoi nI gfe beilt taenn obwy noetrh eshr oduolgds baen dp untor SPIhRil, DIta lceo mhaess daesc nidoe dsu trop rtihsreo wth aint the X through the pain, upset and expense towel and resign as manager of The H A caused by their pets being attacked Playhouse (Star, January 10). L US (Star, January 10), I do feel these His departure has a grim air of T stories should be given a little more inevitability about it. Despite all his WE’LL BEAT S • S creopnosridteedr.ation on how they are hwaerrde wneovrke ra qnudi tien nroigvhatt iboenh, itnhdi ntghse E Owner Ed Byrch seems to be quick scenes and, sadly, he's decided he's R A ANY PRICE V enough to say a Staffordshire bull had enough. IC terrier should be added to the Phil's going is a bitter loss not only IN TOWN! IN dangerous dogs list yet later on he for the theatre and its patrons but We’ll better any competitor’s G • B irse sqpuoontseidb laes oswaynienrgs tohuetr eth aerree but it fgorro utphse acnodu nptelersfosr nmuemrsb ehre ohfa dsrama substantiated quote for comparable AT seems some people are not. encouraged during his time in S and available products and services TE So at the expense of people like charge. or if after you’ve purchased from us RIE mtoy esdeulfc awthe oo utarkseel vthees toimn teh aen bdr eeeffdort IH daorlno'wt fCooru onnceil mshoamreesn tm syuppose that PHILDALE oyfo mu afiknidn ga yloowure pr uprrcichea sleo,c walley, gwuaitrhainn t7e ed wayes S • C wouer odwogns a anrde tnaokte saelel ns tienp sa tboa den lsiguhret saenndt pimopeunltasr. Tmhaen alogsesr omf eaann se nite rigse otnice Stoedcaoyn'ds Wtoowrnld pWlaanrn. eBrust ,a nhde ym, ownheayt do LU when out on walks, one person is step closer to getting rid of the men care about historical will refund the difference plus 10%. T allowed to encourage more people theatre and flogging off its prime landmarks? CH to share his views without any town centre site for yet more retail Look what is happening to our R T111676Y555///R677500rrrE111334S TTT BBBAuuuLdddLggg LeeeEtttADING MAKES £££IWN222 669SA...T993SO994CK£££111N879O...477W555 ES • TYRE uiIwn naevdmlole-l rvvasei tsmdain.teedmdin bSget rao foff fot hrtdhese bh trieeraeem db uolnl a oTphituoih swstetli oaetPristolys ant..y h Whieno h fuEeirsnnse gti l thin sooehlpwd ets hnt ahee aeduta nirtniircq etau hlteeo 1b9e70s S'HGCfpoaairorrlslndr,t tee'Lc,nr oe st–nno, gtoaHrm.lea lT a ru–hnlon e twiHnhq o auPtuteho s ewoterola,e sat'Hs nhaa det r nhlWPoaeewat tTit osoeanwrnadnl all 118855//5650rr1144 HH BBuuddggeett ££3371..5669 ££2260..5905 S • E tmerermiebr ewr eisb stihteer feo trou msh.a Erev ethryeir own built in the country since the lost or under some form of threat. X experience, learn about the breed, 118855//5655rr1155 VH BBuuddggeett ££3392..9816 ££2274..9590 HAU adsiskc audssv itchee iorn s uhcecaeltshs pinro tbhlee mshso wand hinufnodrmreadtsi oans ihse t hclaati mlasst. yMeyar 93 left wloaoikti nfogr wtoa hrde atro faro tmim teh we hcoenu nnceiwl. I A 195/50r15 V Budget £35.21 £24.95 S ring with their dogs. Essex to join the Met and of this leadership is installed and 195/55r15 V Budget £38.74 £26.50 T S Staffordshire bull terriers make total the overwhelming majority taxpayers’money is managed with 119955//6605rr1155 VV BBuuddggeett ££3387..7546 ££2245..9855 • S excellent pets in the right homes. were in the first part of the year. care, integrity and transparency. E Many people own them with other It is also interesting to note that D. Margetson 220055//5505rr1166 WW BBuuddggeett ££3482..7246 ££3301..5905 RV pets or breeds of dogs with no during the same period 11 former Fir Park, Harlow E 215/55r16 W Budget £46.96 £33.95 ICIN aSgtagfrfeosrsdiso.n I to ins tah eb rpeaerdt ooff tdhoeg that ttrhaen Msfeerte.es returned to Essex from Dangers at 185/65r15 H Dunlop SP300 £61.06 £36.99 119955//5655rr1155 HH FUirneirsotoynale R F575000 ££6469..4311 ££3396..9955 G • B hyeaas rbs.e eTnh ebyre sdh oinw o au rg rceoautn sturyc cfeosrs in Tofhfeicree riss mnootvhiinngg buentwuseueanl faobrocuets. road crossing 221055//6555rr1156 HV FDiruensltoopn SeP T3Z001000 ££7730..9496 ££5502..9955 ATTE CCrluubft sr eecvoegnntiss easn dth tehme UasK a Kberenende.l Trehaesyo nasr e– fcreaere teor ddoev seol oapnmd efnotr, many SIR, While waiting at the pelican Y 21F5/5R5r1E6 WE !FirAeLsLAt RoCEAn RCe OT TVYERZRREE1SED P0FA IB0TIYRT ESA£DE F8R BRV8YEI.E CF0 EOP9URNMCU£TL5UA5R OE.7N5E RIES • C Isbf uhraelogleyurd lerdsee. sbtIphe toa hgtni inssviokebm nloe ewt of tno yoerp wrteshn esoeh frd oslo uiogclfe d tn ahbcleleey pacanonodndli,d c aoii tnnmigo oo nsvcstce.y amTleshei,o infsnat shmo,a fips li yatays lc w sairtanacydfusfm ibsse tgeanon ocsedos cdhreaoazsfas rsidntu.gd oennt V Ie wlizityn eAsvseendu ae pwoittehn atial LU own and its behaviour in public. I for the police service. We were going from Harlow W EAXsWtreaH tr1hee.c4 owA/m1h.me6eUe/l1 nisd. 7 btSDahlaa t n 9acT4e nd-e9.S wA9 vcTahlUvaerBgR( RiGesEE ATfMwiAtRitI2lLle B6Cdb4OU et SoXmT OEeaaSMdc EeFhR £If STon4 WOreT0 NwtEAh.LD 9YtiSsy) 5 PrseRe rIavCn£iEcdN2e t.3Oh.a5Wt0 TCHES • TY abhtdhleaosa nnoatd e lsfls oeot ooemw lfee etindthnhc aetoiotxn r pbgctaere iekr ntieehe dt nihpiscnel.aeg lcd ase woh wwo suinhtlheodriu nsnl doath tnbede Eotcowoffsf nostihes coxteeaf rb imsttl hsefoeersslo .ftc m Eushusr atrscsheec enrxe et sM cisasrfs euursteil,it gsefitanodarcr ndmcltuee acddsnh iianyinesg ftohnee Cwcfolaoonoadrm i lytttlhih menwegeg ue iog tn fphtrioop cehr aeo tetnthsehri e dtmeg e tu tloashiiwngidad hentte ot ws ds w fooetloa gawss s.hc hhIaho i afbulbeenelladigcnr aeewdu dIasiet, CEsocrosrat 1h.a0t c 9h7 1-.041 9T0U-9B9GTMU3B0F6E182 ££4208..9041 ££2129..9955 RES Hbaonwneinvger o, n Ie s btrroenegdl yo fb deolige vise not the cboeu pnatrrty o afn idts m apanpyro oafcfhic teor sp owlaicnitn tgo. tchhaatn igf ewd es hcero mssiegdh tb setfeopr ei nthtoe tlhigehts Fiesta1.1 90-97 TUBFE83 £28.01 £19.95 • E wwahyic fho mrwaadred .t hPeimtb umllos rwe edrees biraanbnlee dto Ifnew fa wcth, iEchss iesx s Ptiolll iicnec ries aosnineg o ift sthe road. Focus 1.8 Hatchback 98 on TUBFE693 £40.94 £26.95 XH owners who felt the need to own a numbers which are now at the I could see her feeling the box to Mondeo 1.6/1.8 93-96 TUBFE341 £40.94 £24.75 AU dog classed as dangerous while highest levels ever, helping to press the button but I don’t know E PPPReeuouunvggetoeer oo21tt1. 1236 00/946641 -u149.p/744 /t11To6.U16 ./ B619F .5 9T9-D95809 -930 30T-U9T7BUTRBRUP2BG5P57G43409££££54653063....89786496 ££££32331691....22525505 STS • SER pphpadahoitpdrlbdaeiunsirnlesglg s htb esayrru eprlceioeehddar sd sau esthpo d“a aatsgh subne ndro el”atie .ns wdtBg owewarrnikoiltneluh idnsn ogaatnsd miTagnneh adnEei,enr neritgnaa alldialnreyen e t dbhdr.eu,e at p cltu ohibsuelsn iudctey essb e aaacstbt eooo rnau bept oapouyoft lsiacfeest hsagJaulorefeswertet n ttspho hmae ecdn ar wonoas o rfgs ula ralanodssyuh k tpeshn soeo.ou rfwen s d itwsu w dhneheonne vtn sii t bt ohwrneaa ttsihneg SERVICING VICING sMmimoyn pStlhytas f mofoladrkd.e sS hdhioerge h baatust lanlc etkevsre rdri eibsria tiptsep n1e9ar. pfaanaiydrli ynn gon tea melld ipss cutobonl ibccee spbetaciostoendrs . wono rfkaecrtss otwhthhea ertro Isa idtdh, eoa uso gfm httho eswt orsoutaulddd ewhnaatpslkp deeodn, adacindrdo. sIs N MSSEEARRSVVTIICCEREE PDSERERITCVAEIICSL SEIN OCNL URDEQE ULMEEASATDSTINEGR SBERRAVNICDE O IL - • BAT athhnarsoe tenh eetvirm edreo srge b tyayel itsa msteha.el lhera sb rbeeeedns bbiuttten CSehealrelyess, COoldc hHraarnloew sopafuwfl lb eaud t c ha terhr ae dp boplgrino adacc rlhoaidsnsyg t hhqueur irrtoieea dad l.wy ay up to 1300cc only £79.95 up to 2000cc only £99.95 TE My parents have both been bitten Switch over to I could see this unimaginable scene Mup AtoS 1T60E0Rcc SoEnlyRVIC£E89.95 Mup AtoS 2T50E0Rcc SoEnlyRVI£C1E0 9.95 RIES bdyam Sahgi-eT czauuss aendd t oI bwootuhl do fs athye tmhe green energy uconufoldld ninogt sbheofuotr eo rm syc reeyaems .b Iutt wIas AMBAOYV BEE 2 5N0E1CccE CSSAALRLY W IFI TSHEM VIE SHYINCTLEH EDTEITCA /I LSSY. NATNH AEDTIDCITOIOILN ISA RLE CQHUAIRREGDE • CL wchoiuldld. Bbue tc doon stihdeesrea bdloyg ws ogreste on a oonf ltyh ew rhoeand tthhea tl aId rye arleiascehde wd hoautr side MOT TEST U reported? Of course they do not SIR, I have great sympathy with might have happened. TC because everybody wants to jump John Curry who details Harlow I told the lady she should have 50% OFF* HE on the bandwagon of claims of Council’s glaring waste of waited and I would have helped her S another Staffordshire bull terrier taxpayers’money by leaving the once on the other side. She just said WA*5NH0YE% MN OATFASFKT EEMNRI NTSIOESGRTEVRTIYCH EFE ERE WITH • EX aMttra cBky.rch claims he is now C(Lievtitce rCse, nJatrneu lairgyh t3s) o. n all night shhaed hmeiasrsde dp etohpe llei gahntds tchhoaungghint gs.h e HA frightened to take his dog for a Shortly before Christmas I wrote to When I reached the far side of the BRAKES U walk. He obviously feels the law joint council leader Tony Durcan crossing I asked the students if they ST should be stricter on dogs roaming with a proposal that it sources its had been aware the blind lady had FRONT PADS FITTED S free, but adding one breed to the energy from a renewable energy stepped into the road. They said it CColiors/Saa/Axsotra FORNOLMY • SE dchananggereo tuhsi sd aongds aisc tn woto tuhled wnoayt pcoromvmidietrm teon dt etom foingshttriantge ictlsimate whaavsen ’wt athiteeidr ffaour ltth aen bdl esehpes s.hould FRioevsetar /2E5s/c4o5rt/Mondeo £19.95 RV forward. change. But of course there are no bleeps at IC Dawn Groom There are many councils across the that pelican crossing. Is there any IN address supplied – Editor UK that are making this ethical way it can be made safer not only HARLOW G • B No migration cehnoerigcey ttoa rsiwff,i tpcrho vtoin ag rteon ethweairble faocrr othsse tshteu dreonatds bwuht of ocro dnisstaabnltelyd run EDINBURGH WAY AT residents that they are prepared to pedestrians? Why isn’t there any T change their ways. If Harlow sound to alert blind people it is safe 01279 454411 ER to the Met Council were to switch to a to cross,or a vibrating pad to assist IE renewable energy provider I may deaf/blind people? OPEN: S SIR, As an independent member of rest a little easier in the knowledge An under or overpass would be the MON-FRI 8.30-6.00 www.f1autocentres.com the Essex Police Authority I can that the “blazing” lights at the Civic ideal solution but as per usual SAT 8.30-5.00 ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED- BRANCHES NATIONWIDE correct some of the facts in Robert Centre are not contributing to money is the problem. How long ALL ADVERTISED PRICES INCLUDE VAT & APPLY TO RETAIL CUSTOMERS ONLY Halfon`s letter about police pay climate change. before another life is lost or is SUN 10.00-4.00 THESE OFFERS CANNOT BE TAKEN IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER PROMOTION (Letters, January 3). Although promised that I would compensation cheaper than an ALL OFFERS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY Essex is not losing officers to the receive a response from someone underpass? PLEASE NOTE THAT CALLS MAY BE MONITORED AND RECORDED FOR TRAINING PURPOSES Metropolitan Police by the within five working days I am still Name and address supplied – Editor www.harlowstar.co.uk LETTERS TO THE EDITOR January 17, 2008 7 we now need to build three million new told. WWEE SSAAYY hard act to follow homes to house the migrants we are Maybe they will appear again with the told have more rights than we have. daffodils. I await a happy outcome to There is so much more to say but space this mystery. IN light of Harlow Council's obvious prohibits. Let me simply state all parties John Curry financial shortcomings, it is made a manifesto promise at the last Old Orchard, Harlow perhaps time for councillors and general election to give a referendum officers to come clean about the vote to the British people on the subject Amnesty thanks effects of the crisis on the town's of the Lisbon Treaty. Gordon Brown is services. now refusing to honour that promise SIR, We would like to thank all those For example, can we seriously be even though his stated ‘red line’ kind people who took time to visit the expected to believe the premature comfort clauses have been disregarded Amnesty International stall in the closure of the swimming pool was by the House of Commons Scrutiny Harvey Centre and send a message of anything other than cost-cutting and Committee as having little worth. support to some of those unfortunates a result of years of under- During the debate in the Commons this whose human rights are being abused investment? next few weeks Mr Rammell will be asked to support his party leader despite in so many countries. The thousands of And is the proposed privatisation of knowing that a TNS Europe-wide poll cards they have received will give them Parndon Wood crematorium really reported 75 per cent of the people renewed hope. creating best value for the town or is polled in 27 countries want a The greetings card campaign runs until it merely a face-saving measure for referendum vote. In Britain the figure the end of this month and anyone who politicians who would hate to be seen was 83 per cent. would like to take part can find details as leaving a legacy of debt at the end on the website www.amnesty.org.uk/gcc. of their tenure? HARLOWPLAYHOUSE Mr Rammell has one advantage his constituents do not have. He must know Thanks also for your generosity in Perhaps this is the time to remind No doubt Phil Dale wanted to be a pleasure and honour it has been why it is going to be so much better for donating £100 towards Amnesty’s work councillors they were elected to serve leftalone to mange The Playhouse to work with Phil Dale over the past our lives and the future lives of our which currently includes campaigns on the people of the town. Yet they have but some backroom meddler just few years. grandchildren in Britain when the China and on human trafficking. nearly all remained mysteriously had to get in the way. His presence on the stage, his Government has given away the final Anne Neuhaus tight-lipped about the consequences Good luck, Phil, you'll be much devotion to the children he coaches authorities for the British people to run Elmbridge, Harlow the current cash crisis could have on missed. and their respect for him all their own country and constituency the future of leisure and community Bridget McAlpine brought out the best in everyone. affairs. We pay tax too services. Vicarage Wood, Harlow We shall carry on but the heart of Please, Mr Rammell, tell us why our They should remember that the very the theatre will be gone. lives will be so much better when we SIR, If the powers-that-be in Harlow people who use and value these SIR, As an usher who works at The Muriel Lee are just one small part of the EU Council managed their finances better, services put them in the position of Playhouse, I am writing to say what Rectory Wood, Harlow Federal State of Europe rather than an the situation over the cost of bus passes protecting the town's proud heritage. independent democratic state. for pensioners would not have arisen And needless to say it is the same Consequences of Consequently, Britain is no longer the Alan Pond (Star, January 10). people, who can, through the ballot sovereign, democratic state it once Grange Lane, Roydon OAPs should not suffer because of the box, decide enough is enough if they was. We are told, or rather find out by council’s inefficiency. We also pay believe they are being short-changed. EU interference default, that 80 per cent of our laws Bobbies on bikes council tax so any increase will affect have been made by the EU. Those us. Please keep letters to 300 words SIR, Bill Rammell is the only person 1,000 new measures or directives are a rare sight C.A. Usher maximum and always include your from our constituency who will be able shower into Britain each year creating Foldcroft, Harlow name and address. Write toStar to speak and vote shortly in a House of so much volume in Parliament that Letters, 6-8 West Gate, Harlow, Cimopmomrtaonnts mdeabttaetre aoffne cat ivnigta lelvyery mwiothsto aurte d seibmaptely i nrtuob bBerri tsistahm lapwed or, SsoIR lo, nOgn acgeo u, pyoonu ac otiumlde oinc cHasairolonwal,l yn ostee Fowl practice Essex( 0C1M22790) 1 4J0W0, 5fa7x0 yooru er mleatitler to British subject. worse still, gold-plated. Frankly, Mr a bobby on a bike. This was reassuring [email protected] Because he represents the interests of Rammell, that is not what we have as it confirmed that there is SIR, I am writing to confirm my To obtain permission to copy asked you or your colleagues to do. constabulary life beyond the computer family’s total support for the current cuttings from the Harlow Star for all voters in the Harlow constituency, I screen and the squad car. campaign against the intensive farming internal management and bfreolnietv we hheer eh ahse as tdauntdys toon a tdhvei sseu bujse uctp of Wbye u fninelde cwteed a qreu ainncgroesa swineg dlyid r engout laastked Now you never see one. Are they of chickens and any other meat. cinofnotramcat ttihoen Npuewrpsopsaepse ry oLuic sehnosuinldg the EU reform or Lisbon Treaty. for, want or need. These bypass the hibernating or is it more basic than that We look forward to websites, etc Agency, Wellington Gate, Church time-tested establishments we trust and in that there is no one at the police continuing the battle. Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1NL. You For the past 30 years politicians of all laws honed by centuries of hard station who can fix punctures, adjust Mrs H. Davey can also call them on 01892 525273 parties have deliberately, experience. Our borders leak so badly brakes and oil chains? We should be Daisy Cottages, Gilston or email [email protected] unintentionally or by default allowed the sovereignty of Britain to be handed Have your say on Have oyveor piuecerm easl toa a ygro uop onf HHHaaavvveee yyyooouuurrr sssaaayyy ooonnn our forum ouunrde mfoocrarticu, unmelected ooouuurrr fffooorrruuummm commissioners in Brussels without The reference to their voters. Perhaps they forgot that, under the terms of the British constitution, Britain is owned by its people; politicians are only elected for, at most, a five-year term to enact policies put to the people in an New www.hertsandessexobserver.co.uk www.hertfoelredctsiohni rmeamnifeerstcou. ry.co.uk wwwwwwwww...hhhaaarrrlllooowwwssstttaaarrr...cccooo...uuukkk MY NEW YEARS RESOLUTION Edinburgh Year The Will Group offers clients a Will drafting service at a FIXED FEE Military Tattoo Husband and Wife/Partner Will £40 each - Single Will £55 2 nights departing **** SPECIAL REDUCED FEE **** £159 1 & 15 Aug 2008 from STAFF and SENIOR CITIZENS 15% DISCOUNT Sale TO BOOK, OR FOR A BROCHURE FREE Home Visiting Service:Daytime or Evenings 0O8N T4HE5 A BO2VE2 H6OL ID9AY7 CA2LL5: Telephone for a brochure or to arrange an appointment Quoting Advert Code HEM. 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Find us at: 4 Star Street,Ware, Herts Aworldofsmilesiswaiting love 01920 468664 or 01920 466664 foryouhere: Open: Mon-Sat from 9am-5pm Monday 6:15pm or 8:15pm 2 sessions – YOUchoose! food Tye Green Community Centre, Bush Fair (next door to library) Lesley (01279) 301601 or 07721 622888 ********** Tuesday 6:30pm Church Langley Community Centre (drive round to small hall at rear or park in love Tesco’s car park) & Wednesday 7pm SlimmingWorld VENUE CHANGE Cook Spinney Primary School, Mardyke Road, at Back of The Stow Library Katie (01992) 306466 or 07775 991271 Established since 1980 Thursday 6:30pm 0844 897 8000 Milwards Primary School On Main Paringdon Road Lynsey (01279) 628983 Greatly reduced prices • Wide range of products • Ex-displays must be sold www.slimmingworld.com or 07784 978137 8 January 17, 2008 NEWS email: [email protected] Bogus police steal from pensioners DDoonnaattiioonn iiss aa bbiigg SSppuurr ttoo hhoossppiiccee PENSIONERS were burgled with an Irish accent claiming house. after being conned by two to be a policeman. He kept One of the men in the latest FUNDRAISING for St Clare men posing as police officers. her talking as another man incident was described as Hospice got a tremendous The elderly couple were at broke in at the rear and stole being 30-40, white, of medi- Spur on Friday when the home in Red Lion Lane, an unknown amount of cash. um build, with short dark hair, footballing pride of north Harlow, when thieves called. The theft follows an inci- a small amount of facial hair London made a welcome donation. The 72-year-old woman dent in nearby Hillside on and an Irish accent. No answered the door about 9pm January 3 when two men pos- description was given of the Tottenham Hotspur captain Ledley King took time out of on Monday to find a man ing as police tried to enter a second man. his busy training schedule to hand over a cheque for £2,500 to head of corporate fundraising Mark Robinson real wood furniture at a presentation on Friday. The money was raised through the FA Community Shield and will be used to meet the cost of running an in-patient’s room at the biggest ever sale Hastingwood hospice for up to one month. “Following a trip Wayne Routlegde made to the St.Clare Hospice last year I know all about the good work up to 50% off done there,” Ledley told the Star.“It is great to see the funds from the Community Shield match being used in this way and I was delighted to be able to present them THANKS:Ledley King and Mark Robinson (photo: ZPGP7SPD/01) with this cheque.” BBuuiillddeerr wwiinnss ppaayyoouutt oovveerr oak • rustic • painted ccoouunncciill ssnnuubb HARLOW Council has been ByBENWILKINSON of (the council’s) cavalier attitude. It ordered to pay a former Chief Reporter must have been aware from the evi- dence called at the January hearing employee £66,821 in com- [email protected] ash • pine and more... that (Mr O’Mahoney) was in a dire pensation after ignoring an financial position and its delay can industrial tribunal’s previ- authority’s manual staff were trans- only have served to exacerbate that ous order to reinstate him. ferred to contractor Kier Harlow. position. The tribunal unanimously Builder Steven O’Mahoney He subsequently found it impossi- concludes that (the council’s) actions ble to get work, took to drink and in failing to reinstate (Mr (46) was awarded the payout by a was diagnosed with depression. He O’Mahoney) were deliberate.” tribunal in Stratford. The level of remains signed off work. Mr O’Mahoney was represented the compensation was said to At the most recent hearing, the tri- by the Union of Construction, Allied reflect the council’s “cavalier” bunal found unanimously that the Trades and Technicians. Regional attitude and obstructive actions. council had provided no reasonable secretary Brian Rye said: “Our offi- Mr O’Mahoney, who was dis- excuse for not reinstating Mr cials had gone to great lengths to missed in May 2006 for alleged dis- O’Mahoney. persuade council officers that this honesty, expected to get his job back Its findings state: “The manner of dismissal was wrong. immediately after a tribunal hearing termination of (Mr O’Mahoney’s) “The decision of council officers on January 8 last year ordered his employment in May 2006 was to ignore that advice and the rulings extra discounts in store reinstatement and a smaller award of peremptory and made without prop- of the employment tribunal has cost spend and save compensation. er investigation of the circumstances. Harlow council tax-payers dearly.” But the council refused to comply “The delay in paying (Mr A council spokesman said the fantastic savings on the regions finest with the order, meaning he was left O’Mahoney) compensation ordered authority was disappointed at the out a few weeks later when the in January 2007 is further evidence outcome. collection of real wood furniture Tory stands by malnutrition claim massive choice • excellent service A ROW has broken out between the Halfon of not understanding the by his original comments because chief executive of Harlow’s Princess complex elements of managing they were based on official statistics. Alexandra Hospital and the Conser- nutrition. “The figures on malnutrition are vative hoping to become the town’s “There are a number of complex not Conservative figures they are the next MP over statistics on patient clinical reasons why a patient might Government’s own figures, placed malnutrition. be under-nourished following a hos- irrefutably on the public record The war of words began after Tory pital stay, including the treatment through Parliamentary questions,” he Unit B, St.James Centre, Templefields, Harlow (01279) 450923 prospective Parliamentary candidate and drug regime they are under or said. Robert Halfon released figures the illness they have been treated “According to Government fig- (next door to Tesco and behind the Range) obtained by his party’s health for,” he said. ures, in 2006-07 PAH admitted 301 spokesman Stephen O’Brien. “To group them all together and patients with diagnosis of malnutri- open: Mon to Fri 10am – 6pm • Sat 9.30am – 6pm The data suggested that in 2006- give the impression they have been tion, nutritional anaemia or other Sun 10.30am – 4.30pm free parking 07, PAH discharged 309 malnour- neglected or under-fed whilst in our nutritional deficiency and dis- ished patients and that, nationwide, hospital is totally misleading.” charged 309. www.conway-furniture.com cases of malnutrition in UK hospi- He added that the hospital moni- “Given there is no guarantee that tals had risen by 84 per cent in the tors patients’food intake and ensures the figures refer to the same patients, last 10 years. all have the opportunity to be prop- the nutrition of at least eight patients But PAH Trust chief Chris erly fed by using a system whereby worsened during their stay at the Chelmsford Colchester Rayleigh Weir Ipswich Cambridge Peterborough Pocklington reacted angrily to the those requiring help to eat are served PAH which is something I would be (01245) 344711 (01206) 547332 (01268) 777211 (01473) 610878 (01223) 460664 (01733) 577910 claim, describing the statistics as on a blue tray as an alert to staff. interested to discuss with Mr “totally wrong” and accusing Mr However, Mr Halfon said he stood Pocklington.” www.harlowstar.co.uk NEWS January 17, 2008 9 Rail robber BBuuzzzz ooffff!! WWiillll For breaking local news visit For breaking local news visit: www.harlowstar.co.uk www.harlowstar.co.uk stole from young men sshhoopp aallaa rrmm ss A MAN has been jailed for carrying out a series of robberies on trains on the rail network between Harlow and Bishop’s Stortford. Leon Nangle (20) pleaded rreeppeell tteeeenn ss?? guilty to four robberies committed between March and June last year. Chelmsford Crown Court was told that Nangle, from Walthamstow, targeted young men aged 15-25. He engaged them in conversation and then TROUBLE-plagued shopping parades By LOUISESASSOON, News Editor threatened them, could soon become safe havens if ear- [email protected] sometimes with a knife, busting ultrasonic devices which repel before stealing cash, mobile phones and music groups of loitering teenagers are inst- The parade of shops has been plagued by crime in players. alled. recent weeks. Last Saturday a shopkeeper was held at knifepoint by thieves and another store was raided late Nangle was sentenced to Police and community officials are consider- last year. an indeterminate period of ing putting up mosquitoes – electrical equip- Last week a man was found bleeding with serious detention for public ment which emit a high-pitched tone audible head injuries after he was set upon in the estate. protection. He will serve a only to the under 20s – at two of Harlow’s Harlow Council said it was in talks with relevant minimum of 40 months in neighbourhood shopping hatches. agencies about installing mosquitoes in both the prison before he can appear before a parole The piercing sound is said to be so unbearable that areas. A meeting will be held next week to discuss the board. youngsters have no choice but to move on. plans. Plans to introduce the devices come after a spate of A spokesman added: “The majority of young peo- Detective Constable anti-social behaviour which has seen shopkeepers in ple play without causing a nuisance but from time to Graeme Knox, of British Katherines Hatch verbally abused and intimidated by time we will experience problems in an area which Transport Police, said teenagers congregating in the area. means we will consider installing systems or take afterwards: “The offences As a result, police have increased the number of other action to tackle particular youth nuisance Leon Nangle committed high-visibility patrols in the area and are concentrat- issues.” were frightening, ing on gathering intelligence to curb the problem. On the subject of the mosquitoes he added: completely unprovoked and Fishers Hatch in Netteswell is also understood to be “Installation will be subject to agreement with traders caused a considerable experiencing problems with groups of youths loiter- and other agencies. Systems have been used in other amount of distress to a ing. areas across the country with good success.” number of innocent people. PC Dave Kealy, who oversees the Katherines patch, “The sentence sends a said a lot of the incidents have gone unreported but What do YOU think? clear message to people issues had come to light as a result of talks with shop- that BTP and the courts do keepers and locals. Will the installation of mosquitoes be an not tolerate any form of “It is important those who are responsible know effective way of tackling anti-social behaviour violence or threatening that their behaviour will not be tolerated,” he said. at Harlow’s shopping hatches. Let us know behaviour on the railways, “We are currently working with other agencies to what you think at www.harlowstar.co.uk and those who do commit solve problems there.” offences of this nature will be dealt with extremely seriously.” Woman’s heartbreak Trolley folly at theft of grave tree SCORES of shopping trolleys are to be crushed after being dumped around Harlow. A total of 130 trolleys will SICKENED: be flattened after stores Louise Bramble, left, and her sister failed to pay the £70 Kirsty at the grave release fee introduced by (photo: Harlow Council last year. GDHJVDFH/04) NOW ON! Some Fitted Kitchen companies seem to have permanent sales. They offer anywhere between a third and up to half price off. Don’t know about you,but it makes us wonder, is it not just their normal price? We only have two sales a year.They don’t last long. Our prices are good honest value all-year-round, so when we do have a sale,it really is a sale! Coopers of Stortford’s Fitted Kitchen,bedroom and home office AWOMANhas branded remembering them over showroom – Bishop’s Stortford’s largest,oldest and most thieves who stole a Christmas Christmas. established fitted furniture showroom. tree from the grave of her “I couldn’t believe it when I grandfather and brother as turned up to find it missing.At Open seven days a week. heartless. first I thought it might have Free on-site customer parking. Louise Bramble,of Joyners blown over and been removed Field,Harlow,was shocked to but when I asked them they find the artificial tree missing had no idea where it was. when she visited the joint plot “I just can’t believe someone at Parndon Wood Cemetery to could be so heartless as to steal pay her respects. from someone’s grave.It’s not At first she thought cemetery as if the tree was even worth a staff may have removed the lot of money but for our family decoration because it had it was special.This is a fallen over but was told they sickening crime.” had no knowledge as to its The theft follows a spate of whereabouts. break-ins and thefts from cars A tearful Ms Bramble told the parked at the cemetery last Star:“I always put a decorated year,which prompted Harlow tree on the grave every year. Council to warnpeople visiting www.coopers-kitchens.co.uk Tel: 01279 756317 Email: [email protected] It’s become a bit of a tradition graves to be vigilant with their 11 Bridge Street, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire CM23 2JX and is our way of belongings. 10 January 17, 2008 SCHOOLBAG email: [email protected] SAINT NICHOLAS SCHOOL A big dramatic splash Students find a smoking gun Hobbs Cross Road, Churchgate Street, Old Harlow CM17 0NJ MARK HALL: HARLOW COLLEGE: Tel:01279 429910 Students from Students from the college’s Harlow got a dose of journalism centre made it onto JUNIOR festive theatre when a a respected online trade website DEPARTMENT touring troupe with their investigative skills by visited. exposing local shops’lack of (Years 3-6) Pantomime fun was enforcement for the new The Junior Department is now had by the after- tobacco trading laws. accepting applications for entry into school club when Since October 1 last year, it has Year 3 in September 2008. Chaplin’s Theatre been illegal to sell tobacco to Company staged its under-18s. The probe, carried Saint Nicholas is a happy and production of The out by a group of five students, successful independent school for Magic Castle. found eight out of 20 shops around 380 boys and girls aged 4-16. Cats, dogs and tested sold cigarettes to 16- The school is situated in attractive chickens were all part year-olds without requesting grounds.There is a friendly, of the show, which ID. These included major supportive atmosphere in the school involved more than a chains, and the subsequent little audience article made it onto journalism and working conditions and facilities participation. website Hold The Front Page. are excellent. A spokeswoman for James Sharp, a student on the Class sizes are small and pupils are the school said: Bachelor of Arts course, said: able to transfer directly from the “They had so much “We thought this investigation Junior department to the Senior fun and the theatre was relevant because it was an department. company were issue we felt strongly about and excellent performers we wanted to see if the new SCOOP:Pictured are student journalists James Sharp For a prospectus or to make an – it was a real treat.” laws were being abided by.” and Holly Kernot (photo: QQTVBM3Q/05) appointment to view the school, please telephone the above number. Pupils should never tyre of their new play area Alternatively, you can view our prospectus online at www.saintnicholasschool.net MILWARDS PRIMARY: Registered charity no.310876 Tractor tyres have created endless amounts of fun for children after being Switzerland installed to serve as new play equipment. A total of 15 tyres have been dug into the ground at the Paringdon Road site – creating a low- level windmill shape which is ideal for helping children learn to jump and balance. The new addition, which saw all the Join us in this stunning land of breathtaking tyres donated by Alpine scenery, clear mountain air and a specialist enchanting towns and villages. company, is part Includes (cid:2)Return flights to Geneva direct from of an on-going Stansted (cid:2)Return airport to resort transfers (cid:2)6 nights’ bed and contintental breakfast redevelopment of the play facilities accommodation at the Hotel Roc et Neige in Chateau d’Oex (cid:2)Visits to Gruyères and Montreux at the school. (cid:2)The services of a Tour Manager in resort Headteacher Angela Callaway £329 said: “It looks From fantastic and it is Departs April to October 2008 next to the quiet area, so there are two The Edinburgh or three types of area for the children to use Military Tattoo in the playground now which is good because they all help develop different skills.” Pictured,left to right, are Samir Ali, Paul Aquilina, Leah Gregory and Edna Opoku. (photo: PXQJNXWR/02) Farewell to headteacher Helen Funds for hospice Here’s a chance to enjoy first hand the colour, pomp and pageantry of this magical PEAR TREE MEAD PRIMARY:The SCHOOLS have been including those from event, as massed pipes and drums, dancers and Trotters Road school’s popular headteacher counting the pennies STEWARDS,gave a display teams create a dazzling, unforgettable spectacle, all ending with the lone piper on the Helen Johnson, pictured right, has left for following their festive Christmas concert for battlements above Edinburgh Castle! pastures new after four years. fundraising efforts for a patients. Includes (cid:2)Return coach travel (cid:2)2 nights’ B&B The whole school took part in a farewell local worthy cause. The hospice’s Giles Wright at a hotel in the Teesside area (cid:2)A seat for the party on her last day, which began with a FAWBERT AND said: “This is a special Edinburgh Tattoo (cid:2)A drive through the Yorkshire service at the Holy Cross Church led by BARNARD PRIMARY, time of year for the Dales (cid:2)A visit to York(cid:2)A Tour Manager Year5and 6pupils. They were joined by THE DOWNS hospice as we try to give £159 parents and community representatives to PRIMARY and patients happy moments From wish her well. KINGSMOOR and a real spirit of Departs 1 & 15 August 2008 After the service, a party was held which PRIMARYhelped raise Christmas, as well as For further info, to book by credit card or to request culminated in a giant game of pass-the- hundreds of pounds for special memories for their a brochure call quoting Advert Code HEM: parcel. Hastingwood’s St Clare families, not memories of 0845 226 9725 A school spokeswoman said: “The day was Hospice. pain and distress. away for the parents,staff, and childrento They held collections “Our local schools have (calls charged at local rate) Or, email stating which brochure you say their goodbyes and thank-yousfor during their Christmas given us a couple of hours require to: [email protected] herperseverance and hard work tonot settle performances, as well as of festive fun, laughing See us at: for anything but the best forPear Tree Mead.” refreshment stalls at their and enjoyment, not just for www.newmarket.travel/hem Mrs. Johnson leaves the school to help fetes, to raise £350. the patients but for all of ABTA V787X/V7812. ATOL protected 2325. establish a new school near Braintree. Some of the pupils, us who work here as well!”