Halesworth & Southwold Community News - July 2023

TRADITIONAL

Wenhaston Bowls Club pays tribute to much loved member

On May 14th, we had our second annual club Australian pairs in memory of Dick Clarke who sadly passed away in 2021. Some excellent games and an excellent final which ended up being won on the last end. The winners were David Hambling and Jen Daly and the runners up were Ian 'Ginge' Rogers and Tom Keen and the winning score was

11-10. Our thanks to Tom Keen who stepped in as a substitute for Ted Cockaday when he suffered a knee problem at the end of Round 1.

I would like to thank Tom Daly for organising the event, Jill Clarke for attending and presenting the prizes, President Eve Peck, Vi Heater and Sue Long for showing their support,

Valerie’s

John Stevens for his support and cooking the BBQ/making teas and of course David Hambling and John Robinson for the amazing green.

If you'd like to have a go at bowls, visit: www. wenhastonbowlsclub.com for more information or contact the club secretary via email at: jake.moyes9@gmail.com.

Halesworth Golf Seniors charity day presentation

An update from HACT

All at Halesworth Area Community Transport (HACT) are very pleased to see more people using the Hoppa as we move into the warmer weather.

We are also very pleased to continue to receive the support of so many local people and organisations. This month, we want to say a very big thank you to Halesworth Golf Club Seniors, who have just donated a massive £2,000 to HACT.

The photograph above shows members of the Golf Club looking on as last year's captain, Rob Sherington, presents the cheque to HACT driver John Giles during their charity day event. If the warmer weather is tempting you out a little more, you can hop on at any of our regular stops, or hail us down as we pass along our regular route. You can also call the office before 9:15am, Monday to Friday, and ask for the driver to collect you from your home, as long as it's either on our route, or close to it.

There's no charge for this service for those with a bus pass, and just the regular fare for those without one.

If you want to know more, we often have short stays at the Co-op and the Middle Car Park, so just come and say hello!

For any enquiries regarding off-route collection, or for community hires, please contact HACT, Railway Station, Station Road, Halesworth, Suffolk, IP19 8BZ. You can call us on: 01986 875900, email: office@hactbus. co.uk or visit our website: www. hactbus.co.uk.

The office is open between 8:30am and 11:45am, Monday to Friday. Remember, if you wish to request a stop, please telephone before 9:15am.

Thank you again to Halesworth Golf Club seniors for your wonderful donation. Without the support of local community groups such as yours, it would be impossible to offer the service we do.

Participants in Dick Clarke game

Halesworth Town Council looking for Administrative Officer

At the monthly meeting on June 5th, Cllr Alison Cackett was elected as the Vice Chair of the Council and as reported last month Cllr Joyce Moseley was elected as the Chair.

The Town Council is seeking an Administrative Officer to join our small team. If you want to make a difference and you have a passion for helping people, then this may be an ideal position for you.

Changes are happening in the town, the Council is taking ownership of the town park, playgrounds, open spaces, and toilets. We're currently consulting on a Community Hub and we will be renovating our offices. So, this is an ideal time to come

Vibrant talk on the Women's Land Army in Suffolk

Whether you work on the land, or simply walk and drive through it, the countryside is very much part of Halesworth life. During both world wars, the land became the everyday workplace for many thousands of women across Britain. More than 200,000 in WWII (as volunteers in the Women's Land Army (WLA)) popularly known as land girls.

The vital role they played in feeding the nation was brought vividly to life by Nicky Reynolds from Soil Sisters, a Sharing Suffolk Stories project, in the latest Halesworth & District Museum talk.

Nicky looked at the history of the WLA, from both a national and local perspective, with details of how they were recruited, the jobs they did, their terms of service, how they were housed, what they had to wear, and how experience and long service were rewarded.

Nicky explained that the living conditions came as a shock to many of the recruits, particularly those from urban and/or better-off backgrounds who were used to a few home comforts, such as running water or electricity. Initially, many were housed in barns or old farm cottages offering little more than basic shelter. Several areas eventually offered the option of accommodation in hostels. However, this was still far from luxurious. In Halesworth for example, up to 30 volunteers were housed in The Rectory,

where they slept six to a room.

The work was hard and the hours were long. Young women with little or no previous experience soon found themselves land clearing, ditch clearing, ploughing, harvesting, catching vermin, mucking out stock, driving and maintaining tractors and all the other routine jobs on a busy farm. In theory, volunteers got a day off each week, but those responsible for milking simply had to provide cover for each other to get any time away from the farm. It was not until 1943 that the WLA members had the right to a week's paid holiday per year. Furthermore, because food supplies remained critical, WLA service went on beyond the years of the war itself.

Pay was often a bone of contention. The WLA were not paid by the Government, but though local agreement with the farmers they worked for. The minimum wage was 28 shillings (£1.40) a week, compared with 38 shillings (£1.90) for male farm labourers. A parallel female volunteer service in the forestry industry (the Women's Timber Corps) earned considerably more (35-46 shillings a week).

The WLA uniform was practical and well made, if not glamorous, and included breeches, dungarees, an overcoat or raincoat, shirt, sweater, boots, wellingtons, sturdy socks and a much-loathed hat. Unlike women in the armed forces, a WLA recruit would have to part

with more than half her annual allocation of clothing coupons when she was first kitted out, and a few more coupons each time she received replacement items. Nicky brought along many examples of WLA uniform for inspection by the audience.

Nicky concluded her talk by explaining the commitment of Soil Sisters to commemorating the work of the WLA. This project includes efforts at identifying as many of the volunteers as possible, and creating a record of them as individuals. "We owe them a debt that can never be paid", she said.

The next talk from Halesworth & District Museum will take place on September 21st at 7:30pm. Museum trustee and local author Dave Wollweber will look at the history and development of town markets, with particular reference to Halesworth, which was granted permission to hold a market 800 years ago, in 1223. As usual, the venue will be the United Reformed Church, Quay Street, Halesworth, IP19 8EP. Entry costs £6 (or £3 for Museum Friends). There's no need to book. Just come along and pay at the door.

and help councillors and our local community groups provide effective and efficient solutions.

We're looking for someone who can work independently, use their initiative and be flexible, especially under pressure. You will need to be well organised and good at day-to-day office administrative jobs, answering queries on the phone and in person, arranging meetings, taking notes, filing, etc.

You will need to be competent in Microsoft Word and Excel and related office programs. A good standard of verbal and written English, able to use social media tools effectively and the patience to remain professional and amenable.

Working for a town council may be new to you but these are skills and aptitudes that can be transferred across from many jobs. You may have other skills that could also be valuable such as communications, finance, or event management for example. Full training will be available and an opportunity to study further to achieve the Certificate of Local Council Administration.

If you're interesting in this position, you can find more details and an application form on our website: www. halesworthtowncouncil.org. uk, email the office: clerk@ halesworthtowncouncil.org.uk or ring: 01986 874517.

Suffolk land girls attending the Lord Mayor's Show in 1947. Two have been identified by the Soil Sisters project: Daphne Lake (far left) and Joan Mayhew (far right).

Halesworth Museum

Halesworth and District Gardeners' Society

Love gardening? Join the club!

Last month saw Halesworth and District Gardeners' Society hold a very successful plant sale at the arboretum, raising £645. This money will be spent on guest speakers next season which will begin in October.

Last week, I had two conversations about the club. In the first, someone said: "I'd love to come along but I don't know much about gardening and I don't want to look stupid!" We cater for all levels of knowledge and no question is ever regarded as stupid. If you don't know, chances are others in the room don't either.

Metfield Stores

A bit more of our history... Part 2

The second person asked me: "What actually goes on in your meetings at the Riffle Hall?" Monthly meetings advertised in the Community News, Facebook and posters around the town start promptly at 7:30pm, led by our exuberant Chairman Martin.

The ever-growing audience is made of people interested in gardening. We have an expert speaker who talks for about an hour on their chosen subject followed by questions from the audience. This season, our talks included: 'Frogs & Toads', 'Crocus, Cyclamen & Colchicum', 'Composting', 'Plants for a dry garden' and

'Bees & Pollinators'. We have a break for tea and coffee and a general social chit chat amongst members followed by the raffle and any other business.

Up next, we have a few seats left for our trip on July 6th to Audley House and Gardens in Essex. For further information, call Fiona Fletcher on: 01986 873277 or email: fififletche@aol.com.

Our annual flower show will take place on September 2nd at the Riffle Hall. More on that next month. For more information on the club, please call our club Secretary Brian Hammond on 01986 872712.

Sinking village shop saved by the community!

Part 1 of our story ended with the purchase of the old village shop at auction and villagers working wonders to breathe life back into it. The whole of what follows was most likely written in 2008 (two years after the new community-run store opened its doors) and is an extract from the former shop website.

A steering group and two directors, Martin Wolfe and Alan Strevens, worked away behind the scenes, getting the business side of the project up and running, forming a limited company, applying for grants and investigating stock suppliers.

Six months later, Rachel (who had purchased the premises at auction) returned to England on the very day the shop opened its doors and found it had been skilfully transformed.

"It surprised us all, I think, the diverse skills that existed in the village, and the enormous generosity of so many in this small community of 400 people, who consistently gave both practical and financial help. It's a testament to this generosity of spirit that the shop is open at all" she said.

come not only from Metfield but from the environs, working four to six hour shifts. Volunteers ask customers for comments and recommendations for produce they need, these are recorded and actioned on the next stock shop, making Metfield Stores an interactive community space.

Janet Rusted (the first Manager of the new Metfield Stores) is the daughter-in-law of Hedley Rusted who ran the last butcher's shop that existed in the village (closed when Budgens opened in Harleston), and in whose honour the Metfield Frisky sausage has been named. He was a colourful character, well loved and remembered by many in the village. Janet was supported by her partner Peter Twiss, who at that time, also coordinated and drove the community bus. Peter gave a lot of his time to organise the newspapers and magazines for the Stores.

We love our shop:

"Once you've served behind the counter, shopping for yourself isn't the same, you notice things you'd never noticed before, not only the price, but where it comes from, and you get a till-skill appreciation!"

Walpole and Cookley Coronation Tea Party

Friends and family from both villages gathered together on the afternoon of May 7th to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III, with a very special tea party for 145 people.

The afternoon commenced with the National Anthem and was followed by traditional afternoon tea. There was a presentation of bespoke handmade mugs to the children of Walpole and Cookley made by Walpole potter, Ali Peet (Old Brewhouse Pottery) with artwork by Walpole artist, Sara Sayer.

Waitress service was provided to this sit down event with live

music courtesy of Mike Thickitt, children's activities and a 'Cookpole Coronation Quiz' all adding to a fun-filled afternoon. A display of Coronation Memorabilia collated by Walpole resident Brian Fowle, provided the opportunity for older residents to reminisce and young people to discover a little bit of history. We were blessed with beautiful weather and marquees which were originally intended to keep everyone dry provided welcome shade.

Our thanks to everyone who helped to make the day such a success.

The costs of the renovations were met from over £12,000 raised in share capital, from individual villagers buying blocks of £1 shares, £7,000 invested by Rachel as landlord, together with a very welcome grant of £5,000 from the Suffolk Village Shops Group (ViRSA). As well as giving this grant and welcome advice, ViRSA, in the form of Liz Anderson, put Metfield in contact with Rattlesden Community Shop, who donated a free chiller counter, vital for the new delicatessen counter.

'I shop completely differently now. Instead of making a list of what I think I want, I go to the shop and see what's there,' said a local volunteer-cum-shopper.

Blyth Road Industrial Estate, Halesworth, IP19 8EN

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

Optimism high: After the first month of running dynamically, sales substantially exceeded those predicted by ViRSA. "If this level of sales continues it will yield a substantially higher turnover that will comfortably cover operating costs, and hopefully employ more people from the village" reported Rachel.

Why it works:

One of the keys to the success of the shop is the colourful array of 47 volunteers who staff it. They

Handmade Fence Panels (metric & imperial sizing) Trellis

The Stores has gone from strength to strength since then, becoming the hub of the village and creating a lifeline for many of its volunteers.

Blyth Road Industrial Estate, Halesworth, IP19 8EN

Palisade Fencing Drive & Field Gates Galvanised Hardware

Manufacturers & Suppliers of Agricultural,

Homegrown Pressure Treated Posts and Gate Posts

Spindler Self Storage

Launch of Woolnough Way on the Green

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

Blyth Road Industrial Estate,

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

Handtools Post & Rail Cladding Livestock Fencing

Handmade Fence Panels (metric & imperial sizing) Trellis

C24 Grade Timber Sleepers & Decking Wire Netting

the trade and public covering Norfolk & Suffolk

Sheet Material: OSB & Plywood Machine Round Stakes

Palisade Fencing Drive & Field Gates Galvanised Hardware

Homegrown Pressure Treated Posts and Gate Posts

Concrete Products: Slotted Posts & Gravel Boards

Handmade Fence Panels (metric & imperial sizing) Trellis

01986 892810

Palisade Fencing Drive & Field Gates Galvanised Hardware

In 2013 the whole community helped to make the Track happen (raising money, working with Sustrans, putting up with construction mud in one of the wettest springs there's ever been), but the idea would never have taken shape at all if not for the work of Richard and Judith Woolnough, the first Trustee and Secretary of the Green.

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

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

Homegrown Pressure Treated Posts and Gate Posts

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

Handtools Post & Rail Cladding Livestock Fencing

C24 Grade Timber Sleepers & Decking Wire Netting

Sheet Material: OSB & Plywood Machine Round Stakes

So on the 10th anniversary last month, it was a delight to celebrate their crucial input by launching 'Woolnough Way' with

Handtools Post & Rail Cladding Livestock Fencing

C24 Grade Timber Sleepers & Decking Wire Netting

Sheet Material: OSB & Plywood Machine Round Stakes

Concrete Products: Slotted Posts & Gravel Boards

01986 892810

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

Concrete Products: Slotted Posts & Gravel Boards Concrete

01986 892810

a terrific community event and the unveiling of new signs and with three generations of Woolnoughs in attendance. Spring is definitely sprung: Keep letting us know of any exciting sightings on the Green. Have a look at the website (millenniumgreen.halesworth. net) which carries news and information, photos, wildlife records, history and geology. You can contact the Green directly by emailing: thegreen@halesworth.net.

Woolnoughs at track birthday party

Halesworth Millennium Green

Wayne

M.DANIELS

(Sid)

For control of rats, mice, moles, squirrels, cluster flies, fleas, ants & wasps

MOBILE: 07788850762

TONY LING

Tel: 01986 873343

Please

C. E. RUTH LTD

NICK ROUSE

Halesworth Volunteers

Huge congratulations to Halesworth Town Council for organising a lovely street party on a lovely sunny Sunday to celebrate the Coronation. It was also great to see so many people enjoying the live streaming of the service in the Church.

We were delighted that Shaun and Clare (two of our fantastic volunteers) attended the King's Garden Party, representing our charity as part of the Queen's Award for Volunteering. It was a real privilege that our volunteers could be there.

Be a Community Car Driver: Now the Co-op may be a bit crazy at the moment, but for Mrs T, a visit to the Co-op is a highlight of her week. She wouldn't be able to shop without one of our Community Car Drivers getting her there and helping carry her shopping when she gets home. Being a driver really does make people's lives better. We're currently looking for new volunteer car drivers. You provide the car, we provide training and support and you get your mileage expenses paid. If you want to make a difference, please ring Karen Kerridge on: 875600.

Changes to Community

Car Charges: Thank you for being so understanding about the introduction of our admin fee for Community Car journeys. This will help us ensure that we can continue to support people who can no longer travel independently. To find out more about our charges, ring Helen or Kay on: 874290.

The Halesworth Community Larder: The Halesworth Community Larder is open every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday between 10am and 11:30am at St. Mary's Church Hall. Everyone is

welcome at the Larder and you will find a brilliant range of fresh and tinned goods and household items. If you have any unwanted food items or are finding that your rhubarb is growing rampant, please do bring them in and swap for something you need. If you're finding times tough, our lovely Larder volunteers will give you the warmest of welcomes and can provide you with information and support as well as the things you are short of.

Activities and events: We run a range of events to get people out and about. In June, we'll be organising a trip to the garden centre, always an adventure. To find out more about our events, please call the office on: 875600.

Don't forget the community quiche and sandwich lunch we host with St. Mary's, Halesworth on the last Wednesday of every month. The eagle eyed of you will have spotted that we are abandoning soup in the hope that Summer will actually come. Everyone is welcome. Lunch starts at 12:30pm. If you need transport, we have help from the brilliant HACT bus to get there and back again. Ring the office to find out more. The next lunches will be on June 28th and July 26th.

Then, there is Nigel's amazing quiz, now at the White Hart every 3rd Wednesday at 8pm. The quizzes are a great way of raising funds for Halesworth Volunteers. Huge thanks to Nigel, Vicky and her team and all the lovely contestants. The next quizzes will be on June 21st and July 19th.

The wellbeing lunch at Chinneys takes place on the 1st Tuesday of the month.

So, there's always an awful lot going on at Halesworth Volunteers!

Halesworth and District Probus Club

Our June meeting was our annual general meeting. The Club received reports from Chair, John Wood and Treasurer, Rupert Hannen.

Following on, elections for the year 2023-24 were held. John was elected as Chair, Michael Homfray-Cooper as Vice Chair, and Rupert Hannen as Treasurer.

The Club meets for an informal coffee morning on the first

Monday monthly. At our meeting this month, we were delighted to welcome two new members. Our next lunch meeting will be on June 19th. We're looking forward to a talk by Wendy Wootton of the East Anglian Air Ambulance. If anyone is interested in joining the Probus Club, please call John on 01986 835859 or email: woodjohn3556@gmail.com.

We offer a complete one stop shop service undertaking CARPENTRY • ELECTRICAL • GAS • FLOORING

• TILING • HEATING • BUILDING WORK

Buying direct from the manufacturer means you get excellent value for money with a 5-year guarantee

HALESWORTH - UNIT 16, HALESWORTH

to arrange for your FREE, no obligation design and quote. Established in 1980, we have unrivalled experience with thousands of quality kitchen installations throughout Norfolk and Suffolk. Halesworth 01986 875683 Lowestoft 01502 567789

Full menu including: Sunday Roast, Mixed Grill, Surf & Turf, Fish & Chips, e FAMOUS Triple Plea Burger and so many more delicious dishes!

well as tea and co ee and a good selection of wines, beers

ales

Shaun and Clare from Halesworth Volunteers attending the King's Garden Party

News from The Pear Tree Fund

The Pear Tree Centre in Halesworth continues to offer support, information, counselling, complementary therapies and benefits advice to anyone who's been diagnosed with a life-changing illness, their families/carers and those who have been bereaved. If you're interested in accessing our services, you're welcome to drop in and speak with a member of staff or contact us via email or phone. We also work alongside the statutory and voluntary sector to help provide extra equipment and enhanced care in the last days of life. Our aim is to offer emotional, physical and practical support to meet the individual needs of the person and their family, and to give them a choice of where they receive their care as they near the end of their life.

In May, we had a fantastic day at our Bramfield Hall Open Gardens. Thank you so much to Sir Simon and Lady Robey for opening up your beautiful gardens and to all the volunteers on the day helping us raise £3,946. Thanks this month also go to Kate and the team at The Queens Head Bramfield for raising £420 at their charity bingo night: also, to the fellowship at St. Luke's Church, Beccles for their £40 donation.

Heartfelt thanks and good wishes go to Ann Murley and Jean West who have retired from volunteering at The Pear Tree

Centre. They've both been with us since the centre opened and they will be missed very much. Thank you both for giving us your time and kindness over the last few years. Volunteers are vital to our charity. If you're interested in volunteering at the Centre (or in Dee's Den), please pop in or contact us for more information.

We have a busy few fundraising months ahead with the Car and Fête day at Holton Village Hall on June 18th, Sotterley Charity Country Fair on June 25th, Heveningham Hall Country Fayre on July 8th/9th, Sea Shanties and Fish and Chips at The Sailors Home, Kessingland on July 14th, the annual golf day at Halesworth Golf Club on September 1st and The Henham Steam Ralley on September 16th/17th. Thank you to everyone who organises events, attends events and makes donations, we really couldn't do it without you!

One of our biggest fundraisers each year is the 50/50 lottery, with prizes being drawn on both days of The Heveningham Country Fayre on July 8th/9th. Tickets are available to purchase on both days and in advance from The Pear Tree Centre, Dee's Den and The Bramfield Queens Head.

You can find our wonderful charity shop 'Dee's Den' in Steeple End, selling a wide range of goods. We have lovely summer clothes, shoes and sandals for all ages, including a rail of discounted children's clothes and an adult rail with £1 items which can be found outside if the weather allows. It's worth looking for a bargain!

We also have a variety of books which range in price.

Cancer Support Group

Again, we have a 'bargain' book box. Come and browse our wide range of linen, curtains, bedding, towels, lovely accessories, kitchenware, glassware, toys, jigsaws and games which have all been generously donated. Donations of clean, saleable items can be dropped into the shop when we're open. If there's a lot, then please donate on a Monday or Thursday morning.

We are beginning to collect items for our week in the 'pop up' shop, IChameleon later in the year. Do contact us if you have any small furniture items that we can collect. Thank you Phil, for your help with collecting and delivering.

Our popular, delicious homemade marmalade and jam are available too, thanks Jenny, Anne and others. Donations of plants have brought in a little more income. The shop wouldn't run without the wonderful volunteers who devote their time to us. Thank you one and all.

The shop will be extending its opening hours over the next few weeks as summer is here.

Mondays and Thursdays 10am1pm, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday until 2 or 3pm. (Please note that sometimes we need to close earlier than planned). For volunteering or larger donations, please contact Nikki on: 07733 668221.

If you're interested in receiving our monthly newsletter, which includes a diary of upcoming events and information about how the money raised for us is used, please visit our website to sign up: www.peartreefund.org.

To contact The Pear Tree Centre, email: info@peartreefund.org or call: 01986 899655.

For many people, and their families, getting a cancer diagnosis can be terrifying. In reality, for some people, this can be very serious news, with no easy outcome. But for so many people these days, the diagnosis is not nearly as bad as it was a few years ago. Earlier diagnostic techniques and better treatments mean that people with cancer now often live far longer, often many years. Many more people go into full remission and recover completely.

Even so, it can be a difficult journey for families and friends.

To this end, a cancer support group has been set up to help everyone concerned. The group is made up of people with cancer, those looking after them, cancer survivors, and others with a background related to cancer. There are no formal lectures or talks and no agenda, and we

are not able to give medical advice. Instead, members meet informally in a very friendly, supportive and positive manner to share tips and practical ways to help people cope with treatments, diets, daily life etc. It is hoped to have the occasional social event or craft session for members. The group members are also able to give practical help when needed, like giving lifts to hospital or getting shopping.

The group meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month at the Pear Tree Centre, Cutlers Hill, Halesworth (to whom we are most grateful) from 2pm-3:30pm.

If you or a loved one has cancer, we'd be delighted to welcome you to our very friendly and supportive group. Come and join us over a cup of tea or coffee. For further information, contact us through the Pear Tree Centre, or call Pat on 01986 835859.

Halesworth WI

Members enjoyed an interesting talk and slides by Melita on the history of the university of the third age (U3A).

Their motto is 'Learn, Laugh and Live'. This was a french concept that education is not just for the young but to learn together and try new experiences.

The local Halesworth branch meets once a month at The Cut for a talk with a speaker and has 37 groups with a wide variety of interests, these led by the members themselves: table tennis, lunch clubs, walking together, bridge, photography, bird watching, scrabble, to name

Thank you's from Halesworth Cancer Research UK

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came and supported our Spring Fair in Holton Village Hall on May 20th. The committee and volunteers were delighted that with your generosity we exceeded last years total and raised a fantastic £2350.08. It's all of you lovely people that makes the day so successful. We couldn't do it without you.

UBBESTON

•

just a few. There are U3A groups throughout the country with approximately 450,000 members.

Anna Mickleburgh then told us about the National Federation WI Resolution to be discussed at our National AGM in Cardiff in early June. A very topical subject as we, the WI movement, called for the government to "Clean our Rivers" and improve water supplies. Our members agreed to support this resolution.

Arrangements were sorted for our June outing to Taverham travelling in two Hoppa buses and the next Kurling date at the Rifle Hall.

We're also very grateful to the following businesses who sponsored our event: Spectra (who support all our events in the Village Hall). The food we served for the lunches was extremely generously donated by: Halesworth Coop, Cleveleys and Halesworth Spar. The following Halesworth businesses very kindly donated raffle prizes: Black Dog Deli, Gecko Shoes, Allen's Butchers, Toy Shop and Wotsits. Thanks also go to: Wentworth Hotel Aldeburgh, Dee Lawrence and Weaver Deeva.

A special thank you to Market Fields Farm Shop for providing the hamper for the hamper raffle which raised £153 and was won by Mary C from Holton. The bonus ball on Saturday night was number 20 and the lucky winner of the gin hamper was Wendy M, also from Holton. The doll raffle was won by a delighted Lisa.

I would like to thank all the committee members, volunteers and husbands who work so hard to put on these events. Thank you to the ladies who made the soup, lasagnas and all the delicious desserts. Thank you to Felicity and all who made a lovely table decoration, to everyone who baked for us, grew plants or contributed in any way.

Upcoming events: Our street collection will take

place on Friday and Saturday 23/24th June. Friday is in the town where we will have committed members/volunteers collecting outside Coopers and in The Angel/Bookshop area and on Saturday outside the Co-op. All our collectors will have authorisation cards. We are trying a new venture this year, we are going to be in The I-Chameleon pop up shop from July 13th-19th. As well as having the shop stocked we're hoping to have something special each day. The U3A ukulele group are going to play for us on Tuesday for an hour from 12:15pm (ish). We are hoping that Jane Bastow will be having a plant stall on Friday for us. A book and jigsaw day on Monday and then we will put on a cake stall and a Tombola (days to be decided). Please call in, we will have something for everyone. Please note: We will only be able to take cash in the shop.

We are very grateful to Blythburgh Carpet Bowls Club who sadly had to fold, and the members very generously decided to give The Halesworth Branch of Cancer Research half of the money in the clubs bank account. Basil and Eileen Lowe presented us with a cheque for £451.64. Thank you to all the club members.

Please continue to support to support our events. The money we raise really does make a difference as it funds the development of new early diagnosis methods and better less invasive treatments which ultimately means more positive long term outcomes for people sadly receiving a cancer diagnosis.

Thank you, Dawn Davis, 01986 873640

UBBESTON

Looking to keep fit or have some fun family time?

• Indoor poolHeated all year round

• Exclusive use for groups of up to 8

• Private changing rooms equipped with toilets and showers

National recognition for Southwold Community Café

The Financial Times has recognised The Canteen (a startup community café at the Old Hospital in Southwold, which opened less than a year ago) as one of the five best places on the Suffolk Coast for beautiful food and drink that is ethically sourced.

The driving force behind The Canteen is Nicola Hordern, an award-winning chef who trained at Ballymaloe Cookery School and worked at Quo Vadis in London. Before joining The Canteen, she was Head Chef at the Darsham Nurseries Café.

The Canteen (a community business owned by SouthGen, a social enterprise) has had to overcome significant hurdles to win the Financial Time's prestigious recognitionstaffing shortages, higher wage bills, inflation in food costs and decreased demand, all resulting from the perfect storm of Covid, Brexit and the cost-ofliving crisis. As if this were not enough, two weeks before The Canteen opened, Nicola was diagnosed with breast cancer, which required eight months of gruelling treatment.

Nicola said: "I think it is amazing that the FT has recognised us, and it is a credit to everyone here that we have managed to keep this place going and doing brilliant things despite so many challenges. I feel very proud of what we have achieved and what we will achieve because we have got so much more to do."

The Canteen's menus are inspired from flavours from around the world. Its ingredients

195162

come from ethical producers who practise regenerative farming. Fish and seafood are sourced from the UK waters only, using Marine Conservation Society guidance. Local gardeners and foragers also supply The Canteen with fresh produce which it uses to create its own cordials, spirits, preserves and condiments. It currently features a lilac spritz made with a syrup that Nicola created out of lilac blooms supplied by local residents.

The Canteen is open five days a week (Tuesday to Saturday) for coffee, breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. The Canteen also features a regular monthly Supper Club and a monthly Community Lunch.

The Sunday lunch (cooked by Nicola) is held on the last Sunday of each month, and is based on a 'Pay What You Can Afford' scheme. It is an informal and inclusive event, open to all, irrespective of means, age or where you live. A team of volunteers serves the food canteen-style.

SouthGen's Chair, Jessica Jeans, explains: "We have families who couldn't afford to go out to lunch, and they pay little or nothing. We have other customers who will pay £20 a head, and some will be even more generous. Our scheme enables people with more to help people with less and brings people of all ages and walks of life together. It is also a way that the tourism economy can support local people."

The Canteen operates a 'Pay It Forward' scheme - customers can pay extra on top of their bill,

Holton and Blyford Village Hall

We have had a very successful Open Gardens (organised by Helen Fensom) and were able to welcome lots of happy walking people to the hall. Many with tales and aspirations of gardens to come!

We look forward to our Classic Car Day (after a three year break) on Father's Day (June 18th). We have so missed our cheerful car people. There are lots of stalls booked in, both in the open and some in the hall where the Chediston Art Group

are mounting an exhibition of their work. It will be in the Bar which will open from 12 noon.

Christian will be entertaining with his music and informing with his mic. Mandy (our favourite ice cream lady) will be there as well. We will also have a BBQ under the canopy with lots of freshly-cooked burgers. The kitchen will supply light lunches, cream teas and, of course, tea and coffee together with homemade cakes all day.

Then there's the stars of the

day... The vehicles! We have loads of interested drivers contacting us and so are expecting a great turn out. Entry is free, just a donation please as the event is to keep the Village Hall open and available for all.

July 6th is the date of our annual general meeting. Do come

along and hear what's been going on with your community space. Several of the committee are standing down so here is your chance to join in and lend a hand for your village. Opportunities for hands on people - not just talking! The meeting starts at 7pm in the hall. All are welcome.

183507

and this goes into a pot that helps pay for the Sunday Community Lunch.

If you'd like to attend the community lunch, contact: sydney@southgen.co.uk or call The Canteen on 07916 173088.

The dates for the next Supper Club and Community Lunch, and menus, can be found at: www. oldhositalhub.co.uk/canteen.

The Canteen is located next to Southwold Library in the Old Hospital hub, which is also home to the Old Hospital Nursery and the Geography Fieldwork Academy. The Old Hospital hub is owned and managed by SouthGen, a social enterprise, which partnered with Hastoe Housing Association to buy the former Southwold and District Hospital which had been closed by the NHS in 2015. They restored its Victorian character and redeveloped it as a community space with social housing. Hastoe owns and manages the social housing. For more information about the Old Hospital and its facilities, see: www.oldhospitalhub.co.uk

Head Chef, Nicola Hordern

179761

01986 874442

Neat Feet

Halesworth Town Football Club

A great season for Halesworth Town Football Club (HTFC): It was great to see the club finish runner-up in the Suffolk and Ipswich Premier league, losing only one match all season which was to the eventual winners, Henley Athletic FC. Also a huge congratulations to Pat Summerfield who finished the season as the league's top scorer with 40 goals from 33 games

including a hat-trick in the last match! Now we wait to see if HTFC will be accepted into the Thurlow Nunn League Division

One next season, fingers crossed!

So, congratulations to all players and managers as well as he excellent officials for a fantastic season, and best wishes for the new season which will soon be upon us. Gerald Ellis, Life Vice President

excellent value for high quality

• Using only environmentally friendly and non-animal tested products

• Ample free car parking

• Easy access for

•

HTFC - 73 years ago: Gerald Ellis (HTFC Life Vice President) has kindly sent us a photo he thought would be of interest to our readers. Do you recognise anyone from in the team photo of the victorious 1955-56 season when HTFC were champions of the Norfolk & Suffolk League Division 2?

Back row (L to R): Stan Goddard (Club Sec), John Hardy, Maurice Hayes, Billy Goddard, Gerald Ellis, Ronnie Crane, Peter Etheridge, Jim Wall (Manager). Front row (L to R): Walley Sherwood, Colin Haken, Derek Borrett (Captain), David Ellis, Gordon Taylor

COOKER KLEEN

For a

Removes

oven – let us do the job you hate

carbon deposits, grease and fat

All cleaning products are non-corrosive, non caustic, free of fumes and biodegradable

A selection of delicious recipes from

www.maryberrysfoods.co.uk

Mango Eton Mess

with Mary Berry's Mango, Lime & Chilli Dressing

As featured in Places & Faces Magazine.

To subscribe to Places&Faces

(THE luxury lifestyle magazine for Norfolk & Suffolk) delivered straight to your door, visit their website: www.placesandfaces.co.uk

Ingredients: Serves 4

• 1 mango.

• 200ml double cream.

• 3 Tbsp icing sugar.

• 2 Tbsp Mary Berry's Mango, Lime & Chilli Dressing.

• 4 meringue nests.

• 1 vanilla pod.

• Mint leaves for garnish.

• 1 lime zest.

Method:

- Whisk cream with icing sugar to a soft peak.

- Scrape the seeds from the split vanilla pod and fold into the cream.

- Halve the mango either side of the flat stone. Cut away the skin and thinly slice into small chunks.

- Next, fold the crushed meringue and Mary Berry's Mango, Lime & Chilli Dressing into the whipped cream.

- Mix through very gently.

- Spoon meringue mixture into the serving glass then add some chopped mango, followed by another spoonful of meringue cream.

- Finely sprinkle some mango on top and one grated lime zest to serve and enjoy!

*Best served chilled

Sticky Caramel

Sticky Caramel A le Cake A le Cake

As featured in Places & Faces Magazine. To subscribe to Places&Faces (THE luxury lifestyle magazine for Norfolk & Suffolk) delivered straight to your door, visit their website: www.placesandfaces.co.uk

Recipe by Lauren Davis from King's Cake Emporium, Gorleston, Norfolk Caramel is notoriously thought of as being a baker's nemesis, but with this cake there is no longer a need to be afraid!

Ingredients:

• 75g light brown sugar.

• 3 Granny Smith apples.

• 1 tbsp lemon juice.

• 125g softened butter/baking butter.

Places

• 220g sugar.

• 1 tsp cinnamon.

• 1 tsp vanilla extract.

• 3 eggs.

• 150g self raising flour.

• 35g plain flour.

• 60ml milk.

Method:

- Pre heat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

- Grease and line a round 20cm cake tin with baking paper. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the bottom of the tin.

- Peel, core and thickly slice the apples. Toss these with the lemon juice before arranging the apples on top of the brown sugar. If you have any excess lemon juice, drizzle this over the top.

- Beat together the butter, sugar and cinnamon until well mixed and creamy.

- Add the eggs and vanilla and continue to beat until well combined.

- Sift the flours together before using a metal spoon or spatula to gently fold in the flour and milk in two batches. Once combined, spoon the mixture over the apples, ensuring a smooth finish.

- Bake for 1 hour 20 minutes or until golden and a skewer comes out clean.

- Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes.

- Place a plate over the cake tin then turn it upside down to turn the cake out. Voila!

Portobello Mushroom Burger with Stilton

Portobello Mushroom Burger with Stilton

As featured in Places & Faces Magazine. To subscribe to Places&Faces (THE luxury lifestyle magazine for Norfolk & Suffolk) delivered straight to your door, visit their website: www.placesandfaces.co.uk

Recipe by Maldon Salt.

www.maldonsalt.co.uk

Ingredients: Serves 2

• 2 red onions, finely sliced

• Pinch of Maldon salt

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp caster sugar

• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar

• 2 large portobello mushrooms

• 100g Stilton cheese

• 25g wild rocket

• 2 brioche buns, toasted

• Dijon mustard, for spreading (optional)

Method:

- Preheat the grill on a high setting.

- Start by preparing the caramelized red onions. In a pan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and add the sliced red onions along with a good pinch of Maldon® Salt. Turn the heat down low and allow the onions to slowly cook down for 10 minutes until soft.

- While the onions are cooking, place the 2 portobello mushrooms onto a foil-lined baking tray. Remove the stem

www.maldonsalt.co.uk

and stuff the mushrooms with the crumbled Stilton cheese.

- Season with some cracked black pepper and place under the grill for 5 minutes; until the mushroom is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

- Going back to the onions:

After they have softened for 10 minutes, add the balsamic vinegar and caster sugar and cook gently for another 5 minutes until sticky and caramelized. Remove from

the heat.

- Now you can assemble your burgers. Start with the toasted brioche bun base, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on (if desired).

- Top with the Stilton-filled portobello mushroom, season with Maldon salt and pile on some caramelized onions.

- Finally, top with the wild rocket and the brioche burger lid. Serve with some more Dijon mustard, if you'd like.

New leader for East Suffolk Council

Councillor Caroline Topping is the new Leader of East Suffolk Council, heading an administration formed of Green, Liberal Democrat and Independent members of the authority.

Cllr Topping (a ward member for Beccles and Worlingham) becomes East Suffolk's second ever leader, following Steve Gallant, who led a Conservative

administration from 2019, before standing down at the recent election.

The new administration (GLI Group) is formed of 28 councillors: 16 Greens, 11 Liberal Democrats and one Independent. The Conservatives have 15 seats, and Labour 12.

Details of the new administration were confirmed on Wednesday evening at a meeting of East Suffolk's full council, which also saw the election of a new chairman and vice-chairman.

Appointments were made to a variety of committees, plus confirmation of the leader's new cabinet, which sees Liberal Democrat Group Lead, Councillor David Beavan, become East Suffolk's deputy leader.

voted in such huge numbers for Green candidates, and our progressive agenda which focuses so keenly not just on our local environment but also the planet's continued sustainability. We have more than trebled our number, which speaks volumes for the concerns and interests of local people. We have built a fantastic working relationship with our Liberal Democratic and Independent colleagues over the last four years, building on our shared values. We could not be more aware that our communities have put their trust in us, and we must do our best to deliver what they would like us to achieve. However, we are also fully aware that this council comprises 55 members of five colours and we will work constructively across all parties, with our residents, businesses, visitors and everyone who cares about East Suffolk in mind."

East Suffolk's new Cabinet is as follows:

Leader: Caroline Topping

Deputy Leader & Cabinet Member for Housing: David Beavan

Energy & Climate Change: Tom Daly

Economic Development & Transport: Toby Hammond

The new Leader of East Suffolk Council, Caroline Topping

Cllr Topping said: "I am absolutely delighted that residents in our communities

Tonight's council meeting saw Green councillor Anthony Speca elected as Chairman of the council, while Independent councillor John Fisher will be the new Vice-Chairman.

Communities, Leisure & Tourism: Katie Graham Community Health: Mike Ninnmey Corporate Services - Digital, Customer Services, HR & Assets: Paul Ashton Planning & Coastal Management: Kay Yule Resources & Value For Money: Vince Langdon-Morris Environment: Rachel Smith-Lyte

Mind, Body & Spirit

If you're on a quest to look and feel your best this summer while supporting your local community, we've got the perfect solution for you: local independent businesses. Whether you're craving a rejuvenating massage therapy session or a fabulous new hairdo, You are never too far away from an expert here!

First things first, let's talk about the amazing world of massage therapy. Picture this: soothing music, tranquil ambiance, and the magical touch of a skilled massage therapist working their magic on your tired muscles.

Ahh, pure bliss! Not only does massage therapy help you relax and unwind, but it also offers a plethora of health benefits. It can alleviate muscle tension, reduce stress, improve circulation, and even boost your immune system. By choosing a local independent massage therapist, you're not only investing in your well-being but also supporting someone's passion and livelihood.

Moving from your body to your hair, nothing quite matches the feeling of stepping out of a salon with a fresh new hairdo.

Whether you're opting for a bold pixie cut, luscious curls,

or a vibrant new colour, local independent hair salons are the place to be. These talented stylists are not just experts in their craft, but they also bring an artistic flair and personal touch to every hairstyle they create.

Supporting our local independent businesses goes beyond just benefiting ourselves. It's about fostering a sense of community, building connections, and ensuring the survival of these unique establishments. When you shop at a local boutique for your skincare products or choose a small, independent makeup artist for your special occasions, you're contributing to the growth of your neighbourhood and encouraging creativity and diversity in the beauty industry.

Taking care of ourselves and looking and feeling great doesn't have to be a solo mission. By embracing local independent businesses, we can support our own well-being while simultaneously contributing to the vitality of our community.

So, go ahead, indulge in that massage or rock that new hairdo,

and let's celebrate the beauty of our health and the power of our local independent businesses!

Manor House Practice

Our commitment to patient care remains as strong today as when we first opened almost 40 years ago. We take our responsibility for your health very seriously and where necessary we work with your GPS to help ensure that our patients are benefiting from collaborative and informed approach.

Every Manor House Practitioner is professionally trained and highly experienced.

Our aim is to make you feel as well as possible, as quickly as possible. Sometimes this will involve multiple treatments, but please be assured that the number of visits we recommend is strictly based on achieving the very best outcome for you.

Latitude Festival returns!

Leading music and arts festival Latitude festival returns to the picturesque grounds of Henham Park, Suffolk, on July 20th to 23rd with Pulp, Paolo Nutini, George Ezra, Young Fathers and Siouxsie plus comedians Ed Gamble, Romesh Ranganathan, Sara Pascoe and Bridget Christie topping an eclectic bill where music meets the arts. Celebrating creativity, diversity and inspirational talent, Latitude Festival adds yet more names to the arts and music stages, transforming Henham Park into the ultimate playground of artistic expression.

Across the music stages, a host of eclectic trailblazers have been added. Something for everyone would be an understatement - this is a mind-blowing lineup to make you want to stay up forever.

Home of world-class comedy,

Circle 67: The Two Gentlemen of Verona

this year's Latitude features spectacular stand-up stars and cutting-edge new talent with the largest comedy lineup in the UK. Following his headline set, Romesh Ranganathan will be bringing the late-night party to the Comedy Arena, closing the Latitude festival with one of his rare and riotous Hip Hop Saved My Life parties. Ranganathan and his tour DJ Martin2smoove will create an exclusive Hip Hop Saved My Festival set with a soundtrack provided by some of the best DJs in the world.

Across the weekend a range of cutting-edge new and emerging comedians, cabaret acts and raconteurs will perform at The Outpost. Expect the unexpected as Adam Flood, Ania Magliano, Andrew White, John Meagher, Kate Barron, Kathy Maniura, Michael Adakiri and The Lol Word take to the stage.

Halesworth Swifts

Halesworth Swifts group invites all readers to an illustrated talk about the 'Lives of Swifts' at St.

Mary's Church on June 23rd starting at 7:30pm.

Entry is free of charge, however we'd welcome some donations of a roll of kitchen towel! Kitchen towel is used by Framlingham Swift Rescue to keep orphaned swiftlets warm, clean and cosy until they're strong enough to be released. There

will be refreshments and the opportunity to meet Halesworth Swifts Group representatives after the talk.

You can find us on Facebook (@Halesworth Swifts) or email: halesworthswifts@gmail.com

Reydon Show

The Reydon Show returns this summer on August 5th. It celebrates your talents big and small plus, there are small cash prizes and various trophies to be won.

There are various categories for fruit and vegetables (including one for odd shaped ones), flowers and plants, flower arranging, baking and preserves, art, handicrafts and photography.

The categories for this year's photographic entries are:

1) A flower arrangement.

2) A farming scene.

3) A river or lake scene.

4) A view of a shed (interior or exterior). Entries have to be in on the Friday night/Saturday morning and the exhibition opens at 2pm. So, plan your preserves, ready your radishes and corral your carnations ready for August.

A full programme of categories is available at Barbrooks, Reydon or can be emailed if you contact Charlotte Clark: frogclock@hotmail.com.

"How Love can trifle with itself."

Love tests loyalty when lifelong friends, Valentine and Proteus, both fall in love with Sylvia. But when her father, the Duke, determines she should marry the rich, but foolish Thurio, he banishes Valentine, leaving Proteus to woo Sylvia for himself. The stage is now set for a tale that involves high jinx, betrayal, a motley group of outlaws, a rope ladder, many letters and of course the hope of redemption.

Written sometime around 1590, The Two Gentlemen of Verona is considered to be Shakespeare's first play for the stage and makes its Circle 67 debut on our Shorter Shakespeare Summer Tour. We are touring from July

18th to 23rd to some great local venues (please see our advert on this page for more details), so join us in your favourite castle, meadow or pub garden for one hour of entertainment packed with passion, fun, music and Crab the dog!

Entrance is free and we provide basic seating. If you enjoy the show, please give generously when the hat is passed round at the end.

As our name implies, Circle 67 was founded in 1967 to bring high-quality drama to the local area. We always welcome new members, so if you are interested in joining us, or simply want details of forthcoming productions, please contact us: info@ circle67co.uk or have a look at our website.

The Rifle Hall, Halesworth, IP19 8LR 2nd SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH 9AM-1PM

For stall enquiries, please contact Pam on 01986 781382

A baby swift receives care in its knitted nest

The Latitude sheep

Businesses in Halesworth's town centre have been getting in front of the camera this spring, working together on a marketing project with local photographer Martin Poulson.

Martin, an active member of the Halesworth Camera Club, took his first set of images of Halesworth's local business people for the Friends of St. Mary's 'Local Life in 2022' exhibition as part of last year's Heritage Open Days. They were so well received that he has now worked with many of the local businesses over the last months to capture the familiar faces of the town and the images are being used in a social media campaign called "Halesworth - local and independent".

The Facebook page (Halesworth Market Town) and Instagram page (@ halesworthtown) have built up quite a following over the last few years, with their photos and videos about the town centre area, updating on events and activities as well as highlighting the wide range of independent businesses. The pages have been managed by local businesses to promote the town centre and hopefully encourage people to visit the town centre whether they live locally or are here as a visitor.

Working with Martin has highlighted a key aspect of "local and independent" Halesworththe owners of the local businesses, who are such familiar faces in the

community focusing on customer service and offering the personal touch.

Halesworth is unique and special for a number of other reasons including its semipedestrianised Thoroughfare with attractive heritage buildings, as well as the high percentage of independently owned businesses. From a butcher to a baker, a bookshop to a barber, solicitors and accountants, opticians and boutiques, as well as places to stop for a drink and food, Halesworth might not have a national high street name, but you can certainly find most things that you might be looking for.

Local businesses invest more than national or online businesses in the local community, providing employment, buying locally and supporting local community activities and events. Since the pandemic and with the current economic issues, life has been tough for local businesses and they are always looking for ways to encourage more people to the town centre. Martin's help in putting together the "local and independent" campaign has been a big boost.

"When I thought about the theme of the exhibition I took inspiration from a quote from the Bible "Diligent hands bring wealth", says Martin. "Our town gets much of its character from those who invest their time, skills and enthusiasm, and their money, running businesses that

HALESWORTH TOY SHOP

create wealth - in its broader sense - for us all. I don't see our local businesses as a financial transaction with a customer, they are the 'faces' that went beyond during the pandemic adapting their businesses to be there for us, and they organise events such as the annual scarecrow trail which brings so much delight to families.

I hoped that this project would in a small way make the faces behind the shop fronts more visible and give them recognition."

Martin and the Halesworth Camera Club have also been supporting the town centre with another project. Back in April with the help of Jonathon Carmen of Fennels chartered Surveyors, they managed to persuade the landlord of one of the temporary empty properties to allow them

access to hold a "shop window' exhibition. This great initiative allowed their work to be visible 24/7 and gave the property a new purpose whilst awaiting a new tenant.

The Club are now looking to extend this project to other properties in the town centre, showcasing the images of the local photographers. Using flexible display equipment, means that the exhibitions can move around the town centre on a "pop-up basis". For more details on Halesworth Camera Club, please visit halesworthcameraclub.co.uk. Please follow us on Facebook (Halesworth Market Town) and Instagram (@halesworthtown), and share the town's news with families and friends so they might come and meet us.

The Halesworth Florist

Tony & Anthea xx

Edgar Sewter Primary School visit Beech House

Reception children at Edgar Sewter Primary have been making regular visits to Beech House Residential Home. It has been a fabulous opportunity.

We have been very fortunate to have support from the Hoppa, who have taken us there each time. This has been an extremely exciting aspect of our trips, as the children are able to spot familiar places and people as we ride along.

Once there, we've been able to join in with the residents on craft-based projects. We have decorated stones, created magical sweet displays, had colouring competitions and even worked with clay. The activities have been organised by the staff at Beech House and have been great at capturing our interests, as well as the interests of the residents.

The children have been sitting next to the residents with varying levels of chatter between them. Inevitably some children are shy, but many have had wonderful discussions with their partner. We

Open day at Blythburgh Station

were lucky too to have a session with three generations of one family! A son, a father and a greatgrandmother. Special times.

We've been ending the sessions by sharing a story together and then singing some songs. Our children have been learning some classic songs (You Are My Sunshine, My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean and Bobby Shafto) whilst the residents have been joining us in nursery rhymes. It has been a very special time.

The children at school have been extremely excited about visiting the home and we hope that the home have been happy to have us join them too. For our pupils, learning about the different needs that people around them have, has been valuable, understanding that sometimes, as we age, talking and doing simple activities can become more challenging.

For the residents, spending time with little bundles of energy has been invigorating and energising. A great mix all round.

Halesworth to Southwold

Narrow Gauge Railway Society

Cio - Dedicated to re-creating the Blyth Valley's lost railway.

The Halesworth to Southwold

Narrow Gauge Railway Charity will be celebrating Suffolk Day, and its first five years of existence, on June 21st with a free Open Day at Blythburgh Station.

We are unsure how many other local organisations will also be celebrating the day, but because we are very much a Suffolk Charity, with a mostly local membership, we strongly wish to keep this tradition going.

The Open Day will run from 10:30am-4pm, and the station can easily be found just off the A12 in Blythburgh, opposite the White Hart pub. Parking will be provided. There is a bus to the village from both Halesworth and Southwold. Come and see us, enjoy the ambience of the station being restored, see a selection of artefacts unearthed onsite, learn

about our achievements over the five years we have existed, talk about our hopes and plans, maybe join us and help!

There will be free light refreshments in the village hall, and showings of railway films. There will be sales of souvenirs, books and DVDs. We look forward to seeing you there.

The Railway Charity exists to restore to operation as much as possible of the long-closed Victorian branch line which ran between Halesworth and Southwold from 1879 to 1929. This very unusual three-footgauge line is an integral part of the area's history, and will provide a link with the commercial and tourism past of the Blyth Valley, as well as forming an opportunity for the practical volunteering which is proven to be very beneficial to everyone who undertakes it. Details can be found on: www.halesworthto southwoldrailway.co.uk

Woodbridge Badminton Club

Badminton Summer Club in Kesgrave

Woodbridge Badminton

Club is currently running its summer club at the Kesgrave Community Centre Sports Hall. This runs on Friday evenings from 7:30pm to 9:30pm on a pay-as-you-play basis (£6/ night) until the end of August.

We welcome a range of abilities but unfortunately, not complete beginners. You can find out more at: www.woodbridgebadminton. co.uk, email: contact@ woodbridgebadminton.co.uk, or ring Jim Cavanagh on 01728 723900.

Leiston Town Bowls Club

Season 2023 continues as bowlers expect, first game, rain, situation normal, next few games if not wet, its cold.

Slowly but surely, our membership increases, singles, pairs, all keen and full of enthusiasm, this all encourages the club.

First games all go well and the new playing strip is welcomed, but with good reason, we now have warm club jackets which have been much needed! Results start well with four wins out of five in spite of need for thick jumpers.

Leiston's first class facilities continue to be recognised.

Suffolk County Bowls were pleased to use the facilities for their trials weekend, then the Mary Denny friendly between Suffolk's respective ladies and gents teams, followed by regional County games, first against Northants which they won 188-147, next its Norfolk June 10th.

Playing host to County games gives the club the opportunity to fundraise. Their volunteer kitchen team do a first class job providing refreshments and food. There is also a draw at each event and these efforts has resulted in between £200 and £300 for much needed club funds.

The re-growth of the Bowls Club continues with the reintroduction of all internal competitions. Members are showing increased interest with large numbers putting the names forward in all competitions. This gives the new secretary a headache and more work to adapt the draw and action plans with associated deadlines to meet throughout the season, culminating with finals day.

Season 2023 fast becoming the rebirth with big successes planned for future. There are still entries available for Pairs Open tournament September 7th, come along and get involved. Ditcher

Upcoming events at St. Peter's Church, Sibton

A major exhibition will take place in Sibton Church on July 8th and 9th from 10:30am-4pm, with tours of Sibton Abbey included.

Newly discovered secrets of the history and medieval heritage of the surrounding area will be revealed. The church building has a history and extant remains dating back to the 12th century.

By kind permission of Nicholas Levett-Scrivener, the Sibton Abbey Ruin will be open.

Sibton Abbey (the only Cistercian foundation in Suffolk) is a well-documented and recently consolidated 12th century ruin. New evidence concerning the

site has been established by geophysical survey. Recent discoveries will be demonstrated by Historic England. There will be activities for the whole family. Refreshments will be available at the church. Tickets are on sale from The Weavers Tea Room and Peasenhall General Store and online at Eventbrite: www.eventbrite.co.uk.

On the event days, tickets will be available at Sibton Church. The event is organized by the Friends of St. Peter's Church, Sibton.

Proceeds will go towards further repair work to the church building.

The price of fish... A steam drifter at work in heavy seas

Halesworth and District U3A

A reminder that our meeting at The Cut Arts Centre on June 20th will be a talk given by local gunsmith and Antiques Roadshow expert Robert Tillney. Start time: 2:30pm.

Our meeting at The Cut Arts Centre on July 18th will be a talk about the rise and fall of the fishing industry in Lowestoft.

Called "The Price of Fish", this illustrated talk will be given by Melita Rouse-Skeet who witnessed at first hand the effects of the decline of the fishing industry on people and commerce in the town. We will hear from Melita some poignant stories and some little known facts about the industry and Lowestoft.

The talk will start at 2:30pm at The Cut Arts Centre, Halesworth.

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. June 28th at 11am is the next Members Coffee Hour in The Cut Café. If you're interested in joining the U3A, please come and meet us at the Coffee Hour or visit our Halesworth & District U3A website for more information.

In May, the U3A welcomed Dr Ian Bedford who gave us an insight into the fascinating world of insects. He told us how important insects are in contributing to a healthy environment and a balanced ecosystem. Dr. Bedford also explained how we can help nature to prosper by developing wildlife corridors across gardens in our towns and by using new, less damaging methods of controlling "pests". One person's pest is another's delight!

Readers letter...

Where has our humanity gone?

At 6am on Bank Holiday Monday (May 29th), there was beautiful adult red deer dead on the A12, between Yoxford and Friday Street junction. Its head was actually on the carriageway, in a way that would cause some motorists to swerve to avoid it.

I knew that no offices would be open for help, so I phoned Suffolk Police who took down the details and said they would send someone out from Woodbridge to move it. I assumed they meant REMOVE it but they meant move it. So the deer was swivelled round so that its head was not on the carriage way. It's now no more than six inches from the road edge line. Yesterday (Sunday 11th June), the poor animal was still there. That is 14 days.

WHY IS IT STILL THERE?

Because nobody will accept responsibility for its removal.

Highways England were very helpful and gave me the outside hours number for Highways Suffolk. They were unable to answer the phone as they were closed! A voice message said that I should wait until the next morning and phone back in office hours.

I then phoned my Green County Councillor and she went well out of her way to try and help me. She got the same reactions as I did from the various authorities. Apparently, the local hunts used to pick up dead deer but no longer do so. The RSPCA don't do it either. Highways reckon that it will just have to lay and rot by the roadside. This beautiful animal is the size of a small horse.

Initially, it looked as though it could have been pregnant. After yesterday's heat, I cannot imagine what state it is in. The saddest part of all this is that the deer is just one metre away from the woods it obviously emerged from and if only someone in an authority would roll it onto a tarpaulin and pull it a few feet into the woods it could decompose in private and not be a hazard to any motorist who might swerve to miss it.

In my opinion, it can only deteriorate further and become much worse. This may well mean a hazard to traffic WHO CARES? I DO.

Jill Reece, Halesworth resident

Do you have something you'd like to talk about or share with our readers?

Email: edit@micropress.co.uk

Sibton Church and Abbey in the 19th century

Update from Dr. Dan Poulter MP

Parliament has just returned from Whitsun recess and as ever, I have very much enjoyed spending much more time at home in Suffolk. I especially enjoyed my annual visit to the Suffolk Show, celebrating all that makes this county such a fantastic place to live and work and I'm sure that many of you also enjoyed a visit to the show.

It gives me great pleasure to bring some good news. This month, to some of the schools in our area. I have helped to secure a share of £450 million Government funding to upgrade school buildings across the country, to include projects at Wickham Market Primary School. In all, 859 academies, sixth-

form colleges and voluntary aided schools will receive a share of £456 million from the Condition Improvement Fund, and I'm pleased to have played my part in helping to deliver this much needed funding to our schools here in Suffolk. This new investment will help to upgrade and improve school facilities, providing pupils with safer and warmer classrooms, and more energy efficient school buildings. I am a regular visitor to schools in Suffolk and have long championed the excellent work they deliver, on a daily basis, demonstrating clear-sighted ambitions for the wellbeing and future development of the students. Therefore, I'm especially pleased to have been

able to support Wickham Market Primary School, in receiving a share of this funding. It's vital that our schools have access to high-quality facilities and these funding allocations will make sure that projects can go ahead to improve these learning environments so pupils and teachers can learn and work in comfortable spaces.

When I meet with staff and pupils at schools across Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, it would be fair to say that funding is always high on the agenda. Suffolk is a predominantly rural county and, in the past, cost per pupil funding has been significantly lower than other areas in the country. I have worked hard to

support our schools and I am glad that funding is now improving but more needs to be done and I will continue to do all that I can to make sure that our children and young people can access a good education here in Suffolk.

Finally, I would like to close by putting on record my sincere thanks to all our schools' teams for the enormous contribution they are making in supporting our fantastic children and young people. It is vitally important that our children remain safe, happy and engaged when in school. When I visit schools, I am always impressed with the enthusiasm and commitment I see in staff and pupils, from academic excellence to pastoral care. Thank you.

Financial

focus on... Moving the Tax Return goalposts

Now that we have turned the corner into another tax year, post 6th April 2023, there are several allowances and thresholds that have been changed that may have an impact on your personal affairs and tax planning for the coming year.

Firstly, for those individuals that receive dividend income, from 6th April 2023 the nil rate band has reduced to £1,000 and is set to reduce again to £500 for 2023/24 onwards. Meaning less of your dividend income each year will be tax free. The tax rates applicable to dividends over this limit will remain the same for 2023/24, as in the 2022/23 year, at 8.75% to the extent your income falls within your basic rate tax band, 33.75% in the higher rate band, and 39.35% in the additional rate band.

The reduction in the nil rate band for dividends will also result in more individuals falling into the requirement to file selfassessment Tax Returns. If your dividend income was previously covered by the nil rate band, then after the reduction now exceeds it, you may be required to file an annual self-assessment Tax Return to report this, depending on your circumstances.

Secondly, the Capital Gains

Tax (CGT) annual allowance has reduced to £6,000 from 6 April 2023, and will reduce further to £3,000 in 2024/25. The annual allowance is deducted from the capital gains made in a tax year, and any gains in excess of this are taxed at the CGT rates which remain unchanged from the 2022/23 rates. Given the reduced allowances, it is possible that more capital disposals are likely to give rise to the need for self-assessment Tax Returns or 60-day (CGT) reports to be submitted to HMRC.

When you dispose of a UK residential property, unless there is no CGT liability, you must report the property Gain and pay the CGT due to HMRC online, within 60 days of completion.

At the point that you then complete your annual SelfAssessment Return, you are required to include the disposal details again and calculate your final CGT exposure, including any losses in the tax year post completion date. If there is a difference between the final amount of CGT due and paid already, you will have to pay this balance alongside your income tax liability.

Lastly, HMRC are increasing the threshold at which point it becomes compulsory to file a self-assessment Tax Return

for the 2023/24 tax year. This is currently a compulsory requirement for anyone with total gross income of over £100,000 in 2022/23, including PAYE sources. This will be increasing to £150,000 for 2023/24 onwards, although it is still always worth reviewing your affairs if your gross income exceeds £100,000, due to the potential effect of the loss of personal tax allowances. For further information, please contact Oliver Hammond, Senior Accountant (pictured below) at Ensors Accountants LLP, via email: oliver.hammond@ensors.co.uk.

This information is given by way of general guidance only, and no action should be taken based solely on the information contained herein. No liability is accepted by the firm for any actions taken without seeking appropriate professional advice.

Edgar Sewter Playschool and Out of School Club

Edgar Sewter Playschool is open Monday to Friday during term time offering funded and non-funded places (currently £5/hour) for children from two to three years old, until they join main school nursery.

We are currently accepting registrations for September onwards and welcome prearranged visits.

It's been an exciting month!

The children watched our very own caterpillars grow and were fascinated to see six painted lady butterflies emerge. Mummy blackbird has been very clever and resilient and rebuilt a nest inside our outdoor playhouse to raise her young!

For older children from four

years and over, we run our Breakfast Club from 8am and After School Club between 3:30pm-6pm (snack included) during term time. We are open in the main school holiday and half term weeks with a variety of indoor and outdoor activities and are currently taking bookings for summer (July 24th to August 25th). We welcome children from all schools as well as Edgar Sewter and run from 8am with flexible start and finish times to suit individual needs, half or whole days or just a few hours and affordable at £3.50 per hour. All places subject to availability. We are a registered charity and run completely independently

within the main Edgar Sewter Primary School. We're a small, friendly team of caring, qualified, experienced staff and follow the Early Years Foundation Stage and Playwork Principles with the individual interests of the children and their learning through play at the heart of our setting. We're Ofsted registered and have been established for over 20 years. Watch this space for news on the re-launch of our parent, baby and toddler group coming in the autumn.

Pleased email: esplayschool@ gmail.com or ring: 07796 044277 for further details or to book a place for Playschool, Breakfast, After School or Holiday Clubs.

Epic cycle ride for Halesworth Dementia Carers Fund

Two brave cyclists, Giles Scoble (son-in-law of our Patron Paddy Cox) and his friend Simon will be undertaking a coast to coast cycle ride to raise funds for the Halesworth Dementia Carers Fund and Pancreatic Cancer Action.

Their aim is to leave St. David's (on the far west coast of Wales) and cycle across to Ness Point in Lowestoft, a ride of over 400 miles. To make things even harder, they will be totally self-supporting, with no backup vehicles or mechanics. This remarkable journey will begin on July 19th. They will travel

approximately 100 miles each day, arriving in Halesworth on Sunday 23rd. They will then leave Halesworth at 9am on Monday for the final 25 mile ride to Ness Point. It would so good if we can have people out to greet them in Halesworth and at their journeys end in Lowestoft.

If you'd like to support these heroic riders, please visit the Halesworth Dementia Carers Fund Facebook page where they have set up a Just Giving Page.

10th anniversary party: This was a wonderful event, marking 10 great years for HDCF.

After our May film, our Chair

ML & RJ THICKITT TRADING AS

(Teresa Fyfe) cut the birthday cake to mark the occasion, and £300 was raised at the event. Over the years, the Fund has raised so much, and provided many hours of respite care. All this wouldn't have been possible were it not for the outstanding generosity of so many people, businesses and organisations that have helped us. Thank you, each and everyone.

100+ Club draw:

The winning numbers in May were: 62, 24, and 23. If you'd like to join the 100+ Club, please call Anna on 07721 842802.

July film:

Feeding the goats

Ringsfield, Brampton and Bramfield Schools

The Ringsfield and Brampton Reception classes went on their first ever school trip to Ringsfield Hall. We had such an amazing day as we went on a 'Journey into the Forest'. The children were given a map of the grounds to help them find their way.

Molly the Mushroom took us on the adventure and we also got to meet her friends Carol the Squirrel and Jenny the Owl. There was lots planned for us and the children were able to demonstrate many skills. We did some den building to construct a drey for Jenny and we made a home for a

teddy. The children worked very well as a team to move the heavy branches. We also used clay and natural materials to make models of animals, wool to make giant spider webs around the trees and many other woodland activities.

We want to thank all of the team at Ringsfield Hall for such an amazing day and we look forward to visiting again in the future.

The Reception class at Bramfield have been learning about life cycles and for our educational visit we were lucky enough to be invited to spend the day at Broad Oak Farm, which is just down the road from our school. Broad Oak Farm was once upon a time a dairy farm but in the last few years it has been transformed into a wonderful place where children living with serious illness can come and stay with their families. The farm is home to an abundance of friendly animals for the children to get to know and look after, including

goats, pigs, donkeys and ponies to name but a few!

Oak Class had a wonderful time meeting all the animals, especially the nibbly goats! We collected eggs from chickens, fed baby lambs, led ponies round the yard, cuddled fluffy bunnies and even took two gorgeous alpacas, Pablo and Pedro, for a walk in the surrounding meadows. We

want to say a huge thank you to Diane and Wendy, Mark and Amanda, and all the team at Broad Oak Farm for making our day so special.

A few weeks later, the children were thrilled to bits when we had a surprise visit from the farms newest arrival Daisy, the baby goat. We hope to go back to Broad Oak to visit her very soon!

Summertime at Halesworth Library

The library garden is in full bloom and visitors are welcome to enjoy the sunshine in our private enclosed garden space. We have a wide range of exciting events and activities for children and young people this summer. Watch this space! Further details of our events will be published next month. This year's Summer Reading Challenge 'Ready, Set, Read!' launches at Halesworth Library on July 17th. Children are encouraged to read six books during the six-week summer holidays, winning prizes for each book read and tracking their progress with their friends.

Africa. They also self-built an eccentric house on the steep slopes of Mt. Meru in Tanzania. 'African Approaches: Roads to a Far-Off Place' tells their story. Please contact the library for further details and to book your place.

• Board Games Café: June 26th and July 24th from 2pm4pm. There are lots of games to choose from, both old favourites and ones you may not have seen before! No previous skill required. Come along and enjoy tea and café and a guaranteed fun afternoon. £1 suggested donation. No need to book, just turn up.

Regular library activities:

• Wordplay: Come along to our sessions for babies, toddlers, parents, and carers on Tuesday mornings from 10am-11:30am. Young and old can make new friends and enjoy music and games together.

• Family Fun: Are you looking for something to do with the children at the weekend? Look no further than our children's activities on Saturdays 10am4pm and Family Fun Time on Sundays from 11am-12:30pm.

All are welcome to drop in for board games, craft activities and Lego.

get-togethers are on June 20th as well as July 4th and 18th from 2pm-4pm.

• Time Out: There's lots to enjoy at our Time Out sessions on Wednesday mornings, 10am-11:30am. It's a good place to meet new people. Join us for crafts, chat, and free refreshments.

KCLARKE BUTCHERS

ML & RJ THICKITT TRADING AS

KCLARKE BUTCHERS

Tel: 01986 784244

Fax: 01986 784646

email: kwclarkesorder@gmail.com

Our next film will be on July 19th at The Cut, Halesworth. We shall be showing 'A Man called Otto'. As usual, doors open at 1:45pm, and admission is a £5 donation. For further information about our work, please email: info@halesworthdementia.co.uk

Events organised by the Friends of Halesworth Library:

• Thursday Book Talk: June 29th at 7pm at the library. For 30 years, Jo Jordan and her husband operated long-haul trans-Africa expeditions, driving overland from Halesworth to Southern

• Sociable Sundays: June 18th, July 2nd and 16th from 10:30am-12:30pm. Drop in to enjoy a hot drink, cake and a chat. A pleasant way to spend an hour or two and make new friends. £1 suggested donation. No need to book, just turn up.

• Knit & Natter, Craft & Chatter: For those looking to improve their knitting and crafting we host a friendly and inclusive group for all who enjoy making and socialising.

The group meets upstairs at the library every first and third Tuesday afternoon. Our next

• Citizens Advice East Suffolk: Citizens Advice offer free dropin advice sessions on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday mornings in the library office. The next sessions are on June 20th as well as July 4th and 18th from 10am-12pm. Come along and take advantage of their free advice and support during these difficult times.

• East Suffolk Council drop-in for digital advice: Tuesdays 10am-4pm. Drop in for help with online Council services, energy bills, benefit applications etc.

LOW ROAD, BRAMFIELD

Email: sharmangary4@gmail.com

LOW ROAD, BRAMFIELD

'Our FamOus barbecue packs' £39.99

LARGE BBQ PACKS: £44.99

'Our FamOus barbecue packs' £39.99

4lb flavoured chicken

4lb Flavoured Ribs

4lb flavoured ribs

4lb Flavoured Ribs

Emmie Jarvis Dog Walking Services

Norfolk and Suffolk

Dog walking & pet sitting services

• Barclays Bank Drop-in: Weekly drop-in session from 9:30am-4:30pm every Wednesday where they offer help with money management, financial help, business support and home loans.

4lb Flavoured Chicken 4lb Sausages 10 Beef Burgers

4lb sausages x10 beefburgers

x5 pork & apple burgers

4lb Flavoured Chicken 4lb Sausages 10 Beef Burgers

5 Pork and Apple Burgers

5 Pork and Apple Burgers

SMALL BBQ PACKS: £12.99

Small Barbecue Packs £9.99

Small Barbecue Packs £9.99

4 items, 16 piece x4 pieces of flavoured chicken

Fully insured • DBS checked 1/2 hour walks, hour walks or longer First walk is FREE!

Email: emmiejarvis@gmail.com

Call or text: 07809 167894

The library has a range of active book groups, of which one of the Thursday evening groups is currently recruiting. Please ask at the library for further details.

Further details of all our activities are available from the library or you can email: halesworth. library@suffolklibraries.co.uk or phone: 01986 875095. We look forward to seeing you!

x4 pieces of flavoured ribs

All barbecue meat available loose including...

All barbecue meat available loose including...

x4 sausages x4 beef burgers

Fresh Flavoured Ribs, Chicken & Burgers

Fresh Flavoured Ribs, Chicken & Burgers

Also Salads, Pickles and Sauces

Also Salads, Pickles and Sauces

6oz STEAK BURGERS: £1.60 each

Traditionally reared local beef lamb pork and poultry

• 100 Club: The Friends of Halesworth Library run a '100 Club' to raise funds for the library. Each number costs £1. Only £12 for the year! To join please ask for details at the library.

Traditionally reared local beef lamb pork and poultry home cooked hams and home cured gammons

Traditionally-reared local beef, lamb, pork and poultry, home-cooked hams and home-cured gammons

OPENING HOURS

OPENING HOURS

Monday to Friday 8am-5pm. Saturday 8am-1pm

Mon-Fri 7am-5pm & Sat 7am-1pm

To join the Friends of Halesworth Library you will need to complete a membership form, which can be obtained by emailing: friendsofhalesworthlibrary@ gmail.com or by phoning the library.

Daisy visits the school

Hedgehog clay model