A grand quiz with a bangers and mash supper will be held on Saturday 22nd April at Alburgh Village Hall. Doors will open at 6:15pm for a 7pm start. Tickets are
£10 each and can be purchase by calling Sandra on: 01986 788732. There will be a quiz with table prizes as well as raffle and a bar. All in aid of All Saints Church Alburgh.
Bungay Community Support
A charity in Suffolk with plans to open a subsidised food shop to help people struggling with the rising cost of living is appealing to local businesses and home-growers to donate surplus fruit and vegetables.
Bungay Community Support (BCS) first started providing essential items to vulnerable people in the market town during the 2020 Covid lockdown. Now the charity (which has developed a range of support services) is in the process of transforming a former butchers shop into a community hub.
Divided into two parts, one half of the hub will house the food
hall and the other half a one-stop shop for BCS services, advice and information.
Linda Bailey, volunteer and BCS trustee, said: "We discovered last winter that there are a lot of people in Bungay facing financial hardship. When we were running our warm rooms service last year, we found people were coming in who basically had no food left in the house. On the face of it, Bungay comes across as a prosperous market town, but it actually has high levels of deprivation, with 70% of the population in the most deprived 20% of areas in England."
The non-profit food hall
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will stock a range of surplus produce, including fresh fruit and vegetables, alongside everyday basic items at discounted prices, which would have otherwise gone to waste. This service will support people who were just about managing before the cost of living crisis but are now facing food poverty.
"Bungay has an above average problem with children being overweight linked to poverty, and we want to enable families to eat healthier," Linda said.
"Often the cheaper foods are not always the healthiest and this can have an impact on physical as well as mental wellbeing.
We want to make the options available to people at the food hall healthy. It's just getting over this stigma that people really don't like to say - I can't afford to put a healthy meal in front of my family."
For a sum of about £3.50 a week, people will be able to have a selection of groceries to a value of about £15 to £20 a week. In order to offer healthier choices at the food hall, organisers are appealing to local businesses, producers and home-growers to donate surplus fresh fruit and vegetables.
Jonny Crickmore (Director of Fen Farm Dairy) is one of the businesses in full support of the food hall. He said: ''We always have a small amount of product we make that doesn't find a home and this is a worthy cause to donate unsold products for people who need it most."
A sentiment echoed by Nicola Milne-Malone owner of local greengrocers, Giddens and Thompsons: "It's fabulous, what a lovely idea for the local community. We are more than happy to donate and get involved."
Refurbishment of the former butchers shop first started last October with the help of volunteers from the Ditchingham Men's Shed, a charity group which provides a friendly place for men and women to meet, share skills and chat.
Paul Brown (one of the Men's Shed volunteers working on the project) said: "As a member of Men's Shed, I was happy to support another community project. Being retired, it's nice to use my experience for the benefit of the wider community and to meet new people, make friends and to promote the Men's Shed."
Bungay Community Support offers a range of other services including warm rooms, a befriending scheme, shopping and medication service and baby basics. More than 60 volunteers support the services and the charity is always on the lookout for new recruits. With the ongoing development of the food hall, organisers are particularly interested in volunteers with a background in cooking who can help come up with menu ideas. The food hall (due to open in April) is the first of its kind in Bungay and is accessible to anyone, regardless of income and no referrals are needed. If you'd like to donate your surplus food, you can register your interest by emailing: bungaybcs@gmail.com.
In the year 1212, a young French shepherd, Stephen of Cloyes, has a vision. In his hand, he sees a letter telling him to gather children, march to Jerusalem and preach the gospel. He will be supported by the King, the letter tells him, and the seas will part to aid his journey.
What happens next is the story of Crusade. Joined by 30,000 children, Stephen has an audience with the King and begins the journey, sure that he is doing God's will. But beset by disappointments and exploited by false friends, Stephen's faith and courage are tested to the limit. Can the vision be trusted, and who will stay the course?
Featuring a talented young cast, Crusade is a fast-moving musical adventure based on true events that explores timeless
themes, including self-belief, friendship and commitment, and contemporary issues such as religious tolerance, migration and slavery.
On Friday 12th May at 7:30pm in St. John's Church, Harleston and on Saturday 13th May at 4pm in St. Mary's Church, Bungay. Tickets are £5 and are available from Robinson's Traditional Stationers, Harleston, International Foods, Bungay and online: www.ticketsource. co.uk/artistic-fields-ltd.
We believe that every generation owes a debt of gratitude to the RAF and their families. They continue to protect the peace and safety that we all enjoy every day. Here at RAFA, we make sure that everyone who has served in the RAF and their loved ones, get help and support when they need it most.
We rely upon the generosity of the public in order to bring friendship, help and support to all our local RAF Veterans and their families. Please support us if you can. You don't need to have served in order to join us and you can make a difference in some ones life. Further details from our Secretary by phoning: 01502 711519 or emailing: lancaster457@btinternet.com.
Beccles and District Museum
Beccles and District Museum opened for its 2023 season on April 1st with a special exhibition featuring the history of Beccles Amateur Sailing Club and also of the Beccles Regatta. The Club has supplied a wealth of historic material for the exhibition going back over a hundred years.
Club President Janet ForsterWarnes said: "I'm delighted that Beccles Museum will be hosting the first ever exhibition of Beccles Amateur Sailing Club's history. The Club was formed in 1907 and items including the first minute book to current activities will be
on show. Sailing is available for anyone interested to try as the Club will be hosting an open day on May 7th from 11am, so please come and visit us at the Club."
The Sailing Club exhibition runs until the end of May and will be followed by an exhibition about the engineering firm of Elliott and Garrood. The third special exhibition will be 'Roman Connections' which will run from the beginning of August.
The Museum (at Leman House, Ballygate) is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday afternoons, 1:45pm to 4:30pm, until 28th October.
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Millennium Green
Spectra and River Waveney Trust clean up.
Big thanks to River Waveney Trust and Spectra. Between them, they organised and carried out a terrifically effective litterpick at the end of March. Starting in dismal rain, in a couple of hours they picked up a total of 20.38kg of rubbish most of which (14.12kg) was plastic. Their focus was on the waterways and they covered 855m of them through the Town Park and into the Green. The River Waveney Trust provided kayaks, life jackets and water safety care.
Sunday 21st May? In your diary? It's the Track Birthday Party, 10 years old and going from strength to strength. Look out for more details, but meanwhile have a look at anything you own with wheels (bikes, scooter, pram, wheelbarrow) and start thinking about how to dress up those wheels for the big parade.
The saga of White Bridge has taken a huge step forward, with the County Councillor responsible for the relevant budget having found some extra money. It still isn't entirely plain sailing (for one thing, the Council is changing their contractor this year and that will result in delays to all projects) but what we've achieved together in terms of promises is a huge success for community solidarity. All the emails to Cllr. Paul West (paul. west@suffolk.gov.uk) and then the gathering of 60 to 70 people at the bridge really made the administration understand what
a critical link this bridge is for us all. If you haven't already written, you're not too late. Do let Cllr West know what the bridge means to you, and that you would like to know what the timetable is for replacement.
Keep letting us know of any exciting sightings on the Green.
Have a look at the website (millenniumgreen.halesworth. net) which carries news and information, photos, wildlife records, history and geology. Contact the Green directly on thegreen@halesworth.net or (only in an emergency) on 07879 844143.
Edgar Sewter Playschool is open Monday to Friday during term time for children from two years old.
We are a registered charity and our setting runs completely independently and self-supporting within the primary school with a small team of caring, qualified, experienced staff and a committee of parents. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage are Ofsted registered and have been established over 20 years.
Our breakfast and after school club runs Monday to Friday during term time from 8am and 3:30pm to 6pm. School holiday club is open each half term and during Summer and Easter holidays for children from 4 years. All places subject to availability.
Many thanks to Huus, Halesworth Toy Shop, Coopers, Halesworth Co-op and David Patrick Newsagents and all
parents/carers for their kind donations of draw prizes for our Easter Draw and to purchasers of tickets.
We held our Day of Dance Cakes, Bakes and Books stall in the Thoroughfare. Thank you to those who braved the rain to support us and to those who gave their time to make it possible.
We are currently fundraising for shed roof, sand tray repairs and outdoor resources and scooters suitable for children from five years old ready for the summer and really appreciate help from our kind local community businesses and families.
For further details, to register your child or to book a playschool, breakfast, after school or holiday club place, please email: esplayschool@gmail.com or ring 07796 044277.
Hayley, Anthea, Yvonne and Stacey
'Ring for the King' right here in Halesworth! We look forward to seeing you at our Interactive Workshop in Halesworth Library on Saturday 6th May at 10:30am12pm. Why not pop in and help us celebrate the Coronation!
The workshop is open to all ages with no need to book. Thank you to Julie and all library staff for inviting us to lead workshops at
regular intervals and making us feel so very welcome.
If you'd like more information about the team, or if you'd like us to book us for a special event or if youd like to come along to one of our practices, please email: l.sherman654@btinternet.com or call either 01986 798397 or 07789 365229
Linda Sherman
After a talk about the Harmony Centre, our May meeting will be our annual fundraising event. This helps provide us with funds to continue to support those with Parkinson's in our area. We will be holding a coffee morning in Wenhaston Village Hall on Thursday 11th May at 10:30am to midday. As well as tea/coffee and biscuits there will be the usual stalls, including cakes, plants, and a raffle and
others beside. Do come along and join us if you can, we count on your support. Please do come along to any of our meetings if you've been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or care for someone who has. You can be sure of a warm welcome, help and support. For further information, please contact either Gail (01986 872283) or Margaret (01502 478502).
People who have lost a loved one can now socialise with others and boost their wellbeing by taking part in special cooking classes organised by the Pear Tree Fund.
The 'cooking for one' sessions will give people who have recently been bereaved the chance to join eight classes to learn how to cook healthy, nutritious meals while developing strategies for self-care which will improve their health and wellbeing. The classes will also give them the chance to socialise with others who are experiencing loss and build new friendships.
Three sessions will take place over the coming months, each with space for eight participants. They have been made possible thanks to a £5,000 grant from the East of England Co-op's Community Cares Fund.
Dinah Morley, chair of the Pear Tree Fund, said: "We are incredibly grateful to the East of England Co-op for this generous donation, which will make a significant difference
to the lives of people who have lost a loved one. By giving them an opportunity to learn how to cook healthy, tasty meals while socialising with others, we hope that we can help them take steps to improve their health and wellbeing in the longer term."
The Pear Tree Fund ran several classes last year, and received overwhelmingly positive feedback from those taking part.
Comments included:
• "I was a total wreck (when I was referred to the Pear Tree Centre) but have never looked back. Cooking for one gave me my life back."
• "I have loved coming to cooking for one. I have met so many lovely people who have become my friends."
• "I have made lots of friends who I've shared many laughs with. The Pear Tree Centre has changed my life."
Anyone who would like to join a future cooking for one class should contact the Pear Tree Centre at: info@peartreefund.org or by calling 01986 899655.
The park is situated beside the River Waveney and Outney Common. The park has a wooded area and open grass pitches. We have on-site fishing and a canoe hire centre. Within walking distance of Bungay’s pubs, shops and restaurants. We have pitches for touring caravans, motorcaravans and tents. Open from March-October.
The Southwold and District Rotary Club is delighted to announce our next family community fundraising event. This is a charity 10k walk (6.2 miles) on Saturday 13th May starting at 7pm. Registration is from 6pm. This is in aid of local charity, Sole Bay Care Fund and Dementia UK.
The Sole Bay Care Fund has been set up to provide short-term emergency care, resources, and equipment not normally funded by the NHS or social services for all people in our community.
Dementia UK supports anyone affected by dementia.
The family walk starts from the Tea Hut at the Boating Lake near the North Pier, Southwold.
Registration is £10 in advance ( www.southwoldrotary.co.uk/ starlight-walk) or £12 on the day from 6pm. Proceeds will go to Sole Bay Care Fund and Dementia UK. If you're using a wheelchair, please contact:
info@southwoldrotary.co.uk to discuss how we can enable you to participate, as you may need extra assistance in some areas.
Sadly, we're not able to accept dogs on this walk, due to the nature of the walk.
We'd love you to join us. These charities need our help. All the money raised will go to the named charities. Southwold and District Rotary Club donated over £22,000 to charities since July 2022, through our fundraising and we also gave 'service' to the local community. Rotary International is a nonprofit organisation. Please do come and join us May 13th. The walk starts at 7pm. Please bring a torch. If you can, please wear glowing stars, or fluorescent boppers, or glow in dark strips, etc. Bring a windproof jacket or 'pack-away' rain gear, and snacks to eat on the way. Let's make this fun and light up Southwold!
A big thank you to everyone who visited our community soup kitchen, we were overwhelmed with the support and kind comments we received.
The initiative was set up to develop our DT curriculum. Plans began back in February where Oak Class wrote letters to local businesses to ask for their support in the form of contributions for ingredients. The response to this was positive and we secured all of the ingredients needed through donations. Special thanks to The Co-op, Jim and Karen Wright at Wenhaston Shop and Nat Bacon of Ward Farms.
The whole school was then
given their role in the operation. Acorns (Reception) were to bake biscuits for pudding, Seedlings (years one and two) were to make and bake the rolls, Saplings (years three and four) were to research and make a soup as were Oak Class (years five and six).
Time was spent in KS2 finding out about the nutrition and seasonality of the ingredients and recipes were selected for a test batch. Saplings chose from two recipes and decided on leek and potato whereas Oak class tested and tasted six different recipes before voting for the favourite: tomato and basil.
The children had to publicise their event so they made posters
which were distributed by hand at the local pancake lunch event and published in the village magazine. They also made menus, analysed and listed any allergens and looked into how to cost their soups.
On the day, the entire operation was manned by the children in Oak Class and we were so proud to see how they conducted themselves with members of the public. We'd like to express how very grateful we are for the contributions we received on the day. We'll send a donation to the local food bank and also be able to purchase resources for further DT projects. We look forward to future community events such as this one.
Miss Welby - Project lead.
Recent sporting success at Wenhaston
I'm pleased to report that Wenhaston School has recently been victorious in two sports tournaments with other schools in the Bungay catchment area. We won the year 3-4 dodgeball tournament and were overall winners at the recent crosscountry tournament! A huge achievement for us as a small school.
As part of the ongoing fundraising efforts to keep the Reydon Christmas Lights lit, we're looking at the possibility of having an Open Gardens weekend in Reydon later this year, depending on the amount of interest.
Would you be willing to open your garden and help raise money for the lights? It doesn't have to be like a miniature Kew Gardens, just something to look at and you are proud to share. If you'd like to take part, please email Carole Ladd on: caroletamdhu@gmail.com
Metfield Stores needs a new Company Secretary... Could it be you? Our Company Secretary retired at the end of March 2023, so we're looking to find a suitable replacement as quickly as possible. We will be able to facilitate a relaxed handover of this important post.
Duties are estimated to take approximately six to eight hours each month, plus about 21 hours per year (spread over a few months) for the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and annual filing activities and include:
• Monthly board meetings: Schedule, manage, attend and minute the meetings (held at 6:30pm on the last Thursday of the month).
• AGM: Schedule, manage, attend and minute (book venue, notify shareholders, keep accurate records of attendees). Maintain the register of shareholders and the mailing lists.
• Companies House: Update company information, including completion of the Annual Returns.
• Minute book: Maintain this in electronic and hard copy formats.
The person we are seeking will be well organised, proficient in the use of Word or Pages software, have experience of registering documents online, be comfortable with communication via email, able to keep to a schedule and to
handle a mailing list. Previous experience as a Company Secretary would be advantageous but is not essential.
You will work closely with and have support from the Chair as you settle into the role.
We're a friendly and professional bunch of individuals doing our best to oversee the running of this vital community asset. Our Manager Sue has a team of nearly 40 dedicated volunteers working in the shop.
All roles in our organisation (except that of our Manager) are volunteer status, with no remuneration, apart from any pre-agreed expenses.
If you think you might be interested in applying for this post, please email Linda Norris on: metfieldstores@gmail.com, phone: 07938 176338 or leave your contact details at the shop FAO Linda Norris, Metfield Stores.
If you think you might consider joining the Board of Directors of Metfield Stores, you can go online at: metfieldsuffolk.com/metfieldstores-board-of-directors/ to find out more and download an application form.
We are especially interested in applications from people with some financial expertise, able to interpret reports and produce a budget and cashflow.
The Coronation:
We are getting very excited about the arrangements for the Coronation. Plans for the Street Party on Sunday 7th May are already well advanced and there is a brilliant team of people working on the celebrations. Huge thanks to Anne Fleming and her team for getting so much sorted already. The Party takes place all down the Thoroughfare from 12 noon to 4pm.
Last year, as part of the Jubilee Celebrations, Halesworth Volunteers organised a tea party for older people who would otherwise be on their own, we will be doing the same again at the Street Party. So if you want to enjoy tea, cake and some of Maureen from the Co-op's special fancies, just ring the office on 875600 to book your place. And remember that the Coronation will be live-streamed at the Church on Saturday 6th May - Everyone
welcome.
Community Car Service:
Please can we remind people that you must book
your Community Car at least two working days before any appointment. Also, the Car Service is here for people who cannot travel independently, we are a bit different from a taxi service so just ask the team if you are not sure if you qualify for our service. We will always try and sort journeys to the doctors or the hospital if you get a last minute appointment but it is very challenging for us and we hate having to say no. Also, do remember that if you're going to hospital, you may qualify for hospital transport. We can tell you more about this excellent service. Just call us on 874290.
Car Service charges:
We will be introducing a booking fee for our journeys in May. We will explain how the new system will work when you phone in to book your car. This will bring us into line with all the Community Car services in our area and help ensure that we can continue to provide this much loved and trusted service.
Halesworth Community Larder:
One day last year, a gentleman who won't mind me calling him elderly, came into the Longshed with his wife, Mavis, and started talking to the person manning the Woodbridge Riverside Trust (WRT) shop. This was Bill Kober.
Bill's family were Londoners living in the Mile End Road. At the start of WWII, as a boy of 11, Bill was evacuated first to Chipping Campden and then to Bourton-onthe Hill. This period in Cotswold country was the start of his great love of the English countryside.
After the war, Bill went back to the London area, married Mavis, and raised a family of his own. But then, just over a year ago, came the opportunity for the couple to move to Suffolk to be near their son.
Bill had been a member of the Redbridge Marquetry Group for 35 years but had more or less given up his hobby and got rid of all his veneers. However, he still
Thank you to everyone who continues to donate so many lovely and generous gifts to the Larder. We really appreciate it. We've been very busy recently but do pop in and see the Larder, you will always get the warmest of welcomes. The Larder is a partnership project, run by St. Mary's PCC and Halesworth Volunteers. The Larder is at St. Mary's Church Hall and is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays between 10am and 11:30pm.
Dates for your diary: Don't forget Nigel's amazing quiz at the White Hart on the 3rd Wednesday of the month.
Thanks to Vicky and her team for supporting us. Also, everyone is welcome to the Wellbeing Lunch on the first Tuesday of every month. Just turn up between 12pm and 2pm at Chinneys. And our soup and sandwich lunches with St. Mary's Church take place on the final Wednesday of every month, everyone is welcome. Thanks to Julia and the team at HACT for providing the bus.
Martlesham in Bloom and Suffolk Wildlife Trust are arranging a fun and informative morning for families at Martlesham Recreation Ground, The Street, Martlesham on Sunday 21st May, from 10:30am-12pm.
The aim is to learn more about Martlesham's brand new nature reserve, Martlesham Wilds, why we need to protect wildlife, and how we can help our own outdoor spaces become more wildlife friendly, to create natural wildlife corridors for wildlife to thrive. There will be fun activities to take part in and whether you are parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends or carers with children you are all welcome.
The event will be free (funded by Suffolk Wildlife Trust and AONB) donations welcome on the day. No need to book. All activities are completely outdoors, dress for the weather.
Please note that there are no toilets or facilities on-site. Dogs on lead welcome, free parking and cycle stands available. We look forward to seeing you on May 21st!
For further information about the event and Martlesham in Bloom, please contact: martleshaminbloom@gmail.com or J Maureen Burrows (Secretary) on 01473 625196.
To find out more about Martlesham Wilds, please visit: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/ martlesham-wilds
'Spreading Our Wings' (established 2021) is a group of Makers from the Suffolk Craft Society and coming from a wide variety of craft disciplines.
Jetty Lane is a young Suffolk charity that organises creative and inspiring opportunities which unite and engage children and young people. This promotes social and cultural connectedness and brings our community together. Our mission is to build a purpose-built, sustainable space for children and young people in the local area.
had some of his finished products, wonderful marquetry pictures and beautifully-made chessboards, for instance. Bill very generously gave these to the WRT shop for us to sell. He had never sold any of his work himself.
And that's how it started.
Bill now has a workspace in the Longshed and can be found a couple of days a week making his chessboards for sale in the shop. And they are very, very popular. You may find him there when you visit the Longshed. If you do, ask him about his fitness regime, it puts most of us to shame!
Other news
To some of the many visitors who come to our town, especially those who come by car, it may not be immediately obvious that Woodbridge lies on the beautiful River Deben.
In a new initiative to rectify this, WRT and other local attractions such as the Woodbridge Tide Mill Museum, Sutton Hoo
Ship's Company, Woodbridge Museum, Woodbridge Art Club and Woodbridge Sea Scouts will work together as a group to promote Woodbridge Historic Riverside as a go-to destination for visitors.
The WRT is excited to be part of this joint initiative and looks forward to offering events, talks and exhibitions to help put the wonderful riverside area firmly on the map. Watch this space and social media for more news which will be shared by the group.
I was pleased I secured a debate in Parliament in March, praising the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust. Thanks to vastly improved leadership at the Trust, their CQC rating has risen from 'inadequate' to 'requires improvement'. My work as an NHS mental health doctor, has enabled me to be an effective critical friend to the Trust, applying my expertise to support them locally and in Parliament.
I am pleased to see NSFT facing their challenges head-on. There's been significant change at Board level, which I believe has been vital in driving improvements in the quality of patient care.
It is encouraging that the CQC recognised the strengthened leadership and care standards during a thorough examination of two core services: child and adolescent mental health wards and community-based mental health wards. On individual services, 60% of those inspected are now rated 'good', meaning that patients in Suffolk can expect
much better quality and safety of care.
Historically there have been concerns around the number of hospital admissions but now that work has been undertaken to move towards community settings, people can be better cared for locally. The Trust is fostering better connections with other healthcare providers, ensuring better data monitoring.
It's reassuring that a new Ward Visit Quality Assurance team is continually driving up standards. Efforts to develop training have also paid off, meaning that staff now feel valued and have more confidence in the care they can deliver and with new recruitment and retention schemes, the Trust is a more attractive place to work and stay.
Given the challenges faced previously by the Trust, I can understand why there were calls for the organisation to be broken up, but I did not feel this would have been the correct course of action and during the debate, I was reassured by the Minster's
commitment that this will not now take place. This is testament to the progress that has been made by a very effective new board and leadership team.
Of course there remains more for the Trust to do, so I am also heartened by the Minister's confirmation that NHS England will continue to provide the existing level of support to the Trust and a further commitment that capital funding will remain available for mental health services. I will continue to press for further investment to complete the new campus at Hellesdon Hospital, to secure three new wards to tackle over-reliance on out-of-area placements.
I have every confidence that teams within the Trust remain committed on their path to deliver outstanding patient care and are clear that they cannot now take their foot off the pedal. I welcome this ongoing commitment and I too will continue to support their ambitions to deliver the highquality services that Suffolk deserves.
The group came together to explore and enrich the link between art, crafts and the natural world. In partnership with RSPB Minsmere and with BPA at Snape, they're seeking to raise public awareness of how art and nature go hand-in-hand. Their work demonstrates and showcases the inspiration they gain from a natural environment which is so abundant, yet so threatened and which is often the source of the materials they use.
The 'Spreading Our Wings' project emerged from the glass art installation 'A Wing and a Prayer' by Arabella Marshall at the ancient ruin of Minsmere Sluice Chapel. Standing in the reserve's grasslands and housing a WWII pill box, the ruin is evidence of a complex, shadowed history,
a history which has woven its way into some of the pieces created. Group members have designed and made installations now placed in specific locations around the reserve. Following a new trail to see these pieces offers a different way for visitors to experience their surroundings.
The project culminates in an exhibition at the Dovecote, Snape Maltings in May entitled "Beyond the Reeds", linking the two sites and bringing further reflective artworks created to a wider audience. RSPB will be leading walks through the Snape marshes during the nine days of the exhibition and 'Beyond the Reeds' will move to Craft Co. for the month of June for a final viewing.
These events are more than exhibitions of interesting workthey are an invitation extended by the makers to better understand how art and nature may work together to the benefit of all.
We have a 125 year lease on a site in central Woodbridge which was previously the home of a popular youth centre which was demolished in 2017. It is now mostly bare land. We aim to:
• Build creative spaces on the Jetty Lane site, which enable activities that address cultural deprivation and wellbeing challenges in Woodbridge and the surrounding villages.
• Prioritise inclusivity and equal representation of all our young communities, and to enhance their wellbeing. We live in a wealthy area but not everyone is wealthy. There is economic and social and cultural deprivation here.
• Encourage partner organisations to stage high-quality creative activities and events for children and young people including performances, play sessions and workshops.
This year, our focus is to
start our phased construction programme by building an outdoor Playscape, a nontraditional type of playground, that will sit in the middle of the site and will inspire families to play and enjoy the ambiance. We are seeking funding to bring part of our site back to life. We have formed a partnership with creative programmer Lucy Keany of Creative Play, to construct a Playscape which will be used primarily by early years and neurodivergent children, their families and carers. It will be designed so that children of all abilities can play alongside each other. The Playscape will be secure with fencing around it and many areas will be wheelchair accessible. The Playscape will sit comfortably on the site, taking into consideration natural elements of sunlight, wind and drought. It will set a benchmark for sustainable design, and operate in an environmentally conscious way. Please take a look at our website: www.jettylane.org or contact: info@jettylane.org to find out more.
We are so close! The response has been heartening. Both individuals and local business have given generously. We are within touching distance to make the amount CEMEX has said would be acceptable. We will make it - if the donations keep coming in. Another £25,000 is needed, we have a week to go.
A reptile relocation scheme (being planned on neighbouring land) has donated £10,000 to Save Holton Pits. This is a generous contribution towards the £200,000 needed by the community. Hastoe Homes (the affordable housing development company), together with their contractor Rose Builders, have donated the funds to Holton Pits along with further funds for the
field to the north. The payment to the field is part of a lizard and slow worm translocation requirement from their affordable housing scheme in Martlesham, with the field being a receptor site. As it happens, the location chosen is adjacent to the Pits, and it's hoped that once settled, the lizards and slow worms will cross the boundary to the Pits.
Ulrike Maccariello (Development Director at Hastoe Homes) said: "Our own work is designed to support local communities, with wildlife and sustainability being key components of our Hastoe New Build Standard, and so we're especially delighted to be supporting the project at Holton Pits, which aligns with many of
our own values."
Hammonds of Halesworth have also gifted 10,000! Thank you Hammonds.
Local residents are getting out there, raising funds. Marion has done a sponsored bike ride, and recently clocked 76 miles. www. justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ saveholtonpits.
David Green is putting on a variety show in Holton Village Hall, with local talent on show.
Rebecca has been active also on social media, and visited Holton St. Peter's School to talk to them about the Pits.
Suffolk Wildlife Trust met to discuss the communities vision for the Sandpits should they be successful in purchasing the land, and outlined the priority habitats
that exist in the Pits.
Entomologist Hawk Honey, is going to regularly survey the site and has already seen vernal mining bees, which are an endangered species, and is hoping to discover more new species for Suffolk in the sandy cliff, a SSSI.
Two members of our committee recently visited Lackford Lakes, also once owned by CEMEX and GIVEN to the local community.
Dr Therese Coffey has written to us confirming her support for our campaign and urging Michael Gove to support our application for Community Funding. You can read about the above and see more at: www.holtonpits.uk.
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.
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Riders are entering one of our best-known local charity rides and more entries are needed for the event on Sunday May 14th. This will be the 21st Beccles Cycle for Life charity ride organised by the Rotary Club of Beccles and will start from the Sir John Leman High School.
The ride is to raise funds for East Anglian Air Ambulance and the Rotary Club's charitable trust equally.
The ride is suitable for all ages and abilities with five possible distances of eight, 16, 25, 41 and 50 miles and it attracts families and regular cyclists alike. All must wear cycling helmets.
This year, children may be entered free of charge through the generosity of Norfolk and Suffolk
Chartered Financial Planners, who are covering the cost. Riders of all categories can enter at favourable rates on becclescycleforlife.org and entries will also be taken at the school on the day.
The routes all head onto country roads. All the details and
the maps of all the routes (as well as GPS route downloads) are on the website.
Riders are offered a JustGiving page through a link on the website, or may use the traditional paper sponsorship forms if preferred. The success of the event is helped by those riders who are willing to obtain personal sponsorship from friends and family rather than just paying the entry fees.
Lord Somerleyton is offering a splendid prize of a day entry voucher to Somerleyton Gardens for up to four people for the rider who raises the most money.
Paul Randle (who is organising the event for Beccles Rotary) said, "We are looking forward to as many advance entries as possible and it's so easy to book a place and pay online. We have simplified the entry categories this year to make it even easier to sign up. We are hugely grateful to the school for the venue, to Norfolk and Suffolk Chartered Financial Planners for sponsoring child riders and to Lord Somerleyton for his prize."
A local leisure centre is encouraging older people to use its state-of-the-art facilities to improve their health and quality of life.
Waveney Valley Leisure Centre (which is run by Everyone Active in partnership with East Suffolk Council) is home to a variety of facilities. These include a top-ofthe-range 50-station gym, 25m swimming pool, group exercise studio and group cycling studio.
"We welcome people of all ages, fitness levels and interests to Waveney Valley," said Everyone Active's contract manager Stuart Jardine. "We appreciate it can seem challenging to start exercising in a gym but our colleagues are incredibly friendly and will walk you through everything you need to know, as
well as providing ongoing support as you get used to our centre. It's vital for older people to look after their health and we want to help you to do just that."
According to the World Health Organisation, a sedentary lifestyle is one of the 10 leading causes of death and disability. Even just gentle, regular exercise such as walking on a treadmill or using a cross trainer can help to increase your lifespan by between three and five years. By getting down the gym regularly, you're likely to start recognising familiar faces. It has been proven that by exercising with friends or partners, you're much more likely to keep going and feel the benefit of all that effort.
The mobility benefits of staying active, as well as the physical
For some years up until Covid, The Rotary Club of Beccles has been organising a very successful music competition. We have had around 30 competitors each year. Within this, there were two competitions, for 'Young Instrumentalist' and 'Young Vocalist'. This was a part of a national competition and winners could take part in the national competition. There have been varied repertoires and most instruments.
sessions, one in the afternoon (Juniors) and one in the evening (Seniors). What we'd like to know from music teachers is how many would be interested in getting students into the competition. There would be absolutely no commitment at this stage. If you'd like more information or to discuss this, please contact Roger Thompson on: 01502 717933 or email: becclesyoungmusician@ gmail.com.
and mental health benefits, all play a key role in helping you stay independent. Research has shown that exercise improves balance and reduces older people's fear of falling and, by extension, going out. Exercise is also great fun. Not only will you get a rush of endorphins as a result of working out in the gym, but you'll enjoy the results of regular exercise, too.
Waveney Valley offers a variety of sessions in its fitness suite. For example, you could use a personal trainer for one-on-one or group sessions, or sign up for a gym support session if you want to improve your confidence with one particular kind of equipment. For further information about Waveney Valley and its facilities, speak to colleagues on reception or call 01986 895014.
We'd like to restart this again and are proposing to have a competition in Beccles St. Michael's Church on October 15th. We aim to have two
Based in Metfield, convenient Harleston, Bungay and Halesworth
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You could also look at our Facebook page by either following www.facebook.com/ natornis/ or opening Facebook and searching for 'Beccles Young Musician'. 180833
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Well done to all those who took part in the ICENI Taekwon-do belt grading on March 20th, earning a deserved 100% pass!
Beccles Town FC U9 Hornets were presented with brand new tracksuits from their new sponsor A1 Clearance and Recycling Ltd.
The Beccles-based, familyrun waste management company said that they were proud to support the local community. They specialise in house, business and site clearances, and say they are always cheaper than a skip and they do all the work!
Maybe it's full waste management solutions with weekly or bi-weekly collection: or you've had a clear out of your shed and garden and need to get rid of what's left: or perhaps your tenants have left the property and you need to remove what's left behind... One call clears it all!
The new tracksuits brought the U9 Hornets good luck and after a successful training
session, went on to win a very competitive game 4-2, with man of the match Riley O claiming the weekly accolade and taking home the much coveted trophy.
The team and the coaches at Beccles Town FC U9 Hornets are all very grateful for the sponsorship from A1 Clearance and Recycling Ltd.
If you'd like to contact them, call 07729 877137 or email: www.a1clear.com
All the hard work and dedicated training during the winter months paid off with everyone being successfully promoted to their next syllabus. A big thank you goes to GTUK Regional Examiner, Mr Clinton Gillett, 6th Dan from Bungay, who closely watched the students as they displayed their Taekwon-do skills which included: techniques, patterns, sparring, Korean terminology and board breaking.
Mr Gillett was very pleased with the standards being achieved and a 100% pass rate was awarded! It's a fantastic testament to the ICENI club's ethos, that there were students from all age categories, who train regularly together, and prove that age barriers to martial arts are only in the mind. The club's students ages range from six to 11 pewees, 12 to 16 juniors, 17 to 39 adults and 40 to 60 plus vets!
Mr and Mrs B (Nidge and
Susie Bedingfield) would like to thank their black belts and senior grades for volunteering their help on the night, and also to the staff at The Venue, Beccles, for their assistance before and after the grading. This grading shows the continued success in the rebuilding of the club since the Covid lockdowns, and Mr Like many other clubs and businesses, the pandemic hit Bungay Bowls Club hard. They were forced to close for more than a year and it was a struggle for the club to survive. There is now light at the end of the tunnel, bowling has restarted and they are looking forward to the new season.
and Mrs Bedingfield's determined promotion of the club via all means possible, including the internet and social media. Their aim is to give everyone a chance of trying Taekwondo Self Defence by starting with four
On Saturday 22nd April, Bungay Bowls Club will be holding an Open Day from 10am to 2pm where anyone interested in taking up the sport or returning to the sport can come and have a go. Everyone is welcome and bowls can be provided. Please wear a pair of flat shoes to protect the green.
If anyone is interested in joining the club or would like
free sessions.
So this would be a great time to join the club with three months to prepare before the next grading. Anyone can book a free session on the club website at: iceniTKD.uk
more information, please call: 07359 454303 or visit: www. bungaybowlsclub.co.uk.
At Christmas time, Bungay Bowls Club held a Christmas fair and in February and March, two Table Top sales were held at the Bowls Club in Bardolph Road, Bungay, these were a great success and has helped raise much needed funds to help towards the maintenance and running costs of the club and also to raise funds for Club Shirts. The club would like to thank all those that helped and also attended the sales.
There is a final Table Top sale at Bungay Bowls Club on Saturday 15th April with everything going at bargain prices.
Bungay Bowls Club have been asking local businesses and shops to sponsor them in return for an opportunity to advertise at the club.
They would like to thank SM Electricals and Security Ltd, Grounds and Gardens, Parkers Plumbing and Heating Ltd, Rosedale Funeral Home, Crossways of Ellingham, Sprake and Kingsley Solicitors and Truck Monkey Garage for taking up this opportunity. Thanks also to Three Willows Garden Centre for providing club competition prizes. If anyone else would like to sponsor Bungay Bowls Club in return for advertising space please contact Carol Maycock on 01986 782296 or via email at: cm208@btinternet.com.
Loddon is a hidden Norfolk gem waiting to be discovered
With a population of just over 3,000, it's a peaceful and picturesque place to visit.
This year, Rehability (Halesworth's own specialist retailer of mobility aids and equipment) celebrates ten years in the Thoroughfare.
Rehability was the brainchild of business owner Veronica Downing, who qualified as an Occupational Therapist before spending over 30 years working firstly in the NHS and Social Services, and then in private practice.
"In the days before online shopping and high street mobility stores, it was OTs like myself who advised people on aids to daily living and advised on adaptations which would enable people with functional loss to regain their independence," says Veronica.
Having established a disability assessment centre in a barn conversion at her home in Chediston, it was a natural progression for her to develop a high street retail business at which people could see and purchase a range of products that would help them with daily living activities such as mobility and bathing. Rehability's premises in Halesworth opened in May 2013 and today it serves customers
195025
across north east Suffolk and south Norfolk, from Aldeburgh to Harleston and from Framlingham to Beccles.
"The aim was to sell mobility equipment in an attractive shop that people wanted to come into and in which they could enjoy looking at and trying out products that would help them lead more comfortable and more fulfilling lives. With the relatively elderly demographic in this part of East Anglia, there is an increasing number of people who need the resource of a shop like ours."
A hallmark of Rehability's approach is that it is Occupational Therapy led. Customers are not simply sold the latest, most expensive gadget irrespective of whether or not it suits their needs. Instead, Veronica or one of her two staff members, Beverley and Kathy, first of all assess what is necessary and then ensure that the customer is offered the most appropriate solution.
Top sellers are mobility scooters, manual wheelchairs, riser-recliner chairs and rollators, of which there are always plenty in stock, to ensure customer choice in a variety of price bands.
And as well as supplying new products, Rehability offers a range of reconditioned mobility scooters and provides a comprehensive servicing capability for scooters, wheelchairs and other equipment from its own fully staffed servicing workshop in Chediston. The Rehability delivery van is now a regular sight around the district delivering new products to peoples' homes or collecting and returning equipment for servicing or repair.
Veronica is convinced that Rehability has a bright future. "Statutory services simply cannot provide all of the equipment that people need, and even if they were able to do so, it is not necessarily supplied within a reasonable timescale. Asking someone in their 90's to wait several months to find out if they are eligible for a wheelchair supplied by statutory services simply is not on.
Rehability, on the other hand, can supply a choice of products within the week, if not immediately, and people are increasingly willing to purchase items to help them enjoy life and their independence again."
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 cafes 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.
(Formerly Bungay Choral Society)
On Saturday 20th May at 7:30pm at Bungay's St. Mary's Church, Bungay Voices choir (under their Musical Director
Jason Collins and accompanist
Helen Morgan) present their spring concert with items
from Lux Aeterna by Morten Lauredson and The Sprig of Thyme (an arrangement of folk songs by John Rutter).
Children from Ellingham and Woodton Primary Schools will also bring their talent with their own individual songs as well as joining the choir in a variety of pieces. Come and enjoy an evening with a variety of music for all tastes.
Admission is £10 and this includes refreshments, accompanied children are free. You can get tickets from Wightmans of Bungay, calling Jason Collins on 07545 545718 or from choir members.
Following on from this concert, we are rehearsing for a concert performance of Gilbert and Sullivan's 'Trial by Jury' on September 2nd.
Weekly rehearsals start on Wednesday 31st May at 7pm at Bungay Emmanuel Church, NR35 1BH.
All are welcome to join us to sing in this light-hearted comic operetta, no auditions, just come and enjoy the social evenings.
(51F) on average.
• Average minimum temp: 4.02C (39F) in 2023. 3.93C (38F) in 2022. 3.30C (37F) on average.
• Mean temp: 7.26C (45F) in 2023. 8.00C (46F) in 2022. 6.90C (44F) on average.
• Air frosts: 5, compared with 2 in March 2022.
• Rainfall total: 3.41" compared with 1.18" in March 2022. (30 year average (1981-2010) was 1.85"). (2023 total is 184% of the average).
• Most rainfall on one day: 0.65" on the 9th.
• Wind direction, mainly from: South-west 10 days, south 4 days, north 3 days, south-east 3 days, west 3 days and northwest 3 days. A real roller coaster! Perhaps typical of the first Spring month in any year. The first 10 days were really chilly. Thankfully,
the remainder somewhat milder generally as indicated in table below. The coldest days (and coincidentally the wettest also noting 0.65" and 0.36" of rain) were the 9th and 10th when the maximum temperature reached just 4.1C. These days also had the dubious distinction of being the coldest March days since 01/03/2018 during the noteworthy cold spell known as "The Beast from the East". The coldest nights were the 7th (-3.0C) and 10th (-2.8C), also the coldest March nights since 01/03/2018.
Fortunately, the mid-month period enjoyed a number of days which were milder. The 13th recorded a maximum of 16.0C and during periods of 20th to 25th and 29th to 31st, which included the warmest day of the month, 17.0C on 30th.
The 3.41" rainfall total was out of character in comparison with the previous 3 March recordings of 1.18" (2022), 1.31" (2021) and only 1.03" (2020). The total was accumulated over 26 days, which was the most rain days for
any March on my entire record. It was the 6th wettest March (since at least 1968) and the most for the month since 2013. Although the total appears high here compared to average, (approaching double) it seems many places further south and west have had more than twice and up to 3 times monthly average rainfall. I have received a report from a fellow observer in Hungerford, Berkshire who recorded 5.92" during the month. February was very dry. This trend continued into early March. High pressure was responsible for the cold and dry first week, only 0.12" of rain recorded and 3 of the 5 dry days. Thereafter successive fronts and depressions crossing the country from west to east ensured just 2 totally dry days during the remaining 3 and a half weeks.
Snow, mixed with rain and hail was noted on two days (8th and 10th), the latter left short lived snow cover on the morning of the 11th. The wettest day (9th) which totalled 0.65" was the wettest day of any since 16th November 2022.
