Halesworth & Southwold Community News - Christmas/January 2023

48b, Thoroughfare, Halesworth, Suffolk, IP19 8AR 01986 948755

An update from Halesworth Town Council

In October's edition, we reported that East Suffolk Council were due to consider the transfer of assets to Halesworth Town Council but unfortunately, this has now been delayed again until 4th January 2023.

On November 19th (thanks to the Halesworth Events Management) there was a welcome return to the annual festive lights switch-on event in the town which was very well attended and enjoyed by many residents and visitors. Also thanks to East Suffolk Council for providing free parking in the town from 4pm and for contributing to the event.

The 'Food, Skate & Ball' event in the park on the 28th October organised by the Town Council, East Suffolk Council, youth workers and parents turned out to be a great success. Around 80 young people shared their views on the skateboard park and facilities in the park and in return they were well fed and entertained with skateboard and basketball demonstrations.

The Thoroughfare Working Group (comprising residents, business owners, District, County and Town Councillors) are pushing through plans to correct the existing signage of the Thoroughfare to enable East

In memoriam

COX, Janet 'Jan'

Janet 'Jan' Cox passed away peacefully with her family by her side at Beech House Care Home, Halesworth on November 25th, 2022 aged 83 years.

Treasured wife of Paddy. Much loved and devoted mum of Tracy and Lesley and adored grandma of James, Jess, Oliver and Rebecca. She will be greatly

Suffolk Council to enforce a no parking restriction and at the same time the group are also hoping to get some of the town's existing highways signs updated or amended as many of them are now out of date.

At the monthly meeting held on the 5th December, the town agreed to support Wissett Parish Council in their objection to the planned solar farm off Grays Lane, Wissett. The Town Council would write to East Suffolk Council to express their concern with the unsuitability and inherent danger of an alarming number of articulated lorries that would be using the designated route via the very challenging Wissett Road/Norwich Road junction and that this would also increase the risk to the children walking or cycling to and from Edgar Sewter School as well adding further risk to pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles trying to enter and exit this difficult junction. The Town Council would also be asking the planners to consider the increased fire risk from the banks of lithium batteries and the accessibility issues for the nearest but unmanned fire station in Halesworth and finally that Halesworth had not been consulted by ESC's planning department despite the

importance of the access from Halesworth and the obvious concerns with this designated route to the site.

At the same meeting, the Council agreed to develop ideas to celebrate the 800 years of Halesworth's Market Charter bought for two palfreys (small horses) in 1223. A medieval style event will be planned for early in September 2023.

Also in May 2023 is the King's Coronation event. The Council would welcome any volunteers interested in working with the Town Council, Church leaders and groups in the town, in the first instance please contact the Clerk, 01986 874517 or email: clerk@halesworthtowncouncil. org.uk. A meeting will be held in January, the date to be confirmed on Facebook and the website. The Council would like to wish all residents and businesses a very merry Christmas and a happy new year. The Office will be closed on the 23rd December and will reopen on the 3rd of January 2023.

missed by all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of Jan's life will be held at Waveney Memorial Park and Crematorium on Tuesday December 20th, 2022 at 12pm. At Jan's request, please wear something colourful.

Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Halesworth Dementia Carer's Fund may be gifted via the Much-Loved online memorial tribute site at: www. rosedalefuneralhome.co.uk.

SANKEY, Sheila

Mum could you come back and stay a while.

We want to hear your voice and see your smile.

We want to hold you tight and never let you go. And tell you that we love and miss you so.

All our love always and forever, daughter Barbara and son Dale xxx

Halesworth and District Probus Club

There was nearly a full dining room at The Angel Hotel for our luncheon on November 21st. Chairman John Wood welcomed our guest speaker, John Ridgeway, and Michael Skeet. Irene Thomas said Grace and then those present enjoyed a seasonal meal. Chairman John thanked Cleone and the staff for all their wonderful service during the year. Lunch was followed by the Loyal Toast.

The speaker then entertained us all with many slides on the growth and decline of the Halesworth to Southwold narrow gauge railway.

Much work has already

begun on the Southwold to Blythburgh section, where the old track went by the Heronry towards Walberswick and the Golf Club, before ending up at Southwold Station next to the Blyth Hotel, formerly known as the Station Hotel. Whilst much work has been achieved by the volunteers a mountain of work remains. Our Chairman then thanked John for his most interesting talk.

Our next function will be our Christmas Lunch at Halesworth Golf Club on December 5th and our next Coffee Morning will be Tuesday 3rd January.

David Prime.

Yoxford History Group

Formed in 2018, we are a small group adding to the archive which was started by Eileen English, village postmistress from 1947-81.

We have the Horner Archive donated by the family, three generations of whom ran the village shop from 1907-1994 and whose name has been retained. The archives include photos, letters, Horners shop ledgers, newscuttings, books and a few objects.

We have held exhibitions showcasing the collections and our research: Shopping in 20C, schooldays and health and one on WWI relating to the Centenary of the 1918

Armistice. All war casualties have been researched and this is in the Church, alongside the War Memorial.

We compiled an historic walking trail leaflet, available from G&T's Café, Horner's shop and local libraries. We have not been so active since before the pandemic, but now we're full of enthusiasm again!

Do you have any family connections with Yoxford? Did you once live and shop here or attend the village school? Would you like to share your information, memories and/or photos with us? If so, we'd love to hear from you. Please email: history@perry72.plus.com

Trophies won by Wenhaston and members during 2022 season

Successful season for Wenhaston Bowls Club

Wenhaston Bowls Club recently held their AGM after what has been a brilliant season. All of Wenhaston's captains and their chosen teams done very well this season. Kevin 'Wink' Canham lead the Saxmundham and District league team who finished third in the league, Chris Peck and his team finished first in the Lowestoft and District league for the fifth season in a row, Nigel Roberts and his team finished forth in the Bowls England league and Elaine Peck and her team finished first in the Halesworth 3-wood league and were also winners of the league cup.

A big congratulations to those of Wenhaston's players who played in county competitions this year, especially Kim Dyer and Peter Hurren who became national champions in the Senior Pairs category at the National finals in Skegness!

Wenhaston Bowls Club also enjoys social outings as well as the competitive and friendly bowling. In August, members and guests enjoyed a boat trip on the broads to mark the end of the season. It was enjoyed by all.

In November, Wenhaston Bowls Club enjoyed their Annual end of season dinner which was held at the Flixton Buck. £100 was made on the raffle and £50 of that was donated to the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

Everyone from Wenhaston Bowls Club looks forward to the 2023 season. In the meantime, club members regularly gather to play Carpet Bowls during the winter.

If you'd like to join Wenhaston Bowls Club or are thinking of giving carpet bowls or outdoor lawn bowls a go, please contact the club secretary by emailing: jake.moyes9@gmail.com.

Jake Moyes, Secretary

"Thank you Halesworth!" from Edgar Sewter Friends

This festive season, the Friends of Edgar Sewter PTA held the 'Christmas Crackers' raffle, which was hugely successful and raised a brilliant £1,500. This money is going towards funding the refurbishment of a wonderful new library at the school, which will help to support the school in their mission to make reading exciting and accessible to all pupils.

This would not have been possible without the generosity of local businesses, who donated a range of incredible raffle prizes.

The PTA would like to say a big thank you to the businesses listed below and also to everyone who purchased a raffle ticket.

The raffle winners were drawn on Friday 2nd December by Miss Milk the Headteacher. One of the lucky hamper winners was Ashley Elder (a parent of three children at the school) said: "The raffle prize is wonderful, lots of delightful goodies and vouchers from some lovely, local businesses. Thank you to the PTA for their hard work and to all of the local businesses for being so generous."

The PTA is looking forward to organising further fundraising events in 2023, so watch this space!

A huge thank you goes out to: Hetty's Little Copy Shop, Edwards and the Hideout for helping us to sell raffle tickets in town. Also thank you to the Cooperative for allowing us to sell raffle tickets outside the front of their store.

And a big thank you to all of these businesses for the wonderful prizes: Allens Butchers, Edwards Restaurant, High Lodge Shooting School, Halesworth Toy Shop, Hetty's Little Copy Shop, St. Peter's Brewery, Retreat Southwold, Holly Hambling Photography, Purple Pumpkin Creative Studio, Ancient House Bistro, Wotsits, Patrick's Newsagents, Southwold Pantomime, Melons Greengrocer, Densons Jewellers, The Co-operative, Focus Organic, Coopers, Cutlers Hill Pharmacy, The Angel, Cabello, Bramfield Meats, Holton Road Garden Centre, Woodside Christmas Trees, Spexhall Huntsman

and Hounds, Clevely Meats, Halesworth Florist, Halesworth Golf Club, Marina Leisure Centre Great Yarmouth, Norwich Winter Wonderland, Halesworth Pet Shop, Halesworth Fish Mongers, Beccles Pantomime, Beauty@31, Flixton Buck, Gentleman's Row, Leiston Film Theatre, St. Margaret's Catering, Twiggy's Hair Salon, Halesworth Stationers, Blyford Queen's Head, Bungay Fisher Theatre, Durrants and Attik Estate Agents.

If you'd like to get in touch with the PTA, please email: pta@edgarsewterprimary.co.uk

An update from Holton & Blyford Village Hall

Lottery Fund grant: We are in celebration mood at the hall as we have had a Lottery Fund 'Awards for All' grant towards our Flushing Fund. This together with monies from Adnams, Broadway Colours, Spectra Packaging and County Councillor Anette Dunning locality budget means we are close to our goal of £36,000 to renew our sewage system - much needed!

Our residents have been brilliant and contributed to the fund. As has the Parish Council, and we can't thank everyone enough for their generosity. To keep up the flow (we hope), we have several events planned for the end of this year and into 2023.

Christmas Wreath making class: with the Untamed Florist on Friday 16th December at 7:30pm. Just £15, fizz, mince pies, and a creative experience to remember.

Carols and beers: On Saturday 17th December, doors open at 7pm. Our vicar leads lots of carols with Jason on the organ and the bar keeps the beverages of all sorts flowing. Come and have a sing and a seasonal drink.

Burns Night: On Saturday January 21st, Burns Night will return after a three year break.

Celebration of the Bards birthday (a little early this year) will take the shape of a three-course homecooked meal and the traditional

toast will be suitably delivered by Jim Fyfe. Tickets are £20 per person available from Wendy on 01986 872590 but going fast.

Holton Big Breakfast: for January will be on Sunday 8th January from 9am.

Bingo: will be held on Thursday 29th December at 7:30pm. Come and join us.

Early notice: The great, funny and down to earth Charlie Haylock is coming to make us laugh and to explain his part in the film about Sutton Hoo - The Dig. No doubt there will titbits

about Ralph Fiennes! We will be serving supper as part of the evening and aim to make this a most enjoyable event. April 1st 2023 at 7pm is the note for your new diary.

November tote winners: 1st prize: Erica Strange. 2nd: Betty Cole. 3rd: Mr and Mrs Jennings. 4th: Pam Francis. Well done to all winners!

We would like to wish all our users a very happy Christmas and a brilliant new year and thank you most sincerely for your support this year.

189718

would like to explore this interesting opportunity please email the Church Wardens, John Hewlett at jfhewlett@btinternet. com or Chris Knevett at cknevett@btinternet.com

HACT wins Tamsyn Imison award for Community Service

HACT is very proud to have been awarded the Tamsyn Imison award for Community Service, which is a recognition of the services provided during the pandemic of 2021.

HACT was nominated for providing vital services in transporting people to Sole Bay Health Centre to receive their vaccinations as well as helping individuals who needed assistance during that challenging time. The nominators noted how HACT sent the Hoppa to collect residents from outside their homes to limit contact with others and took house-bound residents to doctors and clinics.

We also helped people with their shopping at a time when it was difficult for people to leave their homes.

One of those nominating HACT said: "No other service comes anywhere near to this team, all done by volunteers.

Residents really appreciate this service and would be lost without it. Response to residents' requests is immediate, friendly and effective."

Special note was made of the role played by HACT organiser Julia Howell, whose sympathetic approach to the task was seen as invaluable in keeping the services running. The award was presented on 24th November in the Stables at the Angel.

Pictured receiving the awards from Michael Imison for HACT are David Pring (Chair HACT), Doug Gray (HACT Secretary) and Vicky Harrison (parent driver for Thomas Mills Community Hire).

An update from Cancer Research UK Halesworth branch

On November 26th, we held our Christmas Fair. The committee and our volunteers were absolutely stunned by the success of the event. We are so very grateful that you all come along each time to our fundraising events and you are

always so very generous. We truly couldn't do this without every single one of you, whether you are one of our old friends or new. You all raised the magnificent total of £2609.28.

Thank you!

The fair was attended by our

President Dr Clark and Mrs Clark and Sophia France, Cancer Research's area fundraising manager. The hall looked very Christmassy and was very busy as everyone enjoyed the warm friendly atmosphere as they browsed the stalls and stayed for the delicious lunches.

The committee would like to thank our incredible volunteers. We couldn't put on such a big event without your help. Also the husbands of committee members and volunteers who always get roped in to move furniture, tables, wash up etc. We are immensely grateful to both Cleveleys, and Halesworth Coop for their incredible generosity in supplying most of the food for our lunches. Also Karen Prime (Edwards Restaurant). The delicious desserts were provided by committee members and volunteers.

New year... new you exercise classes

It may be early to be thinking about the new year. Have the intention now and be ready to take steps to improve your physical and mental wellbeing by registering on one of my exercise classes.

My weekly exercise classes at The Cut start anew on Tuesday 10th January at 11:30am with 'Yoga for All'. Thursday classes, 'Stretch & Strengthen', return on

12th January, starting at 5pm.

I also offer gift vouchers which can be redeemed for shiatsu or marma massage or my exercise classes.

Details of classes can be found on my website: www.trishdent. co.uk and you can book and enquire about gift vouchers by emailing: shiatsutrish@ btinternet.com or phone me on 07530 699985.

A huge thank you to the following businesses for sponsoring our raffle: The White Hart Halesworth, Patrick's Newsagents, Morrisons, Halesworth Golf Club, The Angel, Remnants, Mr & Mrs Stephenson Woodside Farm Holton, The Huntsman and Hounds Spexhall, Boutique 14 Halesworth, St. Peter's Brewery and Hillfarm Oils Ltd.

Angela Moore Dip FH MCF HP (surgical) MAFAP (Footcare) MVR Reg.No. 24490 FHP tel: 07900 506611

Framlingham Practice: 26-28 Bridge Street, Framlingham, IP13 9AH Tel: 01728 723651

We'd like to thank Market Fields Holton for their continuing support in providing the beautiful hamper for the "Hamper raffle". The lucky winner was Mr Cadle from Bungay. Saturday nights lottery bonus ball was number 11 so the whiskey bonus ball hamper was won by Carol from Holton. Thank you to Spectra who have sponsored all five of our events in 2022. Also EPS Banners for keeping our banners up to date. Thank you to everyone who donated raffle prizes, baked for us, sent donations or contributed in anyway. Special thanks to Susan Fitch, Maureen Took and Anne Felgate.

2023 diary dates: 18th February: Jumble Sale. 25th March: Breakfast. 20th May: Spring Fair. 23rd/24th June: Street collection TBC. 13th-19th July: I-Chameleon (new event). 14th October: Jumble Sale. 18th November: Christmas Fair. We look forward to seeing you all in 2023. Everyone connected with the Halesworth branch of Cancer Research UK wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Halesworth Community Choir

Halesworth Community Choir is actively seeking new members. We are a friendly 'open access' choir where everything is taught by ear and no experience is necessary. We sing a varied mix of musical styles, probably best described as World Folk. We meet approximately fortnightly on Sunday mornings, usually at The Cut Arts Centre in Halesworth. After Christmas, rehearsals will resume on Sunday 29th January, 10:30am-12:30pm.

If you're interested, please come along to The Cut to see if you like what we sing. You'll receive a warm welcome and your first session is FREE! For further details, please email: halesworth. community.choir@gmail.com

Sophia with Paula from Spectra

Trish Dent

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

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

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

Beccles Warm Rooms:

OTHER SUPPORT AVAILABLE IN BUNGAY

FOR FAMILIES AND YOUNG PEOPLE

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY

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

OTHER SUPPORT AVAILABLE IN BECCLES WARM ROOMS

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

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

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

Bungay Winter Support:

Halesworth Warm Rooms:

Halesworth:

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

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

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

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

Ringsfield, Brampton and Bramfield Schools

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

We have recently had a visit from the local firefighters who brought their fire engine with them for the children to explore. The children enjoyed learning about how firefighters keep us safe, how their fire engine works and they all had a go at using the fire hose. It was very powerful! The children learnt why the siren on the engine needs to be so loud and bright!

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

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

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

or found materials. We went on a lovely walk in nearby Castle Meadow to search for natural objects to make into decorations. We collected acorns, pine cones, holly leaves and sticks. The children were fascinated by how different a pine cone looks before it dries out and we talked about seed dispersal and how clever nature is in ensuring the seeds don't come out until the weather is just perfect for

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

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

Blyth Valley Parkinson's Support Group

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

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

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

12th

1st

Brampton Christingle

Firefighters at Brampton

Police visit to Ringsfield

Finding natural objects at Bramfield

Halesworth Volunteers

With Christmas nearly upon us, it's definitely time to thank everybody who has supported us over the Year. And what a year it has been. We have a new name, changing everything but staying very much the same. And we have won a prestigious national Award.

We would like to thank our fabulous staff team Helen, Kay, Karen and Martha in Bungay. And where would we be without our amazing volunteers: community car drivers, Larder volunteers, Isolation Busters, shoppers, dog walkers and gardeners. We have a brilliant group of nearly 100 volunteers who really make a difference.

It is thanks to all of them that we received the Queens Award for Volunteering. It is particularly poignant to receive this reward this year. We are very proud that we will receive our certificate signed by Her Majesty the Queen.

We would like to thank all the local groups from the Pear Tree Centre, to the Coop Café and Suffolk New College who have hosted lovely tea parties and social events including our wonderful Jubilee Bake off. And where would we be without Julia and the brilliant team at HACT.

And, most importantly, THANK YOU. Halesworth Volunteers would not be the organisation we are without the support that all of you give us. Whether it is people donating food to our Community Larder or local groups and businesses raising funds on our behalf, your donations make such a difference. I wish we could list all the people who have given us donations or gifts over the last year but you know who you are. Thank you so, so much.

And as we approach 2023, we need your support even more. Our Community Car Service provides vital support to get people who can no longer travel independently where they need to be. We can have as many as 5 hospital trips booked on any one day. A donation of just £5 can ensure that we can register someone as a passenger and ensure that we match them to the most appropriate driver every time they need us.

Our Community Larder is open to everybody, please do visit us at St Mary's Church Hall on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays between 10am and 11.30. And your gifts and donations really help us to help the most vulnerable people in our Community.

You can also support us in other ways too. You can become a volunteer, just talk to Karen about the many ways you could make a difference. Just ring Karen on 875600 to find out more.

And tell your friends about Halesworth Volunteers, we offer befriending support, dog walking, shopping and so much more. Just visit our website: www.

halesworthvolunteers.org

Thank you for all you have done to support us this year. Remember if you or someone you know needs help and support, we are here to help. And if we can't help you, we will know someone who can.

Happy Christmas and all best wishes for 2023.

Halesworth festive lights switch-on!

How lucky were we in Halesworth to have such great weather for our first full switch-on event in three years! Festivities round the Christmas tree were opened by the Halesworth Community Choir, followed by the Halesworth Strummers with their ukuleles.

A new addition this year was a choir from Edgar Sewter Primary School who performed beautifully. Last but not least, we were treated to a medley of songs from the Pop Chorus based in Holton Village Hall. Many thanks to all performers for adding to the atmosphere and entertaining the large crowd gathering to welcome Father Christmas.

After 10 months of planning, fundraising and co-ordinating with the local councils, the committee were delighted to see everything come together on the day. This wouldn't have been possible without the hard work of the committee, town council clerks and many individuals.

The town clerks also deserve our thanks for co-ordinating the road closures as does Mickey for putting out the necessary signage.

Just before 5pm, Father Christmas left the Library where he had been well looked after by the library staff. Accompanied by Tim Fitzheigham, Father Christmas boarded the beautifully decorated pony cart very kindly lent by Francis Winters and led by the Band of the Royal British Legion, Leiston he set off up the Thoroughfare pulled by his "reindeer" who had very kindly volunteered for the task.

Adding to the seasonal

atmosphere were various pantomime characters from the forthcoming production of Jack & The Beanstalk at The Fisher Theatre. When the sleigh stopped in the middle of the Thoroughfare, Teresa Walsh, (Chair of HEM) took the opportunity to thank all involved and introduced Rev Dominic Doble who gave a Christmas blessing. Tim Fitzheigham then introduced Miles, who had won the scarecrow trail competition and together they led the crowd in a countdown to switch the lights on. It was the first time the committee had seen the new lights and everyone agreed they were a great new addition to the Thoroughfare. As some of the Christmas tree brackets had been declared unsafe, the new lights are also considerably safer than the Christmas trees previously used. While this year we also managed to fund lights on the one side leading up to the Market Place we hope in 2023 (funds permitting) to add lights on the other side too to help link the Thoroughfare even more to the Market Place. After the switchon, the procession continued up to the Market Place where a bar, refreshments and staging for the band 'The Someone's' had been organised by Ollie Platt. Grateful thanks to Adnams of Southwold who kindly supplied a lorry to be used as a stage.

In the meantime, Father Christmas made his way to St. Mary's Church to take up residence in the grotto organised by the Friends of St. Mary's. The church was also home to various

Musker McIntyre

Musker McIntyre are delighted to add an 'Auction Department' to their Residential Estate Agency and Financial Services Business.

As a forward-thinking company in an ever-changing industry, we feel it is important to add the modern method of 'auctioning a property'.

St. Mary's Handbell

Ringers are back!

The team has had a really successful year after the uncertainty of the previous months, when we were unable to meet for practices or have any bookings. Team numbers have doubled, new music has been 'aired' and the future looks bright!

We applied for a re-start grant from Community Action Suffolk and we're truly grateful to them for this support. The grant enabled us to have our Malmark bells overhauled (thank you Mark), purchase an additional bell and sundry resources.

We held a very successful workshop in Halesworth Library in the spring. People were queuing at the door and joined us in our programme of patriotic and traditional music for this Jubilee year. Another workshop will

have happened by the time this is published, with a programme of seasonal music of course!

We are very busy in the runup to Christmas, with bookings in Lowestoft, Woodbridge and Reydon. It's particularly pleasing to be allowed to entertain residents of care homes once again and we are now taking bookings for 2023. We can tailor our programme to meet your needs; youth and adult groups, residential and care homes, schools and weddings (where maybe the church does not have tower bells).

If you'd like more information or would like to come along to one of our practices, please email: l.sherman654@btinternet.com or call either 01986 798397 or 07789 365229.

We provide a unique approach to selling, offering a FREE service to vendors, no entry fee and no hidden costs. Our commission is paid by the purchaser by means of a buyer's premium.

Jarrod Libby (Auctions Manager) and the team offer monthly online auctions via our nationwide network and all of the properties are listed on Rightmove.

Jarrod says: "The absolute

win, for buyers and sellers alike is the immediate exchange of contracts at the fall of gavel, on unconditional lots, the purchaser will make a payment of the deposit monies with legal completion required within 28 days. The legal work is all prepared prior to sale, avoiding an often long, drawn out legal process after a sale is agreed."

If you are thinking of selling your home and would like to know more about any element of moving, please contact Deborah or Emma on 01986 888205 and we will be happy to discuss this with you!

local charity stalls. As well as all those mentioned above, huge thanks must go to Winston of Pearce & Kemp and all his team who worked tirelessly to make sure the light switch-on went without a hitch. Thanks too to the Market Place and Thoroughfare traders and residents for co-operating with the road closure. We are most grateful too to Halesworth Business Connections for kindly supplying the audio equipment for the event and to Matt Bailey for getting it working successfully. For their support throughout the year, we'd like to thank Halesworth Town Council who gave a generous grant towards the event. Thanks also to Simon and

Cleo at The Angel for providing a monthly meeting room for HEM. Many thanks to Brenda at Just Nice Things for the pop up shop in September. Also thanks to Kevin and Karen at Edwards for their contribution from the successful Scarecrow Festival. Thanks too to Durrants for allowing various stalls to be sited outside Durrants throughout the year.

As you can see, Halesworth Festive Lights is a real community effort to benefit the whole community as well as local traders so finally a huge thank you to everyone who has supported HEM throughout the year in any way. Many thanks the local businesses who have already given a donation to enable our

town to look so festive at this time of year. If you have not yet given, it's not too late, so please contact Gary Stannard at Lovewell Blake if you wish to show your appreciation of our efforts to make the town centre such an attractive place to visit and shop in during the festive season. HEM is a group of local volunteers who work through the year organising the switch on event and raising the funds to make our town look welcoming for the festive season.

If you feel inspired to join us to make the 2023 event (Saturday 18th November 2023) even bigger and better, please look at our Facebook page for details of our first meeting of the year which will be in February.

Linda Sherman

Your museum needs you!

Take a walk along The Thoroughfare in Halesworth on a busy morning and consider just how many people you see... How many different skills, different interests and different personalities, sometimes at a single glance. It might surprise you to learn that it takes just such a spectrum of individuals to keep the award-winning Halesworth & District Museum up and running.

Obviously we do need people with skills in areas such as archiving and historical

research. But you certainly don't need to be a history buff to be a valuable member of the museum team. In fact, the interests of our volunteers go much further, embracing web development, artwork, photography, model making, computer technology, events organisation, marketing, design, working with children, DIY and writing, to name but a few. And there are many volunteers who contribute by staffing the museum during opening hours, welcoming visitors and helping them get

the most out of the time they spend with us. So whatever your interests, Halesworth & District Museum needs you.

Of course, that is just one side of the coin. How might being a volunteer at the museum be of benefit to you? As it happens, the opportunities for the volunteer are as many and varied as the skills needed to keep the museum going. You will certainly meet new people, make new friends and pick up fascinating snippets of local history. You might find you are one of the first people in modern times to handle an old document or artefact and unearth its secrets. You might have a great idea (perhaps for a new display or a special event), then enjoy seeing it put into effect. If you are Halesworth born and bred, you will inevitably enjoy many a trip down memory lane. If you are a relative newcomer, you will go home after each visit

knowing a bit more about what makes Halesworth tick. On the other hand, you might simply appreciate the chance to get out of the house, and leave the heating turned down, while you spend a little while as part of our happy crew.

The time commitment is as small or as large as you wish. You can help at a regular time each week if that suits you, or else fit your volunteering around your other activities.

There really is something for everyone at the museum. If you want to find out more, pop in, or email: office@ halesworthmuseum.org.uk.

Please note: The museum will close on Saturday 17th December at 4pm, and reopen on Tuesday 17th January at 10am. Volunteers will continue to respond to emails and telephone calls, and may be able to arrange group visits, if required, during this time.

Halesworth WI

Our AGM meeting gave us an opportunity to look over our past year. We'd listened to excellent speakers on gardening, medical detection dogs and sung along happily (which I'm sure improved our wellbeing), admired our members own craft work and

a talk on the Pear Tree Centre, which is now a much needed part of the town. We have enjoyed chances to meet up together for friendship and a chat (for which the WI are all experts) and welcomed 12 new members.

We are looking forward to

a carol concert and sharing a Christmas lunch also possibly a chance to shout "He's behind you!" at a pantomime in the new year. We wish our members and all who read this a happy and healthy 2023.

museum

Halesworth & District Museum

A busy morning in the

Halesworth Dementia Carers Fund

100+ Club: We now have nearly 100 members signed up for this and the first draw was held on Monday 14th November.

Chairman of the Halesworth Town Council Rosemary Lewis drew the winning numbers and they were 75 (£80), 31 (£55) and

66 (£30). If you'd like to join our 100+ Club, please contact Anna on 01986 872207.

Film matinee:

Our next film will be 'Mrs Harris goes to Paris', shown on Wednesday 18th January at The Cut. Doors open at 1:45pm for a 2pm start.

Thank you: It's been another very busy year for HDCF and we'd like to thank everyone for their wonderful support during this year. Times are not easy at the moment and we really appreciate all the help and support we get. We'd like to thank all our volunteers, those running the various activities, and The Cut and all those who help with our

film matinees. But a special thanks goes to all those people in the area who give time, bequests and donations to help us with our work.

Jan Cox: It's my very sad duty to inform you of the death of Jan Cox (pictured), dearly loved wife of our Patron, Paddy Cox. She died peacefully at Beech House, where the care and love she received, whilst living with dementia, was exceptional to the very end. Jan was an inspiration to us all in the way she dealt with her dementia. She never lost that amazing positive attitude and incredible smile. She will be terribly missed by family, friends and those that cared for her.

The funeral will be held on Tuesday 20th December at 12 noon at Waveney Crematorium and afterwards at Halesworth

An update from the Pear Tree Fund

The range of support and activities provided by The Pear Tree Fund has significantly increased during 2022. Visitor numbers continue to rise but there is still more work to be done to increase awareness of what we do and how we can help support local people.

Wellbeing activities and peer support groups

We launched men's and women's wellbeing groups earlier in 2022. Both groups have proved popular and continue to grow and flourish. The men's group meets on Monday afternoons and the women's on Tuesday mornings from 10am-12pm. Crafty Chatter meets on Wednesday afternoons, 2pm-3:30pm and raised over £270 for the charity at the recent The Cut Grand Bazaar by selling the items they have been making over the last few months.

Our 'Cooking for One' eightweek course (Thursdays 10am1pm) supports those who have experienced a bereavement through the grief journey by cooking and sharing a meal together with others. It's been a joy to observe the laughter and happiness in the making and eating with new friendships forming on each of the threecourses that ran this year. We're delighted to announce that 'Cooking for One' will continue

in 2023. Tai Chi (Qi Gong) proved so popular and effective in supporting people with longterm health conditions that we now have sessions running on Monday mornings and Friday afternoons.

Kinda Education (Holton) and Pear Tree continue to work in partnership in delivering and developed the 'Elders Wellbeing in the Woods' project (Thursdays 12pm-3pm), offering older people with health conditions opportunities to connect with nature, learn or rediscover skills and build community. Elders Wellbeing is taking a break over January and February but will return in March 2023.

'Hopes and Dreams' is a new dementia reminiscence arts project launching in January 2023 on Saturdays (10am-1pm), supporting people with dementia and their carers to rediscover and relive memories and their shared lives.

'Peer Relief Cancer Support Group' meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month and is open to anyone affected by cancer. A Big C nurse visits the Pear Tree Centre once a month. Call to book an appointment.

Fundraising: Our dedicated volunteer Events Committee organised and

held numerous events throughout the year, raising an impressive £20,000. Highlights included Ladies Lunch at the Wentworth, Open Gardens in Wissett, Dee's Den Fashion Show at Holton, Starters and Puds at Wenhaston and our annual Golf Day at Halesworth Golf Club, at which a record 29 teams played. We are very grateful to all those involved.

The Queen's Head in Bramfield continues to support us as their chosen charity, hitting the milestone this year of having raised a total in excess of £5k for the Pear Tree. 2022 events included a race night which raise £1,600 (returning next year), a TV and film quiz and Rock N' Roll Bingo.

Thanks to Halesworth Golf Club and Club Captain Rob Sherington for selecting us as a chosen charity again this year. Race nights have been a highlight of the year.

Karen Prime (aka Mrs P) of Edwards Restaurant, raised a amazing £3,633 for Pear Tree by completing the 2022 London Marathon in four hours 47 minutes. What an incredible achievement!

We are grateful to Joy of Joy's Junk of Laxfield for her continuing support, raising further funds this year.

Golf Club. We extend our gratitude, and Seasons Greetings to each and everyone.

Thank you to Lowestoft Chorale for partnering with us for the second year to hold a Christmas Concert on Sunday 4th December, 4pm, at St Mary's Church, Halesworth. It provides an opportunity to both raise funds but also reflect and offer thanks for the service and achievements of our volunteers and staff over the year.

Dot Booley is holding her popular annual Christmas Coffee morning fundraiser on Thursday 15th December at Holton Village Hall with coffee, cake and a raffle. Everyone is welcome.

Dee's Den: Dee's Den (our charity shop in Steeple End, Halesworth) is run entirely by volunteers. Thanks to their dedication, commitment, and service, the charity is provided with additional income to provide local support when people need it most. Dee's Den has lots to offer for your Christmas shopping and beyond. Thank you to our amazing shop volunteers. Thank you to all of those who have generously donated to the charity over the last several months.

John Wood.

Aldeburgh Boxing Day swim

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Time to plan your garden

January is a great time to get organised in the garden and make plans for the year ahead. You can start planning what plants you might like to add or seeds you might like to grow in spring and what materials you need to do this, plus what kind of budget you have.

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

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

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

A Christmas message from the Community News team

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Common snowdrops are hardy and fairly easy to grow with many beautiful species to choose from. If you're hoping to create an impressive swathe in your garden then try Galanthus nivalis. It's the most common species because it self-seeds and spreads very quickly, which means you get to enjoy your snowy white display sooner rather than later. Always buy pots of snowdrops 'in the green' (so when they have finished flowering but the leaves are still green and intact). Or you could lift and divide any large clumps from a different location or garden, which would give you a supply of snowdrops

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

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

The RHS gardener's checklist for January:

• Plant bare-rooted trees, shrubs and fruit.

• Check mulches.

• Add scented winter flowering plants.

• Prune apple and pear trees.

• Force rhubarb crowns.

• Avoid compacting your soil by working on wet soil.

• Deadhead container displays.

• Reduce watering of citrus plants.

• Plant forced Christmas hyacinths outdoors.

• Recycle or shred your Christmas tree.

Fressingfield sponsored dog walk returns

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

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

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

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

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

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

The activity sheets usually

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

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

a manger in a stable.

If you have or look after a child/children of pre-school age and would like to receive our sheets, please give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you. Best wishes for the new year. If you'd like further information, please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows on 01473 625196.

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

Woodbridge Museum

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

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

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

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

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

For further information about Friday talks, contact 01394 585572.

Christmas services across the Blyth

Valley Churches

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

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

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

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

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

Mallard Fencing

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

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

Free quotation and professional advice.

Tel. 07858 912558

Bright Stars

Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)

Halesworth in Bloom horticultural excellence awards and the Tamsyn Imison award for Community Service

The 2022 Halesworth in Bloom Awards for horticultural excellence and the Tamsyn Imison Award for Community Service were presented in a joint ceremony in the welcoming atmosphere of the Angel Stables, Halesworth, at lunchtime on 24th November. The Green House Suffolk decorated the venue with some beautiful plants from their Halesworth shop.

The Tamsyn Imison Award for Community Service was selected by the Town Council from nominations by the public. The Award went to Halesworth Area Community Transport (HACT).

In presenting the award, Michael Imison (whose late wife Tamsyn donated the award and founded Halesworth in Bloom) quoted from two of the nominations: "Not only did HACT provide vital transport throughout the pandemic, but also personal contact, vital for people who could not get out. All the drivers are volunteers. The office was run extremely well by Julia, her sympathetic approach to the task was invaluable. A happy team made all the difference to lives which often struggled through a spate of bus failing and damage to engines". Unfortunately, Julia Howell (who manages HACT) was unable to attend and the award was accepted by Dave Pring, Chairman of HACT.

Nomination forms for next year's Tamsyn Imison Award for Community Service will be available at Halesworth Library from 1st January 2023.

Michael Imison also presented

Halesworth in Bloom's awards. After the enforced break of the past three years, business floral frontages and allotments were judged in July this year. The Lesley Pyke trophy for Best Business Floral Frontage went to Norton Peskett Solicitors.

The judges commented: "Their colourful planting still looks good but importantly has performed throughout most of the year."

Highly commended certificates were presented to Densons Jewellers, Hunky Dory and ASD.

The Lesley Pyke trophy for Best Newcomer Business Floral Frontage was awarded to Harrison & Co (Vicky Harrison). "Two very stylish planters outside this brand new business."

A special Certificate of Excellence for the Market Place

was presented to SeligSuffolk Skincare (Carol Griffin). "Very creative use of a tiny space, unusual plants, plus colourful window boxes at the first-floor window overhanging the fish shop window."

The Lesley Pyke trophy for Best Allotment went to Lin and Harry Batey (Saxons Way site). "A lot of hard work and dedication has gone into this plot... The plants on it are well cared for and there is a nice mix of veggies and flowers."

Highly Commended certificates were awarded to two plots from each of the Council allotment sites. Saxons Way: Eric and Stella Dobson and David and Anita Graves; Swan Lane: Ian and Tina McAllister and Peter Noble; Bedingfield: Alan Goodchild and Martin Forder.

Different hands

When Ira Gillett, a missionary to East Africa, returned home to report on his activities overseas, he related an interesting occurrence.

Repeatedly, Gillett had noticed how groups of Africans would walk past government hospitals and travel many extra miles to receive medical treatment at the missionary compound. He finally asked a particular group why they walked the extra distance when the same treatments were available at the government clinics. The reply: “The medicines may be the same but the hands are different.”

Hands belong to people and so there was something about the people at the missionary compound which made the Africans want to go there to get their treatment instead of the Government Clinic. Did

those hands belong to people who were genuinely interested in showing kindness and concern to the people they helped?

When I was a child, I loved going to my grans for tea. Gran was a lady with a big heart. She was always interested in hearing about what I’d been doing: “How is school going?” “What did you do at the weekend?” Gran’s interest made me feel I was worth something, I had value.

We can only speculate why those hands were so different which made the people walk the extra miles for their medicine. Perhaps the warmth and kindness with which they received the medicine gave them a sense of self-worth and self-respect they hadn’t received elsewhere.

To God, our value is 10 out of 10. Jesus showed people their value by giving them His time, even those mainstream

society didn’t consider to be of any importance. His disciples got a little annoyed at times with people pestering Him, they tried to stop the children coming to see Him but Jesus told them off, He considered everyone, even little children, to be valuable.

We start 2023 with the hope of something new but during the first day may come trials and frustrations to squash our optimism; an illness, an argument, financial strain, a misguided remark by a colleague or friend. Just getting up to face more of the same can prove difficult. Our hopes and aspirations are threatened, even crushed. Our circumstances affect how we feel; why does this always happen to me? Feelings are hard to bear, we can squash them down and shut the lid tight or we may project them onto others in anger and bitterness;

the unsuspecting lady at the checkout who gets the full force of our pent-up frustration because we couldn’t find the teabags. Feelings of guilt, embarrassment or injustice may mean we withdraw from those around us and society in general. Our self-worth takes a nosedive.

Whatever it is that happens to us this year, in God’s eyes it doesn’t deplete our value, we start the year with an intrinsic value of 10 out of 10 and finish the year 10 out of 10. If we really let this register deep within our hearts and started living out our true worth, this year we might become those ‘different hands’. Perhaps that should be our New Years challenge...

Jenny, www.halesworthcommunity church.org

Michael Imison with representatives of the business floral frontage winners: Densons Jewellers, Harrison & Co, ASD, Norton Peskett Solicitors and SeligSuffolk

Merry Christmas from Martlesham Brass

next month.

We hope that you were able to hear Martlesham Brass over the Christmas period - our players were raising funds for our nominated charities, which were St Elizabeth Hospice, Suffolk Accident Rescue Service (SARS) and East Anglian Air Ambulance. We will report the amount raised

Looking forward into February, we have a concert on Sunday 5th February 2023. There will be more details next month.

If you feel you'd like to learn to play a brass instrument, or if you already play and would be interested in joining us, please email join@martleshambrass. co.uk. Please note, we operate a waiting list for new members.

Halesworth and District u3a seasonal news

We wish all our u3a members and friends a very happy festive season and every good wish for the New Year 2023.

In January we look forward to an interesting afternoon at The Cut on Tuesday 17th January starting at 14:30 when we will welcome Malcolm Knott. We are promised entertaining tales about his life as a lawyer and a circuit judge travelling around the country to dispense justice.

There is no charge for u3a members to our talks at The Cut; friends and visitors will be very welcome for an entrance fee of £4. We look forward to welcoming you to our first talk of 2023.

November was pretty memorable for Halesworth & District u3a members. First we were treated to an excellent illustrated talk with artist and printmaker Angela Harding who visited The Cut at our invitation

Angela was interviewed for the launch of her new book "Wild Light" by Catherine Larner (moreaboutbooks. com) the Suffolk journalist.

Abbie Clements of Halesworth Bookshop was also on hand to ensure that there were plenty of books for Angela to sign.

The 29th November saw 46 members enjoy our postponed coach trip to the newly refurbished and much extended Gainsborough House and Gallery in Sudbury. Following an interesting and enthusiastic talk and welcome by Liz Cooper we were free to explore these now quite remarkable buildings and the garden. Not only does the museum have more of Gainsborough's paintings than anywhere else; with examples spanning his whole career, there is also the first of the

temporary exhibitions in a new gallery. This special exhibition displayed mostly early 20th century Flemish paintings and sculpture by artists unfamiliar to most visitors and was a real revelation and delight. Helpful and knowledgeable but not over intrusive volunteers were on hand in most rooms to explain the art and other exhibits. A pleasant lunch and/or afternoon tea in the new Cafe along with a visit by some to the gift shop for unusual Christmas presents rounded off an excellent day. Further information can be found at https://gainsborough.org/

If you are interested in joining the u3a please visit our Halesworth and District u3a website for more information or come along to our next members coffee hour at The Cut; 11:00 am on Friday 27th January 2023.

Gainsborough portrait

Malcolm Knott - u3a speaker on January 17th

Von Rysselberghe Golden Dusk on the River Scheldt as part of her nationwide tour.