Chapter 15 Our Village in the Year 2000 Ludham Village at the end of the Century

Our Village In The Year 2000 - Some Personal Thoughts

This final chapter is really a summing up of how the village has changed during the twentieth century, and, what are peoples thoughts about Ludham today. What better way to do this than by letting the Ludham village people speak for themselves. Take a moment to absorb the thoughts and feelings of those who have lived, worked and visited here over the years.

Despite the roads being less busy prior to the Millennium, for those who lived on the Norwich Road, local bus companies would drop school children at their gate rather than leave them to walk in the dark with no pavements. Ludham First School, in accordance with NCC changes in school provision, reverted to its original 1875 status of primary school for children aged 4 to 11 years. The alterations included several new features; two new entrances were built with a smart reception area and offices for secretary and head teacher. The old hall became 2 classrooms. A new nursery/reception class was built together with a new hall and original areas were revamped with more vibrant colours. A car park was created where previously parking had been on the grass field. An outside enclosure for nursery/reception together with an environmental area were created. The old outside toilets, used until the 1980’s were demolished.

Following the arrival of Dr Sale in 1997, the number of doctors has doubled and Ludham and Stalham Green surgeries now work closely together, sharing doctors and appointments. Many small procedures and support services can now be accessed at the surgeries. The shop on Stocks Hill next to the butchers and the old post office both became residences and the post office moved into Throwers. The King’s Arms opened a dining extension conservatory and  the gift shop on the corner opposite the pub closed. The corner shop at the top of School Road was turned into a complex of small residences. The mobile fish and chip vans appeared and daily milk deliveries changed to 3 times a week with none at the weekends. The boatyard at Womack closed. Mike Fuller's little workshop in Yarmouth Road became a hairdressers and several big new modern houses have been built. Livery and grazing stables were developed in Yarmouth Road.  The Bed and Breakfast at the Old Vicarage became an old people’s residential home. The grouped homes with a central lounge where hot lunches were offered were knocked down and replaced with new housing. Victory Housing took over control of houses from the Council. They also built new houses in School Road.

St. Benet's Abbey lost its wild, across the field approach. Once down to the end of the concrete road, to access the ruins, one was in fear of cows and geese.  The wooden cross appeared and the whole site has been developed tastefully as a tourist attraction.

Both farmers at the West end of the village sold their dairy herds as the price of milk was not high enough to keep them in business. The pig farmer from Catfield sold the butchers, and it was bought by someone in the village to keep it as a facility for the village, managed by Rodney Wright.                                                                                                                                                            Ros Cordiner

I have known Ludham for many years, both as a visitor (before the millennium) and as a resident (after the millennium). It is, quite simply, a superb place to visit and live. Local walks and facilities are excellent, and I cannot now imagine being anywhere else. As an example, I live about 10 minutes walk from the village centre, so a round trip from home to Throwers should take about 20 minutes plus "in shop time". On the way you will often meet many friends and familiar faces, and when you do, the experience can easily make the journey last an hour or more. When you come to live in a village like Ludham (or anywhere else for that matter), it is so important to do so with a positive mental attitude, and an intention to be part of the community. With the correct attitude on board, you gather more friends than you know what to do with.

Jon Simpson

The year 2000 was a couple of years before we came to live full time in Ludham Village. At that time we lived and worked in London, but we had a holiday home in Ludham on the bank of the River Thurne. We always came to Ludham for New Year, and the beginning of the new Millennium was no exception. Of course, this meant that we were far away from the big celebrations in London, which culminated in the “River of Fire” which was supposed to set the Thames alight from Tower Bridge to Vauxhall Bridge in a spectacular display. Not wishing to miss out on this event, we decided to create our own Ludham River of Fire, and to this end, we made some paper boats containing lighted tea lights which we launched out onto the Thurne at midnight. It was a modest affair which did not really light up the river from Potter to Wroxham Bridges, but then the London version turned out to be a bit of a damp squib too. The picture shows another aspect of our Ludham celebrations, a Millennium Dome cake.                                                                                   Nigel and Christina Pope

I was not living in Ludham during the twentieth century but my memories of it go back to the late 50’s and 60’s. As a boating visitor with my parents I then entered the world of the fairy garden in the Manor grounds, which on looking back, was quite an eccentric and bizarre feature of Ludham village at that time. Little did I know that I would come to live in Ludham, take part in its everyday life and lovingly call it home. Where else in Norfolk would you find a place offering an established shop with post office, a thriving butchers, a flower shop, numerous hairdressers, a garage serving petrol, repairs and car sales, a brilliant Doctor’s surgery, an excellent Nursery and First school, beautiful waterside, endless walks, abundant wildlife, near enough to the seaside and large towns, but best of all a supportive, friendly community. We have it all. Bronwen Simpson

Before I came to live in Ludham I had only passed through a few times by car, only catching just a few glimpses of the church and the High Street. On moving here quite unexpectedly from Norwich, I was amazed at how different it is to live in a country village. Perhaps this is an exceptional place, it has a great community sprit and there is so much to do, you will never be lonely. The village is so close to the broads, in a truly wonderful setting. Audrey Angel

The village has changed. Well, it has! But I don't think it has changed an awful lot - not the centre! When you look at the old photographs, the little bungalow is still there, the King's Arms is still there, Crown House is still there. The only thing that's missing is Bakers Arms and all those houses on that side of the road, and, of course, we now have the garage there. There was quite a big wooden house there and the wheelwright's yard. So that hasn't changed a tremendous amount - just a little and over the years, I think that's quite good going. Ludham is still a lovely village to be in, isn't it?

 I think that people who have lived here all their lives don't appreciate it - there's a centre! There's not many villages where you have the church as close. The church is sometimes half a mile out of the village and we've still got a pub, a butcher and we've got a tremendous doctors' surgery - and one of the few villages that have still got a garage with petrol pumps. When you think about it, there's not many, is there? They've all disappeared! Repps is an exception because they are on a main road but we are not on a main road. I think, generally speaking, there is a nice centre to the village and, of course, it's got a good shop. We'll throw that in!

Tommy Thrower

The year 2000 saw the formation of a registered charity known as Womack Staithe (Reg,no. 212112), previously administered by Ludham Parish Council. The objects of the charity are (1) to maintain the mooring facility and land in Ludham known as Womack Staithe, and (2) for the general benefit of the inhabitants of Ludham in such charitable ways as the Trustees think fit. Mike Flett – Chairman, Womack Staithe Trustees

I used to live in Ludham when I was three years old. I lived in a thatched cottage opposite a pub that had cobblestones out the front. As a family we used to go to the pub and get water from a pump. The cottages were white with a dark yellow thatch, there was a barn to the right, and a small fenced area in front. I also remember a store (Mrs Browns?) where we got groceries etc. (Ludham Bridge Stores).

Linda Czernysz

Ludham means a great deal to me. I was born here, and I have lived and worked here all my life. Obviously, the butchers was a huge part of my life. I often said that the only way I am leaving Ludham is in a box, but considering that I have a plot reserved in the churchyard, it won’t happen then. I loved the involvement with my customers, that is what I miss. I help part time at Martham butchers, just to keep the knives sharp. I am very happy with Ludham. I saw Broad Reaches, Willow Way, Pykes Nursery  and Latchmoor Park built, it has all worked out very well for the village,  I think Ludham is a really nice place, I hope it won’t change too much more, but that’s all in the future.

Rodney Wright

Working in Ludham Bridge Stores, then the tea rooms for four summers as a teenager and spending a lot of time polishing the brass in the tea rooms!!

Cathy Cordiner-Achenbach

I remember collecting bottles along the riverbank with my friends and taking them into Ludham Bridge Stores to get the money back and buy ice creams; happy days!!

June Holl

At last, at the end of the century, an exciting move to a new house in Ludham. What a pleasing village, it looks peaceful. A treasure trove of country finds. Marnie Hammond So sad to hear of the death of Martin Walton. My mum became great friends with his mum and dad when they moved to Ludham. We drank many cuppas round their kitchen table. Martin always showed me whatever paintings he was working on. He did a painting for me of Sydney Harbour Bridge from one of my photos when I came back from Oz. A lovely, sweet man. Aly Blake-Johnson

The Revd. Mohan lived at the Rectory. I used to go through an adjoining fence to play with his daughter Patricia. Fetes and tennis took place on the rectory lawn. Medlars grew in the garden.
Sunday school was in the Church Hall. I enjoyed a Sunday School outing to Cromer by train from Potter Heigham and recall drinking ginger beer from stone bottles on the beach.

Constance Reeve

It seemed very quiet after all the troops had gone. There were no more dances at the NAFFI and the pubs had plenty of beer, which they certainly didn't during the war. It would come in on the Thursday and we were always sold out by the Sunday. So after the war there was less trade. Things did seem quiet. People were no longer satisfied with local community things; they went further afield for their entertainment. Petrol restrictions were being lifted and they'd been working away - some of the locals. So yes, there were changes, and not entirely enjoyable. I found it a little bit boring after the war, to tell you the truth. Beulah Gowing

My memories are bathed in mist like the marshes on a summer morning. My mother had purchased a small piece of land with money begrudgingly given to her by Granny Chambers who disapproved of my mother’s marriage to an out-of-work seaman who drank. There my parents built Dyke End, a small bungalow at the edge of a huge expanse of marsh. Dyke End was the last house at the end of a dirt road so muddy in winter that it was almost impassable. At the end of the road lay the marshes and across the marshes the river Thurn, which connected to a network of waterways known as the Norfolk Broads. In winter a strong northwest wind accompanied by a full moon and a high tide, could cause the North Sea to burst through the sand dunes and flood the marshes up to the edge of our land. Only a derelict windmill where swallows nested and cows sheltered from the rain broke the skyline. Ruth Dunn

On Good Friday we would gather primroses from the lanes and hedgerows to decorate the ends of the pews for Easter Day. We went to Sunday School at 10am., followed by Church Service at 11am., Sunday School again at 2.30 pm., and Church again at 6.30pm. We were not allowed to knit or play games on Sundays. When we were about 8 years old we joined the Girls Friendly Society and later the Young Peoples Union which was a religious Youth Club for boys and girls.

Helen Watson

Tom Cable often became the topic of conversation in the Kings Arms as there was a fishing match every Sunday in Womack Dyke and most of the fishermen did not have a licence! He laid down the law one Sunday morning and from then on all match fishermen had licences. In the fifties more and more fishing clubs were forming. Many of them came from Norwich pubs and were part of the Norwich and District and Wroxham and District Angling Associations. Most of the River Ant, the River Bure from Horning Hall Farm to Acle Bridge, and the Coldharbour stretch on the River Thurne were all pegged out especially for these matches. After leaving the Royal Navy in 1952 Tom became a Water Bailiff on the rivers Thurn, Bure, Hickling Broad and Horsey Mere. Tom Cable, Water Bailiff

The nissen hut my company were housed in backed onto the school road and the guard room where we did our guard duties was on the bridle path. .I joined my unit the 6th Duke of Wellingtons at the end of march 1944, after a spell in hospital, at which time the whole unit was confined to camp preparing to take part in the invasion of Europe, wherever and whenever that was to be. Our duties were doing various exercises, map reading, arms drill and in my case as a driver, water proofing vehicles ready for beach landings.
Free time was virtually nil and the only places to go were the NAAFI canteen on the camp and to go out into the village, to go to a Sunday service, as I did. You were obliged to sign out at the guard room stating where you were going and what time you would be back. Once a week a couple of trucks would take 20 men for a day out in Norwich but my turn never came round.

Frank Graham, written in July 2006

Since we moved here we have found the Archive very useful, helpful and informative, we have learned quite a bit through it. There are many things in the village that you can take part in, it’s a lovely village to live in, and you could never change it. You have everything you need, shop, butchers, doctors, church, chapel, and a decent pub with a good menu. The place is full of friendship and community. We have been in the village for some years now, we use to visit because my brother has been here many years in the boating world. We moved up from Hearne Bay in Kent for a quieter life. It’s a lovely village, and its still a village, there are so many things you can do if you choose to. We love going to the Archive, we have leaned so much about “Old Ludham, as it was”. We couldn’t wish for a better place to live. We go to Kent to visit family, but it is always nice to come home. John and Wendy Crane

I think Ludham is a marvellous little village, I have worked and lived here since 1936, it has been my life. It is difficult to explain in words, it has community spirit, it is brilliant. My favourite place is Horsefen Marshes, the farmer allowed me to do what I liked down there, shooting rabbits and that. I was able to watch all that was going on at the airfield, that was interesting. I have enjoyed my life, that’s important. The only grievance I have with Ludham is that 6 months after I retired some yobbo’s went into my workshop (the old fire station) and pinched all my tools.

Mike Fuller This place means a lot to me, I was born in Catfield and went to Ludham School, my friends and family are here. Its lovely, its peaceful, its very pretty, How Hill, all the little lokes, its home, and a place worth being. I don't want to be anywhere else. Anne Starkings

Ludham is a lovely place to live. We came here from Sawbridgeworth (Hertfordshire) in 1995, the village has a really good shop, and a pub where you can eat. The people are amicable and friendly, plus, there is lots to do. Also, with bigger shops close to hand you need want for nothing. It is a really nice place to be, and we wouldn't want to be anywhere else.

Ludham is virtually the last outpost of “Englishness” you can find. We courted in Norfolk when we were kids, and we always said that when we retired we would come back, it is truly “English”.

Maureen and Jeff Parks

It is a most friendly and desirable place to live, I have always enjoyed it. There is so much here to do and get involved with (maybe not so much for the younger generations). We have very good amenities here, including an exceptional doctors surgery, medicines delivered to your door, and a good grocery store and butchers, everything you could want really. It is an extremely good place to live, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else now. I came here in 1969 from Dunstable, and then Luton. I loved it there, but I like Ludham better. Kathie Jones

We live in the 21st century, we are well connected, and have a fantastic Archive Group. There is heaps to do here, if you are bored in Ludham, either you are in the wrong place, or you are not trying. The broads and the wildlife are fabulous and we are near the coast, what else would you want in life. The roads get a bit busy, but apart from that, it is wonderfull.

  Margaret Watts

I have known Ludham since 1962, I wanted to work from here, its great, I even had to bring my wife. We came from Outwell (near Wisbech), it’s a great place to live, and has absolutely everything we want. There are no hills, there is water and there are boats, there is a great social life, and some really nice people. Roger Watts

I was born in Ludham, and I lived here for 21 years in School Road. My mum and dad were here, as were two sets of grand parents and several cousins. Its a special place, it is where I met Bill, my husband-to-be. I was born in Somerton and have lived in Martham all my life. In 1973 I met my wife Angela, it was love at first sight I suppose, and 5 years later we got married in Ludham Church. I have good memories of Ludham, a very friendly place. My first job was at Brooks’s foundry in the fettling shop polishing boat fittings, and the funny thing was, the person in charge of the fettling shop, Vic Trivett, ended up being my father-in-law. Having worked at Ludham Garage for the last 14 years or so, I have been in or around the village for 40 years or more, it’s great.

Angela and Bill Buck

I first came to Ludham in 1986, having lived in Norwich for 20 years.  I desperately wanted to move out to the country. I found the ideal cottage in Ludham, and I really couldn’t believe what a beautiful place I had chosen to live in. We discovered How Hill, and the village, the shops (there were more then), and the whole ethos of the village. Over the years I have learned that it is absolutely marvellous. We are all like-minded people that live in the village, everybody is very proactive, there is so much going on, and that means everything to me, I just love living here, and they will have to drag me out kicking and screaming because it’s the best place to live, ever. Pam Elliott

We came here from Kent in 2001 having had holidays in the area. We felt the need for change, and gave up our jobs, bought the house, and have never regretted it. I grew up on a farm, so I have always been used to village life, although I have worked in London as well. In a village everyone looks after each other, and they make good friends. There is good “community” in Ludham, love it. Bridget Humphrey

Graham and I came from Dartford to Ludham in 2001. one of the first things we did was go into Tommy’s shop (Throwers) and having moved in just down the road, we introduced ourselves. As outsiders, we have always felt comfortable and welcome. I always felt that Ludham found me. We had no particular intention of coming here, but we did look at one house (22 High Street). It was very nice, but a bit to expensive. On the way home the vendor phoned us and said they would accept our offer if we could complete the purchase without delay. The decision was made, and we never had any regrets. Brenda Standen

Ludham is “my little bubble”. I don't go outside my little bubble much, I like being on the inside, it is safe and friendly. There is no aggravation, I just enjoy being here. I love the people, the history, and the countryside. Freedom and security are both important factors, there is no problem. You can go to so many places outside of Ludham and people don’t know who there neighbours are.

Lindsey Young We holidayed for many years on the broads, and whenever we came to Ludham it seemed like a very welcoming place. We had done some courses at How Hill, and we got interested in The Wherry Albion. Having retired, we decided to move here permanently, because quite simply, it has everything we wanted. We have a brilliant health centre, a good supermarket, all that we need. There are plenty of things to get involved in if you want, and it is a good place o live. Ivor Stemp

Our daughter recommended Ludham because of the shops, the bus route, access to the staithe, The Wherry Albion (for George), and the people are really friendly. It is the best village we have found in our lives, it is a place worth living. Jackie Blake I was born here, and I then lived in Norwich for 27 years. Having retained my links through friends and family, I came back, almost to where I started. It is a lovely place, and we are so lucky to have all the facilities that we do, the shop, the butchers, the doctors, the flower shop, and good meals at the pub, they all make it a special place. I am very involved with the Chapel, Messy Church and Forget-Me-Nots, it all goes to make it a place I will never leave. Gillian Abel

We moved here in 2007, mainly because of the connection with Edward Seago. It means a lot to me to come back here and paint on the marshes, I get so much inspiration, as did Sego before me. It’s a lovely place, and everybody is so friendly. I think I shall end up living here one day, it is such a nice place, there is so much to paint here, it is wonderful, it always feels like coming back home. Keiron Williamson

My mother and father lived in Gypsies Lane in what were quite new bungalows at that time but only till 1935 when they moved to Neatishead. Also my Uncle Joe lived for a while in the cottage opposite the Dog pub, he is also buried in the churchyard. The Dog became a favourite watering hole of my dad when we were young, I remember sitting in our car with my mum, tucking into Vimto and crisps while dad was in the pub with Joe and his mates. My cousin Dennis (sadly died a few years ago) moved back to Ludham and lived in Willow Way - he was evacuated to Ludham from London in the war and had happy memories of that time.

Frank Horner

I came to live in Ludham as a single person, and I found it to be like coming into a family. I have always been made to feel very welcome, and everybody is so friendly. Everywhere you go people stop and talk,  or wave as you pass, it really is like having an extended family. The church has been very welcoming, and when you are on your own it is important to feel safe. There are always people around that look out for you.  It’s a beautiful place to be, a lovely place to be, and although I now live in Catfield, I do hope to move back one day. Maria Hedge

Tom says: I grew up in Ludham having lived here since 1967, originally at Staithe House, then at the Manor, and now at Manor Gates. There is nowhere quite like it, its a great place to live, a low crime rate, nice and relaxed with quiet and friendly people, its got all the shops you need so long as you can also do internet shopping, but we do need a slipway. I am lucky, I work from home, so there is no better place to be. Kate says: As a northern lass who was lucky enough to marry a Ludham lad, I don’t think I would ever have found Ludham if it hadn’t been for that.  Tom and I met on the internet. It is a miracle of what the internet is that brought us together. That caused me to visit Ludham when we were courting, and as soon as I came here it felt like coming home. The feeling of “community” is very special, there are lots of beautiful villages, but nothing quite like this, there is so much opportunity to get involved here.

Tom and Kate Gabriel

We have lived in Ludham for 34 years, and we absolutely love it, and we wouldn’t want to go anywhere else. It’s a lovely, a friendly village, there is lots going on which you can join in with if you want to, and if you do, you are always made to feel welcome. We are lucky to have all the facilities that we do, the churches and shops, the garage , the doctors, and all the rest of it, and we wouldn’t want to go anywhere else. Sylvia Pitt

Ludham is just wonderful. The first day we were here I went to the shop to get a paper and a few things, and people talked to me, it was so lovely.  We have been here 21 years, and it seems like no time at all. There really is lots to do, the rivers are good, and the people are so friendly .

Hilde Davies

Ludham means a lot to me. You can get everything you want here. Someone once said you can’t buy clothes, but you can, at the jumble sale. Everything is going on, everybody helps everybody, if you go to the garage a man comes out and puts fuel in your car, its as it should be. There is always something going on, it is a busy place. It is a village that makes everyone welcome. Its great. Derek Eales We moved here from Spain, we wanted everything that Ludham has to offer. A good shop, pub, butchers, church, and social life. When we found this property we were delighted to make the move. We had often been on holiday in the area, and we knew that this was where we wanted to be. It is a very friendly village, people have time to chat, its easy to integrate, and it is the best move we have ever made. We couldn’t wish for anything better. Derek and Sue Oaks

Bob: I think it is such a pleasant village. Having come from the midlands, people were ok and pleasant, but they didn’t talk to you unless you knew them. You come here and you find that everyone is so friendly. I was ill a few years ago, and people were phoning up to find out how I was…. (conversation interrupted by 3 huge tractors and trailers going through the High Street)….  That’s one of the things I like about the place, it is the peace and quiet of the countryside. The village has got everything I want, and it is such a wonderful community. There is no way I am ever going back, I have been here 12 years, and I love it. Rita:  Its home. It’s the place we most want to be, and when we are away, we can’t wait to get back, we just love living here. Bob and Rita Gibson

I was born here in Staithe Road in 1953, I enjoyed going to school here and stayed until I went to college when I was about 17. My father owned the garage in the High Street in the 60’s, I had great fun playing there. Later dad owned Ludham Marine (as it was then called) where the stars (Jerry Marsden, Karl Denver) kept their boats and went racing at Oulton Broad on a Thursday evening. I love living here, the village has a real heart to it. I am proud of what my mother did here, many things, such as her involvement with the bus stop, the village sign, the church guide book, etc. Elaine’s mother, Pop Snelling, wrote “Ludham, A Norfolk Village, 1800-1900” while in France and the pages were sent back to Elaine in the post. Elaine Mumby (nee Snelling)

We came here in 2004, we had got friendly with quite a lot of people in the area, and wanted to move here. we were told that this property was available, so we bought it and moved here.  Ivan was a member of R.A.T.S. (The Real Ale Tasting Society), and much fun was had on Thursday nights. We both enjoy walking and cycling, and we can turn out of our gate and be in the countryside within seconds. There is loads of interesting things, right on our doorstep. Also, as a member of “Womack Herons”, we have gained so many friends in the area. It is a super place to be, and we will never move away. We love going to Spain for or holidays, but also, we love coming back to Ludham. Gwen and Ivan Cullum

Ludham is summed up in a very simple fact. We have lived in three different housed in Ludham, and we have not moved away. It is the atmosphere, the people, the community spirit, there are lots of things to do, beautiful places, Womack Staithe, facilities, they are all here. Why would you want to move away. Bruce Moffatt My wife and I are here because our daughter moved to Coltishall. We came to look at where she had moved to, and looking round, we thought we would like to move to Horning, because we thought it was very pretty. Then we saw Ludham, the housing was more reasonably priced, it is close to the water, it has a nice centre with the shops, the church and the pub. We didn’t know anybody here, but it felt very friendly. We bought a house here, and not for one moment have we regretted our decision. Bob and Joan Rawling

Err, Ludham. Considering that I didn’t know where it was when I moved here, after about two weeks, I just felt at home here, I realised it was a community with a spirit and a heart.

In a shop environment you get to meet people much quicker than you would if you were in a cottage down a lane. I absolutely love it, and we have no plans to either move on or move away. I am comfortable here, it’s a most beautiful place, it is home.

Tony Wright, Alfresco Tea Room

Its just a lovely, quaint village, I enjoy living here as well as working here. The people are really nice, and friendly. The shops and facilities are really good, and we want for nothing. I love it. Leslie Wright, Alfresco Tea Room

It’s a delightful village, and everyone you meet is very friendly. These are the types of thing you particularly notice when you come to settle here from a London suburb. It is set in beautiful countryside with wonderful wildlife, all of which is ideal for walking the dog. The facilities are fantastic, plus we have a wonderful church with several related organisations.

Christine Wall It’s a lovely place, extremely friendly. I come in each morning to get the paper and I wave, or say hello to all sorts of people, and I don't know half of them. We have an international airport round the back there, a huge cathedral, and a well stocked hypermarket, Guys Hospital, Parisian hairdressers, THE Mr Ford personally put his logo in the village, and we have fast broadband (well, some of us have it). As far as Ludham is concerned, it is a wonderful place. John Kelsey

Ludham means EVERYTHING to me. I have fallen on my feet since I have been here, its wonderful, with super facilities, and lots to do if you want to. Phyllida Eales It was in June 1980 when we first came to Ludham. The reason why we came to Ludham that day? We were on the river and we had a breakdown and we had to see a certain gentleman called Mike Fuller when he was still running a boatyard down at Womack Water, and as he had to fix something that took about an hour, he said why don’t you walk up to the village and have a look. Well, we did exactly that. It was a bit of a  surprise when we walked into the village, because we loved it from the moment we saw it. We thought it was a great little village. My then girlfriend and partner said, “Oh I wish we could live here”. Well, there’s no harm in wishing – you never know what might come true. Wolf Bubenzer

It’s a good village, we have several shops, which many don’t. The thing that stands out most in my mind goes back to the 1950’s when there was no water laid on, not like it is now. The same goes for toilets, it was just a bucket in an outside privy, and every so often you had to empty it, in the garden or wherever. Then Mrs Brooks at the manor bought a tanker to go round the village. She hired 2 workers to go round once a week collecting all the waste and she had it buried on a bit of land she owned down the road. They called it the honey cart. That was a big change for the better. We didn’t have mains water put on until the 1970’s. In my house there was just a stand-pipe inside the door. I got a friend of mine to run it up to a tap in a sink.  Then, I had to dig a soak away in the garden. The hole we dug went down about 16 feet, we had to find a sandy stone layer that we could use for drainage. Another thing, we had a tin bath that we used in front of the fire, and if visitors turned up, well, you just had to put up with it. Adrian Sparrow

The wonderful thing we found out about the village is how friendly everyone was. The first time we walked to the shop people would say hello to us, it was marvellous, that didn’t happen where we came from in Dartford (Kent). Ludham has got everything. It is a completely different atmosphere and pace of life, it is great. Su Cox Its a very friendly village. Between us, we have lived here for 26 years. There are so many social groups that you can get involved in, it is marvelous. Also, we have enough local facilities to cover our needs. Add to that the excellent surgery just down the road, we want for nothing, and wouldn't want to live anywhere else. Steve and Janet Bensley

was born and bred in this village and had a wonderful childhood. Now that I am retired and back again, it is very pleasing to find that Ludham still has the same generous community spirit that makes it a really great place to live. Ken Grapes We came here in 1996 from Yorkshire because of the sailing. A friend asked my husband to crew for him in the Three Rivers Race. We came to Ludham and used it as a base while we looked around the area, and ended up buying the house down Lovers Lane which had been owned by Martin Walton’s parents. Having looked at the house, we liked it, and decided on it straight away. It was the garden that made the decision easy. Ludham is a very friendly village, and it is not easy to think of being somewhere else. We have good facilities, and there is lots to do. Linda Cruickshank

We have been here over 20 years now. For many years we had wanted to move to Ludham, and while on holiday we saw Rose Cottage was for sale We were not quite ready to retire but our children convinced us that we should make the move from South Manchester. At the viewing, we walked into the house and we just knew we had to have it. Had it not been for our children, we would have passed on the opportunity because Michael was still working ‘Up North’, and in retrospect, ‘it was just meant to happen’. We love Ludham, we always have. It’s a very special village because its got an enormous sense of community, it is very friendly and welcoming. We are so lucky to have this place. You cannot be bored here, there is so much to do, if you want to.

Michael and Sheila Farnsworth

Ludham is special to me because of my mum really, she has been here for such a long time. I lived here in the late 60’s, early 70’s, and then much later I moved back here permanently. I love the area, the skies are so big, and bright. I love the flatness. It was lovely in the middle of the Chilterns, but it is not like it is here. It is fascinating to see sails going across the middle of fields. Ludham has it all, its a friendly, outgoing place, with something going on that you can join in with. Jac Wright I have been in or around Ludham most of my life, and for 13 of those years I have worked at Throwers. Ludham is an odd sort of place if you are a member of the younger generation, and it can be difficult to get away from. I do come back here a lot, it is pretty, and I love living in the area. I know that there is lots to do, but not so much for the young. Rebecca King Through the family, Ludham is at the heart of my environment, and has been pretty well all my life.   All I have ever known is the shop because it has been in the family so long, it is my world. A few   years ago we knew just about everybody in the village. That has changed a bit now, there have been   a lot of new faces in the last 5 to 10 years, but we still recognise them as locals. It is a friendly, great   community. I live just behind the shop, and really, I cannot imagine being anywhere else. Ludham   is probably one of the best served villages in the area, this is the place to be. Guy Thrower

This is a wonderful place to retire to. Coming from Kent as I did, it is a wonderful part of the country to relax and join in with, and if you do, you are welcomed with open arms. It is not often you find that in a village, but here you do. It is a village that has a centre, and a heart, and people that are like minded in so many ways. It is easy to enjoy yourself, I am busy with the Wherry Trust now (Albion), it gives me an interest. There is so much to do, if you want to. It’s a wonderful, wonderful village, it is somewhere I wouldn't want to leave.

Rob Hole

Its where I live, its home, it is a special place. I am a mate on the Wherry Albion, plus I have my own boat here. I am a member of the church, and I play in the band, I enjoy being here. I had always planned on coming to Norfolk, and my family are from Norfolk, so although I wasn’t born here it felt like coming home. Primrose and I did a rapid house-hunting exercise, and having looked at a property in Ludham, we went to the church service, and joined in with a lunch in the church room. It felt good, with active churches working together. It sort of sealed our move here. David Frost Ludham means quite a bit to me, having first come here on holiday in the mid 1950’s plus many times since. My parents had bought a second home down Horsefen Road. This is such a friendly, comfortable place. We don’t have a ‘Lord of the Manor’ here because of the presence of St. Benet’s Abbey and I suspect that has led to quite a reasonable attitude among the people that live here, there is no ‘kowtowing’ to anyone. The locals are willing to put up with us foreigners. Peter Wall

Phil: Ludham is a very lovely place and all the people I have met so far are very friendly. There is a really great sense of community, plus we have top quality facilities. The staithe is fascinating as you can relax and watch the boats come and go and also you can do a bit of fishing. The countryside is great,  on some evenings you can here deer barking in the woods opposite us, and our dogs bark back. Anita: Ludham has given us a great big welcome into the community. We have found so many people that are welcoming and friendly. It is wonderful to be part of a community like this, with the church as a centre point in the village. Phil and Anita Lane

The reason I came to Ludham in the first place 40 years ago was with my work at the brewery in Norwich. A couple of years later my work came to a natural end, and I was offered further contract work in Manchester. When I told my wife, she said “You may be going to Manchester, but I am NOT leaving Ludham”. We love the village, our children had gone to school here where they got a great start in life. The people here made us welcome, and nothing in the intervening years has happened to change my mind. Ludham is where I have lived most of my life, and Ludham is where I shall see out my life. Alex Cordiner Jeanne: We came to Ludham in 1976 because the house we found was the right one for bringing up our family. Within hours of arriving we knew we had come to the right place, because of the house, the village, and the people. Our lives took off socially, both for us and for the children, and since then we have made two moves, both within the village. It proves that this village is the place for us. Mike: Our experiences in Ludham, contrary to what people on the outside might think, are that people are very friendly and approachable, and apart from some language difficulties, it was a very good introduction to rural Norfolk, and we both love it. Mike and Jeanne Flett

Sue: It’s a very pretty village with a good community that knows, and talks to each other. We help each other when it is needed, and it is a peaceful, safe place to live. I appreciate living near the river, and always feel like I am on holiday. We tried to move here in 1982 but it wasn’t successful, but it was meant to be. That’s Ludham to me. Barry: Love it, I came here with the fire service cadets on a camping week at How Hill, and fell in love with it. The people are friendly, and I don’t want to be anywhere else. Sue and Barry Whitehouse

Deborah:  It is my privilege to live and work within the Ludham community, conducting marriages and blessings, funerals and baptisms and everything in between. Ludham, like all of our parishes, has much to offer. There is a warm and good community spirit, with many clubs and societies on offer to all those who either live here or visit. Hospitality and welcome are top of the list particularly for our pubs and cafes stretching from the Staithe at Ludham to its centre and extending all the way out to the boundary at Ludham Bridge . As a relatively new incomer my family and I look forward to being a part of creating and inspiring the warm welcome to all who venture near. God bless. Michael:  Since we moved here, we as new-comers have been warmly welcomed by the people that live in the community. It is very friendly and there is certainly lots going on here that you can take part in if you choose to. There are some really good shops, all with helpful and friendly staff. It is quite obvious that it is a good, helpful community, where the people seem to look out for each other. Revd Deborah and Michael Hamilton-Grey

It’s the place I call home. It is a good and friendly place, where I am surrounded by family (a good deal of whom are in the church yard).  This is a fabulous….. (very heavy tractor, trailer and machinery trundles down the road)…. place to live side by side with agriculture, I love it.  I have two allotments in Staithe Road that keep me busy, the services and facilities are fantastic, and it is a friendly community. I can imagine living elsewhere, but would I want to……. NO. Will Grapes

We love the peace and quiet here, compared to where we came from, under the flight path at Gatwick Airport. Also, the village is so quiet and friendly compared to several others we looked at before we came here. We feel so lucky. The first time we went into Throwers we were amazed at how helpful and courteous the staff were, that is something you don’t often find these days. We are both involved with the Methodist church which we enjoy, it is good for us. We think this will be our final resting place. We are concerned about the loss of the bus into Wroxham, but, at the same time, we do recognise that it is probably a business decision, made for the right reason.

Esther Nunn and Iris Bass

Ludham means everything to me, I have been here for 25 years. I remember the old shop and post office, then it was The Bistro, and now of course, it is owned by Keiron Williamson, he is a wonderful artist. I love going to the Ludham Archive on a Wednesday night, it’s a really interesting bunch of people, and I have learned so much about the village and its history. We have everything we need here, plus there is lots to do and join in with if you want to. The doctors surgery is amazing, and so friendly. Church is important to me, and I enjoy going to the Methodist Chapel. There is so much community spirit here, and friendliness. I am not going anywhere else, I will leave feet first, in a box. Pam Reynolds

have lived here all my life. The village means everything to me, I wouldn’t want to move. I enjoy it all, the shops and the people are always friendly. The various clubs I go to always make you feel welcome, it is good. Joyce Youngs David and I moved to Johnson St, Ludham from Suffolk in November 2006. We looked for a house to retire to over a period of 10 years or more, and every time, we gravitated to Ludham. It had everything we needed in the way of shops and facilities and an active social scene, so we were very pleased to eventually find Fen Hill in Hall Road. Our first impression of the village was how friendly everyone was, particularly Tommy at Throwers. He made us so welcome when we went into the shop (the day after we moved in) and he actually called us by name. Coming from a town where only those in your own circle knew you, or even cared, this was so amazing. We have tried our best to join in the village activities and to contribute as much as we can.  It really is a lovely village and we feel so fortunate to be a part of it. Cheryl and David Beckley

We have reached the end of our book. It is always difficult to know what to say when you get to this point, but finally, the editorial team thought it right and proper that the final words should come from the children at Ludham School. They are most certainly, “The Next Generation”, and some of them may well be involved in writing   Ludham - A Century Of Change, 2000 to 2100