LTC 134 - Loftus Town Crier

http://ecol.org.uk/towncrier
Issue 134
http://loftusdv.co.uk/towncrier
Summer 2013
Welcome to our summer issue
We live in an outstanding area for walking and appreciating the local countryside and coast. There is an
excellent network of public footpaths that enable us to get to many places of interest and scenic beauty,
just a mile or two from our doorstep.
Walking as a member of a group can be the best way to enjoy our area because you might get to places
you would not think of otherwise, and there are also the benefits of being among like minded people
while on a ramble.
LOFTUS ACCORD, a local group set up to promote Loftus, is in the early stages of planning a
co-ordinated programme of walks around the district and the Town Council will keep you informed of
developments. If you have any suggestions for walks please contact the Crier.
Meanwhile if you would like to come on a walk of up to an hour and a half on any Friday afternoon, just
turn up outside Woodside Surgery at 1.15, suitably clothed, you do not need to book in advance . If you
would like more information contact Steve Mussett on 01642 496430 or e-mail him at
steve.mussett@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk
We have been asked to do some research of a man who lived in this area in the 1930s and probably more
recently, John Robert Verrill Carter. Contact details are on page 10.
We are very grateful to everyone who has sent us donations to support the Crier, especially those who
added to the grand total of £270 which we received from the Mayor’s Charity Fund when Andrew
Downs was Mayor previously. Congratulations to Councillor Downs on his re-election as Mayor, see
report on page 13 on this year’s appointments to the council.
2
Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
Police news
Loftus police team have had some successful results in tackling anti social behaviour in the area, which
is the number one priority for Loftus. One person has been placed in custody due to repeated breach of
ASBO. She is serving a 6 month sentence at a nearby women’s prison. One youth has been arrested
twice for public order offences, since being on bail he has breached his bail conditions and has been
rearrested, he has now signed an Anti Social Behaviour agreement, this is the last step before an ASBO
is considered. Another person has been give an ASBO at the beginning of April, she has since breached
this order and has been arrested. Two youths whose ASBOs were near to expiring have had them
extended due to bad behaviour. We urge local residents and businesses to report any incident of ASB to
the police. Refuse to accept crime and anti social behaviour in your area.
OPERATION FAGIN is currently in process around the shops in Loftus High St. Op FAGIN is the
same structure the operation which takes place at Christmas time, OP Scrooge, this is where officers
conduct more foot patrols in designated places to deter shop thefts within the area.
We have had several complaints in the Easington area regarding speeding vehicles, if any other residents
would like to take part in Speed watch please contact your local NPT team on 101 or attend your local
surgery. The scheme can only operate on roads up to a maximum speed limit of 40 miles per hour.
A drugs warrant was executed within the area and was a successful result. We are aiming for a number
of drug warrants within the area, to get these we need information from members of the public so that
we can put a stop to the illegal activity.
Community Forum
Summer is nearly here (I hope),
the planters will soon be full of
summer bedding plants., and
despite being water logged the
daffs rallied through with a
beautiful display, ( most of
them).
Our indoor carpet bowls has
been suspended until Sept /Oct
time due to players being
involved with outdoor games.
On May 26th ( Sunday) we are
having another FUNDAY, this
will include, Army climbing
wall, face painting, bouncy castle, burgers/hotdogs, children’s
craft, hook a duck. A new
addition to the day is "Silly
Steve" there will be games,
magic and much more.
The bingo held in memory of
Joan Elliott and arranged by her
family raised the magnificent
amount of £377.00 for Luke
Senior Hall over 60s club and
Loftus community forum, this
money is for their Christmas
parties. Thank you to Joan’s
Family and Marie (Floralcraft)
such a wonderful effort.
Background work continues to
be ongoing regarding the War
memorial, we are waiting for
Listed Building Consent from
R/C Borough Council then we
can start work.
Loftus Community Forum
remain committed to our town
and area, you can find us on
Facebook or come to a meeting
at the Station Hotel 1st and 3rd
Tues of every month 7 PM.
Marjorie Magor Chair
Community forum
Centenary Celebrations of Loftus Mothers’ Union
Cover Picture. Liverton Village.
Our picture shows the approach to this ancient village from the
South, anyone who has done so will have noticed how straight this
road is, along with the roads to Easington, Roxby etc. they speak of
Romans, and the need to defend against Viking Raiders.
But Liverton perhaps is not quite as old as that; the Tun in
Liverton is of Saxon origin, a Tun being a house or a farm, maybe
Livers Farm? Although we have in 1163 a Robert de Liverton who
gave 2 Oxgangs of land at Liverton to St. Hilda of Whitby, and this
chap would be Norman. The Church at Liverton ‘Livretun’ in those
days, is credited to another Norman, Henry de Conan, who as early
as 1219 granted the advowson of the parochial chapel at Liverton to
Giseburne Priory. But the Church of St. Michael’s looks to have
Saxon influences so is most likely much older than this. However
there is a Henry de Conan in the Grave Yard there; so he must have
rebuilt the Church , I should think?
There are also quite a few by the name of Petch in the Church
Grave Yard, a name that seems have been associated with Liverton
over many years, around 1800 of the 9 voters there, 4 were named
Petch.
3
Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
Handale School News
We are never short of good things to share with your readers and this time is no exception. The
pupils, staff and governors of Handale Primary School have been very busy
As I write work is nearing completion on the alterations
to our
two year old provision and this will reopen on the 13 th May with
our current and new Handale Under Three’s. Then in September
all three schools in Loftus will begin taking pupils under three
years of age into our newly commissioned under threes
provision (these pupils will be allocated places by the Families
Information Service). In addition to these pupils Handale is
excited to be able to also continue our current provision and will
therefore be running both groups. Please contact school for more
details: 01287 640416
In February Handale Primary celebrated its second Rights,
Respect and Responsibilities Week (RRR Week). The focus for
the week was on the pupils respecting themselves, thinking
about how they are viewed by others and developing a positive
image about themselves. The staff at the school think their
pupils are super so we used a superhero theme for the week.
Create a superhero cape
Help make a superhero
film
Design a breakfast fit for
a superhero
Work with a professional
cartoonist
Create comic book characters
Write a comic book story
Enter the RESPECT poetry competition
Help create a playground
charter
Cartoonist Andy Gilbert at Handale
Design a cape to show their best qualities, kindness, humour, sportiness,
friendliness etc…
Each class created their own superhero character and wrote, performed
and filmed a short film starring them.
Commemorating UNICEF’s Day for Change campaign based on food
Professional cartoonist Andy Gilbert came into school and held a workshop with
each year group teaching them how to create their own superhero cartoon.
Each pupil created a ‘good’ character based on their best personality and
a villain who had the opposite personality
Pupils created and drew a comic strip featuring their characters
Pupils entered a competition to write an acrostic poem using the word
RESPECT
Each class did an activity thinking about the playground and playtime they would
like at school. The school council then took all their ideas and created a playground
charter which we will get put on a sign and displayed in the playground.
Pupils were challenged to train as a superhero by completing 8 missions during the week.
At the end of the week all the pupils were invited to a celebration event to receive their superhero
certificates. Prizes were given out by the
mayor and we were joined by our Governors
and members of the local community police
team. Pupils celebrated with tasty treats and
joined in a whole school photograph to
celebrate the event.
As we are now well into our summer term we
have many exciting things planned including
sports days, summer trips and many many
more. We continue to enjoy welcoming
special visitors to our assemblies including a
hedgehog called Spike from the Road Safety
Team, and a lion called Roary
from Middlesbrough Football Club.
We thank you all for your continued support
of the school and look forward to keeping you
informed of our activities in future editions.
Helen Blakeley, Headteacher.
4
Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
5
Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
Hummersea School Adventures
As I sit at home and write this article, the sun is shining and it looks like summer is here! Fingers
crossed that it stays for many weeks to come.
Well what has Hummersea been up to over the last few months? We have just returned from a three
day residential with thirty two of our year three, four and five children. During our days away, we
experienced many new activities. We had groups of children canoeing from Ruswarp down the River
Esk into Whitby harbour. As you can imagine we all got pretty wet! We had groups of children
enjoying the high life on an extremely high 'zipline'. Screams of joy were heard from both the
children and staff as they flew at speed down the zip. We also had children abseil forwards of a
viaduct! This was one of the bravest things I've ever seen a group of children attempt. The children
have said that the scariest moment was sitting on the side of the viaduct, twenty metres in the air, and
letting go. I was lucky enough
to attend the residential with the
children and I was very proud
of everyone who went.
Our younger children have
visited the Owl Sanctuary at
Kirkleatham. During the day,
they witnessed flying displays,
feeding time and were able to
get very close to the owls. It is
reported that some of the owls
were a lot bigger than anyone
ever expected. From the visit,
the children have written some
excellent Thank You letters to
the people at Kirkleatham.
We have our Summer Fair
coming up in the next few
weeks. It is on the afternoon of
Wednesday 10th July and
everyone is welcome. I'm sure there is something for the whole family from fair ground rides to tea
and cake - it would be good to see you there.
Finally, I hope that you all have a warm and sunny summer.
Peter Tyreman Head Teacher
6
Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
St Joseph’s School
We were all ready for a well-earned break after finishing last term with a very thoughtful presentation
of the story of Easter, led by our Y3s, and an afternoon of Easter crafts, where the children worked
with their parents to make cards and gifts for Easter.
The children returned refreshed and rested, ready to start our new term. As usual we wasted no time –
the Year 5s and 6s were whisked back in time to discover what it was like during the WW2. Their
visit to Eden Camp really helped them to appreciate how people in England coped with the difficulties
– but also the ways they let off steam – by looking at life in the Blitz and rationing and listening to the
music. It really put them “In the Mood”!
We have had a visit from “Spike”, the road safety hedgehog, who reminded the children about where,
when and how to cross the road safely. He also shared some startling statistics about road accidents in
our local area. Sometimes we, as adults, need to be reminded about these safety themes, and our
children are now well equipped to teach us.
Our Key Stage 1 children had a
marvellous outing, going pond dipping
at Margrove Park. There were some
very close encounters of the scary kind
with some creatures from the deep!
Year 4 children had a great afternoon at
Laurence Jackson School, competing
against lots of local school in an
Orienteering competition. Although we
did not win the overall competition, we
did have the fastest pair back, and we all
enjoyed taking part.
We have some wonderful tennis players
in Y3 who returned triumphant from a
tennis tournament at Saltburn. Well
done to them!
To help support Unicef Children’s
Rights, we now have a wishing well at
the front of our school. Our parents and
children are donating loose change as
we seek to support the rights of all
children to have fresh water.
Along with the other Loftus schools, we
are busy preparing for the opening of our provision for 2 year old children in September. This extends
our existing childcare provision and is an exciting new venture! If you are interested in a place, please
contact school.
Children currently enjoy our Breakfast Club and wide range of after school clubs. St. Joseph’s is open
from 7.30am until 6pm each day – very helpful for working parents!
All this, and there’s still lots of this summer term left!
Alision Toward
Family Fun
We have a fun day coming up at
Saltburn 8th June in the Valley
Gardens. We have the Riders
Branch of the RBL. Coming on
their magnificent motor bikes
from as far afield as Derby.
Their machines will be on
display down in the Gardens.
There will be various stalls; face
painting, hog roast, rides and
climbing wall.
We are hoping to make people
aware that the Royal British
Legion is alive and kicking in
your area
Loftus cricket team
Re’ issue 133, some names we
have been given; Victor Newton,
Alan Duck, Mike Hogan
7
Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
Friends of Loftus Cemetery
The friends of Loftus cemetery are working to improve the cemetery grounds and as part of the
work being undertaken is directed to establishing the history of the cemetery, which is situated on
the eastern edge of Loftus towards Easington. The development of the cemetery owes much to the
period from 1848 through to 1857. During these years parliament produced a number of acts which
attempted to regularise the burial of the dead in England. These acts were brought into being to
counter the overcrowding of burial grounds and in some churchyards in London, the dead were
covered by only two feet of soil. Ladies processing through graveyards to church services were
catching their dresses on the limbs of corpses which were popping from the graves. The 1853
burial act established the power for parish vestries to appoint burial boards who were then
responsible for the burial of the dead of the parish, the building of cemeteries and the provision of
grounds for consecrated, (church of England ) and un-consecrated (nonconformist) burials. The
burial board was also empowered to use the borough rates to pay for the new cemeteries. The
burial board for Loftus was established in 1853 .The burial acts also provided the Secretary of State
for the Home Department the power to close cemeteries which were no longer fit for purpose,
either as a result of poor maintenance or through overcrowding. In September 1855 the church
wardens of St Leonard's
church. Loftus, were made aware of the intention to close the church yard
to new burials from 1st April 1856, save for the burial of women and children of persons already
buried there in~. Land for a new cemetery was gifted to the parish by Lord Zetland to the east of
Loftus and in 1856-7 the two mortuary chapels were erected. In September 1857 the first occupant
of the cemetery was interred. This was William Raines age 26 who was a sailor aboard the collier
Amelia which foundered in the January of 1857 amidst fierce storms. William's grave stone is still
in position in the cemetery. In 1879, the existing cemetery was fast filling up and in 1880 a new
section of the cemetery was opened to the east of Loy lane. This area was chosen so that the burial
board would be able to provide and area laid out to look 'more pleasant and picturesque The
consecrated chapel was not used only for burial services, for in 1880 the Rev C. Johnson provided
a Sunday evening service as a "Navvy Mission" for the workers on the railway . Mr William
Glover the sexton for the cemetery up to 1891 resided at Foulsyke. In February 1892 a new sexton
would take up residence in the cemetery3 lodge which was built between. 1890-91 at the entrance to
the cemetery adjoining Whitby Road . The advert for the job required the applicant to be both
Caretaker and Sexton for the Loftus cemetery with a wage of 12s (60p) per week with a free house.
The pace of life in Loftus clearly marched forward keeping pace with the new industries in the
area. The increase in the populace would in turn increase the number of deaths in the area. In 1893
the cemetery at east Loftus was again filling up and extra land was required to make space for new
customers. The burial board acquired additional land for a burial ground to the south of the old
cemetery up to the railway line. The current extension to the cemetery, to the south of the railway
was acquired in 1996 by Redcar and Cleveland Council.
' Jackson, E., The first Parliament of Loftus, A History of Loftus District Local Board 1876-1894
Pg. S3
2
The London Gazette, 22nd November 1855, pg. 4368
Jackson,
E., The first Parliament of Loftus, A History of Loftus District Local Board 1876-1894 Pg. 33
4
Ibid, 34
The Northern Echo 23rd September 1890 pg1
We held our first fundraising coffee morning in March, it was a huge success. The final total
raised is £806.50p. which is amazing. Thanks go to everyone who supported this event, and
donations received from Tot Easton, Madge Hardy’s family and Mrs B Norminton.
The bedding areas were complete with shrubs and bedding plants, these were destroyed and
stolen within hours of being planted., thankfully the shrubs were left alone.
An ongoing litter pick is keeping things tidy, we are hoping to remove rubbish left by fly
tipping on bank side of railway line.
Notice boards are now on order, and bedding planters soon to be chosen
M and L Best are attending the A.G.M of Federation of cemetery Friends in June, we have
joined this large organisation and hope to learn from the experience of other groups.
It has come to notice, some people are concerned by doing these improvements to the
cemeteries we are taking jobs away from the lads who work for R/C Council, can we assure
everyone this is absolutely not the case. All work and improvements done by ourselves is in
addition to any council work programme. We also pay the council for a vast amount of work
they undertake for us. I hope this clarifies any queries .
Our aim is to work in partnership with the council and other groups.
Thank you Marjorie Magor (Chair)
8
Loftus town hall
This historic building is
 Wedding receptions
 Parties
 Functions
 Conferences
 Meetings
 Displays
audio-visual and display
equipment available
Contact Alison Atkinson
Tel: 01287 641000
Fax: 01287 643174
email: loftus_town_council
@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk
http://www.redcarcleveland.gov.uk/loftus
Q&C
QUALITY
PRODUCTS
LOW
PRICES
Animal Feeds
Pet Foods Horse & Pony Products
Poultry Feeds
Pigeon Corn Wild Bird Seeds
Plus Many More Products
Our Market Trailer
Buy direct Potatoes and
Fresh Seasonal Produce
Remember
If we have not got what you are looking for,
we’ll do our best to get it!
Delivery By Arrangement
Farm Direct, Dale’s Farm, Easington.
Tel: 01287 640209
CLARK HARDWARE
Breckon and Shaw
GARDENING,
PLUMBING,ELECTRCAL,
HAND & POWERTOOLS,
IRONMONGERY, PAINTS, TIMBER .
It is really sad to see that
Breckon and Shaw are having to
close.
In the modern lifestyle not
enough people appreciated the
quality of the products and their
excellent service to make the
business viable.
Many local groups including the
Crier have greatly appreciated
the support of this firm over almost 44yrs.and their Christmas
window has given pleasure to
many.
The closure will leave a big gap
in Loftus.
North Road Loftus
TEL: 01287 640355
YOUR ONE STOP SHOP
FOR ALL YOUR
HARDWARE &
DIY NEEDS
WE DO IT ALL
WE ALSO STOCK: WALLPAPER,
CARDS AND GIFTWARE,
PETFOODS AND ACCESSORIES.
FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE
SHOP LOCAL ALL ON ONE
STREET.
FREE LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE
 Brough & Horner Ltd

Zetland Foundry Loftus
( Established 1987)
Quality Architectural
Wrought Iron
Gates, Railings, Handrails,
Balustrades, Ornate Staircase,
Panels and Furniture.
Security Doors & Security Grills.
All Aspects of Light Fabrication.
For Friendly Advice
and Quotations
Contact Steve Whitlock
Tel: 01287 640374
Mobile: 07983450883
LOFTUS WEST ROAD
SOCIAL CLUB
Large Function Room
Available for Private Parties
Tel: Cath 01287 644345
MILITARIA
22 Suffolk Rd Cheltenham GL50 2AQ
Tel & Fax 01242 519815
Or mobile 07778 613977
E-mail: qcmilitaria@BTconnect.com
Web site: www.qcmilitaria.com
We Wish to Buy for
Cash
All items of Uniform, Helmets & Headwear
Swords & Bayonets
Medals, Orders & Decorations
Badges & Uniform Furniture
Military Memorabilia
Trench Art
Top Prices Paid
Absolute Discretion Assured
Medals Mounted for Wearing
Cased for Display & Refurbished
Miniature Medals and Mess Dress
Accoutrements Supplied
For All Your Household Needs
‘ARNIES’
40, West Road Loftus.
01287 641025
T o i l e t
s
Card
Toys
K i t c h
e n
Station
ery
Cleaning
Products
Pots & Pans etc etc
EAST CLEVELAND
COMMUNITY TRANSPORT
AFFORDABLE MINI BUS
TRANSPORT
FOR COMMUNITY GROUPS &
ASSOCIATIONS
Scouts & Guides*
Church Groups* Youth Clubs
Shopping Clubs *
Out of School Clubs *
Disabled Groups*

Wheelchair accessible

Vehicle with MIDAS
trained driver
Ring for a quote on one-off
outings or regular trips. Contact
Kenny on 01287 644972
Useful Telephone Numbers
Woodside Surgery;
01287 640385 Out of Hours
Service; (Doctors) 0300 123
1851
Loftus Police Station;
01642 326326
East Cleveland Hospital;
01287 676205
9
WOLD POTTERY
79 High Street Loftus tel. 01287 640100
www.woldpottery.co.uk
Handmade Pottery
Art Work
Jewellery Cards
& Much More
Unique Gifts
for something
different
Opening Times
Wednesdays Fridays:
10am - 5pm
Saturdays:
10am - 2pm
EAST CLEVELAND EMPLOYMENT
AND TRAINING GROUP LIMITED
Small industrial workshops/office/storage
units available in a securely
fenced site with 24 hour access
Sizes: 260 to 500 sq feet
Easy in/out terms
Call us on 01287 642244
Lantsbery Drive, Liverton Mines,
Saltburn TS13 4QZ
Saltburn Cleaning Services
Harry Thompson
Domestic & Small Retail Cleaning Specialists
Tel:
07773513824
Domestic, Retail, Commercial, End of
Tenancy Properties. One - off Deep
Cleans. Regular Weekly/Fortnightly
Cleans. Our Fully Trained Staff Are
CRB Checked and Insured.
Covering Loftus, Saltburn, Whitby,
Guisborough and Surrounding Villages
FUNERAL SERVICE
Independent and Caring
Family Business
TELEPHONE 01287 643375
DAY or NIGHT
1 &2 High Street, Loftus, Saltburn by the Sea,
Cleveland. TS13 4HW
P H I L TA B E R N E R
PLASTERER
&
BUILDER
* No VAT *
Plastering, Coving, Cornicing,
Guttering, Roofing
ALL SMALL BUILDING
WORK UNDERTAKEN
PHONE: 01287 650815
Mob 07974 463555
C. HEBDITCH LTD.
(EST. 1906)
Joinery Manufactured
Glass, Timber & Hardware
Supplied To Trade & DIY.
DEEPDALE ROAD
LOFTUS
TEL: (01287) 640353
Mobile, 07961/ 961185
LOFTUS TAXI AND
MINI BUS
PRIVATE
HIRE
Airports
Contracts
Weddings
FOR A FRIENDLY AND RELIABLE SERVICE
01287 640 989
EVERLASTING MEMORIALS
TO SOMEONE YOU LOVE
MEMORIALS-RESTORATIONS
& CLEANING
ADDITIONAL INSCRIPTION
FREE QUOTATIONS IN THE COMFORT OF
YOUR HOME
PAYMENT SCHEME AVAILABLE
WRITTEN DETAILS ON REQUEST
MARK THOMPSON
MEMORIAL SERVICE
TEL 07967 331479
1 HIGH STREET LOFTUS
LOFTUS
POST OFFICE
Market Place, Loftus
For all your Stationery
Needs and High Class
Greeting Cards
For all Occasions
g
u-
10 10
WEST END POSTFFICE,
OFF LICENCE
& NEWSAGENTS
14 West Road Loftus
Tel 01287 640340
Open 7 days a week
Off license open from
10am to 21.30hrs
Great deals on the
BEERS WINES & SPIRITS
Groceries
Newsagent
Magazines
Confectionery
Tobacco, toys
Stationery, etc.
Post office
Monday to Saturday
Rob Jackson
And Son
Carpet Fitting Service
Reasonable Rates
Free Estimates
Mobile 079 29 49 64 69
Mini Bus brokerage scheme expands into new territory
Volunteer driver and mini buses needed
Tees Valley Rural Community Council
(TVRCC) is pleased to announce the success of its recent bid to the National Lotteries Reaching Communities Fund to
continue to address travel problems in
rural areas of Tees Valley.
The East Cleveland Minibus Brokerage
project based in Skinningrove, is now
able to continue providing safe, affordable transport to community groups and
individuals for the next three years. To
date, the project has enabled over 2500
passenger journeys and is now in a position to expand its service in and around
the rural villages of East Cleveland.
contact Steve Metcalf on 01287 643470
or smetcalf@teesvalleyrcc.org.uk
Sefton Trowsdale
Specialists in
Double Glazing
Services to all
types of Poducts
i.e.Timber,
uPVC & Aluminium
We can fix all kinds of
Problems From:
Draughty Windows and Doors,
Leaks, Doors or Windows not
locking properly
to cracked or Misted glazing.
CALL: 07717 366508
or
01287 653080 (Skelton)
Sefton Trowsdale
We supply and install
Doors
Windows
Porches
Conservatories
Fascia Soffits
& Guttering
Canopies
Carports
Internal uPVC Doors etc.
Email:
info@sgtrepairs.co.uk
Website:
www.sgtrepairs.co.uk
Contact us
If you have any articles to
share with our readers
please contact
Loftus Town Crier,
Loftus Library,
Hall Grounds,
Loftus
Cleveland. TS13 4HJ.
To Contact Town Crier
K. BARBER 01287 640198
S WELFORD 01287 641878
JOHN ROBERTS 642322
OR email:
loftustowncrier@hotmail.com
Disclaimer:
We try to ensure all articles
are accurate, but views expressed in letters and articles are not necessarily those
of the editor.
Advertising Space
As you can see we have lost
some of our much needed advertisers. Anyone wishing to
advertise in one of the available spaces please contact us
at
loftustowncrier@hotmail.com
11
Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
Methodist Churches: update
Street House Chapel
The article about Methodist
Churches in issue 133 produced
a good response, one of which
was from Ray Conn who
reminded the Town Crier that
there was once a chapel at
Boulby. It seems that two houses
in Iron Cottages were knocked
into one to make a Wesleyan
chapel. As regular readers of the
Town Crier will know, these
dwellings were built primarily to
house miners at Boulby
Ironstone Mine and a small
community developed near the
cliff top between about 1906 and
the late 1930s. If you have a
photograph of the chapel, or any
further memories of this
community, please contact
Loftus Town Crier. With thanks
to Ray Conn for contacting us.
Afternoon services were held at
Street House Chapel throughout
the second World War.
Relatives, bombed out in
London, attended services there
for several years whilst they
were living at Boulby Barns
cottage. Along with my sister
and friends, I attended services
there, sometimes leaving my
little dog in the porch. For years
we walked from East Loftus
though the fields from Foulsyke.
In March 1924 my sister Patricia
was christened there, at that time
we lived at Boulby Barns
cottages. I think I last went to
the Chapel in 1946, but left the
area in 1947 and don’t know
what happened after that.
Gwenda Wilson ( nee Robinson)
Toughest place to be - - - BBC 2 17/3/13
Richard Gibson, aged 49, who
lived at the South Loftus farm of
his parents Tom and Sheila
Gibson during his childhood
presented this very interesting
programme. Richard moved to
Devon 16 years ago to become a
dairy farmer.
The programme was set, in
Kenya, where three-quarters of
the population live off the land
in drought conditions. It featured
a nomadic tribe of cattle farmers
called Sambura, who were also
warriors. They lived in a village
of approximately 100 people and
often walked for 3 hours in
search of water in 30degree heat
and then had to dig for 3 hours
for water for their herds. 40 %
of the population do not have
access to clean drinking water.
They are a 5 day walk from
other herders and constantly
move around to keep their herds
healthy and fed.
It certainly was a hard life and
since Richard had returned home
he has set up an interesting web
site in order to help Sambura,
go to
www.aidforsambura.org.uk for
more information.
Loftus army training corps
I think the photographs are
Loftus army training corps taken
in the 1940s. My late husband
John Barritt (marked with a x)
grew up in Loftus before moving to York in the 1960s. I hope
these photos will be of interest
to your readers
Yours faithfully
R Barritt
Thank you
We would like to sincerely
thank everyone who attended
Billy’s ( Binks) funeral, to give
him a good send off, he would
have appreciated it.
Dorothy and Richard Watson
Grateful thanks
L to R back row Calvert,, Bowers, Hicks, ?, Barritt, ?, ?, Purver,
Middle row, Notchy Codling, Axey Dack, Richard Lean, Jack/Nich
Nicholson. Ray Husband, John Waite, Alan May,
Front row, Yeoman, Hicks, Morrison.
MT
I would like to thank each and
everyone of you for all your get
well cards and enquires while I
was in hospital recovering from
my operation.
Maurice Grayson
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Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
Notes from the Library
Loftus Library Club
We’d like to apologise for any inconvenience caused by unscheduled
closures due to adverse weather conditions in the early part of the year.
During the past year our stock has been increased by over 400 good
quality donated books, Thank You to every one who has contributed.
The library has rooms available for group meetings and classes and also
one to one consultations during normal opening hours, please ask a
member of staff or call us on 01287 640582.
The photo boards linked to Loftus Digital Village website
(http://loftusdv.co.uk/) are still proving to be a popular attraction. If you
have any photos of the area that the website covers and would like to see
on our website, please leave them at the Library marked for the attention
of Julie.
Please note, if you are coming in to renew your bus pass, you WILL need
something with your name and address on, dated within the last three
months as proof of ID. A passport DOES NOT qualify.
Parking outside the Library, Please be aware that parking is extremely
limited. There is a disabled car park to the front of the building, please
ensure that you do not park too close to the garage as access is required.
There is a small car park at the rear of the building, again for those wishing
to use the Library, clinic or visit the offices above the Library. If you use
this car park, please park responsibly and do not block or obstruct other
vehicles. Please also note that there are double yellow lines on the road
outside the library, please park legally and responsibly so as not to cause
an obstruction to other road users requiring access to Hall Grounds.
Library Club
This takes place once a month on a Wednesday afternoon and is open to
elderly and housebound residents. Talks, slideshows and demonstrations
are given on a wide variety of subjects and refreshments are served. If you
or you know of anyone who would be interested in coming along, once
again give us a call. Likewise, if you know of anyone who could give a
talk or demonstration please let us know.
Loftus Library Club meets
monthly at 2pm on Wednesdays
at the library with a guest
speaker giving a presentation on
a topic of interest. The next
three meetings are:
22nd May when Colin Hart
from Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum will give a talk on
the history of mining in the
area.
19th June when Dave O’Brien
will talk about the efforts being
made to save the Duke of
Burgundy, one of the UK’s
most threatened butterflies.
17th July when Mike Hall will
gi ve a presentation on
pedestrian safety for the elderly.
The talks are free of charge (but
bring some cash if you want to
enter a raffle), there’s a cup of
tea afterwards and everyone is
welcome. For more information
phone the library on
01287 640582.
Skinningrove History Group
Regards Dave, Julie & Anne
Loftus Weather Station
No doubt many of you will have noticed Loftus listed in T.V.
Weather reports, particularly when there have been gales or really
cold periods. We are lucky to be included in the Met. Office weather
station network across the U.K. There are more than two hundred
automatic stations, usually about 40 km. apart, covering the country.
Our station is located in the corner of a field next to the Streethouses
road. This has the required site
of level ground with no trees,
buildings or hills near, these
could affect readings. Weather
station sites are
selected to
ensure that the observations
are representative of the wider
area around the station and not
unduly influenced by
local
effects. It certainly is a very
open, high and windy area!
Weather stations measure air
temperature, atmospheric
pressure, rainfall, wind speed
and direction, humidity, cloud
height and visibility. All these
elements are automatically
logged at the site, observations
are produced from all sensors
at one minute intervals. The
data are sent to a central
collecting system based at the
Met. Office headquarters in
Exeter where the data are
passed through numerous
quality control checks.
We have been busy doing
presentations on the theme
‘Representations
of
Skinningrove’ at Cleveland
Ironstone Mining Museum and
Loftus Library. The group has
been compiling examples of
work by writers, photographers,
artists, songwriters and map
makers who have used the
village and surrounding area for
their
subject matter. It has
also kept track of the increasing
range of artwork that has
appeared through the village in
recent years. Skinningrove has
been a source of inspiration to
creative people for a long time
and it has moved visitors and
residents alike to write, paint
and use other media to
communicate their impressions
of the place and its people.
Using images, readings and
music, the history group was
able to give audiences at the
museum and library a glimpse
of the rich variety of ways in
which Skinningrove has been
portrayed through time. The
group continues to collect
material in this area and will be
pleased to hear from you, either
via Loftus Town Crier
(loftustowncrier@hotmail.com
or c/o Loftus Library) or email
info@skinhist.co.uk
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Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
Loftus Cricket and Athletic Club
On Monday 1st of April Loftus Cricket and Athletic
Club celebrated the opening of their new bowls
pavilion for which the funding was bequeathed by
Joan Hodgdson, in memory of the Hodgson family
of Station Road Loftus. The pavilion was built by
Charisma Joinery from Skelton. Both the Cricket
and Bowls Clubs are now enjoying their new
premises and facilities, but both groups need new
players in order to keep up their competiveness. The
Cricketers would especially welcome new young
players who would like to compete in the Cleveland
League. If anyone is interested please either go to
the club anytime after 7p.m or contact the Sarah on 01287 640891
To contact the Bowls team please ring Dave McGill on 01287 641880 you will be made very welcome.
Loftus Athletic ( football team)
On a cool May evening at Guisborough Town Football Ground Loftus Athletic, managed by Gary
Smithies and aided by Richard Limon and Mark Winspear, took on Boosbeck in the final of the Eileen
Hodgson Bowl.
Loftus having a number of injuries fielded a weakened team and were underdogs to a very skilful and
youthful Boosbeck team. My low expectations seemed to be confirmed when midway through the first
half Boosbeck scored and then had a seemingly good goal ruled out by the referee. Ten minutes into the
second half after some nervous defending by Loftus Boosbeck scored again and the game seemed over.
However after three substitutions Loftus came to life and in the space of the next thirty minutes Loftus
scored four goals, including a superb bending free kick from man of the match Tony Sivils, and lifted the
cup for the third time in ten years.
Team Loftus Athletic: James Twaddle, Kevin Devereux, Jordan Smith, Mark Harris, Chris Morrison,
Martin Say, Tony Sivils, Ryan Douthwaite, Harry Hume, Joe Beedle and Rob Jones. Subs: Gary
Smities , Joe Jackson and Lee Preston. Scorers: Tony Sivils(2) Rob Jones and Jordan Smith.
Result: Loftus Athletic 4 - Boosbeck 2
John Toulson
Loftus Town Council
At the Loftus Town Council AGM on the 22nd April 2013 Cllr Andrew Downs was elected Town
Mayor and Chair for 2013/14 and Cllr Wayne Davies as Vice-Chair.
Cllr Downs states “Once again the regeneration of the Town is a priority focusing on the revival of
empty buildings and boosting the local economy, whilst also raising the profile of Loftus Parish.
Although we have many reasons to be pessimistic there is on the plus side much work going ahead
through dedicated groups and individuals within the Parish. It is my intention to work closely with Cllr
Davies, the Vice-Chair, over the next year. It will be a hard year once again but we will work tirelessly
to overcome any obstacles. It is hoped to move the office into the Town Hall during this Mayoral year
to situate the Council all under one roof and also reduce overheads in the long-term.”
Cllr Downs’ two chosen charities for this Mayoral Year will be the Royal British Legion and Loftus
Army Cadets.
Cllr Davies, one of the youngest Cllrs to be Vice-Chair, is working
closely with other community
groups to try and revive the Wool Fayre and Market on the 22nd June 2013. He comments “It is my
intention this year to become more involved with community groups and if any groups wish to speak to
me, or want me to get involved please contact me via the Town Council Offices and I will do my best to
attend a meeting or meet for an informal chat.”
As in previous years the Town Council will be making small community grants and application forms
can be collected from the Town
Council office for consideration throughout the year.
This year also marks the 60th year of the Coronation of HM Queen
Elizabeth II. A parade of our
uniformed organisations will be taking place in Loftus on Saturday 1 st June and it is hoped many of you
will turn out to support this.
Cllr Downs would like to thank the outgoing mayor, Cllr Eric Jackson, for all his work during his year
as Mayor and wishes him every success in his future endeavours.
Members of the public are reminded that they are welcome to all meetings of the Council and details of
these can be found on the Town Council notice board or Town Council website.
SWITCH: Supporting Women in the Community and Home
SWITCH is running a course ‘Getting into Work – 2013’ covering job-finding and job-keeping skills at
Riverside Building in Skinningrove on 5th and 6th June. It’s from 10.00am to 2.30pm with food,
transport and a crèche. To find out more, speak to Linda on 01287 642508.
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Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
Loftus and Whitby A C cross country
The last meeting of the 2012/2013
season was held at Acklam, this being
re-arranged after snow and ice caused
the original fixture to be cancelled.
The ladies team had already sealed the
championship for the Fifth consecutive
year and even though they were a little
depleted they had sufficient depth to
once again finish top team. th Nicola
Kentled the team finishing in 4 place,
Julia Jackson having
her best ever
season finished in 8th, Sue Dick, also
having
a great season finished in
12th place with Charlene Albinson
b ethi n g t h e f ou r t h c o un t e r i n
24 place. She thwas closely followed
by Carol Palin 27 .
The men’s team finished
the season
well with a good 2nd place, this being
sufficientndto see them end the season
also in 2 place.th James Wilson was th
first counter inrd 7 , Rob Williamson in 16 , Steve Hardy 25th, Tom Herbert 31st, Neil Duffield 32nd and
Paul Smith 43 being the sixth counter.
Jasmine Kent maintained her 100% record in the girl’s U11 race with another convincing win.
Natasha Kent finished in 11th place
in the U13
girls and Shane Hicks finished in 4th place in the
U17 race.
Because we were first ladies team and second
men’s team overall there were a number
of trophy winners in the individual cumulative
results. Shane Hicks, Nicola Kent and Chris
Ellis all won their respective categories. In silver
medal positions were
Angharad Owen, Julia
Jackson and Neil Duffield and in 3rd place were
Rob Williamson, Sue Dick and Alan Howard.
The ladies also fielded a full team at the National
Championships held at a very muddy, cold
Herrington
Park, Sunderland finishing
in
26th place thwith Megan rd
Ellis 85th,Julia
Jackson
165 , Sue Dick233 , Carol Palin
312th and Charlene Albinson 313th; this is the
biggest cross country event of the season with
427 finishers.
Loftus WI Report
The WI in Loftus is having an interesting year coming up to celebrating our 90 th birthday, in October this
year. In March our speaker was Bob Tinkler who took us through the Norwegian Fiords with his pictures
of the journey on a mail boat. Then in April Stuart White gave a very interesting talk about his walking
holiday in The Himalayas, which was illustrated with slides. May had us going through the Loftus
Archives with John Hannah bringing back many memories to members who have lived in Loftus for
many years, and proving both interesting and informative to those who are newcomers to the area.
A group of ladies have been enjoying getting together to improve computer skills, and several have
become sufficiently interested to go on line at home. Realising that this is the way the world is going and
we need to keep up!
The De Brus group Rally was held at Moorsholm this year on May 15 th and 18 ladies went to this. It is
always a popular event and a good chance to meet up with members from adjoining WIs, and this time
was no exception. It was decided at the meeting that in future we will have an annual group lunch, so
this will be another opportunity for us to get together.
For the first time in many years we will not be having a full day’s outing this summer. The cost of
coaches has become very expensive so instead of an outing, we will be having lunch out in August,
followed by a visit to the Glaisdale Theatre play, which we are very much looking forward to.
We entered an enthusiastic team thinto the County Quiz, which proved very difficult this year, however
they came a very commendable 6 and had thoroughly enjoyed the evening.
We hope to have members joining in the Flagging up the Boundary eventthwhich takes place throughout
Yorkshire in July, and expects to be passing through our area on July 20 about mid day. Some of our
members will be carrying the flag through Loftus.
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Loftus Town Crier Issue 134
Girlguiding is growing in Loftus!
April saw the opening of 1st Loftus Rainbows and 1st Loftus Brownies, to complement the already
successful 1st Loftus Guides which opened just over 12 months ago. Over 50 girls aged from 5 to 14 are
now involved with Guiding in the Loftus units and numbers are growing weekly.
Girlguiding is the UK's leading charity for girls and young women and offers a great opportunity to
explore and discover in a safe space. We offer girls new opportunities, challenges, awards, residential
and friendships. It’s fantastic that the girls in Loftus can access everything Girlguiding has to offer
without having to travel out of the town.
Summer term is always busy, and to give you a flavour of activities this is what girls are planning to get
up to! Rainbows have been discovering more about their programme with activities around the themes
of look, learn, laugh and love. They are planning
to take part in treasure hunts, outdoor games and a
spot of cooking. Once the Brownies have completed
the Chocolate Challenge badge they are going to be
learning how to keep safe when out and about,
through the Out and About Interest Badge. The
Guides love summer term, as the light nights give
them the opportunity to den build, cook outdoors,
practise camping skills and treasure hunt. All of this
leading up to a week’s summer camp on the North
York Moors. What makes Girlguiding so great is
the girls have a direct say in their programme
whether they are 5 or 18!
There are still spaces for girls to get involved with
the units in Loftus, and parents can register online at
www.girlguiding.org.uk following the get involved
link or email us at firstloftusguides@gmail.com.
Events in Loftus Summer 2013
Loftus Community Special Events Group (LCSEG) has been working alongside a number of
community groups and representatives to bring together a summer of events in Loftus for 2013.
Coronation Parade – Saturday 1st June 2013
To commemorate 60 years since the coronation of HM Queen Elizabeth II there will be a parade of
uniformed organisations though Loftus and a service at St Leonard’s Church, Loftus. The parade is
scheduled to start at 11am
Wool Fayre and Market – Saturday 22nd June 2013
Many residents have said they would like to see the Loftus Wool Fayre resurrected and LCSEG are
pleased to announce that the Wool Fayre will be back this year. There will be events and
demonstrations taking place in the Town Hall and St Leonard’s Church Yard and possible other
locations in the centre of Loftus. The event is still being finalised but will include sheep shearing
demonstrations, spinning and wool craft demonstrations, dance displays, children’s work, music and
more.
To coincide with the Wool Fayre there will also be Market Stalls in the Market Place – please come and
support local businesses. There will be posters and publicity coming out as soon as all details are
finalised.
Feedback from residents over the years is that they want to see Loftus thriving again so please come and
support this event – if it is a success it is hoped to build on this and bring some heritage, pride and
visitors back into Loftus.
Flagging up the boundary, a great Yorkshire relay – Saturday 20th July
As a build up to Yorkshire Day on the 1st August 2013 a team of walkers, runners and cyclists will be
carrying the flag round the boundaries of Yorkshire. This flag relay travels through Loftus on the 20th
July and local community groups and representatives will be carrying the flag through the parish. It is
estimated the flag will reach Loftus about lunchtime on the Saturday, having set off from Filey the day
before. If your group would like to be included in the Flag Relay contact Jeanne Parncutt as soon as
possible.
It is wonderful to see so many local people taking pride in the parish of Loftus and volunteering their
own time and skills to help put Loftus back on the map. The Anglo Saxon Heritage Group are still
working on bringing a lasting legacy to Loftus and it is hoped to see some of their ideas come to fruition
over the next 12 months. Members of Loftus ACCORD recently undertook a walk leaders course and it
is hoped some local walks will be organised over the next few months. Loftus Town Council are
currently undertaking a consultation to see if residents/businesses are interested in taking part in
Northumbria in Bloom - questionnaires can be completed via the Town Council Website, Loftus
Library or by calling into the Town Council Offices. If you are part of a local group or organisation that
wants to make a difference to Loftus then please contact Loftus Town Council who will forward your
details to the relevant group.
Thanks again to all who have helped organise any of these events and to all residents, and visitors, who
turn up to support them.
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