Leiston & Framlingham Community News - Christmas/January 2023

Martlesham Heath Aviation Society

The next monthly meeting for the Martlesham Heath Aviation Society will be on Friday 6th January at 7:30pm. The fascinating evening is a talk titled 'Above the Law' by Adrian Bleese.

D.C. Patrick

factory, disrupting an illegal forest rave - all in a day's work!

Adrian Bleese tells of his most intriguing, amusing and baffling episodes working as a helicopter pilot for Suffolk Police and the National Police Air Service, including rescuing lost walkers, chasing cars down country lanes, searching for a rural cannabis

The monthly meeting will be at Martlesham Heath Community Centre, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham Heath, Suffolk, IP12 4PB on January 6th from 7:30pm-10pm. Entry costs £3 for society members, £4 for non-members, who are also welcomed. Pay on the door on arrival. No need to pre-book, just turn up early! Contact Howard on 01473 274300 for more information. www.mhas.org.uk

News

NEWSAGENTS

Strong membership for Woodbridge Camera Club

Following Bob s retirement David is taking on the rounds covered by Grange news

4 Market Hill, Framlingham Has taken over Grange News

David has over 40 years experience and runs newsagents in Halesworth and Framlingham.

David has over 40 years experience and runs newsagents in Halesworth and Framlingham.

Following Bob's retirement, David is taking on the rounds covered by Grange news

Bob's son Craig will continue to manage the service and will be delivering 7 days a week to all the same locations.

Bob's son, Craig will continue to manage the service and will be delivering 7 days a week to all the same locations. We hope you will continue to support the business and please do get in touch should you have any

David has over 40 years experience and runs newsagents in Halesworth and Framlingham.

We hope you will continue to support the business and please do get in touch should you have any queries regarding deliveries in and around Woodbridge and the surrounding villages.

Bob s son, Craig will continue to manage the service and will be delivering 7 days a week to all the same locations.

Tel: 01986 874 305 & 07907 223 715

We hope you will continue to support the business and please do get in touch should you have any queries regarding deliveries in and around Woodbridge and the surrounding villages.

Tel: 01986 874 305 & 07907 223 715

01986 874 305 07907 223 715 149484

As the year draws to a close, members enjoyed an insightful and educational Zoom talk by Ian Howard titled 'The Truth is in Black & White'. His live demonstrations on conversion techniques and editing were fascinating, a great presentation.

The Tripod Trophy between Framlingham, Felixstowe and Woodbridge was held at the Quay Church Hall. Woodbridge was in a strong second place after the prints, but failed to keep up

with the projected images falling to third overall with Felixstowe taking the trophy. More lessons to be learned by the hosts.

Meetings restart in January 2023 on Tuesday 17th with a practical evening using 'off camera flash' in the Quay Church Hall. Membership renewals have been excellent this year topping 40 members. Details of membership and our programme for 2023 are on: www.woodbridge cameraclub.co.uk

Nominate your local cinema hero

To celebrate the release of the new Olivia Coleman film 'Empire of Light', the UK Cinema Association and Searchlight Pictures have teamed up to bring you the UK Cinema Heroes Competition.

Heath, Ipswich IP5 3HR Tel: 01473 927927

They are looking for the unsung cinema heroes, those who have dedicated their careers to keeping the magic of the big screen alive for communities up and down the UK. They want to recognise and celebrate individuals who (whether front of house or behind the scenes) have

made a real difference. That can include box office staff, cinema managers, projection staff or anyone who has helped keep the cinema flame alight.

Anyone can nominate their own cinema hero, and everyone is encouraged to help spread the word. The winner and two runners-up will be selected by a team of esteemed industry professionals from the UK Cinema Association, Searchlight Pictures and the Empire of Lightfilm-makers.

The winner will win a trip for

two to Hollywood as a thank you for their dedication to cinema, along with a staff party for their cinema to celebrate with their colleagues. The two runnersup will win a pair of tickets to a Searchlight Pictures or Disney red carpet premiere event in London with dinner, travel and accommodation included. All entries should be submitted by 2pm on Monday 9th January.

To nominate your local cinema hero, please visit: www.cinemauk.org.uk/ukcinema-heroes/

Felixstowe Photographic Society receiving the Tripod Trophy from Judge, Andy Wilson

Leiston Film Theatre

Halesworth and District Probus Club

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

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

Much work has already

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

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

David Prime.

Yoxford History Group

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trophies won by Wenhaston and members during 2022 season

Successful season for Wenhaston Bowls Club

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jake Moyes, Secretary

At a recent meeting at Ufford Park, the Rotary Club of Woodbridge Deben were pleased to present a cheque for £656 to Holly Markham, representing the charity Dementia UK.

The money was the proceeds of our annual charity busk which was held in the Thoroughfare in October. Added to this was the money raised by generous donations from members of a local walking group and other members of the public, which brought the total up to £2,100. Holly gave the

club an interesting talk about the work of Dementia UK, and how she hoped that they'd be able to extend the work of their Admiral Nurses in East Anglia.

Our Santa's sleigh runs for this year are now well under way and there will be a report on the outcome next month.

There is no Memory Café in December and we look forward to greeting friends old and new to our next session on Wednesday 25th January at 10:30am at Woodbridge Football Club.

Life in colour at Woodbridge Art Club

We thought you might like to see some colour in the dark days of January. These pictures were taken at a sociable and productive watercolour workshop at our friendly club.

The magic of watercolour happens in the interplay of paint and water on a thick, watercolour paper.

Watercolours are easy to get started with but there is much to learn. While practise and learning techniques are important, it's worth investing in quality paints, paper and brushes. The beauty of watercolour is its translucence and ability to portray light. There's always some element of

uncertainty as the wash of water and paint is allowed to move on the paper. This can bring both good and bad surprises but that is part of the fun of it.

The

The

METHOD:

floured tin and bake for 1 hour or until a skewer comes out clean.

- The cake will pull away from the edge of the tin when it is ready.

- Leave the cake to cool fully before removing from the tin.

- While waiting to cool, make your icing sugar drip. Place

icing sugar, egg white and lemon juice into your mixer.

- Beat on med-high for around 5-7 minutes until it forms soft peaks and is loose enough to drizzle.

- Pour over and allow to cool/ set. Finish with sliced oranges or frozen festive berries (your preference!).

Cheesecake

mushrooms & spiced red wine jus

The addition of truffle oil gives this dish a delightful air of indulgence. The jus can be made a day or two beforehand and gently re-heated when needed.

INGREDIENTS: Serves 4

• 1 whole Gressingham duck (approx 2.2 kg)

• 2 onions, peeled and roughly chopped

• 2 celery sticks, roughly chopped

• 1 carrot, peeled and roughly chopped

• 1 garlic bulb, cut in half

• 2 sprigs rosemary

• 2 Tbsp light olive oil

• 4 large or 8 medium field mushrooms

Spiced red wine jus

• 1 Tbsp light olive oil

• 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped

• 1 tsp ground allspice

• Pinch of ground nutmeg

• 175ml good red wine

• 175ml port

• 1 sprig rosemary

• 1 sprig thyme

• 800ml chicken stock

• 2 Tbsp butter

• 1/2 tsp sugar

METHOD:

- Preheat the oven 200°C. Remove the giblets from the duck (if included) and weigh to calculate the roasting time. It will need 20 minutes per 500g plus an additional 20 minutes.

- Pat the skin dry with kitchen paper and prick with a fork. Season well and place one garlic clove in the cavity.

- Place all the vegetables and herbs, apart from the mushrooms, in a large deep sided roasting tray and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle the oil over and put the duck on top. Place in the oven.

- Approx 30 minutes before the end of cooking time, carefully add the mushrooms to the roasting tray and use the juices to baste them. When the duck is cooked, remove from the oven and rest in a warm place for 30 minutes before carving. Drizzle the truffl e oil over the mushrooms and the duck.

- While the duck is resting, put the oil in a pan on a low to medium heat and sweat off the onions until they soften and begin to caramelise.

- Add the allspice and nutmeg and cook for 10 minutes on a low heat adding a dash of water if drying out.

- Add the port, wine and hard herbs, bring to the boil and then reduce the heat and simmer until liquid has reduced by half. Pour in the stock and reduce by half again. Carefully pass the liquid through a sieve into a new pan and once again bring to a boil. Take off heat. Check for seasoning , whisk in the sugar and butter.

- Carve the duck, share out the truffle mushrooms and serve with roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Aldeburgh Boxing Day swim

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Time to plan your garden

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

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

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

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

A Christmas message from the Community News team

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The RHS gardener's checklist for January:

• Plant bare-rooted trees, shrubs and fruit.

• Check mulches.

• Add scented winter flowering plants.

• Prune apple and pear trees.

• Force rhubarb crowns.

• Avoid compacting your soil by working on wet soil.

• Deadhead container displays.

• Reduce watering of citrus plants.

• Plant forced Christmas hyacinths outdoors.

• Recycle or shred your Christmas tree.

Fressingfield sponsored dog walk returns

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

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

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

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

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

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

The activity sheets usually

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

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

a manger in a stable.

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

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

Woodbridge Museum

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

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

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

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

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

For further information about Friday talks, contact 01394 585572.

Christmas services across the Blyth

Valley Churches

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

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

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

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

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

Mallard Fencing

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

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

Free quotation and professional advice.

Tel. 07858 912558

Bright Stars

Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)

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

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

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

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

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

Michael Imison also presented

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

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

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

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

A special Certificate of Excellence for the Market Place

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

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

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

Different hands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jenny, www.halesworthcommunity church.org

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

Merry Christmas from Martlesham Brass

next month.

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

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

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

Halesworth and District u3a seasonal news

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gainsborough portrait

Malcolm Knott - u3a speaker on January 17th

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

An update from Headteacher, Mr Mayhew

We have had a superb autumn term at Alde Valley Academy (AVA) and the school continues to go from strength to strength.

September started with a bang with another record-breaking intake of year seven students joining the school.

In October, we hosted our open evening which saw a record number of parents attending, which has translated into the largest cohort of students applying for a place at AVA in the school's history. This will be the forth 'record-breaking' year in terms of student numbers and marks a 64% growth in student numbers over the past seven years. AVA remains the fastest growing school in Suffolk.

I can personally reassure parents that despite our rapid growth, we will honour our promise to maintain small class sizes and to continue to expand of teaching facilities and resources. We are already in consultation with our transport providers and have a number of adverts out for

new staff members.

We have welcomed a number of new staff members who joined us in September including four new year managers who are now well known to our students. Their role is to continue to develop the fantastic pastoral and academic support systems that we have in the school.

Our students have a huge range of opportunities that are offered. These include our art exhibition at the George Farnham Gallery, the vast array of sports fixtures, the opportunity to be part of our school production 'Cinderella', our music enrichment at ProCorda amongst many others. These opportunities add to the high-quality lessons that our students receive on a daily basis by a team of highly qualified, motivated and experienced staff.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a happy Christmas and look forward to welcoming all of our students back in January.

Mr Mayhew, Headteacher

Students observe Remembrance day

During the week of remembrance, assemblies were delivered to all year groups at Alde Valley Academy (AVA) about the historical background behind and importance of Remembrance day.

On Friday, cadets arrived in their uniform and the school observed the two-minute silence.

On Remembrance Sunday, AVA were represented by their year 11 student ambassadors who laid the wreath for the Remembrance parade at St. Margaret's Church.

Mr Gilham (Head of History) commented: "I feel that it's very

important for our students to remember the sacrifices given by our great grandparents and to remind students of the efforts of our current armed forces."

Wickham Market Flower Club

Our final meeting of 2022 was scheduled for the doors to be opened at 6:30pm. However, a sudden torrential storm with hail, thunder lightening and rain falling in bucket loads had us opening them early to let in members, guests, and friends. Many saying how they had struggled to get here, driving with the wipers at full speed not coping with it all and the visibility really bad.

Into the warm hall they came in numbers we were proud of. The Christmas sales stall, the raffle table and the craft stall were inundated with lovely things that buyers quickly bought.

June was happy to welcome everyone on such a filthy night and introduced our demonstrator David Thomson from Chelmsford. We were in for a delightful evening. "Let it Sparkle".

Using many varieties of species of foliage in both variegated and all the greens available for the time of year, as well as beautiful flowers such as white and red carnations, red, white and yellow mini-gerberas, lilies, ornamental cabbages, aspidistra leaves, calla lilies, spray carnations, roses in

stunning dusky pinks, peaches, along with several different coloured anthuriums. As well as using some amazing containers and glitzy Christmas decorations we certainly had a sparkly evening. David (also sparkling in suitable shirt and waistcoat) regaled us with many hilarious stories throughout the evening. The chuckling and banter were a joy to behold on what turned out to be wonderful evening's entertainment.

David was thanked by our President Elsie Leeding for his sparkly demonstration. She wondered how many of the colourful shirts David had in his collection. His reply was: "Too many to count". We all then enjoyed non-alcoholic punch and warm mince pies with much chatter.

Members lucky enough to win arrangements from the displays, left the building with huge smiles. The rain had stopped.

Our next meeting is on Thursday 26th January, for 7pm start. The speaker will be Sheila Pipe from Calendars Florists. Wishing all our members and friends a very happy Christmas and new year.

Knife crime talk and PSHE days

With recent local events, Alde Valley Academy (AVA) decided to further educate its pupils on the dangers of knife crime. The school welcomed PCSO Justin Winn (from Suffolk Police) to the school to speak with all year groups about knife crime, a topic of growing concern. They took the time to explain how important this crime is and how it hugely affects victims and the communities. The students were shown a PowerPoint about knife crime and heard from real families who had been the victims of it. There was an opportunity to ask questions at the end followed by some smaller group work, where students empathised about the impact of knife crime on the victim, the perpetrator and their families.

One student commented: "We're very thankful to have been given the opportunity to learn more about being a police officer. It was really great that students were able to ask questions and contribute to the discussions."

They also arranged a police lunchtime drop-in. During this time, pupils could have conversations with the police officers about knife crime. One parent commented: "With what's going on around the area lately, I'm really glad the police and AVA are educating their students on this problem."

Miss Whatling (PSHE lead) commented: "Hopefully this has made an important impact on the students and will shape/influence their future behaviour, should they ever find themselves in a knife related situation."

Year 10 and 11 PSHE days (physical, social, health education):

The year 10 PSHE drop down day took place on November 10th. During the day, the students rotated around a carousel of four sessions, taken by both staff and external agencies.

Topics included a session covering basic first aid, the recovery position, delivering CPR and the use of a defibrillator, where pupils were able to get some practical experience using the CPR dummies.

The schools mental health team looked at happiness and wellbeing, helping our students to identify with factors affecting anxiety and low mood, plus providing five ways to wellbeing and techniques to cope with these feelings. 'Make a Change' then tackled healthy and unhealthy relationships as well as consent, which produced some excellent thought-provoking discussions.

Finally, students were spoken to about the importance of knowing their own bodies and the techniques for screening and

self-examination, vital for early detection.

Feedback from both staff, students and parents was very positive and has hopefully equipped year 10 with some invaluable information to help them deal with situations in the future.

The year 11 PSHE drop down morning took place early in December, with the students rotating round sessions dealing with coping with exam stress, relationship issues such as domestic abuse, coercive control and safety scenarios looking at a variety of age-related issues, how to deal with them and most importantly, where to get help, plus a sensitive session covering the topic of FGM, honour-based violence and forced marriage.

Mr Mayhew (Headteacher) commented: "Our PSHE curriculum covers a diverse range of subjects in order to support our young people to make the right choices to make them happy and healthy. We really appreciate the support received from external agencies."

TIPPING, Canon John

It is with great sadness to notify you of the sudden death of John Tipping, our dear friend and treasurer of the Saxmundham & District Support Committee for The Children's Society. Our love, condolences and prayers are with his wife Elizabeth at this sad time and always.

It was he that urged us to organise the recent coffee morning held at Aldringham Parrot Outside Inn, following a two-year hiatus of fundraising for The Children's Society on the scale that we had successfully done for more than 50 years prior to the lockdown. He had been thrilled with the outcome from that hastily prepared event raising over £850.

We were told that, in John's memory, The Dolphin at Thorpeness will be donating the proceeds from the raffle of a gingerbread train. The train is being raffled from The Parrot & Punchbowl at Aldringham in support of The Royal British Legion. Also, the collection from the Carols at the Meare,

John in the garden at the Bishops garden party

Thorpeness on Sunday 18th December will be donated. Snape Church has also pledged to give half of their Christmas Eve Light of the World collection to The Children's Society. John will be greatly missed from the local churches and from all the local groups and societies he supported. His legend will continue we are sure. God bless.

Lorraine Lloyd, Secretary of the Children's Society Support Group

Dr Dan Poulter MP

As I sit to write this month's article, it seems hard to believe that Christmas is almost upon us. I have no doubt that children across Suffolk are growing increasingly excited as they look ahead to Christmas, but first it's time for their parents and families to enjoy the annual school Christmas productions and Christmas fetes.

The run-up to Christmas is undoubtedly one of the busiest times of the year for many of usnot only preparing for Christmas at home, but also out and about attending the many Christmas community events and fares. One of the best things about Suffolk is our fantastic community spirit and with many events and lunches put on specially to ensure that noone in the community is left out or lonely, I'd like to personally thank each and every one of our volunteers who work selflessly at Christmas and throughout the year. Without your tireless efforts, many of these events quite simply couldn't go on and for many, they are an annual highlight.

When visiting the many Christmas events and fayres, I also very much enjoy taking the time to browse and to buy locally where I can. We have such a fantastic range of small and independent retailers here in Suffolk, not to mention farm shops and local producers, so it's very important that we do our best to support our local economy.

As many of us start to get into the party spirit, we must also remember those in our NHS and emergency services who work around the clock to keep people

safe and cared for. I'll certainly be spending some of my Christmas break working as a doctor in the NHS, looking after those who are vulnerable. The Christmas period is one of the busiest times of year for our NHS and emergency services, with staff working around the clock to ensure help is at hand when needed.

Of course it's not just those working in hospitals who work on Christmas Day, the list is endless but so many work right across the festive season to ensure that services continue day and night - carers visiting the elderly and vulnerable in our communities, highways teams, ambulance staff and paramedics, firefighters and police officers, to name but a few.

I shall once again be joining our hardworking police officers on a night shift to see first-hand the challenges they face on one of the busiest nights of the year.

This Christmas, please spare a thought for all those working tirelessly on our behalf, often in challenging and difficult circumstances, yet remaining committed to delivering services compassionately and professionally, despite knowing their families and loved ones are waiting at home to enjoy Christmas with them after a lengthy shift.

In closing, I'd therefore like to pay special tribute to all of our dedicated and hardworking workforce here in Suffolk, thank you for all you do at Christmas, and all year round. May I wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas.