It's been a busy and productive half term of Scouting in Halesworth. Across the sections, young people have been enjoying the unique experiences that Scouts offers.
The Beavers (ages 6-8) have completed their 'Emergency Aid' badge, learning how to get help, what to say when you call 999, and how to help someone who is unconscious or bleeding. They have enjoyed creating spooky chocolate apples, and playing games at the Hallowe'en party, looking amazing in their awesome fancy dress!
The Cubs (ages 8-10.5) have been working towards their 'Personal Safety' badge, covering important topics such as online
safety, how to choose a safe place to play and learning safety codes. Before the summer holiday, the Cubs also enjoyed a trip to the fire station, and we thank the Fire Service for hosting us.
The Scouts (ages 10.5-14) have been developing their Scouting skills, having learned map skills before completing a 4.5-mile hike towards Chediston. They've also completed pioneering and are gearing up to camp at Eaton Vale during half term. During the summer break, the Scouts had a fantastic time exploring in Snowdonia. From camping, to hiking, to climbing, they truly had an adventure!
Opportunities like these are only possible due to our
volunteers. We're looking for more support in both Leader and Trustee roles, whether you could volunteer an hour a week, or an hour a month, we would love to hear from you. As the festive season approaches, don't forget to use the Scout Christmas Post to send your cards. We'll also be at the Christmas Light Switch On with a table in St. Mary's, so please come and say hello! Matt Bailey (Group Lead Volunteer), matt.bailey@ suffolkscouts.org.uk
News from Dee's Den Charity Shop
We have had another successful week in the pop-up shop at i-Chameleon. On sale was a range of items including coats and clothes from the fashion show.
We're awaiting the final amount, but we had a good week in the centre of town during scarecrow week. 'Mary Poppins' made an appearance at i-Chameleon, put together under the guidance of Val and the ladies' group at the Pear Tree Centre.
At Dee's Den, a pirate scarecrow guarded the door of the shop! Thank you to Lynda, Sylvia and Joan for your great efforts!
We're starting to put Christmas decorations and cards out for sale and Sue will be starting the Christmas tombola on December 1st. Any suitable items would be very welcome.
We're holding a Jumble Sale on November 30th in St. Mary's Church, from 10am-12pm. Tea/ coffee/cakes will be available and also a hamper raffle. Please come and support us and pick up some great bargains!
We now have our winter stock of warmer clothes, coats, boots and slippers included! We'll be having a rail of sparkly clothes suitable for the festive season including clothes from Valerie's, clothes for men and ladies to attend a Christmas Ball and the 'must have' Christmas jumpers.
We have a wide range of clothes to suit people of all ages as well as beautiful accessories, jewellery, belts, handbags and scarves to complete your outfit.
We welcome donations of clean, saleable items (clothes, bric-a-brac, toys, games, small pieces of furniture etc). Small amounts of donations can be dropped off at the shop when we're open. If you have more than a couple of bags/boxes to donate, please let us know and deliver on a Monday/Thursday morning to the sorting-end of the shop, where we have extra volunteers on duty. If you're unable to deliver, we can collect. Please note: We do not accept used electrical items, only new and boxed.
We have an amazing team of willing volunteers who work in the shop, donating their time to the charity. If you're interested in volunteering, do call in and leave your number, so we can get in touch with you.
Thank you for your continued support of buying and donating your pre-loved goods and items, we really appreciate it.
To contact Dee's Den, please phone Nikki on: 07733 668221.
We have a great selection of; toys and games (including board games), jigsaws (all checked), perfect for the longer evenings indoors, books on every subject by many different authors, homewares, as well as several small pieces of furniture, plants and delicious homemade marmalade (thank you to Jenny). Everyone is welcome at Dee's Den! Come and browse for that special bargain, with a discounted £1 rail of adult's clothes. We also have bargain baskets of reduced bric-a-brac and books. We're now open six days a week, Monday to Saturday 10am-1pm.
The Cubs enjoyed a trip to the fire station. Thank you to the Fire Service for hosting us
2nd Halesworth Brownies Long Service Award
October 15th was a very special evening for us. We were joined by our District Commissioner, Jenny Allen for our Penguin Party! Jenny presented Sheila Dunce (also known as 'Penguin' at Brownies) with her 40-year, long service award.
Sheila set up 2nd Halesworth Brownies (along with Alison Nichols) back in 1984, and has continued to volunteer as
a Brownie leader for over 40 years. Thank you Sheila, for all you have done for Girlguiding and for the opportunity you have given to so many girls over the years to have fun and adventures, to make lasting friendships and learn new skills.
We celebrated all things 'Penguin' at our party, and Penguin helped us to make penguins out of socks, which was good fun. We also enjoyed penguin cake (made by Sheila) and treats to take home.
We are planning a celebration of our 40th anniversary, which will now be in spring of next year. We'll keep you updated with arrangements nearer the time.
This term, we've said goodbye to Rose, Molly and Nieve. We hope you have enjoyed your time with us and wish you all well in your new adventures. We have welcomed Martha and Sofia so far this term and we hope you'll both enjoy being Brownies.
We have been busy since we started back in September.
The girls have made feeders for the birds, designed harvest bookmarks, which we took into church for members of the congregation to use, we have written prayers for our prayer book, and started to think about our Christmas tree decorations for the tree at Cutlers Hill Surgery and the Christmas Tree Festival at St. Mary's Church, keep an eye out for our creations. We have lots planned for next half term, including a firework party, Christmas crafts and a Christmas party on the last evening of term. Thank you to the Wish Group for donating some of their craft items they no longer need, we will put everything to good use. Finally, a big thank you to Reverend Jon Sermon and the United Reformed Church for continuing to host us in the upstairs room, which we greatly appreciate.
Sheila, Karen and Sarah
'Hexachordia' will be performing at
Seasons greetings from Halesworth U3A
At this time of year, our U3A
successful AGM in October at which several new committee members were appointed. We now look forward to another U3A year of enjoyable, sociable and educational activities under the leadership of the new committee.
On December 17th, we'll be celebrating the festive season at our meeting at The Cut, in Halesworth where 'Hexachordia' will be entertaining us using a selection of musical instruments from medieval times to illustrate how music was part of Christmas celebrations in the past. The trio play a range of authentic copies of old instruments including the gittern, vielle, crumhorn, lute, viol and recorder. Many of today's seasonal carols have their origins in the Medieval and Tudor eras, and so while the instruments Hexachordia play may be unusual, some of the tunes may be very familiar.
The entertainment will start at The Cut Arts Centre, Halesworth at 2:30pm and will be followed by a Christmas Social for our U3A members.
Halesworth in Bloom's half term helpers
Halesworth & District Gardeners
Society news
December 19th is the date of our next meeting at the Rifle Hall (London Road, Halesworth, IP19 8LR). This will be our Christmas meeting where we'll have entertainment from The Rum Old Boys singing sea shanties, with all proceeds going to the East Anglia Air Ambulance. There will also be our famous quiz! Can everyone please bring a plate of food and their own drinks. Doors open at 7pm for a 7:30pm start.
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the Committee for all their hard work and enthusiasm
that keeps the club going. Special thanks go to Marion Medhurst who will be leaving the Committee. Alongside her husband Brian, the couple have worked hard for several years to help keep the club going. We owe you a very big debt of gratitude.
Details of all our activities can be found on our Facebook page and the notice board outside Coopers in the Thoroughfare, Halesworth or call our Club Secretary Brian Hammond on: 01986 872712. Our first meeting in 2025 will be in March.
Happy gardening, Adrian
savoury) and a Secret Santa present costing no more than £5. The Flower Club will provide the drinks. Our Christmas Party is one of the few times that we can relax, chat with friends and eat delicious food and we all look forward to it. The Flower Club would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a healthy New Year. For more information, please contact Jackie Chenery on 01502 478401.
Volunteers clearing and planting along Station Road with the help of our wonderful new Hibbers, Abbie and Maisie, who were spending half term with their Nanny, Sarah.
M.DANIELS (Sid)
Karl Andrews Painter & Decorator
JAMES MILLER ELECTRICAL
Winter garden watch
Simple tips to support wildlife and prep for spring
For many, December is a time to enjoy the garden from the comfort of your home, but there are still jobs you can do to ensure your wildlife survives the winter.
Even in the smallest garden, it's possible to provide food, water and shelter from bad weather for common garden birds. If you have a balcony or small patio, make sure hanging feeders are topped up. Birds will start to venture closer to the house as food supplies run out. In colder weather, cut a branch from a conifer and lay it on the ground to make an 'umbrella' that keeps an area free from frost and allows birds to find insects.
As much as you may like to, it's not a good time to remove or severely prune evergreens or shrubs with berries or hips as these provide more than just food for birds and mammals. Insects, including ladybirds, take cover in dense conifers which are also populated by smaller birds such as wrens for roosting on cold nights. So before you start any major winter garden activities, take into account the disturbance to wildlife it may cause.
However, if you have evergreens and shrubs in your garden, then you can make natural seasonal decorations for free by gathering your own greenery.
Simply cut some berries and foliage to use in arrangements, door wreaths and banister swags. Prepare cut stems by putting them straight into a bucket of room-temperature water for a couple of hours, then cut them all again and crush the ends before giving them another soak in fresh
water. Harvest whole cotoneaster branches or springs of berries to wire into wreaths (watch out for thorns if using pyracantha with its prolific berries ranging from pale yellow through to rich red), holly berries with foliage provide the best effect in festive arrangements and can be coupled with shrubby shoots of ivy for a classic display.
Once you've taken your pick for seasonal decorations, you can always increase your stock for the coming years by taking some hardwood cuttings - one of the top jobs for gardeners this month:
• Hardwood cuttings provide an easy and reliable method of propagating a range of deciduous climbers, trees and shrubs and they can be taken from mid-autumn until late winter when more time is usually available to gardeners. Some evergreen plants (hollies for example) can also be taken at the same time of year as other hardwood cuttings.
• Check your winter protection structures are still securely in place. Cold, wet, windy winter weather can damage trees, shrubs and garden structures
such as trellis. Improving shelter, staking plants, mulching, wrapping pots and careful matching of plants to places will help to prevent this kind of damage.
• Insulate outdoor taps and prevent ponds from freezing. If your pond is stocked with fish and it does freeze over, melt the ice by placing a hot pan on the surface, or install a pond heater or water feature.
Plus, here's what the experts have to say...
"As we approach the shortest day of the year in December, you will need work to keep warm outside - digging and tree pruning. Check your winter protection and if you have a greenhouse make sure the heater is working. Hopefully there are not too many jobs left to do this year so you will have time for some fireside garden planning."
- RHS
"As winter starts to bite, it's time to cover tender plants to protect them from frost damage and enjoy the dark nights. Most pests will be inactive in cold spells, but it's still worth checking for slugs and snails in sheltered
Halesworth WI news
Members welcomed back our speaker, Helen Hayes, who updated us on her 'Music for Wellbeing'. Now, classes have expanded to include music for festivals, high schools and Swell Music at the Seagull Theatre.
Helen realised how much music matters to everyone. It's also been proved that singing benefits the autistic, asthma sufferers and (following Covid) helps those with breathing and lung problems.
their partners and carers can join in and enjoy the stimulation of singing and playing musical instruments together.
places, such as empty pots in the cold frame or greenhouse."
- Garden Organic
"The smell of a winter spruce, the warming taste of a spiced mulled wine and a seasonal wreath hanging from the front door; there's no doubt the festive season is upon us. This may be the darkest month, but it won't be long before the days begin to unfurl, lighting the way to spring. For many of us, it's a time to reflect on the year's gardening successes and failures as well as thinking about what we'll do differently next season."
She takes classes for dementia, stroke and Parkinson groups at Holton Village Hall, where they,
Helen is online once a fortnight with 'Lift your Lung's Choir'. This started up in the pandemic and has proved very popular with participants from far and wide. We then took part in some breathing exercises before joining in a singsong accompanied with a variety of small musical instruments. We all agreed, singing is good for your health and finished feeling energised.
- Country Living
ACGuttering 07463 163632 01502 588511
Gutter cleaning using Skyvac from £60 Traditional window cleaning from £12 Conservatories, Soffits, Fascias & Guttering Jet Washing. Let us help! We can keep on top of your maintenance jobs!
Holly berries with foliage provide the best effect in festive arrangements and can be coupled with shrubby shoots of ivy for a classic display
Insulate outdoor taps this winter to prevent freezing
NOVEMBER 22ND
Friday evening with Lucy Hughes-Hallett
DECEMBER 4TH
Quiet Morning
Wrentham Chapel, NR34 7LT
Halesworth Bookshop
cards, bags, sweets, jewellery & more. Food & drinks, delicious mulled wine, Christmas pizza & FREE mince pies. Children will also be able to post Christmas letters to Santa. See our advert below.
Christmas lights are going on near you!
Christmas lights are going on near you!
10am-1pm. Join us for a quiet time to prepare for Christmas. An opportunity for quiet reflection through solitude/writing/drawing/ being. Hot drinks/mince pies etc available & those who would like to stay longer may bring a packed lunch. Heated Chapel with toilet facilities. Details from Ian 01502 562768.
DECEMBER 7TH
Christmas Party Night
Halesworth Golf Club
7pm. Award-winning author Lucy HughesHallett will be with us, discussing her latest historical title 'The Scapegoat'. Lucy will be in conversation with editor/publisher & good friend of Halesworth Bookshop, Elizabeth Burke, a magical pairing. An evening not to be missed!
DECEMBER 4TH
Saturday 23rd November @ 5pm
Halesw th: Saturday 23rd November @ 5pm
DECEMBER 1ST
Art Club
Saturday 23rd November @ 4:30pm
Bungay: Saturday 23rd November @ 4:30pm
Halesworth Harmony Rehearsal
The Cut, Halesworth
Friday 29th November @ 6pm
Beccles: Friday 29th November @ 6pm
Saturday 30th November @ 5pm
Southwold: Saturday 30th November @ 5pm
Saturday 30th November @ 12pm-6pm
Harleston: Saturday 30th November @ 12pm-6pm
10:30am-12:30pm. New members welcome. No experience necessary, everything taught by ear. First session is a free taster. For further details, email: halesworth.harmony@gmail.com
DECEMBER 1ST
Writers Group
The Green House, 6 Thoroughfare, Halesworth 2pm-4pm. Come & be part of this warm & welcoming group, facilitated by local writer, Katie Flaxman. £14pp. Pop in to book, call 01986 513177, or email: hello@thegreenhousesuffolk.co.uk
DECEMBER 3RD
Café & Catch Up Social (16+)
Chinny's (Events Room), IP19 8BX 12pm-2pm. Hosted by NHS Talking Therapies & Halesworth Volunteers on the first Tuesday of the month. This is not a therapy session. An opportunity to meet with like-minded others in a relaxed environment. Join us for a cuppa & a chat.
DECEMBER 3RD
Castleton Brass Band
Christmas Concert
Brockdish Village Hall, Scole Road, Diss 7:30pm. Brockdish Christmas Concert. A diverse repertoire of Christmas hits. Under the direction of newly-appointed conductor Sam Salmon, the band will perform a selection of works that showcase their exceptional talent & passion for brass band music.
The Green House, 6 Thoroughfare, Halesworth 7pm-9pm. Relaxed & friendly art classes with local wildlife artist Sara Sayer, BYO sketchbook & pensils, other/extra materials available. Different theme each week. £20pp per class. Pop in to book, call 01986 513177, or email: hello@thegreenhousesuffolk.co.uk
DECEMBER 6TH
'Awake Arise'
A Christmas Show For Our Times
St. Mary's Church, Halesworth Doors & bar opens 6:30pm for 7:30pm show start. Join us for an unforgettable evening! Lady Maisery with Jimmy Aldridge & Sid Goldsmith. Tickets: £20pp from Eventbrite/ Halesworth Bookshop or call: 07572 872512.
DECEMBER 7TH
Southwold Makers Market
URC Hall, Southwold 10am-4pm. Artisan craft market featuring a niche selection of local crafters & artists, held on selected Saturdays throughout the year. The selection of stallholders changes for each event, so no 2 markets are exactly the same. Do come in, you never know what you might find! www.southwoldmakersmarket.co.uk
DECEMBER 7TH
Christmas Fair
Bramfield Village Hall
11am-2:30pm. See our advert on page 9.
DECEMBER 7TH
Halesworth Christmas Market
Halesworth Market Place
2pm-6pm. Stalls selling a variety of products incl. wreaths, candles, clothing, skincare,
Doors open 6:30pm, midnight finish. Festive canapés & fizz on arrival, 2-course Christmas meal & live band. Tickets only available in adv. from the bar. £45.50pp for members, £49.50pp for non-members. 01986 875567. info@halesworthgc.co.uk
DECEMBER 7TH
Musical Spectacular
Holton Village Hall 7:30pm. Spend a fun evening, being entertained by local musicians, in aid of a worthwhile local cause. Acts incl.: Halesworth Ukulele Band, Blyth River Blues Band, Feast, Bollywood Core Dancers & OffCut Singers. There will also be a bar & grand raffle with all proceeds to Halesworth Dementia Carers Fund. Tickets available from Hetty's Little Copy Shop or on the door, (if not sold out). More info from John: 01986 835859.
DECEMBER 7TH
Christmas Sparkle Concert with Suffolk Constabulary Male Voice Choir Eye Town Hall, Broad Street 7:30pm. Castleton Brass Band Christmas Concert. A diverse repertoire of Christmas hits. Under the direction of newly-appointed conductor Sam Salmon, the band will perform a selection of works that showcase their exceptional talent & passion for brass band music.
DECEMBER 11TH
Vindication Swim (PG) Southwold Arts Centre 3pm. Biography/drama from 2024. Tickets £5pp incl. refreshments. Book tickets online: www.southwoldartscentre.co.uk or call: 01502 722572
DECEMBER 11TH
Cædmon at Christmas
Wrentham Chapel, NR34 7LT
7pm. All welcome! Seasonal celebration in music, word & song. Programme consists of items performed by some of the audience on a 'Bring & Share' basis. Wine, soft drinks & light buffet during interval. No charge, donations to Christian Aid welcome. Celebrate winter, Yuletide, Solstice, Christmas in style! Contact Sue: 07771 882738
DECEMBER 12TH
Dot's Christmas Coffee Morning
Holton Village Hall Pear Tree Fund event. For more info, please contact Juliette (Community Fundraiser) on: juliette.weaver@peartreefund. org or call: 07425 664615.
DECEMBER 12TH
Scrabble Club
Southwold Library
2:15pm. 2nd Thurs every month. All equipment supplied. Refreshments.
DECEMBER 13TH
Friday evening with Joy Bounds
Halesworth Bookshop
7pm. Joy will be in conversation, discussing her historical fiction title 'Shining Threads', based on the life of composer Ethel Smyth.
WHATS ON?
An inspiring story of hope & determination in the face of many obstacles, shining a light on an overlooked, pioneering composer.
DECEMBER 14TH
Carols
Henstead Arts & Craft Centre
12pm. Carols from the Old School Henstead Choir.
DECEMBER 14TH
Christmas Party Night
Halesworth Golf Club
Doors open 6:30pm, midnight finish. Festive canapés, fizz on arrival, 2-course Christmas meal & live band. Tickets only available in adv. from the bar. £45.50pp for members, £49.50pp for non-members. 01986 875567. info@halesworthgc.co.uk
DECEMBER 14TH
Black Tie Christmas Dance & Buffet
The Rifle Hall, Halesworth Pear Tree Fund event. For more info, please contact Juliette Weaver (Community Fundraiser) on juliette.weaver@peartreefund. org or call: 07425 664615.
DECEMBER 14TH & 15TH
Victorian Christmas Event
Henstead Arts & Craft Centre
10am-4pm. Local crafters in the courtyard, Santa in his Grotto. Georgie Deyn jazz singer from 2pm-3pm & Afternoon Tea from
3pm-5pm (bookings only).
DECEMBER 15TH
Halesworth Harmony
Rehearsal
The Hub, Huntingfield
10:30am-12:30pm. New members welcome. No experience is necessary. Everything's taught by ear, and your first session is a free taster. More info, email: halesworth. harmony@gmail.com
DECEMBER 15TH
Sociable Sundays Halesworth Library 10:30am-12:30pm. Ever find Sunday mornings dull? Don't stay at home, come & join us! Meet new people, enjoy good conversation & have coffee & cake! (Suggested £1pp donation to Friends of Halesworth Library is appreciated). No need to book. Need a lift or have a question? Call 01986 874292.
DECEMBER 16TH
Ian Collins
Halesworth Bookshop 11am. Signing copies of his new biography 'Blythe Spirit', The Remarkable Life of Ronald Blythe. This Suffolk saga is not to be missed. A perfect gift this Christmas!
DECEMBER 17TH
Castleton Brass Band
Christmas Concert
Pulham Market, Diss 7:30pm. Pulham Market Christmas Concert. A diverse repertoire of Christmas hits. Under the direction of newlyappointed conductor Sam Salmon, the band will perform a selection of works that showcase their exceptional talent & passion for brass band music.
BRAMFIELD VILLAGE HALL CHRISTMAS FAIR
SATURDAY 7th DECEMBER 11am-2:30pm
TURKEY ROLLS
MULLED WINE STALLS
DECEMBER 19TH
'The Lords of the Manor of Southwold & Castle' talk by Andrew Wallington-Smith Stella Peskett Hall, Southwold 3pm. Andrew's diverse historical interests cover heraldry, mediaeval Scotland, local history & more. He's also acquired the unofficial role of Recorder of St. Edmund's Churchyard & conducts Church & Churchyard tours. Admission for Society Members £5pp. Guests: £8pp. DECEMBER 21ST & 22ND Santa Henstead Arts & Craft Centre 9am-10am: Breakfast with Santa (bookings only) 10am-4pm: Santa in his Grotto.
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.
call 07932 725330 email: donnapagnier@yahoo.co.uk
Neat Feet
“PROFeSSIONaL FOOt caRe” in your own home
Angela Moore
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Dip FH MCF HP (surgical) MAFAP (Footcare)
MVR Reg.No. 24490 FHP tel: 07900 506611
HOOKER HOUSE DENTAL PRACTICE
Serving the community
• Professional and Caring
• NHS and Private Treatment for Adults and Children
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Dental Implants
Quay Street, Halesworth 01986 872113
Daniel F M Evans B.D.S., M.F.G.D.P.
SUE ROBERTS
MA, MBACP (Accred) UKRCF COUNSELLOR
The Harmony Centre 01986 784500 sue.poplars@myphone.coop
Victor and Layla are waiting for you in their
News from the Halesworth branch of Cancer Research UK
We have continued to be busy in October with our very popular Jumble Sale on October 19th.
This time, it turned out to be a mammoth event and we were overwhelmed by the generosity of everyone who donated such good quality items. There were bargains to be found on all the stalls and the clothes rails with some lovely ladies, men's and children's clothing.
Jane in the kitchen for keeping everyone supplied with teas, coffees and the wonderful selection of cakes which we hope you all enjoyed.
Oaklands House Care Home Lowestoft Road, Southwold, IP18 6RY
Later life can be enjoyed in style at our hotel-style care home, where a happy and homely atmosphere prevails. Our warm and experienced care team always put residents’ wellbeing at the heart of everything they do.
Call 01502 447722 healthcarehomes.co.uk 184675
• Private indoor pool, exclusive use
• Always warm, min. 30˚C
• Booking flexibility (subject to T +C)
• Minimum 4 sessions
• Discount for more sessions
• Ideal exercise, hydrotherapy or relaxation
• Only1 mile from Halesworth View video at www.valleyfarmholton.co.uk
Details: 01986 874521
mail@valleyfarmholton.co.uk
UBBESTON LODGE
UBBESTON LODGE
SWIMMING POOL
SWIMMING POOL
At the end of the sale, because of the huge amount of items left, we did a one-off, impromptu 'fill a carrier bag for £1' which raised a little more and helped us achieve an incredible £1,351.95. Which includes £82.47 from the sale of Cancer Research Christmas Cards.
Looking to keep fit or have some fun family time?
Looking to keep fit or have some fun family time?
• Indoor Pool heated all year round
• Indoor poolHeated all year round
Thank you to Halesworth Coop for very generously donating a magnificent hamper for our raffle which raised £174 and was won by Mr & Mrs Petchy from Halesworth, who were absolutely delighted with their prize. The Halloween bucket kindly donated by Morrisons was won by volunteer Gill. A third prize mysteriously appeared on the raffle table and nobody seems to know where it came from, so whoever donated it, thank you very much, it was very kind of you. This prize was claimed by a lady in the hall as we drew the raffle.
If you missed our jumble sale this time, our next one is in February and if you feel like having a sort out in the New Year, please think of us as we're always grateful for nice saleable items.
• Exclusive use for groups of up to 8
• Exclusive use for groups of up to 6
• Private Changing Rooms - equipped with loos, showers and hair dryers
• Underfloor heating throughout
• Private changing rooms equipped with toilets and showers
• Playpen
• Underfloor heating throughout
Please email or call for availability and further details: pool@ubbestonlodge.co.uk or 01986 799 007
(off the B1117 in Ubbeston, near Laxfield)
Please view the website for availability, booking, and further details: pool@ubbestonlodge.co.uk www.ubbestonlodge.co.uk 01986 799 007
(off the B1117 in Ubbeston, near Laxfield)
Thank you to Nikki and
Our next event is our Christmas Fair on November 23rd in Holton Village Hall from 10:30am-2pm. Please come and have lunch, which are serving from 11:30am. We're again doing soup with crusty bread
or a roll, a choice of two mains (lasagna/jacket potatoes) and of course, delicious desserts at the very reasonable price of £2.50 for a portion of soup or a dessert and £5 for a main. £9.50 for 3 courses, £7 for 2 courses. We will, as usual, be serving tea/coffee and festive mince pies from 10:30am. The jam jars of flowers on the dining tables are for sale. Please take one home with you, and put a little donation in the goblet on the Cancer Research Christmas Card stall. Our Cancer Research cards will be on sale again. If you and a friend just come along to our events to catch up over a cup of tea, you're contributing to the incredible ground breaking work at Cancer Research UK. Today's research is tomorrow's cure and together we will beat cancer. Thank you all for supporting us. For more information please contact, Dawn Davis on: 01986 873640
Valerie, Jenny and Gill setting up the ladies clothes stall
• Crispy Smoked Haddock, Prawn & Herb Fishcake, Wilted Spinach & Winter Greens, Soft Poached Egg & Herb Butter Sauce
• Pan-Roast Supreme of Suffolk Free-Range Chicken, Herb & Salt-Baked Winter Vegetable Pearl Barley Risotto & Parsnip Crisps
One of the best things about this time of year has to be the opportunity to get together with family, friends, neighbours and colleagues, put your party outfit on and enjoy some good food and a glass or two of your favourite tipple. Throughout December, our local pubs, restaurants, cafés and hotels will be running delicious festive menus, special dishes and themed nights, giving us all an excuse to get your group together and have a night out. We are fortunate to have lots of great establishments in our area so you will not be short of places to go where you can enjoy great food and drink and proper hospitality. With that in mind, have a look at the businesses on these pages and book early to ensure you get the date and time you want. This is especially important for larger groups. So, get the group chat going and start having those conversation with your friends and family about whether you are booking your favourite pub or fancy trying a new restaurant. It's never too early to start planning your season of festive celebrations!
Festive Dining
• Homemade Preserved Lemon & Carrot Falafel, Crisp Winter Salad Leaves, Sweet-Pickled Vegetables, Deep Fried Halloumi & Tahini Dressing, our own Turmeric & Onion Seed Flatbread with Crispy Kale & Parsnip Crisps - Desserts -
• Chocolate & Hazelnut Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream
• Lemon & Lime Posset with Homemade Shortbread
• Honeycomb Cheesecake with Mixed Berry Drizzle
• Classic Bakewell Tart & Cardamom Custard
• Vegan Apple Crumble & Blackcurrant Sorbet
2 courses £27.50 • 3 courses £35 Available throughout December Ideal for smaller work groups & family bookings Call 01502 478404 or email enquiries@queensheadblyford.co.uk
209545
Autumn news from Halesworth Dementia Carers Fund
Next Film
Our next film (shown at The Cut) will be 'Thelma'. A wonderful film about a 93 year old lady who sets out on a hilarious mission to recover $10,000 from someone who conned her. The film will be shown on November 20th, beginning at 2pm. Admittance by £5 donation.
or by calling John on: 07840 982171.
100+ Club
Our 100 Club now has 150 members! Prizes every month of £100, £75, £50 and £25. If you'd like to become a member and have a really good chance of winning one of these prizes, please contact Anna on: 07721 842802.
Activities & Volunteering:
Musical Spectacular At Holton Village Hall on December 7th, beginning at 7:30pm. We have some great acts to enjoy, and even a team of Bollywood dancers. A really lively and fun evening. Bar and grand raffle. All proceeds from the evening will be going to HDCF. Tickets (£10 each) are available from Hettys Little Copy Shop,
An exciting range of activities every week, including: 'Seated Movement to Music' on Mondays, 'Memory Café' on Tuesdays, 'Singing with Friends' on Wednesdays, 'Creative Art' on Thursdays, 'Seated & Standing Tap' on Fridays and 'Carers Support Group' on Fridays. If you'd like to join one of these
groups, full details are on our website, or you can call: 07990 199632. You'd be most welcome. If you're interested in helping out at any of these groups, please do come along and join us! Collection On December 14th, we'll be holding a collection at Halesworth Co-op. We're most grateful to the Co-op for allowing us to hold this collection, and hope to see you then.
Thanks Last month, the Community News ran a full-page feature for us. We'd like to thank the Community News and all who supported our feature. We are most grateful to you all. John Wood
your mileage. To find out more, please call: 01986 875600.
Gifts for Caryl
11:30am at St. Mary's Church Hall.
Isolation Busting
THE RED LION
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and the Warm Room Team. To book a place, please contact the Halesworth Volunteers Office on 875600 to reserve your place. We'll also be delivering to people who cannot get out and about, just give us a call and we'll tell you more.
If you're interested in volunteering on Christmas Day, do let us know. It'd be lovely to have your help.
Christmas at the Larder
sauce with creamed potatoes (Both above dishes also served with spiced red cabbage & brussels sprouts with chestnuts)
• Baked Mushroom Pancakes (Vg) Savoury chickpea pancakes with a creamy mushroom filling, served with fresh salad & new potatoes
• Pan-Fried Fillet of Salmon topped with a pomegranate, pine nut & parsley crust on a red pepper cream, wilted baby spinach & buttered new potatoes
The Larder will be open on December 23rd and December 28th. We'll be closed on Christmas and New Year's Day.
Community Car Service
We're very keen to recruit new Voluntary Car Drivers for our much loved Community Car Service. We're really pleased to welcome our new volunteer, Jane. Driving is very rewarding, you meet some wonderful people and can learn fascinating things about life in Halesworth and beyond. You get the support of our brilliant staff team and we also reimburse
Just a reminder that we're again welcoming Christmas gifts in memory of our friend and former volunteer, Caryl Coomer.
If you'd like to donate a gift, please bring it to the Halesworth Volunteer office. Just remember to please wrap it and tell us what age group the present is for. Gifts will be handed out at the Larder on December 21st and 23rd.
Community Larder
Thank you so much to all the people who have donated so generously to the Community Larder during Harvest Festival season. We've had wonderful gifts from Edgar Sewter, Bramfield and Brampton Primary Schools. Huge thanks too to all the churches that have supported us including Wissett, Walpole, Linstead, Chediston, Holton, Blyford and Ilketshall St. Andrew's.
Remember the Larder is open to everyone, so please come and see what we have on offer.
Everyone's welcome. The Larder is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10am-
Our lovely programme to ensure people who live alone can get out and about, socialising, taking part in activities or going on a trip out. After our recent trip to Cherry Lane, we have one more special outing before Christmas. Just ring: 875600 to find out more. Halesworth Volunteers AGM Takes place on December 4th at 7pm at Halesworth Day Centre. Everyone's welcome.
Regular monthly events
• Wellbeing Lunch: On the first Tuesday of the month at Chinny's.
• Nigel's Brilliant Quiz: On the 3rd Wednesday of every month at The White Hart. Please note that there is no quiz in December.
• Community Lunch: Everyone's welcome to the Community Lunch in partnership with St. Mary's at the Church on the last Wednesday of the month at 1pm. Please note there will be no Community Lunch in December but we will be helping Jackie and the team at the Community Christmas lunch.
Halesworth Volunteers
In memoriam
Honouring the life of Steven Fisk A
beloved firefighter, father, and friend
The funeral of Steven Glen Fisk took place at Waveney Memorial Park crematorium on October 22nd and was officiated by funeral celebrant Andrew Fairweather.
Steven grew up in Halesworth and was known for his love of sport, particularly football. He played for Norwich Road Rangers and remained a player until his teens. After this, he took up rugby, playing for Diss Rugby Club. He also loved fishing, gaming and camping
holidays, especially with friends and family.
Family was important to Steve and he loved being a father to his sons Connah and Jadyn, and as they grew into adults, he became a step-grandfather to William and George and grandfather to Louie Peter Fisk, who was born August 8th, 2023.
In 2011, Steve joined the Fire Service, where he soon became an integral member of the Halesworth Fire Service who nicknamed him "The Smiling
Assassin" due to his quiet demeanour and practical jokes.
The Fire Service was represented at the funeral by numerous staff members from various fire stations and departments, including the Chief Fire Officer. The occasion was marked with a minutes silence at midday across the county. The coffin was led in by the divisional standard and ceremonial team.
Steve's family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to everyone for the cards of
condolence, words of comfort, kind support and sympathy shown to them during their recent tragic loss. Also, special mention to Spectra Packaging Solutions Ltd, Hammonds Motor Group and The Suffolk Fire & Rescue Service for their wonderful tributes to Steve.
Our thanks also go to funeral celebrant Andrew Fairweather who conducted Steve's service in a professional and kind, caring manner helping make a difficult time a little easier, and also to Co-op Funeral Care for their sensitive care in handling the funeral arrangements.
Steven would go above and beyond to help absolutely everyone. His kind hearted soul will live on by being an organ donor.
A 'Much Loved' page has been set up for donations to The Firefighter Charity and to the East Anglian Air Ambulance. To visit this page, go to: www.shorturl.at/w882A
Steven will be greatly missed by us all, not only at Halesworth Station, but by so many others in the fire service, his family and his local community where he was loved and respected by so many. Rest in peace, Fire Fighter Steven Fisk 4285, proud to have had you on board.
Bramfield, Ringsfield and Brampton Primary Schools activities
The beginning of November is a very busy time as there are three important events that we learn about and celebrate; Diwali, Bonfire Night and Remembrance Day. The word Diwali means 'rows of lighted lamps'. It's celebrated by Hindu people across the world.
We learnt how people spring clean their homes, exchange sweet treats, light tiny lamps called 'diyas' and enjoy huge firework displays. The children at Bramfield modelled and painted their own diyas and made coconut barfi, a traditional Indian sweet. We had a go at dancing like different fireworks, using the music to help us decide if we
were explosive bangers, swirly sparklers or whizzy rockets and created beautiful rangoli patterns using rice, sand and coloured beads.
At Ringsfield, the children in Reception took part in some bonfire night role play and discussed ways to stay safe around fireworks and fire. They created their own safety barrier using cones and skipping ropes and built a log fire in the middle. They had pretend sparklers and learnt how to use a carrot as a holder to stop little fingers getting burnt. The children used their own experiences to imagine an amazing firework display and thought of words to
describe the sounds they might hear. They added these words to their colourful firework paintings, writing in glue and glitter to make them super sparkly. To finish all of the wonderful learning, the children had a special treat of marshmallows around their fire.
The children at Brampton have been super busy learning all about Diwali, fireworks and most recently, Remembrance Day. The children learnt that poppies are worn to help us remember all of the soldiers that have fought for our country. We had a two minute silence with the rest of the school out on the playground and then said a prayer. We decided it would be nice to paint a picture
Bramfield's Diwali of a field of poppies to help us to remember why this day is special. The children dabbed the green paint on using a pompom and then used their fingers to make the petal shapes. They look amazing!
Ringsfield's fire and marshmallows
Brampton's poppy fields
Steven with his grandson, Louie
Steven is pictured above, third from the left
TRAVEL
Halesworth Hoppa
Last month, we wrote about our aim to have trips to see the Christmas lights displayed by residents, and as there has been quite a lot of interest from our regular customers, we can confirm we will be running some trips around the town in December.
If you're interested in joining us, please speak to one of our drivers when we're in town. We'll record your contact details, including how many people will be in your party and where you live so we can contact you to let you know when we'll be running a trip, and where we'll be able to stop and pick you up. If you have problems with mobility, there's a high chance
we will be able to collect you from your door, so please don't be put off by assuming you will need to get to a bus stop. We all know shopping bags can be a lot bigger, and heavier, at Christmas so please remember you can use the Hoppa to help get you back home with all your shopping, safe and sound.
The Hoppa will run a normal service over the Christmas and New Year period, except for Bank Holidays, but if in doubt please ask a driver. Finally, we wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and look forward to seeing our regular and new users in 2025!
St. Mary's Handbell Ringers, Halesworth
We warmly invite readers of Community News to come along to Halesworth Library on December 14th at 10:30am12pm, when we'll be hosting a handbell workshop.
A varied programme of seasonal music to get you in the mood for Christmas. The team play some pieces, you play some pieces and we all have a fun time in a warm and welcoming venue.
As we approach the end of 2024, we look back on the many bookings we have carried out since the start of the year; enthusiastic and welcoming audiences give the team a real buzz and our practices a sense of purpose.
The action of the play begins as the young pupils of Flint Street Primary School (all played by adults) are about to perform their nativity play for their proud parents. All kinds of mishaps ensue, until the culmination during the final few scenes of the play when the focus shifts and the children become their parents!
Described as a comedy about
The diary for 2025 is already filling up. If you want to find out more regarding booking us or attending one of our weekly rehearsals, please email Linda on: l.sherman654@btinternet.com or text: 07789 365229. We give a warm welcome to new members (no musical experience necessary). Our practices are in a warm, easilyaccessible venue in Halesworth on Tuesday afternoons at 2pm. We'd love to see you, whether you just want to listen or 'have a go'!
children for adults, this amusing and thought-provoking glimpse behind-the-scenes of a junior school's Christmas Nativity exposes the power politics that exist in a class of seven-yearolds.
Interspersed with new lyrics set to traditional carol tunes, The Flint Street Nativity (which is definitely not a traditional nativity play) is the perfect pre-Christmas entertainment for adults. Circle 67 will be touring The Flint Street Nativity to local venues from December 17th-20th, including The Cut in Halesworth. Please see our advert and website for further details.
Warning: The play contains adult themes and some playground language that may amuse, and possibly offend teachers and parents.
Linda Sherman
Where children lead
We have a new set of ambassadors at Halesworth & District Museum... local children! Having hosted several parties of visitors from Edgar Sewter School, we have noticed an impact on adults' interest in our exhibits.
Stewards on Saturdays and during school holidays often see children leading their parents into the museum to show them the treasures.
Across 2024, around 350 local primary schoolchildren crossed the threshold with their teachers, to find out what the museum has to offer. One of the activities gave them an insight into life at Halesworth School in bygone days, including details from the dreaded Punishment Book. (Some shocked faces all round!) There were encounters with 'feely bags', a treasure trail (in conjunction
with the Ink Festival) and an exploration of some of the famous former residents of Halesworth and the surrounding area.
Of course, no visit to the museum would be complete without details of Halesworth life in the days of the Romans and Anglo Saxons.
We are looking forward to meeting many more children during next years' school visits. But don't wait for your sons and daughters to bring you to the museum. There's so much on offer, from pre-history to almost the present day. Details of opening times are on: www.halesworthmuseum.
org.uk
Halesworth Library Getting into the festive spirit!
The 'Warm Welcome' campaign continues at Halesworth Library and is open to all members of the community, no questions asked. Hot drinks and biscuits are available, so please do ask!
To get into the Christmas spirit, we've got our Christmas Book Displays out and ready to be browsed, alongside a variety of charity Christmas cards for sale. Suffolk Libraries are also bringing back the 'Be Kind to a Kid' campaign, so please consider donating any new toys to the library that can be gifted to children who need them this Christmas.
The Friends of Halesworth Library are holding a Christmas Sale on November 30th from 9am-2pm at the library, so come along and find some goodies!
This month, there will be three sessions of the regular Sociable Sunday events, hosted by the Friends of Halesworth Library, on December 1st, 15th and 29th from 10:30am-12:30pm, where you can come along and meet new people over a cup of tea!
If you have little ones at home, join us every Tuesday from 10am-11:30am for our free Rhyme Time & Play session to sing fun songs followed by free play with our toys.
We also hold a Time Out group for older people every Wednesday at 10am to make new friends and chat over a cup of tea.
You can find advice dropins from East Suffolk Council Customer Services every Tuesday from 10am-4pm and Barclays Bank on Wednesdays from 9am-5pm. Citizens Advice have a drop-in every other Tuesday from 10am-12pm, please ask a member of staff for future dates.
Did you know that the library can deliver books to your home? If you're unable to visit us at the library, one of our volunteers can come to you. Please contact us on 01986 875095 for further information.
Meanwhile, the volunteers of Halesworth & District Museum wish a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our friends, visitors and other supporters. Contact me for all your boiler installation needs Gas safe registered
Please note that the library will be closed on December 24th, 25th and 26th as well as January 1st.
Heati ng Ltd - 20 years experience -
and
14th and 21st. He will be in residence from 10am-3pm each day. There's no charge, but a donation in our collection bucket would be much appreciated.
If you'd like to send in local news, a story or if you'd like to advertise your business in next months festive Christmas/ January edition of Community News (coming out mid December), please call David on 01502 725837
Halesworth
Halesworth Museum
Fossils are always a favourite with junior visitors
Harleston Choral Society
You're invited to join Harleston Choral Society (HCS) on December 14th at 7pm in St. John's Church, Harleston IP20 9AZ for our programme of beautiful Christmas music.
Haydn's Missa Sancti Nicolai and other seasonal music, and carols, some with audience participation. All with our four soloists and the Harleston Chamber Orchestra. Tickets £15 (including wine or a soft drink and a mince pie) are available from choir members, on the door on the night, or from Harleston Information Plus. Accompanied children go free.
See our website: harlestonchoral.org.uk for more information about HCS, or contact Caroline Rodbourne on 01986 782545, caroline@rodbourne.org.uk, or Jo Curry, jo.curry@sky.com, 07768 544005.
Beccles Choral Society Christmas Cracker
Get in the festive mood with friends and family at Beccles' famous Christmas Cracker concert presented by Beccles Choral Society and Waveney Concert Band.
Our Christmas Extravaganza features favourite come and sing carols, traditional Christmas music and other popular seasonal items. This is the one not to miss!
News from The Pear Tree Fund
Once again, a heartfelt thank you goes to Kate, Kevin and all the team at The Queen's Head, Bramfield for their latest fundraiser for The Pear Tree Fund. The Big Charity Picture Quiz was such fun as well as raising a fantastic £158.
The i-Chameleon Pop-up Shop was a huge success and featured the best-dressed Mary Poppins scarecrow - Read more about this in the Dee's Den news on page 2. Our Art Exhibition showcased the incredible work of clients who participate in the art therapy class run by talented local artist, Lorenzo Barron. We welcomed over 100 guests to the centre, helping to raise awareness of the work that we do. Thank you to Lorenzo, our artists, volunteers, staff and all who came along to see these magnificent works of art.
The Cake Stall at Laxfield Community Market had an
amazing array of cakes, home baked by our lovely volunteers. Thank you to Barb, Nikki and Louise for organising everything and special thanks to Sue Hall our almost resident cake baker. An incredible £324 was raised, now that's a lot of cakes! Thanks also to Laxfield Community Market for nominating the Pear Tree Fund for November's cake stall. Pop Chorus raised a whopping £7,105 at their Constellation Ball in October. This will be shared between eight charities, including the Pear Tree Fund. Thank you to Yula, John and all the choristers from Pop Chorus, it was truly a stellar event.
Please see our upcoming events on the 'What's on' page on pages 8-9.
We're delighted to have been nominated by Walberswick East of England Co-op to benefit from their Winter Local Giving campaign. From November
1st, through to January 31st, Walberswick Co-op will be fundraising on our behalf. We're incredibly grateful to Rosi and all the team for nominating us and also for their enthusiasm in helping us to spread the word about our work. The funds raised will be put to good use, helping our friends in the community who are facing a life-limiting illness, as well as their families, carers and people who have been bereaved. If you live in Walberswick or if you're visiting, do pop in.
Our condolences: Finally, we offer our heartfelt condolences to the family of Mrs. J.A Kibble and our deepest gratitude for the funeral donations made in Mrs. Kibble's memory.
Halesworth's Pear Tree Centre continues to offer holistic support, including information, counselling, complementary therapies and benefits advice to anyone diagnosed with a life-
The Christmas Cracker will be on Sunday, December 15th, at 4:30pm at St. Michael's Church, Beccles. Tickets: £15, under 16s free. beccleschoralsociety.co.uk
changing illness, their families/ carers or those who have been bereaved.
If you need support, you're welcome to drop in or contact us. We also work alongside the statutory and voluntary sector to help provide extra equipment and enhanced care in the last days of life. We offer emotional, physical and practical support tailored to the person and their family. We also help to facilitate choice about where care is received as the end of a person's life approaches.
Additionally, we support young people over 12 years old who are dealing with their own or a family member's lifechanging diagnosis or who are coping with bereavement. Visit www.peartreefund.org for more information.
'Restore TV' to provide free support in Bungay if TV interference occurs
Mobile network services are being upgraded in Bungay; boosting speed, performance and coverage.
There is a small chance that these improvements may cause interference to TV received through an aerial such as Freeview, BT, TalkTalk and YouView. These improvements will be implemented in Bungay, and symptoms could include intermittent sound, blocky images (pixilation) or loss of TV signal. For residents who are affected by the upgrades, free support is available from Restore TV. Restore TV is an independent programme created by Digital Mobile Spectrum Limited (DMSL), an organisation owned by the UK's four mobile network operators: EE, Virgin Media O2, Three and Vodafone.
Restore TV's role is to ensure people can continue to enjoy free to view TV if mobile service upgrades cause interference.
Restore TV reports to the Coexistence Technical Working Group, chaired by Ofcom, which monitors and advises on the programme to ensure free to view TV viewers' interest are properly served. The programme offers additional support for people who are aged 75 or older, are registered blind or partially sighted or receive any of the following benefits: personal independence payments, attendance allowance; constant attendance allowance or War Pensioner's Mobility Support. Ben Roome (CEO of Restore TV) said: "We know just how important TV is to inform, entertain and provide welcome company. Restore TV exists to ensure we all can continue to access free to view TV as mobile services are improved across the country. If you see new TV interference, we're on hand to help you resolve the issue. We can send a Restore TV filter, free of charge, for you to fit between your aerial lead and TV or set-top box to remove mobile signals and allow you to watch free-to-view TV as normal. Full instructions are included, and we can provide further advice online and by phone if needed. In most instances, fitting the filter will resolve any issues, but if this isn't the case, we may also be able to arrange a follow-up visit from
a Restore TV engineer at no cost, depending on eligibility." Cable and satellite TV (such as Sky/Virgin) are not affected. However, viewers with these services, who also watch freeto-view TV through an aerial, can receive a free Restore TV filter. Residents are more likely to be affected if they live in an area with weak digital television reception, have a TV signal booster and whose TV aerial
is close to a mobile mast. For residents in flats or communal buildings, Restore TV provides landlords or property managers with support to resolve the problem. Any viewers who experience new interference to free-to-view TV should contact Restore TV on: 0808 13 13 800 (free from landlines and mobiles) For more information, please visit: www.restoretv.uk
On Tuesday evenings throughout the summer months, you might come across Rumburgh Morris dancers and musicians at a pub near you, performing our repertoire of traditional morris dances originally collected from villages in the Cotswolds in the early 1900s. The money we raise from our audience collections is specifically ring-fenced to support local charities. Last year, thanks to the generosity of our audiences, we were able to help Halesworth Dementia Carers' Fund with a donation of £1,000. This year, we're delighted to support two equally worthy causes, Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney, and Bungay Community Support, with donations of £400 to each.
Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney is a homelessness charity supporting people with a home, meaningful work opportunities and holistic support. This autumn, three residents from the organisation undertook an epic 450-mile fundraising trek to help more people out of homelessness. Chloe, Jagger
and Peter alongside CEO, Cecile Roberts walked the width of the country from St. David's in Wales back to the charity's home of Ditchingham. The 'Walk of Kindness' aimed to increase awareness of homelessness and raise funds to open a new social enterprise bed and breakfast in the former All Hallows Convent.
Rumburgh Morris was formed in 2008 and currently has a strong membership of male and female dancers and musicians ranging in age from 14 to 80 years. New members are welcomed at the beginning of each practice season every September. We practice in St. Margaret South Elmham Village Hall on Tuesday evenings from September through to April, and our dance season commences with our St. George's Day performance at The Rumburgh Buck on April 23rd, and continues through to early September.
To find out more, or to book us to dance at your event next year, contact us by emailing: bag@rumburghmorris.org.uk or visiting:
www.rumburghmorris.org.uk
Find out more about Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney and their 'Walk of Kindness' project on: www.emmaus.org.uk /norfolk-waveney/wok
Harleston & District U3A
Harleston & District U3A would like to remind our followers that there will be no monthly talk in December, but we wish you all a very happy Christmas and a healthy and peaceful New Year. We look forward to seeing you again when our monthly talks resume on January 15th, 2025, in St. John's Church, Harleston. For further information, visit: www.U3Asites.org.uk/ harleston or contact Kim Poulton on 01986 788149.
Financial focus on...
What now for Furnished Holiday Lets? Ensors Chartered Accountants
The landscape for furnished holiday lettings (FHL) are about to change dramatically.
Broadly, the tax benefits for running an FHL have been severely curtailed with effect from the 2024 Spring Budget and removed entirely from 5th April 2025 for individuals (31st March 2025 for corporate FHLs). So what action can the owners take before FHLs start to be taxed like regular rental income?
• Maximise Capital Allowances: FHLs can claim capital allowances on furniture, fixtures and equipment, whereas rentals are generally restricted to repairs and renewals. Making new purchases before 6th April 2025 will maximise any Capital Allowances still available. New claims after 5th April 2025 will not be allowed but continuing writing down of unexhausted expenditure pools can continue;
• Consider joint ownership: If you currently let your FHL unequally, HMRC will treat rental income jointly owned by spouses 50:50 no matter the underlying ownership. Consider transferring ownership to the spouse with the lower tax exposure (potential additional legal costs to do so) or electing
for precise split of income to the underlying capital ownership by using form 17 for tenants in common (additional evidence would be required such as a deed). Note elections on form 17 cannot be backdated and have effect from date of receipt by HMRC. Unmarried owners can continue to allocate rental income as they wish irrespective of underlying capital;
• Selling the FHL: Qualifying FHL owners have previously benefited from Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) on a sale, thereby reducing capital gains tax. BADR is being withdrawn, however ceasing the FHL business before 6th April 2025 and selling the
property within three years of the cessation may still attract BADR. Separately, anti-forestalling rules prevent BADR when contracts are exchanged before 6th April 2025 but completion is after this date, unless it is a genuine arm’s length commercial disposal which is not to a connected person or undertaken to obtain a tax advantage.
• Use Rent-a-Room relief: If you let a room in your main residence, you can claim up to £7,500 exemption (or £3,750 per spouse) but with no expenses deductible. This may be a useful alternative for small scope letting. The cessation of the FHL regime is the end of an era introduced in 1984. By being proactive, the change may not be as severe as it might be with holiday letting activities still potentially being more profitable than long term rental. Hope this helps!
For further information, please contact Robin Beadle (pictured) on: robin.beadle@ensors.co.uk
Disclaimer: Specialist advice should always be sought prior to taking any action on matters discussed in this article.
J C WOODPRODUCTS
Halesworth Area Sustainable Hub
Children
climate change) than to be taken out in our local open spaces? This autumn saw a fruitful collaboration between Blyth Community Conservation Network (BCCN) and local schools to get children thinking about the trees, wildlife and natural habitats on which we all depend.
Holton Pits: At Holton Pits (bought by the community a year ago), 55 pupils from Holton St. Peter Primary School were guided in groups to discover insects, birds, animals, fish, plants and fungi, and learn
just how biodiverse this site is. They were intrigued to hear how much gravel and sand had been extracted in earlier times, and about the discovery of Mammoth and Plesiosaur bones. At one of the new platforms by the edge of the water, they guessed its depth and learned why the lake isn't safe to swim in. Afterwards, the children had a sheet to complete for a scavenger hunt, along with a map of the site and room to draw. At the end of their visit, each child was given a packet of seeds to take home and grow.
Thanks to Rebecca Horton and the local volunteers and teachers who made this visit such a great learning opportunity.
Update from Halesworth Christmas Lights
Once again, massive thanks to the Halesworth community for supporting our recent quiz at Holton Village Hall.
The grand sum of £524 was raised on the evening and a good time was had by all. Thanks as ever to David Wollwebber for setting challenging (but fortunately not too challenging) questions and also to the scorers who did a great job.
Many thanks too to the Holton
Village Hall for hosting and running the bar, it was a very popular venue. Finally, we must thank all the local businesses who generously donated raffle prizes to be used in the quiz raffle or the Christmas Draw which will be drawn at 3:30pm in St. Mary's Church on November 23rd. Tickets are still available, at £1 each from YouDrink, Halesworth Bookshop or any committee member.
Millennium Green: Edgar Sewter Primary School took 90 pupils from years three and four to Halesworth's fantastic Millennium Green. In the community orchard, they were shown how to identify different trees from their leaves, and how to collect conkers without getting hurt!
At one of the dykes, they learned about invertebrates and small fish, how species interact and depend on one another. In particular, they were able to observe the current work (with big diggers!) going on to restore White Bridge. But meanwhile, how much care has been taken to protect the water voles and their habitats.
Halesworth has the largest millennium green in the country. Inspiring local children to value its water meadows and biodiversity is a vital way to protect their health and nature's health into the future.
Thanks to Nicki Rowbottom and the Millennium Green volunteers who collaborated with the school to make this day a great success.
Wenhaston:
Pupils from Oak Class at Wenhaston Primary School were guided out and about to learn about the commons, Blackheath, and the development of a new space for
nature in the village.
In the churchyard, they helped make bug hotels and hedgehog homes. One group explored how voluntary effort on Blackheath is creating suitable habitats for reptiles; also restoring and maintaining the sandpit area to encourage sand martins to make their homes there.
Another group went with Marie from Blyth Woods to see how a new space for nature is being established in the village, close to the school.
Thanks to Revd Alison Alder, school staff, plus volunteers from Wilder Wenaston and the Commons Group for a real handson day of activities.
On-going activity:
Blyth Community Conservation Network brings together a number of local initiatives and organisations which are working for the benefit of nature, environment and community.
The network has grown with the support of Halesworth Area Sustainable Hub, which is itself a collaboration between Halesworth Town Council and the Blyth Valley Churches to engage local people of all ages in countering climate change and reaching the target of becoming carbon neutral by 2030.
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Green
Youngsters explore Millennium Green
What did 90 Edgar Sewter pupils have a whale of a time doing over two chilly October days? They came down to the Green to pursue their study of ecosystems, to hunt for fruit in the orchard, wild plants in the meadows, and every freshwaterliving small creature under the sun from the dipping platform on the dyke near White Bridge. The Green's volunteers who worked with them were impressed and delighted by their curiosity, cheerfulness and readiness to learn.
Hotly followed by lots of much smaller people at the half-term Scarecrow Festival Pond Dipping event. They netted everything from giant to mini insects: Great Diving Water beetles to Caddis
Fly larvae who build themselves tiny houses from twigs to live in until they're ready to surface and fly. One enthusiast caught a total of 15 tiny fish, another majored on finding snails. And no-one at all fell in.
Running events is one of the less visible activities that you could help with on the Green. Come and be part of it all. And if you'd rather seize a tool and do some conservation work, weekly Wednesday morning work-parties start at 9:30am until approximately 11:30am. We provide gloves and tools, you just need to bring a drink and nibble for the break. Have a browse on: millenniumgreen.halesworth.net
You can also email the Green: thegreen@halesworth.net
07760 473687
Ibstock Farm, Bramfield
Edgar Sewter Playschool & Out of School Club
Edgar Sewter Playschool is open Monday-Friday during term time for children from two years and up. We welcome enquiries for funded and nonfunded children from January and beyond.
We have been exploring the autumn season with lots of outdoor adventures learning about leaves, acorns, conkers, spiders, hedgehogs and squirrels.
Our Breakfast Club (from 8am) and After School Club (from 3:30pm-6pm) for children
1st Halesworth Scout Group
from age four, is open daily during term time, each half term, Easter and summer holidays. October half term was filled with many happy hours of play and fun activities and the trick or treats of Halloween.
For further details, please email: esplayschool@gmail.com or call: 07796 044277 to register, arrange a visit or book a place. For help with childcare costs, see: www.childcarechoices.gov.uk Hayley, Anthea, Yvonne, Stacey
Charity Christmas card collection
1st Halesworth Scouts are offering their special Christmas postal service to Halesworth and Holton for 2024. Collection dates for this years post are: November 23rd until 10am on December 14th. We're asking for a donation of 40p per card. Please put your cards and money in the special 'Scout Christmas' post boxes, this offers fantastic value compared to the ever increasing prices of Royal Mail.
Please write the full address with postcode clearly on the envelope. Members of 1st Halesworth Scouts Group will deliver your Christmas cards by December 20th. Please note that cards will be delivered to Halesworth and Holton addresses only. We CANNOT deliver to any other location.
Post box locations:
• Halesworth Library
• Allens Butchers
• DC Patricks Newsagent
• Halesworth Co-op
• Coopers
• Marketfield Farm Shop
• Edgar Sewter Primary School
(this box is only available to parents of children at the
school
)This service is a major fundraising event for 1st Halesworth Scout Group and requires many hours of work by the leaders and families of the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. Please support it if you can.
"We endeavour to deliver all the cards we receive that have a full address. We'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supports our Scout Group by using the service and especially the businesses which allow our boxes to be placed in their premises and hope that ever more people will give us a try." Thanks in advance for your support for this valuable fundraising activity. If you have any questions about the Scout Christmas Post, please email: 1sthalesworth@suffolkscouts.org
