Beccles & Bungay Community News - May 2024

TREATMENTS OFFERED INCLUDE:

TREATMENTS OFFERED INCLUDE:

New patient exam £80 (Denplan £40)

New patient exam £80 (Denplan £40)

Routine exam £50 (Denplan - included)

Routine exam £50 (Denplan - included)

TREATMENTS OFFERED INCLUDE:

Hygienist: £60 for 30 minutes (Denplan - included)

Hygienist: £60 for 30 minutes (Denplan - included)

White fillings from £125 (Denplan £100)

White fillings from £125 (Denplan £100)

New patient exam £80 (Denplan £40)

Acrylic dentures from £495 (Denplan £396)

Acrylic dentures from £495 (Denplan £396)

Routine exam £50 (Denplan - included)

Chrome dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)

Hygienist: £60 for 30 minutes (Denplan - included)

Chrome dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)

Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)

White fillings from £125 (Denplan £100)

Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)

Zirconia implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)

Acrylic dentures from £495 (Denplan £396)

Zirconia implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)

Root canal treatment from £350 (Denplan £280)

Chrome dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)

Root canal treatment from £350 (Denplan £280)

Full mouth whitening £295 (Denplan £236)

Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)

Full mouth whitening £295 (Denplan £236)

Zirconia implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)

Root canal treatment from £350 (Denplan £280)

LEISTON DENTAL CARE

LEISTON DENTAL CARE

98 High Street, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4BZ reception@leistondentalcare.co.uk

98 High Street, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4BZ reception@leistondentalcare.co.uk

Full mouth whitening £295 (Denplan £236) LEISTON DENTAL CARE

Call Us: 01728 561873

Call Us: 01728 561873

Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm

98 High Street, Leiston, Suffolk,

Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm

The practice will be closed for lunch between 1pm and 2pm

The practice will be closed for lunch between 1pm and 2pm

Harleston Choral Society

Our Summer Term began on April 8th, but it's

late to join us as we rehearse SaintSaëns Requiem and Dvořák Mass in D Major for our Summer Concert on June 29th.

No auditions, and music is provided free. Practices are on Monday evenings 7:30pm9:30pm, in The London Road Church, Harleston IP20 9BH. Parking available in The Original Factory Shop, almost opposite the church. Come and sing with us, especially if you're a potential tenor, alto or bass. Further details about the choir are on the website, or from Stella Brownsea at: heidihouse@btinternet.com

Celebrating the opening of Annis Hill Green in Bungay

Annis Hill Green is a former school playing field that was taken over by Bungay Town Council (BTC) in 2022. This is a community-based project to create a wildflower meadow, (an increasingly rare habitat in Suffolk) and open space for the people of Bungay and its surrounds. It's run by volunteers, supported by BTC. The mown paths and central circle, surrounded by native trees, make this a wonderful space for people to enjoy nature and a feeling of wellbeing.

The project was recently voted runners-up in the prestigious Suffolk Greener County Awards, with a highly commended certificate in recognition of the work that is being done by volunteers.

On May 6th, we're holding an opening of Annis Hill Green from 11am to 4pm. At 11:15am, the Town Mayor will formally open Annis Hill Green, supported by the pupils of Bungay Primary School, who will perform May dances. This is followed by a programme of dance and music, plus a range of stalls and activities for children that will make this a very special day for all. Bring a picnic and celebrate with us! Limited parking is available on Waveney Road, where a shuttle service will take less mobile visitors to the Annis Hill entrance. There is very limited disabled parking on the meadow entrance from Annis Hill. Access for most is from Waveney Road along the path to Annis Hill Green.

Beccles weather report

March 2024

This summary is compiled from the records of Stephen Bartholomew of Beccles. March 2024

• Maximum temp: 16.5C (61F) on the 15th and 18th compared with 17.0C (62F) in March 2023.

• Minimum temp: -0.8C (31F) on the 3rd compared with -3.0C (27F) in March 2023.

• Average max temp: 11.98C (53F) in 2024. 10.51C (51F) in 2023. 10.50C (51F) on average.

• Average min temp: 5.82C (42F) in 2024. 4.02C (39F) in 2023. 3.30C (37F) on average.

• Mean temp - 8.90C (48F) in 2024. 7.26C (45F) in 2023. 6.90C (44F) on average.

• Air frosts: 1 compared with 5 in March 2023.

• Rainfall total: 1.11" compared with 3.41" in March 2023. 30

year average (1981-2010): 1.85". 2024 total: 60% of the average.

• Most rainfall on one day: 0.24" on the 1st.

• Wind direction (mainly from): South-west: 8 days. South-east: 7 days. South: 7 days. East: 4 days.

Despite there being 16 days when rainfall was recorded, the 1.11 inch total made this the first drier-than-average month here since June 2023.

Reports from locations beyond this eastern part of the country suggest that we're one of the few exceptions to the "wetter-thanaverage" trend. (For example, I've had a report from Hungerford in Berkshire of 4.40 inch rainfall total for the month). Here, it was the driest March since 2020 and the 4th drier-than-average March during that time (only 2023 was wetter). There were 16 days when rain was noted but only 2 could be classed as "wetter", 0.24" on the 1st and 0.22" on the 31st.

Low pressure again dominated the month's weather pattern with only brief exceptions when transient ridges of higher pressure were present. One of these during 6th to 8th inclusive gave us the month's longest dry spell of 3 days.

At times during the first 11 days, reminders were given that we'd only just come out of the winter season. Winds drawing air from points north to south-east being somewhat cooler than the southerly type we had experienced during the preceding weeks. Despite the cool feel at times, we suffered the only slight air frost during the overnight period 3rd/4th which also followed the coolest day (7.6C maximum) on the 3rd.

From the 12th onwards, the run of south to south-westerly winds was re-established, with the odd exception. The rain bearing fronts and depressions brought unsettled conditions to points further north and west from here, we mainly experienced only the tail end of these events.

Even Storm Nelson (named by the Spanish Weather Service) which generated strong winds on the 28th, had relatively minimal effect on this part of the country. The warmest days of the month (and year so far) recorded 16.5C on the 15th and the 18th were 2 of 8 days to reach or exceed 14C during the month.

Unfortunately, Easter Sunday (31st) proved a disappointment (maximum only 9.7C), being cloudy and chilly with drizzle during the day with more substantial rain during overnight period. This was sandwiched between otherwise pleasant days during the Easter period.

For example, Easter Monday, in stark contrast to the previous day after the early clearance of residual cloud provided enough sunny intervals to generate a maximum temperature of 16.1C.

In conclusion, a somewhat milder-than-average month.

Mean temperature was 2C above the long-term average and only marginally below the highest mean temperature for the month in 2017. Exceptionally, minimum levels were 2.5C higher than long-term and record highest for my time of recording (since at least 1968).

Annis Hill Green in summer 2023

Harry Potter Reading Marathon launched to support Fisher Theatre

The Town Reeve of Bungay is planning to support the town's historic Fisher Theatre with a novel and ambitious challenge which he's calling on the whole town to support.

Terry Reeve is getting together a team of people to read, out loud, all seven Harry Potter novels over a four-week period in the autumn in the Great Harry Potter Reading Marathon. His aim is to recruit at least 100 people who can each raise £100 in sponsorship to take part in the event, which will take place at the theatre, starting on October 28th, and which if successful, will raise £10,000 to help keep the theatre viable.

"The theatre is a great asset to Bungay but like all small

provincial theatres, it struggles to survive financially and we must try to ensure its future viability," Mr. Reeve said. "I hit on the idea of a sponsored reading marathon, and with the early copies of J K Rowling's popular Harry Potter novels printed in Bungay at Clay's, they seemed the ideal books to choose for this challenge.

"There will be hundreds of people in Bungay and district who are Harry Potter fans and would enjoy taking part in this challenge. I'm keen for people of all ages to be involved. It will be a logistical challenge to draw up a rota to cover the 124 hours of reading involved, but it should be fun and if readers want to dress up in Harry Potter costumes to read, so much the better."

Over the 120 hours of reading planned (five hours a day, six days a week over four weeks) 3,407 pages and 1,100,086 words will be read as the seven novels unfold. Mr. Reeve said people would be asked to read no more than half an hour at a time, but many, he hoped, would be happy to do that two or three times over the four weeks.

The theatre's Operations Manager Cathy Edwards-Gill said: "We're thrilled to support this fantastic enterprise, which will, it's hoped, bring in some much needed funds to help us continue to provide wonderful entertainment

Join the RAF Association

Would you like to volunteer and meet some special people? You can support the RAF Association by becoming a member. You do not need to have served, and from just £18.50 per year, you can help us be there for RAF personnel, veterans and their families.

For further details, email the Secretary on: lancaster457@btinternet.com or visit: www.rafabeccles andsouthwold.wordpress.com Thank you.

throughout the year. It will be a huge challenge! But do sign up and come and have fun reading some of the most exciting and well-loved adventures of modern times. We are very grateful to Terry for masterminding this epic readathon, and we hope to see you in October!"

Forms to take part in the reading marathon, and sponsor forms, will be available shortly at the Fisher Theatre or from the Town Reeve. To know more about the event, email: terry.reeve19@btinternet.com or call: 01986 896416.

welcome, admission is £3 including refreshments.

information about this and all Harleston & District U3A's activities is on: www.u3asites.org.uk/harleston or by contacting Kim Poulton on 01379 788149.

as well as raising funds through drama, eg The Emperor's New Clothes (at The Sancroft Academy, Harleston). Rachel came into the family business in 1991 as a Company Director, with her parents. After the death of her father, Rachel has taken on the role of Managing Director, overseeing both the units (Thetford and Harleston). She provides a wealth of experience from both the industrial and social care sector.

Open Garden Scheme grows to celebrate its 20th year

A picturesque and popular Open Garden Scheme is set to return to Topcroft as it celebrates its 20th year.

Topcroft, near Bungay, has been hosting its Open Garden event since 2004 and this year, the event takes place throughout the village on May 26th and 27th.

Topcroft Open Gardens annually see more than 1,200

visitors, with many returning year-on-year using the full two days to explore the varied gardens.

Around 15 gardens will be open, from small, neat cottage gardens to more rambling open spaces with wildflower meadows and woodland.

Nicola Eastell (one of the organisers) said: "Topcroft Open Gardens started in 2004 with just six gardens but it has grown and grown. We have very knowledgeable gardeners with a wealth of information to impart and plants for sale too!

The pavilion in the centre of the village will be the main hub for fabulous refreshments, where light lunches, tea, coffee and masses of homemade cakes are provided.

There are another couple of gardens where tea and cakes are served and a warm welcome is always on the cards. We have returning visitors year-after-year, and some have been coming since the very beginning."

Visitors come from as far away as South Suffolk and Essex and

many say that it's their first Open Gardens of the year and a perfect way to start.

A vintage bus takes people to the further reaches of the village, running all day on both days and as an added attraction, we have the 93rd Bomb Group Museum open with fascinating artefacts from World War II. This is on part of "Hardwick" Airfield which is actually in Topcroft. It was a base for over 2,000 American airmen during the war. The village will also be playing host to at least two open art studios. Some of these gardens offer plants for sale, including perennials and vegetable plants and one garden hosts a popular tombola.

The cost to see all the gardens is £5 per person and the vintage bus (which is free) picks up at various locations around the village. The 93rd Bomb Group Museum has a little café on site to raise valuable funds to keep the site going and entry to the museum is free. All funds raised go to St. Margaret's Church, Topcroft.

Wenhaston Flower Club

Our meeting on April 2nd

The members split into three groups and during the evening, we rotated round all three demonstrators. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed this new idea and appreciated the work the ladies put into the evening.

After visiting Japan and taking part in a class there, Beverly demonstrated the art of Japanese flower arranging, Ikebana.

Our next meeting on May 7th will be in Wenhaston Village Hall at 7:30pm as usual. We welcome back Moira who will be doing a workshop for us. Moira will be showing us how to make a Beargrass Spiral or a Hand Tie.

Items required will be listed in the newsletter or contact Jackie.

The cost is still only £5 payable on the night and will include tea/coffee/biscuits. Donations of raffle prizes always welcome.

For more information please contact Jackie Chenery 01502 478401.

Update from Halesworth Volunteers

Have you heard about the 5Ks? Karen K, Karen A, Kay and Kingsley are running 5Ks to raise vital funds for Halesworth Volunteers and they desperately need your sponsorship! The money raised will go towards supporting our Car Service, Isolation Buster Befriending programme and our events and activities for older people.

If you'd like to sponsor our team, you can ring the office and speak to Karen or Kay or visit our justgiving campaign site. www.justgiving.com/ campaign/5ksfor5k

The 5Ks will be running at the Leiston Park Run on May 11th at 9am. Do come and join us!

Halesworth Community Larder: We keep hearing silly rumours that the Community Larder is closing. This is not true. Neither is it true that the Foodbank is closing. We know how easy it is for stories to spread round town but it really isn't helpful.

Halesworth Community Larder is going from strength to strength. We are very proud to have received funding from the Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund delivered by The National Lottery Community Fund. This has helped us keep the shelves stocked and has helped us to negotiate the choppy waters that the cost of living crisis has created. Do please come and visit our lovely Larder. Everyone is welcome. You can swap items, you can give a donation and pick up some food items that you fancy or some of the lovely fresh vegetables provided by Berry Farm and Melons. If you're struggling, then our wonderful team of volunteers can provide you with advice and signpost you to organisations that can help. We

get many lovely donations so there is always something a bit different that you can find at the Larder.

Tea at the Pear Tree:

In March, we held a lovely tea party at the Pear Tree Centre. Over 20 people enjoyed lovely cakes and sandwiches, got to learn about the Pear Tree and had the chance to make new friends and have a jolly good natter. Thanks to Seva and her team at the Pear Tree and HACT for providing the Hoppa.

A special shout out to the brilliant bakers, the cakes were delicious!

Don't miss our regular events:

• The Wellbeing Lunch takes place on the first Tuesday of the month at Chinny's. Just turn up or call 875600 to find out more.

• Don't forget Nigel's brilliant quiz on the third Wednesday of every month at the White Hart.

• Our Community Lunches (in partnership with St. Mary's) take place on the last Wednesday of the month at the Church. Please note the new start time of 1pm. If you know someone who would benefit from coming along, just give us a call.

Nearly death by drowning A thank you from Jenny and Janet

The morning of Saturday March 2nd was cold, wild and blustery. My friend Janet and I were walking along the back road, beside the dyke, from the Southwold water tower, towards Southwold Harbour. At some point, Janet stood on the very low bank to avoid an oncoming car and the wind literally blew her away into the dyke. She disappeared under the freezing, murky water, and if it hadn't been for the amazing help

from a passing walking couple, and then from three young women in two cars, Janet would undoubtedly have drowned.

It took four of them to pull her out of the water and then one of the young women wrapped Janet in her own coat and put her, dripping and shaking, into one of the cars with the heater full on. The paramedics arrived within 15 minutes of our 999 call and treated Janet with the utmost skill, care and kindness

until, after a prolonged wait in the ambulance, waiting to be triaged at the hospital, she was admitted to A&E suffering from hypothermia and shock. Janet owes her life to all these people, and we're so grateful, and just sorry that it's taken us a while to say 'thank you'. We hope very much that the traumatic events of March 2nd didn't ruin your weekend (and your clothes and car). With our thanks and very best wishes, Jenny and Janet.

Diane demonstrated how the use of moss could be used to hold flowers in place in her arrangement and how to make a twig arbor that could be adapted for any occasion.

Friends of Halesworth Community Health & Care

Firstly our grateful thanks go to Westhall Charity Football Club who raised the amazing amount of £720 for us.

Westhall Charity Football Club:

On a very chilly afternoon in March, the football club played a charity football match at Sizewell Sport & Social Club. It was a great afternoon with both the yellows and greens playing well, and even continuing play through a hail storm! Thank you to Will and Lauren Bird for organising the event, with all the proceeds being donated to Friends of Halesworth Community Health & Care.

Westhall Charity Football Club raises a lot of money in this way to support local charities. Keep up the fantastic work guys! Also thanks to the Blakemore Trust who made a kind donation to the event. This donation will be put towards the work we are doing on our Social Day Care project, providing support for adults with various health conditions, including dementia, and providing valuable rest bite for loved ones. Thanks to all the players and everyone who came along on the day and bought raffle tickets and scratch card squares and supported us

Social Day Care Project:

The exciting work continues on our Social Day Care Project and we've made incredible progress. The offices at the rear of the building have been completed. The toilets downstairs have been fitted out. We have a first floor containing three decent sized offices, and a disabled toilet, and the lift has now been

installed. Work continues and we are focusing on the outside area currently. The next step is to select a suitable provider to provide our social day care service. We will keep you updated with progress.

Remnants:

We were sad to see Julie retire and the closure of Remnants after so many years. Julie has been a long standing presence in the town and we wish her well in her retirement. We are delighted that Rosie, Rhubarb and Rose has taken on this side of the shop also, and after a lot of hard work, has now expanded, creating a lot more space for cooking and more seating. We wish Rosie all the best for the future.

AGM:

It was our AGM on March 25th. We were sad to lose two of our long serving Trustees Roger Smith-Howell and Hayley Daglish.

Roger has been a Trustee for as long as I've been Chair and has decided to step down due to ill health. Over the years, he's been heavily involved with the charity, first as a member then as a Trustee, and was a big part of organising and running the hospital fêtes for many years and taking on responsibility for the sheds and equipment etc. Thank you Roger for your support and commitment and for going above and beyond over the years, which has been much appreciated.

Hayley our wonderful Secretary is also standing down after eight years. Hayley works full time and also has ongoing family commitments, making

Focus on... Loddon

meetings difficult. Thank you Hayley for your invaluable support over the years and for so efficiently managing to condense two plus hours' worth of discussion concisely onto often just one side of A4! Your knowledge, communication skills and balanced opinion at meetings has always been a great asset to us.

Charity Football Match

I'm pleased to report that the rest of our Trustees have agreed to stand again, Alan Witherby (Vice Chair), Lyn Clark (Treasurer) and Bill Mahood. Dr. Bill Pagan remains as our President. Thank you all for the hard work, dedication and commitment you've shown to the charity over the last year, in what has been a demanding and challenging year. We're delighted to welcome two new Trustees, Lesley Brown, who is also taking on the role of Secretary and Dr. Martin Wilson. We hope you'll enjoy being part of our team.

Standing down as Chair: After a lot of careful consideration, and 12 years as Chair, I've decided to stand down. The project itself has been extremely full on and with work, family commitments and other voluntary commitments, I'e been struggling to effectively juggle everything.

New Chair:

I'm pleased to report that David Fosdike has been elected to take over as Chair and to take the charity through the last stages and to completion of the project.

David lives locally and is a Town Councillor. David and I

worked together as trustees on Halesworth Health, a few years ago, and his skills and knowledge will be invaluable. I know the charity and the project will be in very safe hands with David and I couldn't have wished for a better successor.

Over my years as Chair, health and care has changed considerably locally, from losing the inpatient beds, then RGRC and then finally the PSH, and definitely not for the best. As a charity, we've had to look at the way we support health and care here, and how as a board of Trustees we can move forward, re-identify ourselves and future-proof what we can for the local community.

The community have always so generously supported us with donations, significant legacies and bequests, which has enabled us to take on our social day care project, which will ensure we're able to give something permanently back to the community that will benefit people living in Halesworth and the surrounding areas for the future and for many years to come.

I'd like to personally thank everyone, trustees, members, past and present and to the local community for your ongoing support.

Karen Kerridge

Loddon is a hidden Norfolk gem waiting to be discovered. With a population of around 3,000, it's a peaceful and picturesque place to visit.

Loddon's history dates back to the Anglo-Saxon times, and it was once a thriving port town with access to the River Yare. Today, you can still see remnants of the town's maritime past, such as the ruins of St. Benet's Abbey and the historic Loddon Mill, which has been converted into a residential property. Another unmissable landmark is the impressive Holy Trinity Church which sits right at the heart of the town.

But Loddon is not just a town for history buffs, it's also a great place for nature lovers. The

town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and there are plenty of walking trails and cycle paths to explore. If you fancy a day on the water then you'll be well catered for as Loddon has great access to the Norfolk Broads. For a relaxing afternoon, head to the nearby Hardley Windmill, where you can take in the scenic views and learn about the history of windmills in the area. If you're looking for some retail therapy, there are several independent businesses located in the centre of town along with numerous cafés and pubs which provide the perfect place to stop and re-charge following a day exploring the countryside. So whether you're a history

buff, nature lover or foodie, Loddon has something for everyone. Come visit and see for yourself why it's such a special place.

The Angel Inn - If it's not crafted it's not here! When in Loddon, you have to make a point of visiting The Angel Inn. This fabulous artisan free house offers something a little bit different to residents and visitors alike. The pub is owned and run by husband and wife team Jo and Frank Butt who have a very clear ethos, where possible all food and drink will be locally-sourced. This is most apparent when you take a look at the many beers and ciders that The Angel Inn have stocked. The total is currently running at

170 beers from 17 different local producers. Local businesses supporting each other, this is what our communities should be all about. There's a lovely atmosphere and character in the pub which has been lovingly refurbished with many features crafted by Frank himself. The pub is open Thursday to Monday for breakfast and coffee from 8am (9am on Sunday) and closes at 11pm (10pm on Sunday), closed Tuesday and Wednesday. So whether you're looking for a delicious breakfast to kick-start your day, a place to take a break from work or shopping for lunch or somewhere to enjoy an evening meal with family and friends, you will find it all here!

Recent activities at Ringsfield, Bramfield and Brampton Schools

At Bramfield, Ringsfield and Brampton Primary Schools, we are focusing on being more sustainable. An emphasis is being placed on increasing biodiversity, recycling our waste and improving our soil to grow strong healthy plants. Activities this term will include wild flower seed sowing, recycling milk bottles to make planters for salad crops and making compost to feed our soil. Bramfield Reception class has been learning all about potatoes. We found out how they are farmed commercially and what foods we can make with them. Next, we had a go at planting up some of our own seed potatoes. The children were encouraged to use their fingers to crumble the lumps out of the compost and we made sure our seed potatoes were planted with the shoots facing up. Over the coming weeks, the children will be monitoring the growth of the potato plants and keeping an eye on the weather,

helping them to understand the impact different weather has on how well plants grow.

At Ringsfield, we have also been learning all about potatoes and looking after the plants by giving them more soil so they produce more potatoes. We have also been sieving and preparing the soil so it is ready for sowing the different seeds.

At Brampton, the children have been enjoying getting green fingered with Lucille, our Gardening Teacher. She made some eco-friendly Mother's Day presents with the children by mixing in wildflower seeds with soil, clay and flour. The children were so proud to give their gifts!

Edgar Sewter Primary School

On Thursday 21st March, Year 2 at Edgar Sewter Primary School were lucky to have a visit from local author, Paula White. Paula has written a book called 'The Baker by the Sea' which is all about an old fishing village in Lowestoft known as The Grit. The children in Year 2 have been reading this book in their English lessons and doing different pieces of work based on it.

Year 2 enjoyed their visitor as she read her book to them and answered questions about being an author and showed them the artwork used for the book.

Wenhaston Primary School End of Spring Term update

First of all, I hope you have had a wonderful Easter. Here is an update from Wenhaston Primary School. We value working with and supporting our local community and this update highlights this.

Community Pasta Kitchen Success: Our community lunch on March 20th was a resounding success and a testament to the strong bonds that make Wenhaston such a special community. Thank you to all residents who attended. We were pleased to hear your kind words and appreciation of the children's hard work. Once again this year, we've been overwhelmed by the support and interest from our local community regarding our Community Kitchen event which this year took the form of a 'Pasta Kitchen.'

The children planned, tested, advertised, resourced and led the project and couldn't have done a better job! This is a whole school project with Acorns (Reception) making biscuits for pudding, Seedlings (Years 1 & 2) baking focaccia and making side salads, Seedlings (Years 3 & 4) producing a vegetarian pasta option and Oaks (Years 5 & 6) creating a beef bolognese and creamy Mexican pork dish. Oak class children were the hosts on the day and undertook all manner of tasks from meeting and greeting, taking orders, waiting tables, clearing and cleaning and most importantly, talking to our lovely diners. This initiative is in its second year now and this is beginning to show in the children's knowledge

of the skills needed to prepare and cook the ingredients but also their technical knowledge around nutrition, seasonality, food hygiene etc too. This event would not be able to go ahead without a huge team effort from the staff but even more importantly some incredibly generous donations from local businesses to provide the ingredients for the children to use. Special thanks this year goes to Halesworth Co-op, Bramfield Meats, Black Dog Deli and Ward Farms. We're also incredibly grateful for the voluntary contributions left on the day from diners. This means that we can purchase further resources to keep improving our Design & Technology curriculum in school Miss Welby Best wishes, Mr Stone

ML

Tel: 01986 784244

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Our Community Pasta Kitchen on March

Bramfield preparing the compost

Ringsfield looking after the potato plants

Brampton making their Mother's Day gifts

Halesworth Lions Swing Dance

Halesworth Lions are staging a Swing Dance on June 22nd at the Holton & Blyford Village Hall, starting at 7:30pm.

Welcoming back to the Village Hall the very popular DJ Flying Fortress, the Accordion Man and Sgt Bilko, accompanied by Miss Joycee Dee. The group entertained everyone at the Hall on Jubilee Day and for the Flushing Dance.

Dancers will be given some instruction on how to dance Swing and will lead others in the fun night (the bar will be open).

Tickets are available from Sue on 01986 469515 or 07951 381407 and are just £10, including a delicious burger!

It's a real welcome back to Halesworth Lions who have been helping people in the area for nearly 50 years, raising over £1 million during this time. Lions International is a worldwide organisation who help those in need that cannot help themselves.

In our area that can mean anything from a child who needs a movement sensitive mattress, to helping disabled youngsters to achieve their dreams. It all takes money, which needs to be raised by members of the club.

If you'd like to help local people in a fun way, raising money can be such a buzz, why not contact the lions on the numbers in this article and find out more.

COPPERTHWAITE, Mary Davina

EVANS, Matthew

Angela, Martin and Graham would like to say thank you to all who attended the celebration of Matthew's life on March 25th.

We would also like to say thank you to Rosedale Funeral Home and Halesworth Golf Club for making it a special day. Also, a big thank you to Beech House for the wonderful care they gave him.

Thank you to everyone who sent cards and donations to Halesworth Dementia Carers Fund.

GOODSON, Ron

The family of the late Ron Goodson would like to say a belated but heartfelt thank you for all of your messages, cards and flowers on the sad passing of Ron.

Also, a big thank you to all of you who attended his funeral. He would have been so overwhelmed to see so many people there.

There has also been almost £1,000 raised in Ron's memory for his supported charities.

Finally, a very big thank you to Faith and her colleagues at Rosedale for the loving care they gave us, they made things so much easier for us and we will be eternally grateful to them.

Please send your memorials/funeral notices via email to: edit@micropress.co.uk or post to: Community News, Micropress Printers, Reydon Business Park, Fountain Way, Reydon, Southwold, IP18 6SZ for a heartfelt, free inclusion in our paper

Saxmundham Adventure Playground

Our annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 31st suffered from a cold and windy day. This did not deter families from attending, although not as many children as last year. We did however have 80 children along with parents and grandparents.

Every year, the Egg Hunt is free for children to attend, but we do have a donation bucket which this year raised £79, thank you to all those who contributed, this money will go towards maintaining the playground. A big thank you goes to the Bell Hotel who sponsored this event.

Our next fundraising event is on May 18th at 7pm, when (for the first time) we're holding a Quiz Night at the Fromus Centre. Tickets are £7 per person and can be obtained from Fishers and The Store in Saxmundham. Teams of six. Individuals welcome. There will also be a raffle. Please support us with this event.

We're constantly trying different ways to raise funds. Some of you may well ask where

does all this money go? Those of you who visit the playground regularly will have noticed that in the last two weeks, we've upgraded the safety surface around some of the pieces of play equipment at a cost of £5,519. The basket ball shoot has had a new backboard which cost £915.

The Zip Wire has had a service and new tyre that was another £360. The Gyro Spiral (which has been taken away) will cost £944.15 for repairs and hopefully will be back soon. The tree stumps in the dip are going to be removed, that will be another £200. In July, the insurance is due and that will come to around £500.

As well as our own fundraising, we've applied for, and received funding from: Adnams, Enabling Communities Budget and Saxmundham Town Council.

As you can see, it's been a very busy time for our committee! Please support us by coming along to our Quiz Night on May 18th. I'm sure it will be a very enjoyable evening!

Raffle for Halesworth Christmas Lights

SPARKES, Sally

Ann Patricia

Sally Ann Patricia Sparkes passed away peacefully after a long battle on March 27th, 2024 aged 63 years. Beloved wife of Tony and great friend to many. She will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her.

The funeral service for Sally will be held at Waveney Memorial Park and Crematorium on Thursday April 25th at 3pm. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home may be gifted at the service or sent c/o: Rosedale Funeral Home, Arcadia House, 19 Market Place, Halesworth IP19 8BB.

WOOD, Joan

Sadly, Joan passed away on March 29th, aged 95. She will be missed by all her family, and those who knew her. She and her husband Len (d2016) loved their many years in Halesworth, and made themselves part of the community.

A funeral service will be held at St. Edmunds King and Martyr Church in Halesworth on May 4th at 12 noon.

Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for the RNLI may be sent c/o: Rosedale Funeral Home, Arcadia House, 19 Market Place, Halesworth, IP19 8BB or gifted at the service or via the Much Loved online memorial tribute site: rosedalefuneralhome.co.uk

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Many thanks to all who supported the Easter Raffle raising funds for Halesworth Christmas Lights. A magnificent total of £490 was raised, which is a great start to our fundraising for the 2024 event, which wil be on November 23rd this year.

However, this is just the start of our efforts to raise the £10k-£12k needed. Our next fundraiser will be a quiz on May 31st to be held in St Mary's Church. Tickets priced at £5 will be available from Halesworth Bookshop from May 1st. Look out for posters nearer the time with full details.

Halesworth & District U3A welcome the Suffolk Wildlife Trust

The U3A monthly talk for May will be at The Cut Arts Centre, Halesworth on May 21st, starting at 2:30pm. This will be a joint event with the Southwold branch of Suffolk Wildlife Trust (SWT).

Cost: Halesworth U3A members and current SWT members free, £4 for visitors.

In his talk 'Suffolk Wildlife Trust, 62 years on', Steve Aylward will explore how the Trust's reserve portfolio has developed

over the lifetime of the charity including protecting some of the most important habitats in Suffolk.

The SWT has received remarkable gifts of land which have become major reserves with the help of legacies and, more recently, the creation of new 'wilding' reserves such as Martlesham Wilds and Black Bourn Valley. The talk will also look at what the future might hold for nature reserves in Suffolk.

Upcoming events at St. Peter's Church, Sibton

The Sibton Mighty Books-nBric-a-Brac Sale this year is on 25th, 26th and 27th May from 10:30am-4:30pm and is always a popular event!

Everything on sale is good quality, second-hand books, including a large number of scifi titles. Non-fiction local history is a specialism and there are often other rarities, children's books and toys, plants, quality bric-a-brac, as well as LPs, DVDs and CDs. All items are individually priced.

Refreshments are available all day, admission is free and there is ample parking.

On June 9th at 3:30pm, there's a concert by Suffolk Strings conducted by Peter Bumstead with Jennie Cassidy-Soprano: The programme includes a first performance of 'Divine Songs of Thomas Campian' composed by Peter Bumstead. There's music by Boyce, Purcell and Mendelssohn.

Tea follows the performance. Tickets are on sale from May 4th at the Weavers Tearoom, Peasenhall and the Peasenhall General Stores, as well as on Eventbrite.

On July 13th and 14th from 10:30am-4pm, 'Art in Ruins': An art and craft exhibition at Sibton Church including works by well-known Suffolk artists and crafts people with a walk to Sibton Abbey Ruins. Refreshments are available all day and free parking. Tickets for visitors to the exhibition (£5) are on sale at the Weavers Tearoom, Peasenhall and the Peasenhall General Stores, as well as on Eventbrite from the beginning of June, or on the door at the church during the exhibition. Artists who wish to draw, photograph or paint at the abbey site can do so by pre-booking, please contact: sibtonchurchfriends@gmail.com.

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For more information, please contact Chrissie Turnbull (pictured) via email: chrissie. turnbull@ensors.co.uk

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MAY 1ST

Royal Opera 'Carmen'

Fisher Theatre, Bungay

6:45pm. Duration: 190 mins. Damiano Michieletto's sizzling new production evokes all the passion & heat of Bizet's score, which features Carmen's sultry Habanera & the rousing Toreador song. An exciting international cast, with Aigul Akhmetshina performing the title role. Sung in French with subtitles.

MAY 2ND

In conversation with Tom Parfitt

Fisher Theatre, Bungay

7:30pm. Duration: 90 mins. An evening with Tom Parfitt, author of 'High Caucasus' & Moscow correspondent for The Times, The Guardian & Daily Telegraph for 20 years. In discussion with Victoria Drew-Batty about his recently published book 'High Caucasus', describing his walk across the mountainous North Caucasus region of southern Russia.

MAY 2ND

The Fabulous Cash & Carter Show

Fisher Theatre, Bungay

7:30pm. Duration: 120 mins. A fantastic, authentic, heartwarming, nostalgic journey reliving the stories, music & songs of the great Johnny Cash & June Carter.

MAY 2ND

Pop up Piano Bar with Ian Sainsbury

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre

7:30pm. Great live music with the talented, witty & everpopular composer, singer & piano player, Ian Sainsbury. Soothe away the stresses of the week with Ian's music &, perhaps, a glass or 2 from the bar. Tickets on sale NOW!

MAY 3RD

Monstrous Myths

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre

7:30pm-10:30pm. Raconteur Theatre Company returns with a new set of spine chilling tales themed around monsters & legends. What lurks under the bed at night? What is that howling outside the house? Did you remember to lock the door? In the hall of Dr. Hemlock's country house, the guests decide to pass the night by telling tales of fears & monsters. An evening of terrifying tales from the mind of acclaimed local playwright Richard Melchior. Tickets: £9.50. www.becclespublichall.co.uk

MAY 4TH

Quiz Night

The Club @ 2 London Road, Beccles

7:30pm start. Bar open 7pm. Teams of up to 4. £2.50pp. Please book in your team with Sarah by calling: 01502 713535, email: theclubbeccles@yahoo.co.uk or pop into the bar.

MAY 4TH

Bootleg Boss: Bruce Springsteen Tribute

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre

7:30pm. A UK-based 7-piece band that perform the classic songs of Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band. If you were born to run down backstreets, across badlands and to go dancing in the dark in a brilliant disguise, Bootleg Boss is the band you need to see. Tickets: £15.

MAY 4TH

What's Wrong with Benny Hill?

Fisher Theatre, Bungay

7:30pm. Duration: 110 mins. A brand-new comedy that explores the life & legacy of a very peculiar & brilliant comedian. It tells the story of his life & shows why he was considered by many of his peers to be the best, an "Imperial Clown". www.fishertheatre.org

MAY 5TH

Beccles Antiques Market Beccles Quay, NR34 9BB

A wide variety of antiques, collectables & vintage stalls. Locally-produced hot & cold refreshments. Parking on-site & within walking distance. Enquiries to Kate Lee: 01502 711174 or Christine Pinsent: 01502 715711.

MAY 5TH Walk of Remembrance: Rosedale Funeral Home Grass near Harbour Master's Office & Quay Café, Fen Lane, Beccles 11am start. All welcome (incl. dogs), no matter how long ago the bereavement, or which funeral director was used. The walk is an opportunity to remember whilst uniting with others and enjoying the beauty of our local landscape. Refreshments, dove release, light a candle and sign a book of remembrance. 1 mile & 3 mile walks. For more info, visit: www.rosedalefuneralhome.co.uk

MAY 5TH

Bungay Area Lions Club Classic Vehicle Rally & Country Fayre Earsham Hall, NR35 2AN 10am-4pm. 400+ classic vehicles. Food, craft & trade stalls. Children's entertainment. Fun for all the family. No autojumble at this event. Adult entry £5 (Cash on gate). Accompanied under 16s free. Well-behaved dogs on leads welcome. www.lionsclubs.co/bungayarealions

MAY 5TH

May Day Traditional Celebrations

The Locks Inn Community Pub

From 1pm. Free entry. Live music. Performances from June Glennie Maypole Dancing, Morris dancing from Rumburgh Morris Traditional plays from Thameside Mummers, Songs from Paul Gill, Live music from Murphys Lore at 4pm. Serving food 12pm-4pm.

MAY 8TH

'The Metamorphosis' by Franz Kafka

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre

7:30pm. Presented by Mild Peril Theatre. As Gregor Samsa awoke one morning from uneasy dreams, he found himself transformed in his bed into a monstrous insect. This new adaptation of a classic tale of alienation explores the many aspects of modern life which conspire to isolate us, and the parts of being human which bring us closer together.

Tickets: £16. www.becclespublichall.co.uk

MAY 9TH

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (12)

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre 2pm-3:45pm. Run time: 104 mins. Starring Jim Broadbent & Penelope Wilton. A retiree impulsively decides to walk across the country to visit his terminally ill friend. Poignant drama. Tickets: £6, price includes tea/coffee & cake.

MAY 10TH

Two Pianos: The Rock 'n' Roll Experience... 'Unplugged'

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre

7:30pm-10pm. Join Two Pianos on a thrilling journey through the history of rock 'n' roll music, showcasing the talents of 2 of the most accomplished pianists in the genre. David Barton & Al Kilvo bring years of experience & a deep love for the music to the stage, creating an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. Book your tickets & get ready for an unforgettable musical journey through the golden age of Rock 'n' Roll. Tickets: £18.50.

MAY 11TH

Bingo Night

The Club @ 2 London Road, Beccles Eyes down 7:30pm. Bar open 6:45pm. Books £6. No booking needed.

MAY 11TH

'The Busker' Written & Performed by Greg Powles

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre

7:30pm-9pm. Why does a 50-year-old man spend all his days at a bus station? Armed with an acoustic guitar, The Busker entertains the passing masses, hoping for a pound or two to be dropped into his expectant hat. No-one knows how he ended up there, because no-one has ever bothered to ask. But like most people we meet in our everyday lives, he has a past, & a story worth telling. And all is not as simple as it seems... Tickets: £12.50.

MAY 12TH

Hot Mess

The Locks Inn Community Pub 2:30pm-5pm. Sunday afternoon session. Indie/alternative covers band. Food from 12pm-4pm.

MAY 12TH

A Celebration of Charles Dickens by Robert Powell

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre

2:30pm-5pm. Robert will trace the fascinating life of Charles Dickens through his own writings & letters together with those of his friends & contemporaries. The script is illuminated by some of the funniest scenes in all literature as well as some of the most moving, embracing the romantic & the grotesque, the satirical & the macabre. Tickets: £22. www.becclespublichall.co.uk

MAY 12TH

The Remains of The Day: Open Space Theatre Beccles Public Hall & Theatre 7:30pm. In this heart-breaking story of regret, Stevens (a faithful English butler) has sunk his total trust & admiration in an aristocrat belatedly exposed as a misguided appeaser of Nazi Germany. But in his professional commitment to servitude, has Stevens failed to connect with the one woman with whom he might have had a fulfilling & loving relationship? This beautifully structured play is based on Kazuo Ishiguro's Booker Prize winning novel which was made into a film starring Emma Thompson & Anthony Hopkins. Tickets: £12. www.becclespublichall.co.uk

MAY 13TH

Bungay Flower Club: Flower Arranging Demonstration

The Emmanuel Rooms

Bungay Flower Club invites you to The Emanuel Rooms, Boyscott Lane, Bungay NR35 1DG at 7pm. Doors open 6:30pm. Join us for a flower arranging demonstration with Rachel Barnard titled 'The Flower Shop'. Visitors £5. Includes refreshments.

MAY 17TH

Cash Prize Bingo!

Bungay Royal British Legion

Doors open at 7pm for a 7:30pm start. Free entry. No need to pre-book. £8 for 12 books. Join us for family-friendly event. Raffle. Bar open for refreshment purchase.

MAY 17TH

River Waveney Trust - Talk by Matt Gaw

Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Duration: 150 mins. Join author Matt Gaw in his reading & discussion about the joy of rivers & the importance of their public access. This event launches the 2024 outdoor bathing season: part of the campaign for, a cleaner river & bathing water status at Falcon Meadow, Bungay.

MAY 18TH

The Vikings are Coming!

The Dove Inn, Alburgh 10am-4pm. Archery, axe throwing & combat fun for all the family! For more info, call: 01986 788524.

MAY 18TH

Laughter & Lyrics

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre

What do you think of when think of an old school variety show? If it's music, magic, comedy, fun & laughter, this is the show for you. With 4 of the UK's top theatre & cabaret stars on hand to give you an evening to remember. Tickets: £15. Doors open at 6:45pm for a 7:30pm start.

MAY 18TH

An Evening of Variety!

Fisher Theatre, Bungay

7:30pm. Duration: 120 mins. For one night only! A fabulous Variety Performance celebrating 100 years of the Royal British Legion in Bungay. Featuring The Leiston RBL Brass Band, Olly Day, singers Hayley Moss & Laurie Atkins, Marion Small as Joyce Grenfell & Robert Cator "Accordion Man". www.fishertheatre.org

MAY 19TH

Bluey!

Africa Alive, Lowestoft

Everyone's favourite Blue Heeler pup will be appearing during meet & greet sessions at intervals throughout the day for the first time ever at Africa Alive! Meet & greet sessions are included within regular admission to the zoo & we expect this to be a popular event, so please pre-book zoo tickets online: www.zsea.org/reserve/tickets/aa-day-ticket

MAY 19TH

WAW Wrestling

Beccles Public Hall & Theatre

6:30pm-10pm. Exciting live wrestling action! Made up of the Knight family & their team of internationally-renowned wrestlers, the show is a must-see for all wrestling fans in the area. Tickets: £14 (Adults), £11 (Children aged 6-11), £45 (Family ticket x2 adults, x2 children).

MAY 18TH

Evening of Clairvoyance

Blyburgate Hall, Beccles 7pm start. Evening of Clairvoyance with Caroline Brewster. £12. For more info, please call/message Brenda on either 01493 444527 or 07748 915133.

MAY 18TH

East Anglian Air Ambulance's Trek 24

Sotterley Estate Trek 24 miles or 24km along a stunning stretch of the Suffolk Coast & through the countryside. Choose your distance & raise funds to keep our helicopters flying. Ticket Option 1: Pay less for your ticket, but pledge to fundraise £145. General Sale Ticket: £24. Ticket Option 2: Pay more for your ticket, & fundraise as much as you can. General Sale Ticket: £75. Every trekker will receive: An official t-shirt, a fully supported trekking experience, parking & coach transport to start line, regular refreshment & snack stops, a hot meal & celebration drink at the finish line & a finishers medal to recognise your achievements. By signing up to one of our Trek 24 events, you will help us continue to operate a 24/7 lifesaving service.

MAY 22ND

Cash Bingo

The Dove Inn, Alburgh Regular Monthly Cash Bingo. Bar open from 6:30pm. Eyes down at 7pm. Just £5 for 10 games! For more info, call: 01986 788524.

MAY 25TH

Beccles Food & Drink Festival

Beccles Town Centre 10am-4pm. Celebrating the finest artisan food & drink from the local area & wider East Anglia, the free-to-attend event, now in it's 9th year, will have over 60 stalls based in the centre of Beccles. Delicious world street food, music & children's entertainment. A free park & ride shuttle service will run throughout the event from Beccles Quay, where additional parking will be available to supplement the ample town centre car parks. www.becclesfoodfestival.co.uk

MAY 25TH ERM Live

The Dove Inn, Alburgh 8pm-11pm. ERM play live with songs from REM & verse, local musicians with an Americana theme! For more info: 01986 788524.

MAY 26TH

Spiritual Wellness & Crafts Fair

Ringsfield Village Hall 10am-3pm. Free entry. Donations welcome. Raising money for The Sam Buxton Sunflower Healing Trust - Providing a ray of light for cancer patients. Try Oracle or Tarot card readings, mediumship, find a crystal & also shop the boutique sellers & local crafts.

MAY 26TH

Ibiza Party - Day to Night

The Bear & Bells, Beccles

Our first instalment of Ibiza-themed day/night parties. Our DJ's will be digging deep into their music crates, bringing you the finest selection of tracks from past to present on the Ibiza club scene. We won't be holding back on decor, lighting, sound & dress. Doors open 4pm. Tickets: £5. Tickets can be purchased from the Bear & Bells or on the door. Limited spaces available, so grab your tickets!

MAY 27TH

Fashion Show with a Difference

Henstead Arts & Crafts Centre 7pm. Event by Dandelionwishes. Tickets only £1 (can be used as a £1 off a drink at Henstead Country Café). Book on: facebook.com/dandelionwishessuffolk, email: wishes.d@yahoo.com or call: 07711 919520.

MAY 29TH

ChimChim Thai

Three Rivers Pitch & Paddle, 18 Station Rd, Beccles, NR34 0HS 5pm-9pm*. ChimChim Thai are back again this year serving up some scrumptious homestyle, plant-based Thai food for all to enjoy! Everyone welcome! Stop by and tantalise your taste buds. Why not enjoy a cheeky beverage too. What more could you want? *Depending on demand and weather, these times may change, on yoga Wednesdays food will be served from 6pm.

MAY 29TH

Belated Confessions of a Gay Delinquent Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Duration: 80 mins. Marking 47 openly gay years, Stephen Poulter presents a new, one man show of personal reminiscences, hidden history & nostalgia. He'll tell the story of persecution, gay pride & the fight for homosexual equality from 1950 to 1990. Suitable for ages 12+. Will include historic terms & references which reflect the prejudices & homophobia of earlier decades.

MAY 31ST

Quiz Night & Nachos

The Locks Inn Community Pub 7pm-10pm. Join us for our monthly quiz night! Guaranteed laugh with your friends. Max of 6 per team. £1 each entry. Contact us direct to book a table. They get snapped up quick! Quiz master starts 7:30pm sharp! Serving from our Nachos Menu (plus specials!) from 5:30pm-8pm.

MAY 31ST

The Paul Simon Story Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Duration: 155 minutes. The UK's no.1 Paul Simon tribute band "Shades of Simon", will be performing their acclaimed 2 hour theatre show in tribute to Paul Simon as one of the best songwriters & performers of his generation.

Got an event you'd like to promote to our thousands of monthly readers? If so, please email the details over to: edit@ micropress.co.uk to be included in our 'What's on?' section.

Beccles Library

After having to put events on hold while the roof was replaced over the autumn and winter, Beccles Library is now fully open and a new programme of events is commencing. This will kick off with a talk by well-known local author

Gillian Campbell (nee Skippings) about her latest book titled 'And I Looked Back', which chronicles the lives of East Anglian people born in the early 20th century in their own words.

The book is an oral history project upon which Gillian embarked in the 1980s recognising that these important accounts of the realities of rural life in the earlier parts of the 20th

century could otherwise have been lost forever. The work of over 40 years, the product of listening to and recording the stories of ordinary people, came to fruition when the book was published last year. Gillian's husband, John, will be reading extracts from this fascinating book. Judging by the success of 'And I Looked Back' since publication, this is likely to be a very popular event. The talk will be held at Beccles Library on Wednesday May 1st at 6:30pm. Tickets can be bought from Beccles Library for £5 (cash only please) and there will be an opportunity to buy copies of the book on the night.

Beccles Tennis Club Open Evening

Beccles Tennis Club is hosting an open evening on Monday 22nd April from 6pm-8pm at Common Lane, Beccles, NR34 9RH. All abilities are very welcome. It will be a chance to meet the coaches as well as other members. Pickleball, fun games and a ball machine. Coaching tips, session tasters and free play. We are a friendly and welcoming club. Discounted membership is available. Turn up and try tennis for free!

Annual Membership Limited offer: £20 off new adult/family/60+ memberships if you sign up before the end of April!

• Book courts and play whenever suits you

• Join our social sessions

• Improve your skills with member rates on coaching sessions

grade

ICENI Taekwon-do's 1st independent ITF belt grading a fantastic success!

All students were taken through their techniques and patterns by Instructor Mrs. Bedingfield.

Every coloured belt syllabus was covered, from white belt to provisional Black Belt/Black Tag.

A big part of Mr and Mrs Bedingfield's plans as an independent ITF club, means each member now knows that their journey to Black Belt can be achieved in their own dojang.

One such member is (young) veteran student Denise Betts,

who has trained with the club since 2019. She was awarded her Black Tag at the grading, so her next grade will be a 1st Dan Black Belt.

Many families do really well at ICENI Taekwon-do. Father and son Ricky and Riley Fox successfully gained their Red Belts, and are also getting ever closer to becoming ICENI Taekwon-do Black Belts. There is a great ethos in the club, whereby everyone helps

each other to progress no matter what their initial abilities are, and they all have the opportunity to achieve success in this martial art. All the students ITF grades are nationally recognised and registered with the British Martial Arts and Boxing Association. New students are given four free sessions, which is six hours of tuition at ICENI Taekwon-do.

More information and booking details can be found on the club website: www.iceniTKD.uk

Newly-established local boxing team success!

A newly-established local boxing team (The Thrive Team) have had recent success at Bacup Box Cup in Lancashire, winning two gold and two silver medals.

Harry Norfolk (a familiar face at The Waveney Valley Leisure Centre in Bungay and lives in Denton) competed against Bernie Ward, an Irish competitor. It was a superb competitive bout, Norfolk using his feet well, applying the pressure and utilising weeks of fitness training. Norfolk gave his opponent a count in the second round demonstrating explosive power. The bout went the distance over three rounds with Norfolk coming away with a convincing unanimous win and awarded Box Cup Gold medallist.

Elliott Cameron vs Taylor McMahon (O'Neils) A quality display of boxing against Scotland No 1 and international competitor. Cameron demonstrating a great display of competitive boxing, mixing it with the best in the country and not looking out of place. It was close, with the judges having it 10:9 Blue and 10:9 Red going into the final round. The win went to the Scottish competitor with Cameron in second place with a silver medal.

Jake Lambert vs Branson Butt (PS Boxing): Both boxers throwing explosive blows. Lambert applying the pressure, dominating

with his power and two-phase attacks. Lambert winning by split decision and crowned Box Cup Gold Medallist.

Alfie Chadwick vs Rio Todd (Cain Boxing): Chadwick displaying a fantastic use of the lead hand, scoring cleanly with the jab with good timing. It was a close but sadly, Chadwick lost on a split decision and was awarded the silver medal.

This was the first weekend the boxers have been out as a newly established team under Thrive Boxing Team with all boxers in medal positions. The team were all back in the gym as they turn their focus for the box off at the regional finals for the National School Boys competition.

The Thrive Team are based in Harleston, Norfolk and are hoping to secure a permanent gym base locally.

Paul Cameron (Head Coach) has a wealth of experience and leads the performance team alongside Kerry (Norfolk Team Manager) who has recently qualified to complete her Level 3 England Boxing Coaching certificate.

Kerry will be the first female coach in the Eastern Counties to complete the prestigious

Beccles & Bungay Harriers complete Cross Country season

Sunday 3rd March marked the final event of the Suffolk Winter League Cross Country.

Overall, 23 members from Beccles & Bungay Harriers Athletics Club braved the soggy, muddy and often chilly conditions to compete in the league this winter! Harriers competed against several hundred other runners, in various locations across Suffolk, including Southwold, Haverhill, Framlingham and Bury St. Edmunds.

In order to get an overall position in their age category, a runner had to complete four out of the six events. Particular congratulations go to Judy Potter, Liam Durrant and Thomas Durrant who completed all six events, and to Lynn Emmett who won her age group! <<< Full table results

coaching award which will be assessed over the next year.

Kerry is the regional female coach who organises Next Generation female squad. The recent event at Billericay boasted 95 female boxers from all over the country.

The new boxing season 2024/25 is about to commence.

If you've wondered if boxing is for you, then why not give us a look?

We train on a Tuesday evening from 6pm. Suitable from age 7+, to adults. Boxing is not just about competition, it's about building life skills, confidence, resilience and making healthy choices.

All enquiries for training, please call Kerry Norfolk on: 07772 801373.

Harry Norfolk with mum, Kerry

What's on at The Venue, Beccles?

a variety of indoor facilities, a fully furnished fitness suite, and a large grass playing field. All facilities are available to hire outside of school hours.

For more information on The Venue or any of the clubs/activities mentioned here, call: 01502 712039, or email: thevenue@sirjohnleman.co.uk. Opening

5pm-7pm

• Circuit Training: 6:30pm-7:30pm

Happy students with their new belts and new belt

certificates

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• Cylinder repairs

• Immersion thermostats & elements

• All types of roof repairs

• Ridge replacement

• Lead flashing

• Flat roofing

• Leak repairs

PLUMBING: ROOFING: BUILDING: DISABLED WORKS:

• Ramps & hand rails designed, built & installed

• Doorways widened

• Disabled doors supplied & installed

• Stair rails fitted

• Safe & accessible toilet & wet rooms supplied & installed

• Full home re-design & refurbishment service to suit your needs

• Non-slip surfaces, paths & walkways

• Summer tidy ups

• Hedges & bushes trimmed

• Sheds & greenhouses supplied, installed and repaired

• Fences, Patios & Decking

• BBQ areas

• Garden planting schemes designed & built

• Specialised topiary supplied & planted

• Brickweave & Block paving

• Turf

• Chimney repairs, re-pointing & removal

• Slate & Tiled Roofs

• Dry ridge insulation

• New Roofs

• Emergency repairs

• Re-pointing

• Subsidence & cracks

• Lead flashing

• Chimney repairs, removal & re-lining

• Windows repaired & replaced

• Hanging doors

• Wood flooring & panelling

• Kitchen flatpacks

• Boxing in

GARDENING & LANDSCAPING: CARPENTRY: HANDYMAN: DRAINAGE:

• General DIY

• Hanging frames/mirrors etc.

• Flatpack furniture put together

• Wall mount TVs

• Installation of bath screens

• Silicone showers & baths

• Tiling

• Lifting & shifting furniture

• Small jobs

• Whether it’s a general tidy up or complete house clearance, we can help with both!

• High-pressure jetting

• Block drains

• CCTV surveys & investigation

• Treatment plants

• Soakaways

• Grease traps

- OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE -

• Roof repairs

• General building works/repairs

• Stud walls

• Garden walls & Patios

• Gates & Driveways

• Damp proofing

• Gullies

• Guttering

• Land drains

• Full drainage installations

• Pumping Stations

• Planned Maintenance

HANDY TEAM THE HANDY TEAM

Pink Ladies' Tractor Run set to return for 2024!

Each year, thousands of people line the route, cheering on the Pink Ladies in towns, villages, laybys and gardens. Houses and businesses are bedecked in pink bunting, banners and flags and many supporters dress in headto-toe pink.

Last year's event was iconic for the team as they raised £201,000 in a single year to smash through a total of over £1m raised in aid of Cancer Research UK's breast cancer appeal. Applications are now open for women to take part in this years run.

Organiser Annie Chapman said: "What an amazing achievement for a bunch of ladies on tractors, to have raised over £1million in 20 years for Cancer Research UK for breast cancer research! But cancer hasn't gone away so we must continue to raise funds for this very worthwhile cause. Entries are starting to come in for this year's run with already quite a few new ladies. Fundraising has already begun with events including cake stalls, car boot sales, a dog show, bingo nights and quizzes."

Pink Lady, Audrey Alexander from Bush Green said: "I have been taking part since 2005 and it's firmly written in my diary every year, it's such a wonderful thing to do. I enjoy getting my tractor dressed up in pink. The tractor I take is a grey Massey Ferguson which was the first tractor purchased by my late father-inlaw to be used on the farm. After its useful life, it was left in the nettles, but it was resurrected by my husband and son and it's helped to raise a lot of money over the years. Taking part on the day is a happy and sad experience. It's very emotional as we drive through Harleston but also very rewarding as you return to Thorpe Abbotts airfield. Meeting family for the picnic lunch is also brilliant."

The route starts at Thorpe Abbotts Airfield before heading through Thorpe Abbotts, Brockdish and Upper Weybread,

arriving in Harleston at about 12:30pm, before stopping for lunch between 1pm and 3pm at Gawdy Hall Meadow, Redenhall to which everyone is invited to bring a picnic lunch. The route back to Thorpe Abbotts Airfield heads through Pulham St. Mary, Rushall, Langmere Green and back to the airfield.

Each year, about a quarter of the ladies taking part are new to the event with many having never driven a tractor before. Last year a record-breaking 201 women took to 195 tractors for the run and were greeted by thousands of supporters who turned out along the route. The total of £201,000 raised was a record for a single year of fundraising. The incredible total was raised by the ladies who took part in the event, money collected on the day from supporters who gathered along the route and fundraising activities following the tractor run.

When presented with last year's cheque, Myles Godfrey, Senior Manager at Cancer Research UK said: "In all the years at Cancer Research UK I've never been so inspired by a community coming together to make such a difference.

Beccles Food & Drink Festival is back!

Get ready for gastronomic delights as Beccles Food and Drink Festival makes a highly anticipated return in 2024, providing an entertaining and affordable day out for both foodies and families!

Norfolk Raider Cider, Pinetree Bakery, and Fairfield Farm Crisps.

Your strength as a community is remarkable. 55,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and the research funding you give us saves more lives. Every penny makes a difference and one penny will buy a scientific slide for research scientists to use. One day, 1p will save someone's life and one day it will lead to a cure. Two in four people survive cancer but by 2034, we want three in four to survive."

Donations for this year's event can be made by scanning the below QR code with your smartphone or visiting: fundraise. cancerresearchuk.org/unite/pinkladies-tractor-road-run-2024

The 2024 Ladies' Tractor Road Run takes place on Sunday 7th July. For more information about the event please visit: www.ladiestractorroadrun.co.uk

Celebrating the finest artisan food and drink from the local area and wider East Anglia, the free-toattend event, now in it's ninth year, is scheduled for Saturday 25th May. With over 60 stalls based in the centre of the vibrant market town, the event runs from 10am till 4pm and will also include delicious world street food, music and children's entertainment.

Joining returning local traders such as Maisebrooke Farm, Chet Vineyard and Fen Farm Dairy, stalls new to the event include

The Local Flavours mobile cookery theatre, a new feature in 2023, is set to return, offering aspiring chefs and bakers culinary inspiration from local chefs and students from East Coast College in Lowestoft.

A free Park & Ride shuttle service will run throughout the event from Beccles Quay, where additional parking will be available to supplement the ample town centre car parks.

In addition to regular buses from Norwich and the surrounding towns, East Suffolk Lines and Greater Anglia have teamed up to offer visitors to the event making advance bookings reduced fares on the train departing Ipswich at 10:16am, and the 12:06pm departure from Lowestoft, including free bags of samples, and return on any train. Paul Parravani (Lead Organiser and Festival Founder) commented: "We're excited to welcome many new stall holders this year, and the organising team are hoping that our 2024 event will be as successful as previous years. We're grateful to our main sponsors, East Coast College and Fen Farm Dairy, for enabling us to showcase the region's food and drink in one of the few remaining completely free to attend Festivals."

Updates will be posted on the Festival website and social media at regular intervals.

www.becclesfoodfestival.co.uk

Image credit: Jonathan Slack

Audrey Alexander

Crowds in New Market enjoying the stalls Image credit: Dominic's Photography