Beccles & Bungay Community News - Christmas/January 2023

Cheque presentation to Beccles and District Lions Club

The Mayor of Beccles (Councillor Barry Darch) presents a cheque for £2,696.63 to Beccles and District Lions Club President, Chris Eglington for the Club's support and assistance in manning the Beccles Bell Tower for another successful summer period.

Beccles Lions Club were initially asked by Beccles Town Council if they could help with the trial re-opening of the historic Beccles Bell Tower in 2021 as it had been closed during Covid. The re-opening was a success so this year, the Club were asked again to help by assisting with the manning of the Bell Tower.

The Lions decided they would, because of the potential the tower has to bring visitors to Beccles and promote its history and because the club would be able to raise funds to help the town.

The Mayor of Beccles said: "We'd like to express our gratitude to Beccles Lions Club for their assistance with the opening of the Bell Tower. Last year's trial opening on Fridays, in addition to the Saturday opening operated by the existing team of volunteers, demonstrated that the Bell Tower is certainly

a popular attraction. This year, with the Lions also opening the Tower on Wednesdays, proved the point further. We are very grateful to everyone who takes part in the Tower opening. Visitors appreciate learning about the building's history as well as enjoying the splendid view from the top."

Beccles Lions Club President (Chris Eglington) added: "On behalf of Beccles Lions Club, I'd like to thank Beccles Town Council for this very generous donation to the Club. It'll go a long way to help organisations and the people of Beccles. We've already donated to the Beccles Primary Academy, Beccles Museum, St. Luke's Church, as well as individuals in Beccles, such as a special pushchair for an autistic child, a mobility scooter, an

electric cooker, and organised a disabled toilet to be repaired. These are just a few ways in which Beccles Lions Club has been able to help the people of Beccles and we'll continue to do so. It's an honour for the club to help develop and promote the Bell Tower for all the visitors and people of Beccles. A big thank must also go to all of the volunteers, friends and members of Beccles Lions Club who gave up their time to man the Bell Tower throughout this year."

If you wish to know more about becoming a friend or member of Beccles and District Lions Club and the work we do, please contact the club secretary Lion Sandy Barr on 07944 537652 or visit www.beccleslions.club and why not follow us on Facebook too.

BACT volunteer spotlight

Let me introduce you to Melita, our newest volunteer driver.

Melita contacted BACT after seeing our vehicles being driven around her local area. She found the BACT website and completed our online volunteer application form. A member of our team responded and invited Melita in for a chat and explanation of the role and training. As a selfconfessed lover of driving, Melita was sure it was something she'd enjoy.

Sadly, Melita recently lost her husband and often found herself driving as a means of unwinding and for a change of scenery. She also felt lost and without purpose and in need of a reason to leave the house. She wanted to be of use in the community, meet, connect, and communicate with people.

Following her BACT training and receipt of her DBS certificate, Melita was soon on the road taking her first passenger to their local GP practice. She has since met people from all walks of life, of all ages and all with a story to tell!

Having been away from the workplace for some years, Melita was lacking in confidence and felt her skills needed updating. She

has been driving for BACT for a couple of months and is already feeling a positive shift in her mental health and outlook.

Melita says the lifeline she offers passengers in transporting them to appointments, social events and such like, benefits her in similar ways. It's helped her during an incredibly difficult and emotional time and allowed her confidence to grow in a safe and supported environment.

One of Melita's regular passengers said: "I immediately felt

comfortable in Melita's company. I really enjoy travelling with her and having a chat during our journey. She is sociable and easy to get along with."

Volunteering is known to improve self-esteem and confidence whilst providing opportunities to build relationships and make friends. It can provide people with a sense of community and purpose whilst bringing fun and happiness.

Melita confirmed this by saying: "I don't just enjoy driving for BACT, I love it! I started with offering just one day per week but now I often do a bit more. It fits around my availability which works well with other commitments I have."

"It is apparent how valuable BACT services are to many in our local community and the feeling of providing a much-needed lifeline is both rewarding and satisfying." This is the message from many of our volunteer drivers.

If you'd like to know more about joining our friendly and committed team, please contact BACT on 01986 896896 or visit: www.bactcommunity transport.org.uk

(L to R): Lion Fred Helsdon, Lion President Chris Eglington, Lion Geoff Jones, Beccles Town Mayor, Councillor Barry Darch and Lion Sandy Barr.

Melita Edmunds

SuAnLo Trio to return for 'Winter Joy' concert

We are delighted to announce the return of the popular SuAnLo Trio from San Sebastian on the Basque coast of Spain. They will be performing a selection of popular classical and modern music.

Loreto Aramendi is a worldrenowned musician, principal organist at the Basilica de Santa Maria del Coro and is a Professor at the Conservatoire in San Sebastian. She performs all over the world on some of the finest organs including Westminster Abbey, Kings College Cambridge, Norwich Cathedral, also in the USA, Japan, Canada, Argentina and many more.

Ana Salaberria is an

accomplished singer and teacher of classical and popular music. She sings and collaborates with well-known musical groups, choral societies and orchestras.

Suzanna Guterl began her musical career specialising in the flute by studying at the Birmingham Conservatoire. Now living in Spain she performs as a soloist and in various musical groups. Do not miss this opportunity to hear these excellent musicians in the heart of our village.

Tickets include a glass of wine or soft drink and canapes are £15 and can be purchased from Ann by calling: 01379 852569.

Festive greetings from Emmanuel Church

Coffee Mornings: Our Coffee Mornings will resume again on January 21st next year. We had a very busy day on Saturday December 3rd for our annual 'Christmas Fayre' from 10am2pm in the Orange Hall. Thanks to all who came and supported us. Proceeds for the 'Going Green' fund will be made known next month.

Coffee Stop: Coffee Stop on Tuesday mornings from 10:15am-11:30am is taking a break after December 20th and will resume meetings on Tuesday January 10th. All are welcome to join us for fellowship and chat. The coffee is good too!

Wednesday Games Afternoons: Sessions are now on the last Wednesday of every month in the Orange Hall. The next one is on December 28th. Do come along and have fun playing games, enjoying fellowship and a nice cup of coffee with delicious cake from 2:15pm-4:15pm the Orange Hall.

Obituary: Sadly, we have to announce the death of another member of our church family. Our dear friend Don Stacey died on November 8th and his Thanksgiving Service took place at 2pm on Wednesday December 7th. For many years, Don and his wife Joyce did all the photocopying we need here

at Emmanuel and Don carried on the good work after she died. We will be eternally grateful to him for his unfailing willingness to help out in an emergency. His other love for his church was our lovely garden to the front which he tendered with loving care for many years. Thank you Don. May you rest in peace reunited with you lovely wife and son Paul.

Advance information for Advent and Christmas: December 11th: Churches together in Bungay Carol service at Emmanuel at 6:30pm. December 15th: Advent lunch from 12 noon to 1pm in the Emmaus Room. Donations to the Waveney Food Bank.

December 15th: Bungay Town Carols at Bigod's Kitchen near the castle from 7:15pm. December 18th: Annual Gift Service and Nativity at 10:45am. Leader Mrs Julia Awty. Donations this year are invited for the Norfolk & Norwich Hospital Dementia Unit. Please give it your full support.

December 24th: Christmas Eve Carol Service with the brass band at 6:30pm. December 25th: Holy Communion at 11am with Revd Bruno Boldrini.

Best wishes to all our friends. Have a joyful Christmas and a happy and healthy new year. May God bless you and keep you safe in the coming months.

Beccles Inner Wheel

A field maple tree was planted to commemorate the Queen

Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee.

Beccles Inner Wheel

President, Mrs Gill Parker, planted the tree in the garden of Lemon House. Mrs Jennifer Langeskov (Collector of Beccles

Townlands Charity) attended the planting with fellow Feoffee Mr Ken Leggestt. Beccles

Townlands Charity (also known as the Feoffees) gave permission for the tree to be planted on their property.

Beccles Inner Wheel has had a busy year raising funds for several charities with lunches and coffee mornings and a variety of activities. We also help some overseas charities and have knitted a number of blankets, teddy bears and items of clothing which have been included in Christmas parcels and delivered to the Ukraine.

We have 34 lady members and are always happy to welcome guests who might be considering joining Inner Wheel.

President Gill Parker, Collector Jennifer Langeskov and fellow Feoffee Ken Leggett and Vice President Gail Harris

Members showing knitted goods despatched to the Ukraine

Divorce, Mediation, Children & other Family matters

Buying & Selling property, Re-mortgages, Transfer of Equity Equity Release, Lifetime Mortgage and other Property matters

Preparation of Wills and Powers of Attorney, Inheritance Tax

Trusts and Estates, Court of Protection Care Home Fees Mitigation Exchange Square, Beccles NR34 9HP

52 Thoroughfare, Halesworth IP19

Tel: (01502)718700

Email: enquire.beccles@nortonpeskett.co.uk

Tel: (01986) 872513 Email: enquire.halesworth@nortonpeskett.co.uk

Email: enquire.beccles@nortonpeskett.co.uk

EquityRelease,LifetimeMortgages andother Propertymatters

PreparationofWillsandPowers ofAttorney,Inheritance Tax

TrustsandEstates,Court ofProtection andCareHomeFeesMitigation

Exchange Square, Beccles NR34 9HP Tel: (01502)718700 enquire.beccles@nortonpeskett.co.uk

Rumburgh Morris members donate to Waveney Foodbank

On November 24th, 2022, members of Rumburgh Morris met with Matthew Scade from Waveney Foodbank at the Rumburgh Buck Public House to present a cheque. The donation of £650 was raised during their summer season of Morris dancing.

Rumburgh Morris is a mixedsex side formed in 2008, dancing Cotswold Morris. It's based in the village of Rumburgh, Suffolk, with The Buck as headquarters,

although practice sessions are held in the village hall at St. Margaret, South Elmham on Tuesday evenings starting at 7:45pm. New dancers or musicians are always welcome.

Local charity Waveney Foodbank, offers three days of emergency food to anyone living in food crisis. They have 11 distribution centres which cover North and mid Suffolk and south Norfolk. Along with east Suffolk, they also provide a local delivery service for those unable to travel. Waveney Foodbank work closely with a network of local and national care agencies who identify those in need.

Rumburgh Morris is pleased to make a contribution to the Foodbank in these testing times.

Matthew Scade (project manager for Waveney Foodbank) said: "We don't think anyone in our community should have to face going hungry. That's why we provide a minimum of three days' nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to us in crisis. Already this year, we've seen 44% more people walk through our doors asking for assistance. With energy bills increasing and food costing more, Christmas this year will be another expense that many people cannot afford. We'd like to say a big thank you to everyone at Rumburgh Morris. This donation will help us ensure that adults and children alike will have a Christmas to remember for the right reasons, and more importantly without having to choose between food or fuel."

If you are struggling financially, please contact: Help Through Hardship on freephone 0808 208 2138. You can contact Waveney Foodbank by calling 07484 394749 or emailing: info@waveney. foodbank.org.uk.

For more information about Rumburgh Morris, email: bag@rumburghmorris.org.uk.

Ros Hammond (Squire of Rumburgh Morris) presenting £650 cheque to Matt Scade of Waveney Food Bank

This page is about winter support in the local area. This page of information is funded by the Beccles, Bungay, Halesworth and villages Community Partnership.

Ease the Squeeze is East Suffolk Council’s response to the rising cost of living. There are different projects and support available for those in need.

If you need help, please call 0333 016 2000, email:

Beccles Warm Rooms:

OTHER SUPPORT AVAILABLE IN BUNGAY

FOR FAMILIES AND YOUNG PEOPLE

SPUD CLUB: Thursdays: Bungay Community Centre: 4pm-5:30pm

LEGO & CRAFTS: Saturdays: Bungay Library: 10:30am-11:30pm

BUNGAY YOUTH CLUB: Wednesdays: 6pm-8pm: Riverside Centre

BUNGAY BABY & TODDLER GROUP: Wednesdays (term time): St. Edmund’s Hall: 9:15am-11am (£1.50 per family including snacks)

TRINITY TODDLERS: Thursdays (term time): Holy Trinity Church: Church Room: 9:30am-11am: £1 per family.

BABY BANK: 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month: Owles Warehouse: 10am-12pm.

FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY

HYGIENE BAGS: Free hygiene bags & menstrual products available when Bungay Library is open. Just ask at the counter!

OTHER SUPPORT AVAILABLE IN BECCLES WARM ROOMS

• Beccles Community Hub (20 Blyburgate) - Open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 10am-2pm.

• All Saints Church Worlingham - Open on the 1st Tuesday of every month 10:30am-11:30am.

• Beccles Comfort Food - Comfort Food provides a free meal to people in need in the Beccles ward. To find out more, email: sam.kenwardeastsuffolk.gov.uk or call 01502 523119. Funded by local district and community councillors.

Bungay Winter Support:

Halesworth Warm Rooms:

Halesworth:

Halesworth Day Centre (London Road, IP19 8LW) 9am-3pm Thursday and Friday.

Halesworth Library (Bridge St, IP19 8AD) 9am-1pm Monday, 9am-5pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and 10am-3pm Sunday - 01986 875095.

Westhall: Westhall Community Pub (The Racehorse, Mill Common, IP19 8RD) 11am-2pm Thursday, 11am-3pm Friday and 11am-5pm Saturday - 01502 575665.

Wissett: Wissett Plough (8 The Street, IP19 0JE) 10:30am-4:30pm Thursday and 12pm-4:30pm Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday - 01986 873047.

Ringsfield, Brampton and Bramfield Schools

At Brampton our local Reverend came to teach the children about why we make christingles at Christmas time. The children learnt that the four sticks with fruit represent the four seasons and the good gifts that God gives us. Also that the red ribbon signifies Jesus's blood and the candle symbolises that Jesus is the light of the world. The children each made their own christingle and could share their understanding. Digby told us "The orange is the Earth".

We have recently had a visit from the local firefighters who brought their fire engine with them for the children to explore.

The children enjoyed learning about how firefighters keep us safe, how their fire engine works and they all had a go at using the fire hose. It was very powerful! The children learnt why the siren on the engine needs to be so loud and bright!

At Ringsfield, we've been thinking about people who help us in the community. The children were very interested in

finding out about the police so we contacted Suffolk Constabulary to ask if they could visit our school. We were very lucky that a police officer was able to come and see us and talk about the special job he does to help keep us safe. The children had some questions to ask but also some of their own knowledge to share. We were able to see some of the equipment that is used when attending an emergency and got to sit in the police car. We even got to listen to the sirens which were very loud! We also had the opportunity to make our own christingle and learn about what it represents during the special time of Christmas.

The children in reception at Bramfield have been busy getting ready for our annual Christmas Fair. This year, we're running our own stall, selling handmade Christmas decorations to raise money for 'Just One Tree', a non-profit initiative working to reforest the planet. All the items we're selling have been made using recycled

or found materials. We went on a lovely walk in nearby Castle Meadow to search for natural objects to make into decorations.

We collected acorns, pine cones, holly leaves and sticks.

The children were fascinated by how different a pine cone looks before it dries out and we talked about seed dispersal and how clever nature is in ensuring the seeds don't come out until the weather is just perfect for

new growth. Our handmade decorations include sparkly hanging stars made out of sticks and little Christmas trees made out of pine cones.

As we near the end of the autumn term, our three schools are very excited about performing our EYFS Nativity and taking part in the whole school Christmas production. We wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!

Blyth Valley Parkinson's Support Group

A very merry Christmas from Blyth Valley Parkinson's Support Group. We hope you all have a safe and enjoyable time. As I write, we're looking forward to our Christmas meal at Wangford Plough. 28 of us in all, so quite a party!

On January 12th, we'll have our AGM and a members meeting when people can discuss with each other any worries or tips they might have. We've decided to hold our meetings in Holton Village Hall from now on as we're a large group now, and sadly have

outgrown the Pear Tree Centre space. We meet from 10:30am12pm and all are welcome. If anyone would like a programme or to discuss joining the group, please contact Gail Attfield on 01986 872283 or Margaret Bloomfield on 01502 478502.

12th

19th

25th

1st

Brampton Christingle

Firefighters at Brampton

Police visit to Ringsfield

Finding natural objects at Bramfield

Aldeburgh Boxing Day swim

Because of Covid and adverse sea conditions, there's not been an Aldeburgh Boxing Day Swim since 2019. This year, we intend to be back.

The event was started in 1988 by Dr Kevork Hopayian (a local GP) to raise funds for the victims of the Armenian earthquake. Since then, the event has raised thousands of pounds for charity. This year, we intend to donate funds to the RNLI, East Anglia's Children's Hospice and Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity Blossom Appeal. The Blossom Appeal is raising money for a new state-of-the-art breast cancer facility at Ipswich Hospital. Most of us know people who have suffered from breast cancer, and this facility will improve early diagnosis, treatment and survival rates. The plan is to open the facility in 2023, and we want to do our bit (with your help) to make that happen.

When and where: The swim will take place at 11am on Sunday 26th December, on the beach opposite the Moot Hall, Aldeburgh. This is an event for confident swimmers who do not suffer from medical conditions which make cold water swimming unsafe. If

you want to join in, do please ensure you arrive in good time, at least 15 minutes before the start time. You're in the water for a maximum 60 seconds, although on a cold day that can feel like the slowest 60 seconds of the year.

Online entry: Swimmers should enter the event online at: www.entrycentral.com/ boxingdayswim

We ask swimmers for a nonrefundable £10 donation each, to cover our costs of insurance and medical support.

Après swim: The White Lion Hotel is kindly offering swimmers hot chocolate, snacks and warm sofas after the swim. We're grateful to them for their continuing generous support of this event.

Spectators: Spectators are welcome, although we would ask them to observe appropriate social-distancing rules for an outdoor events.

Donations: We'll have collection buckets and SumUp card readers on the beach on the day. Donors can also donate via the Aldeburgh Boxing Day Swim page on the JustGiving website.

The choice is yours: dip in or chip in. We hope to see you on the day.

Time to plan your garden

January is a great time to get organised in the garden and make plans for the year ahead.

You can start planning what plants you might like to add or seeds you might like to grow in spring and what materials you need to do this, plus what kind of budget you have.

Gardens can cost, so try to keep things simple and where possible reuse, recycle or come up with money saving ideas that can help you create the garden of your dreams regardless of resources or space.

So, thrifty tip for the month is... Get your tools sorted before the gardening season gets into full swing. You don't need masses of tools just a few good ones (the best you can afford) or keep an eye out for bargains in second hand shops or stalls, making sure that the metal parts are in good shape. You'll need a good spade (preferably with a wooden handle that comes up to your hip in height), a fork and a hoe. Plus a pair of secateurs and a watering can is essential. If you have space, a wheelbarrow is also handy. If you are container gardening then a hand trowel and fork are a must. The rest you can improvise: Pencils for dibbers, yoghurt pots and plastic food trays for seeds and cuttings, large plastic bottles for cloches, etc. You can also make tools last longer by wiping them with a rag dabbed with oil after use. Keep them sharp with a sharpener stone or the sharpener you use for your carving knives, and don't leave them out in the rain or snow.

Being snow-aware in the garden can not only help with the longevity of equipment, it can also stop extensive plant damage which means you don't have to spend money on repairs

A Christmas message from the Community News team

Once again, it has been a challenging year. As we are finally able to put the pandemic behind us, we are faced with a fresh wave of economic and political challenges.

Naturally, our thoughts are with those who have been and still are being effected by the war in Ukraine. We have seen communities pull together to do what they can to help - be it a fundraising or donating aid parcels. We all hope for a swift and peaceful end to the war.

At home, we've seen energy price increases and a cost of living crisis. Once again, communities have come together to support those most in need with food banks and warm rooms amongst other local resources and initiatives. Please do continue to donate and support local causes where possible.

These are unquestionably tough times, but we are fortunate to live and work where we do. It's a place where friends, colleagues and neighbours are always there to look out for each other with a helping hand, a shoulder to lean on or an ear to bend when needed. But, there have also been moments of lightness this year with the Lionesses finally bringing football home following their fantastic win at the European Championships, and who knows, by the time you read this, the men may well be on their way to winning the World Cup!

Hopefully, you're looking forward to spending some time with family and friends this Christmas to enjoy good food and company. As you finish your Christmas shopping and with the January sales around the corner, please do continue to support the

fantastic independent businesses within our community. They were there for us when we needed them so let's make sure we repay them now by shopping locally.

Finally, we'd like to take this opportunity to wish you all a fantastic Christmas and healthy and happy new year. See you in 2023!

David, Karen, Polly, Kasey & Sam (the Community News team)

or replacements. Advice from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is to shake or brush heavy snow from conifers, shrubs and hedges to prevent branches breaking. When it comes to turf and borders a covering of snow provides insulation from the cold so it's best left in place. You should avoid walking on frozen and snow-covered lawns as this damages the grass, causing unsightly brown footprints to appear after the thaw.

One of the plants we love to see at this time of year is the perfectly formed Snowdrop.

Common snowdrops are hardy and fairly easy to grow with many beautiful species to choose from. If you're hoping to create an impressive swathe in your garden then try Galanthus nivalis.

It's the most common species because it self-seeds and spreads very quickly, which means you get to enjoy your snowy white display sooner rather than later. Always buy pots of snowdrops 'in the green' (so when they have finished flowering but the leaves are still green and intact). Or you could lift and divide any large clumps from a different location or garden, which would give you a supply of snowdrops

for free. Plant them out as soon as possible in partial shade and in moist but well-drained soil. You can add some compost or leaf mould to give added nutrients. Plant to the same depth they were previously grown, or around four inches/10cm deep and space clumps about six inches/15cm apart. Water them in and leave.

In addition to Galanthus Nivalis, you could also consider varieties such as Staffan (a vigorous, single flowerer producing two flower stems from each bulb) and Atkinsil, which has large slender scented flowers with a heart-shaped mark on the inner segments.

The RHS gardener's checklist for January:

• Plant bare-rooted trees, shrubs and fruit.

• Check mulches.

• Add scented winter flowering plants.

• Prune apple and pear trees.

• Force rhubarb crowns.

• Avoid compacting your soil by working on wet soil.

• Deadhead container displays.

• Reduce watering of citrus plants.

• Plant forced Christmas hyacinths outdoors.

• Recycle or shred your Christmas tree.

Fressingfield sponsored dog walk returns

Fressingfield sponsored dog walk is back for the 25th time on Sunday 1st January 2023 (new years day) from 10:30am. This year, fundraising for East Anglia's Children's Hospices.

The family-friendly five-mile circular walk is hosted by The Swan Inn, Fressingfield. There

will be free homemade soup and bread at The Swan after the walk a cash bar and a carvery!

Other animals are welcome or just come along yourself for a bracing new years day walk! Get your sponsorship forms and register by calling 01379 586280.

Would you like to receive our activity sheets for preschool aged children?

Due to various circumstances, at the moment we are sending out free activity sheets by email and/or post on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month during term time, for the children to enjoy doing with their family and/or carers, instead of meeting in St. Michael's Church Centre, Martlesham Heath.

The activity sheets usually

include a story, song and a craft or game about a theme or story from the Bible.

Last term, we heard about Mary and Joseph who each had a message from an angel telling them that the baby they were going to have would be God's own son, Jesus. He was born in Bethlehem and visited by shepherds who saw him lying in

a manger in a stable.

If you have or look after a child/children of pre-school age and would like to receive our sheets, please give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you.

Best wishes for the new year.

If you'd like further information, please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows on 01473 625196.

Common snowdrops are hardy and fairly easy to grow with many beautiful species to choose from.

Woodbridge Museum

Woodbridge Museum will be opening on Saturdays and Sundays until April. Even in bad weather, it's gratifying that we still get some visitors. Leading up to Christmas, many people came in looking for presents and cards.

Teddy the pilot boat has now gone home, but it's intended that the space will be filled with displays of other interesting acquisitions from the huge archive which is still be catalogued.

The Friends of the Museum have had some very interesting Friday talks throughout autumn including an up-to-date history

of the Tide Mill, The Elmsett Tithe Wars, Landguard Fort and a Christmas Miscellany from Mark Mitchel.

The dates for the Winter Talks are January 6th when Pip Wright will talk on 'The Dissolution of the Monasteries in Suffolk'. Other talks are under negotiation and will be on February 10th, March 10th, April 14th and May 12th. All talks are held at the Community Hall at 2:30pm. A perfect way to pass a gloomy winter afternoon.

For further information about Friday talks, contact 01394 585572.

Christmas services across the Blyth

Valley Churches

Dec: Sun 11th: St. Peter, Spexhall, 3pm Carol Service. Sun 11th: St. Margaret, Heveningham, 4pm Carol Service. Fri 16th: St. Mary Huntingfield, 4:30pm Carol Service. Fri 16th: St. Mary, Halesworth, 7pm Town Carol Service. Sun 18th: St. Margaret, Linstead, 3pm Carols by Candlelight. Sun 18th: St. Andrew, Bramfield, 3pm Carol Service. Sun 18th: All Saints, Blyford, 3:30pm Carol Service. Sun 18th: St. Peter, Wenhaston, 4pm Carol Service. Sun 18th: St. Andrew, Wissett, 6:30pm Carol Service. Thurs 22nd: St. Mary, Halesworth, 2pm All Access Carols. Sat 24th: St. Mary, Walpole, 3pm Crib Service. Sat 24th: St. Andrew, Wissett, 4pm Crib Service. Sat 24th: St. Peter, Holton, 4pm Crib Service followed by Holy Communion. Sat 24th: St. Mary, Halesworth, 4:30pm Christingle. Sat 24th: St. Peter, Thorington, 6:30pm Carol Service. Sat 24th: St. Mary, Chediston, 7pm Carol Service. Sat 24th: St. Peter, Wenhaston, 8pm Midnight in Bethlehem.

Sat 24th: St. Mary, Halesworth, 11:30pm Midnight Mass. Sat 24th: St. Peter, Spexhall, 11:30pm Midnight Mass. Sun 25th: St. Mary, Halesworth, 10am Holy Communion. Sun 25th: St. Andrew, Wissett, 10am Holy Communion. Mon 26th: St. Mary, Halesworth, 11:30am St. Stephen Service. Fri 6th Jan 2023: St. Andrew, Wissett, 6:30pm Epiphany Service of Light.

Wishing you a holy, blessed and happy Christmas season. Revd Dominic Doble, Team Rector, T: 07743 554955

Blyth Valley Team Ministry, St. Mary's Church, Halesworth, IP19 8LL. T: 01986 875941.

E: office.bvtm@gmail.com www.blythvalleychurches.org.uk

Mallard Fencing

Supply and Installation of a range of fencing. We also offer a verity of landscaping services. Based in Saxmundham serving all surrounding areas.

Supply and installation of a range of fencing. We also offer a variety of landscaping services. Based in Saxmundham serving all surrounding areas.

Free quotation and professional advice.

Tel. 07858 912558

Bright Stars

Santa Paws Appeal

and your support is incredibly important. We are asking people to give whatever they can but the items most needed are food (dried or tinned), warm bedding, toys to stimulate play, cat scratching posts, food and water dishes and donations of money, however small. Treats for cats and dogs are also welcome, as well as collars, leads, and warm coats.

These items really don't need to be new, so if you're having a clear out, please think of our appeal.

The cost of living crisis has seen owners struggling to provide for their pets. We have seen a big increase in the number of pets being put up for rehoming and worse still, abandonment. Unfortunately, it looks like the increase in the need for care is set to rise significantly, in these tough times!

Meanwhile, life for these rescue pets who are having to rely so heavily on human support, goes on as usual with volunteers working hard to provide daily care, however, the costs of providing food, medical

and surgical care, warmth etc. continues to spiral and it's not going to be long before funds run out.

Sadly, many pets never get to experience unlimited love, affection and the comfort and safety of a loving home. Our local rescue charities need our support and donations more than ever.

Donations however small will make a big difference. Donated items can be dropped off at the practice reception at any time from 8:30am-6pm from Monday to Friday or on a Saturday morning before midday. Donations of money can be made in three different ways, either via: www. wangfordvetclinic.com/Charity (the transaction will appear on your statement as 'WANGFORD VET-CHARITY') or by BACs (account: 76057917, sort code: 51 70 02). Or if preferred, your donation (cash or cheque made out to Santa Paws) can be placed in a clearly marked envelope with 'Santa Paws Appeal Donation' and the donors name written on it, and handed in to reception.

Celebration tree: Leave a dedication to the

special pet in your life. Your message will shine bright on our virtual tree. Our pets are wonderful companions and give us so much. Celebrate the pet/s in your life by putting a star on our celebration tree for them. Adding a star is free but we would ask that you consider making a donation to our 'Santa Paws Appeal' charity.

You will have the option to do this when you add your star.

You can leave a tribute, a personal message for your pets, celebrating those that share our lives today as well as those who have sadly passed, bringing something positive out of a sad time to celebrate a life well lived. Go to: www.wangfordvetclinic. com/celebrate to add your star.

Last year's appeal: Last January, with your help, we were able to give £250 to each of the following charities: F.A.I.T.H Animal Rescue, Cats Protection League Anglia Coastal, Cats Protection, Saxmundham and Framlingham, Greyhound Trust Eastern Counties, Norfolk and Suffolk Animal Trust, PACT Animal Sanctuary and Yarmouth Greyhounds Home Finders.

Beccles Choral Society

Beccles Choral Society will be presenting their famous fun, family Christmas concert in St Michael's Church Beccles at 4:30pm on Sunday December 11th.

The choir will be joined by the Waveney Concert Band and mince pies and mulled wine will

be served in the interval. A great way to kick off the festive season, there will be carols, Christmas songs and laughs galore, do come and join in!

Tickets are available from Cheryl Coutts by emailing: cherylcoutts468@btinternet.com or from Beccles Books.

Beccles Friends of Cancer Research UK

The Beccles Friends of Cancer Research UK would like to thank the staff and customers of Beccles Roys and Tesco, who supported us recently in both stores when an amazing £298.39 and £529.46 respectively was raised for the vital work that is undertaken by Cancer Research UK.

We fully appreciate that these are very challenging times for everyone and your generosity in supporting Cancer Research UK is so very much appreciated.

We are rounding off this year with carol singing in Morrisons and Tesco on the December 10th and 17th. But if by chance we don't see you, the Beccles Friends would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a happy Christmas and a healthy New Year.

Harleston and District U3A

Harleston and District U3A wishes all our followers a very happy, healthy and peaceful

new year, albeit belatedly by the time some of you will be reading this.

We'll be resuming our monthly talks on Wednesday 18th January at 2pm, in St. John's Church, Harleston, and look forward to seeing you then. Steve Poulter, with the working title 'The Bard on Screen' will be looking at how cinema has used Shakespeare as a source of inspiration for so many films, from the glossy Hollywood movies of the 1930s, through Laurence Olivier's interpretations, and thence to the present day.

For further information, please visit our website: u3asites.org.uk/harleston or by contacting Kim Poulton on 01986 788149.

RAFA Christmas greetings

The Royal Air Force Association (RAFA), Beccles and Southwold Area send their best wishes for Christmas and the new year to all our members and supporters who gave us so much help during 2022.

We hope you enjoy the Christmas season with family and friends.

Beccles weather report

November and autumn 2022

This summary is compiled from the records of Stephen Bartholomew of Beccles.

November 2022:

• Max temp: 17.0C (62F) on 12th compared with 15.0C (59F) in November 2021.

• Min temp: -0.5C (32F) on 19th compared with -0.1C (32F) in November 2021.

• Average max temp: 12.34C (54F) in 2022. 10.71C (51F) in 2021. 10.49C (50F) on average.

• Average min temp: 6.04C (42F) in 2022. 5.18C (41F) in 2021. 5.00C (41F) on average.

• Mean temp: 9.19C (48F) in 2022. 7.95C (46F) in 2021. 7.75C (45F) on average.

• Air frosts: 1 compared with 1 in November 2021.

• Rainfall total: 6.33" compared with 1.68" in November 2021.

(30-year average: 2.42"). (2022 total: 262% of average).

• Most rainfall on one day: 1.85" on 16th.

• Wind direction, mainly from: South-west 15 days, south 7 days, south-east 2 days, northwest 2 days, 2 days were also calm.

November 2022 was somewhat milder and excessively wetter than long term average. There was a considerable difference between the 1st 14 days and the last 16: 1st to 14th average maximum temp was 14.70C. The average min temp was 7.50C and there was 1.93" of rainfall. 15th to 30th average maximum temp was 10.30C. The average min temp was 4.75C and there was 4.40" of rainfall.

1st to 14th:

The 1st 14 days of the month were generally very mild for the time of year, although 17C maximum on 12th was the mildest November day only since 2020 when the month had started with the two warmest November days on my entire record, 18.2C and 18.1C noted on 1st and 2nd respectively. Average maximum temperature during this period was over 4C higher than the overall

long term average for the month. Each day in this period achieved at least 13.5C by daytime (except the 3rd). Overnight temperatures were less consistent, there were three nights when temperature fell no lower than 10C. The very mildest was 11.5C overnight 7th/8th and 10th/11th. 2 nights in this period had air minimum temperature of 3.5C. 15th to 30th:

During the last 16 days, generally average temperatures were achieved, however 6 days failed to achieve 10C, thereby the mean temperature positive anomaly was reduced to 1.4C for the month as a whole. The coldest days of the month were the 19th and 28th, however 8.0C maximum, were the least chilly for the coldest day of the month in November since 2011. However when clear conditions prevailed, air temperatures plummeted to4C or below on 6 of the 16 nights and included the 1st air frost of this autumn/winter season: -0.5C overnight 19th/20th. Much of the month was influenced by winds coming from the Atlantic. South to south-west winds were dominant on all but 8 days during the month as a whole.

The 6.33" rainfall total made this not only the wettest November (exceeding 6.22" in 1970) but also the 3rd wettest on my entire record, since at least 1968. Only September 1968 (7.10") and May 2007 (6.74") have exceeded this figure. In the 21 rain days, there were 12 daily totals of 0.20" or more, 6 of which reached or exceeded 0.40". The wettest day noted 1.85" on 16th, was not only the wettest day of this month, but also of any November day on entire record. (The highest daily total of any since 1.95" recorded on 23/12/2020). It was part of a very wet 3 days (15th to 17th inclusive) which yielded a total of 2.79"during which the lowest barometric air pressure of the month (and year to date) was noted as a deep depression was

close to the British Isles. To add a further perspective to that 1.85" day's total, it was higher than the monthly totals in January, March, April, May, July and August this year.

Year to date to the end of November, rainfall amounted to 19.58" is still likely to be some way short of the long term average for the whole year is 25.60" but this total and autumn in general has gone some way to restoring some of the shortfall seen earlier in the year. The November total (6.33") was nearly 48% of what had fallen during the previous 10 months (January to October (13.25").

As I write on 4th December, there's a totally different scenario building where high pressure is controlling large parts of Europe's weather type. It seems as though easterly winds backing to northerly will give us an unwelcome wintry shock in the next few days at least.

Autumn 2022: (September, October, November)

• Average max temp: 16.7C (1.7C above 1981-2010 average).

• Average min temp: 8.9C (1.0C above 1981-2010 average).

• Mean temp: 12.8C (1.35C above 1981-2010 average).

• Rainfall total: 11.18"(164% of 1981-2010 average).

As has been common for each month in 2022, the autumn months all achieved above average temperatures, compared with long-term average. This was the equal 3rd warmest autumn on my entire record (with 2014), mean temperature 12.8C compared with very mildest 2006 (13.8C) and 2011 (13.1C). November's excess rainfall coupled with slightly above average September total and average October amount made this the wettest autumn since 2019. This was the 7th wettest autumn on my record, almost the equal of autumn 2000 (11.21").

Some way short of very wettest, 13.98" in 1993 and 12.94" in 1976.

Beccles Town FC U9s Hornets

The Beccles Town FC U9s Hornets have been enjoying training sessions and competitive matches whilst braving the wintry weather, and the mud.

Manager Kris Oneill said: "The Hornets U9s are bonding together as a team, and have been playing amazingly. We have a

brilliant bunch of players with a lot of team spirit... Go Hornets!"

The squad consists of Manager Kris Oneill and players: Henry H, Charlie B, Noah D, Jayden F, Riley O, Preston R, Teddy S, Harley W, Noah B, Noah D, Connor A, Samuel T.

Playing football is a great way to make friends, build confidence and keep fit. If you'd like to play or get involved, please contact Bernice De'Ath (Youth Section Secretary and 3G Facilities Manager) by emailing: bernice@becclestownfc.org.uk. www.becclestownfc.org.uk

Noah D and Connor A

(L to R): Jayden F, Connor A, Noah D, Teddy S, Riley O, Charlie B, Henry H, Preston R, Noah B and Harley W.

Beccles Caxton Club Beccles Caxton Club

Established in 1890 as the Sports & Social Club for employees of William Clowes, there has been a social club on this site for more than 130 years. Now called the Caxton Club, this is still very much at the heart of the Community here in Beccles. The large site is impressive and versatile. Inside, there is a spacious bar area with plenty of comfy seating, move through the bar and you are in the pool and darts area. The next room along is where you will see the huge screen which has been in full use during this year's World Cup. This room also acts as one of the two function rooms. To the side of this is where you'll find the full-size snooker table. Finally, head back though the bar to the

main function room which has its own bar and toilets as well as a dance floor, stage and room for up to 100 people.

Of course, these facilities make the Caxton Club the ideal venue for any large gathering, be it a wedding reception, christening, wake, anniversary, birthday party or any other reason to get together. The team at the Caxton Club do not offer catering but over the years they have worked with many caterers so are happy to offer contacts. The facilities are available to hire to all members.

Away from private functions, there's plenty going on here and many reason to come and join the club.

Monday: Bingo night.

Tuesday: Bridge and the pool league.

Wednesday: Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes meeting.

Thursday: Sees other groups such as the Red Hat Ladies, Waveney Flying Club and Beccles Fishing Club meeting at the Caxton.

In addition to all this, the club is used by many the local U3A groups as well as Royal Naval Association meetings and local CAMRA group amongst many others.

Of course, you need to be a member, or guest of a member to visit the Caxton Club.

Membership is very reasonable at just £15 per year for a single member of £20 per year for family membership and there is an initial one-off joining fee of £5. But once you are a member you benefit from 'Club' prices behind the bar and are then able to use the facilities such as snooker for just £3 per hour or hiring for the function rooms which start at around just £50 for the night.

Behind the bar you will find whatever tickles your fancy.

There is everything you would expect to find from a bar that has been serving the community for

over 100 years. Four real ales sit alongside traditional (still) ciders, a selection of lager, bottled drinks, wines and spirits including plenty of flavoured gins which are very much on trend at the moment.

There is no kitchen at the club so they do not offer hot food or catering. However, there is a burger bar which will always be open for major events such as big live sport screenings etc. The burger bar is also available for private functions.

Like all hospitality venues, the club (which is run by a committee of volunteers) is also looking at ways to improve their offering. To that end the committee recently invested in two brand new large screens. These are currently showing the World Cup but will also show cricket, boxing, rugby and any other major event. However, these have also opened-up another opportunity to the community as these screens work brilliantly for business presentations, seminars or meetings. Again, please do ask if you are interested in learning more about this.

This community venue is very much that - a close-knit community with a family feel. There is regular fundraising

with local children's charities and causes always at the heart of what they do.

There is simply too much to mention when it comes to what happens here. The club has a lawn green bowls rink outside with teams represented in three local leagues and they also own a football pitch in town and have three men's teams and three youth (U7, U11 and U14) teams.

In short, if you're looking for a place where you will find a good selection of well-priced drinks, make new friends, be part of a welcoming community, can have a game of pool, darts or snooker, then look no further.

If you would like to become a member please call 01502 712829 or better still pop in and have a chat with one of the team.

The team would like to thank all their staff and members for their continued support and wish them all a merry Christmas and happy new year.

The club is open:

• Monday and Tuesday: 7pm-10:30pm

• Wednesday and Thursday: 7pm-11pm

• Friday: 12pm-2pm and 5:30pm-11pm

• Saturday: 12pm-11pm

• Sunday: 12pm-10:30pm

Justin Bindley.

McCarthy Stone opens its doors for Harleston Fire Service training

McCarthy Stone's new Waveney Place Retirement Living development in Harleston recently kept the development working out-of-hours to support the local Harleston Fire Service in their crane rescue and simulated rescue training.

Waveney Place (which is currently still under construction) stayed open into the evening in order for the fire service to be able to complete their simulated crane rescue training, which included a rescue procedure done at height, and also a simulated rescue operation where the fire officers had to rescue four dummies located in different areas of the development.

The training exercise came about after Site Manager Colin Brand invited the fire team to use the development for their simulations. He and trainee Site Manager, Nathan Alden were onhand to support the fire service at the development, staying into the

night. Harleston locals were also invited to come down to Waveney Place and view the fire service in action.

Simon Golby (Watch Manager at Harleston Fire Station) said: "We're extremely grateful to McCarthy Stone and Colin for letting us use the site at Waveney Place to keep our officers up to speed on their training. These training exercises are vital to making sure our officers are experts in recovery and rescue and it helps to keep the whole community safe."

Colin Brand (Site Manager at Waveney Place) said: "We were absolutely delighted to welcome the local fire brigade into our development to take part in a couple of training exercises. Keeping our development open is something that is so simple for us, but for the fire service it is so helpful to make sure they receive all the training they need. It was also great to see so many people coming to watch the training and I'm sure they would have learnt a thing or two."

Named after the River

Waveney which forms part of the Norfolk's boundary with Suffolk, Waveney Place provides the ideal base for a fulfilling and independent retirement, in a semi-rural location but with easy access to amenities. These include an extensive range of pubs and restaurants catering for every taste, while homeowners can also enjoy exploring the local antiques market. The beautiful scenery of the unspoilt Waveney Valley is also on the doorstep, providing numerous options for walking and cycling tours.

25 one-bedroom and 15 twobedroom apartments for the over 60s are currently being constructed at Waveney Place and will be available for purchase or rental. Waveney Place will also offer two three-bedroom cottages, two two-bedroom coach houses, and a one and two-bedroom retirement bungalow, all of which are only available for outright purchase. All the properties at

the development feature highspecification kitchens and bathrooms with spacious living areas.

A luxurious communal lounge will be available to apartment owners and provide regular social events and a chance to make new friends while all homeowners will be able to enjoy beautifully landscaped gardens and host friends and family who can stay in the dedicated hotel-style guest suite.

A House Manager will be based permanently on-site, with further peace of mind provided for apartment owners through a camera entry system, intruder alarms and a 24-hour emergency call system.

Those interested in living at Waveney Place can find out more by visiting McCarthy Stone's shop which is situated in Harleston town centre, 6 The Thoroughfare, Harleston, IP20 9AX. Prices of properties at the development will be released in the new year.

More than 9/10 customers would recommend McCarthy Stone to a friend, meaning it has received the full Five Star award for customer satisfaction from the Home Builders Federation.

McCarthy Stone is the only UK housebuilder of any size or type to achieve this rating every year it has taken part in the survey.

For further details on retirement living at Waveney Place, please call 0800 201 4811 or visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk