Leiston & Framlingham Community News - June 2023

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Update from Deben Yacht Club

The windy, wet weather in May did not deter our sailors from racing. In fact, the conditions added an extra edge to the excitement of competing against wind, tide and fellow competitors in the Spring Points Series.

During the month, the club also ran two combined events, the first with the Cherubs and classic yachts which made a fine sight on the river on Coronation Day. The second was with the 5th Woodbridge Sea Scouts when 28 sea scouts took to the water on a blustery day with a strong tide. Despite a few capsizes, none of the youngsters gave up showing both skill and determination.

The club held a it's first charity coffee morning of the year which made over £500 for Homestart and hosted a quiz in aid of the RNLI which raised £240. Thanks to all who supported those events. Our next coffee morning with be on June 24th in aid of the East

Suffolk Association for the Blind.

Watch out for a river full of boats at Woodbridge Regatta on June 18th, with dinghies, yachts and Cherubs all competing. The clubhouse will be open to the public for teas, coffees and homemade cake. The club will also be hosting a Sea Scouts mini regatta on June 24th and

commencing On Board courses, offering children the opportunity to try sailing.

If you or a member of your family would like to get on the water, Discover Sailing Day on July 23rd is open to all adults and children.

For more information, visit: www.debenyachtclub.co.uk

Vintage car enthusiasts bank over

for the NSPCC

200 vintage cars took part in a 'Drive It Day' rally hosted by Bridge Classic Cars (BCC) raising over £2,000 for Childline.

Guests started the day on Sunday 23rd April, at BCC Hangar within RAF Bentwaters at 11am, with a car show. A sevenmile scenic route took attendees to The Atelier at BCC Workshops in Pettistree where they enjoyed live music from The Buskateers and food from Otis Breading and Suffolk Fried Chicken.

Lily Griffiths (Marketing and Events Executive for BCC) said: "Bridge Classic Cars are delighted at the amount raised for NSPCC, the event was such a great success - even with the downpour. Being able to support a great cause has been very rewarding and we'd like to thank our suppliers as well as The Buskateers for their involvement."

BCC has already confirmed they will support Childline again during the 2024 Drive It

Day event. National 'Drive It Day' was created by the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs in 2005. It celebrates the 65 cars that attempted to drive 1,000 miles from London to Edinburgh and back again in 1900 to prove the viability of the motor car. This epic journey began on April 23rd 1900, and ended on May 12th

1900, when 35 of the original 65 cars that began the journey successfully arrived back in London.

Sarah Laffling (NSPCC Community Fundraising Manager for Suffolk) said:

"Without the commitment of supporters like Bridge Classic Cars, we wouldn't be able to

continue doing the work that we do. Every day children and young people turn to our counsellors at Childline for help and support and each time we answer a call it costs us £4. The £2,062 that was raised could help Childline counsellors answer 515 additional calls from children and young people, which will make a huge difference."

D.C. Patrick

D.C. Patrick

D.C. Patrick

Patrick

Loick (son of Bridge Classic Car's Director) also took part in the rally.

Update from Framlingham Castle Bowls Club

Welcome to the first of a monthly series about our bowls club. We are located by Framlingham Castle and accessed through the castle car park.

This year, the Club Opening Day was held on April 15th when we had our traditional Len Cady Trophy competition and buffet together members receiving their club handbooks. Fortunately, the weather was sunny, dry and warm even though there was a deluge over the preceding night making the green slightly heavy going. We decided to put mats out to protect it.

The club tour ran from May 1st to 5th where a team of around 30 bowlers travelled down south

Leiston Good Neighbour Scheme

to stay at the Langham Hotel in Eastbourne to play against 'local' clubs. Our league match season continues on May 8th and runs to September together with numerous other matches all of which can be seen on: www. framlinghamcastlebowlsclub. org.uk.

We are looking forward to our Club Open Day to be held on May 28th between 10am and 17:30pm when anyone who would like to try bowls for the first time is welcome. Assistance will be provided by club members and we will provide bowls for you. No need to book and we do ask that you wear flat soled shoes. Limited parking is available in the club.

Hello everyone. How lovely that summer is here! Let's hope the weather is kind to us, so we can enjoy it to the full. We thought in this edition we would give a recap on what we do. We cover Leiston, Sizewell and Knodishall. We have a small group of volunteers and the kind of service we can provide covers such things as: Meeting up for a chat, telephone support, helping to fill in forms, giving information about other services and facilities locally and helping people who are temporarily having difficulties getting out, for example collecting a prescription, or a small amount of emergency shopping. We are not able to provide transport (for example to medical appointments) but we can give people information about the CATS service which can help with this. We also take people to events like the Tea Dance and Garden Party run by Snape Maltings, using the CATS bus for transport. Last

year (from April 2022 to end of March 2023), we helped over 390 people.

We manage the Community Allotment at the Leiston Valley Road site. Liz and her team of volunteers have worked very hard this year to make it more variable both in produce, sustainability, access for those who are less able and a safe haven for wildlife and people. Anyone can come and join in, either to grow what they would like, or volunteer, or just to come and sit and be alone or with other people. We are shortly going to be erecting fruit cages, and there are several plans for further projects. If you'd like any help, or if you're interested in volunteering, please contact: 07724 777465 from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday or email: leistongood neighbour@gmail.com Leiston Good Neighbour Scheme Management Committee

Sutton Hoo Ship's Company seeks Crew Mates for full-size replica project of iconic Anglo Saxon ship

Many of you will no doubt be aware of the Sutton Hoo Ship's Company (SHSC) project at the Longshed in Woodbridge

It is an experimental archaeology project which is building a fullsize replica of the iconic Anglo Saxon 'ghost' ship uncovered at Sutton Hoo in 1939 just before the outbreak of WWII.

The Netflix film 'The Dig' has given the story more prominence recently featuring Ralph Fiennes in the role of the stoic Basil Brown, the amateur archaeologist employed by Edith Pretty to excavate the site.

As an experimental

archaeology project, we are endeavouring to build the ship using the tools and methods that would have been used by the Anglo Saxons in around 600AD. This involves cleaving (splitting) huge oak logs and shaping them with primarily axes, into planks that can the be fitted to the ship using wrought iron nails and roves (rivets) and treenails (wooden pegs) just as the original ship was constructed. The build is informed by the archaeology from Sutton Hoo in the first instance and where that does not provide the information required, we research other

sources to ensure we are building the replica as near to the original build as possible.

Once completed, the ship will be launched, hopefully in around spring 2025, and then undergo sea trials, and if successful, it will embark on a series of journeys to replicate those possibly made by such a ship some 1,400 years ago.

The ship is thought to be the burial site of Raedwald, an AngloSaxon ruler of that period, and is still one of, if not the richest Anglo Saxon archaeological discoveries in Britain. The ship is certainly unique and for many represents the main treasure of the burial site.

Framlingham

Woodbridge Camera Club

Last month, members enjoyed a superb presentation by Derick Howes on his latest trip photographing Artic Wildlife. Attendance was a little down owing to competition from Ipswich Town at home! The Granville Foulger Cup was fiercely contested at East Ipswich Photographic Club, five local clubs battled with print and projected images resulting with a draw between East Ipswich and Manningtree for the cup. Our Zoom meeting topic this month was ICM (Intentional Camera Movement). Members used their creative side to experiment with this niche subject and created some interesting abstract images.

membership and programme are available from our website: www.woodbridge cameraclub.co.uk

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The SHSC aims to open everyday to welcome visitors and to explain the project and share our enthusiasm for this amazing ship. However, to do this we need to expand our group of volunteers to act as Crew Mates (front of house volunteers and guides) to meet and greet visitors and explain what the project is doing and what is happening in the Longshed. We will provide full training and support so if you think this is something you'd like to be involved in, please look at the volunteers area on our website: www.saxonship.org or email: contact@saxonship.org.

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'Happisburgh Lighthouse' by Allan Warner

Suffolk County Music Service

County Ensemble programme now open!

Join Suffolk's premier youth ensembles for quality music making, as applications for the 2023-24 season are now open!

The county's talented young musicians are invited to join Suffolk County Music Service for a season of excellent music making.

Suitable for brass, percussion, string and woodwind players, the 'County Ensemble' programme offers a varied range of activities throughout the year. This includes rehearsal days, an Easter residential rehearsal course at Framlingham College, European concert tours and performances at Snape Maltings Concert Hall.

"It's great to be amongst likeminded musical friends and make new ones, great to play with others at a good standard"

- Music student.

To find out more information, visit: suffolkmusichub.co.uk/ take-part or email: county. musicservice@suffolk.gov.uk.

Call for information on our history:

Following on from a comment from someone who donated a violin back to us, which she had from the County Music Service as a schoolgirl in 1960, we realised the service could be 60+ years old!

We'd love to hear from anyone who has information on our past in the 1960s, or even further back, as we know Music Services in other counties have been celebrating 70 year anniversaries, so we're wondering if we could date back to this time too? This does make sense, with the social changes going on post-war!

e.g. The Education Act of 1944, implemented 1945-51 could well be key, along with the Welfare State in 1942 then the NHS Act of 1946.

If you have any information, please do get in touch by emailing: county.musicservice @suffolk.gov.uk or calling: 01472 263400.

News from the Inner Wheel Club of Woodbridge

At the May meeting, members enjoyed a presentation by Rotarian, Max Pemberton, talking about a trip taken by himself and his wife, in 2017 to Papua New Guinea. Max has spoken to the club before about their trips and adventures, but this escapade definitely was at the top of the list. There was some arduous walking involved, sometimes with a guide hacking a way through jungle conditions using a machete! They travelled to several towns and villages and in each were entertained by tribes

dancing and displaying intricate costumes - some of which were quite scary. They also saw many beautiful birds, plants, and stunning scenery. Finishing in a luxurious hotel, this was truly an adventure and a wonderful way to celebrate their 55th wedding anniversary.

President Sharon thanked those who had helped her arrange a wine tasting experience at Grundisburgh Village Hall at the end of April. The event was well attended and very much enjoyed by members, families,

and friends. £790 was raised to be shared between St. Elizabeth Hospice and HomeStart.

June Kenyon (Memory Café co-ordinator) advised that the popularity of the café run in conjunction with Rotary in Woodbridge was ever growing and encouraged members to supply even more home-baked cakes. The café takes place from 10:30am on the last Wednesday of each month at Woodbridge Football Club.

Woodbridge IW members meet at Ufford Park Hotel at

6:30pm on the first Thursday of each month. Find out more about the club and its aims and objectives at District 8: innerwheel.co.uk

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Making music fun in East Anglia

Please join us for 'Tea & Tunes' on June 10th at 10am in St. Michael's Church Centre, Martlesham Heath, IP5 3SL. This event showcases our preliminary and beginners bands. Admission is free. Refreshments and a raffle available.

Our main band will be taking part in 'Suffolk Remembers', which takes place on Suffolk Day, June 21st from 9pm. This event, in Felixstowe, is held in

Would you like to receive our children's activity sheets?

conjunction with St. Elizabeth Hospice. The main band are also playing in a joint concert with St. Andrew's Church Choir to be held at St. Andrew's Church, Melton at 3pm on June 25th.

If 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.

Due to various circumstances, currently, we're sending out free activity sheets by email/post on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month during term time, for children to enjoy doing with their families/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.

Recently, The Lost Sheep (a story which Jesus told) was our theme and the activities included a puzzle to see if you could help the shepherd find his lost sheep.

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! For further information, please call Sonya and Maureen Burrows on: 01473 625196.

Woodbridge Town Council Climate & Ecological Emergency Committee report

Hello people of Woodbridge and beyond: people of the Deben estuary. It's been a couple of months since last writing: prior to the local council elections it is necessary for councillors to refrain from publications that might influence the outcome of the democratic process.

Elections are done and dusted now and the council is preparing for another four year term. We have a very busy schedule with quite a number of standing committees, many meet monthly. The Climate & Ecological Emergency Committee has been asked, along with others, to consider instead meeting bimonthly!

I was alarmed but couldn't quite put that into words at the time. On later reflection I thought "we are an emergency

committee and the emergency has not recently halved, it is an accelerating emergency! I have since been reassured that we can request emergency meetings if required. So, let us know - what IS important to you for us to address?

How long is it, for example, since you had to scrape squashed insects off your headlights and windscreen? Back in the Ford Cortina days, perhaps? Over a 27 year period of data gathering, a midsummer decline of over 80% flying insect bio-mass has been reported. Quite handy for the proud owner of a smart new (electric?) car - but without a regeneration of those insect populations, whole ecosystems cease to process naturally. A botanist and entomologist friend of mine pointed out to me last summer a huge array of three

different intermingled species of thistles growing at the edge of Melton playing fields near the entrance to the woods. His eyes sparkled with delight as he stated "what wonderful habitat". Moments later his face clouded over, eyes lost their shine - "but where are the butterflies?" he demanded. Sadly, there will be even less, of both habitat and inhabitants this year!

Thankfully, there's another local phenomenon to report on that is also accelerating - citizen care and involvement. Have you noticed a cultural change in attitudes to re-wilding? And pollution? Woodbridge in the headlines with citizen science e-coli monitoring and a successfully orchestrated campaign to demand a cleaner Deben estuary: celebrations of

earth day and the earth festivals, the Climate Action group delivering a programmed series of talks/lectures to packed audiences on themes of regeneration and nature appreciation - all of these activities and much more: Woodbridge is becoming a happening place to live with a growing community of likeminded people uniting in our ecological concern.

So what do you want your local council to be doing about the accelerating local and global climate and ecological emergencies? Agitate, let us know, and perhaps we'll need to get back to monthly meetings. Always good to hear back from you?

Martin Wilks, Chair, CEEC councillorwilks@woodbridge -suffolk.gov.uk

Martlesham Brass

Transition Woodbridge Bat Project

You'll notice a new link on our website to information about our bat project: www. transitionwoodbridge.org.uk/ bat-project.

Over 80 random households took part in a bat survey organised by Transition Woodbridge with Mark Bowler, a bat expert from the University of Suffolk. This ran from June through to September 2022.

Each month, 20 households hosted a post with a bat recorder in a suitable position in their gardens/pots for a fortnight. At the end of the fortnight, Transition Woodbridge volunteers collected up the recorders and passed them onto to Mark. Participants were limited to those who lived between the A12 and Deben River in Woodbridge and Melton.

The boundary for Woodbridge was Sandy Lane and Seckford roundabout with A12: Melton the Wilford Bridge and Ufford Park. Bats feed on insects and roost in hedges and old buildings. They're good indicators of the health of other insect populations as well as telling us about availability of habitat for them.

Mark has arranged for his students to analyse each recorder to identify what types of bats there are and how many in each location. The recorders only pick up bat activity, nothing else. He plans to collate a debrief on June 7th at Woodbridge Community Hall to explain the findings and talk about the implications for us.

We're repeating the survey from May 2023 to provide comparison data for the 2022 set.

Bella's Hair & Beauty

In the growing village of Wickham Market, a salon has evolved as a shining example of how a small business can make a big impact. Once a conventional small salon, Hair Affair has undergone a remarkable transformation, embracing sustainability and wellbeing as its guiding principles. With innovative practices and eco-friendly initiatives, the salon has become a beacon of change, not just within the community but also for the wider industry. The remarkable journey of this salon's transition and the positive ripple effects it has created in only a few months is astonishing.

The salon's makeover began with a change in ownership. Recognising the salon's potential to be an agent of change, they wasted no time in implementing a comprehensive green makeover, both in colour and ethos. With new REM salon chairs, improved lighting, brand new basins to provide additional lumber support, and a coat of paint, they've managed to keep the character and integrity

Woodbridge Cricket Club

This month saw Woodbridge Cricket Club bring junior cricket back to the heart of the town, with the launch of their All Stars Cricket sessions for children aged 5-8 years old at Kingston Fields.

of the business whilst given it a modern new look. Every aspect of the salon, from its operations to its products and services, was meticulously analysed and modified to align with environmentally friendly practices and to ensure the business can continue to run for another 40 years!

From vegan and eco-conscious hair colour and products, this salon has demonstrated that beauty and sustainability can go hand in hand, and the clients have loved the new products, with them flying off the shelves. Their sustainable practices and commitment to environmental responsibility have set a new standard for other salons to aspire to combined with their wellbeing initiative this salon has encouraged others in the industry to re-evaluate their own practices and make positive changes, as featured in Pro Hair and Good Salon Guide.

The transformation of a salon in Wickham Market, into a sustainable, welcoming haven is a testament to the power of vision and determination.

All Stars Cricket provides boys and girls from five to eight years old with eight weeks of nonstop fun. The activity and gamebased programme is suitable for all skill levels, providing your child with the foundations to begin a lifelong love of physical activity and cricket, while making friends in a safe and enjoyable environment.

These ongoing sessions are happening every Sunday morning from 11am to 12pm in front of the Café at Kingston Fields.

Following on from the

Woodbridge Riverside Trust

conclusion of the all-stars programme, the club will be running the 'Dynamo's - A programme aimed at children aged eight to 11. Dynamos Cricket provides boys and girls from eight to 11 years old with six plus sessions of non-stop fun. Each week, there will be a focus on a different cricket skill to build their confidence and ability, before they take part in a 60-ball countdown cricket match.

This is all part of the club's strategy to rebuild the club's junior section within the heart of the town and for the community of Woodbridge. For more information, please contact the Scott Button (Junior Cricket Development Officer) via email: woodbridgecricket club@gmail.com

There's lots happening this month at the Longshed!

Going with the Flow

You may remember this fantastic event held in the Longshed in October 2019. Over 2,000 people attended a series of talks and activities accompanied by an allencompassing exhibition on the theme of Tides and the Deben Estuary. It was put together with contributions from a wide range of local organisations.

Well, this month there is a one-off opportunity to re-visit the exhibition in the John Gibbins Gallery from June 14th to 18th, between 11am and 3pm. The whole fascinating display will be on show and there will be some illuminating talks, including one by Dan Clery, astrophysicist and author, on 'How we got a moon and how we can't do without it' and one by Jane Stone, Harwich Haven Authority Pilot, on 'Working with the Tide'. Follow the Ship

As part of its ongoing educational support initiative, the Riverside Trust is holding two more sessions of its popular

'Follow the Ship' programme for schools. These sessions provide an innovative approach to learning about Anglo-Saxon life and the replica ship under construction in the Longshed. Learning areas cover some important elements in the school curriculum in history, geography, English and science and are extremely popular with schools, both local and from further afield. This year, the sessions will take place on June 20th and 21st and again on June 27th and 28th, in the Longshed.

Young East Anglian Artists

Finally, Woodbridge School Prep are hosting the 2023 'Young East Anglian Artists' competition and exhibition of children's art to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. At home and in school the children are producing artwork based on this year's theme 'Broadening Horizons'. Judges will select this year's prize-winners and there will be an exhibition in the John Gibbins Gallery at the Longshed from June 23rd to 25th.

Upcoming Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group events

Woodbridge School

ISI Inspection Report

We are delighted to announce that Woodbridge School, including our Pre-Prep, Prep, Senior School, Boarding and Sixth Form, has achieved 'Double Excellent' in our Independent Schools' Inspection Report. Rating the School excellent in all areas, and achieving full compliance, the inspectors spent three days in School during March 2023 as part of the ongoing cycle of inspection.

Having observed all aspects of life at School and interviewed a significant number of students and staff, the report highlighted not only that "the School is an environment of academic endeavour and curiosity", but that "the children had self-confidence notable without any hint of arrogance".

The report went on to confirm that "the quality of the students academic and other achievements is excellent", that "students are highly successful at collaborating both inside and outside the classroom" and "students embrace the many opportunities to improve the lives of others and make an excellent contribution to the community within and beyond school."

Confirming "effective promotion by leadership and governance of an environment of academic endeavour and curiosity" the report also noted that students "have an excellent understanding of staying safe, both in terms of their digital lives and with regards to their

physical and mental health. They are extremely good at balancing a wide range of activities with academic work."

Shona Norman (Head of School) confirmed her pride at the confirmation of the School's inspection status: "Of course we are delighted with the outcome of our recent inspection. It provides real evidence of the standard of education, support and guidance our students receive, but it also goes further and evidences our values. From a teaching, academic, pastoral and spiritual point of view, the report demonstrates not only the incredibly high standards achieved, but the positive impact upon our students, staff, and in fact our whole community, in School and beyond. Furthermore, the report indicates what we have always encouraged, strived to achieve and known about our School and our students: that there is an 'outstanding sense of community and support, friendship and kindness'; and that our 'students have a kind and respectful approach to one another'. The double excellent rating reflects our achievements and standards not only in our academic approach and results, but in the way we care for and support our students – both are vital and in our minds one cannot and must not exist without the other."

You can read the report for yourself at: www. woodbridgeschool.org.uk/about/ inspection-reports/

Boundary Solutions

Coronation Collage by Woodbridge Art Club

The painters, potters, photographers, and lace makers from Woodbridge Art Club Ltd have joined forces to create a collage commemorating the Coronation of King Charles III and Camilla Queen Consort.

The contributions of different club members have been combined into a beautiful floral arrangement reflecting the royal couple's love of horticulture.

Roses, daffodils, thistles, and shamrocks symbolise the four nations of the UK, along with many other flowers, bees and other insects and even a Suffolk Green Man if you can find him!

Club member Anne Ledgley said: "We wanted to celebrate the Coronation by showcasing the skills of all the elements of our Club."

The team of four who coordinated the work agreed it has been a great way to for the Art Club to mark this special occasion.

You can see this impressive A1-sized collage for yourself any weekend throughout the summer from 10am until 5pm as part of the current exhibition at Woodbridge Art Club which is on Tide Mill Way, Woodbridge - Close to the Tide Mill.

The Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group's free research sessions (which are held on the first and third Saturday mornings of every month at our Help Centre in Leiston's Old Council Chamber, Main Street, IP16 4ER) will be by appointment only from June 3rd onwards. Up until now, members and non-members have been able to drop in without prior notice, but in future, those wishing to consult our archives, or looking for help researching their family history, will have to make an appointment at least a week in advance. To make an appointment to visit our Help Centre, visit our website: www. avsfhg.org.uk/help-centre or email Nigel Turner on: rotas@ avsfhg.org.uk.

The Help Centre contains local information which is not available online. Check our full Index of Resources at: www. avsfhg.org.uk/downloads to see what we have.

There's still no need to make an appointment for the separate Drop-In sessions at Leiston Library from 2pm-4pm on the

first Tuesday of the month, and Saxmundham Library from 2:30pm-4:30pm on the second Tuesday of the month. Just turn up, there is no need to book.

June 19th at 2:30pm: "Maps For The Family Historian" by Alan Ruston: In person and on Zoom, at the Fromus Centre, Street Farm Road, Saxmundham, IP17 1AL. The talk will cover the importance of maps for research, a history of their scope and range and their development since the 18th century and maps available online will be outlined.

Alan has been involved in lecturing, speaking and writing on family history for over 30 years. He is a regular speaker at the Society of Genealogists and has written two books in their 'My Ancestor was ...' series. Vice President of Herts Family History Society, former Editor of their journal as well as office holder in several societies involved in Hertfordshire history.

Non-members can no longer take part in our meetings on Zoom. In-person attendees can just turn up (at £1 for members, £3 for visitors including tea/

biscuits).

On April 17th, 33 members attended our annual general meeting. The following committee members were re-elected: Chris Broom (Chairman), Jan Lovell (Vice Chairman), Pat Carter (Membership Secretary), Steve Stocks (Webmaster), Angela Skelcher (Events Secretary), Maggie Strutt (Newsletter Editor and Publicity Officer) and Raymond Green. New committee members were elected as follows: Sue Westney (Treasurer), Janet Huckle (Secretary) and Jane Evans (Computers and Zoom host).

Future programmes:

• 15th May at 2:30pm: Travels with my (great-great) aunt, vintage travel postcards, Helen Baggott (FHF), Fromus Centre.

• 19th June at 2:30pm: Maps for Family Historians: their importance for research, Alan Ruston (FHF), Fromus Centre.

• 17th July at 2:30pm: Creating your own Family History Photo Book, Jane Evans, Fromus Centre.

Leiston, Framlingham & Woodbridge

Woodbridge Regatta

The Woodbridge Regatta and Riverside Fair has now reached its 185th anniversary, having only been absent for a few of those years due to war and more recently Covid, but it's back even bigger and better than before.

As in times past, it takes place all along the river from The Tide Mill to the Deben Yacht Club, with this year's event on June 18th. It's Father's Day, so where better to bring the whole family for a lovely day out.

Together will be on the Tea Hut Deck at noon, followed by the formal opening of the Regatta by the Town Mayor at 12:30pm. The traditional conclusion of the day will be the Duck Dive at 4pm in the Model Yacht Pond organised by Woodbridge & District Lions Club.

Regatta 2023 will be a green regatta, bring your family and friends but take your rubbish home.

head to the bandstand for crafts, games and other activities as well as for registration for the crabbing competition held later in the afternoon. New this year there will be a Model Yacht Regatta on the Pond.

Library from the Spring Bank Holiday. Although it's completely free to enjoy the Regatta, we'll be supporting 1st Woodbridge Scouts though a street collection. Please give generously if you're able to.

Live music will fill the air at The Tea Hut, The Woodbridge Cruising Club as well as at Whisstocks Place where there will be Steel Pan and Latin Drum workshops to celebrate Windrush 75 later in June.

The Regatta will open at 11am, slightly earlier than usual because of the tides. Early arrivals can take a free boat trip from Whisstocks Quay courtesy of 5th Woodbridge Scouts. Our normal opening event 'Songs of Praise' led by Churches • 40 tonne travel hoist and cranage •

There will be something for everyone to enjoy beside the beautiful River Deben, including boat trips, yacht and dinghy races, and watching the Raft Race as teams of young people vie for the prize of an inscribed paddle and bragging rights over other youth groups.

The Tide Mill, Woodbridge Museum and The Longshed will be open as well as lots of places to eat and drink. Families can

MELTON BOATYARD

Specialists

In the run-up to the Regatta, there will be a 'Spot the Duck' competition in shops in and around The Thoroughfare, this year with a nursery rhyme theme to match the activities on Regatta Day. Details and entry forms will be available from Woodbridge

Thomas Yeung (new Chairman of the Regatta Committee) says: "The programme for this year has been developed to ensure it includes all the usual activities but adds some new ones to keep us all entertained. The success and longevity of Woodbridge Regatta is a testament to so many community groups working together. I want to thank everyone involved for helping us to put on what we hope will be another fabulous event."

Deben Café Bar on HMS Vale

Deben Café Bar is located on the aft deck of HMS Vale an old Navy attack craft. This unique vessel floats on every tide and offers envious views across the River Deben, over the salting beyond to the protected grounds of Sutton Hoo. Customers enjoy a selection of draft beers, wines and

Deben Bar Café on HMS Vale

spirits along with tasty bar snacks. The Bar

Contact us: 01394 386327

With all the new ways of communication available these days, we still prefer you to phone to discuss your needs, or better still, come onto the boatyard in person, it’s easier that way.

Dock Lane, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1PE

Food for the whole family: Meaty, Veggie, Vegan

Moored in the river alongside Melton Boatyard, Deben Café Bar offers a unique eating and drinking experience. Open Thursday to Monday. Licensed

Melton Boatyard, Dock Lane, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1PE 01394

The line up is fantastic for a small provision: Draft beers include: Aspall Cider, Amstel, Birra Moretti, Adnams Ghostship and Guinness, with a range of bottled beers including Adnams Southwold, Adnams Broadside, Kopparberg Fruit Ciders as well as a selection of low alcohol options. The bar even has a list of French wines to add to this compliment and offers cocktails in the summer months. There's nothing like a Pimms and Lemonade beside the river, while snacking on fresh strawberries and cream. Fantastic food

Famous for their home made sausage rolls and cream teas, Deben Café Bar prides itself on offering good quality food and drink provision. "We buy local as much as possible" says Cate Meadows, owner and director of Deben Café Bar. We are excited to have forged links with 'Fodder Butchery' (Melton), 'Virginia Nurseries' (Newbourn), Roberto's Ices (Martlesham), The Greek Olive Company (Rendlesham), Freshpac (Halesworth), Smashing Wines (Shottisham) and Lacons (Lowestoft)."

Deben Café Bar offers ready made cakes and sandwiches for a

fast getaway or if you have time to linger, breakfasts, snacks and main meals. Customer's meals are prepared on board by the café bar's galley chefs, who fully embrace the extra challenges of working in a small ship's galley. Fresh bakery emerges from the ovens throughout the day.

An oasis on a river walk Deben Café Bar offers a large beer garden with picnic tables overlooking the river. A warm, down to earth, friendly welcome greats all visitors; it is just what you would expect from a café run alongside Melton boatyard. This is the perfect relaxing stop to find yourself in a marina setting, at one with nature.

Location

Deben Café Bar on HMS Vale can be found floating alongside Melton Boatyard. It is a mainly walking or cycling destination. However, parking is available around Melton and Woodbridge for a wonderful river walk and the train stops at Melton and Woodbridge. There is no parking available on the busy working boatyard. It is possible to arrive by water. Do contact the boatyard for permission to tie up. Usually, small tenders and rowing boats can be accommodated on the tide but anything larger would need to be booked in.

Forget-Me-Nots

Forget-Me-Nots meet to relax and reminisce with live musical entertainment at Beccles Public Hall. A warm welcome awaits you at our afternoons which are held on the first Tuesday and third Monday of each month from 2pm-4pm. Meetings are free, with £1.50 for tea and cake. For more information, please call Jenny on 01502 714828 or text 07528 373117.

Woodbridge Festival of Art & Music announces first artist

Woodbridge Badminton Club

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

Double Grammy-winning, chart topping DJ, Jazzie

B, is the first headline act announced for the annual Woodbridge Festival of Art and Music, in Elmhurst Park on September 2nd. The festival (in its 11th year) will for the first time expand its annual Elmhurst Park event to two days. Friday in the park will celebrate top regional talent, while international acts will play on Saturday. Further events will take place around the town for the festival weekend, which lasts from August 30th until September 3rd.

Jazzie B (founder and frontman of Soul II Soul) is one of the most influential and celebrated pioneers in British black music. His hit singles, such as Back To Life and Keep

On Movin', have topped charts on both sides of the Atlantic, as did the iconic Club Classics Vol. 1 album.

He returns to the festival having played Woodbridge in 2021. "I was talking with Jazzie in London earlier this year," says festival Creative Director and DJ Ben Osborne, "and he mentioned he'd enjoyed playing last time. So I immediately asked if he'd DJ again. We're beyond hyped he said yes! His DJ set last time is still talked about and is a high point in the festival's story."

Woodbridge Festival has been able to expand to two days after being awarded new funding by East Suffolk Council, as part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund initiative.

"We are hugely grateful to have been given funding to expand

Upcoming events at

St.

Peter's Church, Sibton

On June 18th at 3:30pm, Suffolk Strings will play their annual concert at Sibton Church, IP17 2LX. Tickets will be on sale from The Weavers Tea Room and Peasenhall General Store before the event, and online at Eventbrite (www.eventbrite.co.uk). A limited number of tickets may be available at the door.

This informal occasion, with tea to follow, has become a very popular and enjoyable annual event, filling the church and showcasing interesting music in a variety of styles, with music often arranged specially by Peter Bumstead who is the orchestra's conductor.

Sibton Church on July 8th and 9th, 10:30am-4pm. It will demonstrate the heritage of the surrounding area of that part of the Yox valley. The church building has a history and extant remains dating back to the 12th century.

By kind permission of Nicholas Levett-Scrivener, the event will include guided tours of the Sibton Abbey Ruin, the only Cistercian foundation in Suffolk: 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. Refreshments will be available at the church.

Leiston Film Theatre presents criticallyacclaimed 'Seaside Special' film

Leiston Film Theatre will be heading off to the seaside in June, when the venue screens a critically-acclaimed documentary, filmed in Norfolk.

Seaside Special is an absolute 'must see' film, following Britain's End-of-the-Pier variety show in Cromer, over the course of a year, pre-Covid, as it prepares for its busy 2019 summer season. This wonderful 'love letter to Britain' is viewed from the perspective of the performers and the town's residents.

German filmmaker, Jens Meurer, has had huge success in his native land with his documentary, about the local people's differing political views and entertainers preparing to take part in Cromer's famous annual show - the last of its kind in the UK.

Meurer has created something quite special with his film, filmed on crisp 16mm film and with an original soundtrack by the fabulous Steve Willaert Brass Band. With its colourful ensemble of inspiring and original characters, the film easily demonstrates the quintessential British warmth and wit, that shines through in this beautifully crafted film.

Leiston Film Theatre manager, Wayne Burns (who was in the audience in Cromer when the film was being shot) first enjoyed the film at the Norwich Film festival as was determined to screen the film at Suffolk's oldest cinema.

"Getting this film on our screen hasn't been easy, but I was so utterly captivated and entertained by this charming film, as was everyone who watched it with me, I just had to share it with

the festival," says festival chair Naomi Drown. "We are a notfor-profit community festival, set-up to put on high quality acts and promote creativity in our local area. Over the last 11 years, the festival has invited chart toppers, Glastonbury headliners, Grammy winners and internationally celebrated artists, from electronic music to soul, indie, hip hop, Brit Pop and classical music genres, to play. This funding makes it possible for us expand into our best year yet."

Saturday in the park will also debut a new wellbeing area, as well as the traditional large EcoArea, Kids Zone, Literary Zone, Art Area and local food and drink village, with craft beers and local wine tasting.

A summer programme of

events will also be launched at the town's Regatta on June 18th.

The festival's annual audiovisual projections on Woodbridge Tide Mill will also return, with projections in June, September and November. A series of AV workshops are planned alongside the annual open call for themed artworks. This year's subjects for projected art will be inspired by the Windrush 75 celebrations. The festival's light art shows have been phenomenally successful, with call-outs attracting hundreds of submissions from local people and established artists.

The festival's Fish Friendly Fireworks event, projecting onto the Tide Mill, was shortlisted for an East Suffolk Green Impact Award in 2022. For more information and tickets visit: www.woodbridgefestival.com.

The Friends of St. Peter's Church, Sibton (Charity No. 1063822) also announce an important event taking place in July. A major exhibition is being organized which will take place in

Ensors Accountants

Tickets are on sale from The Weavers Tea Room and Peasenhall General Store before the event, online at www.eventbrite.co.uk, and at the church on event days.

our audience. The unintentional humour of the characters is so endearing to our part of the UK and the fly-on-the-wall look at how the Cromer Pier show is staged is just fascinating." he said.

The film's director (Jens Meurer) will be travelling from Berlin, especially for the event, to introduce his film, along with some of the Cromer cast and will be taking questions from the audience at the end of the screening.

Seaside Special is showing at Leiston Film Theatre on Sunday 25th June at 6pm. Tickets are priced £8.50 for adults, £7.50 for concessions and £6.50 for members of the Leiston Film Theatre Support Club. Tickets are now available from the Box Office on: 01728 830549 and via the website at: www.leistonfilmtheatre.co.uk.

Upcoming wildlife themed events

Suffolk Wildlife Trust's Woodbridge Wildlife Group offer a wildlife experience at the beginning and end of the day during the month of June.

Firstly, there will be a chance to learn more about moths when the group open a moth trap in Fen Meadow, Woodbridge at 8am on the morning of Saturday 17th June. "We will be setting up the trap the previous evening" said Phil Smith, Chairman of the Woodbridge Wildlife Group "We will have a local expert joining us to help us identify the moths trapped, and I think that this will be a very interesting early morning event for all the family. Visitors will find us at the top end of the park near the gate to the cemetery."

Booking is not required for the Moth Trap event, and all are welcome. The event is free but donations to Suffolk Wildlife Trust are welcomed. Visitors coming by car are advised to park in Portland Crescent and walk along the cemetery fence to the Fen Meadow gate.

Then on Friday 23rd June, the group invite you to join them for an evening Nightjar walk on

Suffolk Wildlife Trust - Woodbridge Wildlife Group Blaxhall Heath and Common starting at 9:15pm. Phil Smith said "As darkness falls we will wander across the heath, looking and listening for signs of the nightjar. This fascinating bird is a summer visitor to this reserve and I hope we will be lucky enough to catch sight of the bird. The walk should also give the chance to see glow worms" added Mr Smith. The walk starts from the Sandgalls car park, Tunstall (TM 382559) and will last for approximately one hour. The walk is suitable for adults and children over 10 but places are strictly limited and must be pre-booked by contacting Suffolk Wildlife Trust. A minimum donation of £5 per person is payable, with under 25's free, and bookings can be made online: www. suffolkwildlifetrust.org (events section) or by phoning 01473 890089. Dogs are not allowed on this walk. Participants are advised to use insect repellent, wear sturdy footwear and bring a torch. For further information about either event contact the Woodbridge Wildlife group on: swtwoodbridge@outlook.com or phone 01473 625630.

Mallard Fencing

Your guide to the P11D form

P11Ds are forms which employers must submit to HMRC each tax year to report the value of reportable benefits they have provided to employees and directors, where the benefits are not covered by a formal payrolling arrangement with HMRC or are not dealt with under a PAYE Settlement Agreement ('PSA'). This article covers some of the important points you need to consider.

Who needs to complete a P11D form?

Employers need to file a P11D form for any employees and directors in receipt of benefits in kind.

What is a P11D benefit?

Benefits in kind are goods and services provided to an employee for free or at greatly reduced costs. These include items such as company cars and their associated fuel benefit, vans available for private use, health insurance, living accommodation, interestfree loans and many more.

What is exempt?

You do not have to report certain business expenses and benefits such as business travel, phone bills and specific tools for work.

When is the P11D deadline?

Forms P11D and P11D(b) for the year ended 5th April 2023 need to be submitted by 6th July 2023 to avoid penalties. The Class

1A National Insurance is payable by 22nd July 2023 (19th July 2023 if paying by cheque). From 6th April 2023, the forms can only be submitted online.

What are the penalties?

The P11D(b) late filing penalties kick in as soon as you miss the deadline. You'll get a penalty of £100 per 50 employees for each month or part month your P11D(b) is late and you could also be charged penalties and interest if you're late paying HMRC.

How to submit a P11D?

There are two ways in which you can report benefits in kind to HMRC. Option one is that you file P11D online using the PAYE online services. Option two is that your report the benefits using payroll software in the year they are received.

How long should the records be kept?

You'll need to keep copies of benefit-related records for three years from the end of the tax year they are for. These records should include the date and details or every benefit, and how you've calculated the amounts. For further information, please contact Chrissie Turnbull (pictured) on: chrissie.turnbull@ ensors.co.uk.

Specialist advice should always be sought prior to taking any action on matters discussed in this article.

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

Chrissie Turnbull

Leiston Film Theatre

JazzieB

Image credit: John Ferguson

Framlingham Gala Fest! 28th

Sunday 28th and Monday 29th May is the 73rd Framlingham Gala Fest... Two days of colour music and family fun!

After three years out due to Covid, Framlingham Gala Fest is back with a bang of celebration with a carnival theme parade.

The festival kicks off on May 28th with music by the pond positioned at the entrance to the Castle Meadow. Starting with performances from 12pm from Joe Vincent, Amy Allard, Chasing Fire, Will Foley, and Charli K.

On bank holiday Monday, the Parade begins at 12:30pm starting from Station Road, lead by Samboomba and proceeds up Market Hill with a procession of floats, CDC street dance and other

& 29th May

dance groups and this year's Gala Stars, before moving onto Church Street making its way to Castle Meadow where there is a host of things to do. Come and enjoy stocks, fun fair, races, archery, trade stands, food outlets, grand draw, Kuk Sool and much more.

Performance from Breeze red wine band and Joe Keeley band. Fancy grabbing a bargain? Be sure to head to the Galafest Car Boot at the sports club field from 7:30am to 1pm.

There will also be a fantastic craft fair throughout the day at the Castle Community Rooms on both Sunday and Monday from 10am to 5pm.

The Gala was also organised to raise funds for the Framlingham Sports Club to provide sports for

the town and the surrounding areas, we ask for kind donations on the day.

Car parking for Framlingham Gala Fest is situated at Framlingham Sports Club on Badingham Road. We look forward to seeing you over the weekend, please come along and join the fun!

Royal Horticultural Society

Saxmundham Neighbourhood Plan Referendum - June

Saxmundham residents

Christine Buttery and Steve Palmer are urging the town to get fully behind the Neighbourhood Plan and to cast their vote on June 29th.

The Plan, which has been meticulously put together by a dedicated steering group comprising members of the Town Council and local residents will give the town greater influence over the outcome of planning applications, increased safeguarding of open spaces and the built environment whilst supporting much needed economic development. It also provides a framework to improve

29th 2023

the high street and town centre. Of vital importance, the plan could facilitate up to £1 million of CIL (Developer) funding for the town to be used for community projects and amenities, including health, leisure and education facilities and infrastructure improvements. Without an approved Neighbourhood Plan in place, this funding will be drastically reduced. It is important to stress that the proposal for 800 new houses to the south of the town is largely outside the Saxmundham boundary and does not form part of the Neighbourhood Plan. Despite strong objections by the Town

Council and the Neighbourhood Steering Group at the Local Plan Public Hearing, East Suffolk DC imposed this housing allocation for Saxmundham and Benhall in their Local Plan of 2020.

In summary, the Neighbourhood Plan will give:

• Vastly increased funds for essential community projects and infrastructure.

• Greater control of the design and location of future developments.

• Enhanced protection of open spaces, significant buildings and existing community assets.

Be sure to use your vote on June 29th.

Alde Valley Academy seeks nominations to celebrate local heros

Alde Valley Academy in Leiston is hosting an event, called "Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things", and we're appealing for nominations of individuals or groups from across East Suffolk who have done something 'extraordinary' that has benefitted the local community.

The event is being put on as part of a project called the Dora Love Prize, an annual competition held by Essex University.

Each year on Holocaust Memorial Day (January 27th, the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz concentration camp by the Soviet army in 1945), we remember the six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust as well as the millions of nonJewish people killed because of Nazi persecution, and those who perished in the genocides which

followed, in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. The Dora Love Prize aims to go one step further and connect learning about the Holocaust (and other genocides) with reflecting on the world we live in today. Dora Love was a holocaust survivor who, in the late 1970s, settled in Colchester with her family. Throughout her life, Dora continued educating younger generations about the Holocaust.

Dora died on 26 October 2011 and the Dora Love Prize, established in 2012, aims to continue her work and to spread her message of tolerance.

Update from Leiston Town Bowls Club

The 2023 season started with a lot of hope. The last two years through Covid caused a loss of members and raised concerns about the future. However, the arrival of several new members saw a big increase in our team membership, local people keen to get involved.

Our Open Day saw a group of very enthusiastic new bowlers, keen and quick to learn. Leiston Town Bowls Club is very much on the up.

Our new committee, keen to build on our increased membership, quickly decided to reintroduce our popular open tournaments and our two wood triples to be played on June 17th. Three wood pairs September 7th. Interest soon showed encouragement, with both tournament entries filling up quickly. Usual refreshments etc, will be available. All we need is good weather.

With our new beginning, we have a new logo and colour

Please send any editorial from your local groups, clubs and events for the paper to edit@micropress.co.uk

profile.

Our greenkeeper Peter has had to retire but he has handed over to a very competent keeper and (under Peters supervision) the green is looking tiptop, as in the past. Well done Mick B. Our first two games this season were away and out of a possible 13 points, we got 12. Two very good wins, an excellent start to the year. Leiston Town Bowls Club is moving onward and upward and looking to renew old successes. Ditcher.

This year's theme is 'Ordinary People' So students thought that it would be good to celebrate those "ordinary people" who do extraordinary things.

Students from year eight are organising and presenting the event at the school, with the date to be confirmed, when they shall celebrate the local heroes who have been nominated. If people would like to nominate someone who they feel has gone 'above and beyond' to help others in the community let us know. They could be volunteers, for example. Perhaps they supported their neighbours during lockdown, or maybe run clubs or societies that involve the local community. Nominations should be sent to: j.macrae@aldevalley.suffolk.sch.

uk. The deadline for nominations is May 20th.

Geraniums bring beautiful foliage, fragrance and flowers to any outside space.

Fragrant flowers and foliage

June is a lovely month to be in the garden! Everything is bursting into bloom and you can really enjoy being outside. With the evenings getting longer and brighter, you can use your garden or patio as a great extension to your home, whether it's in the countryside or in a smaller, but equally treasured, urban environment.

It's also traditionally the time to plant out bedding plants which are so much part of the floral display of a summer garden. However, in addition to looking good, some plants also taste good. Herbs have some of the most beautiful flowers in the garden, and are edible.

So, thrifty tip for the month is... If you plant a selection of flowering edible herbs, you'll have a beautiful garden good enough to eat! You can make any herb produce more flowers by planting them in a well drained site or container in a sunny location. When planting a herb that you want to flower, use some organic compost and feed in the planting hole then plant the herb, water at the base and keep the soil moist throughout the growing season. Along with basil, sage and mint, chives are delightful edible treats with beautiful flowers and make lovely pollinator plants.

You could also let your herbs bolt, when the plant changes from being mainly leaf-based to a plant that has mostly flowers and stems. Once a herb has bolted, when the weather gets hot and dry, it

loses its flavour and produces flowers that are rich with nectar that attract bees and butterflies.

If you want to attract moths, then try plants with white flowers that release their scent in the evening such as tobacco plants or night scented stocks.

Another aromatic addition to the garden is the scentedleaved pelargonium (commonly known as geranium) that brings foliage, fragrance and flowers to any outside space. There are a variety of fragrances (lemon, rose, lavender, cinnamon, apple) created from natural oils within the leaves that are released when brushed with fingers or hands, and sometimes after a summer shower. Scented-leaved pelargoniums are best grown in containers in the sunny position. They can withstand chills outside especially if grown next to a house wall, but not frosts and if temperatures dip they are best brought inside over winter. Cuttings can be taken in late summer. Popular varieties include 'Attar of Roses' with pale green foliage, a rosy aroma and pink flowers: 'Prince of Orange' with a strong orange scent and pale purple and white flowers: and 'Deerwood Lavender Lass' a semi-trailing plant with olive green leaves and rosy-mauve flowers.

The extra light and warmth this month encourages the garden to put on an exuberant burst of growth, especially fruit trees. Apple trees struggle to

bring all their fruit to maturity which results in the 'June drop' of smaller fruits. To give a helping hand, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) recommends that you also thin out some of the small apples left behind by hand or with secateurs. This will improve the size and quality of those left behind resulting in a better crop.

Other jobs on the RHS Gardener's Checklist for June:

• Tie in climbing or rambling roses.

• Pinch out side shoots on tomatoes.

• Mow lawns at least once a week.

• Recycle grass clippings.

• Begin feeding potted flowers.

• Protect brassicas from cabbage white caterpillars.

• Plant out dahlias.

• Be water wise and try to use grey water in the garden.

• Watch out for mould on fruit, especially strawberries.

• Weed regularly.

195746

We are currently recruiting for house stewards at The Red House. We have vacancies for morning, afternoon and roving sessions. These run Thursday to Sunday in our open season from March to October. Mornings are 10:45am-2pm, roving is 12pm-2pm and afternoon sessions are 1:45pm-4:45pm. Full training is given. It is a peaceful, calm environment filled with beautiful collections of artwork, sculpture and items of interest. The grounds are stunning and provide a tranquil environment to come and volunteer. We’re an inclusive site and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Please contact: volunteer@brittenpearsarts.org to register an interest in volunteering.

brittenpearsarts.org

News from Framlingham and Saxmundham Cats Protection

Volunteers Week (June 1st to 7th) is a chance for many organisations to say thank you for the fantastic contribution millions of volunteers make across the UK. Framlingham and Saxmundham Cats Protection continually celebrates our own dedicated volunteers. We recognise that without them, the branch could not have helped many hundreds of cats and kittens

for more than 30 years. If you have a little time to spare, perhaps you could join us. Call us or view our website to find out more about what we do.

Date for your diary: Come and meet us at the wonderful Woodbridge Regatta and Riverside Fair on June 18th.

Feline care: Tips to keep your cat safe in the garden this summer. Whilst most felines will be perfectly secure in the great outdoors, there are potential hazards for cats. Keep them safe this summer by following these tips:

• Ensure your cat is fully vaccinated to protect against diseases.

• Neutering is vital to prevent unwanted kittens and to reduce roaming, keeping your cat closer to home.

• Protect your cat with appropriate flea, worm and tick treatment. Your vet will be able to advise on which is suitable for your pet.

• Avoid plants which can be dangerous to cats. Lilies in particular can be lethal if a cat ingests pollen from its fur after brushing against them.

• Be careful not to accidentally trap cats inside outbuildings during hot weather or when you go on holiday.

Cat looking for a home: Nico came into our care when his owner could no longer care for him. He's almost three years old and a very sweet, affectionate young chap who loves cuddles and attention. He will happily chat away to gain more attention and will make a lovely companion.

If you could offer him a home, please let us know as soon as possible.

See our website: www.cats. org.uk/framandsax, email: enquiries@framandsax.cats.org.

Update from Dr. Dan Poulter MP

As many of our children and grandchildren enter the summer exam term, it provides an opportunity to reflect upon what skills and qualifications are now needed for young people entering the world of work.

Could you give little Nico his forever home?

• Protect cats with white fur from sunburn, including those with white ears or noses. Try to keep your cat indoors during the hottest part of the day and provide shade with plants and trees outside.

uk, or phone: 01728 723499 for more information about adopting cats in our care, how to become a member of the branch, event dates, neutering, cat-care leaflets, how to become a volunteer fundraiser or fosterer, make a donation and other ways you can support us. You can also find us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

The Prime Minister recently announced that in future, all children will need to study maths until age 18. Although compulsory maths until the age of 18 does not, initially, feel very attractive, I believe we can change perceptions of the subject. Applying maths skills in the real world is essential in all jobs and walks of life and offers an increase in self-confidence that will serve our children well throughout their lives.

As a regular visitor to schools across our area, I am proud of the hard work that goes into supporting our children. During a recent visit to Kesgrave High School, I was asked some excellent questions by a student around encouraging young women to take up Science, Tech, Engineering and Maths (STEM) qualifications and retaining that talent for lifelong careers in Suffolk.

It has become clear to me that our young people care deeply about achieving net zero, and I am pleased that along with sixth forms, we have a wide range of educational settings here that offer these qualifications, such as Suffolk New and Suffolk Rural. Our schools and colleges have strong relationships with local businesses and are already seeking opportunities for our young people with Sizewell C.

Suffolk's Energy Coast is internationally recognised as excellent in producing and delivering sustainable, clean

energy solutions, offering great careers and underpinning economic growth here in Suffolk and across the UK. We have one of the driest climates in England with longer hours of daily sunshine and miles of coastline, so it is seen as the perfect location for solar energy and of course, offshore wind.

I have reservations about the proposals for Sizewell C, but until we can find better ways of storing the electricity produced by renewable sources, nuclear power remains an important form of electricity production. We are all striving to be more environmentally conscious and nuclear energy has the advantage of being carbon neutral and so reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Maths underpins achievement in all STEM subjects which are key to supporting the growth in jobs in Suffolk's energy industry. Thanks to Suffolk's leading role in the nuclear and renewables sector, our young people can play their part in building a brighter, greener future, but let's not forget that maths is useful in all walks of life. Young people will one day need to manage household budgets, understand mobile phone contracts and arrange mortgages. These skills are workplace transferable, and we must not fail our children when it comes to confidence in maths both for their own lives and in safeguarding a strong economic future for the country.

I am incredibly proud of everything we have to offer young people, here in Suffolk. I couldn't think of a better place to live and work, and I wish all our students all the very best for their exams and hopefully some outstanding results to come.

Wickham Market Flower Club meeting report

Report for our open meeting held on April 27th: Our Chairman June open the meeting by welcoming all members and visitors. She explained the fire exit positions and health and safety points.

Some members had attended the funeral of our member Barbara Kirby. Some of the flowers had also been made by members. We were also reminded of several members who are unwell at the moment, Olive King, Jenny Moore, and Nell Perries.

Mandy was thanked for the newsletter production, and everyone including the staff at Inspirations was thanked for either modelling or helping in any way at all with the fashion show. This had been a very well attended, successful event. The amount raised will be confirmed at our next meeting. Both Jenny Payne and Jan Richardson were thanked for the lovely welcoming basket flower arrangements in the foyer.

Notices:

May 5th is National Flower Arranging Day. Members are asked to produce an arrangement in a basket, or a small posy or hand tied to be left in a suitable location, along with a card with the contact details for your club. Take a photo of this and email to: newsletter. nafaseast@gmail.com.

We have a proposed outing to Power of the Past at Bentwaters. The date is going to be June 29th, and we must have 30 people attending to be able to go. As coach travel is so expensive it was decided best to travel by private cars and to take as many people as possible. The time of the visit is proposed for 2pm. The cost is £15 per person to include refreshments. There's lots to see at the museum. If you are interested, please contact our Chairman June on 01394 384803 or our Secretary Carol on 01394 383666.

Also planned for August 17th at 6pm, we will be visiting the Southwold Flower Company, IP18 6SI. This is set in four acres in the Suffolk countryside and is planted with many beautiful blooms. Walk in the rows and rows of flowers, drinking in the colours. Again, it will be travel in your own car and with as many people as you can. The visit will be followed by refreshments for a cost of £5 per person.

June then introduced our good friend and national demonstrator Barbara Collins from Peterborough, whose theme was "Flora Bouquet".

Barbara started her demonstration by thanking Marilyn, for all the help given to get ready for the demonstration and she suggested that all clubs should have a "Marilyn". She proceeded to demonstrate seven most beautiful arrangements in a many different pots, trays, and baskets. Some of these were foam free, others were using the newest bio-degradable foam. We are all having to think of the planet, not just with foam for arranging in but also using plastics in ribbons, containers and embellishments and wrapping. The new foam is much improved on the last product. It holds water much better and is not so crumbly. Slightly more pressure is needed to insert the stems.

Barbara introduced us to the newish houseplant called Blue Fern. It's an evergreen plant that grows quite large and is said to purify the oxygen in the house. While using any number of the following flowers and foliage, Hyacinths, Pink Tulips, Hard Ruscus, Lilac Anthuriums, Aspidastra, small Sunflowers, Lisianthus, Alstromeria, Pussy Willow, Roses, Liatris, Senecio, Carnations, Phlox and Clematis, Barbara enthralled us with stories of her large family get togethers, "Dave" the rescue man, and her husband who (like most husbands) is not receptionist material. Barbara thanks us for inviting her again. However, our whole evening had been a huge riot of colour and giggles thanks to her. Elsie our President gave the vote of thanks, echoing the thoughts of us all, a truly brilliant entertaining evening was had by all. This was followed by refreshments and a choice of gorgeous cakes.

June thanked everyone for coming and wished all a safe journey home. Some lucky members or guests went home with arrangements won in the raffle.

Our next meeting is on May 25th when we will be joined by David Garnett from Garnett's Garden Centre. Doors open at 6:30pm for 7pm start. First visit is free.

Mandy Pryke