Beccles & Bungay Community News - October 2023

MEMBERS

MEMBERS

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)

TEAM MEMBERS

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)

Routine exam £50 (Denplan - included)

Acrylic dentures from £495 (Denplan £396)

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)

Full mouth whitening £295 (Denplan £236)

Victoria Hough

Christopher J Kelly 82366 BDS (2003, University of Sheffield)

GDC: 200727 FDSC (with distinction) RDN RDH (University of Essex 2021)

GDC: 200727 FDSC (with distinction) RDN RDH (University of Essex 2021)

AFFORDABLE QUALITY

AFFORDABLE QUALITY

COMPASSION AND CARE

AND CARE

GDC: 200727

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

LEISTON DENTAL CARE

Call Us: 01728 561873

Call Us: 01728 561873

Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm

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

AFFORDABLE QUALITY WITH COMPASSION & CARE

AFFORDABLE QUALITY WITH COMPASSION & CARE

AFFORDABLE QUALITY WITH COMPASSION & CARE

Victoria Hough

New netball group in Harleston

Do you love netball? Then join the new group that needs more players and no it doesn't matter if you've not played for years or never played before as many of the group haven't!

If you're looking for a new social outlet, chance to get fit and of course have fun whilst playing netball, then the group would love to see you! They will be starting practice sessions again after the summer break in October at Archbishop Sancroft School on Thursday evenings. The best bit about this group is that it's a casual group, you pay when you play but if the group is to continue, it really does need more players. So if you're 18 or over and are keen, then they can work with the rest! It's open to both men and women and is usually 7:30pm to 9pm each week.

The group was the brainchild of Kim who has played netball since junior school through to her 40's. She's also played club, county, regional, centre of excellence and England Under 18's. She became a level two coach in 2006 and has continued this ever since.

So why did Kim want to start the group?

After moving locally from Romford in 2020, the pandemic hit and Kim like everyone else was stuck indoors but having only just moved here, she felt a little isolated and this gave her the time and motivation to consider starting a group that would help her meet new people and to share her skills and knowledge in an area where there seemed to be a gap when it came to netball. So once the world started opening up,

she saw an opportunity to throw herself into community life and advertised for anyone interested in joining a new netball group in the Harleston area.

The group has been going since April but really needs more people to take part, there's no huge outlay in costs as it's £5 on a payas-you-play basis, which is only payable after you've attended a couple of times to see if you like it.

So if you're looking to meet more people locally, why not give it a go? Many of the group had not played netball for 25+ years and it really is a very friendly group so there really is no need to worry!

For more information and to find out the exact start date and venue for when the group returns after the summer, please contact Kim via email: netballatmandw@gmail.com

Hundreds visit Pokémon Market

On August 23rd, hundreds visited Beccles Pokémon Trading Market which was held at Beccles Public Hall. The event was hosted by Reece Tackley (Beccles Pokémon Founder) and Richard Melchior (Manager of Beccles Public Hall).

Pokémon filled the Public Hall to deliver fans young and old an afternoon packed with Pokémon fun! With 14 various stallholders selling themed items, there was everything from trading cards and graded cards, to unique handmade products designed by fans! The stalls were bombarded with enthusiastic fans who crowded round stalls to purchase their goods.

There was excitement to be had by all fans!

Visitors of the market were welcomed into the event by Pikachu himself! With opportunities to take photos with him. A raffle was held for the chance to win the latest Pokémon elite trainer box.

Blyth Road Industrial Estate, Halesworth, IP19 8EN

Manufacturers & Suppliers of Agricultural, Domestic and Industrial Fencing products to both the trade and public covering Norfolk & Suffolk

Tickets are now available for purchase from the Beccles Public Hall website and Box office.

Metfield Stores looking for a bookkeeper

An opportunity has arisen to provide bookkeeping services for Metfield Stores cic, a small, community-run convenience store in the heart of Metfield.

Bookkeeping services will include:

Beccles Pokémon allocated a designated space for people to sit down and play a few games of the Pokémon trading card game or for those who are new, to learn how to play the game. Hundreds of collectors sat down and traded all types of cards, new and old.

Reece Tackley (Organiser) wrote: "I am thrilled with the turnout of the event. I'd like to thank everyone for supporting this event. This is something which I've wanted to do for a very long time, and it's great to see that this is an event that the local community also really enjoy. This event has brought Pokémon fans from local and afar and it's great to see an event that brings so many fans together! I look forward to meeting everyone at the next Beccles Pokémon Market!"

Handmade Fence Panels (metric & imperial sizing) Trellis

Beccles Pokémon is happy to announce that the next Trading Market will be held on March 31st, 2024.

Palisade Fencing Drive & Field Gates Galvanised Hardware

• Processing payment, invoices, income and receipts.

• Preparing monthly financial statements and reports showing income and expenditure.

• Preparing employee wages (one employee)

• Liaising with the Shop Manager

and Board on a monthly basis and with our accountant to assist in preparing annual accounts. You will provide services on a self-employed basis. It is expected that the time commitment could be up to eight hours per month. Experience of Xero software would be helpful. If you are interested, please email your details to: metfieldstores@gmail.com. Expressions of interest by the end of October would be appreciated.

Blyth Road Industrial Estate, Halesworth, IP19 8EN

Manufacturers & Suppliers of Agricultural, Domestic and Industrial Fencing products to both the trade and public covering Norfolk & Suffolk

Homegrown Pressure Treated Posts and Gate Posts

Closeboard Fencing Components: Feather Edge, Cant Rails, Gravel Boards and Rebated Capping

Handtools Post & Rail Cladding Livestock Fencing

C24 Grade Timber Sleepers & Decking Wire Netting

Handmade Fence Panels (metric & imperial sizing) Trellis

Palisade Fencing Drive & Field Gates Galvanised Hardware

Sheet Material: OSB & Plywood Machine Round Stakes

NEW SHOP OPEN NOW

Concrete Products: Slotted Posts & Gravel Boards

Homegrown Pressure Treated Posts and Gate Posts

Closeboard

01986 892810

Hardware

info@goldstarfencingandgates.co.uk | www.goldstarfencingandgates.co.uk

Homegrown Pressure Treated Posts and Gate Posts

Closeboard Fencing Components: Feather Edge, Cant Rails, Gravel Boards and Rebated Capping

Handtools Post & Rail Cladding Livestock Fencing

C24 Grade Timber Sleepers & Decking Wire Netting

Sheet Material: OSB & Plywood Machine Round Stakes

01986 892810

info@goldstarfencingandgates.co.uk | www.goldstarfencingandgates.co.uk

Concrete Products: Slotted Posts & Gravel Boards

Spindler

Beccles comes alive with carnival spirit!

This year's Beccles Carnival took place on August 19th and 20th. After a break from Covid, Beccles Carnival had been missing from the calendar for three years. It's held annually on the third weekend of August, so keep this date free for future years! Next years carnival will be on August 17th and 18th, 2024.

Procession participants did not disappoint with a high standard of entrants of group, business, pub, club or organisation. From Barbie to Doctor Who... Steam Punk to the delights of the Samba Band, even a DJ on a lorry entertaining the crowds.

Annette Tackley (Senior Event Coordinator and Chairperson of Beccles Carnival) said: "Lots of towns have lost their carnivals, but we have been lucky. With our tremendous public support and our great team of volunteer organisers, our Carnival has continued to grow. Unfortunately, our parade bucket collections were down considerably this year, but there is still time to support your carnival by donating to the QR code."

This year, we added a new twist to the Saturday with a range of street food, which proved very popular along with the Dog Show

Celebrating St. Michael's Church

and displays.

The 'Quay Rocks' in the evening (with live vocalists and bands) got the Quay rocking along with our 'Battle of the Bands' final, which saw the band 'Escaping the Silence' being given the title as winners.

Max the robot went down well along with selfies and an appearance of Barbie in her box.

Annette Tackley said: "I would personally like to thank the carnival team and all of the volunteers for all their hard work, because without them, the event wouldn't take place."

Sunday saw the biggest crowd we have seen. The Quayside arena events proved very popular, with a performance from Framtastic Gymnasts, Jack Ollett, the Samba Band and various other displays. We look forward to seeing you all again next year on August 17th and 18th.

Denise Feek (Parade Manager) said: "Thank you to our amazing entrants in the parade and make sure to keep an eye on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for details of when to enter next years parade. If you have any videos or pictures of this year's event, please share them to our social media pages."

The church of St. Michael the Archangel, Beccles, will be hosting a very special evening on October 14th at 7pm to celebrate all that has been achieved in the last five years to conserve the building and improve facilities. It will also be an opportunity to thank the organisations and individuals who have contributed to the work.

Following specialist conservation of the exterior of the magnificent South Porch, the inside of the porch has now received similar treatment. The Priest's Door and rare exterior pulpit above it have also been conserved.

Inside the building, a large open space at the rear of the nave has been created and a servery and accessible toilets have been installed. The dais has been extended across the front of the nave and ramps incorporated. A new lectern has been made to commemorate the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

At the event, local historian Dr. Barry Darch will talk titled '1,000 years of St. Michael's'. Tickets are £15 and include a glass of wine (or soft drink) and nibbles on arrival, cheese board and tea/ coffee. Tickets are available from Beccles Books or John and Sue Bailey on 07774 749201.

ST MARY’S STREET DENTAL PRACTICE

F M Evans B.D.S.,

South Porch

198174

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August and Summer 2023 weather summary: Warmer trends return, rainfall breaks dry streak, and a record-setting September heatwave!

This summary is compiled from the records of Stephen Bartholomew of Beccles. August 2023

• Maximum temp: 26.8C (80F) on the 10th compared with 31.2C (88F) in August 2022.

• Minimum temp: 8.3C (46F) on the 30th compared with 10.0C (50F) in August 2022.

• Average maximum temp: 22.49C (72F) in 2023. 25.44C (77F) in 2022. 22.64C (72F) on average.

• Average minimum temp: 13.29C (55F) in 2023. 14.80C (58F) in 2022. 12.75C (54F) on average.

• Mean temp: 17.89C (64F) in 2022. 20.12C (68F) in 2022.

17.70C (63F) on average.

• Rainfall total: 2.50" compared with 0.06" in August 2022. (30year average 2.37"). 2023 total is 105% of the average.

• Most rainfall on one day: 0.75" on the 18th.

• Wind direction, mainly from: South-west 11 days, north-west 9 days, west 4 days and south 3 days.

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- Eating & drinking aids

- Help to get you out & about

01986 873803

shop@rehability.co.uk • www.rehability.co.uk

For mobility aids for daily living, visit our shop: 7 Bridge Street, Halesworth, IP19 8AB (Opposite the Library)

Independent Living Centre & Showhome at: Bridge Farm, Chediston, IP19 0AE (2 miles west of Halesworth)

An indication of recent warm Augusts was that this month was more like a summer month we have been used to in the past. We experienced mean temperature, although "average" the lowest for the month since 2017 (except 2021). Despite an absence of extremes this summer, the mid-month section from the 9th to 24th, (17th and 18th excepted) was pleasant with daytime maximum temperatures in the range of 24 to 26 degrees Celsius. There were 7 days of 25C or more, up to a maximum of 26.8C on the 10th (compared to last August's 16 days of 25C+). This period was subject to transient ridges of high pressure which temporarily at least deflected the rain bearing fronts from the Atlantic away from East Anglia. A change to the pattern we had been so used to in the weeks from the end of June, through the wet July and damp first 5 days of August. Unfortunately this "pleasant" period was sandwiched between

a cool and sometimes damp start and end to August. A particularly chilly day (15.3C on the 5th) was not only 3 Celsius cooler than any other day during this month, but also the coolest maximum for the month since 14.7C was noted on 27/08/1987. Less dramatic was the minimum of 8.3C (overnight 30th/31st, the night was crystal clear and allowed impressive views of the "Super Moon"). This was one of only two nights to fall below 10C during the month and only the coolest August night since 31/08/2020.

The 2.50" rainfall total halted a run of 4 consecutive drier-thanaverage Augusts, which included 0.06" in 2022, the second driest month on my entire record. The 16 rainy days were also the most for the month since 2014.

For the second month running, the main influence on our weather came from the Atlantic, the position of the Jet Stream provided a heavy dominance of westerly type winds. The bulk of the month's rain were noted during the first 5 days (0.95"), the last 3 days a further 0.52", while the wettest day (0.75" on the 18th) was the result of an ex-tropical storm Betty. This noted during the otherwise relatively dry mid month period described above.

The wetter nature of the last 2 months in particular has increased the accumulated rainfall total since the start of 2023 to 19 inches, well over twice the 8.39 inches recorded at the same stage last year.

Summer 2023 (June, July, August)

• Average maximum temp: 22.3C (0.6C above 1981-2010 average).

• Average minimum temp: 13.1C (1.2C above 1981-2010

average).

• Mean temp: 17.7C (0.9C above 1981-2010 average).

• Rainfall total: 8.32" (131% of 1981-2010 average). This time last year, I reported the warmest summer on my entire record. This summer, mean temperature a full degree Celsius cooler, has been closer to long term expectations.

The most notable observation is the lack of "hot days". Maximum temperatures for the whole summer were 28.4C on June 11th and 28.3C on June 25th, only lowest such achievement for a month since 2021. The maximum for July was 27.3C, lowest for month since 2011. Maximum for August 26.8C was again lowest for month since 2021.

Thanks mainly to 4.95 inches recorded during July, this was the wettest summer since 2015.

The September Heatwave:

The maximum temperature of 31.3C on Saturday 9th and 30.5C on Sunday 10th have been the two warmest days of this year... So far.

Additionally, they have also been the two warmest September days on my entire record and only the second and third to exceed 30C on a September day, 30.1C on 05/09/2013 being the other.

There has now been a run of 7 consecutive days commencing on September 4th that exceeded 25C. This is unprecedented in September during my time of recording. I did find a run of 4 consecutive 25C+ days, which was the 11th to the 14th of September, 2006.

As at September 10th this year, the average maximum temperature for the month is running at nearly 7C above the long-term average.

Paul Brown - Principal Dentist BDS (Guys Hospital, University of London 1990 LDS RCS Eng) Adv. Cert. Implantology (Camb.)

Cheryl Brown - Dental Hygienist E.D.H (Eastmans, London, 1998)

Basam Al Khateeb BDS 2011, Baghdad

Rishi Patel BDS BSc (Hons) LDS, RCS

Izak Hoffman BDS 2021, Madrid

Rachel Barnes - Dental Hygienist

James Neal - Dental Hygienist

IP15 5AN

Children

www.aldeburghdentist.co.uk

Temperatures of 31.3C on Saturday 9th September and 30.5C on Sunday 10th September have made them the two warmest days of this year so far.

Wayne

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Had it not been for the heatwave we had in the first week of September, many of us would still be waiting for summer to arrive. However, we find ourselves in mid-September and as we move through autumn, we start to think about Christmas and all that comes with it.

One of the best things about this time of year has to be the opportunity to get together with family, friends, neighbours and colleagues and enjoy some good food (and a glass or two of your favourite tipple).

Throughout December, local pubs, restaurants, cafes and hotels will be running festive menus, special dishes and themed nights, giving us all an excuse to

get your group together and have a night out.

We are fortunate to have lots of great establishments in our area so you will not be short of places to go where you can enjoy great food and drink and proper hospitality. So, have a look at the businesses on these pages over the next couple of months and book early to ensure you get the date and time you want. This is especially important for larger groups. So, start having those conversation with your friends and family and whether you are booking your favourite pub or fancy trying a new restaurant.

It's never too early to start planning your season for festive celebrations!

Rumburgh Buck

Mill Road, Rumburgh, Halesworth IP19 0NT

Pre-booked 2-Course Christmas Lunch Special including mince pie & coffee £19.50

Served Tuesday, Thursday & Friday lunchtimes during December.

Christmas Party full menu also available throughout December. Please phone to book:

01986 785257 rumburghbuck.co.uk

Festive Food Menu

Curried parsnip soup, croutons, herb oil

- December 1st to 24th

- Bookings only

- Pre-orders required

- 2 courses £28.50 pp

- 3 courses £30 pp

Ham hock and parsley terrine, apple & sultana chutney, dressed leaves, crostini

Smoked salmon, celeriac remoulade, capers, watercress, lemon

Grilled goats cheese, beetroot, walnut & rocket salad, balsamic dressing

Traditional roast turkey, pigs in blankets, stu�fing, roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, gravy

Braised beef shoulder steak, horseradish mash, kale, pancetta, baby onions, mushrooms, red wine syrup

Pan-fried halibut, Parmesan potato gratin, roast cauli�lower, caper & raisin puree, parsley & pine nut pesto

Roasted Jerusalem artichoke and pearl barley risotto, wild mushrooms, crispy greens, roasted garlic aioli

Christmas pudding, vanilla custard, brandy ice-cream

Iced white chocolate parfait, poached satsuma, oat granola, chocolate syrup

Apple & pear frangipane tart, toasted almond cream, caramel syrup

Selection of British cheeses, crackers, grapes, chutney, membrillo

New Years Eve Quiz

Saturday 31st December - £21.50 pp

Join your hosts Jenny & Wayne for our fun quiz of the year! Enjoy a delicious anti-pasto platter (selection of cold, cured meats, char-grilled, marinaded vegetables, stu�fed peppers, pickles, bread) Bonus team games, half-time competitions and reverse ra��le.

The

01502 723603

reception@therandolph.co.uk • www.therandolph.co.uk

To advertise on our Festive Dining pages in next month’s edition of the Community News, please contact one of the team to reserve your space.

The November papers will be published October 20th with the deadline being October 11th, so there's plenty of time to get your festive menu sorted and shared with our readers.

As well as being read by thousands of local people through our printed, delivered copies, our newspapers will also be available to view digitally and will be posted on our social media channels.

To find out more and reserve your space please contact:

• Karen Taylor on 01502 725836 or karen.taylor@micropress.co.uk

• Kasey Turner on 01502 725801 or kasey.turner@micropress.co.uk

Christmas Festive Dining& Meals Christmas Festive Dining& Meals

Halesworth Museum

Mystery ring... Can you help?

A mysterious gold ring has just gone on display at Halesworth & District Museum. It was found by metal detectorists in Linstead Magna. It is certainly gold, and it dates from the late Medieval or postMedieval period. It is relatively large for a finger ring, at almost 2.5cm across, and it is a little distorted, where two sides have been pushed together.

That, however, is where the certainty ends... Who owned this ring? How did it end up in the soil at Linstead Magna? And, most mysteriously of all, what is the meaning of the extensive inscriptions on both the outside and the inside of the ring? The text has been described as crude, and possibly an imitation of capitalised Roman script. No one (including the specialists at the British Museum) has any idea of what it says.

Curator Brian Howard explains why the ring is an

important acquisition for the Museum: "It's the first time we have had a treasure from the parish of Chediston and Linstead. And we are very excited about the mysterious inscriptions. If anyone has any ideas about the script or what it might mean, please get in touch."

The Museum has purchased the ring, at a cost of £400, but now needs to recoup that outlay. If you would like to help to support the acquisition of this intriguing ring, please donate to our Treasures Fund. You can send a cheque to the Museum (payable to Halesworth & District Museum, The Railway Station, Station Road, Halesworth, IP19 8BZ). Alternatively, you can make a

The last of the season at St. Peter's Church, Sibton

'Del & Jeremy & Stephen' are a popular fifties and sixties tribute band. October 14th sees the last of this seasons social events... An evening of vintage favourites from 7pm to 10pm at St. Peter's Church, Sibton, IP17 2NB.

Four views of the gold ring

bank transfer (Barclays Bank: Account name: Halesworth & District Museum, Sort Code: 20-16-12, Account number: 13489582). Use the reference 'LM Ring', so we know what the donation is for.

If we exceed the target, excess funds will be used for future treasure purchases, including at least one item from the same local area.

The Weavers Tea Room and Peasenhall General Store priced at £10, also online at Eventbrite.uk. Food will be by Cheryl's Suffolk Catering, also a licensed bar selling beers, soft drinks and wine, both for cash only. The evening is organized by the Friends of St. Peter's Church, Sibton.

Tickets are on sale from

National RAF Battle of Britain week

On September 16th, the Royal Air Force Association (RAFA), Beccles and Southwold area (Armed Forces charity) invites members of the public to visit the Wings Appeal stall outside Lloyds Bank in Exchange Square, Beccles from 9:30am to 4pm, where the local branch of RAFA will be offering RAFrelated gifts in exchange for a suitable donation. There will be free gifts for children under 10 years of age. Proceeds from our collection go to assisting RAF

Ensors Accountants LLP

veterans and their families who may be in need at this difficult time.

On September 17th at 2pm, the RAFA Beccles branch (joined by many service veterans with their standards, cadet forces and The RBL, all led by The City of Norwich Pipe Band) will be parading through Beccles to St. Michael's Church, for a remembrance service for those lost in the Battle of Britain in 1940. The salute this year will be taken by Air Vice-Marshal

Financial focus on...

VAT flat rate scheme

The flat rate scheme was introduced by HMRC as a method of simplification for small businesses and is often overlooked.

The underlying principles are to simply apply a fixed percentage to your total gross sales for the period and that becomes the amount payable to HMRC. The alternative standard approach requires businesses to identify the VAT amounts payable on each item of income during the quarter, along with the VAT on each item of expenditure, the difference between the sales VAT and purchase VAT being payable to HMRC. Where VAT is charged by your suppliers, it could be at the standard 20% or reduced 5%, and you don't have an automatic right to reclaim this.

In certain situations VAT recovery can be blocked or restricted. Use of the flat rate scheme removes this uncertainty.

Who can use the scheme?

The first consideration is HMRC's criteria; the scheme is aimed at small businesses, so your expected turnover in the

Concert by Saxophony to support new local nature reserve

'Martlesham Wilds' is the name of the latest exciting project being developed by Suffolk Wildlife Trust to support our natural environment. It will be a new nature reserve, nearly 300 acres of land alongside Martlesham Creek, which we hope will become a rich and diverse haven for all sorts of flora and fauna - songbirds and waders, otters and voles, butterflies and moths, wildflowers and much more.

Saxophony (a saxophone quartet of experienced local musicians) together with Suffolk Wildlife's volunteers, are putting on a free concert on October 8th

at 2:30pm at St. Mary's Church, Church Lane, Martlesham, IP12 4PQ.

The programme will include a rich variety of music from Mozart to the Beatles, Queen and Abba! The church is right next to the new reserve. Limited parking is available. However, we encourage walkers and cyclists. Donations will support Martlesham Wilds and St. Mary's Church.

Come along, enjoy a vibrant programme full of gusto and rhythm and discover more about this great new venture. We're sure you'll love it! For more information: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org

Vacuums ancient and modern

Tales from the Repair Shed #4 Real life, not TV!

We are often confused with the Repair Shop on TV, which is flattering, but not always the case! Because we:

• Deal in everyday items, rather than heirlooms. For those heirlooms, we try to point people in the direction of local experts.

• Don't expect people to cry when they get their toaster/radio/ vacuum cleaner back.

• Can't afford to have that many spectacles on our heads! But like the TV show, we do rely on the enthusiasm and experience of our repairers. So if you enjoy unusual challenges, we'd be delighted if you could join us. We hold regular repair sessions throughout the week (days and evenings) so that repairers can drop in at a time to suit them. Sessions are relaxed,

sociable and fun, particularly when the biscuits come out! More than that, the work we do helps prevent stuff being thrown away, so saving people money and a bit of the planet. As well as repair work, there are lots of ways you could get involved at times which suit you. For example, helping with bookkeeping or with the Martlesham Repair Hub. So please get in touch or come and visit. For more information, visit: www.suffolkrepairshed.org, email: hello@suffolkrepairshed. org or you can find us on Facebook and Instagram.

Suffolk Repair Shed Ltd is a non-profit company established in June 2022. It started operations in October 2022 and is staffed entirely by local volunteers.

Inner Wheel Club of Woodbridge

Little Lifts supporting the lows of having breast cancer

the Hon. David Murray CVO OBE DL RAF (rtd)., who will also give The Eulogy and The Salutation "For The Fallen" at our service which commences at 3pm. All are welcome to witness the parade and attend the Church Service. There is no entry fee to the Church however, donations in any amount welcome. Thank you.

Further details can be obtained by emailing RAFA Branch Secretary on: lancaster457@btinternet.com.

An audience with Mark Murphy MBE

next 12 months must be below £150,000 to join the scheme.

After joining you can continue until your gross annual turnover exceeds £230,000. There are some exclusions including if you left the scheme in the last 12 months.

As the VAT payable under the scheme is calculated as a percentage of turnover, if your business is regularly in a refund position (for example some or all of your income doesn't attract VAT), the flat rate scheme would not be the right choice.

What percentage would apply?

If your business is classed as a Limited Cost Trader, a rate of 16.5% will apply. A limited cost trader is a business that spends less than either 2% of turnover or £1,000 a year on qualifying goods. Goods are moveable items or materials used exclusively in the business, including goods for resale (except where this isn't the main business activity), stationary, materials provided by a subcontractor, and gas and electricity used exclusively by the business.

For all other businesses, HMRC publish a list of rates determined by business type, for example 6.5% for pubs, 11% for agricultural services, 9% for packaging, and 9% for food manufacturing.

If you use the flat rate scheme within the first 12 months of VAT registration, you get a 1% discount on the published rates.

Finally, its important to remember that the flat rate percentage should be applied to your total VAT inclusive income for the period.

By Liz Lockwood (pictured), Manager, Ensors Accountants LLP

BBC Radio Suffolk legend, Mark Murphy MBE, is helping to raise funds for a local community radio station in October, when he makes a rare appearance, telling the fascinating story of his incredible career.

The event is being held at Sizewell Sports and Social Club in Leiston, on October 27th at 7:30pm.

Mark, who left BBC Radio Suffolk in April, due to the cuts that will seriously effect BBC local broadcasting, did so after 33 years of successful and award winning broadcasting.

During his time at the station, he has presented the Breakfast Show for a total of 17 years, won Sony Radio awards, fronted several highly-successful campaigns and in 2021, was awarded a well deserved MBE.

He was involved in several campaigns, with his Don't be a Tosser campaign helping to raise the profile of the state of litter on the roads and the Treehouse Appeal, that led to the development of the Ipswich Children's Hospice, has always been his highlight.

Mark's tell-all evening will cover his Hospital Radio days and big break in joining Radio Suffolk in 1990, to winning awards, reporting on powerful local news stories, campaigning, and saying farewell to those 4am alarm calls! The talk will be followed by an opportunity for the audience to ask Mark questions.

In addition, the evening will also include a special appearance by hilarious Revd. Paul Pitt, who appeared on Mark's show every Sunday morning, for a humorous conversation about the week's events.

The event has been organised to raise funds towards Alde and Blyth Community Radio's new studios. The community station was launched in April 2021 as a weekend only service initially and is planning to extend into weekday evenings soon and eventually becoming a full seven-day service. For more information about the station and its programming schedule, please visit: www.abcradio.co.uk

Tickets for Mark's talk, priced at £10, are limited and available from the Sizewell Sports and Social Club on 01728 830025.

If someone you love should be unfortunate enough to be diagnosed with breast cancer, what a comfort to know that there could be a Little Lift on the way.

Right now, if you live in Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex or parts of Cambridgeshire, that lift will come in the form of a carefully hand-packed box of luxurious, quality and ethically-sourced products which have all been selected for a particular role in helping to make the effects of treatment a little more bearable both physically and emotionally.

Our September speaker, Oa Hackett, founder of Little Lifts, shared how her personal circumstances and experiences were the inspiration behind this amazing charity and how, in her words, something so devastating could be turned into something so incredible.

Along with Oa, Shopie Houghton-Hood (the charity's Volunteer Events & Community Manager) explained that different boxes are given depending on the treatment required and reminded us that each year, approximately 350 men are also diagnosed with breast cancer.

In thanking Oa for her inspirational talk, President Sharon expressed appreciation for the honest and humbling story of how Little Lifts came to be and was pleased that Woodbridge

Inner Wheel had supported this as her chosen charity for the 2023/2024 year.

International Officer, Daphne Rayment, advised that, as a club we would continue to collect many items such as ring pulls from drinks cans which are transported to Manila to be turned into jewellery, providing support for many along the way, old mobile phones, jigsaws, etc, and was pleased the Knit & Katter group would meet on Mondays to produce knitted blankets, hats and neck warmers for the seaman's mission. Members are also pleased to provide help to the Book Bus in Zambia, a charity that provides access to children who otherwise would never enjoy a story book.

President Sharon congratulated and made a presentation to longstanding member Mary Walker who has been a committed and active member of Inner Wheel for a remarkable 50 years.

Inner Wheel has three key objectives: to promote true friendship; to encourage the ideals of personal service and to foster international understanding. Any woman who shares the three central aims of Inner Wheel can join the organisation.

If you'd like to know more about Woodbridge Inner Wheel, please do look for us at District 8 on the website: www.innerwheel.co.uk

Over 30 years experience in the service, maintenance and repair of OIL FIRED DOMESTIC boilers. With an extensively stocked van and a comprehensive selection of spares, so most breakdown calls can be completed on the first visit. call

Leiston Film Theatre

The mysterious inscriptions

Creating ramps and tracks

Update from Ringsfield, Brampton and Bramfield Schools

All the new reception children at our association of primary schools have been busy settling into their new classrooms, getting to know their teachers and their new classmates and exploring all the different areas for learning.

All three of our settings at Bramfield, Brampton and Ringsfield have lovely big outdoor environments attached to our indoor areas which the children have free access to throughout the day.

At Bramfield, the children have been exploring the possibilities of the big construction resources, using planks and stands to make tracks and ramps for vehicles. This sort of play helps build communication and language skills as the children plan and negotiate, sharing ideas and problem solving together.

At Ringsfield, the children have been exploring our mud kitchen to create all sorts of wonderful recipes. This play allows them to apply their own real life experiences and use their imagination. They are also communicating with their peers to develop their ideas together.

At Brampton, the children have shown a keen interest in our

creation station area. They have been using scissors and glue to cut and stick materials onto their work and they have been enhancing their ideas through discussion with their peers and the adults in

the class. Using scissors also helps to develop their fine motor skills ready for drawing and writing. We are looking forward to another wonderful year of learning together.

An invitation to our OPEN EVENING

Thursday 28th September

5:45pm - 7:15pm & 7pm - 8:30pm

presentations at 5:45pm & 7pm

A visit to our exciting school is a brilliant way to make an informed and important decision about your child’s future. Join us on September 28th for tours across the site, including interactive activities and experiences and the opportunity to speak to staff and students about life at Bungay High School as well as meeting the Headteacher, Chanel Oswick.

To visit during the day on one of our School Day Tours below, please email Rachel Blake: rblake@bungayhigh.co.uk or call 01986 891642 / 01986 892140 to arrange. Although these will be limited, we will endeavour to do our best to make alternative arrangements for you.

School Day Tours (All dates are 9:15am - 10am)

• Tue 19th Sept

• Fri 22nd Sept

• Mon 25th Sept

• Wed 27th Sept

• Mon 2nd Oct

• Fri 6th Oct

• Wed 11th Oct

Our focus is to deliver highly engaging lessons and provide students with the care and guidance that allows them to succeed. Our students tell us they value the way lessons are delivered and the strong relationships that exist in school between students and staff. This is only possible because of our small size and our belief and confidence in every student as an individual.

Open morning drop in sessions week commencing 9th October 8:30am-11:00am.

OPEN

DAYS

Primary 18th October & 5th December 2023

Secondary 25th & 26th September 2023

OPEN EVENING

Secondary 21st September 2023 at 6pm

The Harleston Sancroft Academy is a community that flourishes through God’s love. To live life in all its fullness.

(John 10:10 and John 13:34)

We are a foundation of hope. A family of love. A school of nurture, guided by faith. Promoting a unique, personalised journey towards excellence.

198055

01379 852561

www.sancroft.stbenets.org

The creation station

The mud kitchen

BEAT

THE WINTER BLUES FROM NOVEMBER TO EASTER!

(EXCLUDES SCHOOL HOLIDAYS)

2 COURSES FOR £12 PER PERSON MONDAY TO FRIDAY 12PM-3PM

STARTERS*

- CHEF’S SOUP OF THE MOMENT

- GOATS CHEESE & RED ONION MARMALADE, CROSTINI WITH TOSSED GARDEN SALAD & BALSAMIC DRESSING

- CRISPY SMOKED HADDOCK FISHCAKE WITH TARTARE SAUCE & LEMON

MAINS*

- MOROCCAN LAMB CASSEROLE WITH PERSIAN COUSCOUS

- THAI BEEF, ALMOND & COCONUT MASSAMAN CURRY WITH STEAMED RICE

- CRISPY CHICKEN ESCALOPE WITH PASTA POMODORO, BASIL, MOZZARELLA & ROCKET

- PEA & GOATS CHEESE RISOTTO WITH BABY SPINACH & PARMESAN

- COD & SMOKED SALMON FISHCAKE WITH CREAMY SWEETCORN & FREE RANGE EGG

DESSERTS*

- BANOFFEE SUNDAE - ROCKY ROAD SUNDAE

Black Shuck Festival enchants Bungay with music, art, and legend

A festival inspired by the legend of Black Shuck has been hailed a triumph!

The Black Shuck Festival saw the community of Bungay collaborating to celebrate the folklore of the ghostly black dog that haunts East Anglia. Creative people from across the country united to reinterpret the legend through music, performance, storytelling, exhibition and puppetry.

The market town of Bungay holds claim to Black Shuck more than any other location. Legend has it that on August 4th, 1577, a wild black dog burst through the doors of St. Mary's Church in the town killing two praying parishioners during a terrible storm.

Across the festival weekend, visitors were immersed in the rich folklore of the region which has inspired artists for generations.

Illustrator and writer James Mayhew (who's on the Black Shuck Festival Committee) said: "This extraordinary festival proved to be bigger than any individual, it was a triumph of community and collaboration. We're lucky indeed to have such a rich tradition of folklore in this

region, and such a huge range of creative talents to reinterpret them. From the incredible giant puppets, to exhibitions, music, performance and storytelling, the town was bristling with magic."

The festival kicked off with a workshop at St. Mary's Church (organised by the Churches Conservation Trust) which saw more than 50 children busily creating artwork of the Black Dog and the church's stained glass windows, whilst listening to family-friendly stories.

The Bungay Black Dog Running Club ran from Blythburgh to Bungay, retracing Black Shuck's infamous 1577 journey, carrying an effigy of the beast, before receiving a handmade commemorative medal.

That evening, Black Shuck himself was interviewed as part of the sold-out Cabaret at the town's Fisher Theatre. Lounging comfortably on his sofa, he was most surprised when the interviewer brought on surprise guests, his victims from the killings in the church.

Despite the weekend's inclement weather, events were sold out and packed out.

The next day, Virtuoso William Fergusson gave a concert in St. Mary's Church, before organisers impressively relocated the festival's parade and carnival to the Fisher Theatre as the storm moved in. The Green Children and The Festival Queen paraded, the Samba band played, James Mayhew told and illustrated the Black Dog story and the audience put their demon cards onto the funeral pyre to banish their own personal demons for another year.

Fire sprites danced while the effigy of Black Shuck was also ritually and symbolically burned.

Toto Martinez (Parade Director) built the processional giant sculptures of the children of green Woolpit and Black Shuck as well as the Festival Queen and fire sprites costumes.

Polly Wright (one of the Festival organisers) said:

"Thanks to the incredible Fisher team and all the artists, helpers and community, Saturday afternoon became the most brilliant thing in the face of adverse and stressful conditions."

People queued in the rain around the block to get into the theatre, entertained by Tudor musicians, Ghostbusters and

giant bats and all were in high spirits.

Darren France (Fisher Theatre) said: "On behalf of everyone at the Fisher Theatre, it was a pleasure to support the festival community in sharing such wonderful creativity with the hundreds of people who came to Bungay for this very special event."

Jay Rubicon from Kettering (who had come to Bungay especially for the festival) said: "Coming to a place so full of creatives, writers, artists and musicians, it made me feel like I was coming to a place like home. We've been welcomed and made to feel like family. The greatest thing is that this story has been able to bring people like us here, to experience this."

There were two evening events on the Saturday, 'the Straunge & Terrible Wunder' at St. Mary's Church was followed by the Black Dog Disco in the cellar of the Three Tuns (one of the most haunted pubs in East Anglia).

At St. Mary's, the audience were treated to a varied programme, starting with a poem written and performed by 11-year-old Juniper Timberlake accompanied by a 13-foot-tall Black Shuck parading through the aisles. Audiences were delighted by music from Martin Newell and his Hosepipe Band, the ever-popular Willpower and The Feathered Thorns. Black Shuck made an appearance and proceeded to clamber over the

pews, trying his best to distract from the telling of his story by the Reverend Abraham Fleming, performed by surprise guest, stand-up comedian Stewart Lee.

On Sunday, Fisher Theatre hosted sold-out performances of Pinocchio from the Norwich Puppet Theatre and Little Shuck and His Friends, written by Victoria Panton-Bacon, with music from William Drew-Batty.

The final event (and another sell-out) was upstairs at the Three Tuns where Helen Bruce gave a talk on the folklore surrounding Black Dog myths and legends and Christopher Reeve told of Bungay's notorious characters from the past, and the ghosts who to this day haunt the pub.

Throughout the Festival, organisers ran a pop-up shop in the Market Place and two art exhibitions, one in the Bell Gallery in Earsham Street and one at the Three Tuns.

Across the weekend, the town benefitted from the huge number of visitors who came to Bungay for the festival. For more information, visit: www.blackshuckfestival.com

"The hard work of the festival volunteers brought huge benefits to the town in terms of trade. The town was full of visitors and, despite the atrocious weather, we ourselves had three phenomenal days of trading. Initiatives such as these really highlight what can be achieved by talented, artistic and hardworking volunteers!"

- Emma Beese, No. 11 Interiors

Image credit: James Mayhew Image credit: Adam Newport

Please

Beccles Choral Society

Not to be missed!

Harleston & District U3A

Harleston & District U3A's next monthly talk will be on October 18th at 2pm in St. John's Church, Harleston, IP20 9AZ.

The talk will be given by Baroness Elaine Murphy, who was made a life peer in June 2004, with a specific interest in mental health and ageing issues, she sits as a Crossbencher.

Her talk will focus on 'Wingfield: Suffolk's Forgotten Castle' (pictured above) and the

lives of those who have lived there and who were important in shaping England, including the Wingfields and the de la Poles.

Further information about this and all Harleston & District U3A's activities can be found on: www. u3asites.org.uk/harleston or by contacting Kim Poulton on 01986 788149.

You may also like to take a look at Harleston Choral Society's website (www. harlestonchoralsoc.org.uk) to see what the choir is doing in preparation for its Christmas concert on December 9th.

On November 19th, Beccles Choral Society will be presenting a performance of Handel's Messiah in the church of St. Michael the Archangel, Beccles at 7pm. One of the most popular of all choral works, Messiah tells the story of Jesus from birth to resurrection and is full

of wonderful, familiar choral and solo sections. With the 80 strong Choral Society and four exceptional soloists, accompanied by the Kingfisher Sinfonietta and led by conductor Geoff Lavery, this is an evening not to be missed. Tickets will be available from bebroadhead@yahoo.co.uk, Beccles Bookshop or any member of the society.

Harleston Choral Society

Harleston Choral Society (your friendly, non-auditioning community choir) began singing again on September 4th after our summer break and our very successful two-day August workshop.

It's never too late to join us, so do come along to the London

Road Church in Harleston (IP20 9BH), where we meet for practices on a Monday evening from 7:30pm-9:30pm. Parking is available in The Original Factory Shop car park opposite. We're currently rehearsing for our Christmas Concert in St. John's Church, Harleston, on December 9th, when we'll be singing Vivaldi Gloria, Christmas music and carols including pieces by Saint Saens, Holst, Whitacre, Rutter, Berlioz and Drake. Further information about this and all our activities is on our website: www.harlestonchoralsoc.org.uk

You might also like to take a look at Harleston & District u3a's website (www.u3asites.org.uk/ harleston) for information about their next talk, October 18th, about Wingfield Castle.

send any editorial from your local groups, clubs and events for the paper to edit@micropress.co.uk