Hygienist: £60 for 30 minutes (Denplan - included)
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Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)
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Call Us: 01728 561873
Call Us: 01728 561873
Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm
Opening
The practice will be closed for lunch between 1pm and 2pm
Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm The
Photographic journey to the Formula One pit lane at Bungay Camera Club
Bungay Camera Club's opening meeting 2025 started at full throttle with an inspirational presentation by club member Ian Bundey. Ian began his photographic journey recently and showed us just what can be achieved in a very short time with the right approach and grit determination. Moving from snapping pictures on his phone to becoming an accredited Formula 1 (F1) Photographer, he's got to grips with the most sophisticate equipment available
in just three short years. Ian has always been a motor sport fan and through his work in IT he got involved with a 'Formula Ford' motor racing team, helping them expand their public presence. Without hesitation, he took on the challenge of documenting what they do. Realising his phone would not be adequate he bought a "proper camera" and steadily upped his game, taking on more teams wanting publicity. At this point, he needed to learn
how to use his equipment and searched out further guidance, part of which was joining Bungay Camera Club. In 2024 his big opportunity came along, of becoming an accredited F1 Photographer at the Austrian Grand prix. Getting accreditation as a press photographer provides exclusive access to the trackside and pits, and very few are ever offered this privilege. The risk was high as the accreditation would not be confirmed until a week before the race. Flights and
hotels had to be in place - not so easy when the attraction of F1 puts all of these at a premium. Happily, his investment paid off and the accreditation came through. Ian attended several more F1 meetings in 2024 and the 2025 opening Grand Prix in Australia is already booked. We look forward to seeing Ian's future work! For anyone interested in joining in with our club activities, please look at our website: www.bungaycameraclub.org
Bungay Camera Club
its doors on Saturday, March 1st, bringing a fresh name, new management, and a welcoming new look.
Cosy Café (formerly known as Harleston Tearooms) is set to become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere along with a delicious menu. Located at 7b Bullock Fair Close, Harleston (IP20 9AT),
the café will be run by motherdaughter duo, Michelle and Rhiannon. Their passion for good food and friendly service is at the heart of this exciting transformation. With a focus on homemade delights and quality ingredients, they aim to provide a welcoming space for all, whether you're after a leisurely meal or a quick bite on the go. Cosy Café will be open Monday to Saturday from 8am until 4pm, serving a variety of hot
Soapbox Derby 2025 date announced!
Following the tremendous success of the first ever Beccles Soapbox Derby in 2024, the event is set to return this year on Sunday, September 28th, 2025.
Last year's debut saw huge crowds gather along Station Road, where 22 teams navigated the challenging ramp and chicane with skill and determination.
The 2024 winners (Dylan Levett and his team from PCE Automation; Alex Brown, Lewis Walker, and Harry Dickerson) set an impressive time of 33.04 seconds to take home the top spot. This year promises to be even bigger and better, with participants already gearing up for another thrilling day of creativity and competition.
If you're feeling inspired and would like to register a kart for the
2025 event, please email: helen. lower@becclestowncouncil. gov.uk to express your interest. Don't miss out on being part of this fantastic community event!
and cold drinks, all-day breakfasts, pastries, bakes, lunches, hot meals, smoothies, milkshakes, and homemade cakes. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast, a refreshing smoothie, or a slice of homemade cake with your coffee, there will be something to tempt every taste bud!
Customers will have the option to dine in or take away, and telephone orders are welcome for added convenience. To place an order or make an enquiry once the
café is open, you can call 01379 852516 or email: cosycaféharleston@gmail.com
With its new name, fresh décor, and a menu full of tasty treats, Cosy Café promises to be a delightful addition to Harleston's food scene. Mark your calendars for March 1st and be among the first to experience this charming new eatery!
Get involved with the 2025 Beccles Duck Race!
Local youth and voluntary groups are being invited to join the organising team for the much-anticipated return of the Beccles Duck Race this summer!
make a real difference in the event's success, advertise their group to a wider audience and to fundraise!
Please send any editorial from your local groups, clubs and events for the paper to edit@micropress.co.uk Thanks
The exciting event is set to take place on August 10th, 2025, and organisers are looking for an enthusiastic group to take an active role in planning and delivering this beloved community tradition. This is a fantastic opportunity for youth groups to get involved,
If you're part of a local youth/ voluntary group and would like more information, please don't hesitate to get in touch at: events@beccles towncouncil.gov.uk
Join us this August and help make the Beccles Duck Race a memorable occasion for the whole community!
Drone photo, showing the crowd lining Station Road
Beccles Town Council
participation will help make this event truly special.
town centre to open their gardens to the public.
This is an exciting opportunity for garden lovers to showcase their green spaces while supporting a charity close to their heart.
If you live within walking distance of Beccles town centre and have a beautiful, interesting, or unique garden, we'd love for you to get involved. Whether your garden is large or small, traditional or contemporary, your
Raise money for charity: We're excited to offer participants the opportunity to raise funds for a charity of their choice. When you open your garden, you'll have the option to donate the proceeds from your garden entry fees to the charity that matters most to you. How to get involved: If you're interested in opening your garden, please sign up by March 31st, 2025 by emailing: events@becclestowncouncil. gov.uk and we'll arrange a visit. There's no need for your garden to be professionally designed - we welcome all types of gardens.
Event details:
• Dates: June 14th & 15th, 2025
• Location: Various private gardens in walking distance of Beccles Town Centre
• Time: 11am-4pm, either or both days
What we're looking for:
• Gardens of all types, shapes, and sizes
• Private gardens within walking distance of Beccles town centre
• Gardeners who are willing to engage with visitors and share their gardening tips and knowledge
Why open your garden?
• Raise funds for your chosen
• Be part of a fantastic community event that celebrates local gardens
• Meet fellow garden enthusiasts and share ideas
• Help support Beccles' vibrant community spirit For more information, please contact the Beccles Open Gardens Committee by emailing: events@becclestowncouncil. gov.uk or calling: 01502 712109. Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your garden and contribute to a great cause. Let's make Beccles Open Gardens 2025 a blooming
Garden Bugs: Cohabit, Control or Conserve?
U3A talk explores the balance
Harleston & District U3A would like to invite you to the third of our 2025 monthly talks, titled 'Garden Bugs: Cohabit, Control or Conserve?'
This talk takes place at 2pm on March 19th in St. John's Church, Harleston. The talk will be given by Dr. Ian Bedford, an esteemed retired Research Entomologist.
Dr. Bedford started out as an Amateur Entomologist, studying and conserving butterflies on the
South Downs, and then went on to pursue a professional career as an Entomologist. He will speak about accepting the insects in your garden and their vital role in the wider ecosystem. Visitors welcome, admission £3, including refreshments. Further information about this and all Harleston & District U3A's activities is on: www.harleston.u3asite.uk. Alternatively, you can contact Kim Poulton: 01986 788149. charity
Harleston & District U3A
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Bramfield, Ringsfield and Brampton Primary Schools activities
The Reception children at Brampton have been reading the story 'Superworm' and learning about the concept of length.
We've been making worms from playdough and using the language "longer, shorter and equal" to compare size. The children then used multilink cubes to compare the length of the worms and drew them on squared paper. They also compared the amount of cubes using the language "fewer than and more than".
At Ringsfield C of E Primary School, we were delighted to have author and illustrator James Mayhew give a workshop based on his book 'Once Upon a Tune'. James fascinated the children with the stories behind
his chosen pieces of classical music. Accompanied by Caroline Speca, James painted to three pieces of music: 'Scheherazade' by Rimsky-Korsakov, 'The Firebird' by Stravinsky and 'The Swan from the Carnival of the Animals' by Saint-Saëns. The children loved watching the paintings come to life in time with the music.
Back in the classrooms, the children (inspired by James' creations) painted their own artwork based on Vivaldi's 'The Four Seasons'. Each class took a season and as they listened to the music, they created their own
picture. They were very pleased with the results.
Thanks to James and Caroline, it was an absolutely amazing afternoon and the children went home buzzing!
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For some, the beginning of a new year can be a good time to make changes in life. A new year brings the possibility of a fresh start. Many people commit to new fitness or dietary goals or re-assess career direction. In January, estate agents report a surge of properties coming onto the market as people decide to make changes to their living arrangements.
On a smaller scale, I like to take stock of my bookshelves, kitchen cupboards and wardrobe. There's something therapeutic about reorganising our personal space and clearing out things that are surplus to requirements. It feels good to donate clothes and books to charity shops, knowing that someone else can benefit from things we no longer need, whilst also making money for worthy causes. This form of recycling is also good for the planet.
For those who are bereaved, a new year is often not a cause for celebration but a reminder that the future must be faced without their loved one. For some, this fear can be quite overwhelming.
At our bereavement groups, we like to remind participants that they do still have a future (even though it might look very different to what they had planned). None of us know the future or what good times may lie ahead.
We also remind our participants that they are still individuals of worth (even without their loved one) and they're still important; friends, family, colleagues etc, still need them.
Ensors Accountants LLP
No matter our circumstances, we all have something to offer. We each have a unique set of skills, characteristics and abilities that are needed in the world.
Most importantly, we all need to be reminded that we're not alone. Everyone's part of some kind of community, whether that be a family, a friendship group, neighbourhood, church, workplace or hobby club. At the most basic level, we're all part of the human race and have a part to play in making the world a better place.
I'll finish with a little story... Whilst looking at some of the comments beneath an Instagram post about mental health, a doctor had commented that he was losing hope and didn't feel his life had a point anymore. I encouraged him to keep going and that I believed he had a unique combination of skills and abilities that no one else had. I reminded him that the world needed what he had to give. He replied with: "Thank you, I really needed to hear this today."
We don't know what difficult situations someone else might be facing but we can all do a little something that might make a big difference... A smile, a helping hand, a kind word, or an act of generosity.
If you'd like some support with your bereavement, call Rosedale on 01379 640810 to reserve your free place on our next course.
This article written by Sarah Howard, Rosedale Funeral Home Bereavement Support Group Facilitator
When is a van not a van?
When HMRC decide it's a car.
From April 6th 2025, the tax treatment of double cab pick-ups will undergo significant changes. These changes are set to impact both employers and employees who use these vehicles, as well as the self-employed who utilise these vehicles within their business.
Historically, double cab pickups have enjoyed favourable tax treatment, often being classified as vans and therefore qualifying for lower benefit-in-kind (BIK) rates and the ability to claim Annual Investment Allowance (AIA). However, from April 6th, 2025, new classification rules apply and most of these vehicles will be taxed as a car.
Changing Tax Implications:
• Benefit-in-Kind (BIK): The rules surrounding private use for cars are much stricter than for vans. For a vehicle classified as a car, simply taking the vehicle home rather than keeping it on work premises could trigger a benefit. The BIK rates for cars are typically higher than those for vans, being based on the vehicle's list price and CO2 emissions, with rates reaching 37% of the list price for high-emission models. This change will result in higher tax liabilities for both employees who use these vehicles, and their employers.
• Capital Allowances: Double cab pick-ups will no longer qualify for AIA or fullexpensing. Instead, they will be subject to car capital allowance rates, qualifying for an 18% annual writing down allowance, or 6% for higher emission vehicles.
• VAT Treatment: For the time being, the VAT rules remain unchanged. A double-cab pickup that previously qualified for VAT recovery will continue to do so.
To ease the transition, the government has introduced transitional rules. Employers who have purchased, leased, or ordered a double cab pick-up before April 6th, 2025 can continue to apply the previous tax treatment until the earlier of the vehicle's disposal, lease expiry, or April 5th, 2029. This means that vehicles acquired before the deadline will retain their van classification for up to four more years, providing some relief to businesses and employees as they adjust to the new rules.
The upcoming changes to the tax treatment of double cab pick-ups represent a significant shift in how these vehicles are classified and taxed. Employers and employees should review their current vehicle fleets and consider the potential financial implications of these changes. By understanding the new rules and in particular the transitional arrangements, businesses can better prepare for the impact of these tax reforms.
By Liz Lockwood, Director, Ensors Accountants LLP
guidance only, and no action should be taken based solely on the information contained herein. No liability is accepted by the firm for any actions taken without seeking appropriate professional advice.
Full steam ahead for Blythburgh Station's next chapter!
2025 is looking to be a very busy year for the railway charity!
At the moment, our main effort is to gain planning permission for improvements at the Blythburgh Station Heritage Centre, which was granted permission last year.
These are:
• The erection of a classic doublearmed signal in its original place at the station (which has been made by one of our volunteers).
• We wish to rebuild the 'Odams' Shed', which is an unusual building in the station goods yard that was originally owned by the inventors of the first artificial fertiliser. This will become a wildlife hide.
• Lastly, we wish to extend the railway about an eighth of a mile to the west, along the original trackbed. There is a permissive path along this stretch which we will preserve and improve, beside the railway.
Public support may still be possible when you see this article (although time will be short). You can send support on the East Suffolk Council website: www.shorturl.at/db1y9
The reference to search is DC/24/4503/FUL
If you're not already signed up with East Suffolk Council, they do also accept emails. We hope that Community News readers will support our plan to further restore this historic railway towards Halesworth. Meanwhile, our volunteers continue to build our Heritage Train, maintain the land and
ecology at our sites, and research and advocate for the restoration of the line. We have a very interesting future ahead. If you'd like to be a part of that, then you can join us for only £10 per year on: www. halesworthtosouthwoldrailway. co.uk or at any event.
James Hewett, Chairman
Beccles weather report
A colder, drier January with frosty nights and a stormy end
This summary is compiled from the records of Stephen Bartholomew.
January 2025:
• Maximum temp: 12.4C (54F) on the 1st, compared with 13.4C (56F) in January 2024.
• Minimum temp: -3.5C (26F) on the 11th, compared with -3.9C (25F) in January 2024.
• Average maximum temp: 6.53C (43F) in 2025. 7.53C (45F) in 2024. 7.20C (44F) on average.
• Average minimum temp: 1.01C (34F) in 2025. 2.25C (35F) in 2024. 2.30C (35F) on average.
• Mean temp: 3.77C (38F) - 2025. 4.89C (40F) in 2024. 4.75C (40F) on average.
• Air frosts: 10, compared with 7 in January 2024.
• Rainfall total: 1.85" compared with 2.78" in January 2024. (30-year average (1981-2010) 2.22"). (2025 total: 81% of average).
• Most rainfall on one day: 0.50" on the 26th.
• Wind direction (mainly from): South-west 11 days, west 9 days, south 6 days and north-west 3 days.
January 2025 overall was colder and drier than the long-
term average.
Overall, the month was the coldest since 2021, not particularly severe, although 10 night air frosts noted, the most for the month since 2019. This also contributed to the equal (with 2019) lowest January average minimum temperature since 2017. There were only 5 days during the entire month when daytime temperature exceeded 10C. 3 of these were noted during the first 6 days in the early unsettled period described later in this summary. Thereafter during mid month often quiet, cloudy but dry conditions prevailed leading to cold days and nights. 9 of the month's 10 air frosts and 11 of the month's 15 ground frosts were noted during the first 12 nights.
The 23rd had an extraordinary brilliant but chaotic sunset associated with Storm Eowyn, which heralded in the second unsettled period. The storm brought devastation to the island of Ireland, (where a gust of 114 mph was monitored on their west coast) and the west of Scotland in particular. Fortunately the effects here in East Anglia were restricted to strong winds without
Volunteer with us!
To meet the growing demands for Citizens Advice services across East Suffolk, we need more volunteers to join our team.
Whether you're newly retired and looking for a new challenge, a student looking for experience to add to your CV, or keen to keep your CV alive while your children are at school, we have a range of roles that we'd love to talk to you about:
Full training is given, and a great team to working with in our offices across East Suffolk - Lowestoft, Beccles, Leiston, Woodbridge and Felixstowe. You can read more about these different roles on: www.citizensadvice eastsuffolk.org.uk/volunteers
If you'd like to apply or find out more, please email: volunteer@caes.org.uk.
Harleston Choral Society
Harleston Choral Society (HCS) is now well and truly into its 25th anniversary year!
Since Anne Gee launched the choir in 2000, it's gone from strength-to-strength and is currently flourishing under the baton of Justin Bindley.
The high point of our anniversary year will be our Summer Concert on June 28th in Harleston Sancroft Academy, when we'll be singing Carl Orff Carmina Burana with professional soloists and orchestra, and the school's choir. So put the date in your diary and we hope you'll join us then to celebrate 25 years of wonderful music.
Three more diary dates:
• March 22nd: Annual Quiz with Delicious Supper, St. James Village Hall, IP19 0HP, open to all.
• August 16th: 'Come & Sing Messiah' Day, St. James Village
Hall, IP19 0HP, open to all.
• December 6th: Christmas Concert
Throughout the year, we'll also be setting up display panels in various locations, showing HCS's history, the many people who have been involved with the choir over the years, and choir members' memories.
See our website (www. harlestonchoral.org.uk) for more information about HCS or from our joint Chairs: Caroline Rodbourne, caroline@rodbourne. org.uk and Jo Curry, jo.curry@ sky.com.
the damaging gusts. Thereafter, both day and night temperatures generally increased to average or slightly above so that only one slight night air frost and 2 ground frosts were recorded up to the end of the month.
As indicated above, almost all of the month's 1.85" rainfall total fell during the first 6 days (0.84") and the last 9 days of the month (0.99"), which included the wettest day (0.50" on the 26th), associated with month's other named Storm Herminia. The period from the 7th-20th was almost totally dry, the subject to a partial winter drought. Wind directions in general during January were of a heavy south to west bias.
As I write on February 4th, there are hints of a "blocking" high forming and a future switch to an easterly airflow by the end of this week, cutting off the less cold air we have experienced during the past few days.
February 2nd (Candlemas Day) was dry and bright. The old saying "If Candlemas Day is fair and bright then winter shall have another flight" could come into play. Watch this space!
Woodbridge 10K dates confirmed
The annual Woodbridge 10k Round the Town Running Race for adults and 1.5k for juniors takes place at midday on May 18th. Organised by local running club, the Woodbridge Shufflers, it will be the 43rd year for the race. Last year, entries sold out in minutes, so if you want a place, ensure to be logged in at the 10k website at midday on March 22nd. The race has limited places and its popularity is due to the special atmosphere created by supporters around the streets of Woodbridge.
Shufflers weekly schedule of runs: The Woodbridge Shufflers now has over
2pm
Blythburgh original signal and Odam's Shed
Odam's Shed at Blythburgh
Halesworth to Southwold Narrow Gauge Railway
Woodbridge Shufflers
Celebrating five decades of martial arts and still kicking!
ICENI Taekwon-do's legacy is something you can be part of too!
ICENI Taekwon-do instructors (Mr. and Mrs. Bedingfield) started learning martial arts, (boxing and karate) in the 1970s, and have taught Taekwon-do to hundreds of students for over two decades at The Venue in Beccles.
This month is the first anniversary of ICENI Taekwondo being a totally independent club, thanks to the forwardthinking British Martial Arts & Boxing Association, helping to make everyone's safeguarding and wellbeing a priority!
Through it's instructors (ITF Legacy), ICENI Taekwon-do is part of one of the world's largest martial arts organisations, the International Taekwondo Federation, which was founded in 1966. The art of Taekwon-do was originated in 1955 in Korea. Even more history surrounds the clubs' 'ICENI' name, which itself originates from the warriors of the regional tribe of Celts, dating back over 2,000 years. Come and learn a martial
art you can practice all your life, building strength, fitness and wellbeing. At ICENI Taekwondo, you'll get the feel of a personal training session, no matter how many students attend a class. ICENI develops your syllabus based on your age and abilities. Always assessing your progress, your power and techniques as you work through 'certified' coloured belt promotions, and when you're ready, you'll gain an ICENI Taekwon-do 1st Degree Black Belt! A qualification from which you can even teach your own students, and help continue the legacy!
The hardest part to starting a martial art is coming into a class for the first time, so be brave! Come and join us for a free session!
A warm welcome will always be awaiting the start of your journey to learning this fantastic martial art.
We meet on Mondays from 6:30pm-8pm and Thursdays from 7pm-8:30pm at The Venue, Ringsfield Road, Beccles. You can learn more about us and book a free session on our website: icenitaekwondo.co.uk
Karen & Rachel take on HalfMarathon for the Pear Tree Fund
On March 2nd, Karen Prime and Rachel Plant will be running in the Southwold Half-Marathon for the Pear Tree Fund.
This year, Karen and Rachel have taken on some incredible sporting challenges, including the gruelling Outlaw Triathlon
involving a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and 26.2 mile run.
Just for practice, they swim from Geldeston Locks, along the river Waveney to Beccles, all to raise money for the Pear Tree Fund!
When asked, Karen said that she chose to support the Pear
Tree Fund charity because she personally knows some of the people they support and can see the difference that they make. Please show your support by visiting JustGiving.com and search for Karen and Rachel's Full Triathlon. www.shorturl.at/xG8hA
Paralympic gold medallist swimmer awarded 'Freedom of Beccles'
William Ellard, who won two gold and one silver medal at the Paralympic Games in Paris in the summer 2024, was presented with the 'Honorary Freedom of Beccles' by Town Mayor Cllr. Colin Hill at a ceremony in the Town Hall on November 4th. William, aged 18, becomes only the fourth ever recipient of this honour, following fellow paralympic swimmer Jordan Catchpole in 2022 and Nobel Prize winning scientist Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin in 1965.
Cllr. Hill congratulated William on his outstanding achievements in Paris, including breaking a world record in winning one of his medals. William's father, David, replied on William's behalf, thanking the council for their recognition of William's achievement and saying that William will shortly be back in training in preparation for the World Championships in Singapore in September 2025.
Beccles Town Council
The Beccles Diamond Jubilee Aid-in-Sickness Fund Charity
The Beccles Diamond Jubilee Aid-in-Sickness Fund Charity (which dates back to the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897) is "for the benefit of needy, sick or infirm persons in the town of Beccles".
This means that the charity can provide grants for the supply of special foods or medicines, medical comforts, extra bedding, fuel, and medical or surgical
appliances. In fact, anything to relieve suffering, disability or infirmity. Anyone in need (of any age) is eligible for support, provided that they live in Beccles. To apply for a grant, or to find out about eligibility, contact the Clerk, Paul Cunningham, at Beccles Town Hall, email: paul.cunningham@ becclestowncouncil.gov.uk or phone 01502 712109.
Leading heritage coast agent to open in Beccles
Flick & Son, the heritage coast's leading agent, are excited to announce that they will be opening its doors in Beccles on March 1st.
Flick & Son (offering both sales and lettings) have been established since 1883 and currently have offices in Southwold, Aldeburgh, Saxmundham and Leiston.
All our staff are professionally qualified in either sales or lettings and we live by a "phone first, email second" ethos. We believe in the customer journey along with our strong company values. 'To give the very best customer journey by delivering a transparent, honest service powered by proactive, enthusiastic and hard working people'. We invite you to pop in for a coffee and meet our Branch Manager, Jack Deeley who will be happy to discuss all your property needs. www.flickandson.co.uk
Paul Gray (Chief Executive Officer) comments: "We're absolutely delighted to be opening in this fantastic market town. The decision for Beccles was easy, My family and I love to visit Beccles and we have so many clients that walk through our Aldeburgh and Southwold doors that enquire about Beccles. It just felt natural to be able to offer Beccles and surrounding properties via our coastal branches as well as our new Beccles office."
Beccles Town Council
MARCH 1ST
'Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss' Presented by The Merry Opera Company Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm. A new production by Merry Opera of the most sparkling & brilliant of all Viennese operettas. Music by Johann Strauss evoking the romance of Old Vienna. Tickets: £19pp.
MARCH 1ST Maid in Britain
Fisher Theatre, Bungay
7:30pm. The Ultimate British Rock celebration show taking you on a nostalgic journey through each epic era (60s/70s/80s). Tickets: £15pp.
MARCH 1ST
Secret Soul Scene Launch Night Wine Vaults, Beccles
8pm till late. A collective of soul DJ's, musicians & singers performing live & exclusively in underground venues across East Anglia, created by Magnus PR. Greg Doggett (guitarist), Richard Routledge (DJ) & Nevv Moore (DJ). www.magnuspresents.co.uk
MARCH 1ST & 3RD-8TH Book Fair
Fisher Theatre, Bungay
10am. Hundreds of top quality pre-loved books, most for £2 or less, including a wide range of novels (modern & classics), children's books & non-fiction, all displayed in the Fisher Gallery. Every penny raised goes to the Fisher.
MARCH 3RD
Bungay Flower Club
The Emmanuel Rooms, Boyscott Lane, Bungay Doors open 6:30pm for 7pm start. Flower arranging demonstrator Christine Hewson with 'Pets & Petals'. visitors £5pp, incl. tea/coffee/ biscuits.
MARCH 5TH
Getting a Job in the Funeral Profession 22 Hungate, Beccles
10am-4pm. A rare opportunity to gain an insight into the different career paths available in the funeral profession. Led by a National Association of Funeral Directors registered tutor. This 1-day intro course would suit school leavers wondering about an apprenticeship, anyone considering embarking on a career change, or simply someone who's always wanted to find out more. Organised by Rosedale Training. Book your place at: www.shorturl.at/gh7ZP
MARCH 6TH
Jesus Christ Superstar - Cinema Live Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7pm. Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber's rock classic returns to its roots with this sensational performance filmed in the UK during the Live Arena Tour. Tickets: £14pp.
MARCH 6TH
Quiet Morning Wrentham Chapel
From 10am (Free). A time to recharge & reflect as the season changes. Hot drinks & snacks provided, & participants are welcome to bring a packed lunch & stay a while. Chapel members will be working in the garden during the afternoon. Anyone is welcome to join in. Details from Rev. Ian Fosten on: 07791 068080.
MARCH 7TH & 8TH
'Nineteen Eighty Four' by George Orwell
Beccles Public Hall
dirty, smelly conditions at the Foreign Cattle Market in London, where workers' rights didn't exist. The ghastly job gave them a good wage and independence no other women of their class could attain. This freedom makes them strong & very alive, giving them courage to stand up for themselves, until the 'Do-Gooder' Lady Helena takes it upon herself to "improve" their lives. Tickets from: £8pp.
MARCH 8TH
Matthew Harffy talk
Blyburgate Hall, Beccles 7pm-9pm. Beccles Books presents a talk & book signing by the bestselling author of 'The Bernicia Chronicles', Matthew Harffy. After the talk, Matthew will answer questions & there's a chance to get copies signed & dedicated. All books sold on the evening will be 20% off cover price. Tickets £6pp. Tickets from Beccles Books.
MARCH 8TH
My Darling Clementine Canopy Theatre, Hungate Church, Beccles
8pm. The British duo of Michael Weston King & Lou Dalgleish, has evolved from a side project into a leading force in music, with 6 acclaimed albums, international tours & collabs that blend classic country with elements of gospel, country soul & Elvis Costello-inspired reinterpretations. Tickets: £15pp. 0333 666 3366. www.shorturl.at/AZ4oa
MARCH 13TH
An Evening with Caroline Brewster
The Swan Inn, Barnby
7:30pm. Clairvoyant night with Caroline Brewster. Food available from 6pm. Deposit required when booking. Contact The Barnby Swan to book your table, call 01502 476646 or email: barnbyswan@yahoo.com
MARCH 13TH
The Outrun - BFC
Fisher Theatre, Bungay
7:30pm. After a decade away in London & 3 months in rehab, 29-year-old Rona returns to the Orkney Islands. Sober but lonely, she tries to suppress her memory of the events which set her on this journey... Tickets: £7pp.
MARCH 13TH-15TH
Fisher Theatre Fundraising Art Auction
PREVIEW
Fisher Theatre, Bungay 10am-3pm & 6:30pm-9:30pm. Viewings for the upcoming auction that will take place on March 16th. Viewings will take place in the Fisher Gallery.
MARCH 14TH
Tease
Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm. The ultimate burlesque & cabaret experience where sensuality & unadulterated fun collide to create an unforgettable evening. A captivating experience that will linger in your memory long after the curtains fall. Book now & let's make a night to remember! Tickets: £29.50pp.
MARCH 14TH
The Salts
Songs from the Sea Fisher Theatre, Bungay
7:30pm. The Salts perform sea shanties, songs from the sea, celebrating maritime classics that we all know & love, alongside well crafted original tunes. A great night out which will appeal to all ages. Tickets from: £16pp.
MARCH 15TH
MARCH 15TH
80s, 90s Party!
MARCH 21ST
Waveney House Hotel, Beccles
7:30pm-12am. Back by popular demand! Get your dancing shoes on! Disco by I-Disco. 80's/90's attire encouraged. Ticketed event only, £5pp. Purchase tickets via phone (01502 712270) or at the hotel reception. All tickets to be paid for upon booking
MARCH 15TH
The Orbison Project Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm. A fantastic 6-piece tribute band celebrating the memorable music of Roy Orbison. The band is fronted by Dave Collison, an impressively-accurate Orbison sound-a-like and look-a-like singer who's been performing the hits of the Big O for 25yrs. The band performs the songs with passion, just how you remember them. Tickets: £18.50pp.
MARCH 16TH
The Fisher Theatre Fundraising Art Auction Fisher Theatre, Bungay 2pm. The auction will showcase the impressive & varied work of 21st century artists from East Anglia, with a small number of special pieces of particular artistic & historical interest. Proceeds from the auction will be divided equally between the artist & the Fisher Theatre. Viewings will take place in the Fisher Gallery on March 13th, 14th & 15th from 10am-3pm & 6:30pm-9:30pm.
MARCH 16TH
Gâteau Galore!
Blyburgate Hall, Beccles 2pm-4pm. Beccles Twinning Association invites you to bring your cakes & bakes! Entry £5 at the door. Accompanied children under 12 free. Prize awarded to the 'Star Baker' incl. an award for 'Junior Bakers' under 12. Enjoy the cakes with unlimited tea/coffee/squash & a raffle as well! Come along & share the fun! For more info, email: twinning.beccles@gmail.com
MARCH 16TH
Rope: Presented by Red Herring Theatre Company Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm. Based on a 1920's real-life case, this dark classic was filmed by Hitchcock in 1948 & remains to this day one of the most tightly coiled of thrillers. 2 well-bred young men murder a fellow Oxford student just for fun. Placing the corpse in a wooden box, they invite a group of friends over. Supper is served on the chest holding the gruesome contents. But one of their guests is starting to become suspicious... Will this daring pair get away with their cat and mouse games? Tickets: £12pp.
MARCH 19TH
'Garden Bugs: Cohabit, Control or Conserve?' talk
St. John's Church, Harleston 2pm. The 3rd of Harleston & District U3A's 2025 monthly talks. The talk will be given by Dr. Ian Bedford, an esteemed retired Research Entomologist. Dr. Bedford will speak about accepting the insects in your garden and their vital role in the wider ecosystem. Visitors welcome, admission £3, incl. refreshments. Further information about this and all activities is on: www.harleston.u3asite.uk. You can also contact Kim on 01986 788149.
MARCH 19TH
MARCH 27TH
Cædmon Evening Wrentham Chapel
From 7pm. Free entry. 'Younger than springtime', a seasonal celebration in music, word & song. Enjoy a varied programme of items from amongst the audience, on a 'bring & share' basis. A light buffet with wine & fruit juice during the interval. Any donations towards the upkeep of this historic Chapel will be gratefully received. Details from Sue Hardy: 07771 882738.
MARCH 21ST
Cash Prize Bingo! Bungay Royal British Legion 7pm-10pm. Free entry. No need to book. £8 for 12 books. Family-friendly event with raffle & bar open for refreshments to purchase.
MARCH 22ND
An Audience with Bestselling Historian & Novelist Alison Weir Blyburgate Hall, Beccles 7pm-10pm. Part of Beccles' Book Festival. Britain's bestselling female historian will be talking about her latest paperback 'Mary I, Queen of Sorrows'. Afterwards, there will be the opportunity to ask questions, followed by book signing. You're welcome to bring along any of Alison's books to be signed. Tickets from £8pp. Book at: www.shorturl.at/DCzVx
MARCH 22ND
Sondheim Revisited Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. On what would have been Sondheim's 95th birthday, Gin Palace Productions returns to the Fisher with "Sondheim Revisited", their celebration of the music & lyrics of the composer of "Follies", "Sweeney Todd" & "Into The Woods".
MARCH 22ND
Jez Lowe
Canopy Theatre, Hungate Church, Beccles 8pm. Jez Lowe has long been one of the UK's busiest folk performers, playing for audiences the world over, either solo, with guitar, cittern & harmonica accompaniment, or with his band 'The Bad Pennies'. Tickets: £14pp. 0333 666 3366. For more info, music & video: www. jezlowe.com.
MARCH 23RD
Wedding Fair
Waveney House Hotel, Beccles 11am-3pm. Presented by Perfect Day Creations. Over 20+ local suppliers incl. sweets, venue decor, photographers, entertainment & more! Free entry. Free bottle of wine for 1st 20 brides/ grooms. Free goody bag & magazine. Bar open. perfectday-creations.com/wedding-fairs
MARCH 23RD
Spring Flowers Open Garden
The Old Coach House, The Street, Brockdish, IP21 4JY 11am-4pm. In aid of East Anglian Air Ambulance, Prostate Cancer, St. Elizabeth Hospice & local charities. 2 acres of woodland & gardens leading down to the River Waveney. Teas & refreshments available as well as jams, craft stalls & tombola. Adults: £4pp, children free accompanied by an adult. Dogs welcome on leads.
MARCH 23RD
Louis de Bernieres: An Evening of Music, Poetry & Stories Beccles Public Hall
Six Victorian Paintings - Presented by Art/History Fisher Theatre, Bungay 10am. Roger Simpson presents the 2nd of 6 talks on Victorian paintings. By examining a limited number of works in detail, (one major work per talk), this series aims to unlock a lost iconographical complexity. £10 per talk. This talk examines: 'Ford Madox Brown (18211893) Work 1852, 1856-65; Manchester City Art Gallery'.
MARCH 27TH - 29TH
Arabian Nights Beccles Public Hall 7:30pm-9:45pm. A dramatic & wondrous musical full of Eastern promise. Long ago, in a far-off land, a King is to be married to the beautiful Sheherazade. No one's celebrating, for the vengeful & brutal King has executed 1,000 wives before her. The multi-talented young cast sing, dance, act & take on many different characters on stage. This stunning musical is suitable for all the family. Buy tickets now for this youth musical theatre group's latest musical adventure. Tickets from: £10pp.
MARCH 28TH
Quiz Night Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Come & test your general knowledge at the fabulous Fisher Quiz Night, with your host, Detectorist Joe Edwards-Gill. Teams of up to 6 people. Entry £7pp, incl. nibbles at half time & there'll be a prize for the winning team. All proceeds to the Fisher.
MARCH 28TH
'Old Herbaceous' Giles Shenton Productions Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Described as "Downton Abbey with gardening tips", Old Herbaceous is the humorous love story of a single-minded yet gentle man with a passion for plants. It's a charming one-man play which has entranced sell-out audiences all around the country over the last 5 years. Tickets from: £14pp.
MARCH 29TH
Daffodil Day
St. Mary's Church, Henstead 10am-4pm. Raffle, craft, books, displays & hopefully a churchyard full of daffodils to admire. Refreshments available. All welcome.
MARCH 29TH
Meet the Authors
Blyburgate Hall, Beccles 7pm. Local historians Gillian Campbell, Barry Darch & Malcolm Holmes will be speaking. Gillian has written 'And I Looked Back: East Anglians in Their Own Words', a book of reminiscences. Barry Darch will be introducing his new book 'A-Z of Beccles'. Malcolm Holmes has published 'RAF Beccles at War, 1943-45'. For tickets (£6pp), visit: www.ticketsource. co.uk/beccles-town-council or pop in to Beccles Books or the Town Hall. A chance to meet the authors & talk about their books. Authors are happy to sign copies.
MARCH 29TH
Bungay Comedy Club
The Three Tuns, Bungay Doors 7:30pm, starts 8pm. Presented by Hooma Comedy: Tom Alban, Hazel Donovan, Jack Channell, Martin Westgate.
7:30pm. Adapted for the stage by Richard Melchior presented by Raconteur Theatre Company. Hidden away in the Record Department of the sprawling Ministry of Truth, Winston Smith skilfully rewrites the past to suit the needs of the Party. Yet he inwardly rebels against the totalitarian world he lives in, which demands absolute obedience under the watchful eye of Big Brother. In his longing for truth & liberty, Smith begins a secret love affair with a fellow-worker, Julia, but soon discovers the true price of freedom is betrayal.
Spring Quiz
Alburgh Village Hall
Doors open 6:15pm for 7pm start. Ploughman's Supper, prizes for winning table, pre-booked tickets £10pp. Box Office 01986 788934. In aid of All Saints Church, Alburgh.
MARCH 15TH
Quiz Night
Rao's Beccles
Tickets: £12.50pp.
MARCH 7TH & 8TH
'The Gut Girls' by Sarah Daniels (PG) Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Presented by members of the Fisher Youth Theatre Group. Many characters in this play are the same age as the young actors portraying them. At the turn of the 20th century, a group of young girls & women did a job no one else wanted to do.... They worked in cold,
7pm start. £5pp. Maximum of 6 per team. BYO alcohol, there are soft drinks for sale. Pre-book only. www.raosbeccles.co.uk
MARCH 15TH
007 James Bond Theme Night
A Bit on The Side 14 Upper Olland Street, Bungay
7pm-9pm. Come as your favourite hero/heroine or villain, best dressed award, Bond quiz, prize draw, nibbles & a mini mocktail. £7pp. For more info or to book, please contact Kathryn in store or on: 07734 207913.
Dawn of Impressionism Paris 1874 Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7pm. Now, impressionists are incredibly popular, but at first, they were scorned, penniless outsiders. 1874 was the year that changed everything... The spectacular Musée d'Orsay exhibition brings fresh eyes to this extraordinary tale of passion & rebellion. Tickets: £14pp.
MARCH 20TH
Six Victorian Paintings
- Presented by Art/History Fisher Theatre, Bungay 10am. Roger Simpson presents the 1st of 6 talks on Victorian paintings. By examining a limited number of works in detail, (one major work per talk), this series aims to unlock a lost iconographical complexity. £10 per talk or £51 for all 6 booked in adv. in one transaction. This talk examines: 'Luke Fildes (1844-1927) Applicants for Admission to a Casual Ward, 1874; Royal Holloway'.
7:30pm. Louis de Bernières is best known as a world-famous novelist, & has had 2 of his books made into films, but has been writing poetry since he was 12, and composing songs since he was 17. In this show, he reads his poetry, sings his songs, tells jokes & recounts anecdotes, doing what he's always done on-&-off since he was young. Tickets: £14.50pp.
MARCH 26TH
Quiz Night
Fisher Theatre, Bungay
7:30pm. Come & test your general knowledge at the fabulous Fisher Quiz Night, with your host, Detectorist Joe Edwards-Gill. Teams of up to 6 people. Entry £7pp, incl. nibbles at half time & there'll be a prize for the winning team. All proceeds to the Fisher.
Mothers Day at Bridgerton A Bit on The Side 14 Upper Olland Street, Bungay 12pm-3pm. A delicious themed afternoon tea with bookable timeslots in a vintage atmosphere. £7pp. For more info or to book, please contact Kathryn in store or on: 07734 207913.
Got an event you'd like to promote to our thousands of monthly readers? If so, please email the details over to: edit@micropress.co.uk to be included in our 'What's on?' section.
Beccles & Lowestoft
St. Elizabeth Hospice has announced its latest fundraising art trail. 'Hop to it! Suffolk 2025' will take place between June 21st and August 29th this summer. Following the success of previous hospice art trails ('Pigs Gone Wild', 'Elmer's Big Parade Suffolk', and 'The Big Hoot Ipswich 2022'), this muchanticipated event will once again be hosted in Ipswich. For the first time, it will also extend to satellite locations across the county, including Beccles and Lowestoft, with support from presenting partners East Suffolk Council and Suffolk County Council. Created in partnership with Wild in Art, the project will see
33 large, ornately decorated hare sculptures take over Ipswich for the summer, each featuring unique designs. Meanwhile, there will be a mix of 22 large and small hares located throughout Beccles and Lowestoft for the community to enjoy.
Celia Joseph (Community & Partnerships Fundraising Manager at St. Elizabeth Hospice) said: "We are delighted to announce the dates for our next art trail, Hop to it! Suffolk 2025. Our talented artists are already hard at work creating brilliant designs, and we're grateful to the many supporters and local businesses helping us prepare for the launch. We cannot wait to see the trail hit the streets of
• Full home re-design & refurbishment service to suit your needs
• Non-slip surfaces, paths & walkways
• Kitchens
Suffolk, bringing colour and creativity to Ipswich, Beccles, Felixstowe, Lowestoft, and Woodbridge this summer. We look forward to welcoming you on the trail for this family friendly activity in support of the work of St Elizabeth Hospice."
If you're interested in supporting the trail, we'd love to hear from you! We're looking for volunteers to help make 'Hop to it! Suffolk 2025' our biggest art trail yet! Please visit our website to find out more. Further details about the launch will be released in the coming months, along with the date for the all-important auction, where the sculptures will be auctioned off to raise vital funds for St.
Elizabeth Hospice. All funds raised by 'Hop to it! Suffolk 2025' will go towards supporting the work of St. Elizabeth Hospice. An independent Suffolk charity which every year delivers support to over 4,000 people throughout East & Mid-Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney living with a progressive or lifelimiting illness. Annually, these services cost around £12 million to facilitate, with 70% of funds needed being raised through local community support. Find out more details about 'Hop to It! Suffolk 2025' and how you can support the trail by visiting: www.stelizabeth hospice.org.uk/hoptoitsuffolk
• Bathrooms & wet rooms
• Toilet repairs & replacements
• Shower repairs & replacements
• Disability access installs
• Unblocking • Loft tanks repairs & replacements
• Ball valve repairs
• Cylinder repairs
• Immersion thermostat & element
General DIY
Hanging frames/mirrors etc.
Flatpack furniture put together
Installation of bath screens
• Toilet & tap repairs and replacements
• Summer tidy ups
• Hedges & bushes trimmed
• Sheds & greenhouses supplied, installed and repaired
• Fences, Patios & Decking
• BBQ areas
• Garden planting schemes designed & built
• Specialised topiary supplied & planted
• Brickweave & Block paving
• Turf
• All types of roof repairs
• Ridge replacement • Lead flashing
• Flat roofing
• Chimney repairs, re-pointing & removal
St. Elizabeth Hospice
Beccles
Join Beccles Twinning Association for a cultural visit to Petit-Couronne
If you live, work or are otherwise associated with Beccles, now is your opportunity to visit your twin town of Petit-Couronne in Normandy, France as part of this year's official three-day visit from October 2nd-6th, 2025.
Alongside educational and cultural visits to Rouen and the surrounding area, Beccles Twinning Association will also be taking part in the popular Fete d'Automne in the town's Jardins Aquatiques, which attracts thousands of visitors from across
the region.
Are you interested? If so, please contact: twinning.beccles@ gmail.com for more information.
You're also welcome to come and visit us at the Beccles Voluntary Organisations showcase event on April 5th or
at our next fundraising event 'Gateaux Galore' on March 16th (read more about this on the 'What's On' page). Firm expressions of interest in the October visit however, are required now in order to arrange suitable transport for the group.
Worlingham Community Hall nears completion
The project to provide the village of Worlingham with a new community hall is at last coming to fruition! It's expected that the roof will be completed in March, with the handover of the hall provisionally scheduled for October this year. Back in 2009, the Parish Plan for Worlingham identified the need for a community facility. The impending closure of the primary school on Rectory Lane gave the impetus to form a steering group to move the project forward. Since the former primary school in Rectory Lane was closed in 2013 and demolished in 2015, the vacant site was legally transferred to the Trustees of the Worlingham Community Facility from Suffolk County Council. The Trustees in turn entered into a partnership with Badger Building of Lowestoft who, in return for acquiring the land to build 19 new homes, would also build the new village hall at no cost to the Trustees. After various surveys and excavations had been undertaken, Badger Building commenced work on the site in the summer of 2023. The contract between the Trustees and the builders stipulated that the hall had to be completed before the final tranche of houses could be sold.
The hall comprises a large main hall which can accommodate 180 people seated conference style or 120 seated around tables for a catered function. The hall itself will have a sliding divider which can split the hall on a two-thirds/ one-third basis.
Surrounding the hall are meeting rooms and offices that will be available for hire. A large industrial style kitchen is located next to the bar servery and another large meeting room which could double as a lounge/ TV area. Two store rooms are located off the main hall as well as toilet facilities. A separate
disabled toilet is located adjacent near to the main entrance.
Also in the entrance area, there will be a plumbed-in beverage facility so that hot drinks would be available to meeting room and hall users, without the need to access the bar/kitchen facilities.
Outside of the hall, there will be parking provision for up to 40 cars including an electric vehicle charging point.
The Trustees are currently busily engaged in fundraising activities in order to equip the hall. An application was made in January for a substantial grant from the National Lottery. Funds have already been gratefully
received from Worlingham Parish Council, East Suffolk Council and a number of local businesses.
An additional major task is the recruitment of a Management Committee whose task would be to take over the day-today running of the hall, which would include finance, bookings, publicity, maintenance and other areas still to be defined. It may read as an onerous task but the committee would initially have the support and guidance of the trustees. If you're interested, please contact the secretary of the Trustees for further information: worlinghamcf@hotmail.com
www.halesworthcarpetshop.co.uk
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