Yellow signs appear, it’s early July and there is a faint smell of smoke in the air; yes, it can only mean one thing, it’s time for the Hollowell Steam Rally.

So many people work so hard to make the rally a success so when the crowds gather and there is a sense of excitement for those coming through the gate, there must be a collective sigh of relief amongst the team.

Don’t forget to check our Events Diary for more information on events in all our villages and surrounding area.

Hollowell & Teeton Parish Clerk Gill Greaves was delighted and honoured to receive an invitation to one of this spring's Royal Garden Parties at Buckingham Palace.

Gill, who has worked in local government in Northamptonshire for more than 47 years, was selected by the Northamptonshire County Association of Local Councils, which each year nominates two councillors or clerks, along with their guests, to attend the prestigious event.

"It was such an honour to receive the invitation," said Gill. "It made me feel quite teary."

Gill was accompanied by her daughter, Claire, who also works in local government, making it a special family occasion just days after Gill's 70th birthday.

Village Hall Lotto Winners

For May & June are:

Hugo Mesquita, Simon Hunt

Gavin Statham X 2, Paul Charter,

Stuart Gilbert, Paul Mourant,

Crawford Craig, John Benjamin,

Kevin Hill, Simon Wilkinson,

Hannah Oswin

Among the distinguished guests they spotted Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, along with Zara Tindall and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and Sophie.

"The most striking thing was the wonderful colour of the occasion," Gill recalled. "There were beautiful traditional African outfits, elegant saris, military uniforms and butlers in full regalia. Everywhere you looked there was something amazing to see."

Throughout the afternoon, two military bands entertained guests as they strolled through the magnificent palace gardens. Refreshments included traditional lemon barley water and a delicious afternoon tea served in the tea tent.

"We really did feel very special," said Gill. "I felt like a Queen Bee for the day."

A Right Royal Day Out for Hollowell's Parish Clerk

Hollowell Steam Rally returns in full glow

Starting with a relaxed gathering on the Friday night, the real event was in full swing on the Saturday and Sunday. There was something

for everyone: vintage cars, heavy horses, interesting stalls to rummage through and of course, let’s not forget the stars of the show, the steam engines.

One of the beguiling things about the Steam Rally is the pride those involve take in what is shown. From the smallest to the largest exhibit, each is gleaming and loved and its hard not to be fascinated by the history of it all.

Every year it seems something new to discover. Apologies to Ron the Snake if he’s a regular, but this year was enlivened for some of us by his attendance.

So thanks to everyone involved for a great day out and see you there next year!

A memorable 70th celebration for Jayne Reynolds

Whenever you decide to throw a party, you always feel a degree of trepidation about its likely success. Well Jayne needn’t have worried when she decided to throw a ‘Bash’ for her significant birthday. Before the first guest arrived the wonderful weather, the perfect view of over the valley from the paddock and the delicious smell from the hog roast ensured that this party would be memorable. Nearly a hundred people gathered to celebrate with Jayne. Delicious food kept on coming, the wine and beer (yes you know who you are!) flowed, and the party resonated with laughter. Having been forbidden to bring gifts, friends from the village instead bought a large cake to accompany the traditional round of singing to mark Jayne’s special day. When guests reluctantly left, we all agreed that it had been a day to remember. So thank you Lovely Jayne, you may be 70 but you can show us all how to host a great party!

Son baptises Mother on her birthday in special village service

By request, the Rev. George Frost baptised his mother, Jane Turland, of Cold Ashby, on Monday 1st June. The day also marked Jane’s birthday.

George is Rector of the Astwick Vale and grew up in Hollowell. The small service took place in the village church of St. James in Hollowell, located near the family farm.

Mrs Turland began attending church regularly a few years ago when St. James' faced closure.

Reflecting on the service, Mrs Turland said: "My baptism in Hollowell Church by my son George was the truly special and memorable occasion I had always hoped for."

The Reverend Frost said that he was honoured and delighted to be asked to take the service. He added that, being only one day into June, it had already been a very interesting month.

Hopewell Coffee Mornings

There will be no coffee morning in August, whilst we take our usual annual break.

The coffee morning in September will be held on Friday 18th.

Why not come and join us for a cuppa, a piece of delicious cake and a catch up with friends? We meet in Hollowell Village Hall, 10.30am to 12.30pm

For more information, or for help with transport, please call:

Paul on 07780 265614 or

email: wearehopewell@gmail.com

HOLLOWELL & TEETON PARISH COUNCIL

 Gillian Greaves (Clerk) Tel: 07771980598

 12 Berry Lane

 Wootton

 NN4 6JX  

Street lighting upgrade to LED

The Parish Council continues to evaluate the options to upgrade the remaining street lights to LED which has the potential to reduce the charges for maintenance and electricity.

This is particularly relevant to the four lights located in Highfield Park which have a higher wattage.

The receipt of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funds has enabled the Council to fund recent upgrades and it is intended to continue this process with the lights in Highfield Park.

Hollowell Pocket Park

The Park is owned and maintained by the Parish Council and the cost of annual maintenance is part of the Council’s Annual Budget and Precept. This includes having an Annual Safety Inspection which provides the Council with information of maintenance and repair issues.

Several items of equipment were installed ten or more years ago and are beginning to show effects of use and weathering.

The Hollowell Pocket Park Action Committee (HPPAC) was formed to support the Councill in purchasing and maintaining equipment through grants from organisations including the National Lottery. HPPAC is still in existence but has not been actively seeking funds.

The Council is reviewing the information in the recent Inspection report to determine a cost-effective process of addressing maintenance, repair or replacement issues.

It is hoped this can be achieved without the need to substantially increase the Parish Precept but parishioners should be aware that this may have to be considered going forward.

A. G. Crisp

Chairman